Opinion

Govt forms high-level panel on demographic change to tackle infiltration

New Delhi, May 26: Union Home Minister Amit Shah on Tuesday announced that the Centre has constituted a high-level committee under retired Supreme Court judge Justice Prakash Prabhakar Naolekar to assess demographic changes across India due to illegal immigration and other unnatural causes. In a message on 'X' in Hindi, he said infiltration and other reasons are causing unnatural demographic change, which poses a significant challenge to the present and future of any nation. To address this very challenge, on August 15, 2025, Prime Minister @narendramodi ji had announced the 'high-level committee on demographic change'. I am delighted to inform you that the government has now constituted this committee, Shah said. The home minister said the committee will be chaired by Justice Naolekar (retd) and will also include the census commissioner, along with retired IAS officer Durga Shankar Mishra, ex-IPS officer Balaji Srivastava and Dr Shamika Ravi as members. The joint secretary (foreigners-l), Ministry of Home Affairs, will serve as the member secretary of this committee, he said. Shah emphasised that demographic change is a serious issue linked not only to the country's sovereignty but also to national security, law and order, profound changes in social structure and the preservation of tribal society. This committee will conduct a comprehensive assessment of demographic changes occurring across India due to illegal immigration and other unnatural causes, analyse patterns of abnormal population shifts at the levels of religious and social communities, and present a planned and time-bound solution for the same, he said. The high-level committee will conduct a scientific evaluation of the demographic changes taking place in different regions of the country due to illegal immigration and other unusual factors, examine their causes, and suggest suitable policy, legislative, and administrative interventions, a government statement said. According to the Terms of Reference of the committee, it will comprehensively deliberate upon the challenges arising from demographic changes, including illegal immigration. It will study the possible causes of demographic changes, such as cross-border activities (including illegal immigration), economic opportunities, and other socio-environmental factors, the statement said. The panel will also identify the underlying factors behind these changes, which include illegal immigration, abnormal settlement patterns, and orchestrated migration, it said. Further, the committee will analyse structural population changes at the level of religious or social communities, particularly where they deviate from broader trends. It will recommend a streamlined and permanent operational mechanism for the legal, fair, and time-bound identification, detention, and deportation of illegal immigrants already residing in the country, the statement said. The committee will also suggest an appropriate institutional mechanism to strengthen border management, population stabilization, and identification systems for the continuous monitoring of such trends, it said. In addition, it will propose a comprehensive policy framework to enhance coordination between the central and state governments on matters related to illegal immigration and the resulting demographic imbalances. The committee may also suggest any additional measures it considers necessary to address the challenges resulting from demographic changes, including illegal immigration. Speaking from the ramparts of the Red Fort in his Independence Day speech last year, Prime Minister Narendra Modi had announced a high-powered demographic mission to tackle the problem. Modi had said there was a pre-meditated conspiracy to change the country's demography through illegal infiltration. Today I want to alert the country about a concern, a challenge. Under a well-thought out conspiracy, the demography of the country is being changed. Seeds of a new crisis are being sown. These 'ghuspaithiye' (infiltrators) are snatching the livelihood of the youth of my country, these 'ghuspaithiye' are targeting the sisters and daughters of my country, this will not be tolerated, he had said. The prime minister had also said that 'ghuspaithiye' are misleading the innocent tribals and grabbing their land. Modi had warned that when demographic changes take place, especially in the border areas, they create a national security crisis.

New Delhi rejects China-Pakistan references to Jammu & Kashmir

New Delhi, May 26: New Delhi on Tuesday strongly rejected references to Jammu and Kashmir in a joint statement issued by China and Pakistan, asserting that the Union Territories of Jammu & Kashmir and Ladakh have been, are and will always remain integral and inalienable parts of India, said spokesperson of MEA, Randhir Jaiswal. In response to media queries regarding what it termed as unwarranted references in the joint statement between China and Pakistan, Ministry of External Affairs spokesperson Randhir Jaiswal said, India categorically rejects unwarranted references to the Union Territory of Jammu & Kashmir in the Joint Statement between China and Pakistan. The spokesperson said Indias position on the matter was consistent and well known to the concerned parties. The Union Territories of Jammu & Kashmir and Ladakh have been, are and will always remain integral and inalienable parts of India. No other country has the locus standi to comment on the same, the statement said. On the China-Pakistan Economic Corridor (CPEC), the MEA reiterated Indias opposition to projects located in territories claimed by India. As regards the so-called China-Pakistan Economic Corridor (CPEC) projects, some of which are in India's sovereign territory, we resolutely oppose and reject any moves by other countries to reinforce or legitimise Pakistan's illegal and forcible occupation of these territories, impinging on India's sovereignty and territorial integrity, the spokesperson said. The statement added that Indias position had been clearly conveyed to Pakistani and Chinese authorities several times. The MEA also objected to references regarding trans-boundary water resources cooperation between China and Pakistan. We have also seen references to the so-called trans-boundary water resources cooperation between China and Pakistan. As the two countries do not share any boundary, the question of so-called trans-boundary water resources cooperation does not arise, the statement said. New Delhi further stated that it had never recognised the so-called 1963 boundary agreement between Pakistan and China. The MEA statement came after a joint statement issued by China and Pakistan described the Kashmir issue as left over from history and called for its resolution through peaceful means under the framework of the United Nations Security Council.

Iran to reopen Strait of Hormuz within 30 days of peace agreement

New Delhi, May 26: Iran expressed readiness to reopen the Strait of Hormuz within 30 days after it reaches an agreement with the United States to end hostilities The United States and Iran have developed a framework that extends their ceasefire 60 days as the two sides reach a final deal to end the war in Iran, while in the meantime, the Strait of Hormuz would be de-mined and reopened, a senior Iranian official said. Iran would proceed to clear mines from the strait during a 30-day window following an agreement, after which ships from all countries would be able to navigate freely and safely, and Iran would stop collecting transit fees, Nikkei said. The ceasefire agreed in early April would be extended for 60 days, with the plan to hold talks on Iran's nuclear program during the two-month pause, the report added. Meanwhile, Iran may consider transferring its 60% enriched uranium, which currently lies beneath the rubble of bombed nuclear facilities, but could potentially be quickly weaponized, to China. the Chinese Foreign Ministry responded that, Since the outbreak of the war between the US, Israel, and Iran, China has maintained close communication with all relevant parties, including Iran, and has been working tirelessly to stop the fighting and promote peace.

LG, CM greet people on Eid-ul-Adha

Srinagar, May 26: The Lieutenant Governor Manoj Sinha and Chief Minister Omar Abdullah on Tuesday extended their heartiest greetings to the people on the occasion of Eid-ul-Adha, which is being observed tomorrow. In his message, the Lieutenant Governor said: On the auspicious occasion of Eid-ul-Adha, I extend my heartiest greetings and best wishes to all. Eid-ul-Adha celebrates the spirit of sacrifice, unity, and brotherhood. The sacred occasion serves as a reminder for humanity to embrace the eternal values of love, compassion and forgiveness. May this Eid usher in joy, peace and prosperity in everyones life. Chief Minister Omar Abdullah extended warm greetings to the people on the auspicious occasion of Eid-ul-Adha. In his message, the Chief Minister conveyed his heartfelt felicitations to the people of Jammu and Kashmir and beyond. He said that Eid-ul-Adha symbolizes the spirit of sacrifice, compassion, generosity and obedience to the will of Almighty Allah. Recalling the supreme sacrifice of Hazrat Ibrahim (Peace be upon him) and the unwavering obedience of his son Hazrat Ismail (Peace be upon him), the Chief Minister said that the occasion teaches humanity the values of faith, devotion, patience and submission to the command of Allah. He said their exemplary legacy continues to inspire people to uphold righteousness, selflessness and compassion in their lives. The Chief Minister expressed hope that the festival would further strengthen the bonds of brotherhood, communal harmony and mutual respect among people. He urged people to remember the underprivileged and needy during the celebrations and share the joy of the occasion with them. Chief Minister Omar Abdullah prayed for peace, prosperity and wellbeing of the people and wished that the auspicious occasion brings happiness and blessings to every household.

SOG personnel, suspected criminals exchange fire in Jammus Gandhi Nagar

Jammu, May 26: An encounter erupted between the personnel of Special Operations Group (SOG) of Jammu and Kashmir Police (JKP) and suspected criminals near Green Belt Park, Gandhi Nagar in Jammu on Tuesday evening. Police said that suspects tried to escape during an operational action against them by ramming their vehicle into the SOG vehicle and opening fire. SOG personnel returned fire in self defence and secured the area, Police said, adding that reinforcement was rushed to the spot and operation was still underway. On May 26, 2026 at about 6 pm, a team of Police Station Gandhi Nagar along with an SOG party proceeded to the Mini Market area near Green Belt Park, Gandhi Nagar, for operational action against suspected criminals. During the operation, the suspects attempted to flee and deliberately rammed their vehicle into the SOG vehicle, Police said in an official statement. Subsequently, the suspects opened fire upon the Police party. In order to protect themselves and prevent further threat to life, the SOG personnel retaliated in self-defence by returning fire. The area was immediately secured and further Police reinforcement was rushed to the spot, Police added. It said that cognisance was taken of crime committed, and further action as per law was under way.

Bridge collapse on Gandoh-Gul Kanan road leaves woman dead, 12 others injured

Banihal, May 26: A woman was killed and 12 others were injured after an under-construction bridge collapsed on the Gandoh-Gul Kanan road in Doda district on Tuesday. Officials said the bridge was being constructed under the supervision of the Pradhan Mantri Gram Sadak Yojana (PMGSY) when the accident occurred, causing panic among workers and locals present at the site. Soon after the incident, local residents, police personnel and volunteers rushed to the spot and launched a rescue operation to evacuate the injured. All the injured persons were shifted to Sub-District Hospital Gandoh for treatment. Doctors at the hospital declared one woman dead on arrival. The deceased was identified as Devi Kumari (42), wife of Satish Sahu and a resident of Chhattisgarh. The remaining injured persons are being referred to Government Medical College (GMC) Doda for advanced treatment. Authorities have taken cognizance of the incident, while further details regarding the cause of the bridge collapse are awaited. Meanwhile local social activist and Chairman of SAHAK Trust Bhallessa, Vinay Thakur, has expressed grief over the tragic bridge collapse incident on the Gandoh-Gul Kanan road in Doda district. In a statement, Thakur conveyed condolences to the bereaved family and wished a speedy recovery to the injured persons. He also urged the authorities to conduct a thorough inquiry into the incident and fix responsibility for the lapse that led to the accident.

Senior IPS officer Koshal Kumar Sharma to hold charge of DGP Ladakh

Leh, May 26: The Administration of the Union Territory of Ladakh has handed over the additional charge of Director General of Police (DGP) to Koshal Kumar Sharma, an IPS officer of the 2012 AGMUT batch. According to an official order issued by the Home Department on Tuesday, Sharmawho is currently serving as the DIG of the Leh-Kargil Rangewill hold the top post until a regular incumbent is permanently posted. This decision followed the relieving of the current DGP, Mukesh Singh (IPS, 1996 AGMUT batch). Singh has been officially relieved of his duties in Ladakh as of May 27, 2026, and has been directed to report to the Government of Manipur for his next assignment.

Drone found in JK's Kathua, security tightened

Jammu, May 26: A drone was found in Kathua district of Jammu and Kashmir, prompting security agencies to heighten surveillance and launch a probe, officials said on Tuesday. They said the drone was found near Govindsar railway station road in Hatli belt of the district on Monday night. Last night, we received information that a drone had been spotted under the jurisdiction of Hatli police station. Immediately, our team reached the spot and seized the drone, Additional Superintendent of Police (ASP) Sunil Kesar told reporters here. An investigation has been launched into the matter, he said. A thorough verification is being carried out to ascertain whether anything related to such an object is present in the surrounding area, he added. Kesar said that keeping in view the forthcoming Amarnath Yatra, all security agencies are on alert and efforts are underway to gather every possible piece of information related to the incident.

Shopian Police book three alleged drug peddlers under PIT-NDPS Act

Shopian, May 26: Police in south Kashmirs Shopian district booked three alleged drug peddlers under the Prevention of Illicit Traffic in Narcotic Drugs and Psychotropic Substances (PIT-NDPS) Act, officials said on Monday. The accused have been identified as Hilal Ahmad Bhat of Daramdora Keegam, Mohammad Yousuf Bhat of Vishroo Payeen, and Pervaiz Ahmad Thoker of Pudsoo Shopian. Authorities said detention orders were issued by the Divisional Commissioner, Kashmir, following dossiers submitted by Shopian Police, which cited their alleged repeated involvement in narcotics trafficking and multiple FIRs registered against them. The accused have been lodged in Central Jail Kot Bhalwal in Jammu, District Jail Rajouri, and District Jail Poonch, respectively. Police said the action was taken under preventive detention provisions due to what they described as a grave threat posed by their activities to public health and youth welfare. Officials added that the move reflects a zero-tolerance approach towards drug trafficking and is part of ongoing efforts to dismantle narcotics networks in the district. Shopian Police said operations against drug peddlers and their networks will continue, and urged the public to share information related to suspected drug activity.

Accused acted alone in Galwanpora Budgam murder: Police

Budgam, May 26: Police on Tuesday said that in continuation of the investigation into FIR No. 139/2026 of Police Station Budgam pertaining to the murder of a minor girl from village Galwanpora, Budgam Police has completed the initial medico-legal, forensic, and evidentiary procedures connected with the arrest of the accused in the case. In a handout to GNS, the police said that the identity and particulars of the accused were not disclosed earlier as several crucial legal procedures were underway at the initial stage of investigation and to avoid any prejudice to the evidentiary and legal process. Upon completion of the requisite formalities, the particulars of the accused involved in the commission of the crime are hereby disclosed as: Mudasir Ahmad Mir S/o Ghulam Nabi Mir, R/o Galwanpora Sebdan, Budgam. The investigation conducted so far has established that no other individual is involved in the commission of the crime. Budgam Police appeals to the public to maintain peace, communal harmony, and public order and to cooperate with the investigating agencies. Citizens are advised not to take the law into their own hands and not to circulate rumours, speculative content, or unverified allegations regarding the case failing which strict legal action shall be taken. Media organisations and social media users are requested to exercise responsibility and restraint while reporting or commenting on the matter. The circulation of unverified or misleading content may create unnecessary public anxiety and adversely affect the maintenance of law and order. Budgam Police further reiterates that any attempt to spread misinformation, incite unrest, or disturb public order through any platform shall be dealt with strictly in accordance with law, reads the statement.

CM Omar visits Galwanpora Budgam to offer condolences

MLA Salman Sagar condemns Budgam murder, demands impartial probe

J-K Police chief reviews security arrangements for Eid-ul-Adha, Shri Amarnath Ji Yatra

Srinagar, May 26: Director General of Police (DGP) J&K Nalin Prabhat chaired a meeting at Police Control Room Kashmir to review security arrangements for upcoming Eid-Ul-Adha and Shri Amarnath Ji Yatra-2026 (SANJY-2026) at PCR Kashmir. The meeting witnessed participation from senior officers of the J&K Police, CRPF, ITBP, Traffic Police, Railways, and various security agencies. Among those present were the IGP Kashmir Zone; IG BSF Ftr Hqrs Srinagar, IG CRPF Srinagar Sector; all range DIsG of Kashmir Zone; DIG Railway; DIsG of BSF SHQ Srinagar, Ops BSF FTR HQ Kashmir, and BSF SHQ Bandipora; DIG SSB Srinagar; DIsG of CRPF KOS, CRPF South/North Srinagar, CRPF Anantnag, CRPF SKOR Awantipora, CRPF NKR Baramulla, and CRPF Bandipora; DIG CISF; DIG ITBP Srinagar; all district SSsP/PDs of Kashmir Zone; SSsP of PCR Kashmir, Railways Kashmir, Traffic Rural Kashmir, and APCR Kashmir; Col GS (IS) 15 Corps; Asstt. Commandant CISF Airport Srinagar, and other senior officers. Emphasizing the importance of peaceful Eid celebrations, DGP J&K directed officers to ensure comprehensive crowd management arrangements at mosques and key congregation venues across the Valley. He stressed the necessity of strengthening security measures, safeguarding public movement, and deploying personnel at sensitive locations to prevent overcrowding. He further instructed field officers to enhance surveillance, carry out random inspections at vulnerable areas, and intensify patrolling to effectively address any potential security concerns during the festive occasion. During the meeting, the participating officers presented detailed briefings on the proposed security and logistical arrangements, as well as preparedness measures for the smooth conduct of SANJY-2026. Officers from the CAPFs and other security forces also shared their assessments and underscored the need for seamless coordination and synergy among all agencies involved. Additionally, the officers briefed the chair regarding the administrative and logistical arrangements made for the incoming CAPF companies. The DGP issued directives for the smooth induction of CAPF companies and emphasized that district heads must ensure proper arrangements for incoming units and their efficient ground deployment. Emphasizing the importance of robust security management, DGP J&K directed officers to ensure strict implementation of Standard Operating Procedures (SOPs) and adopt proactive strategies to counter potential threats. He stressed the need for heightened vigilance to safeguard pilgrims and maintain a secure environment throughout the yatra period. DGP J&K further instructed field formations to intensify efforts aimed at dismantling the terror ecosystem and strengthening area domination along the pilgrimage routes. Directions were also issued for the deployment of Anti-Sabotage teams and the use of advanced surveillance systems and real-time monitoring mechanisms to enhance threat detection and response capabilities. The meeting concluded with a collective commitment from all participating agencies to maintain the highest level of coordination, preparedness, and operational efficiency to ensure the peaceful, secure, and successful conduct of the Shri Amarnath Ji Yatra-2026.

DLSA Budgam orders removal of minor victims photos from social media platforms

Srinagar, May 26: The District Legal Services Authority (DLSA) Budgam has directed all social media platforms and the general public to immediately stop sharing or circulating photographs of the minor victim of the recent Galwanpora Budgam murder case. An advisory issued by DLSA Budgam reads: It has been observed that on various social media platforms the picture of the victim from Gulwanpora Budgam has been uploaded who was murdered brutally. Moreover, the pictures of the victim are being circulated by a number of persons, thereby violating the provisions of Juvenile Justice Act and right to privacy of the victim and her family. Such actions are against law, wherein the identity of the victim is revealed and punishable under law. As such, the social media platforms and general public is informed through the medium of this order to stop revealing the identity of victim and also circulating her pictures, failing which, the violators shall be booked under law. Hence, all the social media platforms are directed to remove the pictures of the victim immediately from all social media platforms. The SSP Budgam has been directed to lodge FIR against the persons who in spite of the recent order continue to upload/circulate the photographs of the victim.

All Parties Sikh Coordination Committee extends warm Eid-ul-Adha greetings to people

Srinagar, May 26: On the auspicious occasion of Eid-ul-Adha, the All Parties Sikh Coordination Committee (APSCC) extended warm greetings to the people of Jammu and Kashmir, expressing hope that the festival would usher in peace, prosperity and communal harmony across the Union Territory, especially in Kashmir Valley. APSCC Chairman Jagmohan Singh Raina conveyed heartfelt wishes to the Muslim community and all residents of J&K on the sacred occasion of Eid-ul-Adha. In a statement issued in Srinagar, he said that the festival reflects the values of sacrifice, patience, humility and selflessness, which are essential for strengthening brotherhood and unity in society. He said Jammu and Kashmir has always been known for its centuries old tradition of communal harmony, where people belonging to different faiths Muslims, Hindus, Sikhs, Christians and Buddhists have lived together with mutual respect and understanding. Raina expressed hope that Eid-ul-Adha would further reinforce the bonds of love, peace and togetherness among different communities living in the Union Territory. He added that the younger generation should follow the true teachings and values associated with religious festivals and work towards preserving the spirit of brotherhood and harmony. The APSCC Chairman also prayed for lasting peace, progress and prosperity in Jammu and Kashmir on the blessed occasion of Eid-ul-Adha.

Gulmarg Gondola snag being probed, all tourists rescued safely

Altaf Bukhari urges ulama to use Eid pulpits to inspire introspection and social reform

Srinagar, May 26: Expressing his deep concern over the alarming decline of moral and social values, Apni Party President Syed Mohammad Altaf Bukhari on Tuesday urged Ulamas and religious scholars to use Eid pulpits to spread the message of introspection, repentance, and seeking forgiveness from Almighty Allah. Extending his greetings to the people on the auspicious occasion of Eid al-Adha, Syed Mohammad Altaf Bukhari said that the sacred festival should not only be celebrated with joy and devotion, but must also serve as an occasion for collective reflection on the moral decline of our society. As we celebrate the blessed occasion of Eid al-Adha, we must pause and reflect on the painful deterioration of our social and moral fabric, he said. In a strongly worded statement, the Apni Party President said society is facing a grave crisis of values and conscience. As a society, we urgently need to introspect and ask ourselves why we are steadily losing our religious, moral, and even basic human values, he said. Referring to the recent horrific rape and murder of a minor girl in Budgam, Syed Mohammad Altaf Bukhari said the tragedy should shake the conscience of every individual. The heart-wrenching incident in Budgam is a grim reminder of how far we have drifted from morality and humanity. This deeply tragic incident demands serious reflection and a complete transformation in our social behaviour and collective mindset. The rising incidents of crime, violence, and the growing menace of drugs are clear signs that our society is drifting away from morality and humanity, he said. Emphasising the need to protect social values, he said, If we fail to protect our social fabric today, one can only fear what kind of future awaits us tomorrow. Expressing concern over the continuous moral decline over the years, he said, This decline did not happen overnight. We have witnessed it declining over the years and decades. We were not like this before. Our ancestors may not have been as educated or well-red as we are today, but they possessed far greater character, morality, and humanity. Recalling the spiritual legacy of Kashmir, Syed Mohammad Altaf Bukahri said, This land was once known for peace, dignity, and spirituality. Our valley was proudly called Peer Waer (the land of saints). Sadly, it feels as though we have lost that identity, and with every passing day, we are drifting even further away from it. Calling for collective repentance he said, Even nature may not forgive us for our negligence towards society. Perhaps nature has already started warning us. Look at the changing weather patterns, the frequent natural calamities, the shrinking glaciers, and the loss of our water resources. These may be signs of natures anger and imbalance. The Holy Quran reminds us that when people become morally corrupt and turn away from virtue, Allahs wrath descends upon them. He further said, Before it is too late, we must introspect, pray, sincerely repent, and seek Almighty Allahs mercy, forgiveness, and blessings. He went on to say, Eid al-Adha symbolises sacrifice. Let us make a sincere commitment this Eid that we will sacrifice our time, comfort, efforts, and abilities to help rebuild a noble, compassionate, and morally strong society. Making a heartfelt appeal to religious scholars, Syed Mohammad Altaf Bukhari said, I humbly appeal to our respected Ulama and religious scholars to use the pulpits during Eid prayers to remind people that we urgently need introspection, repentance, and a return towards morality and humanity. He prayed, May this blessed Eid bring peace to our hearts, dignity to our society, unity among people, and endless blessings upon all of us. Eid Mubarak!

DSEK Announces Additional Eid-ul-Azha Holiday On May 29; Schools Across Kashmir To Remain Shut For Three Days

SRINAGAR, May 26: he Directorate of School Education Kashmir (DSEK) on Tuesday announced a special holiday on May 29, 2026, in view of Eid-ul-Azha celebrations across the Kashmir Division. As per an official order issued by the Directorate, all Government and recognized private educational institutions across Kashmir Division shall remain closed on Friday, May 29, on account of the auspicious occasion of Eid-ul-Azha. The order, issued under Order No. 212-DSEK of 2026 dated May 26, stated that the decision was [] The post DSEK Announces Additional Eid-ul-Azha Holiday On May 29; Schools Across Kashmir To Remain Shut For Three Days appeared first on Daily Excelsior .

Two injured after bike Collides with SUV on Srinagar-Sonamarg road

Ganderbal, May 26: Two youth were injured in a collision between a motorcycle and an SUV on the Srinagar-Sonamarg (SSG) Road near Gund in central Kashmirs Gund on Tuesday, officials said. An official told that the accident occurred when a motorcycle bearing registration number JK01BC-0171 collided with an SUV (XUV500) bearing registration number HR51BS-0107. The injured have been identified as Muhaib Ahmad Magray (19), son of Khursheed Ahmad, a resident of Hayan Palpora Kangan, and Abdul Qayoom Bokda (20), son of Gulzar Ahmad, a resident of Sumbal Bala Gund. Both the injured were shifted to Primary Health Centre Gund for initial treatment and were later referred to SKIMS Soura for advanced medical care, the official added. Meanwhile, police have taken cognizance of the incident.

Israeli strike on village in eastern Lebanon kills 12

Beirut, May 26: An Israeli airstrike on a village in eastern Lebanon killed 12 people, the country's state-run National News Agency said Tuesday. The strike late Monday in Lebanon's Bekaa Valley area came after Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu said that he had authorised more intensive strikes targeting the Hezbollah militant group across Lebanon. The Israeli military did not comment on this particular strike, but said Monday that it was targeting Hezbollah infrastructure in eastern Lebanon. Rescue workers say that a dozen bodies were pulled out of the rubble following an intense wave of overnight strikes targeting swaths of southern and eastern Lebanon. The intensified attacks come three days before Lebanese and Israeli military delegations are set to meet in Washington for direct talks. Hezbollah is attacking Israeli troops in southern Lebanon and northern Israeli towns, and has vowed to continue fighting until Israel stops its daily airstrikes and withdraws its troops from the country. The Lebanese government hopes that the direct talks with Israel, opposed by Hezbollah, will lead to a ceasefire. Over one million people in Lebanon have been displaced in the war, which was sparked by Hezbollah firing rockets into northern Israel on March 2 in solidarity with Iran.

Rajouri gunfight enters day 4, operation on

Police attach Rs 1.25 cr property of alleged drug peddler in J&K's Kathua

Jammu, May 26: Police on Tuesday attached an immovable property worth around Rs 1.25 crore belonging to an alleged drug peddler in Jammu and Kashmir's Kathua district under the provisions of the NDPS Act, officials said. The attached property comprises shops and a dhaba located at Chapper Morh in Hiranagar and belongs to Sudesh Mehta, son of Parkash Chand, a resident of Chapper village in the district, they said. According to police, the property was identified as illegally acquired during the course of an investigation and was prima facie found to have been purchased using proceeds generated from illicit trafficking of narcotic drugs and psychotropic substances. Officials said that the attachment was carried out under relevant sections of the Narcotic Drugs and Psychotropic Substances (NDPS) Act. A police team formally attached the property in the presence of officials from the Revenue, Public Works, and Roads and Buildings (R&B) departments, they said. During the investigation, it surfaced that the property, with an estimated market value of Rs 1.25 crore, had allegedly been acquired through income generated from narcotics-related activities, police said. Local residents welcomed the move, describing it as a significant step in curbing the drug menace and dismantling the financial networks of drug traffickers in the district. Police reiterated their commitment to intensifying the crackdown on drug trafficking by targeting both narcotics networks and assets allegedly created through the proceeds of the illegal trade.

North Korea launches unidentified projectile over the sea

Seoul, May 26: North Korea launched an unidentified projectile off its west coast Tuesday, South Korea's military said, in what appeared to be the North's latest weapons test this year. A brief dispatch from South Korea's Joint Chiefs of Staff gave no further details. It followed another launch by the North on April 19, in which it fired multiple short-range missiles in what state-media described as a demonstration of cluster bomb warheads. North Korean leader Kim Jong Un has focused on expanding his nuclear and missile arsenals since nuclear diplomacy with US President Donald Trump collapsed in 2019. Trump has repeatedly expressed his desire to resume talks with Kim, but Pyongyang has so far ignored the overtures and urged Washington to drop demands for the North's nuclear disarmament as a precondition for talks. Kim has taken an increasingly hardline stance toward South Korea, which he has declared his country's permanent and most hostile enemy while diplomacy is stalled and tensions rise over his nuclear ambitions. The launch came hours after South Korean President Lee Jae Myung during a Cabinet meeting called for stronger efforts to advance the country's military. He emphasised artificial intelligence and drone capabilities and the potential acquisition of a nuclear-powered submarine, an issue that has been part of his diplomacy with Washington. Lee did not specifically comment on the threats posed by North Korea, but stressed the importance of South Korea demonstrating the resolve to take responsibility for and protect our own security ourselves, saying such a posture would also strengthen the country's alliance with the United States.

Centre unveils Rs 33,600-crore BHAVYA scheme to develop 100 industrial parks across India

New Delhi, May 26: The Centre has rolled out an ambitious new industrial infrastructure programme aimed at accelerating manufacturing growth and boosting investment across the country through the development of large integrated industrial parks. The scheme, titled BHAVYA, proposes financial assistance of up to 1 crore per acre for eligible industrial park projects and will be implemented through Special Purpose Vehicles (SPVs) involving state governments, central agencies and private developers. According to the scheme guidelines, financial assistance will be provided by the Central Government through the National Industrial Corridor Development and Implementation Trust (NICDIT) in the form of equity contribution and, in some cases, debt support. The equity participation of NICDIT, however, will not exceed 50 per cent of the paid-up equity capital of the SPV. The scheme seeks to promote world-class industrial infrastructure with integrated planning, plug-and-play facilities, worker housing, renewable energy systems, digital infrastructure, logistics connectivity and common utility services. Under the funding structure, projects involving private developers will be eligible for support up to 50 lakh per acre or 50 per cent of infrastructure cost, whichever is lower. The Centre clarified that funding would only cover approved infrastructure components and not land acquisition, working capital, vehicles, interest costs or commercial real estate development. The guidelines specify that funds will be released in three tranches linked to project milestones, including land transfer, environmental clearance, infrastructure progress and commencement of manufacturing activity. The scheme also places strong emphasis on external connectivity and utilities. Up to 25 per cent of total approved funding can be allocated for external infrastructure such as road links, power transmission, water pipelines and logistics connectivity. State governments will be responsible for bearing the remaining 75 per cent cost of such external infrastructure. To ensure transparency and accountability, the projects will be monitored by a National Level Steering Committee headed by the Secretary of the Department for Promotion of Industry and Internal Trade (DPIIT), while the National Industrial Corridor Development Corporation will function as the Project Management Agency. The evaluation framework gives preference to projects with strong transport connectivity, uninterrupted power and water supply, integrated planning, renewable energy facilitation and digital single-window clearance systems. The scheme also encourages development of worker housing, testing labs, skill centres, warehousing and sustainable infrastructure through public-private partnerships. For hilly states and Union Territories, including Jammu and Kashmir, the scheme relaxes certain investment thresholds. Anchor investors in such regions will need to commit a minimum investment of 10 crore compared to 50 crore in non-hilly states. The Centre said the first phase selection process under the scheme will be completed within one year of notification, while approved projects are expected to complete development work within 24 months.

J&K govt starts process for induction of 32 officers into IFoS after 13-year delay

Jammu, May 26: In a significant move, the Jammu and Kashmir Government has initiated the long-pending process for induction of nearly 32 officers into the Indian Forest Service (IFoS), ending a deadlock that continued for more than 13 years. Official sources said the Forest Department is preparing a detailed proposal which will soon be forwarded to the Union Ministry of Environment, Forest and Climate Change (MoEF&CC) for approval and further action by the Union Public Service Commission (UPSC). The process gained momentum after fresh communication from the Union Ministry, paving the way for submission of the proposal. Commissioner/Secretary Forest Department Sheetal Nanda confirmed that the Department is finalizing the proposal for induction of officers into the IFoS. We are drafting the proposal and after completing all formalities it will be submitted to the Ministry, she said. Sources revealed that around 32 officers from Jammu and Kashmir are likely to get induction into the prestigious All India Service, subject to clearances from the MoEF and UPSC. The induction process had remained suspended since 2012 due to legal disputes and procedural complications related to the constitution of the State Forest Service (SFS). As per service rules, 66 percent posts in IFoS are filled through direct recruitment by UPSC, while 33 percent are reserved for promotion of State Forest Service officers. Officials said the Union Ministry had not fixed promotion quota vacancies for Jammu and Kashmir beyond the Select Year 2012 because of pending legal and administrative issues. Sources further disclosed that the proposal regarding constitution of the State Forest Service was sent to the Union Ministry on December 11, 2025 after approval from the competent authority. After examining the matter, the MoEF reportedly advised the J&K Forest Department to submit the formal proposal for induction of officers. Officials said once the proposal receives clearance from the Ministry, the UPSC will hold a meeting with representatives of the Centre and J&K administration to finalize the induction process. The induction of officers into IFoS is expected to help overcome shortage of senior officers in the Forest Department and provide major career opportunities to local officers. The development comes shortly after induction of 23 JKAS officers into the IAS, while the process for induction of eight JKPS officers into the IPS has also been initiated.(KNC)

The Trump-Xi Summit: Facts behind the noise

Donald Trump's visit to Beijing yielded structural outcomes like new trade boards and regular leader meetings, restoring vital dialogue. However, the summit failed to significantly reduce the US trade deficit, with China's 90 Percent Model remaining intact. A stark warning emerged regarding Taiwan, signaling potential conflict if mishandled.

DGP announces commendation awards after Gulmarg Gondola rescue

Srinagar, May 25: Director General of Police, Jammu and Kashmir, Nalin Prabhat on Tuesday announced commendation awards for police and rescue personnel involved in the successful operation to evacuate tourists stranded mid-air after a technical snag halted the Gulmarg Gondola service in north Kashmirs Baramulla district. Around 320 tourists were rescued after a joint operation by the police, SDRF and other rescue agencies. Addressing the rescue teams at Gulmarg, Prabhat praised the personnel for carrying out the operation in difficult weather and mountainous terrain. He said the rescue mission was completed despite major challenges, including rocky terrain, bad weather and the complexity of evacuating people from suspended cable cars. Today all of you have made J&K Police proud, the DGP said while commending the efforts of personnel from police, Special Operations Group (SOG), J&K Armed Police and SDRF. Prabhat said all personnel involved in the operation would be nominated for awards. He said those who have not yet received the DGP Commendation Disc would be awarded the honour, while personnel who have already received it would be considered for other commendation awards. The DGP said the successful operation reflected the bravery, dedication and professionalism of the rescue teams, who continued the mission despite exhaustion and difficult conditions. He also congratulated the officers and personnel for safely rescuing the stranded tourists and completing the operation late at night.(KNS)

President Droupadi Murmu presents Padma Awards 2026 at Rashtrapati Bhavan; Prof. Shafi Shauq among honourees

President Droupadi Murmu on Monday presented the Padma Vibhushan, Padma Bhushan and Padma Shri Awards for 2026 at the Civil Investiture Ceremony-I held at Rashtrapati Bhavan. Vice President C P Radhakrishnan, Prime Minister Narendra Modi and Union Home Minister Amit Shah were among the dignitaries present on the occasion. Among the awardees, noted Kashmiri writer and scholar Prof. Shafi Shauq was honoured for his contribution to literature and education. Born in Shopian district of Kashmir in 1950, Prof. Shauq has authored, edited and translated more than 106 books in Kashmiri, English, Hindi and Urdu. He taught in the University for 33 years and retired as HOD, Dean Faculty of Arts, and Dean Faculty of Oriental Learning. He has also contributed to several national literary projects, including Medieval Indian Literature, Encyclopedia of Indian Literature and Oxford Companion to Indian Theatre. Prof. Shauqs notable works include Kaeshur Lughat, Yaad Aasmaanan Hinz, Zabaan ti Adab, Kaeshri Adabuk Tawaariekh and Kaeshur Grammar. He has translated several literary works under the series The Best of Kashmiri Literature and has also written scripts for television serials and films. He is a recipient of several honours, including the Sahitya Akademi Award for poetry in 2006 and the Sahitya Akademi Award for translation in 2007.

Dhanuka Agritech posts strong Q4 growth, profit rises 29.5%

Dhanuka Agritech has reported strong financial results for the quarter and financial year ended March 31, 2026, driven by healthy demand, improved product penetration and favourable Rabi season conditions. The Gurugram-based agrochemical company posted a net profit of Rs 97.77 crore in the fourth quarter of FY26, marking a 29.5 per cent increase over the corresponding period last year. For the financial year ending March 31, 2026, the company recorded a total income of Rs 2,06,280.10 lakh and a profit after tax of Rs 28,723.49 lakh, with the March quarter contributing significantly to annual earnings. The Board approved a buyback of up to five lakh equity shares at a maximum price of Rs 1,400 per share, amounting to Rs 70 crore. It also recommended a final dividend of 100 per cent, equivalent to Rs 2 per share, subject to shareholder approval. Chairman M.K. Dhanuka said the company remains focused on strengthening its market presence ahead of the Kharif season.

Govt notifies LPG control order amendment to ease shift to PNG connections

The Government has notified an amendment to the Liquefied Petroleum Gas (LPG) control order aimed at providing greater convenience and flexibility to domestic consumers who opt for Piped Natural Gas (PNG) connections, officials said on Sunday. According to a notification issued by the government, the Liquefied Petroleum Gas (Regulation of Supply and Distribution) Amendment Order, 2026 came into effect on May 25 and seeks to simplify procedures for households transitioning between LPG and PNG services. Under the revised provisions, domestic LPG consumers who subsequently obtain PNG connections will now have two options. They may either apply for termination of their LPG connection within 30 days of getting a PNG connection or opt for a transfer voucher that would allow future restoration of the LPG connection if they relocate to an area where PNG infrastructure is unavailable. Officials said the amendment has been introduced to provide relief to consumers whose residential circumstances frequently change and who may require access to LPG after shifting to regions without PNG connectivity. The amendment aims to provide additional relaxation and convenience to domestic LPG consumers who subsequently obtain PNG connections, an official statement said. The new provision is expected to particularly benefit transferable employees, migrant households, tenants, students and families relocating between cities or regions where piped gas services are either limited or unavailable. The government said the move would help ensure continuity of cooking fuel access while reducing procedural hurdles for consumers shifting between PNG-enabled and non-PNG areas.

FICCI J&K Co-Chairman meets LG, seeks safeguards for existing industries

Co-Chairman of FICCI J&K, Rakesh Bhat called on Lieutenant Governor Manoj Sinha and presented him with a specially crafted carpet portrait prepared by his company, Shalimar Floorings Private Limited, during a meeting focused on industrial development in Jammu and Kashmir. During the interaction, Bhat raised several key issues concerning the existing industrial sector in the Union Territory and stressed the importance of safeguarding local industries within the framework of the upcoming industrial policy. He underscored the need for policy measures that support and protect existing industries, enabling local businesses and traditional sectors to continue contributing to economic growth and employment generation in J&K. According to Bhat, a balanced and industry-friendly environment is essential to encourage the growth of both traditional and modern industries across the Union Territory. The meeting was described as positive and constructive, with discussions centred on strengthening the industrial ecosystem and ensuring sustained support for businesses operating in the region. Bhat also appreciated the support and encouragement being extended towards industrial development and expressed optimism about the future growth prospects of industries in J&K. The interaction highlighted the importance of evolving policies that not only attract fresh investment but also preserve and strengthen the regions existing industrial base.

Chief Secretary reviews implementation of PMs reform agenda

Chief Secretary, Atal Dulloo, today chaired a high-level review meeting with Administrative Secretaries of all departments to assess the Action Taken Reports (ATRs) on implementation of actionable points emerging from the Prime Ministers interaction with Secretaries to the Government of India, with special emphasis on strengthening the Whole of Government approach, enhancing Ease of Living through end-to-end digitization of public services and undertaking comprehensive process reforms across the country. During the meeting, the Chief Secretary reiterated that the core objective of these reforms is to establish integrated governance, citizen-centric administration and technology-driven systems aimed at ensuring efficient, transparent and accountable delivery of services. He emphasised that departments must move beyond conventional silo-based functioning and work in close coordination to achieve larger developmental goals envisioned under Viksit Bharat @2047. A detailed presentation on the Action Taken Reports pertaining to various reform initiatives was given by the Planning Development & Monitoring Department. The meeting was informed that several departments including Finance, School Education, Skill Development, Health & Medical Education, Housing & Urban Development, Agriculture Production, Social Welfare, Public Works, Tourism and Higher Education Departments have already adopted convergence-based governance models involving inter-departmental coordination, digital integration and collaborative implementation mechanisms. Regarding the points of School Education Department it was revealed that vocational education has been expanded to more than 1,350 schools across J&K with enrolment of over 1.41 lakh students, besides integration of digital platforms, ICT laboratories and smart classrooms under the framework of NEP-2020. Similarly with respect to the Skill Development Department it was highlighted that flagship initiatives including Mission YUVA and PM Vishwakarma are being implemented through coordinated institutional mechanisms involving multiple departments, financial institutions and academic organisations. The Health & Medical Education Department proposed integrated planning with allied departments for convergence of health, sanitation, nutrition, education and livelihood initiatives, while the Housing & Urban Development Department highlighted its focus on technology-driven governance, sustainable urban planning and citizen-centric reforms for improving urban living standards. The meeting was further informed that departments including Food, Civil Supplies & Consumer Affairs, ARI & Trainings, Disaster Management, Labour & Employment and Information Department have introduced integrated digital governance systems, interoperable platforms and real-time monitoring mechanisms aimed at improving transparency, accountability and ease of access to public services. Reviewing reforms aimed at enhancing Ease of Living, the meeting was apprised that under the J&K Jan Vishwas reforms, around 32 criminal provisions across 20 Acts have been decriminalised to reduce compliance burden and improve citizen convenience, while 19 obsolete laws have been repealed for simplification of the statutory framework and promotion of ease of doing business. The Chief Secretary also reviewed the proposal for achieving 100 percent end-to-end digitization of Government-to-Citizen (G2C) services across the Union Territory. The meeting was informed that 1,548 G2C services have already been digitized under the E-Unnat platform, while nearly 300 additional services are presently under development. The meeting was informed that in the first phase, 302 services across key departments including Agriculture, Higher Education, Housing & Urban Development, Revenue, Health and Power Development Departments have been identified for elimination of offline processes and full digital transformation.

Rahul Sahai urges Northern Railway to strengthen freight terminals, warehousing facilities

Chairman Indian Chamber of Commerce (ICC), Jammu chapter Rahul Sahai on Monday urged the Jammu Railway Division of the Northern Railway to strengthen freight terminals, warehousing facilities and day time scheduling of freight rakes. He made these suggestions while participating in the Business Development Unit (BDU) interaction organised by the Jammu Railway Division of the Northern Railway at the Divisional Railway Office, Jammu. Sahai, on behalf of ICC Jammu, also suggested bolstering of container handling systems besides loading and unloading infrastructure in Jammu and adjoining industrial areas. The meeting was chaired by Vivek Kumar, Divisional Railway Manager, Northern Railway, Jammu Division. Other dignitaries present on the dais included Uchit Singhal, Senior Divisional Commercial Manager and Arish Bansal, Senior Divisional Operations Manager. During the interaction, Rahul Sahai submitted a detailed representation on behalf of ICC Jammu highlighting several important issues concerning freight movement, logistics infrastructure, and ease of doing business in Jammu and Kashmir. He emphasised that efficient rail connectivity and improved freight infrastructure were crucial for the economic growth of the region, particularly for industries, MSMEs, traders, and agriculture-based sectors. He specifically requested that rake arrival timings should preferably be during daytime due to labour availability constraints and appealed for enhancement of rake unloading time from 7 hours to 24 hours. Sahai also requested waiver of demurrage charges in cases where unloading is delayed due to operational challenges. ICC Jammu chairman further stressed the need for development of goods sheds at Bari Brahmana, Samba, and Jammu and called for early operationalization of the Inland Container Depot (ICD) at Samba. He also highlighted the importance of better wagon availability, multi-modal logistics facilities, rational freight charges, digitalisation of railway freight systems, improved last-mile connectivity and train stoppage at Anantnag station to support MSMEs and local businesses. During the meeting, Northern Railway officials gave a detailed presentation on various freight and logistics services being offered by Indian Railways, including Roll-On Roll-Off (RO-RO) services, parcel transshipment facilities, specialized freight wagons, reefer containers, automobile carriers, tank wagons, and parcel cargo services. The presentation highlighted the benefits of RO-RO services such as reduced transportation cost, lower fuel consumption, reduced road congestion, enhanced safety, environmental sustainability, timely delivery, and reduced wear and tear of vehicles. Railway officials also emphasised the importance of multi-modal logistics integration and informed participants about specialised wagons available for carrying bagged material, steel, iron, liquid cargo, food grains, automobiles, and industrial goods. The interaction witnessed participation from freight customers, consignors, consignees, logistics operators, and representatives from trade and industry. Among those present were Ashish Jain and Raj Dua from ICC Jammu, Rakesh from CONCOR, besides representatives from IOCL, BPCL, Adani Cements, and other leading industrial and logistics organisations. Rahul Sahai appreciated Northern Railway for organising the stakeholder interaction and expressed confidence that regular dialogue between Railways and industry stakeholders would significantly strengthen trade, logistics, and industrial growth in J&K. He also appreciated the efforts of Indian Railways in promoting greener and cost-effective logistics solutions through rail-based freight movement and assured full cooperation from ICC Jammu chapter in all initiatives aimed at improving freight and logistics infrastructure in the region.

Ladakh launches single-window portal to ease business, citizen services

In a major push towards digital governance and business-friendly reforms, Lieutenant Governor Vinai Kumar Saxena on Monday launched an integrated Ease of Doing Business (EoDB) Portal in Ladakh, aimed at simplifying citizen services, reducing paperwork and improving transparency in government functioning. The portal, launched for the first time in Ladakh, is designed to provide businesses, entrepreneurs, investors, startups, MSMEs and other stakeholders with a seamless online mechanism to access multiple government services and approvals through a single digital platform. Aligned with Prime Minister Narendra Modis vision of Ease of Doing Business and Minimum Government, Maximum Governance, the initiative seeks to enhance efficiency, accountability and transparency while accelerating economic growth, enterprise development and investment promotion in the Union Territory. As part of the initial rollout, 13 departments have been integrated into the portal, with 23 online services already made operational. The administration plans to expand the platform in phases by adding more departments and services. Currently, the portal provides access to services related to departments such as Tourism, Public Health Engineering, and Industries and Commerce, besides offering information on schemes, incentives, policies, Acts, Rules and notifications of the UT Administration. Key features of the portal include a Common Application Form (CAF), Single Sign-On access, PAN authentication, SMS and email notifications, live application tracking, an integrated payment gateway, grievance redressal mechanism and workflow-based approvals. Applicants can also monitor timelines, pendency and grievance status through an interactive dashboard. Calling the launch a major milestone in Ladakhs governance reforms, Saxena said the portal would help reduce procedural delays, improve service delivery and create a more investor-friendly environment. By integrating services of multiple departments onto a single transparent and technology-driven platform, we are ensuring faster approvals, reducing procedural delays and creating a more business-friendly environment in Ladakh, the Lieutenant Governor said, adding that the initiative would strengthen investor confidence, promote entrepreneurship and contribute to economic growth and employment generation. Officials said the portal also incorporates features such as automated grievance escalation, timeline-based approvals, digital file movement and accountability mechanisms to ensure timely disposal of applications and greater transparency in governance.

Heatwave hits Kashmir apple trade, growers forced to sell at lower prices

A sharp rise in temperatures across northern India has weakened demand for Kashmir apples, forcing growers to sell produce at lower prices while grappling with higher transportation costs, traders and farmers said. Apple growers in Kashmir, Indias largest apple-producing region, said markets outside the Valley have witnessed a slowdown in recent weeks as an intense heatwave swept major consumption centres, including Delhi. In Delhi, temperatures are above 45 degrees Celsius, making it difficult to sell produce under such extreme weather conditions, said Mohammad Ashraf, president of the Fruit Mandi Shopian, one of Kashmirs largest fruit markets. The soaring temperatures have also driven up transportation costs, with traders increasingly relying on refrigerated and air-conditioned trucks to prevent spoilage during transit. Earlier, apples could be transported in ordinary vehicles, but now much of the produce is being sent in refrigerated trucks. This has significantly increased input costs for farmers and traders, Ashraf said. The slowdown in demand has directly impacted prices. According to traders, a 10-kg apple box is currently selling for between Rs 800 and Rs 900 in wholesale markets, down from Rs 1,200 to Rs 1,400 just a few weeks ago. The decline has come as a setback for growers who had anticipated firm prices towards the close of the marketing season. Apples remain one of Kashmirs most important horticultural products, supporting hundreds of thousands of farming families across the Valley. Growers said a substantial quantity of last years harvest remains unsold in cold storage facilities across Kashmir. Nearly 15 to 20 per cent of the produce is still lying in cold stores, said an apple grower from south Kashmirs Shopian district. Many farmers were waiting for better prices, but the market has weakened due to sluggish demand, he added. Farmers said prolonged storage increases both risks and expenses, including handling charges and the possibility of quality deterioration. Despite the present slowdown, growers and traders remain cautiously optimistic that demand may improve as Eid approaches. We are hopeful the market will stabilise ahead of Eid, Ashraf said. Demand generally rises during the festival season, and that could help clear some of the stocks still lying in storage. Industry representatives said the coming weeks would be crucial in determining returns from the remaining inventory, with any sustained recovery in demand potentially helping growers offset losses caused by higher transport costs and weaker prices. For now, however, farmers are closely monitoring temperatures in major markets, hoping cooler conditions and festive demand will revive consumer interest in Kashmir apples.

Mehbooba Mufti calls for united political front to seek dialogue with Centre, cites Ladakh model

PDP President Mehbooba Mufti on Monday called for political parties in Jammu and Kashmir to unite on a common platform to push for dialogue with New Delhi, drawing parallels with the leadership of Ladakh, which she said secured progress on constitutional safeguards through sustained engagement with the Centre. Addressing a press conference in Srinagar, the president of the People's Democratic Party said political divisions and electoral considerations should be set aside in favour of a collective effort to restore political engagement between Jammu and Kashmir and the Union government. Referring to recent negotiations involving Ladakh-based groups, she said leaders from Leh and Kargil transcended regional and religious differences and remained consistent in dialogue with New Delhi, ultimately moving closer to constitutional protections related to land and employment safeguards. The leadership of Leh and Kargil rose above religious and regional interests and kept talking to the Government of India. After repeated rounds of engagement, they achieved something. We in Jammu and Kashmir should learn from that experience, Mufti said. ufti appealed particularly to the ruling Jammu & Kashmir National Conference to join hands with other parties and revive a collective political approach similar to the earlier People's Alliance for Gupkar Declaration (PAGD), which she said had compelled New Delhi to hold discussions with regional leadership after the constitutional changes of 2019. She argued that a united political platform could once again create space for engagement with the Centre. Recalling earlier efforts at dialogue during her partys tenure in government, Mufti said engagement had remained central to the PDPs political philosophy, whether during the governments led by former prime ministers Atal Bihari Vajpayee and Manmohan Singh or during the PDP-BJP coalition in Jammu and Kashmir. She said attempts were made to involve separatist groups and interlocutors even during periods of heightened violence and unrest. Engagement is the only way forward. There is no alternative to dialogue. Even at times when militancy was at its peak, efforts were made to talk because peace cannot be achieved without sustained engagement, she said. The former chief minister criticised what she described as the absence of political outreach in Jammu and Kashmir after the Assembly elections, saying people had expected an elected government to advocate for the restoration of dignity and political rights rather than restrict governance to development issues. Roads, electricity and water, she said, cannot substitute political reconciliation. Development alone is not enough. Any government can build roads or provide electricity. People voted hoping their dignity and rights would be protected. Alienation grows when there is no engagement, Mufti said, adding that growing political distance among youth in particular should concern policymakers in Delhi. Calling for confidence-building measures, Mufti urged the Centre to reconsider the deployment of security forces in civilian areas, arguing that official claims of reduced militancy should be reflected in policy. She also sought relief measures for detainees and families affected by incarceration, including humanitarian consideration in cases involving deaths of close relatives. If the government believes militancy has significantly declined, then there should be steps to reduce fear and restore confidence among people. Some humanitarian measures are needed to reconnect with the people of Jammu and Kashmir, she said. Mufti further argued that global conflicts, despite involving militarily powerful states, ultimately return to negotiations, saying dialogue remains the only viable route to resolving political disputes. Reiterating her appeal, she urged parties across Jammu and Kashmir to move beyond electoral competition and jointly seek a structured political process with New Delhi. What we could not achieve individually, we may be able to achieve together, she said.

Action against narco-terrorists, drug smugglers will not stop until they are eliminated from J&K: LG Manoj Sinha

In a major push against the narco-terror, Lieutenant Governor Manoj Sinha rallied with a massive crowd in Bandipora on Monday, leading a Padyatra to galvanise support for the cause. 45 days ago, I pledged not only to dismantle smugglers' and narco-terrorists' ecosystem but also to spark a movement that uplifts youth and restores dignity to families scarred by addiction, the Lieutenant Governor said. The Lieutenant Governor, as per an official statement, said that Jammu Kashmir is united, strong in resolve and clear in purpose and fully committed to freeing our society from drugs once and for all. The action against narco-terrorists and drug smugglers will continue. It will not stop until every drug smuggler is eliminated from the sacred soil of Jammu Kashmir. Our agencies have launched an unprecedented drive to dismantle narco-terrorists and their hidden network. No drug smuggler, drug peddler, or anyone seeking to poison our society is beyond reach. The entire narco-terror ecosystem is being pursued, the Lieutenant Governor said. The Lieutenant Governor stated that several drug supply networks that until now remained hidden for various reasons are being traced and dismantled. He said drug cartels that thrived for decades are being wiped out. We have sent a clear message that Jammu Kashmir will not be a safe haven for those who profit from other peoples sufferings. I am determined that we will root out every narco-terrorist and drug smuggler from this soil. Those who tried to destroy our families will have their existence erased from this land. The law is now being applied firmly. Narco-terrorists are being punished, youth are being protected, families are being supported, and renewed hope is returning to the society, the Lieutenant Governor said. The Lieutenant Governor said that very soon, the administration will come out with a comprehensive rehabilitation policy which will ensure that every young person trapped by addiction gets a chance to rejoin the mainstream. Our aim is that not a single young person is left behind. We will provide jobs, opportunities, and the means for them to live with dignity. I strongly believe the success of a Drug-free Jammu Kashmir will not be measured only by the number of drug smugglers arrested but by the number of lives we can rebuild. It will be measured by the homes that can be restored and the young people who can fulfil their dreams. I promise you that we will not rest until their dreams are realised, the Lieutenant Governor said. The Lieutenant Governor said that the government cannot win this fight alone, and in this battle against drugs, the administration needs the support of families, teachers, religious leaders, and every responsible citizen. I envision a Jammu Kashmir where every child grows up free from the shadow of addiction. A Jammu Kashmir where families are not torn apart by drugs. A Jammu Kashmir where society moves forward with security, dignity, and trust. This is not merely a dream. It is our mission, and together we will fulfill it. We need the vigilance, awareness, and commitment of every resident of Jammu Kashmir. I believe that when people stand united, no narco-terror network or drug cartel can infiltrate them. When the public stands together, no terror can defeat them. I urge, we must unite to bury narco-terror once and for all, the Lieutenant Governor said. On the occasion, the Lieutenant Governor inaugurated Waqar Knowledge Centre Engaging Youth Against Drug Abuse. Under the Nasha Mukt Bharat Abhiyan, District Bandipora has established the Waqar Knowledge Centre (WKC), completing the anti-drug intervention cycle by providing recovering addiction cases with a constructive platform for rehabilitation, engagement, and reintegration. The initiative reinforces the message that individuals seeking to leave the path of substance abuse behind have access to a range of government-supported opportunities and support systems. The Centre offers a sports corner, badminton court, reading library, and an information desk providing guidance on government schemes, education, employment, and skill development opportunities. The Administration envisions establishing one Waqar Knowledge Centre in each block of the district. The Centre provides a constructive space that empowers youth and strengthens community resilience against addiction.

1st Varmul Cup Football Tournament Trophy unveiled in Baramulla

Hazil Memorial Cricket Tournament, organised by the Baramulla Cricket Forum in collaboration with the District Administration Baramulla under the banner of Nasha Mukt J&K, is witnessing overwhelming participation from youth across the district. A total of 64 teams, as per an official statement, are participating in the tournament, while 42 matches have already been successfully played at the General Bipin Rawat Ground. The tournament has emerged as a major sporting platform for local youth, promoting sportsmanship, discipline, and healthy competition. Meanwhile, the trophy of the 1st Varmul Cup Football Tournament was officially unveiled on Monday in the presence of dignitaries, sports enthusiasts, and youth of Baramulla, marking the commencement of another significant sporting event in the district. The organizers highlighted that both tournaments are being conducted with the objective of engaging youth in constructive activities and strengthening the ongoing Nasha Mukt J&K campaign through sports and community participation. Speakers on the occasion appreciated the efforts of the organisers and the District Administration for encouraging local talent and creating opportunities for young players to showcase their sporting abilities. They emphasised that such events play a vital role in steering youth away from drug abuse and towards positive and productive pursuits.

Royal Sports Academy Anantnag wins 5 medals at National Kudo Championship

Royal Sports Academy, Anantnag, made the region proud by winning 1 gold, 1 silver, and 3 bronze medals at the 4th National Kudo Championship Cup 2026 held in Pune, Maharashtra. The academys athletes, as per a statement issued on Monday, delivered an impressive performance at the national-level event, with Malika Mehraj winning the gold medal, Mir Mujtuba securing silver, while Fysal Amin, Minhaj Mushtaq and Salim Bin Showkat bagged bronze medals in their respective categories. The statement added that this all was possible under the able & professional guidance of Coach Suhail Hassan Bhat & Patron Dr Rafeeq Masoodi, who too congratulated the team, coach & academy for the wonderful performance. Academy administration congratulates all participants and sincerely thanks the parents for their trust and support. Their dedication and hard work have made Anantnag proud, the statement added.

District Admin Srinagar's Rolling Trophy Inter College Cricket Tournament 2026 concludes

District Administration Srinagars Rolling Trophy Inter-College Cricket Tournament 2026, organised under the Youth Empowerment and Engagement Programme, concluded on Monday with a valedictory function held at SP College Srinagar, marking the successful culmination of the Inter-College sporting event. Deputy Commissioner (DC) Srinagar Akshay Labroo, as per an official statement, presided over the valedictory ceremony as the Chief Guest and formally felicitated the winning and runner-up teams with trophies, medals, and certificates of appreciation. The event was also attended by Chief Planning Officer Srinagar, Fayaz Ahmad Dar, Nodal Principal, Kashmir Division Colleges, Seema Naaz, IAS Probationer Alfred Thomas, Principal SP College, Dr. Haris Izhar Tantray, Principal Gandhi Memorial College, Masood Ahmad, District youth Services & Sports Officer, Ghulam Hassan, besides enthusiastic participants from students and faculty members of various City Colleges. During the valedictory address, the DC emphasized that initiatives under the Youth Empowerment and Engagement Programme are designed to provide constructive avenues for young people, encouraging them to actively participate in academic, cultural, and sports-related activities. He reiterated that such platforms play a crucial role in channelizing youth energy in a positive direction and strengthening community engagement at the grassroots level. The DC emphasised that the District Administration Srinagar will provide similar platforms to students to showcase their talent by organising events, including cultural feast, entrepreneur feast, science & technology events under 12 month long under the Youth Empowerment and Engagement Programme to nurture sporting talent and build a strong sports culture within the district. The DC commended the efforts of the organizing Committee, Nodal Principal Colleges Kashmir, SP College and sports coordinators for ensuring the smooth conduct of the tournament by involving youth in constructive and healthy pursuits. He stated that the event also play a key role in promoting sportsmanship, youth engagement, physical well-being and awareness against social evils through constructive extracurricular activities under the broader framework of the Nasha Mukt Jammu and Kashmir Abhiyan. While highlighting the ill effects of the drug menace, the DC also underlined the counselling, treatment, and rehabilitation facilities available in Srinagar District for individuals affected by drug addiction and substance abuse, particularly at IMHAANS and through the Tele-MANAS platform. The DC said these facilities are playing a vital role in providing psychological support, medical assistance, counselling services, and rehabilitation to victims of drug abuse, while also helping families cope with the social and emotional impact of addiction. During the valedictory function, the Deputy Commissioner felicitated the winning and runner-up teams with trophies, medals and certificates of appreciation. He also felicitated the best performers of the event. The tournament witnessed enthusiastic participation from different Government Degree Colleges across District Srinagar, bringing together talented young cricketers in both mens and womens categories. In mens Category Gandhi College lifted the title whereas Amar Singh College won the Runner Up Trophy. Mozain from Gandhi College was declared as the Player of the Match while Faheem from Gandhi College as Player of the Series. In Women's Category Government College for Women M.A.Road lifted the Title while Gandhi College won the Runners Up Trophy. Masrat from Women's College M.A. Road was announced as the Player of the Match as well as Player of the tournament for her brilliant all round performance.

US launches fresh strikes on southern Iran amid ongoing talks with Tehran

The United States military has carried out fresh strikes on southern Iran, targeting Iranian missile sites and boats allegedly attempting to deploy naval mines, according to the BBC. The US Central Command said the strikes were conducted in self-defense and aimed at protecting American troops from threats posed by Iranian forces. Central Command spokesperson Capt Tim Hawkins said the US military continues to defend our forces while using restraint during the ongoing ceasefire, reports BBC. According to reports, the strikes targeted areas near Bandar Abbas, a key southern Iranian port city that hosts an Iranian naval base along the strategic Strait of Hormuz. Iranian state media earlier reported explosions in the region, with local authorities investigating the incident. Iran has not yet officially responded to the latest US action. The strikes come amid ongoing diplomatic efforts between Washington and Tehran, with both sides indicating some progress in negotiations while cautioning that a final agreement remains distant. Iranian foreign ministry spokesman Esmail Baqai said significant progress had been achieved in talks with the US, but stressed that the signing of an agreement is not imminent. US Secretary of State Marco Rubio had earlier suggested that a deal could possibly be reached soon. Meanwhile, Irans top negotiator and foreign minister were reportedly in Doha for discussions with Qatars prime minister regarding a potential agreement with the US. The US and Iranian forces have observed a ceasefire since April 8, following months of heightened tensions after the US and Israel launched large-scale strikes on Iran in February. Iran retaliated by attacking Israel and Gulf states allied with the US, while also tightening controls over shipping through the Strait of Hormuz, triggering a surge in global oil prices

Batamaloo residents seek ventilation for community hall cooking zone

Srinagar, May 25:Residents of Shah Faisalabad area at Batamaloo have expressed serious concern over rising smoke emanating from a local community hall cooking zone, saying that absence of a proper smoke outlet is causing immense hardship to dozens of households in the locality. The community hall, primarily used for marriages, public gatherings and social functions, witnesses large-scale cooking of traditional Wazwan dishes during wedding ceremonies. Locals said that the meals are prepared on wooden logs, generating thick smoke that spreads across the densely populated residential area. With the marriage season already at its peak and expected to intensify further after Eid, the situation is becoming unbearable for us, said a local resident, Molvi Habibullah. There is no proper chimney or ventilation system in place. The smoke directly enters our homes from morning till late evening. Habibullah said one of his family members is on oxygen support and has been struggling due to the deteriorating air quality. Even I am elderly and not keeping well. Patients who need clean air are suffering the most. The smoke creates suffocation and worsens respiratory problems, he said. Residents living adjacent to the hall said they frequently experience irritation in their eyes and breathing difficulties due to the dense smoke. They alleged that the cooking area lacks proper high boundary walls or enclosed structures, allowing the smoke to spread freely into nearby homes. Imagine waking up every morning to smoke filling your rooms. Children, especially newborns, are facing severe respiratory issues. At times, we cannot even host guests in our homes because the atmosphere becomes unbearable, said another local resident. The locals said the issue has persisted for a long time but becomes more severe during the marriage season when wedding functions are held almost daily. They said the hall is also used by people from neighbouring localities that lack such facilities, further increasing the frequency of events. We are already tolerating traffic congestion and inconvenience caused during marriage ceremonies, but this smoke issue is dangerous for public health, the residents said. They appealed to Srinagar Municipal Corporation to immediately intervene and install a proper chimney-like structure to channel the smoke upwards without affecting residential areas. They also demanded construction of high protective walls around the cooking section of the hall to prevent smoke from entering nearby houses. Srinagar Municipal Corporation commissioner could not be reached despite multiple attempts from this reporter regarding the issue.

Coordinated efforts must to dismantle ecosystem supporting narcotics trafficking in Srinagar

Srinagar, May 25:Deputy Commissioner (DC) Srinagar, Akshay Labroo today chaired a meeting of the District Level NCORD Committee to review the impact and progress achieved under the ongoing 100-day anti-drug campaign being implemented across the district. Senior Superintendent of Police (SSP), Dr. Sundeep Chakravarthy was also present in the meeting. The meeting was attended by Regional Transport Officer Kashmir, Qazi Irfan; Additional Deputy Commissioner Srinagar, Aadil Fareed; SP Headquarter, Umar Shah; IAS Probationer, Alfred Thomas; SDM West, Irfan Bahadur; SDM East, Zubair Ahmad; and Officers from Excise, Drug Control Organisation, DYS&S, heads of ATFs and Officers of other concerned departments. At the outset, the meeting held a comprehensive review of the Districts anti-drug strategy, enforcement actions and preventive interventions undertaken during the ongoing 100-days anti-drug Jammu and Kashmir Nasha Mukt Abhiyan. During the meeting, it was informed that intensified enforcement operations and coordinated action against drug peddling networks have yielded significant results across Srinagar district. Giving detailed figures, the meeting was informed that 84 FIRs have been registered under NDPS cases and 117 persons have been arrested during the ongoing campaign. It was further reported that 100 driving licences and 46 vehicle Registration Certificates (RCs) linked to NDPS-related violations have been suspended to date, as part of sustained and strict enforcement measures aimed at disrupting drug networks and deterring drug-related activities in the district. The meeting was further informed that licences of 17 chemists were suspended for violations related to drug regulations and unauthorized handling of controlled substances. In addition, red entries have been recorded in revenue records against identified drug peddlers to strengthen legal and administrative action against repeat offenders. Additionally, illegal properties worth nearly Rs 40 crore linked to drug peddlers have been attached or demolished in Srinagar as part of the intensified crackdown on narcotics networks and illegal assets generated through drug trafficking. The Deputy Commissioner and SSP appreciated the coordinated efforts of all departments and agencies involved in the campaign and emphasised the need to sustain the momentum through continued enforcement, public participation and preventive outreach initiatives. On the occasion, the DC directed all concerned departments to further strengthen inter-departmental coordination and intensify action against drug peddlers and trafficking networks to ensure a drug-free and safer environment in the District. He emphasized renewed focus and coordinated efforts to curb drug abuse and dismantle the ecosystem supporting narcotics trafficking in Srinagar District. The DC further stressed the importance of a multi-pronged strategy combining strict law enforcement with awareness generation, counselling and rehabilitation measures to effectively tackle the menace of drug abuse, particularly among youth. The SSP Srinagar reiterated the commitment of the Police in collaboration with civil authorities towards sustained action against narcotics-related activities and called for active support from the public in identifying and reporting drug-related offences. The meeting also reviewed measures related to intensified surveillance of identified hotspots and vulnerable areas, close monitoring of repeat offenders, strict regulation of pharmaceutical outlets, and effective implementation of awareness programmes across the district. It further deliberated on strengthening counselling support and rehabilitation initiatives for affected individuals, with a focus on ensuring a coordinated, sustained, and outcome-oriented response to the drug menace.

Coordinated arrangements for Eid prayers have been finalised: Dr Darakhshan

Srinagar, May 25:The Chairperson of Jammu & Kashmir Waqf Board Dr Syed Darakhshan Andrabi Monday chaired an Eid preparedness meeting with the representatives of different departments of administration and Imams and Khateebs from different prominent shrines and mosques under Waqf Board. Intense deliberations were held on chalking out the final work plans for smooth Eid arrangements and hassle free prayers on the festival day. As per a press release, Dr Andrabi stressed upon the need of a comprehensive coordinated work plan involving Waqf management and different departments for smooth services to the people at all places. Coordinated arrangements for Eid prayers have been finalised, said Dr Syed Darakhshan after the meeting. She thanked the representatives of different departments for continuous coordination during past few years with the Waqf Board for making the festival arrangements a great success. Those who attended the meeting included Ikramul Tak, Additional Commissioner Kashmir, Manzoor Ahmad Bhat, ADDC DC Office Ganderbal, Dr Bashir Ahmad Bhat Special Officer Waqf, Executive Magistrate Ishtiyaq Mohiuddin, Ms Afroza, ACR Budgam, Aijaz Ahmad, SSP Traffic, Rakesh Kumar, SSP (SO to IGP Security), Farooq Ahmad, Additional SO Security, Ghulam Geelani, Additional SSP Baramulla, Syed Saleeth Shah, DySP Headquarter Srinagar, Tanveer Ahmad, Joint Controller, Hilal Ahmad Mir, Dy Director Consumer Affairs, Bilal Ahmad, Deputy Director, Dr Mohammed Amin, Dy Director Health Services, Dr Moid, BMO Hazratbal, Superintending Engineers Shabir Ahmad Kumar, Iram Lone, Aruj Allaqband, Executive Engineers Er Firdaus Ahmad Ganai, Ee Qazi Mushtaq Ahmad, Mohammad Yousuf, Saima Bashir, Syed Ahmad Wani, Mohammad Ayoub, Mohammad Latif Shah, whereas the religious preachers including Imaam-o-Khateeb Assar-i-Shareef Hazratbal MolanaRiyazul Haq, Imam-o-Khateeb Assar-i-Shareef KabamargMolana Sheikh Abdul RaheedDawoodi, Imam-o-Khateeb Charar Shareef Molvi Amir ud Din, Imam-o-Khateeb Peer Dastageer Sahib Khanyar Syed Mudasir Geelani, Imam-o-Khateeb Syed Yaqoob Sahib Sonwar, Peerzada Mohd Hussain Qadri.

CPCO Amit reviews Census 2027 preparedness with Deputy Commissioner Jammu

Srinagar, May 25:Chief Principal Census Officer (CPCO) and Director Census Operations & Citizen Registration (DCO/DCR), Jammu & Kashmir and Ladakh, Amit Sharma Monday chaired a detailed review and orientation meeting with Deputy Commissioner Jammu, Dr Rakesh Minhas, and all charge officers, regarding the ongoing Self-Enumeration exercise and overall preparedness for Census 2027 in District Jammu. The meeting focused on reviewing the progress of Self-Enumeration, House Listing Block (HLB) demarcation and geo-tagging, training activities, media and publicity initiatives, distribution of Census materials, mapping and jurisdictional updations and financial preparedness relating to Census operations in Jammu, which is the winter capital district of the UT, said a press release. The meeting was also attended by Vidhu Shekhar, IAS, Additional Deputy Commissioner who apprised the meeting regarding progress on various aspects and the initiatives taken for IEC activities. The Chief Principal Census Officer Amit Sharma was accompanied with Manmeet Singh Loomba, Deputy Chief Principal Census Officer, Jatinder Kumar and Nimrat Kour, Assistant Chief Principal Census Officers. During the review, CPCO Amit Sharma appreciated the progress achieved by District Jammu in various Census-related activities and particularly commended the encouraging response being witnessed in the ongoing Self-Enumeration exercise. He noted with satisfaction the growing number of households voluntarily participating in Self-Enumeration and appreciated the extensive awareness and publicity drives being carried out by the district administration for promotion of Census 2027 and Self-Enumeration. Amit observed that District Jammu, being one of the largest and most diverse districts of the Union Territory, has shown significant public participation in the ongoing digital Census exercise through coordinated field-level mobilisation, citizen outreach initiatives and thematic awareness campaigns. CPCO Amit Sharma stressed upon maintaining strong momentum during the remaining days of the Self-Enumeration period and directed that awareness campaigns should be further intensified across urban, semi-urban and rural areas to ensure wider public participation and timely completion of Self-Enumeration by households. The meeting also reviewed the status of HLB demarcation and geo-tagging activities, during which it was informed that all identified House Listing Blocks in District Jammu have been fully demarcated and geo-tagged as part of the preparatory framework for Census 2027. The progress of training programmes for Enumerators and Supervisors was also discussed in-detail. It was informed to CPCO Amit Sharma that both Field Trainer training and Enumerator & Supervisor training activities have been completed successfully and field-level Census functionaries have been fully oriented regarding digital Census applications and operational procedures for smooth conduct of Census operations. Detailed discussions were also held regarding media outreach initiatives, participation of dignitaries in Self-Enumeration, thematic publicity campaigns and citizen engagement activities being undertaken across the district. CPCO Amit Sharma emphasised the importance of coordinated IEC activities and digital awareness initiatives for ensuring maximum public participation in Census 2027. Reiterating the importance of accurate demographic data for governance and developmental planning, CPCO Amit Sharma appealed to all residents of District Jammu to actively participate in the ongoing Self-Enumeration exercise and complete their Census submissions within the notified timelines. Before leaving, he wished PCO-cum-DC Jammu Rakesh Minhas and his entire team for the conduct of upcoming first phase of HLO in ongoing Census 2027 with quality data collection from all Households during entire month of June 2026.

Hold Panchayat, ULB polls immediately; people waiting: Altaf Bukhari

Jammu, May 25:J&K Apni Party president Syed Mohammad Altaf Bukhari on Monday voiced serious concern over the continued delay in the conduct of Panchayat and Urban Local Bodies (ULB) elections in Jammu and Kashmir and urged the authorities to hold these elections without any further delay. Panchayat and ULB polls should be held at the earliest to strengthen grassroots democratic governance. They are long overdue and the people are waiting for them, Altaf Bukhari said, while chairing a key provincial-level meeting held in Jammu. The meeting focussed on reviewing the prevailing political situation in Jammu and Kashmir, discussing key public issues and grievances, as well as deliberating on internal organisational matters. Senior leaders and prominent workers from across Jammu province attended the meeting. The participants briefed the party president and senior leadership about the political situation in their respective constituencies and highlighted a range of public concerns and local grievances. Several organisational issues were also discussed during the deliberations. During the meeting, party leaders criticised the elected government for what they described as its failure to address the pressing issues confronting the people of Jammu and Kashmir. They said that the ruling partys promises made during its election campaign proved to be blatant lies. They said that the assurances such as providing 200 units of free electricity to every household, free cooking gas, an additional ration quota, one lakh jobs for youth, and regularisation of daily wagers, along with several other commitments, all turned out to be unfulfilled promises. They also expressed concern over indications suggesting that the ruling Jammu and Kashmir National Conference and Indian National Congress were attempting to communalise the situation in Jammu and Kashmir for political gain. During the meeting, the party leadership urged district-level leaders and senior workers to intensify their political and public outreach activities in order to remain closely connected with the masses in their respective areas. They also asked them to stay prepared for the forthcoming ULB and Panchayat elections. The prominent party leaders who were present in the meeting included partys general secretary Vijay Bakaya, provincial president Manjit Singh, provincial senior vice president Shah Mohammed Tantray, provincial vice president and in-charge ST wing Saleem Alam, provincial vice president Arun Chhibber, provincial secretary and in-charge trade wing Ajaz Kazmi, provincial secretary and in-charge Minority wing Balbir Singh, provincial secretary and in-charge OBC wing Bhagat Ram, party spokesperson Sahil Bharti, district presidents besides other senior leaders.

GVEI earns spot at Viksit Bharat Buildathon Presentation event

Srinagar, May 25:In a landmark achievement for the educational landscape of valley, Green Valley Educational Institute, Ellahi Bagh has become the lone CBSE school in J&K selected for the prestigious Viksit Bharat Buildathon 2025 Guinness Presentation Event. With this remarkable feat, GVEI has secured a place among the winning teams of the countrys largest innovation-driven student competition. The event has been organised by the Department of School Education & Literacy (DoSEL), Ministry of Education in collaboration with Atal Innovation Mission, NITI Aayog. Representing G.V.E.I under the team title Dream Builders are Arhaan Ahmad (Class 10th), Mohammad Muntaha (Class 9th) and Mannat Jan (Class 10th). They have designed and developed an innovative working model titled Guardian Bridge under the theme Aatmanirbhar Bharat. According to the students, they have been developing the model for the past three years and have previously showcased it at several exhibitions. Our idea was inspired by the rising number of suicide and accident cases across India. We aimed to create a solution that could help save lives, they mentioned. The team is now all set to present the project on a larger platform. They were guided by G.V.E.I, ATL Incharge, Nauf Nisaa. Scheduled to be held in New Delhi on May 25, 2026, the national event shall be graced by the Union Minister for Education, Dharmendra Pradhan, and will celebrate the success of VBB 2025 as the worlds largest innovation solution competition, bringing together some of the finest young innovators from across India.

Apni Party stages protest against Budgam incident, demands exemplary punishment for culprit

Srinagar, May 25: In a strong display of anger and solidarity, leaders and senior workers of Apni Party on Monday staged a protest demonstration and candlelight vigil against the horrific incident of rape and murder of a minor girl in Galwanpora area of Budgam district, an incident that has sent shockwaves across Kashmir and sparked widespread outrage. Partys Provincial President Mohammad Ashraf Mir led this protest. Holding placards and candles, the protesting leaders condemned the barbaric crime in the strongest possible terms and demanded the harshest possible punishment for the involved. The demonstrators described the incident as a crime against humanity and said that such acts have deeply wounded the conscience of society. Speaking during the protest, Mohammad Ashraf Mir expressed profound grief over the tragic incident and extended unwavering support and solidarity to the bereaved family. He said the brutal killing has shaken every human heart and underscored the urgent need for stronger societal and institutional measures to protect children and ensure womens safety. Mir demanded a fast track trial of the case so that the involved could be severely punished as soon as possible. He appealed the legal fertility no to plead for the guilty. He warned that if the process of justice is delayed he would go for a hunger strike. He also appealed to religious leaders to join this moment for justice. This is not merely a crime; it is an act of unimaginable brutality that has horrified the entire society. Only a beast devoid of humanity could commit such a heinous act, the protesting leaders said while demanding that justice be delivered swiftly and without compromise.

Intermittent rains lash Kashmir Valley; snowfall in Drass, Zojila, temperatures dip

Srinagar, May 25:Intermittent rain lashed several parts of the Kashmir Valley on Monday, while fresh snowfall in the higher reaches of Drass and Zojila led to a dip in temperatures across the region. The Valley witnessed a bright and sunny morning before weather conditions changed in the afternoon, triggering spells of rain and thundershowers in many areas. The wet spell, which began last week, continued with light to moderate showers reported from several districts. Fresh snowfall was reported from Minamarg, Drass and Zojila, turning the upper reaches white. However, traffic movement on the Srinagar-Ladakh highway remained normal. The highway, which passes through the Zojila Pass at an altitude of more than 3,500 metres, is the main road link connecting Kashmir with Ladakh. According to the Meteorological Department, Srinagar recorded 1.4 mm of rainfall during the past 24 hours, while Qazigund received 3 mm, Pahalgam 6.4 mm, Kupwara 3.1 mm, Kokernag 2.9 mm and Gulmarg 5.2 mm. Temperatures across Kashmir settled below normal. Srinagar recorded a maximum temperature of 23.3 degrees Celsius, 2.1 degrees below normal. Qazigund settled at 21.6 degrees Celsius, Pahalgam at 20.2 degrees Celsius and Gulmarg at 13.6 degrees Celsius. In contrast, the Jammu region continued to witness intense heat, although some stations recorded a slight dip in temperatures due to traces of rainfall. Jammu city recorded a maximum temperature of 40 degrees Celsius, nearly two degrees above normal. Katra recorded 37.8 degrees Celsius, Banihal 31.6 degrees Celsius, Batote 28.1 degrees Celsius and Bhaderwah 27.2 degrees Celsius. Meteorological Department Director Mukhtar Ahmad said intermittent light to moderate rain accompanied by thunder and gusty winds was expected at a few places till late evening on Monday. He said weather conditions were likely to improve starting Tuesday. The weather will remain generally warm and dry from May 26 to May 27, with temperatures expected to reach 30 degrees Celsius again, Ahmad said. He said partly to generally cloudy weather was expected from May 28 to May 30, with chances of brief light rain and thundershowers at isolated places, mainly during late afternoon hours. Overall, no major weather activity is expected till the end of this month, he added. Authorities have issued an advisory warning of thunderstorms, hailstorms and gusty winds reaching speeds of 40-50 kmph in isolated areas on May 28 and May 29. Meanwhile, recent hailstorms and gusty winds in parts of north Kashmir, particularly in Lolab-Kupwara, Bandipora and Rafiabad-Baramulla, damaged apple orchards and standing crops. Earlier this month, similar weather activity had also caused damage to orchards in parts of south Kashmir.

CS Atal Dulloo led SEC clears UNDP collaboration, advanced disaster response measures for J&K

Srinagar, May 25:Chief Secretary Atal Dulloo Monday chaired the meeting of the State Executive Committee (SEC) of the Department of Disaster Management, Relief, Rehabilitation & Reconstruction (DMRR&R) to review and approve a series of significant initiatives aimed at strengthening disaster mitigation, preparedness and response mechanisms across Jammu and Kashmir. The meeting was attended by Additional Chief Secretary, Finance; Principal Secretary, DMRR&R; Commandant General, SDRF; Commissioner Secretary, Law; Secretary, Revenue; besides other senior officers of the DMRR&R. During the meeting, the SEC deliberated upon several key agenda items concerning disaster preparedness and resilience-building measures in the UT and accorded approval to a number of important decisions aimed at enhancing the institutional and operational capacity of the administration to effectively deal with natural disasters and emergencies. Among the major decisions taken was the formal approval for entering into partnership with United Nations Development Programme (UNDP) for implementation of disaster mitigation measures in various districts of Jammu and Kashmir. The Committee also approved constitution of a Project Steering Committee to oversee coordination and effective implementation of the programme. The committee will be headed by the Principal Secretary, DMRR&R and co-chaired by UNDP along with several other members from concerned Departments. In order to strengthen technological preparedness and scientific assessment capabilities, the SEC also approved procurement of Digital Terrain Models (DTMs) for vulnerable districts to facilitate simulation, prediction and mitigation of natural disasters. The Committee further gave nod for procurement of satellite phones for high-risk subdivisions and tehsils across all districts to ensure seamless communication during emergency situations and disaster events. The meeting also discussed the constitution of hazard-specific task forces for disasters such as earthquakes, floods, Glacial Lake Outburst Floods (GLOF) and landslides. These task forces would comprise experts and members drawn from reputed national and local institutions including IITs, universities and other technical organizations to provide specialised inputs for disaster risk reduction and preparedness planning. In another significant decision, the SEC revalidated funds amounting to Rs 10.69 Cr for procurement of rescue and emergency response equipment to ensure safe, secure and efficient conduct of the annual Shri Amarnathji Yatra in Jammu and Kashmir. The Chief Secretary emphasized the need for robust preparedness, coordinated response mechanisms and adoption of modern technology-driven systems to minimize risks and strengthen resilience against disasters across the Union Territory.

Government developing off-beat tourist destinations, promoting adventure tourism: Sakeena Itoo

Srinagar, May 25: Minister for Health and Medical Education, Social Welfare and Education, Sakeena Itoo today inaugurated a Tourism Capacity Building Camp at Panchanpatri Kulgam and and also flagged off an All-Terrain Rally (ATR), trekkers expedition, cycle rally and other tourism promotion activities. Speaking on the occasion, the Minister said that the Government is committed to strengthening the tourism sector in Jammu & Kashmir by developing offbeat destinations and promoting adventure tourism activities across Jammu and Kashmir. She said that such programmes provide a valuable platform to inform and aware youth about various government schemes and programmes related to tourism, employment generation and self-employment opportunities. The Minister emphasised that the promotion of unexplored tourist destinations will not only attract visitors but also create sustainable livelihood opportunities for local communities. She highlighted the importance of involving youth and local stakeholders in tourism-related initiatives for the overall economic development of the region. The programme was organized with an aim to promote tourism awareness, adventure tourism and enhance the participation of youth in the tourism sector across the district. Tourism stakeholders, tour and travel operators, local representatives, district officers and large number of youth participated in the camp. They appreciated the efforts being made to boost tourism infrastructure and adventure activities in the area. The event also witnessed enthusiastic participation in trekking, cycling and other adventure activities aimed at showcasing the tourism potential of Panchanpatri and adjoining areas.

Rajouri encounter: Heavy gunfire, explosions heard from dense woods on Day 3, hideout busted

Rajouri, May 25:Heavy gunfire and loud explosions were heard from the dense forest of Dori Maal in Rajouri, where an encounter entered its third consecutive day on Monday. This encounter raged on Saturday after contact between security forces and terrorists and is in progress since then. Officials said that after initial contact on Saturday morning, no further exchange of fire happened on Sunday even after the Anti Terror operation continued at aggressive level with joint teams of forces trying to track terrorists hiding in the dense forest. On the third consecutive day on Monday, heavy gunfire was heard from the operation site. As per locals, firing started on Monday morning and continued intermittently throughout the day and was also going on when last reports were received. Dozens of heavy explosions were also heard from this dense forest and the explosions were heard kilometres away from the operation area. The security forces, however, have not shared any official statement on Monday and it is not clear whether hiding terrorists also fired or not. Official sources said that there is likely to be two to three heavily armed terrorists in this dense forest which is considered quite tough due to thick vegetation and low grown plants. During searches in the forest, the security forces have also busted a hideout that was established in natural vegetation with some bags containing eatables, garments have been recovered from the hideout while there are some blood trials also which indicate that one or more terrorists could be injured. Meanwhile, Inspector General of Police (IGP) Jammu zone, Bhim Sen Tutti, IG CRPF Amul V Homkar visited the operation site and conducted a review of operational progress. Upon arrival at Rajouri, both the Inspector Generals arrived at the operation site in Gambhir Mughalan where GOC Romeo Force Maj Gen Vijay, DIG Police Rajouri Poonch range, Sandeep Wazir, SSP Rajouri Gaurav Sikarwar briefed the officers about the operational progress.

Summer Snow in Kashmir

For centuries, Kashmir has lived in close harmony with water. Rivers, lakes, springs (Naags), streams (Kuls), wetlands, glaciers, and snowfall have shaped not only the Valleys landscape but also its culture, traditions, economy, and identity. From the calm waters of Dal and Wular lakes to the flowing Jhelum and Lidder rivers, water has always symbolised life and prosperity in Kashmiri society. Villages traditionally developed around freshwater springs, while snowfall and seasonal streams sustained agriculture and horticulture for generations. In the Valleys cultural and spiritual traditions, water bodies were treated with deep respect and reverence. Seasonal changes guided farming, festivals, and daily life, while elders predicted weather through cloud patterns, spring discharge, mountain winds, and snowfall behaviour. Kashmirs relationship with nature was therefore not merely environmental; it was civilisational, emotional, and deeply rooted in the Valleys collective memory. However, the same skies that once brought predictable rain and gentle snowfall are now increasingly unleashing violent climatic extremes. Parts of Kupwara district, especially the Lolab Valley, recently witnessed an intense hailstorm that transformed roads, orchards, and fields into scenes resembling mid-winter snowfall. Thick white layers of hail covered roads and open spaces, vehicles struggled to move through icy slush, and hailstones accumulated like fresh snow despite it being late spring. Residents described the event as one of the most severe hailstorms witnessed in decades. It was hailing like snow. Within a few hours, everything turned white, recalled residents from Lolab, expressing the shock felt across the region. Such events were once considered rare in Kashmir during this season, but their increasing frequency now reflects a disturbing climatic shift unfolding across the Himalayan region. The Science Behind the Hailstorms Scientifically, hailstorms form very differently from snowfall. While snow develops through the freezing of water vapour into delicate ice crystals, hail forms inside violently unstable thunderstorm clouds. Strong upward currents carry raindrops high into freezing layers of the atmosphere where they turn into ice particles. These particles repeatedly move up and down within the storm cloud, accumulating additional layers of ice until they become too heavy and fall to the ground at extremely high speeds. Scientists warn that global warming is increasing atmospheric moisture and instability, creating favourable conditions for severe thunderstorms, cloudbursts, flash floods, erratic rainfall, and destructive hailstorms. The Himalayan region, including Kashmir, is warming faster than many other parts of the world, directly affecting glaciers, snowfall patterns, and hydrological systems. What makes such events more concerning is their growing intensity and unpredictability. Climate experts repeatedly warn that global warming does not simply increase temperatures; it destabilises weather systems. Kashmir, once known for its relatively balanced seasonal cycle, is now experiencing prolonged dry spells, sudden heavy rainfall, reduced snowfall, warmer winters, and extreme weather events within short intervals. Many elderly residents observe that the weather no longer behaves the way it once did. Traditional methods of predicting seasonal changes through natural indicators are becoming increasingly unreliable as climate patterns rapidly shift. Human interference with nature through deforestation, wetland encroachment, pollution, reckless urbanisation, and excessive exploitation of natural resources has further disturbed the fragile ecological balance of the Valley. The mistakes of humanity against nature are now returning in the form of violent climatic reactions. Although hail-covered landscapes may appear visually beautiful, the destruction beneath the white blanket is immense. Kashmirs economy depends heavily on agriculture and horticulture, especially apple orchards, walnut plantations, vegetables, paddy fields, and maize cultivation. A severe hailstorm lasting only a few minutes can destroy flowers, fruits, saplings, and standing crops, causing massive financial losses to farmers. In Lolab and nearby areas, orchards suffered heavy damage, tree branches broke under the impact of hailstones, nurseries were flattened, and rooftops and windowpanes were damaged. Roads became dangerously slippery, disrupting transportation and increasing accident risks. Livestock losses and psychological stress among farming families added to the crisis, as months of hard work disappeared within moments. For many rural households already facing economic uncertainty, repeated weather disasters are gradually becoming a serious livelihood threat. Historically, hailstorms also carried deep cultural meanings in Kashmir. In traditional beliefs, such storms were often viewed as signs of ecological imbalance or divine anger. Yet today, the growing intensity of such climatic events is forcing communities to confront a new environmental reality where traditional experience alone may no longer be sufficient. What once appeared as isolated weather disturbances are now becoming visible signs of a climate system under stress. The recent hailstorm in Kupwara is therefore not merely an isolated weather event but a warning signal from a rapidly changing climate. Rising temperatures, glacier retreat, shrinking wetlands, deforestation, pollution, and unplanned urbanisation are placing Kashmirs hydrological balance under serious pressure. Springs, lakes, rivers, wetlands, and glaciers are becoming increasingly vulnerable, threatening future water security, agriculture, biodiversity, tourism, and livelihoods. Scientific studies indicate that declining snow reserves and changing precipitation patterns may significantly affect groundwater recharge, irrigation systems, and river flows in the coming decades. Addressing these challenges requires urgent and coordinated action. The government must strengthen radar coverage and install advanced weather forecasting systems so that timely warnings can reach farmers and communities before such events occur. Crop insurance schemes should specifically include hailstorm damage, while subsidies for anti-hail nets, hail-resistant roofing materials, and climate-resilient farming practices must be expanded. Wetlands, forests, springs, and traditional water bodies should be restored and protected as ecological buffers against climate instability. Strict regulation of encroachments, deforestation, unplanned construction, and pollution is equally necessary. At the community level, awareness regarding climate adaptation and environmental conservation must increase significantly. Traditional ecological knowledge should be integrated with modern scientific systems for disaster preparedness and climate management. Schools, local institutions, religious bodies, and panchayats can play an important role in promoting climate literacy and environmental responsibility. Communities should also be trained in local disaster response mechanisms so that vulnerable populations can better respond during extreme weather events. The hailstorm witnessed in Lolab was not simply frozen rain, it was a visible reminder of the rapidly changing climate realities confronting Kashmir. The rivers, lakes, springs, wetlands, glaciers, and snow reserves of the Valley are not merely environmental resources but the foundation of Kashmirs civilisation, economy, culture, and identity. Protecting them is therefore not only an ecological responsibility but also essential for the long-term sustainability and survival of the Valley itself. With stronger environmental policies, scientific intervention, responsible governance, and active public participation, Kashmir can still build resilience against the growing threats posed by climate change and preserve the fragile ecological balance that has sustained the Valley for centuries. Pir Rayees Ahmad, Sr. Scientist (Hydrogeologist), Central Ground Water Board, Ministry of Jal Shakti, Government of India

Key Takeaways from Euro PCR 2026

Every spring, Paris shifts from being merely the global capital of culture and history to the vibrant epicentre of interventional cardiovascular medicine. As thousands of clinicians, researchers, and allied health professionals converge upon the Palais des Congrs for Euro-PCR, the city provides far more than a scenic backdrop; it embodies the very spirit of the course itself. Just as the landmarks of Paris bridge a rich heritage with constant architectural and social evolution. Euro- PCR stands as a living testament to how generations of clinical practice can seamlessly merge with pioneering innovation. It is here, amidst the timeless energy of the Seine and the bustling avenues of the capital, that the global cardiology community gathers to share evidence-based triumphs, navigate clinical complexities, and reaffirm a shared, foundational commitment: that cutting-edge education ultimately saves patient lives. The Genesis and Evolution of euro PCR Long before it became the largest interventional cardiology course in Europe, Euro PCR began as a highly focused, hands-on gathering in Toulouse, France. In 1983, Professor Jean Marco organized the first angioplasty course featuring live case transmissions broadcasted directly from the Clinique Pasteur. By April 1989, this initiative evolved into the formal course, Complex coronary angioplasty and new techniques in interventional cardiology, led by a collaborative team including Jean Marco, Jean Fajadet, GeoffroyHartzler, and Cassidy Pinkerton. The primary strength of the course lay in its educational methodology: it moved away from dry, abstract lectures and pivoted entirely toward practical, live-demonstration teaching rooted in transparency, ethics, and critical insight. As the course grew exponentially, exceeding 3,000 participants by the mid-1990s, Toulouses infrastructure could no longer accommodate the logistics. In 1996, the decision was made to relocate to Paris. Following a fusion between the Paris Course on Revascularization (PCR) and Patrick Serruys Rotterdam-based Euro CVS course, euro PCR was officially born. Today, it serves as the ultimate global hub for sharing clinical trials, companion imaging techniques, and device innovations, drawing over 15,000 international delegates annually. High-Impact Clinical Science at euro PCR 2026 The euro PCR 2026 scientific sessions featured an exceptionally rigorous agenda, highlighted by critical clinical data demonstrating how contemporary percutaneous coronary intervention (PCI) and advanced stent technologies are reshaping the care of complex patient populations. In addition, structural heart disease with non-surgical treatment of diseased valves and support systems during interventions with poor heart function was also a highlight point. The course has several training and hands on sessions and a huge exposition of new products in the Industrial exhibition. There were a number of late breaking trials on various subjects from all over the globe. My group consisting of 63 Indian Centres presented our pivotal trial TUXEDOs secondary outcomes. The major focal point of this late-breaking clinical trial was the presentation of contemporary PCI outcomes in diabetic patients with multivessel disease (MVD), compared with historical controls from the landmark FREEDOM study of 2012. This was the only late breaking trial from India amongst several from other parts of Europe and USA, it was presented by the lead investigator (U K). It was a big honour for me. Historically, the FREEDOM trial established a clear survival advantage for coronary artery bypass grafting (CABG) over first-generation PCI in diabetic individuals with complex multivessel blockages. However, the newly presented data compared current-era PCIleveraging ultra-thin drug-eluting stents (DES), routine intravascular imaging optimization, and highly advanced Optimal Medical Treatment (OMT)against those historical parameters. The 1-year data demonstrated not only definitive non-inferiority but superior performance metrics compared to the historical cohorts. While longer-term follow-up remains vital and eagerly anticipated, these initial findings aggressively set the tone for a renewed, head-to-head comparison between modern PCI and surgical revascularization (CABG) in complex diabetic patients. Building on the foundation of the original TUXEDO trials, newly stratified data focusing on High Bleeding Risk (HBR) cases was a key point of discussion. The analysis scrutinized the performance of potent P2Y12 inhibitors (Anti platelet agents) in complex subsets: Core takeaway was that in patients presenting with acute coronary syndromes and elevated bleeding profiles, Prasugrel demonstrated clear clinical superiority over Ticagrelor, striking an optimal ischemic-to-bleeding protection balance when managed under precise, contemporary dosing algorithms. Another presentation was the presentation of the ALCHEMY study highlighted a major shift in the global medical device landscape, showing that Indian-manufactured coronary platforms are now highly competitive on the international stage. The study evaluated a new-generation, ultra-low strut thickness coronary stent engineered with an ultra-thin stent with a biodegradable polymer, developed by the medical technology firm Innvolution Health care. The device-oriented outcome (1.9%) was one of the lowest reported by modern stents with no stent thrombosis in any patient in spite of having 90% patients with acute coronary syndromes (heart attacks of all kinds). Advancing Academic Journalism: The Asia Intervention Session Beyond the clinical presentation theatres, euro PCR served as an important hub for international editorial collaboration. Asia Intervention, the official peer-reviewed journal of the Asia Pacific Society of Interventional Cardiology (APSIC) and the Interventional Cardiology Foundation of India (ICFI). It has achieved MEDLINE/PubMed Central indexation, held a vital strategy session. It is now waiting to get an Impact factor sometimes this year. Led by its editorial leadership, the meeting brought together the journals deputy editors to collaborate on rigorous peer-review practices, expand international submissions, and reinforce the journals presence across Europe and the Asia-Pacific region. Outside the academic walls of the Palais des Congrs, Paris provided its classic, inspiring backdropfrom the iconic architecture around the Eiffel Tower to the historic art collections and galleries that offer a welcome cognitive break from dense clinical data. For the global interventional community, the takeaway for future iterations of Euro PCR is clear. The most definitive, sustainable path for upcoming cardiologists to earn coveted faculty positions at this premier European meeting is through the submission of seminal, investigator-initiated clinical research. Presenting robust, native data on international stages remains the single best mechanism to drive global cardiovascular practice forward. Prof Upendra Kaul, Founder Gauri Kaul Foundation and recipient of Padma Shri and DR B C Roy award

Have we learnt our lessons?

Jammu and Kashmir has never spoken in one voice. The narrative remains more divisive than unifying, even on issues that benefit everyone in the region. In short, there is communication deficit on the political, regional, sub regional and civil society levels. The bitter truth is that each side suspects the other. It shows massive fall of the leadership that refuses to acknowledge the need for unified communication to Delhi. The Centre is aware of this weakness. It is not a myopic view of the things. Ladakh has not achieved everything it wanted; it however, is gradually treading a path toward its goal. A little bit of history will add to our understanding, though we dont need to copy what the cold desert region has done to bring the things to a pass from where it is hopeful of something big happening once the process is complete. It has climbed a spring board which can propel it to the pedestal where it wants to be. Ladakh Buddhists were consistent in their campaign for the UT status. They took to streets and kept on pressing Delhi for grant of the UT. The communication was very clear: we cannot stay under the domination of Kashmir-centric parties. Kashmir was influencing our traditional culture, this argument became sharper when armed militancy erupted in the Valley. They added another point to their line of argument that they cannot, and do not want to be part of the state where anti-India forces were spawning It is also true that Kargil Muslims were opposed to this demand for UT status. They feared that Buddhists greater proximity with Delhi would undermine them and their political and cultural aspirations. If Buddhists were looking at Delhi for realization of their demand, Kargil people were keen on maintaining and strengthening their ties with Srinagar. Kargil felt closer and comfortable with Kashmir because of the religious affinity and political togetherness. Late Dineshwar Sharma, the last interlocutor of the Government of India on Jammu and Kashmir, Ladakh included, shared with me that there were divisions between Jammu and the Valley, but these were sharper between Buddhists of Leh and Kargil Muslims. These differences between the two sides were near impossible to bridge. And, we saw that despite maintaining their separate bodies - Leh Apex Body and Kargil Democratic Alliance - they fostered unity of thought and action. It was not an easy task for them to do, but they did it. And the results are there for all to see. They are marching in lockstep with each other. Not that all the apprehensions have disappeared, but what is highly commendable is that they were able to communicate jointly with Delhi. Some of the fundamentals were in their favour; the ministry of home affairs was receptive to their urges and aspirations within the constitutional limits. Union Home Minister Amit Shah, during his visit to Ladakh , had told the local leadership that Centre would listen to them and do whatever is possible to uplift their development and progress. Special thrust was laid on their native cultural aspirations. That has been the commitment of the Centre to Ladakhs leadership after it was granted the UT status. The pattern of talks have shown that there was clarity on either side of the table. Centre had drawn its own red lines, and Ladakhis were made aware of that. At the same time, Ladakhis recognized what is feasible and what is not. The moot point is that a lot of home work was done by the two sides. The talks have started delivering results, and these could be handsome legislative body, executive powers with Chief Minister and invocation of some of the provisions of Article 370. At the moment whole thing is amorphous but there is a hope that in this in principle agreement might materialize in something concrete to the satisfaction of both the sides. The basic idea driving these talks and the goals these want to achieve is undiluted patriotism and emerging trust between Ladakh and Delhi. There are more commonalities than differences which have come to fore. Why Jammu and Kashmir cannot replicate all this? This is a billion-dollar question. The region, which also is a UT now, and experienced leadership , has the capacity to do it, but what is lacking is the political will and refusal to take everyone along . that tragedy is far greater than anything else. Lets be very candid in admitting that seeds of doubt have been sown by Pakistan, before and after J&Ks accession with India in October 1947. The proponents of Pakistan had started playing their game much before their country was born out of the horrific partition in 1947, which saw millions killed and displaced. The communal frenzy was at its peak. The seeds that Pakistan sowed continue to sprout every now and then. Kashmir experienced and suffered the sprouting of those ugly seeds since 1990. That, however, should lead us to ask: is all of this Pakistans doing? Pakistan did arm Kashmiri youth but the will and minds were from this side of the LoC. Pakistan exploited the enabling environment. Pakistan has been taught a lesson. But have we learned lessons ourselves? Pakistan can be taught a lesson, and, in fact it has been taught that its designs of keeping violence alive in J&K would be defeated at all costs, but what about ourselves. A candid self-assessment would reveal that there are still certain things Pakistan finds helpful to exploit. And our divided narratives , which often crisscross one another , are among the key vulnerabilities exploited by the neighbouring country. Now we need to learn from Ladakh. There should be honesty in admitting certain fault lines that we had drawn; Ladakh was not only considered remote, but also stayed remote in our policy making. There was artificiality in the three-region and equitable development narrative. The reality was quite different and biting. Ladakh was removed from Jammu and Kashmir, can we afford another removal? This is the question

Are we outsourcing the human mind?

There was a time when a missed turn on a road trip meant pulling over, unfolding a massive paper map, and engaging in a minor battle of spatial reasoning. Today, if our GPS signal drops for a few seconds, a mild panic sets in. We arent just using smartphones to navigate the physical world anymore; we are using them to navigate our internal geography. The modern smartphone, supercharged by artificial intelligence, is no longer just a tool sitting in our pockets. It has become an external lobe of the human brain. But as we increasingly outsource our cognitive faculties to silicon and code, we have to ask an uncomfortable question: are we commanding our technology, or is it quietly taking control of us? The transition has been so seamless that we barely noticed it happening. We began by outsourcing our memory. Phone numbers, birthdays, and historical dates were the first to go, safely stored in digital vaults. Then, we outsourced our sense of direction. Soon after, we outsourced our preferences, allowing algorithms to dictate what we read, what we buy, and who we date. Now, with generative AI integrated into our daily devices, we are on the verge of outsourcing our very thought processes. When faced with a complex email to write, a difficult problem to solve, or a creative block, our first instinct is no longer to sit in quiet contemplation. It is to prompt a machine. This reliance is creating a subtle but terrifying shift in human capability. The brain is remarkably adaptive, operating on a strict use it or lose it principle. When we stop exercising our analytical muscles, they begin to atrophy. Problem-solving is inherently frustrating; it requires sitting with discomfort, enduring trial and error, and forging new neural pathways. Smartphones, by design, eliminate that friction. They offer immediate, frictionless answers. By constantly bypassing the struggle of independent thinking, we are raising a generation that may find itself fundamentally unequipped to handle complex, ambiguous problems without a digital crutch. The danger is not that AI will suddenly become conscious and enslave humanity in a sci-fi dystopia. The real danger is much more mundane and insidious: we are willingly volunteering for a form of cognitive enslavement. We have become utterly dependent on a device to tell us what to think, how to feel, and what to do next. When an algorithm curates your news feed, it shapes your worldview. When a predictive text feature finishes your sentences, it shapes your vocabulary. When AI generates your arguments, it shapes your intellect. We are slowly losing the capacity for deep, sustained focusthe kind of long-form attention that birthed the greatest philosophical, scientific, and artistic achievements in human history. Instead, our minds are fragmented into fifteen-second intervals, constantly seeking the next hit of digital dopamine. Furthermore, this dependency creates a dangerous illusion of competence. Because we have the entirety of human knowledge accessible within a three-second Google search, we mistake access to information for possession of knowledge. Knowing how to look something up is not the same as understanding it. True wisdom requires synthesis, critical skepticism, and the ability to connect disparate ideas in novel ways. A smartphone can give you a fact, and AI can give you a summary, but neither can give you insight. If we lose the ability to think independently, we lose our immunity to misinformation, manipulation, and demagoguery. A society that cannot think for itself is a society that is easily led. We find ourselves at a critical crossroads. Technology will only become more immersive, more intuitive, and more deeply embedded in our lives. We cannot realistically smash our devices and retreat to a pre-digital wilderness. However, we must aggressively reassert our cognitive sovereignty. We need to intentionally cultivate spaces where the smartphone cannot follow. We must practice the lost art of being bored, for boredom is the fertile soil from which original creativity grows. We need to challenge ourselves to solve problems manually, to read deeply without checking notifications, and to debate ideas using our own logic rather than algorithmic talking points. The smartphone should be a bicycle for the mind; a tool that amplifies our natural abilities and allows us to travel further and faster. Instead, we have turned it into a chauffeur, and we are asleep in the back seat while it drives us toward an uncertain destination. It is time to wake up, grab the steering wheel, and remember what it feels like to think for ourselves. Our humanity depends on it. Author is a research scholar, from RaiyarDoodhpathri, Budgam.

Food Adulteration, Public Health and Scientific Living

Human civilization has made remarkable progress in science, technology, agriculture, medicine, and communication. There was a time when many countries faced severe scarcity of food grains and feeding the growing population was considered one of the greatest challenges before humanity. Through scientific research, improved agricultural practices, irrigation systems, better seeds, storage technologies, and modern farming methods, food production increased significantly and societies were able to overcome large-scale food shortages. Today, however, humanity faces another challenge. The issue is no longer only the availability of food, but also the quality, purity, and safety of the food being consumed. Producing enough food alone is not sufficient; maintaining its nutritional value, hygiene, and scientific safety has become equally important for protecting human health and securing the future of coming generations. Food is meant to nourish the body, strengthen immunity, and support healthy living. Yet an important question arises: is the food we consume daily truly safe and beneficial for our health? The milk we drink, the spices we use, the vegetables we cook, the meat and chicken sold in markets, the oils, bakery products, sweets, packaged foods, and even street food all directly influence human well-being. If these items are adulterated, contaminated, or chemically treated, their harmful effects gradually appear throughout society. Food adulteration has silently become one of the most serious public health concerns of modern times. Harmful chemicals, artificial colours, synthetic substances, contaminated water, low-quality oils, and preservatives are often added to food products for commercial profit. Vegetables are sometimes exposed to excessive pesticide sprays. Milk products may be diluted or chemically processed. Spices and sweets are occasionally mixed with artificial colouring and impurities. Street food in many places remains exposed to dust, smoke, flies, and environmental pollution. In several markets, meat is openly displayed without proper covering or scientific storage facilities, increasing the risk of contamination and disease transmission. Scientific studies across the world have shown that unhealthy and adulterated food contributes to diseases such as diabetes, obesity, hypertension, digestive disorders, liver complications, kidney problems, weakened immunity, heart disease, and even cancer. The growing number of patients in hospitals is not only linked to infections or hereditary conditions, but also to unhealthy food habits, poor hygiene, environmental pollution, and lack of nutritional awareness. Another important concern is the absence of balanced eating habits. Many people consume excessive amounts of oil, fats, processed food, sugar, and meat without understanding moderation or nutritional balance. Food is often selected according to taste rather than health value. Scientific living teaches discipline, moderation, cleanliness, and balance in every aspect of life, especially in eating habits. Human beings must understand not only what to eat, but also how much to eat, when to eat, and how to maintain hygiene during food preparation and consumption. Social gatherings and marriage ceremonies also require thoughtful planning and moderation. In many functions, an excessive number of dishes are prepared far beyond actual need, leading to wastage of food and unnecessary financial burden. A simple and balanced menu containing limited vegetarian and non-vegetarian dishes is healthier, more practical, and socially responsible. Certain food combinations, such as excessive consumption of cold drinks along with curd-based foods, are also not considered scientifically suitable for digestion and overall health. Wise and moderate arrangements at marriage ceremonies can reduce waste, unhealthy eating habits, and unnecessary expenditure. Such practices not only protect health but also reduce pressure on the family exchequer. The amount saved through simplicity and moderation can be utilized for meaningful purposes such as education, healthcare, environmental protection, scientific innovation, community welfare, and projects that benefit future generations. Society should appreciate and encourage families that adopt responsible and balanced practices instead of measuring social status through extravagance and display. Public sanitation and hygiene require equal attention. Washrooms at many public places, bus stands, markets, and offices lack proper cleanliness and maintenance. Handwashing facilities are often absent or poorly managed. Open garbage dumping and unmanaged waste further spread pollution and disease. In contrast, places where scientific systems are properly implemented clearly demonstrate that cleanliness and healthy environments are achievable through planning, discipline, and responsibility. Science already offers practical solutions to many of these challenges. Around the world, scientific organizations and researchers have developed technologies related to waste management, biomass utilization, recycling, sanitation, food safety testing, renewable energy, and environmental protection. These technologies should be adapted and transferred according to local requirements so that practical and sustainable solutions can be implemented effectively. Educational institutions have a major role in building awareness and responsibility among the younger generation. Students in schools, colleges, and universities should be encouraged to undertake scientific projects related to food adulteration, hygiene, nutrition, waste management, recycling, environmental protection, and public health. Such activities can develop scientific thinking, creativity, innovation, and social responsibility among young people. Food adulteration testing kits should also be developed and made easily accessible to educational institutions and the general public. This would enable ordinary citizens to scientifically examine the quality and safety of commonly used food items before consumption. Public participation in food safety can create greater awareness, accountability, and protection for society. The youth of today will shape the future of humanity. Therefore, scientific education should not remain limited to textbooks and examinations alone. Young people must be guided towards practical knowledge, critical thinking, innovation, cleanliness, environmental awareness, and service to humanity. Solutions to many social and environmental problems lie with the younger generation, and therefore society must cultivate scientific thinking from an early age. Governments should establish strong scientific advisory committees consisting of scientists, doctors, nutrition experts, environmentalists, technologists, and researchers with broad and progressive thinking. Such committees can guide public policy scientifically and help address issues related to food safety, sanitation, waste management, nutrition, environmental pollution, and public health. Mass awareness campaigns regarding food safety and healthy living are urgently needed. Just as society raises awareness regarding drug addiction and other social challenges, similar importance must be given to adulterated food, hygiene, balanced nutrition, environmental cleanliness, and scientific living. Human well-being depends not only upon medical treatment, but also upon purity, cleanliness, moderation, knowledge, responsibility, and wise use of science. Science is not merely confined to laboratories and machines; it is a way of thinking that promotes discipline, evidence, balance, and concern for human welfare. A healthy and progressive society can only be built when science, ethics, moderation, and public awareness work together for the betterment of humanity and the protection of future generations. Dr Nasir Shah, Former Additional Director JKSTIC, DST, has remained actively associated with the promotion of science, scientific temper, innovation, and educational awareness across J&K.

A deal worth making

Since the United States and Israel launched their surprise bombardment of Iran on February 28, the Strait of Hormuz has been effectively shut, oil prices have spiralled, and ordinary people across the world have felt the pinch at fuel pumps and grocery shelves. A conflict started to fulfill geopolitical objectives of the US and Israel has metastasized into a genuine global economic crisis. This is why the faint signs of a US-Iran deal deserve to be welcomed with both hands. The outlines of a potential agreement are becoming visible, and they are more substantive than the usual diplomatic smoke and mirrors. Iran, according to regional officials close to the negotiations, is prepared to hand over its stockpile of highly enriched uranium. Some would be diluted, the rest transferred abroad, possibly to Russia. In exchange, the Strait of Hormuz would gradually reopen, the American naval blockade would lift, and Iran would regain the ability to sell its oil through sanctions waivers. Secretary of State Rubio, speaking from New Delhi, acknowledged significant progress. Even Tehran's own president went on state television to signal readiness to assure the world Iran is not chasing a nuclear weapon. None of this is final. Trump himself warned against rushing, noting that ime is on our side. The 60-day framework for hammering out the details leaves plenty of room for things to unravel. Iran has been here before, attacked twice in the past year while nuclear negotiations were supposedly underway. The memory of betrayal makes Tehran cautious, and understandably so. But the alternative to a deal is not the status quo. It is continued economic pain for the entire planet. Energy experts warn it could take months after the Strait reopens for shipping and prices to recover to pre-war levels. Every week of delay leads to more inflation,and recession risk for global economy. There are also questions about whether the deal solves the problem durably. For example, the Lebanon dimension is messier. Hezbollah continues to launch daily attacks, and Israel doesnt seem willing to come on board any agreement with Iran. But the US will have to reign in Israel for any deal to hold. The Middle East does not need another lingering conflict or a half-baked agreement that breeds the next war. It needs a way out, and diplomacy remains the only one on offer.

135-kg Paneer retained for SOP violation: Police

Jammu, May 25:Police on Monday seized 135-kg Paneer from Jammu Bus Stand for violation of Standard Operating Procedure (SOP) vis--vis its transportation and handed over the case to the designated official of Food Safety Department as per FSSAI norms for sample testing and follow up procedure. SHO Jammu Bus Stand (JBS) Inderpal Singh, while speaking to Greater Kashmir, informed, It was retained for SOP violation while transporting the consignment. Then we called the designated official of the Food Safety Department following Food Safety and Standards Authority of India (FSSAI) norms. They lifted the samples and initiated prosecution proceedings against the business operator, whose consignment was seized. He said that they (Food Safety Department) would take further action after receipt of the lab testing report. Was the retained consignment adulterated? SHO Inderpal Singh responded to this query, saying, It cannot be said till the report of the sample is received. In any case, the case has been handed over to the designated official (of FSD) for further action, as per FSSAI norms. According to a Food Safety Department (FSD) official, the consignment against proper billing was received by local vendors from Gurdaspur in Punjab. It has been sent for testing to determine whether the product conforms to prescribed food safety standards or not, the official said.

Special cherry parcel van leaves Jammu for Mumbai

Jammu, May 25: The seasons first special parcel van, carrying Kashmir valleys luscious cherries, departed for Mumbai from Jammu Railway Station on Monday, May 25, 2026. Carrying around 12 tonnes of cherries, it will reach Mumbai in 33 hours. Railway officials stated that the parcel van attached to Jammu TawiBandra Vivek Express (train number 19028) departed from Jammu Railway Station for Bandra Terminus. Senior Divisional Commercial Manager (DCM), Jammu Railway Division, Uchit Singhal, while describing the development as significant achievement, said the consignment comprised around 12 tonnes of premium-quality cherries, containing approximately 966 boxes. So far, total 28 VP indents have been received from Jammu and Shri Mata Vaishno Devi Katra Railway stations for cherry transportation, he shared. According to Singhal, apart from 28 special VPs (parcel vans), the SLR (Seating cum Luggage Rake) coach facility available in regular trains on the route will also continue. Earlier, 18 tonnes of cherries had already been sent to Mumbai. Small and medium traders will also be able to send their low-volume consignments safely and affordably, he said.

MoE issues SMC-2026 guidelines to prepare school development plans, monitor effective implementation of schemes

Srinagar, May 25:In a latest development, the Department of School Education and Literacy (DSEL) in the Ministry of Education (MoE) Government of India (GoI) has issued guidelines to all the schools with regard to the School Management Committee (SMCs). The move aims at community mobilisation and participation is the process of engaging communities to identify their priorities, resources, needs, and solutions in ways that promote representative participation, good governance, accountability, and peaceful change in the schools. The guidelines have been issued by DSEL in order to prepare school development plans for holistic school improvement besides monitoring effective implementation of education schemes and improvement of school infrastructure as well. It will also ensure safety and well being of children in schools besides promoting quality and equitable education aligned with NEP-2020, MoE said in a post in its official X handle. As per the official document, SMC Guidelines 2026 aim to empower schools through holistic school development plans, improved infrastructure, effective implementation of educational schemes, child safety and quality education aligned with the vision of National Education Policy 2020. By fostering active participation of parents, teachers, local authorities, alumni and community members, the guidelines reinforce accountable school governance for building vibrant and inclusive learning ecosystems across the country, read the MoE guidelines issued earlier this month. However, the Ministry of Education clarified that the guidelines were not applicable to private unaided schools covered under Section 2(n)(iv) of the RTE Act, provided such institutions do not receive any aid or grants from the appropriate government or local authority towards meeting their expenses. However, such schools are still encouraged to constitute School Management Committees to promote greater transparency, accountability and participatory governance, the post on X reads. MoE said that education was a shared responsibility of the government, schools, parents and the community. Strengthening collaboration among parents, schools and other stakeholders is essential to improving the overall functioning of schools and ensuring better learning outcomes for children, the post reads. MoE has stated that community mobilisation and close involvement of community members was extremely critical in the context of education. This approach fosters a bottom-up process, enabling effective planning, implementation, monitoring, evaluation, and ownership of government programs by the community, read the guidelines. Active community participation ensures transparency, accountability, and the use of collective community knowledge for the better functioning of schools, it reads. It reads that the NEP-2020 emphasises the active involvement of local communities, alumni, and senior citizens in enhancing learning in schools by encouraging them to volunteer in various activities such as tutoring, literacy drives, mentoring, teaching support, and guidance. As guided by NEP 2020, schools should grow as vibrant centers where learning and community come together. When parents, teachers, and local people participate in school activities, they help create an atmosphere of care, inclusion, and pride, it reads. MoE has stressed that every school can become a place that not only educates children but also brings the whole community together. SMC strengthens decentralised school governance and empowers communities to actively participate in shaping and improving school education, it reads. As per the official document, the SMC-2026 guidelines shall serve as a reference framework for all the States and Union Territories (UTs) to strengthen school-level governance mechanisms and harmonise local rules and procedures with the national vision for inclusive, participatory, and accountable education. As per the guidelines, every school has to constitute SMC within one month from the commencement of the academic year. The SMC shall include officials, parents, guardians of students, representatives of local authorities, academicians, subject experts, alumni of the school, and representatives of disadvantaged groups, read the MoE guidelines.

Gruesome details emerge, deepening agony of heinous crime

Srinagar, May 25: A day after the body of the raped and murdered Budgam child was found, the family is clamouring for answers, demanding exemplary punishment to the perpetrator of the crime. The entire neighborhood of the brutally assaulted and killed child remained drowned in grief and anger, seeking speedy investigation and action. The house of the victim was inundated by people visiting for condolences and mourning. Her mother has been passing out from grief, and is barely conscious, the neighbors reported. Her father has also been unable to speak, devastated by the tragic and shocking end to the life of his only daughter. The grandfather of the murdered child victim of rape and murder, while speaking to a media outlet, asked what she had done to deserve being killed in such a manner. The killer went on to take an innocent life like this. She had gone for Quran, what had she done to him that he didnt even let her reach her seminary? the shaken grandfather asked. The grandfather lamented that even at such a young age, the child prayed five times a day. She would wake up for Fajr too, was very religious minded, and then a tyrant assaulted her like this, he cried. The grandfather said that the entire clan was looking for her when she did not return home at her usual time. He said he could not fathom courage to look at her dead body. Media reports quoted the uncle of the murdered child as saying that the family searched for her the entire night. In morning we found her body, he said. It seems she was badly assaulted as her fists were clenched tight and there was grass in her hands. The uncle said he saw injury marks on the face of the child and signs of heartless criminal assault. A mourner, who appeared to be of the age of the child said the victim used to say she wants to be a Hafiza (remember entire Quran by heart). Her dream was cut short, and the funeral of our collective dignity is underway, she rued. While the Police claimed that one person, who as per the Police also confessed to the crime, has been arrested, demands have been pouring in for fool-proof investigation and exemplary punishment to the criminal. SSP Budgam, Hariprasad K K said the Police was working in the best possible manner to collect evidence and make the case strong in order to ensure that the guilty are punished.

A Profound Mourning

This incident is shocking. That is to put it too mildly. We might need a different set of words and an entirely unlike expression to first capture what has happened. A minor kidnapped, raped and killed. Who can capture the enormity of horror in this crime. It is just not possible. The entire society is in a deep shock, and unsettled to the core. Now the question. What is to be done? As a society our mourning is real only if we identify all the elements that contribute to such heinous crimes in our society. As a society we need to actively raise our voice against all that can even remotely contribute to such a wrong. As a society we need to shame element that commit a crime. Unfortunately, we have a tendency of normalising things as the time moves. That should not happen. As a society we even need to raise questions over practices that sometimes people refuse to question. As a society we need to refuse to shift our gaze till the culprits are nabbed, and punished in a manner that it sets an example none should even think of coming closer to committing such a crime. What is for the society to do is a long term shift in mind and action. But certain things cannot wait. There is an element of urgency. Right now it is a state of shock and disbelief. The victim's soul and and the victim's family need justice. The police and other government agencies that are tasked with dispensing justice and punishing criminals cannot afford a delay of a minute. It is time to acknowledge that the police has nabbed one accused in this case within 36 hours. It is not an ordinary case of crime. Such cases have a long-lasting impact on people's minds. It determines whether a society is safe or not. Whether our children are safe or not. If a sense of safety and a general moral well-being is to be saved from any serious damage, it is incumbent upon the government to nab all the culprits as quickly as possible, and without any delay punish as they deserve to be punished. Nothing less can do.

Army, SDRF, J&K Police, admin lead rescue

Gulmarg, May 25:The Army, State Disaster Response Force (SDRF), J&K Police and civil administration on Monday launched a major rescue and evacuation operation after a technical fault in the Gulmarg Gondola cable car system disrupted services between the Base Station and Phase-1 (Kongdori), leaving scores of tourists stranded mid-air. Officials said the malfunction led to suspension of the Gondola service, affecting 65 cable cars, including 55 occupied cabins carrying tourists and 10 unoccupied cabins. A spokesman of the Army said that following a distress call from Jammu and Kashmir Police and the Gondola Management Authority, the Army swiftly mobilised rescue teams to the affected area to assist in evacuation efforts amid difficult terrain and inclement weather conditions. He said that troops from the Butapathri Battalion deployed three Casualty Assistance Teams between the Gondola Base Station and Phase-1. The spokesman said that the Army also moved its All-Terrain Vehicle (ATV) to support evacuation operations. He said that the SDRF, Police, and other civil agencies simultaneously joined the rescue efforts, while additional ATVs were arranged through the Gulmarg ATV Association to augment the operation as restoration of the cable car system was expected to take time. Major General Manoj Joshi, General Officer Commanding (GOC) 19 Infantry Division, reviewed the rescue operation and said teams carried evacuation and assistance efforts on the ground. Meanwhile, technical teams from the Gondola authorities are assessing the exact cause and extent of the malfunction.

LG Sinha, CM Omar lauds rescue teams

Srinagar, May 25: Lieutenant Governor Manoj Sinha and Chief Minister Omar Abdullah on Monday applauded the extraordinary bravery displayed by the disaster response teams in safely rescuing the 300 tourists stranded in Gulmargs cable cars. In a post on X, the Lieutenant Governor has said, The nation stands united in applauding extraordinary bravery of disaster response teams, who safely rescued 300 tourists stranded mid-air in Gulmargs cable cars. Army, JKP, SDRF, NDRF, DC, SSPs moved promptly and after a 6-hour operation, rescued all passengers from 65 cable cars. All tourists are safe. I spoke with senior officials and directed them to ensure every necessary support is provided. The nation salutes the disaster response forces, Army, JKP and district administration for their valor and remarkable skill. Chief Minister Omar Abdullah appreciated the efforts of all agencies, rescue teams, and personnel involved in the successful evacuation of tourists stranded after the Gulmarg Gondola developed a technical fault. CM Omar commended the swift response, coordination and professionalism displayed during the rescue operation, which ensured the safe evacuation of all tourists without any major incident. He said that the safety and well-being of tourists and visitors remain the governments top priority and lauded the coordinated efforts of the administration, police, rescue agencies and technical teams for handling the situation efficiently. The CM said that the incident would be thoroughly examined and an enquiry conducted into the technical fault. He asserted that responsibility for any lapses would be fixed and appropriate action taken accordingly. Earlier, on the instructions of the Chief Minister, Deputy Chief Minister Surinder Kumar Choudhary visited Gulmarg to personally oversee the rescue operations following the temporary stoppage of the Gondola service due to the technical snag. During his visit, the Deputy Chief Minister reviewed the ongoing rescue measures on the ground and directed all concerned agencies to ensure swift, coordinated and safe evacuation of the remaining passengers.

320 tourists evacuated after Gulmarg cable car develops snag

Baramulla, May 25:As many as 320 tourists, stranded in Gulmarg Gondola were evacuated on Monday in a joint operation launched by J&K Police, Indian Army, teams of SDRF, and local administration. The tourists were left stranded mid-air on Monday after a technical snag disrupted operations of the famed Gulmarg Gondola cable car service in north Kashmirs Baramulla district. The move triggered panic among the tourists following which a large-scale rescue operation involving multiple agencies was launched at the world famous ski resort. Officials said the malfunction affected the Gondola service operating between the Base Station and Phase-1 (Kongdori), forcing suspension of operations on both phases of the cable car system. Soon after the snag developed, teams from the State Disaster Response Force (SDRF), National Disaster Response Force (NDRF), Jammu and Kashmir Police, civil administration and the Indian Army launched a coordinated rescue mission to evacuate tourists suspended high above the ground. Union Home Minister Amit Shah lauded the role of disaster response forces. Applause to India's disaster response forces for safely rescuing 300 tourists stranded mid-air in cable cars in Gulmarg, Kashmir, Shah said on 'X'. Deputy Chief Minister Surinder Choudhary, Director General of Police Nalin Prabhat, and GoC 19 infantry division Major General Manoj Joshi besides other senior officers of Police and Army reached the spot to supervise the rescue operation. Lieutenant Governor Manoj Sinha said he was monitoring the rescue operation and had directed senior officials, including the Director General of Police, to reach the site. Later, talking to media persons in Gulmarg, Deputy Chief Minister Surinder Kumar Choudhary said all the people stranded mid-air were safely evacuated. There were 260 tourists in the gondola in 63 cabins. All the people were taken out of the cabins. The Indian Army, SDRF and J&K Police besides local guides played a big role in rescuing the stranded tourists, he told media persons in Gulmarg. Everyone is safe now. A lot of tourists have come out of the gondola. When I went there, it was very muddy because the terrain is very muddy, the Deputy CM said. He said the rescue operation was over and everyone was evacuated safely. I came on here on the directions of Chief Minister Omar Abdullah. Now I am going back and will give the report to the Chief Minister. On behalf of the Chief Minister, I would like to say that there is no need to panic, he said. The Deputy CM said he spoke to all the tourists and they have taken the incident as an enjoyment. All the tourists have taken it as an experience of life, he said. Earlier, Chief Minister Omar Abdullah said that his government was closely monitoring the situation. In a post on X, the office of CM wrote that an investigation would be conducted into the incident and action would be taken if any lapses were found. The incident will be thoroughly examined and an inquiry conducted. Responsibility for any lapses will be fixed and appropriate action taken, CM Omar wrote on X. He (CM) commended the swift response, coordination and professionalism displayed during the rescue operation, which ensured the safe evacuation of all tourists, the post reads. Talking to media persons, Director General of Police (DGP) Nalin Prabhat said they received the information about the technical snag in Gondola at Gulmarg following which the cabins and tourists were stuck. Our first responder was SHO Gulmarg who left his office and came here with his SOG. After that, SDRF 14 teams were mobilized and after that another team was added as well, he said. The DGP said that eight mountain rescue teams of J&K Police (Armed) and Snow Leopards also provided their assistance. J&K Police and SDRF were present in the rescue operation. Other than that, Indian Army, 9 Rajref, and NDRF also reached here, he said. The DGP said that all the tourists stranded mid air were successfully evacuated. It has been raining a lot here, we all successfully completed the rescue operation. All the tourists have come down. Around 45 tourists who were not physically fit were brought on the stretchers. About 320 people have been brought down, he said. Earlier, General Officer Commanding (GoC) of the 19 Infantry Division Major General Manoj Joshi said the Army received information about the malfunction of Gondola around 12:45 pm after the gondolas gearbox developed a fault, causing nearly 65 cable cars operating between the base station and Phase-I to come to a halt. He said the situation was totally under control as more rescue teams arrived to speed up the operation. Maj Gen Joshi said the situation triggered a large-scale rescue effort after scores of tourists and other passengers were left stranded in suspended cable cars. A request was received from the Cable Car Corporation and the District Administration Baramulla for rescue of people stranded in the cable cars, he said. Maj Gen Joshi said the teams from the Army, State Disaster Response Force (SDRF), Police, district administration, Cable Car Corporation, and other agencies jointly coordinated the operation on the ground. He said that the authorities were continuously communicating with stranded passengers through megaphones to prevent panic and reassure them that all occupants would be safely evacuated. There was some panic initially, but it was managed through regular communication, Maj Gen Joshi said. He said that temporary relief and assistance centres were established for rescued passengers, where refreshments including tea were being provided before they were guided back towards Gulmarg. In wake of the incident, the Gulmarg Gondola service would remain closed on May 26 and 27, 2026, for technical maintenance. An official said the maintenance work was initiated as a precautionary measure to inspect and rectify the technical issue before resuming the operations again. The official said that tickets booked for May 25, 26, and 27 will be refunded to the people.

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300 tourists rescued in seven-hour operation after Gulmarg Gondola malfunctions

Srinagar, May 25: Around 300 tourists in 65 cabins of Gulmarg Gondola were stranded mid-air on Monday after the Asia's highest ropeway developed technical problems, and were rescued after an arduous seven-hour operation. No casualties were reported in the incident, officials said. The major multi-agency rescue operation, which also involvedthe army, was launched soon after the system malfunctioned around noon. The officials said that evacuation from some cabins took longer as these were hovering at a height of nearly 500 ft above ground. Heavy rains in the area also hampered efforts. The rescue operation has concluded and all the stranded persons have been evacuated safely, an official said this evening. Operations of both phases of the Gulmarg cable car service, popularly known as the Gondola, were suspended following a malfunction, the officials said. Personnel of the State Disaster Response Force (SDRF) and the National Disaster Response Force (NDRF) along with police and the Army were involved in the rescue effort. Trained teams used ropes and ladders to bring the tourists down safely. Restoration work on the cable car system is currently underway, the officials said. Earlier, Chief Minister Omar Abdullah said the government was closely monitoring the situation. All cabins are intact and rescue operations to safely evacuate stranded tourists are underway with trained teams on the ground. The situation is completely under control and there is no cause for panic, the chief minister said in a post on X. Jammu and Kashmir Lieutenant Governor Manoj Sinha said he had directed DGP Nalin Prabhat to proceed to Gulmarg to oversee the rescue operation. I'm monitoring the rescue operation for tourists stranded in cable car cabins following a technical fault in Gulmarg. I have directed the DGP to proceed to the site. Joint rescue teams of Police, Army & SDRF along with DC and SSP are conducting the operation to ensure the safety of all tourists, Sinha posted on X. The Army said in a post on X that swift and coordinated rescue efforts were launched with the assistance of the Chinar Corps. On June 25, 2017, the Gulmarg Gondola had witnessed an accident when seven people were killed after a tree uprooted by strong winds struck a cabin, causing it to crash to the ground. The cable car had also been temporarily suspended in January last year because of technical issues. Monday's incident comes a day after a 16-year-old boy died in Agra after a zipline cable snapped at an amusement facility here, causing him to fall nearly 45 ft.

DGP briefs media on Gulmarg rescue opn; says SHO Gulmarg, his team first responders

Gondola rescue opn: Army, agencies, local guides worked in coordination, says GoC 19 Infantry Div.

Ladakh unveils portal to ease delivery of services to citizens, enterprises

Leh, May 25: Lieutenant Governor Vinai Kumar Saxena on Monday launched an integrated 'ease-of-doing business' portal for Ladakh, describing it as a major step towards strengthening digital governance, improving service delivery and creating a business-friendly ecosystem in the Union Territory. The portal - https://eodb.ladakh.gov.in - is aimed at simplifying access to government services by reducing manual procedures, paperwork and delays in approvals through a single online platform, officials said. The platform will also provide entrepreneurs, investors, startups, micro, small and medium enterprises (MSMEs) and other stakeholders with a unified mechanism to avail government services and approvals online. Officials said the initiative is aligned with Prime Minister Narendra Modi's vision of ease of doing business and minimum government, maximum governance, and is expected to enhance transparency, efficiency and accountability, while promoting economic growth and investment in the Union Territory. In the first phase, 13 departments have been integrated with the portal and 23 online services have already been made operational, officials said. The administration plans to expand the platform by onboarding more departments and services in a phased manner. The portal currently offers access to services from departments, including Tourism, Public Health Engineering, and Industries and Commerce, besides providing information on government schemes, incentives, policies, Acts, rules, notifications and procedures. Speaking at the launch, Saxena said that the portal marks a significant milestone in Ladakh's journey towards digital governance and administrative reforms. By integrating services of multiple departments onto a single transparent and technology-driven platform, we are ensuring faster approvals, reducing procedural delays and creating a more business-friendly environment in Ladakh. This initiative will strengthen investor confidence, promote entrepreneurship and contribute towards economic growth and employment generation in the Union Territory, he said. Among the key features of the portal are a Common Application Form (CAF), Single Sign-On access, PAN authentication, SMS and e-mail notifications, live application tracking, an integrated payment gateway, grievance redressal mechanism and workflow-based approvals. Applicants will also be able to monitor approval timelines, application status, pendency and grievance resolution through an interactive dashboard. The platform includes timeline-based approvals, a transparent digital workflow system, an automated appeal mechanism for delayed cases, and a delay accountability framework to improve service delivery and institutional efficiency. Officials said the portal will facilitate cross-departmental service delivery through a common governance framework, enabling citizens and businesses to access multiple services seamlessly through a single digital interface.

Gulmarg Gondola rescue operation likely to continue till midnight: GoC 19 Infantry Division

Baramulla, May 25: The General Officer Commanding (GoC) of the 19 Infantry Division Major General Manoj Joshi on Monday said that the rescue operation at Gulmarg Gondola will likely to continue till midnight. He however said the situation was totally under control as more rescue teams were arriving to speed up the operation. All the stranded passengers would be evacuated by midnight, he added A massive rescue operation is underway at the Gulmarg Gondola as a major technical snag stranded dozens of cable cars mid-air. In wake of this around 300 tourists were stranded out of which over 90 were rescued by the rescue operation teams. GOC 19 infantry division said the operation was expected to continue till midnight amid inclement weather conditions. The Army received information about the malfunction of Gondola around 12:45pm to 1pm after the gondolas gearbox developed a fault, causing nearly 65 cable cars operating between the base station and Phase-I to come to a halt, GOC 19 Infantry Division, Major General Manoj Joshi, said. He said the situation triggered a large-scale rescue effort after scores of tourists and other passengers were left stranded in suspended cable cars. A request was received from the Cable Car Corporation and the District Administration Baramulla for rescue of people stranded in the cable cars, he said. Major General Joshi said that by 6 pm, joint rescue teams had managed to evacuate passengers from around 29 to 30 cable cars, while nearly 10 cabins were found empty. He said around 25 cable cars were still awaiting rescue. The rescue operation is going on amid the inclement weather. We have rains and hailstorms in between, he added. He said the teams from the Army, State Disaster Response Force (SDRF), Police, District Administration, Cable Car Corporation and other agencies are jointly coordinating the operation on the ground, he said. We are looking at another four to six hours to complete the rescue operation. Additional lighting arrangements were being made to facilitate rescue work during the night, he added. Major General Joshi said authorities were continuously communicating with stranded passengers through megaphones to prevent panic and reassure them that all occupants would be safely evacuated. There was some panic initially, but it was managed through regular communication, he said. He added that temporary relief and assistance centres were established for rescued passengers, where refreshments including tea were being provided before they were guided back towards Gulmarg.

Amit Shah to visit borders areas

New Delhi, May 25: Union Home Minister Amit Shah will visit the country's border areas within the next two weeks, taking stock of security during his interactions with local officials and senior BSF officers, officials said on Monday. Shah will arrive in Bikaner on Monday, where he will visit the border outpost of the BSF at Sanchu on Tuesday. He will attend the 'Prahari Sammelan' and virtually inaugurate barracks for women personnel. Later in the day, he will review the border security with senior BSF officers in Bikaner. The meeting will also include representatives from the Union Home Ministry and senior officers from the five districts that share a border with Pakistan, officials informed. The home minister will travel to Bhuj in Gujarat on May 29, where he is scheduled to visit another BSF border outpost. In June, Shah is likely to visit the nation's eastern borders with Bangladesh, starting with a trip to Tripura on June 5, followed by a visit to West Bengal later in the month.

Lieutenant Governor visits Hazratbal Shrine, reviews Eid-ul-Adha preparations

Srinagar, May 25: Lieutenant Governor Manoj Sinha today visited the sacred Hazratbal Shrine to review the preparations for the upcoming auspicious festival of Eid ul-Adha. He was accompanied by Dr Syed Darakhshan Andrabi, Chairperson, J&K Waqf Board; Mufti Reyaz ul Haq, Chief Imam Hazratbal Shrine; Anshul Garg, Divisional Commissioner Kashmir; Rajiv Omprakashn, DIG CKR; Dr. GV Sundeep Chakravarthy, SSP Srinagar; Akshay Labroo, Deputy Commissioner Srinagar; Faz Lul Haseeb, Municipal Commissioner Srinagar and officials from all line departments. During his visit, the Lieutenant Governor took appraisal of the water supply, sanitation, electricity and other facilities being put in place for smooth conduct of the festival. He instructed the senior officers to ensure that every arrangement is carried out with diligence. The festival reminds us of the virtues of humility and charity, inspiring us to dedicate ourselves to the greater good of humanity. We will ensure that the celebration is not only well-organized but also truly grand, marked by devotion and festive fervor, the Lieutenant Governor said. Spiritual leaders, Waqf officials, senior officers of Police and Civil administration and prominent citizens were also present.

Sea of faithful converges in Mina as sacred Hajj pilgrimage begins

New Delhi, May 25: The sacred and spiritual Hajj journey began today as more than 1.7 million believers converged at Mina on Yawm al-Tarwiyah (the Day of Tarwiyah). Reciting and chanting the talbiyah Labbaik Allahumma Labbaik (Here I am, O Allah, here I am, at Your service) a sea of faithful dressed in white robes, in complete submission to Allah, moved towards Mina after offering Fajr prayers at the Holy Kaaba and performing Tawaf. By noon, almost all pilgrims had reached the tent city, where they engaged in prayers and recitation of the Holy Quran. Braving intense heat, thousands of pilgrims carried white and black umbrellas for shade and used handheld fans to cope with soaring temperatures. Volunteers distributed water bottles to help them stay hydrated, while giant cooling fans sprayed fine mists of water across pilgrimage routes and camps, offering much-needed relief to the faithful undertaking the sacred journey. Around 175,000 Indians, including over 4,000 pilgrims from Jammu and Kashmir, are participating in this years Hajj, which is one of the five fundamental pillars of Islam. A huge contingent of medical staff and guides has been deputed to ensure pilgrims safety and provide medical and other essential facilities. Mina is also mentioned in Islamic scriptures and hadiths as a critical stage of the Hajj pilgrimage. Most pilgrims covered the nearly six-kilometre distance from the Grand Mosque to Mina on foot through dedicated shaded pedestrian pathways, while the elderly and children were transported by buses. Pilgrims also used the Al Mash Al Muqaddassah Metro line to reach their designated tents in Mina. Hordes of pilgrims departed for Mina directly from their accommodations after donning the ihram (sacred garments), including thousands from Saudi Arabia and neighbouring Gulf states. Pilgrims will spend the day in their tents engaged in prayer and supplication, demonstrating profound obedience and complete submission to Allah. Saleh bin Saad Al-Murabba, Commander of the Hajj Passport Forces, said the faithful had been pouring into the Kingdom for the Hajj amid a tenuous ceasefire related to the Iran conflict and prevailing regional tensions.

All preparations are in place for Eid-ul-Adha: Darakhshan Andrabi

J&K Grand Mufti Nasir-ul-Islam urges Muslims to follow proper hygiene during Eid

NIA seizes incriminating gadgets, documents at 3 J-K locations in Jamaat-e-Islami terror funding case

Srinagar, May 25: The National Investigation Agency (NIA) on Monday conducted searches at three locations in Jammu and Kashmir (J&K) in a terror funding case linked with the banned Jamaat-e-Islami (JeI) organisation. According to the statement, the searches, conducted at three locations in Srinagar and Shopian districts of Kashmir, led to the recovery of several incriminating financial documents and electronic gadgets suspected to be related with the activities of Jamaat-e-Islami (JeI) and its various trusts/associations in J&K. The NIA has been probing the separatist and secessionist activities of Jamaat-e-Islami J&K, declared an unlawful association under the UA (P) Act, as part of its investigation in the case RC-03/2021/NIA/DLI. NIAs investigations so far have revealed that JeI was actively involved in collecting terror funds and fueling terrorism in the Valley and other parts of India. It was engaged in collecting funds domestically and internationally in the name of donations for charity and welfare activities such as health and education. It was diverting such funds towards violent and secessionist activities, and also channeling them to proscribed terrorist organisations such as Hizb-ul-Mujahideen (HM) others through well-organised networks of cadres, statement said. The JeI terror conspiracy further involved radicalisation and recruitment of impressionable Kashmiri youth as new members (Rukuns) for carrying out secessionist activities. NIA is continuing with its investigation in the case in a bid to end the outfits secessionist activities and dismantle the terror network operating in J&K, statement added.

Srinagar Police warns against circulating false claims of desecration of Holy Quran

Srinagar, May 25: Police on Monday said that certain misleading and false information is being circulated on social media platforms regarding alleged damage or desecration of copies of the Holy Quran in some parts of Srinagar city. The police said that in this regard, Srinagar Police clarifies that no such incident has taken place on ground, and the claims being circulated are completely baseless and unverified. The circulation and amplification of such false narratives, rumours, and unverified content can create unnecessary panic, disturb public order, and adversely affect communal harmony. All media organizations, social media users, and members of the general public are advised to act responsibly and refrain from sharing or forwarding any unverified information/content on electronic or social media platforms. It is further reiterated that strict legal action shall be initiated against any individual or entity found involved in spreading misinformation, fake news, or rumours under relevant provisions of law. Srinagar Police appeal to the public to cooperate with the authorities and contribute towards maintaining peace, public order, and communal harmony in the district.

Forest fire breaks out in Rajouri, vast forest area damaged

Jammu, May 25: A major forest fire broke out in the Nowshera belt of Jammu and Kashmir's Rajouri district on Monday, causing extensive damage to large tracts of forest land, officials said. The blaze erupted under mysterious circumstances and quickly spread to several areas in the Nowshera region, fanned by dry vegetation and prevailing weather conditions, they added. Soon after receiving information about the incident, teams of the Forest Department, Jammu and Kashmir Fire and Emergency Services, and local volunteers launched a massive operation to contain the fire and prevent it from spreading further. A video circulating on social media showed vast stretches of forest engulfed in flames, while the distress calls of hundreds of birds, including peacocks, could be heard in the background. The footage prompted widespread concern among residents and environmentalists, who urged authorities to intensify efforts to save wildlife and douse the flames at the earliest. Officials informed that firefighting teams were working tirelessly in the difficult terrain to bring the blaze under control and safeguard the ecologically sensitive area. The fire has destroyed large areas of plantation and other forest wealth, causing significant ecological damage, officials said, adding that no loss of human life or injury has been reported so far. The exact cause of the fire is yet to be ascertained.

Mirwaiz visits Eidgah to review arrangements for prayers

Mirwaiz visits Eidgah as Anjuman Auqaf schedules Eid prayers at 9:30 am

Srinagar, May 25: A meeting of the managing body of Anjuman Auqaf Jama Masjid was held today at the head office of Jama Masjid Srinagar under the chairmanship of President, Mirwaiz-e-Kashmir Mirwaiz Umar Farooq, to review and finalize arrangements in connection with Eid-ul-Azha, which is falling on Wednesday, May 27. The meeting discussed in detail the arrangements for the smooth conduct of Eid prayers and related religious gatherings. It was decided that, InshaAllah, the Eid prayers according to the prescribed Sunnah shall be offered at the historic Eidgah Srinagar at 9:30 a.m. Prior to the prayers, Mirwaiz-e-Kashmir will deliver a special sermon from 8:30 a.m. on the philosophy and significance of Eid-ul-Azha and Qurbani, highlighting the spirit of sacrifice, obedience, compassion and devotion embodied in this sacred occasion. During the meeting, Mirwaiz instructed the Auqaf authorities to coordinate with the Waqf Board regarding necessary arrangements at Eidgah Srinagar and also remain in touch with the civil administration to ensure smooth and hassle-free conduct of the congregational prayers. Mirwaiz-e-Kashmir also visited Eidgah Srinagar and personally reviewed the arrangements and condition of the ground. He observed that, if the weather is favourable, Eid prayers can be smoothly conducted at the Eidgah. The Auqaf expressed hope that the authorities will not create any hurdles in offering Eid prayers at Eidgah Srinagar. It said that the Eidgah ground is presently in good condition and the work on the new mimbar has also been completed, leaving no justification for any restrictions or obstacles in holding the prayers there. The Auqaf further stated that in case of inclement weather, the Eid prayers shall be offered at the historic Jamia Masjid Srinagar. However, it said that unfortunately the administration has repeatedly followed a practice of keeping people waiting till the last moment and then disallowing Eid prayers either at Eidgah or at Jamia Masjid, which deeply hurts the religious sentiments of the people and amounts to blatant interference in their religious rights and freedoms. The Auqaf expressed hope that the administration will not follow such a course this Eid and will allow the faithful to offer Eid prayers at Eidgah without any confusion or last-minute uncertainty.

Like Ladakh, Centre should engage with people in J&K too, says Mehbooba Mufti; pitches for unity

LG Sinha leads anti-drug padyatra in Bandipora, intensifies campaign against narco-terror

Srinagar, May 25: In a major push against the narco-terror, Lieutenant Governor Shri Manoj Sinha rallied with a massive crowd in Bandipora today, leading a Padyatra to galvanize support for the cause. 45 days ago, I pledged not only to dismantle smugglers and narco-terrorists ecosystem, but also to spark a movement that uplifts youth and restores dignity to families scarred by addiction, the Lieutenant Governor said. The Lieutenant Governor said that Jammu Kashmir is united, strong in resolve and clear in purpose and fully committed to freeing our society from drugs once and for all. The action against narco-terrorists and drug smugglers will continue. It will not stop until every drug smuggler is eliminated from the sacred soil of Jammu Kashmir. Our agencies have launched an unprecedented drive to dismantle narco-terrorists and their hidden network. No drug smuggler, drug peddler, or anyone seeking to poison our society is beyond reach. The entire narco-terror ecosystem is being pursued, the Lieutenant Governor said. The Lieutenant Governor stated that several drug supply networks that until now remained hidden for various reasons are being traced and dismantled. He said Drug cartels that thrived for decades are being wiped out. We have sent a clear message that Jammu Kashmir will not be a safe haven for those who profit from other peoples sufferings. I am determined that we will root out every narco-terrorist and drug smuggler from this soil. Those who tried to destroy our families will have their existence erased from this land. The law is now being applied firmly. Narco-terrorists are being punished, youth are being protected, families are being supported, and renewed hope is returning to the society, the Lieutenant Governor said. The Lieutenant Governor said that very soon, the administration will come out with a comprehensive rehabilitation policy which will ensure that every young person trapped by addiction gets a chance to rejoin the mainstream. Our aim is that not a single young person is left behind. We will provide jobs, opportunities, and the means for them to live with dignity. I strongly believe the success of a Drug-free Jammu Kashmir will not be measured only by the number of drug smugglers arrested but by the number of lives we can rebuild. It will be measured by the homes that can be restored and the young people who can fulfil their dreams. I promise you that we will not rest until their dreams are realised, the Lieutenant Governor said. The Lieutenant Governor said that the government cannot win this fight alone and in this battle against drugs, administration needs support of families, teachers, religious leaders, and every responsible citizen. I envision a Jammu Kashmir where every child grows up free from the shadow of addiction. A Jammu Kashmir where families are not torn apart by drugs. A Jammu Kashmir where society moves forward with security, dignity, and trust. This is not merely a dream. It is our mission and together we will fulfill it. We need the vigilance, awareness, and commitment of every resident of Jammu Kashmir. I believe that when people stand united, no narco-terror network or drug cartel can infiltrate them. When the public stands together, no terror can defeat them. I urge, we must unite to bury narco-terror once and for all, the Lieutenant Governor said. On the occasion, the Lieutenant Governor inaugurated Waqar Knowledge Centre Engaging Youth Against Drug Abuse. Under the Nasha Mukt Bharat Abhiyan, District Bandipora has established the Waqar Knowledge Centre (WKC), completing the anti-drug intervention cycle by providing recovering addiction cases with a constructive platform for rehabilitation, engagement, and reintegration. The initiative reinforces the message that individuals seeking to leave the path of substance abuse behind have access to a range of government-supported opportunities and support systems. The Centre offers a sports corner, badminton court, reading library, and an information desk providing guidance on government schemes, education, employment, and skill development opportunities. The Administration envisions establishing one Waqar Knowledge Centre in each block of the district. The Centre provides a constructive space that empowers youth and strengthens community resilience against addiction.

Situation under control after technical snag halts Gulmarg Gondola service: CM's office

Srinagar, May 25: Jammu and Kashmir Chief Minister Omar Abdullah on Monday said the government is closely monitoring the situation at the Gulmarg Gondola after the cable car service was temporarily suspended following a technical fault. The Chief Minister's office said all gondola cabins remain intact and rescue teams are on the ground to safely evacuate stranded tourists. Government is closely monitoring the situation at the Gulmarg Gondola after the cable car service was temporarily halted due to a technical fault. All cabins remain intact and rescue operations to safely evacuate stranded tourists are underway with trained teams on the ground, Omar Abdullah's office said in a statement. Government is closely monitoring the situation at the Gulmarg Gondola after the cable car service was temporarily halted due to a technical fault. All cabins remain intact and rescue operations to safely evacuate stranded tourists are underway with trained teams on the ground. pic.twitter.com/9LFmDfXL8Y Greater Kashmir (@GreaterKashmir) May 25, 2026 He assured the public that the situation was fully under control and urged people not to panic. Officials said standard safety protocols were immediately activated after the snag was detected. The cause of the technical fault was not immediately known. Further details are awaited.

Rajouri encounter enters day 3; forces tighten cordon

LG Manoj Sinha visits Dargah Hazratbal, says admin has made all arrangements for Eid festival