Opinion

J&K govt employee dismissed for involvement in drug trafficking

Srinagar, Aug 12: Jammu and Kashmir government on Wednesday dismissed an employee of the Wildlife Protection Department from government service, allegedly for his repeated involvement in drug trafficking. The dismissed employee, identified as Vinod Kumar Raina, a resident of the Kandikhas area of Handwara in north Kashmir's Kupwara district, was posted as a watcher in the Wildlife Protection Department. In an order, commissioner/secretary, Department of Forest, Ecology, and Environment, Sheetal Nanda, ordered Raina's dismissal from service with immediate effect. The government also disqualified Raina from any future employment with the government. The dismissal came after the department conducted an inquiry into the charges levelled against Raina after he was arrested on July 18, 2021, under the NDPS Act in FIR No 329/2021 registered by the Nagrota police station, for possessing approximately 300 grams of charas. During the departmental inquiry, it was found that Raina had previously been involved in drug trafficking.

Inmates join 'Har Ghar Tiranga' campaign, make tricolours for students in Bhaderwah

Bhaderwah, August 13: The fifth edition of the Har Ghar Tiranga campaign is evolving into one of the countrys major public participation movements, with people from different sections of society joining the initiative. Formally launched on August 9 by the Ministry of Culture, the campaign has also made its way into the District Jail Bhaderwah, where male and female inmates are making tricolours that are being distributed among students, security personnel and other sections of society. Superintendent District Jail Bhaderwah Hamid-ullah Naik said the initiative was aimed at encouraging inmates to express their sense of belonging towards the national cause. The CRPF, Jammu and Kashmir Police and jail authorities also organised a Tiranga Rally, carrying national flags made by the inmates. Female inmates have stitched hundreds of tricolours, while male inmates have displayed their artistic skills by painting national flags on paper for distribution among students. We wanted to be a part of this campaign and are thankful to the Superintendent for giving us an opportunity to do so. Although we are confined within the walls of the prison, we are happy that the flags we are making will be waved outside, and we are proud of it, said inmate Irshad Ahmed. Superintendent Hamid-ullah Naik led the Tiranga Rally from the District Jail to Bhaderwah town, in which jail authorities, J&K Police and the CRPF participated. During the rally, dozens of tricolours made by the inmates were handed over to students of a local school. Receiving the flags, school principal Sajad Sarmadi described the gesture as one of the most emotional moments of the campaign. For me, this is the highlight and most emotional part of the Tiranga campaign so far, as I never expected this from inmates of a jail. My students and I will treasure this experience of patriotism and love for the country, he said.

President Donald Trump confirms secret plane swap over Iran threat

US President Donald Trump has confirmed that he was secretly moved to another aircraft after leaving the NATO summit in Turkey last month because of a possible Iranian missile threat, the BBC reported. Trump said the Secret Service and military officials instructed him to switch planes. I just have to do what they say, he told reporters. The revelation follows reports that Trump boarded Air Force One in full view of cameras on July 8 before secretly being transferred to a smaller military aircraft using a catering truck. According to CBS News, US officials detected a credible Iranian threat to fire a missile at the presidential aircraft. The New York Times also reported that US intelligence had information about a person near the NATO summit who had been seen with a shoulder-fired missile. Trump said he did not ask for details about the threat, adding that he receives a lot of threats. Journalists and some White House staff were reportedly left aboard the original Air Force One and were unaware that Trump had been moved. The aircraft continued Trump confirms secret plane swap over Iran threat using the presidential call sign AF1, while Trump travelled aboard the military C[1]32A under the call sign Reach 18. The dramatic security operation came amid heightened tensions between the US and Iran following renewed American strikes on Iranian targets. The Committee to Protect Journalists said the White House had a responsibility to ensure journalists were not unnecessarily exposed to danger and that reporters should be informed of credible security threats affecting their safety, BBC said.

NDA MPs hold Mangal Milan meeting ahead of Independence Day

By Indu Sunil Dang New Delhi, Aug 12: Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Wednesday joined senior Union ministers and NDA Members of Parliament at a Mangal Milan gathering at the G.M.C. Balayogi Auditorium in the Parliament Library Building, ahead of Indias 80th Independence Day. The meeting brought together NDA MPs from both the Lok Sabha and Rajya Sabha and was marked by patriotic fervour, with the Tricolour prominently displayed at the venue and waving in the hands of the law makers. The gathering provided an opportunity for NDA lawmakers to come together ahead of Independence Day and reaffirm their commitment to the nation and its democratic values.

Women artisans get branding lessons to make Kashmir crafts market-ready

The Handicrafts and Handloom Department, Kashmir, in collaboration with the National Institute of Fashion Technology (NIFT), Srinagar, today organised a one-day capacity building programme for artisans and weavers under the Raising and Accelerating MSME Performance (RAMP) Programme. As many as 100 artisans participated in the workshop, which focused on branding and aesthetic packaging of Geographical Indication (GI) and One District One Product (ODOP) handcrafted products. Speaking on the occasion, Deputy Director (Trainings), Tahira Tabassum, said the capacity building programmes form part of the Governments ongoing efforts to strengthen the craft ecosystem in Jammu and Kashmir. The NIFT faculty delivered a session highlighting the advantages of creative packaging and how such interventions enhance the branding of handmade products from Kashmir, she stated. This workshop is the first in a series of ten programmes being organised with NIFT under RAMP. The series aims to equip artisans with practical skills and insights into the importance of aesthetic packaging and branding, enabling them to compete more effectively in both domestic and international markets. The majority of participants belonged to Noor Ari Producer Company, a women-led collective of nearly 600 members dedicated to womens empowerment and the creation of sustainable livelihoods.

Fairdeal Motors unveils Tata Sierra EV

Fairdeal Motors unveiled the much-awaited Tata Sierra EV in Srinagar, bringing Tata Motors iconic Sierra nameplate into the electric mobility era and offering customers in Kashmir a glimpse of the next generation of premium electric motoring. The unveiling was held at Nigeen Club as part of Bazme Kashmir, a celebration bringing together culture, creativity, community and leading brands. The event witnessed participation from customers, automobile enthusiasts, business leaders, influencers and visitors. The Sierra EV combines the legacy of Tata Motors iconic Sierra nameplate with contemporary electric technology, distinctive styling and a premium mobility experience. Its unveiling in Srinagar comes amid growing interest in electric vehicles and cleaner transportation solutions in J&K. Speaking on the occasion, a representative of Fairdeal Motors said the unveiling of the Sierra EV in Srinagar was a matter of pride for the dealership. The Sierra is a name that holds a special place in the hearts of Indian automobile enthusiasts, and seeing it return in an electric avatar is truly remarkable. Kashmir is ready for the next generation of mobility, and we are delighted to bring this experience closer to our customers, the representative said. The Sierra EV drew considerable attention from visitors, who had an opportunity to see the vehicle up close. The electric SUV was showcased as the centrepiece of Fairdeal Motors stall at Bazme Kashmir, generating significant interest among attendees. Fairdeal Motors has been working to bring Tata Motors latest products and new-age automotive experiences closer to customers across J&K. The unveiling of the Sierra EV further underlines the dealerships focus on supporting the transition towards cleaner and smarter mobility in the region.

KU launches fashion technology programme with focus on skills, employment

The Directorate of Lifelong Learning & Skill Development (DLLSD), University of Kashmir (KU), today launched a three-month introductory training programme in Fashion Technology at the Main Campus. The programme was inaugurated along with a dedicated Fashion Technology Lab. The programme has been designed to provide participants with both theoretical knowledge and practical training in fashion technology, with a focus on developing skills relevant to the contemporary fashion and apparel sector. It aims to equip learners with practical competencies that can support employment, entrepreneurship and further professional training in the field. While addressing the participants of the training programme Vice-Chancellor KU, Prof. Nilofer Khan, said that skill-based programmes can help bridge the gap between academic learning and emerging employment opportunities. Skill development becomes meaningful when learners are able to translate their training into practical work and livelihood opportunities. Such courses can help young people develop specialised skills while responding to changing requirements of the employment market, she said. Dean Academic Affairs KU, Prof. Shariefuddin Pirzada, and Registrar KU, Prof. Naseer Iqbal, in their remarks, appreciated the initiative and emphasised the importance of expanding skill-oriented programmes alongside conventional academic courses. They said specialised training can provide learners with additional pathways towards financial independence and self-employment. Speaking on the occassion Prof. Humaira Azim, Director, Institute of Home Science, KU, said the course has been designed keeping the existing skill requirements and employment market in consideration alongwith with hands-on training so that participants can develop practical competence in different aspects of fashion technology. Earlier, Director, DLLSD KU, Prof. Bashir Ahmad Joo, in his welcome address, provided the objectives of the programme and said the Directorate is working to expand its portfolio of skill-based courses in response to changing learner and employment needs. The three-month programme includes theoretical sessions and practical training in areas such as fashion designing, garment construction, pattern making, stitching and finishing techniques, along with other components related to the fashion and apparel sector. The newly inaugurated Fashion Technology Lab will provide participants with a dedicated space for practical instruction and hands-on training as part of the programme.

NIT Srinagar organises Tiranga rally

The National Institute of Technology (NIT) Srinagar on Wednesday organised a Tiranga Rally under the nationwide Har Ghar Tiranga Campaign 2026, as part of its celebrations ahead of Indias 80th Independence Day. The rally witnessed enthusiastic participation from members of the NIT Srinagar community, including Deans, Heads of Departments and Centres, faculty members, non-faculty employees, outsourced staff, students, research scholars, NCC and NSS volunteers and other staff members. The programme was aimed at promoting patriotism, national unity and pride while encouraging members of the institute community to display the National Flag, the Tiranga, with pride and respect. The rally was flagged off by Incharge Director Prof. Roohi Naaz in the presence of Registrar Prof. Atikur Rehman. Deans, HoDs, HoCs, faculty members, administrative staff and the institutes Security Officer also participated in the event. NCC and NSS volunteers were also present during the programme. Participants carried the National Flag and raised patriotic slogans as they marched around the campus in a coordinated display of national pride and unity. The rally was organised in accordance with the institutes call for active participation in the Har Ghar Tiranga Campaign 2026. The campaign aims to strengthen citizens' emotional connection to the National Flag and encourage people to display the Tiranga as a symbol of national pride, unity, and identity. The rally was part of the broader Independence Day celebrations being organised by NIT Srinagar. The Institute is conducting a series of activities involving students, faculty and staff to mark the occasion and highlight the significance of the countrys freedom struggle, national unity and constitutional values. The Institutes campaign message, Tiranga Our Pride, Our Identity, Our Nation, was highlighted as the central theme of the initiative. The programme concluded with participants reaffirming their commitment to the values of patriotism, unity and national service and to celebrating Independence Day with pride and respect for the National Flag.

Heavy rain inundates roads in Awantipora

Following intense rainfall, roads in south Kashmirs Awantipora town on Wednesday were inundated, disrupting traffic and causing inconvenience to commuters, shopkeepers and residents. Residents said the main road passing through the town was submerged following the downpour, making it difficult for vehicles and pedestrians to move through the area. Water entered some shops and residential houses, said Javed Ahmad, a resident. He said the rainfall had exposed the poor drainage system in the area, with water accumulating on the roads instead of draining away. Zeeshan Ahmad, a commuter, said driving through the town became difficult as large stretches of the road were covered with water. There was so much water on the road that it felt like a river was running through it, he said. The waterlogging also affected businesses along the main road, with shopkeepers forced to deal with water entering their establishments. Residents said the problem becomes particularly severe after heavy rainfall, when the existing drainage network is unable to cope with the volume of water. Commuters said the accumulation of water reduced road visibility and made it difficult for vehicles to navigate the affected stretches. Pedestrians were also forced to negotiate waterlogged sections of the road. Residents urged the authorities to take immediate steps to improve the drainage system and ensure that rainwater is properly channelled away from the main road and nearby residential areas. They said repeated waterlogging not only disrupts daily movement but also poses a risk of damage to shops, homes and roads. The latest waterlogging has once again raised concerns over the towns drainage infrastructure, particularly as short spells of intense rainfall can quickly overwhelm existing drainage arrangements. Residents called for the identification of vulnerable points and construction or repair of drains to prevent rainwater from accumulating on the main road during heavy downpours.

Lawyers have a nobleand challenging profession: Ashok Bhan

Law is not merely a means of earning a livelihood, but also an instrument through which justice is pursued, rights are protected, and constitutional values are strengthened. The words were spoken by Senior Advocate Ashok Bhan today. He advised them that the legal profession is, in the current day and time, is both one of the noblest professions and one of the most challenging callings. He was speaking with a community of young lawyers. Every young lawyer must therefore enter the profession with a deep sense of responsibility towards society and the rule of law, he advised. The key themes for young lawyers at the gathering included: 1. Ethics and Professional Integrity Senior Advocate Bhan emphasised that integrity, professional ethics, and intellectual honesty must remain the foundation of a lawyers career. A lawyer may win or lose a case, but must never compromise truth or the dignity of the profession Primary duty is to the court and the administration of justice Must represent clients fearlessly while remaining faithful to legal and ethical obligations Upholding the dignity of the profession is non-negotiable 2. Continuous Learning and Legal Growth He urged interns to develop the habit of continuous learning, noting that law is constantly evolving. Law changes through constitutional interpretation, technology, and new jurisprudence Lawyers must regularly study judgments and understand underlying legal principles Deep engagement with the Constitution is essential Preparation, hard work, and disciplined research are irreplaceable 3. Professional Conduct and Personal Development He further advised young lawyers to cultivate patience, humility, and perseverance. The legal profession does not offer instant success Early years are crucial for building character, knowledge, and credibility Every court appearance, conference, and client interaction is a learning opportunity Respect for seniors, colleagues, court staff, and the institution of justice is essential Conclusion: Responsibility Towards the Future Concluding his interaction, Senior Advocate Ashok Bhan observed that the future of the legal profession and the strength of constitutional democracy depend significantly on the young lawyers entering the Bar today. He encouraged interns to aspire not merely to become successful advocates, but lawyers of character, competence, and conscience. Their ultimate responsibility, he said, is to uphold the Constitution, defend the rights and liberties of citizens, and ensure that justice remains accessible, impartial, and humane.

CS calls for world-class arrangements to showcase J&K as film, tourism hub

Chief Secretary, Atal Dulloo today chaired a meeting of senior officers of the Civil Administration and Police Department to review and give detailed shape to the arrangements for the successful conduct of the maiden International Film Festival of Jammu & Kashmir (IFFJK-2026), scheduled to be held from September 7 to 10, 2026. The meeting was attended by Additional Chief Secretary to Chief Minister; Additional Chief Secretary, Finance; Principal Secretary, Home; Commissioner Secretary, Information; Commissioner Secretary, Floriculture; Secretary, Transport; Divisional Commissioner, Jammu/Kashmir; SSP Srinagar as representative of DGP J&K, Director, Information; Secretary, J&K Academy of Art, Culture & Languages; Director, Hospitality & Protocol; Joint Director, Information (Headquarters); Joint Director, Information (Kashmir Division) and other senior officers from the concerned departments and agencies. The CS observed that IFFJK-2026 is the first festival of its kind in J&K and, therefore, its inaugural edition should set a benchmark for its future editions. He emphasized that the event is envisaged as an annual affair from this year onwards, requiring meticulous planning and execution so that every edition becomes more professionally curated and memorable. He directed all concerned departments to walk through the entire festival process in advance right from the arrival of guests and participants to the conclusion of the event to identify gaps, streamline procedures and ensure seamless coordination. He maintained that the smooth conduct of every component is what ultimately makes an event memorable, professionally accomplished and worthy of appreciation. The Chief Secretary laid particular emphasis on providing befitting reception and hospitality to all invited dignitaries, filmmakers, artists and other participants. He directed that designated nodal officers be put in place by the General Administration Department at major boarding airports, including Mumbai and Delhi, besides ensuring seamless reception and facilitation at the airports in Jammu and Srinagar. He underlined that IFFJK provides a significant opportunity to showcase Jammu & Kashmirs immense potential as both a film destination and a premier tourist destination. He called upon Tourism, Handicrafts, Floriculture, Culture and other concerned departments to make comprehensive arrangements to showcase the regions rich heritage, crafts, culture, landscapes and artistic traditions through curated tours, craft safaris, heritage experiences and other activities for visiting guests.

JKPCC recommends Rs 33.24 lakh environmental compensation against Municipal Committee Awantipora

The Jammu and Kashmir Pollution Control Committee (JKPCC) has proposed Rs 33.24 lakh environmental compensation against Municipal Committee (MC) Awantipora for improper handling and disposal of solid waste at Dangerpora-Padgampora along NH-44 in Pulwama district. The compensation covers four metric tonnes of unsegregated waste dumped daily for 197 days, according to a show-cause notice issued by JKPCC to the MCs Executive Officer on July 31. The action follows proceedings before the National Green Tribunal (NGT) regarding a complaint filed by activist Raja Muzaffar Bhat over the alleged illegal and unscientific dumping of solid, plastic and biomedical waste near Dangerpora-Padgampora in Awantipora. The NGT directed authorities to conduct a fresh inspection. It also sought details on the quantity of waste dumped, the period of dumping and steps taken for remediation. Following the direction, JKPCC conducted an inspection and found continued dumping and violations of the Solid Waste Management (SWM) Rules, 2026. Municipal Solid Waste (MSW) is not collected as per MSW Rules 2026 as no segregation of MSW witnessed at site, the report said. During inspection, it has been witnessed that MSW is dumped at the site on spot to date, it said. The inspection also found mixed waste despite the MCs claim of separate collection. As witnessed at site, MSW was mixed up which shows no segregation at source has been practiced, the report said. On processing, it said, No processing is done as per MSW Rules 2026. The insapection recorded daily waste generation of 4 MT within the MCs jurisdiction. It assessed the violation period at 197 days. The waste recovery facility and compost pits at the site were also found non-operational. The JKPCC report directed the MC to ensure that no biodegradable or non-biodegradable waste was dumped along NH-44 at Dangerpora-Padgampora, in any water body or open area. The inspection, however, found municipal solid waste being dumped at the site. The report also pointed to inadequate awareness among waste generators. At site, it is evident that local population/generators have not been sensitized with segregation of MSW, it said. Based on the inspection and environmental damage assessment, JKPCCs Technical Advisory Committee recommended Rs 33.24 lakh under the Polluter Pays Principle. The MC has been given 15 days to show cause why the compensation should not be levied. JKPCC has also sought an explanation as to why the Executive Officer should not be prosecuted under the Environment (Protection) Act, 1986, for violation of the Solid Waste Management Rules. The notice warned that failure to submit a tenable response would lead to levy of the compensation and initiation of prosecution proceedings without further notice. The inspection report said a 20-kanal site at Dangerpora-Padgampora was identified and handed over by the district administration in 2020 for solid waste management. The MC told JKPCC that civil and machinery work had been completed. Electrical work was in its final stage. It said the material recovery facility was being operated using a generator. Wet waste was being composted. Separate-chamber vehicles were being used for door-to-door collection. The inspection, however, found mixed waste at the site. Machinery including a sanitary disposal machine, baling machine, shredder, conveyor belt and sieving trommel was found at the facility. The inspection estimated 1,538 metric tonnes of legacy waste at the site. The MC reported that more than 50% had been bio-remediated. The inspection noted that the quantity had reduced compared with earlier assessments. On leachate management, the report found, No provisions have been adopted for treatment of leachate generated from site except one soakage pit provided for same purpose. JKPCC said the waste-handling practices had posed a grave threat to the environment due to unscientific dumping and non-compliance with the Solid Waste Management Rules. Ensure that solid waste is collected, processed, treated, and disposed of in accordance with SWM, Rules 2026; Plastic Waste Management Rules, 2026, and the Jammu and Kashmir Non-Biodegradable Material (Management, Handling and Disposal) Act 2007, it directed MC Awantipora.

Chowdry Ramzan meets Health Minister, seeks Centres nod for GMC Handwara projects

Member of Parliament Chowdhary Mohammad Ramzan today met Union Minister for Health and Family Welfare J. P. Nadda and sought his intervention for the early sanction of a 75-bedded Critical Care Block (CCB) and District Integrated Public Health Laboratory (DIPHL) at Government Medical College (GMC), Handwara, under the Pradhan Mantri Ayushman Bharat Health Infrastructure Mission (PM-ABHIM). During the meeting, Ramzan apprised the Union Health Minister that the Health and Medical Education Department, Government of Jammu and Kashmir, has already submitted a proposal, vide No. HD-Plan/173/2026 dated July 2, 2026, seeking approval for establishing the two facilities. He highlighted that GMC Handwara caters to a large population from remote and underserved areas of Kupwara district. In the absence of a dedicated critical care facility, critically ill patients are often referred to distant healthcare institutions, resulting in delays in treatment and considerable hardship for patients and their families. Ramzan urged the Union Health Minister to accord early approval and sanction to the proposal, along with the requisite equipment. He said the proposed facilities would significantly strengthen critical care and diagnostic services in the region and enable patients to receive timely treatment closer to their homes. Nadda assured Ramzan that the matter would be accorded due priority and that necessary action would be taken at the appropriate level.

3,000-year-old Shankaracharya Temple hosts Amarnath holy mace on Amavasya

The holy Chhari-Mubarak of Swami Amarnath was carried to the historic Shankaracharya Temple atop Gopadri Hills here on Wednesday as part of the ongoing Amarnath Yatra 2026, officials said. The ritual, held on the occasion of Haryali-Amavasya (Shravan Amavasya), was led by Mahant Deependra Giri Ji, who performed special prayers along with a group of sadhus. The ceremony lasted about 90 minutes, during which Vedic hymns were chanted and the atmosphere was charged with the sound of conch shells, they added. Prayers were offered for peace, prosperity, and well-being of Jammu & Kashmir and the country as a whole, according to the Shri Amarnath Ji Shrine Board. Speaking to reporters, Mahant Deependra Giri said historians trace the temples origin to King Sandiman (circa 26292564 BC). Originally known as Jyeshteshwara or Jyoteshwara, the temple later came to be called Shankaracharya Temple after Adi Guru Shankaracharya visited the site, he added. KNS

HC announces special mediation for nation 3.0 drive

The High Court of J&K and Ladakh has announced a special mediation drive, mediation for nation 3.0, aimed at identifying and resolving pending cases having an element of settlement through mediation across the High Court and District/Taluka Courts of Jammu & Kashmir and Ladakh. The initiative has been launched under the guidance of Justice Vikram Nath, Judge, Supreme Court of India and Chairman, Mediation and Conciliation Committee (MCPC), and under the directions of the Acting Chief Justice of the High Court of J&K and Ladakh, according to a notification issued by the Registrar General, M K Sharma. The notification says that cases considered suitable for settlement will be identified and screened for referral to mediation. These will include matrimonial disputes, motor accident claims, cheque bounce cases, compoundable criminal cases, consumer disputes, debt recovery and SARFAESI matters, arbitration and commercial disputes, service matters, partition and eviction cases, land acquisition matters, labour disputes and other suitable civil cases. The identified matters will be screened and listed before the High Court Benches under a separate cause list titled For Referral to Mediation for Nation 3.0 for consideration of referral. Cases referred for mediation and pending in the Ordinary Motion cause list after September 7 will be preponed and listed under a separate cause list for the special drive. The number of cases listed for referral will not exceed 20 per Single Bench per day. The notification also invites advocates and parties-in-person to provide details of cases having an element of settlement to the concerned Judicial Branches by September 7, so that such matters can also be considered for inclusion in the special mediation cause list. The High Court has laid down a phased timeline for implementation of the campaign. Identification of suitable pending cases will be undertaken from August 12 to 26, followed by pre-mediation screening from August 17 to 31. Continuous preparation of cause lists will take place from September 1 to 26, while screened cases will be placed before the Courts for referral from September 7 to 30. Mediation proceedings under the special drive will commence from October 1, with the proceedings scheduled to culminate by December 30. Every referral order will contain the name of the concerned Mediation Centre; the first date fixed for mediation and the mobile number and email address of the coordinator of the concerned centre. Phone numbers of advocates and parties, where available, will also be reflected in the referral orders. For cases pending before District and Taluka Courts, pre-mediation screening will be undertaken by the concerned Referral Judges in coordination with the District Legal Services Authorities and Taluka Legal Services Committees. Only cases found suitable for mediation will thereafter be referred to the concerned Mediation Centres.

HC refuses to quash FIR against ex MD DIC Pulwama

The High Court of J&K and Ladakh Wednesday rejected a plea seeking to quash an FIR against former General Manager (GM), District Industries Centre (DIC), Pulwama, over alleged irregularities in allotment of industrial land and execution of lease deeds. In response to the plea that it rejected eventually, a bench of Justice Shahzad Azeem noted that the Anti-Corruption Bureaus (ACB) investigation into the FIR was still at a preliminary stage and involved several interlinked issues concerning beneficiaries and officers of SICOP/SIDCO. The FIR (No. 03/2020) was registered on July 7, 2020 under the J&K Prevention of Corruption Act and Ranbir Penal Code (RPC) against Laiq Parvez who served as GM, DIC Pulwama from June 2017 to February 2018. The former GM, the ACB said, allegedly abused his official position by making land allotments and executing lease deeds in favour of various unit holders, allegedly conferring undue benefits. The ACB further claimed that the industrial estates at Pulwama and Chatpora had been transferred to SICOP in April 2017, yet the former GM continued making allotments. The alleged irregularities involved around 62 units, including allotments without Single Window Clearance Committee (SWCC) approval and acceptance of physical applications despite an online-only requirement, the ACB said. The former GM argued that the Industrial Policy empowered the GM, DIC to allot land to eligible MSME units and execute lease deeds, and that the FIR disclosed neither criminal misconduct nor personal gain. After hearing the parties, the court noted that such powers were subject to prescribed procedures and that allotment decisions were required to be taken through the SWCC. It also said that 48 allotments were allegedly made in estates already handed over to SICOP. The investigation, the court said, must determine whether undue benefits were conferred, whether there was concerted action and the role of other officials and beneficiaries. Documents concerning 42 units had also been sent for forensic examination, it noted While the Court held it as premature to determine dishonest intention, it said quashing the FIR at this stage could result in an incomplete investigation. The court dismissed the petition, accordingly.

Hemophilia drugs shortage: Over tardy approach, High Court directs JKMSCL MDs personal appearance

The High Court of J&K and Ladakh has sought the personal appearance of Managing Director (MD) of J&K and Kashmir Medical Supplies Corporation Limited (JKMSCL) after it was informed that non-availability of essential medicines used in the treatment of hemophilia at Government Medical College (GMC), Srinagar was due to dilatory approach of the corporation. A division bench comprising Acting Chief Justice Sanjeev Kumar and Justice Muhammad Yousuf Wani directed the JKMSCLs MD to appear in person on September 7 to explain the position regarding the procurement and supply of Factor VIII and Emicizumab, the two medicines required by Hemophilia patients. The Courts direction came following an affidavit filed by the Principal, GMC Srinagar, indicating that the procurement of Factor VIII and Emicizumab was taken up with JKMSCL, but despite repeated reminders, the Corporation had not responded. The affidavit was filed in compliance with the courts order dated July 13. Besides JKMSCLs inaction, the affidavit attested to the shortage of the two medicines and their dire need at GMC Srinagar and GMC Jammu. Taking note of the lack of response from the procurement agency, the bench observed that it appeared that the issue had remained unresolved because of the slackness on the part of JKMSCL, resulting in delay in procurement of the medicines. The MD JKMSCL has also been directed to file an affidavit in advance setting out how the corporation responded to the requirements projected by both GMC Srinagar and GMC Jammu concerning Factor VIII and Emicizumab. The bench was hearing a Public Interest Litigation (PIL) seeking courts intervention to direct the authorities to immediately ensure uninterrupted availability and supply of anti-haemophilic drugs and essential clotting factor concentrates to Government Medical College, Srinagar and all other designated treatment centers across the Jammu & Kashmir The PIL highlights the complete non-availability of the essential life-saving drugs like Factor VIII, Factor IX and Von Willebrand factor drugs, underlining that the patients in Jammu and Kashmir have to undergo a great deal of tribulations to get these drugs. Moreover, the PIL seeks to release without any further delay, the entire quantity of antihemophilic drugs lying stocked with Jammu and Kashmir Medical Supplies Corporation Ltd to the concerned hospitals as per annual and supplementary requisitions raised by the concerned agencies.

BJP won't tolerate indiscipline, anti-party, anti-people activities: Adv Sunil Sethi

J&K BJP Chief Spokesperson and Chairman of the Party's Disciplinary Committee, Advocate Sunil Sethi in Wednesday said the Bharatiya Janata Party has once again demonstrated its unwavering commitment to organisational discipline by taking prompt and decisive action against those found indulging in indiscipline. Sethi, as per a statement said that acting on the directions of J&K BJP President and Member of Parliament Sat Sharma, the party completed the disciplinary process within a week and initiated strict action against those found violating the party's discipline. The BJP is a cadre-based and ideology-driven political organisation where discipline is the cornerstone of its strength. Every party worker, irrespective of his or her position, is accountable to the organisation and is expected to adhere to its principles, values and code of conduct. The swift action reflects the leadership's commitment to maintaining discipline and preserving the credibility of the organisation, Sethi said. He asserted that the BJP follows a policy of zero tolerance towards any act of indiscipline, anti-party activities or actions that are against the interests of the people. The BJP will not tolerate any form of indiscipline, anti-party or anti-people activities. Anyone found acting against the party's ideology, organisational discipline or the interests of the people will face strict disciplinary action. There can be no compromise on matters that weaken the organisation or erode public confidence in the party, Sethi said. He said the action taken within a week reflects the BJP's transparent and accountable internal mechanism, where organisational discipline takes precedence over individual interests. Sethi said political parties have a responsibility to uphold internal discipline and accountability, adding that selective action or silence against indiscipline weakens democratic institutions and public trust. The BJP has shown that it has the resolve to act without delay whenever organisational discipline is breached. Other political parties should also follow suit by taking firm and impartial action against those indulging in indiscipline, anti-party or anti-people activities instead of shielding them for political convenience. Strong organisations are built on discipline, accountability and commitment to public service, he said. Reaffirming the party's commitment to its core values, Sethi said the BJP would continue to enforce discipline without fear or favour and ensure that the organisation remains dedicated to its ideology, the welfare of the people and the highest standards of public life.

Withdrawal of Suspensions | Talks fail as J&K power employees, engineers announce protest from today

Jammu and Kashmir Power Employees and Engineers Coordination Committee (JKPEECC) on Wednesday held multiple rounds of talks to end the stalemate but Managing Director remained adamant on his illegitimate suspensions and decision to withhold salaries on account of Surya Ghar performances. JKPEECC, as per a statement issued, put a Strong resentment Before Managing Director over his Order Nos. 187-192 of MD/JPDCL of 2026 dated 06.08.2026 placing officers/officials under suspension despite the factual record demonstrates action taken against defaulters and does not disclose any misconduct on part of the employees. The JKPEECC in a strong words condemned the arbitrary and illegitimate action on part of Managing Director JPDCL to suspend the officers/officials of Power Development Department and justifying it through concealment of important Action Taken record before the Higher authorities. Due to the failure of MD JPDCL to address the legitimate issues, the J&K Power Employees and Engineers have been constrained to sit on protest from 13th AUG 2026 till the matter is resolved, and responsibility of such situation shall purely be of the management of JPDCL. The act of the Managing Director suffers from malice and without any technical report on fixing of responsibility for an act of an electricity user who is an habitual offender as per the ground reports of the inspecting agencies that have inspected such areas from time to time. In fact without perusing the available record in totality, Engineers and officials have been made scape goats. JKPEECC demands immediate revocation of the suspension orders on the basis of the Action taken reports submitted by the concerned Chief Engineer Distribution and Superintending Engineer O&M Circle-I in the instant case vide Chief Engineer & Superintending Engineer, O&M Circle, JPDCL, Jammu letter No. SE-J/O&M/4062-64 dated 25.06.2026 & 3/07/2026 and 19.07.2026.However it is astonishing to note that Managing Director chooses to conceal this important action taken report submitted by the Technical heads of the Hierarchy and push for a case , that is totally unwarranted. The fact remains that The record supplied to JKEEGA demonstrates that the matter was not ignored by the field establishment. The communications reveal action at several levels even before the inspections by the Special Enforcement Team, intimation to register FIR against same list of consumers of that area has been on record since 2024, detection of unauthorised use/theft, assessment and imposition of penalties, disconnection of unauthorised supplies, removal of illegal service connections, recovery proceedings, repeated enforcement drives, requests for registration of FIRs, interaction with Police authorities, joint inspections with Police, transfer of the concerned Meter Reader, directions for intensified inspections, strengthening of post-disconnection monitoring; and action against habitual offenders. Therefore, the basic premise that recurrence of theft necessarily demonstrates failure of the Engineers/officials is not borne out by the record. Further the situation is so grim that nearly 30000 smart meters in JPDCL are damaged or non-communicating resulting in lack of proper billing of such consumers, including the fact that due to non-replacement of such smart meters by the Project implementing agency i.e REC and its contractors Techno, Anvil and Genus, in proportion to the damage rate, has resulted in a big chaos for the billing engineers of JPDCL. The bills as per the JERC , for damaged meter can be assessed for three months only on average demand/usage charge basis. However worthy Managing Director has not been able to prevail on these central agencies to replace the meters and there are damaged meters of 2023 which are also not replaced as on date, leading to the meters having been bypassed for supplying power to consumers by REC/its contractors only. The responsibility needs to be fixed of REC/ GENUS/ANVIL/TECHNO for causing loss of revenue to JPDCL which is also reflecting poorly on our performance. JKPEECC seeks immediate accountability for the damaged/non communicating 25000 smart meters Secondly Immediate action be taken for registration of FIRs in all pending cases of electricity theft where the requisite cases have already been submitted by the concerned SDOs to the respective Police Stations/SHOs. The Association understands that approximately 2,000 such cases are awaiting registration. If Engineers and officials are being held accountable for theft, the statutory enforcement mechanism must simultaneously be made functional. Further despite hard work, for reducing AT&C losses in JAMMU region to below 30%, instead of accolades, suspension orders are being issued against our officers and officials. The Salary of Engineers and officials in various divisions/sub divisions of JPDCL has been withheld since last two months on account of not being able to meet the targets set by JPDCL for solar installations. In an emergency General Council meeting of JKEEGA and other Unions of JKPDD post the failure of meeting held with MD JPDCL on the issues, it was decided that sufficient time was given to the Managing Director JPDCL to withdraw the Suspension orders on immediate basis, register FIR against the habitual offenders involved in Electricity theft cases on basis of such complaint letters written by SDOs to SHOs, take penal action against the Smart metering project implementing agencies for their failure to replace the damaged smart meters for period even exceeding twenty four months, frame and officially circulate SOPs for the registration of FIRs by the police authorities on the reports of theft submitted to them by SDOs and circulate SOPs for the instructions on billing of such consumers who continue to run the power through damaged meters bypassing the meters, due to non-replacement within three months of such damage. Further the salary of all officers/officials withheld on account of relatively lesser progress in SOLAR Ghar scheme must be immediately released. Due to failure of MD JPDCL to address the legitimate issues, the J&K Power Employees and Engineers have been constrained to sit on protest from 13th AUG 2026, till the matter is resolved and responsibility of such situation shall purely be of the management of JPDCL. JKPEECC has appealed to the Chief Minister and worthy Financial Commissioner (ACS) JKPDD for kind intervention in the matter so that the issue projected is resolved without further loss of precious time.

Sabarmati-Jammu Tawi Express extended up to Katra with halt at Udhampur

The Railway Board has approved the extension of the Sabarmati-Jammu Tawi Express up to Katra with a halt at Udhampur Railway Station for enhancing passenger convenience and promoting religious tourism. Following this decision, the extended Sabarmati-Jammu Tawi Express (train numbers 19223 and 19224) will run via Jammu and will have a halt at Shaheed Captain Tushar Mahajan Udhampur Railway Station before reaching Shri Mata Vaishno Devi Katra Railway Station. This extension, according to railway authorities, will provide great relief to thousands of pilgrims and general passengers from Gujarat, Rajasthan, Punjab and other parts of Western India. Until now, passengers coming from these regions had to deboard at Jammu Tawi station and take a bus or other modes of transport to reach Katra. With the new arrangement in place, passengers will no longer face the hassle of changing trains, loading and unloading luggage or incurring additional expenses. The journey will now be more comfortable, convenient and time-saving, stated Public Relations Inspector (PRI), Jammu Railway Division. According to PRI, the commencement date of the extended service of train numbers 19223 and 19224 will be notified separately once finalised. Reiterating that the Jammu Division remained committed to providing safe, economical and seamless rail services to its passengers, the railway administration has asked the passengers to contact the IRCTC website, mobile app or station enquiry counters for reservations and the latest status of the train.

Around 700 para medical posts to be advertised by Dec 2026: Sakeena Itoo

Minister for Health and Medical Education, Social Welfare and Education, Sakeena Itoo, on Wednesday stated that around 700-800 para-medical staff posts would be advertised by December 2026 to address their acute shortage besides providing employment opportunities to eligible candidates in the health sector. Itoo, while responding to media queries after inaugurating a new CT scan machine at SMGS Hospital, Jammu, asserted that the Chief Minister Omar Abdullah-led government was striving hard to improve and strengthen health care services across J&K. This commitment finds reflection in the appointment of around 900 new doctors by the J&K Public Service Commission (JKPSC). Of them, 500 have been given appointment letters by the Chief Minister, while 400 others, too referred to PSC, have been selected. They will be sent to far-off places after their appointment once the CID verification process gets completed, she said. She informed that the process for the recruitment of 700-800 posts of para-medical staff too was underway to provide better healthcare facilities to the patients across J&K. Ive held several meetings with the JKPSC chairman and he has informed me that by December this year, those posts will be advertised, Itoo stated. Earlier she visited the SMGS Hospital, Shalamar and Chest Diseases Hospital, Bakshi Nagar, Jammu where she inaugurated key healthcare and academic infrastructure projects aimed at further strengthening medical services and facilities for the people. At SMGS Hospital Shalamar, Health Minister inaugurated a newly installed 160-Multi Slice CT Scan machine, which is expected to significantly enhance the diagnostic capabilities of the hospital and facilitate timely and advanced medical investigations for patients. The CT Scan Machine has been installed at a cost of Rs 8.30 Cr. Speaking on the occasion, Sakeena Itoo said that the newly inaugurated CT Scan machine would greatly benefit the general public who cannot afford the facilities of private hospitals and reduce the rush of other hospitals. Besides, it will help to control the referral system. The Minister said that the government was committed to providing better, accessible and quality healthcare facilities to the people of Jammu and Kashmir. She emphasised that strengthening of medical infrastructure and upgrading hospital facilities remained key priorities of the government. Sakeena Itoo said that, in response to the long-pending demand of the people of Jammu and adjoining areas for a CT Scan machine, Chief Minister Omar Abdullah had issued special directions to address the requirement. With the installation of the machine, the longstanding demand has finally been fulfilled, providing a much-needed diagnostic facility to the people. She said that an MRI Machine, already sanctioned for SMGS Hospital, would be installed within the next two or three months. She also urged the health authorities to ensure proper cleanliness and hygiene across the hospital premises for the convenience and well-being of patients and attendants. MLA, Jammu East, Yudhvir Sethi also accompanied the minister during the visit to SMGS Hospital. At Chest Diseases Hospital Jammu, the Minister inaugurated the new academic complex at Chest Diseases Hospital, Bakshi Nagar. The project is completed at a cost of Rs 8. 93 Cr. The newly inaugurated medical and academic facilities were dedicated to the students and the public at large, reflecting the governments commitment to strengthening healthcare and medical education infrastructure and ensuring that modern facilities were made available for the benefit of the people. The Minister reiterated that the government would continue to undertake measures for upgrading healthcare infrastructure and providing modern medical facilities to the public, with the objective of ensuring better, efficient and patient-centric healthcare services across Jammu and Kashmir. MLA Jammu West, Arvind Gupta and MLA Jammu East, Yudhvir Sethi, also accompanied the Minister and expressed their gratitude to him for fulfilling the demands of the people. They also expressed hope that the government would consider and address all pending issues related to healthcare facilities on a priority basis. Principal, GMC Jammu, Dr Ashutosh Gupta, briefed the Minister about the infrastructural development activities at GMC Jammu and its associated hospitals, as well as the patient care services, through a PowerPoint presentation. The Minister also asked the media fraternity to highlight any issues faced by patients in the hospital only after verifying the facts, as spreading unverified information could create a wrong narrative in the public domain and harm the reputation of doctors and hospital staff. She appreciated GMC Jammu for securing 105th rank across the country, stating that this achievement was possible due to the dedicated services rendered by the doctors. She also stressed the need for doctors and paramedical staff to ensure accountability in providing quality patient care. Director Health Services, Jammu Dr Poonam Sethi; Medical Superintendent, SMGS Hospital, Jammu, Prof, (Dr) Dara Singh; Medical Superintendent, Chest Diseases Hospital, Jammu, Dr Rakesh Kumar Sharma; Deputy Director, Health Services (Hqr) Jammu, Harbaksh Singh; CMO Jammu, Dr Narinder Bhutyal Heads of Departments (HoDs); faculty members; Medical Superintendents; officers and staff of GMC Jammu and other Associated Hospitals of Jammu were present during the Ministers visits.

Independence Day Celebration |Police, security agencies directed to ensure foolproof security arrangements in Jammu

Divisional Commissioner Jammu, Ramesh Kumar, along with Inspector General of Police (IGP) Jammu, Bhim Sen Tuti, on Wednesday reviewed the Independence Day 2026 celebration arrangements here at the Maulana Azad Stadium. During the visit, the officers, as per an official statement, inspected the venue and reviewed the arrangements being put in place for the smooth conduct of the Independence Day celebrations. Senior officers from the Civil Administration and Police Department, including Deputy Commissioner Jammu, Commissioner JMC, SSP Security, SSP Jammu, SSP Traffic Jammu and other concerned officers were present on the occasion. The Divisional Commissioner issued detailed directions to the concerned departments to ensure uninterrupted power supply, adequate drinking water, proper seating arrangements, sanitation, cleanliness, barricading, security arrangements and other essential facilities at the venue. He stressed upon the concerned agencies to ensure that all arrangements are completed well in advance and that adequate facilities are made available for the participants, invitees, students, cultural groups and the general public attending the national event. The Traffic authorities were directed to put in place a comprehensive traffic management plan to ensure smooth vehicular movement, proper parking arrangements and hassle-free movement of commuters and participants before, during and after the celebrations. Necessary diversions and traffic regulation measures were also discussed to avoid inconvenience to the general public. The Divisional Commissioner further directed the concerned departments to keep contingency arrangements in place in view of possible inclement weather, including suitable alternative arrangements for participants and guests in case of rain or other adverse weather conditions. The Police and Security agencies were directed to ensure foolproof security arrangements, effective crowd management, adequate deployment of personnel and proper access control at and around the venue. Emphasis was also laid on coordinated functioning among all departments for ensuring a safe and disciplined celebration. The officers also reviewed arrangements related to seating, entry and exit points, medical facilities, emergency response, fire safety, sanitation, public convenience and coordination among line departments. The Divisional Commissioner emphasised that Independence Day is a national occasion of great significance and directed all departments to work in close coordination to ensure that the celebrations are conducted with dignity, enthusiasm, safety and patriotic spirit.

J&K hockeys transformation gains momentum with Gujarat win

Jammu & Kashmirs 4-1 victory over Gujarat in the 16th Hockey India Junior Women National Championship 2026 Division C has highlighted the significant improvement in the UTs hockey setup since the formation of the new Hockey Jammu & Kashmir Association in 2025, with greater emphasis on merit-based selection, fitness, discipline, coaching and player development. Since the formation of the new Hockey Jammu & Kashmir Association in 2025, the organisation, as per a statement issued on Wednesday, has been working with a clear vision and in the right direction, focusing on merit-based selection, fitness, discipline, proper coaching and development of genuine talent. Before 2025, J&K teams were often losing national-level matches by huge margins of 10, 15 and even 20 goals. Today, the picture has changed significantly. Our teams are not only competing strongly but are also winning matches with confidence and authority. The latest 41 victory over Gujarat is another powerful example of this transformation. This is not merely a victory in one matchit is the result of a better system, better selection and a focused approach towards player development since 2025. Hockey Jammu & Kashmir deserves appreciation for bringing this positive change to the game. The players and coaching staff deserve equal credit for their dedication, hard work and commitment.

Srinagar Premier League | SWFC Baramulla beats Sports Council Football Academy 3-0

SWFC Baramulla produced a disciplined and confident performance at the TRC Turf, Srinagar, securing a convincing 30 victory over Sports Council Football Academy in the ongoing Srinagar Premier League 2026 on Wednesday. The encounter, as per a DFA statement, played under the lights and in front of an enthusiastic football audience, saw both teams begin with intent. Sports Council Football Academy looked to establish control through possession and build their attacks from the back, while SWFC Baramulla adopted a more direct and purposeful approach, looking to exploit spaces in the attacking third. From the opening minutes, the intensity of the contest was evident. Both sides competed strongly for possession in midfield, with the players showing determination in every challenge. Sports Council Football Academy attempted to create opportunities through quick passing combinations, but SWFC Baramulla remained compact and organised defensively. As the first half progressed, SWFC began to find greater rhythm in the attacking areas. Their movement off the ball and ability to transition quickly from defence to attack created problems for the Sports Council Football Academy defence. The Baramulla side eventually broke the deadlock and took the lead, giving themselves an important advantage going into the latter stages of the first half. Sports Council Football Academy tried to respond immediately, pushing forward in search of an equaliser. Their players showed attacking intent and attempted to put pressure on the SWFC defence, but the Baramulla side remained composed and dealt with the pressure effectively. SWFC Baramulla managed to add another goal before the interval, completing a strong first-half display and taking a 20 lead into half-time. The two-goal advantage gave SWFC considerable confidence heading into the second half, while Sports Council Football Academy were left with the difficult task of overturning the deficit.

J&K Sports Council congratulates Shreya Gupta, Vishal Thapar on Commonwealth Fencing Championship medals

The J&K Sports Council has congratulated prominent Jammu and Kashmir fencers Shreya Gupta and Vishal Thapar for their outstanding performances at the ongoing Commonwealth Fencing Championship in Lagos, Nigeria. Shreya Gupta, as per a statement issued, scripted a memorable achievement by winning the gold medal, while Vishal Thapar secured the silver medal in their respective events. With this achievement both have brought bringing laurels to Jammu and Kashmir on the international stage. The Sports Council hails the fencers for their hard work, dedication and commitment to the sport, describing their performances as a proud moment for the Union Territory, the statement read. The statement added, The achievements of Shreya Gupta and Vishal Thapar reflect the growing strength of fencing in Jammu and Kashmir and the potential of local athletes to excel at major international competitions. The J&K Sports Council extended its congratulations to both athletes and their coaches and wished them continued success in the remaining competitions and future sporting events.

Champions are Back | United Elegant FC complete KSL 2026 line-up

The Khyber Cement Kashmir Super League (KSL) 2026, powered by Athwas Retail and Athwas Hyundai, has officially welcomed United Elegant FC, the champions of the inaugural season, as the sixth and final franchise for the upcoming edition. The return of the Season 1 champions, as per a statement issued, marks a significant milestone in the growth and development of the Kashmir Super League, with all six franchise slots for KSL 2026 now officially filled. United Elegant FC created history by lifting the inaugural Kashmir Super League title and will now return to defend their crown in what promises to be a bigger, stronger, and more competitive second season. Their inclusion brings both continuity and added excitement to KSL 2026, as the defending champions prepare to face five other ambitious franchises in the battle for the coveted Kashmir Super League title. The KSL management warmly welcomes United Elegant FC back to the competition and congratulates the club on becoming the sixth and final franchise for Season 2. With six franchises now confirmed, preparations are gathering momentum for KSL 2026, which aims to provide an even bigger platform for local football talent, clubs, players, and football enthusiasts across Jammu & Kashmir. The upcoming season is expected to deliver high-quality football, intense competition, greater fan engagement, and a stronger celebration of the region's footballing talent. With the six-franchise line-up officially complete, the stage is now set for another historic chapter of football in Kashmir.

KU marks National Librarians Day with capacity building programme for LIS professionals

Srinagar, Aug 12: The Allama Iqbal Library (AIL), University of Kashmir (KU), organised a one-day capacity-building programme for Library and Information Science (LIS) professionals on the theme Smart Libraries, Skilled Librarians, and Smiling Users at the Universitys Main Campus on the eve of National Librarians Day. The programme aimed to familiarise library professionals with emerging practices in library and information services, with emphasis on technology-enabled libraries, changing user expectations, digital resources and professional skills required for contemporary library management. It also provided a platform for LIS professionals, students and scholars to discuss developments shaping the future of library services. Vice-Chancellor KU, Prof. Nilofer Khan, in her address at the inaugural session, said that libraries are evolving alongside changes in technology and user behaviour, requiring professionals to continuously update their skills. A modern library is shaped not only by its resources and technology but also by the skills of the professionals who connect users with knowledge. Continuous learning is therefore essential for librarians to respond to changing information needs, she said. Dean Academic Affairs KU, Prof. Shariefuddin Pirzada, said that technological developments have changed the way information is accessed, organised and shared, making professional training an important part of contemporary library services. Registrar KU, Prof. Naseer Iqbal, said that libraries remain an important part of the University's academic environment and that their services must continue to evolve in response to the needs of students, researchers and faculty. Earlier, Librarian, AIL, KU, Dr. Fayaz Ahmad Lone, in his welcome address, outlined the objectives of the programme and said that the changing information environment requires LIS professionals to develop new competencies in digital services, information management and user engagement. The programme featured expert sessions and interactive discussions on smart library technologies, digital information services, emerging LIS practices, user-centric library services and professional skill development. The programme was attended by library professionals, students and scholars of Library and Information Sciences.

Decade on, Chanaporas Umar Colony residents grapple with drinking water shortage

Srinagar, Aug 12:The residents of Umar Colony in Chanapora area of Srinagar have been grappling with acute drinking water scarcity for nearly a decade. The households complained to Greater Kashmir that repeated complaints to the Jal Shakti Department failed to yield any permanent solution to the problem. The residents said the crisis, which has persisted for almost ten years, has worsened over time as the households are now dependent on water tankers whenever the situation reaches a critical stage. The tanker supply, provided intermittently, offers only temporary relief and cannot be treated as a substitute for a regular and adequate drinking water connection, a resident of Umar Colony told Greater Kashmir. Nearly a decade has passed, but the problem remains unresolved despite repeated approaches to the concerned officials, the resident added. They questioned how a basic necessity like drinking water could remain unavailable to the people for such an extended period. According to the residents, the explanation repeatedly offered by the concerned authorities was that urbidity at the water treatment plant affects supply. Turbidity cannot be cited as a permanent justification for a water shortage that has continued, in one form or another, for years, the residents said. The residents said that technical issues at a treatment plant should be addressed through appropriate treatment measures, contingency planning and reliable alternative supply arrangements rather than leaving residents dependent on emergency tankers. The residents invoked the constitutional right to life and dignity, saying access to safe and adequate drinking water was integral to a dignified life under Article 21 of the Constitution. What is being provided is not a permanent solution but an emergency response whenever the situation becomes critical, they added. The residents demanded that the department must investigate the actual cause of the prolonged shortage and take concrete measures to restore the regular supply. The residents sought intervention of senior authorities in the Jal Shakti Department and urged them to look beyond the recurring explanation of turbidity. The department must identify the underlying technical or infrastructural shortcomings responsible for the prolonged disruption, the residents said. The residents said a problem continuing for nearly ten years cannot be allowed to be reduced to a routine explanation or addressed through sporadic tanker supplies. The residents demanded a time-bound permanent solution and said that access to drinking water cannot be treated as an occasional service dependent on emergency arrangements. MLA Chanapora constituency, Mushtaq Ahmad Guroo was not available for his comments on the issue. However, a senior official of Jal Shakti department told Greater Kashmir that the area falls under the water works section. Generally Turbidity is treated by the civil section of the department and testing is done before the water is supplied to households, he told Greater Kashmir. He said the process is carried out by having a reservoir in the vicinity. But probably there is no space available in the area for a reservoir. If the space is provided then the issue is resolved, he added.

Defunct drainage system poses threat to historic Jamia Masjid

Srinagar, Aug 12:Persistent waterlogging around the historic Jamia Masjid at Nowhatta area of Downtown has emerged as a growing concern over safety of the six-century-old heritage masjid. Anjuman Auqaf Jamia Masjid has raised a red flag over the defunct drainage system around the heritage structure and called for technical assessment of the existing drainage system. The concerns have gained urgency following repeated spells of intense rainfall over the past few months, which inundated several parts of Downtown Srinagar, including the areas surrounding Jamia Masjid. Residents and Auqaf representatives said the existing surface drainage system has repeatedly failed to cope with the volume of rainwater, leading to accumulation of water around the historic structure. General Secretary of Anjuman Auqaf Jamia Masjid, Altaf Ahmad, said the issue has become increasingly serious as heavy rainfall over short durations has exposed the inadequacy of the present drainage network. The drainage problem around Jamia Masjid is huge. During recent months, heavy spells of rain lasting barely one or two hours overwhelmed the existing surface drains. The present system is simply not sufficient to handle such volumes of water, Altaf told Greater Kashmir. He said rainwater flowing from adjoining areas eventually converges around the masjid, resulting in waterlogging raising alarm among those responsible for preserving the centuries-old monument. Whenever rain water starts accumulating around the masjid, we remain in a state of panic because prolonged waterlogging can prove dangerous for the foundations of this historic structure. Jamia Masjid is not merely a local masjid but one of Kashmir's most significant heritage monuments and protecting it is our collective responsibility, Ahmad said. He said the Auqaf regularly monitors the condition of the masjid, particularly its historic wooden columns and structural foundation, with the help of experts. The wooden pillars and the foundations are periodically inspected to ensure the structure remains safe. Any persistent water seepage around the base of the masjid can become a serious concern in the long run. What is urgently needed is a properly designed deep drainage network connected to an effective outlet so that rainwater is drained quickly without accumulating around the mosque, he said. Worshippers said every spell of heavy rain leaves them worried about the condition of the masjid. Whenever there is continuous rainfall, water begins collecting around the masjid. Seeing a monument that has stood for nearly 600 years surrounded by stagnant water is deeply concerning. Authorities should strengthen the drainage system before the situation worsens, Farooq Ahmad, a worshipper, said. Local traders operating in the vicinity echoed similar concerns, saying drainage improvements would benefit both the heritage site and the surrounding neighborhood. A stronger drainage system will not only protect Jamia Masjid but also provide relief to residents, shopkeepers and visitors who face waterlogging after every heavy shower, said a trader at Nowhatta. Last month, Mirwaiz-e-Kashmir and President of Anjuman Auqaf Jamia Masjid, Dr Moulvi Mohammad Umar Farooq, chaired a meeting of the Auqaf during which members expressed serious concern over the deteriorating drainage system around the mosque. The meeting was informed that the existing surface drains remain heavily clogged and inadequately connected to the deep drainage network, causing rainwater from large parts of Nowhatta to accumulate around the heritage structure. The meeting also expressed concern over the rapid construction activity in the vicinity of Jamia Masjid, observing that several multi-storey buildings and commercial complexes have altered the historic surroundings of the masjid. Auqaf stressed that preserving the heritage character of Jamia Masjid requires protecting not only the monument itself but also its surrounding architectural environment by removing illegal constructions around the masjid. Auqaf said that the issue had already been brought to the notice of the concerned authorities and stressed that such violations should be examined on a priority basis and dealt with seriously in accordance with the law. They also emphasised the need to prevent any further unauthorised construction around the heritage masjid. Built over six centuries ago, Jamia Masjid Srinagar is regarded as one of Kashmir's most important religious, historical and architectural landmarks. Heritage experts have often underlined the importance of preserving both the masjid's unique wooden architecture and the environmental conditions surrounding it, making effective drainage management an essential component of its long-term conservation. Samiullah Beigh, Chief Engineer, UEED, said that following the recent spells of heavy rainfall, several low-lying pockets, particularly in Downtown Srinagar, including the vicinity of Nowhatta, witnessed severe waterlogging. Based on these observations, a proposal is being prepared for augmentation of the drainage network in the affected areas. Srinagar Municipal Corporation is identifying these vulnerable pockets, while the UEED will provide the necessary technical guidance and support. The proposed overhaul and strengthening of the drainage infrastructure will significantly improve storm water disposal, Chief Engineer UEED said.

LG Manoj Sinha congratulates para athlete Chandeep Singh on record 7,452-km journey

International Para Athlete S. Chandeep Singh called on Lieutenant Governor Manoj Sinha on Wednesday The Lieutenant Governor, as per an official statement, congratulated Chandeep Singh on his extraordinary achievement of covering 7,452 km from Jammu to Kanyakumari and backsetting the record for the longest car journey driven using feet by a differently-abled individual.

Tarigami condemns threats to Kashmiri Pandits, calls for united stand against intimidation

Srinagar, Aug 12: CPI(M) leader and Kulgam MLA Mohammad Yousuf Tarigami on Wednesday condemned threats issued against Kashmiri Pandits working in J&K, saying such intimidation was an assault on Kashmirs tradition of inclusivity and coexistence. Threats against Kashmiri Pandits, which have prompted the government to send them on leave as a precautionary measure, are highly condemnable, Tarigami said in a post on social media. He stressed that the Kashmiri Pandit community was an inseparable part of Kashmirs cultural and social fabric. Such threats by militants are an assault on Kashmirs tradition of inclusivity and coexistence and deserve unequivocal condemnation, cutting across political and ideological differences, he said. Tarigamis remarks came amid heightened concern among Kashmiri Pandit employees in the Valley following a purported threat letter issued by the terror group. A communication reportedly contained threats against Kashmiri Pandit government employees and warned those working in the Valley. Following the threat, security measures around areas inhabited by Kashmiri Pandits have been strengthened. Authorities have also taken precautionary measures concerning employees from the community, including asking some to work from home for the time being. The development has renewed concerns about the security of Kashmiri Pandits who returned to or continued to work in the Valley under government employment and rehabilitation initiatives. Tarigami said the response to such threats should not be viewed through political or ideological lenses, stressing that condemnation must cut across political divisions. His statement comes at a time when security agencies have already heightened surveillance and preventive measures across the Valley ahead of Independence Day celebrations on August 15.

Dr Farooq hails J&K's youth, calls for greater opportunities & support

Srinagar, Aug 12:National Conference President Dr Farooq Abdullah on the occasion of International Youth Day, lauded the talent, resilience and determination of the youth of Jammu and Kashmir, urging them to remain steadfast in pursuing their aspirations and continue bringing laurels to the country and the region. Dr Farooq said the youth of J&K have repeatedly demonstrated exceptional talent, grit and dedication despite the difficult circumstances the region has endured. Despite a lost decade marked by undemocratic rule and development inertia, the youth of Jammu and Kashmir have risen above adversity and continued to prove their mettle on national and international platforms. Their achievements are a source of immense pride for the entire region. oday, with a democratically elected government under the leadership of Chief Minister Omar Abdullah, there is renewed hope and focus on creating opportunities for our young people. I am confident that the government will further strengthen its efforts to equip our youth with the skills, opportunities and support they need to realise their potential and shine on the global stage, he said. Dr. Farooq called upon the youth to remain focused, hopeful and committed to excellence, stressing that their energy, talent and aspirations are among Jammu and Kashmirs greatest assets. He also expressed confidence that with the right institutional support and opportunities, the youth of J&K would continue to make a mark across diverse fields and contribute meaningfully to the regions progress and prosperity.

Best of BS Opinion: Time to rethink Tata Sons, Tata Trusts relationship

Today's pieces examine Tata Sons' governance, India's compliance maze, the next phase of GST reforms, West Bengal's investment record and a book on entrepreneurial failure

Matamaal diaries?

Every Kashmiri kid grows up with two homes. One is where parents teach discipline. The other is where maternal grandparents (nana-nani) quietly undo all that hard work. That magical place is called matamaal. The moment those words were said, tomorrow were going to matamaal, summer officially started. School could still have one more day left, homework could still be unfinished, but in a childs heart, the holidays had already begun. Even the trip there felt like part of the fun. Bags were packed the night before. Mothers carried enough food to feed half the bus. Fathers checked the luggage three times. And kids checked only one thing, whether theyd get there before the cousins. Then came that familiar sight, a wooden gate, an old courtyard, a walnut tree standing there like a patient grandfather, and from the doorway, nani smiling like she had been waiting for this exact moment all year. There are five-star hotels all over the world, but none of them has ever welcomed guests the way a Kashmiri nani welcomes her grandchildren. She never asked, How was the journey? She asked the real question, Have you eaten? The funny thing was, the answer never really mattered. Whether you had eaten five minutes ago or five hours ago, another meal was already on the way. Nani truly believed that every illness, every sadness, every argument, and every bad mood could be fixed with one more roti, another cup of noon chai, a spoonful of homemade butter, suttu, or makai-waet. Doctors prescribe medicines. Grandmothers prescribe second helpings (anything to eat). Before 1990, matamaal wasnt just a place. It was its own little world, where time moved differently. Morning came with roosters instead of phone alarms. Breakfast wasnt rushed because nobody had tuition classes or online meetings. Cousins would disappear into orchards after sunrise and come back only when someone shouted their names loud enough for the whole village to hear. Walnut trees werent just part of the view; they were climbing challenges. Apple orchards werent tourist spots; they were cricket grounds. Streams werent for photos; they were natures own swimming pools. Nobody counted steps on a smartwatch because every day easily gave you ten thousand of them. The best technology we had was being able to whistle loud enough for cousins hiding behind haystacks. Every matamaal had its own weird little secrets. There was always one old room kids were told not to enter. Naturally, that became the most interesting room in the house. There was always one wooden trunk full of old photos, wedding shawls, handwritten letters, and forgotten treasures. Every summer, someone would secretly open it, only to get caught by nani, who somehow knew everything without seeing a thing. Every cousin also had two names. One official name showed up in school records. The other was made up by nani and could never be escaped. Years later, respected doctors, engineers, professors, and government officers still become Gulla, Munni, or Nikka the second they step into matamaal. Then the 1990s came. Kashmir changed. The roads were still the same. The mountains stayed where they had always been. The rivers kept flowing. But life became more careful. Vacations got shorter. Adults spoke more softly. Trips were planned instead of just happening. Kids noticed that conversations suddenly stopped whenever they walked into the room. They didnt really understand why. Maybe they werent supposed to. Still, something amazing happened. Grandparents quietly protected childhood. Inside the house, there were still bedtime stories, shared meals, laughter, and cousins making games out of absolutely nothing. The world outside could change, but inside matamaal, grandparents fought a quiet battle to keep childhood alive. Maybe they knew something kids would only understand years later, that innocence needs protecting too. By the early 2000s, another guest had entered every home. Technology. The first mobile phone in the family became everyones phone. Whenever it rang, five people answered at once. Television became the evening hangout. Cricket took over every open field. But kids still came home with muddy clothes, scratched knees, and stories no video game could ever match. Those years had a nice balance. One hand held a cricket bat. The other held nanis hand while walking to the village spring. Then smartphones showed up. Nobody really announced them. They just took over our hands, our pockets, our conversations, and eventually, our vacations. The walnut tree still waited to be climbed. The irrigation canal still whispered through the fields. The cousins still gathered. Only now they sat together while looking somewhere else, into separate screens. Grandparents noticed before anyone else. One evening, a grandmother reportedly sighed, Earlier I had to call children ten times to come inside. Now I have to call them ten times just to make them look up. It was funny. It was also true. Todays matamaal is still full of love. The kitchen still smells the same. The noon chai still tastes the same. The old photos still hang on the walls. But vacations have become shorter than conversations about vacations. Kids now arrive with phone chargers, power banks, headphones, and carefully planned schedules. Coaching classes, competitive exams, assignments, and endless notifications compete with the simple joys that once defined childhood. Ironically, todays kids can identify planets using an app but may never learn which cherry tree gives the sweetest fruit. They can move through virtual worlds without ever finding the shortcut from nanis kitchen to the old village spring. This isnt really an argument against technology. Technology has helped families stay connected across distance. Grandparents now watch grandchildren grow through video calls. Birthdays are celebrated across continents. Memories are shared instantly. But theres still one thing no screen has managed to replace. Presence. A video call cannot smell like freshly baked girda. A voice note cannot carry the warmth of a grandmothers hug. An emoji cannot secretly slip a hundred-rupee note into a grandchilds pocket with the classic instruction, dont tell your mother. Then comes the day every adult eventually faces. You go back to matamaal after many years. The road feels shorter. The courtyard feels smaller. The walnut tree doesnt seem as huge as it once did. You start wondering if the house has changed. Then you realize the truth. The house has been waiting all along. It was you who grew up. You walk through the familiar doorway. The kitchen still carries echoes of laughter. The old trunk still sits in the corner. The walls still remember the height marks of children who are now parents themselves. But one voice is missing. For the first time, nobody asks, have you eaten? And suddenly you understand something no school, no university, and no book ever taught. A house doesnt become empty because people leave. It becomes empty because one special person is no longer waiting at the door. Maybe thats why matamaal still lives inside every Kashmiri heart. Its not just our mothers home. Its the place where time slows down, where love asks for nothing back, where cousins become lifelong friends, where ordinary afternoons turn into unforgettable memories, and where every adult secretly wants to be a kid again. This summer, before planning another expensive holiday, maybe we should plan something simpler. Take the kids to matamaal. Let them climb a tree instead of scrolling a screen. Let them stain their fingers with walnuts instead of fingerprints on glass. Let them hear the stories no search engine has ever indexed. Because one day, many years from now, when someone casually says the word matamaal, they shouldnt have to imagine what it felt like. They should smile, because they lived it. Obeida Ashraf is a teacher by profession.

Satire in ancient Kashmir

The book Three Satires from Ancient Kashmir takes the reader back to the times when Kashmir was demographically Hindu. When this book was written for the first time in Sanskrit, the advent of Islam was still two to three centuries away in time. Although, some historical accounts suggest that Islam had made its entry into Kashmir way before 14th century when Islam marked a major advance into the valley. The book is a voyage through the cultural landscape of the ancient Kashmir. Rather it is more accurate to say that the book sketches the landscape of Kashmir when the west wind of Islam was round the corner. In any case, there is no mention of the transition to a new demography in the Three Satires from Ancient Kashmir. Translated from Sanskrit to English by A.N.D. Haksar, a veteran writer in the field of translation work from Sanskrit to English. A career diplomat who has served in the diplomatic circles as the Indian High Commissioner to Kenya and the Seychelles, and ambassador to Portugal and Yugoslavia. He has previously translated works from Sanskrit to English. Three Satires from Ancient Kashmir brings to the contemporary audience the everyday life of the eleventh century Kashmir. Originally, written by Kshemendra in the 11th century, the three satires mentioned in the title of the book are: Narma Mala, or A Garland of Mirth, Kalavilasa, or A Dalliance with Deception and Desopadesa, or Advice from the Countryside. The translation of the three Sanskrit texts is based on the original as edited and published by the Osmania University, Hyderabad in 1961. The original manuscripts of Kshemendra, and also of other classical Sanskrit poeticians, were discovered by various European indologists from the late 19th century to early 20th century. Indologists like A.C. Burnell, G Buhler, A Stein, B. Peterson, S.C. Das and M.S. Kaul did a commendable service in identifying and locating the ancient manuscripts. The present, Three Satires from Ancient Kashmir, was discovered by A. C. Burnell at Tanjore in 1871. Essentially, the book casts all kinds of official, non-official and religious characters who are beset with moral and financial corruption. There is the government official, the clerk, the priest, the merchant, the widow, the astrologer, the village official, the courtesan with her retinue, the doctor, the local housewife. No one is spared the caustic satire. The characters are generally types, not merely isolated individuals. It seems the original purpose of the author was reform through the route of humorous satire. Although, the translation is scarcely able to evoke the humor. At many places the translator mentions in passing that Kshemendra wished to draws smiles from his audience. As, for example, in the epilogue of the Narma Mala, he says that these, misdemeanors are narrated for the recreation of people, and they also contain, some fruitful counsel. But, as I said, one gets to know so many characters from that period of Kashmir, but there is hardly any scene that brings out the laughter. That is the pitfall of the translation. Not for nothing has someone said that translation is the reverse side of the carpet. However, it is true that the translator does succeed in informing todays audience about the situation in the eleventh century Kashmir. Point to be noted is that the original is in poetry, as was most of the compositions in the ancient period. But the translator has rendered the translation in prose except some fragments towards the end of each satire. Truth be told, these fragments, the epilogues, are beautifully translated without changing the style of the original. That is why it us surprising as to why the translator did not retaining the original stylistic structure of the three satires. From the rendition of the epilogues of each of the three satires, it is without doubt that he would have produced a nice poetic translation of the original. Anyhow, Kshemendra has not spared anyone with his acerbic wit. The guru and the godman, the farmer and the father, the doctor and the bawd, all are held up for sarcastic view. Interestingly, the satires call to mind the 18th century english novel Joseph Andrews written by Henry Fielding. Also called the mock epic in prose, the 18th century text written in the form of a journey, holds up for view all kinds of people, who pretend to be what they are. There is the doctor, who behind his fake self is a charlatan. The lawyer knows anything except what he appears to be. Similarly, the Christian priest instead of being a good Samaritan is the last one to come to the help of the troubled Joseph. A woman whos apparently mourning the death of her husband maneuvers the seduction of a young countryside boy. The descriptions in the Three Satires are not way too dissimilar to the ones sketched by Henry Fielding. The kings, systems and landscapes may be different, but the way the human character reveals itself is quite similar. It seems King Ananta, in whose time Kshemendra wrote the Three Satires was either incapable or helpless in controlling the situation described by Kshemendra. Country seems have to be submerged in decay and decadence, with little of exit from the a very despondent situation. Manipulation is rife while mannerisms are crooked. Bow to the doctor. Devoid, demonstrates Kshemendra the nature of the practitioner of medicine, of knowledge and doer of dishonorable deeds, he strikes, like a serpent, many people with untimely death. Centuries have passed, and it seems, not much has changed, although the inhabitants of Kashmir, like elsewhere in the world, are witness to bewildering technological transformations. If one reads the satirical poem of Zareef Ahmed Zareef, Tarangari (roughly translated as skullduggery), alongside this translation of Kshemendras book, it is not difficult to conclude that the more things change, the more they remain the same. What dissimilarities does one find in the tone and characters of the 21st century poem tarangari and the 11th century Sanskrit texts? Big conversion has occurred, yet, no big change is in place. Religion of the people has changed, yet the fundamental human character remained chiseled in rock. Three Satires from Ancient Kashmir appears to be a cry for reform. The rot is shown to have percolated down the political strata to the most intimate corners of the society. The noble and the ignoble are indistinguishable, and the high and the low all are infected by skullduggery and hypocrisy. What was done by the rulers and the lay who heard or read this book in the eleventh century one does not know, however, this much is clear that the writer like Kshemendra did not hesitate to expose the ills of the society without perhaps the fear of repercussions from those he held up for ridicule. Dr. Javaid Iqbal Bhat, Associate Professor, University of Kashmir, South Campus

Culture of entitlement

Amid growing uncertainty over the future of mainstream politicians in Jammu and Kashmir, many appear to be turning up the political volume to remain visible, attract public attention and signal that they do not want to fade into irrelevance. In the recent past top leaders from Kashmir have hogged the headlines for making statements that triggered uproar. Their assertions made many people believe that they have lost the plot completely and they are desperate to become visible. Their utterances provided temporary visibility, but raised a larger question: are political leaders increasingly depending on controversy because they are finding it difficult to generate genuine public enthusiasm? Many leaders are seen using sirens of their vehicles while moving through the streets to send a message that they are important and need to be given priority. These leaders need to be told that the people on the streets are the ones who voted for them and it was due to their votes they are travelling in the cars and are enjoying security. No political leader wants to behave like a common man and it appears that no one believes in simplicity. Their entire focus is on protocol. But someone needs to tell them that old political vocabulary and their VIP status dont resonate with Kashmirs younger and increasingly aspirational population. For a common citizen stuck in traffic the sound of a siren does not necessarily inspire respect. It instead reinforces the perception that politicians consider themselves entitled to privileges unavailable to ordinary people. Political leadership should be about earning respect rather than demanding it. A siren may clear a road for a vehicle, but it cannot clear the distance between a politician and the people. It may force other motorists to give way, but it cannot persuade voters to support a political party. That requires credibility, accessibility and performance. Past few years have shown that mainstream politics in Jammu and Kashmir is passing through a difficult phase. Political parties are struggling to survive. In an environment where public expectations have changed significantly, many politicians seem to be finding it increasingly difficult to connect with ordinary people. In such circumstances, political parties need to explain what they stand for, what they can offer and how they intend to address the everyday concerns of the people. Instead, sections of the political class appear to be relying on rhetoric and controversy to remain visible. There is nothing wrong about political parties criticising governments or taking strong positions on issues. Robust political debate is an essential component of democracy. The problem begins when political communication becomes primarily about headlines and allegations rather than substance. These leaders need to be reminded that media attention should not be confused with political relevance. A politician can dominate television screens and social media feeds while simultaneously losing touch with voters on the ground. The real test of political relevance lies elsewhere. It is reflected in the ability of a leader to mobilise public support, understand peoples concerns, influence policy and offer credible solutions. Noise like sounding sirens can attract attention, but it cannot make anyone standout. The changing social and economic aspirations of Jammu and Kashmir have also contributed to this disconnect. Young people are concerned about employment, education, entrepreneurship, infrastructure, tourism, investment and opportunities. Families want better healthcare and educational facilities. Farmers and traders want improved markets and infrastructure. People want efficient public services and a peaceful environment in which they can plan their future. When political discourse fails to address these issues, a vacuum develops. If that vacuum is filled with provocative rhetoric, the political class risks further alienating itself from the people. The culture of entitlement is particularly damaging at a time when citizens increasingly expect accountability from public figures. People are more aware of their rights and more willing to question those in positions of authority. A politician can no longer assume that a carefully crafted public image will remain unchallenged. The contrast between political symbolism and public expectations is therefore becoming increasingly visible. Some leaders are preoccupied with demonstrating their status, whereas citizens are more interested in knowing what their representatives are doing for them. The challenge before mainstream political parties is not merely electoral. It is existential in the broader political sense. They must rediscover why people should consider them relevant. Political parties cannot survive indefinitely on historical legacies. The fact that a party once enjoyed substantial support does not guarantee its future. Every generation of voters has to be persuaded anew. For Jammu and Kashmirs mainstream political parties, this means engaging with the emerging aspirations of the population rather than constantly revisiting old political narratives. It means producing credible local leadership, encouraging internal democracy and making politics more responsive to ordinary citizens. Sheikh Khalid Jehangir is Director of the International Centre for Peace Studies (ICPS), former Vice Chairman of JKPCC, and the BJPs 2019 Lok Sabha candidate from Srinagar.

Dont Deny, Dont Delay

The question of restoring full statehood to Jammu & Kashmir is no longer merely a constitutional or administrative issue. It has become a defining test of Indias democratic maturity, its constitutional commitment, and its ability to convert a period of relative peace into a durable and honourable political settlement. The constitutional changes of 5 August 2019, including the abrogation of Article 35A and the substantial changes made to Article 370, marked one of the most consequential turning points. These decisions fundamentally altered the constitutional landscape and continue to evoke diverse opinions across the political spectrum. Yet, one undeniable reality emerged in the years that followed: the streets did not witness the prolonged cycle of violence, and shutdowns, that had become an unfortunate feature of previous decades. However, to interpret this relative calm merely as the consequence of administrative measures would be an incomplete reading of history. There was a widespread expectation that, once peace returned, constitutional safeguardsif not under the earlier nomenclaturewould be evolved to protect the land, employment, and identity of the indigenous people of Jammu & Kashmir. Equally important was the hope that the sacrifices and sufferings endured over decades would not be forgotten in the pursuit of a new political order. Today, the demand for the restoration of statehood stems from this very expectation. It is not merely a political slogan; it is an appeal for democratic normalcy and constitutional dignity. The absence of violence must never be interpreted as the absence of political aspirations. Beneath the silence lies a profound desire for recognition, participation, self-respect, and a future free from the uncertainties of the past. Peace creates a vacuum. If that vacuum is not filled with trust, dialogue, and confidence-building measures, it risks being occupied once again by frustration and alienation. The people of Jammu & Kashmir participated enthusiastically in the 2024 Assembly elections, reaffirming their faith in democratic institutions. That democratic mandate deserves not only acknowledgment but also meaningful respect. Restoring statehood would represent a natural and logical continuation of that democratic process. It would strengthen public confidence in constitutional politics and reaffirm that democratic participation is rewarded with democratic empowerment. There is another dimension that deserves careful consideration. Repeatedly stating that statehood will be restored only when the situation normalises may inadvertently create an impression contrary to the narrative of peace that the Government of India itself has consistently projected. If the maintenance of law and order is constitutionally the responsibility of the Union Government, then an indefinite postponement of statehood raises an unavoidable question: does such postponement unintentionally suggest that normalcy has not, in fact, been achieved? This is not a question intended to criticise, but one that deserves thoughtful reflection. A confident nation should have equal confidence in its democratic institutions. The restoration of statehood would not weaken national integration; it would reinforce it. It would demonstrate that democracy is capable of accommodating diversity, respecting regional aspirations, and rewarding peace with trust. For decades, separatist narratives sought to convince the people that democratic engagement would never yield justice or dignity. The most effective response to those narratives is not merely security success, but political success. It is by empowering democratic institutions, honouring electoral mandates, restoring constitutional normalcy, and treating the people of Jammu & Kashmir as equal stakeholders in Indias democratic journey that such narratives can be decisively defeated. The moment therefore calls not for hesitation, but for statesmanship. Statehood is not simply about administrative convenience; it is about restoring confidence between the Union and its citizens. The peace that exists today should not remain a fragile pause between two uncertain chapters. It should become the foundation of a new eraone built upon trust, dignity, coexistence, constitutional certainty, and democratic partnership. For that reason, the restoration of statehood for Jammu & Kashmir is not merely desirable. It is both undeniable and Undelayable. Sheikh Younis Amin is a Member Zonal Committee (North) Youth National Conference

Sustainable Residences

Construction practices have morphed over time, while moving from durable and long-lasting structures to eye-catching glossy buildings driven mainly by profit margins. Real estate industry is being perceived as a golden goose wherein all participants - builders, contractors, interior decorators, material fabricators, suppliers etc., try to milk the cash cow, realising affordability and spending capacity of the neo-consumer. Recent market trends and practices exhibit very less regard for climate control or environmental hazards, ignoring all norms of sustainability. This indicates a strong need to enforce statutory norms for sustainable construction, inspite of existing guidelines for green construction practices. There has been a major change in the way residential buildings are being constructed over the past couple of decades. Of late, individual houses have given way to apartments, be it in the form of multiple blocks or standalone buildings. The social shift from joint families to nuclear ones has cast a corresponding effect where huge mansions get replaced by single-family housing. The contemporary practice of Builder Floors in Metros and Tier 1 cities has resulted in complete transformation of the landscape. Picturesque villas including elegant lawns and enclosed parking bays are getting replaced by monstrous structures with terrace gardens and kerb-side parkings, demonstrating complete disregard for Floor-Area Ratio. The increased density puts a pressure on basic infrastructure - sewerage, water, electricity and above all parking space. The green cover attributed to individual lawns is vanishing fast. Alarming issues like water logging during rainy season, traffic disorder within residential colonies, garbage disposal, improper sewage and waste treatment happen to be a direct consequence of infrastructure overloading. A major point pertains to choice of materials, both at the structure level as well as interiors. Usage of lime, mud, bricks and timber in superstructure have given way to cement, sand and steel. Extensive use of river sand is detrimental as sand mining impacts river beds and thus the corresponding water flow. It is a debatable topic as huge edifices need materials with much higher tensile/ compressive capabilities to withstand the structural/ seismic requirements, which cannot be catered by conventional materials. Over time, we have replaced recyclable materials with non-degradable ones purely for structural, cost and availability considerations. The non-degradable nature of such material poses problems for disposal and creates landfills which are inimical to our water bodies and upsets the entire ecology. Concrete debris dumped into water bodies contributes to improper watershed and flooding. Rubble mixed with paints, plastics, and chemicals contaminates soil and prevents recycling of materials. Absence of mechanisation and shortcuts in construction practices tend to result in non-existent waste management. Of late, productivity considerations have led to reliance on offsite prefabrication and modular panels/ units. While this is time-saving, it uses unconventional materials, which are environmental unfriendly. Moreover, the transportation and packaging contributes heavily to the carbon footprint. Further, there is a growing tendency for overdoing the interior work, be it an individual house or an apartment. Rather than anesthetics, architects determine the quantum of interiors based on affordability of the homeowner. A majority of components used therein are pernicious to the environment. Most of the materials used today are non bio-degradable, including a huge percentage of plastics and polymers. A glaring example is the substitution of enamel paint with PU paint, which grossly affects the ozone layer, besides causing toxic fumes impacting both the applicators as well as neighboring populace. Over-reliance on glass facades leads to energy inefficient buildings, causing an increase in air-conditioning requirements. Chromium plating, widely used on steel grills and railings, contributes heavily to greenhouse gas emissions. A paradigm shift in the architecture has resulted in open spaces being replaced with densely packed rooms, niches and alcoves. Reduction in openings/ windows/ floor heights has curtailed natural ventilation, increasing dependence on indoor lighting and air-conditioning. We need to look at mitigations which cause least damage to the environment. A case in point is usage of engineered wood or high density particle board in place of wooden panels. Despite a few workability disadvantages, engineered wood being recyclable is an ideal solution to save trees. Back home, for sloping roofs needed in snow-bound areas, we have traversed from mud and thatch to designer roofing sheets. The transformation has occurred from mud roofs with floral vegetation on top to dry thatch, then wooden shingles followed by corrugated galvanised iron and now coated steel. Similarly, the wooden khatamband ceiling (highly recyclable) has given way to plaster of paris and gypsum board which is entirely non-degradable. Blatant use of dressed stone facades and exposed brick contributes to environmental degradation. The changes in social fabric and individual affluence has given rise to singular saunas (hamams) in residential houses instead of community hamams which were prevalent a few decades back, another contributor to carbon footprint. We are gradually converting our housing colonies to congested ghettos, with very less or almost no consideration for streets/ pathways, open areas, greenery or sanitation. If we continue at the same pace, our towns will soon become history. The ideal solution is to limit construction to relatively smaller structures integrating energy efficient designs with a combination of modern and conventional materials to strike a perfect balance between structural stability, aesthetics and sustainability. The author is a technocrat with expertise in Data Analytics, Cyber Law and Digital Forensics. He is currently acting as consulting advisor/ mentor to several startups and an ardent supporter of causes pertaining to Environment and Sustainability.

YNC expresses resentment over summoning of youth

Srinagar, Aug 12: The Youth National Conference (YNC) on Wednesday expressed resentment over the summoning of youth to police stations ahead of August 15. A statement of YNC issued here said that YNC organised a function at the party headquarters, Nawa-e-Subah Complex on the occasion of International Youth Day. The programme was presided over by Provincial Youth President Mushtaq Mir, while Provincial President of National Conference Showkat Mir attended as the chief guest. On the occasion party functionaries felicitated the newly constituted YNC district Committees across Kashmir province. YNC provincial committee and zonal committee members participated in the event and shared their views. The speakers expressed strong resentment over the summoning of people, particularly youth, to police stations ahead of August 15 and urged the LG administration not to push Kashmiri youth to the wall. The meeting was organised by Joint Secretary YNC Bilal Ganaie. Provincial Secretary Syed Tauqeer, Provincial Youth Wing Vice President Salman Matoo, Provincial Secretary YNC Sheikh Owais, South Zone President Feroz Ahmad Wani, Central Zone President Zahid Mughal, Central Zone President RaeesMatoo, members of the Provincial Committee, District Presidents, and members of Zone and District Committees attended the meeting. Addressing the gathering, Showkat Mir said that the National Conference has always made the empowerment of the youth of Jammu and Kashmir, creation of better opportunities for them and bringing positive change in their lives an important part of its political struggle. He said the history of the National Conference is not merely a history of political struggle, but also a history of the struggle for public welfare, social justice and fundamental transformation in the lives of ordinary people. He said revolutionary initiatives such as free education during National Conference governments laid the foundation for a major transformation in Jammu & Kashmir society. The policy of making education accessible and creating opportunities for children from poor and middle-class families changed the lives of thousands of families and opened new avenues of progress for the younger generation. He said the large number of educated youth in Jammu and Kashmir today is, in many ways, a result of such people-centric policies and vision. He urged the youth to play a constructive role in safeguarding democratic values, secular traditions, social justice and people's rights. He said challenges such as unemployment, drug abuse, lack of skills and limited employment opportunities require the government and society to work together for their resolution. Provincial Youth President Mushtaq Mir, in his address, appreciated the various self-employment initiatives launched by the government for the youth and said that, alongside government jobs, providing opportunities for self-employment, skill development and entrepreneurship is the need of the hour. The meeting also termed the ongoing recruitment process for providing 25,000 government jobs during the current year as an important step. He said the YNC would continue to highlight the problems confronting young people and raise its voice for their resolution. He said it is imperative to channel the energy, talent and creative potential of the youth in a positive direction, and the youth wing would play a more active role at the organisational level towards this objective. At the conclusion of the programme, the youth were urged to play their fullest role in the development of Jammu and Kashmir, promotion of peace, brotherhood and democratic values, and to work unitedly to carry forward the people-centric manifesto and ideology of the NC.

Govt tightens forest rights scrutiny

Srinagar, Aug 12:The government has directed all concerned authorities to strictly comply with the statutory framework governing protection and preservation of forest areas, while ensuring that the rights and interests of forest-dwelling Scheduled Tribes and other traditional forest dwellers are duly recognised and protected under the Forest Rights Act, 2006. The directions have been issued by the Department of Forest, Ecology and Environment through a circular dated August 11, 2026, stressing the need for strict adherence to the applicable laws and rules while dealing with forest land, encroachment and claims for recognition of forest rights. The government has invoked provisions of the Indian Forest Act, 1927, the Forest (Conservation) Act, 1980, as applicable in Jammu and Kashmir, and the Scheduled Tribes and Other Traditional Forest Dwellers (Recognition of Forest Rights) Act, 2006, along with the rules framed under the latter legislation. The circular said issues pertaining to protection and preservation of forest areas, forest ownership and resources, as well as recognition of the rights and interests of forest-dwelling Scheduled Tribes and other traditional forest dwellers, have to be dealt with strictly in accordance with the applicable statutory provisions. It referred to an earlier communication issued by the Tribal Affairs Department, which had laid down that claims under the Forest Rights Act should be accepted, processed and acted upon expeditiously by the competent authorities, strictly in accordance with the Act and the rules framed thereunder. At the same time, the government has stressed that claims cannot be recognised without proper verification of the relevant records, status of the land and eligibility of the claimant. According to the circular, the concerned forest authorities shall undertake proper verification of the status and classification of forest land, relevant revenue records, the nature and extent of the land and the period of occupation. The verification will also have to establish the relevant facts and evidence concerning the identity and eligibility of the claimant and determine whether the claim meets the conditions prescribed under the Forest Rights Act. The government said the exercise is necessary to ensure that only genuine and legally admissible claims are recognised and to prevent erroneous identification of land or recognition of forest rights in areas where such rights cannot legally be conferred. The circular further directs that where occupation of forest land is found to be unauthorised and is not covered by a recognised right under the Forest Rights Act, or otherwise protected under applicable law, appropriate action shall be initiated strictly in accordance with the Indian Forest Act, 1927, and other applicable laws. The authorities have also been cautioned against permitting unauthorised occupation of forest land that changes the physical status of the land, causes degradation of forest resources, damages forest growth or otherwise prejudices the protection and conservation of forests. The government has laid particular emphasis on coordination among the Forest, Revenue and Tribal Affairs Departments in implementing the Forest Rights Act. The concerned Deputy Commissioners have been directed to ensure effective coordination between the departments and facilitate proper processing of claims under the Act. They have also been asked to ensure that claims are examined and processed only after proper verification and in accordance with the prescribed legal procedure. The circular further states that the District Level Committee shall ensure proper maintenance and updating of records relating to the recognition of forest rights under the Forest Rights Act, 2006. The District Level Committee has also been tasked with ensuring that claims are not recognised in respect of forest land where the occupation does not meet the statutory requirements, and that the prescribed cut-off date and other eligibility conditions under the law are duly taken into consideration. The government has reiterated that the provisions of the Forest Rights Act cannot be applied in isolation and that all action relating to forest land, encroachment and forest rights must conform to the Indian Forest Act, 1927, the Forest (Conservation) Act, 1980, as applicable in J&K, and the Forest Rights Act, 2006, together with the rules framed under these laws. It has further directed the concerned authorities to ensure that legitimate forest rights are protected while simultaneously safeguarding forest areas against unauthorised occupation, degradation and activities that could adversely affect forest conservation. The circular concludes by directing all concerned authorities to ensure strict compliance with the instructions and to ensure that both the legitimate rights of forest-dwelling communities and the protection and conservation of forest resources are adequately safeguarded. The circular, issued under the authority of the Government of Jammu and Kashmir, was signed by the Commissioner Secretary to the Government, Department of Forest, Ecology and Environment, and circulated to all Administrative Secretaries, the Principal Chief Conservator of Forests, the Principal Secretary Tribal Affairs Department, the Joint Secretary (J&K), Ministry of Home Affairs, Government of India, the Director Archives, Archaeology and Museums, Deputy Commissioners, the Principal Chief Conservator of Forests (HoFF), the Director Ecology, Environment and Remote Sensing, and other concerned authorities.

36 years on, SIA raids multiple locations in probe into killing of Kashmiri Pandit, his son

Srinagar, Aug 12:More than 36 years after Kashmiri Pandit poet, writer, and social worker Sarwanand Koul Premi and his son Virender Koul were abducted and killed in 1990, the State Investigation Agency (SIA) of Jammu and Kashmir Police on Wednesday conducted searches at nine locations across Jammu and Kashmir as part of a renewed investigation into the double murder. The searches were carried out in connection with the case originally registered at Police Station Dooru in Anantnag and subsequently taken over by the SIA. Officials said the operation was aimed at uncovering the circumstances surrounding the killings and identifying those allegedly involved in the crime and its wider conspiracy. The searches covered multiple locations in the Jammu region and Kashmir. Officials did not disclose the identities of the persons whose premises were searched or details of any material or documents recovered during the operation. Premi and his son were abducted from their home in Soaf Shali village of Kokernag in 1990, during the height of violence in the Valley. They were subsequently tortured and killed. The murders became one of the most prominent cases involving the targeted killing of members of the Kashmiri Pandit community during the early years of the insurgency. The SIA action assumes significance as several terror-era cases involving Kashmiri Pandit victims have recently returned to the focus of investigating agencies after remaining unresolved for decades. Officials familiar with Wednesdays searches said the agency was examining the larger circumstances of the crime, including the alleged role of individuals who may have assisted the perpetrators. The latest operation is part of efforts to pursue cases that had remained pending for years amid difficulties in identifying and locating suspects. Recently, the SIA recently intensified its investigation into the killing of Kashmiri Pandit nurse SarlaBhat, who was abducted and murdered in April 1990. The agencys investigation into that case has focused on the alleged role of those involved in the abduction and killing.

JKPSC notified 7502 posts between Aug 2019 and Aug 2025: RTI

Srinagar, Aug 12:As many as 1455 posts notified by the Jammu and Kashmir Public Service Commission (JKPSC) between August 2019 and August 2025 are still awaiting completion of the selection process. In the past six years, the commission notified a total of 7502 posts during the six-year period. The commission, as reply to an RTI, said information relating to posts for which written tests or interviews had already been conducted but the selection process was yet to be completed could not be provided at this stage. This was due to the selection process for the concerned posts was still underway. The figures have been drawn from an RTI response furnished by the JKPSC to journalist M M Shuja. The RTI sought details of recruitment, vacancies, expenditure, revenue and pending selections during the period. By the estimates, roughly one in every five posts (19.4 percent) notified during the period remains in the selection process. The RTI response also provides a detail of the scale of recruitment handled by the commission during these years. The 7502 posts were advertised across various departments of J&K government. The commission has also said that there are eight court cases concerning recruitment and selection-related matters. These include cases involving recruitment to posts under the Animal and Sheep Husbandry Department, Physical Education Lecturers, District Sericulture Officers, faculty posts in Government Unani and Ayurvedic Hospital Ganderbal, Assistant Commissioner Food Safety and other matters. The cases listed include faculty posts in the Government Unani and Ayurvedic Hospital, Ganderbal, besides cases involving Physical Education Lecturer recruitment and District Sericulture Officer selection. The RTI response also provides year-wise details of the commissions approved budget and expenditure. In 2020-21, against an approved budget of Rs 20.93 crore, the expenditure was Rs 41.54 crore. The approved budget was significantly increased to Rs 165.18 crore in 2021-22. Against this, Rs 68.45 crore was spent. In 2022-23, the commission had an approved budget of Rs 170 crore and spent Rs 59.45 crore. In 2023-24, the expenditure dipped to Rs 10.19 crore against an approved budget of Rs 170 crore. The following year, the spending rose to Rs 61.35 crore against an approved budget of Rs 100 crore in 2024-25 while in 2025-26, the commission had an approved budget of Rs 150 crore and had incurred Rs 109.99 crore in expenditure. The figures show considerable variation in spending. Together, the approved budget for the six years for JKPSC was Rs 776.11 crore, against reported expenditure of Rs 350.97 crore. The commission declined to provide some of the information sought in the RTI application. These include certain voluminous post-wise details. The commission sais that compiling the information in the format requested would divert the commission's time and resources.

Met forecasts brief intense rainfall on Aug 16, 17 in Jammu region

Jammu, Aug 12:With orange alert in place for isolated heavy rains, thunder storms, lightning and gusty winds for the entire Jammu region, with the possibilities of landslides, shooting stones and flash floods at vulnerable places on August 13 and 14, the Met department has anticipated similar brief spell on August 16 and 17. The possibility of intense localised downpours and isolated cloudburst events in higher reaches and vulnerable areas cannot be ruled out. Earlier during the past 24 hours, the region, as per Met department, witnessed the significant yet isolated spells, with Poonch recording 53 mm of rainfall and Rajouri 44 mm of rainfall besides light to moderate showers at many places. From August 15, the weatherman has predicted light to moderate rain and thunder shower at many places with brief intense showers at few places towards early morning, morning and late afternoon or evening hours. Few spells of light to moderate rain or thunder shower will be witnessed at many places with heavy rain or brief intense heavy showers at a few districts during early morning and afternoon hours from August 16 to 19. Torrential rain or brief intense heavy showers may generate flash floods, landslides or mudslides. From August 20-22, light rain and thunder showers have been anticipated at scattered places. The maximum temperature in Jammu is likely to swing between 31 to 35 degrees Celsius, amid hot and humid weather conditions. Meanwhile, three days after the mishap, the body of one of the two youth drowned in Chenab river in Akhnoor area of Jammu district was fished out on Wednesday. The body of Gajay Singh, 30, son of Vijay Singh, resident of Khour was retrieved near Hamirpur Siddhad village, close to the Line of Control in Akhnoor, the officials said. However, the NDRF and SDRF teams continued extensive searches for Rakesh Singh, 35, son of Balwan Singh, resident of Khour in Akhnoor. Both the youth had gone to take a bath in the river when the mishap occurred on Sunday. The Police had recovered their motorcycle, bearing the registration number JK02BP-1567, mobiles and clothes lying on the river banks.

Mirwaiz pays tributes to Anwar Ashai

SRINAGAR: Mirwaiz-e-Kashmir Dr. Molvi Mohammad Umar Farooq on Wednesday visited the house of the bereaved Ashai family to offer condolences on the sad demise of Anwar Ashai. Mirwaiz said that he was saddened by his passing away, as he had met Ashai Sahib on many occasions and found him to be a concerned and committed []

Never cognitive surrender: Wealth management wins when AI second opinion sharpens human judgement, not replace it

AI is a tool to enhance human investment judgment, not replace it. Investors increasingly use AI to test existing ideas rather than generate new ones. Human advisors remain crucial for judgment and catching blind spots. The future of wealth management involves AI as a second opinion. This approach sharpens decisions and provides valuable investor reassurance.

Indian scientists build AI tool to spot hidden cancer cells

New Delhi, Aug 12: A new artificial intelligence (AI) framework that identifies three distinct developmental states of cancer stem-like cells can help identify hidden cancer stem cells from thousands of patient samples and bring precision medicine one step closer to reality specially in areas with limited health facilities. Cancer remains one of humanity's greatest medical challenges. Although modern treatments can destroy millions of cancer cells, a small population of cells often survives, allowing tumours to return, spread to distant organs and develop resistance to therapy. Scientists have long believed that these rare cancer stem-like cells that help tumours survive and return and are responsible for tumour recurrence, metastasis and treatment failure. However, because these cells are extremely rare and constantly change their identity, accurately detecting them has remained one of the biggest challenges in cancer research. Researchers from S. N. Bose National Centre for Basic Sciences (SNBNCBS), an autonomous institute of the Department of Science and Technology (DST), Government of India, in collaboration with Ashoka University, have now developed an artificial intelligence (AI) framework that reveals hidden cancer stem-like cell states from tumour gene-expression data. This work led by Dr. Shubhasis Haldar builds upon the team's earlier AI platform, OncoMark, which accurately decoded the biological hallmarks that drive cancer progression across millions of cells with over 99% predictive accuracy. By enabling researchers to measure the fundamental processes that fuel tumour growth, metastasis and drug resistance, OncoMark demonstrated how artificial intelligence can uncover complex biological information hidden within massive genomic datasets. Building on that success, the team has now turned its attention to one of cancer biology's most difficult problemsidentifying the elusive stem-like cells that drive tumour evolution. Their new framework, called ACSCeND (AI-based Cancer Stem-like Cell Profiler and Neoplasm Deconvoluter), goes beyond conventional methods that assign tumours a single stemness score. Instead, it identifies three distinct developmental states of cancer stem-like cellspluripotent-like, multipotent-like and unipotent-likeproviding an unprecedented view of tumour heterogeneity. The system combines knowledge learned from high-resolution single-cell sequencing with deep learning to analyse conventional bulk tumour RNA sequencing, allowing these hidden cell populations to be studied in thousands of patient samples where single-cell experiments are unavailable. The researchers rigorously validated ACSCeND against existing computational approaches and showed that it consistently outperformed current methods across independent datasets and sequencing platforms. They then applied the framework to analyse more than 25,000 tumour samples from major international cancer databases, including TCGA and PRECOG. The analyses revealed that tumours enriched with highly potent, pluripotent-like cancer stem cells were associated with poorer patient survival, a greater likelihood of tumour recurrence and reduced response to modern immunotherapies. Beyond identifying these dangerous cells, ACSCeND also uncovered the molecular programs that enable them to survive, adapt and evade the immune system. Such insights could help scientists discover new drug targets, identify patients who are more likely to relapse and design more effective precision cancer therapies. Artificial intelligence is rapidly becoming an indispensable partner in modern biomedical research. AI enables researchers to detect hidden biological patterns across enormous genomic datasets that would be impossible to analyse manually. Studies such as OncoMark and ACSCeND illustrate how AI can accelerate discoveries that ultimately improve cancer diagnosis, predict treatment response and guide the development of more effective therapies.

Cure worse than H-1B 'malaise'

New H-1B fees and stricter wage requirements are increasing employer costs. A wage-weighted selection system now favors higher-paid applicants over random lotteries. These changes make the H-1B visa pathway more precarious for foreign workers. Many companies are moving staff outside the United States due to visa barriers. The administration's actions may harm the nation's global talent attraction.

West Bengal's mega-project ambitions face old and familiar obstacles

The state could be the Bharatiya Janata Party's real test case of its business-friendly policies swot

Cockpit highs and covert flights: A bad week for aviation trust

An Air India pilot reportedly flew while impaired, coinciding with a significant aircraft altitude drop. Meanwhile, Donald Trump confirmed a clandestine plane swap in Turkiye to evade a potential attack. This maneuver involved Air Force One and a military aircraft, facilitated by a catering truck. Both incidents underscore the risks associated with having influential friends in critical situations. Such actions can transform potential issues into serious and tragic outcomes.

Nutraceuticals, get it right from the start

The Indian supplements market is anticipated to soar to nearly fifty-seven billion dollars by twenty thirty, driven by heightened consumer awareness and the prevalence of lifestyle diseases. Major consumer goods firms are rushing to acquire scientifically validated nutraceutical brands. The lenient regulations imposed by FSSAI have led to a surge in new brand entries. To guarantee safety, India requires a dedicated regulatory body alongside strict quality standards.

End of mission Chandrasekaran

N Chandrasekaran's tenure as chairman of Tata Sons will conclude, prompting a search for his successor. Under his guidance, the conglomerate has expanded into aviation and semiconductor investments. However, ongoing shareholder disputes regarding mandatory listings and the group's structural future pose challenges. This leadership transition marks yet another shift since Ratan Tata's exit, making it crucial to find a capable leader to maintain the group's strategic direction.

India must make AI labels durable and verifiable

In a landmark move, California and India have implemented legislation aimed at enhancing transparency in AI-generated content. These laws require the incorporation of nearly invisible watermarks alongside visible identifiers for synthetic media to combat confusion between genuine and artificial creations. The regulations from India set forth clear definitions and compliance demands for synthetic information. However, a critical hurdle remains: ensuring the longevity and effectiveness of AI label authentication.

Govt committed to phased implementation of anti-terror PRAHAAR strategy: MHA

New Delhi, Aug 12: The Ministry of Home Affairs (MHA) on Wednesday informed Rajya Sabha that central government is committed to the progressive and phased implementation of the national anti-terror PRAHAAR strategy. Minister of State in the Ministry of Home Affairs Nityanand Rai in a written reply to a question in the Rajya Sabha said this approach prioritizes immediate institutional and systems integration while thoroughly assessing performance outcomes through a framework of layered oversight mechanisms. He said the Ministry of Home Affairs has unveiled PRAHAAR as India's first comprehensive National Counter Terrorism Policy & Strategy on 23rd February, 2026. It provides a national counter-terrorism framework for prevention of, and responding to terrorist activities and radicalization through coordinated whole of government and whole of society approaches. The minister said that PRAHAAR strategy & policy is predicated on the pillars which include: prevention of terror attacks to protect Indian citizens and interests; responses, which are swift and proportionate to the threat posed; aggregating internal capacities for achieving synergy in a whole-of-government approach; human rights and Rule of Law based processes for mitigation of threats; attenuating the conditions conducive to terrorism, including radicalization; aligning and shaping the international efforts to counter terrorism; and recovery and resilience through a whole-of-society approach. The minister also said that PAHAAR addresses all counter-terrorism objectives through a comprehensive, intelligence-led proactive framework built upon a seven-pillar strategy. It shifts India from a reactive security stance to a proactive doctrine by formalizing real-time intelligence sharing through the Multi Agency Centre (MAC), securing critical infrastructure, and deploying a swift, coordinated chain of command between State agencies/Police and Specialized Central Forces like the National Security Guard (NSG). Simultaneously, it integrates cutting-edge technology, strictly upholds the Rule of Law and human rights, and implements community-collaborative counter-radicalization modules to dismantle the terror ecosystem. The minister highlights that the anti-terror strategy counters terror financing by tracing crypto wallets, choking dark web crowd sourcing, and seizing assets through Central Agencies. It aligns with Financial Action Task Force (FATF) standards and uses international treaties to block cross-border state-sponsored terror funding networks. In addition to the regular monitoring and assessments, one such mechanism is organizing Annual Anti-Terror Conference (ATC) by the NIA under the aegis of the Ministry of Home Affairs, which serves as an important platform to review and strengthen its counter-terrorism strategy by bringing together senior officials from law enforcement agencies, intelligence organizations, security forces, policymakers, and legal experts. The minister said the anti-terror conference enables stakeholders to assess the effectiveness of existing counterterrorism measures, identify operational/ administrative gaps and preparedness, recommend policy, legal & institutional reforms, and promote collaboration, capacity building, and a coordinated national response to strengthen and continuously evolve India's counterterrorism framework in response to an increasingly dynamic security environment.

Sabarmati-Jammu Tawi express train to be extended up to Katra soon

Jammu, Aug 12: The railway board on Wednesday approved the extension of the Sabarmati-Jammu Tawi Express till Katra, a move aimed at facilitating pilgrims and passengers travelling from western India, officials said. The train will run via Jammu and halt at Shaheed Captain Tushar Mahajan station in Udhampur before reaching Shri Mata Vaishno Devi railway station at Katra, according to the Northern Railway's Jammu division. The extension is expected to benefit thousands of passengers from Gujarat, Rajasthan, Punjab and other parts of western India, who currently have to deboard at Jammu Tawi and take buses or other modes of transport to reach Katra, they added. With the extended service, passengers will not have to change trains or make separate arrangements for onward travel to Katra, reducing travel time and additional expenses, they said. The commencement date of the extended service will be notified separately after finalisation. Passengers have been advised to check the IRCTC website, mobile application or station enquiry counters for reservation and the latest status of the train. The Jammu division officials said the extension would further facilitate religious tourism and provide more convenient rail connectivity to the Shri Mata Vaishno Devi shrine.

Indian Railways takes several measures for safeguarding lives of passengers, property: Govt tells LS

New Delhi, Aug 12: Union Government on Wednesday said that Indian Railways have taken several measures to safeguard lives of passengers and damage to railway property. This information was provided by the Union Minister for Railways, Information & Broadcasting and Electronics & Information Technology, Ashwini Vaishnaw, in a reply to a question in the Lok Sabha today. The Railway Minister said that regular drives are conducted against anti-social elements like drunkard, mischievous elements etc. in the effected section/black spots and the apprehended persons are prosecuted under legal provisions of law. The train escorting parties have been sensitized to remain more vigilant in the vulnerable sections/spots, where incidents of vandalizing on trains are frequently reported. Various awareness programme including OPERATION SATHI are conducted regularly in inhabited areas adjacent to Railway track to sensitize people towards the menace of stone pelting and its consequences. Detailed guidelines have been issued regarding action to be taken to control incidents of stone pelting on moving trains. Analysis of these incidents followed by substantive action is taken to curb these incidents. Regular co-ordination with GRP/Local Police is maintained by RPF, sharing the critical information to control the menace of pelting of stones on trains. State Level Security Committee of Railways (SLSCR) have been constituted for all State Union Territories under the Chairmanship of respective Director General of Police Commissioner of States/Union Territories for regular monitoring and review of security arrangements of the Railways. Safety of train operations is accorded top priority on Indian Railways (IR). Pedestrian subways are also being provided with safety fencing in order to facilitate crossing of railway alignment by cattle, pedestrians and smaller vehicles. Union Minister for Railways continued that about 19,700 km of fencing has been provided along the railway tracks in Indian Railways which includes sections situated in Bihar, Madhya Pradesh, Andhra Pradesh and Uttar Pradesh, so far.

Srinagars Sher-i-Kashmir Stadium likely to host Irani Cup 2026: Report

Srinagar, Aug 12: Srinagars Sher-i-Kashmir Stadium is likely to host the Irani Cup 2026 match between 2025-26 Ranji Trophy winners Jammu and Kashmir and the Rest of India from October 1 to 5. A media report quoted by News18 said the Sher-i-Kashmir Stadium in Srinagar will host the Irani Cup, making it the biggest cricket match to be held in Kashmir since the ODI between India and Australia on September 9, 1986. The report stated that the Irani Cup is played between the winners of the previous edition of the Ranji Trophy and the Rest of India side. Since Jammu and Kashmir won the 2025-26 Ranji Trophy, they will take on the Rest of India in the upcoming 2026 edition. In the 2025-26 Ranji Trophy final, J&K faced Karnataka at the KSCA Hubli Cricket Ground in Hubli and secured victory by virtue of their first-innings lead. For J&K, Auqib Nabi Dar will once again be a key player in the Irani Cup. The 29-year-old fast bowler from Baramulla picked up 60 wickets in the 2025-26 Ranji Trophy to finish as the leading wicket-taker. He also registered impressive figures of 5/54 in 23 overs in the first innings of the final against Karnataka. Apart from Auqib, who is currently part of Indias Test squad for the two-match series against Sri Lanka, Yudhvir Singh Charak will be another key fast bowler for J&K. Charak, who represents Rajasthan Royals in the IPL, has also impressed with his wicket-taking abilities. However, the Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI) is yet to officially confirm the venue for the Irani Cup 2026 as well as announce the Rest of India squad. The Rest of India have won a total of 30 Irani Cup titles so far, followed by Mumbai with 15 titles. After taking part in the Irani Cup, J&K will begin their Ranji Trophy title defence on October 11 against Madhya Pradesh. The defending champions are part of Elite Group A in the 2026-27 Ranji Trophy, along with Madhya Pradesh, Vidarbha, Baroda, Puducherry, Bihar, Uttar Pradesh and Goa.

Pak Minister Naqvi meets top Iranian leaders to revive mediation efforts to end US-Iran conflict

Islamabad, Aug 12: Pakistan Interior Minister Mohsin Naqvi has held talks with Iran's President Masoud Pezeshkian and Foreign Minister Abbas Araghchi in Tehran to follow up on the stalled US-Iran peace negotiations, according to media reports. An interim peace agreement, which Pakistan signed as a guarantor, derailed last month as tensions escalated in West Asia with the US and Iran resuming military strikes. Islamabad is actively pushing to revive its mediation efforts to end the US-Iran conflict. Pakistans Foreign Office Spokesperson Tahir Andrabi said at a press briefing in Islamabad on Wednesday that it was trying to resolve the conflict between the US and Iran with the help of other regional countries. Pakistan remains engaged alongside its brotherly states in sincere efforts to resolve the crisis, said Andrabi, when asked about Naqvis Tehran visit. Pakistan will continue to offset spoilers using direct and indirect channels and enable continuation of constructive dialogue to resolve all outstanding issues. Naqvi arrived in the Iranian capital on Tuesday for talks on bilateral ties and issues of mutual interest, according to Irans official news agency IRNA. He was received at the airport by his Iranian counterpart, Eskandar Momeni, and later held talks with Araghchi. In his meeting with the Iranian president, Naqvi described the relationship between the neighbours as strong, long-standing and unbreakable and conveyed Islamabads serious determination and will to pursue the comprehensive development of ties with Tehran, according to a diplomatic source. President Pezeshkian noted that Iran-Pakistan relations would serve the two countries' national interests as well as contribute to regional stability and security, the source added. According to the Dawn newspaper, the principal objective of Naqvis visit was to follow up on the stalled Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) signed in June by the US and Iran, aimed at opening a 60-day window for high-level talks aimed at restoring peace. But the talks collapsed after tensions between the two sides escalated again in mid-July. Pakistans efforts to revive the talks have so far failed to yield results, especially after Oman took the lead as a mediator to address the key sticking point, Strait of Hormuz, which is crucial for global energy supplies. Iran has said it is close to reaching a separate deal with Oman to manage the Strait, which runs between the two countries. The Strait of Hormuz, which witnessed partial relief for a brief period after the signing of the MoU in June, now remains blocked following the collapse of the US-Iran negotiations, as Iran and Oman negotiate a new arrangement for safe passage through the strait. The reported progress in the Oman-Iran dialogue has created an opportunity for Islamabad to move towards reviving the broader process that had emerged from the June agreement, the diplomatic source said. Andrabi on Wednesday said Naqvis Tehran visit provided the two countries the opportunity to discuss bilateral relations, security-related matters, and regional development, with a particular focus on efforts to promote peace, stability, and constructive engagement amongst the parties in the region and regional developments. Pakistan recently invited Araghchi and Iranian Parliament Speaker Bagher Ghalibaf to visit Islamabad at the earliest possible opportunity. Iranian Foreign Ministry spokesperson Esmaeil Baghaei, however, said on Monday that the visit of the two Iranian leaders would take place at an appropriate time. Naqvis Tehran visit assumes significance because it is being seen as an effort by Pakistan to keep the mediation channel active while Iranian leaders take their own time to decide on visiting Islamabad for further talks. Meanwhile, Iran ambassador Reza Amiri Moghadam called on Deputy Prime Minister Ishaq Dar in Islamabad on Wednesday and briefed him on progress under various bilateral institutional mechanisms aimed at strengthening cooperation across diverse areas, Dars office said in a post. Dar, who is also Pakistans foreign minister, reaffirmed Pakistans commitment to further deepening engagement with Iran in key priority areas, it said. The two sides also exchanged views on the evolving regional situation and Dar underscored that dialogue and diplomacy remain the only effective means of addressing outstanding issues and achieving lasting peace, stability and prosperity in the region, it added.

Joint anti-fidayeen mock drill conducted at base camp of Mata Vaishno Devi ahead of I-Day in Katra

Jammu, Aug 12: A joint anti-fidayeen security mock drill was conducted at the base camp of Mata Vaishno Devi cave shrine in Katra on Wednesday to assess the preparedness and coordination of security and emergency response agencies ahead of the Independence Day celebrations, officials said. The exercise was supervised by the SP and jointly conducted by Reasi district police with the Special Operations Group, CRPF and the Army medium regiment, with participation from health services and fire and emergency services, they said. The drill simulated a terror-related security contingency at the venue and assessed the response of various agencies, including immediate mobilisation, cordoning and sanitisation of the area, neutralisation of the simulated threat, evacuation of civilians, casualty management and fire and emergency response, they added. The exercise also tested the effectiveness of established standard operating procedures, communication channels and rapid response mechanisms, while identifying areas requiring further improvement, police said. The drill focused on strengthening inter-agency coordination, communication, operational synergy and swift decision-making to ensure a coordinated response to any unforeseen security challenge during the Independence Day celebrations. The Reasi district police reiterated its commitment to ensuring foolproof security arrangements, public safety and the peaceful conduct of Independence Day celebrations across the district.

Multi-layered security in place for Independence Day celebrations in Kashmir

Srinagar, Aug 12: Security has been beefed up across Kashmir ahead of Independence Day celebration as the forces intensified area domination, checking and frisking to ensure peaceful and smooth conduct of the event, officials said on Wednesday. Police and paramilitary forces have been deployed in strength at several places in the city and elsewhere in the Valley to thwart any attempts by terrorists to disrupt the celebrations, the officials said. Policemen in plain clothes have been deployed around the venues of Independence Day functions to keep an eye on suspicious persons, they said. Random searches of vehicles and frisking of people is also being carried out at several places in the Valley, they said. The security forces have increased patrolling and area domination exercises, especially in the vulnerable areas and areas around the venues of the celebrations, they added. The main Independence Day function will be held at the Bakshi Stadium here, and Chief Minister Omar Abdullah will preside over it, the officials said. Sharpshooters have been deployed at all high-rise buildings around the stadium to prevent any untoward incidents. Central Reserve Police Force (CRPF) personnel have also been deployed, they said. Human and technical surveillance is being used to ensure that the day passes off peacefully. Drones are being used for aerial surveillance, they added. Inspector General of Police (IGP) Kashmir, V K Birdi, has said that multi-layered and robust security arrangements have been put in place across Kashmir for the peaceful and smooth conduct of the Independence Day celebrations. The Jammu and Kashmir Police always maintains robust security arrangements not just in Srinagar city, but across various districts of the valley. Multi-layered security arrangements are in place, not only at the specific venues, but also in the areas surrounding the city, Birdi said on Tuesday. Kashmir Divisional Commissioner Anshul Garg said all preparations have been made for the event. Preparations have been made for the Independence Day celebration at Bakshi Stadium, which has been our traditional venue for celebrations, and preparations are an ongoing process, whether it is rehearsals or security arrangements, Garg told PTI Videos here. He said the divisional administration has been working for the last one month to make sure that the arrangements are befitting to the national occasion and as per the expectations of the people. The chief minister will unfurl the national flag, and in view of that, our parade contingents are preparing very well, and approximately 30 contingents will be seen in the parade this time, he said. The divisional commissioner extended an invitation to the public to participate in the celebrations. I would appeal to everybody, especially our youth, our students, and our citizens, that they must definitely come to this August 15 event at Bakshi Stadium, and if you are in other different districts, then you should reach your respective district-level events there, and that also encourages the administration, and because these are the 80th celebrations of this national event, it is also a landmark moment for all of us, he added.

46,491 people treated for drug addiction in J&K in 2025-26: Rajya Sabha told

Srinagar, Aug 12: The number of people treated for drug addiction at centres supported by the Union Ministry of Social Justice and Empowerment in Jammu and Kashmir rose to 46,491 in 2025-26, the highest annual figure recorded in the last five years, according to data tabled in the Rajya Sabha on Wednesday. The number marks a sharp increase from 5,382 in 2021-22, while 27,843 people were treated in 2022-23, 40,546 in 2023-24 and 36,588 in 2024-25. The data were provided in response to a Rajya Sabha question on the prevalence of substance abuse, treatment facilities and measures to strengthen prevention and rehabilitation services in JK. Jammu recorded the highest number of treatments in 2025-26 at 9,960, followed by Srinagar with 6,204, Bandipore 5,769, Kulgam 5,765 and Rajouri 5,561. Kupwara recorded 4,530 cases, while Pulwama accounted for 3,433 and Budgam 2,693. The Union Government said its 2018 National Survey on the extent and pattern of substance use, conducted through the National Drug Dependence Treatment Centre at AIIMS, estimated that 5.4 lakh people in JK were opioid users, representing a prevalence of 4.91 per cent among the 10-75 age group. The survey also estimated 3.9 lakh alcohol users, 1.4 lakh cannabis users, 1.7 lakh sedative users and 1.35 lakh inhalant users in JK. At present, the Ministry is supporting one Integrated Rehabilitation Centre for Addicts, three Outreach and Drop In Centres, two Community-based Peer Led Intervention programmes, six District De-Addiction Centres and 21 Addiction Treatment Facilities in Jammu and Kashmir. The Government said these facilities are being supported under the National Action Plan for Drug Demand Reduction (NAPDDR), which provides financial assistance for prevention, awareness, treatment, rehabilitation and capacity-building. The Centre also operates the 14446 de-addiction helpline, which has received more than 4.6 lakh calls nationally, including over 11,000 calls from Jammu and Kashmir. Under the Nasha Mukt Bharat Abhiyaan, more than 1.20 crore people in JK have so far been sensitised, including over 69.14 lakh youth and 51.20 lakh women. The campaign has also enrolled 8,565 Nasha Mukti Mitrs in the Union Territory. The Government said the campaign, launched nationally in 2020 and extended to all districts in 2023, focuses on awareness and outreach in schools, higher educational institutions and university campuses, besides other community-level interventions.

SC asks states to consider framing policy on demolition, regularisation of illegal constructions

New Delhi, Aug 12: The Supreme Court on Wednesday asked all states and Union territories to consider a representation seeking framing of uniform policy for regularisation and demolition of long-standing unauthorised constructions across the country. The order was passed by the top court while declining to entertain a PIL filed by Centre for Law and Good Governance seeking directions to the Centre and all the states for framing such a policy to save unauthorised dwelling units of poor persons, saying that this issue largely falls within the policy domain of state governments and local authorities. A bench comprising Chief Justice Surya Kant and justices Joymalya Bagchi and V Mohana said that circumstances and ground realities vary from state to state, making it neither feasible nor prudent for the court to prescribe a single policy framework for the entire country. It would be difficult and may not be prudent for this court to lay down a uniform policy framework to be applied across various states, the bench said. The court, however, said states and Union territories could consider the issues raised in the petition while formulating new policies or revisiting their existing frameworks. We are hopeful that due consideration shall be given to all such issues by the competent authorities, the bench said in its order. The petition pointed out that settlement and regularisation schemes have been introduced in states such as Andhra Pradesh and Telangana, as well as in Delhi. It, however, alleged that in several instances, unauthorised colonies and structures were demolished suddenly, sometimes without adequate notice and without any rehabilitation or welfare mechanism for affected families. The PIL said that demolition is an extreme and irreversible measure and therefore cannot be undertaken without a policy that balances enforcement of planning and land-use laws with the constitutional rights to shelter, livelihood and dignity under Article 21. The counsel for the petitioner said that state governments follow inconsistent approaches towards unauthorised constructions. According to the plea, demolitions are at times carried out in a hurried, erratic and unsystematic manner. The counsel said that authorities sometimes assure residents that unauthorised structures would be regularised, while simultaneously collecting municipal and property taxes and permitting access to civic amenities such as electricity. After 40-50 years, residents may be told that their structures are illegal and face demolition without any assessment of whether alternative accommodation is available. The plea urged the bench to examine the issue from a human-rights perspective, particularly in cases involving families who have remained in possession of properties or colonies for decades. The CJI pointed out that the Supreme Court had already laid down comprehensive safeguards against illegal and unauthorised demolitions. The counsel said that the existing judicial directions were inconsistent. He referred to an earlier three-judge bench ruling recognising the right to shelter as part of the right to live with human dignity, while citing a July 14 judgement holding that the long-standing existence of a colony by itself does not create a legal right and that mere passage of time or administrative inaction does not cure an illegality. The bench said a court-appointed committee could not substitute the powers vested in state governments and municipalities to enforce the law. It also reiterated that the Supreme Court had already issued safeguards aimed at preventing sudden and arbitrary demolitions. This court's humanist jurisprudence, beginning with Olga Tellis, recognises that a person in settled possession cannot be dispossessed without due process. This court has also directed that even a rank unauthorized occupant must ordinarily be given at least 15 days' notice before demolition, the CJI said. Justice Bagchi said the issues raised in the plea would have to be assessed on a case-by-case basis and could not necessarily be resolved through a single policy framed by the court. Justice Bagchi said the prayers in the petition were framed too broadly and could result in the court entering the executive's policy domain. The bench also noted that unauthorised construction does not always involve economically vulnerable residents, with some structures being raised for commercial or profit-making purposes. There are also situations where large numbers of economically marginalised people occupy tracts of land and require alternative accommodation... This calls for a policy decision. We cannot prevent the state from adopting a particular policy, the bench said.

Jitendra Singh presents governments roadmap for a self-reliant, globally competitive nuclear energy ecosystem in Lok Sabha

New Delhi, Aug 12: India is steadily strengthening its indigenous nuclear energy ecosystem with a focus on advanced reactor technologies, Small Modular Reactors (SMRs), domestic manufacturing capabilities, private-sector participation and long-term utilisation of the countrys abundant thorium resources, Minister of State for Personnel, Public Grievances & Pensions and Prime Ministers Office, Dr. Jitendra Singh, said in a written reply in the Lok Sabha today. Dr. Jitendra Singh said Indias long-term nuclear energy strategy continues to be guided by the countrys three-stage nuclear power programme, aimed at sustainable utilisation of its vast thorium reserves for long-term energy security. The strategy has received further impetus through the Nuclear Energy Mission announced in the Union Budget 2025-26, with an objective of expanding nuclear energy capacity to 100 GWe by 2047. The Government has adopted a two-pronged approach to accelerate nuclear capacity addition. This includes deployment of large indigenous reactors such as 700 MWe Pressurised Heavy Water Reactors (PHWRs) and advanced reactor designs at greenfield sites, alongside development and deployment of Small Modular Reactors (SMRs) at brownfield locations, including retiring fossil-fuel-based power plants, captive plants for energy-intensive industries and off-grid applications in remote areas. A key objective under the Nuclear Energy Mission is to develop and operationalise at least five indigenous SMRs by 2033. The Bhabha Atomic Research Centre (BARC), a constituent unit of the Department of Atomic Energy (DAE), is undertaking the design and development of indigenous SMR technologies, including the 220 MWe Bharat Small Modular Reactor (BSMR-200) and 55 MWe SMR-55 for power generation. BARC is also developing a High Temperature Gas Cooled Reactor (HTGCR) of up to 5 MWth capacity, which can be coupled with a suitable thermochemical cycle for hydrogen production. Dr. Jitendra Singh also highlighted the continuing work of the Indira Gandhi Centre for Atomic Research (IGCAR) in advancing the second stage of Indias nuclear power programme. IGCAR is pursuing multidisciplinary scientific research and advanced engineering development for Sodium Cooled Fast Breeder Reactors and associated closed fuel-cycle facilities, technologies that remain a cornerstone of Indias long-term nuclear strategy. Emphasising the Governments efforts to create a broader domestic nuclear ecosystem, Dr. Jitendra Singh said the Sustainable Harnessing and Advancement of Nuclear Energy for Transforming India (SHANTI) Act, 2025 has been enacted to enable wider participation of both public and private entities in the nuclear sector. The Department of Atomic Energy is encouraging Indian industry through knowledge-sharing and handholding for new SMR technologies, while simultaneously developing domestic nuclear vendors and strengthening the private-sector R&D ecosystem. Critical components such as low-alloy steel forgings for reactor pressure vessels and reactivity control drive mechanisms have already been realised through domestic industry, while development of other critical equipment has also been initiated with domestic industry and start-ups. The reforms under the SHANTI Act envisage greater participation of private entities in nuclear manufacturing, engineering services, research and development and supply chains, while maintaining stringent standards of nuclear safety, security and safeguards. The Act also provides statutory status to the Atomic Energy Regulatory Board, thereby reinforcing the framework for robust regulatory oversight. On thorium, Dr. Jitendra Singh said India is pursuing its Three-Stage Nuclear Power Programme, based on a closed fuel cycle, to optimise utilisation of its uranium resources and progressively harness its abundant thorium reserves. Thorium, being a fertile material, needs to be converted into fissile uranium-233 in a nuclear reactor before it can be used for energy generation. Under the first stage, natural uranium is used as fuel in PHWRs, followed by reprocessing of spent fuel to extract plutonium. In the second stage, Fast Breeder Reactors utilise plutonium to generate additional fissile material. The third stage envisages large-scale utilisation of thorium through uranium-233 bred from thorium, after adequate capacity of Fast Breeder Reactors has been established. India has already undertaken sustained R&D towards thorium utilisation. Thorium Oxide (Thoria) pellets have been used in the initial cores of operating PHWRs, while Thoria-based fuels have also been irradiated in BARC research reactors. The irradiated Thoria pins have been reprocessed to obtain uranium-233, which has subsequently been fabricated as fuel for the KAMINI reactor at IGCAR, Kalpakkam. Dr. Jitendra Singh said the Government is undertaking a range of measures to build a globally competitive, self-reliant and technologically advanced nuclear energy ecosystem. These include implementation of the Nuclear Energy Mission, development of indigenous SMRs, strengthening of domestic nuclear manufacturing and supply chains, continued capacity building in reactor design, manufacturing, construction and the nuclear fuel cycle, as well as expansion of indigenous nuclear medicine infrastructure through the Isotope Production Reactor (IPR) to augment domestic production of medical isotopes. The Governments approach, therefore, combines indigenous technology development, expansion of nuclear capacity, greater industry participation, advanced reactor research and sustained investment in the nuclear fuel cycle, with the larger objective of strengthening Indias energy security and technological self-reliance.

Baramulla development projects held up due to quarrying restrictions: MLA Javed Beig

Baramulla, Aur 12: Baramulla MLA Javed Hassan Beig on Wednesday said that several development projects approved for the district are yet to take off due to restrictions on quarrying operations and the lifting of mining material. Beig said the curbs on the extraction and transportation of mining material have created significant difficulties for ongoing development works. He said contractors are facing acute shortages of construction material, resulting in a sharp increase in prices. According to the MLA, contractors have also expressed reluctance to participate in the tendering process citing the rising cost and limited availability of construction material. Despite scores of development projects being approved, the restrictions on quarrying and lifting of mining material are delaying their execution, he said. Beig urged the authorities to address the issue and ensure adequate availability of construction material so that approved projects can be taken up without further delays.

Shopian Farmer Turns His Rooftop Into a 100+ Variety Organic Garden!

Govt ready to discuss students' protests; let the House function: Shah to opposition

New Delhi, Aug 12: Home Minister Amit Shah on Wednesday said the government is ready to discuss all issues in Parliament, including students' protests, and asked the opposition to let the House function. Speaking to reporters in the Parliament House complex, Shah also asserted that he will give a reply to the debate and urged the opposition to give a notice to Lok Sabha speaker for a discussion on the topic by 2 pm on Wednesday. We are ready to discuss all the issues in Parliament, including students' protests; let the House function, the home minister said. If opposition gives it in writing to Lok Sabha Speaker Om Birla by 2 pm today, we can start a discussion at 3 pm today until 3 pm tomorrow, Shah said. If the discussion starts at 3 pm today, I will give a reply tomorrow at 3 pm, the home minister added.

Final leg of Amarnath Yatra begins - Pooja of Chaddi Mubarak held in Shankaracharya temple.

Heavy rains trigger severe waterlogging in Awantipora, shops inundated

Har Ghar Tiranga must remain high in thoughts, character, actions: LG Sinha

Thousands join mega Tiranga Rally in Anantnag ahead of Independence Day

Har Ghar Tiranga must remain high in our thoughts, character, actions: LG Sinha

Srinagar, Aug 12: Lieutenant Governor Manoj Sinha on Wednesday said the Har Ghar Tiranga campaign has evolved into a festival of peoples consciousness and a tradition of national love, calling upon people to keep the spirit of the Tricolour high not only on rooftops but also in their thoughts, character and actions. Addressing the Tiranga Mahotsav celebrations at Botanical Garden Srinagar after flagging off the Tiranga Yatra from SKICC, Sinha said the Har Ghar Tiranga campaign, launched in 2022, aims to revive the respect and emotional connection of every Indian with the Tricolour. When the Tiranga waves across millions of homes, it is not just the flag that waves, but the hearts of 140 crore Indians are united by the same feeling, the same faith and the same resolve, he said. Sinha said the campaign had become a festival of peoples consciousness and a tradition of national love, connecting every Indian with their motherland in a deeper way. It is our good fortune that along with Har Ghar Tiranga, we are also celebrating the 150 glorious years of Bankim Chandra Chatterjees Vande Mataram. I believe that if the Tiranga is the soul of our nation, then Vande Mataram is the immortal voice of that soul, he said. When the foreign power tried to crush our self-confidence, this was the song that echoed in the voices of countless patriots, Sinha said, adding that the commemoration of 150 years of Vande Mataram was not merely about honouring the song but paying homage to the awakening of national consciousness and the spirit of self-confidence, courage and self-respect. I believe that Vande Mataram is the immortal voice of our culture. It is the embodiment of our unity, he said. Congratulating the people of Jammu and Kashmir for their participation in the Vande Mataram campaign, Sinha said their efforts had become a source of inspiration for the entire nation. You have proved that the love for the nation becomes the consciousness of the people. Only then does history take on a new direction, he said. Sinha said he was proud that the youth and citizens of Jammu and Kashmir had helped make the Union Territory the best in the country in the campaign. I would like to congratulate all such people who have participated in this campaign. And I would like to request that Jammu and Kashmir should continue to be number one in the next phase, he said. He said Jammu and Kashmir would have to work harder to retain the position, adding that the achievement was not merely a number but an expression of the unbreakable national consciousness flowing through Jammu and Kashmir. These achievements have sent a message to the world that Jammu and Kashmir is a land of courage, determination, and devotion towards the motherland of India, he said. When Bandipora, Baramulla, Pulwama, Poonch, Rajouri, Kishtwar, Jammu and Srinagar march together in support of Vande Mataram, Indias spirit rises, Sinha said. The Lieutenant Governor said the Vande Mataram and Har Ghar Tiranga campaigns should also motivate people to introspect and ask themselves whether they were contributing to building the India for which their ancestors, freedom fighters and brave soldiers had given their all. If our ancestors protected the nation with their blood, sweat and tears, then it is our responsibility to protect it with our character, honesty, dedication, unity, and service. This will be our true devotion towards our martyrs, he said. Sinha said this years Vande Mataram and Har Ghar Tiranga campaigns were not merely a combination of two national campaigns but an announcement of a new era on the roads of Srinagar and Jammu. He said Har Ghar Tiranga had become the identity of a new Jammu and Kashmir that had decided to move forward on the path of faith, development and dedication towards the motherland. This is the symbol of the new Jammu and Kashmir, which is full of self-confidence and is moving forward with firm steps towards the future, he said. This is the Jammu and Kashmir where every house has become the centre of national devotion. This is the Jammu and Kashmir where every heart beats with the beat of national unity, Sinha said. Calling upon people to take a pledge, he said, Let us take an oath that the Har Ghar Tiranga will not only be on the rooftops of Jammu and Kashmir, but it will always be high in our thoughts, character, and actions. Let us take an oath today that the sacred feeling of Vande Mataram will be imbibed in our every action, decision, and responsibility, he said. Sinha also called upon people to honour the sacrifices of those who gave India the precious gift of independence by building a nation that is prosperous, safe, just and opens the doors of equal opportunities for every citizen. He called for collective efforts to realise the vision of a Jammu and Kashmir that is economically powerful and takes pride in Indian culture and spiritual values.(KNO)

North Korea launches another missile towards sea ahead of US-South Korean military drills

Seoul, Aug 12: North Korea on Wednesday performed its second ballistic missile test in less than a week, its neighbors said, a likely protest of the upcoming South Korea-U.S. military drills that North Korea views as an invasion rehearsal. South Korea's Joint Chiefs of Staff said a ballistic missile fired from the North's eastern coastal Wonsan area around 6 am flew more than 700 km. It said South Korea remains ready to repel any provocations by North Korea in cooperation with the United States. South Korea's presidential national security council issued a statement urging North Korea to stop ballistic missile launches, which it said are acts of provocation that defy UN Security Council resolutions. Multiple UN Security Council resolutions ban North Korea from launching ballistic missiles. But North Korea has ramped up ballistic and other weapons testing activities to expand its nuclear and missile arsenals since Kim's high-stakes diplomacy with US President Donald Trump fell apart in 2019. Experts say Kim likely hopes to use his enlarged arsenals to wrest concessions from the US, such as relaxing of international economic sanctions on the North. Japan's Defense Ministry said Wednesday it also spotted a suspected ballistic missile launch from North Korea. It said it didn't detect the weapon reaching Japan's exclusive economic zone, suggesting it was believed to have fallen further away from the Japanese coast. The latest launch came two days after South Korea and the United States announced they will kick off their annual large-scale military drills on Aug. 17 to beef up readiness against North Korean threats. North Korea has previously responded to the Ulchi Freedom Shield training and other major South Korea-US military exercises with provocative weapons tests and harsh rhetoric. The US and South Korea have repeatedly said their training is defensive in nature. After last year's Ulchi Freedom Shield training exercises began, North Korean leader Kim Jong Un said the drills showed the US and South Korea's will to ignite a war and claimed they have grown more provocative than before, which has prompted North Korea to respond with proactive and overwhelming countermeasures. On Aug. 6, South Korea, the US and Japan detected the launch of a short-range ballistic missile from North Korea in what was the North's first ballistic weapons testing activity since late June. North Korea didn't confirm the reported launch, though it usually releases details of weapons tests a day later. In recent years, Kim has boosted his diplomatic footprint by strengthening cooperation with Russia by supplying troops and ammunition to support its war against Ukraine. He's also recently taken steps to bolster ties with China, the country's traditional ally and economic pipeline. Chinese President Xi Jinping visited the North Korean capital Pyongyang in June for the first time in seven years. (AP)

Trump told Ukraine it had no cards. Then Kyiv took the war to Russia

Ukraine has intensified long-range drone and missile strikes deep inside Russia, targeting oil infrastructure, defence facilities and air defences as Kyiv seeks to shift the wars dynamics. The campaign has strengthened Zelenskyys standing with Trump but faces limits, including Russian counterattacks, air-defence shortages, costly operations and uncertainty over Putins willingness to negotiate.

LG Manoj Sinha leads Tiranga Rally from SKICC to Botanical Garden Srinagar

Cultural Forum Kreeri holds literary programme

Kruhen Cultural Forum Kreeri transformed an ordinary evening into an extraordinary celebration of words, wisdom and Kashmiri literary heritage. A grand Shabana Mushaira, one of the most cherished traditions of the region's poetic culture unfolded in all its brilliance, drawing together some of the most distinguished voices in contemporary Kashmiri poetry under a single, luminous gathering. The event, rich in cultural significance and literary depth, was not merely a recitation of verses. It was a reaffirmation of a living tradition, one that has endured across generations, nurtured in the valleys and sanctuaries of Kashmir, and kept alive by poets who believe that the written and spoken word holds the power to heal, unite and inspire. The Mushaira was presided over by the eminent and widely respected poet Ghulam Qadir Shaad Dardpuri, whose towering presence and mastery over the craft lent the evening an air of distinguished solemnity. The role of chief guest was graciously fulfilled by Shabnam Tilgami, General Secretary of the prestigious Adbi Markaz Kamraz, whose participation underscored the wider literary community's endorsement of the Forum's noble mission. Also gracing the occasion were Roshan Qamar, Shamim Ahmad Shamim and Sanaullah Shaukal, all established figures in the Kashmiri literary landscape whose presence added both prestige and warmth to the evening. The proceedings were conducted with eloquence and grace by Sharief Hussain Qadri, whose skilled anchoring ensured a seamless flow through the evening's rich programme. The Forum's President Syed Shamim Ahmad Shamim, opened the event with a heartfelt welcome address, setting a tone of warmth, purpose and cultural pride, before later closing the night with a sincere vote of thanks. What made the Mushaira truly remarkable was the extraordinary breadth and depth of poetic talent on display. A constellation of no fewer than thirty poets took to the stage, each bringing their own distinctive voice, style and sensibility to the gathering. The lineup read like a who's who of Kashmiri poetry from seasoned veterans to emerging literary voices, all united by their devotion to the art of verse. Cultural Forum Kreeri, this was far more than an event on a calendar. It was a bold, deliberate act of cultural custodianship a statement that the poetic traditions of Kashmir are not relics of a fading past but living, breathing expressions of a people's identity and soul. Through such meticulously organised gatherings, the Forum continues to serve as both a guardian of established literary heritage and a launchpad for the next generation of Kashmiri poets. In an era increasingly dominated by digital distraction and cultural homogenisation, the Cultural Forum Kreeri stands out as a beacon of literary commitment. By choosing the hallowed grounds of a revered shrine as the venue, the Forum not only honoured the spiritual dimension of Kashmiri cultural life but also reinforced the deep and inseparable bond between faith, poetry and community in the region's collective consciousness. As the last verse faded into the cool night air and the poets and audience dispersed into the darkness, one thing remained unmistakably clear: As vote of thanks presented by the President of the Forum' Syed Shamim Ahmad Shamim reiterated the commitment to serve the mother language, the spirit of Kashmiri poetry, lyrical, profound and endlessly resilient, is in safe and passionate hands.

Baramulla MLA stresses need to revisit Wildlife Policy, flags issue before Estimates Committee

The MLA Baramulla, Javed Hassan Beig, has asked the Estimates Committee of the Jammu and Kashmir Legislative Assembly to recommend a comprehensive review of the existing wildlife policy, particularly in view of the growing instances of wild animals straying into human settlements and posing a threat to public safety. The issue came up during discussions on forest, environment, wildlife and tribal affairs on Tuesday, with the MLA stressing the need for a comprehensive approach to deal with increasing human-wildlife conflict in Jammu and Kashmir. He said while wildlife conservation remains important, there is equally an urgent need to put in place effective mechanisms to prevent wild animals from entering residential areas and creating fear among people. While highlighting the importance of revisiting the wildlife policy, Beig said that the government should revisit the existing wildlife policy and formulate measures to strike a balance between wildlife protection and the safety of people living in populated areas where animals are now frequently venturing. The issue assumes particular significance in Baramulla, where the repeated movement of leopards in the town has triggered widespread fear among residents. For nearly 20 days, two leopards have been roaming in areas including Microwave Kanlibagh, Upper Sangri, Bowli Kanlibagh and adjoining densely populated areas. The leopard's presence has caused considerable panic, with residents, particularly children and elderly people, reluctant to venture out during the morning and evening hours. Residents said the repeated sightings have disrupted normal life in the affected areas, with many people avoiding outdoor activities and exercising extra caution while travelling through the neighbourhood. The Wildlife Department has been making efforts to locate and capture the animal. However, officials have so far been unable to trap it, with manpower constraints adding to the difficulties faced by the department. The situation has also highlighted the challenges confronting the wildlife authorities, who are required to respond to increasing human-animal encounters while simultaneously managing limited manpower and resources. The MLA Baramulla also raised concerns over the wild boars that according to him have been introduced into the area and are causing immense loss to paddy fields and orchards, and called for appropriate measures to address the ecological and public-safety concerns associated with them.

Trust Kashmiri youth, stop unnecessary police summons: Tanvir Sadiq

The Jammu & Kashmir National Conference Chief Spokesperson and MLA Zadibal, Tanvir Sadiq, during an interaction with the media at the party headquarters urged the LG administration to place greater trust in the youth of Kashmir and put an end to the practice of unnecessarily summoning people particularly youngsters to police stations. Tanvir Sadiq said that the practice of summoning individuals to police stations must end, particularly in the case of people who are living peacefully with their families and earning their livelihoods. He said that people should not be unnecessarily summoned, especially ahead of important occasions and special events, as such actions create an atmosphere of fear and apprehension. Referring to the statement made by Mehbooba Mufti in Delhi, Tanvir Sadiq said that remarks such as Banta Hai should not be used as a basis to target, suspect or point fingers at the youth of Jammu & Kashmir. He said such a mindset only generates fear and further deepens the sense of alienation among the people. He emphasised that rebuilding public trust requires confidence in citizens and the creation of an environment in which young people can live peacefully, work and pursue their livelihoods without fear, apprehension or unnecessary harassment. Sadiq also appealed to the people not to pay heed to rumours or create panic. He clarified that there has been no decision to increase electricity tariffs and that consumers would not be subjected to any additional financial burden. On infrastructure development, Sadiq said that the Iran-US war had severely affected the macadamisation of roads. However, he said the work has now commenced and assured that every lane and road in the city would be macadamised in a phased manner. He reiterated that the government remains committed to improving infrastructure, strengthening road connectivity and ensuring better civic amenities for the residents.

Centre actively considering hike in SPOs honorarium: LoP Sunil Sharma

Leader of Opposition (LoP) in J&K Legislative Assembly Sunil Sharma on Tuesday asserted that the Centre was actively considering a hike in the honorarium of Special Police Officers (SPOs) working to safeguard the peace and safety in the Union Territory. LoP, while addressing a press conference at BJP headquarter in Jammu, also questioned the silence of Congress and its allies over the use of brutal force against the protesting students in Jharkhand. He also expressed solidarity of BJP with the students protesting there (Jharkhand) against alleged irregularities, corruption and paper leaks in recruitment examinations conducted by the Jharkhand Public Service Commission (JPSC) and the Jharkhand Staff Selection Commission (JSSC). BJP national secretary and MLA Jammu South Narinder Singh along with J&K BJP spokespersons Vikram Malhotra and Zorawar Jamwal accompanied Sunil Sharma during the presser. Responding to a separate question about the visit of the central Committee on demographic change to Jammu, Sunil Sharma alleged that Pakistan had been trying to alter the demography in J&K through infiltration and illegal settlement. Through terrorism, it achieved success in Kashmir from where Kashmiri Pandits were forced to migrate. Now through infiltration and illegal settlements, attempts are underway to change the demography in Jammu, he claimed, while quoting some examples. LoP stated that the present central government took the matter seriously and constituted a high-level committee, which was currently on Jammu visit, interacting with all stakeholders to assess demographic changes in J&K. With regard to SPOs question, LoP said that BJP always stood firmly with them (SPOs). Soon we will be sharing some very good news for our SPOs, who serve day and night to safeguard the peace and security of Jammu and Kashmir. The BJP-led central government is actively considering a hike in their honorarium, he stated. Regarding Jharkhand students protest, LoP said that the ongoing (student) agitation was fundamentally a struggle for justice, transparency and accountability. He emphasised that the students movement remained peaceful, disciplined and organic, with the protesters conducting themselves within the framework of parliamentary language, constitutional values and the rule of law. Sunil Sharma said that the grievances raised by the students regarding the recruitment examination process deserved to be addressed with seriousness and transparency. He noted that the demand for an independent investigation, including a Central Bureau of Investigation (CBI) inquiry, was aimed at establishing the facts, restoring confidence in the recruitment process and ensuring that deserving candidates were not deprived of their rightful opportunities. The youth of the country place their faith in competitive examinations as a means of building their future. Any allegation of paper leaks, irregularities or manipulation in recruitment examinations strikes at the very foundation of that trust. These concerns must be investigated impartially and transparently, he said. The Leader of Opposition strongly criticised the alleged use of force against students participating in the agitation. He said that peaceful students raising legitimate concerns should not be met with lathicharge or coercive measures. According to Sharma, the appropriate response of a democratic administration should be dialogue, engagement and a credible mechanism for addressing grievances, rather than force. Questioning the silence of the Congress and its alliance partners on the issue, he accused the opposition parties of adopting a selective approach towards student movements and alleged that political considerations were being placed above the concerns and welfare of young people. He said that the concerns of students should not become a matter of political convenience. The aspirations of our youth cannot be reduced to political calculations. Students demanding fairness in examinations deserve to be heard, irrespective of which state or political party is involved, he said. Sunil Sharma further called upon young people to remain vigilant against attempts to politicise genuine grievances and urged them to continue expressing their concerns through peaceful and constitutional means. He stressed that democratic institutions must protect the rights and aspirations of students while ensuring that legitimate public grievances are addressed through due process. The Leader of Opposition reiterated that transparency in recruitment, accountability in public institutions and protection of students democratic rights are essential to maintaining public confidence in the examination and recruitment system. He called upon the Jharkhand administration to engage with the protesting students, address their concerns through a credible process and ensure that any allegations of examination irregularities were subjected to an impartial and time-bound investigation.

Apni Party delegation from Gulabgarh Reasi calls on Syed Mohammad Altaf Bukhari

A delegation comprising Apni Party leaders and senior workers from the Gulabgarh constituency of Reasi district today met party president Syed Mohammad Altaf Bukhari at the party headquarters in Srinagar. The delegation was led by Zulfikar Qazmi. According to a press release issued here, the delegation members thoroughly discussed the prevailing political scenario in the area, various party matters, and pressing public issues and grievances. While apprising the party President of various local issues, they raised the concern that members of the local labour class are not being issued labour cards. They said that obtaining labour cards would enable construction workers to avail themselves of various benefits, including financial assistance, educational scholarships, and medical facilities. They also highlighted the public demand for exploring and developing tourist destinations in the district, which, they said, would help create sustainable livelihood opportunities for the youth. They emphasised that Reasi district has immense potential for tourism development and called for greater efforts to tap this potential. Bukhari gave a patient hearing to the visiting delegation, and several decisions were taken on the occasion regarding measures to address some important issues. Besides party president, the prominent leaders who were present on the occasion, included partys Additional General Secretary Hilal Shah, Chief Coordinator & District President Kulgam Abdul Majeed Paddar, Provincial President Kashmir Mohammad Ashraf Mir, Chief Spokesperson & State Secretary Muntazir Mohiudin, Coordinator Rajouri & Poonch Arun Kumar Sharma, District President Rajouri Syed Manzoor Bukhari, District Youth President Rajouri Irfan Anjum, Constituency In-charge Sonwari Haijan Imtiyaz Paray, Senior Leader Syed Zulfikar Qazmi, and others.

Hundreds attend funeral of Er. Mohammad Anwar Ashai in Srinagar

Prominent civil society activist and engineer Mohammad Anwar Ashai, scion of the distinguished Ashai family of Downtown Srinagar, passed away peacefully at his residence on Tuesday. His demise has been widely mourned across social, religious, political and civil society circles in Kashmir. Anwar Ashai was the son of the legendary educationist and political activist Khwaja Ghulam Ahmad Ashai, a pioneering figure in the educational and political awakening of Kashmiri Muslims. Khwaja Ghulam Ahmad Ashai was among the earliest highly educated Kashmiri Muslims of his generation, having distinguished himself at the matriculation level before pursuing graduation and post-graduation. He later became the first Registrar of the University of Jammu and Kashmir. He was also among the founders of the historic Reading Room Party, which played a seminal role in the political awakening of Kashmiri Muslims and in the developments that eventually led to the formation of the Muslim Conference, Kashmir's first major organised Muslim political platform. The Ashai family itself occupies a notable place in Kashmir's social, literary and commercial history. The family traces its lineage to Mukhtar Shah Ashai, remembered as a prominent shawl merchant associated with Kashmir's celebrated shawl trade and as a patron of religious shrines in Srinagar. The family also traces its lineage to the celebrated 17th-century Persian poet of Kashmir, Mulla Tahir Ghani Kashmiri, whose poetry occupies an eminent place in the Persian literary tradition. Anwar Ashai inherited this tradition of intellectual curiosity and public engagement. His involvement in public affairs began during his student days. As a student leader, he participated actively in the political and social movements of his time and was also imprisoned. Remarkably, he pursued and completed his engineering studies during his period of incarceration. An engineer by profession, Ashai's engagement with society extended far beyond his professional career. From his adolescence until the closing years of his life, he remained deeply interested in public affairs and was known as a widely read, articulate and socially conscious individual with a keen interest in Kashmir's history, politics, education and contemporary challenges. He was closely associated with the Kashmir Centre for Social and Development Studies (KCSDS) and remained actively involved in its deliberations and programmes. He contributed to the organisation of seminars, round-table conferences and public discussions on a wide range of issues, including the environment, education, healthcare, social reform and other matters affecting the people of Jammu and Kashmir. Friends and colleagues remembered him as a dignified, warm and engaging personality whose conversations reflected both his extensive reading and his deep understanding of Kashmir's history and society. He believed strongly in informed public discourse and remained willing to speak, deliberate and contribute whenever issues of larger public concern arose. Members and associates of KCSDS remembered him as a valued colleague whose commitment to civil society and concern for Kashmir's social, educational and developmental issues remained undiminished throughout his life. His passing, they said, has created a void not merely among his family and friends but also within the wider circle of Kashmir's civil society. Hundreds of people from different walks of life participated in his funeral prayers, which were led by prominent Islamic scholar Moulana Showkat Hussain Keng. His mortal remains were subsequently laid to rest at the family's ancestral graveyard at Ashai Kocha, Fateh Kadal, Srinagar. According to family sources, the congregational Fateha Khawani will be held at the ancestral graveyard at 2:30 PM on Friday, August 14.

Kupwaras Awathkul Meelyal residents seek better healthcare

Residents of Awathkul Meelyal in north Kashmirs Kupwara district have expressed resentment over the lack of adequate healthcare facilities in the area, saying they are forced to travel several kilometres even during medical emergencies. The residents said successive governments have failed to address their long-pending demand for a health centre despite the area facing particular difficulties during the harsh winter months. Since we live in a heavy snow-bound area, medical emergencies during winter take a heavy toll on us, a local resident told Greater Kashmir. With limited public transport available, residents said they are often forced to carry patients on makeshift stretchers to the nearest health facility at Kralpora, around 8 kilometres away. Most of the time, we have to shoulder our patients on makeshift stretchers to reach the health centre at Kralpora, another resident said. He said most residents belong to the labour class and cannot easily afford private transport during emergencies. Hiring a private cab during a medical emergency puts a heavy financial burden on us, he said. The residents demanded that a health centre be sanctioned for Awathkul Meelyal at the earliest, saying it would provide much-needed relief to the population. They also appealed to Chief Minister Omar Abdullah to intervene and address their long-pending demand.

Armys solar lights end generations of darkness in Gulmarg Dhoks

In a bid to bring relief to residents living in remote and power-deficient areas of Gulmarg, the Indian Army distributed around 100 solar lights among people at Nagin Dhok and adjoining areas. The initiative taken by Indian Army's 52RR under Operation Sadbhavana has brought a much-needed ray of hope to families living in the high-altitude dhoks, where access to electricity remains a major challenge and residents have traditionally depended on lamps and candles after sunset. According to officials, the solar lighting units, equipped with solar panels and bulbs, are aimed at providing a basic source of illumination to households that have remained without a regular power supply. The residents while recalling the difficulties they faced during evenings and nights in the absence of electricity said life had been difficult as families had to rely on lamps and candles for lighting. Armys initiative has helped address both the lighting and charging problems faced by residents here, Jamal, a resident said. Another resident said the people living in the area witnessed a life without electricity for generations. We are very grateful to the Army. They are not only protecting the country but also reaching out to people living in remote areas, he added. For children, the initiative carries particular significance as the availability of light would allow them to continue their studies after sunset. During the distribution drive, the residents also appealed to the people from outside J&K to visit Gulmarg and experience its beauty. For residents of Nagin Dhok, the intervention is more than the distribution of a lighting device. It has brought a basic necessity to a community that has long struggled with darkness after sunset, Jamal added. An official said the initiative was taken strengthen civil-military relations by building trust, understanding, and cooperation with the Gujjar, Bakarwal communities in Kashmir and to understand their concerns, needs, and challenges. Such initiatives foster mutual support for maintaining peace, security, and stability in the region, the official said.

JK Bank Heart Clinic on Wheels reaches remote Baramulla village, 186 elderly screened

The JK Bank Heart Clinic on Wheels reached remote Chukkar in Baramulla district, screening 186 elderly patients and providing free consultations, investigations and medicines. The camp was organised by the Moul Mouj Foundation (MMF), Ummeed Foundation and GK Labs in collaboration with the Block Medical Officer, Pattan. Cardiac screening included ECG, Troponin-T, NT-proBNP and hs-CRP, besides other investigations. Several patients were found to have heart failure, while a significant number were diagnosed for the first time with diabetes and hypertension. Treatment was initiated, and patients were counselled on follow-up and medication adherence. Uncontrolled hypertension emerged as a major concern, with nearly 65% of hypertensive patients found to have poorly controlled blood pressure. Womens health services were also provided. Dr Mueena, Medical Officer, examined elderly women for postmenopausal symptoms and provided treatment and counselling. Rukhsana Murtaza, Camp Coordinator and Counsellor at CHC Pattan, counselled patients and families on medication adherence, lifestyle changes and healthy ageing. Dr Zubair Saleem, Senior Geriatric Consultant, thanked Dr Jahangir Bakshi, Director Health Services Kashmir; Dr Khurshid Aslam Khan, Senior Cardiologist and Project Advisor; and the BMO Pattan for supporting the outreach programme. Dr Saleem cautioned elderly patients against changing their medication without medical advice. Stopping medicines or reducing their dose on your own can be dangerous. Patients must trust their doctor and follow the prescribed treatment, he said. The camp was mobilised with the support of Sagar Nazir, a local social activist and writer, who thanked the organisers for bringing free specialised healthcare to the remote area. The organisers said the JK Bank Heart Clinic on Wheels aims to take cardiac and geriatric care to communities where distance, mobility constraints and limited access to specialised services often prevent elderly people from receiving timely healthcare.

Kupwaras PHC Wadipora short on staff, diagnostics

Residents of Wadipora and adjoining villages in north Kashmirs Kupwara district have raised concerns over staff shortages and inadequate diagnostic facilities at the Primary Health Centre (PHC) Wadipora. They said the health centre, established decades ago, lacks essential facilities, forcing patients to travel to Handwara for treatment and diagnostic services. The PHC has a manual X-ray unit and an ECG machine, but residents said these are inadequate. They demanded a digital X-ray machine to spare patients the trip to Handwara. The centre also lacks an ambulance, while the absence of a gynaecologist has affected pregnancy care, forcing women to seek specialised treatment in Handwara. Residents said they have repeatedly raised the issues with officials, but no concrete action has followed. Block Medical Officer (BMO) Zachaldara Dr Abdul Gani said the entire Zachaldara medical block was facing a shortage of medical officers. Despite the shortage, two doctors have been deputed to PHC Wadipora, he said.

J&K tightens forest rules, protects tribal rights under Forest Rights Act

The Jammu and Kashmir Government has announced a slew of measures to ensure a balanced approach towards protection, conservation and sustainable management of forest resources while ensuring recognition and settlement of the legitimate rights of forest-dwelling Scheduled Tribes and other traditional forest dwellers in accordance with the Forest Rights Act, 2006. The government has issued detailed guidelines through circular number 07-JK(FST) of 2026 by the Department of Forest, Ecology and Environment, directing all the concerned departments and authorities to ensure strict compliance with the applicable statutory provisions and prescribed procedures. The circular mandates that all action related to forest land, encroachment and forest rights shall strictly conform to the Indian Forest Act, 1927 (16 of 1927), as applicable to the Union Territory of Jammu and Kashmir, the Scheduled Tribes and Other Traditional Forest Dwellers (Recognition of Forest Rights) Act, 2006, the rules made thereunder, the Wild Life (Protection) Act, 1972 and the applicable environmental laws, judicial directions and instructions issued by the competent authorities from time to time. Noting that issues concerning the protection of forest areas, forest cover and land along with the rights of communities traditionally dependent on forests have repeatedly arisen, the government stressed the need to balance forest conservation with the recognition of legitimate forest rights in accordance with applicable statutory provisions. It has been reiterated that all action related to forest land, encroachment and forest rights strictly conform to the Indian Forest Act, 1927, the Forest Rights Act, 2006, the Wild Life (Protection) Act, 1972, and applicable environmental laws, so that forest conservation is not compromised while legitimate claims of forest-dwelling Scheduled Tribes and other traditional forest dwellers are settled as per the prescribed statutory framework. As part of the decision, the Government has directed that wherever occupation of forest land is reported or comes to notice, the concerned Forest authorities shall undertake proper verification of the land status and classification, relevant forest and revenue records, nature and extent of occupation, period of occupation and other relevant facts and evidence concerning the claimant, including the nature and extent of any claim made under the Forest Rights Act, 2006. Wherever necessary, forest and revenue records shall be reconciled and the area properly demarcated to prevent erroneous identification of land, overlapping claims and unauthorized occupation. Such verification, reconciliation or demarcation shall, however, be undertaken without prejudice to any claim pending under the Forest Rights Act, 2006. The Government has further directed that where occupation is found to be unauthorized and is not covered by a forest right duly recognized under the Forest Rights Act, 2006 or otherwise protected under applicable law, the concerned Forest authorities shall initiate appropriate action for prevention or removal of such occupation strictly in accordance with the Indian Forest Act, 1927, as applicable to the Union Territory of Jammu and Kashmir, other applicable laws and the prescribed procedure, with due regard to Section 4(5) of the Forest Rights Act, 2006. Pending determination of any claim under the Forest Rights Act, 2006, the existing forest character and ecological integrity of the area shall be protected. No activity shall be permitted that alters the physical status of the land, causes degradation of forest resources, damages forest growth or otherwise prejudices the protection and conservation of forests, reads the circular. The Forest Department shall also extend all necessary assistance and cooperation to the Gram Sabhas, Sub-Divisional Level Committees, District Level Committees and other competent authorities constituted under the Forest Rights Act, 2006, in verification and settlement of claims. Claims or proposed activities concerning protected areas or ecologically sensitive areas shall be examined strictly in accordance with the applicable provisions of the Forest Rights Act, 2006, forest and wildlife laws, environmental laws, judicial directions and other statutory requirements. The circular also notes that for maintaining an appropriate balance between forest conservation and the legitimate rights of forest-dwelling communities, the Indian Forest Act, 1927 (16 of 1927), as applicable to the Union territory of Jammu and Kashmir, provides the statutory framework for protection, preservation, management and regulation of forests and forest produce while the Scheduled Tribes and Other Traditional Forest Dwellers (Recognition of Forest Rights) Act, 2006 (hereinafter referred to as the Forest Rights Act, 2006) and the rules made thereunder provide for a prescribed mechanism for recognition and vesting of forest rights of eligible forest-dwelling Scheduled Tribes and other traditional forest dwellers. These enactments are required to be implemented in their respective fields and in a manner that ensures that genuine and legally admissible forest rights are duly recognized and protected without compromising the statutory mandate for protection, conservation and ecological integrity of forests, the circular further reads. It is pertinent to mention that the Tribal Affairs Department, vide Circular No. 01-JK TAD of 2026 dated 30.07.2026, has also reiterated the mechanism and procedure for settlement of claims of forest-dwelling Scheduled Tribes and other traditional forest dwellers. Forest Minister Javed Rana has consistently advocated a balanced approach that protects the ecological integrity of forests while ensuring due recognition of the legitimate rights of forest-dependent communities within the framework of law. The basic rights of our tribal communities cannot be compromised. Forest conservation and the legitimate rights of Scheduled Tribes and other traditional forest dwellers must go hand in hand, with every action guided by law, fairness and justice. Our commitment is to protect our forests while ensuring that the rights and dignity of these communities are fully safeguarded, maintained the Minister.

J&K seeks over 300 additional PG medical seats from NMC

The Jammu and Kashmir government has submitted proposals to the National Medical Commission (NMC) seeking approval for the creation of more than 300 additional postgraduate medical seats, as part of efforts to strengthen specialist healthcare manpower across the Union Territory. The administration informed the Department-related Parliamentary Standing Committee on Home Affairs that proposals for more than 300 additional postgraduate (PG) medical seats had been submitted to the NMC. The information was shared with the committee during its study tour of Jammu and Kashmir in May this year. The details are contained in the committees report. According to the report, the government has already created around 120 additional PG medical seats across Government Medical Colleges (GMCs) during the current academic year. The expansion includes medical colleges located in remote districts, aimed at strengthening specialist healthcare services beyond the major urban centres. The Committee was informed that expansion of postgraduate medical education constitutes another important component of the long-term manpower strategy. During the current academic year, approximately 120 additional postgraduate seats have been created across Government Medical Colleges, including those located in remote districts, the report states. The government also informed the committee that 286 postgraduate students are currently undergoing training in the seven newly established Government Medical Colleges in Jammu and Kashmir. These students, according to the report, are contributing to specialist healthcare services at the locations where the new medical colleges have been established. The expansion of PG medical education is part of the administrations broader strategy to address the shortage of specialist doctors and strengthen healthcare delivery, particularly in districts that have historically had limited access to specialised medical services. The governments submission to the NMC for more than 300 additional seats, along with the 120 seats already created during the ongoing academic year, indicates an effort to substantially expand postgraduate medical training capacity in J&K. The focus on newly established Government Medical Colleges and institutions in remote districts is also intended to create a larger pool of locally trained specialists and strengthen the availability of specialised healthcare services across the Union Territory. The seven newly established Government Medical Colleges have expanded the institutional base for medical education in J&K, with postgraduate training now forming an important component of their healthcare and manpower role. The administration has maintained that increasing postgraduate training capacity is necessary not only to address immediate specialist shortages but also to build a sustainable healthcare workforce capable of meeting the long-term needs of the growing population. The NMCs consideration of the proposals will determine the extent to which the additional PG seats are approved and introduced in Government Medical Colleges across J&K. (KNO)

J&Ks mutton paradox: 43 lakh sheep, but not enough meat

Jammu and Kashmirs livestock population figures are substantial, with more than 43 lakh sheep and another 22.5 lakh goats. Yet, the Union Territory continues to produce significantly less mutton than it consumes, leaving a large gap that is filled by supplies from outside. The issue has gained renewed significance following frequent disruptions in the movement of livestock into J&K, including the latest disruption in supplies from Punjab. The episodes have exposed the Union Territorys continued dependence on animals brought from other states to bridge the gap between local production and consumption. Official figures show that J&K produces around 370 lakh kilograms of mutton annually against an estimated demand of 545 lakh kilograms. This leaves a shortfall of nearly 175 lakh kilograms a year. The gap is equivalent to roughly 910 lakh sheep, depending on the average meat yield per animal. The disparity, experts say, cannot be explained simply by the number of sheep in the region. The productivity of the flockincluding breed characteristics, growth rates, nutrition, disease control and management practicesis equally important. Unlike some major commercial meat-producing regions, J&Ks sheep population consists largely of indigenous and traditional breeds valued for their adaptability to the regions difficult terrain and climatic conditions. However, these breeds generally have lower growth rates and carcass yields than specialised meat-producing breeds developed through systematic genetic selection. Across major sheep-producing regions, breeding programmes have been used to improve traits such as growth rate, reproductive performance and meat yield. In J&K, improving the genetic potential of local flocks could therefore play an important role in increasing meat production without relying solely on an expansion in animal numbers. Genetics, however, is only one part of the problem. Sheep productivity is also closely linked to nutrition, access to quality fodder and grazing resources, disease prevention, veterinary care and scientific flock management. Deficiencies in any of these areas can affect growth, lamb survival, reproductive performance and ultimately the quantity of meat produced. The sector is also facing pressure from the shrinking availability of traditional grazing areas. Expansion of settlements and infrastructure, changes in land use and increasing input costs have made livestock rearing more difficult and, in some cases, less attractive for farmers. Experts say that addressing J&Ks mutton deficit will therefore require strengthening the entire production chain rather than focusing on livestock numbers alone. The government has begun moving in that direction by placing greater emphasis on improving the genetic potential of the local sheep population. The Sheep Husbandry Department plans to introduce advanced breeding technologies, including Embryo Transfer Technology (ETT) and Multiple Ovulation and Embryo Transfer (MOET). The proposed interventions include embryo-generation laboratories, cryopreservation facilities and embryo-transfer laboratories across districts, alongside specialised training for veterinarians and para-veterinary staff. Such interventions could accelerate the dissemination of superior genetic traits within the local flock, but livestock scientists caution that genetic improvement is a long-term process and cannot immediately close the demand-supply gap. For J&K, the challenge is consequently much broader than dealing with periodic disruptions in livestock supplies from outside. A sustained increase in local mutton production will require simultaneous improvements in breeding, nutrition, animal health, grazing resources, scientific flock management, farmer support and market infrastructure.

MP Ramzan attends INDIA Alliance meeting in New Delhi

Member of Parliament Chowdry Mohammad Ramzan attended a meeting of the INDIA Alliance held in the chamber of Congress President and Leader of Opposition in the Rajya Sabha, Mallikarjun Kharge, in New Delhi. Leader of Opposition in the Lok Sabha Rahul Gandhi was also present at the meeting. The meeting focused on important issues of national concern and parliamentary coordination. During the meeting, the leaders discussed matters of significance and parliamentary strategy, while reaffirming their commitment to raising the voice of the people and upholding democratic values. The meeting brought together leaders of the INDIA Alliance to deliberate on issues of common concern and coordinate their approach on matters to be raised in Parliament.

Chowdry Ramzan seeks railway connectivity for Kupwara

MP Chowdry Mohammad Ramzan today met Union Minister for Railways Ashwini Vaishnaw and raised the demand for reconsideration of the Sopore-Kupwara Railway Line, stressing its strategic and socio-economic importance for the region. According to a statement, Chowdry pointed out that Kupwara is one of the farthest and strategically important border districts of Jammu and Kashmir and, despite its vast geographical area and population, currently has no railway connectivity. He said the proposed railway line would provide a vital link to the district and significantly improve connectivity with remote and strategically important areas, including Karnah, Keran and Machil. Chowdry emphasised that the railway would serve as a lifeline for the horticulture and agriculture sectors by facilitating the movement of apples and other agricultural produce to markets across the country. He said improved rail connectivity would reduce transportation time and costs for farmers and growers and provide them with better access to markets. He further said the project would have a wider economic and social impact by significantly boosting tourism, trade and employment in the region. It would also improve access to healthcare and educational opportunities for people living in remote areas, besides strengthening connectivity with strategically important border regions, including Karnah, Keran and Machil. Chowdry Ramzan urged the Railway Minister to consider the project from a long-term socio-economic and strategic perspective, keeping in view the growing population, developmental needs and the immense horticultural and tourism potential of the region. He stressed that improved rail connectivity would not only address the longstanding transportation needs of the people of Kupwara but also help unlock the districts economic potential and strengthen its integration with the rest of the country. Union Minister Ashwini Vaishnaw assured the MP that the matter would be accorded top priority and that Chowdry Ramzan would be duly informed about further progress in the matter.

Altaf Bukhari urges authorities to give Kashmir youth space to move forward

Apni Party president Syed Mohammad Altaf Bukhari on Tuesday urged authorities not to harass or intimidate young people in Kashmir ahead of Independence Day celebrations, saying even those who may have been involved in past activities should be allowed to move on and lead peaceful and dignified lives. Even those who may have been involved in activities in the past have suffered enough over the years and should be allowed to move forward and lead a peaceful and dignified life, Bukhari said while responding to reporters after a party workers convention at Wailoo Tangmarg. He said Kashmirs youth had endured immense hardships and suffering over the years and deserved to live with dignity. Asked about apprehensions of security threats to certain sections of people, Bukhari said the possibility of attempts to disrupt peace could not be ruled out and called for vigilance. Our enemy will certainly try to disrupt the prevailing peace and calm, but with our vigilance and collective resolve, we have to foil any such attempt, he said. Bukhari also used the occasion to respond to a recent political controversy involving Chief Minister Omar Abdullah and the events surrounding the fall of the Farooq Abdullah government in 1984. Asked about Omars remarks regarding his alleged role in the political developments, Bukhari said Omar was only a child at the time and appeared to have been told a particular version of the events. Because maybe at that time, he was not even more than a child. He was 12 or 13 years old. Maybe someone told him, as they say, sleep, child, Gabbar Singh will come. Someone told him the same story, Bukhari said. He declined to engage Omar through the media over the issue. I will never solve this issue with Mr Omar. I will not talk to him through the press. I will not talk to the press about this, he said. Bukhari, however, did not directly address the substance of the allegation in his latest remarks and instead questioned Omars ability to have personally understood events that occurred when he was a child. On restoration of statehood, Bukhari said the Apni Party would continue to pursue the strategy it adopted in 2020dialogue with New Delhi. At that time too, we chose dialogue with New Delhi to ensure that the people of J&K continued to retain their exclusive rights over land and jobs, he said. He claimed the party had succeeded in convincing the Centre in 2020, months after the abrogation of Articles 370 and 35A, to introduce a domicile framework requiring residency in Jammu and Kashmir. Bukhari said the Apni Party would seek to increase the existing 15-year residency requirement for domicile status to 50 years and pursue a constitutional guarantee for such protection. On the pending Panchayat and Urban Local Bodies elections, Bukhari accused the National Conference government of delaying the polls. It appears that as long as the NC remains in power, Panchayat and ULB elections will not be held, he said, alleging that the ruling party did not want people to exercise their democratic right to elect representatives at the grassroots. He also attacked the NC government over what he described as failures to deliver on promises made during the 2024 Assembly elections. Bukhari cited promises relating to one lakh jobs, free electricity and gas cylinders for domestic consumers, additional ration, regularisation of daily wagers and enhancement of old-age pensions, alleging that the government had failed to fulfil them despite receiving a strong mandate. The Apni Party chief also criticised traditional political parties for what he called a politics of allegations and counter-allegations, saying such exchanges were being used to divert public attention from issues affecting ordinary people. The youth remained a central theme of the convention, with Bukhari urging people to support a political approach that would allow young people to move beyond the violence and restrictions of the past. Addressing the convention, Apni Party senior vice president Ghulam Hassan Mir also sought a change in political discourse, saying the party did not want to lead young people towards graveyards or jails but towards peace, prosperity and development. Mir also criticised the Peoples Democratic Party, saying that although he and his colleagues had helped establish the PDP as a political alternative to the NC, it eventually became a family-run party. He said the Apni Party was being built as an alternative to dynastic politics and claimed it would provide opportunities to people on the basis of talent and ability. Mir also urged the Centre to initiate dialogue with the people of Jammu and Kashmir, warning that the government should not test their patience. Talk to them, listen to them, understand their concerns, issues and apprehensions, and address them, he said, describing dialogue as necessary to bridge the trust deficit and restore public confidence. The convention was organised by Apni Partys Wailoo block president Mohammad Akbar. Social and political figure Bashir Ahmad Dar of Pariswani, Kunzer, also joined the party during the event.

Dog scare grips Kotranka, around dozen people attacked

Rajouri, Aug 11:Fear of suspected rabies-infected stray dogs continues to haunt parts of Kotranka sub-division of Rajouri district, with around a dozen people reportedly attacked and bitten by dogs in the area. The situation first came to light late Sunday evening when a suspected rabies-infected dog attacked several people in Kotranka market. At least seven persons were subsequently taken to the Sub-District Hospital Kotranka for medical aid and treatment. The scare intensified after reports emerged that the suspected rabies-infected dog had also bitten other stray dogs in the area, triggering panic among the local population and raising concerns about the possible spread of rabies. As a precautionary measure, all government and private schools in the affected areas remained closed on Monday. Zonal Education Planning Officer (ZEPO) Kotranka, IshtyaqChowdhary said that a total number of forty four schools of seven panchayats of the area remained close on Monday and students were not allowed to attend the institution as a precautionary measure. He stated that students were not allowed to attend the schools on Tuesday also as a part of prevention amid bad weather conditions and heavy rainfall. ZEPO further stated that decision to keep schools open on Wednesday will be taken after consultation with sub divisional administration further informing that parents have been advised to remain cautious and not to send their wards alone. While students did not attend schools on Tuesday, teaching and non-teaching staff reportedly remained present. It has been learnt that the administration has ordered the closure of schools in the area in view of adverse weather conditions. However, amid continued fear of stray dogs, many parents have also been reluctant to send their children to school. The local population has urged the administration and concerned authorities to launch an immediate drive to identify and safely capture or neutralise suspected rabies-infected dogs and take necessary measures to contain the threat.