Opinion

SED notifies new transfer policy for employees excluding ReT teachers

Srinagar, Aug 20: In a latest development, J&K School Education Department (SED) Thursday notified a new comprehensive transfer policy for its employees while introducing a five-zone rotation system. The new policy has introduced a point-based assessment mechanism besides special safeguards for employees serving in difficult areas. As per the order, the policy has been issued while superseding all previous government orders on the subject and seeks to regulate transfers through prescribed tenure norms, merit-based points and staff rationalisation. Under the new framework, all educational institutions have been divided into five Annual Transfer Drive (ATD) zones. As per the policy, Zone-I covers institutions within municipal limits of district headquarters while Zone-II includes those areas located outside municipal limits and up to 20 kilometres from district headquarters while Zone-III covers institutions beyond 20 and up to 40 kilometres. Also, Zone-IV comprises institutions located beyond 40 kilometres from district headquarters that require a change of residence, while Zone-V has been designated as the difficult-area category. As per the framework, employees posted in Zones I, II and III will ordinarily have a three-year tenure at a particular institution. The tenure will be two years for Zone-IV and one year for Zone-V, it reads. As per the policy, the government has ordered that employees completing the prescribed tenure in Zone-V will ordinarily be relieved from such postings for which the concerned directorates will be required to initiate their further adjustment. Retention beyond the prescribed tenure will be allowed only in exceptional circumstances and reasons will have to be recorded in writing, it reads. Also, the completion of prescribed Zone-V tenure will give employees a preferential claim for consideration against suitable vacancies in Zones-I and II, subject to administrative requirements. The policy also seeks to prevent prolonged postings in difficult areas by making service there a major factor in the new transfer assessment system. Employees serving in Zone-V can earn five points for completing the prescribed tenure, apart from additional points for service beyond the mandatory tenure, with a maximum of 25 points, the policy document reads. For Zone-IV service, employees will get three points for completing the prescribed tenure and additional points for service beyond the mandatory period, with a maximum of 15 points. The department has introduced an online, point-based Transfer Assessment Matrix for the annual transfer exercise, aimed at determining relative priority among employees seeking transfers. Apart from hard-area service, the matrix gives five points to employees aged 55 years or above and five points to female employees who are widows, divorcees or single parents. Persons with benchmark disabilities can receive up to 10 points, while employees with serious illness of themselves, their spouse, child or dependent parent can also receive 10 points, it reads. As per the policy, employees whose spouses are serving in government and posted in the same district will receive five points. The policy additionally provides 10 points for demonstrated exceptional academic performance, including improvement in student learning outcomes, board examination results, school performance and other measurable academic achievements during the preceding three academic years. Employees aged 58 years and above will ordinarily not be posted to Zone-IV or Zone-V, except where compelling administrative considerations exist and the employee requests such posting, it reads. As per the policy, the special consideration will be given to government-employed spouses, employees nearing superannuation, single parents, widows, divorcees, female employees, persons with benchmark disabilities and employees facing exceptional medical or security-related circumstances. Government-employed spouses will, as far as feasible, be posted suitably or within reasonable proximity to each other, subject to availability of posts, it reads. Also, employees due to retire within one year will preferably be posted near their residences, while those aged 58 years and above will ordinarily be kept out of the two hardest zones. The government will also consider inter-cadre transfers on marriage ground on the recommendation of a designated committee, provided the employee has completed at least five years of service in the parent district or divisional cadre. The policy also places restrictions on mutual transfers. Such transfers will ordinarily not be permitted within the so-called soft Zones I, II and III and will primarily be considered where they facilitate rotation from hard zones without adversely affecting pupil-teacher ratios. 'Employees transferred on a mutual basis will be required to serve for a minimum of three years at the allotted place, it reads. The department has also tightened staff rationalisation provisions wherein the surplus employees identified through rationalisation can be redeployed to institutions facing shortages irrespective of their period of stay at the existing place of posting. However, the government has said that rationalisation should not completely deplete teaching staff from an institution or adversely affect teaching of core subjects. Transfers will ordinarily be carried out after conclusion of the academic session and before commencement of the next academic session. The department, however, retains the power to order transfers during the academic session in cases involving academic or administrative exigencies, including subject-specific requirements, staff imbalances, school results, enrolment patterns and institutional performance, it reads. The policy framework also empowers the competent authority to defer, modify or withhold a transfer if its implementation is likely to adversely affect academic outcomes, public examinations or the functioning of an institution. The government has reiterated that the new policy does not apply to Rehbar-e-Taleem (ReT) and Regularised Rehbar-e-Taleem (RReT) employees, whose appointments are school-specific. A separate framework governing their transfers and allied service matters is under formulation and will be notified separately, it reads.

Foreign Ministers of Pakistan and Syria discuss bilateral ties, regional and global developments

Islamabad, Aug 20: Pakistan on Thursday reaffirmed its support for Syria's sovereignty and territorial integrity, as the foreign ministers of the two countries held wide-ranging talks focused on regional and global developments and efforts to promote security and stability in West Asia. Asaad Hassan al-Shaibani, the first Syrian foreign minister to visit Islamabad in 19 years, met his Pakistani counterpart Ishaq Dar and exchanged views on international developments, including Palestine, the Golan Heights, Afghanistan, and the situation in South Asia and West Asia. The two sides reaffirmed the longstanding brotherly ties between Pakistan and Syria and agreed to further strengthen bilateral cooperation across areas of mutual interest, the Foreign Office said in a statement. The ministers also exchanged views on regional and international developments, including Palestine, the Golan Heights, Afghanistan, the situation in South Asia, and developments in West Asia, it added. His visit comes amidst Israels ongoing incursions into Syria since the fall of the Bashar al-Assad regime in December 2024. Dar, who is also Deputy Prime Minister, eaffirmed Pakistans support for Syrias sovereignty, unity, and territorial integrity, the FO said. The Syrian minister welcomed the signing of the trilateral defence pact by Pakistan, Saudi Arabia and Turkiye and commended Pakistans constructive role in promoting regional peace and stability, including its efforts towards de-escalation in the US-Iran context, it said. Both sides reaffirmed their commitment to continued engagement and cooperation for peace, stability, and prosperity in the region and beyond, the FO said. The two sides also discussed regional and international developments and efforts to promote security and stability in the region, Syria's state-run SANA news agency reported. The Syrian foreign minister also called on Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif, who reaffirmed Pakistan's support for Syrias position on the Golan Heights -- a Syrian-claimed territory occupied by Israel since 1967. Sharif emphasised the need to translate the longstanding Pakistan-Syria friendship into enhanced cooperation across politics, defence, trade, investment, education, and human resource development, his office said in a statement. He said the resumption of direct flights between the two countries would enhance people-to-people exchanges and facilitate a large number of pilgrims who undertake religious visits to Syria from Pakistan. Al-Shaiban thanked Pakistan for its consistent support to Syria and expressed his government's keen interest in revitalising bilateral engagement, including through early institutional mechanisms for cooperation. Sharif also invited President Ahmed al-Sharaa to undertake an official visit to Pakistan at a mutually convenient date. Then Foreign Minister Walid al-Mouallem travelled to Pakistan in May 2007.

J&K Police chief reviews security arrangements for Kousarnag Yatra

Srinagar, Aug 20: Jammu and Kashmir Police chief Nalin Prabhat on Thursday reviewed the operational deployment and security preparations for the upcoming Kousarnag Yatra. The review meeting was held with concerned formations of J&K Police, 2 Sector RR, 14 Sector RR and Central Reserve Police Force (CRPF). The meeting focused on ensuring foolproof security arrangements and smooth conduct of the yatra.

Union Cabinet approves setting up of J&K High Court bench in Ladakh: Amit Shah

New Delhi, Aug 20: Union Home Minister Amit Shah on Thursday announced that the Union Cabinet has decided to set up a bench of the High Court of Jammu and Kashmir in Ladakh. In a post on X, Shah said the decision was taken under the leadership of Prime Minister Narendra Modi. The Union Cabinet, under the leadership of the PM Shri @narendramodi Ji, has decided to set up a bench of the High Court of Jammu and Kashmir in Ladakh. Shah said the setting up of new bench in Ladakh will enhance access to justice for citizens living in remote areas of Ladakh. This will significantly enhance access to justice for citizens living in remote areas of Ladakh by reducing the time required to avail themselves of the legal services they are entitled to, Shah said. He added that government is fully committed to the all-round development of Ladakh and to ensuring constitutional safeguards. Meanwhile, Lieutenant Governor Ladakh Vinai Kumar Saxena terms the decision as historic and expressed gratitude and heartfelt thanks to Prime Minister Narendra Modi and Home Minister Amit Shah. In a post on X, LG Ladakh said: Sincere gratitude and heartfelt thanks to Honble PM, Shri @narendramodi Ji and Honble HM Shri @AmitShah Ji, for this historic decision! Establishing a High Court bench in Ladakh not only ensures speedy justice but reaffirms the government's unwavering commitment to the all-round development of Ladakh and fulfilling the long-standing collective aspirations of its people.

Govt strengthens post-matric scholarship support for scheduled caste students

New Delhi, Aug 20: The Government continues to strengthen educational support for Scheduled Caste students through the Centrally Sponsored Scheme of Post-Matric Scholarships for Scheduled Castes. The scheme provides financial assistance to eligible students pursuing post-matriculation and post-secondary education. The Revised Budget Estimate under the scheme stood at Rs 5,400 crore in 202324, Rs 5,500 crore in 202425 and Rs 6,000 crore in 202526. The corresponding actual expenditure was Rs 5,475.42 crore, Rs 5,581.52 crore and Rs 6,208.08 crore, respectively. Central assistance released to States and Union Territories amounted to Rs 5,475.43 crore in 202324, Rs 5,562.26 crore in 202425 and Rs 6,186.95 crore in 202526. The State and Union Territory-wise releases reflect the demand-driven nature of the scheme and the verified scholarship requirements submitted by the respective implementing authorities. Since the introduction of Direct Benefit Transfer in 202122, the Central share of the scholarship amount has been disbursed directly into the Aadhaar-seeded bank accounts of beneficiaries. This mechanism has facilitated a simpler and faster flow of funds while enhancing transparency in scholarship delivery. The scheme is open-ended and demand-driven. The release of the Central share is contingent upon the concerned State Government or Union Territory Administration releasing its share and uploading the finally verified data of eligible beneficiaries on the National Scholarship Portal. States and Union Territories serve as the implementing agencies for the scheme. Issues relating to implementation, including delays in scholarship disbursal, are regularly reviewed and taken up with the concerned stakeholders to facilitate timely processing and release of benefits to eligible students. The Government remains committed to promoting equitable access to higher education and supporting Scheduled Caste students in pursuing their academic aspirations.

27 new wetlands of over one hectare area identified: JKPCC to NGT

New Delhi, Aug 20: The Jammu and Kashmir Pollution Control Committee (JKPCC) has informed the National Green Tribunal that 27 new wetlands with an area of over one hectare have been identified. The green body is hearing the matter based on media reports about the shrinking Kashmiri wetlands and threats to the region's ecosystem, besides the findings by the Comptroller and Auditor General (CAG) this year regarding the alarming rate at which the region's water bodies (518 of 687 lakes) have disappeared. In an order dated August 18, a bench of NGT Chairperson Justice Prakash Shrivastava and expert member Afroz Ahmad said, The Jammu and Kashmir Pollution Control Committee (JKPCC) has filed the status report on August 8 stating that 27 new wetlands which are of an area more than one hectare have been identified. The bench, however, noted that the document was flawed. It said, We find that in this tabulated information, the column of GIS (Geographic Information System) area is highlighted in black; therefore, it is difficult to read the disclosure made in that column. The bench further directed the JKPCC to furnish complete information regarding the newly identified wetlands, including their area and encroachments. It said, The JKPCC is also required to place on record the water quality analysis of the samples taken from these 27 water bodies and sources of pollution, if any, affecting their water quality. The tribunal has scheduled the next hearing for November 6.

Assembly employees protest GAD order on Deputy Secretarys deputation; MLAs extend support

Ashok Bhan welcomes US Ambassadors statement on Jammu and Kashmir

Srinagar, Aug 20: Chairman Kashmir Policy and Strategy Group, Ashok Bhan on Thursday warmly welcomed the statement of the US Ambassador to India, Sergio Gor, during his visit to Srinagar, that Jammu & Kashmir is an important part of India. In a statement issued, Bhan said that such a clear and unambiguous statement and acknowledgement is significant that comes at a time when Indias position on Jammu & Kashmir has consistently been that the region is an integral part of the country. He said the Ambassadors observations on the improving security environment and his appreciation of the efforts of the Government of India and the Jammu & Kashmir administration are equally welcome. His indication that the United States may review its travel advisory for J&K is a positive recognition of the changing ground realities and the growing confidence in peace, stability and normalcy in the region. Bhan said the statement should also encourage a larger international engagement with Jammu & Kashmir based on development, democracy, economic opportunity, tourism and the aspirations of its people, rather than through the prism of conflict and terrorism. The people of Jammu & Kashmir deserve peace, prosperity, dignity and full participation in Indias democratic, economic and constitutional journey, he said. At the same time, this welcome development must strengthen our resolve to address the remaining political and humanitarian challenges within the constitutional framework. Restoration of democratic institutions, reconciliation among communities and the dignified and secure return of those who were forced into exile must remain important components of the larger process of healing and rebuilding Jammu & Kashmir. The future of J&K must be defined by peace, pluralism, constitutional democracy and an empowered people, Bhan said. Bhan emphasized that the return of the exiled Kashmiri Pandit community must be an integral part of the larger process of peace, reconciliation and reconstruction in Jammu & Kashmir. The Government of India and the J&K administration should evolve a time-bound, secure, dignified and community-sensitive return and rehabilitation module, with assured physical security, protection of property and cultural heritage, livelihood and housing support, and mechanisms for restoring legitimate rights and community institutions. The objective should not merely be the rehabilitation of displaced families outside Kashmir, but enabling the safe and honourable return of the exiled natives to their ancestral homeland, at least in three smart cities in three districts headquarters i.e., Srinagar, Baramulla and Anantnag with dignity, equality and a meaningful stake in the social, economic and political life of a peaceful and pluralistic Jammu & Kashmir.

Naeem Akhtar urges govt to make rainwater harvesting part of JJM in hilly areas

Bandipora, 20 Aug: Former Minister and PDP leader Naeem Akhtar has urged the Jammu and Kashmir Government to integrate rainwater harvesting and storage systems with the Jal Jeevan Mission (JJM), particularly in hilly and mountainous habitations facing difficulties due to the absence of dependable perennial water sources. Akhtar said he discussed the proposal with Additional Chief Secretary Shaleen Kabra during a meeting and subsequently followed up the matter with a detailed note, highlighting the need for a more sustainable approach to drinking water supply in the mountainous regions of Jammu and Kashmir. In his note, Akhtar pointed out that a significant number of habitations in the Union Territory are situated in mountainous terrain where reliable and perennial sources of water are either scarce or altogether absent. He said that in several cases, JJM schemes have been planned around seasonal springs and streams which may initially appear adequate but often witness a substantial decline in discharge during lean seasons. According to the former minister, some such water sources have even dried up after schemes were commissioned, making it difficult to maintain assured and sustainable tap-water supply to the concerned habitations. Akhtar said that ironically, many of these mountainous areas receive substantial rainfall and snowfall every year, but a large portion of this water is lost as surface runoff due to the absence of adequate infrastructure for its collection and storage. He proposed that small-scale rainwater harvesting structures and storage reservoirs should be incorporated into JJM schemes in habitations where dependable natural water sources are unavailable. The stored water could subsequently supplement drinking water supplies during periods when existing sources face depletion. He also suggested that, wherever technically feasible, stored water could be conveyed through gravity-based systems, reducing dependence on energy-intensive pumping arrangements. Akhtar specifically referred to several villages in Bandipora district, including Doban, Malangam, Argam, Chittibandi, Aloosa, Ajas and Guroora, where he said he had personally observed the need for such an intervention. He also mentioned Hajibal village in Baramulla district, besides instances in Rajouri and Poonch, where villages receive considerable rainfall but continue to face drinking water shortages because of the absence of dependable perennial sources. To minimise the additional financial burden on the government, Akhtar suggested that rainwater harvesting infrastructure could be developed through convergence with existing government programmes, including the Vibrant Villages Programme (VVP), MGNREGA and schemes of the Rural Development, Irrigation and Flood Control and Agriculture Departments. He said such convergence could help create durable community assets while making better use of existing resources. He further suggested that ST Sub-Plan funds could be utilised for such interventions in mountainous areas inhabited predominantly by Scheduled Tribe populations. Akhtar has requested the government to consider issuing appropriate policy directions and technical guidelines for incorporating rainwater harvesting components into JJM schemes in identified vulnerable habitations. He said such an initiative could significantly improve the sustainability and reliability of rural drinking water supply in the mountainous areas of Jammu and Kashmir. The proposal seeks to address a key challenge faced by remote hill habitationswhere water is available in abundance during the wet season but is not adequately captured and stored for use during periods of water-source depletion. Akhtar has urged the concerned authorities to examine the proposal and explore its integration into the planning and implementation of JJM schemes in vulnerable areas across Jammu and Kashmir. (KNS)

ACB nabs SMC building inspector for accepting Rs 10,000 bribe

Srinagar, Aug 20: The Jammu and Kashmir Anti-Corruption Bureau (JKACB) on Thursday said it had trapped and arrested a Junior Building Inspector of the Srinagar Municipal Corporation (SMC) for allegedly demanding and accepting a Rs 10,000 bribe from a complainant. Official said that Anti Corruption Bureau received a written complaint alleging that Gazala Akhter, Jr. Building Inspector, SMC, Ward No. 28, Srinagar, had demanded illegal gratification from the complainant in connection with the construction of two structures, despite the complainant having already obtained the requisite building permission from the competent authority. It was further alleged that the accused public servant was deliberately adopting delaying tactics by obstructing ongoing construction and causing harassment to the complainant with the intention of preventing him from completing the construction within the stipulated period, thereby putting the complainant under pressure to pay the demanded amount. Upon receipt of the complaint, a discreet verification was conducted, which prima facie substantiated the allegations. Accordingly, FIR No. 11/2026 under Section 7 of the Prevention of Corruption Act, 1988 was registered at Police Station ACB Srinagar, and investigation was taken up. During the course of investigation, a trap team was constituted. The team laid a successful trap and apprehended the accused public servant, Gazala Akhter, Jr. Building Inspector, SMC Srinagar, red-handed while demanding and accepting a bribe of Rs 10,000/- from the complainant. The bribe amount was recovered from her possession in the presence of independent witnesses, and she was taken into custody. Further investigation in the case is in progress, officials added.

Rs 31-crore modern abattoir to come up in Srinagar: Omar Abdullah

Srinagar, Aug 20: Jammu and Kashmir Chief Minister Omar Abdullah on Thursday said a 31-crore modern abattoir project in Srinagar had been revived and would introduce systematic testing and certification of meat sold in the city. Omar said the project, originally conceived in 2011-12, had remained stalled for several reasons before being revived by Srinagar Municipal Corporation Commissioner Fazl-ul-Haseeb and other officials. Almost 31 crore will be spent on it, Omar said, adding that the facility would test sheep brought for slaughter to ensure they were free of disease. The meat leaving the facility would also be halal-certified, he said. Although the project is to be completed in two years, Haseeb has assured me that they will complete it within a year and a half, Omar said. The Chief Minister said the project was particularly important given complaints about the quality of meat sold in Srinagar over the past two years. There were major complaints regarding meat, and in many places poor-quality meat was also found being sold to people, he said. He recalled that consumers had earlier been able to identify inspected meat through an official stamp. There was a time when meat sold in Srinagar and surrounding areas carried a stamp. You knew that the meat was genuine and safe, Omar said. We want to restart it, so that wherever meat is sold in Srinagar, it carries an official stamp and people know that it is of good quality and that eating it will not harm their health, he added. Film festival not about bringing Bollywood stars On the upcoming film festival in Jammu and Kashmir, Omar played down expectations of participation by Hollywood stars and said the event was primarily intended to expose local audiences and aspiring filmmakers to different forms of cinema. Don't expect Hollywood. I wish we had reached a stage where people from Hollywood came, but that will take time, he said, adding that the participation of some Bollywood personalities would be welcome. However, Omar stressed that attracting Bollywood celebrities was not the festival's objective. The purpose is not to bring Bollywood people here. Our effort is to give people here exposure to different kinds of films, he said. It is not my purpose, nor is it the purpose of this film festival, that we should remain under the misconception that if Shah Rukh Khan, Aamir Khan or Salman Khan comes here, then our film festival will become successful, he added. The festival would instead focus on screening films that local audiences would not normally get to watch, besides conducting workshops in editing, directing, cinematography and music. Omar said the aim was also to develop local technical expertise so that filmmakers shooting in Kashmir would not have to depend entirely on technicians from outside. Our people should be able to do that work, and employment will also increase here as a result. That is the effort, he said. Omar declines comment on US-Pakistan diplomatic row Asked about the meeting between him and US Ambassador Sergio Gor and the subsequent summoning of Pakistan's diplomatic representative, Omar said the matter concerned Washington and Islamabad. They were not summoned; the Charg dAffaires was. This is a matter between Pakistan and America. Neither you nor I can do anything about it, he said. On Congress saying that Jammu and Kashmir is an important part of India and questioning why such a statement should come from the US, Omar declined to engage in a political exchange. I am not getting into this now. Congress has a point of view. They are a political party; they are the largest Opposition party; they are entitled to their point of view, he said. I am not going to get into a war of words over this. What can I say about it? he added. AIIMS work progressing, law university file nearly ready On the proposed AIIMS facility, Omar said construction was progressing rapidly and that one block was expected to become operational this year. We have been assured that when I had earlier gone there to review the construction, one block would become operational this year, where OPD and some other treatments would begin, he said. We hope they will stick to that commitment, he added. On the proposed law university, Omar said discussions were still underway over its location but indicated that the government was close to completing the necessary paperwork. Discussions are underway about where the law university will be established, but I think the file is almost ready, he said. We will have to give further approval, but it will happen. Omar also said one or two private universities could soon begin setting up operations in Jammu and Kashmir. I have heard that one or two private universities are ready to come here, he said, adding that the government could soon announce their arrival and witness the laying of their foundation stones. He said the private universities had been waiting for the government to complete the regulatory process. The Act was passed during the Budget Session. After that, we were preparing the rules. The rules have been completed and released. Now private universities will start coming in, Omar said.

AIIMS block to open this year, law university file nearly ready: Omar Abdullah

Foreign dignitaries J&K visits are curated after 2019: Mehbooba Mufti

Srinagar, Aug 20: Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) president Mehbooba Mufti on Thursday criticised the manner in which foreign dignitaries visit Jammu and Kashmir, saying their tours have become curated since 2019 and do not provide them an opportunity to hear different sections of society. Her remarks came a day after US Ambassador to India Sergio Gor visited Srinagar, met Chief Minister Omar Abdullah and described Jammu and Kashmir as an important part of India. Gor also indicated that the US would review its travel advisory for J&K and consider greater economic engagement with the region. This is not the first time that an ambassador, particularly from the United States, has come to Jammu and Kashmir, Mufti said. The difference is that before 2019, whenever ambassadors came here, they would meet people from every section of society. She said representatives from tourism, trade, travel and other sections of society were previously consulted by foreign dignitaries before they returned. But after 2019, the tours of these foreign dignitaries are curated. They come, meet the Chief Minister, meet the Governor, go for a shikara ride and leave, she said. Mufti agreed with Abdullahs position that the problems of Jammu and Kashmir cannot be resolved by Washington. I agree with Omar Sahib that the issues of Jammu and Kashmir cannot be resolved by America. New Delhi will have to resolve them, she said. However, she criticised the Chief Minister for not using the ambassadors visit to raise concerns of the people of J&K. I expected Omar Sahib at least to tell the ambassador from America about the concerns of the people of Jammu and Kashmir, she said, referring particularly to US military action in Iran and its impact on Muslim countries. Mufti also said Abdullah should have raised issues within Jammu and Kashmir that, in her view, require the intervention of New Delhi. She referred to alleged harassment during security operations in Pulwama and said, We have thousands of our people in jails. Every day people are removed from jobs. Raids are conducted every day. Properties are attached and there is a kind of suffocation in Jammu and Kashmir. These are issues that Omar Sahib can talk about. There is no need to talk to Washington about these, she said. Mufti also invoked the tenure of her father, former Chief Minister Mufti Mohammad Sayeed, saying his government had pursued dialogue and reconciliation with different stakeholders. When Mufti Sahib persuaded the Vajpayee government, a process of reconciliation was started. There was dialogue here. There was dialogue with every section. There was also dialogue with Pakistan. Routes were opened, she said. She urged Abdullah to similarly persuade New Delhi to address issues facing the people of Jammu and Kashmir. On Gors indication that the US would review its travel advisory for J&K and increase economic engagement, Mufti said the move could benefit the region if it focused on employment-generating sectors. I hope they will review it. And he said that we will engage more economically with Jammu and Kashmir, she said. If they engage here in horticulture and handicrafts, which can create jobs and benefit us economically, I think that needs to be looked at, she added. Gors description of J&K as an important part of India also drew a sharp response from Mufti. I don't think we need to take America so seriously, she said. Wherever America has intervened in the world, it has brought destruction, from Vietnam to Iran, she said, adding that the US was not in a position to certify Indias position on Jammu and Kashmir. They are not our masters that they have to give us a certificate before anything can be said, Mufti said.

Ladakh LG calls on PM

New Delhi, Aug 20: Ladakh Lieutenant Governor Vinai Kumar Saxena on Thursday called on Prime Minister Narendra Modi and discussed the progress of key developmental initiatives and infrastructure projects as well as the implementation of central welfare schemes in the Union Territory. In a message on X, Saxena said he was extremely grateful to the prime minister for his vision, constant guidance and support for the inclusive and sustainable development of Ladakh. It was indeed an honour to call on Honble Prime Minister, Shri @narendramodi ji and brief him on the progress of key developmental initiatives, infrastructure projects and the implementation of central welfare schemes in UT of Ladakh, Saxena said.

Adhaar App achieves milestone, crosses 5 crore downloads

Srinagar, Aug 20: The Aadhaar App has crossed the significant milestone of 50 million (5 crore) downloads, reflecting the growing adoption of convenient and digital-first Aadhaar services among residents. The milestone marks a significant expansion of the Aadhaar App's role as a digital interface between residents and UIDAI, enabling Aadhaar number holders to access a growing range of services from their smartphones, including mobile number update, address update, email update, biometric lock/unlock and e-Aadhaar download. The App has seen strong and sustained usage since its launch. While more than 60 lakh people updated their mobile number using the Aadhaar app, over 15 lakh address updates and more than 23 lakh email updates were done using the Aadhaar app. The growing adoption of these services reflects the increasing preference among residents for availing Aadhaar-related services digitally, without the need to visit an Aadhaar centre. The Aadhaar App is designed around the principle of Show, Share and Verify, giving Aadhaar number holders greater control over how their Aadhaar information is used while enabling convenient identity verification. Alongside the growth of the Aadhaar App, UIDAI continues to expand the ecosystem for secure and convenient offline verification. UIDAI has now onboarded more than 200 entities as Offline Verification Seeking Entities (OVSEs), since its roll out in January. This milestone marks a major advancement in enabling secure, consent-based, and paperless verification through Aadhaar offline mechanism -- empowering both service providers and people, alike. The onboarding of these OVSE partners reflects growing confidence in Aadhaar-enabled, privacy-first digital verification frameworks that prioritise user control while ensuring ease of access. By leveraging Aadhaar Offline Verification methods such as QR code-based verification and secure digitally signed documents, these entities will now be able to verify identity information without requiring real-time connectivity to UIDAIs central database. This approach brings a strong resident-centric focus, ensuring that Aadhaar number holders can share only the minimum necessary data, thereby enhancing privacy. This simplified verification journey builds trust through transparent and consent-driven interactions. The initiatives are aligned with the Government's Digital India vision and the broader objective of improving ease of living through secure, accessible and technology-enabled public services.

Search operation in J-K's Kathua after suspicious movement

Jammu, Aug 20: Security forces launched a search operation in the bordering areas of Jammu and Kashmir's Kathua district on Thursday following reports of suspicious movement, officials said. The operation was launched in forest areas near the Udhampur-Kathua border in Billawar forests. According to locals, unidentified persons allegedly knocked on the door of a house in a village in the Billawar belt late Wednesday night. The family did not open the door but found next day that food the kept in their house had gone missing, leading to suspicion that someone had entered the premises. Kathua Superintendent of Police, Operations, Pritpal Singh said such routine operations are carried out to maintain vigil in the border areas. To maintain alertness, these routine operations are carried out. Regarding the suspicious activity reported, yes, this is a bordering area, so keeping that in mind, we are carrying out this operation, Singh said.

Khoja Digar Prayers Held at Naqshband Sahab Shrine in Srinagar

Congress decision to stick to 2 paras of Vande Mataram 'appeasement,' defiance of law, says Amit Shah

Chennai, Aug 20: Union Home Minister Amit Shah on Thursday launched a scathing attack against the Congress party saying the party's decision to sing only two stanzas of 'Vande Mataram' was not only anti-national but also an open defiance of law and appeasement eyeing vote bank. Referring to the Congress Working Committee's decision to follow only two paras of the national song, instead of its full rendition, Shah traced the history of partition and underlined the consequences suffered by the nation following the truncation of Vande Mataram. In a statement posted on 'X,' the Union Home Minister alleged: In 1937, for the sake of appeasement, it was the Congress itself that fragmented Vande Mataram into two parts. From there, the two-nation theory gained strength, leading to the partition of the country. On the 150th anniversary of Vande Mataram, the Modi government corrected this historic mistake and gave the full song legal form. But under Rahul Gandhis leadership, the Congress is once again treading the path of appeasement for the sake of its vote bank, Shah charged. The mistake of fragmenting Vande Mataram has happened once, and the nation has already suffered its consequences, he alleged. This is an appeal to the countrymen to unite and raise their voices against this appeasement by the Congress, he added. The CWC on Wednesday decided to abide by the 1937 resolution of its highest decision-making body on Vande Mataram, saying only two stanzas of the national song would be sung at all party events henceforth. BJP president Nitin Nabin has slammed the Congress alleging the opposition party has become the ew Muslim League for votes.

CISF detects Rs 68.53 lakh unaccounted cash at Delhi Airport

Delhi, Aug 20: In a significant detection at Indira Gandhi International Airport, Delhi, CISF personnel deployed at Random X-BIS, ASG Delhi, detected cash amounting to 68,53,500 from two passengers based on behavioural observation and subsequent CCTV analysis. Acting on suspicion, CISF personnel identified a passenger for detailed screening. During CCTV review, another passenger accompanying him was also identified. Both passengers were travelling to Guwahati and onward to Agartala. During detailed screening of their baggage, a total of 68.53 lakh in cash was detected from both passengers. The passengers, along with the detected cash, baggage and relevant travel documents, were handed over to the Income Tax officials for further necessary action. The detection once again highlights the vigilance, behavioural observation skills and alertness of CISF personnel in maintaining security at the nations busiest airport.

Tariq Karra questions US envoys J&K remark, says it has always been integral to India

Shah Faesals central deputation extended by two years till September 2028

New Delhi, Aug 20: The Centre has extended the central deputation tenure of IAS officer Shah Faesal, currently serving as Deputy Secretary in the Ministry of Culture, by another two years, according to an order issued by the Department of Personnel and Training (DoPT). The extension has been approved by the Appointments Committee of the Cabinet and will remain effective beyond September 18, 2026, up to September 18, 2028, or until further orders, whichever is earlier. Faesal, a 2010-batch IAS officer of the AGMUT cadre, has been on central deputation since September 19, 2022. He was posted as Deputy Secretary in the Ministry of Culture under the Central Staffing Scheme. The DoPT memorandum, dated August 19, 2026, said the extension was approved on the proposal of the Ministry of Culture. Faesal had joined the Indian Administrative Service in 2010 and served in Jammu and Kashmir before moving to the Centre on deputation.

J&K has always been integral to India: Tariq Karra on US envoys remarks

Srinagar, Aug 20 : Jammu and Kashmir Pradesh Congress Committee president Tariq Karra on Thursday rejected US Ambassador Sergio Gors remarks describing Jammu and Kashmir as an important part of India, saying the region has always been an integral part of the country and does not need to be told about its strategic importance. Reacting to Gors remarks, Karra said, I don't know why should he have said this. I mean Jammu and Kashmir has been integral part of India, is integral and it will remain integral. He said the significance being attached to Jammu and Kashmir by the US envoy reflected what he described as the failure of the present dispensation. What importance he is trying to give to Jammu and Kashmir, I think that is the failure of the present dispensation, Karra said. The Congress leader also criticised what he described as increasing third-party intervention in Indias affairs, saying the country had traditionally opposed such involvement after the 1971 war and the Shimla Agreement. India has never, especially after 1971, this Shimla Agreement, after that none of the countries have to have third-party intervention, he said. But it is only during this regime, BJP's regime, that we are seeing third-party interventions. Many decisions are being forced upon us, Karra added. He alleged that issues without international ramifications were also being subjected to external intervention. Many such things which have no international ramifications, like taxation and other things, are being imposed upon us. Today India, under such intervention, seems to be going back to the colonial style of functioning, he said. Karra said Jammu and Kashmir was strategically important because of its geographical location and its proximity to several countries. As far as the Congress party is concerned, for us, of course, Jammu and Kashmir is an important state in India because of the strategic position, geographical strategic position, he said. So we don't need to know this thing as if it is for the first time that we have been told that we are important. Yes, strategically we have always been important, he added. Referring to the regions geopolitical location, Karra said, We have many countries around us and a couple of them very hostile. He also cautioned against attempts to use Jammu and Kashmir as a pretext for pursuing broader foreign-policy objectives. If anyone has this thing in mind that they would fix their guns on our shoulders under different pretexts, that is not acceptable to us as far as our foreign policy is concerned, Karra said. Asked about Pakistan lodging an official complaint over Gors remarks, Karra said he did not have the mandate to comment on the matter as state Congress president. Well, that is their internal matter. As Congress president of a state, I don't have mandate for speaking on that, he said. However, he reiterated the Congress position on Jammu and Kashmir.I can say that Congress stand is stated that Jammu and Kashmir is an important place, yes, strategically, and it has remained integral part of India. It is integral part of India and it shall remain to be integral part of India, Karra said.

Coffee drinkers have less fat, more muscle: study

Srinagar, Aug 20: Regular coffee consumption was associated with lower body fat, greater muscle mass and differences in sex hormone levels in a Finnish study, suggesting that coffee may have effects on metabolism beyond its well-known ability to increase alertness. Researchers at the University of Oulu examined data from 2,264 people aged 46 who were part of the Northern Finland Birth Cohort 1966. They looked at participants usual coffee intake and compared it with measures of body composition, metabolic health, circulating metabolites and sex hormones. People who reported drinking more coffee generally had less total body fat and visceral fat, while also having greater skeletal muscle mass. Notably, these differences were observed even though participants with different levels of coffee consumption had similar body mass indexes. Higher coffee intake was also linked to lower concentrations of branched-chain amino acids in both men and women. Persistently elevated levels of these amino acids have previously been associated with insulin resistance and an increased risk of type 2 diabetes. The researchers also found differences in hormone profiles, particularly among men. Greater coffee consumption was associated with a more favorable glucose-insulin profile, higher total and bioavailable testosterone and higher levels of sex hormone-binding globulin (SHBG). At the same time, free testosterone and the free androgen index were lower. Among women, the hormonal associations were less extensive. Higher coffee intake was mainly linked to increased SHBG and lower measures of free androgens. Coffee is consumed by millions of people every day, yet we still know surprisingly little about how it relates to our metabolism and hormones, said Luca Verroest, lead author of the study and a doctoral researcher at the University of Oulu. What stood out in our findings was a distinct hormonal signature that didn't disappear even after we took into account BMI and lifestyle factors, with several of these associations differing between men and women, he added. The researchers said the hormonal changes could provide clues to previously observed links between coffee consumption and a lower risk of metabolic diseases, including type 2 diabetes. However, the study was observational and therefore cannot show that coffee itself caused the differences. The findings are particularly notable in Finland, one of the worlds highest coffee-consuming countries, where average annual consumption is about 11.8 kilograms per person. The study, titled Associations of habitual coffee intake with testosterone and cardiometabolic markers: the Northern Finland Birth Cohort 1966 study, was published in the European Journal of Nutrition. The researchers said further studies, including experimental and human intervention research, are needed to determine whether coffee directly causes the observed changes and which compounds may be responsible.

Pakistan summons US Charg dAffaires over Gor's remarks regarding Jammu and Kashmir

Islamabad, Aug 19: Pakistan on Wednesday summoned US Charg dAffaires Natalie Baker and lodged a strong demarche over remarks by US Ambassador to India Sergio Gor regarding Jammu and Kashmir during his visit to the union territory. In Srinagar, Gor told reporters on Wednesday that Jammu and Kashmir is an important part of India and an incredibly beautiful place. Gor, who took a 'shikara' ride at the famous Dal Lake in Srinagar, also said that the US will reconsider the advisories on travel to Jammu and Kashmir as the central government and Chief Minister Omar Abdullah have taken steps to make it a safer place. Hours after his remarks, Pakistan's Foreign Office summoned the US Charg dAffaires in Islamabad and lodged a strong demarche over the comments made by Gor, who is also the Trump administration's Special Envoy to South and Central Asia. Pakistan strongly condemned and categorically rejected the characterisation of Jammu and Kashmir as a 'part of India', the Foreign Office said in a statement. It was underscored that Jammu and Kashmir is an internationally recognised disputed territory, awaiting final disposition in accordance with the relevant UNSC resolutions and the aspirations of the Kashmiri people, the statement added. It was further highlighted that the irresponsible statement by the US ambassador negated the long-standing and well-documented position of the United States on the Jammu and Kashmir dispute, and also ran contrary to the US commitment to the supremacy of international law and the UN Charter, it said. While appreciating President Donald Trump's offer to mediate between India and Pakistan to resolve the Kashmir issue in the aftermath of the four-day conflict in May last year, the US side was urged to ensure that its public statements remain consistent with the disputed status of Jammu and Kashmir, the statement added.

US ambassador Sergio Gor lands in Leh after weather delays flight from Srinagar

Srinagar, Aug 20: US Ambassador to India Sergio Gor landed in Leh on Thursday after adverse weather conditions delayed his onward flight from Srinagar, officials and sources said. Gor arrived in Leh on a flight directly from Srinagar after remaining at Srinagar Airport for some time as weather conditions delayed the scheduled flight. Upon his arrival in Leh, the US envoy was escorted by a large security convoy as he proceeded from the airport. Gor is on his first visit to Jammu and Kashmir and Ladakh as part of his ongoing engagements in the region. His visit to Leh is part of his scheduled programme, sources said. The ambassador had earlier remained at Srinagar Airport as adverse weather conditions affected flight operations and delayed his onward journey to Leh. Gors visit to Jammu and Kashmir comes amid continued diplomatic engagement between India and the United States. During his stay in Srinagar, he met Jammu and Kashmir Chief Minister Omar Abdullah and held discussions on a range of issues. The US envoy had described his meeting with Omar as very good and said follow-up discussions would be held in New Delhi and Washington. Gor had also said Washington was hopeful of strengthening its engagement with Jammu and Kashmir, while describing the Union Territory as an important part of India and praising its natural beauty. His arrival in Leh marks the next leg of his visit to the region.

Body recovered from Nowshera river

Rajouri, Aug 20: An unidentified body was recovered from a river in the Nowshera area of Rajouri district on Thursday, officials said. An official said that locals engaged in contract-related work spotted the body floating in the river and informed the police. He said a police team along with personnel from the SDRF reached the spot and recovered the body from the river. The body has been taken into custody, while the identity of the deceased has not been ascertained, he said, adding that the body is in a decomposed condition, making identification difficult. Meanwhile, an investigation has been taken up and a probe has begun.(KNO)

Russian missile barrage kills at least 6 in Kyiv, injures 33

Kyiv, Aug 20: A Russian missile barrage overnight Thursday killed at least six people in Kyiv as explosions echoed across the capital throughout the night, local authorities said. At least 33 people were wounded in the attack, according to Ukraine's Emergency Service. The air raid alert remained active into the early morning hours Thursday. The strikes hit 12 locations across Kyiv's Darnytskyi, Sviatoshynskyi and Solomianskyi districts, damaging residential buildings, a medical facility and an educational institution. Emergency crews pulled people trapped under the rubble. Russia has intensified ballistic missile attacks on the capital to constrain Kyiv's air defence stocks. Kyiv has limited systems capable of intercepting ballistic threats, while supplies of missiles for its US-made Patriot air defence systems remain chronically constrained. US President Donald Trump had authorised Ukraine to obtain licenses to produce Patriot air-defence systems, but later reversed that decision. Ukraine, meanwhile, has intensified its own campaign of long-range strikes against weapons depots, military facilities and other strategic targets deep inside Russian territory, seeking to degrade Moscow's ability to sustain its attacks on Ukrainian cities. In Solomianskyi district, the top two floors of a nine-story residential building were destroyed and fires broke out on other floors. People were also trapped in two residential buildings and a school shelter.

District collectors in six border states, J-K and Ladakh empowered to grant citizenship

New Delhi, Aug 20: The Union home ministry on Wednesday authorised district collectors in Gujarat, Rajasthan, Punjab, West Bengal, Assam and Tripura (except tribal areas), and Union Territories of Jammu and Kashmir and Ladakh to grant naturalised citizenship to fit and proper applicants ordinarily residing in these regions. The government notified the Citizenship (Third Amendment) Rules 2026 on Wednesday, granting district collectors in these states and UTs the authority to process citizenship-seeking applications for egistration or naturalisation. . The district collectors in these states will replace the Empowered Committees and Designated Officers that previously held these powers. In the gazette notification, the Home Ministry has authorised district collectors in these areas to eceive, scrutinise, and dispose of such applications in accordance with the laid-down parameters. The new rules apply to citizenship-seeking applicants ordinarily residing in Gujarat, Rajasthan, Punjab, West Bengal, Assam, and Tripura, as well as the Union Territories of Jammu and Kashmir and Ladakh. In Assam and Tripura, the rules specifically exclude tribal areas. The new rules designate the district collector as the competent authority to receive requests for registration or naturalisation electronically. The government has directed that all applications currently pending with those committees or District Level Committees in the specified regions be immediately transferred to the relevant collector. Upon submission, the system will generate an automated acknowledgement. The collector will then verify all submitted documents and conduct any inquiries necessary to determine the applicant's suitability. The Collector shall verify the documents submitted by the applicant, along with the application, conduct such enquiry as he considers necessary for ascertaining the suitability of the applicant, administer the oath of allegiance as specified in the Second Schedule to the Act and satisfy himself regarding the eligibility of the applicant under section 6B, the notification said. If the collector is satisfied that an applicant is a fit and proper person, they are authorised to grant Indian citizenship directly. As part of the final steps, the collector must administer the oath of allegiance as prescribed by the Act. However, the new rules maintain strict requirements for applicants to appear in person. In case an applicant fails to appear in person to subscribe the application and take the oath of allegiance despite giving reasonable opportunities, the Collector shall reject the application, said the notified rules. The government has also rescinded previous orders except as respects things done or omitted to be done before such rescission.

PM Modi pays tribute to ex-pm Rajiv Gandhi on birth anniversary

New Delhi, Aug 20: Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Thursday paid homage to former prime minister Rajiv Gandhi on his birth anniversary. Gandhi was born on August 20, 1944 and died on May 21, 1991. On the occasion of his birth anniversary, paying homage to former Prime Minister of India, Shri Rajiv Gandhi, Modi said in a post on 'X'. Gandhi was the prime minister of India from October 31, 1984 to December 2, 1989.

Delhi: Unauthorised structures outside Pakistan High Commission removed

New Delhi, Aug 20: Authorities have removed structures and queue-management barriers erected outside of the Pakistan High Commission here in New Delhi, official sources said on Thursday. The structures, including queue liners installed near the visa section of the Pakistani commission, were located on a lane outside the compound's approved boundary and were removed as part of the action, they said. The development comes days after Pakistan removed security barricades and parking poles placed outside the Indian High Commission in Islamabad.

CM Yogi Adityanath invites Japanese firms to make UP their Second Industrial Home

Uttar Pradesh Chief Minister Yogi Adityanath on Wednesday invited Japanese companies to make the state their Second Industrial Home, offering a combination of a large young workforce, infrastructure, market and improving business environment. Addressing the inaugural session of the Uttar Pradesh-Japan Investment Meet 2026 in New Delhi, Adityanath said the partnership between India and Japan should go beyond setting up manufacturing units and focus on technology development, research and development, skill centres and global supply chains. Drawing a comparison between the two sides, the Chief Minister said Japan, the Land of the Rising Sun, brings decades of industrial experience, precision, quality, technology and manufacturing excellence, while Uttar Pradesh, the Land of the Suryavansh, offers scale, skills, a large market, infrastructure and a young workforce. India-Japan partnership is a partnership of shared growth, shared technology and shared prosperity, Adityanath said, adding that Uttar Pradesh now accounts for 55 per cent of the countrys mobile phone production and nearly 60 per cent of electronic component manufacturing. He said the state had emerged among Indias top three economies and was moving towards its goal of becoming a $1-trillion economy. Over the past nine years, he said, Uttar Pradesh had tripled its budget, gross state domestic product and per capita income, while womens workforce participation had increased more than threefold. CM Yogi highlighted Uttar Pradeshs expanding industrial and logistics infrastructure, including 17 airports, metro networks in seven cities, two Dedicated Freight Corridors, industrial and logistics corridors and Indias first inland waterway. The state, he said, has more than 75,000 acres of dedicated industrial land, 27 industrial manufacturing and logistics clusters and 36 sector-specific policies covering areas such as IT, green hydrogen, solar power, food processing and defence manufacturing. He said Uttar Pradesh had also emerged as a hub for artificial intelligence, semiconductors, data centres, robotics, electric vehicles, agritech, fintech, deeptech and defence manufacturing. The Chief Minister said a Japan City was being developed near Noida International Airport, with semiconductor, electronics and data-centre clusters coming up in the vicinity. He also highlighted the states Plug and Play Industrial Sheds scheme and the development of Noida International Airport as a cargo, maintenance, repair and overhaul (MRO) and logistics hub. CM Yogi said the states Nivesh 3.0 platform had brought various government services under a single system, allowing investors to track applications online and speeding up approvals. Calling quality and long-term commitment the major strengths of Japanese industry, CM Yogi said Uttar Pradesh wanted to create a long-term Japanese industrial ecosystem rather than attract individual factories. We want Japanese companies to not only set up factories here, but also build technology, R&D, skill centres and global supply chains, he said. He proposed combining Japanese manufacturing practices such as Kaizen, 5S, lean manufacturing, robotics, automation and precision engineering with the states young workforce to create a new skills ecosystem. The Chief Minister also highlighted cooperation with Japans Yamanashi Prefecture in areas including green hydrogen, renewable energy and clean technology. He said two Green Hydrogen Centres of Excellence were being established through IIT Kanpur, HBTU Kanpur, IIT-BHU and MMMUT Gorakhpur, with 50 crore sanctioned for each centre. He said the objective was to take the partnership beyond research towards pilot projects, commercial applications and production. He said the proposed tripartite MoU between JETRO, Invest UP and CII would provide a stronger institutional framework for attracting Japanese investment and strengthening business-to-business and government-to-business partnerships. The next chapter of this partnership would take shape in factories, be born through innovation in laboratories, develop talent in universities, and reach the world through global supply chains, CM Yogi said. The event was attended by Union Ministers Ashwini Vaishnaw and Shivraj Singh Chouhan, Yamanashi Governor Kotaro Nagasaki, Uttar Pradesh Finance Minister Suresh Kumar Khanna and other state ministers, JETRO officials and industry leaders.

76 PPP projects in pipeline as J&K accelerates investment push

Chief Secretary, Atal Dulloo, today chaired a high-level review meeting to assess the progress, strategic interventions and future roadmap of the Centre for Innovation and Transformation in Governance (CITaG), J&K, with particular focus on policy formulation, knowledge outputs, public-private partnership (PPP) projects and initiatives aimed at accelerating socio-economic development across the Union Territory. The meeting was attended by Principal Secretary, Culture; Commissioner Secretary, Planning; Chairman, Bureau of Public Enterprises; Commissioner Secretary, Science & Technology; Secretary, Transport; Managing Director, J&K Power Development Corporation (PDC); Managing Director, J&K Tourism Development Corporation (JKTDC); Managing Director, J&K Housing Board; Director, Skill Development Department; Director, Employment; CEO, CITaG and representatives of other concerned departments. During the meeting, the Chief Secretary emphasised the need for establishing a dedicated Special Purpose Vehicle (SPV) to comprehensively oversee PPP projects, including their conceptualisation, development, progress, execution and outcomes on the ground. He further directed that a dedicated digital portal for PPP projects in the pipeline be developed to facilitate real-time monitoring and enable senior officers to maintain close oversight over their progress. He observed that such a mechanism would ensure effective follow-up, identify bottlenecks at an early stage and facilitate timely execution of projects. The Chief Secretary called upon departments, particularly the Housing & Urban Development Department (H&UDD), Tourism, Science & Technology and Power, to undertake regular review and follow-up of their projects and policy initiatives so that these are translated into tangible outcomes and grounded expeditiously. Highlighting the potential of J&Ks abundant water resources, he underscored the importance of small hydropower projects and called for making optimum use of this potential as part of the UTs broader energy development strategy. The Chief Secretary also advised CITaG to explore an innovative education framework focused on identifying and addressing individual learning gaps among students. He suggested that well-researched and evidence-based interventions may be developed to strengthen students motivation, confidence and capabilities, particularly in areas where they face learning or communication challenges, drawing upon successful practices followed in developed States and countries across the world. Giving a detailed presentation, CEO, CITaG, Dr Sandeep apprised the meeting of the progress achieved under its institutional partnership with different government Departments of J&K. It was highlighted that against the original Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) target of 28 deliverables by August 2026, CITaG has tracked 100 knowledge-output projects, reflecting a significant expansion in the scope of policy research, strategic advisory and institutional support being provided to the UT administration. The milestone MoU between the Planning, Development & Monitoring Department and IIM Jammu has also been extended for a further two years, providing a longer-term institutional framework for continued policy innovation and governance transformation. The current knowledge-output portfolio includes 21 completed deliverables, covering major interventions such as the J&K Road Safety Plan 2026, J&K Electric Vehicle Policy 2026, J&K Circular Economy Policy 2026, Compressed Bio-Gas Policy, Urban and Rural Mobility Plans and the PPP Project Lifecycle Tracker, which have been submitted and adopted by the concerned departments. Moreover another 20 strategic frameworks have been submitted and are under review, covering areas such as attracting FDI, J&K GCC Policy 2026, Agri-Startup Policy, Tourist Safety Policy Framework and sector-specific viability analyses. Seven further deliverables, including the J&K Youth Policy 2026, HR Management & Manpower Auditing, Capital Adequacy and Leveraging of Assets for J&K Bank and blueprints for Model Industrial Estates, are scheduled for submission during August 2026. It 2as also revealed that sixteen initiatives are presently under active development, including the roadmap for doubling the GSDP economy, Ease of Doing Business benchmarking and Business Process Re-engineering of the J&K Single Window System. Another 36 future deliverables have been structured for implementation through 2027, focusing on emerging areas such as blockchain and artificial intelligence in governance, digitisation of data and models for Panchayat-level self-sustainability. The meeting was also apprised of CITaGs project development and transactional support for a portfolio of 76 PPP projects spanning tourism, real estate, renewable energy, infrastructure and industrial development. Of these, 27 projects are currently active, including Operations & Maintenance of Jammu Haat, a Solar Park at IUST Awantipora, mass housing townships at Chowadhi and Birpur, commercial redevelopment of Karan Nagar and Pantha Chowk, and eco-tourism initiatives at Katra, Yousmarg, Kokernag and Doodhpathri. Another 10 projects are at the development stage, with site finalisation and preparatory work underway for Skill Development Centres, Residential Coaching Academies, a Skill University and biotech-based Aroma Valley clusters across Jammu and Kashmir. The meeting also reviewed several major initiatives being pursued to accelerate investment, employment and economic growth in Jammu and Kashmir. It was divulged that the J&K GCC Summit 2026 is proposed to be held on October 910, 2026, bringing together global stakeholders with the objective of attracting investment and creating new employment opportunities for the youth of Jammu and Kashmir. Funding for the Urja Sambhav Energy Summit has also been approved, with the flagship clean-energy investor summit tentatively scheduled for December 2026. The Housing & Urban Development Department, in coordination with CITaG, is also working towards organising a Real Estate Conclave to facilitate private investment and accelerate the monetisation and development of identified premium real-estate assets and opportunities in Jammu and Kashmir. The Chief Secretary directed all concerned departments and agencies to maintain close coordination with CITaG and ensure that policy recommendations and project proposals move swiftly from the stage of conceptualisation to implementation, with measurable outcomes and clear accountability at every stage.

Spring silk cocoon auction begins in Srinagar with focus on fair prices for growers

The Spring Silk Cocoon Auction Market for Kashmir commenced today at the Sericulture Complex, Srinagar. The market was inaugurated by Ajaz Ahmad Bhat, Director Sericulture, in the presence of departmental officers, cocoon growers from various districts of Kashmir Division and buyers from within and outside the Union Territory. The Cocoon Auction Market has been organised with the objective of ensuring fair and remunerative prices to cocoon growers through a transparent and competitive bidding process. The initiative is part of the Departments continued efforts to strengthen the sericulture sector and improve the economic well-being of silkworm rearers. Speaking on the occasion, the Director reiterated the Departments commitment to providing adequate market facilities to cocoon growers and ensuring better returns for their produce. He also highlighted the focus on expanding the infrastructure base by establishing more Silkworm Reeling Units across J&K to promote local silk production. Our aim is to ensure that the cocoon produce generated in Jammu & Kashmir is largely consumed within the Union Territory itself. This will not only boost the local silk industry but also help our farmers realize better returns for their produce, Bhat said. The auction market is expected to contribute significantly towards enhancing the income of cocoon growers by facilitating direct interaction between sellers and buyers, promoting competitive bidding and ensuring transparent price discovery. The Department has put in place arrangements for the smooth conduct of the auction, including proper space allocation, weighing and quality assessment facilities. Cocoon growers and buyers actively participated in the auction process. The growers appreciated the arrangements and transparent mechanism adopted by the Department, expressing hope for better returns in view of the improved quality and quantity of cocoons produced across Kashmir Division. The buyers also appreciated the quality of cocoons available at the market, noting improvement in both quality and quantum compared to previous years. The successful commencement of the Cocoon Auction Market marks another significant step towards empowering cocoon growers, strengthening the local silk value chain and revitalizing the silk industry in Jammu & Kashmir.

J&K Bank organises Mission YUVA review-cum-felicitation meet

J&K Bank organised a review-cum-felicitation meet at its divisional office Kashmir to recognise outstanding performers and review the progress achieved under Mission YUVA across the Kashmir Division. Director Employment and Director, Mission YUVA, Harvinder Singh (IAS) chaired the meeting in the presence of Banks Divisional Head (Kashmir) Arshad Qadri, Zonal Heads of Anantnag, Baramulla, Budgam, Pulwama and Srinagar, Cluster Heads of Srinagar, Kulgam and Anantnag-II besides officials from various branches across the Division also attended the meeting. The review focused on sustaining the momentum through stronger field-level coordination, faster processing of eligible cases and continued support to beneficiaries. During the event, notable performers from across the Kashmir Division were felicitated for their outstanding contribution to the implementation of Mission YUVA. Appreciating the Banks contribution as the principal financial partner in Mission YUVA, Mission Director Harvinder Singh acknowledged the coordinated efforts of the Banks divisional, zonal, cluster and branch-level functionaries in achieving significant milestones under the programme. Mission YUVA seeks to translate the aspirations of our youth into sustainable enterprises and meaningful livelihoods. As its principal financial partner, J&K Bank has played a vital role in taking the programme to the grassroots through timely financial support, sustained handholding, and close coordination with the implementing agencies. The commitment demonstrated by the Banks field teams gives us confidence that Mission YUVA will continue to generate enduring employment opportunities across Jammu and Kashmir, he added. Speaking on the occasion, Divisional Head (Kashmir) Arshad Qadri expressed gratitude to the Mission Director for chairing the meeting and guiding the Banks functionaries. He said, For J&K Bank, Mission YUVA is not merely a financing programme but an opportunity to nurture a new generation of confident and capable entrepreneurs. Our teams across Kashmir remain fully committed to supporting eligible youth from identification and appraisal to disbursement and post-finance handholding, so that their ideas are transformed into sustainable ventures. We value the recognition accorded to our achievers today. It will further motivate our teams to deepen outreach, improve conversions, and contribute meaningfully towards the employment and entrepreneurial objectives of the programme, he added. The meeting concluded with a vote of thanks presented by Zonal Head Srinagar.

KUs E-YUVA centre holds workshop on transforming scientific ideas into successful ventures

The BIRAC E-YUVA Centre at the Department of Biotechnology, University of Kashmir (KU), organised a one-day national workshop on Beyond Laboratory: Transforming Scientific Ideas into Successful Ventures at the Main Campus. The workshop aimed to familiarise college students, graduates and aspiring innovators with the fundamentals of scientific entrepreneurship and equip them with the knowledge and skills required to translate laboratory research and scientific ideas into viable, market-oriented ventures. Speaking at the inaugural session, Vice-Chancellor, KU, Prof. Nilofer Khan, emphasized the importance of creating stronger linkages between scientific research, innovation and entrepreneurship. Scientific knowledge must not remain confined to laboratories; it should be translated into solutions that address real-world challenges. By nurturing an entrepreneurial mindset among our young students and researchers, we can create an ecosystem where innovative ideas are turned into meaningful ventures and contribute to the development of society, she said. Coordinator, BIRAC E-YUVA Centre, KU, Dr. Asif Amin, provided an overview of the Centre and its initiatives for promoting student-led innovation and entrepreneurship in biotechnology and life sciences. Earlier, Head, Department of Biotechnology, KU, Prof. Ehtisham-ul-Haq, in his welcome address, emphasised the need to expose students and young graduates to opportunities beyond conventional academic and research pathways. The workshop featured four technical sessions focusing on the entrepreneurship ecosystem, student-to-startup transition, life-science enterprise development, vision and business-model development, and the skills required to take scientific ideas beyond the laboratory. The sessions were led by Dr. Bhavisha Wala, Lead, Entrepreneurship Advancement Programs, C-CAMP, Bengaluru, and Dr. Nadeem Shabir, Faculty and Innovator at SKUAST-K. The interactive sessions provided participants with practical exposure to innovation and entrepreneurship, enabling them to understand the process of developing scientific ideas into solutions with social and commercial potential. The E-YUVA Centre was established with the support of the Biotechnology Industry Research Assistance Council (BIRAC) and commenced its operations in 2025 with the objective of nurturing young innovators, encouraging problem-solving and translating scientific ideas into viable solutions. It currently hosts five E-YUVA fellowship teams comprising 19 fellows from various colleges and universities across Kashmir and Ladakh, providing them mentorship, research support and exposure to the wider innovation ecosystem. The proceedings were conducted by Dr. Asif Amin, while the vote of thanks was delivered by Chief Coordinator, BIRAC E-YUVA Centre, KU, Prof. Mahboob-ul-Hussain.

Rahul Sahai hails religious tourism push

Chairman, Indian Chamber of Commerce (ICC), Jammu chapter Rahul Sahai on Wednesday, while lauding religious tourism push by Lieutenant Governor Manoj Sinha, batted for Nano Global Capability Centres (Nano GCCs) and MSME-led growth in Jammu and Kashmir. He emphasised that better infrastructure, easier finance, digital adoption, faster approvals and stronger market linkages could enable J&Ks MSMEs to play a much larger role in Indias growth story. Sahai was addressing the illustrious gathering during the second edition of ICC MSME Conclave 2026, organised by the Indian Chamber of Commerce (ICC), Jammu Chapter, on the theme Shaping the future of MSMEs, Religious Tourism, Nano GCCs and Technology-Led Growth at Regale Park, Jammu on Wednesday evening. Lieutenant Governor Manoj Sinha delivered keynote address at the conclave which was also attended by Vikramjit Singh, Commissioner Secretary, Industries and Commerce, J&K; Vikramaditya Singh, Trustee, Dharmarth Trust; Rakesh Sinha, CEO, Quintes Global; and Debmalya Banerjee, Regional Director, ICC, besides senior government officials, industry leaders, representatives of financial institutions, trade and industry associations and other distinguished guests. Welcoming the gathering, Rahul Sahai expressed heartfelt gratitude to LG Sinha for attending the conclave. Sahai said that under the LGs leadership, Jammu and Kashmir witnessed remarkable progress in peace, infrastructure, tourism, industrial development and religious tourism, creating renewed confidence among entrepreneurs, investors and citizens. He particularly appreciated the transformation taking place in religious and pilgrimage tourism. Sahai said, Jammu has always been known as the City of Temples, but the initiatives undertaken in recent years have established this identity in its true sense. He highlighted the development of infrastructure for the Tawi Aarti, saying that it provided Jammu with a new spiritual and cultural attraction and was gradually emerging on the lines of the famous Ganga Aartis of Varanasi and Haridwar. He also referred to the growing popularity of the Aarti at Raghunath Ji temple, which was adding vibrancy to the spiritual atmosphere of Jammus old city. Sahai also appreciated the exceptional work undertaken for the Shri Amarnath Ji Yatra, particularly improved infrastructure, connectivity, healthcare, sanitation, security and coordinated arrangements for devotees. He said the proposed museum at Katra would further enrich the pilgrim experience by showcasing the spiritual, cultural and historical heritage of the region. Referring to Jammus enormous pilgrimage potential, he highlighted Shri Mata Vaishno Devi Ji, Shiv Khori, Shri Raghunath Ji Temple, Bawe Wali Mata, Sudh Mahadev, Mantalai, Purmandal-Utterbehni, Machail Mata and Sukrala Mata, among several sacred destinations. He advocated stronger infrastructure and integrated pilgrimage circuits to position Jammu among Indias foremost religious-tourism destinations. Sahai stressed that religious tourism was also a major economic activity, supporting thousands of MSMEs including hotels, restaurants, transporters, tour operators, traders, artisans and local service providers. He said efforts should be made to encourage pilgrims to extend their stay and experience Jammus temples, heritage, culture, cuisine and natural beauty. He also appreciated the revival of religious and spiritual activities in Kashmir, including the successful organisation of the Mata Kheer Bhawani Mela, improved arrangements at Shankaracharya temple and Zeashta Devi Temple, and revival of the historic Sharda Temple at Teetwal. Sahai said the renewed celebration of traditional pujas, festivals and yatras at ancient temples across the Valley was helping preserve Kashmirs spiritual heritage while strengthening peace, cultural harmony and religious tourism. Thanking the Lieutenant Governor for giving religious tourism a new direction, Sahai requested the entire gathering to give a standing ovation to him (LG Sinha) for his remarkable contribution towards the development and promotion of religious tourism in Jammu and Kashmir. Turning to the economic agenda of the conclave, Sahai said MSMEs were the backbone of the economy, creating employment, encouraging entrepreneurship and ensuring inclusive development. Highlighting a new opportunity for J&K, Sahai said Nano Global Capability Centres (Nano GCCs) could create opportunities for educated youth, technology professionals and young entrepreneurs. He said Jammu possessed the talent and potential to emerge as a destination for technology-enabled services, innovation and global business operations. The conclave featured a dedicated session titled Jammu: The Gateway of Faith Unlocking the Potential of Religious & Pilgrimage Tourism, focusing on integrated pilgrimage circuits, infrastructure and connectivity, AI and digital transformation, spiritual and heritage tourism, and encouraging pilgrims to stay longer in Jammu. Another major session, Accelerating Industrial & MSME Growth in J&K: Infrastructure, Finance & Investment, Innovation & Exports, deliberated on logistics and warehousing, green manufacturing, private industrial estates, digital finance, institutional credit, TReDS, Ease of Doing Business, technology-led MSME growth, exports and international value chains. The sessions brought together experts and representatives from Industries and Commerce, Railways, ACTL, J&K Bank, SIDBI, ECGC, Kotak Mahindra Bank, academia, religious and cultural organisations and the tourism sector, providing a platform for practical recommendations and meaningful collaborations. Concluding his welcome address, Rahul Sahai reaffirmed that ICC Jammu remained committed to acting as a bridge between the government, industry, financial institutions and entrepreneurs and called for collective efforts to create an ecosystem where J&Ks MSMEs could grow, innovate and compete globally.

MSMEs are true builders of Indias economic resilience: LG Manoj Sinha

The Lieutenant Governor, Manoj Sinha attended the 2nd edition of the ICC MSME Conclave 2026 in Jammu earlier today. He delivered a keynote address at the Conclave, highlighting the transformative role of Micro, Small and Medium Enterprises (MSMEs), the rise of Nano Global Capability Centres (GCCs), and the centrality of technology-led growth in shaping Indias economic future. The Lieutenant Governor underscored that Indias economy stands at a defining crossroads where agility, innovation, and technology are rewriting the rules of enterprise. He said the theme of the conclave- Shaping the Future of MSMEs, Nano GCCs & Technology-led Growth - is timely and visionary. The Lieutenant Governor reaffirmed that MSMEs are powering employment, driving exports, and nurturing entrepreneurship across the nation. MSMEs are contributing 31.3% to GDP and nearly half of Indias exports. They are also the second-largest provider of employment after agriculture. MSMEs are the heartbeat of our economy and the true builders of Indias resilience and self-reliance, the Lieutenant Governor stated. The Lieutenant Governor highlighted the emergence of Nano Global Capability Centres (GCCs), where small, specialized teams deliver high-value capabilities once reserved for large corporations. I strongly believe that this is democratization in its truest sense. It really means that a mid-sized enterprise in a tier-two city can now build, own, and scale world-class technology capability on its own terms. And behind all of this is technology as the very engine of growth. Artificial intelligence, automation and digital infrastructure are compressing timelines, lowering barriers, and opening doors that were once closed to all but the largest players. This gives cities like Jammu, Srinagar a new sense of confidence and I believe todays conclave is more than just fire-side chat. It is a call to action. A call to reimagine what our MSMEs can become and to embrace the nano GCC model as a genuine pathway to global relevance. It is a call to place technology at the very heart of Indias next chapter of inclusive growth, the Lieutenant Governor said. He said the Union Territory of Jammu Kashmir is a vibrant example of all-round transformation in the country. Since 2021, investments worth Rs. 5,824 crore in FY 202526 alone marked a 13-fold increase compared to pre-2021 averages. Over four years, investments exceeded those made in the preceding 70 years. Start-ups rose from 69 in 2020 to 1,305 in FY 202526, while Udyam registrations surged from 24,000 in 2021 to 6.16 lakh this year. The Lieutenant Governor also outlined four pressing challenges for MSMEs including affordable credit, technology upgradation, and supply-chain integration to ensure market access and brand-building for small entrepreneurs. He also called for administrative reforms, wherever required to eliminate the red tape to create an enabling environment. The Lieutenant Governor called for a forward-looking roadmap with sustainable trade that will encourage MSMEs to adopt green technologies and renewable energy. He also stressed on formalisation of micro industries to Expand institutional credit access. The Lieutenant Governor asked the participants to focus on educationindustry partnerships and establishment of incubation centres and design studios within industrial clusters. The fourth objective is to strengthen export competitiveness, and I believe that this opportunity is especially significant for Jammu Kashmir. Our climate and distinctive cultural and traditional production chains provide us with an exceptional position in the export sector. Therefore, initiatives such as One District, One Export Hub need to be promoted on a large scale, the Lieutenant Governor said. The Lieutenant Governor emphasized that Indias economic progress cannot be complete without acknowledging the perseverance and entrepreneurial spirit of MSMEs. Our bright future rests upon the aspirations of small and medium businesses. Let us build an ecosystem that is robust, globally competitive, environmentally conscious, and inclusive. On the strong foundation of MSMEs, we must develop an economy, in which every region, every section, and every talent in Jammu Kashmir finds opportunities to advance, and where young people do not merely seek jobs but create employment, he said. The Lieutenant Governor also spoke on the challenges that the country is facing today. He called upon the industry leaders and all the key stakeholders to make their significant contribution in building a terror-free, corruption-free, merit based and prosperous society. There is a lot of discussion in the country regarding temple offerings. A respected member of Shri Mata Vaishno Devi Shrine Board suggested in a meeting that the manual counting process should be stopped. So, two Cash Recycler Machines (CRM) have been installed there, and the remaining CRMs will be installed in 15 days. The human interface itself has been eliminated. No employee of the Shrine Board or the bank will have any direct involvement in it, he said.

Sajad Lone questions political handling of local issues

Peoples Conference chairman and Member Legislative Assembly (MLA) Handwara Sajad Gani Lone Wednesday raised questions the manner in which local issues are being raised at higher forums. He said that matters falling within the jurisdiction of an MLA should not be taken to Parliament merely for political publicity. Lone also rejected rumours that he had boycotted the Independence Day celebrations on August 15. My absence was due to personal work and had nothing to do with any boycott, he said. Lone was speaking to reporters after inaugurating a 7-bed Dialysis Centre at Associated District Hospital GMC Handwara. PC Chief said that this facility will provide significant relief to kidney patients from Handwara and adjoining areas, who earlier had to travel to Srinagar for regular treatment. The need for a dialysis facility was earlier discussed with the former Deputy Commissioner Kupwara eight months ago. Around Rs 30 to Rs 40 lakh was provided through the district administration, while ` 32 lakh was contributed from his Constituency Development Fund (CDF) for the said project, he said. Lone flagged the shortage of trained manpower at GMC Handwara, saying that posts for dialysis technicians had not yet been formally created and doctors were also not available. I urge health authorities to address the staffing issue immediately because patients should not suffer because of administrative delays, he added. Lone also demanded modern diagnostic and cardiac facilities at GMC Handwara. The hospital still lacks Cath Lab and an MRI machine due to which patients from across the district suffer badly. Cath Lab would help reduce referrals for cardiac procedures and enable patients to receive treatment closer to home, he said. On the development of GMC Handwara, Lone expressed concern over delays, saying the Central Government had sanctioned more than Rs 375 crore for the project over a decade ago, but the funds had not been utilised as expected. Lone attributed the slow progress to bureaucratic delays and political issues, particularly concerning land allocation and basic infrastructure. The MLA also raised concerns over the online OPD ticketing system, saying it was creating difficulties for rural residents, particularly those unfamiliar with digital services. He said he would take up the issue with hospital authorities. On political criticism and corruption allegations, Lone said independent investigations by agencies such as the CBI and ACB should be allowed to take their course. He questioned the use of public issues for political publicity and urged political representatives to focus on resolving problems within their respective jurisdictions. Lone called for a more serious approach to governance and urged the authorities to complete pending projects and fill critical staff vacancies at GMC Handwara to ensure that the available infrastructure benefits the people.

NC normalising BJPs post-Aug 5 agenda, diluting Article 370: Ruhullah

Srinagar Lok Sabha member and senior National Conference leader Aga Ruhullah Mehdi has accused his own party of deviating from its stated position on Jammu and Kashmir and alleged that its recent protest in New Delhi demanding restoration of statehood was an attempt to dilute the larger issue of restoration of Article 370 and constitutional guarantees. As per KNS, Ruhullah said political parties in Jammu and Kashmir should be judged by their manifestos, ideology and stated policies rather than by individual statements. There is no need to listen to me or anyone else. People can judge themselves. Look at the manifesto, ideology and policy, he said. Ruhullah said his recent seminar in Delhi on the restoration of Article 370 and constitutional rights had received support from several opposition parties, including the Congress, Samajwadi Party, DMK, RJD and CPI(M), besides independent MPs. He described the event as a significant development, saying it was possibly the first time that people from Jammu and Kashmir had gone to Delhi to speak directly about the region's constitutional status and rights. People of Jammu and Kashmir went to Delhi and talked about Jammu and Kashmir, its constitutional rights, status and situation. This has never happened before, he said. Ruhullah said the venue, which had a capacity of around 250 people, saw more attendees than its capacity, with people from Jammu, Kashmir, Rajouri and Punjab participating. According to him, MPs from several political parties spoke against the abrogation of Article 370 and supported restoration of constitutional protections for Jammu and Kashmir. He said the Congress, DMK, Samajwadi Party, RJD and CPI(M) representatives, among others, supported the demand, with some arguing that restoration of statehood alone would not address the issue. Statehood is not the solution to the problem. The status of Jammu and Kashmir should be restored as per the wishes of the people and as per the constitutional guarantees and protections, he quoted the participating leaders as saying. Ruhullah said the response demonstrated that there was political space in New Delhi to discuss Article 370 and constitutional protections. I proved that it can be talked about in Delhi. People are ready to listen to it. They are also ready to speak for you and support you on constitutional rights and protections, he said, calling for the creation of a common vocabulary around the issue. The Srinagar MP also criticised National Conference leaders and members who attended the party's Jantar Mantar protest but later claimed they had gone there under the impression that it was his seminar. They are making fun of themselves. It is an insult for the members who went there, he said. Ruhullah said he had invited Chief Minister Omar Abdullah, National Conference MPs and colleagues, as well as BJP MPs from Jammu, to his Delhi programme. He alleged that the Chief Minister and other party members did not respond to his invitation. I wrote that this is the collective work of all of us. This is our responsibility. We should do this work, he said. Ruhullah alleged that after receiving his letter about the August 5 programme, the National Conference decided to hold its own protest in Parliament demanding statehood. He claimed there had been no earlier announcement of such a programme and alleged that the move was intended to dilute the focus of his event on Article 370 and constitutional rights. He said the party's position should be assessed against its own manifestos and historical political position. What did the National Conference say before the election? I am working on that manifesto. The party is not doing it. On the contrary, it is deviating, Ruhullah said. He argued that restoration of Article 370 and constitutional guarantees necessarily encompassed the issue of statehood. When we talk about Article 370 or restoration of constitutional guarantees, where is statehood outside that? That is included. It is automatically included, he said. Ruhullah alleged that limiting the political demand to statehood would amount to accepting a narrower agenda than what the party had promised voters. You are becoming a beggar on the table yourself. You are leaving your dignity on the table, he said. The NC leader also sharply criticised the party's Jantar Mantar protest, questioning its size and political seriousness. For the sake of argument, I believe for two minutes that they went to ask for statehood. They should not have gone. But if they claim they went to do the right thing, where was their cadre? he asked. Ruhullah said the National Conference, which he described as the biggest cadre-based party in Jammu and Kashmir, should have been able to mobilise a much larger number of supporters for an issue as important as statehood. He contrasted the protest with student-led demonstrations, saying young protesters had demonstrated greater persistence and mobilisation in pursuing their demands. Seriousness, dedication and conviction means you sit there until you convince them, he said. Ruhullah also criticised what he described as the party's focus on optics, referring to the participation of senior leaders in an auto-rickshaw during their Delhi visit. Someone did me a favour. For the first time in their life, they got into an auto. That optics came out, he said sarcastically. He alleged that the statehood protest was organised to ease political pressure on the party over the question of restoration of Article 370. There was immense pressure in Kashmir why are you not fighting for your rights? To save their credibility, by giving the name of statehood, they went there to create an optics so that the pressure gets over, he alleged. Ruhullah said the lack of mobilisation at the Jantar Mantar protest was particularly significant because the National Conference currently heads the elected government in Jammu and Kashmir and has a chief minister, ministers and legislators. He contrasted the turnout with party gatherings where, he alleged, thousands of people could be mobilised for political or organisational purposes. Where was their cadre for this work? Why were there only 100-150 people there? he asked. Ruhullah said he himself had been able to mobilise significantly more people for a programme marking the anniversary of the abrogation of Article 370. He also rejected suggestions that raising the issue of Article 370 amounted to indiscipline within the National Conference. He said the party's ideology, manifesto and political resolutions should be the benchmark for determining whether a leader was acting within party discipline. Whoever is working on that manifesto and ideology is working in the hands of the party. Whoever is deviating from it, diluting that manifesto, is working against the manifesto, ideology and discipline of the party, he said. Ruhullah further alleged that the National Conference was moving towards normalising the political position that the BJP had sought to establish after the 2019 abrogation of Article 370. The thing that the BJP should normalise post-abrogation of Article 370, unfortunately the National Conference is normalising the same thing, he said. He claimed that the political objective was increasingly being restricted to statehood, which he said he would not accept. I will not walk on that road, Ruhullah said. On whether he believed statehood and constitutional protections could eventually be restored, Ruhullah pointed to past political movements and public campaigns as examples of how sustained pressure could produce results. Students have shown you that if you believe in your rights, if you work with conviction, courage and sincerity, you can achieve it, he said. He also cited farmers' protests as an example of sustained mobilisation leading to policy change, arguing that political demands could be achieved when pursued with determination. Ruhullah said the people of Jammu and Kashmir should not lose faith in their constitutional demands merely because restoration had not yet taken place. He maintained that the issue required sustained political advocacy, public mobilisation and efforts to build support across India.

NC govt failed to deliver, BJP to safeguard peoples interests: Sat Sharma

J&K Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) president and Rajya Sabha MP Sat Sharma on Wednesday, while accusing the National Conference government of having failed in addressing the day-to-day concerns of the people, asserted that the BJP would safeguard the interests of aggrieved sections of society. Sat Sharma was interacting with the deputations of people during his visit to the public grievance camp organised at the BJP headquarters, Trikuta Nagar, Jammu. BJP MLA Vikram Randhawa was listening to the public grievances. Sat Sharma, during his visit, assured the visiting deputations that the BJP remained fully committed to safeguarding the interests of every section of society. He said that while the present NC government failed to address the day-to-day concerns of the people, BJP would continue to serve as the most accessible platform for the common citizens, ensuring that their genuine issues were taken up before the concerned authorities without delay. J&K BJP Swachhta Abhiyan Department convenor Dil Bahadur Singh Jamwal, Department co-convenor T K Sharma, and Jammu district convenor S K Zalpuri coordinated the proceedings of the grievance camp. Among the prominent issues raised were the demand for NOCs and ownership rights by a deputation from Gandhi Nagar; joining letters of selected outstanding sportspersons under SRO-12; construction of a deep drain in Sector-2 Gangyal Garden and acute water scarcity in Sarwal, Gorkha Mohalla Last Morh, Meenia Mohalla Trikuta Nagar Extension and Main Road Digiana. Residents from Sector-2 Gangyal, Gandhi Nagar and Sarwal sought the construction of lanes and drains, while an individual requested the release of one year's pending vehicle rent from the SE Hydraulics Department. A student sought assistance regarding admission to Government Women College, Gandhi Nagar and a woman from Qasim Nagar requested immediate police intervention in an alleged molestation case. Sat Sharma, speaking on the occasion, said that BJP always believed that public service was the highest responsibility of a political organisation. While the NC government was busy making excuses and indulging in political theatrics, BJP leaders remained among the people, listening to their problems and ensuring that every genuine grievance reached the appropriate authorities, he maintained. We will continue to stand firmly with the people until their issues are resolved, he said. Vikram Randhawa said that the grievance camp reflected BJP's culture of accountability and accessibility. He said that every complaint received would be vigorously pursued with the concerned departments. He said that the people of Jammu deserved responsive governance, not administrative indifference. He added that the BJP would continue to act as the voice of the common man and ensure that public welfare remained the top priority. Dil Bahadur Singh Jamwal said that the overwhelming public participation demonstrated the people's trust in BJP's working style. He assured that all developmental and civic issues would be systematically taken up with the concerned departments. T K Sharma reiterated that the party remained committed to ensuring timely redressal of genuine public grievances through continuous follow-up.

Altaf Bukhari welcomes new entrants into Apni party fold

Several prominent political and social activists from the Zakura area on the outskirts of Srinagar Wednesday joined the Apni Party in the presence of party President Syed Mohammad Altaf Bukhari. They joined the party during a meeting with the party president and other senior leaders in Zakura. Bukhari warmly welcomed the new entrants into the party fold, said a press release. Among the prominent new entrants were NC senior workers Dr Owais Ahmed Bhat and Abdul Rehman Mir, both hailing from Syed Colony in Zakura. Meanwhile, during his visit to Zakura, Syed Mohammad Altaf Bukhari, accompanied by senior party leaders, paid obeisance at the revered shrine of Sufi saint Hazrat Lal Baba Sahab Reshi. On the occasion, they prayed for peace, prosperity and stability in Jammu and Kashmir. The party leaders present on the occasion included General Secretary Rafi Ahmed Mir; Chief Spokesperson and State Secretary Muntazir Mohiuddin; Provincial Secretary Mohammad Saleem Lone; Provincial Organiser Secretary Yousuf Abdullah; Hazratbal Constituency In-charge Mohammad Sidiq Mir; Zonal President Rural Farooq Ahmad Magray; Senior Leader Abdul Hamid Dar; District Member Srinagar Farooq Din Sofi; Mohammad Subhan Mir; and others.

Amid challenges, Omar Govt's performance commendable: Chowdry Ramzan

National Conference Additional General Secretary and Rajya Sabha Member Chowdry Muhammad Ramzan Wednesday called upon party leaders, office-bearers and workers to strengthen their direct connect with the people and proactively take up their concerns with the government and concerned authorities for timely redressal. Addressing a meeting at the party headquarters, Chowdry Ramzan said that the National Conference is a mass-based political movement rooted in public service, as per a press release. He commended the performance of the Omar Abdullah-led government, saying that it assumed office amid exceptionally difficult circumstances, including financial and administrative constraints and a host of inherited challenges. Despite these limitations, he said, the government has remained focused on public welfare and development and has continued working to fulfil the commitments made to the people. He said visible attention is being accorded to vital sectors including roads, electricity, drinking water, healthcare, education, urban amenities, infrastructure and employment. He added that the governments initiatives reflect its commitment to addressing public concerns and improving the delivery of essential services. Chowdry Ramzan urged party workers to take these people-oriented initiatives to the grassroots while at the same time ensuring that public grievances and aspirations are effectively conveyed to the government. He said workers should serve as a bridge between the people and the administration by identifying genuine issues, pursuing them with the concerned departments and using their influence to facilitate their resolution. Emphasising the urgency of restoring statehood, he said it is indispensable for effective governance, accelerated development and meaningful administrative accountability in Jammu and Kashmir. He maintained that an elected government must have the requisite constitutional and administrative powers to respond swiftly to public needs, ensure greater accountability and implement developmental programmes efficiently. He reiterated that the National Conference would continue its democratic, constitutional and political struggle for restoration of statehood and would not compromise on this legitimate demand. He said public service has always been at the core of the National Conferences politics and cannot be restricted to any particular period or circumstance. A strong political organisation is one whose roots remain firmly embedded among the people and whose workers stand shoulder to shoulder with them in every difficult period, he said. Provincial President Showkat Ahmad Mir, Provincial Secretary Syed Tauqeer Ahmad, Convener Minority Cell Sardar Jagdish Singh Azad, Joint Secretary Ghulam Nabi Wani Tilbali and other office-bearers were also present at the meeting.

Unscientific waste dumping in Budgams Ohangam challenged

Srinagar, Aug 19:The National Green Tribunal (NGT) has issued notice to the Jammu & Kashmir government over alleged unscientific waste dumping at Ohangam in Beerwah by the Rural Development Department (RDD), Block Rathsun, Budgam. The Principal Bench of the NGT, headed by Justice Prakash Srivastava, Chairperson, also directed the J&K Pollution Control Committee (JKPCC) to conduct a spot inspection and submit factual details to the tribunal. The JKPCC team had already visited the site in June this year after locals protested against alleged illegal dumping of waste and the setting up of a waste processing site in the area. The petitioner, Raja Muzaffar Bhat, raised a grievance over the alleged illegal and unscientific dumping of municipal solid waste in village Ohangam, Block Rathsun, Budgam. In his original application (OA), the petitioner alleged that the Assistant Commissioner Panchayat, Budgam, and Block Development Officer, Rural Development Block, Rathsun, were involved in dumping waste at Ohangam for the last few years against the wishes of local residents. He alleged that waste was being dumped near the main road, surrounded by three water canals, in violation of the Solid Waste Management Rules, 2016/2026. The petitioners counsel, Advocate Saurabh Sharma, submitted geotagged photographs and a JKPCC inspection report in support of the allegations. The report stated that waste was being dumped along the Ohangam-Rathsun-Soibugh road, a major district road connecting nearby villages. The report said the site was about 125 metres from an educational institution and around 120 metres from the nearest house. It was surrounded by orchards, while stray dogs were seen roaming around the dumping site. It also noted foul smell from the dumped waste, causing inconvenience to road users and public nuisance. The JKPCC report said the RDD, Budgam, Assistant Commissioner Panchayat and BDO Rathsun were responsible for ensuring segregation, processing and scientific disposal of waste under the applicable rules. The NGT order said the application raised substantial issues relating to compliance of the environmental norms and directed notices to the respondents. The tribunal directed JKPCC to ascertain the status of the alleged illegal dumping and, if the allegations were found correct, take appropriate punitive and remedial measures. It also directed the committee to submit an action-taken report at least a week before the next hearing. It is ironic that tons of untreated waste has been dumped at Ohangam in the last two years by RDD Rathsun block and the site selection was not done by local Halqa Majlis/Gram Sabha, Dr Raja Muzaffar said. He alleged that the department was now planning to set up a plastic waste processing plant at the site, which he termed illegal. The site cannot be set up without the consent of Halqa Majlis (Gram Sabha) and it violates the Plastic Waste Management Rules 2016 itself and MSW Rules 2026. Let the government allocate land for this unit in an industrial estate, he said. The case is listed for the next hearing on October 29.

High Court quashes PSA detention of Baramulla man

Srinagar, Aug 19: The High Court of J&K and Ladakh has ordered the immediate release of a man from Baramulla while quashing his detention under Public Safety Act (PSA) Observing that the order was based on stale grounds and reflected non-application of mind by the detaining authority, a bench of Justice Moksha Khajuria Kazmi quashed the detention order dated 7 May 2025, issued by the District Magistrate, Baramulla against Abid Parvaiz Hajam, a resident of Andergam, Pattan. Hajam had assailed the District Magistrates order in his plea, which the court allowed. The court noted that Hajam had earlier been arrested in 2020 in connection with FIR No. 234/2020 registered at Police Station Pattan under provisions of the Arms Act and Unlawful Activities (Prevention) Act. After spending three years in custody, he was granted bail by the designated NIA court on May 12, 2023. He was subsequently detained under the PSA, but the earlier detention order was quashed by the High Court on May 2, 2024. The Court held that no specific fresh prejudicial activity had been attributed to Hajam after his release from the previous preventive custody, apart from an allegation that he had re-established contacts with terrorists. The impugned detention order was based on stale grounds and that the authorities had relied substantially on the 2020 FIR despite the earlier quashing of the detention order and the grant of bail, the court noted. The Court, in keeping with the supreme court decisions, reiterated that preventive detention must have a live and proximate link between past conduct and the immediate need for detention. The stale material, it said, could not form the basis for preventive detention unless it has a direct nexus with the immediate need to detain an individual. Holding that the detention order May 7, 2025 was not in accordance with law, the court quashed the same and directed that Hajam be released from preventive custody forthwith.

Akber Colony residents decry drinking water shortage

The residents of Akber Colony in Manchuwa, are facing problems due to frequent disruptions in the drinking water supply being fed from the Tangnaar Water Treatment Plant. It has now become almost a routine that technical issues at the Tangnaar Water Treatment Plant result in prolonged disruption of water supply to our locality. Recently, one of the motors at the treatment plant reportedly developed a fault, following which the residents of Akber Colony were left without drinking water for nearly five days. During this entire period, not a single drop of drinking water was received by many households, a local said, We earnestly appeal to Chief Minister to kindly intervene in the matter and direct the concerned authorities to take immediate and effective measures to ensure a reliable and uninterrupted drinking water supply to our colony locals said.

CUK, ICSSR hold seminar on GST Reforms 2.0

Ganderbal, Aug 19:The Department of Commerce, School of Business Studies, Central University of Kashmir (CUKashmir), in collaboration with the Indian Council of Social Science Research (ICSSR), New Delhi, on Wednesday began a two-day national seminar on GST Reforms 2.0: Sectoral Growth Prospects and Challenges at the Tulmulla campus. Vice-Chancellor CUKashmir, Prof. A. Ravinder Nath, said GST had transformed Indias indirect tax system, while subsequent reforms sought to address emerging challenges and make taxation more responsive to citizens and businesses. He called for a balanced approach that supports economic activity while promoting environmental consciousness, social responsibility and responsible consumption. He stressed the need to examine GST reforms across income groups and key sectors, including agriculture, manufacturing and services. Prof. Nath expressed hope that the deliberations would generate substantive recommendations for policy discourse and could eventually be placed before authorities, including the GST Council. Ravenshaw University Vice-Chancellor Prof. (Dr.) Arka Das Mohapatra, the chief guest, said taxation ultimately affects citizens daily lives and its success should be measured by whether its benefits reach ordinary people. He called for greater focus on affordability, quality of services, environmental responsibility and socially conscious taxation. He also suggested using tax policy to encourage environmentally responsible manufacturing and healthier consumption while keeping essential goods affordable for vulnerable sections. Additional Commissioner, Sales Tax, J&K, Parvez Ahmed Raina, outlined the practical challenges of implementing GST Reforms 2.0. He identified simpler rate architecture, sectoral rationalisation and a new phase of compliance as key features. Raina said rate rationalisation could improve affordability and purchasing power but could also create challenges related to rate transitions, classification, input tax credit, refunds and registration. He stressed the need for technology, analytical tools and stronger monitoring to address these issues. Dean Academic Affairs Prof. Shahid Rasool said GST 2.0 should be assessed beyond rate rationalisation, particularly for its impact on growth, consumption, businesses and households. He said awareness and dissemination of information among stakeholders would be crucial for successful implementation. Dean, School of Business Studies, Prof. Syed Zahoor Ahmad Geelani, said GST was introduced to create a unified national market and simplify Indias complex indirect tax structure. He said GST 2.0 sought to address limitations that emerged during the first phase. Head, Department of Commerce and seminar convenor, Dr. Mehraj-ud-Din Shah, said the seminar aimed to critically examine the immediate and emerging implications of GST 2.0 through a research-oriented and interdisciplinary approach. He said research papers received for the seminar were subjected to a rigorous selection process, with selected papers being presented during technical sessions. Prof. Nisar Ali, Head, Department of Economics, University of Kashmir, and Prof. S.M. Shafi, former Head, Department of Commerce, University of Kashmir, were present. Asst Prof. Dr. Rizwana Rafiq conducted the programme, while Dr. Arfa Zahoor proposed the vote of thanks.

DJMC IUST holds induction programme for freshers

Awantipora, Aug 19:The Department of Journalism and Mass Communication (DJMC), Islamic University of Science and Technology (IUST), on Wednesday began a two-day engagement and lively induction programme for students of the fresh Masters and BA FYUGP batches. The programme, being held on Aug. 19 and 20, aims to familiarise students with the departments academic environment, faculty, facilities and practical learning opportunities. Head DJMC Dr. Rabia Noor welcomed the students and outlined the departments academic programmes, facilities and media platforms, including Times Echo, Pesh Kadam, IUST Newsletter and Naad. Dean Outreach and Associate Professor Dr. Ruheela Hassan spoke about the departments inception and the roles undertaken by its faculty. Assistant Professors Dr. Sayar Mir and Dr. Haifaa Mohammad Ahsan highlighted career opportunities in media and the contemporary relevance of journalism and mass communication. Current students and scholars also interacted with the freshers and shared their experiences. Copies of Times Echo were distributed among the students. The programme included visits to the DJMC Library, Community Radio Station, Multimedia Studio and iMac Media Lab, besides Rumi Library and the athletic synthetic track. A departmental profile video showcasing the departments academic, creative and outreach activities was also screened. The induction programme will continue on Thursday with further sessions for the new students.

Expedite deweeding of Dal Lake in view of Intl film festival

The Vice Chairman, JKLCMA, Khurshid Ahmad Shah, today undertook an extensive on-site assessment of Dal Lake to take stock of the ongoing cleaning and conservation activities being carried out by the Authority. During the inspection, the Vice Chairman visited various locations of Dal Lake, particularly the Gagribal Basin, and took stock of the progress of the ongoing cleaning activities on site. He reviewed the deployment of manpower and machinery, including Watermasters, harvesters, and grabbers, and assessed the effectiveness of the measures being undertaken for the removal of weeds, aquatic vegetation, accumulated waste, and other floating material from different sections of the lake. During the field inspection, the Vice Chairman identified specific locations for the deployment of the hired lake cleaning machinery. He directed the concerned officers to ensure that the machinery is deployed at the identified spots in a planned and effective manner to intensify the ongoing lake cleaning operations. Khurshid Ahmad Shah emphasised the need for a systematic and area-specific approach to lake cleaning, with priority being given to locations experiencing heavy weed infestation and excessive accumulation of aquatic vegetation. He particularly directed that focused cleaning measures be undertaken in the area around SKICC and Lalit Ghat where the 1st International Film Festival is scheduled to be held from September 7 to September 10, ensuring that the designated area is adequately cleaned and maintained in advance of the event. He directed the field staff and concerned officers to maintain close monitoring of the cleaning operations and ensure that the machinery remains operational and is utilized to its optimum capacity. He also called for regular assessment of the cleaned areas to prevent re-accumulation of weeds and waste.

Bandipora villages cry for better transport

Bandipora, Aug 19: Residents of several rural villages in Bandipora say inadequate public transport has turned daily commuting into a struggle, with overcrowded minibuses and a shortage of smaller passenger vehicles leaving thousands with few options. Residents of Brar, Chittaybanday, Aragam and Gund-Dachina say the problem has persisted for decades despite repeated complaints to transport authorities. The affected area has a population of more than 100,000, with students, women, government employees, daily commuters and patients bearing the brunt of the shortage. Residents say existing minibuses are inadequate and frequently overcrowded. They allege that smaller vehicles, including Tata Sumos and Maruti Eecos, face hurdles in operating on the routes. In a letter dated April 4, residents of Gund-Dachina, Brar, Chittabandi and Aragam urged the Assistant Regional Transport Officer (ARTO), Bandipora, to provide regular light-vehicle services. We had approached several times to concerned authorities to provide us swift and light vehicle transport service. But all in vain, they said. The residents said the area had faced weak transport service upto Bandipora for decades, resulting in the wastage of precious time. The issue was raised again on July 6 when the Intizamia Committee of Markazi Jamia Masjid, Aragam, wrote to the ARTO, saying the existing bus service was unable to meet the needs of the growing population. Residents alleged that some minibus operators were creating hurdles for smaller passenger vehicles, further restricting transport options. The daily life of students, office goers and women has been a hell on this route due to the overcrowded minibuses, commuter Zahoor Ahmad Lone said. Residents have urged the transport authorities to introduce regular Sumo and Eco services and enforce fixed fares and passenger-capacity limits. They said timely intervention was needed on humanitarian grounds, warning that thousands of residents would continue to suffer without reliable public transport

Div Com reviews preparations for Eid Milad-un-Nabi (SAW), Friday Following

In view of Eid Milad-un-Nabi (SAW) and the following Friday, Divisional Commissioner Kashmir Anshul Garg convened a high-level meeting on Wednesday to assess and strengthen arrangements at major mosques and shrines across the Kashmir Division. The meeting was attended by Deputy Commissioners, Commissioner SMC, SSPs, VC LCMA, senior officials from various departments, including KPDCL, PHE, FCS&CA, PWD, Food Safety, Legal Metrology, LCMA, Wakf Board, Health, Police and Traffic departments, along with religious representatives from prominent shrines. The Divisional Commissioner conducted a detailed assessment of essential facilities at major religious sites, including Hazratbal Shrine, Jenab Sahib Soura, Assar-i-Sharief Kalashpora, Aham-i-Sharief Bandipora, Kabamarg Anantnag and Pethmakhama Budgam, besides other masjids and shrines expected to witness significant gatherings for night prayers. He gave special emphasis on arrangements at Hazratbal Shrine, where more than one lakh devotees are anticipated to participate in congregational and night prayers. Garg instructed the concerned departments to ensure that all arrangements remain fully functional throughout the occasion. The Chief Engineer, KPDCL was directed to maintain an uninterrupted power supply at Hazratbal, along with a reliable backup arrangement through DG sets. The PHE department was asked to establish sufficient drinking-water points and keep water tankers available as an emergency measure. To ensure convenient movement of devotees, SSCL, SRTC and ARTO were instructed to deploy adequate buses and e-autos, including services extending into the late hours. Traffic Police Srinagar was asked to prepare a comprehensive route plan for visitors arriving from different districts to prevent congestion and facilitate smooth traffic flow. Emphasising the need for adequate shelter and crowd-management facilities, the Divisional Commissioner directed Wakf authorities to make advance arrangements for tents at designated religious locations. The Commissioner of SMC was instructed to undertake an extensive sanitation and cleanliness campaign at Hazratbal Shrine and its surrounding areas. To safeguard public health, joint market-inspection teams were ordered to monitor food quality, hygiene standards and pricing around markets and religious sites. Garg stressed strict action against traders found violating prescribed quality standards or resorting to overcharging. The Health Department was directed to establish medical camps and deploy personnel according to duty rosters, while Fire & Emergency Services were instructed to position fire tenders at vulnerable and strategically important locations to ensure a rapid response in case of any emergency. Religious leaders attending the meeting expressed satisfaction with the arrangements being undertaken for the occasion. DCs were instructed to ensure availability of essential commodities and services during the religious occasion. Meanwhile, the Deputy Commissioners briefed the Divisional Commissioner on the preparations and facilities being put in place in their respective districts.

ACB registers FIR over Rajbagh illegal construction, encroachment

Srinagar, Aug 19:The Anti-Corruption Bureau (ACB), Srinagar, has registered FIR No. 10/2026 against officials and beneficiaries over alleged illegal construction and encroachment in Rajbagh. The case follows a joint surprise check and subsequent verification into construction of a multi-storey building in the flood basin/fringe area of the River Jhelum. The verification found alleged violations in the grant and subsequent modification of building permissions, including a substantial increase in the plinth area and building height without mandatory no-objection certificates from concerned departments. It also revealed alleged encroachment of around 2.9 Kanals of state/Kahcharai land and construction over drainage infrastructure and within the prohibited river-fringe area. The FIR names then Senior Town Planner, SDA, Muneer Ahmad Khan; then Joint Commissioner Planning, SMC, R.K. Tutoo; then In-charge Assistant Town Planner, SMC, Ulfat Jan; other concerned officials; and beneficiaries Gulzar Ahmad Sheikh and Parveena Akhter. The accused have been booked for alleged abuse of official position, criminal conspiracy and facilitating unauthorized construction and encroachment. FIR No. 10/2026 has been registered under Section 5(1)(d) read with Section 5(2) of the J&K Prevention of Corruption Act Svt-2006 and Sections 447-A, 468 and 120 RPC, besides other applicable provisions. Further, investigation is underway.

HC directs action against special tribunal member for illegal compounding of 65 buildings

The High Court of J&K and Ladakh has directed action against a former member of the J&K Special Tribunal over compounding of 65 major building violations for extraneous considerations in Srinagar city. A division bench comprising Acting Chief Justice Sanjeev Kumar and Justice Muhammad Yousuf Wani ordered the action after taking cognisance of Registrar Vigilances report dated April 5, 2021, attesting to 65 major building violations compounded for extraneous considerations. Closing a Public Interest Litigation (PIL) filed by one Dr Abdul Rouf Malik through advocate Mir Suhail, the court directed its Registry to forward the vigilance report to J&Ks Chief Secretary for appropriate action against the erring public servant. In the PIL the Inhabitants of Gogji Bagh, Srinagar had alleged violations of building bye-laws and raised concerns over the erection and re-erection of residential and commercial buildings in violation of building regulations. During the proceedings, the Court was informed that the Srinagar Municipal Corporation had issued notices to persons responsible for the alleged violations. The affected parties subsequently approached the J&K Special Tribunal, while the matter is now pending before a Single Judge of the High Court in separate proceedings initiated by the SMC. The primary grievance raised in the PIL was being addressed in the separate proceedings and therefore the PIL is closed, the bench said. However, it took note of a serious issue that came up during proceedings that a particular member of the J&K Special Tribunal, had passed around 65 orders consecutively allowing major building violations to be compounded. Following a courts direction on November 20, 2020, the Registrar Vigilance conducted a fact-finding inquiry and submitted a report dated April 5, 2021. According to the report, all 65 cases had been compounded by the then Tribunal member for extraneous considerations, with major violations being permitted to be compounded in violation of law. Taking its cognisance, the Court subsequently directed its Registry to forward the Registrar Vigilance's report to the Chief Secretary for initiating appropriate legal action against the erring public servant.

Deputy Commissioners of Udhampur, Ramban visit 1,800 MW Sawalkote Hydroelectric Project Headquarter in Tanger

Deputy Commissioners of Udhampur and Ramban, along with a team of senior officers of the twin districts, visited the headquarters of the Sawalkote Hydroelectric Project here at Tanger on Wednesday to take stock of progress made on the 1,800 MW project which is going to be the biggest hydropower utility in Jammu and Kashmir. The delegation, as per an official statement, was led by Deputy Commissioner Udhampur Minga Sherpa and Deputy Commissioner Ramban, Muhammad Alyas Khan. They were accompanied by Assistant Commissioner Revenue and Collector, Sawalkote Project, Shokat Hayat Mattoo, Divisional Forest Officer, Udhampur, Sandeep Divyajyoti Behera and District Mining Officer, Udhampur, Sunil Sharma along with besides other revenue and police officials. Head of Project, Sawalkote Hydroelectric Project, Satnam Singh, briefed them at length on the current status of work. He briefed about overall development of the project, key infrastructure components, status of dam and access tunnels and roads. He also laid out the project's forward roadmap, outlining the sequence of regulatory milestones ahead beginning with anticipated approval from the Public Investment Board (PIB), to be followed by clearance from the Cabinet Committee on Economic Affairs (CCEA), after which tenders for the project are to be opened.

DGP reviews operational readiness of forces deployed in Pir Panjal range

Srinagar, Aug 19: Director General of Police (DGP) Nalin Prabhat on Wednesday conducted an operational review of Temporary Operating Bases (TOBs) established in the Todasmaidan area on the northern face of the Pir Panjal range, taking stock of the security arrangements and operational preparedness of forces deployed in the strategically important terrain. The DGP was accompanied by Inspector General of Police, Kashmir Zone, V.K. Birdi; senior police officer Rajiv Pandey; Hariprasad K.K., Senior Superintendent of Police, Budgam; and other officers and personnel of the district police. During the visit, the DGP reviewed the functioning of the TOBs and assessed the operational preparedness of the security personnel deployed in the difficult and mountainous terrain. The review focused on the deployment pattern, surveillance arrangements, mobility, logistics and the overall capability of the forces to respond swiftly to emerging security challenges. Todasmaidan, located along the northern slopes of the Pir Panjal range, is strategically significant because of its difficult terrain and its connectivity with areas lying along the mountain belt. The establishment of temporary operating bases in such areas enables security forces to maintain a sustained presence and improve their ability to dominate vulnerable stretches and respond to threats. The DGP interacted with officers and personnel deployed at the operating bases and took feedback on their operational requirements, logistical support and challenges arising from the terrain and weather conditions. He also emphasised the need for close coordination among different security agencies and maintaining a high level of alertness, particularly in remote and strategically sensitive areas. The visit formed part of the ongoing operational assessment by the police leadership of security arrangements and deployments across Kashmir. Senior officers have been undertaking field reviews to assess preparedness, strengthen coordination and ensure that forces remain capable of responding effectively to any emerging threat. The DGPs visit to the Pir Panjal area also underscored the importance being accorded to maintaining a robust security grid beyond the major urban and populated areas, particularly in remote mountainous zones that require sustained surveillance and operational presence. The officers accompanying the DGP briefed him on the prevailing security situation and the measures being undertaken to further strengthen the operational effectiveness of the TOBs and security formations deployed in the area.

Invasive pest threatens Kashmirs poplar, willow plantations

Pulwama, Aug 19:An invasive pest identified as Drosicha turkistanica has emerged as a growing threat to poplar and willow plantations in parts of south Kashmir, leaving farmers worried over the possible impact on trees that form an important source of livelihood for many families. Farmers in the Hanjipora area of Pulwama district said they first noticed unusual snow-white, cotton-like masses covering poplar and willow trees nearly two years ago. What initially appeared to be a fungal infection gradually spread to more trees, with some affected plants showing signs of weakening and drying. Concerned farmers initially treated the infestation as a fungal disease and sprayed fungicides, but the measures failed to bring any visible relief. We have seen such a thing for the first time. Initially, we thought it was some fungal disease, so we sprayed fungicides, but nothing changed, said Bilal Ahmad, a farmer from the area. Since then, similar infestations have reportedly been noticed in several areas of south Kashmir, including parts of Kulgam and Anantnag, raising concerns among growers who depend on poplar and willow cultivation. We rely on poplar and willow cultivation. If the trees start dying, our income will be badly affected. Many families here depend on these trees directly or indirectly, Ahmad said. Another farmer, Ashiq Hussain, said the rapid spread of the infestation had added to their concerns. At first, we saw it on only a few trees. Within a short time, the white mass appeared on trees in neighbouring areas. We do not know how to control it, he said. Farmers said they were particularly concerned about younger trees, which they fear could be more vulnerable to prolonged infestation. If this continues for another few years, we could lose a large number of trees. Poplar and willow are not just trees for us; they are a source of livelihood, said Mashkoor Sajad, another farmer from Pulwama. Experts said similar cases have been reported from other parts of south Kashmir and described the pest as an invasive species that was first reported from the Arwani area of Kulgam. Professor Bashir Ahmad Rather, a scientist at the Mountain Research Centre for Field Crops (MRCFC), Khudwani, said the pest was new to Kashmir and was initially suspected to have characteristics similar to other invasive pests. Rather told Greater Kashmir that samples were sent to the National Bureau of Agricultural Insect Resources (NBAIR), Bengaluru, for identification. Samples were sent to the National Bureau of Agricultural Insect Resources (NBAIR), Bengaluru, where the pest was identified as *Drosicha turkistanica* (Hemiptera: Monophlebidae), he said. According to Rather, the pest is a sap-sucking insect that feeds on trees and can progressively weaken them. In cases of severe infestation, prolonged feeding could potentially result in the death of affected trees. The pest has tremendous reproductive potential, which makes it particularly concerning, Rather said. He said the pest may have entered Kashmir through imported planting material, underscoring the need for greater caution in the movement of nursery and planting material. The pest has been brought into the Valley through imported planting material, he said, advising farmers to seek expert advice before applying pesticides. Experts have also cautioned against indiscriminate pesticide use, particularly when the nature of the infestation has not been established, as inappropriate chemical treatment may prove ineffective while creating additional risks for the surrounding environment. For farmers, however, the emergence of the pest has already become a source of anxiety, particularly because poplar and willow require years to mature and cannot be quickly replaced if plantations are lost. We have seen many problems affecting crops, but this is different. If our trees are lost, replacing them will take years, Ahmad said. Farmers are now seeking intervention from the agriculture and horticulture authorities for field-level assessment, technical guidance and an effective management strategy to prevent the pest from spreading further across Kashmirs poplar and willow plantations.

LG Sinha chairs 37th Executive Council Meeting of Shri Mata Vaishno Devi University

Lieutenant Governor Manoj Sinha on Wednesday chaired the 37th meeting of the Executive Council of Shri Mata Vaishno Devi University, at SMVDU, Kakryal, Katra. The meeting, as per an official statement, was attended by Prof. Pragati Kumar, Vice Chancellor, SMVDU; Prof. Umesh Rai, Vice Chancellor, University of Jammu; Prof. Nilofer Khan, Vice Chancellor, University of Kashmir; Prof. Pankaj Chandra, Vice Chancellor and Chairman, Board of Management, Ahmedabad University; Prof. A.S.K. Sinha, Former Director, Rajiv Gandhi Institute of Petroleum Technology, Amethi; Prof. Manoj Singh Gaur, Director, IIT Jammu; Dr Mandeep K. Bhandari, Principal Secretary to Lieutenant Governor; Shri Sachin Kumar Vaishya, CEO, SMVDSB; Shri Ajay Kumar Sharma, Registrar, SMVDU and other members of the Executive Council. The Council accorded in-principle approval for a 200-bed boys' hostel, to be funded by SMVDSB, along with preparation of a detailed project report. It also granted in-principle approval for two new academic programmes B.A. LL.B. (Hons.) and B.Tech in Food Technology and suggested exploring the possibility of offering LL.B. in conjunction with the science and commerce streams. The budget proposals for FY 202627 and the final audit report for FY 202425 were adopted, along with a proposal for enhanced financial assistance to students attending national and international conferences, workshops, and events. The Council further approved the completion and development of the sports complex at the SMVDU campus, in collaboration with SMVDSB, to provide sports facilities for students and employees, and decided to finalise a five-year roadmap for the University, based on a viable operating model, in consultation with the Academic Council and Finance Committee. The Executive Council also adopted the University's proposed Kulgeet (institutional anthem). The Council reviewed the University's academic, administrative, and financial progress and also approved several initiatives for the forthcoming academic sessions. It also ratified the nomination of external members to the Executive Council and to the Academic Council of SMVDU, and reviewed the status of ongoing and completed major construction projects, calling for their timely completion. Appreciating the University's initiatives on wellness, sports, and youth engagement, the Lieutenant Governor directed the administration to conduct counselling, mental health, and value-based awareness programmes for students, and to subscribe to online counselling platforms for student support. The Lieutenant Governor, who is also the Chancellor of the University, suggested academic relaxation for NSS and NCC students selected to represent the University at events of national importance, along with additional credits in recognition of their achievements. He further recommended introducing industry-linked vocational courses, delivered through internal faculty and external experts, and open to all students regardless of minimum eligibility criteria. Prof. Pragati Kumar, Vice Chancellor, SMVDU briefed the Executive Council on key developments relating to admissions, recruitment, faculty career advancement, ongoing construction projects, and new academic programmes proposed for the upcoming academic year.

SMVDU a beacon of knowledge, innovation, values: LG Manoj Sinha

The Lieutenant Governor, Manoj Sinha, on Wednesday attended the 23rd Foundation Day celebrations of Shri Mata Vaishno Devi University (SMVDU). He felicitated the achievers and delivered a keynote address that outlined a vision for the Universitys future and its role in nation-building. Extending warm greetings to the University family, the Lieutenant Governor, as per an official statement, described the day as a celebration of foresight, resolve, and sustained efforts that has transformed SMVDU into a centre of knowledge, innovation, and social responsibility. He emphasised that the University, blessed by Mata Vaishno Devi, carries in its name the tradition of devotion, strength, and faith, inspiring millions across India and the world. The Lieutenant Governor said that a university is not built by its buildings but by ideas, dreams, and possibilities. He highlighted the role of visionary leadership, dedicated faculty, and curious students in shaping institutions that nurture not only knowledge but also humility, sensitivity, and responsibility towards society. Reflecting on SMVDUs journey, the Lieutenant Governor lauded its achievements in education and research. He noted that faculty members have secured around 140 research projects, including international collaborations, and established a state-of-the-art AI and Deep Learning Lab. The University has received 14 patents, incubated 30 start-ups, and launched innovative programmes such as peer-learning. He urged the institution to strengthen industryacademia relations by organising open-house meetings to commercialise patents and innovations. The Lieutenant Governor stressed that the true measure of a universitys success lies in its students and alumni, who carry forward its reputation through their contributions to society and the nation. He encouraged SMVDU to leverage government initiatives such as the Rs. One lakh crore research fund announced by the Hon'ble Prime Minister, Shri Narendra Modi on 15th August 2026 and the PM Research Chairs scheme launched earlier this year, to ensure maximum participation in national innovation efforts. In the contemporary world, research and innovation becomes meaningful when it finds solutions to real problems, improves the quality of life in society and brings positive change to the lives of ordinary citizens through its contributions across different fields. On 15 August, Prime Minister, Narendra Modi, made a historic announcement from the ramparts of the Red Fort and allocated Rs.1 lakh crore. He called upon the youth of the country to focus on research and innovation, saying that they should come forward with ambitious dreams. The Government of India had created a robust system of financial support, and that no young person would now face lack of resources. I would like the Vice-Chancellor to constitute a team comprising faculty members and selected students so that the maximum possible number of applications may be submitted from this University, the Lieutenant Governor said. In his speech, the Lieutenant Governor underscored that education is the most powerful investment for universities, society, and the nation. He cited foreign university's success in generating revenue through innovation and research as an example, urging Indian universities to aspire to similar heights by focusing on research, innovation, leadership, and entrepreneurship. The Lieutenant Governor identified key challenges facing Indian universities, including limited research, shortage of faculty, lack of accountability and weak industry linkages. He called for a change in mindset, urging institutions to ask not What should we teach? but What problems must we solve? He emphasised that Indias youthful population, creativity, and risk-taking ability are its greatest assets, and universities must transform students into creators of opportunities rather than mere job seekers. Highlighting Indias strengths, the Lieutenant Governor pointed to the nations ability to innovate at low cost, its cultural and linguistic diversity, and its vast diaspora. He urged SMVDU to connect these strengths with its research ecosystem and create solutions for real-world challenges in healthcare, rural economy, urbanisation, and digital innovation. The Lieutenant Governor also emphasised the importance of holistic education, calling for the promotion of sports, arts, literature, debates, and cultural activities alongside science and technology. He encouraged the University to engage with rural communities, promote sustainable development, and adopt best practices from global education models such as emphasis on fieldwork, industry partnerships, and a strong vocational training system. Looking ahead, the Lieutenant Governor presented a comprehensive vision for SMVDU by 2040. He urged the University to become a leading global knowledge centre, establish advanced research facilities in AI, robotics, biotechnology, and climate science, and develop digital learning networks across rural Jammu Kashmir. He also called for international student-exchange programmes to strengthen global collaboration. He said the ultimate purpose of education is not limited to economic development but also the creation of creative human beings who understand themselves, respect nature, and recognise their responsibility towards humanity. He urged SMVDU to harmonise modernity with human values and to resolve to become a pilgrimage centre of knowledge, a laboratory of innovation, and a beacon guiding society towards progress. On this Foundation Day, I urge all of you to move beyond established paths and work courageously on the important issues. As efforts are undertaken in this direction, we should ask ourselves: What do we possess that other countries do not? Our nation's greatest wealth and strength is the passion, ingenuity and daring spirit of our youth. We must remember, the light of education becomes complete only when it moves beyond the walls of the University and reaches the last person in society, the Lieutenant Governor said. The Lieutenant Governor invited suggestions from various stakeholders for the establishment of the state-of-the-art International Museum of Goddess at Katra. On the occasion, the Lieutenant Governor also inaugurated the Self-Help Groups Bakery unit at SMVDU. Dr Ashok Bhan, Suresh Kumar Sharma and Gunjan Rana- Members of Shri Mata Vaishno Devi Shrine Board; Dr Mandeep K. Bhandari, Principal Secretary to Lieutenant Governor; Prof. Pragati Kumar, Vice-Chancellor, Shri Mata Vaishno Devi University; Bhim Sen Tuti, IGP Jammu; Ramesh Kumar, Divisional Commissioner Jammu; Sachin Kumar Vaishya, CEO, Shri Mata Vaishno Devi Shrine Board; Shiv Kumar Sharma, DIG, Udhampur-Reasi Range; Kumar Abhishek, Deputy Commissioner Reasi; Members of Universitys Executive Council; Heads of various educational institutions; senior officials, faculty members, staff, and students of Shri Mata Vaishno Devi University attended the foundation day celebrations.

Amid lukewarm response, HED runs out of ideas to increase enrollment in new colleges

Srinagar, Aug 19: The J&K government seems to be running out of ideas to increase enrollment in the newly established degree colleges as all the efforts by the Higher Education Department (HED) have not resulted in improvement in enrollment in newly established colleges. During the current year, the government claims to have witnessed a 12 percent increase in college admissions compared to last year. However, the increase in admissions has been reported due to the encouraging response from students. The situation has left the government in a tight spot, as the new colleges have failed to attract the students as per the expectations of the government. Talking to Greater Kashmir , Minister for Education Sakina Itoo said Jammu and Kashmir has witnessed mushrooming growth of new colleges over the past few years, which resulted in an enrollment decline. The department has witnessed mushrooming growth of colleges. How can we expect an increase in enrollment when we have four to five colleges within a radius of a few kilometres? Sakina Itoo said. She, however, said that the department took several initiatives to overcome the challenge, but the problem still persists in these new colleges. We decided to introduce new streams and demand-driven subjects so that enrollment increases in the colleges. At some places we decided to introduce co-education in both boys and womens colleges, Itoo said. In the wake of the steady decline in admissions in the newly established Colleges, the institutions across J&K earlier constituted teams of faculty members to visit villages, interact with students, parents, civil society members and local stakeholders, and create awareness about undergraduate admission opportunities. The outreach initiatives included door-to-door campaigns, community meetings and on-the-spot admission facilitation in an attempt to arrest the declining enrolment trend that has emerged as a major challenge for the Higher Education Department, particularly in colleges established in recent years. Citing examples, a top official said that GDC Kokernag, one of the newly established colleges, has good faculty and infrastructure but students still prefer GDC Anantnag. Such a situation poses a challenge for the department to convince the students to opt for a new college in a nearby location instead of travelling a long distance to seek admission in a legacy college, the official said. If the situation remains the same for the next two to three years, most of the new colleges will meet the fate of SSA schools, he added. The education minister, however, said that the government was doing everything possible to improve admissions in new colleges. The only problem is that students opt for legacy colleges for admissions, she said.

MHA holds fresh talks with Ladakh bodies on political, constitutional demands

Leh, Aug 19:A high-level team from the Union Ministry of Home Affairs (MHA) held separate discussions with representatives of the Leh Apex Body (LAB) and Kargil Democratic Alliance (KDA) in Leh on Ladakhs political demands, including statehood, constitutional safeguards and the proposed framework for an elected UT-level body. The meeting, the second such interaction between the MHA team and the Ladakh leadership in Leh in less than two months, also discussed the roadmap for an elected arrangement with legislative, executive, and financial powers, as well as the functioning of the seven Autonomous Hill Development Councils. Sources said the MHA team, including senior officials handling Ladakh-related issues under the ongoing sub-committee process, met three members each from LAB and KDA, along with senior officers of the UT administration and other stakeholders. The meeting was attended by Ladakh Chief Secretary Ashish Kundra and senior administrative officers, besides Hill Council Kargil Chairman Dr Mohammad Zaffar Akhoon, former Leh Hill Council chairman Tashi Gyalson and former Union minister Thupstan Chhewang, among others. The LAB delegation comprised its newly elected chairman Tsering Dorjay Lakruk, Sonam Wangchuk and Dorje Stanzin, while the KDA was represented by Asgar Ali Karbalai and Sajjad Kargili, among others. The latest meeting comes nearly seven weeks after the previous interaction held in Leh on July 3. That meeting had helped break the deadlock over the signing of the minutes of the May 22 meeting of the High Powered Committee (HPC) held in New Delhi. The LAB and KDA subsequently signed the minutes on July 3 after an understanding was reached on the proposed arrangement, including the demand that bureaucratic officials, including the Chief Secretary, should function under the control of the head of the proposed UT-level elected body. Sources said Wednesdays discussions centred on the broader political and constitutional framework being sought by the two bodies and the modalities for a tailor-made democratic arrangement for Ladakh. Following the meeting, KDA co-chairman Sajjad Kargili said the two organisations had placed before the MHA their important and non-negotiable points relating to the powers and functioning of the proposed democratic setup. We also submitted a resolution demanding the unconditional withdrawal of all cases against those affected by the 24 September incident, along with dignified and adequate compensation for the victims and their families, Kargili said in a post on X. He said the KDA and LAB remained committed to safeguarding the democratic, constitutional and political rights of the people of Ladakh. In a joint note submitted during the meeting, the LAB and KDA said their demands were based on the broad understanding reached between the MHA and the two organisations during the May 22 discussions in New Delhi. The two bodies said that, considering the present limitations in Ladakhs revenue resources for a full-fledged statehood arrangement, a mutually acceptable sui generis democratic model could be adopted as an interim framework, while keeping full statehood as the ultimate objective. Under the proposed framework, the organisations have sought a Ladakh Legislative Assembly headed by a Chief Minister and a Council of Ministers, with members directly elected from constitutionally delimited constituencies. They have also demanded meaningful legislative, executive and financial powers for the proposed Assembly, with the distribution of powers drawing upon the relevant provisions of the Constitution, including the Seventh Schedule. The LAB and KDA have further sought a framework under which the Lieutenant Governor of Ladakh would act on the aid and advice of the elected Assembly to prevent conflicts between the elected government and the UT administration. Financial powers have emerged as another key component of the demands. The two bodies have sought constitutionally protected control of taxation, budget, appropriation, expenditure, borrowing and public funds for the proposed elected legislature. They have also called for a constitutionally protected Consolidated Fund and Contingency Fund for Ladakh, along with financial procedures covering money bills, annual financial statements, grants and appropriation. On legislative safeguards, the two organisations have sought a directly elected and constitutionally empowered legislature with separately constituted and properly delimited constituencies. They have also sought constitutional protection for the composition, territorial representation and legislative, executive and financial powers of the proposed Assembly, citing safeguards available to certain other parts of the country. The organisations have placed Home, Public Order and Police under the elected government among their major demands. They have sought substantial democratic control over these subjects through the proposed Assembly and government. Another demand is the creation of a separate Ladakh Public Service Commission, along with distinct Ladakh Administrative and Police Services and Ladakh-specific cadres. The bodies have also called for necessary amendments to the Jammu and Kashmir Reorganisation Act, 2019 and relevant constitutional provisions to establish an appropriate framework for Ladakhs public services. The September 24, 2025 incident and its aftermath also figured prominently in the demands submitted to the MHA. The LAB and KDA have sought dignified compensation and appropriate assistance for those killed, injured and otherwise affected by the firing and lathi-charge during the incident. They have demanded comprehensive and uniform withdrawal of all cases arising from the incident, including FIR No. 144, arguing that the commitment recorded in the May 22 minutes should be implemented in full. The two bodies have specifically opposed any selective or phased withdrawal of cases, calling for the commitment to be honoured comprehensively. Pending a final constitutional settlement, LAB and KDA have also sought interim safeguards for Ladakhs land, economy and demographic interests. Among the proposed interim measures is making a valid Ladakh Residence Certificate mandatory for registration of business units, regulation of commercial activities and grant or renewal of trade licences. They have also sought Ladakh-specific safeguards in relation to land transactions, including keeping allotment, transfer or disposal of land to persons who do not meet prescribed residence requirements in abeyance until a final constitutional arrangement is put in place.

GDC Womens Baramulla clinch girls volleyball title

Baramulla, Aug 19: Government Degree College (GDC) for Women Baramulla emerged champions in the Girls Volleyball Tournament 2026, defeating GDC (Boys) Sopore 2-1 in a closely fought three-set final. The girls' volleyball tournament was organised by 53 Battalion CRPF in collaboration with Government Degree College Baramulla (GDC) Baramulla at Indoor stadium Khoja Bagh. The final witnessed an intense contest, with both sides displaying determination, skill and sportsmanship.

Srinagar Premier League | J&K Police secure 30 victory over Kashmir Avengers FC

J&K Police delivered a confident and disciplined performance to secure a comprehensive 30 victory over Kashmir Avengers FC in the latest fixture of the Srinagar Premier League 2026 at the TRC Turf, Srinagar. The encounter, as per a DFA statement, featured determined efforts from both sides, but J&K Police's organisation, composure and attacking efficiency ultimately proved decisive as they walked away with all three points. From the opening whistle, the match carried the intensity expected from a competitive league fixture. Both teams looked to settle into their rhythm quickly, with the midfield becoming the main battleground during the early stages. Kashmir Avengers FC attempted to build their attacks through controlled possession, while J&K Police focused on maintaining their defensive shape and looking for opportunities to transition quickly from defence into attack.

Consequences of the Curriculum

The curricular omissions discussed in the previous column, (Curriculum of Omission, Greater Kashmir August 6, 2026) has had consequences that extend far beyond the classroom. Generations grew up with a fragmented sense of inheritance. Even though the society had intense emotional resources, we were not equipped with the intellectual wherewithal required to make coherent sense of Kashmirs own cultural specificity. A publicly validated framework through which to understand our own past, language, political experiments, and constitutional arrangements was never imparted at school. The omission was not accidental. It reflected a broader post-colonial assumption that regional histories and cultural specificities were potential sources of division and were therefore best kept at the margins of formal education. In Kashmir, the stakes were considerably higher. The region possessed a heightened sense of distinct ethnicity, a special constitutional status, and a sensitive geostrategic location. When its past was treated as either irrelevant or too politically sensitive to teach, public debate about Kashmir lacked the depth that shared historical literacy normally provides. The resulting disconnect was not merely academic; it was existential. Even when major events such as the accession or the rupture of 1953 remained outside textbooks, they continued to exist as living arguments within families. Similarly, figures such as Lal Ded and Sheikh ul Alam remained active presences in the moral imagination transmitted at home. The formal educational system, however, offered almost no institutional space for these resources to be engaged with systematically. When formal institutions of public knowledge provided almost no local intellectual or political resources -- whether in history, language, or political economy -- the work of identity formation fell entirely upon the informal sphere. Knowledge of Kashmirs specific political markers and historical experiences survived primarily through family conversations and neighbourhood memory. Over time, even this informal mechanism began to weaken. By the mid-1980s, Urdu had increasingly displaced Kashmiri as the language of aspiration and mobility among the urban middle classes. What survived in the private domain became disproportionately precious precisely because it lacked public validation. Identity could not develop as confident self-knowledge. Instead, it developed as a defensive possession; something to be defended rather than inhabited. In the absence of institutional recognition, identity markers acquired an intense emotional charge. Political disillusionments of the 1980s perceptions of rigged elections, shrinking democratic space, repeated central interventions, and economic stagnation arrived on top of this long-standing cultural and educational deficit. The privately held fragments of history and identity were pressed into service as the only available resources for self-defence. The absence of a strong public cultural narrative did not produce indifference. It produced a heightened, sometimes brittle, sense of identity. Over the years, the educational vacuum created the conditions in which private preservation gradually hardened into a more explicit politics of identity. The failure of formal education to nurture any meaningful sense of local historical continuity or cultural rootedness created space for other institutions to step in. Religious institutions, particularly those operating within Deobandi, Ahl-e-Hadith, and Jamaat-e-Islami frameworks, moved to fill this gap. These institutions often viewed local cultural practices with suspicion, regarding them as deviations from scriptural norms. In the absence of a strong cultural counter-narrative from the school system, religious institutions became the most organised vehicle for identity formation during a period of growing political disillusionment. They redefined identity primarily in religious terms, giving primacy to scriptural and reformist interpretations over Kashmirs older syncretic traditions. The Rishi-Sufi legacy and the philosophical resources of the Trika tradition received little or no public institutional support. As a result, the process of identity formation increasingly moved away from cultural synthesis and toward more exclusive religious frameworks. A society whose formal education had taught it almost nothing about itself was left with very few non-violent resources for articulating its sense of self and its political claims. Militancy did not emerge from a confident, well-articulated civilisational project. It emerged, in significant part, from the exhaustion of other avenues and from the perception that what little had been preserved language at home, memories of autonomy, and a syncretic moral tradition was under irreversible threat. When formal education had failed to equip people to see their own history as continuous and layered public intellectual resource, the only available grammar for resistance became the grammar of protection and retrieval. The heightened sense of identity that emerged from educational silence was, at its core, a form of cultural self-preservation. Militancy became one of its most destructive political expressions. This defensive posture helps explain how cultural and linguistic preservation could slide into armed militancy. The thinness of public cultural self-knowledge made society more vulnerable to simplifications, whether these simplifications originated internally or were projected from outside. Militancy was not a sudden eruption of religious or ethnic atavism, nor was it solely the product of unemployment or economic stagnation. It was, in part, the violent expression of a society denied systematic access to its own history, intellectual traditions, political experiments, and constitutional inheritance. The militancy that ruptured Kashmiri society in the late 1980s and 1990s exacted an enormous price: loss of life, generational trauma, the exodus of the Pandit community, economic devastation, and the militarisation of everyday life. It was, among other things, a catastrophic symptom of prolonged educational and cultural blindness. The constitutional changes since 2019 have removed the old framework of Article 370 and reorganised the states relationship with the Centre. A new generation is growing up under different institutional rules. Yet the underlying problem of cultural and educational rootedness has not been resolved. For many, home continues to function as the primary sanctuary of language and historical memory. If the post-2019 order is accompanied only by administrative integration and constitutional symmetry without a parallel investment in making Kashmiri history, philosophy, language, and political experience visible and legitimate within formal education, the old pattern of alienation risks reproducing itself in new forms. A different educational settlement remains possible. It would require treating Kashmirs history, language, philosophy, and political experiments as subjects worthy of systematic study rather than as sensitive or secondary material. This would mean including the Quit Kashmir movement alongside Quit India, studying the land reforms of the 1950s as a significant democratic experiment, and teaching Article 370 and its long afterlife as constitutional and political history. It would also require giving Kashmiri serious curricular space as a living medium of thought and expression and treating the moral and philosophical resources as contributions to societal ethics rather than as private inheritance. Public institutions would need to reflect local intellectual and cultural achievement alongside existing historical names. Such changes would not erase political disagreements. They would, however, change the quality of those disagreements. Identity could move from a defensive possession preserved against silence to a more confident inheritance capable of engaging the larger world without the constant fear of disappearance. The society that emerged from the rupture of militancy still carries the capacity to choose whether the next generation will inherit the same absences or whether it will finally be offered the tools to understand clearly what lies both inside and outside the walls of its schools. What comes after depends on whether society is now willing to move from preservation to confident self-articulation. That requires more than security or economic measures. It requires an educational and cultural settlement that finally treats Kashmirs layered past -- its histories, political experiments, languages, and moral traditions -- as worthy of systematic transmission rather than as private compensations for public absence. Only then can identity cease to be something that must be protected at all costs and become instead something that can be inhabited with greater ease and offered outward without insecurity and fear. (The first part of this article, Curriculum of Omission appeared in Greater Kashmir on August 6, 2026) The author is a Contributing Editor of Greater Kashmir.

52nd National Aquatic Championships 2026 | Day- 2: J&K swimmer Musa Pervaiz Malik finishes 2nd

On Day 2 of the 52nd National Aquatic Championships 2026, Musa Pervaiz Malik of the Jammu & Kashmir Junior Swimming contingent finished second in Heat 1 of 4 in the 50 mtr Free Style event with a time of 28.47 seconds. As per a statement, he competed against eight swimmers from different states, delivering a strong performance marked by determination and competitive spirit. His result reflects the structured training provided by the Jammu & Kashmir Sports Council. Before the event, the team underwent a 14-day intensive training camp focused on technique, fitness, and endurance under Senior Coach Vikas Magotra. Musas performance highlights the emerging swimming talent from Jammu & Kashmir and the impact of focused coaching. The contingent continues its campaign with strong determination.

Ladakh becomes first UT to fix 4% Govt job reservation for sportspersons

In a landmark decision aimed at securing the financial future of young athletes and elevating sports as a viable career, Ladakh has officially become the first Union Territory in India to implement a fixed 4% horizontal reservation for outstanding sportspersons in direct recruitment for government jobs. The statutory reservation was approved by Lieutenant Governor Vinai Kumar Saxena under the framework of the new Ladakh Sports Policy, 2026. Following the approval, the UT administration notified the Union Territory of Ladakh Outstanding Sportspersons (Horizontal Reservation in Direct Recruitment to Group C Non-Gazetted Posts) Rules, 2026. Proud to announce a historic milestone for our youth. Ladakh is now the first UT in India to provide a statutory 4% reservation for Outstanding Sportspersons in government jobs for Group 'C' Non-Gazetted posts LG said in a post on X. LG said that Along with assured scholarships, cash incentives, and modern infrastructure envisaged under the New Ladakh Sports Policy, the new reservation framework would ensure that no talented athlete in Ladakh should ever have to give up their sporting dreams due to financial or future employment concerns. Aligned with PM, Narendra Modis vision of making India a global sports powerhouse, the UT Administration is firmly committed to creating an ecosystem where sporting excellence leads to both national pride and a secure career .

Getting it right, not getting it wrong

When a contractors Input Tax Credit worth over ten crores goes silent overnight, the taxpayer feels the shock first. But behind every Rule 86A action lies a department that has, at some point, formed a considered view that revenue is at risk from fake invoicing, circular trading, or credit claimed without any underlying supply. The Honble High Court of Jammu & Kashmir and Ladakh at Srinagar, vide judgment dated 12.08.2026 in NCC Limited [WP(C) 1935/2026], set aside the departmental communication blocking Input Tax Credit (ITC) of 10,45,38,432/-. Read quickly, this can look like a setback for the department. Read properly, it is nothing of the kind it is the Court doing exactly what judiciary should do: telling the department how to make its orders and actions bullet proof, rather than telling it to stop enforcing. The power itself was never in doubt The most important line in the entire order is easy to miss because it comes almost as an afterthought: the Bench expressly clarified that setting aside the communication shall not come in the way of the Competent Authority... to pass an appropriate order under Rule 86-A... after providing the petitioner an adequate opportunity of being heard. Read that again. The Court did not say the department was wrong to suspect the credit. It did not say Rs. 10.45 crore was safe. It did not restore the credit to NCC Limiteds ledger without conditions. It simply sent the case back with an instruction: do it again, and do it with reasons on record and a hearing given. That is not a defeat for the department it is a second chance to issue an order that will actually survive scrutiny at every subsequent stage, from appeal to Tribunal to writ court. This matters because an order that is set aside on a technical or procedural ground is an order the department gets to correct. An order that survives on a weak procedural foundation but is later challenged on merits, after years of litigation, is a far costlier outcome for revenue. The NCC Limited Judgement should be read by every GST Officer as a warning against the wrong kind of risk not the risk of blocking bogus credit, but the risk of handing the taxpayer an easy exit route on a paperwork lapse. A useful discipline, not a new burden Rule 86A already required reasons to believe, recorded in writing, before any blocking order could be passed. That requirement was never optional; it was built into the rule from the outset precisely so that the power would be used with rigour and not casually. What the J&K High Court has done following the Karnataka High Court in K-9 Enterprises (whose SLP the Supreme Court dismissed) and the Telangana High Court in Bhavani Oxides is read a further, closely related discipline into the same provision: a short opportunity of hearing before the block, given how adversely it affects the taxpayers cash flow and business operations. Far from weakening the departments hand, this discipline strengthens it. A blocking order preceded by even a brief notice, and grounded in specific, recorded reasons mismatches in GSTR-2B, absence of proof of actual receipt of goods, non-existent or non-functional suppliers, values inconsistent with e-way bill trails becomes far harder for any taxpayers counsel to dislodge on appeal. It converts a suspicion into a documented finding. Officers who already build their Rule 86A cases this way recording the specific red flags, will find that this judgment changes nothing about how they already work. It simply makes explicit the standard the best GST cases were always meeting. What this means going forward For GST Officers, the message from NCC Limited Judgement is not caution but confidence: use Rule 86A firmly against every genuine case of fraudulent or ineligible credit, but build the case the way the law always intended reasons recorded before the order is signed, a short notice or hearing given wherever the urgency of the situation allows it, and the blocked quantum tied transparently to the credit balance actually standing in the ledger. Orders built this way do not get set aside; they get upheld, and they send the clearest possible signal to habitual evaders that the departments enforcement machinery is both vigorous and legally unassailable. The departments interest is never served by a shortcut. It is served by a Rule 86A order that a taxpayers lawyer reads and decides not to challenge at all. (The author is a State Taxes Officer posted at Circle-C, Srinagar. Views are personal.)

Best of BS Opinion: Digital transactions haven't dented demand for cash

Today's opinion pieces examine India's persistent demand for cash, aviation safety, the coming leadership change at Tata Sons, the impact of US-China trade and life inside Tihar

Christianity & Kashmir: A Shared Legacy

Christianity and Kashmir have a shared legacy as Christian missionaries have played a pivotal role in laying the foundation of education system in this beautiful land that left a lasting imprint on its social and intellectual development. Roots of the Christian educators can be traced back to late 19th century when they introduced the concept of structured schooling, modern subjects, physical training and girls education in the Valley.Classrooms of the missionary schools brought together children from different communities. These institutions became spaces where education, friendship, sport, discipline and shared experiences often transcended religious boundaries. Long before phrases such as interfaith dialogue and social cohesion became part of public vocabulary, generations of Kashmiris experienced diversity naturally inside these institutions. Across Kashmir, former students of Christian missionary schools became doctors, engineers,administrators, politicians, religious leaders, diplomats, academics, entrepreneurs, journalists,lawyers, artists, industrialists, hoteliers and public servants. Some remained in Kashmir. Others carried their education across India and around the world. Stories of these students form an important part of Kashmirs modern social history and drive home a point that a school can have a religious identity and still make an educational contribution to a society much larger than that religious community. TYNDALE BISCOE SCHOOL A significant milestone in the educational history of Kashmir came in 1880, when the Church Mission Society established a school in Srinagar under Reverend J. Hinton Knowles. The institution gradually developed into the educational tradition associated with Tyndale Biscoe. Canon Cecil Tyndale-Biscoe, who joined the school in the 1890s, left a lasting imprint through his emphasis on discipline, physical education, self-reliance, service and character. Its alumni reflect the remarkable diversity. They include Dr Farooq Abdullah, former Chief Minister of Jammu and Kashmir; Aga Syed Ruhullah Mehdi, Member of Parliament from Srinagar; Moulvi Imran Raza Ansari, prominent Shia cleric and political leader; Dr Anil Bhan, renowned cardiac surgeon and P. N. Dhar, economist and former senior adviser to Prime Minister Indira Gandhi. The institutions alumni also include first IAS topper from J&K, Shah Faesal. MALLINSON GIRLS SCHOOL Mallinson Girls School was established in October 1912 by Miss Violet B. Fitze as the Girls Mission High School, initially operating from a modest mud house at Fateh Kadal in Srinagars old city. Fitze, a missionary educator, founded the institution under the auspices of the Church Missionary Society (CMS), marking it as a dedicated effort to introduce formal schooling for girls in the region. In the mid-20th century, the CMS Girls School at Fateh Kadal in Srinagar, faced increasing enrolment and spatial constraints due to its rapid growth under missionary leadership. By the late 1950s, the decision was made to relocate the institution to a more expansive site near Lal Chowk area. The move was completed in 1962, coinciding with the retirement of principal Miss Muriel P. Mallinson after her 40-year tenure from 1922 to 1962, and positioned the school adjacent to the CMS Boys School (now Tyndale Biscoe School), facilitating shared infrastructure on a donated plot that supported further development. ST JOSEPHS SCHOOL BARAMULLA Another important institution St Josephs Higher Secondary School Baramulla in North Kashmir was established by the Mill Hill Fathers or Mill Hill Missionaries from London in 1903 for everyone without any distinction of religion, caste, creed or colour. It was run by Society of Jesus after Mill Hill Missionaries left the mission. Among its distinguished alumni was Dr Mohammad Najibullah, who later became President of Afghanistan. His journey from a school in Baramulla to the presidency of Afghanistan is a remarkable example of how far the influence of a Kashmiri educational institution could travel. The schools alumni also include figures former minister and a senior politician Syed Altaf Bukhari, former bureaucrat Muhammad Ashraf Bukhari and others. PRESENTATION CONVENT The Presentation Convent was founded in 1936 by Sisters Peter Conway, Sacred Heart, Annunciata, and Xavierwho relocated from Rawalpindi at the invitation of Maharaja Hari Singhthe school commenced operations in Srinagar before shifting to its current 10-acre site at Rajbagh in Srinagar along the Jhelum River in 1939, with initial government support for land lease and construction. In 1977 it transitioned to an exclusively girls day school emphasizing value-based instruction, life skills, critical thinking, and alignment with principles of tolerance and inclusivity, guided by the motto Virtue and Labour. Among those associated with its alumni tradition are Mehbooba Mufti, former Chief Minister of Jammu and Kashmir; Nilofer Khan, Vice-Chancellor of the University of Kashmir; late Aasiya Jeelani, journalist and human-rights activist. BURN HALL SCHOOL Burn Hall School in Srinagar, Kashmir, was established in 1942 by the Mill Hill Missionaries, specifically by Fathers Tijssen and S. De Jong. The school was initially started as the Senior Cambridge School. The school closed down temporarily following the Pakistani invasion that occurred during the India-Pakistan War of 19471948. The school was restarted by Fr. J. Boerkamp in 1956 as the founding father and the first principal of the school he rendered yeomen service to the cause of education in the valley. The school became part of the wider Mill Hill missionary educational tradition. In 1976 tragedy struck the Burn Hall School in the form of a major fire that engulfed the building on March 27. The school was completely gutted down. After fairly protracted negotiations with Misereor of Germany and Cebemo of the Netherlands, financial support came in, and the school was rebuilt. The new Burn Hall complex was inaugurated by lateSheikh Mohammad Abdullah, then Chief Minister of Jammu and Kashmir, on 20 September 1978. That moment was significant in its own right. A Christian educational institution had become so deeply embedded in Kashmirs social landscape that its new complex was inaugurated by one of the Valleys most powerful political leaders. BURN HALL ALUMNI LEGACY Burn Hall over the decades has produced an unusually diverse body of alumni who have contributed to politics, public administration, diplomacy, academia, business, literature, journalism, the arts and other professions. Among its most prominent alumni is Omar Abdullah, presently the Chief Minister of Jammu and Kashmir. His journey from the classrooms of Burn Hall to the highest elected political office in the Union Territory is an important part of the institutions contemporary legacy. Another distinguished alumnus is Vikram Misri, Foreign Secretary of India, whose diplomatic career has included serving as Indias Ambassador to China, Spain and Myanmar and as Deputy National Security Adviser. His journey from a Srinagar school to one of the countrys highest diplomatic positions is a remarkable example of the reach of education. The alumni story also includes Haseeb Drabu, economist, former Finance Minister of Jammu and Kashmir and former Chairman of Jammu & Kashmir Bank; Agha Shahid Ali, the internationally acclaimed poet; Rohit Bal, one of Indias best-known fashion designers. Among its political alumni are Tanvir Sadiq and Lone brothers, while the wider alumni community has made its mark in medicine, civil administration, academia, business, journalism and cinema. Perhaps one of the most striking names in this story is Mirwaiz-e-Kashmir, Molvi Umar Farooq. His association with Burn Hall offers a particularly powerful illustration of Kashmirs plural educational tradition. A future Muslim religious leader received part of his formative education in a Christian institution. There is no contradiction in that history. Rather, it demonstrates how education can create common spaces without requiring people to surrender their individual faiths or identities. The schools historical material also records my name among its notable alumni. My own journey did not end when I left the school gates. In 1995, I was elected President of the Students Union. During that period, I became closely engaged with students concerns, their rights and wider human rights issues. That experience became an important formative chapter in my public life. It gave me an opportunity to engage directly with young people, understand their aspirations and concerns, and appreciate the importance of giving a voice to those who often feel unheard. Looking back, I see that experience as part of the wider confidence, discipline and sense of civic responsibility that education helped cultivate in me. And among the political alumni are the Lone brothers, whose association with Burn Hall adds yet another dimension to the institutions long and diverse public legacy. PERSONAL CONNECTION I write about this legacy with a deeply personal connection. I am a Kashmiri Muslim and an alumnus of Burn Hall School. My wife is a practising Christian from South India who has made Kashmir her home and has worked in a senior administrative and human resources role at a missionary school in Srinagar. Both my daughters have also received their high-school education at Presentation Convent School in Srinagar. For our family, therefore, Christian education in Kashmir is not simply a subject of history. It is part of our lived experience. I experienced it as a student. My wife has experienced it as a Christian professional working within the educational tradition. My daughters have experienced it as students. Our association with interfaith engagement has also extended beyond Kashmir. My wife and I have been associated with US-based interfaith organisations and initiatives that promote dialogue, understanding and cooperation among people of different faiths. Those experiences have reinforced a simple belief: interfaith harmony does not require us to erase our differences. It requires us to respect those differences while finding common ground. In our own home, this understanding is lived rather than merely discussed. We celebrate Eid and Christmas together, sharing in each others traditions with respect and affection. For us, this does not diminish either faith. It reflects something more fundamental family, love, friendship and mutual respect. 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. He is a regular columnist for Greater Kashmir, has worked with national and international news organizations, and has authored books on Kashmir.

Nostalgia of the non-existent

What is so fascinating about the birds that leads certain men to spend a good deal of time just observing them. Matter of fact, like other commonly admissible forms of human activity such as trekking and cycling, it too has scored a name for itself. Its called bird watching. But its not like a watchman who in his capacity as a guardian watches over a premise solely as an act of duty. Its recreational natures very own theatre for human leisure or so we assume. And like every other performance, it too should need an audience to exist for what isnt observed, from at least a purely humanistic point of view, isnt existing. But what is it really about the birds? Is it their enchanting speech with which they seem to call upon us endlessly. Those mesmerizing tunes that we tend to relish even on the dullest of days. How much of the human speech is capable of doing just that? Very little, we would all agree. And when it does on occasion, its rarely in its natural form. Most of the time it has to be molded into music or poetry like a sugar coated tablet which is bitter and unbearable in itself. Or is it the paradisiacal elegance of their whole being? Feathers like fine royal garments, perfectly chiseled vibrant beaks which are announced before the bird is, eyes like crystals of black saphire, sufficiently sharp to capture the slightest motion nearby, tiny delicate limbs strong enough to support their brief sojourns on the surface. There is of course too much to adore. But in spite of all this that is beautiful and sublime; in order to stir the human heart this somehow feels less still. What truly excites the human soul, one way or the other, seems to spring forth from a nostalgia of an otherworldly but seemingly non-existent past. A feeling that is distant but familiar in a hard to explain way, which arouses in the soul a desire for something which once was but now seems to be lost. One of these so-called non-existents is the nostalgia of absolute freedom. Looking at the birds, we witness their flight, we see them reach for the unknown with absolute liberty. Nothing seems to hinder their advance. All the man-made obstructions seem to vanish into oblivion. There are no definite routes, no traffic lights nor any boundaries in the sky. There is no one to question your movement nor tax it. Every inch and corner of the vast blue oceanic space bears an open invitation, as if seducing to come forth without condition. Perhaps, deep down humans long for such a kind of freedom and would give anything to possess it. To be able to tread without bounds, without having to think twice before taking a stride. Limited only by ones ability, rising to the highest of highs or keeping to the lowest of lows without the fear of envy or judgment. In the sky no one is in charge, nor better. Whether its a feeble sparrow that induces compassion or a fierce falcon; the size of your being or the beauty of your appearance doesnt impress it. Nor is it concerned with the speed of your flight: you are free to maintain your own pace and keep summiting this celestial dome. Neither does it judge you on the extent of your sociability. You may take companions of your feather or tread alone altogether, it spares you the choice. The sky doesnt discriminate, it lets you be yourself, as long as you have wings you belong. But for the birds too, this period of poetic joy is most certainly preceded by a period of winglessness and bondage of the nest. Needless to say that its not without import. Its there and then that the wings of freedom are patiently forged into existence. Its the limitation of the nest that inculcates in the bird, the control of its abilities and saves it from the harm which almost always accompanies in tandem the prospect of freedom. Perhaps, the world as we know it with all its confining limitations and predisposition for captivity, is for humans too a period of disciplining winglessness precisely meant to prepare the human soul for whats to come. After all and rightly so, everything comes at a cost, even freedom. And here we are with our chance to pay its due. Tawheed Yousuf, data scientist, is alumnus GK School of Communication.

ASI spends Rs 26.59 Cr on protected monuments in J&K in 5 years

Srinagar, Aug 19:The Archaeological Survey of India (ASI) spent Rs 26.59 crore on conservation, preservation, and environmental development of centrally protected monuments in Jammu and Kashmir between 2021-22 and 2025-26, the Centre said. Spending in J&K rose from Rs 2.55 crore in 2021-22 to Rs 5.95 crore in 2025-26, peaking at Rs 7.17 crore in 2023-24, according to figures placed before the Rajya Sabha by the Ministry of Culture. The disclosure came in response to a question on the conservation and promotion of historical forts. Separately, the ministry approved an NCF project worth Rs 1.21 crore for 2026-27 to develop amenities at the Shankaracharya Temple in Srinagar. Ladakh, listed separately in the ASI expenditure statement, received Rs 12.70 crore for conservation-related works during the 5-year period. Its annual spending rose from Rs 43 lakh in 2021-22 to Rs 4.65 crore in 2025-26. Across J&K and Ladakh, ASI conservation-related expenditure totalled Rs 39.29 crore during the period. Nationally, the ASI spent Rs 1794.74 crore on conservation, preservation, and environmental development. Annual spending rose from Rs 269.57 crore in 2021-22 to Rs 376.67 crore in 2025-26, with the highest expenditure of Rs 443.53 crore recorded in 2023-24. The government said 3688 centrally protected monuments and sites are under ASI care nationwide. Conservation, maintenance and development works are undertaken according to the requirements of individual monuments and the availability of resources, it said. The government said no centrally protected monument has been identified as endangered under ASI protection. All centrally protected monuments are in a good state of preservation, it said. J&Ks five-year expenditure accounted for about 1.5 percent of the national conservation spending. The ministry said conservation of centrally protected monuments is a continuous process and is carried out based on the condition and requirements of protected sites, subject to the availability of resources.

SC stresses institutional overhaul of NTA to prevent exam paper leaks

New Delhi, Aug 19:The Supreme Court on Wednesday stressed the need to institutionalise and strengthen the National Testing Agency (NTA), saying the agency must have adequate infrastructure, experienced manpower and advanced technology to prevent question paper leaks and ensure examinations are conducted smoothly. Bar and Bench reported that the Bench of Justices P S Narasimha and Alok Aradhe, hearing petitions arising from the NEET question paper leak controversy, said the court was concerned with building a vibrant institution that could retain institutional expertise and keep pace with technological changes. Our duty is to ensure that there is a vibrant institution that the country can be proud of. If you dont institutionalise, experienced people get transferred and the entire experience is lost. There are a lot of technological changes that have to be brought about, the Bench observed. The court directed the Centre to file an affidavit detailing the progress made in implementing the recommendations of the Radhakrishnan Committee, constituted after the NEET-UG controversy in 2024, as well as reforms suggested by the Nandan Nilekani Committee this year. The Bench said its concern was not merely about the existing safeguards but about creating a permanent institutional framework for conducting examinations. Our concern is how you institutionalise the conduct of the examination - secure office premises, confidential operational infrastructure, cyber security, the court said. It also referred to recommendations for creating specialised verticals for testing centres, central network operations and other functions, besides developing research and development infrastructure, a sovereign database, and stronger cybersecurity mechanisms. The court emphasised the need to preserve institutional memory and institutional expertise, noting that examination systems and technology keep changing. Solicitor General Tushar Mehta, appearing for the Centre, told the Bench that several safeguards had already been introduced to iron-fence the examination process. He explained that question papers undergo multiple stages of moderation and selection, are printed under CCTV and CISF surveillance, transported in GPS-tracked vehicles and stored in secure bank strong rooms. The Solicitor General said the process involved sealed question-paper boxes, strict access controls and videography at various stages, with question papers opened only immediately before examinations. The petitions before the court include pleas seeking restructuring or replacement of the NTA, shifting NEET-UG to a computer-based test (CBT) format, digital locking of question papers and publication of centre-wise results to identify anomalies. One of the petitions has also sought the creation of an independent statutory national testing authority with greater oversight and parliamentary accountability. The Supreme Court had dealt with allegations of a NEET-UG paper leak in 2024 and declined to order a nationwide re-examination, while directing reforms in the examination system. The issue has again come under judicial scrutiny following fresh concerns over examination security. The court has now directed the Centre to file a detailed affidavit on the steps taken to implement the committee recommendations. The matter will be heard again after three weeks.

Get bullish about 'it's so bad that it's good'

A Chinese animated film, 'Niu Lai', has become a viral sensation due to its poor quality. Audiences are flocking to see the movie for its perceived flaws and crude graphics. This unexpected success mirrors India's past regional cinema, which pioneered the 'so bad it's good' genre. These cult flops could now be ripe for digital resurrection and inspiration. Indian kitsch could brand this revival as Parallel Cinema 2.0.

Hit Ctrl + R on government tech shopping

Government procurement must adapt to rapid technological change. Specifications should focus on performance and outcomes, not specific technologies. This approach fosters competition and ensures access to the best available innovations. Regularly updated and flexible frameworks are essential for government agencies. Such changes will strengthen domestic industry and drive technological advancement.

Bangladeshis among 9 killed in Kolkata fire; WB orders hotel safety audit

Nine people, including a four-year-old child, were killed and six injured when a fire swept through a five-storey building housing several hotels in central Kolkata on Wednesday, with several Bangladeshis among the dead, prompting the government to order a statewide fire-safety audit. Officials of the state government and the Bangladesh Deputy High Commission initially said five of the deceased were Bangladeshis, including a woman and a child. However, sources at the Bangladesh mission later said the number of Bangladeshis killed in the blaze had risen to seven, adding that an official statement would be issued on Thursday morning. The blaze at Shikha Inn on Mirza Ghalib Street, near the New Market area, came barely 48 hours after another hotel fire in Tarapith killed nine people, putting the safety standards of the state's hospitality sector under renewed scrutiny. Fire and Emergency Services Minister Kaushik Chowdhury said the fire brigade received the call at 2.07 am and began .

Shiv, Shakti, and E = mc

Einstein's famous equation and ancient Vedantic pairings suggest a unified reality. Shiv represents consciousness, and Shakti embodies creative energy and power. These concepts highlight how seemingly separate elements are deeply interconnected. E=mc demonstrated mass and energy are convertible, a physics-based revelation. While distinct, these ideas offer a distant echo of a shared intuition.

Capital gains tax on FPIs comes in the way of Indias ambition to become a global investment hub

India faces a policy choice regarding capital gains tax on foreign portfolio investors. Removing this tax could significantly lower India's cost of capital. This change would attract more foreign investment and foster faster economic expansion. India currently taxes foreign investors on a source basis, unlike competitors. Abolishing this tax signals commitment to reducing capital costs for growth.

Ganga Aarti on the Thames: Indias river ritual can transcend borders

A Ganga Aarti on Londons Thames is more than a diaspora celebration. The editorial argues that taking the ritual beyond Varanasi can showcase Indias cultural grandeur across borders, reflecting the inclusive spirit of Vasudhaiva Kutumbakam. Like Durga Puja, Christmas and Jaipur Literature Festival, Ganga Aarti can become globally recognisable.

The Hudson rooms Hanoi, Vietnam

Nestled within the luxurious Capella Hanoi, the Hudson Rooms dazzles with its exceptional cuisine and renowned cocktails. The menu features a sumptuous selection of seafood, including exquisite French oysters and a grand seafood platter. For land-based fare, the steaks and rigatoni garner rave reviews. Each dish is a thoughtful blend of familiarity and sophistication. Guests are invited to indulge in fabulous cocktails and savor an unforgettable culinary journey.

India must turn Chinese investment into trade leverage

India grapples with a persistent trade imbalance with China, a significant structural challenge. Embracing Chinese investment presents a strategic chance to recalibrate this economic dynamic. This strategy seeks to cultivate mutual dependence and fortify India's interests. As India diversifies its trading partners and investment avenues, pragmatic policies can draw Chinese capital while ensuring vital sectors remain protected.

The myth of the China shock

The decline in US manufacturing jobs began decades before China's WTO entry. The bigger challenge is helping workers and regions adapt to economic disruption

History as constant exploration: Sumit Sarkar through five books

Historian Sumit Sarkar transformed the study of modern India by connecting political history with culture, economy and social change, while engaging deeply with the challenges of the present

CM Omar warns against using 'Gen Z' as a threat

Srinagar, Aug 19: Jammu and Kashmir Chief Minister Omar Abdullah on Wednesday warned that using the 'Gen Z' tag as a threat will quickly lead to the erosion of any goodwill for the youth. Abdullah was commenting on a video in which a young woman could be seen raising her voice against the Ladakh police at a checkpoint. The girl in the video said, We are Gen Z and we are not going to tolerate this. This 'we are Gen Z' has become the new 'jaantay nahin ho mera baap kaun hai'. The quickest way to erode any Gen Z goodwill is to start using it as a threat at the slightest perceived affront, Abdullah posted on X while reposting the video from his personal account. In the undated video which surfaced on social media, the woman was aggrieved about being stopped near Minimarg in the Ladakh region, a place famous for being the gateway between Jammu and Kashmir and Ladakh. She claimed that the people had been made to wait there for five hours. We pay from our pockets to visit and they are doing this to us. Earlier they used to do this to Kashmiris (only), now they are doing it with tourists as well, she added. The woman staged a dharna at the check post and did not allow even an Army convoy to proceed towards a transit camp. The situation was brought under control after the district officials convinced her. The woman's remarks against the Army have drawn criticism from former Army officers who said her behaviour towards men in uniform was uncalled for.

Two Mumbai doctors who faithfully guarded the secret of Jinnahs illness to get Pakistans highest civilian honour

Srinagar, Aug 19: Two Mumbai doctors who belonged to Parsi community will reportedly receive Pakistans highest civilian award posthumously for faithfully guarding the secret of the countrys founder, Muhammad Ali Jinnahs illness. The doctors physician Dr Jal Ratanji Patel and radiologist Dr Jal Dhaybho-Koo have been nominated by Islamabad for the Nishan-e-Imtiaz award, which will be conferred on them at a ceremony in March, 2027. The announcement was made on social media platform X by Ahsan Iqbal, federal minister for planning, development and special initiatives and head of the Awards Committee, Hindustan Times reported. It said that both doctors had examined Jinnah's X-ray in 1946, and had diagnosed him with an advanced stage of tuberculosis, concluding that he had only a year or two to live, according to Larry Collins and Dominique Lapierre's book, Freedom at Midnight. In his post, the Pakistan minister said both doctors had faithfully guarded the secret of Jinnah's terminal illness. I feel honoured to have had the privilege, as Chairman of the Awards Committee, of nominating for the Nishan-e-Imtiaz two remarkable doctors, a physician and a radiologist, both members of Bombay's Parsi community, who faithfully guarded the secret of Quaid-e-Azam Muhammad Ali Jinnah's terminal illness, Iqbal said on X. He said the doctors have maintained absolute professional confidentiality at what he said was a critical moment, adding that they had performed a quiet but extraordinary service. Their fidelity to their professional oath inadvertently became a significant contribution to the circumstances that made the creation of Pakistan possible, Iqbal said. Keeping the diagnosis secret was significant to the creation of Pakistan, as has been highlighted by Louis Mountbatten, the last viceroy under the British regime who planned and enacted the partition in 1947. Lord Mountbatten later acknowledged that, had he known how seriously ill Jinnah was, he might have delayed partitionpotentially altering the course of history and perhaps even jeopardising the creation of Pakistan, Pakistan minister Iqbal said in his post. According to the account in Freedom at Midnight, a book by Larry Collins and Dominique Lapierre, the knowledge of Jinnah's illness could have possibly altered the course of events leading up to the partition. If I had known all this at the time, history would have taken a different course. I would have delayed the decision to grant Independence by several months. Pakistan would not have come into existence, Mountbatten told the reporters later. Historian Akbar Ahmed, in his book Jinnah, Pakistan and Islamic Identity: The Search for Saladin, noted that Jinnah had been suffering from tuberculosis since 1930s, when the disease had no effective antibiotic treatment. Since 1938 he had been constantly complaining of 'tremendous strain' on his nerves and physical strength. After that, he began to fall ill regularly, although his illness was kept secret, Ahmed wrote in the book. However, this secret was known by a very tight group of people, including Jinnah's sister Fatima and the two doctors.

10 days without a router: Budgam Post Office customers bear brunt of service disruption

A technical snag in a router at the Sub Post Office, Budgam, has brought several banking services to a standstill for the past 10 days, leaving customers frustrated. The router reportedly stopped functioning on Monday, August 10. Since then, customers have been unable to make deposits or withdrawals at the facility, forcing many to return empty-handed after waiting for their transactions to be processed. Customers said around 30 to 40 people visit the post office every day and leave disappointed after being told that the system is not working. For the last 10 days, we have been coming here hoping that the problem will be resolved, but nothing has changed, said Ghulam Mohammad Bhat, a Budgam resident, who has a Fixed Deposit at the post office. Bhat said the disruption has come at an especially difficult time, with the wedding season underway. I had kept the money in a Fixed Deposit and now need it for a family wedding. I cannot withdraw it because the system is not working. How are ordinary people supposed to manage when their own money is stuck? he said. Another customer, Ghulam Mohiuddin Bhat of Arampora, said the problem was causing difficulties for people who depend entirely on the post office for their financial transactions. We are not talking about one or two days. It has been 10 days. Every day people come here, stand around and then go back without getting their work done, he said. Ghulam Mohammad Sheikh of Arizal, another customer with a Fixed Deposit, said many people visiting the post office are elderly or have limited knowledge of online banking. Some people can transfer money online, but what about those who don't know how to use these facilities or dont have bank accounts? Sheikh questioned. Customers said those holding Fixed Deposits can access their money only through branch withdrawal, while savings bank account holders may transfer funds online to other bank accounts. However, for many customersparticularly elderly people and womenthe online option is not a practical alternative. The disruption has also exposed what customers described as the vulnerability of services at government-run financial institutions. Imagine a private bank telling its customers that withdrawals and deposits will remain suspended for 10 days because its router is not working. People would not accept it. Yet here, we are being asked to wait indefinitely for a basic piece of equipment to be replaced, said Bhat. Another customer said the issue reflected a larger problem of accountability in public services. This is people's hard-earned money. The least we expect is that the department should have a backup system or arrange an immediate replacement when a router fails, he said. Officials at the Sub Post Office, Budgam, acknowledged the problem and said it has been brought to the notice of the concerned authorities. They said a request has been placed with BSNL for replacement of the faulty router. However, customers said that despite the matter having been reported, there has been no visible resolution on the ground. The prolonged disruption is particularly distressing for customers who had planned to withdraw their Fixed Deposits for urgent expenses, including weddings. With 30 to 40 customers reportedly visiting the office each day, the failure has turned what should have been a routine banking service into a daily source of frustration. Customers have urged the postal authorities and BSNL to resolve the issue immediately and restore normal services at the Budgam post office.

Royal Premiere Cricket Leagues second edition kicks off in Pulwama, draws huge crowd

DCs of Udhampur, Ramban review progress of 1,800 MW Sawalkote Hydroelectric Project

Banihal, Aug 19: Deputy Commissioners of Ramban and Udhampur, along with senior district officials, on Wednesday visited the headquarters of the Sawalkote Hydroelectric Project at Tanger in Ramban to review the progress and current status of the ambitious 1,800 MW project. The Sawalkote Hydroelectric Project, being developed by NHPC Limited, is set to become one of the biggest hydropower projects in Jammu and Kashmir. The delegation was led by Ramban Deputy Commissioner Mohammad Alyas Khan and Udhampur Deputy Commissioner Minga Sherpa. Head of the Sawalkote Hydroelectric Project, Satnam Singh, briefed the visiting officials about the overall development of the project, including key infrastructure components, dam works, access tunnels and roads. He also outlined the project's forward roadmap and the regulatory milestones required before the commencement of major construction activities. According to NHPC, the project is expected to move forward after approval from the Public Investment Board (PIB), followed by clearance from the Cabinet Committee on Economic Affairs (CCEA), after which tenders for the project are scheduled to be opened. During the visit, the officials were given a video tour of the project site and a detailed presentation covering its power generation capacity, tunnel works, proposed submergence area, ongoing construction-related activities, future development plans and the Social Impact Assessment (SIA). The district administration officials appreciated the progress and efforts being made to formally kick-start construction of the project and assured NHPC of full support and cooperation for its timely execution. The delegation included District Forest Officer Udhampur Sandeep Divyajyoti Behera, District Mining Officer Udhampur Sunil Sharma, Additional Deputy Commissioner and Collector Sawalkote Project Shokat Hayat Mattoo, besides other revenue and police officials. As part of the visit, the officials also participated in a symbolic tree plantation activity, which NHPC said reflected its commitment towards environmental protection, biodiversity conservation and sustainable development.

US envoy takes shikara ride at Dal Lake in Srinagar

Srinagar, Aug 19: US Ambassador Sergio Gor on Wednesday took a 'shikara' ride at the famous Dal Lake here on his visit to Jammu and Kashmir, officials said. The US ambassador after meeting Chief Minister Omar Abdullah at the latter's residence went straight to the Dal Lake. He was accompanied by his security personnel and officials from the US Embassy, they said. Gor boarded the 'shikara' near the Nehru Park and enjoyed the ride for about an hour. The US envoy called on the chief minister at his residence at his Gupkar residence soon after reaching Srinagar. Speaking to reporters, he said the US will reconsider the advisories on travel to Jammu and Kashmir as the central government and Chief Minister Omar Abdullah have taken steps to make it a safer place. Jammu and Kashmir is an important part of India and an incredibly beautiful place, the US envoy said at a joint media briefing with Abdullah. The United States puts out travel warnings and every so often, we re-evaluate those travel warnings. I cannot make any big announcements here today, but it is something we are going to look at, Gor said.

PDP's Iltija demands crop insurance, better infra for apple growers, holds sit-in

Srinagar, Aug 19: PDP leader Iltija Mufti on Wednesday held a sit-in protest at a mandi in south Kashmir's Anantnag district in support of crop insurance and better infrastructure for apple growers in Kashmir, saying farmers deserve protection from the losses. Speaking to reporters at the protest site, Jablipora fruit mandi, she said apple growers face losses every year due to the Srinagar-Jammu national highway closure and natural calamities. Their demands are not like they are out of this world...For example, a crop insurance scheme should be introduced for them because every year we see, whether it is due to road closures, hailstorms, floods, or natural calamities, our apple farmers here in the whole of Jammu and Kashmir, especially in Kashmir, suffer a lot of damage, she said. The PDP leader said the government should waive off their loans and provide better storage facilities and improve transportation facilities. Mufti asserted that horticulture is very important for the economy of Jammu and Kashmir, which kept the economy of the region afloat even during the militancy era. We know that for so many years, whenever there was a disturbance here, even during the era of militancy, the one thing that kept the economy of Jammu and Kashmir going was horticulture. Charging that the NC government is not paying attention to the farmers' demands, she asserted that her party would not allow the government to favour some capitalists. If you want to help Adani, you are putting pressure on the Kashmiri apple, our farmers. We will not let this happen. So, to favour some capitalists, you want the fruit economy of Kashmir to shut down; this is completely wrong, she added.

US Ambassador Sergio Gor takes a Shikara ride on Dal Lake in Srinagar

Israeli military launches criminal probes into killings of Hind Rajab and Palestinian paramedics

Jerusalem, 19 Aug: Israel's military said Wednesday it would launch criminal investigations into two high-profile attacks on Palestinians during the war in Gaza, including the killings of 5-year-old Hind Rajab and her family and of 15 Palestinian paramedics. The military said it would not launch criminal investigations into three other attacks that killed aid workers from World Central Kitchen and Doctors Without Borders. It released the news in a statement that said it had completed reviews of 150 incidents of troop conduct in Gaza and made decisions on five cases. The statement did not mention other high-profile killings that the military has pledged to investigate throughout the war. It did not mention the Israeli strikes on a hospital in southern Gaza that killed five journalists in August 2025, including Mariam Dagga, a visual journalist who freelanced for The Associated Press and other news organizations. Both the killing of Rajab in February 2024 and the killing of 15 Palestinian medics in May 2025 gained international attention. Rajab was killed alongside her relatives while trying to flee Gaza City amid an Israeli offensive. Israeli troops opened fire on a vehicle carrying Hind and four of her cousins and her aunt and uncle. Hind's cousin, 15-year-old Layan Hamada, called the Palestinian Red Crescent paramedic centre, telling them that a tank was approaching and that her family had been killed. Seconds later, more gunshots were heard, and Layan's screaming stopped, according to the Red Crescent recording of the call. Hind was the sole survivor in the car. The Red Crescent stayed in contact with her as they tried to get permission from the military to rescue her. Contact was lost. Hind, her five relatives and two medics were found dead 12 days later. The 15 paramedics were killed when Israeli troops opened fire on their vehicles in the southern city of Rafah, then buried them in a mass grave. Troops shot at a first ambulance that was driving to retrieve casualties from an Israeli offensive, then fired on several other emergency vehicles that went out to look for the first one, according to phone footage and the sole survivor of the shootings. Troops then bulldozed over the bodies along with their mangled vehicles, burying them in a mass grave. UN and rescue workers were only able to reach the site a week later to dig out the bodies. The Israeli military initially said it opened fire because the vehicles were advancing suspiciously on nearby troops without headlights or emergency signals. But it backtracked from that account after the footage emerged, showing the Red Crescent and Civil Defence teams driving slowly with their emergency vehicle lights flashing and logos visible. We are not obligated to prove the truth because it is already proven to the whole world, Eid Azizi, a Palestinian Red Crescent spokesperson, told the Associated Press in a phone call. We shouldn't have reached this point if they respected and followed the international humanitarian law. (AP)

ACB books officials, beneficiaries over illegal construction and encroachment in Srinagars Rajbagh

Srinagar, Aug 19: The Anti-Corruption Bureau (ACB), Srinagar has registered FIR No. 10/2026 following a Joint Surprise Check and subsequent verification into allegations of illegal construction of a multi-storey building in the flood basin/fringe area of River Jhelum at Rajbagh, Srinagar. Officials said the verification revealed alleged violations in the grant and subsequent modification of building permissions, including substantial increase in the plinth area and building height without obtaining mandatory NOCs from concerned departments. It also revealed alleged encroachment of approximately 2.9 Kanals of State/Kahcharai land and construction over drainage infrastructure and within the prohibited river-fringe area. The FIR names then Senior Town Planner SDA Muneer Ahmad Khan, then Joint Commissioner Planning SMC R.K. Tutoo, then In-charge Assistant Town Planner SMC Ulfat Jan, other concerned officials, and beneficiaries Gulzar Ahmad Sheikh and Parveena Akhter, alleging abuse of official position, criminal conspiracy and facilitation of unauthorized construction and encroachment. The case has been registered under the section 5(1)(d) r.w. section 5(2) J&K PC Act Svt-2006, 447-A, 468, 120 RPC of the J&K Prevention of Corruption Act and other applicable provisions. Further investigation in the case is going on, officials added.