Opinion

Israel rejects Trump's Gaza plan, more details emerge on Strait of Hormuz and other Mideast news

Yemen's Iranian-backed Houthi rebels struck a government-held port on the country's Red Sea coast, deepening fears over threats to strategic shipping routes and a potential return to civil war

Op Sindoor sent global message India will go to any extent to protect citizens: Rajnath Singh

Defence Minister Rajnath Singh on Sunday said Operation Sindoor demonstrated the unmatched valour of the Indian armed forces and sent a global message that India would go to any extent to ensure the safety of its citizens. Addressing the Sindoor Maharaktadan Yatra blood donation camp at Base Hospital, Delhi Cantonment, Rajnath Singh said, Operation Sindoor demonstrated the unmatched valour of our defence forces who sent a global message that India will go to any extent to ensure the safety of its citizens while protecting the sindoor worn by our women. He commended the armed forces for eliminating terrorists and their handlers based in Pakistan and ensuring that those who dared to cast an evil eye on India faced dire consequences. Drawing a parallel between Operation Sindoor and the blood donation campaign, Rajnath Singh said while the military operation showcased courage, the mega blood donation camp represented compassion. Around 1,000 wrestlers and athletes from Maharashtra participated in the campaign, demonstrating the spirit of selfless service and solidarity with the Defence Forces. Expressing gratitude to the donors, Rajnath Singh said the blood donated during the camp would serve as a reserve for soldiers and their families in times of need. He described blood donation as Jivandan and Mahadan, stressing that despite advances in science and medicine, no artificial substitute for human blood has yet been developed. Since blood can only be produced by the human body and donated by one person to another, Rajnath Singh said, blood donation remained one of the noblest forms of charity. The Defence Minister said every blood donor and recipient was, in their own way, serving the nation. He urged people, particularly the youth, to make blood donation a culture. When we celebrate 100 years of our independence in 2047, our aim should not be limited to a developed economy; we must also envision a compassionate society where people are healthy and safe, and precious resources like blood are readily available in times of need, he said. Rajnath Singh also called upon the youth to prioritise fitness, saying a healthy and fit individual becomes a greater asset to society and is better equipped to undertake noble causes such as blood donation. He said initiatives such as Khelo India and Fit India, launched under the leadership of Prime Minister Narendra Modi, were encouraging citizens, particularly the youth, to make fitness a way of life. Highlighting Maharashtras tradition of valour and compassion, Rajnath Singh said the legacy of Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj continued to inspire generations. The true purpose of physical strength lies in protecting others and safeguarding the nation, he said, adding that the contribution of athletes and wrestlers from the land of Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj would be remembered as a noble service to the nation. The event was attended by Maharashtra Deputy Chief Minister Eknath Shinde, Minister of State for Ayush Pratap Rao Jadhav, Maharashtra Industries Minister Uday Ravindra Samant, MP Dr Srikant Lata Eknath Shinde, Chief of the Army Staff General Dhiraj Seth, DG Armed Forces Medical Services Surgeon Vice Admiral Arti Sarin, Adjutant General Lt Gen VPS Kaushik and Commandant, Base Hospital, Delhi Cantonment, Maj Gen Vishal Chaudhary, besides senior military and civil officials. For the Armed Forces Medical Services, maintaining adequate blood reserves is particularly important as military hospitals cater not only to routine healthcare needs but also to operational, trauma and emergency contingencies.

Amit Shah presents Presidents Colours to Puducherry Police

Union Home Minister and Minister of Cooperation Amit Shah on Sunday presented the Presidents Colours to the Puducherry Police, recognising the forces bravery, dedication and service. Lieutenant Governor K. Kailashnathan and Chief Minister N. Rangasamy were among those present on the occasion. Addressing the gathering, Amit Shah said Puducherry was a living symbol of the spiritual and cultural consciousness of South India and described the conferment of the Presidents Colours as a recognition of the forces bravery, hard work and dedication. Today, the Puducherry Police has joined the ranks of police forces in the country that have been awarded the Presidents Colours, he said. Amit Shah said receiving the Presidents Colours was one of the most prestigious moments for any police force. The Puducherry Police is entrusted with the responsibility of protecting Puducherry, ensuring its internal security and safeguarding its honour, he said, adding that the force had received the prestigious honour in recognition of its hard work, valour, service and dedication. Referring to Puducherrys history, Amit Shah said that despite having remained under French rule for a long period, the Union Territory has preserved its Indian identity and spiritual vitality. He noted that the post of Director General of Police was created in Puducherry on October 1, 1963, and said that since then, the Puducherry Police had strengthened the internal security of this border region. On criminal justice reforms, Amit Shah said the government under Prime Minister Narendra Modi had replaced the penal codes enacted by the British with three new criminal laws. These new laws are not merely punitive in nature; rather, their objective is to ensure justice for citizens in a technology-enabled and time-bound manner, he said. Amit Shah said the new criminal laws were built on three pillars: Technology, Timeline and Trust. The Home Minister also highlighted steps taken by the Centre to strengthen the Union Territories, saying Prime Minister Modi had taken several steps over the past 12 years to strengthen the Union Territories. He said the Central Government had undertaken several development projects for Puducherry, including the four-laning of National Highway 332-A at a cost of 2,200 crore. The Modi Government has constructed an extended runway here, approximately 3,400 metres long and 45 metres wide, Amit Shah said. He also compared the development assistance provided to Puducherry before and after 2014. From 1950 to 2014, the Government of India had provided only 3,500 crore to Puducherry for developmental works. From 2014 to 2026, the Modi Government has provided 13,762 crore for the development of Puducherry, which is nearly four times the amount provided earlier, he said. Amit Shah said that over the past nine years, the Centre had also facilitated industrial investments worth 39,000 crore in Puducherry. He said people of the Union Territory had benefited from several Central schemes, including Lakhpati Didi, Jal Jeevan Mission, Ayushman Bharat, construction of toilets, the free foodgrain scheme, Ujjwala Yojana, Pradhan Mantri Awas Yojana and Direct Benefit Transfer.

Thousands gather at Sopores Tujar Sharief for Urs of Hazrat Makhdoom Sahib(RA)

Thousands of devotees from different parts of Kashmir gathered at Peth Astaan, Tujar Sharief, in Sopore for the 548th Urs-e-Pak of Mehboob-ul-Aalam Hazrat Makhdoom Sahib (RA). The Urs began on 13 Safar-ul-Muzaffar and will continue till 25 Safar-ul-Muzaffar. Devotees have been visiting the revered Ziyarat Sharief during the 13-day observance to offer prayers, pay obeisance and seek blessings. Several sacred Tabarukaat were displayed before the devotees, including the Holy Quran, Kamar Band Sharief, Qulah-e-Mubarak (Topi), Tasbeeh Dana and Kanga Sharief. The display drew large numbers of devotees who observed the occasion with reverence and devotion. Moulvi Peer Gh. Nabi Shuloora of Kupwara participated in the religious proceedings and appreciated the arrangements made by the authorities and the Awqaaf Committee for devotees. SSP Sopore Iftikhar Talib-JKPS, along with other police officials, visited the Ziyarat Sharief and reviewed arrangements for the congregation. Traffic management, crowd regulation and security arrangements around the shrine were also assessed. Police and civil administration personnel were deployed at key points to regulate traffic and manage the gathering. Volunteers associated with the Awqaaf Committee assisted in facilitating the movement of devotees and maintaining orderly arrangements. Speaking to the media, Peerzada Mohammad Sultan Makhdoomi, chairman of the Awqaaf Committee, Peth Astaan Tujar Sharief, thanked the Sopore Police, civil administration, volunteers and local community for their efforts. He appreciated the coordinated arrangements, saying they helped devotees participate in the religious observances without inconvenience. The congregation concluded peacefully, with coordinated efforts by the police, civil administration, Awqaaf Committee and local volunteers ensuring smooth traffic movement, crowd management and security throughout the event.

JKCAG welcomes home composting directive in Bandipora

The Jammu and Kashmir Climate Action Group (JKCAG) has welcomed the Bandipora district administrations decision to make home composting of biodegradable waste mandatory for households with sufficient space around their homes. JKCAG Chairman Raja Muzaffar Bhat termed the decision a landmark step, saying it would help reduce the load on the waste dumping site at Zalwan. I appreciate the decision taken by DC Bandipora Indu Kanwal by ordering home composting of food waste, kitchen waste and other biodegradable waste in Bandipora town, Bhat said. I hope this practice is followed across the district soon and deputy commissioners in other districts also issue similar orders, he said. Bhat said such measures were mandated under the Municipal Solid Waste Rules, 2016, and would promote segregation and treatment of biodegradable waste at source. He said the J&K Pollution Control Committee in 2021 had imposed a penalty of more than Rs 64 lakh on Municipal Council Bandipora for allegedly violating the Municipal Solid Waste Rules by dumping waste near Zalwan, which falls in the Wular catchment area. Bhat said the Municipal Council Bandipora challenged the JKPCC order before the National Green Tribunal, which upheld the penalty and directed the council to pay the amount. He said the municipal council subsequently approached the Supreme Court, which also upheld the order and criticised the Bandipora municipality over the waste dumping issue. Bhat said effective implementation of home composting, along with proper segregation and waste processing, could help address the districts waste management problems and reduce pressure on dumping sites.

Chontiwari Doban village in Kupwaras Machil lacks basic amenities

Residents of Chontiwari Doban village in Kupwaras Machil sector have urged authorities to improve basic amenities, particularly health care facilities, alleging that the remote village has long been neglected. The residents said a health centre was sanctioned in the village following repeated pleas, but it continues to function with inadequate staff and infrastructure, forcing a population of more than 3,000 to depend on health facilities several kilometres away. After repeated pleas to successive dispensations, a health centre was sanctioned here, but it has always remained understaffed, due to which a population of over 3,000 is suffering, a local resident said. The residents said the health centre needs to be properly staffed and its infrastructure upgraded, particularly given the difficult winter conditions in the area. They said heavy snowfall often cuts off parts of Machil, with snow accumulation reaching 5 to 6 feet, making it extremely difficult for patients from Chontiwari Doban to reach the Primary Health Centre (PHC) Duddi. During winters, when the entire Machil witnesses 5 to 6 feet of snow, it becomes impossible for us to move out of our homes and reach Machil, another resident said. The locals claimed that several patients have died in the past while being taken to PHC Duddi, citing the difficult terrain, long distance and harsh winter conditions. They also sought the availability of a gynaecologist at the Chontiwari Doban health centre, saying women in the area face considerable difficulties in accessing timely medical care. As our village is several kilometres from PHC Duddi, the need of the hour is to develop the infrastructure at the Chontiwari Doban health centre to lessen the miseries of the people, a resident said. The residents have sought the intervention of Lolab MLA Qaiser Jamsheed Lone and Chief Minister Omar Abdullah to address their grievances and ensure better health care and other basic facilities in the remote village. Responding to the concerns, Lone told Greater Kashmir that he is working to upgrade PHC Duddi Machil into a Sub-District Hospital. Once that is materialised, the people in Machil will get better health care services, he said.

As Kashmir chokes on its own waste, Baramulla youth refuse to look away

A group of young volunteers in north Kashmir has decided to stop waiting for someone else to clean up the mess as plastic chokes waterways, waste piles up at tourist destinations and open dumping scars neighbourhood. The initiative has been taken by a group of youth as Kashmirs environmental crisis are no longer confined to polluted water bodies or overflowing garbage dumps but has become a crisis of public responsibility. Over 50 youth volunteers of the Youth Welfare Committee (YWC) of Nowpora village in Baramulla district have taken the charge for cleaning garbage from drains, public pathways and vacant plots that had turned into dumping grounds. The waste was segregated and handed over to municipal sanitation workers for disposal. But the exercise was intended to be more than another cleanliness drive. The government has its limitations. We cannot keep blaming authorities while we continue to litter our own surroundings. Every individual must own this responsibility for their own well-being, said Imtiyaz Khanday, a senior functionary of the committee. The intervention comes as J&K is facing a mounting solid-waste challenge. Urban areas generate more than 1,500 metric tonnes of waste every day, putting enormous pressure on collection, segregation and disposal systems. Drains remain clogged with plastic and household waste, vacant spaces have become informal dumping grounds and water bodies continue to bear the brunt of indiscriminate disposal. Destinations such as Gulmarg, Pahalgam and Sonamarg repeatedly face waste-management challenges during periods of heavy tourist footfall. Over the years the issue did not move ahead of the blame game as the residents blame authorities while the officials cite lack of public cooperation and departments point to inadequate infrastructure. In view of this volunteers of Nowpora village have made an attempt to break the pattern. The cleanup received support from local residents as several people have joined the volunteers in removing debris and segregating waste. This is what we need. People must take a lead instead of waiting for the municipality to act. If every locality does it, half our problems will be solved, said Ghulam Nabi, a local shopkeeper. The YWC has decided to make the initiative a regular exercise a sit has announced plans to conduct cleanliness drives every Sunday. The group is also preparing an awareness campaign in local schools with a hope to make waste management and environmental responsibility part of childrens everyday habits. Cleanliness is not a one-day event. It is a continuous process. Our goal is to make Nowpora a model for other localities to follow, said Lone Mehraj, another senior member of the group. Earlier this year, a community-led initiative in south Kashmirs Kulgam district helped restore the polluted Sandran rivulet. The move showed how sustained local participation can revive water bodies that were damaged by years of neglect and waste dumping.

Baramulla commuters hit by train delays, service suspension

Hundreds of commuters, including government employees, healthcare workers and students, are facing inconvenience as the morning train to Baramulla frequently runs late, while an afternoon service to Banihal remains suspended. Commuters said Train No. 74625, scheduled to reach Baramulla at 10:10 am, has been arriving 30 minutes to an hour late in recent weeks, affecting office attendance and daily schedules. The train is primarily used by employees working in government offices, colleges, hospitals and GMC Baramulla. The repeated delays have become a serious concern as many of us struggle to reach our offices on time, said Bilal Ahmad, a college employee from Budgam. Passengers said the delays had become frequent, causing inconvenience to those dependent on the railway for affordable and timely transport. Adding to their concerns is the suspension of Train No. 74632, which used to leave Baramulla for Banihal at 3:45 pm. The suspension of the 3:45 pm train is the biggest issue, especially for employees. Due to its suspension, employees and other commuters face enormous problems, said another commuter from south Kashmir. Commuters said the withdrawal of the service had left them with limited afternoon travel options, forcing many to rely on costly road transport or wait for the next available train. The suspension has created significant inconvenience, especially for office-goers and students returning home after work and classes, another commuter said, appealing to the authorities to restore the service. Public Relations Officer (PRO), Railways, Baramulla, Raghvinder Singh, said the 3:45 pm Baramulla-Banihal train had been temporarily suspended for maintenance work. The service will be resumed soon, Singh said. On complaints regarding the delayed morning train, Singh said the department would look into the matter and take appropriate steps.

In Shopian, a farmer turns his rooftop into a diverse organic garden

In a district better known for its sprawling apple orchards, 55-year-old farmer Haroon Rashid has turned the terrace of his home into a small but unusually diverse farm, growing around 100 varieties of herbs, vegetables and fruit. A resident of Vehil village in south Kashmirs Shopian district, Rashid cultivates both traditional and exotic varieties on the terrace of the second floor of his house. He relies on organic manure rather than chemical fertilisers for his crops. I cultivate both horticulture and agriculture crops, Rashid said. Spread over an area measuring about 40 feet by 42 feet, the terrace garden includes a variety of vegetables and herbs. Rashid also grows oranges, adding another crop to the diverse mix cultivated on his rooftop. He said he earns between Rs 70,000 and Rs 80,000 annually from the terrace garden, despite the limited space. The input cost is less because I use organic manure and grow the crops myself, Rashid said. Rashid said his decision to avoid chemical fertilisers was partly driven by concerns over their increasing use in conventional farming. Shopian is known for apples, but there has been a lot of use of chemical fertilisers. I believe this affects soil and health, he said. His rooftop garden is a small-scale experiment, but it also demonstrates how unused spaces can be converted into productive areas for food cultivation. Instead of relying on a single commercial crop, Rashid has diversified his terrace with vegetables, herbs and fruit. He said he grows around 100 varieties of herbs, along with vegetables and fruit, experimenting with crops that are both familiar to local consumers and less commonly cultivated in the area. Rashids approach reflects the diversity of farming traditionally practised in Kashmir, while adapting it to a space where conventional farming would otherwise be difficult. His terrace allows him to cultivate several crops simultaneously without requiring a large tract of agricultural land. For Rashid, the garden is not merely a source of additional income but also a way of demonstrating that food can be produced with fewer chemical inputs. The earnings, Rashid said, are an added incentive. With relatively low input costs, the terrace garden provides him with an additional annual income. For the 55-year-old farmer, the experiment is proof that farming need not always depend on large orchards or fields. Even a small space can be productive if it is properly utilised, Rashid said.

Parliamentary panel flags J&Ks growing drug menace; seeks tougher crackdown on trafficking

Drug abuse has emerged as a major social, public health and law-and-order challenge in Jammu and Kashmir, with the administration attributing its spread to cross-border trafficking, organised narcotics networks, psychological stress and socio-economic vulnerabilities, according to inputs provided to a Parliamentary panel. The issue came up during the field visit of the Department-related Parliamentary Standing Committee on Home Affairs to Jammu and Kashmir, where the panel sought to ascertain whether drug abuse had emerged as a major challenge in the Union Territory and the factors driving its spread. The scale of the problem is reflected in official data placed before Parliament. The Ministry of Home Affairs has said that 2,232 cases were registered under the Narcotic Drugs and Psychotropic Substances (NDPS) Act in J&K in 2023. Of these, 1,640 cases related to possession for trafficking, while 592 involved possession for personal use or consumption. The administration told the committee that the Union Territorys geographical location and vulnerability to cross-border trafficking had contributed significantly to the availability of narcotics. Drugs entering through international borders and infiltration routes, coupled with organised trafficking networks and local peddlers, have increased the supply of narcotic and synthetic substances. Authorities also highlighted the security dimension of the problem, saying narcotics trafficking was being used as a source of illegal financing by organised criminal and anti-national elements. The nexus between drug trafficking and illicit financing has consequently made the drug menace not only a public health concern but also an internal security challenge. The administration identified stress, trauma, prolonged exposure to conflict, social uncertainty and emotional disturbances among the factors contributing to addiction tendencies, particularly among vulnerable sections of society. Other factors cited included unemployment and economic distress among youth, peer influence, changing social behaviour, exposure to social media, inadequate awareness, weakening family supervision and reluctance within society to identify and address substance abuse at an early stage. The authorities said the increased availability of narcotics had also produced wider social consequences, including deterioration in physical and mental health, criminal activity, family disintegration, social instability and economic distress. The scale of enforcement has also increased sharply this year. During the first month of the Nasha Mukt J&K Abhiyan, launched in April 2026, J&K Police registered 724 NDPS cases and arrested 806 persons. Police also seized 667.5 kg of narcotic substances, including 5.22 kg of heroin, and recovered more than 19,000 units of psychotropic drugs during the period from April 11 to May 12. Twenty-four habitual offenders were also booked under the Prevention of Illicit Traffic in Narcotic Drugs and Psychotropic Substances (PITNDPS) Act. The crackdown was subsequently expanded under the 100-day anti-drug campaign. By its completion in July, authorities had reported 2,581 arrests, seizure of nearly 1,431 kg of narcotics, including 23.29 kg of heroin, and confiscation of assets worth more than Rs 188.89 crore, aimed at disrupting the financial networks supporting the illicit trade. The administration told the Parliamentary committee that tackling the menace required a multi-dimensional strategy combining stringent law enforcement with intelligence-led operations, public awareness, rehabilitation, educational interventions and community participation. The committee expressed concern over the increasing incidence of drug abuse, particularly among youth, and recommended stronger intelligence-led action against cross-border narcotics trafficking and improved coordination among law-enforcement agencies, educational institutions, health departments and community organisations. It also recommended expanding de-addiction and counselling facilities at the district level and intensifying awareness programmes targeting students, parents and vulnerable communities. The panel stressed that equal emphasis should be placed on prevention, early intervention, de-addiction, rehabilitation and the social reintegration of affected persons, rather than relying solely on punitive measures. It further recommended periodic reviews of the anti-drug campaign to assess its effectiveness and ensure a sustained reduction in drug abuse across Jammu and Kashmir.

J&Ks Drug Fight Widens: 1.03 lakh addicts treated, 7,730 traffickers arrested in 3 years

Jammu and Kashmir has intensified its fight against substance abuse, with 1,03,716 drug users treated and rehabilitated over the past three years, while law enforcement agencies arrested 7,730 drug traffickers during 2023-25, according to data furnished by the Union Ministry of Social Justice and Empowerment in the Lok Sabha. The government data, based on interventions under the Nasha Mukt Bharat Abhiyaan (NMBA), shows that the Union Territory has also undertaken an extensive awareness campaign, with more than 1.20 crore people sensitised about the dangers of substance abuse. The figures were provided in response to Lok Sabha Unstarred Question No. 1411 regarding drug de-addiction awareness camps in Jammu and Kashmir. The reply was given by Minister of State for Social Justice and Empowerment B.L. Verma on July 28, 2026. According to the government, 1,03,716 drug users were treated and rehabilitated during 2023-24, 2024-25 and 2025-26. The year-wise figures show that 35,639 drug users were treated and rehabilitated during 2023-24. The number increased to 39,711 in 2024-25 before standing at 28,366 during 2025-26. Over the same three-year period, 31,136 awareness programmes were conducted across Jammu and Kashmir, through which 1,01,27,675 people were sensitised. The year-wise data shows that 18,939 awareness programmes were conducted during 2023-24, reaching 10,02,860 people. In 2024-25, 5,851 programmes were held and 84,99,948 people were sensitised. During 2025-26, another 6,346 programmes were conducted, reaching 6,24,867 people. The broader NMBA outreach figures are even higher. The government said more than 1.20 crore people have been sensitised in Jammu and Kashmir under the campaign, including more than 69.14 lakh youth and 51.20 lakh women. As many as 8,565 Nasha Mukt Mitras have also joined the campaign in J&K, adding a community-based component to the governments anti-drug efforts. Alongside awareness and treatment, the government has reported a substantial enforcement response against drug trafficking. A total of 3,072 drug traffickers were arrested in 2023, followed by 2,158 arrests in 2024 and 2,500 arrests in 2025. Together, the three-year figure stands at 7,730 arrests. The governments response indicates that the anti-drug strategy in J&K is being pursued on multiple fronts, combining enforcement against trafficking with demand-reduction measures, awareness generation, counselling, treatment and rehabilitation. Under the National Action Plan for Drug Demand Reduction (NAPDDR), the Ministry of Social Justice and Empowerment provides financial assistance to State Governments and Union Territory Administrations for preventive education and awareness generation, capacity building and programmes aimed at reducing drug demand. Financial assistance is also provided to NGOs and voluntary organisations for running Integrated Rehabilitation Centres for Addicts (IRCAs), Community based Peer Led Intervention (CPLI) programmes, Outreach and Drop In Centres (ODICs) and District De-Addiction Centres (DDACs). Government hospitals are supported through Addiction Treatment Facilities (ATFs). In Jammu and Kashmir, the government has supported one IRCA, three ODICs, two CPLIs, six DDACs and 21 Addiction Treatment Facilities in government hospitals. The 21 Addiction Treatment Facilities have been established through the National Drug Dependence Treatment Centre (NDDTC), AIIMS, New Delhi. The government has provided a district-wise list of these 21 treatment facilities. They include Government Medical College, Anantnag; Government District Hospital, Bandipora; Government Medical College, Baramulla; District Hospital Budgam; Government Medical College and Hospital Doda; District Hospital Ganderbal; Government Medical College Jammu; Government Medical College Kathua; District Hospital Kishtwar; District Hospital Kulgam; District Hospital Kupwara; District Hospital Poonch; District Hospital Pulwama; District Hospital Ramban; Government Medical College and Hospital Rajouri; District Hospital Samba; District Hospital Shopian; the Institute of Mental Health and Neuro-Sciences, Government Medical College Srinagar; SKIMS Srinagar; GMC&H Udhampur; and District Hospital Reasi. The NGO-supported network extends across several districts. The government has also highlighted the availability of a national de-addiction helpline, 14446, maintained by the Ministry of Social Justice and Empowerment. The helpline provides primary counselling and immediate referral services to people seeking assistance for substance-use problems. More than 4.6 lakh calls have been received through the helpline so far, including more than 11,000 calls from Jammu and Kashmir. The Nasha Mukt Bharat Abhiyaan was initially launched on August 15, 2020, covering 272 districts identified as vulnerable on the basis of inputs from the Narcotics Control Bureau and findings of the first National Survey. The campaign was subsequently extended to all districts of the country from August 2023. The campaign focuses on spreading awareness about substance use, with particular emphasis on higher educational institutions, universities, campuses and schools. Nationally, the campaign has reportedly sensitised more than 29.05 crore people, including over 11.05 crore youth and 7.81 crore women. More than 1.17 lakh Nasha Mukt Mitras have joined the campaign across the country. The government said implementation of the campaign is regularly reviewed with States and Union Territories through monthly review meetings, Chintan Shivirs and National-Level Conferences. States and UTs are followed up to establish State-, District- and Block-level NMBA committees and hold their meetings regularly.

J&K has over 4.1 lakh pending cases in Courts; 26,873 pending for more than 10 years

Jammu and Kashmir has more than 4.1 lakh cases pending before its courts, with a significant number of cases having remained unresolved for more than five and 10 years, according to the latest data furnished by the Union Ministry of Law and Justice in the Lok Sabha. The figures, based on data available on the National Judicial Data Grid (NJDG) as on July 30, 2026, were provided in response to Lok Sabha Unstarred Question No. 3371 on Cases Pendency and e-Courts Project. According to the data, 3,65,645 cases were pending before Jammu and Kashmirs District and Subordinate Courts as on July 30. Of these, 20,767 cases had been pending for more than 10 years, while 63,876 cases had been pending for more than five years. At the High Court level, the government has reported 44,557 pending cases before the High Court of Jammu and Kashmir and Ladakh. The data shows that 6,106 of these cases had been pending for more than 10 years, while 7,328 had remained pending for more than five years. Taken together, the figures amount to 4,10,202 pending cases, or more than 4.1 lakh cases. However, the government has clubbed Jammu and Kashmir and Ladakh in the High Court data, and therefore the 44,557 High Court cases cannot be separated into J&K and Ladakh on the basis of the parliamentary reply. For reporting purposes, the overall figure of over 4.1 lakh represents the combined figure obtained by adding the J&K District and Subordinate Courts pendency to the jointly reported High Court pendency. The long-pending cases constitute a substantial portion of the backlog. The District and Subordinate Courts in J&K alone have 20,767 cases pending for more than a decade and 63,876 pending for more than five years. At the High Court of J&K and Ladakh, 6,106 cases have crossed the 10-year mark and 7,328 have crossed the five-year mark. The figures show that the bulk of the pending cases are concentrated in the District and Subordinate Courts. Their 3,65,645 cases account for nearly 89 per cent of the 4,10,202 cases represented by the combined figures. The government has separately provided data for Ladakhs District and Subordinate Courts. These courts had 1,745 pending cases as on July 30, 2026, including 12 cases pending for more than 10 years and 98 cases pending for more than five years. The Centre has been pursuing digitisation and technology-based interventions as part of its efforts to address judicial pendency. The Government has approved Phase III of the e-Courts Project for 2023-27 with a budget outlay of Rs 7,210 crore. The third phase aims to transform courts into digital and paperless institutions, expand video-conferencing facilities to all courts, jails and hospitals, and integrate various stakeholders of the criminal justice system. It also envisages universal saturation of eSewa Kendras and creation of a cloud-based repository for storing digitised court records and applications. The project further provides for deployment of emerging technologies, including Artificial Intelligence and Optical Character Recognition, for case analysis and forecasting. According to the government, more than 753 crore pages of court records have been digitised nationally so far, while 2,584 eSewa Kendras have been established. Courts across the country have conducted more than 4.18 crore hearings through video-conferencing facilities, while approximately 1.25 crore cases have been filed electronically through the eFiling platform. A Digital Courts platform has also been developed to provide judges with a paperless court ecosystem. The government has also disclosed the financial progress under Phase III of the e-Courts Project. During 2023-24, the budget allocation was Rs 825 crore, against which expenditure stood at Rs 768.25 crore. In 2024-25, Rs 1,200 crore was allocated and Rs 1,029.11 crore spent. For 2025-26, the allocation was Rs 1,200 crore, against expenditure of Rs 717.45 crore. For 2026-27, Rs 1,200 crore has been allocated, while expenditure reported in the reply stands at Rs 29 crore. The total allocation for the four years was Rs 3,225 crore, against cumulative expenditure of Rs 2,543.81 crore. The allocations for 2023-24 and 2024-25 were revised estimates. On judicial infrastructure, the Centre said the primary responsibility for developing infrastructure facilities for District and Subordinate Courts rests with State Governments and Union Territories. To supplement their resources, the Central Government has been implementing a Centrally Sponsored Scheme for Development of Infrastructure Facilities for Judiciary in the District and Subordinate Courts since 1993-94. The scheme covers five componentscourt halls, residential units for judicial officers, lawyers halls, toilet complexes and digital computer rooms. Since the inception of the scheme, Rs 12,858.25 crore has been provided to States and Union Territories up to June 30, 2026. As of June 30, 2026, the sanctioned strength of judicial officers nationally stood at 30,825 against a working strength of 21,411. The country had 22,639 court halls and 21,495 residential units for judicial officers, according to the government.

Former J&K DGP M.N Sabharwal passes away; tributes pour in

Former Jammu and Kashmir Director General of Police M.N. Sabharwal, a 1964-batch IPS officer of the J&K cadre who played a pivotal role in building the states specialised counter-terrorism capability during the peak of terrorism, passed away on Friday night. He was one of the key figures in the history of the police response to terrorism in J&K. Sabharwal served as DGP from 1993 to 1997, among the most challenging years of the insurgency. In 1994, under his leadership, the J&K Police raised its first dedicated counter-terrorism formation the Special Task Force (STF) which later evolved into the Special Operations Group (SOG). Farooq Khan served as its initial operational head. The force became a crucial component of the counter-insurgency architecture and helped rebuild the capacity of the local police to confront militancy head-on. The creation of the STF/SOG marked an important institutional shift: from heavy reliance on conventional policing and central forces towards a specialised, intelligence-driven counter-terrorism capability developed within the J&K Police itself. Officers who served during that period have long described it as a landmark step that gave the force a local face in anti-terror operations at a time when state institutions were under severe strain. After his tenure in J&K, Sabharwal held several senior positions at the Centre, including Special Director in the Intelligence Bureau, Director General of the CRPF and Secretary (Security). His first-hand account of those turbulent years, co-authored with his son Manish Sabharwal and published as Kashmir Under 370: A Personal History, offers a rare insider perspective on the intersection of policing, politics and security in the state. The book draws on his long service in the Valley, including earlier postings as district police chief in Anantnag and Srinagar, and covers critical episodes such as the handling of the Hazratbal sieges. Current Director General of Police Nalin Prabhat expressed deep grief over the demise of the former DGP, described as the seventh DGP of J&K, and prayed for peace to the departed soul and strength to the bereaved family. The official J&K Police statement was widely shared, with tributes also coming from other former DGPs, IGPs and officers who had worked under him. The CRPF, recalling his tenure as its Director General, paid homage and presented a ceremonial Guard of Honour during the last rites in Kanpur. Veteran Kashmir journalists and colleagues remembered Sabharwal as an unassuming officer who maintained close contact with the people and the media even during the most dangerous phase of the militancy. He had served through critical periods under Governors G.C. Saxena and Gen. K.V. Krishna Rao, witnessing the transition from Presidents Rule to elected government in the mid-1990s.

Cheap, Colourful and Untraceable: Suspicious snacks flood rural Kashmir

Small, brightly coloured plastic bottles of drinks, loose candies sold from large jars, unbranded chips, chocolates and savoury snacks packed in flimsy plastic pouches are a common sight in vends and shops across Kashmir's towns and villages, and many parts of the city as well. These products carry little or no information about who manufactured them, where they were made and what ingredients they contain, putting a question mark over the health risks these pose. These products are priced cheap, and are especially popular among children. The widespread sale of colored, flavored water in fancy packs, sprays and terta-packs has raised concerns among public. The consumers, stakeholders believe, are being lured ito consuming products that appears suspicious even on the cursory examination. In addition, the lack of adequate label details, or false details on labels denies consumers the information needed to make informed choices. Under the Food Safety and Standards (Packaging and Labelling) Regulations, packaged food is required to display name and address of the manufacturer or packer, ingredient list, net quantity, batch or lot number, date of manufacture or packing, best-before or expiry date. In addition, these must also have accurate nutritional information. However, the flood of low-cost snacks and confectionery products sold in peripheral markets make it impossible for consumers to verify their origin or shelf life. Children are among the biggest consumers of these products. These are displayed on vending carts and small shacks outside schools, targeting children on their way to and from schools. Parents find it difficult to prevent their children from getting attracted to the colourful packaging, while they remain uncertain about their quality. Public health experts warn that absence of proper labelling does not automatically mean a product is unsafe. However, the packaging in non-foodgrade packs and plastics is a definite risk. In addition, it prevents consumers and regulators from knowing what exactly is being consumed. Sans the ingredient lists, people with food allergies cannot get cautioned about potential allergens. The missing manufacturing details also make it hard for food safety regulators to trace products in case of contamination. During Kashmir's warm summer months, the poor-quality packaging can also expose food to moisture, dust and contamination. Food safety officials underlined the legal requirement for all food business operators, irrespective of size, are required to comply with food safety standards. Assistant Commissioner Food Safety Srinagar, Yameen ul Nabi said that selling packaged food without mandatory labelling can attract regulatory action under food safety laws. He said market surveillance was on and many such cases have been found and legal action taken. He said inspections in rural and semi-urban areas and greater public awareness are needed to address the issue better. Consumers must avoid purchasing packaged foods that do not carry essential labelling information, especially when intended for children, he said.

Lithium exploration activities underway in Reasi for field season 2026-27

Mineral exploration activities for Lithium bearing laterite in north-west and south-east of the Salal-Haimna blocks are underway in Jangalgali and Panasa areas of Reasi district for the field season 2026-2027. Explored by Geological Survey of India (GSI), Salal-Haimna and Kotla mineral blocks of J&K will be among critical and strategic mineral blocks for which the Ministry of Mines of Government of India will launch the 8th tranche of the auction in financial year 2026-27. Salal-Haimna Lithium, Titanium and Aluminous Laterite block, spread in 4.18 sq km area, is proposed for Mining Lease (ML) while Kotla Lithium, Gallium, Titanium and Aluminous laterite block, spread in 1.5 sq km area, is proposed for Composite License (CL). J&K Mining Department revealed that the Geological Survey of India (GSI), after reconnaissance survey of 5 Sq km undertook only 3 Sq km area during field seasons 2020-2022 and carried out exploration at G3 level in Salal-Haimna area and estimated 5.9 million tonnes of inferred resource of lithium bearing aluminous laterite resources. The auction was conducted by the Ministry of Mines with poor response. Only two bidders qualified in 2024 when bids were opened and qualified, preferred bidders were announced. The department, in an information furnished to J&K Legislative Assembly Committee on Environment, chaired by CPI-M MLA M Y Tarigami, during its meeting on August 6, 2026, stated that G-2 stage of exploration was carried out in same Salal-Haimna block, during field season 2025-26 over 4.18 sq km mapped area, estimating 3.29 million tonnes of lithium bearing aluminous laterite resources. The report was handed over to the J&K government. The follow up action is being taken by the Department. In addition, the associated resources of aluminium and titanium have also been assessed in the laterite, it has been revealed. In this connection, the department has submitted the requisite information to the Ministry of Government of India. During its meeting on August 6, the Committee on Environment J&K Legislative Assembly had assessed the functioning of the Geology and Mining Department. Calling for zero tolerance against illegal mining across Jammu and Kashmir, the chairperson of the panel said that natural resources belonged to the people and their indiscriminate exploitation would not be allowed. He stressed that the department must move from paper monitoring to ground and satellite monitoring to ensure scientific and transparent extraction of minerals. Technology, especially satellite surveillance, GPS tracking and digital monitoring has to become our first line of defence against illegal mining, he asserted. The panel also asked the officers to ensure strict enforcement of mining laws, curb illegal extraction, expedite technology-based monitoring including GPS tracking, e-permits, e-challans and the Unified Mining Portal. They stressed that inter-departmental coordination with Revenue, Police, Forest and district administrations must be strengthened to safeguard the environment and maximise revenue for the UT.

LIC Q1 profit rises 22.8% to Rs 13,492 Crore

Life Insurance Corporation of India (LIC) reported a 22.81 per cent year-on-year increase in profit after tax (PAT) to ` 13,492 crore for the quarter ended June 30, 2026, compared with ` 10,986 crore in the corresponding quarter of the previous year. The company's Value of New Business (VNB) recorded a sharper growth of 61.32 per cent, rising to ` 3,136 crore from ` 1,944 crore a year earlier. The net VNB margin also expanded by 750 basis points to 22.9 per cent from 15.4 per cent in Q1 FY26. The LIC Board of Directors approved and adopted the standalone and consolidated financial results for the quarter ended June 30, 2026. LIC said it continued to maintain its leadership in the Indian life insurance market, with an overall market share of 60.10 per cent based on First Year Premium Income (FYPI), according to IRDAI data. Its market share stood at 38.89 per cent in the individual business and 70.90 per cent in the group business during the quarter. Total premium income increased 6.75 per cent to ` 1,27,250 crore in Q1 FY27 from ` 1,19,200 crore in the same period of the previous year. Individual business premium income rose 5.52 per cent to ` 75,416 crore from ` 71,474 crore, while total group business premium income increased 8.61 per cent to ` 51,834 crore from ` 47,726 crore. LIC sold 31,02,281 policies in the individual segment during the quarter, compared with 30,39,709 policies in Q1 FY26, registering a growth of 2.06 per cent. On an Annualized Premium Equivalent (APE) basis, total premium stood at 13,692 crore, an increase of 8.22 per cent over 12,652 crore in the corresponding quarter last year. Individual business accounted for 55.01 per cent of total APE at 7,532 crore, while group business contributed 44.99 per cent at 6,160 crore. Individual business APE increased 6.67 per cent from 7,061 crore, while group business APE rose 10.20 per cent from 5,590 crore. Within the individual business, the share of participating products stood at 67.51 per cent, or 5,085 crore, while non-participating products accounted for 32.49 per cent, or 2,447 crore. Non-par APE increased 14.24 per cent from 2,142 crore in Q1 FY26 to 2,447 crore in Q1 FY27. Consequently, the share of non-par products within individual business increased to 32.49 per cent from 30.34 per cent a year earlier. LIC's solvency ratio improved to 2.42 as on June 30, 2026, from 2.17 as on June 30, 2025. The company's Assets Under Management (AUM) increased 4.10 per cent year-on-year to 59,39,384 crore as on June 30, 2026, compared with 57,05,341 crore a year earlier. However, the overall expense ratio increased marginally to 10.63 per cent from 10.47 per cent, an increase of 16 basis points. The yield on investments on policyholders' funds, excluding unrealised gains, stood at 8.28 per cent during the quarter, compared with 8.45 per cent in the corresponding period of the previous year. LIC's persistency ratios showed a mixed trend. On a premium basis, the 13th-month and 61st-month persistency ratios stood at 75.33 per cent and 61.12 per cent, respectively, compared with 75.63 per cent and 63.85 per cent a year earlier. On a number-of-policies basis, the 13th-month persistency ratio improved to 66.45 per cent from 64.35 per cent, while the 61st-month ratio declined to 48.74 per cent from 51.12 per cent. LIC CEO and Managing Director R Doraiswamy said the corporation had maintained its leadership in both individual and group business despite increasing competition in the life insurance industry. We are happy to maintain our leadership in both Individual and Group Business during the first quarter of this financial year, despite increasing competitive intensity in the life insurance industry, Doraiswamy said. He said LIC's overall market share based on First Year Premium Income stood at 60.10 per cent during the first quarter of FY2026-27, adding that the growth in VNB and expansion in VNB margin reflected the company's product diversification and distribution strategy. He welcomed the new shareholders and thanked existing shareholders who participated in the OFS for their continued confidence in LIC.

Aqsa Hafiz: Young entrepreneur with Kashmir at heart

Some stories of Kashmir are written in books, others are woven into fabric. For Aqsa Hafiz, an MBA graduate in her early twenties, the story of Kashmir is being told through threads, stitches, colours, and craftsmanship. With her apparel venture Girly Sherly, Aqsa is attempting to create a space where Kashmirs rich traditional artistry can meet the tastes of a new generation. What began as a young entrepreneurs venture has a larger idea at its heart that the Valleys traditional arts and crafts should not merely be preserved as memories of the past, but should continue to live, evolve, and find admirers among younger generations. Operating through its Instagram handle @Girly.sherly_, Girly Sherly describes itself as a premium Kashmiri clothing brand specialising in authentic Tilla and Aari craftsmanship. The brand offers handcrafted outfits made with quality fabrics, bringing together the intricate artistry associated with Kashmir and a contemporary sense of elegance. It also accepts customised orders, allowing customers to have outfits created according to their preferences, with particular emphasis on detail and craftsmanship. For Aqsa, however, clothing is only one part of the story. Behind every piece, she sees a cultural inheritance. Kashmir is not just a place; it is a feeling that lives in its colours, its craftsmanship and the stories passed from one generation to another, she says. That connection with Kashmir appears to be central to her entrepreneurial journey. At a time when fashion is changing rapidly and younger consumers are increasingly exposed to global trends, Aqsa believes there is a need to make traditional Kashmiri craftsmanship relevant to the same generation. I want our traditions to be something that the younger generation wears with pride, not something they only hear about as a part of history, she says. It is a philosophy that gives Girly Sherly an identity beyond a conventional clothing label. The brands focus on Tilla and Aari work places traditional Kashmiri craftsmanship at the centre of its offering. Both forms of embroidery represent painstaking skill and generations of artistic knowledge, with each stitch carrying the imprint of a craft tradition that has long been associated with Kashmirs cultural landscape. For Aqsa, keeping such traditions alive does not mean leaving them untouched in the past. Tradition stays alive when we carry it forward, she says. If we give our art a place in the lives of our children and in the fashion they choose, we give it another generation to live. It is this meeting of the old and the new that Aqsa hopes to build through Girly Sherly. Her MBA background gives her an understanding of business, marketing, and contemporary consumer preferences, while her appreciation of Kashmiri craftsmanship gives the venture a distinctly local character. The combination is perhaps what makes her journey noteworthy. Aqsa is not simply entering the apparel business; she is attempting to build a business around something deeply rooted in the place she calls home. Her Instagram presence, @Girly.sherly_, has become a window into that effort, allowing the brand to showcase its handcrafted apparel and reach customers who appreciate Kashmiri artistry while looking for contemporary expressions of it. The venture also embraces customisation, giving customers an opportunity to bring their own preferences into the design process while retaining the traditional craftsmanship that defines the brand. For Aqsa, the larger hope is that such efforts can help ensure that Kashmiri art remains part of everyday life. Kashmir has given us so much beauty, she says. I feel that every generation has a responsibility to carry a little of that beauty forward. That responsibility, she believes, can take many forms. For some, it may be through learning a craft. For others, through supporting artisans. For a young entrepreneur like Aqsa, it is through creating a platform where traditional craftsmanship can find a new audience. Girly.Sherly is now preparing to showcase its collection at Bazm-e-Kashmir at Nigeen Club, Srinagar, on August 12 and 13. The exhibition will give visitors an opportunity to explore the brands premium collection and experience its interpretation of authentic Kashmiri fashion. We are bringing our apparels to Nigeen Club from the 12th, Aqsa says. I look forward to welcoming people and sharing the beauty of Kashmiri craftsmanship with them. For her, the exhibition is not merely another business opportunity. It is another step in a much larger journey one that seeks to place Kashmirs traditional artistry in front of contemporary audiences and, particularly, younger people. There is something quietly significant about that ambition. Cultures survive not simply because they are remembered, but because they continue to be lived. And perhaps Aqsa Hafizs young venture is an attempt to do exactly that to ensure that Tilla and Aari are not merely names from Kashmirs artistic past, but living traditions that continue to adorn the present and inspire the future. In the end, Girly Sherly is about clothes. But it is also about memory. About identity. About a young entrepreneur looking at the craftsmanship of her homeland and believing that its story deserves another chapter.

Repora: Kashmirs grape village where 600-year-old tradition meets modern horticulture

More than 600 years ago, Sufi saint Sheikh Noor-ud-Din Noorani (RA) is believed to have praised Repora in central Kashmir with the words, Dachi Repora, Nazar chay cxopoora reference to the villages famed grapes and their far-reaching reputation. Six centuries later, the quiet hamlet in Ganderbal district continues to live up to that legacy, producing unusually large, sweet and crisp grapes in its vineyards and earning Repora the distinction of Kashmirs Grape Village. Located in the foothills of central Kashmir, around 30 kilometres north of Srinagar, Repora has developed an agricultural identity distinct from the Valleys traditional dependence on apple orchards and saffron fields. During late summer, the village transforms into a canopy of lush vines carrying heavy clusters of green and red grapes. Ganderbal is among Jammu and Kashmirs principal grape-producing districts, with around 206 hectares under grape cultivation. According to official estimates, the district produces nearly 1,500 metric tonnes of grapes annually, with the produce supplied to local markets as well as markets outside J&K. Sahibi and Hussaini are the principal commercial grape varieties cultivated in the area. Thomson grapes are primarily used for raisin (kishmish) production, while Sahibi is regarded as one of the regions premium coloured grape varieties. One of the major advantages of Reporas grapes, growers say, is their harvesting window. The crop becomes ready at a time when fresh grapes are reportedly unavailable in most parts of the world, except Italy. According to farmers, grape cultivation has become the backbone of the local economy, with around 90 per cent of Reporas population associated with the crop. Abdul Rehman Bhat, a progressive farmer from Repora, told Greater Kashmir that almost every household in the village is involved in grape cultivation. Grape cultivation is the major contributor to the livelihood of people here. Grapes are cultivated on over 200 hectares of land in Repora-Lar, which helps hundreds of people earn their livelihood, Bhat said. He said the grape harvesting season generally begins in August and continues through September. Bhat said grape cultivation in the area dates back to the period of Maharaja Hari Singh. Maharaja Hari Singh used to grow grapes on his land in Repora, which is now with the Horticulture Department. Hundreds of kanals of land are utilised to cultivate different varieties of grapes, including Sahibi, Hussieni, Thomson and a few others, he said. However, growers are concerned that this years irregular rainfall could affect production despite expectations of a bumper crop. For local residents, the story of Reporas grapes is also deeply intertwined with its spiritual heritage. Locals attribute the flourishing of grape cultivation to the blessings of the Sufi saint Mir Syed Shah Sadiq Qalandar (RA), who they believe lived in the area. This golden blessing, planted by Saint Mir Syed Shah Sadiq Qalandar, is a priceless gem, Abdul Rahman said while delicately plucking grapes. Grape growers also point to the exceptional size of the berries produced in Repora. They claim the berries can reach around 1415 grams, significantly exceeding what they describe as the international benchmark for premium-quality grapes. The international standard for the best quality is a berry size of around 45 grams, while Repora grapes have a size of about 1415 grams, Bhat said. He recalled that a team of experts had visited the village a few years ago and weighed the grapes. They weighed the grapes and one grape weighed 15 grams, which is nowhere seen in any part of the world, he said. The grapes also command good prices in local markets. Farmers say the crops natural characteristics have allowed them to reduce their dependence on pesticides. One grower said pesticide applications had been reduced from seven sprays to three, with the long-term objective of moving towards completely organic cultivation. It is the blessing of Shah Sahab (RA), said Ghulam Muhammad, a resident of Repora. Our Sufi saints have blessed this place with extraordinary grapes. They are not only tastier but also require fewer pesticides. The horticulture authorities are now looking to build on Reporas reputation and expand grape cultivation across the Valley. Chief Horticulture Officer, Ganderbal, Madan Lal Tak, highlighted the significance of grape production in Repora and its potential to create employment opportunities, particularly for young people. Repora is an exemplary site for high-quality grape cultivation, which provides employment opportunities for the youth. We plan to further promote grape cultivation and introduce new varieties to enhance production and employment, he told Greater Kashmir. As part of a broader effort to expand grape cultivation in Kashmir, the Horticulture Department has established a hi-tech grape propagation facility in Ganderbal under a Chief Ministers pilot project. The facility includes a 20-kanal mother block and a modern bower system aimed at producing superior-quality planting material for farmers. Officials said around 150 grape growers have been identified under the project and funds have already been released. The hi-tech facility has been developed on 20 kanals, where mother blocks have been established along with a modern bower system, Madan Lal, Chief Horticulture Officer, Ganderbal, said. It will enable the production of quality planting material that will be supplied to farmers, helping improve grape cultivation in the region, he said. Lal said the department had also introduced new grape varieties sourced from Pune and distributed them among growers. The objective is to diversify grape cultivation, improve productivity and provide growers with better-quality planting material, he said.

Heart attack, stroke signs should never be ignored: Dr Sushil

Head Department of Cardiology GMCH Jammu, Dr Sushil Sharma, held a day-long cardiac awareness-cum-health check-up camp in collaboration with the Sikh Empathy & Welfare Association at Gurdwara Bala Pritam, Trikuta Nagar, Jammu. The programme, as per a statement, was designed to sensitise the public about the growing burden of heart attacks and strokes and to encourage people to embrace preventive healthcare practices. Addressing the gathering, Dr Sushil stated that heart attacks and strokes are among the most serious medical emergencies and can often occur unexpectedly. He explained that warning signs of a heart attack may include chest pain or pressure, heaviness, breathlessness, sweating, nausea, dizziness and discomfort extending towards the arm, shoulder, jaw, neck or back.

Make-shift shops demolished in Parade vegetable market of Jammu

Jammu Municipal Corporation (JMC) on Sunday demolished what it said were unsafe and dilapidated shops at Parade Sabzi Mandi under its major safety and clearance drive paving the way for the immediate commencement of its redevelopment and renovation works. However, the drive triggered protests from affected vendors and traders, who decried the move claiming that the demolition was conducted although negotiations were going on. Police and paramilitary forces' personnel accompanied JMC officials during the drive. No arrangements were made for relocating the affected traders before demolishing their kiosks, they alleged. They asserted that they were not opposing the redevelopment project, but it should not be done in an irrational manner. They alleged that they were not served prior notices and they could not remove their goods from the closed kiosks due to a sudden demolition drive conducted on Sunday. Few shopkeepers alleged that they had brought stay orders from the court, but they were not honoured by the JMC. The affected vendors and traders sought compensation from JMC for the losses they incurred due to the sudden drive. Meanwhile, the officials stated that the initiative was undertaken under the directions of JMC Commissioner Dr Devansh Yadav, with the objective of effectively redeveloping the vegetable market, improving its infrastructure and ensuring a safer and more organised environment for vendors, shoppers and the general public. The foundation stone for the Rs 5.88 Cr redevelopment project was laid on June 22, 2026, by the MLA, Jammu East, in the presence of senior officials of Jammu Smart City Limited (JSCL) and the Jammu Municipal Corporation. Although active civil works were temporarily affected due to the ongoing monsoon season, the JMC accorded priority to the dismantling and removal of hazardous and structurally unsafe shops in the area. The step has been taken as a precautionary measure to safeguard the lives and property of shopkeepers, visitors and the general public, particularly in view of the risks posed by heavy rainfall and potential structural collapses, the officials mentioned. With the unsafe structures now being cleared, the JMC has paved the way for the next phase of the project. Civil and redevelopment works at Parade Sabzi Mandi will commence immediately as weather conditions become conducive, they added.

BJYM takes out Tiranga bike rally in Jammu

As part of the nationwide celebrations of Har Ghar Tiranga Abhiyan, the Bharatiya Janata Party, Jammu and Kashmir, under the leadership of its Yuva Morcha and Mahila Morcha, organised a grand Tiranga bike rally from Balidan Stambh, Jammu on Sunday. The rally witnessed an overwhelming participation of party leaders, workers, youth, and women carrying the national flag and raising patriotic slogans that echoed throughout the city. The rally was led by BJP J&K president and Rajya Sabha MP Sat Sharma; general secretary (organisation) Ashok Koul; Lok Sabha MP Jugal Kishore Sharma; Rajya Sabha MP Gulam Ali Khatana; general secretaries Sanjita Dogra and Gopal Mahajan, MLAs Vikram Randhawa and Yudhvir Sethi, BJYM president Arun Prabhat and Mahila Morcha president Neha Mahajan. The rally passed through various parts of Jammu amid enthusiastic participation, waving the tricolour and chanting patriotic slogans. Before the Tiranga bike rally commenced, BJP leaders and hundreds of enthusiastic party workers gathered at Balidan Stambh, Jammu, where they paid rich tributes to the brave martyrs who laid down their lives for the nation. The leaders offered floral tributes and reaffirmed their commitment to safeguarding the unity, integrity, and sovereignty of India. Addressing the participants, Sat Sharma said that the Tiranga was not merely a flag but a symbol of India's pride, sacrifice, unity, and the aspirations of every citizen. He said the tricolour represented the courage of the armed forces, the sacrifices of countless freedom fighters and the resolve of every Indian to keep the nation united and strong. He urged every household to proudly hoist the national flag and actively participate in the Har Ghar Tiranga campaign, making it a people's movement that reflects the spirit of patriotism and national unity. Ashok Koul said that the BJP always placed the nation above politics and consistently worked to strengthen the feeling of nationalism across the country. He said the Tiranga rally was a tribute to the brave martyrs who dedicated their lives for India's freedom and security. He emphasised that every citizen, particularly the youth, must draw inspiration from their sacrifices and remain committed to protecting the unity, integrity, and sovereignty of the nation. Jugal Kishore Sharma said that the enthusiasm witnessed in the rally reflected the deep patriotic spirit among the people of Jammu & Kashmir. He said Prime Minister Narendra Modi's call for Har Ghar Tiranga transformed the tricolour into a symbol of people's participation in nation-building and inspired every citizen to celebrate India's unity with pride. Gulam Ali Khatana said, The national flag rises above every religion, region, language and political difference, reminding every Indian that the nation comes first. He urged the youth to uphold the values of patriotism, discipline and national service while contributing towards building a strong, prosperous, and developed India.

Leopard attacks spark fear in Doda village, wildlife team deployed

Fear and concern have gripped residents of Gharswo village in Panchayat Shiva and other adjoining areas of Doda district following a series of reported leopard attacks and sightings in the locality. According to residents, around a dozen incidents have reportedly taken place in the area, raising serious concerns about the safety of people, particularly those living in or around forested and isolated stretches. The repeated presence of the wild animal has created a sense of insecurity among villagers, with many residents reportedly avoiding unnecessary movement during vulnerable hours. The situation has also become a matter of concern for families, farmers and others who are required to travel through the area during the early morning and evening. Following the reports, a team from the Wildlife Department has reached the spot and is closely monitoring the situation. Officials are keeping a watch on the movement of the leopard and assessing the circumstances in which the animal has been entering areas inhabited or frequented by local residents. The Wildlife Department is also expected to take necessary measures to prevent further incidents and ensure the safety of both the local population and the wild animal. Residents have been urged to cooperate with the department and immediately report any fresh sighting or unusual movement of the leopard to the concerned authorities. Meanwhile, locals have been advised to remain particularly cautious and avoid moving alone, especially during the early morning and evening hours when the risk of encountering wildlife may be higher. People have also been urged not to approach, chase or attempt to confront the animal if spotted. The repeated incidents have intensified calls from residents for effective preventive measures and increased patrolling in vulnerable areas. Villagers are seeking timely intervention from the concerned authorities to restore a sense of security and prevent any further attacks or untoward incidents.

JKP-BSF conduct joint CASO in Arnia

The Jammu and Kashmir Police (JKP) and the Border Security Force (BSF) on Sunday, as part of their ongoing security measures and area domination efforts, jointly conducted Cordon and Search Operation (CASO), in Arnia area of Jammu district. Police in Jammu conducted a joint CASO along with B and F Company of 60th Battalion, BSF, in the area of Aik Nullah, Kool Kalan and adjoining areas under the jurisdiction of Police Station Arnia, Police stated. During the operation that lasted around two hours, around 1015 houses and kullas were thoroughly searched by the joint teams. The operation, officials said, was conducted as part of routine security and surveillance measures to maintain vigilance and ensure the safety and security of the area. The situation remained normal throughout the operation they added. Meanwhile, the joint teams of security forces also conducted a sanitisation and security checking operation at Jewel Chowk and other adjoining areas as part of bolstered security arrangements across Jammu city, ahead of Independence Day.

Govt approves Rs 10 crore for restoration of historic Rattan Garh Fort in Bhaderwah

In a major initiative to preserve Jammu & Kashmirs historical heritage and promote local tourism, the government has approved Rs 10 crore for the repair and renovation of the historic Rattan Garh Fort in Bhaderwah, Doda. The project, as per an official statement, is aimed at conserving the historic structure, improving its overall condition and developing it as an important heritage and tourism attraction in the Chenab Valley. The restoration will help safeguard the forts architectural and historical character while creating better facilities for visitors. The initiative forms part of the government's broader focus on the preservation of Jammu & Kashmirs rich cultural and architectural heritage and the development of heritage sites as destinations for tourism. Rattan Garh Fort is among the historic sites associated with the rich heritage of Bhaderwah, an area known for its distinctive cultural traditions, historic architecture and scenic landscape. Its restoration is expected to add a significant heritage dimension to Bhaderwahs tourism circuit and contribute to increased visitor footfall and local economic activity. The government has in recent months undertaken and approved several initiatives for the preservation and development of heritage assets across Jammu & Kashmir, with emphasis on restoring historically significant structures and integrating them with the broader tourism economy.

10 injured as tempo traveller overturns on NH-244

At least 10 passengers were injured, two of them seriously, after a passenger Tempo Traveller overturned at Karmail Morh near Baggar in the Assar area of Doda district on the Batote-Doda-Kishtwar National Highway (NH-244) on Sunday afternoon. According to police, the Tempo Traveller bearing registration number JK06B-9986 was travelling from Kashmir towards Doda when the driver reportedly lost control of the vehicle at Karmail Morh, causing it to overturn on the highway. Soon after the accident, the injured were shifted to Primary Health Centre (PHC) Assar for initial treatment. Later, those requiring specialised care were referred to the Associated Government Medical College and Hospital, Doda. Hospital authorities at GMC Doda said two critically injured passengers were referred to Government Medical College (GMC), Jammu, for specialised treatment. They were identified as Alaf Din (35), son of Nazir Ahmed, resident of Shiva, and Ayaz Ahmed (26), son of Akhter Hussain, resident of Korapani. Five other injured passengers admitted at Associated Government Medical College and Hospital, Doda, were identified as Mubeena (36), wife of Parvaiz Ahmed, Bhatyas; Parvaiz Ahmed (44), son of Faiz Mohammad, Bhatyas; Kewal Krishan (41), son of Swomi Raj, Joura Halran; Mohammad Irfan (36), son of Fayaz Mohammad, Bhatyas; and Muneeba Farooq (24), daughter of Farooq Ahmed, Doda. Police have taken cognisance of the incident and further details regarding the circumstances leading to the accident are awaited. The condition of the remaining injured passengers was stated to be stable, while the overall situation at the accident site remained normal.

24 injured as matador overturns at Jammu flyover

At least 24 passengers were injured, including two critically, after a matador overturned at Shakuntla Flyover in Jammu on Sunday evening. An official as per the news agency KNO said that the matador was carrying 35 passengers when it overturned at the flyover, leaving 24 of them injured. He said locals and rescue personnel rushed to the spot and shifted the injured to a nearby hospital for treatment. Among the injured, 18 suffered minor scratches, while two were stated to be in critical condition, he said. Meanwhile, police have taken cognisance of the incident and initiated an investigation.

3 Kashmiri mountaineers find a new way up Brahma Sakli Peak

For years, Brahma Sakli Peak had remained a formidable challenge for Kashmiri mountaineers. This time, three climbers not only reached its 4,722-metre summit but opened a new route on its eastern face, adding a new chapter to the documented mountaineering history of Kashmir. Yasir Khan, Muzakir Khan and Saqib Shafi have successfully established the Baghiyar Route, graded IV, AD-, 5.3, G, on the eastern face of the peak, combining glacier travel, technical rock climbing and snow terrain. Based on the expedition team's review of available mountaineering journals, guidebooks and published expedition records, the climbers believe they are only the third documented team to reach the summit of Brahma Sakli and the first to do so via its eastern face. The expedition, however, was not simply a summit attempt. The team spent nearly 10 hours on the ascent, negotiated a glacier and an active bergschrund before reaching the most technical section of the route, a 70-metre granite headwall. Yasir Khan led the climb across the headwall's two pitches, using traditional protection, including nuts and cams. The team then negotiated the final scramble before reaching the summit at about 2:50 pm. The summit push had begun at 4:45 am, making it a long and demanding day in the mountains. The team remained on the summit for around an hour before beginning the descent through the south-eastern face. A 40-metre abseil over a cliff band was followed by a descent through an upper snow couloir and another glacier crossing. As darkness fell and visibility deteriorated, the climbers faced another challenge, navigating trackless moraine fields on their return to Base Camp. They eventually reached Base Camp at Bramsar Lake, at around 3,600 metres, close to 11 pm, completing an approximately 18-hour continuous mountain day. The expedition had begun at Zimastal, from where the team trekked nearly 14 kilometres through rugged terrain to establish the base camp. After the climb, the three mountaineers spent two days recovering at Bramsar Lake before beginning their return journey. Our objective was not just to reach the summit but to establish a new line on the eastern face. The Baghiyar Route demanded careful route-finding, technical rock climbing and glacier travel. Successfully opening this route is a proud moment for us, and we hope it contributes to Kashmir's growing mountaineering legacy, Muzakir, one of the climber said. Brahma Sakli, also known as Cathedral Dome, is regarded as one of the more technically demanding peaks in the Kashmir Valley. Muzakir Khan said the latest expedition was particularly significant because the mountain requires skills and equipment beyond those used on conventional trekking expeditions. Every mountain teaches you something. Since this was a different route, it required different technical skills. We had to use ropes and specialised equipment because this is a mountaineering peak, not a trekking peak, he said. For Muzakir Khan, the successful ascent also completed a personal journey. He had attempted Brahma Sakli two years ago but was unable to summit the mountain. The experience exposed the technical demands of the climb and prompted the mountaineers to improve their skills before returning. Khan said that the historical record of the peak stretches back several decades. He said according to the Himalayan Journal, Volume 46, the first documented exploration of Brahma Sakli was carried out in 1989 by a team led by veteran mountaineer Muhammad Amin. That expedition brought the peak into documented mountaineering literature and became an important reference for subsequent climbers. The expedition team said another documented route to the summit was established last year by Kashmiri climbers Inayat Bhat and Mudasir Laway, who climbed via the south-eastern face. The climbers said they remain open to historical records or expedition accounts that may point to an earlier ascent, saying such information would help build a more complete record of Brahma Sakli's climbing history. The achievement also reflects the growing ambitions of Kashmir's local mountaineers, who are increasingly moving beyond established trekking routes to explore and document technically challenging Himalayan peaks. Muzakir Khan, who entered adventure sports in 2017, has explored 97 alpine lakes and climbed several prominent peaks in Kashmir, including Kolahoi, Harmukh and Tatakooti. For the climbers, the Baghiyar Route is more than a line on a mountain. It is an attempt to expand Kashmir's mountaineering map, one difficult, technical ascent at a time.

J&K gymnast Ruddrakash Khanna finishes 7th at Asian championship

Gymnast Ruddrakash Khanna secured seventh place in the Junior Mens Individual category at the 10th Asian Aerobic Gymnastics Championship in the Philippines, making an impressive international debut by reaching the Asian finals. The Jammu & Kashmir Sports Council, as per a statement, extended its heartiest congratulations to Ruddrakash Khanna of Jammu for his commendable performance at the 10th Asian Aerobic Gymnastics Championship in the Philippines. Making his debut in the Junior Mens Individual category, Ruddrakash reached the Asian finals and secured 7th position overall, marking a significant milestone in his international sporting journey. The Council also appreciated the dedicated mentorship of former India Team Coach S. P. Singh and acknowledges the valuable sponsorship support extended by IREDA for his participation.

DYSS academies draw hundreds of young athletes in Nagrota

The 'Academies of Excellence' launched by the Directorate of Youth Services & Sports (DYSS) are witnessing an overwhelming response from young sports enthusiasts, with hundreds of players coming forward to register across disciplines following the recent opening of enrollment. Led by Director General Anuradha Gupta, the flagship initiative, as per a DYSS statement, at the Nagrota Excellence Academies by Directorate of Youth Services and Sports which began operations last month with dedicated Football and Kabaddi Centers has sparked immense interest among aspiring athletes across the region. This transformative initiative marks a major leap in the DYSS mission to spot, nurture, and hone high potential athletic talent by offering professional coaching, scientific training methodologies, and state of the art infrastructure. The academies aim to build a robust talent pipeline capable of producing national and international champions from the Union Territory. The rapid influx of registrations reflects the booming sports culture and reinforces the commitment of DYSS to providing structured pathways for youth. Over 400 young boys and girls participated in the initial selection trials alone, and numbers continue to climb steadily as registration expands. The response to the Academies of Excellence demonstrates the deep passion and untapped talent among our youth. By pairing world class facilities with seasoned mentorship,, DYSS is ensuring these registered players receive the exact training, scientific approach, and platform required to compete at the highest levels, stated DG YSS. The operational centers at the Nagrota Excellence Academies by Directorate of Youth Services and Sports feature an international standard Football AstroTurf ground and a Multipurpose Indoor Hall. The Football Academy functions under the mentorship of former International Footballer and ex-AIFF Technical Committee Member Arun Malhotra, with hands-on training executed by coach Rohit Gupta. The Kabaddi Academy operations are guided under the supervision of Sanjeet Sharma, ensuring a transparent, performance-focused environment. To guarantee sustainable growth, DYSS has assigned elite coaches to lead athlete training while simultaneously running Train the Trainer programmes to upgrade the technical skill sets of local Physical Education Teachers (PETs), Physical Education Masters (PEMs), and UT based sports professionals.

Soft Tennis Championship concludes in Shopian

The District Shopian Soft Tennis Championship, organised by the District Shopian Soft Tennis Association, concluded successfully on Sunday at Al-Saba Educational Institute, Wachi, Shopian. The two-day championship, as per a statement, was held from 7th to 8th August 2026, under the banner of the J&K Amateur Soft Tennis Association, affiliated with the Amateur Soft Tennis Federation of India, and in collaboration with the J&K Sports Council. The closing ceremony was graced by Gh. Rasool Khandia, Manager Sports Stadium Shopian, as the Chief Guest. The distinguished Guests of Honour included Shakir Ashraf, General Secretary, J&K Amateur Soft Tennis Association, Suhail Bashir, Principal, Al-Saba Educational Institute, Wachi; Shabir Ahmad Shabir, Chairman, Al-Saba Educational Institute, Wachi; and Jabina, English Teacher, Al-Saba Educational Institute, Wachi. The championship witnessed enthusiastic participation and spirited competition among young players, providing them with an important platform to showcase their talent, competitive skills and sporting spirit.

Grand Majlis-e-Aza, Alam Sharief procession held in Dargund Bemina

Srinagar, Aug 9:A grand Majlis-e-Aza and Alam Sharief procession was held today, 25th Safar al-Muzaffar, at Dargund Bemina with profound devotion and reverence under the auspices of the Jammu and Kashmir Anjuman-e-Sharie Shian and under the leadership of its President, Hujjat-ul-Islam wal-Muslimeen Aga Syed Hassan Mosavi Al-Safavi. The gathering continued from morning till evening, with the organisations Zakireen reciting marsiyas and paying rich tribute to Imam Hussain (AS) and the martyrs of Karbala. A large number of mourners participated in the gathering, expressing their deep devotion and attachment to the martyrs of Karbala and the teachings of Ahl-e-Bayt (AS). Addressing the Majlis, President Anjuman-e-Sharie Shian, Hujjat-ul-Islam wal-Muslimeen Aga Syed Hassan Mosavi Al-Safavi, said that the Holy Quran and the Ahl-e-Bayt (AS) constitute the two inseparable sources of guidance for the Muslim Ummah, as explicitly emphasised by the Holy Prophet Muhammad (PBUH). He stressed that love and devotion towards the Ahl-e-Bayt (AS) should not remain confined to verbal claims or formal religious observances. Rather, he said, genuine love must be reflected through adherence to their teachings, exemplary character, commitment to truth, and practical dedication to justice and righteousness. Highlighting the timeless message of Karbala, Aga Syed Hassan said that the supreme sacrifice of Imam Hussain (AS) represented a decisive stand against oppression, falsehood and moral compromise. He said the purpose of Azadari is to keep this message alive while cultivating self-reform, truthfulness, steadfastness and religious consciousness among believers. He urged the faithful to further strengthen their bond with the Holy Quran and the Ahl-e-Bayt (AS), uphold the sanctity and dignity of Azadari, and translate the message of Karbala into practice in both their individual and collective lives.

NC-PDPs politics of deception stands exposed: BJP

Jammu, Aug 9: J&K Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) on Sunday alleged that the politics of deception pursued by the National Conference (NC) and the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) stood exposed before the people in the Union Territory. Senior party leaders also vowed to fight, what they claimed, misinformation, propaganda being spread by the NC and the PDP to serve their interests. They asserted it while reviewing the prevailing political situation in Jammu and Kashmir during a meeting chaired by J&K BJP president and Rajya Sabha MP Sat Sharma at the party headquarters, Trikuta Nagar, Jammu. Leader of Opposition in J&K Legislative Assembly Sunil Sharma; J&K BJP general secretary (organisation) Ashok Koul, former Deputy Chief Minister Dr Nirmal Singh and J&K BJP general secretary Sanjita Dogra accompanied Sat Sharma during the meeting. They discussed the growing public resentment against the NC government's failure to fulfil its promises and finalised the party's strategy to strengthen grassroots outreach. Preparations for the forthcoming Har Ghar Tiranga campaign were also reviewed to ensure grand Tiranga rallies and patriotic programmes across the Union Territory. Sat Sharma maintained the BJP alone consistently strengthened nationalism and accelerated development in Jammu and Kashmir under the leadership of Prime Minister Narendra Modi, while the NC and the PDP continued to mislead the people through false narratives. He said the Har Ghar Tiranga campaign would become a mass movement with active participation of BJP MLAs, former legislators, DDCs, BDCs, councillors, sarpanchs, panchs, ex-servicemen, social organizations and intellectuals. He added that families of martyrs would be felicitated and important chowks, public places and statues of martyrs and national icons would be decorated with the tricolour to honour their supreme sacrifice. Reaffirming its commitment to nationalism, good governance and public welfare, the Sat Sharma maintained that the people of Jammu & Kashmir were increasingly rejecting the politics of deception, misinformation and dynastic interests pursued by the National Conference and the PDP, while placing their trust in the development-oriented governance of Prime Minister Narendra Modi. Sunil Sharma claimed the National Conference government failed to meet the aspirations of the people and public dissatisfaction was rising due to poor governance, unfulfilled promises and misplaced priorities. He said BJP legislators and workers would aggressively expose the misinformation spread by the NC and the PDP while taking the message of development, nationalism and public welfare to every household. Ashok Koul directed party leaders to ensure meticulous planning of every programme down to the booth level. He emphasised that every organisational unit must ensure maximum public participation in the patriotic programmes, strengthen grassroots contact and effectively counter anti-development and misleading propaganda through facts, discipline and continuous public outreach.

Apni Party leaders pay obeisance at Hazrat Nanga Baji Sahib shrine in Bandipora

Srinagar, Aug 9:Apni Party President Syed Mohammad Altaf Bukhari, along with several senior party leaders, today paid obeisance at the revered shrine of Syed Ghulam Rasool Shah, popularly known as Hazrat Nanga Baji Sahib, in the Malangam area of north Kashmirs Bandipora district. On the occasion, the Apni Party leaders prayed for lasting peace, prosperity, and harmony in Jammu and Kashmir. During their visit, Syed Mohammad Altaf Bukhari and the accompanying party leaders were warmly received by the shrine management and local residents. It is pertinent to mention that the annual Urs is currently being observed at the Nanga Baji Sahib shrine, with devotees thronging the shrine to offer prayers and pay obeisance. The prominent party leaders who accompanied Syed Mohammad Altaf Bukhari during this visit included the party's Senior Vice President Ghulam Hassan Mir, General Secretary Rafi Ahmed Mir, Chief Coordinator & District President Kulgam Abdul Majeed Paddar, Chief Spokesperson & State Secretary Muntazir Mohiudin, District President Kupwara Raja Manzoor, District President Bandipora Syed Shafat Kazmi, Constituency In-charge Sonawari Imtiyaz Paray, Nasir Ahmed Mir, Sameer Iqbal, Basharat Najar, Abdul Rashid Ashna, and others.

August 9, 1953 cast a long shadow over J&Ks democratic journey: Sagar

Srinagar, Aug 9:The Jammu and Kashmir National Conference General Secretary Haji Ali Muhammad Sagar on Sunday described August 9, 1953 as one of the darkest chapters in the democratic history of the country saying the events of that day not only dismantled a democratically elected government in Jammu and Kashmir but also inflicted a deep and enduring wound on the relationship between the people of Jammu and Kashmir and New Delhi. In a statement issued from the party headquarters, Nawa-e-Subha, Sagar said the illegal arrest of Sher-e-Kashmir Sheikh Mohammad Abdullah, one of the tallest political figures in subcontinent, represented a grave assault on democratic values and the political aspirations of the people of Jammu and Kashmir. 9 August is not merely a date on the calendar. For the people of Jammu and Kashmir, it is a painful reminder of a betrayal that shook their faith in democratic institutions. Sheikh Mohammad Abdullah was not an ordinary political leader. He was a towering voice of the people, a champion of secularism and democratic values, and a leader whose contribution to the countrys democratic and secular ethos was recognised even beyond Jammu and Kashmir. Former President Neelam Sanjiva Reddy had referred to him as Sher-e-Bharat. Yet, on this day, his democratically elected government was removed and he was arrested, Sagar said. He said the events of 1953 did not end with the dismissal and arrest of Sheikh Mohammad Abdullah. He was incarcerated for years and kept away from his people. An entire generation of Kashmiris grew up witnessing the consequences of that rupture. The political wound was never allowed to heal completely. Instead, successive developments continued to deepen the sense of alienation and hurt, he said. Sagar said the events of August 5, 2019 further aggravated those sentiments. The wounds of 1953 were still alive in the collective memory of our people when the unilateral decisions of 5 August 2019 were imposed upon Jammu and Kashmir. Whatever little trust remained was shaken further. It was as if salt was poured into a wound that had been festering for decades, he said. He said the people of Jammu and Kashmir nevertheless demonstrated remarkable political maturity by choosing the democratic path and participating in elections despite their disappointments and grievances. Our people were repeatedly told that delimitation, parliamentary elections and legislative elections would pave the way for the restoration of Statehood. They believed those assurances. They participated in the democratic process. They voted. They elected their representatives. They fulfilled their responsibility. But nearly two years after the formation of the elected government, the promise of restoration of Statehood continues to remain unfulfilled, Sagar said. He questioned how long the people of Jammu and Kashmir would be expected to wait for a right that was promised to them. How many more elections must the people participate in? How many more assurances must they hear? How long must Jammu and Kashmir remain the only region where an elected government operates without the full constitutional status enjoyed by every other full-fledged state? he asked. Sagar said the continued denial of Statehood was not merely an administrative issue but a question of democratic dignity, political confidence and constitutional trust. The people of Jammu and Kashmir have done their part. They have demonstrated faith in democracy despite a painful history. Now New Delhi must do its part. Promises made to the people cannot be reduced to slogans or deferred indefinitely, he said. He said the continued delay had created the unfortunate impression that the Centre still viewed Jammu and Kashmir through the same political prism that had defined its approach in 1953. Nearly seven decades after 1953, it is deeply unfortunate that the people of Jammu and Kashmir still have to struggle to convince New Delhi that democracy cannot be selective, federalism cannot be conditional and dignity cannot be negotiable, Sagar said. He emphasised that restoration of full-fledged Statehood must be the first concrete step towards healing the political wounds of Jammu and Kashmir. An elected government cannot be expected to function indefinitely with its constitutional powers diminished and its people denied the status promised to them. Jammu and Kashmir deserves the same democratic dignity and constitutional standing as every other state of the country, Sagar said. Recalling the sacrifices and contribution of the people of Jammu and Kashmir to the country, he said their commitment to democracy and the nation could not be questioned. Our people have stood by the democratic and secular ideals of this country through the most difficult periods. They have participated in elections, sent their representatives to Parliament and the Assembly, and repeatedly chosen the ballot over despair. The least they deserve in return is respect, dignity and the restoration of their constitutional rights, he said.

Free blood test camp to be held at Batamaloo on August 11

Srinagar, Aug 9: The Sheikh Dawood (RA) Medicare Center, Batamaloo, will organize a free blood test camp on August 11 to mark the sixth death anniversary of Peer Jalal Ud Din Sahib, founder chairman of the Hazrat Sheikh Dawood (RA) Khidmat Khalaq Foundation. According to the organisers, the camp will be held from 10:30 am to 12:00 pm at the Sheikh Dawood (RA) Medicare Center in Batamaloo. The initiative aims to encourage preventive healthcare while paying tribute to the late founder's legacy of public service. The camp will offer free baseline medical investigations, including Complete Blood Count (CBC), blood sugar, Kidney Function Test (KFT), Liver Function Test (LFT), and other essential tests. The organizers have made pre-registration mandatory for all participants. Registration were conducted on August 9 from 10:30 am to 3:00 pm, and only pre-registered individuals will be eligible for testing. The foundation has appealed to people to participate in the health camp and avail themselves of the free medical screening facilities.

Mirwaiz inaugurates Funkara Adventure Park for Children at Nowgam

Srinagar, Aug 9: Mirwaiz-e-Kashmir Dr Moulvi Mohammad Umar Farooq inaugurated the Funkara Adventure Park for children, at Nowgam, describing it as a welcome initiative to promote physical activity, creativity and a connection with nature among the younger generation. Speaking on the occasion, Mirwaiz said that in todays digital age, children are increasingly drawn to screens, online games and gadgets, making it important to create spaces that encourage them to step outdoors and engage in healthy physical and creative activities. He appreciated the parks close-to-nature environment, with rabbits and ducks, as well as activities such as pottery, archery and adventure sports, which provide children opportunities to learn new skills, exercise and engage creatively away from screens. Mirwaiz said that a strong and healthy body is important for a strong and healthy mind. While parents and children rightly focus on academics and education, physical well-being, exercise and outdoor activity should receive equal attention. He expressed hope that the initiative would encourage healthier and more balanced lifestyles among children and inspire more such child-friendly spaces in Kashmir.

Commuters decry inordinate delay in restoration of battered Dr Ali Jan Road

Srinagar, Aug 9:Named in honour of Kashmir's one of the most revered physicians whose life was dedicated to healing the sick, Dr Ali Jan Road leading to Sher-i-Kashmir Institute of Medical Sciences (SKIMS) today presents a painful irony! The crucial approach road to SKIMS, that bears his name, remains battered by deep ditches from Noor Bagh to Aali Masjid stretch, making the journey difficult for the very patients it is meant to serve. Nearly a month after Deputy Commissioner (DC) Srinagar, Akshay Labroo, inspected the ongoing upgradation works and directed officials to complete the project in a coordinated and time-bound manner, large stretches of Dr Ali Jan Road between Noor Bagh and Aali Masjid continue to remain in a deplorable condition. During his July 14 inspection, the Deputy Commissioner reviewed the progress of the road upgradation project, accompanied by senior officers of the Roads & Buildings Department, Urban Environmental Engineering Department and district administration. He directed the executing agencies to ensure close coordination among departments so that infrastructure works were completed without delays or repeated excavation. However, locals and particularly the people who travel to SKIMS for treatment of their loved ones say the situation on the ground has changed little. The damaged road, left dug up after drainage works and the wear and tear the road has suffered from Noor Bagh to Aali Masjid, continues to slow traffic and cause a lot of discomfort to patients traveling to and from SKIMS and commuters. Ambulances carrying critically ill patients to SKIMS are often forced to navigate deep craters and compete for space on the opposite carriageway because sections of the road have become virtually unusable. The significance of the issue extends beyond poor civic infrastructure. Dr Ali Jan Road is the principal gateway to SKIMS, Kashmir's premier tertiary care hospital, where patients from across north Kashmir, Budgam and parts of Srinagar city are referred for specialised treatment. Every day, ambulances transporting accident victims, cardiac patients and other medical emergencies use this corridor, as do patients returning home after surgery. It is difficult to reconcile the condition of this road with the legacy of the man after whom it is named, said a commuter. A road commemorating a doctor remembered for his service to patients should not become a source of suffering for them. Residents of Noor Bagh and Zoonimar said the drainage works have remained incomplete for months and urged the authorities to honour both the Deputy Commissioner's assurances and the legacy associated with the road by restoring it without further delay. A road named after one of Kashmir's greatest healers has become an obstacle to timely and dignified healthcare. Restoring Dr Ali Jan Road is not merely a matter of infrastructure, but of paying due respect to the values of compassion and public service that his name continues to represent, Abdul Hamid, a commuter said.

Cost of Administrative Compromise

A civilized society derives its strength not from the mere existence of laws, but from their faithful, impartial, and timely implementation. Every public authority bears a solemn duty to uphold the law without fear, favour, or prejudice. Citizens legitimately expect that genuine grievances, once represented, shall be examined objectively and resolved according to settled law. Unfortunately, this ideal is not always realised. Issues that are legally clear and factually established are neither denied nor lawfully resolved. Instead, they are diverted into avoidable controversies through administrative manoeuvring, procedural complications, and shifting narratives. Such practices obscure the real issue. This write up is drawn from direct observation of ground realities during repeated interactions with departments and stakeholders while pursuing lawful civic concerns. The rule of law demands that every authority act strictly within legal limits. Constitutional governance, natural justice, and anti corruption frameworks require fairness, transparency, and reasoned decision making. When an authority knowingly departs from these principles to shield an illegality, the injury extends beyond the complainant. It undermines public confidence in the entire administrative system. A disturbing pattern often emerges: the original grievance is replaced with invented issues or technical diversions. Instead of examining whether public land has been illegally occupied, funds misappropriated, or records manipulated, the focus shifts to peripheral matters. The genuine victim is compelled to defend issues never part of the original complaint, while the offender remains beyond the laws reach. Such conduct delays justice, encourages impunity, weakens institutional credibility, and emboldens habitual violators. Illegal encroachments, misuse of public property, and abuse of position become normalised when corrective action is absent. Honest citizens begin to question whether compliance with law is a virtue or a disadvantage. The situation worsens when compromise is not of efficiency but of official responsibility itself. Every public servant is a trustee of the people, not a protector of private interests. Conscious omission, suppression of facts, manipulation of records, or selective enforcement strikes at good governance. Such conduct may invite scrutiny under service rules, disciplinary frameworks, and provisions governing criminal misconduct, corruption, breach of trust, forgery, and abuse of position. When influential wrongdoers receive indirect protection while law abiding citizens struggle for years, confidence in public institutions declines. Justice delayed is painful; justice diverted is more damaging because it erodes faith in impartiality. No authority possesses the power to compromise with the law for convenience or preference. Official discretion is never a licence for arbitrariness. Every order must satisfy legality, rationality, transparency, and accountability. Speaking orders, supported by evidence, are essential safeguards. The solution lies in honest implementation of existing laws. Higher authorities can restore confidence through practical measures: representations must be examined on original merits; time bound disposal with speaking orders should become the norm; independent inquiries must be ordered where public land or government property is involved; suppression of facts or unjustified delay should invite accountability; digital monitoring should ensure transparency; whistle blowers need protection; periodic audits should detect irregularities early; and public servants require continuous training on ethical governance. Governance is judged not by files processed but by justice delivered. Institutions command respect only when decisions reflect fairness, integrity, and fidelity to law. Compromise with responsibility may temporarily protect a wrongdoer, but it permanently weakens institutional moral authority. Conclusion: A Call for Courageous Governance Every competent authority must reaffirm: no individual is above the law, and no office is above accountability. Society seeks fairness, not favour. Victims seek lawful resolution, not sympathy. Honest officers deserve support; those who misuse authority must face scrutiny. Justice must never disappear beneath procedural smoke screens. True governance lies in protecting public interest over private influence, law over expediency, and truth over convenience. Only then will public confidence be restored and the rule of law remain democracys strongest pillar. Accountability must remain absolute and beyond negotiation. Official compromise cannot legitimate an unlawful act, and administrative silence cannot erase legal responsibility. Dr. Pir Naseer Ahmad, presently Advocate at High Court Srinagar.

Political Orphanhood

Describing themselves as political orphans and the ew untouchables, hundreds of displaced Kashmiri Pandits residing in Jagti township and surrounding camps have accused political parties of exploiting their plight solely for election manifestos and demanded steps for a dignified life as enshrined in the Constitution. Used by everyone, represented by none, this is the real tragedy, advocate Vishva Ranjan Pandita, a resident of the Jagti camp, said, adding, he hardest exile is the one imposed by our own country. He said almost all political parties, including the National Conference (NC), Congress, PDP and BJP, have repeatedly promised the safe, secure and dignified return and rehabilitation of Kashmiri Pandits to the Valley in their election manifestos. However, he alleged that these commitments largely disappear once elections are over and said the community wants a clear roadmap and political accountability. Trapped between virtually non-functional civic representation and deteriorating infrastructure, residents across camps for the displaced community that left Kashmir in the 1990s after the outbreak of militancy stated that being pushed to the margins of political discourse has led to their complete neglect, with many even threatening to take drastic measures to end their miseries. Tito Ganju, the chairman of Panun Kashmir, an organisation which has been highlighting the problems faced by migrants in the camps, emphasised the core grievance of the displaced community -- they are remembered by political parties only during election cycles. Kashmiri Pandits may have been made political orphans, but we are not destined to remain political orphans. We are the indigenous bearers of Kashmir's civilisational memory and one of the most enduring expressions of Indianness in the Valley, Ganju said. He alleged that the community is facing political disenfranchisement which has rendered it politically persona non grata in their current places of residence. Ganju raised legal and constitutional concerns on compelling displaced community members to vote in Kashmir despite being ordinarily resident elsewhere like Jammu, Delhi or other parts of the country. This strips them of an effective electoral voice in their present local constituencies, he contended. Ganju claimed that camp-dwelling displaced Pandits are arbitrarily treated differently from similarly situated community members living outside the camps. We did not abandon our constituencies; genocide drove us out, Ganju said, adding, The State cannot convert genocidal displacement into political erasure. Genocide cannot be allowed to win twice, first by expelling us from our homeland and then by denying us equal political citizenship where we now live. He said that while governments over the years may ignore them or attempt to speak about Kashmir without the community, history and geopolitics will not permit that fiction to last. According to election data, electoral rolls reflect shifting trends of Kashmiri Pandit voters over the decades. While the votes of many community members have gradually transferred to their current places of residence in Jammu, recent years have seen a resurgence in Valley-based voter registration among migrants. Electoral data shows that during the 2024 Lok Sabha elections, a total of 1,13,873 Kashmiri migrant electors were registered across the three parliamentary constituencies of Srinagar, Baramulla, and Anantnag-Rajouri. This voter count comprised 56,290 males, 57,582 females and one transgender voter, marking a significant increase from the 2019 Lok Sabha elections when the number of registered migrant voters stood at approximately 99,000. The figure stood around 92,000 votes in the 2014 Lok Sabha elections. Some community leaders claimed that representatives of a political party had been encouraging transfer of votes to their place of birth in Kashmir Valley and termed it yet another step in making them political orphans. Noted academician Dileep Kumar Kaul echoed these sentiments, terming the community as eal political orphans and citing a systemic lack of intent to anchor them in the political framework. This is the result of the thinning of their collective agency through seven centuries and seven waves of genocide unleashed on them, Kaul said, arguing that the political system finds it convenient to ignore the community's historical victimhood. Putting on a brave face, Ganju asserted that Kashmiri Pandits are not the discarded chapter of Kashmir's story. We are its unfinished chapter, and we intend to write the next one, and made it clear that no durable solution to Kashmir is possible without the community. Expressing frustration over repeated political rhetoric, Vishva Ranjan Pandita said, Every election brings promises, manifestos and speeches in our name. Every party claims to stand with our pain of forced displacement, but once the votes are counted, our issues disappear. He said the issue of Kashmiri Pandits has for decades been reduced to an electoral promise, with political parties invoking their return during campaigns but failing to demonstrate the same urgency or commitment after coming to power. The community deserves more than assurances and manifesto declarations - it needs a concrete, time-bound and comprehensive plan for its safe, secure and dignified return, rehabilitation, livelihood, property rights and long-term integration in the Valley, he said. Pandita maintained that the return of Kashmiri Pandits should not be treated merely as a political slogan or a seasonal election issue. He said the successive governments and political parties must be held accountable for the promises they make to the displaced community and should clearly explain what steps they have taken and what remains to be done to make their return a practical reality. ...the Kashmiri Pandit community cannot be expected to live indefinitely on promises. What is needed now is political will, accountability and a clear roadmap for their return and rehabilitation, he said. Social activist Bhushan Lal Bhat emphasised that the community must cease to be viewed merely as victims awaiting rehabilitation and added that any political process seeking to determine Kashmir's future without the community is inherently incomplete. Academician B L Kaul pointed out that the tragedy of Kashmiri Pandits lies not just in their displacement, but in being pushed to the margins of political discourse, stating that any settlement treating their return as charity remains unacceptable. Reiterating the call for political space and dignity, community leader Kuldeep Raina said that the displacement cannot be reduced to a simple humanitarian problem. It is a political rupture. Any serious attempt to resolve Kashmir must therefore restore the political space, security, and dignity of Kashmiri Pandits, Raina said. Decrying decades of administrative neglect, community members expressed deep frustration over crumbling infrastructure and unfulfilled rehabilitation promises. Activists also pointed to systemic delays in employment and relief measures to ensure daily livelihood. Lord Ram's 'Vanwas' ended after 14 years, but we have been away from our homes for the past 36 years, and there seems no end to our miseries, said activist Sunil Pandita. He noted that the government has failed to fill the 6,000 migrant posts announced in 2009, while housing for the Prime Minister's package employees in the Valley remains incomplete.

We need better governance

5th August 2019 will be remembered as a historical day when the article 370 was abrogated and &K State reduced to the status of Union Territory. The Article 370 of Indian constitution would grant a special status to the erstwhile state of J&K. After 1953, particularly after 1964, the article had lost its sheen and strength due to various amendments made in this article by the competent authority on the recommendations of the local rulers/SLA from time to time when the Indian National Congress was ruling at the centre. The former PM. Late Sh. Morar-ji Desai had once said that Article 370 giving special status and powers to J&K state has become an empty shell. Even SMA during his tenure as CM had said that article 370 is not a divine article that could not be abrogated. Yes, also the article was misused by the local rulers to fulfil their vested interests after keeping the intervention of the central government at bay. The people of the Union Territory have always been suffering due to the miss-governance of local rulers since 1947 even when the Article 370 was in place. The governments of all times would depend on the central aid and subsidies. The state has always been deficient in revenue and was not sufficient to even meet the salaries of their employees. Our local rulers have so far failed to lay a strong economic base to improve the financial position of erstwhile state. They have never tried to exploit our resources to gain the economic stability. We are deficient in state owned electricity production, our lakes are shrinking and some are on the verge of extinction. Our rich forests have already been damaged. Due to wrong urban development planning the wetlands are extinct. Even few hours of rain poses threat of floods in the Srinagar city. We are facing environmental problems. There is shortage of drinking water and some time we even fail to supply pure drinking water. There is every apprehension that the situation will further deteriorate in the future times due to global warming. Our agriculture land has also shrunk that has lead to decrease in agriculture production particularly rice. There has been a reckless conversion of agriculture land into residential and commercial use, despite of limits fixed by revenue act. We have become mostly dependent on outside labour in all types of economic activities. Our UT is second after Punjab in drug trafficking and drug addiction. However it is appreciable that the Present Governor is taking personal interest in controlling this menace on top priority. The article 370 had given special powers to rulers of erstwhile state to run the affairs of their government but they failed to utilise these privileges for maximum benefit and welfare of the people of the state. On 5th August 2026, the workers of different local political parties of UT organised programmes with mixed reactions, after the period of seven years of the abrogation of Article 370 and creation of Union Territory. Mostly they demanded the revival of statehood for J&K. It is also alleged that this was done with the pre-consultation of the important leaders of the local political parties. The meeting of the president of N.C along with its vice president and their legal adviser and then sitting M.P with the prime minister of India a few days before the abrogation of article 370, substantiates the allegations of consent given by some important local leaders who would matter in the day to day politics of the valley could not be brushed aside. The workers of BJP no doubt celebrated this day as a watershed in the political history of J&K and claim it as their partys victory for its total and complete merger with the union of India after abrogation of article 370. Yes the leaders of political parties are mostly demanding now the revival of statehood not with the intention to improve the welfare of common people but to gain more powers to exert their authority. Nobody is asking for protection of our cultural identity, heritage, land and employment for the locals as was envisaged in 35A. No result oriented plan for the return of Kashmiri pundits have been chalked out so far by any political government. This community is an important part of our society. Our society is incomplete without their permanent return to valley. It would be better if benefits of Article 371 is granted before restoring statehood to protect our cultural identity, environment, natural resources and secure employment for our local youth. We need a controlled and quality tourism in view of our fragile environment and not mushroom growth of hotels. We need maximum but safe utilisation of our resources to boost our economy. Self-sufficiency in electricity for domestic consumption. Revival and quality promotion of handicrafts. Pollution free environment and supply of clean drinking water. We need disciplined and smooth flow of traffic, safe public transport and restoration of right to way for pedestrians by having footpaths on both sides of roads. Instead laying stress on useless slogan mongering and criticising each other, all the political parties need to concentrate now on the real development of the UT, nepotism and corruption free governance.

Scrolling is the new smoking

There was a time when addiction had a face. You could smell it on a persons clothes. Today, addiction is different. It slips quietly into our hands every morning and rests beside our pillows every night. It arrives without smoke, without smell, and without suspicion. We call it a smartphone. More specifically, we call it scrolling. Most of us unlock our phones with a purpose. We want to check a message, read an email, or reply to a friend. But somewhere along the way, that purpose quietly disappears. A short visit turns into an endless journey through reels, videos, opinions, advertisements, and carefully crafted distractions. Before we realize it, half an hour has vanished. Nothing urgent happened. Nothing truly meaningful was accomplished. Yet our minds somehow feel exhausted. That is because modern social media is not simply a platform. It is an attention industry. Every second you spend online teaches the algorithm something about you. It observes what you watch, how long your eyes stay on a video, what makes you pause, what makes you laugh, what makes you angry, and what keeps you scrolling. The more it learns, the more accurately it predicts what will capture your attention next. In a strange way, we are not only watching our screens. Our screens are watching us. The greatest change brought by social media is that it has replaced searching with scrolling. Searching begins with intention. You know what you want, and you go looking for it. Scrolling asks for nothing except your time. It makes decisions on your behalf. You watch one video, and twenty more appear before you. You read one opinion, and suddenly you are surrounded by similar voices, louder and more emotional than the last. It is like sitting in a restaurant where invisible waiters keep placing new dishes on your table before you have even decided whether you are hungry. The problem is not only psychological. It is biological. Scientists have found that unpredictable rewardslikes, comments, notifications, and endless new contentactivate the same dopamine pathways involved in gambling and other addictive behaviours. That is why scrolling often feels relaxing in the beginning, irresistible after a while, and mentally draining in the end. Many teenagers today say they have hundreds of online friends but still feel lonely. Adults complain that they can no longer read a book for twenty uninterrupted minutes. Conversations become shorter. Attention spans shrink. Silence begins to feel uncomfortable. Ironically, we have never been more connected, yet many people have never felt more disconnected from themselves. This is why scrolling has become the new smoking. Not because the two are identical, but because both became socially acceptable long before society fully understood their consequences. One damaged the lungs. The other quietly consumes attention, patience, peace of mind, and precious hours that never return. Perhaps we should treat social media the way responsible people treat a casino. Go in with a purpose. Decide beforehand how much time you are willing to spend. And most importantly, know when to leave. Small habits can make a surprising difference. Turn off unnecessary notifications. Keep your phone away during meals. Switch the display to greyscale to reduce visual temptation. Leave the device in another room while working or spending time with family. One simple habit is especially powerful: if you want to use your phone, stand while using it. Standing breaks the comfort of endless scrolling and naturally shortens the time you spend online. These are not acts of rejection. They are acts of self-respect. In an age where billions of dollars are invested in capturing our attention, protecting that attention becomes an act of freedom. Our minds are not products. Our time is not an unlimited resource. Ikkz Ikbal holds Masters in Biotechnology and is Principal & Academic Head at Maryam Memorial Institute, Pandithpora Qaziabad. He Xs @IkkzIkbal.

Pathania seeks focus on quality education in J&K

Udhampur, Aug 9: MLA Udhampur East Ranbir Singh Pathania has called for greater focus on quality basic education in rural and far-flung areas of Jammu and Kashmir, highlighting staff shortages, inadequate infrastructure and the need for a comprehensive transfer policy. Speaking during a series of programmes across his constituency, Pathania said areas including Dudu, Bastangrah, Pancheri, Garh Samnabanj, Chore Panjian and Moungri were facing shortages of teachers and other staff, affecting educational activities. He urged the government to review the transfer policy and introduce a transparent mechanism that takes into account the requirements of schools in difficult and remote areas. Pathania also highlighted the shortage of subject-specific teachers in schools upgraded under the erstwhile RMSA, saying students in several upgraded high schools were being deprived of proper instruction in key subjects. He stressed that quality education required more than classrooms and textbooks, calling for functional toilets, playgrounds, boundary walls and clean drinking water in every school. We need to focus on the grim realities affecting learning and education on the ground. Jammu and Kashmir also needs more model schools so that students in rural and remote areas get access to quality education, he said. During his visit, Pathania dedicated the newly constructed building of Government Middle School (GMS), Mand, to students. He said the school, which was earlier in a dilapidated condition, had been provided with a new building and that remaining works, including the boundary wall and kitchen, would be completed soon. He said Government High School Johnu and Government High School Chore Panjian were now functioning as PM SHRI schools, while Government Degree College, Majalta, had also developed modern infrastructure. Pathania also flagged off the 23rd annual Charri Yatra from Battal to Machail. The yatra was welcomed by devotees at several locations, including Darssoo, Roundmail, Thill Kali Mata Mandir and Chandi Mata Mandir. He said such pilgrimages promoted faith, unity and social harmony and called upon people to work collectively for the welfare of society.

Gen ji, and the great phonological divide

Raj Kundra's advice to Gen Z Indians highlights cultural and linguistic divides. The Sanskrit alphabet lacks a 'z' sound, impacting comprehension of modern terms. Hindustani, with its 'z' sounds, resonates more easily with younger generations. This phonological difference creates a barrier between elders and youth. India's generational gap is thus both cultural and linguistic in nature.

Mirror of the heart

The remembrance of God polishes the heart, which is likened to a mirror. A pure heart reflects accurately and finds peace, as Sufis explain. Kabir emphasizes cleaning the heart's mirror for true self-reflection. Pausing life's pursuits encourages contemplation of existence and gratitude. Kindness and good deeds effectively polish a heart that has become rusty.

Turn America's H-1B loss into India's gain

United States immigration rules are changing for skilled foreign workers. The Trump administration is considering removing the grace period for unemployed visa holders. This policy shift could significantly impact Indian professionals working in the US. India may benefit by reversing its brain drain and retaining talent. Developing a strong domestic ecosystem is crucial for capitalizing on this opportunity.

Why this Trump oil tariff is Zzz

A US Senate bill imposing tariffs on Russian oil buyers faces hurdles. India's energy supplies remain secure due to diversified import strategies. New Delhi has increased diplomatic efforts to secure alternative oil and gas sources. Traditional West Asian suppliers can easily meet India's short-haul tanker delivery needs. Long-term commitments can foster energy infrastructure investments in Africa and South America.

With US taking a hostile approach to India, the 'Mecca pact' is threatening

A Saudi Arabia-Pakistan-Turkiye defence pact could complicate Indias security environment by deepening military, technological and diplomatic cooperation among the three countries. The article argues India should respond through multi-alignment, stronger Gulf partnerships, naval preparedness and continued engagement with Saudi Arabia and Iran.

25 students injured after mini-bus overturns in Jammu; CM Omar expresses anguish

Jammu, Aug 9: At least 25 students mostly girls were injured after a mini-bus overturned near the Super Speciality Hospital (SSH) flyover in Jammu on Sunday. Official sources told news agency JKNS that the vehicle lost control and turned turtle, resulting in injuries to the students travelling onboard. All the injured were shifted to Government Medical College (GMC), Jammu, for medical treatment. Their condition is stated to be stable and they are reported to be out of danger. Cognizance of the incident has been taken and further investigation has been initiated. Meanwhile the Office of Cheif Minister J&K, in a post on X, said that the Chief Minister expressed deep anguish over the road accident involving a matador carrying over 25 girls on the flyover near the Super Speciality Hospital, Jammu. The Chief Minister said the injured were promptly provided medical attention and were reported to be out of danger. He wished them a speedy recovery and directed the authorities concerned to ensure all necessary medical care and assistance.

Police, BSF conduct joint search operation along IB in Jammu

Jammu, Aug 9: Amid heightened security measures and area domination efforts ahead of Independence Day, Jammu and Kashmir Police conducted a cordon-and-search operation along with troops of the Border Security Force (BSF) near the International Border here on Sunday, police said. The operation was carried out in Aik Nallah, Kool Kalan and adjoining areas under Arnia police station limits, a spokesman said. He said the joint operation commenced around 6 pm and continued for two hours. During the operation, around 15 houses and 'kullas' (shacks) were thoroughly searched by the teams, the spokesman said. The operation was conducted as part of routine security and surveillance measures, he said, adding that the situation in the area remained normal throughout the operation.

ED Director Rahul Navin gets one-year extension

A 1993-batch Indian Revenue Service officer of the Income Tax cadre, 59-year-old Navin has been leading the federal anti-money laundering agency as its full-time chief since August 14, 2024

Ganderbal police crack backward linkage in NDPS case, supplier among 3 held

Ganderbal, Aug 09: Ganderbal Police has achieved a significant breakthrough in an NDPS case by establishing the backward linkage from street-level peddlers to their supplier, resulting in the arrest of 03 persons and recovery of 63 grams (approximately) of heroin-like substance and Rs.20,950 in suspected drug proceeds. A police spokesperson said that on 7th August 2026, during naka checking at Warpora Crossing, police apprehended two persons, identified as Javaid Ahmad Dar and Arbaz Ahmad Reshi, after they attempted to flee on noticing the naka party. During their personal searches, 11 grams (approximately) heroin-like substance was recovered from their possession. He said that during sustained investigation and backward-linkage verification, police traced the source of supply to Ajaz Ahmad Dar of Chowdribagh, Ganderbal. A search conducted at his premises led to the recovery of 52 grams (approximately) of heroin-like substance and Rs.20,950 cash, suspected to be proceeds of drug trafficking. He was subsequently arrested in accordance with law. Accordingly, 03 persons have been arrested and a total of 63 grams (approximately) heroin-like substance has been recovered in Case FIR No. 131/2026, under relevant provisions of the NDPS Act at Police Station Ganderbal. The seized substance has been secured as per due procedure and samples are being forwarded for Forensic Science Laboratory examination. Further investigation is underway to uncover additional linkages and identify other persons involved in the drug network, spokesperson said. Ganderbal Police reiterated its firm commitment to dismantle the entire drug supply chain and take stringent action against those involved in drug trafficking.

Thank You Kashmir: PARAS Health Srinagar launches gratitude campaign, celebrates trust of people

Srinagar, Aug 9: Recognising the trust and confidence placed by people in its doctors, healthcare professionals and services, PARAS Health Srinagar has launched a special gratitude campaign titled Thank You Kashmir, expressing appreciation to the people of Jammu, Kashmir and Ladakh for making the healthcare facility an integral part of their medical journey. The campaign is aimed at acknowledging the patients and families who have chosen PARAS Health Srinagar for their treatment and have reposed faith in its doctors, medical teams and management over the past three years. The initiative comes as PARAS Health Srinagar continues to expand its range of specialised and advanced healthcare services, with a focus on bringing sophisticated medical technology, specialised expertise and comprehensive treatment closer to patients in the region. Speaking on the occasion, Dr Dharminder Nagar, Managing Director, PARAS Health, said serving the people of Jammu and Kashmir had always been an important vision for the organisation. It was always a dream to serve the people of Jammu and Kashmir with the best possible healthcare facilities. Our endeavour has been to ensure that sophisticated machines, advanced technology and specialised medical facilities are available to the people of Kashmir at their doorstep, so that they do not have to travel outside the region for quality treatment, Dr Nagar said. He said the Thank You Kashmir campaign was essentially a message of gratitude to the people who had trusted PARAS Health and its teams. Healthcare is ultimately about trust. The faith that patients and their families place in their doctors and healthcare institutions is our biggest responsibility. We are grateful to the people of Jammu, Kashmir and Ladakh for giving us the opportunity to serve them, he said. Seema Vig, Senior Vice President and Regional Director, PARAS Health, commended the Srinagar team for its efforts and commitment towards strengthening the healthcare ecosystem in the region. She said the campaign was not merely a celebration for the institution but a tribute to the people whose trust had enabled PARAS Health Srinagar to grow. Our doctors, nurses, paramedical staff and the entire Srinagar team have worked with tremendous dedication. Their exemplary work has helped build confidence among patients and families, Vig said. She reiterated the organisations commitment to delivering high-quality healthcare services in Jammu and Kashmir. We want to be the first, and we want to provide everything up to standard. Our commitment is to ensure that the people of Jammu and Kashmir have access to the best possible healthcare facilities, technology and expertise, she said. Dr Murtuza Habib, Associate Vice President and Facility Director, PARAS Health Srinagar, said establishing a credible space in the healthcare landscape of Jammu and Kashmir was not an easy journey. Creating a space in healthcare in Jammu and Kashmir was not easy. It takes time to build an institution, but more importantly, it takes time to build trust, Dr Habib said. He attributed the growth of PARAS Health Srinagar largely to the people of the region, saying their confidence in the doctors, medical teams and the healthcare process had been the biggest strength of the institution. I would give the biggest credit to the people. They trusted our doctors, they trusted the process and they gave us the opportunity to serve them. That trust is what has brought us to where we are today, he said. Dr Habib said the Thank You Kashmir campaign was therefore a way of acknowledging that relationship. This campaign is our way of saying thank you to every patient, every family and every person who believed in us. For us, their trust is not just an achievement; it is a responsibility that motivates us to do better every day, he said. The campaign also seeks to highlight the larger transformation taking place in the regions healthcare sector, where patients increasingly seek access to advanced diagnostics, specialised procedures, multidisciplinary care and modern medical infrastructure closer to home. Over the past three years, PARAS Health Srinagar has expanded its clinical services across multiple specialties and has undertaken various community outreach initiatives, including medical camps and awareness programmes, aimed at taking healthcare beyond the hospital premises. The Thank You Kashmir campaign places patients and their families at the centre of this journey, celebrating the relationship between the institution and the community it serves. For PARAS Health Srinagar, the message behind the campaign is simple: every patient who walked through its doors, every family that placed its faith in its doctors, and every life touched by its services has contributed to the institutions journey in Kashmir. As the campaign unfolds, PARAS Health Srinagar says it intends to carry forward the same relationship of trust while continuing to invest in technology, medical expertise, infrastructure and patient-centric care. Thank You Kashmir is, ultimately, a thank-you from the healthcare institution to the people who made it possible for it to become a part of Kashmirs healthcare story.

Two drug peddlers held in separate cases of contraband trafficking in Shopian and Pulwama

Srinagar, Aug 09: Continuing its sustained efforts to eradicate the menace of drug abuse from society, police have arrested two drug peddlers in Shopian and Pulwama and recovered contraband substances from their possession. A police spokesperson said that during routine naka checking at Manihal Crossing, a police party from Police Station Imamsahib intercepted a suspicious person. During his personal search, approximately 44 grams of Charas sticks were recovered. The accused identified as Mushtaq Ahmad Dar son of Jalal-ud-din Dar resident of Tulkhan Bijbehara has been arrested and shifted to police station. Similarly in Pulwama, a Police party of Post Newa during naka checking at Checkpora Bypass Bridge intercepted a motorcycle bearing registration No. JK01BD-5904. During checking, 27 bottles of Wecan-D (Codeine) concealed beneath the seat of the motorcycle were recovered. The rider has been identified as Adil Bashir Ganie son of Bashir Ahmad Ganie resident of Dangerpora, Pulwama, and was arrested on the spot, spokesperson said. Accordingly, cases under relevant sections of law have been registered at respective police stations and further investigation have been taken up to establish forward and backward linkages and dismantle the larger drug network involved. Police remain firmly committed to its mission of creating a drug-free society and appeal to the general public to extend their cooperation by sharing any information related to drug peddling or substance abuse in their localities. Citizens can report such activities to the nearest police station. The identity of informants will be kept strictly confidential, police spokesperson added.

J-K Police secure property attachment order, arrest warrant against another accused in 2008 terror case in Baramulla

Srinagar, Aug 09: Continuing its sustained efforts against elements involved in unlawful and anti-national activities, Jammu and Kashmir Police in Baramulla secured an attachment order from the Honble NIA Court, Sopore, in connection with Case FIR No. 02/2008 registered at Police Station Chandoosa under Sections 2/3 EIMCO Act, 120-B & 121 RPC and 13 UAPA Act. The attachment order pertains to land measuring 12 Kanal 01 Marla and 73 Sq. Ft. belonging to accused Parvaiz Ahmad Famda, son of Yaar Mohammad Famda, resident of Kawhar Bala, Chandoosa. The property has been valued at Rs 69,82,550/- (Rupees Sixty-Nine Lakh Eighty-Two Thousand Five Hundred Fifty only), and the requisite valuation certificate has also been obtained. In a related development in the same case, Baramulla Police also obtained an arrest warrant from the Honble NIA Court, Sopore, against another accused, namely Abdul Rashid Bhat, son of Abdul Ahad Bhat, resident of Rajpora, Chandoosa. Police said the action reflects forces continued commitment to pursuing individuals involved in unlawful activities and ensuring that legal proceedings are taken to their logical conclusion in accordance with the law.

Op Sindoor showed India will go to any extent to ensure its citizens' safety: Rajnath Singh

New Delhi, Aug 9: The Operation Sindoor demonstrated the unmatched valour of the country's armed forces, who sent a global message that India will go to any extent to ensure the safety of its citizens, Defence Minister Rajnath Singh said on Sunday. He was addressing an event held at the Base Hospital, Delhi Cantonment. Singh commended the defence forces for eliminating terrorists and their handlers based in Pakistan and ensuring that those who dared to cast an evil eye on India faced dire consequences. Indian armed forces conducted Operation Sindoor in May 2025 in response to the deadly Pahalgam terror attack. Operation Sindoor demonstrated the unmatched valour of our defence forces who sent a global message that India will go to any extent to ensure the safety of its citizens while protecting the sindoor worn by our women, Singh said at the blood donation camp, titled 'Sindoor Maharaktadan Yatra', at the Base Hospital here. Drawing a parallel with the mega blood donation camp, Singh asserted that it represents compassion while Operation Sindoor showcased courage. Approximately 1,000 wrestlers and athletes from Maharashtra were among the donors who participated in the camp, demonstrating the spirit of selfless service and solidarity with the armed forces, the defence ministry said in a statement. Expressing gratitude to the donors, the Union minister expressed confidence that the blood donated today would serve as a credible reserve for needy soldiers and their families in the future. He described blood donation as 'jivandan' and 'mahadan', stressing that despite remarkable advances in science and medicine, no artificial substitute for human blood has yet been developed. Since (human) blood can only be produced by the human body and donated by one person to another, Singh said, blood donation remains one of the noblest forms of charity. He underlined that every blood donor and recipient is, in their own way, serving the nation, and urged the people, particularly the youth, to make blood donation a culture. When we celebrate 100 years of our independence in 2047, our aim should not be limited to a developed economy; we must also envision a compassionate society where people are healthy and safe, and precious resources like blood are readily available in times of need, Singh said. The event was attended by Maharashtra Deputy Chief Minister Eknath Shinde, Minister of State for Ayush (Independent Charge) Pratap Rao Jadhav, Maharashtra Minister of Industries Uday Ravindra Samant, MP Srikant Eknath Shinde, Chief of the Army Staff Gen Dhiraj Seth, DG Armed Forces Medical Services (AFMS) Surgeon Vice Admiral Arti Sarin and other senior military and civil dignitaries, the statement said. For AFMS, maintaining adequate blood reserves assumes particular significance as military hospitals cater to routine healthcare requirements as well as operational, trauma and emergency contingencies. The participation of nearly 500 voluntary donors reaffirmed the ethos of 'service before self' and underscored the role that every eligible citizen can play in saving lives through regular voluntary blood donation, the ministry said.

Special funds for winter clothing, equipment of CRPF troops posted at heights post Pahalgam attack

New Delhi, Aug 9: A special winter clothing and equipment fund has been sanctioned by the Union home ministry for CRPF troops operating from the Temporary Operating Bases (TOBs) created for fighting terrorists in the higher reaches of Jammu and Kashmir post the 2025 Pahalgam attack. Official sources told PTI that an allocation of more than Rs 4.54 crore has been granted to the paramilitary few weeks ago to procure gaiters, sleeping bags, snow boots and goggles, extreme cold weather clothing developed by the DRDO (Himsuraksha brand), insulating mats, rucksacks, gloves, tents, thermal insoles, blankets and rescue bags for about 600 troops. While most of these items were already provided to the TOB troops since the last year, the Ministry of Home Affairs (MHA) in July granted complete authorisation to a CRPF proposal for procuring these items so that the troops can be better equipped for long duration reconnaissance patrols, survival and combat against terrorists in the higher reaches, they said. The life expectancy of these items is about two years and the funds can be revised upwards for fresh procurement, the sources added. The TOBs, established above the height of 6,000 feet, house Central Reserve Police Force (CRPF) commandos for launching search and assault operations where terrorists are holed up in 'dhoks' (mud and stone huts). It has been found that terrorists used the snow-bound and arduous hilly terrains of Jammu and Kashmir to hide before or after perpetrating violence in the plains and, hence, the CRPF and Army troops are now stationed here. The first such rocks and mortar base was created by the CRPF in July 2025 and, as per latest data, the force has erected 55 TOBs in both Jammu and Kashmir regions of the Union Territory. The TOBs hold a team of about 15-25 armed troops with basic facilities of rest and recuperation. One such TOB of the CRPF was used as a base by the security forces to eliminate in July 2025 the three terrorists who were responsible for the Pahalgam attack. This mission was called 'Operation Mahadev'. 'Operation Mahadev' began on May 22, 2025 as part of a security plan that was drawn a day after the April 22 attack in the scenic Baisaran valley of Pahalgam where 26 people, mostly tourists, were killed by the terrorists who had taken shelter in the higher locations. While the proposal to create TOBs for CRPF commandos, like the Army, was being planned since 2022-23, they were made operational post the April 2025 Pahalgam terrorist attack, official sources said.

Eight injured as Tempo overturns on NH-244 in Dodas Assar

Banihal, Aug 09: Eight persons were injured when a tempo travelling from Srinagar towards Doda overturned near Trungal Assar on National Highway-244 in Doda district on Sunday afternoon, officials said. Block Medical Officer, Assar, Dr Syed Mohammad Ismail, said the accident occurred at around 12:06 p.m. He said a local resident informed the 108 ambulance service, following which three ambulances were rushed to the accident site from PHC Assar. Soon after the accident, locals, police personnel and volunteers launched a rescue operation and shifted the injured to Primary Health Centre (PHC) Assar, where they received initial treatment. The BMO said all eight injured persons were subsequently referred to Government Medical College (GMC) Doda for advanced treatment and further management. The injured were identified as Surjeet Kumar (27), Parveez Ahmed (44), Kewal Krishan (41), Mubeena Begum (36), Mohd Irfan (36), Altaf Hussain (35), Muneeba Farooq (24), and Ayaz Ahmed (36). Further details about their condition were awaited

Dozens of PDP workers from Gool join National Conference in Banihal

Banihal, Aug 09: Dozens of prominent workers and activists associated with the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) from Gool today joined the Jammu & Kashmir National Conference (NC) in Banihal, reaffirming their faith in the leadership of Chief Minister Omar Abdullah and the people-centric development agenda being pursued by the NC-led government. Welcoming the new entrants into the party fold, senior National Conference leader and MLA Banihal-Gool, Sajjad Shaheen, said that the growing influx of people into the National Conference was a clear endorsement of the partys politics of development, dignity, secularism and protection of the rights of the people of Jammu & Kashmir. Shaheen said the people were increasingly recognising the difference between those who stood with them during difficult times and those who compromised their political positions for short-term power. He said the PDPs 2014 alliance with the BJP had left a deep political and institutional legacy for which the people of Jammu & Kashmir were still paying a heavy price. Those who promised to safeguard the interests and special status of Jammu & Kashmir ultimately joined hands with the BJP. The PDPs politics of opportunism and its alliance with the BJP contributed to the political circumstances in which the special constitutional position of Jammu & Kashmir was subsequently downgraded and eroded. The people have neither forgotten nor forgiven this betrayal, Shaheen said. He accused the PDP leadership of practising a dual politics, claiming to champion the interests of Jammu & Kashmir while simultaneously enabling forces whose political agenda was contrary to the aspirations and constitutional rights of the people of the erstwhile state. The people of Jammu & Kashmir are today paying the price of the political misjudgements and compromises of those who betrayed the trust reposed in them. History will judge those who chose power over principles, he said. Shaheen asserted that the National Conference, in contrast, has consistently remained a guardian of the political, constitutional and democratic rights of the people of Jammu & Kashmir, irrespective of circumstances. From Sheikh Mohammad Abdullah to Dr Farooq Abdullah and Omar Abdullah, the National Conference has never abandoned the people of Jammu & Kashmir. We have faced difficult periods, stood against injustice and continued to raise our voice for the dignity, identity, rights and democratic aspirations of our people, he said. He said the growing support for the National Conference was also a reflection of the people's appreciation of the development-oriented and people-friendly governance under Chief Minister Omar Abdullah. Shaheen highlighted what he described as a renewed and equitable development push across Jammu & Kashmir, saying that infrastructure, roads, education, health, power, water supply, tourism, sports and other sectors were receiving focused attention. He said the objective was not merely to develop urban centres but to ensure that remote, hilly and historically neglected areas also received their rightful share of development. Under the leadership of Chief Minister Omar Abdullah, development is being pursued on the principle of equity. From the plains to the mountains and from towns to remote villages, every region is being brought into the development process. Banihal-Gool is also witnessing this transformation, he said. Referring specifically to the Banihal-Gool constituency, Shaheen said several major development initiatives had either been sanctioned, approved or taken up during the present tenure. He said the ongoing development process was aimed at creating better connectivity, employment opportunities, educational facilities, healthcare infrastructure and economic avenues for the people, particularly those living in remote mountainous areas. Welcoming the former PDP workers, Shaheen said their decision to join the National Conference demonstrated that political workers were increasingly seeking a platform rooted in principles, public service and inclusive development. The doors of the National Conference remain open to all those who believe in democratic values, secularism, social justice, development and the political and constitutional rights of the people of Jammu & Kashmir, he said. Shaheen said the latest political shift in Gool was not merely an organisational development for the National Conference but a reflection of a larger change in public sentiment, with people choosing performance, accessibility and principled politics over political opportunism. He called upon party workers to strengthen grassroots mobilisation and remain connected with the people, saying that the National Conference would continue to work towards fulfilling the aspirations of the people and building a more equitable, peaceful and prosperous Jammu & Kashmir.

Those who participated in Quit India movement remain inspiration for every Indian: PM Modi

Prime Minister Narendra Modi remembered participants of the historic Quit India Movement. Their courage remains an inspiration for all Indians, he stated. The movement, launched by Mahatma Gandhi, gave impetus to India's independence. This clarion call infused new energy into the freedom struggle. August 9, 2026, will mark the movement's eighty-fourth anniversary.

After decades, Kupwaras Kawari-Awoora road project finally takes off

Kupwara, Aug 8:After decades of delay, work on the long-pending Kawari-Awoora road project in Kupwara district has finally begun under the Pradhan Mantri Gram Sadak Yojana (PMGSY-IV). The 1.6-km road has been sanctioned at an estimated cost of Rs 329.63 lakh. It will connect Kawari with Awoora and cover the stretch from RD 700 to Manwan Bala under Package No. JK08-4008. MLA Kupwara Mir Mohammad Fayaz said the road had remained pending for years despite being a longstanding demand of residents. I took it as a challenge and ensured that the project was brought on the ground, Fayaz said. The road will have a sanctioned carriageway width of 3.75 metres and is scheduled to be completed within 548 days. Bhat Infrastructure has been entrusted with the construction work. Residents welcomed the start of the project, saying the road would ease their daily travel and improve access to essential services. We are thankful to the MLA for taking up the issue seriously, a local resident said. The road has been needed for a long time. Another resident said the project would improve connectivity with nearby markets and other facilities. It will make access to healthcare, education and markets easier, he said. The road is expected to provide better connectivity to residents of Kawari, Awoora and adjoining areas.

Amarnath Yatra suspended from Jammu; 588 pilgrims return from Baltal in 53 vehicles

Banihal, Aug 09: The Shri Amarnath Yatra has been suspended from Jammu towards Srinagar/Baltal amid adverse weather conditions and restoration work on the pilgrimage tracks. However, pilgrims who had already performed darshan at the holy cave are being allowed to return towards Jammu. According to the Joint Police Control Room, Baltal, a total of 588 pilgrimsincluding 435 men, 83 women, four children and 66 sadhuswere moving towards Jammu in 53 vehicles on Sunday morning. The down convoy was moving through the Ramban-Banihal sector of NH-44 towards Jammu when reports last came in. No fresh Yatra convoy was allowed to proceed from Jammu towards the base camps. The suspension from both Baltal and Pahalgam routes has been ordered from August 9 due to recent rains, track damage and forecast of adverse weather.

Former principal chief conservator of forests GH Kango passes away

Srinagar, Aug 09: Former Principal Chief Conservator of Forests (PCCF) G.H. Kango passed away on Sunday at his residence in Rajbagh, Srinagar. G.H. Kango was widely regarded as a pioneer of modern forestry in Jammu & Kashmir. During his distinguished career, he introduced the concepts of soil and water conservation and integrated watershed management in the Forest Department and played a key role in establishing several watershed management projects in the region with the assistance of the World Bank. Kango has also contributed significantly to the stabilisation of degraded and denuded areas and addressed soil and water conservation challenges in the Kandi areas of Kashmir Valley and several parts of the Jammu region. Under his guidance, the Department of Soil Conservation was established in 1978, and Kango was appointed its first Director. He served in the department for eight years, from 1978 to 1986, before later serving as Principal Chief Conservator of Forests and retiring from active service in 1993. Ghulam Hassan Kango was a scholar with a deep interest in forestry, ecology, nomadic studies and pasture development. Besides his distinguished career in the Forest Department, he authored several articles on nomadic communities and their traditional routes, with his work appearing in national and international publications, and participated in several conferences on forestry and environmental issues. He remained actively engaged with conservation and environmental awareness even after retirement, sharing his experience and knowledge with researchers, students and civil society groups.

Massive crackdown on JeI-linked network in Sopore; searches underway at 26 locations

Sopore, Aug 09: Security forces and investigating agencies on Sunday launched a massive crackdown against a suspected network allegedly linked to the banned Jamaat-e-Islami (JeI) in Sopore and adjoining areas of north Kashmirs Baramulla district. According to officials, search operations are being conducted at 26 locations in connection with a case registered under the provisions of the Unlawful Activities (Prevention) Act (UAPA) against the banned organisation. The searches are being carried out as part of an ongoing investigation into the alleged activities, links and network associated with the proscribed outfit. Teams of security forces and investigating agencies have been deployed at multiple locations, where searches of residential and other premises are underway. Officials said the operation is aimed at gathering further evidence and establishing the nature of the alleged network and its activities. The searches are part of a wider investigation into individuals and locations suspected to have links with the banned organisation. Security arrangements have also been strengthened in the areas where the searches are being conducted to ensure the operations are carried out smoothly and to prevent any disruption to law and order. Further details, including the outcome of the searches and any recoveries made during the operation, are awaited.

Can Kolkata's Mughlai Paratha get the revival it deserves?

The recent food news has ignited a fresh passion in the culinary scene. Roman pizza is making a comeback, celebrated for its meticulous preparation and premium ingredients. On the flip side, the Mughlai paratha from Kolkata is grappling with decreasing popularity. However, Satyanarayan Restaurant in Beleghata serves an impeccable version. Enhancing hygiene and presentation could be the key to reviving this classic dish's former glory.

Iran President defends Irans talks with US, Europe, stresses sovereignty and regional unity

Iranian President Masoud Pezeshkian has defended Tehrans decision to engage in negotiations with the United States and European countries, saying Iran is ready for dialogue to protect its national interests but will not accept demands that undermine its sovereignty or defensive capabilities, state news agency IRNA reported. In the final part of an address to the Iranian public, Pezeshkian said Iran had not started the war and that the decision to negotiate was taken to safeguard national interests and avoid unnecessary conflict. He rejected claims that his government had pressured Irans leadership into negotiations, saying major decisions were taken in coordination with the leadership and the countrys security and military institutions. Pezeshkian said Iran had reached understandings with European representatives during earlier diplomatic efforts, but accused European countries of subsequently failing to act independently and pursuing the snapback mechanism despite those understandings. He said diplomacy and military strength were not contradictory, arguing that negotiations could help protect Irans rights and interests. However, Tehran would not agree to dismantling its military or defence capabilities, he said. The Iranian president also stressed that Tehran had no intention of attacking other countries, occupying territory or expanding its borders, saying Iran sought peaceful coexistence with its neighbours. He accused Israel and the US of trying to unite Persian Gulf countries against Iran and said Tehran was working to prevent divisions among regional states. Pezeshkian said relations with neighbouring countries had improved significantly and urged Muslim countries to avoid becoming involved in conflicts with one another. He also warned that internal political divisions in Iran could be exploited by foreign powers. Rejecting reports of differences between his government, the diplomatic establishment and the armed forces over negotiations, Pezeshkian said all major decisions had been taken through the countrys national security structures and were supported by the military and security institutions. He also denied any disagreement with Irans Leader, saying his government had consistently followed the leaderships policies. Meanwhile, Foreign Minister Abbas Araghchi called for greater unity among Irans neighbours. In a post on X, he said the time had come for countries in the region to rely on ourselves and embrace true brotherhood, adding that Irans armed forces had demonstrated their capability against what he described as the worlds most powerful military.

India, China review LAC situation, stress need to maintain peace

India and China held the 36th meeting of the Working Mechanism for Consultation and Coordination on India-China Border Affairs (WMCC) in New Delhi on August 6, reviewing the situation along the Line of Actual Control (LAC) and discussing outstanding boundary issues. The Indian delegation was led by Joint Secretary (East Asia) Sujit Ghosh, while the Chinese side was headed by Hou Yanqi, Director General of the Boundary and Oceanic Affairs Department of Chinas Ministry of Foreign Affairs. According to the Ministry of External Affairs, the two sides held frank discussions on the situation along the LAC and underlined that maintaining peace and tranquillity in the border areas is essential for the overall development of bilateral relations. India and China agreed to continue using existing diplomatic and military channels, including the WMCC and local commander-level meetings, to resolve outstanding issues and avoid misunderstanding and miscalculation along the LAC. The two sides also held detailed discussions, following the 24th round of Special Representatives talks, on boundary delimitation, border management, mechanism-building and trans-border cooperation. India reiterated the need for an early meeting of the Expert Level Mechanism on trans-border rivers and stressed the importance of sharing technical details on upstream projects.

CM Omar Abdullah unveils Kashmir Super League jersey

Chief Minister Omar Abdullah on Saturday met MLA Bani Dr Rameshwar Singh and MLA Lal Chowk Sheikh Ahsan Pardesi at Raabita here, who apprised him of various matters concerning their respective constituencies. The Chief Minister, as per an official statement, discussed the issues raised by the legislators and assured that matters pertaining to public welfare and development would receive due consideration. Later, the Chief Minister met a delegation led by Kashmir Super League (KSL) Organiser Mushtaq Bashir, which apprised him of plans for the upcoming Kashmir Super League 2026 in Srinagar. On the occasion, Chief Minister Omar Abdullah unveiled the jersey and football specially designed for the Kashmir Super League. Meanwhile, in a sperate statement issued by KSL, the official football of the Khyber Cement Kashmir Super League 2026 powered by Athwas Retail and Athwas Hyundai was formally launched by the Chief Minister of J&K, marking a significant milestone ahead of the second season of the much-awaited football league. Chief Minister commended Hinan Manzoor and Mushtaq Bashir, Founders and Organisers of the Kashmir Super League, for taking the initiative to establish and organise the league, appreciating their efforts towards promoting football and creating a professional platform for local players to showcase their talent. Chief Minister also assured the organisers that he would make every possible effort to grace one of the Kashmir Super League matches. His presence, the organisers said, would serve as a major encouragement for the participating players, franchises and the wider football fraternity of J&K. During the ceremony, Hinan Manzoor and Mushtaq Bashir presented a souvenir Kashmir Super League jersey to the Chief Minister as a mark of respect and appreciation. Adding further strength to the leagues professional ecosystem, NIVIA has come on board as the Official Football Partner for Kashmir Super League Season 2. NIVIA, one of Indias leading sports brands, will provide the official match footballs to be used throughout the tournament. With the official match football now unveiled, the countdown to Kashmir Super League 2026 has officially begun.

Continuous rains trigger secondary apple scab in Shopian orchards

Continuous rainfall over the past two weeks has triggered an outbreak of secondary apple scab in several orchards across south Kashmirs Shopian district, raising concerns among growers over the health and quality of this years crop amid an unusually wet spell across J&K. According to weather data, J&K recorded 35% surplus rainfall in July, while Ladakh received 122% above-normal rainfall, making it one of the wettest Julys in recent years. The disease has been reported from Devpora, Nagabal, Moolu, Mohanpora, Trenz, Sugu and several other apple-growing villages, where farmers said prolonged wet weather has created ideal conditions for the fungal infection to spread. Tariq Ahmad Mir, an apple grower in Shopians Aliyalpora village, said the disease has affected orchards in both the lower and higher reaches of the district. Continuous rains are beneficial for fruit colour and help improve the overall size of apples. However, excessive rainfall creates favourable conditions for secondary scab, which can spread rapidly if the wet spell continues, Mir said. He said waterlogging has emerged as another concern, warning that it could lead to root rot and weaken apple trees. Many orchards have standing water because the soil has remained saturated for days. If the situation persists, growers may have to deal with root diseases in addition to scab, he said. Mir added that the incessant rainfall has also caused cracking in high-density apple varieties, particularly Gala, affecting fruit quality and potentially reducing market returns. Ghulam Mohammad, another grower from the district, said his orchard had also developed necrotic leaf blotch following the prolonged wet weather. Besides secondary scab, we are now seeing necrotic leaf blotch in the orchard. The continuous moisture is leading to multiple disease problems this season, he said. Apple scab is among the most destructive fungal diseases affecting apple cultivation in Kashmir. Secondary scab develops when fresh infections occur during the growing season after the primary infection, particularly during prolonged periods of rain and high humidity. The disease causes dark, velvety lesions on leaves and fruit, reducing fruit quality and increasing orchard management costs.

NIT Srinagar to host AI Challenge for Kashmiri Translation

The National Institute of Technology (NIT) Srinagar has announced KATHE 2026: AI Challenge for Kashmiri Language Translation, a national-level competition that aims to harness Artificial Intelligence (AI) and Natural Language Processing (NLP) for the preservation and advancement of the Kashmiri language. The initiative is being organised by Gaash Lab, NIT Srinagar, in collaboration with the Bureau of Indian Standards (BIS), with the University of Kashmir serving as the academic collaborator and GitHub as the primary sponsor. The competition will conclude with an offline finale on August 21, 2026, at NIT Srinagar, where shortlisted teams will demonstrate their AI models during a live evaluation.

CS sets vision to transform SKIMS into Quaternary Care Hub

Marking a significant administrative milestone and providing a fresh impetus to long-pending developmental initiatives, the Standing Finance Committee (SFC) of Sher-i-Kashmir Institute of Medical Sciences (SKIMS), Soura, met after a gap of over five years under Chief Secretary, Atal Dulloo, setting a clear vision for transforming the premier medical institution into a quaternary healthcare facility and Centre of Excellence in the region. The last meeting of the Standing Finance Committee had been held in August 2021. The revival of the high-level financial and administrative mechanism is expected to accelerate critical infrastructure projects, strengthen institutional capacities and provide a renewed roadmap for the future growth of SKIMS. The meeting was attended by Shailendra Kumar, Financial Commissioner (Additional Chief Secretary), Finance; M. Raju, Commissioner Secretary, Health & Medical Education; Prof. (Dr.) Mohd. Ashraf Ganie, Director, SKIMS & EOSG; Prof. (Dr.) Fazal Q. Parray, Principal, SKIMS Medical College, Bemina; and a representative of the Planning Department. Speaking on the occasion, the Chief Secretary called upon the SKIMS administration to set a higher institutional benchmark by transforming the institute into a quaternary healthcare facility and a Centre of Excellence for medical institutions across the region. He assured that the Government would extend all possible support to SKIMS for upgrading its capacities in super-speciality healthcare, advanced medical technologies, medical education and cutting-edge research, in line with the original mandate and vision behind establishment of the premier institution. The Chief Secretary stressed the need for an all-round transformation of patient-care services, with SKIMS adopting the latest technologies, treatment protocols and medical practices evolving globally. He maintained that the institute has to be several notches higher in its approach, infrastructure and facilities to meet the emerging healthcare requirements of the region, emphasizing that the institution must continuously benchmark itself against the best national healthcare facilities. He directed the SKIMS administration to prepare a comprehensive roadmap for strengthening patient care, infrastructure, equipment, human resources and specialized services, with the objective of ensuring that patients from Jammu and Kashmir do not have to travel outside the region for advanced and highly specialized treatment. The Chief Secretary further emphasized strengthening SKIMS as a Centre of Excellence in medical education and research, particularly in areas such as cancer and other diseases of growing prevalence in the region. He called for greater focus on research-driven healthcare solutions and creation of a pool of highly skilled medical professionals capable of addressing emerging health challenges. He maintained that access to quaternary-level healthcare should be expanded so that people can avail advanced treatment facilities closer to their homes, irrespective of their socio-economic status. Financial Commissioner (ACS), Finance Department, Shailendra Kumar, expressed strong commitment towards supporting an institution of the stature and strategic importance of SKIMS. He emphasized the need for SKIMS to pursue administrative excellence, financial sustainability and greater institutional self-reliance, while continuously setting higher benchmarks in specialized and high-end patient care. Commissioner Secretary, Health & Medical Education Department, M. Raju, appreciated the efforts of the SKIMS leadership towards strengthening the institute's performance in patient care, academics and research. He reiterated the importance of sustained institutional growth to meet the evolving healthcare requirements of the people. Earlier, Director SKIMS, Prof. (Dr.) Mohd. Ashraf Ganie, presented a comprehensive vision for institutional expansion, outlining measures for strengthening tertiary and quaternary healthcare, augmenting specialized human resources, upgrading infrastructure and integrating modern medical technologies. Highlighting SKIMS's pivotal role as the apex healthcare institution of the region, he presented key performance indicators reflecting the institute's extensive service delivery, including lakhs of outpatient visits, thousands of inpatient admissions, complex surgical procedures and a large volume of laboratory and radiological investigations undertaken during the year. The Committee held detailed deliberations on a range of strategic priorities aimed at accelerating the overall development of the institution. It gave a detailed consideration to accord necessary clearances to several critical infrastructure and service-expansion initiatives, including augmentation of Emergency Services through a dedicated Emergency Block, establishment of a Trauma Care Centre and Organ Transplant Unit, and creation of a dedicated OPD Block to cater to the large number of patients seeking outpatient care at SKIMS every day. The Committee further approved the creation of requisite posts for the effective functioning of the State Cancer Institute, besides strengthening the Departments of Cardiovascular and Thoracic Surgery (CVTS), Nursing and Medical Technology. In a move aimed at strengthening professional training and practical exposure, the Committee also gave the go-ahead for introducing internship programmes for B.Sc. and M.Sc. Nursing students, providing them with structured clinical experience and opportunities to further hone their skills and expertise. The Committee reiterated the Government's firm commitment to providing requisite administrative and financial support for timely implementation of priority projects and institutional expansion plans. The meeting is expected to provide renewed momentum to the development of SKIMS and strengthen its position as a leading regional hub for advanced healthcare, medical education and biomedical research, with the long-term objective of placing the institution among the leading centres of excellence in the country.

'Har Ghar Tiranga' must reach every household across J&K: Sat Sharma

J&K BJP President and Rajya Sabha MP Sat Sharma, along with General Secretary (Organization) Ashok Koul, addressed a series of organizational meetings at the party headquarters, Trikuta Nagar, Jammu, to review preparations for the forthcoming Har Ghar Tiranga campaign and other important party programmes. MP Jugal Kishore Sharma, former Deputy Chief Minister Dr. Nirmal Singh, Rajya Sabha MP Er. Ghulam Ali Khatana, and BJP General Secretaries Sanjita Dogra, Baldev Singh Billawaria, and Gopal Mahajan also addressed the meetings. The meetings focused on ensuring the successful implementation of the Har Ghar Tiranga campaign across every district, constituency, Mandal, Shakti Kendra, and Booth of Jammu & Kashmir. Senior leaders directed party functionaries to intensify grassroots outreach so that the Tricolour reaches every household and the campaign becomes a true people's movement reflecting the spirit of national unity and patriotism. Sat Sharma, addressing the meetings, said that Har Ghar Tiranga is not merely a campaign but a national mission to honour the sacrifices of countless freedom fighters who dedicated their lives for an independent India. He said that Bharat's freedom came after a long and determined struggle against British rule and repeated foreign invasions, making the National Flag a symbol of courage, sacrifice, unity, and national pride. He urged every BJP worker to ensure that the Tricolour flies atop every home in Jammu & Kashmir, adding that patriotism flows through the veins of every Indian and every citizen should proudly display the Tiranga with honour and respect. Ashok Koul emphasized the observance of Vibhajan Vibhishika Diwas to remind the younger generation of the tragic human suffering witnessed during the Partition of Bharat. He said lakhs of innocent people were displaced from their ancestral homes, countless families were massacred, and unimaginable hardships were endured during the country's division. Remembering this painful chapter, he said, strengthens the collective resolve to preserve national unity, social harmony, and the integrity of the nation while ensuring that such tragedies are never repeated

Mian Altaf hails Dr U Kauls writing in Greater Kashmir, saying it earned him recognition

August 9, 1953 a Black Day in J&Ks history: Dr Farooq Abdullah

The Jammu and Kashmir National Conference President Dr Farooq Abdullah Saturday termed the events of August 9, 1953, particularly the unconstitutional arrest and ouster of then Prime Minister of Jammu and Kashmir, Sher-e-Kashmir Sheikh Mohammad Abdullah, as a black day in the history of Jammu and Kashmir. Dr Farooq called upon the Union Government to open a new chapter in the relationship between Srinagar and New Delhi, one founded on mutual trust, democratic principles and constitutional guarantees with the restoration of statehood to Jammu and Kashmir serving as the essential first step. Reflecting on the historical significance of the day, Dr Farooq said, 09 August 1953 marked the beginning of a prolonged political and constitutional assault on Jammu and Kashmirs distinctive constitutional position. Sheikh Mohammad Abdullah, a towering symbol of selfless nationalism and patriotism, chose incarceration over submission when confronted with attempts to undermine Jammu and Kashmirs constitutional safeguards and install a pliant dispensation in Srinagar. He said the illegal and unconstitutional arrest of a sitting Prime Minister inflicted a deep and enduring wound on the collective psyche of the people of Jammu and Kashmir. The political coup of 1953 shattered the peoples faith in the democratic and constitutional assurances extended to Jammu and Kashmir and sowed the seeds of a profound trust deficit between Srinagar and New Delhi. That wound remains unhealed even today. Had this rupture not taken place, Jammu and Kashmir may well have been spared the prolonged political uncertainty, turmoil and immense human suffering that followed, he said. Dr Farooq reaffirmed that the National Conference remains steadfast in its commitment to safeguarding Jammu and Kashmirs political, constitutional and cultural identity. He said the events of 1953 fundamentally altered the relationship between the people of Jammu and Kashmir and the Union, creating a trust deficit that successive developments only served to deepen. He observed that despite the sacrifices and sustained efforts made by the National Conference to bridge this divide, successive governments in New Delhi continued to approach Jammu and Kashmir predominantly through a security-centric prism, rather than addressing the political and constitutional aspirations of its people. Calling for a decisive reset in CentreJammu and Kashmir relations, Dr Farooq said, The present government has an opportunity to take a historic step towards healing, reconciliation and rebuilding trust by honouring its commitment to restore statehood to Jammu and Kashmir. Restoration of statehood must be the beginning of a wider process of rights restoration, justice, dignity and mutual respect. The people of Jammu and Kashmir deserve nothing less.

Residents seek restoration of Smart City bus service to Manigam

Srinagar, Aug 8:Residents of Manigam, Haripora, Arhama, Yarmuqam and adjoining areas have sought immediate restoration of Smart City Bus service which operated between Batamaloo in Srinagar and the Police Training School (PTS) at Manigam. A delegation of residents said the sudden withdrawal of the service has disrupted daily commuting for hundreds of people, particularly students, government employees and police personnel undergoing training at PTS Manigam. They said the Smart City Bus No. 13 had provided an important transport link between the rural areas and Srinagar city, with students relying on the service to attend morning tuition classes as well as colleges and universities. The withdrawal has forced many commuters to depend on private transport, increasing their daily travel expenses and placing an additional financial burden on families, the residents said. They appealed to the Transport Department and the Srinagar Smart City authorities to restore the service at the earliest, saying it was essential for the convenience of the public in the area.

Minister Sakeena Itoo reviews welfare measures for leprosy patients

Srinagar, Aug 8:Health and Medical Education, Social Welfare and Education Minister Sakeena Itoo on Saturday reviewed welfare and rehabilitation measures for leprosy patients, directing officials to ensure dignified healthcare and social security for affected families. Chairing a meeting at the Civil Secretariat, Itoo reviewed issues including allotment of government quarters to eligible leprosy-affected families, reconstructive surgeries conducted during the past two years and provision of caretakers for patients without family support. She directed the concerned departments to ensure immediate allotment of residential quarters to eligible families and provide a dedicated ambulance to Leper Hospital, Bharar. Itoo also directed officials to provide free medicines, diagnostic investigations and treatment to leprosy patients at any government hospital in Srinagar, ensuring quality healthcare without financial burden.

Acting Chief Justice chairs awareness programme on NALSAs SAMVAD Scheme

Shopian, Aug 8: Acting Chief Justice of the High Court of Jammu & Kashmir and Ladakh, Sanjeev Kumar, Saturday presided over an awareness programme on NALSAs SAMVAD (Strengthening Access to Justice for Marginalized, Vulnerable Adivasis and De-notified/Nomadic Tribes) Scheme at Imtiyaz Memorial Government Degree College, Shopian. Executive Chairman, J&K Legal Services Authority, and M.K. Sharma, Registrar General, High Court of J&K and Ladakh, were also present. The programme was organised by the District Legal Services Authority, Shopian, under the aegis of J&K Legal Services Authority. On arrival, the Acting Chief Justice and other dignitaries inspected stalls put up by various government departments. Addressing the gathering, Sanjeev Kumar lauded DLSA Shopian and J&K LSA for organising the programme. He highlighted the constitutional and legal rights of tribal communities and the role of Legal Services Authorities in ensuring access to justice at the grassroots level. He said the NALSA SAMVAD Scheme, 2025, aims to bridge the gap between tribal communities and legal aid services. Principal District & Sessions Judge and Chairman, DLSA Shopian, Mehmood Ahmad Chowdhary, delivered the welcome address. He stressed the importance of legal awareness and community outreach among tribal populations. MLA Shopian, Deputy Commissioner Shopian and SSP Shopian were also present. The dignitaries later released Sabeel, a publication prepared by DLSA Shopian. Tribal boys and girls presented a cultural programme showcasing the communitys rich culture and heritage. More than 2,000 tribal people from across Shopian attended the event. They were sensitised about the SAMVAD Scheme 2025. Felicitation certificates were distributed among achievers from the tribal community. Beneficiaries of various government schemes were also provided benefits on the spot by the dignitaries. Members of the Bar, representatives of tribal communities and officers of various departments spoke on the occasion. They shared their views on the implementation of tribal welfare schemes. The programme concluded with a vote of thanks by the Principal Magistrate, JJB Shopian. Later, the Acting Chief Justice and Registrar General inspected the newly constructed District Court Complex, Shopian. They also interacted with Judicial Officers and members of the Bar Association, Shopian. Issues relating to legal aid and access to justice were discussed. Registrar Vigilance, Registrar Judicial, Registrar IT and Joint Registrar Protocol of the High Court of J&K and Ladakh, besides other district officers, were present.

Leopard sightings trigger panic in Baramulla residential areas

Baramulla, Aug 8:Repeated sightings of at least two leopards in densely populated areas of Baramulla town over the past 10 days have triggered panic among residents, with many avoiding travel during the morning and evening hours. The leopards have been spotted around Microwave Colony, Kanlibagh, Sangri and adjoining areas. Residents said the animals have been roaming in the area for nearly 10 days and have already preyed on at least two sheep, raising fears of an attack on people, particularly children and the elderly. The sightings have disrupted daily life, with residents reluctant to venture out during the hours when the animals are believed to be most active. Families are particularly concerned about children travelling to schools and tuition centres. There is complete panic. We are unable to move out, especially during the morning and evening hours. The presence of the leopards has also affected students who have to attend tuition centres in the morning, said Fayaz Ahmad, a resident of Microwave Colony. Ahmad said he recently spotted one of the animals on the boundary wall of his house. I saw it myself on the boundary wall of my house. It was frightening, he said. Residents said the repeated movement of the leopards through built-up areas has created a sense of insecurity among families. The leopards have been moving around residential areas for days. People are scared and are avoiding going out. The authorities need to act before any untoward incident takes place, residents said. Residents have urged the Wildlife Department to intensify surveillance, deploy teams to track the animals and capture them at the earliest to prevent any untoward incident.

50-bed new SDH Qaimoh inaugurated Minister Sakeena lays foundation

Kulgam, Aug 8:Minister for Education, Health & Medical Education and Social Welfare Sakeena Itoo on Saturday inaugurated the new 50-bed Sub-District Hospital (SDH) at Qaimoh and dedicated it to the public. MLA Devsar Peerzada Feroze Ahmad, Deputy Commissioner Kulgam Shahzad Alam, health department officers and locals were present on the occasion. Congratulating the people of Qaimoh and adjoining areas, Itoo said the government would further upgrade the hospital by augmenting staff and facilities in a phased manner. The government is according special focus to upgrading healthcare services across Jammu and Kashmir. All measures are being taken to strengthen hospitals and health centres, including recruitment of staff and upgradation of clinical and non-clinical facilities, she said. Itoo also directed the hospital administration to remain responsive to public concerns and ensure timely delivery of healthcare services. Feroze thanked the government for dedicating the long-awaited hospital, describing it as a major boost to healthcare access in the area. Constructed by the R&B Division Kulgam at an estimated cost of Rs 19.33 crore, the ground-plus-three-storey hospital has a plinth area of 19,900 square feet and a total carpet area of 58,000 square feet. It has 50 inpatient beds, besides OPDs, IPDs, diagnostic laboratories and dedicated spaces for patients and staff. The facility is expected to improve access to emergency, diagnostic and specialised healthcare services for residents of Qaimoh and adjoining areas. Later, Itoo laid the foundation stones for permanent restoration of the Kounserbal-Nandimarg and Batpora-Chimmer roads, besides a school building at Chimmer in the DH sub-division. She also held a public outreach camp at Chimmer, where residents raised development and welfare-related issues and sought improvements in public services. Itoo assured the gathering that the demands raised would be examined and necessary action taken. She said the government was focusing on strengthening road and educational infrastructure while improving healthcare and social welfare services. District and local officers accompanied the minister and briefed her on various development issues.

Strength of democracy lies in constitutional values, institutions: LG Manoj Sinha

Srinagar, Aug 8:The Lieutenant Governor Manoj Sinha on Saturday graced the convocation ceremony of the 9th batch and the induction of the 10th batch of the Indian Institute of Democratic Leadership (IIDL), an initiative of Rambhau Mhalgi Prabodhini, Mumbai. Addressing the graduating youth, faculty members, mentors, administrators, distinguished guests, and parents, the Lieutenant Governor, as per an official statement, said the event is a convergence of two important journeys, one reaching completion, and another beginning with new energy and hopes. He congratulated the graduating students of the 9th batch, who now step into diverse fields of public life, and warmly welcomed the 10th batch, who begin their journey of learning with enthusiasm and aspirations. The Lieutenant Governor expressed confidence that the Institute would continue to enrich young leaders with constitutional values, discipline and wisdom. Highlighting the journey of Rambhau Mhalgi Prabodhini since its establishment in 1982, the Lieutenant Governor said it made immense contribution to leadership training and capacity building. With over 60,000 parliamentarians, legislators, panchayat representatives, entrepreneurs, and youth trained, the institution has played a pivotal role in strengthening governance and entrepreneurship. The creation of IIDL further ensured that Indias democratic institutions continue to receive young leadership infused with energy and resolve for nation-building, the Lieutenant Governor said. The Lieutenant Governor said that Indias future depends on addressing seven key challenges: sustaining long-term economic growth; eliminating terrorism, separatism and divisive forces while strengthening national unity; promoting transparent, accountable and technology-driven governance to curb corruption; ensuring merit-based opportunities in politics; fostering national integration through shared cultural initiatives; achieving global leadership in emerging technologies such as artificial intelligence and semiconductors; and building a world-class education system driven by quality, research, innovation and skills. He emphasized that overcoming these challenges requires the collective commitment of all Indians, especially the youth, to secure a prosperous, united and globally competitive India. In his address, the Lieutenant Governor also reminded the youth that leadership is about responsibility, ethics, and service. He praised the Institutes motto, Lokahitam Mam Karaniyam - Welfare of the people is my duty- as a guiding principle for future leaders. Drawing from the Vedas and Upanishads, the Lieutenant Governor emphasised collective resolve, unity, and noble intentions as the foundation of prosperity and harmony in the society. He urged young leaders to align their thoughts and actions with public welfare, echoing Indias civilisational legacy as the Mother of Democracy. Leadership means understanding people, creating new paths for them, and serving them with humility and honesty. Sardar Patel used to say that in difficult times, cowards find excuses, but brave people find a way. I appreciate the faculty members and mentors who, with tireless effort, dedication, and patience, have inspired new leaders to find new paths, acquainted them with the principles of governance, engaged them in serious discussion on various policies, and given them the opportunity to test ideas against the real challenges of public life, he said. The Lieutenant Governor outlined four essential principles for democratic leadership- Honesty and transparency as the foundation of trust, Knowledge and wisdom as the compass guiding decisions, Sensitivity to maintain balance in democracy, and public service as the highest duty of leadership. He stressed that institutions gain strength only when infused with ethical leadership, and that true success is measured not by position but by the lives transformed. The strength of democracy lies in Constitutional values, institutions and in those leaders who are committed to the values of honesty, humility, and public service. Remember that institutions create the structure of democracy, but it is ethical leadership that infuses them with life, purpose, and energy. Without ethical leadership, even the finest institutions weaken over time, whereas honest and accountable leadership can turn even ordinary institutions into powerful engines of change and nation-building, the Lieutenant Governor said. The Lieutenant Governor stated that India today stands at a historic turning point, where its demographic power and civilisational journey are entering a new phase. With more than 65% of Indias population under 35, the youth emerged as the nations greatest strength. It is youth's responsibility to transform this demographic dividend into a leadership dividend by building teams, empowering others, and creating roadmaps for inclusive growth, he said. The Lieutenant Governor cited the transformation in Jammu Kashmir post-2020 as an example of leadership rooted in public service and good governance. With over 30,000 projects completed through public participation, strengthened Panchayati Raj institutions, and digital governance, he said the region exemplifies how transparency and accountability can bring historic change. In your professional life, make ethics your character, public service your duty, responsibility your identity, and excellence your style of work. I believe your success will not be judged by your position, but by how many lives you changed, how much trust you earned, and how positive an impact you left on society. To realise the resolve of Viksit Bharat, young leadership must bring change into the life of the last person standing in the queue of development, the Lieutenant Governor told the youth.

The Unbroken Thread

There is a poignant, almost painful beauty in the Srinagar you remember from those early decadesa valley where the air was crisp, the seasons moved with gentle grace, and the social fabric felt whole and unshakeable. To grow up witnessing the Valley between the 1950s and 1990 is to have known a version of home defined by Kashmiriyat in its purest and most calm form. It was not a poetic concept back then; it was simply daily life. The effortless harmony between Kashmiri Pandits and Muslims, the shared reverent quiet during Ashtami and Navami at Kheer Bhawani, the crowded cinema halls, and the long, sunlit summers spent in public gardensall created an atmosphere of deep trust and warmth. This bond was built on a deep, unwritten reciprocity that touched every milestone of life. Pandits and Muslims stepped into each others sacred and solemn moments without hesitationsharing in the joy of Eid, extending quiet solidarity during grief-laden observances like Muharram, and celebrating every festival in between as a collective family. When a Haji returned home from pilgrimage, the entire mohalla gathered to welcome him back with heartfelt open arms. Community care was so instinctual that if an unexpected guest arrived at a home around mealtime, neighbours would silently slip through the back door and leave extra food in the kitchen, saving the host from any embarrassment. Marriage processions (barats) were greeted with warmth and lavish hospitality by everyone in the neighbourhood, regardless of the brides religion. Those were the good timesa time when joy was shared, sorrow was halved, and humanity always came first. It is difficult to believe these days that Pandit Ustads were in great demand for teaching Persian and even the interpretation of the holy Quran. When that continuous line of memory was severed for seven long years, returning after 1997 to a transformed landscape felt like stepping into a shadow of the place you knew. The altered landscape The shift you feel today is both visible and invisible, reflecting the profound psychological and social toll that decades of unrest, displacement, and rapid socio-economic friction take on a society: The loss of everyday bonhomie during decades of trauma, conflict, and loss naturally erode interpersonal trust. When a community endures prolonged tension, open-hearted connection often gives way to suspicion, guardedness, and anxiety. The altered warmtheven within neighbourhood dynamicsis a symptom of a society carrying heavy, unhealed emotional baggage. The sudden absence of the Pandit community left an irreplaceable void in Kashmirs cultural ecosystem. For those who stayed or returned, the visible distance and unfamiliarity among younger generations can make even familiar streets feel alienating. Modernization, overcrowded streets, and economic pressures have added a layer of irritability and impatience everywhere, compounding the loss of the calm, leisurely valley of the mid-20th century. The author started an NGO Gauri Kaul Foundation in 2021, to give back to the soil where he was born and spent his younger years especially in the out-reach areas of the valley. The responses from locals have been lukewarm. It is deeply human to feel a lack of resonance or public warmth when you invest heart, energy, and resources into building health and wellness for your homeland through grassroots initiatives. When a region has lived through collective trauma and systemic disappointment, people often adopt a protective cynicism. Gratitude becomes muted, and public appreciation slow to surfacenot necessarily because your work goes unseen, but because a hurting community often struggles to express warmth or optimism freely. True restoration in a fractured land is rarely felt in immediate applause; it lives quietly in the lives touched, the suffering relieved, and the small bridges rebuilt one person at a time. Can the old days return? If the question is whether Srinagar can revert exactly to the tranquil, uncluttered paradise of the 1960s or 70s, realism tells us that time only moves forward. The past cannot be copy-pasted onto the present. However, if the question is whether warmth, shared humanity, and deep connection can grow again, the answer remains a cautious, resilient yes. Histories of conflict across the world show that while structural changes happen quickly, emotional healing happens across generations. The spirit of shared heritage in Kashmir may feel dormant or fragmented under layers of modern conflict and change, but its roots remain deep beneath the surface. Every act of service, every compassionate intervention, and every presence that refuses to give up on humanity keeps those roots alive for the future. Your doubts do not make you less of an optimistthey simply show how deeply you care for what was lost. Carrying the memory of that gentle Srinagar is itself a way of keeping its spirit alive. Prof Upendra Kaul, Founder Director Gauri Kaul Foundation

We are not centre of story

There are moments in life when we are forced to pause. Not because we have failed. But because something happens that reminds us how little control we actually have. We make plans. We calculate. We strategise. We seek advice. We use our intelligence. We build relationships. We work hard. And then, sometimes, something happens that was never entirely in our hands. A door opens. Or a door closes. A person who seemed indispensable suddenly becomes irrelevant to the outcome. Someone who appeared powerful is unable to stop what is destined to happen. And sometimes, what looked impossible quietly becomes possible. That is when one realises something very simple. Human beings make plans. Allah makes things happen. We often speak about merit, intelligence, qualifications, timing and hard work. All these things matter. We should never use faith as an excuse for laziness. But there is another truth. Even our intelligence is a gift. The ability to think is a gift. The opportunity to work is a gift. The people we meet are a gift. The circumstances that favour us are a gift. Even the strength to continue when life becomes difficult is a gift. We sometimes become so impressed by our own abilities that we forget where those abilities came from. We say, I achieved this. Perhaps we should say, Allah allowed this to happen through me. There is a stark difference between the two. The first can make us arrogant. The second makes us grateful. Grateful for realising all the external events and incidents that led to the achievement. Life has a strange way of teaching this lesson. There are times when everyone seems to want something to happen, yet it does not happen. And there are times when almost nobody expects something to happen, yet it happens. This does not mean effort is missing or meaningless. It means effort is not the only variable. There is something beyond our calculations: our environment, the people we call friends, the people we look up to, and the ones we compete with. For a believer, that something is Allahs will. The holy Quran reminds us that we may plan, but Allah is the Best of Planners. That thought should not make us passive. It should make us humble. Because the real test of success is not only whether we reach the destination; it is who we become after reaching it. A new position should not make us feel bigger than the people around us. A title should not make our voice louder and our heart smaller. Recognition should not make us forget those who helped us when nobody was watching. Nothing we possess is permanently ours. We are trustees for a while. And then we leave. That is why humility is awareness. Awareness that we are part of something much larger than ourselves. When something does not happen despite our best efforts, perhaps we should learn to accept it without destroying ourselves with regret. Maybe that closed door was protection. Maybe that rejection was redirection. Maybe the delay was necessary. Maybe what we wanted was simply not meant for us. And when something works in our favour, perhaps we should resist the temptation to celebrate ourselves too much. Pause. Look upwards. Say Alhamdulillah. Because the same One who opened the door could have kept it closed. Perhaps this is what humility truly meansnot thinking less of ourselves but understanding that we are not the centre of the story. We are only a tiny part of it. Bottom line is that we control very little. We choose our intentions. We choose our effort. We choose our character. However, the outcome belongs to the Almighty. And perhaps the greatest achievement in life is not reaching a high place. It is reaching that place without forgetting how small we are before the One who placed us there.

What the supreme court just settled

A trader in Srinagar buys goods worth lakhs from a registered supplier, pays the full invoice amount including GST, receives a proper tax invoice, and files his returns on time. Months later, he receives a Show Cause Notice from the GST Department: he is advised to reverse Input Tax Credit (ITC) along with interest at the rate of 18%, because the supplier never deposited that tax with the Government. The trader did nothing wrong. He had no way of knowing his supplier would default. Yet the law holds him responsible. Is that fair? Can it even be constitutional? This exact question travelled from an Assessing Officers desk all the way to the Supreme Court of India and in July 2026, the Court gave its final word. Every taxpayer, tax consultant, and departmental officer dealing with GST needs to understand what was decided and why. The provision at the heart of the dispute Section 16(2)(c) of the CGST Act, 2017 lays down one of the conditions for claiming ITC: the tax charged on a supply must have actually been paid to the Government by the supplier either in cash or through his own credit ledger before the recipient (buyer) can claim Input Tax Credit for it. Simply holding a valid invoice, having received the goods, and having paid the supplier is not enough. If the supplier pockets the GST amount instead of depositing it with the Government, the buyers ITC is denied, even though the buyer paid in good faith. For years, traders across the country argued this was grossly unfair punishing an honest buyer for someone elses default over which he has no control, since a buyer cannot see his suppliers GSTR-3B filings or bank account. How the case reached Supreme Court The case that finally settled the matter began, as most GST disputes do, at the ground level. A registered taxpayer M/s Bhandari Scrap Traders, was denied ITC by the Assessing Authority purely on the ground that his supplier has not paid tax to the Government. The demand was confirmed at the adjudication stage, and the matter moved through appellate proceedings without relief. Unable to get relief through Appellate Authority under Section 107, the taxpayer approached the Gujarat High Court by way of a writ petition, along with several similarly placed taxpayers (the lead case there was Maruti Enterprise v. Union of India). Before the High Court, the taxpayers argued that the other conditions of Section 16(2) a valid invoice, receipt of goods, and payment to the supplier already prove a transaction is genuine, and that Section 16(2)(c) should be read down to protect honest buyers, just as the Delhi High Court had once read down a similar provision under the Delhi VAT Act in the well-known On Quest Merchandising case. The Department argued that ITC is not a vested right but a statutory concession, available strictly on the conditions Parliament has laid down. It also pointed out that the buyer is not left without a remedy: under Section 41(2) of the CGST Act read with Rule 37A of the CGST Rules, once the defaulting supplier eventually pays the tax, the buyer can re-avail the credit that was earlier reversed. On 1 May 2026, the Gujarat High Court ruled against the traders. It held that Section 16(2)(c) is neither unconstitutional nor liable to be read down, distinguishing the GST framework sharply from the old VAT law. At the same time, the Court urged the Government to build a real-time, technology-driven system to verify supplier tax payments and recover dues quickly from defaulters, so honest buyers are not left in limbo. Aggrieved, the traders filed Special Leave Petitions before the Supreme Court. Interestingly, a separate High Court the Tripura High Court, in Sahil Enterprises v. Union of India had taken the opposite view just months earlier, reading down the same provision to protect bona fide buyers. This created conflicting positions across the country, making the Supreme Courts intervention necessary. What the Supreme Court decided In Bhandari Scrap Traders v. Union of India & Ors. (SLP (C) No. 23931 of 2026, decided 24 July 2026), a Bench of Justice Sanjay Kumar and Justice Sanjeev Sachdeva dismissed the batch of petitions. The Court expressed complete and respectful agreement with the Gujarat High Courts reasoning, holding that: - Section 16(2)(c) is constitutionally valid and does not need to be read down. - The GST scheme is fundamentally different from the old VAT regime, so precedents protecting bona fide buyers under VAT law cannot simply be transplanted into GST. - The buyer is not without recourse Sections 41, 73 and 74 of the CGST Act allow the Department to recover tax from the defaulting supplier, and the buyer can re-avail reversed credit once that recovery happens. - The Court reiterated that the Government should seriously consider a real-time verification mechanism so that honest purchasers are not repeatedly caught in this trap. With this ruling, the position that had been read down in Tripura effectively stands overtaken, and the field is now settled in favour of strict compliance. Why this matters For taxpayers, the message is unambiguous: paying your suppliers invoice in full, including GST, is not enough protection. Your credit depends on what your supplier does with that money afterward something outside your direct control but very much within your ability to guard against. Regularly checking GSTR-2B before filing returns, dealing only with compliant and verified suppliers, and building indemnity or tax-withholding clauses into supply contracts are no longer optional good practices they are now essential safeguards. For tax officials, the judgment removes ambiguity in adjudication and appeal. Denial of ITC under Section 16(2)(c), where the supplier has not paid tax, now rests on firm constitutional footing and need not be second-guessed on read-down arguments raised by taxpayers. Equally, officers should be mindful of the correlative duty the law places on the Department timely initiation of proceedings against defaulting suppliers under Sections 73/74, so that the reversal-and-re-availment mechanism under Rule 37A actually functions as the safety valve the Courts have relied upon to justify the provision. For the system as a whole, the ruling reinforces that ITC is a statutory concession, not an unconditional entitlement a principle the Supreme Court had earlier affirmed in Ecom Gill Coffee Trading. The real long-term fix, as both the Gujarat High Court and the Supreme Court have themselves suggested, lies with the Government: building the technological infrastructure for real-time, invoice-level verification of supplier tax payments, so that compliance failures by one party in the chain dont become financial punishment for another. Until that infrastructure arrives, vigilance on the buyers part remains the best protection available. The author is a JKAS Officer, presently posted as State Taxes Officer, Circle-C, Srinagar.

From Kashmir to Nepal

The images from Jammu and Kashmir this week were movingly worrisome. Mud-choked streets, damaged homes, uprooted trees and residents watching helplessly as torrents of water carrying rocks and debris tore through mountain settlements. In Kishtwars Chatroo area, a cloudburst sent flash floods crashing through the valley. Days later, more cloudbursts struck parts of the Kashmir Valley, damaging roads, farmland, orchards and public infrastructure while forcing few families to move to safer places. For many, these appeared to be yet another set of isolated mountain disasters. But viewed against the backdrop of the entire Himalayan region, they tell a different story. From the mountains of Jammu and Kashmir to Himachal Pradesh, Uttarakhand, Nepal and the eastern Himalayas, cloudbursts and flash floods are becoming an increasingly common feature of the monsoon. The Himalayas have always experienced extreme weather. What appears to be changing is the frequency, intensity and unpredictability of these events. Scientists say the region is witnessing longer dry spells punctuated by short periods of exceptionally intense rainfall. Instead of rain falling steadily over several days, vast quantities of water are now being dumped within a few hours over a very small area. When that happens in steep mountain terrain, rivers turn into raging torrents within minutes. The warning signs have appeared across the length of the mountain chain during this years monsoon. In June, a cloudburst in the Gurez Valley of north Kashmir damaged bridges, roads and agricultural land. In early August, Kishtwar witnessed another destructive cloudburst that inundated markets and disrupted road links. Within days, flash floods struck parts of Kupwara, Bandipora and Ganderbal, underlining how quickly weather systems can shift from one valley to another. Further east, Ladakhs Kargil district also experienced flash floods after intense rainfall, damaging roads, irrigation channels and fields. Though Ladakh is known as a cold desert, recent years have shown that even these traditionally dry regions are vulnerable to sudden cloudburst events. Himachal Pradesh has continued to witness repeated incidents of flash floods and landslides. In districts such as Chamba, Kullu, Mandi, Kangra and Kinnaur, heavy rainfall has washed away roads, cut off villages and damaged infrastructure. Rescue teams have had to be deployed repeatedly to evacuate people and restore road connectivity. Uttarakhands experience over the past decade is perhaps the clearest warning of what extreme rainfall can do in fragile mountain terrain. From the Kedarnath tragedy in 2013 to the Chamoli disaster in 2021, and the cloudburst incidents reported in Uttarkashi and other upper Himalayan districts, the State has seen how quickly a localised weather event can turn into a major disaster. The problem is not confined to India. Nepal, which shares the Himalayan ecosystem, has also witnessed repeated flash floods triggered by cloudbursts during recent monsoons. Rivers rising in Nepal and the Indian Himalayas eventually flow into the plains, so what happens in the mountains can have serious consequences much farther downstream. The eastern Himalayas present a similar picture. Arunachal Pradesh and Sikkim regularly face landslides and flash floods after intense rainfall. The swelling of Himalayan rivers also contributes to the recurring floods in Assam. While Assams floods are often treated as a separate issue, hydrologists point out that rainfall in the upstream Himalayan catchments has a major bearing on the volume and intensity of water reaching the Brahmaputra valley. Several factors are making the situation more dangerous. A warmer atmosphere can hold more moisture. When weather conditions trigger its release, it can come down as extremely heavy rain within a very short period. In the mountains, there is little flat land where this water can spread out or be absorbed gradually. It instead rushes down steep slopes, carrying rocks, trees and loose soil with it. Small streams can suddenly turn into torrents capable of sweeping away everything in their path. Human activity has added to the vulnerability of mountain areas. Highways have reached deeper into valleys, hydropower projects have expanded and hotels and residential settlements have come up close to rivers and streams. Hillsides are frequently cut to build roads, sometimes without adequate slope protection. Forest cover has also been lost in several areas. These activities do not cause cloudbursts. But they can make the consequences far worse when extreme rainfall occurs. The biggest problem is the lack of time available to people living in vulnerable areas. Unlike floods in the plains, which can take hours or even days to build up, mountain flash floods can develop within minutes. In some cases, residents get little or no warning before a wall of water, mud and debris reaches them. Meteorologists also caution against assuming that a below-normal monsoon automatically means a lower risk of disasters. Seasonal rainfall may remain normal or below normal, but a few very intense rainfall events can cause enormous damage. What matters increasingly is not only how much rain falls during the entire monsoon, but where and how quickly that rain falls. The floods, cloudbursts, disasters witnessed over the years point to a worrying pattern: the Leh cloudburst in 2010, the Kedarnath tragedy in 2013, the Chamoli disaster in 2021, the devastating floods in Himachal Pradesh in 2023 and repeated cloudburst incidents across Uttarakhand and Jammu and Kashmir cannot be seen as isolated events. Taken together, they indicate a growing vulnerability across the Himalayan region. Governments have certainly improved their disaster response. Early warning systems are better than they were a decade ago, rescue agencies have greater capacity and communication networks have improved. But experts say emergency response alone will not be enough if the nature and frequency of mountain disasters continue to change. There is a need for greater investment in Doppler weather radars, more rain gauges, real-time monitoring of mountain streams and glacial lakes, and better systems to alert people in vulnerable areas. At the same time, land-use rules need to be enforced more strictly and infrastructure, material used for construction in the mountains has to be local, designed to withstand extreme weather. Development in the Himalayas cannot follow the same approach used in the plains. Every valley, riverbank and hillside cannot be treated as available land for construction. The fragile nature of the terrain has to be taken into account before roads, buildings, hydropower projects and other infrastructure are planned. The Himalayas have long been seen as a symbol of permanence and stability. But geologically, they are among the youngest and most fragile mountain systems in the world. Climate change is now making that vulnerability increasingly visible. The recent cloudbursts in Jammu and Kashmir should therefore not be seen merely as another episode of extreme monsoon weather. They are part of a much larger pattern stretching across the Himalayan arc, from Kashmir and Ladakh to Himachal Pradesh and Uttarakhand, and from Nepal to the eastern Himalayas. The challenge is no longer only about how quickly governments can respond after a disaster. It is also about understanding how the mountain environment is changing and planning development accordingly. If extreme rainfall events continue to become more intense, cloudbursts and flash floods could become an increasingly familiar threat for communities living in the worlds highest mountain range. Surinder Singh Oberoi, National Editor Greater Kashmir.

It was always love: Dr U Kaul recalls decades of service to Kashmir

Srinagar, Aug 8:Renowned cardiologist and Padma Shri awardee Dr Upendra Kaul Saturday said his long association with Kashmir and his efforts to provide medical care to people from the Valley were driven by affection and a sense of responsibility towards the people. Talking to Greater Kashmir on the sidelines of a function organised to release of the second edition of his memoir 'When the Heart Speaks: Memoirs of a Cardiologist', Dr Kaul recalled how he continued to assist Kashmiris during the turbulent years of the 1990s, when healthcare services in the Valley had suffered a major setback. He said the second edition of 'When the Heart Speaks' captures not only his professional journey but also the human experiences, relationships, and anecdotes that shaped his life as a cardiologist. Dr Kaul said that while working at AIIMS, he had made it a point to examine patients arriving from Kashmir on the same day, even if they reached the Outpatient Department late in the evening. My OPD was three times a week. Where would a patient from Kashmir stay after that? he said. Dr Kaul said that he would wait until 11 or even 12 at night to attend to patients who had travelled from Kashmir. He said his decision to help Kashmiris had also attracted criticism, with some people saying that he was serving Muslim patients only to make money. People used to say that Dr Kaul is serving Muslims more to earn money. I heard a lot of bad things but I continued helping people passionately, he said. Dr Kaul said his assistance extended beyond medical treatment. During the 1990s, he helped people who had left Kashmir find employment, placing some in his hospital and helping others secure jobs elsewhere. How much can a single man do? Dr Kaul said recalling the numerous people he had tried to assist during the difficult period. Speaking about his memoir, he said the book records several such anecdotes from his professional and personal journey, including instances where he helped patients who could not afford expensive cardiac procedures or devices. Dr Kaul said that Gauri Kaul Foundation was planning to expand its heart healthcare services to Jammu after its outreach initiatives in Kashmir. He said a cardiac centre had been established in south Kashmir and that his outreach programme was designed to take healthcare to people rather than expecting everyone to travel to major hospitals. We felt that everybody cannot come in. We must go to them, Dr Kaul said. As part of the initiative, a mobile heart clinic on wheels equipped with facilities including echocardiography has been launched to visit Ayushman centres and schools. He said his programme also focuses on early detection of cardiac problems among children between 5 and 15 years of age. Dr Kaul said that identifying such conditions early could significantly improve their management. He said that his initiative had already screened thousands of people and the team was targeting around 6000 beneficiaries. Our further plans are underway to eventually extend the outreach programme to all districts of Jammu and Kashmir, Dr Kaul said. He said that south Kashmir was his first love. But we have to go all over the districts of Jammu and Kashmir. Expanding the programme would take time and require greater participation from healthcare professionals and institutions, Dr Kaul said. He said several organisations had supported the initiative by providing equipment and other assistance, while efforts were also underway to secure support for research into cardiovascular disease prevention. Dr Kaul said his team was undertaking research projects and working on new approaches to cardiovascular treatment and prevention, including studies involving alternatives to conventional aspirin-based treatment. He highlighted the importance of preventive cardiology, saying that healthcare initiatives should not remain confined to treating patients after they develop serious disease but should focus increasingly on early detection and prevention. Senior National Conference leader and Member of Parliament Mian Altaf also spoke at the occasion. Among others, MLA Muhammad Yusuf Tarigami, chairman Delhi Public School (DPS) Srinagar Vijay Dhar, chairperson SSM College of Engineering and Technology Dilafrose Qazi were also present on the occasion.

When the Heart Speaks is a love letter to Kashmir: CM Omar

Srinagar, Aug 8:Chief Minister Omar Abdullah on Saturday described renowned cardiologist Dr Upendra Kauls memoir 'When the Heart Speaks' as a love letter to the land he holds dear. Speaking during the launch of the second revised edition of Dr U Kauls book, 'When the Heart Speaks: A Memoir of a Cardiologist', at Radisson Collection Hotel & Spa, Riverfront, Srinagar, CM Omar said the book goes beyond Dr Kaul's professional journey to capture his experiences, struggles, and commitment to society. He said the memoir was much more than an account of a medical career as Dr Kaul had brought together different facets of his life, including his experiences in the medical profession, travels, and deep attachment to his homeland. 'When the Heart Speaks' is a love letter to a land he holds dear. It is an account of lifes struggles and how to overcome them. It is also an effort to shine a light on some of the practices that go on in the medical profession, the CM said. He praised Dr Kaul for writing candidly about issues within the medical profession, saying an honest autobiography requires the writer to accept that some people may not be pleased with what is written. CM Omar said Dr Kauls writings were not confined to cardiology and that he had consistently written on diverse subjects and demonstrated his wider interests beyond medicine. He said the memoir also brings together Dr Kauls experiences from his travels and encounters across different parts of the world and such experiences were essential part of a persons life. Our lives are not sanitised and disinfected. Our lives are the experiences that come together that result in a book like When the Heart Speaks, the CM said. He also highlighted Dr Kauls contribution to healthcare saying that the cardiologist had repeatedly travelled to Srinagar to treat patients who required specialised medical care. CM Omar said Dr Kaul could have focused solely on building wealth through his profession but instead chose to contribute to the welfare of people who could not afford expensive medical treatment. He said that the centre established by Dr Kaul in memory of his late mother reflected both his gratitude towards his mother and his commitment to helping people access treatment they might otherwise be unable to afford. For everything that Prof Kaul has done as a surgeon, as a cardiologist, as a doctor, but perhaps more than that for everything that he has done as a human being in wanting to help people, we are grateful, the CM said. He expressed hope that the initiative established in memory of Dr Kauls mother would continue to provide medical assistance to people in need. CM Omar also urged Dr Kaul to continue writing. I hope that the third edition of the memoir would follow with more stories, anecdotes, and experiences, he said. The CM, on a lighter note, said that a cardiologist must live a long life because, If a cardiologist doesnt live a long life, what hope do the rest of us have. He said that he believes that to write an honest autobiography one has to boil it in two categories. Either you write the manuscript and you leave it to be published after you have left this world, because then you do not 'care what happens after you have gone. Or when you write it, knowing that you are being honest, possibly you will upset a few people, but it is a price worth paying to put what you believe, CM Omar said. He said that Dr Kaul and he were on the opposite sides of this prism. Dr Kaul has written this book and it is there for you to read. If I was to ever write a book, it would be written and published after my death so that I don't have to worry about whether I upset anybody and how many people I will have to apologise after that book has been published, the CM said. About the book he said, Dr Kaul's love for writing, also doesn't stop at this book. We have all been treated to his thoughts on subjects that have nothing to do with his area of specialisation. As I said, this book is in large part a love letter to the soil on which we sit, CM Omar said. He said he has lost count of the number of times Dr Kaul and he crossed paths in an aircraft. Either he was flying into Srinagar to treat people or flying out from Srinagar after having spent his weekend, the CM said. He said the major part of his association with Dr Kaul was sitting and chatting in the aircrafts or in the lounge in the airport.

J&K farmers receive Rs 119.67 Cr under crop insurance scheme; Rs 10.15 Cr claims still pending

Srinagar, Aug 8:Farmers in Jammu and Kashmir have received Rs 119.67 crore in crop insurance claims under the Pradhan Mantri Fasal Bima Yojana (PMFBY) between 2022-23 and 2025-26, while claims worth Rs 10.15 crore remained pending as of July 24, 2026, according to data furnished by the Union Ministry of Agriculture and Farmers Welfare in the Rajya Sabha. The figures were provided by Minister of State for Agriculture and Farmers Welfare Ramnath Thakur in response to Unstarred Question No 1452, asked by Rajya Sabha member Ranjeet Ranjan. The question sought State and UT-wise details of premiums collected, claims reported, claims paid and pending claims under PMFBY since 2022. According to Annexure-I of the government reply, J&K farmers contributed Rs 53.97 crore as their share of premium during 2022-23 to 2025-26. Against this, claims amounting to Rs 129.82 crore were reported, of which Rs 119.67 crore had been paid and Rs 10.15 crore remained pending as on July 24, 2026. The data indicates that around 92.2 percent of the reported claim value had been paid, leaving approximately 7.8 percent pending. At the national level, the government reported farmer premium contributions of Rs14,623.05 crore against reported claims of Rs 70,686.44 crore under PMFBY during the same period. Of the reported claims, Rs 66,159.24 crore had been paid, while Rs 4527.20 crore remained pending. This means J&K accounted for about 0.18 percent of the total farmer premium contribution and around 0.18 percent of reported claims under the states and UTs. The government data also provides details of private-sector general insurance companies selected by State Governments through the tendering process for implementation of PMFBY. In Jammu and Kashmir, IFFCO Tokio and IndusInd General were selected for the scheme in each of the years 2021, 2022, 2023, and 2024. For 2025, the list expanded to three insurers Bajaj General, IndusInd General, and Kshema General. The data thus shows a change in the insurer mix in J&K from two participating private insurers during 2021-24 to three in 2025. The ministry has clarified that the state-wise insurer details relate to private-sector general insurance companies selected by the respective state governments for implementation of PMFBY through the tendering process. The J&K figure of Rs 10.15 crore in pending claims is considerably lower in absolute terms than the pending claim liabilities reported in several larger agricultural states. Rajasthan had the highest pending claim value in the state-wise table at Rs 890.45 crore, followed by Andhra Pradesh at Rs 2,817.86 crore, Maharashtra at Rs 222.96 crore, Madhya Pradesh at Rs 118.36 crore, and Karnataka at Rs 113.62 crore. Haryana had Rs 103.11 crore pending, while Uttar Pradesh had Rs 81.06 crore. However, the absolute value of pending claims needs to be read alongside the scale of agricultural coverage and claims reported in each State. In J&K, Rs 129.82 crore worth of claims were reported over the four years, with Rs 119.67 crore already paid.

Parliamentary panel calls for integrated security system at J&K tourist destinations

Srinagar, Aug 8:A parliamentary committee has recommended the establishment of an integrated security and surveillance system covering all major tourist destinations in Jammu and Kashmir, including comprehensive CCTV coverage, centralised monitoring, regular vulnerability assessments and periodic security audits. The recommendations have been made in the 260th report of the Department-related Parliamentary Standing Committee on Home Affairs, which was presented in Parliament on Friday following the committees visit to J&K in May 2026 to assess security arrangements at key tourist locations. The panel has stressed that security arrangements at tourist destinations should be reviewed regularly, particularly ahead of the peak tourism season, in view of the growing number of visitors to J&K and the need to ensure their safety. It has recommended that CCTV cameras be installed at all important tourist sites and connected to a central monitoring mechanism to enable authorities to maintain real-time surveillance and respond quickly to any security-related incident. The committee has also called for regular vulnerability assessments of tourist destinations to identify security gaps and ensure that appropriate preventive measures are put in place. Periodic security audits have been recommended to assess the effectiveness of existing arrangements and make necessary improvements. The recommendations assume significance in the aftermath of the April 2025 Pahalgam terror attack, in which 26 people, including 25 tourists, were killed. The attack had raised serious concerns over the security of tourists at popular destinations in the Valley and prompted a reassessment of security arrangements at tourist sites. The parliamentary panel noted that improved connectivity, enhanced security systems, better tourism infrastructure and a revival of confidence among travellers had contributed to a sustained increase in tourist arrivals to J&K. In this context, security management at tourist destinations assumes special importance, as it directly affects the perception of safety, the quality of visitor experience and the continued growth of the tourism sector, the committee observed. The panel underlined that tourism in J&K is closely linked to the perception of safety among visitors and that any security lapse could have wider implications for the sector. It said the security architecture at tourist locations therefore needed to move beyond conventional deployment and incorporate technology-driven surveillance and coordinated monitoring mechanisms. The proposed integrated system would bring surveillance infrastructure, monitoring and security assessments within a coordinated framework, enabling authorities to identify potential vulnerabilities and strengthen preparedness before the onset of the peak tourist season. The committees recommendations came after its May visit to J&K, during which members examined security arrangements at important tourist destinations and interacted with officials concerned. The panels emphasis on periodic vulnerability checks and security audits also seeks to ensure that arrangements remain responsive to changing security threats rather than being treated as one-time measures. J&K has witnessed a major expansion in tourism infrastructure and connectivity in recent years, with authorities seeking to consolidate the regions position as a major tourist destination. Against this backdrop, the committee has stressed that sustained growth in tourist arrivals must be accompanied by robust and visible security arrangements to maintain public confidence and protect visitors. The recommendations are expected to provide a framework for strengthening security at tourist destinations through greater use of surveillance technology, centralised monitoring and regular assessment of vulnerabilities.

Amarnath Yatra to remain suspended from today

Srinagar, Aug 8:The Amarnath Yatra would remain suspended from both routes from August 9, authorities said. Divisional Commissioner Kashmir, Anshul Garg said appealed to all the yatris to adhere to the advisories issued by the competent authority from time to time in the interest of their safety and the smooth conduct of the Yatra. He said that the Chadi Mubarak will proceed via traditional Pahalgam route and mark the culmination of Amarnath Yatra on August 28. The 57-day long Amarnath Yatra commenced on July 3 this year and will culminate with the event of Chadi Mubarak on August 28. The yatra commenced simultaneously from both the routes - the Chandanwari track in Anantnag district and Baltal in Ganderbal district. More than 4.8 lakh yatris have performed darshan at the Amarnath Cave shrine so far. However, due to the recent rains, a necessity for the repair and maintenance of the yatra tracks at vulnerable stretches has been felt, which is being undertaken by Border Roads Organisation (BRO). In addition, adverse weather conditions have been predicted by IMD over next few days.

Rains lash J&K, wet spell likely to continue till Aug 17

Srinagar, Aug 8:Light to moderate rain lashed parts of Jammu and Kashmir on Saturday as the Meteorological Department (MeT) forecast a wet spell till August 17 and warned of heavy to very heavy rain in Jammu division and parts of Kashmir from August 9 to 11. South Kashmir received most of Saturday's rain. Kokernag recorded 11 mm, Qazigund 8.6 mm and Pahalgam 5.5 mm in the 24 hours ending Saturday morning. Srinagar received 1.6 mm and Gulmarg 0.8 mm. The rain brought down daytime temperatures across Kashmir. Srinagar recorded a maximum of 26.1 degrees Celsius, 3.8 degrees below normal. Qazigund's maximum of 22.6 degrees was 5.4 degrees below normal, while Pahalgam at 20 degrees was 5.7 degrees below normal. Kokernag recorded 22 degrees, 5.5 degrees below normal, while Gulmarg's maximum of 18.4 degrees was 2.3 degrees below normal. Jammu division also received moderate rain. Batote recorded 18.4 mm, Banihal 16 mm, Bhaderwah 13.6 mm, Katra 7 mm, and Jammu 4 mm during the past 24 hours. Day temperatures remained below normal at several stations. Jammu recorded 30.5 degrees Celsius, while Banihal, Batote, Katra and Bhaderwah recorded 20.9, 20.3, 27.2 and 22 degrees. For August 9 to 11, the MeT has forecast light to moderate rain and thundershowers at many places, with brief intense showers at a few locations. Heavy to very heavy rain is likely in a few districts of Jammu division, while intense showers are possible in parts of Kashmir. Few spells of light to moderate rain and thundershowers are expected at many places. Brief intense showers are also likely at a few places during this period, mostly in Jammu and parts of Kashmir, the department said. Met also warned of flash floods and landslides. Torrential rain and brief intense heavy showers may generate flash floods and landslides at vulnerable places and cause waterlogging in low-lying areas, it said People have been advised to avoid nallahs, landslide-prone areas and other vulnerable locations during intense rain, while authorities have been asked to remain alert and monitor vulnerable areas. From August 12 to 17, light rain and thundershowers are likely at many places, with brief intense showers possible at a few locations, indicating that the wet spell is likely to continue across the region.

J&K highways battered by landslides, cloudbursts in 2025-26: Centre

Srinagar, Aug 8:Jammu and Kashmirs National Highway corridors faced repeated landslides, cloudbursts, and heavy rainfall-related disruptions in 2025 and 2026, blocking carriageways and damaging infrastructure, the Centre told Parliament. In a reply to a starred question in the Lok Sabha, the Union Ministry of Road Transport and Highways (MoRTH) detailed multiple incidents on NH-44 and NH-244, particularly on the Udhampur-Ramban and Ramban-Banihal stretches of NH-44. On the Udhampur-Ramban stretch, cloudbursts and heavy rain triggered landslides at Bali Nallah and Tharad in 2025, while muck and slush accumulated at Karol and Kowbagh, it said. In 2026, a massive landslide near Dewal, Samroli (Km 79) blocked both carriageways and damaged a retaining wall. The ministry said restoration and clearance works were subsequently completed, the ministry said. It said that on the Ramban-Banihal stretch, a cloudburst in 2025 triggered flash-floods, and caused heavy slush and debris at Seri, muck accumulation inside Tunnel T-2 and a landslide at Kela Mor. Another landslide blocked both carriageways in 2026, following which traffic was restored after clearance operations, the ministry said. It also reported a landslide at Marog on the Ramban-Banihal section of NH-44 during 2025, while multiple landslides were recorded on the Chenani-Sudhmahadev Road (NH-244) during the same year. The repeated disruptions have affected the movement of people and goods along NH-44, the main surface link between Kashmir and the rest of the country. In April last year, the highway remained closed for more than three weeks after incessant rain triggered shooting stones and rockfalls and washed away portions of the road along the Banihal-Ramban stretch. It was again shut for much of August and September as monsoon rains triggered fresh landslides, mudslides, shooting stones, rock-falls and flash floods. The closures stranded fruit-laden trucks carrying apples to markets outside J&K. Growers said large quantities of produce rotted in transit, causing losses running into millions of rupees for the regions horticulture industry. Separately, the Centre said J&K recorded one case of major structural failure on a National Highway project since 2014. The failure occurred in 2022, resulting in a penalty of 1% of the project cost and blacklisting of the Engineer Procurement and Construction (EPC) contractor under the contract provisions, it said. Union Road Transport and Highways Minister Nitin Gadkari said action was taken against contractors where deficiencies were established. Across the country, executing agencies have imposed financial penalties, terminated contracts, suspended personnel, debarred contractors and blacklisted firms, the ministry said. The government said highway projects incorporate drainage systems and hill-protection measures, but extreme weather remains a major challenge in mountainous terrain. Extreme weather events such as cloudbursts, unprecedented rainfall and landslides can damage highway infrastructure, particularly in the Himalayan region, it said. The Centre said no flooding of low-lying areas or agricultural fields due to faulty National Highway construction was reported from J&K in the data placed before Parliament. Three such incidents were reported nationwide, involving stretches in Telangana and Maharashtra. To strengthen resilience, the government said it has introduced measures including improved slope stabilisation, mandatory quality assurance for rockfall mitigation, real-time landslide monitoring, and improved preparation of detailed project reports. It also cited collaboration with the Geological Survey of India (GSI), Defence Geo-informatics Research Establishment, National Institute of Rock Mechanics, and IIT Roorkee to improve highway safety and resilience.