Opinion

Anantnag Police arrest 4 drug peddlers in separate incidents; contraband substance seized

Anantnag, Apr 25: As part of the ongoing crackdown to dismantle the drug trafficking ecosystem in Jammu & Kashmir under the 'Nasha Mukht J&K Abhiyaan', Anantnag Police on Saturday said that they arrested four drug peddlers in separate operations across the district and seized over 5.8 kilograms of a charas-like substance from their possession In a statement, a police spokesperson said, Anantnag Police continued its sustained drive against drug trafficking and registered 4 NDPS cases with arrest of 4 accused in separate operations across the district. As per the statement, a police party from Police Station Utrasoo during naka checking at Tanjmulla Chatergul crossing apprehended Mohd Yousuf Hajam, son of Gh Mohd Hajam, resident of Panchalthan Chatergul, a chronic drug peddler, and recovered 1.600 kg of charas powder-like substance from his possession. Acccordingly, an FIR No. 42/2026 U/S 8/20 NDPS Act has been registered and investigation is underway. In another operation, Police Post GBS apprehended Akash Ahmad Dar aka Governor, son of Ab Rashid Dar resident of Bun Mohalla Anchidora. On search, 26 grams of charas-like substance wrapped in cloth was recovered. FIR No. 117/2026 U/S 8/20 NDPS Act stands registered at PS Anantnag. In yet another incident, police said that during routine naka checking at Panzmulla, Police Station Aishmuqam apprehended Shabir Ahmad Shah, son of Mohd Yousuf Shah, resident of Halwani Ganiegund, along with 78 grams of charas powder and 9 grams of charas pieces. An FIR No. 30/2026 under relevant sections has been registered against the accued.. Meanwhile, a team from Police Post Sangam, during naka checking at Halmullah, intercepted an auto (JK13K-1926) coming from Awantipora. the drugg peddler, identified as Bashir Ahmad Tramboo of Naina Batapora, was found in possession of 4.130 kg of charas powder-like substance and four sticks of charas weighing 56 grams. FIR No. 109/2026 under Section 8/20 of the NDPS Act has been registered at Police Station Bijbehara. Anantnag Police reiterated its zero-tolerance policy against drugs and appeals to the public to share information regarding drug peddling. Identity of informers will be kept confidential.

Business Revival Package in J&K |Interest subvention released to more than one account of beneficiaries

In a peculiar example of its slapdash approach, the J&K government itself violated the terms and conditions of the interest subvention scheme, floated under the UTs Business Revival Package 2020, as it (the government) provided its interest subvention) benefit to more than one account of the beneficiaries. As a consequence, an ineligible benefit of interest subvention of Rs 59.21 Cr was extended to 39,136 accounts by providing interest subvention in more than one account. Not only this, in yet another violation of norms, the benefit of interest subvention was granted to Kissan Credit Card (KCC) accounts under the personal segment, though they were not to be covered under the scheme. Serious irregularities in the implementation of the interest subvention scheme under the Business Revival Package 2020 of J&K government have been flagged by the Comptroller and Auditor General of India in its compliance audit report, for the year ended March 2022, on Revenue and Public Sector Undertakings (PSUs) of J&K. Censuring the UT government and its departments, the audit report observed that benefit was provided to more than one account of the beneficiaries as the J&K Finance Department neither framed the guidelines for implementation of the interest subvention scheme nor communicated the terms and conditions for release of interest subvention to the banks. The terms and conditions of the sanction orders for release of three tranches aggregating to Rs 750 Cr stipulated that only one account of beneficiary shall be eligible for relief under interest subvention. However, the J&K Finance Department, neither framed the guidelines for implementation of the scheme nor communicated the terms and conditions for release of interest subvention to the banks, as a result of which, benefit was provided to more than one account of the beneficiaries, it observed. Audit noticed that an amount of Rs 202.47 Cr was credited by the Jammu and Kashmir Bank Limited (JKBL) to 65,456 accounts. Scrutiny of these accounts revealed that 30,019 beneficiaries, who had more than one account were provided a subvention of Rs 57.80 Cr. This resulted in providing interest subvention of Rs 57.80 Cr to 35,437 ineligible accounts by the JKBL. Similarly, the J&K Grameen Bank (JKGB) credited an amount of Rs 5.08 Cr to 7,151 accounts of 3,452 beneficiaries who had more than one account. As a result, interest subvention amounting to Rs 1.41 crore was provided to 3,699 ineligible accounts of these beneficiaries by JKGB. On being pointed out in the audit, the JKGB admitted in March, 2023 that as per the guidelines received from Union Territory Level Bankers' Committee (UTLBC), there was no mention of any condition with regard to providing of benefit to only one account of the beneficiary. However, it can be seen that this condition was mentioned in the sanction of J&K Government of October 2020, the audit report flagged. The audit pointed out that the government while endorsing the replies of JKBL and JKGB in December, 2023, stated that the condition regarding disbursement of interest subvention to more than one account of the beneficiary was not mentioned in the sanction order. The governments reply may be seen in light of the fact that all three sanction orders of the Finance Department contain the condition that only one account of the beneficiary was eligible for relief under the scheme, the report revealed. The audit also flagged interest subvention to KCC, Artisans Credit Card (ACC) and loans under personal segment in violation of norms. It revealed that as per the sanction order in October 2020 for the scheme, interest subvention was not to be provided to borrowers under KCC, ACC, loan against deposits and loan under personal segments. Audit observed that JKBL violated the conditions for the release of interest subvention despite the same being clearly mentioned in the original sanction order for the scheme. Scrutiny of beneficiary accounts revealed that benefit of interest subvention of Rs 1.91 lakh was granted to 10 KCC accounts which were not to be covered under the scheme. It was also observed that JKBL provided the benefit of interest subvention of Rs 1.07 lakh to 22 accounts under the personal segment. On being pointed out by audit in April, 2023, the government in December, 2023, replied that out of 10 KCC accounts, eight accounts were eligible under the scheme as these were wrongly opened in KCC GL Head and the recovery of Rs 1.41 lakh against the remaining two accounts would be made. Further, it was stated that 22 accounts were eligible under the scheme as they were wrongly opened under GL Head Personal Saholiat instead of GL Head Saral Finance. The reply of the government regarding extending of benefit of interest subvention to 22 accounts opened under Personal segment is not acceptable as at the time of extending the scheme benefit, these accounts were categorised under the personal segment, rendering them ineligible for the benefits as per the scheme guidelines, the audit censured, adding that the scheme was formulated without conducting any survey with regard to its financial requirements. WHAT WAS SCHEME AND WHY WAS IT FRAMED Considering the difficulties being faced by the various sectors of the economy in Jammu and Kashmir, a committee was constituted in August 2020 by the Industries and Commerce Department, Government of Jammu and Kashmir, for preparing a proposal for relief and revival of the business sector in the Union Territory. The Committee, in September 2020, submitted its report after deliberations with various business associations in the UT. Based on the recommendations of the Committee, the J&K Finance Department in October 2020 approved scheme of interest subvention of five per cent for all borrowers, excluding borrowers under Kissan Credit Card (KCC), Artisans Credit Card (ACC), loan against deposits, loans under personal segments and Non-Banking Financial Corporation (NBFC) for a period of six months with effect from April 1, 2020. The benefit under the scheme was to be provided to those borrowers whose accounts were standard as on July 31, 2019 or March 31, 2020, whichever is applicable. The scheme also provided for pending interest subvention under the rehabilitation schemes of 2014 and 2016. The scheme was floated by J&K Industries and Commerce Department whereas the Finance Department was the implementing agency and the Union Territory Level Bankers' Committee (UTLBC) acted as a monitoring agency for the scheme. J&K Finance Department in October 2020 approved the Business Revival Package with financial implication of Rs 950 Cr for the Interest Subvention Scheme of 2020 and an amount of Rs 139.24 Cr for rehabilitation schemes of 2014 and 2016. J&K Finance Department, however, released Rs 750 Cr in three tranches during October 2020 to May 2021 to UTLBC, which included an amount of Rs 138.03 Cr, earmarked for rehabilitation schemes of 2014 and 2016. As per the audit, out of Rs 750 Cr, an amount of Rs 526.50 Cr was utilised towards five per cent Interest Subvention Scheme of 2020 and an amount of Rs 137.75 Cr was utilised for the Interest Subvention Schemes of 2014 and 2016.

Hindware opens premium multi-category showroom in Srinagar

Hindware on Friday inaugurated an exclusive one-stop store for bath and kitchen solutions at Alamgiri Bazar in Srinagar, marking a significant expansion of its retail footprint in Kashmir. The outlet, launched by Manas Trading Co., offers a wide range of sanitaryware, tiles, kitchen appliances, chimneys, and faucets under one roof. The grand opening ceremony was attended by Chief Guests Shashavat Somany, who is a non-executive non-independent director of Hindware, and Nirupam Sahay, CEO, Bath and Tiles Hindware, along with other officials and local stakeholders. Speaking to Greater Kashmir , Hakim Amir Mashood of Manas Trading Co. said the store is designed to serve as an all-in-one solution hub for customers in the region. Today marks the opening of this one-stop shop where customers can access sanitaryware, tiles, kitchen appliances, smart solutions, chimneys and faucets at affordable prices. Hindware is a 60-year-old trusted brand, and through this outlet, we aim to cater to the evolving needs of people in Kashmir, he said. Mashood added that the company remains focused on service quality. We welcome customers from across Kashmir, especially Srinagar, to visit and experience our range of products along with reliable after-sales support, he said. Somany expressed optimism about the new venture, stating that the outlet reflects the companys continued focus on regional expansion. We are pleased to see such a comprehensive store in Srinagar, offering a wide spectrum of productsfrom kitchen to sanitary solutions, including premium segments. This partnership underlines our commitment to growing in the region, he said. He further said the company is targeting sustained growth. We are aiming for double-digit growth and intend to double our revenue within the next two-and-a-half years. Customers today seek convenience and quick solutions, and this store is designed to meet those expectations under one roof, Somany said, adding that Hindwares service network ensures issues, if any, are addressed within 24 hours. During the inauguration, dignitaries took a detailed tour of the showroom, while visitors explored the outlet to gain a first-hand experience of the offerings. The management reiterated its commitment to delivering quality products and dependable services to customers across the Valley.

Stellantis taps Kashmir market with first dual-brand auto hub in Srinagar

Stellantis India inaugurated its first Stellantis Brand House (SBH) in Srinagar, marking the entry of Jeep and Citron into the Kashmir market through a dual-brand retail format. Developed in partnership with ARSH Automobiles Pvt. Ltd., the integrated facility is designed to cater to the Valleys evolving automotive needs by offering complete 3S supportsales, service and spare partsfor both brands under a single roof. The Brand House concept enables Stellantis to present two distinct automotive propositions. Jeep, backed by an 80-year legacy, is positioned around rugged SUV capability suited to the regions challenging terrain and weather conditions. Citron, on the other hand, brings its Advanced Comfort positioning, targeting customers seeking refined ride quality and contemporary design. Shailesh Hazela, CEO & MD of Stellantis India, highlighted the strategic importance of the launch: Srinagar is a key market where customers increasingly seek reliability and capability. We are ensuring seamless access to our global portfolio, whether they desire the adventure DNA of Jeep or the comfort-first approach of Citron. The 12,000 sq. ft. facility is set to serve as a central hub not just for Srinagar, but for neighbouring districts including Ganderbal, Budgam, Pulwama, Anantnag, and Baramulla. Mohammad Anwar Khan, Dealership Principal at ARSH Automobiles, noted that the partnership aims to fulfill the growing aspirations of local buyers. This facility allows us to deliver world-class service and an exceptional ownership experience backed by a deep understanding of the local market, he said. The launch reflects Stellantis aggressive expansion strategy in Northern India, focusing on premium, value-led markets to drive long-term growth.

PAL Kia joins Pir Panjal plantation drive

Reinforcing its commitment to sustainability, PAL Kia India today joined the plantation initiative, One Million Trees Green, in the ecologically vital Pir Panjal range of J&K. Today, in collaboration with the J&K Forest Department, SRDE, NCA, and local communities, an event took place at Picturesque Location Aharbal, Shopian region. The PAL Kia team actively participated by planting Deodar and Pine saplings to restore biodiversity, prevent soil erosion, and enhance the regions green cover. Speaking on the initiative, Mushtaq Wani, COO of PAL Kia said, At Kia, sustainability goes beyond mobility. The Pir Panjal range is not just a natural treasure of India but also a critical ecosystem for the Valley. Through Green Drive, we aim to give back to the land that inspires us and involve local communities in building a greener, more resilient future. The plantation drive will be executed in phases, with active participation from PAL Kia employees and local volunteers to promote long-term environmental stewardship. This initiative is part of PAL Kia India's broader CSR vision, Inspire A Better Tomorrow, under which the company has committed to carbon neutrality and ecological restoration across its areas of operation.

Mega expo in Chandigarh blends shopping, global products and regional foods

In a first for the tricity, three parallel eventsThailand Shopping Fest, India International Biggest Expo and India Food Festivalhave been launched at a single venue, the Parade Ground in Sector 17, Chandigarh, and will run for 11 days from April 24 to May 4. According to the organisers, the events were inaugurated by Chandigarh Mayor Saurabh Joshi and are expected to draw large crowds with a mix of shopping, international products and regional cuisines. Visitors can also savour a wide range of foods from 12 Indian states, adding to the overall appeal. The Thailand Shopping Fest features stalls offering artificial flowers, Thai herbal and spa products and popular Thai nightwear. The international segment includes Korean womens accessories, Hong Kong fashion items, Malaysian anti-tarnish jewellery, Dubai abayas, ittar and perfumes. Dry fruits and silver jewellery from Afghanistan are also attracting significant attention. At the India International Biggest Expo, traditional craftsmanship is a major highlight. Exhibitors from Saharanpur are showcasing intricately carved furniture, while other stalls feature carpets, Rajasthani artefacts, decorative frames, Moradabadi lights, Kolkata sarees, brass items and crockery made of bamboo, melamine and steel. The India Food Festival complements the shopping experience with dedicated food courts serving dishes from 12 states, offering visitors a diverse culinary spread. Entry to the venue is ticketed at Rs 50 per person, with visiting hours from 12 noon to 10 pm.

Lenin Sampat elected president of J&K Pensioners Federation

The J&K Pensioners Welfare Federation/Senior Citizens Civil Society on Tuesday elected Lenin Sampat as its State President and Ghulam Mohi-ud-din Bhat as State General Secretary during a meeting of its working committee and executive body held in Srinagar. According to a press release, delegates from various districts of the Kashmir Valley participated in the meeting, reflecting broad representation and unity among pensioners and senior citizens. The proceedings began with a condolence resolution in memory of former State General Secretary Mohd Ashraf Mir and senior office bearer Mohd Ayoub Chirag, with prayers offered for their eternal peace. The elections were held unanimously. Addressing members after his election, Sampat assured that the federation would function with dedication, sincerity, and transparency, and would work consistently for the welfare of pensioners and senior citizens across J&K. The federation also appealed to the J&K administration to consider several long-pending demands. These include enhancement of the monthly medical allowance from Rs 300 to Rs 1,000 to bring it at par with Ladakh, and the grant of additional pension at ages 65, 70, 75, and 80 at rates of 5 percent, 10 percent, 15 percent, and 20 percent respectively.

New Delhi criticises Trumps remarks as uninformed, inappropriate amid row over repost

New Delhi strongly criticised remarks attributed to US President Donald Trump after he reposted a transcript of a conservative talk show that described countries, including India, as hellholes, triggering sharp political reactions. Responding to queries, External Affairs Ministry spokesperson Randhir Jaiswal said the government had taken note of both the comments and a subsequent clarification issued by the US Embassy. The remarks are obviously uninformed, inappropriate and in poor taste. They certainly do not reflect the reality of the India-US relationship, which has long been based on mutual respect and shared interests, he said. The Ministry of External Affairs reiterated its disapproval, stating that such remarks misrepresent the strong and longstanding ties between the two countries. The controversy stems from a social media post by Trump on Thursday in which he shared excerpts from a programme hosted by Michael Savage. The transcript referred to India, China and other nations in derogatory terms while criticising US immigration policies, including birthright citizenship. Amid the backlash, Trump sought to soften the row through a clarification conveyed by the US Embassy in New Delhi. Quoting the President, an embassy spokesperson said, India is a great country with a very good friend of mine at the top, in an apparent reference to Prime Minister Narendra Modi. The episode has also drawn sharp reactions from the opposition. The Congress termed the remarks extremely insulting and anti-India, urging the Prime Minister to take up the matter with Trump and lodge a strong protest. The row comes at a time when India and the United States continue to deepen cooperation across strategic, economic and security domains, making the remarks particularly sensitive in diplomatic circles.

Special Vande Bharat train for J&K to maintain speed in sub-zero temperatures

Taking into account the challenging geographical terrain and extreme cold conditions of Jammu and Kashmir, Indian Railways has introduced a specially designed Vande Bharat train for the Jammu-Srinagar rail section. This train, according to Raghvender Singh, Public Relations Inspector, Jammu Railway Division, not only retains its signature semi-high-speed capability but also incorporates, for the first time, winterisation technology that enables it to operate smoothly even in sub-zero temperatures. While referring to special heating innovations for winter, he mentioned that in view of the snowy weather conditions in Jammu and Kashmir, several state-of-the-art heating systems were integrated into this Vande Bharat Express. According to him, for the first time in Indian Railways, 'self-regulating heating cables' have been utilised to prevent water pipelines from freezing. These cables are capable of automatically adjusting their heat output based on the external temperature. 1800W silicon heating pads have been installed in the water tanks. Additionally, special heating arrangements have been made in the bio-tanks and auxiliary tanks to ensure that the sanitation system remains unaffected. For the comfort of passengers, provisions have been made to channel warm air to the restrooms via special ducts connected to the main air conditioning unit. Heaters and thermal insulation have been installed in the Indian-style toilets to ensure the continued functioning of the vacuum evacuation system. To prevent water from stagnating and freezing within the pipes while the train is stabled (parked), a water draining facility has been provided, allowing for the safe and complete drainage of all water. An embedded heating element has been installed within the main windshield located in front of the driver's cabin. This technology will prevent the windshield from fogging up during periods of fog and snowfall, thereby ensuring clear visibility for the driver. This marks a first-of-its-kind initiative within the Indian Railways network. Heaters have also been installed within the air dryer system to ensure the proper functioning of the air brake system. To protect against potential damage caused by stones (ballast) from the tracks, the pneumatic valves located near the water tanks have been shielded with stainless steel covers. Senior Divisional Commercial Manager (DCM) Jammu Railway Division, Uchit Singhal, while describing the initiative aimed at boosting tourism in J&K besides facilitating comfortable travel for passengers in challenging weather conditions, stated, The key features of this advanced Vande Bharat train are that it is equipped with the full range of amenities characteristic of the Vande Bharat series viz., an operational speed of 160 km per hour and a fully air-conditioned, 20-coach train featuring automatic plug doors and LED lighting. With regard to safety features, he revealed that there would be CCTV cameras for enhanced security, along with an energy-efficient regenerative braking system. This specialised Vande Bharat Express stands as an outstanding example of indigenous engineering, designed to provide passengers with a safe, fast and comfortable travel experience amidst the challenging weather conditions of Jammu and Kashmir, Singhal said. The operation of this specialised Vande Bharat in the Jammu and Kashmir region fulfils a long-standing demand of both passengers and local residents. Our objective is not merely to provide faster travel, but also to ensure all-weather connectivityeven amidst the biting cold of the Valley. This train will serve as a strong and reliable bridge connecting devotees travelling to Vaishno Devi with the Kashmir valley, while simultaneously boosting tourism in the region, Singhal said.

No aircraft crashin Jammu and Kashmir's Kishtwar: IAF

The Indian Air Force (IAF) on Friday stated that no IAF aircraft crashed near Kishtwar as was being falsely disseminated by certain media outlets and social media handles. IAF spokesperson, in a press statement, said, There are certain media outlets and SM (social media) handles claiming an IAF aircraft has crashed near Kishtwar. This report is false. All media outlets are requested to verify information from official sources before publishing or transmitting, the IAF spokesperson said. The statement was issued after several social media posts shared a video claiming that an Indian Air Force (IAF) aircraft crashed in Kishtwar while referring to thick plumes of smoke rising from forests in the treacherous Padder area of the district, spreading panic in the area. As they (posts) went viral, the IAF issued a statement rejecting all such claims (about the IAF aircraft crash). Later, the PIB fact-check also rubbished the claims as fake, cautioning the people against forwarding such false, unverified posts. Earlier, the panic spread in Padder and adjoining areas after the locals claimed that they heard an explosion-like sound followed by thick plumes of smoke from the forest stretch. The authorities were immediately alerted by the people. The incident also led to speculations about the cloudburst and lightning strike, leading to a massive forest fire. Till late evening, no official statement was issued in this connection. Official sources, however, stated that the Police teams led by senior officers had reached the spot. At present, there is a massive fire in the forests. A large-scale operation has been launched to contain it. At present, there is no confirmed input about the genesis of fire. We did not find anything suspicious. All attempts are directed at dousing the fire, they said, while cautioning against rumour mongering.

Australian High Commissioner calls on CM Omar Abdullah

The Australian High Commissioner to India,Philip Green, today called on Chief Minister Omar Abdullah, and discussed avenues for enhanced cooperation in agriculture and allied sectors. During the discussions, both the sides explored opportunities for collaboration in agriculture and allied areas, particularly horticulture and animal husbandry. Emphasis was laid on knowledge sharing, adoption of best practices, and capacity building to improve productivity and sustainability. The interaction also touched upon prospects for institutional linkages and technical cooperation to support ongoing developmental initiatives in Jammu and Kashmir, within the broader framework of IndiaAustralia engagement. The engagement remained forward-looking, with a shared intent to deepen cooperation through appropriate channels. Orson Passi, Second Secretary, and Vandana Seth, Political Lead, from the Australian High Commission were also present during the meeting.

People of J&K to be punished as they voted for NC: CM Omars dig at LoP

In an intensified verbal-duel between the Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) and the National Conference (NC), the Chief Minister Omar Abdullah Friday in a direct dig at the Leader of Opposition (LoP) Sunil Sharma accused BJP of finally admitting that the people of J&K are to be punished and denied statehood because they voted for NC. Fresh salvo came a day after the LoP launched a scathing verbal assault on the Chief Minister stating, Statehood will come at an appropriate time, not because Shehzada Omar is CM. Reacting to an acerbic statement in equal measure, the Chief Minister, on his personal X posted, Unnerved by the grand show in Naushera a few days ago, finally a bit of honesty from the BJP - the people of J&K are to be punished and denied statehood because they voted for @JKNC. So much for their tall promises & claims. Welcome back from Assam Mr LoP. The assembly was quiet, and far more productive, without you, CM Omar posted with a laughing emoji, along with a video clip of LoP shared by a local news daily. The video clip (shared by CM Omar) also carried the statement of LoP as headline and it read as Statehood will come at appropriate time, not because Shehzada Omar is CM: LoP. LoP Sunil Sharma had alleged that the Chief Minister did not fulfill his electoral promises related to free cylinders, ration, 200 units of free power and one lakh jobs every year. There is nothing called governance in J&K at present. The government, its ministers are not visible on the ground. People are suffering for want of basic amenities of water, power and electricity. Employees are agitating. But the government is visible only in marathons, cycling, skiing, 5-star dinners and in rising corruption. 17-departments are under the Chief Minister but no meetings have taken place to review their functioning, Sharma had alleged. The latest verbal duel had a genesis in the recent statement of Chief Minister, he made in Nowshera rally, which found mention in his (CMs) post on X also. On April 20 in a public rally in Nowshera, in a direct dig at the BJP-led central government, the Chief Minister Omar Abdullah had accused it of backtracking from its promise with regard to statehood and asked it to come clear on the roadmap to its (statehood) restoration. He stated that delay in restoration of statehood amounted to punishment for the people as they (people) voted for it. BJP is backtracking from its promise of restoring statehood. In an overwhelming participation, the people across J&K voted for it (statehood). Now they (people) are being punished through delay in statehood restoration for no reason, CM Omar said, while addressing a public rally in Nowshera. He asked the central government to spell out when would be its appropriate time for restoration of statehood. The decision should be taken as people voted for it during polls and it is also a commitment made with the people, the Chief Minister remarked. The BJP's biggest promise with Jammu and Kashmir people was restoration of statehood and it was claimed that initial step would be delimitation, followed by elections and then the restoration of statehood. But now BJP is backtracking from this promise, he said. What is this appropriate time? When will it come? And what have we to do to reach that goal? CM Omar had asked. Just like when we set exams for children -- we tell them what marks are needed to pass, for first division, for distinction. They know what they must achieve. Similarly, tell us what conditions we need to meet, the Chief Minister said, adding, Sadly, there is no clear answer about the restoration of statehood in Jammu and Kashmir. I keep asking them -- tell us clearly. If you say it is your promise, if you have given your word, does your word have no value? You (BJP) repeated it everywhere -- in the Supreme Court, in Parliament, in rallies, in elections-- and then backtracked, he had targeted the BJP and its government at the Centre. Chief Minister Omar Abdullah also took a dig at BJP and claimed that family members and friends of NC leaders were being targeted through different means.

HC flags Govts remiss over responses, directs time-bound mechanism

Expressing its dismay over the remiss to file responses, the High Court of Jammu and Kashmir and Ladakh has directed the government to put in place a mechanism that would facilitate effective representation of the Government before the Courts. A bench of Justice Wasim Sadiq Nargal urged the government to devise an effective and time-bound mechanism to ensure prompt transmission of records to the concerned counsel, timely preparation and filing of objections, effective monitoring of pending cases and fixation of responsibility upon officers, who are remiss in discharging their duties. Such a mechanism would not only facilitate effective representation of the Government before the Courts, but also obviate the necessity of passing coercive orders against the Government and safeguard the public interest, the court said. The court said this while hearing a case titled Ali Muhammad Wani vs Union Territory of J&K and Ors that was listed before it on April 22. The record revealed that the case was filed way back on June 14, 2023 and, thereafter, several opportunities were granted to the authorities for filing the response, the court observed. Even the last opportunity was granted to the respondents(authorities) vide order dated October 31, 2025; however, no response was filed. Accordingly, the Court vide order dated November 28, 2025, closed the right of the respondents (authorities) to file the reply. The matter was again listed on March 9, 2026, on which date, a Deputy Advocate General appeared and was directed to produce the record on April 22, the next date fixed in the matter, the court said. Today, when the case was taken up, neither the record has been produced, nor is there any representation on behalf of the respondents. However, on the asking of the Court Ilyas Nazir Laway, Government Advocate, has caused appearance, the court observed. The court noted that it was clear from its orders passed from time to time that the authorities had not bothered to comply with these orders which ultimately led to closure of their right to file the reply. The failure of the respondents(authorities) even to produce the record depicted their scant respect to the orders of the court and their taking of these orders very casually, the court said. Apart from this case, there were several cases listed wherein, despite availing repeated opportunities and last opportunity as well, the authorities have not bothered to file a reply, it said. The court noted that in a large number of cases involving the Government, replies were not being filed within the stipulated time, despite repeated opportunities being granted. Such a practice not only contributes to the mounting backlog of cases, but also seriously impedes the efficient administration of justice. In its order, the court also noted that it was brought to its notice that the Law Officers had been consistently issuing reminders and telephonic requests to the concerned officers for filing of reply in time. Yet the same are not being given to the counsel engaged well in time, the court said. In this way, the counsel representing a particular department is not a position to file the response in time. In case that be the position, then the Secretary of Law shall fix the responsibility on such officers, who are remiss in drafting a reply well in time, as a result of which, adverse orders are passed against the Government, and the interests of the Government are hampered in such like cases. While the court noted that the timely compliance of the orders and directions of the Court is not a matter of discretion, but a constitutional imperative, it said: Any delay or indifference in adherence thereto strikes at the very root of the rule of law and has the tendency to erode public confidence in the administration of justice. Despite the number of directions issued by the Court regarding non-filing of the response as well as non-appearance of the counsel in the matters concerning the Government, no effective and concrete mechanism is being put in place, the court noted. Meanwhile, the Court directed J&Ks Secretary Law to appear in person on April 27, to apprise it of the steps being taken to ensure that cases concerning the Government are properly defended and the interests of the unattended. The Court said the present order- copy of which the Registry was directed to send to the Secretary law - was being passed only to ensure that an effective mechanism was put in place, so that the replies were filed well within time to obviate the necessity of passing coercive orders against the Government and safeguard the public interest.

Union Labour Minister inaugurates Rs 165 crore first ESIC hospital in Kashmir

Budgam, Apr 24:Union Minister for Labour and Employment and Youth Affairs and Sports Mansukh Mandaviya on Friday inaugurated a 30-bedded Employees State Insurance Corporation (ESIC) hospital at Ompora in Budgam district of central Kashmir. The inauguration marked the establishment of the first ESIC hospital in Kashmir. Addressing the gathering at the inaugural ceremony, the Union Minister said the move was a significant step towards strengthening healthcare access and social security for workers in Jammu and Kashmir. The hospital is built at a cost of Rs 165 crore with provision for expansion up to 100 beds. The hospital is expected to benefit over 50,000 workers and their families. The facility will provide comprehensive healthcare services under the ESI scheme, which currently covers over 1.83 lakh insured persons and around 7 lakh beneficiaries across J&K. In his address, Mandaviya highlighted the role of labourers in nation-building saying that the countrys progress rests on the blood and sweat of workers and it was the governments responsibility to ensure their welfare. He said that the Centre, under the leadership of PM Narendra Modi was committed to providing dignity, healthcare, and social security to workers. The recently implemented labour codes have transformed Indias labour ecosystem by ensuring transparency, minimum wages, appointment letters, and annual health check-ups for workers, Mandaviya said. He said that the introduction of a national floor wage would eliminate disparities in minimum wages across states and Union Territories. ESIC scheme provides a wide range of benefits including healthcare, maternity support, and financial assistance during periods of unemployment, the Union Labour Minister said. He said many workers previously struggled to access treatment for life-threatening diseases due to high costs in private hospitals, often pushing families into financial distress. Through ESIC, treatment ranging from thousands to even up to Rs 1 crore is being made available. The scheme ensures that workers do not lose everything in times of medical crisis, Mandaviya said. He said that Indias social security coverage had increased significantly in recent years, with data from the International LabourOrganisation indicating coverage of over 64 percent of workers. The Union Labour Minister highlighted the integration of ESIC with Ayushman Bharat, expanding access to cashless treatment across empanelled hospitals. The new hospital in Budgam would not only improve healthcare delivery but also create employment opportunities for local youth, including through proposed nursing and training facilities, he said. On the sidelines of the inaugural function, Mandaviya felicitated workers involved in the construction of the hospital and distributed social security benefits to insured persons. He said that J&K was progressing alongside the rest of the country towards the vision of a developed India. The ongoing reforms in labour welfare and sports infrastructure will contribute to broader socio-economic growth, the Union Labour Minister said.

LG chairs J&K Higher Education Council meeting

Jammu, Apr 24:Lieutenant Governor Manoj Sinha on Friday chaired a high-level meeting of Jammu Kashmir Higher Education Council, at LokBhavan. The council, under the leadership of LG Sinha deliberated on comprehensive strategies aimed at driving the holistic transformation of the education sector across Jammu and Kashmir. The key agendas included implementation of the Design Your Degree (DYD) programme and the adoption of its official manual across universities, integration of IT and Artificial Intelligence into the curriculum, strategies to promote entrepreneurship, knowledge-based skills, and develop human capital for developed India. The LG directed for the effective, on-ground implementation of Design Your Degree, skill development, Artificial Intelligence and other innovative programmes and initiatives across higher educational institutions. He also called for seamless synergy between central and J&K educational institutions to drive a holistic transformation of the education sector. We must establish benchmarks aligned with both national and international standards, ensuring that Jammu Kashmir's education sector stands as a model of excellence in the country, LG Sinha said. The meeting was attended by Prof Dinesh Singh, Vice Chairman, J&K Higher Education Council; Shailendra Kumar, Additional Chief Secretary, Finance Department; Mandeep K Bhandari, Principal Secretary to LG; Kumar Rajeev Ranjan, Administrative Secretary, Skill Development; Ram Niwas Sharma, Commissioner Secretary; Higher Education Department; Prof. Umesh Rai, Vice Chancellor, University of Jammu; Prof Nilofer Khan, VC University of Kashmir; Prof Shakil Ahmad Romshoo, VC, IUST; Pragati Kumar, VC SMVDU; Prof B N Tripathi, VC SKUAST Jammu; Prof A RavinderNath, VC Central University of Kashmir; Prof Sanjeev Jain, VC Central University of Jammu; Prof Jawaid Iqbal, VC BGSBU; Prof Mohammad Mobin, VC Cluster University Srinagar; Prof Manoj Singh Gaur, Director IIT Jammu; Prof Kavi Arya from IIT Bombay and ShobhaBagai, Director, Cluster Innovation Centre Delhi University. Prof Dinesh Singh, Vice Chairman, JKHEC emphasised that the core mission must remain the realisation of human potential, ensuring that higher education directly fosters societal service and enhances student productivity. The council also deliberated on setting up a regular mechanism to ensure cooperation and collaboration between various institutions of Jammu and Kashmir for engendering of joint degree programmes and a common technology-based platform for sharing of practices, ideas and programmes of various institutions; increasing the Gross Enrolment Ratio (GER), special initiatives such as The Riverine College and the AI Competition, JKHEC budget utilisation for 2025-26 and budget allocations for 2026-27. Vice Chancellors and members of the council shared their insights on the way forward for the DYD programme and further interventions in higher education with the implementation of NEP 2020. Prof Sheikh Ajaz Bashir, Director of Colleges, J&K; Seema Naz, Nodal Principal, Government College of Education; Ravinder Kumar Tickoo, Principal, GCW Parade Jammu also attended the meeting.

People committed to make J&K free from narcotics: LG Sinha

Jammu, Apr 24:Lieutenant Governor, Manoj Sinha Friday said that people of Jammu and Kashmir were committed to make Jammu and Kashmir free from narcotics. Launching 'Drug-Free J&K Campaign' in Reasi, he urged communities, institutions, and individuals alike to unite in the fight against drug abuse, a crisis he warned was eroding the very foundations of society from within. The LG appealed for a broad based peoples movement while highlighting that for the past 12 days, a collective force has risen across J&K against drugs and people are resolutely committed to the objective to make this land free from narcotics. Highlighting the achievement of the campaign in the past 12 days, he said that in Jammu division, between April 11 and 22, large number of cases were registered and several drug smugglers were arrested. LG Sinha said narcotics valued at nearly Rs 3 crore had been seized and about Rs 1 crore worth of movable and immovable properties were attached. Properties of drug smugglers have been demolished. A total of 187 driving licenses and four vehicle registrations have also been cancelled. Financial investigations have been initiated against 48 drug peddlers. Drug and chemist shops have been inspected, and 15 drug store licenses have been cancelled. Drug users have been referred to de addiction and rehabilitation centres and counselling has also been extended to drug users, he said. The LG said that 1947 women committees had been established across districts in the Jammu division since the beginning of the campaign on April 11 and with the support of mothers and sisters, this cancer in society would be cured. We must build a historic movement, one that rises from homes, schools, mohallas, and communities; a movement that begins with open, honest dialogue in towns and villages. Mothers and sisters are the moral bedrock of our society and with their help we can win this battle, he said. LG Sinha said that over two dozen drug traffickers had already been identified and they would be tracked down and held accountable. He said in the Jammu division, thousands of peddlers remain under surveillance, and each one would be relentlessly pursued until they are apprehended and brought into custody. Security checks have been stepped up around schools, colleges, and other vulnerable areas. I want to make it absolutely clear that those who engage in the grave crime of poisoning the future of our youth through drug trafficking will face the harshest consequences under the law, the LG said. He also drew attention of Police and all enforcement agencies to the fact that drug traffickers and terrorists operate hand in hand and they should be treated as allies in crime. Our response should be decisive, thorough, and unyielding. Every route drug smuggler exploit should be watched, every financial chain should be dismantled, and every asset stripped away until their networks are completely destroyed, LG Sinha said. He said that for over a decade, J&K had carried the heavy silence surrounding the menace of drug abuse and this historic peoples movement was launched to shatter that silence. With collective strength we must raise societys voice against the scourge of narcotics. Drugs are a wound in the heart of our society. To heal this wound, we require a peoples movement that mobilises the full strength of society to eradicate drugs at their roots. The 'NashaMukt J&K' campaign also serves to remind us that among the strongest pillars of society are the rule of law, constitutional values, the ethic of duty, and a spirit of Jan Bhagidari, the LG said. He asked the NGOs, social workers, and spiritual leaders to join the campaign in large number in cities and villages. Social organisations, spiritual leaders, and educators are the frontline guardians of this mission. I firmly believe that through their leadership, hope can be rekindled and society renewed. The full strength of the government and the community stands beside them, LG Sinha said.

Finally, Jammu-Srinagar to have direct train from April 30

Jammu, Apr 24:Finally, the long wait for direct Jammu-Srinagar train will be over as Jammu Division of the Northern Railway on Friday announced the extension of the Shri Mata Vaishno Devi KatraSrinagar Vande Bharat Express up to Jammu Tawi from April 30. Senior Divisional Commercial Manager (DCM) Jammu Railway Division UchitSinghal, while speaking to Greater Kashmir, stated that the Union Minister for Railways Ashwini Vaishnaw will flag-off the inaugural special train from Jammu Tawi Railway Station for Srinagar on the scheduled day. In yet another significant development, the extended Vande Bharat Express will operate, directly between Jammu and Srinagar, with 20 coaches instead of the current 8 coaches. The inaugural train will have a single halt at Katra (for boarding or deboarding). The date and timings for the regular operations of this train will be announced separately in due course, Singhal said, with a regular caution that the schedule was subject to last minute changes. Following the formal announcement of extension of Katra-Srinagar Vande Bharat Express to Jammu by the Northern Railway, the Union Minister of State in PMO DrJitendra Singh too shared the heartening news through a post on his personal X handle. DrJitendra is to accompany the Railway Minister in the flagging-off ceremony at Jammu on April 30, 2026. Good news for #Jammu-#Srinagar Vande Bharat Express travellers! Another gift from the #narendramodi government for the people of Jammu & Kashmir, read the screaming opening line of DrJitendras post. The Vande Bharat Express, currently running between Srinagar and Shri Mata Vaishno Devi Katra, will be extended up to Jammu Tawi from April 30. Additionally, the train will now operate with 20 coaches instead of 8, significantly enhancing capacity, connectivity, and comfort. This move is set to further promote tourism and accelerate regional development, DrJitendra posted. TENTATIVE SCHEDULE OF INAUGURAL RUN Earlier the Jammu Railway Division issued a formal statement in this connection, while giving a brief schedule of the inaugural run of extended train service. Northern Railway takes pride in announcing the extension of the Shri Mata Vaishno Devi KatraSrinagar Vande Bharat Express up to Jammu Tawi, for the convenience of passengers within the Jammu Division, it stated. As per the schedule, a grand ceremony will mark the extension on April 30, 2026, as an inaugural special advanced Vande Bharat take comprising 20 coaches (train number 02601), will depart from Jammu Tawi (JAT) (Railway Station). As per the tentative schedule, from Jammu, its journey will commence at 10.30 am. It will have a halt at Shri Mata Vaishno Devi Katra Railway Station from 11.54 to 11.59 am for boarding and deboarding. The train will reach Srinagar its destination station- at 3.05 pm. The officials stated that the date and timings for the regular operations of this train would be announced separately in due course. JAMMU-SRINAGAR DISTANCE TO BE COVERED IN LESS THAN 5 HOURS With the extension, the passengers can travel between Jammu and Srinagar in less than five hours, a substantial reduction in travel time compared to road journeys. Besides a major boost to the rail connectivity in Jammu and Kashmir with faster, safer and more reliable travel options to thousands of passengers, the direct train will meet a long pending demand of the people of the region. Road connectivity in this region, particularly along the Srinagar Jammu National Highway, often faces disruptions due to landslides, heavy snowfall and adverse weather conditions. The extension of Vande Bharat services, in this backdrop, will offer a dependable, all-weather alternative that ensures safety, comfort and punctuality. The semi high-speed Vande Bharat trains are equipped with modern passenger amenities, enhanced safety features and improved ride comfort, making the journey not only faster but also more convenient. The extension is expected to greatly benefit local residents, promote tourism, facilitate trade and contribute to the socio-economic development of the region. The UdhampurSrinagarBaramulla Rail Link (USBRL) project was dedicated to the nation on June 6, 2025 by the Prime Minister Narendra Modi. Following its dedication, there was a strong and consistent demand from residents, traders, students and tourists to connect Jammu directly with Srinagar through a semi high-speed Vande Bharat service. Interestingly, earlier this extension (of Katra-Srinagar train to Jammu) was scheduled for March 1, 2026. Even on February 24, the announcement was made for the inaugural run (for March 1, 2026) yet same day in the evening, the Railway Board put the notified schedule about the extension of Shri Mata VaishnodeviKatra-Srinagar Vande Bharat Express train service up to Jammu on hold. Through a late evening communication (on February 24), it was stated that the notification was put on hold by the Railway due to some unavoidable circumstances. Due to some unavoidable circumstances, the notification programme of Vande Bharat extension from March 1 has been put on hold by Railway Board till further advice. Further information as and when received will be shared, officials had notified.

Anganwadi workers, helpers backbone of grassroots child welfare, community development: Sakeena Itoo

Jammu, Apr 24: Minister for Social Welfare, Education, Health and Medical Education, Sakeena Itoo, on Friday said that Anganwadi Workers (AWWs) and Helpers are the backbone of grassroots child welfare and community development, adding that their role extends far beyond service delivery. The minister was speaking at the concluding ceremony of 8th PoshanPakhwada celebrations held at Government Polytechnic College, Jammu. Mission Director ICDS, Sajad Hussain Ganie; Secretary in Social Welfare department, Bashir Ahmad Khan; Director Social Welfare Jammu, Ranjeet Singh; Director Health Services Jammu, Dr Abdul Hamid Zargar; Programme officers, CDPOs, Supervisors and large number of Anganwadi workers and Helpers were also present on the occasion. Addressing the gathering, the minister appreciated the dedication and tireless efforts of anganwadi workers and helpers, describing them as the backbone of grassroots child welfare and nutrition services. She said that their role extends far beyond service delivery, as they serve as the first point of contact for mothers, children and families in rural as well as urban areas. Anganwadi workers are the real change-makers at the grassroots. Their commitment towards early childhood care, nutrition, pre-school education and child welfare is laying the foundation for a healthier and empowered future generation, the minister said. She highlighted that ICDS sector is very big sector and more than 28,000 of our sisters work in this sector. As far as the ICDS or social welfare sector is concerned, some other departments are connected to this sector like education, health and others. Our Anganwadi workers and Helpers perform duties in these departments during awareness programmes or other events, apart from their parent department, she said. The minister sais the need for collective efforts from all stakeholders, including families, communities, and government departments, to ensure that every child receives proper nutrition and every mother has access to essential healthcare and support. She underscored the importance of PoshanPakhwada as a people-centric initiative focusing on combating malnutrition, improving health outcomes for women and children, and creating awareness about balanced nutrition and early childhood care. Giving background of ICDS sector, Sakeena Itoo said that in the year 1996, the then Chief Minister Farooq Abdullah, brought this project into Jammu and Kashmir and implemented it. Sakeena Itoo stressed the importance of integrating hygiene awareness with child development initiatives and urged field functionaries to continue educating families about sanitation, nutrition and preventive healthcare. She noted that a clean environment plays a significant role in reducing disease burden and improving the quality of life for children and women. Highlighting various achievements of the government, the minister said that the government led by Chief Minister Omar Abdullah increased the marriage assistance from Rs 50,000 to Rs 75,000, besides the qualification bar for availing the scheme has been removed. The minister also underlined the governments commitment towards strengthening the Anganwadi ecosystem by improving infrastructure, ensuring better service delivery and providing necessary support to frontline workers. She assured that the concerns and welfare of anganwadi workers and helpers remain a priority for the government, adding that chief minister is very keen about their welfare. The minister also announced that the department has already been asked to make a policy regarding appointment of dependents of Anganwadi workers and Helpers who die while in service. In his welcome address, Mission Director ICDS spoke about the large scale of activities carried during the PoshanPakhwada. He informed that around 7,32,000 events were held and uploaded on Jan Andolan portal by the department. He also expressed gratitude to Minister for increasing the Capex Budget of the department, adding that new Anganwadi centres will made functional. Earlier, the Social Welfare Minister also distributed appointment orders among newly recruited anganwadi Workers and helpers. She also distributed Vidyarambh certificates among children who completed pre-schooling at Anganwadi centers. During the programme, anganwadi workers and helpers also presented different cultural programmes highlighting importance of nutrition in children and mothers.

India will become Vishwaguru and guide the world: RSS chief

Nagpur, Apr 24:Rashtriya Swayamsevak Sangh (RSS) chief Mohan Bhagwat on Friday said India will certainly become a 'Vishwaguru' and guide the world, and nobody should harbour any doubts about the country's future. He also said that earlier people doubted if Ram temple will ever be built, but it came into being. In the same way, India becoming a 'vishwaguru' (teacher to the world) is certain to happen. Bhagwat was speaking after laying the foundation stone of 'Bharat Durga Shakti Sthal' temple coming up on the premises of the National Cancer Institute (NCI) in Jamtha area on the outskirts of Nagpur city in the evening. The vision of India becoming a vishwaguru would be realised through consistent efforts and collective discipline, he said, expressing confidence that such a transformation could be witnessed in the present generation. Doubts about India's future should be abandoned, the RSS chief said. Don't doubt India's future. Live with courage and self-reliance and practise these values in daily life. India will be strong and will guide the world. People doubted if Ram temple will be built, but it happened. Similarly India becoming a vishwaguru is certain, he said. There should be no confusion whether it will happen or not. What is destined will happen, he said, citing the Ram temple movement as an example of perseverance leading to eventual success. If we act according to our resolve step by step, India will become strong, virtuous and a global guide, he said. Bhagwat said that to truly understand India, people must first understand Bharat deeply and then begin to practise it in their everyday lives. To worship Bharat Mata, we must become Bharat ourselves, he said, adding that the country must be understood from its own civilisational values rather than through a colonial or Western lens developed over 150 years. The RSS chief urged citizens to shed layers of Western thinking and reconnect with Indian traditions in thought and conduct. This transformation would begin with small but meaningful changes in daily life such as language, clothing, food habits and cultural practices, he said. India must be known, accepted and lived in daily life, he said, stressing that only through such a process of self-realisation can the vision of a strong and confident India be achieved. The idea of worshipping Bharat Mata is not limited to rituals, but requires individuals to transform themselves into Bharat in their own lives, he said. He said that the idea of a 'Bharat Mata' temple in Nagpur was conceived by late Moropant Pingle. The idea emerged when the idols of Bharat Mata were carried across different routes in India during the unity journey, according to him. At that time, the idea of a Bharat Mata temple in Nagpur came to Moropant Pingle. It was not my imagination, he said, adding that one of the four idols from the journey eventually came to Nagpur, but other national movements kept people engaged for decades, delaying the project. He said the present hospital now includes the Bharat Mata temple, which symbolically represents strength, knowledge and wisdom. Inspired by 'Vande Mataram', I felt that Bharat Mata should be in the form of Durga, the ten-armed goddess of strength. Without strength, truth alone cannot prevail in the world, he said. While India may be rooted in truth, the rest of the world often follows the principle that whoever has power is right, he said. Religious leaders including Shree Gurusharanji Maharaj, Swami GovinddevGiriMaharaj, Swami AvdheshanandGiriMaharaj, Swami Mitranandaji Maharaj, SadhviRitambhara and Dhirendra Shastri, were present on the occasion along with Maharashtra Chief Minister Devendra Fadnavis and Union Minister Nitin Gadkari. Fadnavis thanked the RSS chief for his vision of the 'Bharat Durga Shakti Sthal', saying it is a statue of power which will awaken a new consciousness in the country and inspire everyone. Gadkari said that the bhoomipujan of the temple was a moment of fortune for everyone. The inspiration behind this initiative is nation building. It will give the entire country motivation for nation building, he said. Swami Avdheshanand Giri praised Bhagwat for his gentle nature and and extraordinary leadership. Bharat is just not a land, but is a goddess, hence it should be worshipped, he said. It is God's will that India is moving towards the vision of 'Akhand Bharat' and that India will reclaim its lost boundaries and restore its lost glory after some time, he said, adding that the country will lead the world in the coming centuries. Dhirendra Krishna Shastri praised the RSS volunteers for their contribution in social work. He urged Indian citizens to have four children and dedicate one of them to the RSS. Swami GovinddevGiriMaharaj said that Nagpur is a centre of inspiration for him and everyone. He stressed the need to establish Ram Rajya and expressed concerns over love jihad, saying it was also visible in the corporate world now. Sadhvi Ritambhara expressed happiness over the temple and called for unity in society.

Satish Sharma meets Union Minister Dr Mansukh Mandaviya in Srinagar

Srinagar, Apr 24:Minister for Food, Civil Supplies & Consumer Affairs, Information Technology, Transport, Youth Services & Sports, and Science & Technology, Satish Sharma on Friday held a detailed meeting with Union Minister for Youth Affairs & Sports, Dr.Mansukh Mandaviya, on the sidelines of the upcoming Chintan Shivir being hosted in Jammu and Kashmir. Earlier, the Minister warmly welcomed the visiting dignitaries and extended his appreciation for their presence in Jammu and Kashmir for the important deliberations aimed at strengthening the sports landscape across the country. During the meeting, Satish Sharma discussed in detail a comprehensive roadmap for giving a significant fillip to sports development in Jammu and Kashmir, with particular emphasis on expanding outreach to border and far-flung areas. He underscored that youth residing in remote and underserved regions possess immense untapped potential, which can be channelised effectively through targeted interventions and improved access to sports infrastructure. The Minister, as per an official statement, highlighted the ongoing efforts of the Jammu and Kashmir Government to promote a vibrant sports culture, including the organisation of local tournaments, talent identification programmes, and initiatives aimed at engaging youth in constructive and nation-building activities. He stressed the need for strengthening grassroots-level infrastructure to ensure that aspiring athletes, irrespective of their geographical location, have access to quality training and facilities. Satish Sharma also sought liberal financial assistance from the Government of India for upgrading existing sports infrastructure and establishing modern, state-of-the-art facilities across Jammu and Kashmir. He emphasised the importance of developing multipurpose indoor stadiums, playfields, and high-performance training centres equipped with advanced coaching support and sports science facilities. The discussions further focused on enhancing collaboration between the Union Ministry and the Jammu and Kashmir Government in organising national-level sporting events in Jammu and Kashmir, which would not only provide exposure to local talent but also position the region as a prominent sporting destination. Dr. Mansukh Mandaviya appreciated the proactive initiatives being undertaken by the Jammu and Kashmir Government and lauded the focused approach towards youth engagement and sports development. He assured full support and cooperation from the Government of India in strengthening the sports ecosystem in the region, particularly in underserved and border areas. Satish Sharma reiterated the commitment of the Government towards harnessing the energy and potential of youth through sports, innovation, and inclusive development. He expressed confidence that the outcomes of the upcoming Chintan Shivir would pave the way for new strategies and collaborative efforts to further accelerate sports development in Jammu and Kashmir.

DYSS J&K hosts night football match with anti-drug message

Jammu, Apr 24:It wasnt just a football match. It was a statement. Under the floodlights of Parade Ground Jammu, the Directorate of Youth Services and Sports J&K organised a friendly football night match as part of the UT administrations 100-day intensive campaign across the Union Territory to make Jammu & Kashmir Nasha Mukt (drug-free). As per a DYSS statement issued on Friday, The idea was simple: give young people a stage where winning means more than just a scoreboard. Two local clubs Warrior Club and Spartan Club faced off in what turned out to be a competitive, clean game. Warrior Club edged past Spartan Club with a 20 finish, but on a night like this, the result felt secondary to the reason everyone had gathered. The event was kicked off by Divisional Commissioner Jammu, Ramesh Kumar, alongside Deputy Commissioner Jammu, Rakesh Minhas. The dignitaries were received by Director General YSS, Anuradha Gupta. Others who were present in the event included Vinakshi Koul, Joint Director YSS Jammu, Megha Boagia, Deputy Director (Planning/Activity) and Sunil Kotwal Accounts Officer of the Department. Director General YSS, delivered an impressive welcome address, setting a reflective tone for the evening. Before sharing his insightful speech, Divisional Commissioner led a pledge ceremony. This campaign is not just about awareness. Its about action. Games like these reclaim young lives, he said, as players stood listening under the lights. After the match, medals and trophies were given to both teams not just for the goals, but for showing up and playing clean. A small evening. A simple match. But in J&Ks push for a drug-free future, nights like these matter.

DG YSS Anuradha Gupta felicitates J&Ks National Kalaripayattu medallists

Jammu, Apr 24: In a powerful reflection of J&Ks rising prowess in indigenous martial arts, the Director General of Youth Services and Sports (YSS) J&K, Anuradha Gupta, formally felicitated a squad of 16 exceptionally talented young athletes who clinched multiple medals at the National Kalaripayattu Championship held in Thyag Raj Stadium, New Delhi. During an inspiring interaction at her office chamber within the Sports Complex, Jewel Chowk, the DG, as per a DYSS statement, welcomed back the contingent comprising 8 boys and 8 girls and hailed them as the rue stars of the Union Territorys sporting spirit. The athletes medal haul was a standout performance on the national stage. Pritam Vaid, Chiragh Puri, Manvi Sharma, and Vasundhra Chib brought home Silver medals, while Danish Sharma, Suryedev Singh, Nitin Kumar, and Angel Gupta secured Bronze medals, making J&K proud.

Mamata winning polls in Bengal, Congress in Kerala, DMK in TN: Dr Farooq

Srinagar, Apr 24: National Conference (NC) President Dr Farooq Abdullah claimed on Friday that opposition parties are winning Assembly polls in the three key states of West Bengal, Tamil Nadu and Kerala. I tell you, and the rest, god knows, Mamata Banerjee is winning in Bengal, Congress is winning in Kerala and (MK) Stalin's party (DMK) is winning in Tamil Nadu. This is God's blessing, Abdullah told reporters at Hazratbal when asked about the ongoing elections. Responding to a question on the conflict in the Middle East, the NC chief said peace is essential and expressed hope that the war would end as soon as possible. If peace does not return to the Middle East, tragedies for this world are major and everyone -- every country, every leader -- must try and see that this war comes to an end immediately. I hope that the US president has realised that Israel was not right in pushing him towards war. I hope to god that he will move quickly and China and Russia will also see to it that this war comes to an end as quickly as possible, he said. On the Centre's Nasha Mukt Bharat Abhiyaan, the former Jammu and Kashmir chief minister said people's support is imperative to win the war against drugs. Till parents and people do not support the fight, the government cannot end the drug menace. The important thing is the people's support and if they support, it will, god willing, end the menace, he added.

Mehbooba resorting to double speak, architect of J&Ks crises: NC

Srinagar, Apr 24:The Jammu and Kashmir National Conference State Spokesperson Imran Nabi Dar Friday launched a scathing attack on PDP president Mehbooba Mufti, accusing her of once again resorting to shedding crocodile tears while attempting to distance herself from the consequences of her partys past political decisions. In a press release, Imran Nabi said the PDP, which brought the BJP into power in Jammu and Kashmir after the 2014 elections and subsequently entered into a coalition with it, pushed the region into political turmoil and institutional decay. He alleged that the period witnessed a sharp deterioration in the security and administrative landscape, marked by the use of pellet guns, large-scale injuries to youth, detentions under the Public Safety Act, and widespread arrests that devastated the lives and futures of an entire generation. He further accused the PDP-led government of eroding the regions economic safeguards through the implementation of SARFEASI, GST and other legislative measures, terming it a systematic dismantling of economic autonomy. He also cited administrative failures, recruitment irregularities and the neglect of the growing drug menace as part of what he described as PDPs misgovernance legacy. Imran said that the same leadership which enabled and facilitated the BJPs political entry and expansion in Jammu and Kashmir is now attempting to portray itself as a victim. Today, the same party is shedding crocodile tears over unemployment, economic distress and drug abuse, despite having presided over the very conditions that triggered these crises, he said. He added that since the formation of the Omar Abdullah-led government, sustained efforts have been made to reverse what he termed a decade of misgovernance and policy distortion. However, he accused Mehbooba Mufti of deliberately ignoring ground realities and indulging in selective, politically motivated criticism. He asserted that PDP cannot evade responsibility for key political developments in Jammu and Kashmir, including the abrogation of Article 370, the bifurcation of the erstwhile state, and its conversion into a Union Territory. By aligning with the BJP not once but twice, the PDP legitimised their political foothold and enabled decisions that have had far-reaching constitutional and political consequences, he said. Taking a direct swipe at Mehbooba Muftis tenure as Chief Minister, Imran said, She failed to deliver even when Jammu and Kashmir enjoyed greater administrative authority. Her governance was marked by a collapse of public trust and administrative credibility. He also referred to developments in 2017, alleging that diversionary tactics were employed to deflect attention from governance failures. Imran said PDP cannot absolve itself of the damage inflicted on Jammu and Kashmir post-2015 asserting that its alliance with the BJP not only facilitated their political agenda but also severely undermined the regions political, economic, and constitutional framework.

Parcel trans-shipment permitted in Jammu Rly division for J&K traders

Jammu, Apr 24: In a major relief for traders in Jammu and Kashmir, under the new Parcel Trans-shipment Policy, the facilities for transferring parcels from one train to another will now be available at specific, notified stations within the Jammu Railway Division. Under the new Parcel Trans-shipment Policy introduced by the Railway Board, the Jammu Division of Northern Railway has achieved a significant milestone in streamlining freight movement and logistics operations. Pursuant to this historic decision, facilities for transferring parcels from one train to another are now available at specific, notified stations within the Jammu Division. Consequently, the transit time for the movement of goods has been substantially reduced, informed Raghvender Singh, Public Relations Inspector, Jammu Railway Division. As a result, he said, the trading community within the Jammu Railway Division would be able to reap immense benefits from this new facility. Senior Divisional Commercial Manager (DCM) Jammu Railway Division, Uchit Singhal, while reflecting on this beneficial policy, stated, The primary objective of this policy is to promote 'Ease of Doing Business' and to boost the Railways' revenue. Previously, merchants faced logistical hurdles due to existing restrictions; however, thanks to this reform, the entire supply chain has now been streamlined. He urged the trading community and passengers to avail themselves of the maximum benefits offered under this policy. To illustrate the changes introduced by the Railway's Parcel Trans-shipment Policy, Singhal said, Previously, if one wished to send a parcel from Jammu to Kanyakumari, it was only possible if there was a direct train service connecting the two cities. Otherwise, such a shipment was not feasible. However, under the new policy, one can now book shipments even for destinations that do not have a direct train connection. The parcel will be unloaded at a designated junction station and subsequently transported to ones final destination station via a connecting train. Elaborating on the key benefits of this Parcel Trans-shipment Policy, Singhal said that the facility would lead to a significant reduction in parcel delivery times, thereby ensuring the timely supply of goods for traders and e-commerce companies. Previously, due to the lack of direct connectivity, the transfer of parcels from one train to another was not permitteda restriction that frequently resulted in delays. Now, at designated stations, it has become possible to transfer goods between dedicated parcel trains and leased parcel vans, he said. Singhal asserted that the decision proved to be a game-changer, particularly for the transport of fruits, vegetables, and other time-sensitive commodities, as it offered a faster and more cost-effective alternative compared to road transport. For e-commerce companies and small businesses, transporting goods via raileven to smaller stationshas now become both easy and affordable, he said.

Bolster security grid in Katra, Vaishnodevi shrine area: DGP

Jammu, Apr 24: Director General of Police (DGP) Nalin Prabhat Friday directed to bolster the security grid in Katra town and the Shri Mata Vaishno Devi shrine area, with special focus on ensuring the safety and security of pilgrims visiting the holy shrine. DGP issued these instructions while chairing a comprehensive review meeting to assess the security and crime situation in Katra town and Bhawan area. The meeting, which was a major step towards strengthening public safety and law enforcement, was attended by IGP Jammu Bhim Sen Tuti; DIG Udhampur-Reasi (UR) range Shiv Kumar Sharma and SSP Reasi Mukund Tibrewal, along with Additional SP Katra Kameshwar Puri; SDPO Katra and the SHO Katra. During the meeting, the DGP Prabhat outlined a comprehensive roadmap for the ongoing Nasha Mukt Abhiyan launched under the directions of the Lieutenant Governor of J&K. He directed officers to adopt a stringent approach against drug-related crimes by ensuring prompt registration of FIRs, attachment of properties acquired through narcotics trafficking and the use of preventive detention laws against habitual offenders. The DGP also emphasised the need for expeditious investigation and disposal of cases in accordance with the provisions of the New Criminal Laws (NCL). He instructed officers to ensure strict adherence to timelines and improve the overall efficiency of investigations. The top cop of J&K also issued specific directions to strengthen the security grid in Katra town and the Shri Mata Vaishno Devi Shrine area, with special focus on ensuring the safety and security of pilgrims visiting the holy shrine.

Govt committed to responsive governance, equitable development across all regions: CM Omar Abdullah

Jammu, Apr 24:Several legislators and deputations on Friday called on Chief Minister Omar Abdullah here and apprised him of a range of issues concerning their respective constituencies, seeking timely intervention and resolution. MLA Ramnagar Sunil Bharadwaj, MLA Habbakadal Shamim Firdous, MLA Budhal Javaid Iqbal, MLA Kokernag Zaffar Ali Khatana, MLA Thanamandi Muzaffar Iqbal Khan and former minister Yashpaul Kundal were among those who met the Chief Minister. During the interactions, the representatives, as per an official statement, raised various development-related concerns, including augmentation of basic infrastructure, improvement in road connectivity, strengthening of healthcare and educational facilities, and addressing public service delivery issues in their areas. They also highlighted constituency-specific demands and sought focused attention to ensure balanced and inclusive development. The Chief Minister gave a patient hearing to the visiting legislators and deputations and assured them that all genuine concerns would be examined on priority. He reiterated the governments commitment to responsive governance and equitable development across all regions.

Student-led initiative reaches top schools with workshops

Srinagar, Apr 24: In a remarkable student-driven initiative, the WE-AI (Women EmpowermentArtificial Intelligence) Club, founded by Taleyn Tatheer Khan and co-founded by Aiza Naveed Shah, under the mentorship of Priyanka Bharghav from Admit Kard, successfully conducted its maiden series of workshops and seminars from April 20 here. The program witnessed enthusiastic participation from students across leading institutions, including Kashmir Harvard, Green Valley Educational Institute, Presentation Convent School, Crescent Public School, SRM Welkin Sopore, Birla Open Minds International School, and GD Goenka Public School. The initiative aimed to inspire young mindsespecially girlsto explore opportunities in engineering and Artificial Intelligence while promoting equality, innovation, and leadership. Through interactive sessions, live demonstrations, and collaborative activities, participants were introduced to the fundamentals of AI, real-world technological applications, and problem-solving approaches. The workshops emphasized the role of women in shaping the future of science and technology. WE-AI is not just a club; it is a platform to inspire confidence, curiosity, and leadership among young women who aspire to step into the world of technology and innovation, said Taleyn Tatheer Khan, Founder. Our aim is to make AI and engineering accessible and engaging for students at the school level, while encouraging them to think beyond textbooks and work towards real-world impact, added Aiza Naveed Shah, Co-Founder. Mentor Priyanka Bharghav (Admit Kard) highlighted the importance of early exposure to emerging technologies, noting that such initiatives help shape future-ready students equipped with technical knowledge and social awareness. With its successful maiden outreach, the WE-AI Club has laid the foundation for a sustained movement aimed at nurturing innovation, leadership, and empowerment among youth in the region.

Sniffer dog squads deployed to intensify crackdown against drugs in Srinagar

Srinagar, Apr 24: In a sharp escalation of enforcement under the ongoing 100-day Nasha Mukt Jammu & Kashmir Abhiyan, Srinagar Police has deployed its sniffer Dog Squad across multiple strategic locations in the district to intensify the crackdown on drug trafficking and peddling. Trained sniffer dogs, including notable units like the one named Ennie, are now actively positioned at key checkpoints, busy intersections such as Jahangir Chowk, and other vulnerable points. These highly skilled canines conduct on-the-spot vehicle inspections and searches to detect concealed narcotics, significantly boosting the polices ability to identify and apprehend drug peddlers swiftly. This proactive measure forms a core part of Srinagar Polices zero-tolerance strategy against the drug menace. Officials emphasize that the deployment enhances ground-level surveillance and strengthens efforts to dismantle supply networks that have plagued the region. The Nasha Mukt Jammu & Kashmir Abhiyan was launched on April 11, 2026, by the UT administration under the leadership of Lieutenant Governor Manoj Sinha. It aims to combat the rising tide of drug abuse through a dual approach: rigorous enforcement against traffickers and comprehensive awareness, prevention, and rehabilitation initiatives targeting youth and communities. Jammu and Kashmir has witnessed a surge in drug-related cases, with law enforcement agencies seizing over 68,000 kg of narcotics in the last five years. The campaign features high-impact public outreach, school and college programs, e-pledges, counseling services (including the helpline 14446), and coordinated drives involving police, district administrations, and civil society. A major launch event is planned in Srinagar in the first week of May.56 Similar deployments of narcotic dog squads have been reported across Kashmir Valley districts, including Shopian and Anantnag, where canines assist in checkpoint searches and cordon operations to target hidden contraband like charas and other substances. In Shopian, for instance, the canine unit works alongside security forces to bolster anti-trafficking efforts. Police officials describe the sniffer dog deployment as a game-changer for field-level detection, allowing rapid identification of concealed drugs that might otherwise evade manual checks. This has already led to intensified vehicle and passenger screening, acting as a strong deterrent for those involved in the illicit trade. Parallel to enforcement, awareness campaigns are in full swing. These include community meetings, padyatras, mega IEC (Information, Education, Communication) drives covering panchayats and educational institutions, and youth engagement programs. The goal is to foster a collective societal resolve against drug abuse while providing rehabilitation support for affected individuals. Srinagar Police, along with counterparts in other districts, maintains a firm stance: strict action against peddlers, financiers, and networks, coupled with intelligence-sharing and public participation. SSP Srinagar has underscored the need for community vigilance during the 100-day period to track and monitor the entire drug ecosystem. Srinagar Police has appealed to citizens to extend full cooperation by sharing actionable information about suspicious activities or drug-related networks. Your vigilance can help us build a drug-free society, a senior officer stated, reaffirming the forces commitment to eradicating the menace. The 100-day campaign, aligned with the national Nasha Mukt Bharat Abhiyan, is seen as a transformative movement to safeguard homes, schools, and communities. With enforcement tools like sniffer dogs now actively in play and awareness efforts reaching every doorstep, authorities express confidence that sustained pressure will yield tangible results in curbing drug trafficking and abuse in Kashmir.

Giant leap, or a stretch? Musks Terafab plan bets big on space energy for AI, but execution risks cloud its promise

Elon Musk plans Terafab to meet AI's massive energy needs. This venture involves building chips and generating power in space. Other companies seek conventional solutions. Musk's ambitious plan faces engineering and cost challenges. Success could reshape the semiconductor industry and AI infrastructure globally. This initiative promises significant advancements.

Nazrul Islam Baba elected State President PSAJK for 3 years

Srinagar, Apr 24:In a significant development, Nazrul Islam Baba was on Friday unanimously elected as State President of Private Schools Association Jammu & Kashmir (PSAJK). The decision in this regard was taken in the executive council meeting of the PSAJK convened at Green Valley Educational Institute (GVEI), ElahiBagh, Srinagar. During the meeting, it was unanimously decided that Nazrul Islam Baba will be the state President of PSAJK for a tenure of three years. The decision symbolizes unity of purpose and a forward-looking resolve to collectively navigate the evolving educational landscape in Jammu and Kashmir, Nazrul Islam Baba told Greater Kashmir . Following the meeting, the oath ceremony was held at the Ahmad Auditorium of GVEI wherein the State President PSAJK and all the district presidents of the association were given oath by the renowned advocate Nadeem Qadri, who is also the legal advisor of the association. The oath taking ceremony was attended by National President of National Independent Schools Alliance (NISA) Dr. Kulbhushan Sharma and National President of Private Schools Children Welfare Association (PSCWA) Dr. Syed Shamael Ahmad. Also, the school leaders of other private schools across J&K were also present at the occasion. Chairman, Delhi Public School (DPS) Srinagar Vijay Dhar, chairman International DPS ShowkatChoudhary renowned educationist C L Vishan was also present at the occasion. Earlier during the executive council meeting, stress was laid on a structured roadmap for the future besides institutional strengthening, policy advocacy, regulatory balance, academic excellence, and the integration of innovation and technology within the schooling ecosystem. Speaking at the occasion, the newly sworn-in state president (PSAJK), Nazrul Islam Baba called for a transparent and streamlined education system saying that private institutions have long acted as knowledge partners in bridging gaps in quality education across the Valley. Baba said the association was strengthening its roadmap with a focus on quality education, collaborative learning, and capacity building of stakeholders, including teachers, school leaders, and administrative staff. We cannot dream of quality education in isolation. This is the era of collaborative learning, he said. He also announced a series of upcoming seminars and outreach programmes aimed at upskilling educators and addressing institutional challenges. Baba said PSAJK leadership would be traveling across Kashmir frequently in the coming days to roll out initiatives designed to support students and school administrations. Meaningful progress in the education sector would require active government backing and community participation, he said. He said that the private sector was not in competition with the government but doing its part as knowledge partners. This ecosystem cannot function without mutual support, he said. He further urged the authorities to acknowledge the role of private institutions in strengthening the education framework. Briefing about the historical context, Baba said private schools filled a critical vacuum in quality education during periods of turmoil in Kashmir. He however cautioned against policy approaches that could undermine investor confidence or destabilise institutions. Referring to the closure of private medical colleges in the past, he warned against a similar fate for school education institutions. It took decades to rebuild confidence for investment in medical education. Such setbacks should not be repeated in the school sector, he said. Nazrul Islam Baba urged stakeholders to highlight the contributions of private institutions at the grassroots level and push collectively for equitable treatment, opportunities, and recognition. Let us stand united and raise genuine issues with one voice before the government, he added.

The Silent Erosion

We are making every possible effort to raise public awareness about the growing menace of drug abuse. Recently, I had the opportunity to participate in several awareness programmes conducted across colleges, while social media, print media and news channels have continually highlighted the seriousness of this challenge. These experiences led me to reflect deeply on how substance abuse affects not only individuals now, but the future of society. When people lose their mental balance, drift away from purpose, and surrender to addiction, how can they be expected to become responsible citizens? And how can a society entrust its future to those who have, in one way or another, been derailed from the right path? As responsible citizens, our duty is not merely to condemn but to act. Those struggling with addiction should not be hated or isolated; they need support, compassion, and guidance. We must hold their hands firmly and help them come out of this suffering, which is as much an illness as it is a social challenge. Their families too deserve emotional, social, and even financial support, for they often bear the silent burden of this crisis. As one collective unit of society, we must also reflect on the wider crises confronting humanity, particularly the growing environmental challenges that are affecting everyone. We are already living under immense pressure due to environmental degradation, climate-related stresses, and the many human-induced threats that have created a vicious cycle of suffering. These pressures will only intensify in the coming years, placing greater strain on societies and future generations. At such a critical juncture, we need to ask ourselves: where are we heading? If individuals are trapped in the pressures of addiction and societies are overwhelmed by environmental and social crises, how can we effectively respond to our collective responsibilities? Survival today demands awareness, resilience, and social responsibility. We must think seriously not only about rescuing individuals from substance abuse but also about safeguarding society from broader crises that threaten our shared future. The need of the hour is compassion, collective action, and conscious reflection. A healthy society cannot be built through indifference. It can only emerge when we support those who have faltered, confront social evils together and work responsibly toward a sustainable and humane future. Environmental sustainability on the other hand demands seriousness, discipline, responsibility and collective commitment. Protecting nature, preserving clean surroundings, and building a peaceful and healthy society require conscious citizens who value life, community, and the future. In this larger agenda, one must honestly ask: How can a person trapped in drug addiction contribute meaningfully to sustainability, social harmony, or environmental stewardship? Addiction weakens judgment, reduces responsibility, and distances individuals from the duties required to nurture society and protect the environment. It is time to introspect and ponder deeply about the kind of land we want to createa land free from conflict, clean and smart, safe for newborn babies, caring for the elderly, free from misery, and filled with peace and happiness. We aspire for a society where parents feel proud of their sons and daughters, where young people become builders of progress rather than victims of addiction, and where every citizen contributes to collective well-being. Such a vision cannot coexist with the culture of drugs and substance abuse. Drugs do not build communities; they destroy them. They do not promote peace; they deepen suffering. They do not create healthy minds needed for environmental protection; they weaken the very spirit of responsibility that sustainability demands. A truly sustainable society is one where people can spend weekends in serene, pollution-free surroundings, enjoying rivers, forests, mountains, and public spaces in their pristine beauty. Nature offers peace, healing and joy far greater than any artificial intoxication. What is required for such a life is not drugs, but awareness, restraint and respect for life. Places and natural landscapes must remain symbols of purity and inspiration. Smoking or substance use at such places not only pollutes these fragile environments but can also indirectly influence non-smokers, especially youth, by normalizing unhealthy habits. Public spaces should inspire wellness, not temptation. These destinations ought to symbolize clean environments, healthy practices and thoughtful recreation. We must replace the culture of toxins with a culture of appreciationappreciation of pristine landscapes, healthy living, social harmony and shared responsibility. Sustainable development is not merely about protecting trees and water; it is about creating a society where people live with dignity, health and mutual respect. Let us therefore, choose a path where our environment remains serene, our youth remain drug-free and our society becomes a place of happiness, cleanliness, and hope. The message is simple: for a peaceful future, a clean environment and a proud societywhat we need is not drugs, but responsibility, compassion and collective action. Drug abuse is a silent destroyer that not only harms individuals but also weakens society and undermines environmental responsibility. A person trapped in substance abuse often loses physical strength, mental clarity, and social responsibility, making meaningful contributions to community welfare increasingly difficult. Instead of becoming agents of positive change, such individuals may drift away from productive roles in family, society, and nation-building. Drug abuse also erodes social values by contributing to crime, instability, broken families, and reduced community participation. When youth fall into addiction, society loses valuable human potential that could otherwise be used for progress and development. A healthy society depends on responsible citizens who contribute to both social harmony and environmental protection. Combating drug abuse, therefore, is not only a public health priority but also a social and environmental necessity. A drug-free society is essential for a stronger community, a safer future, and a healthier environment The initiative launched by Shri Manoj Sinha, Lieutenant Governor of Jammu and Kashmir under the ambitious 100-day Nasha Mukt Jammu Kashmir Abhiyaan marks a decisive and timely intervention against the growing menace of drug abuse, particularly among the youth. At a time when substance abuse threatens not only individual lives but also the social and moral fabric of communities, this campaign stands as a strong message of zero tolerance against narcotics and a renewed commitment to building a healthier, safer, and drug-free Jammu and Kashmir. Equally significant is the campaigns focus on awareness and public participation. Drug abuse is not merely an individual failing; it is a social crisis that demands community engagement. Through educational institutions, public outreach programmes, village-level participation and youth engagement activities, the Abhiyaan encourages society to recognize addiction as a shared challenge. It calls upon parents, teachers, civil society, religious leaders, and citizens to join hands in creating an environment where awareness, vigilance, and prevention become collective responsibilities. A person under the influence of substance abuse becomes increasingly disconnected from reality. Decision-making abilities are impaired, productivity declines and ethical judgment weakens. Such individuals may neglect their duties at home, in workplaces, or in public life. Over time, this disengagement transforms them from potential contributors into dependents, placing a burden on families and social systems rather than strengthening them. Equally concerning is the indirect impact on the environment. Individuals engaged in drug abuse or related illegal activities often show little regard for environmental responsibility. Public spaces may be misused or neglected, leading to increased littering, unsafe disposal of harmful substances, and degradation of natural surroundings. Moreover, illegal drug production and trafficking can contribute to deforestation, pollution, and the disruption of local ecosystems. Thus, substance abuse quietly undermines environmental sustainability alongside social well-being. Addressing this issue requires a collective effort. Awareness is the first step. Society must recognize that drug abuse is not an isolated problem but a shared challenge that affects community health, safety, and development. Families, educational institutions, and local authorities must work together to guide individuals, especially youth, toward healthy and productive lifestyles. Early intervention, counselling, and rehabilitation programmes can play a crucial role in restoring affected individuals and reintegrating them into society. At the same time, strict enforcement of laws against drug trafficking and abuse is essential. However, enforcement alone is not enough. Compassionate support systems must be established to help individuals recover and regain their sense of purpose. A person freed from addiction can once again become a valuable member of society, contributing positively to community development and environmental protection. In conclusion, individuals involved in drug abuse gradually lose their ability to serve society and protect their environment. Their decline affects not only their own lives but also the collective progress of the community. It is therefore, imperative for society to act decisivelythrough awareness, prevention, and rehabilitationto ensure a healthier, safer, and more responsible future for all. The Nasha Mukt Jammu Kashmir Abhiyaan is therefore not merely a government programme; it is a social movement. Its success depends on public cooperation and sustained commitment from all sections of society. Every citizen has a role to playthrough awareness, vigilance, guidance, and support. This campaign offers a powerful opportunity to transform concern into action and resolve into results. With strong leadership, community participation and coordinated efforts, the vision of a drug-free Jammu and Kashmir can become a reality. It is a call not just to fight addiction, but to safeguard the future and bring sustainability to this . Dr. Mubashir Jeelani, Associate Professor in HED, J&K India.

Beyond Bricks and Mortar

The Code on Social Security, 2020 (Code) consolidates Indias labour welfare laws and introduces a structured framework for the social security of building and other construction workers. Given the hazardous and largely informal nature of this sector, the Code provides for the levy of a cess on construction activities to fund welfare measures. This mechanism ensures that employers contribute directly towards the social protection of workers through dedicated Welfare Boards. Is any cess levied for the welfare of building workers? Yes. A cess is levied and collected for the purposes of social security and welfare of building workers. What is the rate of such cess? The cess is levied at a rate not exceeding two per cent but not less than one per cent of the cost of construction, as specified by the Central Government through notification from time to time. What is included in the cost of construction for calculating cess? The cost of construction excludes: (a) The cost of land; and (b) Any compensation paid or payable to an employee or their kin. From whom is the cess collected and how? The cess is collected from every employer undertaking building or other construction work. It is collected in the prescribed manner and at the prescribed time, which may include: (a) Deduction at source for Government or public sector projects; and (b) Advance collection through a local authority or other notified authority where approval is required. Where is the collected cess deposited? The collected cess is deposited by the local authority or notified authority with the Building Workers Welfare Board in the prescribed manner. Can cess be collected in advance or at uniform rates? Yes. The cess, including advance payment, may be collected at uniform rates based on the quantum of construction work, subject to final assessment. What happens if an employer delays payment of cess? If an employer fails to pay the cess within the prescribed time, they are liable to pay interest. How is the interest calculated? Interest is payable at the rate prescribed by the Central Government, calculated from the due date of payment until the actual payment is made. Can any employer be exempted from paying cess? Yes. The appropriate Government may exempt any employer or class of employers in a State if such cess is already levied and payable under another corresponding law in that State. How is cess assessed and paid by the employer? The employer must, within sixty days of completion of each construction project (or within a notified period), pay the cess based on self-assessment of the cost of construction, after adjusting any advance cess already paid. What must the employer do after paying the cess? The employer must file a return in the prescribed manner after making the payment. What happens if discrepancies are found in self-assessment? If the authority finds discrepancies between the self-assessment and the return, it may conduct an inquiry and make an appropriate assessment order. What does the assessment order specify? The assessment order specifies the date by which any payable cess must be paid by the employer. What happens if cess is not paid within the specified time after assessment? The unpaid amount is treated as arrears. Can a penalty be imposed for such non-payment? Yes. The prescribed authority may impose a penalty up to the amount of the cess. Is the employer given an opportunity to be heard before penalty? Yes. The employer must be given a reasonable opportunity of being heard. Can penalty be avoided? Yes. If the authority is satisfied that the default occurred for good and sufficient reasons, no penalty will be imposed. Can an employer appeal against assessment or penalty orders? Yes. An employer aggrieved by such orders may file an appeal within the prescribed time and in the prescribed manner. Is any fee required for filing an appeal? Yes. The appeal must be accompanied by the prescribed fee. What is the procedure followed by the appellate authority? The appellate authority provides the appellant an opportunity of being heard and disposes of the appeal as expeditiously as possible. Is the decision of the appellate authority final? Yes. The order passed in appeal is final and cannot be challenged in any court of law. Who can be registered as a beneficiary? A building worker who: (a) Has completed eighteen years of age but not sixty years; and (b) Has worked for at least ninety days in building or construction work during the preceding twelve months. Who registers such workers? The authorised officer of the Building Workers Welfare Board registers eligible workers in the prescribed manner. When does a registered beneficiary cease to be a beneficiary? A worker ceases to be a beneficiary when: (a) They attain sixty years of age; or (b) They do not work for at least ninety days in a year. Are there any exceptions while calculating the ninety days? Yes. Periods of absence due to personal injury caused by an accident arising out of and in the course of employment are excluded. Can a worker continue to receive benefits after sixty years of age? Yes. If a worker has been a beneficiary for at least three continuous years before attaining sixty years, they remain eligible for prescribed benefits. How is the three-year period calculated? The period includes time spent as a beneficiary with other Welfare Boards immediately before registration with the current Board. Is there a fund for building workers welfare? Yes. A fund called the Building and Other Construction Workers Welfare Fund is constituted by the Welfare Board. What amounts are credited to this fund? The fund includes: (a) Cess collected; (b) Grants and loans from the Central Government; and (c) Other sums received from sources as decided by the Central Government. How is the fund utilised? The fund is used for: (a) Expenses of the Welfare Board in performing its functions; (b) Salaries, allowances, and remuneration of members, officers, and employees; and (c) Other authorised purposes under the law. Is there any limit on administrative expenses of the Welfare Board? Yes. Administrative expenses, including salaries and allowances, must not exceed five per cent of the total expenses of the Board in a financial year. Therefore, the cess-based framework under the Code represents a focused effort to secure financial and social protection for construction workers. By combining employer contributions with regulated fund utilisation and worker registration, it aims to strengthen welfare delivery. Its effectiveness, however, will depend on proper implementation and efficient administration. Muneeb Rashid Malik is an Advocate. He tweets @muneebmalikrash.

A Soldiers Honest Reckoning

A year ago, twenty-six men were killed in a meadow in Pahalgam. Their murderers asked them their religion before pulling the trigger a deliberate, theatrical provocation designed to ignite communal fire inside India. Sixteen days later, India responded with Operation Sindoor: twenty-three minutes of precision strikes against terrorist infrastructure in Pakistan-administered Kashmir and Pakistans Punjab heartland, the deepest military intrusion since the war of 1971. The anniversary demands honest accounting. Not the triumphalist narrative that hardens into official memory, nor the defeatist critique that ignores what was genuinely achieved. A soldiers reckoning requires both columns of the ledger. Begin with the credit column, because it is substantial. India struck nine targets simultaneously, with indigenous systems BrahMos cruise missiles, Akashteer air defence networks, loitering munitions without dependence on American platforms or foreign logistics chains. This was not merely a tactical outcome. It was a proof of concept for the Atmanirbhar Bharat doctrine in live combat conditions, and the world noticed. JeM chief Masood Azhar publicly acknowledged losing ten family members and four close aides in the Bahawalpur strike. The message to the deep state in Rawalpindi was unambiguous: the nuclear umbrella does not shield your handlers. India also deployed the Indus Waters Treaty as a non-military instrument of coercion, suspending it with the blunt declaration that blood and water cannot flow together. For decades, that treaty had functioned as a constraint on Indias development options in Jammu and Kashmir. Its suspension, whatever its eventual legal trajectory, signalled that the full portfolio of national power was now on the table. And critically, India crossed an escalatory threshold that had stood inviolate since Kargil: striking Pakistans Punjab, not merely PoK. That changes the calculus permanently. The threshold, once crossed, cannot be uncrossed. Now the debit column and a soldier must read it without flinching. The air campaign produced an outcome that Indias establishment has neither fully acknowledged nor adequately explained. Three Indian aircraft were lost: a Rafale F3R, a Mirage 2000H, and a third platform, likely a MiG-29 or Su-30. The Rafale loss was confirmed by French intelligence sources and later obliquely acknowledged by Indias Chief of Defence Staff. IAF pilots, having completed their strike missions successfully, appear to have underestimated the engagement envelope of Pakistani fighters during the defensive counter-air phase that followed. The political restrictions on pre-emptive targeting of Pakistani air defences compounded the vulnerability. India won the strike phase. It mismanaged the air battle that followed. These are two different facts and both are true. The information war was lost comprehensively. Pakistans Inter-Services Public Relations operation amplified by Chinese and Turkish state media flooded the global information space with fabricated imagery and claims within hours. Indias Ministry of External Affairs and PIB issued factual refutations that were accurate, delayed, and invisible to the international audience that matters. In the 21st century, narrative is not a supplement to military action; it is a parallel line of operation. India treats it as an afterthought. The diplomatic outcome was the most consequential shortfall. The ceasefire of 10 May was announced not from South Block or the Prime Ministers Office, but from Donald Trumps Truth Social account. Secretary of State Rubio called it a US-brokered deal. Pakistans Prime Minister thanked Washington. India denied American involvement but the denial itself confirmed the awkwardness. Whatever the private reality of how the ceasefire was arranged, the public optics handed Pakistan a narrative victory it had done nothing militarily to deserve. The isolation campaign against Pakistan failed. The China-Turkey-Pakistan axis held firm. The Gulf states, which India had reason to expect would remain neutral, did not provide the diplomatic cover New Delhi anticipated. And in an irony that should trouble every Indian strategic planner, Operation Sindoor rescued General Asim Munir from political near-extinction. Until May 7, he was the most embattled army chief Pakistan had seen in decades, his grip on power under sustained challenge from Imran Khans movement. Four days of war gave him a Field Marshals baton and erased the Khan problem from public view. India inadvertently delivered its adversarys establishment from its domestic crisis. What, then, is the strategic verdict at one year? Operation Sindoor was a necessary response and an imperfect one. It was necessary because a democracy cannot absorb the massacre of tourists without answer and because a pattern of absorbing Pakistani-sponsored terrorism without consequence had become a strategic liability. The Pahalgam attackers chose their target to humiliate India into inaction. India chose not to be humiliated. But the operations deeper purpose deterrence remains unverified. The structural architecture of Pakistani state sponsorship of terrorism is intact. There has been no diplomatic channel opened, no Track II engagement, no back-channel of consequence. Both sides claimed victory, which should have created the political space to talk; in South Asias tragic grammar, it never does. From Kupwara to Kanyakumari, Indians observe this anniversary with justified pride in what their armed forces executed in those twenty-three minutes. A Kashmiri who has seen the cost of terrorism across a lifetime holds that pride too. But pride is not policy. The meadow in Pahalgam remains a wound, and the architecture that produced those murders is undemolished. The honest soldiers verdict: India struck well. It managed the aftermath poorly. And the hardest question whether the terrorism that killed those twenty-six people is structurally less likely to recur today than it was on 21 April 2025 does not yet have a satisfactory answer.

GST fault line: Supreme Court to rule if taxman can bundle years into one sweeping show-cause notice

The Supreme Court is set to decide if tax authorities can issue a single show-cause notice for multiple financial years. This procedural issue impacts how tax exposure is assessed and litigated, with potential to aggregate liabilities and blur limitation boundaries. The court will determine if the CGST Act permits composite proceedings across years or mandates year-by-year liability initiation.

Iran conflict exposes limits of energy transition, pushes world back to oil, gas and nuclear

Recent global events, particularly the Iran conflict, have highlighted the continued reliance on hydrocarbons, pushing back EV targets and encouraging new oil and gas exploration. Challenges with renewable energy storage and grid infrastructure, alongside the high cost of alternatives like green hydrogen, are leading to a renewed focus on gas and nuclear power to ensure energy security.

Easy to enter, difficult to exit

Russias Ukraine war is out of the headlines because the worlds attention is now fully on the Iran war. It is also because the Ukraine war has gone on for fifty months and inevitably a sense of ennui sets in the international community even about wars. This is especially because the frontlines in Ukraine are more or less stable and the prospects of dramatic developments on the battlefield are low. The world therefore seems to have moved on though for the Ukrainians it is a different situation altogether they continue to fight the Russian aggression and have not accepted that around 20% of their land is now in their neighbours control. The Europeans too have not accepted the current status quo; their military and financial support for Ukraine continues. The hold put by Hungary on a EU financial package of Euro 90 billion to Ukraine to augment its finances and enable it to fight on was lifted by it following the defeat of Prime Minister Viktor Orban in the elections held on April 12. This would have come as a relief to Ukraines President Volodymyr Zelensky who is naturally upset that global interest in his countrys plight has weakened. In a conversation with an international news agency on April 22 Zelensky said that it was important not to forget about Ukraine because there was a full scale invasion and big war on the land. He disclosed that discussions at the technical level between his people and the US were going on but he was realistic enough to accept that the US was deeply involved in the Iranian question and that the focus had therefore shifted. It is a fact that for Trump the Iran war and the need to end it is now a surpassing priority and the Ukraine war and how to deal with Russia has receded into the background. Besides, from the beginning of his second term Trump has not shown the same drive as his predecessor against the Russian invasion. Indeed, he has claimed that Putin would never have dared to attack Ukraine had he been President. Can this be considered tenable? The technical level discussions mentioned by Zelensky are related to the Trump Peace Plan which was announced in November last year. Among the most controversial parts of the plan was the idea that Russias de-facto control of the territory in its control be accepted. Zelensky has indicated through all these months that he can hardly do so. Reportedly he has floated many ideas for these territories but not accepting that of ceding them to Russia. On its part Russia has formally amalgamated them into its own territory through a formal legislative process. The EU can hardly accept recognising Russias formal or de-facto control of these areas of Ukraine. It is difficult to visualise how anyone can square this circle unless Ukraine and the Europeans accept facts on the ground. Trump is inclined to do so. The Ukraine war is essentially a European war. It was a body blow to Europe because the Europeans thought that the continent would never witness such a war. The Europeans were outraged at the Russian action also because it totally upset the structure of European security. This war did impact adversely foodgrain and fertilizer supplies from Ukraine to some parts of the world but this was not truly global in scope. By now around 75% of Ukraines foodgrain exports to the world have been restored but its fertilizer exports have dried up. These developments affected other parts of the world but do not compare with the immediate global impact on the global energy situation because of the Iran war. It was unprecedented that 20% of the global energy supplies dried up with the beginning of the Iran war. That impacted negatively on the international economy. Hence, it was natural that the Iran war has overshadowed the Ukraine war. Fifty months after Russian President Vladimir Putin launched the attack on Ukraine, has he conducted a cost-benefit analysis of his enterprise? Clearly, he would not have anticipated that the war would be on for this long period when he sent his army into Ukraine. His initial move was towards the capital Kyiv with the intention that once it was in his grip a pro-Russia regime would come in. That would have led to his aim to integrate Ukraine in the Russian orbit and make it give up its intention to join EU structures and also its aspiration to become a member of NATO. The failure of the Russian armys thrust towards Kyiv put paid to Putins ambition to permanently turn its direction towards Russia. The furious reaction of the Western countries at causing a melt down of the European security architecture led them to impose sanctions to cripple Russia. They have damaged the Russian economy but it has retained its capacity to continue with the war. This has been because of Chinas support and also, in the margins, Indias decision to continue its full fledged relationship with it. However, with the war stalemated and economic difficulties continuing there is little doubt that Putin would like to end the war as long as he retains the 20% Ukrainian territories which he has won. The P5 members of the UN Security Council have the responsibility to maintain international peace and security. Russia and the US are both P5 members and it is they that have not fulfilled their responsibility. Both now want a way out but it is not proving easy, demonstrating that it is easy to begin wars but difficult to end them.

Trump dispatches Witkoff, Kushner to Pakistan for new talks with Iran's foreign minister

Islamabad, Apr 24: President Donald Trump is sending his envoys Steve Witkoff and Jared Kushner to Pakistan on Saturday to continue talks with Iran, the White House said Friday. White House press secretary Karoline Leavitt said in an interview on Fox News Channel that the two will have talks with Iranian Foreign Minister Abbas Araghchi. We're hopeful that it will be a productive conversation and hopefully move the ball forward to a deal, Leavitt said. She said that Vice President JD Vance would not be travelling but that he remains deeply involved. She said he will be in the US, along with Secretary of State Marco Rubio and the president's national security team, on standby to fly to Pakistan if necessary.

Blackout mock drill conducted in Baramulla town

Courier networks under scanner in Shopian as drug abuse fears grow; 33 licenses suspended for various violations

Shopian, Apr 24: Authorities in south Kashmirs Shopian district have stepped up surveillance of courier services over concerns of illegal distribution of prescription drugs and drug abuse as part of a crackdown on pharmaceutical violations. The Drugs and Food Control Organization has flagged concerns that certain medicines, including those requiring a doctors prescription, may be reaching consumers without proper authorization via courier channels. Officials say the move to monitor shipments is aimed at curbing drug abuse. Assistant Drug Controller Humaira Shawl said inspection teams are being sent to courier operators offices to check for the movement of drugs that are susceptible to misuse or abuse. The idea is to curb any drugs, if being sent through couriers, that could be misused or abused, she said. The focus on courier services comes alongside intensified enforcement efforts across the district over the past year. According to official data, hundreds of inspections have been carried out since April 2025 to ensure compliance with the Drugs and Cosmetics Act, 1940, and related rules governing the sale and distribution of medicines. During this period, drug inspectors lifted multiple samples from retail outlets for laboratory testing, with a small number declared not of standard quality. Authorities also seized medicines worth over Rs 2 lakh in connection with violations, officials said. Regulatory action has extended to licensing as well. At least 18 licences were cancelled under various provisions of the Act and 33 suspended for breaches including failure to maintain records for prescription drugs, particularly those with addiction potential. One licence was cancelled for stocking unjustified quantities of abused medicines without proper documentation. The core mandate is to ensure that safe, effective and quality medicines are available to the public at reasonable prices, an official said, adding that unauthorized distribution channels undermine both public health and regulatory oversight. Officials noted that the alleged use of courier services presents a new challenge, allowing drugs to bypass traditional pharmacy checks. Monitoring mechanisms are now being strengthened to track suspicious consignments and ensure that only licensed entities are involved in pharmaceutical distribution. The department has also pushed for systemic improvements, including 100% CCTV coverage in medical shops and the adoption of computerized billing systems across the district. Authorities claim near-total compliance has been achieved on these fronts, enhancing transparency and traceability.

Court convicts man in 2014 minor sexual assault case, awards jail term

Srinagar, Apr 24: A court in north Kashmirs Kupwara district convicted a man in a 2014 sexual assault case involving a minor boy and sentenced him to imprisonment, concluding a trial that lasted nearly a decade. The Judicial Magistrate First Class Mansoor Ahmad Mir in Tangdhar convicted Mohammad Rafiq Khawaja under Sections 377 (unnatural offences) and 341 (wrongful restraint) of the Ranbir Penal Code in a case registered at Police Station Karnah. In its order, the court said the accused shall undergo simple imprisonment for one year and pay a fine of Rs 3,000 under Section 377 RPC. He was further sentenced to 10 days simple imprisonment and a fine of Rs 300 under Section 341 RPC. In default of payment of fine, he shall undergo further simple imprisonment for one month. All sentences shall run concurrently, and the period of detention already undergone during investigation and trial will be set off against the sentence. The court also directed that the accused be taken into custody and lodged in Sub Jail Kupwara to serve the sentence, and that a warrant of imprisonment be prepared. The personal and surety bonds furnished by the accused were cancelled. According to the prosecution, the incident occurred in August 2014 when the accused intercepted the minor on his way home, wrongfully restrained him and forcibly dragged him into a maize field, where he sexually assaulted him. The assault came to light when a local resident, alerted by the victims cries, rushed to the spot, prompting the accused to flee. The victim later informed his family and was taken for medical examination, following which police registered a case and initiated an investigation. Authorities inspected the site, recorded statements of witnesses and collected medical and other evidence before filing a chargesheet. During the trial, the prosecution examined the victim, his family members, an eyewitness, the investigating officer and medical experts. The court found the victims testimony consistent and reliable, noting that it withstood cross-examination. The eyewitness account corroborated the victims version regarding the presence of the accused and the circumstances in which he fled. Medical evidence indicated injuries consistent with sexual assault, with the court observing that the absence of certain forensic indicators did not weaken the case. The defence argued that the case was fabricated due to prior enmity and pointed to alleged contradictions, delay in lodging the FIR and lapses in investigation. The court held that the discrepancies were minor and did not affect the core of the prosecutions case, adding that delay in reporting such offences is not uncommon. Appearing for the prosecution, Prosecuting Officer Jan Mohammad Wani argued for stringent punishment, while the defence sought leniency, including probation, which the court declined. On the issue of compensation, the court directed the Secretary, District Legal Services Authority Kupwara, to treat the judgment as a recommendation and process the victims claim in accordance with law.

Iranian FM rushes to Islamabad for talks on resuming dialogue with US

New Delhi, Apr 24: Chances of the resumption of talks between the United States and Iran have brightened, as Iranian Foreign Minister Abbas Araghchi is set to arrive in Islamabad tonight to hold consultations with Pakistani leadership on key issues likely to figure in the proposed negotiations. The visit assumes significance in the backdrop of stalled earlier talks, which had come close to a breakthrough but ultimately ended in a deadlock. Earlier, the Iranian Foreign Minister held telephonic conversations with Pakistans Deputy Prime Minister and Foreign Minister Ishaq Dar, as well as Army Chief Field Marshal Asim Munir, to discuss the evolving situation and explore ways to revive the dialogue process. The visit is being seen as part of Pakistans continued diplomatic efforts to facilitate a fresh round of negotiations between Washington and Tehran. Renewed diplomatic activity has raised cautious optimism, although uncertainty still persists over the timing and outcome of the next round of talks. Mr Abbas Araghchi is expected to arrive Islamabad tonight with a small delegation Sources suggest that discussions with both sides have contributed to progress in preparing for a possible fresh round of engagement. The development follows earlier high-level contacts and ongoing backchannel coordination, with Islamabad positioning itself as a key facilitator in efforts to de-escalate regional tensions. A US logistics and security team is already present in the city, underscoring preparations linked to potential talks. The expected visit follows a telephone conversation between Pakistans Deputy Prime Minister and Foreign Minister Ishaq Dar and his Iranian counterpart. The exchange focused on regional developments, ceasefire prospects, and continued diplomatic coordination regarding US-Iran tensions. Both sides reviewed the evolving situation and discussed the importance of sustained communication. Mr Dar emphasised that continued and meaningful dialogue remains essential for achieving lasting peace and stability in the region.

Man jumps into Jhelum from Srinagar's Budshah bridge, rescued

Srinagar, Apr 24: A 27-year-old man was saved from drowning by the State Disaster Response Force (SDRF) personnel after he jumped into the river Jhelum from the Budshah bridge in Srinagar on Friday, officials said. An official told news agencyKashmir News Observer (KNO), that SDRF teams stationed at Budshah Bridge noticed a man jumping into the river and immediately launched a rescue operation, saving him from drowning. He said the SDRF team was already scanning the waters near Budshah bridge to trace the body of a man who had jumped into the Jhelum on Wednesday. The rescued individual was later handed over to police for further legal formalities. This is the second such incident in the last 24 hours. On Wednesday late evening, a man jumped into the river while the search to trace his body is still underway.

Police intensify crackdown on drug peddlers, 14 held in Kashmir

Srinagar, Apr 24: In continuation of the ongoing mass anti-drug campaign under the 100-day Nasha Mukt Jammu & Kashmir Abhiyaan, Police have arrested fourteen drug peddlers in various parts of valley and recovered contraband substances from their possession. As per the statement, in Ganderbal, during naka checking, a police party of PP Shadipora intercepted a vehicle (Ertiga) bearing registration No. JK01BB-1295 with two persons on board. They have been identified as Bilal Ahmad Bhat son of Ghulam Mohd Bhat resident of Batwina and Mudasir Ahmad Hajam son of Abdul Hameed Hajam resident of Arampora, Ganderbal. During search, 100 bottles of Codeine Phosphate were recovered from their possession. They have been arrested and the vehicle used in the commission of crime has also been seized. In Anantnag, acting on a specific tip-off, a police team of Police Post Sangam, raided the residence of Mohammad Younis Dar of Semthan and recovered 246 grams of charas (08 sticks). The accused was arrested subsequently. At Ashajipora Bypass, a naka party of Police Post Janglatmandi intercepted a vehicle. The contraband substance was recovered from two accused boarding the vehicle. They have been identified as Fardin Khan @Sameer Khan of Qazi Mohallah and Numaan Riyaz Khan of Lazibal. Similarly, during naka checking at Donipawa, one person identified as Nisar Ahmad Shergojri of Sherpora was apprehended with a substance resembling poppy straw. In another operation, Police Post Bus Stand apprehended Adnan Ishaq Mir of Ashajipora at Tarbal Chee and recovered approximately 2 grams of heroin-like substance from his possession. Similarly in Budgam, Police acted on credible information regarding illegal possession of narcotic substances intended for sale to local youth at a residence in the Choudhary Bagh Subden area of Budgam. Acting promptly, a police party from Police Post Soibugh conducted a search operation at the specified location. During search, approximately 2.713 kilograms of charas powder-like substance was recovered from the residential premises. The accused has been identified as Hilal Ahmad Sheikh son of Bashir Ahmad Sheikh resident of Choudhary Bagh Subden, Budgam. He was apprehended on the spot. In Kupwara, a police team of Police Post Drugmulla, at a checkpoint established at Bumhama Muqam Crossing, intercepted a vehicle (Swift) bearing registration number JK09C-6415 driven by Shafat Ahmad Dar son of Mohd Akbar Dar resident of Dar Mohalla Awoora, at present Tikker, Kupwara. During search, substantial quantity of heroin-like substance was recovered from his possession. In Baramulla, Police apprehended four drug users during routine naka checking at Wussan Crossing. An Alto vehicle bearing registration number JK05D-8764, was intercepted with four persons on board. They have been identified as Khalid Ahmed Khan son of Nazir Ahmed Khan resident of Katipora Tangmarg, Tanveer Ahmad Sofi son of Abdul Majeed Sofi resident of Sheikhpora Khreeri, Bilal Ahmad Bhat son of Gh. Nabi Bhat resident of Gutlipora Tangmarg and Imtiyaz Ahmad Magray son of Bashir Ahmad Magray resident of Mirchipora Tangmarg. During search, syringes with needles, silver foil and other narcotic paraphernalia were recovered. All four individuals were shifted to hospital for medical examination, where they tested positive for consumption of opioids, likely heroin, subject to confirmation through forensic analysis. Meanwhile in Sopore, a Police team during naka checking at Baag-e-Sundri Crossing, a suspicious individual was intercepted and apprehended. During search, psychotropic substances including Spasmoproxyvon Plus capsules and Alprazolam tablets were recovered. The accused has been identified as Zaid Bashir Bhat son of Bashir Ahmad Bhat resident of Upper Ashpeer Sopore. The police statement said that cases under relevant sections of law have been registered at respective police stations and investigation is underway to ascertain the source and wider linkages involved. J&K Police reaffirmed their commitment under the Nasha Mukt Jammu & Kashmir Abhiyaan to ensure a safer, healthier and drug-free society.

Farooq Abdullah talks about state elections, drug menace and world peace

Delhi court rejects Er Rashids interim bail plea to meet ailing father

New Delhi, Apr 24: A Delhi court has rejected the interim bail application of incarcerated Lok Sabha MP from Baramulla, Er Rashid, who had sought temporary release to meet his critically ill father, a party leader said on Friday. Sheikh Ashiq, a senior leader of the Awami Ittehad Party (AIP), confirmed to news agency Kashmir News Service (KNS) that the court turned down the plea filed by Er Rashid earlier this week. The MP had stated in his application that his father was on ventilator support and undergoing treatment in a critical condition, and requested release on humanitarian grounds.

Mock Drill Held at Degree College Shopian to Strengthen Disaster Preparedness

19 US and Chinese top scientists dead or missing under mysterious circumstances

New Delhi, Apr 24: At least 19 top scientists from the United States and China have reportedly died or gone missing under mysterious circumstances in recent years, raising concerns among experts and authorities. According to reports, at least 10 American scientists associated with sensitive nuclear and aerospace research have either disappeared or died over the past few years. It has now emerged that nine Chinese scientists engaged in space, defence, and nuclear technology have also perished or gone missing, The Federal, a US-based publication, reported. In many cases, the incidents have been attributed to accidents, illnesses, or unclear causes. However, taken together, they are drawing increased scrutiny, with some experts questioning whether a broader pattern may be at play. In the US, those who died or went missing include a nuclear physicist and professor at MIT who was shot dead outside his residence in Massachusetts, a retired Air Force general who went missing from his home in New Mexico, and an aerospace engineer who disappeared while hiking in Los Angeles. The Federal Bureau of Investigation (FBI) has confirmed it is leading efforts to investigate potential links between the missing and deceased scientists. It is working in coordination with the Departments of Energy and Defense, along with state and local law enforcement agencies. The development follows a statement by the House Oversight Committee, which said it would examine reports related to the cases. According to the Los Angeles Times, the committee has sought information from relevant agencies, including NASA, which oversees the Jet Propulsion Laboratory in Californiawhere some of the affected scientists were employed. NASA said it is coordinating and cooperating with relevant agencies regarding the matter. US lawmakers have expressed concern, with some viewing the incidents as a potential national security issue. Meanwhile, Chinese scientists who died in recent years include experts in drone technology, space research, and hypersonic systems. Reported causes range from illness and medical conditions to accidents, including a late-night car crash. The scientists were aged between 26 and 68. Chinese media outlets have also taken note of the trend, describing the deaths as extremely uncommon. Some reports have raised concerns about a possible pattern, while speculation and conspiracy theories continue to circulate. The South China Morning Post reported that a database tracking the deaths of young Chinese scientists has triggered debate, fuelling concerns about a troubling trend within the academic and research community.

Concerned over falling numbers, Mirwaiz urges J&K Muslims to perform Hajj without delay

Director SKIMS Prof M Ashraf Ganie conferred with prestigious RAE award for combatting PCOS-NCD epidemic

Srinagar, Apr 24: Director SKIMS and Ex-Officio Secretary to the Government (EOSG), Prof. M. Ashraf Ganie has been conferred with the prestigious Recognition of Academic Excellence (RAE) award by the National Academy of Medical Sciences (NAMS). This distinguished honor is reserved for eminent medical and biomedical scientists who have distinguished themselves through high-quality research and significant contributions to academia. Prof. Ganie was awarded the Achanta Lakshmipathi RAE for the year 2026 in the field of Maternal and Child Health, Womens Health, and Community Nutrition. This recognizes his pioneering work in endocrinology and metabolic disorders, specifically focusing on Polycystic Ovary Syndrome (PCOS) and associated non-communicable diseases (NCDs). As part of this recognition, Prof. Ganie delivered the National Recognition & Foundation Day Oration during the 66th Foundation Day of NAMS in New Delhi on 21st April 2026. His oration, titled PCOS as a Central Driver of NCDs Epidemic in India, directly aligns with the Prime Ministers initiative, the Swasth Nari, Sashakt Parivar Abhiyaan, emphasizing the empowerment of women through health. The oration was delivered before an eminent panel of chairpersons, including Dr. K. K. Talwar, Dr. N. K. Ganguly, and Dr. Sanjeev Sinha, all distinguished leaders in Indias medical and scientific community. The award, which includes a Citation Plaque and a Gold Medal, was presented by Dr. P. K. Mishra, Principal Secretary to the Prime Minister of India. Beyond his clinical leadership at SKIMS, Prof. Ganie served as the National Chief Coordinator for the ICMR PCOS Task Force Study. Funded by the ICMR Division of Reproductive Biology, Maternal and Child Health (RBMCH), this landmark study spanned 18 centers across India and generated the nation's first large-scale composite data on PCOS. Published in JAMA Network Open, the study highlights a staggering link between PCOS and increased risks for diabetes, metabolic syndrome, and cardiovascular diseases. Critically, the research emphasizes that PCOS in mothers has a direct impact on their babies, acting as a fuel for the early onset of NCDs such as Type 2 Diabetes (DM), coronary artery disease (CAD), Non-Alcoholic Steatohepatitis (NASH), and Hypertension in the offspring. This data also provides a critical foundation for personalized AI-powered risk prediction and enhanced clinical diagnostics across India and Establishing essential biological reference intervals tailored to reproductive-aged Indian women, addressing a long-standing gap in domestic clinical diagnostics. In his capacity as the President of the M.P.-PCOS Society, Prof. Ganie is integrating metabolic data from private organizations to ensure a comprehensive national database that bridges the gap between research and clinical practice. This national recognition comes at a time when SKIMS, under the leadership of Prof Ganie, successfully concluded the 6th Annual International Conference of the M.P-PCOS Society (MOOD-2026) in Srinagar. This global scientific platform addressed emerging challenges in metabolic and reproductive health. Prof. Ganie has dedicated several years to pioneering research in lifestyle and metabolic disorders. A prolific academician, he has previously been the recipient of over 25 national and international awards and has authored more than 255 publications in high-impact journals of international repute. Under Prof. Ganies leadership, SKIMS continues to augment its position as a premier centre for advanced clinical care, translational research, and academic excellence. The honor recognizes individual excellence and reinforces the institution's commitment to advancing healthcare and innovation at the national level.

Hindu Kush Himalaya snowpack crashes to record low for fourth straight year: ICIMOD

KATHAMADU, Apr 24: Ganga basin is among the 12 showing above-normal snow persistence in 2026 when overall snow cover across the Hindu Kush Himalaya was below-normal for the fourth consecutive year and even broke last years record-low deficit, a report said Friday. The Hindu Kush Himalaya (HKH) Snow Update by the International Centre for Integrated Mountain Development (ICIMOD) is an annual report that monitors seasonal snow anomalies in the HKH region and offers an assessment of snow persistence between the [] The post Hindu Kush Himalaya snowpack crashes to record low for fourth straight year: ICIMOD appeared first on Daily Excelsior .

Srinagar Police Deploy Narcotic Dog Squad To Crack Down On Drug Trafficking

SRINAGAR, Apr 24: Police in Srinagar have deployed the narcotic dog squad across multiple city locations to crack down on drug trafficking, a police official said on Friday. During this special drive under the Nasha Mukt Bharat Abhiyan, trained sniffer dogs have been positioned at key checkpoints to detect concealed narcotics, identify and arrest drug peddlers, he said. The official said deploying highly trained canines enhances on-the-spot detection capabilities and strengthens ground-level enforcement. He said the proactive initiative is a [] The post Srinagar Police Deploy Narcotic Dog Squad To Crack Down On Drug Trafficking appeared first on Daily Excelsior .

India, US agree to remain engaged on trade pact: Govt

NEWW DELHI, Apr 24: The Government on Friday said the three-day trade talks between Indian and US officials concluded on April 23, with both sides agreeing to stay engaged to sustain the momentum ahead. Both sides discussed several areas, such as market access, non-tariff measures, technical barriers to trade, customs and trade facilitation, investment promotion, economic security alignment and digital trade, the Commerce and Industry Ministry said in a statement. The meetings were conducted in a constructive and positive spirit, [] The post India, US agree to remain engaged on trade pact: Govt appeared first on Daily Excelsior .

J-K ACB uncovers fresh custodian land scam, 3 more FIRs filed in Jammu

Jammu, Apr 24: The Jammu and Kashmir Anti-Corruption Bureau (ACB) has exposed another major land scam involving Custodian land in Jammu district, officials said here on Friday. In a statement issued to the news agencyKashmir News Observer (KNO), a spokesperson said the Jammu and Kashmir Anti-Corruption Bureau again achieved a major success in extracting one of the major land scams in Jammu and Kashmir, wherein Custodian land in Asarwan, Mishriwala, Bhalwal and R.S. Pura area of Jammu district has been found usurped by the land mafia in connivance with Form Alf Holders and the officers/officials of Custodian / Revenue department. He said, inputs were received that Custodian land in thousands of Kanal situated at Asarwan, Mishriwala, Bhalwal and R.S. Pura Jammu, has been fraudulently grabbed by the land grabbers/gangsters in connivance with the Revenue officers/officials. The revenue records have been tempered and land has been sold to various persons. On the basis of the inputs received by ACB a verification was initiated and on the basis of the verification conducted earlier it was found that more than 1000 kanals of Custodian land was shown allotted to the displaced persons on the basis of fake orders, who were otherwise not entitled for the allotment of additional land through fraudulent means by the land grabbers / Form Alaf holders in connivance with the officers /officials of Revenue department and others. Accordingly, 24 case FIRs were registered by the ACB in which the investigation is still in progress. Again, during the course of verification it has been found that displaced persons of Pakistan (PAK / POK Refugees) were already allotted land in their favour but even then kith and kin of these families although not entitled being Form Alaf holders in connivance with the concerned Patwaries / Girdawars / Naib Tehsildars / Tehsildars of Revenue Department got mutations of additional land at R.S. Pura and Domana area of District Jammu attested in their favour either without any Govt. / Provisional Rehabilitation Office (PRO) order or on fake Govt. /PRO order, said the spokesperson. He said, during verification it has also been found that no such orders of allotment of land were issued by the office of the PRO. These persons after getting mutation of lands in their favour alienated the said land directly or through their attorney holders / conduits to various persons by resorting to fraudulent means, thereby causing a huge loss to the Govt. Exchequer. Owing to the establishment of, prima facie, nexus of the criminal elements/land grabbers/ Form Alaf holders and the Revenue officers/officials in alienation of about 20 kanals 09 Marlas of Custodian land through fraudulent means, ACB has now registered another 03 formal case FIRs in P/S ACB Central J&K for in-depth investigation under the provisions of J&K Prevention of Corruption Act, criminal conspiracy, cheating, forgery and fraud against the accused persons namely (1) Waryam Singh S/O Sh. Shalo Ram R/O Village Kotli Bhagwan Singh (Kuttu Chack) Tehsil R.S. Pura District Jammu then Patwari, (2) Balak Ram S/O Late Sh. Buti Ram R/O Village Tootray Tehsil R.S. Pura, Jammu then Naib Tehsildar, (3) Mohan Singh S/O Sh. Bhagwan Singh R/O Nanak Nagar Jammu, (4) Prem Singh S/O Sh. Churu Ram R/O Baggan Tehsil Bilawar, Kathua, then Patwari, (5) Bharat Bushan Mehra S/O Harbans Lal R/O Mamka, R.S. Pura, Jammu, (6) Rahul Kai S/O Late Sh. Deep Raj R/O H. NO. 39, New Company Bagh Canal Road, Jammu, then Patwari, (7) Saqib Saleem S/O Sh. Saleem Ahmed R/O 54 Majheer Thana Mandi Rajouri then Tahsildar, (8) Sat Pal S/O Sh. Nanak Chand R/O Gadi Garh, Jammu and others.

Mirwaiz worried over drop in J&K Hajj pilgrims, urges early pilgrimage

Srinagar, Apr 24: While delivering his Friday sermon at Jama Masjid, Mirwaiz-e-Kashmir, Dr. Moulvi Muhammad Umar Farooq, expressed concern that this year has witnessed one of the lowest numbers of pilgrims from Jammu and Kashmir proceeding for Hajj. He noted a growing trend of people preferring Umrah over Haj or postponing Hajj in anticipation of more convenient conditions, such as cooler seasons. He also observed that many who can afford delay Hajj until they feel all worldly responsibilities are fulfilled, which is not the correct approach. Emphasizing that while Umrah holds great virtue, Hajj remains an obligatory pillar of Islam for those who can afford it, he said it should not be delayed unnecessarily. Life and death are in the hands of Allah, and no one knows what tomorrow holds, he said. Urging people to undertake Hajj at a younger age if they can afford, Mirwaiz said that Hajj is an Ibadah that entails physical exertion, and is best performed when one has strength and good health. He cautioned that delaying it indefinitely may lead to missing the opportunity altogether. He appealed to the Muslim community to give due priority to Hajj and fulfill this fundamental obligation without delay.

Union Minister Mandaviya inaugurates first ESIC Hospital in J&K in J-K's Budgam

Budgam, Apr 24: Union Minister for Labour & Employment and Youth Affairs & Sports, Dr. Mansukh Mandaviya today inaugurated a 30-bedded Employees State Insurance Corporation (ESIC) Hospital at Ompora, Budgam, strengthening healthcare access and social security infrastructure for workers and their families in Jammu & Kashmir. The newly inaugurated hospital is the first ESIC hospital in Kashmir, marking a historic milestone in the expansion of worker welfare services in the region. Addressing the gathering, Dr. Mandaviya said, A country that values the dignity of its workers is unstoppable on the path of progress. It is the workforce whose tireless effort that takes the nation forward, and the welfare of workers must therefore remain at the centre of governance, he added. The Government under the leadership of Prime Minister Shri Narendra Modi is committed to ensuring dignity, security and healthcare for every worker in the country, he emphasised. Dr. Mandaviya further said, Indias commitment to worker welfare has received global recognition. In 2025, the International Social Security Association honoured our country with the Excellence in Social Security Award. Our social security coverage has risen from 19 per cent in 2015 to 64.3 per cent in 2025, as per data published by the International Labour Organisation. Highlighting the transformative impact of the four Labour Codes that were brought into effect last year, the Union Minister said these reforms have modernised Indias labour ecosystem and made it more worker-centric, transparent and future-ready. The new Labour Codes guarantee several long-awaited protections for workers, including annual health check-ups, mandatory appointment letters, and minimum wages. The provision for annual health checks through ESIC hospitals will allow early detection of diseases, ensure preventive healthcare for workers, and secure their future, he said. The Minister noted that ESIC has evolved into one of the strongest pillars of worker welfare in the country since its inception in 1952. Today, the scheme provides healthcare and social security benefits to 3.84 crore insured persons and nearly 15 crore beneficiaries across India. He also noted that the convergence of ESIC with Ayushman Bharat Pradhan Mantri Jan Arogya Yojana has further expanded access to cashless treatment for beneficiaries across empanelled hospitals. As part of the event, Dr. Manuskh Mandaviya felicitated workers who had contributed towards building the hospital in Ompora, and also gave various social security benefits to Insured Persons from the Union Territory of Jammu and Kashmir. Built at a cost of 165 crore, the hospital has been established with provision for expansion up to 100 beds and is expected to directly benefit more than 50,000 workers and their family members. The ESI Scheme was introduced in the Union Territory of Jammu & Kashmir on 16th October 1989, covering about 7,000 workers in Jammu, Kathua, and Srinagar. At present, the ESI Scheme is implemented across all districts of J&K UT serving approximately 1,83,119 insured persons and about 7,00,000 beneficiaries and is administered through the ESIC Regional Office at Jammu and the Jammu-Kashmir Employees State Insurance Society (JKESIS). The inauguration ceremony was attended by senior officials of the Ministry of Labour & Employment, ESIC, local administration and public representatives.

LG Manoj Sinha leads 'Nasha-Mukt' J&K campaign in Reasi

Jammu, Apr 24: The Lieutenant Governor, Manoj Sinha today launched 'Drug-Free J&K Campaign' in Reasi, urging communities, institutions, and individuals alike to unite in the fight against drug abuse, a crisis he warned is eroding the very foundations of society from within. The Lieutenant Governor appealed for a broad based peoples movement while highlighting that for the past 12 days, a collective force has risen across the Union Territory against drugs and people are resolutely committed to the objective to make this land free from narcotics. Highlighting the achievement of the campaign in the past 12 days, the Lieutenant Governor said that in Jammu division, between 11 April and 22 April, large number of cases were registered and several drug smugglers were arrested. He said narcotics valued at nearly Rs. 3 crore have been seized and about Rs. One crore worth of movable and immovable properties were attached. Properties of drug smugglers have been demolished. 187 driving licenses and four vehicle registrations have also been cancelled. Financial investigations have been initiated against 48 drug peddlers. Drug and chemist shops have been inspected, and 15 drug store licenses have been cancelled. Drug users have been referred to de addiction and rehabilitation centres and Counselling has also been extended to drug users, the Lieutenant Governor said. The Lieutenant Governor also observed that 1,947 women committees have been established across districts in the Jammu division since the beginning of the campaign on 11th April and with the support of mothers and sisters, this cancer in society will be cured. We must build a historic movement, one that rises from homes, schools, mohallas, and communities; a movement that begins with open, honest dialogue in towns and villages. Mothers and sisters are the moral bedrock of our society and with their help we can win this battle, the Lieutenant Governor said. Speaking on the occasion, the Lieutenant Governor said that over two dozen drug traffickers have already been identified and they will be tracked down and held accountable. He said in the Jammu division, thousands of peddlers remain under surveillance, and each one will be relentlessly pursued until they are apprehended and brought into custody. Security checks have been stepped up around schools, colleges, and other vulnerable areas. I want to make it absolutely clear that those who engage in the grave crime of poisoning the future of our youth through drug trafficking will face the harshest consequences under the law, the Lieutenant Governor said. The Lieutenant Governor also drew attention of police and all enforcement agencies to the fact that drug traffickers and terrorists operate hand in hand and they should be treated as allies in crime. Our response should be decisive, thorough, and unyielding. Every route drug smuggler exploit should be watched, every financial chain should be dismantled, and every asset stripped away until their networks are completely destroyed, the Lieutenant Governor observed. The Lieutenant Governor said that for over a decade, Jammu Kashmir has carried the heavy silence surrounding the menace of drug abuse and this historic peoples movement was launched to shatter that silence. With collective strength we must raise societys voice against the scourge of narcotics. Drugs are a wound in the heart of our society. To heal this wound, we require a peoples movement that mobilises the full strength of society to eradicate drugs at their roots. The Nasha Mukt J&K campaign also serves to remind us that among the strongest pillars of society are the rule of law, constitutional values, the ethic of duty, and a spirit of Jan Bhagidari, the Lieutenant Governor said. The Lieutenant Governor asked the NGOs, social workers and spiritual leaders to join the campaign in large number in cities and villages. Social organizations, spiritual leaders, and educators are the frontline guardians of this mission. I firmly believe that through their leadership, hope can be rekindled and society renewed. The full strength of the government and the community stands beside them, the Lieutenant Governor said.

Rusted pistol recovered during garbage cleaning in Soura Srinagar

Srinagar, April 24: A rusted pistol was recovered from a garbage dump near a girls' higher secondary school in the Anchar area of Soura Srinagar after municipal sanitation workers alerted police during a routine cleaning operation on Friday. The firearm was noticed by workers while clearing accumulated waste in the locality. Recognizing the object as a weapon, they immediately informed Police Station Soura. Acting on the information, a police team reached the spot and secured the pistol. The weapon, described as rusted, was recovered from the garbage site without any reported incident. A rusted pistol was recovered from a garbage dump near a girls' higher secondary school in the Anchar area of Soura Srinagar after municipal sanitation workers alerted police during a routine cleaning operation on Friday.. [KNT]

Latest: Standoff intensifies in Strait of Hormuz after Trump issues shoot and kill' order

Dubai, Apr 24: Tensions in the standoff between the US and Iran over the Strait of Hormuz intensified Friday after US President Donald Trump said he ordered the US military to shoot and kill Iranian small boats in the strait, while Iran pushed back on Trump's claim there was a leadership rift in the Islamic Republic. In Iran, there are no hard-liners or moderates'. We are all Iranians and revolutionaries, Iran's President Masoud Pezeshkian and Speaker of Parliament Mohammad Bagher Qalibaf wrote in almost identical social media statements. Since the killing of Supreme Leader Ali Khamenei in the first strike of the war on Feb. 28, it has been unclear who in Iran wields ultimate authority over its collection of civilian figures and powerful generals who appear to be in charge. Trump also said Thursday evening that Israel and Lebanon agreed to extend a ceasefire between Israel and Hezbollah by three weeks after talks at the White House. The standoff between the US and Iran has effectively choked off nearly all exports through the Strait of Hormuz, where 20 per cent of the world's traded oil passes in peacetime, with no end in sight. Here is the latest: Iran's foreign minister talks with Pakistani officials Iran's top diplomat has called Pakistani officials over the ceasefire in the war with the United States and Israel. A statement on Friday said Iranian Foreign Minister Abbas Araghchi spoke with Pakistan's Foreign Minister Ishaq Dar and Field Marshal Asim Munir, Pakistan's army chief. Araghchi's statement said the men spoke about regional developments and issues related to the ceasefire, without elaborating. Pakistan did not immediately acknowledge the call. Pakistan has been trying to get American and Iranian officials back to the negotiating table in Islamabad, where they had hoped to have talks earlier this week that didn't materialise. EU's top diplomat notes risk of weaker' US-Iran deal European Union foreign policy chief Kaja Kallas said peace negotiations between the United States and Iran are at risk of forging a weaker agreement than one struck a decade ago. If the talks are only about the nuclear (issue) and there are no nuclear experts around the table, then we will end up with an agreement that is weaker than the JCPoA was, Kallas said Friday in Cyprus, referring to a 2015 deal struck during the Obama administration that Trump pulled the US out of in 2018. Kallas said if negotiators do not table Iran's missile programs, their support to proxies, and also hybrid and cyber activities in Europe, there is a possibility we will end up with a more dangerous Iran. Medical aid convoy departs Turkiye for Iran A medical aid convoy left Turkiye headed for Iran, an official told Turkiye's state-run Anadolu news agency on Friday. The six trucks departed Van in eastern Turkiye to pass through the Gurbulak border crossing, Van Health Director Muhammed Tosun said. The materials include medicines and medical supplies, Tosun said. We previously sent three trucks. With today's trucks, a total of nine trucks of aid materials will have been delivered to our Iranian colleagues to serve their citizens, he said.

Police book six under PSA for vandalism during students protest in Sopore

Sopore, April 24: In a decisive move to maintain law and order, Sopore Police have booked six individuals under the stringent Public Safety Act (PSA) for their alleged involvement in recent disturbances and acts of vandalism during a student protest in Sopore. According to officials, the action was taken following credible evidence of the accused persons active role in instigating unrest and disrupting public peace. Officials identified the individuals as Umar Akbar Hajam of Seelu, Salman Ahmed Shala of Shalpora Sopore, Altaf Ahmed Sheikh of Panzipora Tarzoo, Mubashir Ahmed Gilkar of Naseerabad Sopore, Muzammil Mushtaq Changa of Arampora Sopore, and Majid Firdous Dar of Chinkipora Sopore. Police sources stated that all six were detained after obtaining formal detention orders from the competent authority, the District Magistrate, in accordance with legal procedures. Subsequently, they have been lodged in District Jail Bhadarwah. Authorities said the accused were involved in provoking violence, damaging public and private property, and attempting to escalate tensions during the student protest. Their actions, police said, posed a serious threat to public order and safety, necessitating strict legal intervention under PSA. Reiterating its commitment to maintaining peace, Sopore Police emphasized a zero-tolerance approach towards unlawful activities. Officials warned that any attempt to exploit sensitive situations or disturb communal harmony would be dealt with firmly and without delay.

Aga Muntazir says ESIC hospital at Ompora will improve medical infrastructure in Budgam

This Sufi Shrine near the border in Rajouri is managed by local Hindus | Watch

Civil defence air raid mock drill held in north Kashmirs Baramulla

Viksit Bharat cannot run on fossil fuels -- and 2047 is the deadline

India aims for Viksit Bharat by 2047 but faces risks from imported fossil fuels. A shift to clean energy is crucial for economic stability and global standing. The nation is already making progress in non-fossil power sources and green hydrogen. Accelerating this transition, focusing on storage and firm clean power, is vital for energy sovereignty and achieving developed-country status.

Terror funding case: NIA attaches accuseds property in Budgam

Srinagar, Apr 24: The National Investigation Agency (NIA) on Friday attached a parcel of land belonging to an accused currently in its custody in connection with a terror-related case registered in Jammu. An official said that the action was carried out by an NIA team headed by Deputy Superintendent of Police Panchkach Agarwal. He said the attached property belongs to Tafazul Hussain Parimoo, son of Abdul Rashid Parimoo, resident of Sheikh-ul-Alam Colony, Nowgam, Srinagar. The property comprises 11.5 marlas of land under Survey No. 25, situated at SK Bagh, Budgam, he said. The official said the accused is presently under NIA custody in connection with a case registered under relevant sections of the Unlawful Activities (Prevention) Act, Arms Act and Explosive Substances Act. He said the attachment proceedings were conducted in the presence of Naib Tehsildar B.K. Pora and other officials. Further investigation in the case is underway. (KNO)

Jammu Kashmir Bank appoints two officers as Additional Directors

Srinagar, Apr 24: The Board of Directors of Jammu Kashmir Bank has approved the appointment of 1996-batch AGMUT cadre IAS officer Ashish Kundra and banking professional Pravin Raghavendra as Additional Directors. The decision was taken at a Board meeting held on April 22, 2026, and is subject to shareholders approval. Ashish Kundra has been appointed as an Additional Director under the category of Rotational Directors. He is currently serving as the Chief Secretary of the Union Territory of Ladakh. Pravin Raghavendra has been appointed as an Additional Director in the category of Independent Directors for a period of three years, from April 23, 2026 to April 22, 2029. The appointments are aimed at strengthening the banks board with administrative and professional expertise.

Chinar tree axed in Kralgund, Kupwara during NH-701 construction

Italy dismisses replacing Iran at the World Cup after suggestion by Trump official

Rome, Apr 24: Italian sports officials say four-time champion Italy is not interested in replacing Iran at the upcoming World Cup following a suggestion to that effect by a Trump administration official. Iran has not withdrawn from the World Cup, and the team is preparing to play in the U.S. despite the war in the Middle East. FIFA has insisted its group stage games near Los Angeles and in Seattle will go ahead as planned in June. The Financial Times reported that Paolo Zampolli, the U.S. special envoy for global partnerships, had suggested the swap to President Donald Trump and FIFA president Gianni Infantino. In a phone interview with the Associated Press on Thursday, Zampolli emphasized that my request is not a political request. The ask, which was made to Trump and Infantino on Wednesday, was meant as a contingency plan in case Iran could not participate in the soccer tournament at the last minute. I had a dream, Zampolli told the AP. My request was for the Italian people and the American-Italian people. He said in the FT interview that, with four titles, the Italian national team's appearance in the World Cup would be justified. Italian officials pushed back hard at the suggestion, with Sports Minister Andrea Abodi saying Thursday that first of all, it's not possible. Secondly, it's not a good idea. Luciano Buonfiglio, the president of the Italian Olympic Committee, which oversees all sports in Italy, also dismissed the idea. I would feel offended, Buonfiglio said. You need to deserve to go to the World Cup. Italy's Finance Minister Giancarlo Giorgetti called the suggested swap shameful. Hours later, Trump was asked at the White House about Iranian soccer players potentially not being allowed into the U.S. for the World Cup. He initially joked, I don't think about it too much before adding, That's an interesting question. Let me give that some thought, Trump added. He then deferred to Secretary of State Marco Rubio, who said, Nothing from the U.S. has told them they can't come. The problem with Iran would be, not their athletes. It would be some of the other people that they want to bring with them, Rubio said, suggesting that Iran's soccer team could bring in people loyal to militant groups disguised as journalists and trainers. We may not be able to let them in, Rubio said of people around the team. But not the athletes themselves. He added that there had been speculation that Iran may decide not to come, but then Italy could fill their spot, without adding details. If they decide not to come on their own, it's 'cause they decided not to come, the secretary of state said of Iranian athletes. While Iran was among the first teams to qualify for the World Cup, Italy missed out for the third consecutive tournament, resulting in the resignations of its national team coach and soccer federation president. Zampolli has long been a part of the Trump family orbit, having introduced then-Melania Knauss to Donald Trump at a New York Fashion Week party in 1998. He regularly posts on social media about his meetings with Infantino, calling him the King of Soccer. Trump last year appointed him as special representative for global partnerships. In March, The New York Times reported that Zampolli had reached out to a top official at Immigration and Customs Enforcement, informing him that the mother of his child was in the country illegally as the two were locked in a custody dispute. She was ultimately deported. The White House did not return a request for comment. Its World Cup task force, housed under the Department of Homeland Security, said it had no comment. FIFA also would not comment. The Iranian embassy in Rome denounced Zampolli's remarks in a comment on X. Football belongs to the people, not to politicians, the embassy said. Italy earned its soccer prowess on the field, not thanks to political maneuvers. The attempt to exclude Iran from the World Cup shows only the moral bankruptcy' of the United States, which fears even the presence of 11 young Iranians on the field of play. Iran's status at the World Cup, which starts in June, has been a source of debate and concern since the U.S. and Israel launched military attacks on the country in February. Trump in March discouraged Iran from participating in the tournament, citing safety concerns. FIFA has consistently said Iran will stick to the World Cup schedule decided last December, and refused to negotiate any suggestion of moving the team's games to co-host Mexico. An Iranian government spokesperson said Wednesday that the men's national team is preparing for proud and successful participation in its World Cup games in the U.S. Iran earned one of eight guaranteed World Cup places allocated to the Asian Football Confederation. Should Iran pull out, in theory the replacement should be the United Arab Emirates, the highest-ranked Asian team that didn't qualify. One possible element of uncertainty is the language of the World Cup tournament rules. FIFA wrote that it can decide to replace a withdrawn team with another association, though without specifying the replacement must come from the same continental confederation.

J&K | Six Tourists Injured After Hotel Lift Collapses In Srinagar

SRINAGAR, Apr 24: Six tourists from Bengaluru were injured after a lift reportedly collapsed at a hotel in the Hyderpora area of Srinagar on Friday, and were later shifted to Bone and Joint Hospital Barzulla for treatment, officials said. The incident occurred at a hotel in Hyderpora where the group was staying. The injured were brought to the hospital with varying degrees of leg and lower body injuries. All patients were reported to be stable, according to information received. The [] The post J&K | Six Tourists Injured After Hotel Lift Collapses In Srinagar appeared first on Daily Excelsior .

Revenue official, forest guard suspended for dereliction of duty in J-K

Jammu, Apr 24: A revenue official and a forest guard have been suspended in Jammu and Kashmir's Samba and Doda districts respectively for alleged dereliction of duty, officials said. In Samba district, Deputy Commissioner Ayushi Soodan ordered the suspension of a 'girdawar' Pankaj Singh Jamwal for failure to complete the digitisation of revenue records within the stipulated timeframe despite repeated directions, an official order said. The tehsildar, Bari Brahmana had reported that no 'jamabandis' (official record of righs for land) were digitised in Patwar Halqua Smailpur between April 8 and April 15. The conduct of the official reflects gross negligence and dereliction of duty in the discharge of his responsibilities, the order said. Pending inquiry, the official has been placed under suspension with immediate effect and attached to the office of tehsildar Samba. The Sub-Divisional Magistrate, Vijaypur has been appointed as the inquiry officer and has been asked to submit a report within 15 days, it added. In Doda district, a forest department beat guard, Mushtaq Ahmed has also been placed under suspension after a vehicle carrying illegal deodar timber was seized in the Bhadarwah area, the officials said. Officials said a joint team of Forest Protection Force and territorial staff of Neru range intercepted a vehicle loaded with 20 deodar green scants (unseasoned timber planks) during the intervening night of April 21 and 22 at village Jalga. During the operation, the in-charge beat guard was found moving on the same route in his personal vehicle, and a mechanical cutter packed in a bag was recovered, they said. The suspended guard has been attached to the Divisional Forest Office, Bhadarwah, pending enquiry. Officials said a detailed probe has been ordered to identify the source of the timber, fix responsibility and initiate further legal action, with directions to submit a report within a week.

J&K sets Rs 3,440 Cr Flood Restoration Plan in motion

Chief Secretary Atal Dulloo on Thursday chaired a high-level meeting to review the comprehensive plan for utilisation of funds earmarked for permanent restoration of damages caused by floods and associated calamities in 2025, directing departments to fast-track approvals and execution of works. The meeting was attended by senior officials including Additional Chief Secretaries of Power, Finance and Public Works Departments, Principal Secretary Disaster Management, Relief, Rehabilitation and Reconstruction (DMRR&R), and other key administrative heads. Deputy Commissioners from across districts joined via video conferencing. Dulloo emphasised the need for timely administrative approvals and technical sanctions to ensure that projects are tendered without delay and completed within stipulated timelines. He directed departments to begin execution by June and submit work-wise progress and completion details periodically. Stressing adherence to central guidelines, the Chief Secretary instructed departments to align all proposals with the Post Disaster Needs Assessment (PDNA) and avoid duplication of funding, particularly between Recovery & Reconstruction (R&R) and Special Additional Central Assistance (SASCI) components. During the meeting, it was revealed that a total outlay of Rs 3,440.43 crore has been structured across multiple funding streams to address both immediate relief and long-term resilience. Of this, Rs 1,579.09 crore has been approved under the R&R component of the UT Disaster Response Fund, including Rs 1,421.118 crore as central share and Rs 157.909 crore as UT share. Additionally, Rs 330.34 crore has been sanctioned under SDRF/NDRF norms to address immediate and residual impacts of disasters such as floods, flash floods, landslides and cloudbursts. A further Rs 1,431 crore under the SASCI component will be utilised to bridge critical gaps and support resilience-building infrastructure. Major allocations include Rs 860 crore for Roads & Buildings, Rs 315 crore for Jal Shakti, Rs 173 crore for Power Development Department, Rs 51 crore for Agriculture, and Rs 32 crore for Youth Services & Sports. Officials said the funding will prioritise restoration of roads, bridges, irrigation systems and other public infrastructure using a build back better approach to enhance disaster resilience. The central share is to be released in phases, subject to utilisation conditions. The CAPEX Budget 202526 will further support flood mitigation efforts through strengthening of embankments, drainage systems and other protective infrastructure, integrating disaster resilience into long-term development planning. The Chief Secretary underscored the urgency of coordinated execution, calling for robust monitoring and inter-departmental coordination to ensure timely completion of all projects under the plan.

The Latest: Trump orders military to shoot and kill' Iranian small boats choking Strait of Hormuz

Washington, Apr 24: US President Donald Trump has ordered the U.S. military to shoot and kill Iranian small boats choking the Strait of Hormuz. In a social media post Thursday morning, he said the military is intensifying its mine clearing efforts in the critical waterway. The move intensified the U.S.-Iran standoff in the Persian Gulf and raised questions about efforts to end the war. Later Thursday, Trump said Israel and Lebanon agreed to extend a ceasefire between Israel and Hezbollah by three weeks after talks at the White House. The meeting Thursday was the second high-level negotiation between the two countries since last week. The initial 10-day ceasefire, which took effect last Friday, had been due to expire Monday. Meanwhile, the U.S. military said it seized another tanker Thursday associated with smuggling Iranian oil, the Majestic X, in the Indian Ocean, deepening confusion over efforts to end the war. The seizure comes after a day after Iran attacked three cargo ships in the Strait of Hormuz, capturing two of them. Ship-tracking data showed the Majestic X in the Indian Ocean between Sri Lanka and Indonesia. The standoff between the U.S. and Iran has effectively choked off nearly all exports through the Strait of Hormuz, where 20% of the world's traded oil passes in peacetime, with no end in sight. Here is the latest: Lebanese and Israeli ambassadors thank Trump for historic' moment Speaking alongside Trump in the Oval Office, Israeli Ambassador to the U.S. Yechiel Leiter said Israel and Lebanon have never been next to each other more than today. Leiter thanked Trump and Vice President JD Vance for a day he said was decades in the making. We are going to keep going, working for peace. Let's hope we will get it as soon as possible, he said. Lebanese Ambassador to the U.S. Nada Hamadeh Moawad thanked Trump for presiding over this historic moment. She added: I think with your help, with your support, we can make Lebanon great again. Trump says it's a must' for Iran to end funding for Hezbollah The president reiterated that the U.S. continues to demand that Iran stop it's backing of proxy groups in the Mideast, including Hezbollah in Lebanon, as part of any deal between Washington and Tehran to end the U.S. war on Iran. Yeah, they'll have to cut that, Trump said to a reporter's question about aiding the militant group. That's a must. US envoy compares Hezbollah to a kid throwing rocks The people of Lebanon, the people of Israel are neighbors and they want to get along, said Mike Huckabee, the U.S. envoy to Israel, who was on hand for the White House talks. They can get along, he said. But it's like neighbors who have a rough little kid living in the neighborhood who keeps throwing rocks at everybody's window. And if the kid will quit throwing rocks, the neighbors can get along and start actually working together. Trump says ceasefire between Israel and Lebanon will be extended by 3 weeks That comes after representatives from both countries met at the White House on Thursday. The meeting went very well, Trump said on his Truth Social platform. The United States is going to work with Lebanon in order to help it protect itself from Hezbollah. Trump said he will host Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu and Lebanese President Joseph Aoun at the White House in the near future. A 10-day ceasefire was announced on April 16, pausing fighting between Israel and the Hezbollah militant group. As Israel-Lebanon talks are set to start, rocket fire from Hezbollah Israel's military says its air defenses intercepted rocket fire from Lebanon. It came as talks between Lebanese and Israeli officials were set to begin at the White House. Hezbollah said it had fired at the town of Shtula in response to Israeli attacks on the Lebanese village of Yater. Trump says he's not considering using a nuclear weapon against Iran The president appeared perturbed when asked by a reporter if he'd consider deploying nuclear weapons against the Islamic Republic. No, I wouldn't. We don't need it. Why do I need it? Why would a stupid question like that be asked? Trump fumed. He went on, Why would I use a nuclear weapon, when we've totally, in a very conventional way, decimated them without it. No, I wouldn't use it. A nuclear weapon should never be allowed to be used by anybody. Trump say he won't be rushed to end war as Iran negotiations drag on I don't want to rush myself, said Trump, who added that Iran's leadership is in turmoil. Trump in an exchange with reporters in the Oval Office also pushed back against questions that the conflict is exceeding the four-to-six week timeline that he and aides previously set for the war. I took the country out militarily in the first four weeks. I took it out militarily, Trump said. Now all we're doing is sitting back and seeing what deal (we make). And if they don't want to make a deal, then I'll finish it up militarily. Iranian officials refute Trump's claims of leadership rift in the country In Iran there are no hardliners' or moderates'. We are all Iranians and revolutionaries, Iran's president, and Iran's parliament speaker wrote in an almost identical statement on their social media. A spokesperson for Iran's Foreign Ministry called the U.S. president's claim that there was a leadership rift in Iran a form of deflection, with other Iranian officials also claiming on social media that the country was united. Hours earlier, Trump said that Iran is going through a hard time figuring out who their leader is! They just don't know! Since the killing of Supreme Leader Ali Khamenei at the beginning of the war, it has been unclear who in Iran wields ultimate authority over its collection of civilian figures and powerful generals who appear to be in charge. Third aircraft carrier arrives in the Middle East The aircraft carrier USS George H.W. Bush has now arrived in U.S. Central Command, making the ship the third aircraft carrier to be present in the Middle East during a tenuous ceasefire in the Iran war. The Bush is now in the Indian Ocean, according to a social media post from the military command. The USS Abraham Lincoln is located in the Arabian Sea and the USS Gerald R. Ford is in the Red Sea. The Bush, which left its home port of Norfolk, Va. at the end of March, proceeded to sail across the Atlantic Ocean but then made the unusual choice to turn south and sail around the Horn of Africa before heading north toward the waters of the Middle East Air defenses in action over Tehran Iran's capital Thursday night saw air defense systems in action as explosions were heard in the western part of the city. State media said the move was against hostile targets, without any elaboration. Witnesses said air defense systems were also heard southwest of the city. Some Iranian media said earlier Wednesday that a test of the systems was in process. Clashes disrupt Israeli Supreme Court hearing Clashes broke out at Israel's Supreme Court during a hearing on petitions calling on the government to establish an official state commission of inquiry into the Oct. 7 attacks. Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu opposes the investigation. Protesters attempted to break into the courtroom, forcing the proceedings to pause, according to Israeli media reports. The hearing resumed after about 30 minutes. Separate confrontations were reported outside the court between bereaved families holding opposing views. Renowned US-Kuwaiti journalist detained in Kuwait acquitted, press monitor says The Committee to Protect Journalists (CPJ) said Thursday that a Kuwaiti court acquitted journalist Ahmed Shihab-Eldin on all charges following 52 days of detention. Shihab-Eldin, an award-winning journalist who contributed reporting to major media outlets, was arrested March 3 while visiting his family in Kuwait, CPJ said. The press monitor previously reported that Kuwaiti authorities have charged him with spreading false information, harming national security, and misusing his mobile phone. We are relieved that Ahmed Shihab-Eldin has been found innocent after 52 days in detention, said CPJ CEO Jodie Ginsberg. Trump to join Israel-Lebanon talks at White House A U.S. official says President Donald Trump will greet Israeli and Lebanese diplomats who will meet for a second round of talks on Thursday at the White House. The official said the meeting had been moved from the State Department, where the first round was held last week, to the White House so that Trump could attend. The official spoke on condition of anonymity to discuss internal administration planning. The talks come as a temporary ceasefire between Israel and Hezbollah that was agreed to by the Israeli and Lebanese governments is due to expire. U.S. officials say they hope an extension of the truce can be arranged. Israel appoints envoy to Christian world Israel's foreign minister Gideon Saar has appointed George Deek as special envoy to the Christian world in a bid to strengthen ties with Christian communities, according to a government statement. Deek, a veteran diplomat and former ambassador to Azerbaijan, is a member of Israel's Arab Christian community. Saar said Israel attaches great importance to its relations with Christians worldwide. The appointment comes after a pair of incidents that strained relations with the Christian world. Last month, Israeli police prevented Catholic leaders from celebrating Palm Sunday at the Church of the Holy Sepulchre, citing the war with Iran. And an Israeli soldier set off a global firestorm by smashing a statue of Jesus Christ in Lebanon. Two soldiers have been sentenced to jail for their roles in the incident. Pope urges US and Iran to return to peace talks, condemns capital punishment After a trip that was dominated by the very public back and forth between Pope Leo XIV and U.S. President Donald Trump over the war, Leo urged the United States and Iran to return to negotiations. He called for a new culture of peace to replace the recourse to violence whenever conflicts arise. He said the question wasn't whether the Iran regime should change or not. The question should be about how to promote the values we believe in without the deaths of so many innocents. He revealed that he carries with him the photo of a Muslim Lebanese boy who had been killed in Israel's recent war with Hezbollah. The boy had been photographed holding a sign welcoming the pope when he visited Lebanon last year. As a pastor I cannot be in favor of war, he told reporters aboard his plane. I would like to encourage everyone to find responses that come from a culture of peace and not hatred and division. Trump likes a naval blockade. But Iran presents big differences from Venezuela and Cuba President Donald Trump has turned to naval blockades to pressure the governments of Venezuela, Cuba and now Iran to meet his demands, but his preferred tactic is confronting a very different reality in the Middle East than in the Caribbean. Unlike Cuba or Venezuela, Iran choked off a crucial trade route for energy shipments, meaning the longer the standoff persists, the more the global economy will suffer. Tehran also poses a greater military threat than those two adversaries in America's own hemisphere and requires a sustained military presence far from U.S. shores. Iran's leverage over the Strait of Hormuz gives it power during a shaky ceasefire because the widening economic risks, especially higher U.S. gas prices in an election year, could force the Republican president to end the blockade on Iran's ports and coastline, experts say. Palestinians mourn another death in historically violent year in the occupied West Bank 25-year-old father of twins was shot by Israeli settlers in a village home to a large Palestinian-American population, sparking an outpouring of grief at his funeral Thursday. The Ramallah-based Palestinian Ministry of Health said Awda Awawdeh died from gunshot wounds after what witnesses described as a clash with settlers attempting to steal Palestinian livestock. Young men from our town gathered and came to confront them. The settlers fired at them, and the young man Awda Awawdeh was hit and injured on his side with a live bullet, said Ziad Manasrah, a local paramedic who helped transport Awawdeh from the town of Deir Dibwan to the hospital. Awawdeh is the 11th Palestinian killed by Israeli settlers in 2026, surpassing the nine killed in 2025. The daily killings in the West Bank are not incidental, but an integral part of a systematic process of ethnic cleansing. The Israeli system does not halt this violence deliberately because it serves its political goal: the suppression and dispossession of Palestinians from their land, said Yuli Novak, the executive director the Israeli rights group B'Tselem. Lebanese cabinet discusses potential move to join the ICC Lebanon's Deputy Prime Minister Tarek Mitri said ministers on Thursday discussed joining the International Criminal Court, a permanent tribunal that prosecutes individuals for war crimes, crimes against humanity and genocide, for a specific period. The move would mark a significant shift for Lebanon, which is not a member of the court. Mitri said the move would enable the ICC to look into war crimes and humanitarian crimes which were committed on Lebanese territory. Lebanon has accused Israel of war crimes and and repeated breaches of international law during the latest war with Hezbollah. Iran's judiciary chief touts the country's show of force in the Strait of Hormuz Iran's judiciary chief, Gholamhossein Mohseni Ejehi, said on X that the country's armed forces were demonstrating strength in the Strait of Hormuz, citing what he described as a Revolutionary Guard mosquito fleet of speedboats and underwater drones, along with action against three ships in the waterway. He wrote that the IRGC's mosquito fleet, with speedboats and drones, lies in wait from the sea caves of Faror Island for the American aggressor warships, ready to saturate their air defenses and bring utter ruin upon the invaders. He called the display a source of pride and warned against U.S. naval presence. Israeli defense minister says Israel is ready to resume war with Iran Israel's defense minister, Israel Katz, said Thursday that Israel is prepared to resume war with Iran and is awaiting a green light from the United States, according to a statement following a security assessment. We are waiting for a green light from the United States, Katz said, adding that the military is ready for both defensive and offensive operations and targets are marked. Israelis express mixed views on Lebanon talks Residents in Jerusalem and Tel Aviv expressed mixed views on talks between Israel and Lebanon, with opinions ranging from calls for diplomacy to deep skepticism over Hezbollah's role. I always believe that you can talk, but you have to be prepared for war, said Ben Kurtzer, a Jerusalem resident. Others were more skeptical. Who is there to talk to? said Yardena Sharon. Some drew a distinction between Lebanon and Hezbollah. We do not want to be hostile with the state of Lebanon; we have no hostility towards them. I think there are, undoubtedly, wonderful people there, people who seek peace, just as we seek peace, said Matan Moalem, a Jerusalem resident. Hezbollah needs to be eliminated once and for all, to take control of the entire area that constantly threatens Israel, firing in our direction and always seeking to eliminate and kill us. In Tel Aviv, others emphasized diplomacy. Force without brains is worth nothing. In the end, only agreements bring peace and security, only agreements, said Daron Sabani. Images of new crucifix in southern Lebanon convey message of hope, dialogue and peace,' Meloni says Italian Premier Giorgia Meloni on Thursday thanked Italian peacekeepers serving in southern Lebanon for donating a new crucifix to the village of Debel after the original was destroyed by an Israeli soldier in an incident that drew international criticism. Meloni said images showing the crucifix being delivered and placed in the same spot as the one destroyed days earlier conveyed a message of hope, dialogue and peace. Israel's military said Tuesday it had replaced the crucifix and shared a photograph of the new one on social media. The replacement appeared smaller and more ornate than the original, which had been smashed by a soldier. The Israeli military said two soldiers involved in the episode will be held for a month in military detention. Ukraine's president discloses details of security agreements with Saudi Arabia, Qatar, and UAE Volodymyr Zelenskyy said in a CNN interview that his country signed a Drone Deal with the three Gulf countries, aiming to help them manufacture much cheaper drones and drone interceptors. Zelenskyy toured the Gulf countries late May, but there was no immediate word on the details of the signed agreements between Ukraine and the Gulf countries. A (low-cost, Iranian-designed Shahed drone) can cost from 80 to 130 thousand dollars. It will be destroyed not with a missile worth 3-4 million dollars, but with an interceptor costing 10 thousand dollars, Zelenskyy wrote, adding that he wants to help Gulf countries defend themselves. Speaking earlier this month, Zelenskyy said that in exchange for its drone expertise, Ukraine would get air defense weapons to protect its energy infrastructure, along with oil, diesel and, in some cases, financial help. Ukrainian officials haven't published details of the final deal. Stable ceasefire and assurances' needed for transit in the Strait of Hormuz The chief safety and security officer in BIMCO, the world's largest international shipping association, said Thursday that shipping companies need assurances from both Iran and the U.S. to transit the vital waterway. Mine clearance efforts are also needed as they pose a particular concern, Jakob Larsen said in a statement, adding that the process of mine clearance could take up to several weeks. Hours earlier, U.S. President Donald Trump said in a social media post that the military is intensifying its mine clearing efforts in the strait. The Strait of Hormuz remains fully closed Thursday as the U.S.-Iran standoff continues to intensify in the Persian Gulf.

Trump says Israel and Lebanon agree to extend ceasefire by 3 weeks

Washington, Apr 24: President Donald Trump says Israel and Lebanon have agreed to extend a ceasefire between Israel and Hezbollah by three weeks after talks at the White House on Thursday. Trump says the meeting between Israel's and Lebanon's ambassadors to the United States went very well. The meeting was the second high-level negotiation between the two countries since last week. The initial 10-day ceasefire, which took effect last Friday, had been due to expire Monday.

Omar Govt busy in 'marathons, skiing, 5-star dinners': Sunil Sharma

Leader of Opposition in Assembly and senior BJP leader Sunil Sharma on Thursday launched a sharp attack on the National Conference (NC) government in Jammu and Kashmir, accusing Chief Minister Omar Abdullah and his council of ministers of being disconnected from ground realities while the Union Territory grapples with mounting public issues. Addressing reporters, Sharma said that governance has effectively stalled since the October 2024 Assembly elections, with very little visible administrative action to tackle pressing concerns such as water shortages, erratic power supply and deteriorating road infrastructure. He said that instead of prioritising governance, the leadership appeared more focused on optics and leisure activities. In a time when people are struggling with basic amenities, ministers are invisible on the ground. Omar sb and others are busy with marathons, cycling events, skiing and 5-star dinners while public grievances go unheard, he said while intensifying his criticism of the governments functioning. Taking direct aim at Omar Abdullah, Sharma questioned his administrative priorities, pointing out that the Chief Minister is handling 17 departments but has failed to convene key review meetings. There is no visible governance. Managing so many departments requires seriousness and accountability, but we are not seeing that. The focus seems misplaced, he said. He further accused the administration of fostering corruption at multiple levels, alleging that common citizens are forced to pay bribes even for routine work. Send an ordinary person to a tehsildar or a Block Development Officer, and nothing moves without money. The transfer industry is thriving openly, Sharma claimed. The BJP leader also pressed the NC government to clarify the status of its electoral promises, including free LPG cylinders, free electricity and the creation of one lakh jobs. According to him, the gap between promises and delivery is widening, further deepening public dissatisfaction. On the recent security-related incident involving former Chief Minister Farooq Abdullah, a senior BJP leader called for a detailed investigation. He questioned why no prior information had been shared with law enforcement agencies, suggesting inconsistencies in the narrative. He also said that the individual linked to the incident had no criminal or terror background, indicating the possibility of a personal matter rather than a broader security threat. Dismissing concerns about threats to the Abdullah family, Sharma remarked that they already have extensive security cover. Their security presence is so overwhelming that at times it feels disproportionate, he said. He also expressed surprise at Omar Abdullahs renewed push for statehood after assuming office. It is ironic that after becoming Chief Minister, he has started demanding statehood instead of focusing on governance and fulfilling commitments, Sharma added.

WUCMA steps up Wular Lake restoration, generates Rs 25 Cr from willow removal drive

The Wular Conservation and Management Authority (WUCMA) has generated over Rs 25 crore in revenue from the ongoing extraction of willow trees, even as the authority says focus remains on eco-tourism development and the ecological restoration of Wular Lake. Chief Executive Director of WUCMA and Chief Conservator of Forests Kashmir, Irfan Rasool Wani, said while the timber extraction has been financially significant, the core mandate remains strictly environmental. So far, we have generated more than Rs 25 crore in revenue from willows, but revenue generation is not our main objective. Our main objective is the restoration of the lake, Wani stated. Willows create a hindrance to water hydrology and must be removed. As compensation, we are conducting extensive plantations in the Erin and Madhumati catchments, surrounding the lake, he added. Outlining the conservation roadmap for the wetland this year, Wani noted the pressing need is to address critically silted zones. We have already restored an area of five square kilometres. We are now drafting new Detailed Project Reports (DPRs) with a focus on restoring an additional two to three square kilometres in the coming years, he added. Moving forward this year, WUCMA officials said, is targeting infrastructure development to promote responsible tourism. During a tour of the lake's periphery to inspect ground realities, Wani reviewed ongoing construction at eco-tourism parks in Banyari, SK Payeen, and Garoora, alongside walkway projects currently being executed by the R&B department in north Kashmirs Bandipora district. Our tenders are in place, and our effort is to complete all these eco-tourism parks and walkways this year, Wani said. Accompanied by WUCMA Coordinator Altaf Ahmad Dentoo, Superintending Engineer Fida Hussain Rizvi, and Assistant Executive Engineer Mohsin Hussain Khan. Wani directed all executing agencies to ensure timely completion without compromising on quality or ecological sensitivity.

Concealment of facts amounts to playing fraud upon Court: HC

The High Court of J&K and Ladakh imposed as costs Rs 50000 on some petitioners for approaching it with tainted hands, saying suppression or concealment of material facts amounts to playing fraud upon the Court. A Bench of Justice Wasim Sadiq Nargal dismissed a petition, observing that a litigant invoking the extraordinary jurisdiction of the Court must come with clean hands, clean mind and complete candour, and is under a bounden obligation to disclose all material facts which have a bearing on the adjudication of the lis (plea) In their petition filed by Ghulam Muhammad Shekh and two others under Article 227 of the Constitution of India, the petitioners had challenged Special Mobile Magistrate, Budgams order dated March 24, 2026, whereby Tehsildar, Budgam had been directed to implement order dated June 4, 2025, besides seeking other reliefs. The Court noted that the petitioners had already approached the Special Mobile Magistrate, Budgam by filing an application seeking suspension of the order dated March 24, 2026 and the trial court upon hearing both sides had already passed an order dated April 6, 2026, whereby, the operation and execution of the impugned order had already been stayed. Thus, the grievance projected in the present petition already stands redressed by the competent court, the court said. The Court underscored that the duty to disclose is absolute, and extends not only to facts which support the case of the party, but equally to those which are averse to it. Any attempt to mislead the court strikes at the very root of the administration of justice and undermines the confidence reposed in judicial proceedings. Once, the execution of the impugned order already stood stayed by the Court concerned, there was no occasion for the petitioners to invoke the supervisory jurisdiction of the Court under Article 227 of the Constitution of India seeking to quash the same order, the court said The filing of the present petition, therefore, appears to be wholly unnecessary and misconceived, it added. The Court held that a litigant who attempts to pollute the stream of justice or approaches the Court with tainted hands is not entitled to any relief, interim or final. This Court is not only justified in declining relief but is duty-bound to dismiss such proceedings with exemplary costs, so as to deprecate such practice and to preserve the judicial sanctity. The Court observed that petition was an abuse of the process of law and utterly misconceived and devoid of any merit. It, accordingly, dismissed the same and imposed Rs 50,000 costs on the petitioners to be deposited by the petitioners with the Courts Registry within two weeks.

Mega rally under Nasha Mukt Abhiyan held in Kangan

A mega rally under the Nasha Mukt Bharat Abhiyan was successfully conducted in Kangan on Thursday with large-scale participation from students, locals, police, civil administration, and other security agencies. The rally was flagged off from the Sub-Divisional Magistrates Office Kangan and passed through the main market before culminating at Govt Degree College Kangan. ACR Ganderbal Syed Salahudin, SDM Kangan Nazir Ahmad, Tehsildar Kangan, SHO Kangan and heads or various educational institutions participate. Participants carried banners and placards carrying anti-drug slogans Say No to Drugs, Yes to Life and Nasha Chhodo, Zindagi Jodo. SDM Kangan on the occasion said the objective of the rally was to sensitize the public, especially youth, about the devastating effects of drug abuse and to promote collective community responsibility. He urged parents and teachers to keep close watch on children and encourage them towards sports and skill-based activities. Police officers present on the occasion highlighted the enforcement measures being taken to curb drug peddling in the sub-division and appealed to the public to share information about drug traffickers on the anti-narcotics helpline. Officials said similar awareness rallies and programmes will continue across Ganderbal district under the UT-wide Nasha Mukt J&K Abhiyan to ensure demand reduction through mass awareness and community participation. Meanwhile, under the Nasha Mukt Jammu and Kashmir Abhiyan, Ganderbal Police organized a series of Drug Awareness Rallies and Programmes across the district, reinforcing its commitment towards a drug-free society. Similar Awareness Drives were carried out at various Educational Institutions across the district to sensitize youth about the harmful effects of drug abuse. The main event was held at Government Degree College Ganderbal, where the Principal Degree College Ganderbal, Dy.SP Headquarters Ganderbal, Dy.SP DAR, faculty members, and students actively participated and pledged to work collectively towards eradicating drug menace.

Female leopard, her three cubs rescued in Baramulla old town

World Book Day-2026 |In times of AI & new-age tech, book lovers highlight charm of reading

A series of events were organized by the Department of Libraries & Research today across Kashmir division to commemorate the World Book & Copyright Day-2026. World Book and Copyright Day is celebrated on April 23 every year to promote the love for reading and writing; power of publishing, making reading accessible for all and the importance of protecting intellectual property through copyright laws. The Day also signifies the potential of books and literature in shaping minds, uniting people, and inspiring social transformation. Proclaimed by UNESCO in 1995, the day commemorates the passing away of literary legends including William Shakespeare, Miguel de Cervantes, and Inca Garcilaso de la Vega, all of whom passed away on this day. This year's theme for World Book and Copyright Day is Literacy through multilingualism and access to books for all. To mark the day, todays main event was organized at SPS Central Library complex with an Exhibition of Special Literary Collections including Manuscripts, Rare Books and Miniature Paintings. The exhibition was opened to public by Rubina Kousar, Director General, Libraries & Research, J&K. The main attractions of the exhibition, jointly organized by SPS Library Srinagar & the Oriental Research Library (ORL) Srinagar, were the historic manuscripts like Qarabai-Din, Sadh PandLuqman and Shahnama Firdous. Some of the rare books including Mahabharata & Ramayana, Rajtarangni by Kalhanna,Tareekh-e-Rasheedi, Gazetteer of India and Kashur - a history of Kashmir were also displayed at the exhibition. Speaking on the occasion, Director General Libraries & Research, J&K said the Oriental Research Library, Srinagar established in 1904, is a repository of around 6000 rare manuscripts in 17 languages encompassing varied fields. The library also has around 500 rare books and miniature paintings. Rubina said the manuscript collection of ORL is a treasure-trove of religious, philosophical, historical, literary and scientific writings rich in classical languages like Persian, Sanskrit, Hindi, Urdu, Turki, Brij Bhasha and Arabic. These languages have left deep impression on Kashmiri language by conditioning its growth in terms of forms and scope, she said and added that the Sanskrit, language of court and culture in 9th and beginning of 10th century in Kashmir contributes number of religious, aesthetic and poetic articulations and are preserved in ORL Srinagar. She said such exhibitions make our young generation aware about, the culture, traditions, heritage and history of Jammu and Kashmir. A large number of people from different walks of life visited the exhibition and evinced keen interest in the rare literary resources. Book exhibitions and other activities including literary tours of libraries to re-discover the magic of books and re-inculcate reading habits among the youth were organised in District and Tehsil Libraries across Kashmir as part of World Book & Copyright Day-2026 events. The Department of Libraries, has for the past few years, laid special emphasis on selection of reference books for students preparing for IAS/KAS/NEET/JEE and other competitive examinations to make productive use of the resources earmarked for the purchase of books resulting in huge boost to the footfall of youth in public libraries.

US naval blockade collapses asIranian ships employ dark fleet tactics

Around 28 Iranian-linked ships carrying oil and gas transited the Strait of Hormuz despite the US blockade, reports The Wall Street Journal. The tankers slipped through this critical checkpoint for global oil supply. Tankers laden with Iranian cargo have left the Gulf of Oman since April 13, when the blockade was implemented. Meanwhile, the US military claimed that it had turned around over 27 vessels and completely halted Iranian trade. However, Lloyds List, which is a premier source for global maritime news, data and analysis, stated that at least 28 vessels linked to Irans so-called shadow fleet have bypassed the US naval blockade A steady flow of shadow fleet traffic in and out of the Middle East Gulf. Twelve shadow fleet vessels breached the U S blockade, and five transited East. The remaining nine vessels moved Westbound. The U S Central Command (CENTCOM) has directed 27 to 28 vessels to turn around or return to Iranian ports since a naval blockade was initiated on April 13, 2026, following the failure of peace talks. The blockade is part of intensified US-Iran tensions in the Strait of Hormuz. On April 19, 2026, the US seized the Iranian-flagged cargo ship Touska after it refused to comply with warnings, marking the first such seizure in the area. Dozens of transits occurred in the first few days, while some ships were turned back. The blockade appears to have been effective in the first 2448 hours, but harder to sustain perfectly over time. Partial enforcement reality: Some ships comply or are intercepted, while others slip through gaps. The U.S. may be counting direct interdictions, while Lloyds is tracking overall vessel movements, including indirect or deceptive routes. Irans so-called shadow fleet is specifically designed to evade sanctions and blockades. The fleet uses common tactics, including disabling or spoofing tracking systems (AIS). Lloyds List Intelligence shows a steady flow of shadow fleet traffic in and out of the Middle East Gulf Ship-to-ship transfers at sea and complex ownership structures, and flag changes, routing through third countries or indirect paths. These methods make a 100% airtight naval blockade extremely difficult, even with a heavy military presence. Mohammad Bagher Ghalibaf said the violations include the US naval blockade of Iranian ports, which he said amounted to taking the global economy hostage and warmongering by Israel on all fronts. Iran remains open to negotiations, said Iranian President Masoud Pezeshkian, but he added, reach of commitments, blockade and threats are main obstacles to genuine negotiations. It appeared early Tuesday that the US and Iran would hold new peace talks in Pakistan this week - but they have yet to begin.

Highest record voter turnout in West Bengal, 91.74%, Tamil Nadu 84.69%

West Bengal and Tamil Nadu witnessed heavy voter participation in their respective Assembly elections on Thursday, with polling largely peaceful but marked by sporadic incidents of violence in parts of West Bengal. In West Bengal, an impressive 91.74 per cent turnout was recorded till 6 p.m. in the first phase of polling. Of the 3.60 crore eligible voters, nearly 91.46 per cent had cast their ballots across 152 constituencies spread over 16 districts. The phase will determine the fate of 1,478 candidates in the 294-member State Assembly. Among districts, Jhargram reported the highest turnout at 90.53 per cent, followed by Malda at 89.56 per cent and Kalimpong at 81.98 per cent. Most districts recorded polling above 78 per cent. However, the day was not without tension. Police said stones were hurled at BJP candidate Agnimitra Pauls car in Asansol Dakshin, damaging its rear windows. Another BJP candidate, Subhendu Sarkar from Kumarganj, alleged that he was injured after his vehicle was attacked by Trinamool Congress (TMC) workers. In Murshidabad, clashes were reported when TMC workers allegedly confronted police during the visit of Aam Janata Unnayan Party (AUJP) founder Humayun Kabir. The Election Commission of India (ECI) has sought a report following complaints that some voters were prevented from casting their ballots in parts of Domkal. The remaining 142 constituencies, including those in and around Kolkata, will go to polls in the second phase on April 29. Counting of votes is scheduled for May 4. Tamil Nadu Meanwhile, Tamil Nadu also recorded robust voter participation, with a 84.69 per cent turnout reported by evening. The state is witnessing a three-cornered contest between the DMK-led Secular Progressive Alliance, the AIADMK-BJP alliance, and actor Vijays political debut. The DMK has campaigned on its Dravidian Model of governance and welfare initiatives, while the AIADMK and BJP have targeted the ruling party over allegations of corruption and family rule, promising clean, efficient governance if voted into power. Both states remain key battlegrounds where the BJP has historically struggled to establish dominance, making the outcome politically significant at the national level.

IHCL expands hospitality skilling initiatives in J&K

The Indian Hotels Company Limited (IHCL) has intensified its efforts to promote tourism-linked employment in J&K by expanding its hospitality skilling and employability initiatives across the region. Reinforcing its broader commitment to inclusive growth and nation-building, IHCL is focusing on equipping local youth with industry-relevant skills to enhance their participation in the hospitality sector. The initiative forms part of the companys larger strategy to create sustainable livelihood opportunities in regions with high tourism potential but limited access to structured training. Gaurav Pokhariyal, Executive Vice President Human Resources at IHCL, said that skill development remains central to the companys social impact vision. He noted that targeted interventions in J&K are aimed at empowering youth with practical training, enabling them to build long-term careers in hospitality while contributing to regional economic development.

Stellantis opens dual-brand Auto Hub in Srinagar

Stellantis India on Wednesday inaugurated a new Stellantis Brand House (SBH) in Srinagar, marking a significant expansion of its retail footprint in Jammu and Kashmir. Set up in partnership with ARSH Automobiles Pvt. Ltd., the facility integrates Jeep and Citron under one roof, offering full-scale sales, service and genuine spares support. Addressing the inauguration, Shailesh Hazela, CEO and Managing Director of Stellantis India, described Srinagar as a high-potential market with evolving consumer demand. He noted that the new facility aims to provide seamless access to both brands, combining Citrons comfort-focused mobility with Jeeps performance-driven capability suited to the regions terrain and weather conditions. Dealership Principal Mohammad Anwar Khan said the integrated setup will cater to the growing aspirations of customers in Jammu and Kashmir while addressing region-specific mobility needs. He added that the partnership is expected to deliver a reliable ownership experience backed by strong service infrastructure. The newly launched SBH has been designed as a modern, experience-led phygital space, blending digital interfaces with personalised in-person engagement. Customers can explore vehicles, receive expert guidance and complete purchases within a transparent and streamlined environment, supported by after-sales services. The facility will serve not only Srinagar but also adjoining districts, including Ganderbal, Budgam, Pulwama, Anantnag, Baramulla, Bandipora, Sopore and Kupwara, improving accessibility to Stellantis offerings across the Valley. Spread over 12,000 sq. ft., the outlet features an integrated 3S setup, a contemporary showroom, customer lounge, consultation areas and capacity to display up to five vehicles.

Doorstep Governance: Mobile passport service rolled out in Shopian

In a significant step towards strengthening citizen-centric governance and improving access to essential public services, the district administration Shopian on Wednesday launched a first-of-its-kind Mobile Passport Seva initiative at the Mini Secretariat. The service was formally inaugurated by Deputy Commissioner Shishir Gupta (IAS) in the presence of Regional Passport Officer (RPO) Srinagar, B. S. Rawat, along with senior officials from the district administration. The initiative aims to decentralise passport-related services and bring them closer to residents, particularly those who previously had to travel to Srinagar to complete application formalities. On its first day, the mobile service benefited over 50 applicants, reflecting a strong public response. A dedicated team from the Regional Passport Office Srinagar was deployed on-site to ensure smooth and efficient processing of applications. The Mobile Passport Van is scheduled to operate in the district for two days, with more than 100 applicants having already secured prior appointments. Officials stated that the initiative is expected to significantly ease logistical challenges for residents, reducing both travel time and associated costs. The programme also serves as a pilot model for extending similar outreach services to other districts in the region. During the event, authorities actively sought feedback from applicants to evaluate service delivery and identify potential areas for improvement. Officials assured that such outreach programmes would be conducted periodically, depending on public demand and administrative feasibility. Technical coordination and backend support for the camp were facilitated to ensure seamless digital processing of applications, contributing to the overall efficiency of the initiative. The service received a positive response from the public, with beneficiaries appreciating the convenience and accessibility it offered. Many applicants called for the initiative to be held more frequently, citing its effectiveness in bridging service gaps in the district.

KTMF, Axis Bank hold high-level talks to boost credit flow for Kashmir businesses

The Kashmir Traders & Manufacturers Federation (KTMF) on Thursday held a high-level interaction with senior management of Axis Bank in Srinagar, focusing on strengthening financial support and improving credit access for the business community in J&K. The meeting was attended by KTMFs senior leadership, district presidents, and representatives of various trade bodies from across the Valley. The Axis Bank delegation included Vijay Shetty, President Commercial Banking Coverage Group; Sunil Khatri, Senior Vice President (Working Capital Credit); Vineet Miglani, Senior Vice President (Risk Head); Kanwalbir Singh, Senior Vice President (Circle Head); Aadil Shah, Vice President & Cluster Head; and Gowher Sheikh, Vice President & Cluster Head. A detailed and result-oriented discussion was held on key issues such as lending practices, access to credit, working capital requirements, and the overall business ecosystem in the region. Deliberations also explored avenues for business expansion and the role of financial institutions in supporting trade and manufacturing sectors. KTMF President Mohammad Yaseen Khan highlighted the critical role of banks in revitalising the Valleys economy. He stressed the need for a more responsive and flexible banking approach, particularly in facilitating credit for small and medium enterprises. He urged the bank to adopt trader-friendly policies and ensure smoother financial accessibility. Speakers at the meeting underscored KTMFs extensive grassroots presence across districts and tehsils, describing it as one of the most representative business bodies in Jammu and Kashmir. The leadership reiterated that this wide network enables the federation to effectively articulate the concerns of the business community and engage constructively with institutions for inclusive economic growth. Several trade leaders, including Bashir Ahmad Rather, Qazi Tauseef, Din Mohammad Mattoo, Fayaz Ahmad Ahangar, Ajaz Ahmad Bhat, Mohammad Ismail Beigh, Javaid Ahmad Zargar, Tariq Ahmad Mugloo, Riyaz Ahmad Bhat, Altaf Ahmad Kar, Rouf Reshie, Umar Farooq, Ghulam Mohammad Bhat, Mehrajuddin Ahmad and Ajaz Ahmad Baba, shared ground-level insights, highlighting challenges related to collateral requirements, credit flow bottlenecks and the need for customised financial products suited to local conditions. Senior business leader Mushtaq Ahmad Chaya and Kashmir Chamber of Commerce and Industry functionary Aashiq Shangloo were also present on the occasion. Responding to the concerns, Axis Bank officials acknowledged the unique challenges faced by businesses in the region and reiterated their commitment to addressing them in a structured and time-bound manner. The delegation said the bank is looking to enhance its lending exposure in Jammu and Kashmir and assured that efforts would be made to introduce tailored financial solutions, improve credit accessibility and streamline processes. The meeting concluded on a positive note, with both sides agreeing to strengthen coordination and explore new avenues of collaboration aimed at fostering business growth and economic development in the region.

Sony India expands retail presence with New Sony Center in Srinagar

Sony India has expanded its premium retail footprint in Jammu and Kashmir with the launch of a new Sony Center in Srinagar. The outlet, operated by Nori Electric, is located in Jawahar Nagar and spans approximately 1,260 square feet, offering customers an immersive and experience-driven retail environment. Designed around Sonys Cinema Is Coming Home (CICH) concept, the new store aims to replicate a theatre-like experience within a home setting. The retail space integrates advanced display technologies with high-quality audio systems, enabling customers to interact with products in a realistic, lifestyle-oriented setup rather than a conventional showroom format. Speaking on the occasion, Sunil Nayyar, Managing Director of Sony India, said the new store reflects the companys focus on enhancing customer engagement through experiential retail. He noted that the concept goes beyond product display, allowing visitors to experience how Sonys technology integrates into everyday life. The store layout emphasizes immersive viewing and listening zones to demonstrate the brands innovation in home entertainment. At the core of the outlet is the BRAVIA experience zone, showcasing large-format televisions, including 98-inch (248 cm) and 85-inch (215 cm) models, paired with premium soundbars to deliver a cinematic audiovisual experience. The store also features a dedicated Digital Imaging section, where customers can explore and test a range of Sony cameras and lenses through hands-on demonstrations. In addition, visitors can engage with Sonys broader product ecosystem, including personal audio devices such as headphones and earbuds, as well as gaming consoles through an interactive PlayStation experience zone. The integrated layout is intended to provide a seamless understanding of how different product categories complement each other within a connected entertainment setup. The launch underscores Sony Indias ongoing strategy to strengthen its presence in key markets through premium retail formats that prioritize customer interaction and product experience. By expanding in Srinagar, the company aims to cater to a growing consumer base seeking high-end electronics and immersive home entertainment solutions. The newly opened Sony Center is located at 239, Jawahar Nagar, Srinagar 190008, and is now open to customers.

Shehr-e-Khaas traders raise banking concerns in meeting with J&K Bank officials

A detailed and outcome-oriented meeting was convened between representatives of the Shehr-e-Khaas Traders Alliance and senior officials of Jammu and Kashmir Bank Ltd, focusing on a range of pressing issues affecting traders and shopkeepers in the historic downtown business hub of Srinagar. The interaction brought together Alliance members and key banking officials, including Zonal Head Muzaffar Ahmad and Cluster Head Zahoor Ahmad, in what participants described as a constructive engagement aimed at resolving long-standing operational challenges. The meeting assumed significance in the context of growing concerns among local traders regarding banking accessibility, liquidity constraints, and delays in financial facilitation. The Traders Alliance delegation included President Nazir Ahmad Shah, along with prominent members Mushtaq Ahmad Gagroo, Hashim Gupkari, Ahmad Hameem, Suhail Ahmad Dhar, and Chief Spokesperson Feroz Ahmad Wani. The delegation collectively reiterated the need for sustained coordination between financial institutions and the trading community to ensure economic stability in the area. During the discussions, the Traders Alliance highlighted multiple grievances faced by the business community, particularly emphasizing disruptions in banking services that have had a direct bearing on day-to-day commercial activities. A major point of concern raised was the discontinuation or restriction of overdraft (OD) limits for traders, which has adversely impacted working capital cycles and limited the ability of small and medium businesses to sustain operations. The Alliance strongly urged the bank authorities to take immediate and effective steps to ensure the smooth functioning of banking services in the area. Members stressed that timely restoration of OD limits is critical, especially in a market like Shehr-e-Khaas, where traditional businesses rely heavily on short-term credit to maintain inventory flow and manage operational expenses. Responding to the concerns, the bank officials acknowledged the issues raised and assured the delegation that the matters would be examined on priority. Both Muzaffar Ahmad and Zahoor Ahmad conveyed a positive and reassuring stance, indicating that the bank is committed to addressing the genuine difficulties faced by its customers. They emphasized that corrective measures would be initiated after due assessment, and efforts would be made to streamline banking operations in the region. Participants noted that the officials maintained a cooperative and respectful approach throughout the meeting, allowing for open dialogue and detailed discussion of each issue. The Alliance appreciated the willingness of the bank representatives to engage directly with stakeholders and listen attentively to their concerns. The meeting concluded on a note of cautious optimism, with traders expressing hope that the assurances given by the bank officials would translate into tangible improvements in the near future. Stakeholders underscored that timely intervention and policy responsiveness are essential to revive confidence among traders and support the broader commercial ecosystem of Shehr-e-Khaas.

Jammu Chamber calls on CM Omar, seeks turnover incentives, power amnesty, freezing of power tariff for 5 yrs

A delegation of Chamber of Commerce and Industry Jammu (JCCI) led by its president Arun Gupta called on Chief Minister Omar Abdullah and discussed with him a wide range of issues pertaining to industry and the general public on Thursday. Major industrial sector issues deliberated during the meeting included turnover incentives, free-hold rights, power amnesty, freezing of power tariff for five years, working capital interest subvention, land allotment cancellation and 20 percent capping in land allotment for sons of the soil. JCCI president Arun Gupta, during interaction, stated, Time and again we are flagging the issues but we are not getting exact reply or solution to these issues. He requested the Chief Minister to consider the cited issues on priority and constitute committees to settle them once for all. While discussing the issue relating to Shahpur Kandi dam project agreement, Gupta urged the Chief Minister to develop the required transmission infrastructure so that J&K could get its due share of electricity at cheaper rates that would also solve the problem regarding shortage of electricity in the UT. The other issues discussed in the meeting included change of land use; renewal or execution of lease deeds (in Sabzi Mandi, Fruit Mandi, Bahu Plaza, Shiv Market Railway Station) and the matter related to Gair Mumkin Khad. The issue relating to cancellation of allotment notices issued to 32 shopkeepers at Bahu Plaza by Jammu Development Authority (JDA) was also discussed in the meeting. The JCCI president shared some facts regarding the allotment of those shops and requested the Chief Minister to constitute a committee to suggest the remedial measures in this regard and issue necessary directions to JDA to put on hold the notices issued to the shopkeepers. Business community lacks a suitable, spacious place outside Chamber House to interact, relax and meet the dignitaries for professional activities, Arun Gupta further emphasised and urged CM Omar to allot at least 20 kanals of land in or around Jammu city for establishment of JCCI Business Club. While replying to the issues raised in the meeting, the Chief Minister assured that the issues discussed in the meeting would receive due attention from the government. Those who accompanied the delegation included Anil Gupta, senior vice president JCCI; Rajeev Gupta, junior vice president; Manish Gupta, secretary general; Rajesh Gupta, secretary; Rajesh Gupta treasurer and Anil Gupta, president Bahu Plaza Association.

No plan yet to raise petrol, diesel prices: Govt

The government on Thursday dismissed reports suggesting petrol and diesel prices may be hiked by Rs 25-28 a litre soon after assembly elections, saying there is no such proposal under consideration. Some news reports are suggesting a price hike of petrol and diesel. It is hereby clarified that there is no such proposal under consideration by the government, the Ministry of Petroleum and Natural Gas said in a post on X. The clarification came after a report by Kotak Institutional Equities hinted of a steep increase in petrol and diesel prices once the polling for assembly elections in states like West Bengal ends on April 29. Kotak projected a Rs 25-28 a litre increase in price based on crude oil staying close to USD 120 per barrel. The ministry said such reports are designed to create fear and panic amongst the citizens and are mischievous and misleading. In fact, India is the only country where petrol and diesel prices haven't increased in the last four years, it said. Government of India and oil PSUs have taken relentless steps in order to insulate the Indian citizens from steep increases in international prices. International oil prices spiked after US and Israel attacked Iran on February 28, and Tehran's sweeping retaliation that effectively shut the Strait of Hormuz - one of the world's most critical energy arteries, linking the Persian Gulf to global markets and handling roughly a fifth of global oil trade, along with significant volumes of liquefied natural gas. After the Iran war, oil prices spiked from around USD 70 per barrel to USD 119 before seeing some correction. Renewed tensions have pushed Brent - the world's most known crude oil benchmark - to USD 103-106 per barrel. Despite a more than 50 per cent rise in input crude oil prices, petrol and diesel rates have remained unchanged in India. Petrol is priced at Rs 94.77 a litre in the national capital and diesel costs Rs 87.67.

Ingenious School inaugurates smart classes, felicitates first batch of Class 10 achievers

Srinagar, Apr 23: Ingenious School on Wednesday organised an inauguration ceremony of its smart classes along with a felicitation programme for the first batch of Class 10 performers at its campus here. Member of Legislative Assembly Zadibal, TanvirSadiq, attended the event as the chief guest. Among the prominent invitees were Firdous Ali, Mymoona Jan, Syed IshratRufai, Faheem Gangoo, Mudasir Shah and PeerzadaIrshad. During the programme, the smart classes initiative was formally inaugurated with the aim of enhancing digital learning and providing students with a modern, interactive educational environment. On the occasion, the school management also felicitated its first batch of Class 10 students for their outstanding academic performance. The dignitaries, while addressing the gathering, appreciated the efforts of the school administration in promoting quality education and adopting modern teaching methodologies for the overall development of students.