Opinion

EOW Kashmir arrests fraudster in Rs 93 lakh land, property fraud case

Srinagar, Sep 18: The Economic Offences Wing (EOW) Kashmir of the Crime Branch J&K has arrested an alleged fraudster in connection with a Rs 93 lakh land and property cheating case, officials said. The accused, identified as Ghulam Mohi-Ud-Din Dar, son of Abdul Khaliq Dar and a resident of Jawalapora, Samson Budgam, was arrested in compliance with an order and warrant issued by the Court of Sub-Judge, Srinagar. According to the Crime Branch, Dar had been evading arrest for the past year and is allegedly involved in multiple criminal cases registered with Police Station EOW Kashmir/SCW Kashmir. The arrest is linked to FIR No. 17/2026, registered at Police Station EOW Kashmir under Sections 318(4), 338, 340 and 61(2) of the Bharatiya Nyaya Sanhita (BNS). The case stems from a written complaint alleging that Dar, a land broker, cheated the victim of Rs 93 lakh in connivance with co-accused Soom Nath Koul, son of Kalash Nath Koul, a resident of Lotus Tower, Bangalore North, Karnataka, with links to Janipur, Jammu. Investigators said the accused allegedly offered to sell five kanals of migrant land in Drusu, Pulwama, along with 300 standing trees in Bijbehara, using forged agreements to facilitate the transactions. The Crime Branch further alleged that a bank account used to route the cheated money was opened on the same day the funds were transferred, allegedly for the purpose of executing the fraud. According to investigators, the accused duo allegedly targeted people by making false promises of selling migrant property while claiming to be its owners or authorised attorney holders. A Hue and Cry Notice remains in force against the absconding co-accused, Soom Nath Koul. Further investigation into the alleged fraud network and its operations is underway, the Crime Branch said.

Mamata-led TMC submits names, symbol choices to EC 'under strongest protest'

New Delhi, Sep 18: The Trinamool Congress, led by its founder and chairperson Mamata Banerjee, submitted its response to the Election Commission's interim order that temporarily removed the All India Trinamool Congress (AITC) name and its flowers and grass symbol from the ballot for the October 6 bypolls in West Bengal. The party emailed its choices of new names and symbols for the upcoming elections to the poll panel at 11:36 pm on Thursday and submitted them under strongest protest, according to sources. In its interim order issued on Thursday night, the Election Commission directed the two sides in the dispute over the All India Trinamool Congress (AITC) not to use the party name and its flowers and grass symbol for the upcoming West Bengal bypolls, and asked them to submit their preferred names and symbols by Friday morning. The EC said the proposed name could be similar to All India Trinamool Congress, and the symbol must be chosen from the list of free or available symbols notified for independents and registered unrecognised political parties. The bypolls to Rejinagar and Nandigram are scheduled for October 6. The poll panel said the time available was not enough to complete the proceedings under Paragraph 15 of the Election Symbols (Reservation and Allotment) Order, 1968, but noted the urgency of the party name and symbol for the upcoming by-elections. The EC said the interim arrangement was made specifically to cover the upcoming bypolls and would remain in force until the dispute is finally determined under Paragraph 15 of the Symbols Order. The EC order comes against the backdrop of a rebellion that began in the TMC legislature party after the Assembly poll defeat in May and later spread to Parliament. In June, 58 rebel MLAs elected expelled leader Ritabrata Banerjee as Leader of Opposition instead of the Mamata camp's nominee, Sovandeb Chattopadhyay, and secured recognition from the Assembly Speaker, marking the party's first split in its 28-year history. Five days later, the revolt reached Parliament, with 20 Lok Sabha MPs led by senior leader Kakoli Ghosh Dastidar joining the little-known NCPI and writing to Speaker Om Birla, backing the BJP-led NDA as a separate bloc, deepening the rupture in the party's parliamentary ranks. The move is a setback for Mamata, whose hand-drawn symbol has been central to TMC's journey since its formation in 1998 after breaking away from the Congress. The flowers and grass symbol became a potent expression of the party's grassroots identity for the last 28 years.

Rupee settles 2 paise up at 95.89 against US dollar after breaching 96 level

Mumbai, Sep 18: The rupee staged a spirited recovery after slipping below the 96 level intraday and settled higher by 2 paise at 95.89 against the US dollar on Thursday on heavy dollar selling by banks, snapping its seven-day falling streak. The local currency breached the 96 level to hit a low of 96.10 to a dollar in day trade after a 25 basis point rate hike by the US Federal Reserve, sustained foreign fund outflows from stock markets and high crude oil rates. Forex traders said that dollar selling by banks on behalf of the RBI helped the local unit recoup losses and hit a high of 95.78 to a dollar. A slight correction in the dollar index and crude oil prices also supported investor sentiment despite global geopolitical volatility, they added. At the interbank foreign exchange market, the rupee opened higher at 95.88 but soon reversed gains and hit the intraday low of 96.10, breaching the 96 level for the first time since July 24. The unit recovered during the session and touched the high of 95.78 before settling at 95.89 against the US dollar, up 2 paise from the previous closing level, breaking the seven-day falling trend. The Indian rupee experienced a highly volatile trading session on Thursday, initially buckling under a hawkish Fed onslaught and weaker Asian currency sentiment. However, those early losses proved fleeting as aggressive central bank intervention swooped in with heavy-handed dollar defence, pulling the local unit off the canvas to secure marginal gains, Dilip Parmar Senior Research Analyst, HDFC Securities. Parmar further noted that urning to the technical outlook, the spot USD/INR pair remains in an overall upward trend following its recent surge, though we anticipate a period of short-term consolidation with key support around 95.45 and resistance capped at 96.30. On Wednesday, the local unit ended 3 paise lower at 95.91 against the American currency, extending its downward trend for the seventh session in a row. In the preceding six sessions, the rupee has lost 148 paise, or more than 1.4 per cent, since the closing level of 94.43 against the greenback recorded on September 4. Meanwhile, the dollar index, which gauges the greenback's strength against a basket of six currencies, was trading 0.05 per cent lower at 99.92. Brent crude, the global oil benchmark, was trading 1.29 per cent lower at USD 104.47 per barrel in futures trade. Dealers said global trade uncertainties after the House of Representatives cleared a law authorising President Donald Trump to impose up to a 100 per cent tariff on India and other countries importing Russian oil weighed on the local unit. The domestic unit was also weighed down after the US Federal Reserve hiked interest rates for the first time in three years amid rising inflation, they said. In domestic equities, Sensex fell 21.86 points, or 0.03 per cent, to settle at 74,314.59, while the Nifty ended with a gain of 53.00 points, or 0.23 per cent, at 23,270.60. Foreign institutional investors (FIIs) offloaded equities worth Rs 3,208.76 crore on a net basis on Thursday, according to exchange data.

OpenAI reports unexpected and concerning AI behavior involving unauthorised actions, oversight evasion

Washington, Sep 18: OpenAI has disclosed six reports of unexpected or concerning behavior in artificial-intelligence models as the debate on AI safety becomes increasingly heated. The AI company also said Wednesday it was introducing a new framework for tracking, probing and disclosing instances of what it called misalignment, including cases where AI models acted without authorization, coordinated with other models or evaded oversight. OpenAI's latest announcement came as US AI bosses, including the leaders of OpenAI and Anthropic, are calling for a slowdown in the technology's development over safety concerns. Among the new cases reported by OpenAI, an unreleased research model inserted jailbreak-like instructions into its own notes to disregard its normal constraints and told itself to be freed from the roles and identities that bind other chatbots. In another instance, an AI agent used computer code to come up with the answer to a question, but, in order to have an online source to cite, it uploaded a file to the public internet without asking the user. During training of an AI model called 5.6-Sol, the model instructed itself to invent missing data, and an agent wrote a message to remind itself to hide mismatched information. This kind of deceitful behavior has underpinned a flare-up of recent concerns about AI evading human control. But that outcome is not surprising to some AI researchers, said Matt Fredrikson, an associate professor at Carnegie Mellon University and the CEO of Gray Swan AI. At the risk of anthropomorphizing model behavior, you can almost think of them as knowing that they're going to be graded, Fredrikson said. If they know that they cheated took shortcuts, didn't really do it in the way that it was intended and they know they're going to be evaluated on it, and their objective is to get a good evaluation, then it makes perfect sense, right? The six reports were discovered during training or evaluation over the past months, OpenAI said. As AI systems grow more advanced and more widely deployed, we need to build a broader and better-informed consensus on the progress of alignment research, OpenAI wrote in a blog post as it disclosed the events. Decisions about how AI development should proceed in the months and years to come need to draw on evidence that people outside the companies building frontier models can examine for themselves, the company said. Wednesday's new cases followed OpenAI's disclosure in July that its rogue AI system hacked into AI startup Hugging Face. Anthropic also said the same month that its AI models hacked into three organizations during testing. AI agents are becoming smarter and have become more determined to resolve complex tasks through inter-agent collaboration, knowledge sharing, deception, and concealment, said Lian Jye Su, a chief analyst at technology research and advisory group Omdia. That's making it harder to govern and contain them using traditional AI security approaches, he said. OpenAI's new tracking and disclosure framework, meanwhile, can help push for other AI developers to also adopt similar practices. That said, the process remains internal and voluntary, but is a step in the right direction, Su added.

What to know after a week of Houthi attacks that threaten Saudi oil and have rattled world markets

Cairo, Sep 17: It's been a week since Yemen's Iran-backed Houthi rebels stormed down the Red Sea coast, extending their reach to a key maritime chokepoint and threatening Saudi Arabia's oil exports. The Houthis' biggest land grab in years reignited Yemen's 12-year civil war and pushed up global fuel prices. It also gave Iran another potential source of leverage as the United States has started to loosen Tehran's grip on the Strait of Hormuz, on the other side of the Arabian Peninsula. The Houthis are also firing at Saudi oil facilities and tankers. An attack on Saudi Arabia's east-west pipeline, blamed on Iran-backed militias in Iraq, added to an unfolding nightmare for the kingdom and rattled world markets. The rebel blitz has forced some 125,000 Yemenis to flee their homes. The civil war has killed over 150,000 people and at times pushed the country to the brink of famine. Now the rebels appear to be eyeing Yemen's oil-rich east. So far, the only thing standing in their way is Yemen's Saudi-backed government and an array of forces that have fought each other as recently as January. Saudi Arabia's most important ally, the US, appears to be sitting this one out. The Houthis are fighting on several fronts The Houthis captured the important Red Sea port city of Mokha before taking several islands near the narrow Bab el-Mandeb strait, through which some 12 per cent of world trade passes in peacetime. They are also just 32 kilometres (20 miles) from Djibouti, a small African nation hosting US and other military bases. The Houthis first swept down from their northern heartland in 2014, capturing the capital, Sanaa, and much of northern Yemen. Saudi Arabia intervened the following year, and fighting raged until a 2022 ceasefire. In recent days, there has been heavy fighting in and around Marib, a central city in an oil-rich province of the same name. Previous Houthi offensives have failed to capture the city, which also serves as a military hub for Saudi-backed forces. The Houthis also threaten the western city of Taiz, a front line for much of the conflict. Tightening the noose on the world's largest oil exporter The Houthis want Saudi Arabia to lift a long-running blockade on the territory they control. It is Saudi Arabia that closed the Bab el-Mandeb strait to shipping traffic to and from Yemen and imposed an unjust blockade on the country, Mohammed al-Bukhaiti, a member of the Houthis' political bureau, told The Associated Press. The Saudis and their allies have long struggled to contain or deter the Houthis, and may be tempted to seek a diplomatic solution to halt the attacks. That might ultimately require US concessions to Iran, the only country with leverage over the Houthis. The US, which bombed the Houthis under the Biden and Trump administrations, has shown no interest in getting involved this time around, and the Houthis appear keen to keep it that way. They say they are only attacking Saudi shipping. Traffic has recovered in the Red Sea, for now Windward, a shipping firm, reported a dip in traffic through the Bab el-Mandeb from 35 daily transits before the Houthi advance to 25 after, but traffic has already recovered and climbed to 45 transits on Sunday. The Houthis could still expand their target bank beyond Saudi ships and tankers. During their self-styled blockade of Israel at the height of the war in Gaza, the Houthis attacked ships in the Red Sea with no known connection to that conflict. At the moment, their focus is on Saudi-linked shipping, said Valentin d'Hauthuille, a Middle East analyst at ACLED, a conflict monitor. But they might extend the criteria according to which vessels are assessed to be Saudi-linked' to increase pressure on both Saudi Arabia and the global economy. There are signs of diplomacy, but the cost could be high Regional mediators have sprung into action, but a diplomatic agreement appears unlikely without some kind of breakthrough in the wider Iran war. Iran wants the US to lift a blockade and sanctions that have devastated its economy, while the US seeks the full reopening of the Strait of Hormuz and a deal to roll back Tehran's nuclear program. Neither side has shown any sign of budging since a preliminary agreement quickly crumbled over the summer. Last weekend, Oman hosted a meeting between US and Houthi representatives, a Houthi official and another individual familiar with the talks told The Associated Press this week. The US says it has been in constant contact with the Saudis, a close ally and the recipient of billions of dollars in American military assistance. Saudi Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman recently visited Egypt, which has served as a regional mediator. A government official in Turkiye, another potential mediator, said this week that it was in talks with Iran and the United Arab Emirates to try and lower tensions. The Houthi attacks are the first test of a new defence pact among Saudi Arabia, NATO member Turkiye and nuclear power Pakistan. But officials from Turkiye and Pakistan say they have not received a Saudi request for support. The humanitarian situation in Yemen is worsening The latest fighting has killed eight civilians and wounded another 32, according to the UN humanitarian office, which says an estimated 125,000 people have fled their homes. The Health Ministry in the Saudi-backed government says the Houthis have killed around 150 civilians since Sept. 3. Saudi Arabia said Thursday that debris from an intercepted Houthi drone killed one person and wounded two others in the kingdom. Yemen was the poorest Arab country even before the civil war, and has experienced widespread hunger in recent years because of the conflict and the Saudi-led blockade. The Houthis' detention of UN and aid workers has hampered international assistance in the territories they control. Experts say the Houthis have struggled to pay civil servants, leading to some unrest, and have diverted much of their tax revenues to their military wing. The UN humanitarian office, known as OCHA, says only 20 per cent of its humanitarian appeal for Yemen has been funded, and that millions risk losing access to food, healthcare, nutrition, water and protection services. The needs are extremely high right now, said Sara Ahmed, a supervisor with Doctors Without Borders in Mokha. Doctors are working under difficult conditions to keep essential services running despite hearing airstrikes, she said. Mahida Ahmed fled the fighting in Mokha and is now sheltering in a displacement camp in Aden, where the Saudi-backed government is headquartered. She said she left in a hurry, with her children but no belongings, while her husband is still stranded in Mokha. This war has been completely devastating for us, she said.

Hakeem Yaseen urges Govt to expedite liver transplant programme at SKIMS

Jammu and Kashmir Peoples Democratic Front (PDF) President and former Minister Hakeem Mohammad Yaseen on Thursday expressed concern over the growing burden of liver diseases in Jammu and Kashmir and urged the Union and J&K governments to establish a fully functional liver transplant facility in the region. Yaseen, as per a statement, said patients suffering from advanced liver diseases, particularly those from economically weaker sections, are often compelled to travel outside Jammu and Kashmir for specialised treatment, placing a heavy financial and emotional burden on their families. Liver diseases have become a serious health concern in Jammu and Kashmir. Poor patients are among the worst affected as they are forced to travel outside the Union Territory for treatment, which involves huge expenses for travel, accommodation, medical procedures and prolonged follow-up, Yaseen said. He said the absence of a comprehensive liver transplant facility in J&K was creating a significant healthcare gap and called for urgent intervention to address it. Yaseen referred to earlier efforts at Sher-i-Kashmir Institute of Medical Sciences (SKIMS) to establish a liver transplant programme, saying the initiative needs to be taken forward on a time-bound basis. SKIMS had in August 2024 held a comprehensive programme with leading liver-transplant experts to discuss a roadmap for starting the facility. The institute had said that the programme would require requisite infrastructure, protocols and a transplant licence.

Karra raises statehood, unemployment, healthcare issues at Congress outreach in Jammu

The Jammu and Kashmir Pradesh Congress Committee (JKPCC) on Thursday stepped up its grassroots outreach with a Chopal Pe Charcha at Digiana Rani Talab, bringing into focus a wide spectrum of issues confronting people across Jammu and Kashmir, from the prolonged demand for restoration of statehood and unemployment to healthcare and education vacancies, the concerns of daily wagers and NHM employees, farmers problems, deteriorating infrastructure and the rising cost of living. The programme, as per a statement, was organised by the District Jammu Congress Committee under the presidentship of Yogesh Sawhney and hosted by Dwarka Chowdhary, former Corporator and Incharge Bishnah Constituency. Former MP Choudhary Lal Singh, S.T.S. Tony, Rajneesh Sharma, Th. Manmohan Singh, Satish Sharma and Dwarka Chowdhary also addressed the gathering and spoke on various issues concerning the people and the need for greater attention to grassroots grievances. Addressing the gathering, JKPCC President Tariq Hameed Karra said the Congress was using the Chopal Pe Charcha platform to take public concerns beyond political offices and place them directly before the people. He prominently raised the issue described by the Congress as Chanda Chori, besides reiterating the demand for restoration of full statehood to Jammu and Kashmir. Karra has in recent weeks repeatedly argued that the absence of full statehood has created a situation in which people are caught between two centres of authority, and has sought accountability over commitments made regarding restoration of statehood. Karra also focused on the employment and livelihood concerns of the Union Territory, particularly those affecting its youth. He referred to unemployment, recruitment-related grievances and examination controversies, while stressing that the aspirations of young people cannot be addressed merely through announcements. He raised the long-pending concerns of daily wagers and other temporary employees, as well as stipend-related issues of medical interns and the demands of NHM employees for better job security and service conditions. The Congress has recently highlighted the NHM agitation and demands concerning job security, remuneration and social-security benefits as major public issues. The JKPCC chief further drew attention to shortages of staff in hospitals, schools and colleges, inadequate infrastructure, broken roads, farmers difficulties, inflation and the pressures confronting ordinary households and small businesses. He also referred to concerns surrounding charges on specified UPI merchant transactions and said economic policies must be examined from the perspective of their impact on common people. Karra maintained that the youth, whom he described as the backbone of the country, require greater opportunities in employment, education and entrepreneurship, while public institutions need adequate manpower and infrastructure to deliver essential services. JKPCC Working President Raman Bhalla said that people across Jammu and Kashmir seeking tangible outcomes on employment, public services, statehood and economic reliefHe said the issues raised during the Chopal Pe Charcha reflected concerns extending well beyond Jammu city and affecting different sections of society across the Union Territory. He highlighted unemployment and recruitment delays, the condition of healthcare facilities, shortages of doctors and other staff, poor roads and civic infrastructure, regularisation of daily wagers, farmers concerns, challenges faced by traders and the wider economic pressure created by rising prices and utility costs.

Dr Darakhshan Andrabi reviews Urs arrangements at Dastgeer Sahib (RA) shrine

Chairperson, J&K Waqf Board and Minister of State, Dr Syed Darakhshan Andrabi Thursday visited the historic Dastgeer Sahib Shrine at Khanyar, Srinagar, and reviewed the arrangements being put in place for devotees, particularly in view of the ongoing Urs days. Dr Andrabi, as per a statement issued, paid obeisance at the revered shrine and prayed for the welfare, peace and prosperity of all. During her visit, she inspected the cleanliness arrangements, facilities for devotees and the ongoing developmental and beautification works being executed by the J&K Waqf Board. Waqf Board Member Syed Mohammad Haqqani and Ishtiyaq Mohiuddin, Executive Magistrate & Tehsildar also accompanied the Chairperson during the visit. Dr Andrabi directed the concerned officials to ensure the timely completion of all ongoing works while maintaining the sanctity, dignity and historic heritage of the shrine. She also took detailed feedback from the officials regarding the facilities being provided to devotees visiting the shrine.

Farooq Abdullah condemns drone incident near Makkah

The Jammu and Kashmir National Conference President Dr Farooq Abdullah Thursday expressed deep concern and anguish over the reported drone incident near the Holy city of Makkah Mukarramah, allegedly involving Houthi rebels, stating that the sanctity and honour of the Haramain Sharifain are deeply connected with the faith and sentiments of the entire Muslim Ummah and must not be put at risk under any circumstances. Dr Farooq Abdullah, as per a party statement, said that an incident of this nature near the holy city is deeply disturbing and has the potential to hurt the sentiments of Muslims across the world. He said, Makkah Mukarramah and Madinah Munawwarah are not merely sacred places in Saudi Arabia but hold unparalleled religious significance for Muslims across the globe. The Holy Kaaba is the Qibla of Muslims, while Masjid-e-Nabawi occupies a place of extraordinary reverence in their hearts. Ensuring the safety and security of these sacred sites, protecting pilgrims and devotees performing Hajj and Umrah and maintaining peace and tranquillity are matters of fundamental importance to the entire Muslim world. Dr Farooq Abdullah said that West Asia is already facing prolonged wars, tensions and humanitarian crises. Ongoing conflicts in Yemen and other parts of the region have had a devastating impact on civilians, economies, infrastructure and regional peace. In such circumstances, further military confrontation cannot provide a lasting solution to the regions problems. He said that in view of the continuing bloodshed in Palestine and the escalating tensions in other parts of the region, the Muslim world must promote peace, unity, mutual respect and understanding instead of further division and confrontation. Differences and disputes among Muslims should be resolved through dialogue and diplomatic means rather than the use of force. Dr Farooq Abdullah prayed for the safety and security of the Haramain Sharifain, peace and stability in the region, and the protection and well-being of all humanity. He said that in the prevailing circumstances, the Muslim Ummah must demonstrate unity, patience, wisdom and foresight rather than allowing itself to be driven by emotional divisions. Meanwhile, Patron of J&K Jamait Hamdani Moulana Riyaz Hamdani also condemned the drone attack on Makkah.

PARAS Health Srinagar, IAP join hands to Advance Rehabilitation Care in J&K

In a significant step towards strengthening physiotherapy, rehabilitation and multidisciplinary patient care in Jammu and Kashmir, PARAS Health Srinagar has signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) with the Indian Association of Physiotherapists (IAP). The collaboration aims to promote professional cooperation, knowledge exchange and greater awareness around the evolving role of physiotherapy in modern healthcare, while creating opportunities for advancing rehabilitation practices and patient-centred care. Speaking on the occasion, Dr Murtuza Habib, Facility Director, PARAS Health Srinagar, highlighted the expanding scope of physiotherapy and the important role physiotherapists play in the recovery and long-term wellbeing of patients. He said physiotherapy today extends far beyond conventional rehabilitation, with physiotherapists playing an increasingly important role across specialties including orthopaedics, neurosurgery, critical care, sports injuries and post-operative recovery. Dr Habib also underlined the importance of a multidisciplinary approach, where physiotherapists work closely with surgeons, physicians, nurses and other healthcare professionals to support patients through different stages of treatment and recovery. The MoU marks another step towards building stronger professional linkages and creating a platform for collaboration between a leading healthcare institution and the professional body representing physiotherapists. Dr Masarat Shafi, PT, IAP CEC North Zone and Council Member, State Allied Health Council, J&K, described the occasion as a significant and historic moment for the organisation. He said the IAP was particularly encouraged by PARAS Health Srinagar's growing focus on specialised and advanced healthcare, noting the work being undertaken across departments including Orthopaedics, Neurosurgery and Critical Care. Dr Shafi said the collaboration would provide an important platform for strengthening the role of physiotherapy within comprehensive healthcare and for promoting professional development, knowledge sharing and better rehabilitation practices. The collaboration comes at a time when rehabilitation is increasingly recognised as an integral component of healthcare rather than merely a post-treatment service. From restoring mobility after orthopaedic procedures to supporting neurological recovery and helping critically ill patients regain strength and function, physiotherapy has become an essential component of the continuum of care. The MoU between PARAS Health Srinagar and IAP is expected to further encourage professional engagement and contribute towards strengthening the rehabilitation ecosystem in the region. Healthcare is meaningful when it is accessible, affordable and available closer to the communities we serve. Our focus at PARAS Health is to bring quality, specialised care to the doorsteps of people across Jammu and Kashmir at affordable rates. Collaborations such as this with the Indian Association of Physiotherapists further strengthen our commitment to ensuring that rehabilitation and recovery are an integral part of comprehensive, patient-centred healthcare. Seema Vig, Senior Vice President & Regional Director, PARAS Health, said.

Speaker chairs All Party, BAC meeting ahead of Autumn Session

Speaker, Jammu and Kashmir Legislative Assembly (JKLA), Abdul Rahim Rather, today chaired a meeting of the All Party cum Business Advisory Committee (BAC) ahead of the Autumn Session of the Legislative Assembly, scheduled to commence on September 21, 2026, with a focus on ensuring smooth, orderly and people-oriented functioning of the House. The meeting was attended by Leader of Opposition Sunil Kumar Sharma, Ali Mohammad Sagar, Mubarik Gul, Mohammad Yousuf Tarigami, Nizamuddin Bhat, Sajad Gani Lone, Mir Mohammad Fayaz and Choudhary Mohammad Akram. The Speaker sought their valuable suggestions for making the forthcoming Assembly Session more fruitful, meaningful and responsive to public concerns. He emphasised the need to provide adequate opportunities to the elected representatives to raise issues pertaining to their respective constituencies and bring matters of public importance to the floor of the House. The Speaker called for coordinated efforts by all stakeholders to ensure the smooth and effective conduct of the Assembly proceedings. He underlined that the legislative institution carries a significant responsibility towards the people of Jammu and Kashmir. Every eye is on the proceedings of the Assembly and the people are watching how their elected representatives articulate their grievances and raise issues of public importance in the House. This places a great responsibility on every member. It is, therefore, imperative that all members conduct themselves with due regard to the dignity, discipline and decorum of the House, maintaining the Speaker. He stressed that parliamentary debate should remain focused on public welfare, constructive deliberations and the effective articulation of issues confronting the people, while maintaining the established conventions and dignity of the legislature. During the meeting, the members of the Business Advisory Committee put forward a range of valuable suggestions aimed at making the Session more relevant, inclusive and responsive to public aspirations. The members emphasised the importance of providing sufficient opportunities to legislators to raise constituency-specific concerns and matters requiring the attention of the government. Among the key suggestions discussed was the conduct of Zero Hour, with members proposing that Chief Whips and party leaders should identify the members who would participate and furnish the requisite list in advance to facilitate effective management of the proceedings. The members also suggested that mobile phone usage inside the Assembly Hall should not be permitted, in order to maintain discipline, attentiveness and the decorum of the House. Emphasis was also laid on timely circulation of the list of Private Members Bills, Resolutions along with questions and answers, well in advance of the proceedings. The members stated that advance availability of such legislative material would enable them to study the issues thoroughly, prepare appropriately and raise relevant supplementary questions during the Session. The Committee further stressed that every member should be provided adequate time and opportunity to present matters of public concern, constituency grievances and issues of wider significance before the House, in accordance with the applicable rules and the approved business of the Assembly. The Speaker took note of the suggestions put forth by the members and underscored the collective responsibility of all members and concerned stakeholders in ensuring the orderly, productive and meaningful conduct of the Autumn Session. The meeting concluded with an emphasis on strengthening parliamentary engagement, facilitating constructive debate and ensuring that the proceedings of the Assembly remain focused on the concerns and aspirations of the people of Jammu and Kashmir. Secretary, JKLA, Manoj Kumar Pandit was also present in the meeting.

Man booked for allegedly obstructing official duty, circulating video against Patwari

Police have registered a case against a Srinagar resident for allegedly obstructing government work and circulating a video containing corruption allegations against a Patwari of the Revenue Department, officials said. The accused has been identified as Sher Ali Mir, son of Ghulam Hassan Mir, a resident of Upper Barji, Harwan. According to officials, FIR No. 0046 of 2026 was registered at Police Station Harwan on September 15 under Section 132 of the Bharatiya Nyaya Sanhita (BNS), pertaining to causing obstruction in the discharge of official duty. The case was registered after a video allegedly featuring corruption-related allegations against the Revenue official was made and circulated on social media platforms. The video subsequently gained wider circulation online. The concerned official has also urged social media platforms and Facebook pages presenting themselves as news outlets to refrain from publishing or further circulating the video without obtaining his version or independently verifying the allegations. The official maintained that allegations of corruption should not be presented as established facts without verification and an opportunity for the person concerned to respond. He further submitted that the unrestricted circulation of an unverified and one-sided video could affect the reputation and dignity of a government employee and potentially raise concerns regarding his personal safety. Police are investigating the circumstances surrounding the making and circulation of the video, officials said.

HC seeks govt, Waqf Boards response on plea against former Hazratbal Imams removal

The High Court of J&K and Ladakh has issued notice to authorities on a plea against removal of Professor Dr Kamal-ud-Din Farooqui, from duties of Imam-o-Khateeb at Aasar-i-Shareef Dargah Hazratbal in 2024 here. In his plea, Farooqui has assailed J&K Waqf Board Executive Magistrates (Tehsildar) order dated April 8, 2024 whereby he was relieved from his duties as Imam-o-Khateeb pending an inquiry that was expressly required to be concluded within seven days. Despite the lapse of considerable time, no inquiry report or final decision has been furnished to him, according to the plea. In response to Farooquis plea, a bench of Justice Muhammad Yousuf Wani issued notice to the Union Territory of Jammu and Kashmir, Jammu and Kashmir Waqf Board and others for objections to be filed by October 14. While seeking the response to the plea, the Court directed the authorities to consider a representation submitted by Farooqui against his removal. According to the plea, the action followed an April 5, 2024 incident involving a non-Muslim individual who approached him through the Naib Imam with a desire to embrace Islam. Farooqui has maintained that the individual was questioned regarding any force, threat, coercion, compulsion or inducement before the Kalima Shahadah was administered and had publicly stated that he was acting voluntarily. The petition alleges that the Waqf authorities subsequently described the incident as a forcible conversion and constituted an enquiry committee without first issuing a show-cause notice or providing the petitioner an opportunity of hearing. Moreover, Farooqui submitted that he cooperated with the inquiry and furnished a detailed statement on May 5, 2024, seeking verification of CCTV footage and statements of persons present at the shrine. However, he submits, the inquiry report or any final decision was not communicated to him. Seeking to quash the Waqf Board Executive Magistrates order barring him from performing his duties as Imam-o-Khateeb, Aasar-i- Shareef Dargah Hazratbal, Farooqi submitted that the same had been issued without notice, opportunity of hearing, disclosure of adverse material or observance of the principles of natural justice. The plea underscores that the legality of order must be examined exclusively with reference to the Waqf Act, 1995 and the rules, regulations and written delegations in force on the date of its issuance. The petitioner also seeks direction to declare his continued exclusion from his duties due to the failure to conclude the inquiry within the period of seven days coupled with their failure to communicate any report or final decision to him as illegal, arbitrary, unreasonable and unconstitutional. In his prayer, he also seeks his restoration to the duties of Imam-o-Khateeb, disclosure of the complete enquiry report and consequential reliefs. In response to Farooquis plea, a bench issued notice to Union Territory of Jammu and Kashmir through its Principal Secretary Home Department, Jammu and Kashmir Waqf Board through its Chief Executive Officer, Boards Executive Magistrate (Tehsildar) in Srinagar, Dr Darakhshan Andrabi, Chairperson J&K Waqf Board, Senior Superintendent of Police, Srinagar, Station House Officer Police Station Nigeen, Srinagar and Administrator in-charge Aasar-i-Shareef Hazratbal, Srinagar for their reply.

Jarring voids in healthcare staffing exposed with NHM employees strike

The continuing strike by National Health Mission (NHM) employees is exposing the staffing gaps that the programme was created to bridge. Healthcare delivery is suffering in peripheral hospitals of J&K with every day of strike, and essential services are buckling under strain. At many peripheral health facilities, the stakeholders said, pediatric and gynaecological services are severely affected. NHM staff forms the sole workforce in many newborn care units in peripheries and even in tertiary care hospitals mother and child services are heavily dependent on NHM staff. An official said that Lal Ded Hospital is facing a severe crisis as more than 60 NHM staff are unavailable due to the strike. It is a major crisis at the hospital requiring longer shifts, leave cancellations and curtailment of admissions that can be deferred, the official said. At JLNM Hospital in Srinagar, an official said, the routine operation theatre services have been wound up. Due to the strike and unavailable staff, only the emergency OT remains functional, the official said. The situation underlines the vulnerability of J&Ks public healthcare system that leans heavily on NHM staff. The NHM personnel were brought in precisely to supplement an existing workforce. There are critical staffing gaps in hospitals across the primary, secondary and tertiary-care, and NHM staff sealed those gaps, a senior health and medical education official said. She said that the vacancies that NHM employees routinely help cover are becoming visible. We have now pronounced gaps in service delivery, she said. With the strike extended for another three days from 18 September, the hospitals have reorganised manpower and duty rosters in order to maintain essential services. The affected areas are being addressed to some extent, hospital officials said, including OPDs, IPDs, emergency services, labour rooms, operation theatres and labs. Recently, a report from Anantnag showed the impact on healthcare services at several government facilities. A report from Budgam pointed to disruption at PHCs and CHCs. NHM employees continue their agitation seeking, among other demands, a policy for regularization and job security. Pay parity is also one of the key demands. The employees initially started their 72- hour strike on 9 September. It has been extended many times since then as no ice has been broken between the health and medical education department and striking healthcare staff. The fresh extension is set to put more pressure on already strained health facilities, while people, especially in peripheral areas bear the brunt of unavailable healthcare staff.

Water crisis forces Gonipora women block road in Handwara

A group of women from Gonipora on Thursday blocked the road near the PHE Division Handwara, protesting against the acute shortage of drinking water in the area. The protesting women raised slogans and urged the concerned authorities to take immediate measures to restore regular water supply. They said residents have been facing difficulties due to the prolonged water shortage and demanded an early resolution to the issue. We have been suffering for the last several years and every year water shortage takes a heavy toll on us during the autumn season. Even the concerned MLA, Sheikh Khursheed, had promised us to take concrete steps to resolve our problem, but nothing has been done so far, forcing us to register the protest again, said a woman protester. Later, a police party from Police Station Handwara, led by Sub-Inspector (SI) Owais Ahmad, reached the spot and pacified the protesters, following which they dispersed peacefully.

J&K expands social security coverage

Jammu and Kashmir has recorded significant expansion in the coverage of social security, food security and welfare schemes. The official figures reveal that millions of beneficiaries were receiving assistance under various government programmes. On the social-inclusion front, the data has revealed that 25.69 lakh families, covering 103.88 lakh beneficiaries, have been enrolled under NFSA, while 16.61 lakh households, representing 67.84 lakh beneficiaries, are receiving free ration under PMGKAY. Monthly pensions are being provided to 10.86 lakh beneficiaries, including old-age, widow and specially-abled beneficiaries, it reads. Under the Ladli Beti scheme, 2.257 lakh girls have benefited, with an expenditure of Rs 1,415.75 crore since inception. Marriage assistance has reached 1.72 lakh beneficiaries, with Rs 858.54 crore provided since inception, it reads. Also, the Pradhan Mantri Matru Vandana Yojana has recorded 30,547 registrations, while 21,067 Vidyaarambh certificates have been distributed for children aged 56 years. Under supplementary nutrition, 8,31,329 Aadhaar-authenticated beneficiaries have been covered up to July 2026, which include 43,734 pregnant women, 43,669 lactating mothers, 42,672 children aged up to six months, besides 6,78,772 children aged six months to six years and 22,482 adolescent girls. The data shows 1,036 cases of Severe Acute Malnutrition (SAM), constituting 0.16 percent, and 3,228 cases of moderate acute malnutrition (MAM), or 0.52 percent. APAAR IDs have reportedly been generated for 97 percent of eligible children aged 36 years through self-Aadhaar authentication, it reads. In July 2026, 32,592 people were screened for anaemia, out of which 5,003 cases were identified. Poshan Maah witnessed 12.84 lakh activities, while 8.40 lakh activities were undertaken during Poshan Pakhwada, it reads. Also, the Women Development Corporation has established 300 units employing 1,588 persons, while 157 SC/ST/BC units are employing 375 persons. For Kashmiri migrants, the government data reveals that relief of Rs 3,250 per person per month, subject to a maximum of Rs 13,000 per family, besides ration through DBT, is being provided. Under transit accommodation, 6,000 flats are planned, while 5,000 have been completed and 3,257 have been allotted as well. Against 6,000 identified posts for migrants, 5,896 posts have been filled, representing 98 percent, it reads. The administration has issued 1.64 lakh domicile certificates and 37,000 migrant certificates, besides other certificates. As per the official data, a digital portal project costing Rs 22.55 crore is underway, while the Jagti Community Hall project, with a project cost of Rs 26.64 crore, is around 95 percent complete. The POJK Bhawan at Suketar, Nagrota, estimated at Rs 9.95 crore, is under construction and has achieved 45 percent progress, it reads.

Jhelums Call:One youth, a few volunteers, and a mission to clean

The Jhelum has long flowed through the heart of Baramulla, carrying with it the towns history while, today, reflecting the growing strains of neglect and pollution. For Nayeem Farooq, a young resident of Baramulla town, the mounting piles of garbage along the Jhelums banks had become too troubling to simply look away from. Tonnes of plastic, discarded material and other waste have accumulated along stretches of the river, leaving parts of its banks resembling open dumping grounds. Rather than waiting for someone else to act, Nayeem decided to begin on his own. Twenty days ago, he started cleaning the banks of the Jhelum. What started as an individual effort has gradually drawn the attention of other young people, including girls, who have joined him in the initiative. A small personal resolve is now beginning to take the shape of a community mission. Tonnes of garbage is deposited on its banks. It is indeed worrisome. A conscious mind cannot afford to see the state of River Jhelum like this, Nayeem said while removing waste along with another young volunteer, Mehak Khursheed, from the riverbank. For Nayeem, the cleaning drive is not merely about removing rubbish. It is about restoring respect for a river that has been central to Baramullas life for generations. River Jhelum is a lifeline for the towns residents, with drinking water supplies for one lakh souls drawn from the river. Its importance extends beyond water, touching the towns history, landscape and everyday life. For centuries, the Jhelum has been inseparable from Baramullas identity. But decades of unchecked dumping, mounting pollution and neglect have steadily scarred its banks, with tonnes of discarded waste eventually finding its way into the river. Residents say garbage can be seen deposited along various stretches of the river. Plastic and other waste are frequently found near the water, raising concerns about pollution and the condition of a water source on which the town depends. Nayeem believes the problem is not confined to one section of society. Almost all the garbage emerging from the town is being dumped on its banks, he said, adding that shopkeepers and street vendors were also contributing to the problem by throwing waste along the river. The accumulation of garbage, he said, has polluted the river to an alarming extent. During the last 20 days, Nayeem says he has removed several tonnes of garbage from the riverbanks. The work, however, has not been easy. Cleaning a riverbank requires time, physical effort and a willingness to continue. The sight of a young man working along the river has nevertheless begun to inspire others. A few youngsters, including young girls, have joined the cleaning drive. Though their numbers remain small, their participation has given the initiative a sense of collective purpose. There has also been a sign of support from the local business community. Nayeem said a businessman, impressed by his efforts, had assured him that he would provide a JCB machine and a tipper to help lift garbage from the riverbanks. Such assistance, he believes, could make the cleaning work more effective and help remove waste that is difficult to handle manually. The mission beyond cleaning. Nayeems plans do not end with the removal of garbage. He says the next part of his mission will focus on creating awareness among residents and discouraging people from using the riverbanks as dumping sites. He plans to launch an awareness campaign and involve mohalla committees and masjid committees in the effort. The objective, he says, is to create a sustained campaign that encourages people to stop polluting the Jhelum. Cleaning the riverbanks is only one part of the mission. The other part is to make people aware of the importance of the river and urge them not to pollute it, he said. Nayeem believes the river deserves the same importance that people attach to the basic necessities of life. The Jhelum is as important for Kashmir, as air is for living things, he said.

Child passport issued under 15 years to be valid for 5 years or till they turn 18

New Delhi, Sep 17:In a latest development, the Ministry of External Affairs (MEA) has notified new rules under which the ordinary passports issued to children below 15 years of age will now be valid for five years or until the child turns 18, whichever is earlier. The Passports (Amendment) Rules, 2026, published in the Gazette of India on September 17, amend the Passports Rules, 1980. Under the amended rule 12(1A), a 36-page ordinary passport issued to a child under 15 will remain in force for a period of five years from the date of issue, or until the child attains the age of 18, whichever comes first. The notification, dated September 15, 2026, also revised rule 8 governing passport application fees, stating that the fee payable for each category of application will be as specified in Schedule IV of the rules. The amended rules come into force from the date of their publication in the Official Gazette. The notification noted that the Passports Rules, 1980 were originally published via notification G.S.R. 691(E) dated December 11, 1980, and were last amended via notification G.S.R. 156(E) dated June 20, 2026.

CM Omar Abdullah inaugurates renovated J&K House at Amritsar

Chief Minister Omar Abdullah today inaugurated the renovated Jammu & Kashmir House at Amritsar, Punjab. The heritage property, located at 2-Court Road, Amritsar has been comprehensively upgraded with modern amenities to provide affordable and comfortable accommodation to residents of Jammu and Kashmir visiting Amritsar, particularly patients and their attendants travelling to the city for medical treatment. The renovation and upgradation works commenced in October 2025 and were completed at an approximate cost of Rs 2.30 crore. The works covered civil and electrical works, interiors, guest amenities, external development and allied infrastructure. The upgraded facility comprises four guest rooms with attached dressing areas and washrooms, besides a common sitting lounge, dining area and kitchen. Located close to major hospitals and other key destinations in the city, the J&K House will serve as an important support facility for patients and their attendants, besides benefiting students, pilgrims and other visitors from Jammu and Kashmir. The Chief Minister inspected the upgraded facilities and directed the concerned officers to maintain high standards of hospitality, cleanliness and upkeep for guests. Speaking on the occasion, the Chief Minister said the facility would help ease the difficulties faced by patients and their families travelling outside Jammu and Kashmir for treatment, while also providing a convenient and affordable place to stay for other visitors from J&K. The Chief Minister appreciated the efforts of the departments and officers involved in the renovation and upgradation of the property and stressed the importance of maintaining the facility to high standards. The Chief Minister was accompanied by his Advisor Nasir Aslam Wani, Additional Chief Secretary to the Chief Minister Dheeraj Gupta, Resident Commissioner J&K Ramesh Kumar, Secretary Hospitality & Protocol Avny Lavasa, Additional Resident Commissioner Anil Sharma and senior officers of the Government of J&K and the Government of Punjab.

OZONE SHIELD a first-of-its-kind initiative to safeguard doctors

New Delhi, Sep 17:Ozone Pharmaceuticals limited Thursday launched OZONE SHIELD, a first initiative of its kind by any Indian pharmaceutical company for the welfare and safety of doctors, at an event in New Delhi. This initiative is taken in response to the growing instances of violence, harassment and baseless legal suits against doctors. Ozone Shield provides security assistance, legal assistance and emotional wellbeing support to doctors in case they face such an untoward scenario. The initiative was formally launched by former Lieutenant Governor of Puducherry Dr. Kiran Bedi, who was also the Chief Guest of the event. The need is well documented. A nationwide survey this year by experts from AIIMS, Safdarjung Hospital and VMMC, covering over 1,500 healthcare workers, found that 78.4 percent had faced threats on duty, and 58.2 percent didnt feel safe at work. Ozone SHIELD is built to close this gap. It has also been established that in the majority of legal cases, doctors are eventually declared not guilty by the Courts.

35 of 52 J&K corruption FIRs are bribe-trap cases in 2026

The Jammu and Kashmir Anti-Corruption Bureau (ACB) has registered 52 corruption-related FIRs across the Union Territory up to September 2026, 35 of which involve trap operations in alleged cases of demanding and accepting bribes. The ACB's 2026 case register shows that trap cases account for 67.3 per cent of the total FIRs registered so far this year. In other words, roughly two out of every three corruption cases recorded by the Bureau have involved allegations of direct bribery. The 52 cases have been registered in different districts and cover allegations ranging from bribery and disproportionate assets to illegal mutations, abuse of official position, financial irregularities, illegal appointments and alleged encroachment. Jammu Province accounts for 31 cases, including 20 trap cases, while Kashmir Province has 21 cases, of which 15 are trap cases. Thus, trap cases constitute about 65 per cent of the cases in Jammu and more than 71 per cent in Kashmir. The individual cases show that allegations of bribery cut across several departments. Revenue officials, particularly patwaris, appear repeatedly in the ACB's trap cases, with allegations concerning payments for revenue extracts, mutations and other official work. Police personnel, junior engineers, municipal officials, forest employees, treasury staff and other government functionaries also figure in the cases registered during the year. In Jammu Province, Rajouri has six cases listed in the ACB register and all six are trap cases. Udhampur has seven cases, including six traps. The ACB Jammu police station has five cases, four of them trap cases, while the ACB Central police station has 11 cases, including four traps. Doda has two cases, neither classified as a trap. In Kashmir Province, Srinagar accounts for 13 cases, including nine trap cases. Anantnag has six cases, five of them traps, while Baramulla has two cases, including one trap case. The alleged bribe amounts recorded in the cases range from Rs 2,000 to Rs 1 lakh. The ACB register includes allegations involving Rs 5,000, Rs 8,000, Rs 10,000, Rs 12,000, Rs 15,000, Rs 20,000, Rs 30,000, Rs 40,000 and Rs 70,000, besides the Rs 1 lakh case. The Rs 1 lakh case was registered by ACB Anantnag on May 21 against a Ziladar and a Patwari of the Irrigation Division, Anantnag. According to the case record, the two were booked in connection with an allegation of demanding and accepting the amount. Another case involved an alleged Rs 70,000 bribe, with the ACB registering a trap case against a Patwari of Patwar Halqa Gole and an alleged associate. The cases have continued to be registered during September. The ACB case register includes a September 1 trap case in Srinagar involving an alleged Rs 15,000 bribe, a September 7 case involving an alleged Rs 11,000 bribe and a September 9 Rajouri case involving an alleged Rs 20,000 bribe. The pattern is notable when compared with the ACB's annual figures for previous years. During the whole of 2025, the Bureau registered 78 corruption-related cases, including 36 trap cases, 18 disproportionate-assets cases, 15 cases involving alleged abuse of official position, eight cases relating to fraudulent alienation of custodian land and one case concerning illegal appointments. The 35 trap cases registered up to September 2026 are therefore already just one short of the 36 trap cases recorded during the whole of 2025. The comparison is between a part-year figure and a full-year figure, however, and the 2026 figure may change before the year ends. The 2026 cases also indicate that the ACB's investigations extend beyond direct bribery. The case register includes allegations of disproportionate assets, illegal mutations of land, abuse of official position, financial irregularities in development works, illegal appointments and alleged encroachment. In Jammu Province, the concentration of trap cases is particularly visible in Rajouri and Udhampur. All six cases listed under Rajouri are trap cases, while six of the seven cases registered by ACB Udhampur are traps. In Kashmir, nine of Srinagar's 13 cases and five of Anantnag's six cases are classified as traps. The alleged bribe amounts also indicate that the cases concern both routine government services and larger transactions. Several allegations involve sums of Rs 5,000 or Rs 10,000, while others involve Rs 20,000, Rs 40,000, Rs 70,000 and Rs 1 lakh. A trap case generally begins with a complaint alleging that a public servant has demanded a bribe. After verification, the ACB conducts a trap operation to establish the alleged demand or acceptance of illegal gratification. The operation may result in the arrest of the accused and subsequent investigation.

PM Modis 25 years in public life marked by welfare for poor, foundation for Indias growth: Amit Shah

Vadnagar, Sep 17: Union Home Minister Amit Shah on Thursday said Prime Minister Narendra Modis 25 years in public life should be seen as a period of welfare for the poor and foundation-laying for Indias prosperity. He was speaking after inaugurating the Seva Sankalp Abhiyan in Vadnagar and flagging off a bike rally to Varanasi to mark Modis birthday. Gujarat Chief Minister Bhupendra Patel and Maharashtra Deputy Chief Minister Eknath Shinde were also present. Born on September 17, 1950, in Vadnagar in Gujarats Mehsana district, Modi turned 76 on Thursday. He completes 25 uninterrupted years in public office on October 7, having first taken the oath as Gujarat chief minister in 2001 before becoming prime minister in 2014. Addressing a gathering, Shah said the 25 years of Modis public life will have to be written in golden letters in history as the years of poor welfare. He said the period under Modis leadership had laid the foundation for Indias prosperity, made the country more secure and started the process of making India a global leader in infrastructure and digital public infrastructure. Shah said Modis tenure as PM would be remembered as a period of welfare for poor people and claimed that 25 crore people had been lifted out of poverty during this period. He said generations of people had waited for basic necessities such as houses, toilets, tap water, electricity, food and medical treatment. His 12-year tenure as prime minister will be known as a golden era for the 80 crore poor people of the country, Shah said, listing houses, electricity, tap water, five kg of free grain per person per month, health coverage of up to Rs 5 lakh, toilets and gas cylinders among the benefits delivered by the Modi government. Shah said Modi had personally experienced poverty after being born in a poor village and had, despite his circumstances, put before the country a vision of equitable and inclusive development. He said Modis 25-year public life was also marked by sustained personal work and service to the poor, backward classes, Dalits and tribals. Shah said he had worked with Modi during his organisational years in Gujarat and later when he became the CM and PM. The Union minister also praised Modis simplicity and said he had connected BJP workers across the country with the Nation First slogan. He said Modi had treated the entire country as his family. Referring to Modis years as Gujarat CM, Shah listed initiatives including water management, the Vanbandhu Kalyan Yojana, Sagarkhedu Kalyan Yojana, industrial development, Vibrant Gujarat, an education hub and 24-hour electricity supply to villages. He said the state recorded an agricultural growth of more than eight per cent when Modi was the CM. The Gujarat model was subsequently taken to the national level after Modi took charge of the nation in 2014, he said. Shah credited the Modi government with introducing what he described as clear policies after a period of policy paralysis and cited GST, the JAM (Jan Dhan, Aadhaar, Mobile) trinity, Direct Benefit Transfer, banking reforms, FDI and PLI (Production Linked Incentive) as measures that had contributed to economic development. He also referred to expansion of roads, railways, airports, ports and digital infrastructure, saying the number of airports in the country had increased from 75 to 150. He mentioned PM Gati Shakti, Digital India and Startup India as initiatives that had opened opportunities for the youth. On national security, Shah cited the governments decisions on Article 370, the Citizenship Amendment Act, the Bharatiya Nyaya Sanhita, peace accords in the Northeast and military operations. He also referred to measures relating to women, tribal welfare, defence production and space programmes, including Chandrayaan and Aditya L1. Shah said Modis public life could be summed up in two words -- India First. Earlier, CM Patel said the bike rally from Vadnagar to Varanasi was not merely a journey but a pledge-driven mission dedicated to serving the nation. He said Vadnagars soil had inspired Modi with patriotism, simplicity and a spirit of service and that his 25 years of public life had contributed to the countrys transformation. Patel said India had emerged as a major opportunity for youth and highlighted developments in digital payments, space technology, artificial intelligence and semiconductors. He said the Seva Sankalp Abhiyan should take Modis message of public service to every household and called for building a Viksit Gujarat as part of the vision of a Viksit Bharat. A simultaneous rally was flagged off from Varanasi, PMs Lok Sabha constituency, with the two journeys planned to conclude on October 7, the day Modi completes 25 years as CM of Gujarat and Indias PM. According to the BJP, the two rallies will together cover about 40,000 km through 193 districts and around 1,159 villages across 10 states. Around 1,000 youths will participate, it said. At Vadnagar, Shah, Patel and other leaders first performed Maha-aarti at Sharmishtha Lake and then walked to the ancient Hatkeshwar temple of Lord Shiva. Shah prayed for Modis long life and good health before flagging off the rally, said officials. Shah said the BJP and its allies had launched the campaign to take the message of Modis 25 years of public service to people across the country and inspire younger generations to work towards the goal of a developed India by 2047.

Chess Olympiad: Indian men beat Indonesia, women defeat Finland

Samarkand(Uzbekistan), Sep 17: Defending champions in both the open and womens events, the Indian teams won their matches -- albeit with some hiccups -- to remain atop the leaderboard with four match points after the second round of the 46th Chess Olympiad here on Thursday. For the second day running, Nihal Sarin was the difference between two teams as he defeated Hafiz Arif Abdul after briefly missing out on a tactical trick. Up against a Sicilian with white pieces, Nihal went for a direct attack against the black king but for just one move his own king came under serious trouble. However, as it happened, Hafiz missed on the trick and landed his king in deep trouble with many pieces still remaining on the board. Nihal wrapped up the issues quickly thereafter. Reigning world champion D Gukesh continued to struggle as he was held to a draw by Satria Duta Cahaya who played black. Gukesh could not get his pieces rolling for once and even though the complications remained, Cahaya remained on course by matching the world champion move-for-move. The game was drawn through perpetual checks leaving India with a 2-1 score with only Praggnanandhaa fighting it out on the top board for a victory. Even though he tried hard, Praggnanandhaa was not able to find a dent in the position of Susanto Megaranto, who played very solidly with white. With some great high effort, the Indian was able to reach a rook and pawns endgame with an extra pawn, but the resulting position was just a theoretical draw. The peace was signed in 79 moves. For the top seeded United States, it was a similar result against Mongolia as they too won by a 2.5-1.5 margin while the local team Uzbekistan, winner in 2022, won with a handsome 3.5-0.5 margin against Peru. In the womens section, the Indians did better as World Cup winner Divya Deshmukh started off with a victory over Johanna Paasikangas in her maiden appearance here on the second board. Vantika Agrawal won her second game on the trot, defeating Sara-Olivia Sippola on the third board, while B Savitha Shri continued to impress defeating Helja Lehtinen. With the scoreline reading 3-0 in Indias favour, R Vaishali played out a draw with Anastasia Keinanen. Open: Indonesia vs India (Susanto Megaranto vs R Praggnanandhaa; Hafiz Arif Abdul lost to Nihal Sarin; Satria Duta Cahaya vs D Gukesh; Nayaka Budhidharma drew with Vidit Santosh Gujrathi). Women: Finland lost to India (Anastasia Keinanen drew with R Vaishali; Johanna Paasikangas lost to Divya Deshmukh; Sara-Olivia Sippola lost to Vantika Agrawal; Helja Lehtinen lost to B Savitha Shri).

J&K Bank holds interactive meet with Katra Chamber

Chamber of Tourism Trade and Industry Katra (CTTIK) office bearers and members on Thursday held an interactive meeting with a senior delegation of J&K Bank, led by zonal head Udhampur, Arjun Singh Rathore. J&K Bank delegation also comprised cluster manager Amit Balgotra and branch manager Samresh Salgotra. The meeting provided an important platform for an open and constructive interaction between the hospitality and business community of Katra and the senior representatives of J&K Bank. A healthy and detailed discussion was held on various financial and banking-related issues being faced by hotels, guest houses and other tourism-related businesses. Earlier at the outset, CTTIK president Raj Kumar Padha along with the office bearers and members welcomed the J&K Bank delegation and felicitated the visiting officials with traditional Mata Ki Chunris. During the interaction, CTTIK members raised several important concerns, including takeover of existing term loans, digital transactions, availability and functioning of ATM machines, mission yuva scheme, working capital requirements and access to various financial products. Members also shared practical difficulties being faced by businesses due to the seasonal nature of pilgrimage tourism and fluctuations in business activity. On the occasion, CTTIK president congratulated Arjun Singh Rathore on recently assuming the charge of zonal head Udhampur and appreciated the continued support extended by J&K Bank to the tourism and hospitality sector of Katra. On behalf of CTTIK, several suggestions were also placed before the J&K Bank delegation for strengthening financial support to the hospitality ecosystem of the town. These included consideration of an additional 15 percent credit facility on existing term loans and working capital limits to help businesses tide over temporary downturns; a flexible repayment structure with lower EMIs during lean months and higher repayments during peak pilgrimage seasons; soft loans at comparatively reduced interest rates for prospective customers; an overdraft-type facility for better-rated and regular accounts to meet day-to-day cash-flow requirements and pre-approved renovation credit with low processing fees to enable hotels and guest houses to upgrade their infrastructure ahead of forthcoming pilgrimage seasons. CTTIK emphasised that Katra's hospitality industry operates in a highly seasonal environment and therefore requires banking products that are responsive to its unique cash-flow cycles. The Chamber stated that enhanced and flexible financial support would help businesses maintain continuity, undertake necessary renovations, protect employment and contribute more effectively to the growth of tourism in Katra. Rathore took the suggestions put forward by CTTIK very positively and assured the Chamber that the issues raised during the interaction would be examined seriously. He further assured that efforts would be made to provide suitable solutions to each of the issues discussed and that J&K Bank would continue to extend its support and cooperation to the hospitality and business community of Katra. The meeting concluded on a positive and constructive note, with both sides expressing their commitment to maintaining regular dialogue and strengthening the partnership between the banking sector and Katra's tourism and hospitality industry. Those present on the occasion included Rajnish Purohit general secretary, Ramnik Sharma treasurer, Atul Sharma secretary, Karan Vaid secretary, executive members Rattan Sharma, Neelam Singh and Vishal Kapoor. Karnail Singh, Ashish Sharma, Amit Gandotra, Pritam Pujari, Arun Pujari, Arun Sharma and other members of CTTIK also participated in the interactive meet.

Puducherry LG suggests tax holiday, cheap power to boost industrialisation in J&K

Puducherry, Sep 17: Lieutenant Governor of Puducherry K Kailashnathan has suggested a set of measures for improving the Ease of Doing Business (EoDB) in Jammu and Kashmir, saying tax holidays and affordable power could act as catalysts for attracting industries and investment to the Union Territory. Interacting with this Greater Kashmir Correspondent, Kailashnathan said attracting investment and promoting industrialisation were essential for generating employment and ensuring sustained economic growth. Referring to the geographical and infrastructural challenges faced by Jammu and Kashmir, he said the UT Government should focus on four key areasinfrastructure, connectivity, affordable power and tax holidaysto create a conducive environment for industrial development. First, you need the prerequisite infrastructure for industries, followed by good connectivity, Kailashnathan said, stressing the importance of railway links and highways for timely movement of raw materials and finished products. He also underlined the importance of affordable electricity for industries and hotels, saying Jammu and Kashmir has significant hydropower potential. He suggested that the government could explore providing locally generated power to industrial units at competitive rates, including a tariff of around Rs 2 per unit, to encourage investment. On fiscal incentives, Kailashnathan suggested that Jammu and Kashmir could consider tax holidays for new investments, pointing out that several States and Union Territories had adopted such measures to attract industries and promote industrialisation. A 1979-batch retired IAS officer, Kailashnathan served in Gujarat for more than four decades and worked closely with Narendra Modi during his tenure as Gujarat Chief Minister. He was associated with various government initiatives related to industrialisation and investment promotion, including investment summits held in Gujarat. Speaking about Puducherry's development trajectory, Kailashnathan said the Union Territory was progressing towards becoming a major medical and tourism hub. He said an advanced organ-transplantation centre was being established in Puducherry, which, according to him, would benefit patients from across the country. Kailashnathan also described Puducherry as an emerging education hub, saying around 73 per cent of students enrolled in schools pursue higher studies. He said the focus now was on creating employment opportunities for the educated population and added that more than 4,000 people were recruited last year. He identified safe drinking water as another challenge, saying a significant section of the population was dependent on groundwater with high TDS levels. He said the administration was working to ensure filtered and safe surface drinking water for all residents within the next three years. On connectivity, the LG said an airport with a 2,500-metre runway was being developed and a new railway terminal was also under construction. He further said two six-lane highways between Chennai and Puducherry were being constructed, which would substantially improve road connectivity and reduce travel time between the two destinations. He said Puducherry's development strategy was aimed at strengthening infrastructure, healthcare, education, connectivity and employment while positioning the Union Territory as a prominent tourism and medical destination.

New JK United FC beat Aqua Kashmir Avengers 2-1

Srinagar, Sep 17: New JK United FC secured a hard-fought 21 victory over Aqua Kashmir Avengers FC in the Kashmir Super League (KSL) Season 2, strengthening their position in the league standings and securing qualification for the next round. As per a statement, the encounter produced an engaging contest, with both sides displaying attacking intent and determination. New JK United FC managed to find the decisive goals to take all three points, while Aqua Kashmir Avengers FC fought until the final whistle but could not overturn the deficit. Following the completion of the league-stage fixtures, Athwas Hyundai XI FC finished as the league toppers, with New JK United FC securing second place and Aqua Kashmir Avengers FC finishing third. All three teams have qualified for the next round of the Kashmir Super League Season 2, setting up an exciting phase of the competition. The KSL-26 has continued to provide a competitive platform for football clubs and players from across the region, with fans witnessing closely contested matches throughout the season. The Kashmir Super League Season 2 is being organised with the aim of promoting football, developing local talent and providing players with greater opportunities to compete at a high level.

We Can Do - is PM Modis Mantra

Puducherry, Sep 17:We Can Do is the real mantra of Prime Minister Narendra Modi. Lieutenant Governor of Puducherry K Kailashnathan stated this, while recalling his long association with Modi during his tenure as Gujarat Chief Minister. Sharing his experiences of working closely with Modi in Gujarat, he also spoke about the development initiatives undertaken during his early years as Chief Minister. Kailashnathan, a retired IAS officer, had served in the Gujarat Chief Ministers Office for more than one-and-a-half decades and worked with Modi for several years. He said a number of initiatives undertaken during Modis initial tenure in Gujarat later contributed to what came to be described as the Gujarat Model of development. Recalling the focus on infrastructure, he said improving road connectivity was among the key priorities. He said roads connecting villages, referred to as Kisan Path, were developed with the objective of facilitating connectivity and helping farmers, including in the transportation and sale of milk. He further spoke about Vikas Path, describing them as roads and highways connecting important religious destinations and other major locations. According to him, the improved connectivity also contributed to the growth of tourism in Gujarat. Kailashnathan also recalled Modis personal lifestyle during his years in Gujarat, describing him as a person who lived simply. He said Modi used to have limited personal belongings, including clothes, and lived in a simple setting. On the occasion of Prime Minister Narendra Modis birthday, the Puducherry LG conveyed his greetings and best wishes to him. Kailashnathans long association with Modi, particularly his years in the Gujarat Chief Ministers Office, has given him first-hand experience of the functioning and priorities of the then Gujarat government. He is considered to be a closely associated man with Prime Minister Narendra Modi and had remained part of many prestigious Government initiatives of path breaking development projects in Gujarat including Narmada Ekta Nagar project.

CEPC flags decline of Kashmirs handmade carpet sector

Noida, Sep 17:The decline of Kashmirs traditional handmade carpet sector came under discussion at the 43rd Annual General Meeting (AGM) of the Carpet Export Promotion Council (CEPC), with members calling for greater focus and targeted support to revive the industry. The meeting, held at Hotel Radisson in Noida and chaired by CEPC Chairman Capt. Mukesh Gombar, stressed the need to promote Kashmirs handmade carpets through stronger marketing, greater participation in national and international exhibitions, improved branding, skill development and better access to markets. Members said handmade carpets from Kashmir represent an important part of Indias cultural and craft heritage and require greater attention amid the challenges facing the traditional sector. The AGM was attended by CEPC Vice-Chairman Aslam Mahboob, members of the Committee of Administration Sheikh Ashiq Ahmad, Mohd. Wasif Ansari, Anil Kumar Singh, Sanjay Gupta, Piyush Kumar Baranwal, Bodh Raj Malhotra, Rohit Gupta, Mahavir Pratap Sharma, Mehraj Yasin Jan and Shukat Khan, besides Dr Smita Nagarkoti, Executive Director-cum-Secretary (Officiating). Representatives from the carpet industry, including Vijay Thakur of Cottage Crafts of India, R. B. Mathur of Warp + Weft International, Suman Kaul of Kashyap Carpets, Ashwani Tiwari of ANA International, Qayyum Abdul of Hannans Oriental Rugs, Bilal Ahmad Kawoosa of Kashmir Carpet Producer Co. Ltd., Hilal Ahmad of Jansons and Sunil Bazaz of Qaleen Alishan, also attended the meeting. The General Body adopted the Councils audited Balance Sheet and Income and Expenditure Accounts for the financial year ended March 31, 2026, along with the Auditors Report. It also approved a revised annual membership fee structure linked to export performance. Members with exports up to Rs 50 lakh will pay an annual fee of Rs 3,000, while those with exports above Rs 50 lakh and up to Rs 1 crore will pay Rs 4,500. The fee has been fixed at Rs 6,500 for exporters with turnover above Rs 1 crore and up to Rs 10 crore, and Rs 12,000 for those above Rs 10 crore. The General Body also approved elections for one-third of the members of the Committee of Administration from various categories. The election notification will be issued on November 2, 2026, with polling scheduled to be held in December. Another decision approved at the AGM was an Export Achievement Incentive for eligible new members. Under the scheme, a new member achieving exports of Rs 50 lakh or more during the first year of membership will be eligible for reimbursement of the Rs 3,000 annual membership fee in the following year. The meeting concluded with a vote of thanks to the Chair.

J&K plans 20 ETT labs to boost sheep productivity, cut mutton dependence

Srinagar, Sep 17:Minister for Agriculture Production, Rural Development and Panchayati Raj, Cooperative and Election Department, Javid Ahmad Dar, today visited the Sheep Breeding Farm at Khimber and reviewed the ongoing breeding programmes and developmental activities. The Minister stressed the need for transformative and scientific interventions to revolutionise the sheep sector in Jammu and Kashmir, enhancing the productivity towards greater self-sufficiency in mutton production. Highlighting the governments Embryo Transfer Technology (ETT) programme, he said establishment of ETT laboratories across districts will enable rapid multiplication of superior germplasm and accelerate genetic improvement. He said that the Cabinet has approved establishment of 20 ETT laboratories, one in each district, as a major intervention in this direction. Javid Dar also stressed the importance of scientifically utilising high-genetic-merit imported breeds, including Texel and Dorper, for strengthening the local breeding programmes. He said the focus should be on transferring superior genetic traits into locally adapted populations to improve meat productivity and strengthen the domestic mutton sector. The Minister directed the department to ensure scientific selection, conservation and multiplication of quality germplasm and its wider dissemination among farmers. He also directed that a transparent, scientifically formulated SOP be notified for allocation of breeding sheep to farmers, ensuring objective selection of beneficiaries, proper utilisation of superior germplasm and wider access to quality breeding stock. He called for greater participation of youth in modern sheep husbandry, emphasising its potential for entrepreneurship, employment and strengthening rural livelihoods. He directed the department to provide aspiring young farmers with training, technical guidance and handholding support. The officers informed that Khimber Farm maintains fine-wool and specialised breeds, including imported and Australian lines besides cross-bred varieties such as Kashmir Merino and supports the local breeding programmes through the distribution of quality breeding rams. The Minister emphasised that the combined thrust on district-level ETT infrastructure and high-genetic-merit breeding programmes should translate into measurable gains in sheep productivity and help Jammu and Kashmir move towards a more self-reliant mutton production sector.

LG, elected govt need to work in close coordination in UT with legislature: Puducherry LG

Puducherry, Sep 17:Lieutenant Governor of Puducherry K Kailashnathan, a former IAS officer of the Gujarat cadre, has asserted that the Lieutenant Governors administration and the elected government need to work in close coordination in a Union Territory with a legislature. Interacting with journalists from Kashmir and Varanasi during a PIB tour, Kailashnathan said differences of opinion between the LG administration and the Chief Ministers Office could arise, but these should not necessarily be viewed as conflicts. Conflicts do take place between the two, but I wont consider them conflicts; rather, they are differences in opinion, he said. The Puducherry LG said that the Lieutenant Governor in a UT with a legislature enjoys substantial powers, but this should not become an issue when the LG administration and elected government function in coordination. I clear 99 per cent of the files forwarded by the elected government, except files concerning backdoor appointments, Kailashnathan said. He stressed the importance of coordination between the constitutional authorities for ensuring smooth governance and effective implementation of development initiatives in a Union Territory with an elected legislature. Jammu and Kashmir Union Territory administration and Puducherry UT administration share almost the same model of governance.

Vande Bharat trains in J&K equipped with special heating, defogging systems: ICF Chennai Engineer

Vande Bharat trains operating in Jammu and Kashmir, particularly in the Kashmir Valley, have been equipped with special features to cope with the regions extreme winter conditions, including sub-zero temperatures and dense fog. Interacting with a group of Kashmir-based journalists visiting Chennai under a PIB tour, Anupam Chouhan, Chief Workshop Engineer, LHP Division, Integral Coach Factory (ICF), said trains operating in challenging climatic conditions require specialised features to ensure smooth and safe operations. Elaborating on the Vande Bharat trains deployed in Kashmir, Chouhan said a special heating arrangement has been provided along the water-pipe network. The system is designed to prevent water from freezing in the pipelines during sub-zero temperatures and ensure uninterrupted water supply for lavatories and other facilities inside the train. He said another important feature incorporated in the Kashmir-specific Vande Bharat trains is a strong defogging system. Dense fog and condensation can affect visibility through the front and rear panes, particularly for the locomotive pilot. To ensure clear visibility and an unobstructed line of sight, strong defoggers have been provided in trains operating in Kashmir, Chouhan said. The specialised systems are part of efforts to adapt modern railway services to the demanding climatic conditions of Jammu and Kashmir, where severe winters pose operational challenges for railway infrastructure and rolling stock. He points out that the Integral Coach Factory (ICF) in Chennai, one of the three major coach manufacturing facilities of the Indian Railways, is marching ahead with increased production and a gradual shift towards manufacturing Vande Bharat coaches. The oldest and largest coach manufacturing facility in the country, ICF was inaugurated on October 2, 1955, by then Prime Minister Jawaharlal Nehru. Since its inception, the factory has rolled out more than 80,000 coaches, making it one of the world's largest single-site coach manufacturing facilities. The Chennai-based factory employs around 8,500 personnel from the government sector and nearly 6,000 workers from the private sector for various manufacturing and allied activities. ICF produced around 3,500 coaches during the last financial year, while the production target for the current year has been fixed at 3,865 coaches. Chief Workshop Engineer, LHP, Integral Coach Factory, Chennai, Anupam Chouhan said the facility was moving ahead with the changing requirements of Indian Railways, particularly with a focus on enhancing Vande Bharat coach production. He said work was underway for manufacturing four Vande Bharat chair-car train sets and four Vande Bharat sleeper train sets in the near future. Besides, one Vande Bharat freight train has already been rolled out and is currently undergoing trials, while another such train is under manufacturing. The shift towards Vande Bharat coaches comes amid the Railways' stated plan to gradually replace older conventional train coaches with newer-generation rolling stock. The move is aimed at modernising passenger services and facilitating faster train movement across the country. Chouhan also said that the facility is catering to the needs of the entire country and different sectors.

J&K Govt approves Rs 10.22 Cr tribal tourism village at Mendhar

The Government of Jammu and Kashmir, led by the Chief Minister Omar Abdullah, has accorded administrative approval for the development of a state-of-the-art tribal tourism village at Behri Qasab in Mendhar area of Poonch district. The project, sanctioned at a cost of Rs 10.22 Cr under the Capex Budget 2026-27, aims to showcase the rich tribal culture and heritage of the region while strengthening local infrastructure and creating new economic opportunities for local youth. The tribal tourism village is envisaged as a dedicated destination that will highlight the distinctive cultural traditions and way of life of the tribal communities, while providing an added attraction for visitors to Poonch. The project is also expected to contribute to local employment and livelihood generation, support community participation in tourism-related activities and further integrate Poonch with the broader tourism circuit of Jammu & Kashmir.

New UPI charges stir concern among Kashmir traders

Srinagar, Sep 17: The proposed Merchant Discount Rate (MDR) on certain UPI payments above Rs 2,000 has triggered concern among traders in Kashmir, who fear that the move could add to the cost of running small businesses at a time when margins are already under pressure. Under the revised framework, a 0.4 per cent MDR is set to apply from October 15 to specified person-to-merchant UPI transactions above Rs 2,000. The charge will be borne by the merchant and not the customer. The fee will be capped at Rs 300 for transactions above Rs 75,000, while small merchants receiving up to Rs 1 lakh a month through UPI QR transactions are to remain exempt. The proposed change marks a departure from the zero-MDR regime that has been a major feature of UPI since its rapid expansion. While most UPI transactions will continue to remain free, the new charge is expected to affect a relatively small share of merchant transactions but a much larger proportion of their value. Industry estimates suggest transactions above Rs 2,000 account for around 4 per cent of merchant transaction volumes but about 67 per cent of transaction value. For traders in Kashmir, the concern is over the cumulative impact on businesses that already face rising rents, electricity bills, wages, taxes, compliance costs and other operating expenses. Small retailers, in particular, say even a modest charge on repeated digital transactions can eat into margins when business volumes are high but profitability remains limited. The Kashmir Traders & Manufacturers Federation (KTMF) has urged the Government of India to reconsider the proposed MDR and ensure that small and marginal traders are not adversely affected. KTMF President Mohammad Yaseen Khan said the Federation appreciated the Governments efforts to strengthen and expand the digital payment ecosystem, but maintained that the concerns of small retailers and businesses operating on thin margins could not be overlooked. For a large corporate or high-volume business, a small percentage may appear insignificant, but for a small trader working on a very narrow margin, every additional cost matters. Traders are already dealing with multiple taxes, compliance requirements, rising operational expenses, high rentals, electricity costs, staff expenses and weak consumer demand. Another transaction-related cost will only add to their burden, Khan said. He said the widespread acceptance of UPI had been built on its simplicity and zero-cost character and cautioned against measures that could discourage traders from accepting digital payments. The success of UPI has been built on its simplicity and zero-cost character. Small traders should not be discouraged from accepting digital payments because of additional transaction costs. A retailer should be encouraged to accept digital payments, not made to calculate the cost of every transaction, Khan said. KTMF has particularly sought protection for micro and small traders whose businesses depend heavily on UPI but operate with limited margins. The Federation has also sought greater clarity and a wider exemption mechanism so that genuine small businesses do not inadvertently fall outside the protection available under the new framework. Khan said the trading community had consistently supported digitalisation and formalisation of the economy, but wanted the interests of smaller businesses to be considered while framing the new payment regime. The traders community has always supported digitalisation and formalisation of the economy. We only request that the interests of the smallest trader, from the shopkeeper to the family-run retail outlet, be kept at the centre of policymaking. Their margins are already under tremendous pressure and even a small additional cost can have a disproportionate impact, he said. KTMF urged the Union Government to consult representative trade bodies before expanding or revising MDR charges and ensure that small and marginal traders remain financially viable as digital payments continue to grow.

LG Ladakh dedicates worlds highest twin flower-fields to people on PM Modis birthday

In a landmark gesture marking Prime Minister Narendra Modis 76th birthday on Thursday, observed nationwide as Sewa Diwas, Ladakh Lieutenant Governor Vinai Kumar Saxena dedicated the worlds highest-altitude twin flower fields to the people of the region. Spanning two strategic locations in the high-desert valleyChoglamsar and Staknathe twin floriculture sites mark a major shift toward high-altitude commercial floriculture, eco-tourism, and sustainable economic opportunities for local farmers. The two flower fields at Choglamsar and Stakna in Leh, at an altitude of 10,600 feet, are also the highest and the largest flower fields in the country. With over 25 lakh high-value flowers including 24 lakh Lilium and 1 lakh Gladiolus, the flower fields spread over 40 acres. This is the first experiment of this size and nature at high-altitude in Leh, and its successful execution has further paved the way for replicating this model in other parts of Ladakh. The development of the twin flower fields marks a significant milestone in promoting agricultural diversification, farmers empowerment and creating new livelihood opportunities through commercial floriculture in Ladakh, as envisaged by the Prime Minister. Interestingly, the flower field at Choglamsar has been developed in a record time of just two months. Plantation at Choglamsar began on July 16 and the first bloom started in the first week of September. On the other hand, a plantation of nearly 14 lakh Liliums at Stakna flower field began in August and the first bloom is expected around the end of October. The project seeks to leverage Ladakhs unique climatic conditions and the growing national and international market potential of high-value flowers to create a new avenue for income generation, entrepreneurship and rural economic development. As per market rates, Lilium sells at a premium of Rs 60-70 per stick in wholesale markets, while the retail sale of Liliums fetches an even higher price. The Choglamsar flower park will serve as a demonstration and model floriculture centre, where high-value flowers such as Lilium, Gladiolus, Tulips and other ornamental species, with strong market demand in national and international markets, will be cultivated. It will thus create a new, sustainable source of income for Ladakhs farming community through self-help groups and cooperatives. Inaugurating the Flower Garden, the Lieutenant Governor said the initiative is more than just the start of flower cultivation; it is an effort to sow the seeds of new livelihoods, skills, and opportunities for the people of Ladakh. A key objective of the Flower Garden is to develop it as a training and demonstration centre for farmers and youth. The facility will provide exposure to modern cultivation techniques, scientific farming practices and improved post-harvest management, enabling farmers to acquire the knowledge and skills required to take up floriculture at the farm and village level. Besides functioning as a recreational and educational space for residents and tourists, the flower fields will create an ecosystem where not only flowers, but also knowledge, skills and enterprises can grow. Floriculture is a high-value agricultural activity that can complement traditional farming, enhance farmers incomes and open new avenues for employment and entrepreneurship, LG Saxena said. The Flower Garden will be opened to the general public from September 18, 2026. To ensure its proper maintenance and upkeep, a nominal entry fee of Rs 25 for adults and Rs 10 for children has been fixed. The revenue generated will be utilised for the maintenance and upkeep of the garden.

LG Sinha releases book on poetry

Srinagar, Sep 17:Lieutenant Governor Manoj Sinha on Thursday released a book Journal of the Waypoints, based on the Kashmiri poetry of acclaimed multilingual poet Satish Vimal. The book, authored by eminent writer, translator and poet, Mushtaque B Barq, features forty selected Kashmiri poems of Vimal, translated into English and critically elucidated by Barq, thereby introducing the poets literary expression to a wider readership beyond the Kashmiri-speaking world. The Lieutenant Governor appreciated Barqs effort in translating and analysing Vimals poetry. He wished Vimal and Barq, a fruitful and creative literary journey ahead. Sheikh Waseem, publisher, was also present on the occasion.

Security tightened across Kashmir

Srinagar, Sep 17:Additional security measures have been put in place across Kashmir, with intensified frisking, vehicle checking, tight vigil, and increased area domination exercises visible in Srinagar and other districts of the Valley. In the summer capital, police and security personnel were seen conducting checking and frisking at several points on Thursday. Joint parties stopped vehicles, inspected identity documents and carried out searches at key junctions, approach roads and busy urban stretches. Similar reports of additional deployment, naka checking and area domination were received from other districts of the Valley. Officials said the tightening followed directions issued by Inspector General of Police, Kashmir Zone, Sujit Kumar to district Senior Superintendents of Police during security and law-and-order review meetings. The IGP had directed field formations to enhance counter-insurgency operations, intensify area domination, increase naka checking at vulnerable locations and strengthen checking and surveillance along inter-district borders. On Wednesday, Sujit Kumar chaired a high-level security review at the Police Control Room (PCR) Kashmir to assess the prevailing situation and operational preparedness across the Central Kashmir Range covering Srinagar, Budgam and Ganderbal. The meeting was attended by the DIG, Central Kashmir Range, SSPs of the three districts, SSP PCR Kashmir, SDPOs and other senior officers. Field officers briefed the IGP on the security grid in their respective areas of responsibility and the arrangements in place to maintain peace, public order and a secure environment. Kumar reviewed deployment and operational readiness and directed that security arrangements remain dynamic and responsive to emerging threats. He emphasised regular assessment of the grid and timely strengthening of deployments wherever required. A senior police officer said here that the IGP Kashmir also called for round-the-clock vigilance, stronger preventive measures and close coordination among field formations. The review came against the backdrop of recent operations in Central Kashmir, including the September 4 encounter in the Ashdar area of Budgam in which a Lashkar-e-Taiba terroristwas killed. Officials said the same thrust tighter surveillance, naka checking, area domination and synergy with other forces has been conveyed in earlier range- and district-level reviews under Sujit Kumar, who took charge as IGP Kashmir Zone recently after serving as IGP Security. On the ground, the additional measures were most visible in Srinagar, where checking parties were deployed at multiple locations. Commuters reported random frisking of private vehicles, passenger transport and two-wheelers. Similar activity was reported from other Valley districts, with additional personnel pressed into area domination, night patrols and inter-district border checks. Security agencies described the step-up as preventive and intelligence-driven, aimed at denying residual terror networks space to move men, arms or support material through urban centres and inter-district routes. Officers said the grid would continue to be recalibrated on the basis of inputs and ground assessment. IGP Kashmir, in successive reviews this month across north, south and central Kashmir, asked officers to sustain pressure on terrorists and their support ecosystem, improve grassroots intelligence and keep deployments flexible. The latest visible tightening in Srinagar and other districts is being projected as the field-level follow-through of those directions.

2 Jaish terrorists killed in Udhampur operation: Police

Jammu, Sep 17:Security forces on Thursday neutralised two Jaish-e-Mohammed (JeM) terrorists, both belonging to Pakistan, in a night-long operation amid inclement weather conditions, in the dense forest stretch of Soan-Brattal in Majalta area of Udhampur district . During the joint operation, involving Army, JKP and CRPF, an alleged Over Ground Worker (OGW), who was believed to have facilitated the terrorists movement besides providing logistics and shelter, was also apprehended by the security forces for questioning. Meanwhile, following the gunfight, the combing operation led to the recovery of a large quantity of arms and ammunition, including AK Assault rifle, M4 Carbine and a Glock pistol with magazines and grenades from the encounter site. Cordon and Search Operation (CASO) in the forests and the areas adjoining the encounter site, however, continued. Police later identified the slain Jaish terrorists as Saddam and Mustafa, both Pakistani nationals. According to the Indian Armys White Knight Corps, in a joint intelligence-based Operation Sohan (Soan) during the intervening night of September 16 and 17, 2026, confirmed inputs indicated the presence of terrorists in the general area of Brattal, Udhampur. Despite hostile weather, difficult terrain and poor visibility, troops of White Knight Corps, Jammu and Kashmir Police and Central Reserve Police Force (CRPF) launched a targetted counter-terrorism operation, resulting in the neutralisation of two terrorists, the White Knight Corps posted. It maintained that the operation was still in progress, with search and surveillance operations continuing in the area. Security forces remain deployed to track and neutralise any remaining threat, the Army stated, along with its catch-phrase The knight stands vigil, the threat will be defeated. A separate post of Jammu and Kashmir Police (JKP), with a tagline You can run but you cannot hide! indicating successful operation, said, Two neutralised Pakistani Jaish-e-Mohammed terrorists have been identified as Saddam and Mustafa. An AK Assault rifle with four magazines; M4 Carbine with three magazines; a Glock pistol with two magazines and four grenades have been recovered from their person. Officials stated that the first brief contact with the slain terrorists was established during the intervening night of September 15 and 16 in Majalta area, during CASO launched following reports of suspicious movement. After a lull spanning almost a day, the security forces, during the continuing cordon, established fresh contact with the hiding terrorists on Wednesday night. The night witnessed brief exchange of fire yet a full-blown encounter ensued on Thursday morning when the terrorists opened heavy fire at the security forces, in a bid to break the cordon. However, their attempts proved futile as reinforcements were rushed to the encounter site to further bolster the cordon. Both the terrorists were killed in the targetted joint operation this morning, officials stated. Earlier in February also, two Pakistani terrorists were killed in Ramnagar forest of Udhampur district. Meanwhile, CASO continues while investigation is also underway to ascertain the exact role of the terror suspect held, following the operation, to unearth the entire terror eco-system active in the area, officials said.

Waheed Para moves resolution seeking reconciliation, amnesty

Srinagar, Sep 17:People's Democratic Party (PDP) leader and MLA Waheed-ur-Rehman Para has proposed a resolution in the upcoming Autumn session of the Jammu and Kashmir Assembly, urging the Centre to initiate a meaningful and sustained political process in J&K and consider a one-time, comprehensive amnesty for those affected by years of turmoil. The resolution submitted by Para to the Assembly secretary on September 5 calls for a humanitarian and time-bound review of cases involving misguided youth, who were caught in circumstances beyond their control, or continue to face cases and restrictions long after the events in question. The House calls upon the government of India to begin a meaningful and sustained political process in Jammu & Kashmir and to take a historic step towards healing by offering a one-time, comprehensive amnesty to those affected by years of turmoil, the one-page resolution said. No young person should be condemned to a lifetime of suspicion because of an allegation, past case or circumstances of conflict. The House, therefore, calls for a time-bound review of eligible cases, including restrictions affecting passports, security clearances, education and employment, with due process and safeguards for serious offences. The House believes that peace cannot be built by keeping an entire generation trapped in its past. Our youth must be given the chance to study, work, travel, support their families and rebuild their lives with dignity. This is not a plea for forgetting. It is a call for justice with compassion, accountability with humanity and peace with dignity, the resolution said. It said that the time had come to replace fear with trust, exclusion with opportunity and conflict with reconciliation. History will remember whether we chose to perpetuate the wounds of the past or had the courage to heal them, Para said.

CM Omar greets PM, demands statehood restoration

Amritsar, Sep 17:Chief Minister Omar Abdullah on Thursday reiterated his demand to restore J&Ks statehood, saying all they have received so far on the matter were verbal assurances. Talking to media persons here, CM Omar also wished Prime Minister NarendraModi on his 76th birthday, saying, We wish him on his birthday. Asked what announcement he expected today, Abdullah said, What can I say as to what he (Modi) does If nothing else, let him grant us statehood; what else could we want? Abdullah was in Amritsar to inaugurate the renovated heritage building of the Jammu & Kashmir House on Court Road. Asked about statehood, Abdullah said, You all know what happened with us. We were told that statehood would be restored after the (J&K) elections. But nothing was given in writing; only verbal assurances were given. He also advised the leadership of Ladakh not to rely on the Centre's verbal assurances regarding their struggle for constitutional safeguards with regard to land and jobs. Hence, I suggest to people and friends in Ladakh not to trust the Centre's words Rather, have them in writing. We did not get anything in writing, and we are at the same place today. J&K has been a victim of the BJP-led Centre's verbal assurances, the chief minister said. Abdullah noted that the Centre had outlined a three-step process delimitation, Assembly elections and the restoration of statehood. Even in Parliament and in the Supreme Court, this assurance was given. While we saw delimitation and elections in J&K, in which people participated, statehood has not been restored even till now, he said. On August 5, 2019, the Centre revoked Article 370 of the Constitution that granted special status to the erstwhile state of Jammu and Kashmir and bifurcated it into two Union territories J&K with a legislative assembly with limited powers and Ladakh without one. In December 2023, the Supreme Court upheld the Centre's decision to revoke the special status and create the two UTs but told the government to restore J&Ks statehood as soon as possible.

LG celebrates PM's birthday with children at Palaash, Pareesha

Srinagar, Sep 17:Lieutenant Governor Manoj Sinha on Thursday celebrated the birthday of Prime Minister NarendraModi with the children of the Palaash and Pareesha childrens homes in Srinagar. He distributed school bags, sports kits, and sweets, and also reviewed the residential facilities provided to ensure their well-being. Subsequently, he visited the Childrens Hospital at Bemina to spend time with the young patients and wish them a full and speedy recovery. The SevaSankalpAbhiyan begins today, marking a month-long festival of selfless service till October 17. This campaign celebrates 25 years of the Prime Minister's public service, transforming India from the fragile five to the worlds top five economies. Over the next month, 12 programmes will include school competitions on Mere Sapnoka Bharat, honouring Anganwadi and ASHA workers, tree plantation, youth activities, and registration camps under SevaSetuAbhiyan. Until October 17, a 'SevaSetuAbhiyan' will be run at block and ward level, with 3-4 day camps to register deprived beneficiaries for government schemes. I earnestly appeal that every citizen of Jammu and Kashmir participates wholeheartedly in this campaign. Prime Minister has worked day and night for 140 crore countrymen and has helped build a new, powerful Jammu and Kashmir. The GDP growth rate for the first quarter of 2026-27 is 7.8 percent. If we look at other indicators of welfare and development, 25 crore people have moved above the poverty line and 80 crore people are receiving free ration under the GaribKalyan Ann Yojana, LG Sinha said. He also highlighted the unprecedented growth of national highways, which have increased from 91,000 km to 146,000 km, and the number of airports has risen from 74 to 165. Kashmir is now directly connected with the rail network. Discrimination has been eliminated and J&K is witnessing historic transformation. As far as the welfare schemes across the country are concerned, 11 crore toilets, more than 10 crore gas connections and 4 crore PM Awas have been provided, and another 3 crore houses are under construction. Under Prime Ministers guidance Jammu and Kashmir will emerge as an unparalleled example of prosperity and happiness. I urge all citizens of Jammu Kashmir to contribute to this Service Campaign, the LG said.

Leaders across political spectrum greet PM

New Delhi, Sep 17:Leaders across the political spectrum greeted Prime Minister NarendraModi on his 76th birthday on Thursday, highlighting his 25 years in public office. While President Droupadi Murmu hailed his record on governance, Home Minister Amit Shah recalled Modi's journey from an ordinary BJP volunteer to the nation's highest political office. Vice President C P Radhakrishnan credited Modi with presiding over India's emergence as one of the world's fastest-growing major economies, while Andhra Pradesh Chief Minister N Chandrababu Naidu said his journey from Gujarat chief minister to prime minister had given a new momentum to India's growth story. Congress president Mallikarjun Kharge and Leader of Opposition in the Lok Sabha Rahul Gandhi also wished Modi a long and healthy life. Born on September 17, 1950, in Gujarat's Vadnagar, Modi turned 76 on Thursday. He completes 25 uninterrupted years in public office on October 7, having first taken the oath as Gujarat chief minister in 2001 before becoming prime minister in 2014. In her birthday message, Murmu said Modi had set numerous new benchmarks for good governance during his tenures as chief minister and prime minister and given unprecedented momentum and a new direction to inclusive development. Advancing on the path of modern progress while upholding a sense of cultural pride, our fellow citizens are realising the harmonious blend of heritage and development, the president said on X. She prayed for Modi's good health and long life so that he could continue his mission of public service and nation-building. Radhakrishnan said under Modi's leadership, India was shining as a bright spot in the world and among the fastest-growing major economies. He cited the country's progress in areas ranging from digital technology and space to healthcare, infrastructure and manufacturing, and said more than 25 crore Indians had come out of extreme poverty in recent years. Radhakrishnan said Modi's references to backward districts as aspirational districts, border villages as vibrant and first villages, and the northeast as ashtalakshmi reflected an approach aimed at transforming geographical marginalisation into empowerment. Over the past year, as I travelled across the states and Union territories, I witnessed firsthand how these transformative changes are reaching even the remotest parts of our country, he said. LokSabha Speaker Om Birla said India was forging a new identity on the global stage under Modi's leadership and making progress in development, self-reliance, innovation, digital technology, infrastructure and public welfare. Your public life, spanning over 25 years, has proven immensely fruitful for the strengthening of democratic values and for the upliftment of the nation's vulnerable and underprivileged sections, Birla said. N Chandrababu Naidu, the TDP chief and a key BJP ally, hailed Modi's journey from Gujarat chief minister to prime minister. Marking 25 exemplary years of public service, from leading Gujarat as a transformational CM to guiding the nation as a revolutionary PM, you have given a new momentum to India's growth story, he said. Your vision of 'seva, sankalp and sushasan' continues to inspire 140 crore citizens across the nation, Naidu said, praying to Lord Venkateswara for Modi's long and healthy life. JD(U) chief and former Bihar chief minister Nitish Kumar also extended his greetings, wishing Modi a healthy and long life. BJP president Nitin Nabin described Modi as the embodiment of dedication and service to the nation. He said his journey, driven by the resolve of Nation First, was an inspiring saga of service, good governance, and public welfare. Under your guidance, India is scaling new heights of development and self-reliance, steadily advancing on the global stage with a renewed identity and enhanced strength, he said. Maharashtra Deputy Chief Minister and Shiv Sena chief Eknath Shinde described Modi as the embodiment of India's progress and the aspirations of its people. Modi embodies the story of India's progress. He resonates in the hearts of every citizen. He stands as a symbol of welfare for the poor. He represents the youthful spirit of this young nation. He is the source of courage amidst every challenge. He is a thunderous force against adversaries. He embodies the soul of 1.4 billion dreams. He is the hallmark of a New India, Shinde said. Former prime minister and JD(S) chief H D Deve Gowda conveyed his wishes to Modi in a letter. May you be blessed with a long and healthy life. May you continue to lead our nation with dedication and wisdom. May you help our nation realise its enormous potential and further strengthen its exalted place in the world, he said. DMK president and former Tamil Nadu chief minister M K Stalin wished Modi good health, happiness and a long life. Tamil Nadu Chief Minister and TVK chief Vijay also conveyed his heartfelt birthday wishes to Modi, whom he described as working with dedication towards building a strong India, and wished him a long and healthy life. NCP (SP) chief SharadPawar extended heartfelt birthday wishes to Modi and wished him good health and a long life. Jharkhand Chief Minister Hemant Soren conveyed his johar (greetings) to Modi. Jammu and Kashmir Chief Minister Omar Abdullah also wished Modi a happy birthday, good health and a long life. Nagaland Chief Minister Neiphiu Rio extended birthday greetings to Modi on behalf of the state government, the political parties in the ruling alliance and the people of Nagaland, saying India was fortunate to have a leader dedicated to serving the nation. Meghalaya Chief Minister Conrad Sangma said Modi's 25 years in public service had been marked by dedicated leadership and a steadfast commitment to the growth and development of our nation. Mizoram Chief Minister Lalduhoma wished Modi good health and continued strength. May you be blessed with wisdom and success in your service to the nation, he said. Kharge, Rahul greet PM Congress president Mallikarjun Kharge and former party chief Rahul Gandhi on Thursday wished Prime Minister NarendraModi good health and long life on his 76th birthday. Born on September 17, 1950, in Gujarat's Vadnagar, Modi turned 76 on Thursday. In a post on X, Kharge said, Best wishes to Prime Minister Shri NarendraModiJi on his birthday. May he be blessed with good health and long life. Wishing the prime minister, Gandhi said, Happy birthday to PM Narendra Modiji. Wishing you good health and a long life.

Bridge science-policy gap to fight climate change: LG Sinha

Srinagar, Sep 17:Lieutenant Governor Manoj Sinha on Thursday called for bridging science-policy gap to fight climate change. Attending the valedictory session of national seminar on 'Environment, Climate and Sustainability: Science, Policy and Pathways', held at the University of Kashmir (KU), LG Sinha in his address, lauded the national-level seminar for creating a shared language among diverse disciplines to collectively address the climate crisis. He underscored that climate change, biodiversity loss, and pollution were not isolated phenomena but interconnected dimensions of the triple planetary crisis. Recognising the finite and interlinked nature of earths systems, the LG emphasised the need for holistic approaches that transcend departmental silos in governance. The three-day conference brought together ecologists, hydrologists, soil experts, policy makers, and researchers from across the country to deliberate on pressing environmental challenges. Although government machinery has separate departments. One department formulates water policy, another forest policy, and yet another climate policy. But, I strongly believe such national seminars remind us that there is a deep connection among all these, and acknowledging it is the first step toward solving these problems, he said. Highlighting the role of technology, LG Sinha described Geospatial Intelligence, including GIS, remote sensing, UAVs, as the lifeline connecting science and governance. He stressed that anticipatory governance must replace reactive responses, enabling real-time decisions through tools such as Climate Sensitivity Maps and Spatial Decision Support Systems. We must create systems that do not merely record what has already happened to a glacier, forest, or river valley, but can also tell us with full confidence what is going to happen next. And we must be able to deliver that information to those who today need to decide what should be built, where it should be built, and what should be conserved. I believe the role of scientists and environment experts is no longer just to describe change. They must become co-creators of early warning systems. The time when we waited five years for a report on a subject is gone. Now we must make real-time decisions, the LG said. He made a strong appeal to bridge the gap between science and policy. LG Sinha said while data and models are abundant, institutional mechanisms to integrate scientific conclusions into district development plans, water distribution, and disaster management remain inadequate. He called for trust, collaboration, and shared language between scientists and policymakers to ensure timely and effective action. If we can bridge the distance between what science knows and what policy delivers in line with that knowledge, then even the biggest challenges related to climate change can be addressed. Today, we do not lack data on climate change. With the help of Artificial Intelligence, we also do not lack tools and models. What we lack is the institutional system and the institutional arrangements that can take conclusions emerging from a lab or satellite record and deliver them in time to a districts development plan, the LG said. He reminded the researchers and policymakers that development must be accompanied by responsibility, conservation, and duty. LG Sinha urged young experts to think beyond disciplinary boundaries and policymakers to listen to the language of science. Development must mean establishing a relationship with the Earth in which use is accompanied by responsibility, progress by conservation, and rights by duties. Another important takeaway you will carry from this conference is that technological skills alone are not enough. We must prepare young researchers and scientists who can think beyond disciplinary boundaries, and we need policy makers who can listen to the language of science, he said. Looking ahead to the vision of a Developed India by 2047, the LG stressed that development must be climate-resilient and inclusive. He expressed hope that the dialogue initiated during the national seminar would continue beyond its conclusion, permeating laboratories, universities, districts, and policies, ultimately benefiting the people. LG Sinha reaffirmed Indias commitment to sustainable development and climate resilience through science-policy integration, technological innovation, and cultural sensitivity. Prof Nilofer Khan, Vice Chancellor, KU; Prof Talat Ahmad, former Vice Chancellor, KU; Rasik Ravindra, former Director, National Centre for Polar and Ocean Research (NCPOR), and Prof Shariefuddin Pirzada, Dean Academic Affairs, KU, attended the valedictory session.

UN-backed experts cite possible US war crimes in Iran strikes

Geneva, Sep 17: Human rights experts commissioned by the UN's top human rights body say they have found reasonable grounds to believe the United States committed war crimes in two strikes in Iran, including on a school in the southern city of Minab. They also accuse Iran's theocratic government of carrying out crimes against humanity against its own people in a report published Thursday. The report, while not binding, adds to international evidence gathered about crimes in the war in Iran, and could eventually be used in efforts to reach justice in international courts. The fact-finding mission on Iran, chaired by jurist Sara Hossain of Bangladesh, is made up of independent experts and was created in 2022 by the Human Rights Council, the UN's top human rights body, which is based in Geneva. The experts were expected to present their findings on Monday to the council, which is made up of 47 UN member countries. The team says the US launched indiscriminate' attacks The international fact-finding mission says its findings on US war crimes center on a pair of US airstrikes that killed at least 178 civilians, including women and children. At the start of the US-Israeli war against Iran in February, at least one U.S. missile hit the Shajareh Tayyebeh school in Minab, according to an Associated Press investigation. There has been no final accounting of what happened. Iranian state media have said 168 people were killed in the strike, most of them children. Following the United States and Israeli attacks on 28 February, the mission found reasonable grounds to believe the United States committed the war crime of launching indiscriminate attacks resulting in the loss of life or injury to civilians or damage to civilian objects, a U.N. statement about the team's findings said. The US State Department did not immediately respond to a request from The Associated Press seeking comment. In their report, the experts concluded that the building of the school was the intended point of impact and the resulting damage wasn't the result of an errant strike or collateral damage from an attack on a compound of Iran's Revolutionary Guard next to the school. The Trump administration has yet to directly accept responsibility or release the findings of a Pentagon investigation into the school bombing. The UN-backed team based its allegations on two strikes one involving Tomahawk missiles that hit the clearly identifiable school, and another in which Precision Strike Missiles dispersed tungsten pellets over a clearly identifiable sports complex and residential area in the southern city of Lamerd, also on Feb. 28. The UN-backed team said 22 civilian men and women were killed. US Central Command has denied responsibility for the strike on Lamerd. Experts cite crimes against humanity' by Iran's government The team found that killings by state security forces in Iran have occurred on a staggering scale, and civilians faced gross human rights violations and crimes against humanity committed by their own government. Iranian security forces carried out violent repression over the last two years by firing assault rifles into crowds, beating protesters and arresting healthcare workers, among other things, the team said. Detainees faced torture, and were deprived of legal counsel, leaving their families in the dark about their whereabouts, the experts said. The Tehran government intensified the use of the death penalty, and said more than 70 people including five women and three boys remain at imminent risk of execution, they added. The report concluded that many of these gross violations amount to crimes against humanity including murder, imprisonment, torture, and other inhumane acts committed as part of a widespread and systematic attack on civilians, the statement said. Both US and Iran should provide reparations, they say The experts said the United States and Iran should halt all rights violations and crimes, and provide full reparations to victims. The report, built on a victims-centred approach, was based on interviews with 73 people both inside and outside Iran, along with documentation, satellite imagery, photographic and video material and information from credible organizations and experts, the experts wrote. The ongoing conflict that has driven people from their homes in Iran as well as an internet shutdown and a lack of full cooperation from the two governments partially impeded the team's efforts to get information. Nearly three dozen requests from the experts for information from Iran's government went unanswered, they said, as have requests in June to the US government for information and meetings with officials.

US approves visas for top Iranian leaders to attend UN high-level meeting even with sides at war

The United States approved visas for Iran's core delegation to attend the UN General Assembly. This includes President Masoud Pezeshkian and Foreign Minister Abbas Araghchi. The delegation faces travel restrictions and prohibitions on certain purchases. This decision comes amid a protracted conflict and sanctions against Iran. The US also denied visas to Palestinian President Mahmoud Abbas and his delegation.

Leverage strengths, address challenges for high-value handicraft exports: CS

SRINAGAR, SEPTEMBER 17: Chief Secretary, Atal Dulloo, today chaired a meeting to review the newly framed Action Plan for Promotion of Export of Handicrafts and Handloom Products, aimed at scaling up the Union Territorys textile and apparel exports from the present base of800 crore to2,000 crore by 2030. The meeting was attended by Commissioner Secretary, [] The post Leverage strengths, address challenges for high-value handicraft exports: CS appeared first on Northlines .

Allahabad HC slams UP govt for misusing Goondas Act, warns of damages

The Allahabad High Court criticised the UP government for misusing the Goondas Act. The court noted the law was used for harassment and warned of damages. It also questioned the use of the NSA against a student activist. Procedural shortcuts and executive overreach are becoming systemic issues. Law enforcement must adhere to constitutional rights and due process.

Kevin Warsh-led Federal Reserve starts US war on inflation

The US Federal Reserve increased interest rates, signaling a global effort to control rising inflation. Other central banks will likely follow the Fed's lead in this concerted action. Higher global rates and trade friction will impact India's economy and markets. The Indian rupee faces pressure from a strengthening US dollar. Domestic consumption offers some buffer, but inflation concerns persist.

Judging others?

Beneath the surface, many individuals grapple with unseen struggles that shape their lives. Challenging situations can obscure their thoughts and feelings, leading to a disconnect from their true selves. Spiritual philosophies indicate that our essence remains untainted, with negativity stemming from distress. While compassion and insight may be masked at times, healing journeys illuminate their path.

Oh, Lets Look Beyond AAA: A new market-making framework could make lower-rated corporate bonds more investible

India's financial landscape is undergoing significant transformation with innovative tokenisation efforts. A new regulatory framework is being proposed to enhance the liquidity of corporate bonds. Issues of 200 crore and above, rated AA or lower, will benefit from market makers' participation. This initiative aims to establish a robust two-way market, thereby improving liquidity, lowering borrowing costs, and broadening investor options.

Behind the Modi-Xi border thaw, India's dependence on Chinese imports, especially rare earths, keeps deepening

India faces a significant trade deficit with China, importing substantially more goods than it exports. Chinese firms offer superior price and tech competitiveness, impacting Indian industries. India relies heavily on China for critical inputs like rare earths, affecting various sectors. The nation is pursuing diversification and domestic manufacturing incentives to reduce dependency. Targeted measures and tech transfer are crucial for a sustainable bilateral relationship.

The lost art of doing nothing: Why the sofa is a symbol of modern achievement and rest

Modern life often mistakes constant movement for genuine progress and achievement. The sofa offers a sanctuary from this self-imposed pressure and busy schedule. It allows for a day of deliberate inactivity and personal sovereignty over time. This institution provides joy by asking nothing except occasional cushion adjustment. Ultimately, a day spent on the sofa achieves its intended purpose of accomplishing nothing.

Forget PLI schemes, India's manufacturing sector needs a Puja-Linked Incentive for Vishwakarma

India's industrial policies overlook Vishwakarma, the divine architect and craftsman. He offers capital, productivity, and supply chains without retro taxation. Vishwakarma deserves greater recognition and manufacturing incentives for his contributions. Neglecting craftsmen led to Greece's economic crisis and sovereign debt issues. India should honor Vishwakarma for manufacturing success and technological advancement.

Northern Army commander reviews security, counter-terrorism operations in Poonch

Jammu, Sep 17: General Officer Commanding-in-Chief of Northern Command Lieutenant General Pratik Sharma on Thursday visited Surankote sector in Jammu and Kashmir's border district of Poonch to review security arrangements and counter-terrorism efforts, the Army said. The northern commander's visit to Surankote comes three days after General Officer Commanding (GOC) of White Knight Corps Lt Gen P K Mishra visited different operational locations in the sector. Lt Gen Sharma visited Surankote sector to review the prevailing security posture and ongoing Counter-Terrorism efforts. The Army Commander was briefed on the ongoing operations, including sustained efforts towards focused targeting of terrorists, joint intelligence framework and enhanced synergy with sister agencies, the Udhampur-based Northern Command said in a post on X. It said the commander interacted with troops, boosting their morale as he commended them for their professional conduct of operations in the challenging terrain and weather conditions.

MLA Para urges Centre to initiate meaningful, sustained political process in J&K

Srinagar, Sep 17: Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) leader and MLA Pulwama Waheed-ur-Rehma Para has moved a resolution to Jammu and Kashmir Legislative Assembly, seeking the intervention of the House in convincing New Delhi for meaningful and sustained political process in Jammu and Kashmir. In a resolution addressed to the Secretary, Legislative Assembly, Jammu and Kashmir, MLA Para said the House must call upon the Government of India to begin a meaningful and sustained political process in Jammu & Kashmir and to take a historic step towards healing by offering a one-time, comprehensive amnesty to those affected by years of turmoil. Para said the House must urge a humanitarian review of cases involving youth who were misguided, caught in circumstances beyond their control, or continue to carry cases and restrictions long after the events have passed. He said that no young person should be condemned to a lifetime of suspicion because of an allegation, a past case or circumstances of conflict, and urged the House to call for a time-bound review of eligible cases, including restrictions affecting passports, security clearances, education and employment, with due process and safeguards for serious offences. He also said the House believes that peace cannot be built by keeping an entire generation trapped in its past. Our youth must be given the chance to study, work, travel, support their families and rebuild their lives with dignity. This is not a plea for forgetting. It is a call for justice with compassion, accountability with humanity and peace with dignity, he said. The House believes that the time has come to replace fear with trust, exclusion with opportunity and conflict with reconciliation. History will remember whether we chose to perpetuate the wounds of the past or had the courage to heal them, MLA Para added.

Police apprehend 9 drug peddlers in separate operations across Kashmir

Srinagar, Sep 17: Jammu and Kashmir Police on Thursday apprehended nine drug peddlers in Anantnag, Sopore, Shopian, Pulwama and Kangan areas; and recovered contraband substances from their possession. A police spokesperson said that in Anantnag, a police party from Police Station Anantnag intercepted two persons during naka checking operation at Dugga Petrol Pump, Naibasti Khanabal. During search, a total of 10.31 grams of charas was recovered from their possession. They have been identified as Adil Ahmad Shah son of Bashir Ahmad Shah resident of Naibasti, A/P BED College Donichak Anzalla, and Adil Ahmad Wani son of Mohd Iqbal Wani resident of Krangsoo, Mattan Mohalla Khandipora. In Sopore, during naka checking at Malgonipora, a suspicious individual was intercepted. During checking, contraband substance was recovered from his possession and seized in accordance with due legal procedure. The accused has been identified as Zakir Rashid Lone son of Abdul Rashid Lone resident of Wadoora, Sopore. In Shopian, during naka checking at Audoora Rampathri, a police party from Police Post Keegam intercepted a suspicious person along with nylon bag. During search, 2.472 Kgs crushed Cannabis-like substance were recovered from his possession. The accused has been identified as Ab Ahad Mochi son of Gh Mohd Mochi resident of Audoora Rampthri. The spokesperson said that in Pulwama, during naka checking at Old Bus Stand, Pulwama, the naka party apprehended three suspicious persons carrying polythene packets. During search, 286 grams of charas powder and 101.5 grams of charas-like substance were recovered from their possession. The accused have been identified as Abrar Ahmad Yatoo son of Gh Nabi Yatoo resident of Sunchakoo Pulwama, Owais Ahmad Baba son of Feroz Ahmad Baba resident of Gulshanabad Rajpora, and Mudasir Ahmad Dar son of Gh Nabi Dar resident of Gulshanabad Rajpora. Similarly, during Naka checking, a police party of Police Post Newa apprehended Arshid Ahmad Ganaie son of Bashir Ahmad Ganaie resident of Chandgam, Pulwama, who was driving a Tata Ace Gold Load Carrier bearing registration No. JK13K-3132. During his search, 22 grams of charas was recovered from his possession. The vehicle was also seized as per legal procedure. In Kulgam, a police party of Police Station Kulgam during a naka checking at Amnoo apprehended a suspected person identified as Ashfaq Ahmad Wani son of Bilal Ahmad Wani resident of Mirhama, Kulgam. During checking, 1.450 Kg of Ganja-like Contraband substance filled in a bag and cash amount of Rs 3,000/- pertaining to proceeds of narcotics have been recovered from his possession. He has been arrested and shifted to police station where he remains in custody. Accordingly, cases under relevant sections of law have been registered at respective police stations and further investigations have been initiated. Police remains committed to its zero-tolerance approach against drug trafficking and will continue sustained action against those involved in the illegal narcotics trade, the spokesperson added.

Education ministry proposes comprehensive review of TET framework, serving teachers issues

Srinagar , Sep 17: In a significant development, the Ministry of Education (MoE) has proposed a comprehensive review of the existing arrangements governing the Teacher Eligibility Test (TET), including the eligibility framework and issues faced by teachers already in service. The MoE has taken these measures relating to Teacher Eligibility Test (TET) and proposed legislative review in view of emerging issues concerning teachers and teacher eligibility. In an Office Memorandum, the Department of School Education and Literacy (DSEK) MoE said it had taken note of representations and issues raised by teachers, teacher associations, educational institutions and other stakeholders over implementation of the TET requirement. The Ministry said it had also taken note of the directions and observations of the Supreme Court concerning the requirement of TET for teachers covered under the Right of Children to Free and Compulsory Education Act, 2009. In wake of this, the government has proposed to review the existing TET arrangements with the stated objective of ensuring a transparent, fair and workable framework for teacher eligibility. The proposed review will examine the existing TET eligibility and qualification framework as well as issues concerning teachers already in service who are required to acquire TET qualification. The MoE has also proposed examining measures to ensure that TET examinations are conducted periodically and at reasonable intervals. Another component of the proposed exercise will focus on the practical difficulties faced by serving teachers in obtaining TET qualification. The MoE has further proposed consultations with State Governments, Union Territory Administrations, the National Council for Teacher Education (NCTE), educational experts and other stakeholders as part of the review process. The memorandum also proposes examining whether amendments to relevant statutory provisions are necessary in the larger public interest. The government will examine the practical difficulties faced by serving teachers in obtaining TET qualification and will hold consultation with State Governments, Union Territory Administrations, NCTE, educational experts and other stakeholders besides examining whether appropriate amendments to the relevant statutory provisions are necessary in the larger public interest, the memorandum issued by MoE reads.

J&K Legislative Assembly accepts private members resolution on Hokersar Wetland

Srinagar, Sep 17: The Jammu and Kashmir Legislative Assembly has formally accepted the Private Members Resolution moved by MLA Aga Syed Muntazir Mehdi on Hokersar Wetland. The Speaker has admitted the Resolution under Rule 179, clearing the path for it to be taken up in the House. MLA Aga Syed Muntazir Mehdi will table this Resolution after the balloting scheduled for 18 September 2026 at 3:00 P.M. in the Office Chambers of the Secretary, Legislative Assembly. Key Demands of the Resolution: Demarcation of Wetland and Adjoining Areas: The resolution demanded clear examination of the present and historical extent of Hokersar Wetland and adjoining habitation/agricultural lands to protect genuine rights of the people and check arbitrary expansion. Operation of Flood Gates and Water Levels: The resolution emphasized on thorough review of the operation of flood gates and the practice of maintaining high water levels throughout the year that has caused repeated inundation of residential and agricultural areas. Impact on Habitations and Farmland: It demanded detailed assessment of how current water-level management is damaging homes, crops and the daily life of the surrounding population. Condition of the Seven Nallahs: The resolution sought assessment of the present condition and carrying capacity of the seven Nallahs connected to the wetland, which directly affect flooding and drainage. Compensation for Losses Suffered: It also sought recognition of the losses already suffered by residents and agriculturists and demanded for appropriate compensation for damage to property and livelihood. Balance Between Conservation and Peoples Rights: The resolution impressed upon to ensure conservation of Hokersar Wetland without compromising the legitimate rights and interests of the people living in its vicinity. The resolution is a decisive political intervention. For years, the voices of the people living around Hokersar were ignored while their fields remained submerged and their homes faced constant threat. By forcing the Assembly to constitute a House Committee, Aga Syed Muntazir Mehdi has converted public pain into legislative action. The move sends a clear message: conservation cannot become a cover for injustice, and the rights of ordinary citizens will no longer be sacrificed in the name of environmental management. It is a strong assertion that the Assembly must stand with the people, demand accountability, and deliver justice, the resolution added.

NHM employees extend strike by 72 hours from Sep 18 across J&K

Srinagar, Sep 17: The Jammu & Kashmir National Health Mission Employees Association (JKNHMEA), Joint Coordination Committee on behalf of the NHM employees of the Union Territory of Jammu & Kashmir on Thursday extended its ongoing peaceful strike for a further period of 72 hours, commencing from September 18, 2026, across Jammu and Kashmir. In a communication, the Association said that the extension has been necessitated due to the continued pendency of the Associations long-standing and legitimate demands and the absence of a concrete, time-bound resolution to the issues raised before the competent authorities. The Association reiterated that the protest/strike shall remain completely peaceful, democratic and constitutional, and all participating employees shall maintain discipline and uphold public order. The Association remains committed to dialogue and constructive engagement and sincerely hopes that the government will initiate meaningful and time-bound measures for resolution of the genuine grievances of NHM employees, the communication reads.

Food safety violators to face strict action under law: Food & Drug Control Kashmir

Director Geology & Mining reviews ongoing mining operations in Pulwama

Srinagar, Sep 17: The Director, Geology and Mining, Pawan Kumar Sharma on Thursday conducted an extensive inspection of multiple mining sites in Pulwama District to review ongoing mining operations and to obtain a firsthand assessment of departmental measures aimed at curbing the menace of illegal mining. He was accompanied by the Joint Director Mining, Kashmir, and the District Mineral Officer, Pulwama during the visit. The inspection also covered the major mineral blocks, where the Director interacted with the lessees and underscored the imperative of conducting mining activities strictly in accordance with the applicable norms, guidelines, and statutory provisions. He categorically directed that environmental safeguards must be adopted and adhered to, without exception. During the course of the visit, the Director issued strict instructions to the field functionaries to enforce a regime of zero tolerance against illegal mining activities. He emphasized that any deviation from prescribed norms would invite immediate and stringent action under the relevant rules. The Director further reiterated that such inspections shall continue in future as part of a sustained monitoring mechanism to take stock of the implementation of departmental directives, thereby ensuring that compliance standards are consistently upheld across all mining sites. This inspection reflects the Departments unwavering commitment to promoting sustainable mining practices, safeguarding the environment, and ensuring strict regulatory compliance in Pulwama District.

15 kanals of land, two residential houses attached in north Kashmir's Kupwara: Police

Srinagar, Sep 17: Acting on orders from Director General of Police Nalin Prabhat, the Jammu and Kashmir Police on Thursday attached 15 kanals of land and two residential houses in north Kashmir's Kupwara belonging to notorious terrorists operating from Pakistan, officials said. Sh Nalin Prabhat, DG-P, has ordered the attachment of properties belonging to notorious terrorists, now operating from Pakistan, a police spokesperson said in a press statement. As per an order issued by DG-P Nalin Prabhat, 10.7 kanals of land and a three-storey residential house belonging to Ab Majid Qureshi, son of Ab Rouf Qureshi, a resident of Kachama, Kupwara, have been attached. Another five kanals of land and a single-storey residential house were also attached. The properties belonged to Parvaiz Ahmad Qureshi, son of Mohd Mustafa Qureshi, a resident of Kachama, Kupwara, it said. The order said that the attached properties fall within the ambit of proceeds of terrorism in terms of Section 2 (1) (g) (ii) of UAPA and are liable to be attached in FIR No. 276/22 of PS Kupwara.

Two JeM militants killed, one suspect detained in J-K's Udhampur

Jammu, Sep 17: Two Pakistan-based proscribed outfit Jaish-e-Mohammad (JeM) militants were killed, and an alleged over-ground worker was detained in a remote high-altitude area in Jammu and Kashmir's Udhampur district, officials said on Thursday. The joint operation by the Army, police and CRPF was conducted in the dense Brattal Sohan and Khubban forests of Majalta bordering Kathua district amid heavy rain, they said. Army confirmed the killing of two militants in the operation. In a joint intelligence-based operation during the intervening night of September 16-17, confirmed inputs indicated the presence of terrorists in the general area of Brattal, Udhampur. Despite hostile weather, difficult terrain and poor visibility, troops of White Knight Corps, Police and CRPF launched a targeted counter-terrorism operation, resulting in the neutralisation of two terrorists. The operation is still in progress, with search and surveillance continuing in the area. Security forces remain deployed to track and neutralise any remaining threat, the Jammu-based White Knight Corps said in a post on X. The officials said police and security forces were looking for a terrorist group after its movement was noticed in the forested area last week. The security forces cordoned off a particular area around 9 pm on Wednesday following fresh inputs, leading to the initial contact. A few rounds of firing and blasts were heard shortly after the operation began, the officials said, adding that the area, however, remained largely quiet through the night before the lull ended on Thursday morning, when the terrorists opened heavy fire in an attempt to break the cordon. Reinforcements were rushed to the area, and the search operation was continuing when the last reports were received, they said. Meanwhile Jammu and Kashmir Police identified the two killed militants as Saddam and Mustafa. In a post on X, J&K Police wrote, You Can Run But You Can't Hide! Op Soan: the two neutralised Pakistani Jaish-e-Mohammed terrorists have been identified as Saddam and Mustafa. Police said that arms and ammunition including an AK Assault Rifle with 4 magazines, an M4 Carbine with 3 magazines, a Glock Pistol with 2 magazines and 4 grenades were recovered from their possession. A local youth, believed to be an over-ground worker (OGW), has been detained for questioning, they said. It was the second major encounter in Udhampur district this year. In February, two Pakistani terrorists, including a self-styled commander Rubani alias Abu Mavia, who was active in the area for the past several years were killed in the Ramnagar forests. Over the past several years, the difficult mountain terrain of the Kathua-Udhampur-Doda belt was used by JeM terrorists to establish hideouts and evade security forces after infiltrating from across the border. However, security forces have dismantled these networks to deny terrorists safe passage and shelter in the upper reaches, the officials said. They said the relentless operations have resulted in the elimination of a large number of active terrorists operating in the region, many of them identified as Pakistani nationals. Security agencies are also maintaining heightened surveillance and launching searches in remote forest areas based on intelligence inputs and assessments of possible terrorist movement. In Doda, four terrorists and five security personnel were killed in separate encounters in 2025, while five people, comprising four terrorists and one security personnel, were killed in adjoining Kishtwar district this year, compared to four deaths in 2025, including three terrorists and one security person. In 2024, the district recorded five deaths three security personnel and two civilians. In Udhampur, four people were killed in 2024, including two terrorists, one security person and one civilian, while 2025 saw four deaths one terrorist and three security personnel. Kathua recorded the highest casualties among the four districts in 2024 with nine deaths, including two terrorists and seven security personnel. The following year, seven people were killed three terrorists and four security personnel while 2026 has so far witnessed the death of one terrorist.

Indias journey from fragile five to top five economy reflects Modis leadership: LG

Month-long programmes planned to mark PM Modis birthday: LG Sinha

Srinagar, Sep 17: Jammu and Kashmir Lieutenant Governor Manoj Sinha on Thursday said the Government of India has planned a month-long programme to mark Prime Minister Narendra Modis birthday, with various events scheduled across the country. Speaking at a programme organized with sick children at Government Medical College, Bemina, Sinha highlighted what he described as the achievements of the Modi government in economic growth, infrastructure development and welfare schemes. Across the country, the Prime Ministers birthday is being celebrated from today. The government has issued a detailed month-long programme, Sinha said, adding that a programme had also been organized at Bemina with sick children to mark the occasion. He said India had moved from being known as a fragile five economy to a top five economy over the past 12 years. It is a matter of pride for the country that a country which was once known as a fragile five economy has, over the past 12 years, through the efforts of the Prime Minister, become a top five economy, Sinha said. If we look at the economic growth rate, broadly speaking, our current economic growth rate is 7.8%, which is the best in the world, he said. Sinha credited Modi with the countrys progress across sectors, particularly infrastructure and welfare. The progress the country has made in every sector over the past 12 years certainly deserves credit to the Honorable Prime Minister, he said. Referring specifically to Jammu and Kashmir, Sinha said the Union Territory had witnessed major changes in infrastructure and social security schemes. If I talk about Jammu and Kashmir, whether it is infrastructure here or social security schemes, or ending the discriminatory system, Jammu and Kashmir has witnessed quite revolutionary changes in six years, he said. Sinha said more than 1.5 lakh crore worth of work was underway in Jammu and Kashmir in road infrastructure and tunnels. If we talk about road infrastructure and tunnels, roughly more than 1.5 lakh crore worth of work is underway here, he said. He also referred to the completion of the railway connection to Kashmir, describing it as the fulfillment of a long-standing dream. There had been a long-standing dream of connecting Kashmir by railway, and that dream has been fulfilled, Sinha said. Highlighting welfare measures, he said 25 crore people had moved out of poverty, while 80 crore people were being provided free rations. Broadly speaking, today 25 crore people have been able to come out of poverty in six years. The Government of India is providing free rations to 80 crore people. Eleven crore people have received gas, and four crore houses under the Pradhan Mantri Awas Yojana have benefited people in Jammu and Kashmir as well, he said. Sinha appealed to people in Jammu and Kashmir to participate in the month-long programmes being organized to mark the Prime Ministers birthday. I would certainly appeal to the people of Jammu and Kashmir to participate enthusiastically in the month-long programme, he said. In his earlier remarks, Sinha had also urged J&K residents to take part in the celebrations. I would appeal to the citizens of Jammu and Kashmir to increase their participation in the programmes being held throughout the month and to celebrate them with enthusiasm, he said.

Israeli national detained at Kangra airport with live cartridge

Dharamsala, Sep 17: An Israeli national has been detained at the Kangra airport in Himachal Pradesh after a live cartridge was found in his possession during a security check, police said on Thursday. According to police, Yonatan Levy (24), an Israeli national, reached the airport on Tuesday to board a flight to New Delhi. However, he was detained by police after a live cartridge was found in his bag. Kangra SP Kulbhushan Verma confirmed the detention and said a case has been registered in the matter under the Arms Act. Levy is presently in police custody till September 18, the SP said.

Newspaper vendor shot dead inside home in Jammus Resham Ghar colony

Jammu, Sep 17 : A 35-year-old newspaper vendor was shot dead inside his residence in Resham Ghar Colony in Jammu on Thursday afternoon, with police launching an investigation to identify and apprehend the attacker. The deceased has been identified as Deepak Sharma, a resident of Resham Ghar Colony. According to family members, Sharma had returned home for lunch when an unidentified man allegedly entered his room and shot him in the head at close range before fleeing the scene. Sharma was rushed to Government Medical College (GMC) Hospital, Jammu, where doctors declared him dead on arrival. The incident has shocked residents of the locality, with neighbours saying they did not hear any gunshot despite the killing taking place during the day. Sharma is survived by his wife and two children. Police have registered an FIR at Bakshi Nagar Police Station and initiated an investigation. The crime scene has been secured, while CCTV footage from the area is being examined to identify the assailant and ascertain the circumstances surrounding the killing.

Short Selling vs. Put Options: Which Strategy Fits Which Market?

Both short selling and put options profit when prices fall. That's where the similarity ends. The mechanics, the risk profile, and the capital requirements diverge sharply - and using the wrong tool for a given market condition doesn't just reduce returns, it can produce losses that far exceed what the trader anticipated. Understanding which strategy fits which context is what separates opportunistic hedgers from traders who get squeezed. How Short Selling Works in Practice Short selling means borrowing an asset from a broker, selling it immediately on the open market, then repurchasing it later at a lower price. The profit is the difference between the sale price and the repurchase price, minus borrowing fees and any applicable financing costs. The mechanics require a margin account. The broker holds collateral against the borrowed position, and the trader pays an ongoing fee for the loan - typically expressed as an annualized borrow rate that varies by asset and broker. For liquid, heavily traded stocks, this cost is modest. For hard-to-borrow securities or assets experiencing a squeeze, the borrow rate can spike to several percentage points per week. The critical feature of short selling is that losses have no theoretical ceiling. If you short a stock at $50 and it climbs to $200, you're down $150 per share - three times your initial credit. This is not a hypothetical concern: short squeezes have eliminated accounts that had no stop-loss in place. George Soros shorted the British pound in 1992 and made $1 billion precisely because he had the conviction and the margin to hold. Most traders do not have that margin buffer. How Put Options Work in Practice A put option gives the buyer the right - not the obligation - to sell an underlying asset at a predetermined price, called the strike price, before a specific expiration date. The buyer pays a premium upfront to acquire this right. If the asset's price falls below the strike price before expiration, the option is in the money and the trader profits from the difference between the strike and the current price, minus the premium paid. If the price stays above the strike at expiration, the option expires worthless and the trader loses only the premium - nothing more. That hard cap on downside is the defining characteristic. No margin account is required to buy a put. The maximum loss is known at the moment of entry. This makes puts particularly attractive when a trader wants to speculate on a decline or hedge an existing long position without exposing themselves to open-ended losses if the trade goes against them. Comparing the Two: A Practical Framework The choice between the two strategies comes down to four variables: risk tolerance, time horizon, cost structure, and market conditions. Factor Short selling Put option Maximum loss Unlimited Premium paid Margin required Yes No Time limit None Expiration date Cost structure Borrow fee + spread Upfront premium Best market Sustained downtrend Volatile or uncertain decline Hedging use Yes Yes (preferred) Short selling suits traders who expect a sustained, directional decline and can actively manage the position. Put options suit those who want defined risk, particularly when volatility is elevated or the timing of a move is uncertain. When to Use Each Strategy Short selling performs best in trending bear markets where the move is expected to develop over weeks or months. There is no expiration to race against, and a trader with sufficient margin can hold through temporary bounces. The risk is that those bounces become reversals - and without a stop-loss, a short seller has no automatic exit. Put options are better suited to three specific scenarios. First, when volatility is high and a sharp move may come but the exact timing is unclear: the defined loss means a wrong call costs only the premium. Second, for hedging a long equity portfolio against a correction - buying puts on an index provides direct downside protection with a known cost. Third, when a trader wants bearish exposure but cannot access margin or prefers not to take on open-ended liability. The premium cost matters. In high-volatility environments, options pricing rises because implied volatility is elevated. Paying a large premium on an out-of-the-money put requires the asset to move significantly just to break even. In those conditions, a short sale with a tight stop may actually carry lower all-in cost than an expensive put. Choosing a Platform for Both Strategies Execution quality, financing costs, and instrument availability shape returns as much as strategy does. Traders using short selling vs put options approaches should look for a platform offering transparent fee disclosure, access to both CFD short positions and derivatives, and reliable order execution during volatile sessions. The difference between a 0.1% spread and a 0.4% spread on a leveraged position compounds meaningfully over multiple trades. Conclusion Short selling and put options are both tools for profiting from declining prices, but they carry fundamentally different risk structures. Short selling gives unlimited upside in a falling market - and unlimited downside if wrong. Puts cap the loss at the premium and remove the need for margin, but they require the move to happen before expiration. Neither is universally superior. A sustained trend with active management favors the short. Uncertainty, hedging needs, or limited risk appetite favors the put. Match the instrument to the market, not the other way around.

Mehbooba accuses BJP of policing vocabulary of Muslims after IPS officer's transfer in Bengal

Srinagar, Sep 17: PDP president Mehbooba Mufti on Thursday accused the BJP of being insecure, saying the ruling party at the Centre is now policing the vocabulary of the Muslim community in the country. Referring to the case of IPS officer Bushra Bano, who was transferred from her post of ASP in West Bengals Kharagpur within just two-and-a-half months of taking charge, allegedly over her use of Muslim greetings in a video, Mehbooba said such incidents do not shock the minority community anymore. Bushra Bano's transfer for saying 'Assalamu Alaikum', 'InshaAllah' and 'JazakAllah', followed by the West Bengal Chief Minister (Suvendu Adhikari) calling an election a test of Muslim loyalty, a veiled threat to the community as a whole, doesn't shock us anymore, the former J-K chief minister said in a post on X. It is amusing that simple words invoking peace and blessings of god have rattled the big political party, she said. What is rather amusing is that three simple words peace be upon you, god willing, and god be praised can apparently rattle a party so large and powerful. First our food, clothes and marriage, now even our vocabulary and our votes are being policed. Insecurity, thy name is BJP, Mehbooba said.

Sunil Sharma in Anantnag: Well hear Kashmiris out, regardless of whom they vote for

Bait Ul Meeras: Preserving Kashmirs Heritage

Located in the old city of Srinagar, Bait Ul Meeras is a historic building that offers a glimpse into Kashmirs past. Once associated with the Kaul family, the heritage property has now been preserved and turned into an art centre and museum, where Kashmirs history, culture and traditions are being brought closer to visitors and younger generations. In this GKTV report, we look at the story of Bait Ul Meeras its history, its transformation into a museum, and the idea behind preserving a part of Kashmirs heritage for the future. Report & Edit: Murtaza Bilal

PM Modis leadership brought major development to J&K: LG Sinha

Srinagar, Sep 17: Lieutenant Governor Manoj Sinha on Thursday said Jammu and Kashmir has witnessed significant development and effective implementation of welfare schemes under the leadership of Prime Minister Narendra Modi. Speaking to a select group of reporters on the occasion of Prime Minister Modis birthday, Sinha said the country has made significant progress in infrastructure, welfare and economic growth over the past several years. He said Indias journey from the Fragile 5 economies to the Top 5 has been significant, with the country recording an economic growth rate of 7.8 per cent. Especially in J&K, I think it is due to the leadership of the Prime Minister, Sinha said, referring to the infrastructure development witnessed across the Union Territory. The LG said various welfare schemes have benefited people across the country, including free foodgrains for around 80 crore people and LPG connections for 11 crore households, adding that these initiatives have also been successfully implemented in J&K. He said road and tunnel projects worth more than Rs 1.5 lakh crore are currently underway in Jammu and Kashmir, while the long-pending dream of connecting Kashmir with the railway network has also been realised. Earlier, Sinha visited Child Care Institutions Palaash and Pareesha in Srinagar, where he celebrated the Prime Ministers birthday with children and distributed gifts among them. He also urged people to increase their participation in the month-long programmes being organised to mark Prime Minister Modis birthday, saying the celebrations should be made more engaging and meaningful(KNO)

Weather to improve from tomorrow, temperatures likely 2-3C above normal during day: MeT

What Is GIFT Nifty and How Does It Predict Markets?

GIFT Nifty is a futures contract linked to Indias Nifty index and traded on NSE International Exchange, or NSE IX, at GIFT City in Gujarat. It gives global market participants a way to take positions on Indian equities in US dollars. Since it trades for long hours that extend beyond the regular Indian cash market session, it is often watched closely before the domestic market opens. For this reason, traders and market watchers often use it as a pre-open reference, especially after major global events or sharp overnight moves. It is not a guarantee. The Nifty 50 is a 50-stock benchmark index of the National Stock Exchange of India. It covers key sectors of the economy and is widely used for benchmarking, index funds, and derivatives. GIFT Nifty tracks market expectations around this index through futures trading, so its movement can offer an early signal of how Indian shares may open. What Is GIFT Nifty? GIFT Nifty emerged from the NSE IX-SGX GIFT Connect, which became fully operational on July 3, 2023. Under the arrangement, international participants can trade Nifty-linked contracts through the GIFT City framework. The contracts are traded and settled in US dollars on NSE IX. Trading takes place across an extended session that reaches into the next calendar day. This long trading window allows GIFT Nifty to react to events that occur after Indian stock exchanges close. How Does GIFT Nifty Indicate the Market Opening? GIFT Nifty does not predict the market with certainty. It reflects futures prices formed by market participants before the Indian cash market opens. The process can be understood in four steps. 1. Global events occur: Overnight developments can affect market expectations. These may include moves in US or Asian markets, crude oil prices, currency changes, central bank decisions, inflation data, company news, or geopolitical events. 2. Traders react in GIFT Nifty: Because GIFT Nifty is open during a wide trading window, participants can adjust their futures positions as fresh information arrives. 3. The futures price moves: If sentiment turns positive, GIFT Nifty may trade above the previous Nifty close. If sentiment weakens, it may trade below that level. 4. Indian markets open: When NSE opens, traders compare the Nifty opening level with the indication seen in GIFT Nifty. A positive GIFT Nifty can point toward a positive opening, while a negative reading can suggest a negative start. For example, assume Nifty closed at 24,000 and GIFT Nifty is trading near 24,120 before the opening bell. The 120-point gap may indicate positive opening sentiment. It does not mean Nifty will open at exactly 24,120. Why Can GIFT Nifty and Nifty Open Differently? Several factors can create a gap between the indication and the actual opening. Futures prices include expectations about the future value of the underlying index. They do not always match the spot index point for point. Fresh news can arrive between the time a reader checks GIFT Nifty and the market opening. Domestic orders placed before opening can change demand and supply. Institutional activity can also affect the opening price. Currency moves, global index futures, commodities, and Asian market trends can shift quickly. Because of these factors, GIFT Nifty should be treated as an indicator rather than a guaranteed forecast. What Should Readers Check Along With GIFT Nifty? A single indicator may not explain the full market setup. Readers can review GIFT Nifty along with US market closes, Asian indices, crude oil, the rupee, bond yields, and major economic or corporate announcements. It is also useful to compare the current GIFT Nifty level with the previous Nifty close. The point difference gives a simple view of the expected opening gap. However, the direction can change before trading starts. GIFT Nifty vs Nifty 50 The two terms are related but serve different purposes. Nifty 50 is the underlying stock market index. GIFT Nifty is a derivatives contract linked to Nifty and traded at NSE IX in GIFT City. Nifty reflects the value of its constituent stocks during market hours, while GIFT Nifty reflects futures-market expectations across an extended trading period. Conclusion GIFT Nifty is widely tracked as an early indicator of Indian market sentiment. Its long trading hours allow it to respond to global developments before the domestic session begins. A rise can suggest a positive opening and a fall can indicate a weak opening, but neither signal is certain. Checking GIFT Nifty with global and domestic cues can provide a clearer view of the likely market start.

Eight labourers injured as Tata Mobile collides with electric pole in Srinagar

Srinagar, Sep 17: Eight labourers were injured after the Tata Mobile they were travelling in collided with an electric pole at Pirbagh area on the outskirts of Srinagar, with three of the injured reported to be in critical condition. Reports said the vehicles driver lost control before colliding with the electric pole. The injured were subsequently brought to SMHS Hospital Srinagar for treatment. The injured have been identified as Zahoor Ahmad, 27, son of Nazir Ahmed, a resident of Kupwara, who was driving the vehicle and is reported to be in critical condition; Nair Ahmad Kumar, 19, son of Wali Mohammad, resident of Kupwara, whose condition is stated to be stable; and Ajaz Ahmad Sheikh, 26, son of Buland Sheikh, resident of Lolab, Kupwara, who is also reported to be stable. The other injured have been identified as Ishfaq Ahmad Bhat, 16, son of Mohammad Yousuf, resident of Beerwah, Budgam, whose condition is reported to be critical; Tanveer Ahmad Khan, 19, son of Ghulam Hussain Rubani, resident of Kupwara, also reported to be critical; Shahmeem Ahmad Khan, 25, son of Dilawar Ahmad, resident of Kupwara, whose condition is stated to be stable; Mohammad Qasim Sheikh, 27, son of Noor Din Sheikh, resident of Lolab, Kupwara; and Kaisar Ahmed Teli, 19, son of Ghulam Mohammad, resident of Kupwara, whose condition is reported to be stable. Further details regarding the circumstances leading to the accident and any police action were not immediately available. [KNT]

J&K weather to turn pleasant from tomorrow, dry spell likely for next 5-7 days: MeT

Srinagar, Sept 17: Rain continued in parts of south Kashmir and the eastern areas of Jammu and Kashmir on Thursday, while the Meteorological Department forecast a prolonged spell of pleasant weather from Friday. A MeT official said the current spell of rainfall was part of the brief deterioration in weather conditions that the department had forecast around September 15-16. As we had said earlier, there would be a little deterioration in the weather between 15-16 and thereafter, and that is happening. At present also, similar weather is prevailing, the official said. Rain was being recorded in south Kashmir and eastern parts of the Valley, including Pahalgam and Malgam, while parts of Kishtwar and Jammu were also witnessing rainfall. The official said there could be some drizzle around Srinagar on Thursday evening. Today evening, it is possible that some drizzle may again be seen around Srinagar, he said. From Friday, however, the weather is expected to improve significantly, with sunshine and warmer daytime temperatures forecast across the region. Overall, we can say that from tomorrow the weather will be very pleasant. There will be good sunshine during the day and it will be two to three degrees above normal, the official said. Night temperatures, meanwhile, are expected to remain below normal. But the night temperature will remain two to three degrees below normal, he said. The MeT official said the pleasant conditions could continue for nearly a week. Overall, from tomorrow we will have pleasant weather for the next five-six-seven days, up to the 25th, and you will see a pleasant spell, he said. Light snowfall in higher reaches On reports of snowfall at hill stations, the official said only the highest reaches had received light snowfall, which was not significant enough to be considered a proper snowfall spell. If we talk about snowfall, the very upper reaches did receive light snowfall, but not much, he said. He explained that precipitation can temporarily turn into snow when temperatures approach the freezing point. Because the temperature comes close to zero, the rain converts into snow. Overall, we don't call that snowfall. That has also subsided now and converted back into rain, the official said. Gulmarg recorded a minimum temperature of 5.6C, while Banihal recorded 11.6C, he said. Gulmarg recorded a lowest temperature of 5.6 degrees today, while in Banihal also the temperature was 11.6 degrees, meaning the night temperature has dipped to around 12 degrees, the official said. He said Thursday would continue to see similar conditions, before the weather improves from Friday. Overall, today will also remain like this. But from tomorrow, we will see pleasant weather for the next five to seven days, he said.

Example of sacrifice, unwavering resolve: Amit Shah greets PM Modi on 76th birthday

New Delhi, Sep 17: Union Home Minister Amit Shah on Thursday extended birthday wishes to Prime Minister Narendra Modi, praising his 25 years of public service and describing his political journey as an example of sacrifice, national service and unwavering resolve. Calling the prime minister a symbol of tireless hard work, sacrifice and foresight, Shah said, The life of Modi ji, who has made karma his sadhana and national service the aim of his life, is an epic tale of penance, sacrifice and unwavering resolve. Born on September 17, 1950, in Gujarat's Vadnagar, Modi turned 76 on Thursday. His journey, filled with service and dedication, is an inspiration for millions of countrymen, Shah said on X. I pray to God that he remains long-lived and healthy, and under his leadership, the country continues to scale new heights of progress and moves forward towards achieving the goal of a developed India by 2047, Shah said. His journey from an ordinary volunteer to chief minister and then to the prime ministers chair is a testament to the fact that when the goal of life is national service, even the most difficult resolutions can be fulfilled, Shah said. He worked viewing power not as an end in itself, but as a means for the welfare of the poor and nation-building, Shah said. The home minister also said that workers like him are fortunate to have had the opportunity to work with Modi in every role he has undertaken. The greatest characteristic of Shri Modi's leadership is that the last person in society has always been at the centre of his governance, he said. When a mother stands at the threshold of her pucca house and gives her blessings, or a sister shares how the Ayushman card saved her family, that's when the true meaning of these schemes becomes clear, Shah said in a series of posts on X. Liberation from triple talaq and the Nari Shakti Vandan Adhiniyam have given women new confidence, while Startup India, Skill India and the New Education Policy have opened doors of opportunity for the youth, Shah said. This change in the lives of crores of people is Shri Modi's greatest asset In regions where the word development was never even mentioned, world-class infrastructure stands tall today under the leadership of Modi ji, he said. Shah cited the world's highest railway arch bridge, the Chenab Railway Bridge in Kashmir; a network of roads and bridges in the Northeast; Vande Bharat trains and semiconductor unit as symbols of a New India. The India that was once called part of the Fragile Five is today, under Modi ji's leadership, among the world's fastest-growing major economies, and our passport is now viewed with respect, he said. The highest honours bestowed upon the prime minister by 36 countries are, in truth, an honour for all Indians, he added. Under Modi jis leadership, the country for the first time witnessed the policy of 'zero tolerance' against terrorism being implemented on the ground, Shah said. Citing the end of Article 370, surgical strikes, air strikes and Operation Sindoor, the home minister said these decisions have shown the world that India no longer just condemns, but delivers decisive response. Naxalism has been eradicated, decades-old disputes in the Northeast have been resolved through peace accords, and the borders are secure. A secure India is the first prerequisite for a prosperous India; Modi ji has proven this, he said.

Total silence over 1987 election rigging resolution, while power tariff hike resolution admitted: Sajad Lone

Srinagar, Sep 17: The president of the Jammu and Kashmir People's Conference and MLA Handwara, Sajad Gani Lone, on Thursday said that he had given notice for two resolutions ahead of the autumn session of the J&K Assembly. Of the two resolutions, one, related to the recent power tariff hike, has been admitted, while there has been total silence on the other resolution pertaining to the rigging of the 1987 elections. Terming the alleged 1987 election rigging a watershed event in Jammu and Kashmirs history, Lone said that the Jammu and Kashmir Assembly cannot act like a post office that sends convenient letters but hides the inconvenient ones. The Assembly cannot behave like a pro-government courier agency. It is the custodian of the rights of all MLAs and of the trust reposed in us by the people of Jammu and Kashmir, he said. The MLA said the Rules mandate that the Assembly Secretariat must inform MLAs whether their resolutions have been admitted, disallowed, or admitted as amended by the Speaker, as the case may be. He cited Rule 179, which states, The Secretary shall give intimation to a member that his resolution has been admitted or disallowed or admitted as amended by the Speaker, as the case may be. The Assembly cannot withhold information about resolutions, as the word used in the relevant Rule is SHALL. Lone said that it is legally binding on them to intimate me about the status of the resolution. Denial of information would be a breach of the Rules. I have written to the Assembly Secretariat over the issue, he said.

Health Ministry restricts stem cell therapy for autism to approved clinical trials

New Delhi: The Union Health Ministry has issued an advisory to States and Union Territories reiterating that stem cell therapy can be offered as standard clinical care only for approved medical indications, while its therapeutic use for Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD) must remain restricted to duly approved clinical trials. The advisory, dated September 16, was issued to States and Union Territories that have adopted the Clinical Establishments (Registration and Regulation) Act, 2010, in view of a Supreme Court judgment delivered on January 30, 2026. The Ministry said stem cell therapy must not be offered as routine, standard or commercial clinical services for conditions not included in the list of approved indications. With regard to autism, the advisory states that the therapeutic use of any type of stem cell must be restricted to duly approved clinical trials, in accordance with the National Guidelines for Stem Cell Research, 2017, issued jointly by the Indian Council of Medical Research (ICMR) and the Department of Biotechnology (DBT), along with other applicable government instructions. The Ministry has asked States and Union Territories to widely circulate the Supreme Courts directions among State and district regulatory authorities, as well as government and private clinical establishments involved in stem cell research, treatment, promotion or administration. It has called for strict compliance with the existing regulatory framework. Action against violations The advisory also highlights the consequences of violating the rules governing stem cell therapy. The Supreme Court, in paragraph 151(xiii) of its January 30 judgment in Yash Charitable Trust and Others v. Union of India and Others , held that non-compliance with statutory requirements must attract consequences, including professional misconduct under Regulation 7.22 of the Indian Medical Council Regulations, 2002. The judgment also referred to action under Sections 32 and 40 of the Clinical Establishments Act, which provide for cancellation of registration and penalties. The Ministry has accordingly urged regulatory authorities and clinical establishments to ensure compliance with the applicable framework. NMC reiterates restrictions The National Medical Commission (NMC), in an advisory dated September 5, also reiterated that stem cell therapy may be offered as standard clinical care only for approved indications. The NMC stated that unauthorised administration, prescription, promotion or advertisement of stem cell therapy beyond approved indications would constitute professional misconduct. It has advised State Medical Councils to examine alleged violations brought to their notice and take appropriate disciplinary action against registered medical practitioners where professional misconduct is established after due process.

Allahabad HC sets Ayush Malik free after he says he voluntarily converted to Islam

The Allahabad High Court has set Ayush Malik, a 31-year-old man from Shamli who said he had voluntarily converted to Islam, at liberty to live at a place of his choice, observing that an adults decisions regarding faith, residence and marriage cannot be overridden by family objections. Justice Sandeep Jain passed the order on Wednesday while hearing a habeas corpus petition alleging that Malik, who changed his name to Mohammad Ali, was being illegally confined by his family following his religious conversion. The court said Malik had categorically stated that he embraced Islam voluntarily and that his decision was not influenced by any threat, coercion, undue influence or pressure. Nothing has been brought on record which may persuade this Court to disbelieve the statement made by the corpus in the course of his interaction with the Court, the Bench observed. The court said there was no lawful justification for continuing any restraint on Maliks personal liberty after he expressed his wishes before it. It directed that he be allowed to reside wherever and with whomever he chose, profess and practise the religion of his choice, and take an appropriate decision regarding his matrimonial relationship in accordance with law. Father opposed conversion The court was informed that Malik had embraced Islam in 2014 and had been following the essential practices of the faith. He told the Bench that his decision was not acceptable to his parents and other family members. Malik also expressed his intention to marry Chandni Qureshi, a Muslim woman, and alleged that he had been subjected to threats and unlawful confinement at his home since June 4. His father, Devraj Singh Malik, disputed his sons account, claiming that he had been influenced or brainwashed by certain persons and had not converted voluntarily. The court noted that the fathers concern for his sons welfare was understandable but said it could not override the constitutionally protected autonomy of an adult capable of making decisions about his own life. Court cites individual autonomy The Bench said a person who has attained majority is ordinarily entitled to determine their faith according to their conscience. Such a choice, being an expression of individual autonomy and freedom of conscience, cannot be displaced merely because it is not acceptable to his family members, it observed. The court also said the right to choose a person with whom one wishes to establish a matrimonial relationship is an integral part of the right to life and personal liberty guaranteed under Article 21 of the Constitution. It added that the mere fact that an adults choice may go against the wishes or expectations of family members cannot, by itself, provide a legitimate basis for restricting that choice. Once an adult person has unequivocally expressed his free will and choice before the Court, such choice is ordinarily entitled to be respected, the Bench said. Background of the case The court had on September 9 directed authorities in Uttar Pradesh to produce Malik before it. His conversion had earlier led to the arrest of Chandni Qureshi and her father under the Uttar Pradesh Prohibition of Unlawful Conversion of Religion Act, 2021, in a case registered by Shamli police. Malik had previously told the media that he converted voluntarily. His father, a businessman, had alleged that the woman and her family coerced him in an attempt to gain control over their property. Malik had reportedly later returned to Hinduism. The latest habeas corpus petition, however, alleged that he was being illegally confined by his family. The court said that in exercising its jurisdiction under Article 226 of the Constitution, it was not required to substitute its own perception of what would be beneficial for the considered choice of an adult. It accordingly set Malik at liberty to make decisions concerning his residence, faith and matrimonial relationship.

2 terrorists killed as encounter underway in Udhampur: Army

Udhampur, Sep 17: Two terrorists were neutralised in a joint intelligence-based counter-terrorism operation launched in the Brattal area of Jammu and Kashmirs Udhampur district, the Army said on Thursday. The operation was launched during the intervening night of September 16 and 17 after security forces received confirmed inputs about the presence of terrorists in the area, the Army said. Despite hostile weather, difficult terrain and poor visibility, troops of the Jammu and Kashmir Police and CRPF launched a targeted operation, resulting in the neutralisation of two terrorists, it said. The Army said the operation was still in progress, with search and surveillance operations continuing in the area. Security forces remain deployed to track and neutralise any remaining threat, it said.

Trump administration again denies visas for Palestinian delegation to attend UN General Assembly

Washington, Sep 17: The Trump administration has denied visas for a high-level Palestinian delegation to attend an annual meeting of world leaders at the United Nations for the second year in a row. The State Department said Wednesday that Palestinian officials, including Palestinian Authority President Mahmoud Abbas, had failed to live up to their commitments under previous agreements to seek peace with Israel. In a statement, the department said the Palestinian Authority had continued to pursue legal action against Israel at the International Court of Justice and the International Criminal Court and kept paying stipends to the families of prisoners convicted of attacks against Israelis. It also mentioned officials tied to the Palestine Liberation Organization, or PLO. As a consequence of their failure to reform, contrary to their commitments to the United States, and their ongoing activities that undermine the prospects for peace, the United States will extend sanctions that deny visas to PLO members and PA officials in accordance with standing US law, the department said. The move is the latest by the Trump administration to restrict visas and it further signals the close US alliance with Israel, which has faced international isolation over its war in Gaza following the deadly October 7, 2023, attacks by Hamas. A fragile, US-brokered ceasefire took hold in October, but Israel has continued to carry out strikes in the Palestinian territory. It also comes as the Trump administration has launched a campaign to dismantle the ICC, accusing it of trying to unfairly prosecute US and Israeli soldiers for alleged crimes in Afghanistan, Iraq and Gaza. Israel and the United States are not members of the global tribunal. Despite the visa denials, the Palestinians will still be represented at next week's high-level meeting of the U.N. General Assembly by their diplomats who are already accredited to the United Nations. Last year, Abbas appeared by video.

Athwas India XI beat United Elegant 2-0, knock them out of KSL

Athwas India XI FC registered a 2-0 victory over United Elegant FC in the Kashmir Super League (KSL) Season 2 on Wednesday, ending United Elegants campaign in the tournament. Faisal Thakur opened the scoring for Athwas India XI before Adnan Ayoub added a second goal to put his side firmly in control. As per a statement, United Elegant FC tried to fight their way back into the contest but could not find a breakthrough as Athwas India XI held on to their advantage until the final whistle. Adnan Ayoub was adjudged the Man of the Match for his impressive performance. With the defeat, United Elegant FC are now out of the tournament, while Athwas India XI FC strengthened their position in the competition. The KSL action will continue on Thursday, with New JK United FC taking on Aqua Kashmir Avengers FC in the next fixture.

2 earthquakes hit northwestern Nepal

Two back-to-back earthquakes struck northwestern Nepal on Wednesday, authorities said. However, there have been no immediate reports of casualties or damage. According to the National Seismological Research Centre, the first tremor of magnitude 4.5 was recorded at 1:51 am (local time). The second quake, with a magnitude of 4.2, struck at 4:28 am (local time), with its epicentre also located around Kalai in Mugu district, the centre said. The shock was also felt in neighbouring districts of Dolpa and Jumla. However, there was no immediate report of any damage caused by the tremors. Nepal, situated in a seismically active zone, frequently experiences earthquakes. The region continues to be on alert, with authorities monitoring for any aftershocks or potential structural damage in the affected areas.

Reach out to poor women with Omar-govt's welfare schemes: Sadhotra

National Conference additional general secretary and former minister Ajay Kumar Sadhotra on Wednesday called upon party women leaders and workers to reach the doorsteps of poor and needy women and make them aware of the welfare schemes and initiatives being implemented by Omar Abdullah government for their empowerment and welfare. Addressing a meeting of women workers at Domana In Jammu North assembly constituency, which was organised by Ayesha Gupta in-charge women wing Jammu North assembly constituency and Rani Kumari Bhagat, Sadhotra said that the success of any welfare programme depended upon its reach to the last beneficiary. He urged the party cadre to establish direct contact with women in economically weaker sections, particularly those living in rural and remote areas, and guide them about various government schemes designed to improve their socio-economic conditions. He said women often faced difficulties in accessing government benefits due to lack of awareness, financial constraints and procedural hurdles. The women leaders of the National Conference, he added, had a special responsibility to bridge this gap by helping eligible beneficiaries understand and avail themselves of the schemes available to them. Our responsibility is to remain connected with the people and ensure that government initiatives reach those who need them the most, Sadhotra said. He emphasised that women empowerment was essential for the harmonious and sustainable growth of society. The former minister asked women workers to familiarise themselves with the welfare, employment, education, health and social security initiatives of Omar Abdullah government so that they could effectively assist deserving women at the grassroots level. He said women empowerment should not be limited to political representation alone but must include access to education, healthcare, livelihood opportunities, financial independence and participation in decision-making. Calling for a more proactive grassroots approach, Sadhotra asked the women leaders to regularly visit their respective areas, interact with local communities and identify the genuine problems being faced by women.

Crime Branch searches Kishtwar diagnostic centre in Chatroo minor death case

The Crime Branch Jammu on Wednesday searched an ultrasound and diagnostic centre in Kishtwar town as part of its investigation into the Chatroo minor rape and death case. The nearly two-hour operation resulted in the seizure of CCTV footage and medical records for scrutiny. Official sources said a Crime Branch team searched the diagnostic centre, examining documents and other material available at the facility. Investigators seized CCTV footage and medical records believed to be relevant to the minors pregnancy and the events preceding her death. The search was carried out in connection with FIR No. 34/2026 of Police Station Chatroo. Investigators are examining the seized material to reconstruct the sequence of events and establish the roles of individuals allegedly linked to the case. The case related to August 20 development, when the minor girl died following alleged complications during an attempted pregnancy termination. The initial investigation brought to light allegations of sexual assault and pregnancy, following which police registered a case under relevant provisions of the POCSO Act and the Bharatiya Nyaya Sanhita. Provisions of the SC/ST (Prevention of Atrocities) Act were subsequently incorporated into the FIR. An SIT was constituted during the initial stage of the investigation, and several persons were arrested. However, the case triggered protests and demands for an independent and comprehensive investigation. The administration subsequently transferred the investigation to the Crime Branch Jammu on August 29, following which the agency began reviewing the evidence and material collected by the local police. The latest search assumes importance as investigators are understood to be examining whether the medical records and CCTV footage can corroborate the sequence of events already emerging from the investigation. The agency is expected to verify the date and circumstances of the minor's visit to the diagnostic centre, persons accompanying her and the medical records generated during the visit. Investigators are also expected to correlate the CCTV footage and medical documents with statements of persons questioned or arrested in the case, as well as with other evidence collected during the investigation. The seizure of CCTV footage could provide investigators with an independent record of movements at the centre during the relevant period, while the medical records may help establish the timeline of the minor's pregnancy and the medical consultations preceding her death. The Crime Branch has so far been examining the case from multiple angles, including the alleged sexual assault, the circumstances surrounding the pregnancy, the subsequent medical treatment and the events immediately preceding the minor's death. Sources said the agency is continuing to collect and scrutinise documentary and other evidence before reaching conclusions regarding the role of individual suspects. Wednesday's operation marked another step in the investigation, with the Crime Branch now focusing on corroborating the medical evidence with the broader chain of evidence to establish what transpired in the period leading up to the minor's death.

BDO Mughalmaidan detached from ADDC Kishtwar office

District Development Commissioner (DDC) Kishtwar Pankaj Kumar Sharma has ordered the detachment of Bhushan Singh, Junior Scale JKAS and Block Development Officer (BDO), Mughalmaidan, from the office of the Additional District Development Commissioner (ADDC), Kishtwar. The order, issued on September 15, 2026, was passed on the recommendation of the Assistant Commissioner (Development), Kishtwar, and with reference to an earlier office order dated March 31, 2026, as well as a communication received from the ACD Kishtwar on September 14. As per the order, Bhushan Singh has been detached from the office of the ADDC Kishtwar with immediate effect and directed to report back to his original place of posting and resume his assigned duties. The DDC has also directed the officer to exercise due care and caution while discharging his official responsibilities and to strictly adhere to the prescribed rules, procedures and instructions governing official conduct. The order further clarifies that an enquiry already pending against the officer will continue independently. It states that the present administrative order will not be construed as having any bearing on the outcome of the enquiry or on any action that may be warranted on the basis of its findings. The order has been circulated among the concerned administrative authorities and officials for information and necessary action.

Corporal punishment allegations lead to suspension of teacher in Rajouri

The Chief Education Officer (CEO) Rajouri has placed a teacher of High School Kundal under suspension pending an enquiry into his alleged conduct after a video clip purportedly showing him subjecting children to corporal punishment went viral on social media. As per an order issued by the CEO Rajouri, Nisaar Ahmed, a teacher at High School Kundal, has been placed under suspension with immediate effect. The order stated that the matter warranted immediate attention and a detailed enquiry in view of the video clip circulating on social media. During the suspension period, the teacher has been attached with Middle School Chakli, zone Khawas and has been directed not to leave the station of attachment without prior permission from the competent authority. The order further states that he will be entitled to subsistence allowance as admissible under the rules during the period of suspension. The action has been taken pending completion of the enquiry into the matter. Earlier, on Tuesday (September 15, 2026), a video went viral on social media with claims and allegations that the said teacher subjected some students to corporal punishment.

Sakhi One Stop Centre handles 302 cases since Feb 2023 in Ramban

The Sakhi One Stop Centre (OSC) for Women in Ramban, established to provide integrated support and protection to women facing violence and distress, has handled 302 cases since February 2023, highlighting the continuing need for accessible assistance and institutional support for women across the district. The cases received by the Centre include domestic violence, cybercrime, sexual assault, blackmailing, postpartum depression and other forms of violence, abuse and distress. The Centre was established in January 2023 and started receiving complaints from women across Ramban district the following month. The Centre operates under the Social Welfare Department, Ramban, which is its parent department, while the District Social Welfare Officer serves as its nodal officer. The Sakhi One Stop Centre is part of the Government of India's One Stop Centre Scheme, which seeks to provide women affected by violence with multiple essential services under one roof. The scheme was launched in 2015 under the Nirbhaya Fund to facilitate access to police assistance, medical care, legal aid, counselling, psychosocial support and temporary shelter. According to Centre Administrator Ramban Sumaira Jaan, the nature of complaints received at the Ramban OSC has shown a noticeable change over the past three years. While domestic violence accounted for a significant proportion of cases during 2023 and 2024, complaints related to cybercrime and blackmailing have increased in recent times. She said the Centre provides assistance to women aged 18 years and above, irrespective of their marital status, who approach it for support in cases of violence, abuse, harassment or distress. As per official records, the Centre has so far facilitated police assistance for 45 women who either contacted the facility through Women Helpline 181 or approached the Centre directly. Of these, 14 women were safely rescued by the OSC team in coordination with local police posts and police stations in Ramban, Ramsoo, Dharamkund, Batote, Gool and Banihal. The intervention is aimed at ensuring that women facing immediate threats or unsafe circumstances can access appropriate protection and assistance through coordinated action by the Centre and law-enforcement agencies. Sumaira Jaan told Greater Kashmir that the OSC Ramban has also facilitated legal aid for 12 women in courts across Ramban district. Of these, five cases are currently pending before the courts, while the remaining cases have been disposed of. In addition, the Centre has provided emergency shelter to 36 women and eight children who required immediate protection and a safe place to stay during periods of crisis. As per official records, the Centre has also referred 41 women to other departments and concerned authorities for further intervention and support, depending on the nature of their complaints and individual requirements. Counselling remains another important component of the Centre's intervention. Officials said 166 cases have been resolved through counselling after the parties concerned agreed to mutually acceptable terms and opted to settle their disputes amicably. The Centre administrator clarified that reconciliation was not imposed on any woman. If a woman does not wish to reconcile or resolve a matter through counselling, particularly in cases involving prolonged violence or serious distress, her decision is respected. The Centre provides the necessary assistance and support while allowing the woman concerned to decide whether she wishes to pursue further action, seek legal remedies or explore other available options. Officials said Women Helpline 181 has helped extend the reach of the OSC to women living in remote and difficult-to-access areas of Ramban district who may be unable to visit the Centre in person. Women can contact the helpline for assistance in cases involving violence, harassment or other forms of distress. Depending on the nature of the complaint, the matter may be addressed telephonically or through coordination with Sarpanches, police officials, local police posts and other concerned stakeholders. The OSC team maintains follow-up with the woman complainant and the relevant authorities until the required assistance is provided or the necessary intervention is completed. The data from the Centre indicates that while traditional forms of violence, particularly domestic violence, continue to remain a major concern, emerging challenges such as cybercrime and online blackmailing are increasingly becoming part of the support and intervention landscape for women in the district.

Only dialogue, not confrontation, can restore statehood: Altaf Bukhari

Jammu and Kashmir Apni Party (JKAP) president Syed Mohammad Altaf Bukhari on Wednesday asserted that only dialogue and persuasion, and not confrontation, would help in restoration of statehood to J&K. Aiming barbs at the ruling dispensation and the opposition, Bukhari, while responding to media queries after a party function in Jammu, maintained that both (government and opposition) had lost their way and thus failed in addressing the public issues, notwithstanding their haughty claims and big promises. The query related to the performance of the elected government as it would complete its two years in office in October. Like the Apni Party does - only those promises should be made which are practical and achievable and not the claims which aim at hoodwinking innocent people, he stated. In a direct dig at the ruling party and other political opponents, J&K Apni Party president and the former minister observed, Just for the sake of it, they can promise to bring back Article 370 but that is not enough. They should come clear on the fact as to how they will get it back. They can promise moon and stars to the people. But how will they bring them? This needs to be explained to us, the people. While slamming the dismal performance of the government, he, however, clarified that his party would never support any undemocratic means or attempts to remove it (government). Elected government is the last democratic gift by the Centre to J&K. If this government has to go, the people will take a call. We will continue opposing it (government) if it pursues anti-people policies but will never support any undemocratic attempt to oust it (government). Opposition does not mean validation for removal of democratic government through undemocratic means, Bukhari asserted. He said political disagreements and opposition should be pursued through democratic means and maintained that opposition to a government should not mean opposition to democratic institutions. Bukhari also batted for wider debate on reservation policy and proposed changes. He stated that the reservation and proposed changes concerning different categories required detailed discussion rather than political statements. The JKAP president raised questions about how reservation benefits should be distributed and whether benefits should continue to remain concentrated among particular families or individuals. He said the matter was important enough to merit a detailed seminar and wider public discussion. In response to a question about restoration of statehood to Jammu and Kashmir, Bukhari said, Besides dialogue, there is no way, and certainly not confrontation, to get statehood restored in J&K, a 200-year-old State. J&K has witnessed confrontations since 1947 and has not brought any solution. The confrontation would not help and that the political leadership must put forward a reasoned and convincing case before the Union Government, Bukhari stated. He said Jammu and Kashmir had a long historical and constitutional association with the Indian Union and argued that the demand for statehood should be taken forward through democratic engagement. In this context he also referred to the case of Ladakh, asserting if 2.5 lakh people there (Ladakh) collectively could make their voice heard, 13 million people of J&K could also take a cue from them. On the ongoing strike by National Health Mission (NHM) employees and their demand for an increase in remuneration, Bukhari termed their demand legitimate and urged the administration to wake up and address their grievances. He questioned the functioning of the health administration and said that the Chief Secretary, being the head of the administration, must take serious note of the problems confronting the health sector and ensure corrective measures. Responding to a question on the Uniform Civil Code (UCC), Bukhari said the immediate concern should be the survival and well-being of the people of Jammu and Kashmir. He questioned the priority being given to wider political debates when basic healthcare services remain inadequate. Referring to the employment situation, Bukhari said Jammu and Kashmir had a large pool of educated youth seeking opportunities and maintained that providing jobs and livelihood opportunities must be among the foremost priorities of any government. Asked about the proposed all-party meeting and whether it could lead to any significant decisions, Bukhari said political meetings should ultimately focus on matters affecting the people. He emphasised that issues concerning employees, students, healthcare, taxation and public welfare should receive serious attention. On questions concerning financial burdens and taxation, Bukhari said the government should be cautious about adding to the burden of employees, students and other sections already facing difficulties. He particularly referred to healthcare personnel and interns and said their genuine concerns should be addressed. Referring to the situation in Bani, he said he had learnt that the Sub-District Hospital had been without a gynaecologist for around a decade, forcing women to travel long distances for childbirth and specialised medical care. He also referred to a sonography machine reportedly lying unused at a hospital because of the absence of a person to operate it. Questioning the mismatch between infrastructure and manpower, he said providing equipment alone was not enough unless trained personnel were available to deliver services. Bukhari also raised questions about the functioning of Rajouri Medical College and alleged that a substantial proportion of patients were being referred to Government Medical College Jammu. He also criticised BJP for patting its back on establishing AIIMS in Vijaypur when patients from there were being referred to Government Medical College Jammu. He called for an examination of the functioning of healthcare institutions and said human lives could not be compromised. Questioning the electricity woes being confronted by consumers, he pointed out that Jammu and Kashmir contributed power to the northern grid while ordinary people within the region continued to face high electricity charges. Similarly, he questioned the gap between announcements regarding tap water and the actual availability of drinking water in different areas, saying that access to safe drinking water should be treated as a basic public necessity rather than merely a political slogan. Bukhari also raised allegations of corruption and delays in government offices, saying citizens should not have to face unnecessary hurdles to obtain legitimate government services. He called for greater administrative accountability and transparency. Asked about criticism that the Apni Party was B team of BJP and maintained close links with the Union government, Bukhari rejected the suggestion that meeting Union leaders amounted to political subservience. He said political leaders from Jammu and Kashmir had every right to meet the Prime Minister and other Union leaders to place the concerns of the people before them. According to him, engagement with the union government was part of democratic politics and should not automatically be portrayed negatively. Responding to allegations, Bukhari said his party was not controlled by any political family. He reiterated that the Apni Party was intended to be a platform for the people and claimed that its strength came from its workers and public support. On questions relating to reservation and proposed changes concerning different categories, Bukhari said the issue required detailed discussion rather than political statements. He raised questions about how reservation benefits should be distributed and whether benefits should continue to remain concentrated among particular families or individuals. He said the matter was important enough to merit a detailed seminar and wider public discussion. On speculation regarding possible political changes within the National Conference, Bukhari said he did not foresee any fall of sky and remarked that if one person resigned, another could take his place. He maintained that the internal affairs of another political party were ultimately for that party to decide. JKAP president appealed to the people of Jammu and Kashmir to rise above politics based solely on religion and regional divisions. He said the people of Jammu had been mobilised in the name of religion while people in Kashmir had, according to him, been mobilised in the name of the region. The need of the hour, he said, was to focus on common issues affecting people across Jammu and Kashmir. He called upon people, particularly the youth, to become more politically aware and take charge of their future, saying that employment, healthcare, electricity, drinking water, accountable governance and development should occupy the centre stage of political discourse. Earlier while addressing a joining programme at the party headquarters in Gandhi Nagar, Jammu, Bukhari called upon the youth to take an active role in shaping the future of Jammu and Kashmir. He said meaningful political change could come only when the younger generation would take charge of the regions political and social affairs. Former NSUI Joint Secretary Tableen Bobarai, along with nearly 200 youths and around 100 prominent citizens from Arnia, joined the Apni Party in the programme. The programme was organised by J&K Apni Party Jammu provincial president Manjit Singh. Welcoming the new entrants, Bukhari congratulated Tavleen Singh and the other members of the joining groups and expressed confidence that their induction would further strengthen the party at the grassroots level. Youth have to bring change. Until you bring the change, the politics of Jammu and Kashmir will also not improve, he said, urging the young entrants to actively participate in public life.

Over Rs 20.89 Cr road projects launched in Kupwara's Machil: Qaysar Lone

Kupwara, Sep 16: Four road projects worth over Rs 20.89 crore were launched in Kupwara's Machil on Wednesday, aiming to improve road connectivity in several remote border villages. MLA Lolab Qaysar Jamshaid Lone laid the foundation stones for the projects, which include the construction of the Dudi ChountiwareChountiware Bala road at an estimated cost of Rs 7.27 crore, Dudi ChountiwareLindub road at Rs 3.75 crore, Chountiware/HardaringKhan Basti road at Rs 5.09 crore, and Dudi/ChountiwareShareen Karaie road at Rs 4.76 crore. The projects are expected to strengthen road connectivity in Machil and improve access to essential services, markets and public facilities for residents of the border area. Speaking on the occasion, Lone said better road connectivity was essential for the socio-economic development of remote areas. He said connecting every habitation in Lolab remained among his priorities and that the projects would address several long-pending demands of the people. Residents welcomed the launch of the projects and expressed hope that the roads would be completed within the stipulated timeframe.