Opinion

India needs to reduce the strategic importance of fertilisers through a bold agricultural policy

Global events like the West Asia conflict and El Nino threaten governments. Rising fertilizer prices create a fiscal and political crisis for India. The nation faces a future scarcity fear, leading to panic buying. Bold agricultural policy is needed to reduce fertilizer reliance. This will optimize usage and ensure food security for the future.

Betting big on Amaravati: Execution, funding and a real trust test ahead

The Andhra Pradesh Reorganisation (Amendment) Act 2026 has formally settled Amaravati as the states capital, ending years of political uncertainty over the citys status, according to a research-based analysis.

SSP Anantnag suspends IO in medical staff assault case

Anantnag, Apr 27: Anantnag Police on Monday suspended an Investigating Officer (IO) of Police Station Anantnag for failing to adhere to mandatory procedures during the investigation into the vandalization of Government Medical College (GMC) Anantnag last week, police said. SSP Anantnag takes strict action after the Investigating Officer (IO) fails to follow mandatory arrest procedure in FIR 118/2026. Anantnag police is committed to due process, Anantnag Police tweeted. A case related to vandalization and assault on medical staff was registered at Police Station Anantnag under FIR No. 118/2026, police said. During the investigation, four persons were arrested for their alleged involvement in the vandalization of the hospital following the death of a woman in a suspected case of medical negligence. They were later released on bail due to lack of evidence, officials said. The woman, a resident of Srigufwara village in Bijbehara, had suffered cardiac arrest. She, was resuscitated immediately after arriving at the hospital but later died, doctors said. Following the incident, agitated attendants allegedly ransacked the hospital and assaulted doctors, officials said. The doctors later protested, terming the incident sheer hooliganism, and demanded strict action against those responsible. The Investigating officer (IO) failed to fulfil mandatory requirements related to arrest procedures while detaining the accused, an official said. Taking serious note of the lapse, Senior Superintendent of Police (SSP) Anantnag Amod Ashok Nagpure placed the officer under suspension, officials said. Anantnag Police reiterated its commitment to upholding due process of law and ensuring accountability in all investigations, police said.

India produces 20 lakh MT apples vs 26 lakh demand; govt aims to boost output: Agriculture Minister

AKHMPOA urgers govt to release pending dues

LG Manoj Sinha joins padyatra in Udhampur, calls for united fight against drug menace

Srinagar, Apr 27: Lieutenant Governor, Jammu and Kashmir, Manoj Sinha on Monday joined a padyatra in Udhampur as part of the Nasha Mukt Jammu Kashmir Abhiyan , urging people to unite in a collective fight against drug abuse. Addressing participants, the Lieutenant Governor described the anti-drug campaign as a shared war against narcotics and called upon every citizen to actively contribute towards making Jammu and Kashmir drug-free. In the war against drugs, unity will be our shield and resolve our weapon. Let us commit to shaping a Jammu Kashmir where young people carve free destinies, families remain whole, and communities thrive, he said. Sinha said the region is rising with renewed determination to reject the drug menace and stressed that no authority alone can tackle the issue without public participation. Let every village, hamlet, and city become a fortress of resistance. Every household must stand as a vigilant bastion. I call upon each resident to enlist as a warrior in this cause, he said. Highlighting the importance of community involvement, the Lieutenant Governor said the campaign must ignite awareness in every section of society so that April 27 is remembered as a turning point in the fight against drugs in Udhampur. He also emphasized compassion and rehabilitation for those affected by addiction, urging society to treat them as individuals in need of support rather than stigma. Rehabilitation must restore dignity and reintegrate individuals into the community. Collective efforts will be key to transforming awareness into accountability, he added. On the occasion, the Lieutenant Governor flagged off an anti-drug awareness bike rally, launched Mini-Olympics under the campaign, and distributed sanction letters to individuals who have recovered from substance abuse. He also felicitated winners of the Nasha Mukt Ideas Championship.

Kashmir gets first 25,000-litre community biogas plant in Ganderbal

Srinagar, April 27: The Rural Development Department (RDD) Kashmir has initiated the construction of a 25,000-litre capacity community biogas plant under the Swachh Bharat Mission Gramin (SBM-G) in Pathribal Gund area of Ganderbal district, officials said. The project, with an estimated cost of 35 lakh, is part of a Union Territory-wide initiative that envisages the installation of one such plant in each district of Jammu and Kashmir. Officials said the plant under execution in Ganderbal is expected to be the first of its kind to become operational in the Kashmir Valley, marking a step toward decentralized renewable energy generation and structured rural waste management. The facility will operate on anaerobic digestion, using cattle dung sourced from the local community on a rotational basis. Through microbial decomposition in an oxygen-free environment, the process will generate methane-rich biogas and organic slurry. The biogas produced is intended to meet cooking fuel needs of around 10 households, while the slurry will be used as nutrient-rich manure for agricultural purposes. To address climatic challenges in the region, the digester is being equipped with a thermostatic control system to maintain optimal temperatures for microbial activity. In addition, IoT-based sensors are being integrated to monitor parameters such as gas pressure, temperature, pH levels, and feedstock input in real time. Officials told the news agency Kashmir News Trust that the project is designed to reduce dependence on conventional fuels such as LPG and firewood, while also providing a structured mechanism for disposal of cattle waste. The initiative is also expected to contribute to environmental goals by reducing methane emissions from unmanaged waste and supporting sustainable agricultural practices. A community participation model has been planned for the plants operation, with local households and dairy farmers contributing feedstock. A user-group committee will be formed to oversee operations, maintenance, and equitable distribution of biogas. Authorities said the project will serve as a demonstration model for similar installations across the Union Territory, highlighting the feasibility of community-scale biogas systems in high-altitude regions.

Udhampur road accident: J&K LG meets injured at GMC Udhampur

PM Modi to visit Sikkim on 27, 28 April

Prime Minister Narendra Modi will visit Sikkim on 2728 April 2026, where he is scheduled to inaugurate, launch and lay the foundation stone of multiple development projects worth over 4,000 crore. As per a statement, issued by the PIB, PM Modi will arrive in Gangtok on 27 April at around 3 PM. On 28 April, at approximately 9:30 AM, Prime Minister will visit the Orchidarium in Gangtok. To showcase the ecological and floral heritage of the state, Swarnajayanti Maitri Manjari Park has been developed as a state-of-the-art, world-class Orchid Experience Centre. Thereafter, at around 10 AM, Prime Minister will participate in the closing ceremony of Sikkims 50th Year of Statehood celebrations at Paljor Stadium, where he will inaugurate, launch and lay the foundation stone of multiple development projects worth over 4,000 crore across the State. Prime Minister will also address the gathering on the occasion. These projects span a wide range of sectors including infrastructure, connectivity, healthcare, education, power, urban development, environment, tourism and agriculture, and are aimed at accelerating holistic and inclusive development in Sikkim. In the healthcare sector, Prime Minister will lay the foundation stone for a 100-bedded Ayurveda Hospital at Yangang in Namchi district. He will also inaugurate a 30-bedded Integrated Sowa Rigpa Hospital at NIT Deorali, thereby strengthening access to traditional and integrative systems of medicine in the State. In the education sector, Prime Minister will inaugurate the Permanent campus of Sikkim University at Yangang, the Administrative Block of Netaji Subhash Chandra Bose University of Excellence at Chakung, the Helen Lepcha Medical College at Socheygang in Gangtok district, and the Dentam Professional College at Dentam in Gyalshing district. He will also inaugurate model residential schools at Hee Gyathang, a new Model Degree College at Mangshila in Mangan district, and a monastic hostel-cum-classroom at Boomtar Gumpa in Namchi district. Further, he will launch the implementation of IT-enabled educational infrastructure projects across 160 schools in Sikkim. To improve connectivity further in Sikkim, Prime Minister will lay the foundation stone of two hinged double-lane steel arch bridges over River Teesta at Sirwani and Lower Samdong, connecting Namchi and Gangtok districts. He will also inaugurate the widening and strengthening of the road from Birdhang to Namchi via Kitchudumra, which will enhance inter-district accessibility, improve travel efficiency, and facilitate smoother movement of people and goods. In the power sector, Prime Minister will inaugurate the improvement, upgradation and revamping of the Transmission and Distribution (T&D) network in Gangtok, strengthening reliable power supply in the region. In the area of urban development and administrative infrastructure, Prime Minister will inaugurate the Jan Seva Sachivalaya (Mini Secretariat) at Lumsey and the Civil Service Officers Institute in Gangtok. He will also inaugurate housing initiatives including the Sikkim Urban Garib Awas Yojana at Lingding, housing for police personnel, and Grade C quarters at SAP Pangthang. In addition, he will lay the foundation stone of Sadhbhav Mandap (Public Utility Centre)at MG Marg. As part of environmental protection efforts, Prime Minister will lay the foundation stone for sewerage system rehabilitation at Singtam town under river pollution abatement initiatives. He will also inaugurate the pollution abatement scheme of River Rani Chu through Roro Chu river in Zone III, Gangtok, contributing to improved urban sanitation and sustainable ecosystems. In the tourism and pilgrimage sector, Prime Minister will inaugurate the redevelopment of the Ridge Precinct in Gangtok, eco-tourism and pilgrimage infrastructure at Dodak in Soreng, infrastructure related to the Kailash Mansarovar Yatra including facilities at 18th Mile and Hangu Lake, and a Yatri Niwas at Krishna Pranami Mangaldham, Namphing. He will also lay the foundation stone for an Eco-Pilgrimage Complex at Silnon in Gyalshing district. Prime Minister will inaugurate the Sikkim IFFCO Processing Plant, which is expected to provide a significant boost to agro-processing and strengthen farmer livelihoods and value chains in the State. Prime Minister will also inaugurate indoor cricket facilities at Mining, Rangpo in Pakyong district to promote youth engagement and sports development. The visit of the Prime Minister marks an important milestone in the Golden Jubilee year of Sikkims statehood and reflects the current Governments continued commitment to the rapid and sustainable development of the State and the Northeast region.

DC Srinagar urges residents to participate in ant-drug rally with LG Sinha on 3rd May

NDRF conducts mock drill in Dal lake to check operational preparedness

NDRF conducts mock drill and exercises on operational preparedness of the force at Dal Lake. Teams of the deep water diving and boat units conducted excercises in the Dal lake. The excercises are part of the regular drill to check the preparedness of the force to meet any evantualies due to natural or man made accidents

India-New Zealand free trade agreement: An explainer

New Delhi, Apr 27: India and New Zealand on Monday will sign a free trade agreement (FTA) to boost two-way commerce in goods and services and promote investments.The pact will come into force on actually decided date agreed by both sides. Here are a few questions and answers to understand the main strategic gain of this deal: FTA: An economic arrangement between two or more countries where they agree either to end or significantly reduce customs duties on the maximum number of goods traded between them, besides cutting down barriers which can hinder or promote two-way commerce and investments. INDIA-NEW ZEALAND FTA BRIEF: Negotiations were first launched in 2010, stalled in 2015 after nine rounds, and were revived in March 2025. March 16, 2025: Negotiations resumed afresh December 22, 2025: Announced conclusion of talks April 27, 2026: FTA set to be signed The agreement covers 20 chapters, including trade in goods, rules of origin, services, customs and trade facilitation, SPS, TBT, trade remedies, dispute settlement and legal provisions. BENEFITS FOR INDIA: All Indian goods, including labour-intensive sectors like textiles, plastic items, leather and engineering goods, will enter at zero duty in New Zealand, whose average import tariff is just 2.3 per cent. New Zealand has committed to invest (FDI) USD 20 billion over 15 years. India has secured commitments across a wide range of high-value services sectors, including IT and IT-enabled services, professional services, education, financial services, tourism, construction and other business services. The FTA Opens Skilled Employment Pathways through a new Temporary Employment Entry Visa pathway for Indian professionals in skilled occupations, with a quota of 5,000 visas at any given time and a stay of up to three years. Duty-free wine and spirits exports from India, while wines from the Oceania country will enter the domestic market at a concessional duty, which will be reduced over a period of 10 years. BENEFITS FOR NEW ZEALAND: India, following the template used in its trade agreement with Australia, has offered market access on 70 per cent of tariff lines (or product categories). The country will give duty-free access to 54.11 per cent of New Zealand exports from day one of the implementation of the free trade agreement, and these goods include sheep meat, wool, coal and several forestry and wood products, a move which is expected to make these items cheaper for Indian consumers. Duty concessions on agricultural goods like apples, kiwifruit, manuka honey, and albumins (including milk albumin), but with quotas and minimum import prices (MIP). Duties on several seafood items, such as mussels and salmon, will be eliminated over a period of seven years. The levy will be removed on a number of iron, steel and scrap aluminium items over a period of 10 years or less. Sensitive farm products, including apples, kiwifruit, manuka honey, and albumins (including milk albumin), are managed through tariff-rate quotas (TRQs), supported by minimum import prices (MIPs) and safeguard measures. Further, the import duty on avocados and persimmons by India will be eliminated in 10 years. SENSITIVE GOODS: To protect the interests of farmers and MSMEs, India has not extended any import duty concessions to New Zealand on several sensitive sectors, including dairy, animal products, vegetables, sugar, copper and aluminium. Products that are kept in the exclusion list are: Dairy (milk, cream, whey, yoghurt, cheese etc.), animal products (other than sheep meat), vegetable products (onions, chana, peas, corn, almonds etc.), sugar, artificial honey, Animal, vegetable or microbial fats and oils. The list also includes Arms and Ammunition, Gems and Jewellery, Copper and Articles (Cathodes, Cartridges, Rods, Bars, Coils ), Aluminium and articles thereof (Ingots, billets, wire bars). INVESTMENTS: New Zealand has committed to facilitating USD 20 billion in foreign direct investment into India over 15 years. At present, India has received just about USD 89 million FDI during April 2000 and December 2025. IMPORTANCE FOR INDIA: For India, the agreement strengthens access to a high-income, rules-based Pacific market and supports its broader Indo-Pacific economic strategy. For New Zealand, it offers more secure entry into one of the world's fastest-growing large economies at a time of rising global trade uncertainty. New Zealand's Indian diaspora of over 300,000 people -- about 5 per cent of its population -- provides a strong bridge for trade and investment. Easier visas, faster student pathways and lower education costs could further boost services trade. BILATERAL TRADE: Bilateral merchandise trade stood at USD 1.3 billion (USD 711.1 million and imports 587.13 million) in 2024-25, while total trade in goods and services reached about USD 2.4 billion in 2024, with services trade alone reaching USD 1.24 billion, led by travel, IT, and business services. India exports include aviation fuel, pharmaceuticals, motor vehicles, petroleum products, readymade garments, and machinery; while imports include wood and wood products, iron and steel, raw wool, dairy products, scrap metals, coal and farm-linked inputs.

Defence Minister Rajnath Singh to Lead Indian Delegation at SCO Defence Ministers Meet in Bishkek

Defence Minister Rajnath Singh will lead a high-level Indian delegation to the Shanghai Cooperation Organisation (SCO) Defence Ministers Meeting scheduled to be held in Bishkek, Kyrgyzstan on April 28, 2026, the Ministry of Defence said on Monday. The meeting will bring together defence ministers of SCO member states to deliberate on key regional and global security challenges, including issues related to international peace, counter-terrorism and defence cooperation. According to the ministry, this years meeting assumes significance amid the ongoing geopolitical turbulence, particularly due to the evolving situation in West Asia. Member countries are expected to exchange views on mitigating the impact of the conflict on regional stability. During the discussions, Rajnath Singh is expected to reiterate Indias commitment to global peace and security, while underlining New Delhis firm stance of zero tolerance towards terrorism and extremism. He is also likely to emphasise the need for enhanced cooperation among SCO member states to address emerging security threats. On the sidelines of the meeting, the Defence Minister is expected to hold bilateral meetings with his counterparts from participating countries to strengthen defence ties and deepen strategic engagement. The Shanghai Cooperation Organisation, established on June 15, 2001, in Shanghai, is one of the largest regional organisations. Its members include India, Russia, China, Kazakhstan, Kyrgyzstan, Pakistan, Tajikistan, Uzbekistan, Iran and Belarus. India became a full member in 2017 and held the rotating chairmanship in 2023.

Iran's foreign minister Abbas Araghchi arrives in Russia

Dubai, Apr 27: Iran's top diplomat arrived on Monday in Russia ahead of a meeting with Russian President Vladimir Putin. The state-run IRNA news agency said Abbas Araghchi landed in St. Petersburg for his meeting with Putin. Araghchi has visited Islamabad twice and Muscat, Oman, on the foreign trip as negotiations with the US appear stalled over the Iran war.

RS Chairman Accepts Merger Of 7 AAP MPs With BJP

NEW DELHI, Apr 27: Rajya Sabha Chairman C P Radhakrishnan on Monday officially accepted the merger of seven Aam Aadmi Party (AAP) MPs with the BJP, reducing the strength of Arvind Kejriwals party in the Upper House to three. After this transition, the BJPs strength in the Upper House has increased to 113. Raghav Chadha, Ashok Mittal, Harbhajan Singh, Sandeep Pathak, Vikramjit Sahney, Swati Maliwal, and Rajinder Gupta are the seven MPs who have merged. The Rajya Sabha website now [] The post RS Chairman Accepts Merger Of 7 AAP MPs With BJP appeared first on Daily Excelsior .

Criminal killed after encounter in Jammu: Police

Jammu, Apr 26: A 30-year-old criminal was killed after a shootout on the outskirts of Jammu late Sunday evening, a police official said. The incident took place in Miran Sahib area when a police party laid a trap following information about possible movement of two notorious criminals wanted in over a dozen cases -- ranging from attempt to murder to arms smuggling, the official said. When challenged, they attempted to breach the police cordon by opening fire, the official said, adding that the police team retaliated in a calibrated response in self-defence and to prevent harm to the public. He said both the accused left the motorcycle following an accident and tried to escape taking the advantage of darkness. However, they were chased by the police party and one of the accused was later found in an injured condition in a canal, the official said. The injured accused was rushed to hospital where he was declared brought dead, police said, adding his identity is awaited. The official said the search for the other criminal was continuing when the last reports were received.

J-K: Six held with drugs, assets worth Rs 73 lakh attached in Udhampur

Jammu, Apr 27: Six persons were taken into custody during an intensified anti-narcotics crackdown, with police recovering contraband substances and over Rs 23 lakh in Doda and Kathua districts of Jammu and Kashmir, police said on Monday. In a parallel action, properties worth over Rs 73 lakh linked to drug peddlers were also attached in Udhampur district under relevant legal provisions, the police said. Additional Superintendent of Police, Doda, Mohd Aslam said three persons, including a woman, were detained during a raid on a house at Dak Mohalla in the main town following recovery of 85 grams of suspected brown sugar and over Rs 23 lakh on Sunday evening. He identified the woman as Zareena Begum, stating that she had been under police surveillance following inputs indicating her involvement in drug peddling. Besides Zareena, officials said her daughter and son-in-law were also picked up by police during the raid. We have taken three individuals into custody. Their roles are being examined, and based on that, arrests will be made. We are continuing raids at other suspected locations, Aslam said. Three drug peddlers --Pardeep Singh of Hiranagar, Rahees Butt of Billawar and Ali Sen of Amritsar (Punjab) -- were arrested along with heroin at different places in Kathua district, a police spokesman said. He said while 2.79 gm of heroin was seized from Singh, 2.66 gm were recovered Butt. Similarly, 303 gm of heroin was seized from Sen who was intercepted near Berrian-Pattan village while moving in a private car from Bhagthali to Maggar Khad on the Jammu-Pathankot highway. All the three were booked under the NDPS Act and further investigations are on, the spokesman said. In Udhampur, the spokesman said properties worth Rs 73 lakh were attached in two separate cases registered under the Narcotic Drugs and Psychotropic Substances (NDPS) Act. The attached properties included a newly constructed residential house, a car, a motorcycle and a mobile phone with a total value of Rs 65 Lakh, belonging to accused Saif Ali who was booked under the NDPS case in Majalta area early this year, he said. In another action, movable property worth Rs 8 lakh comprising a car, belonging to accused Danish Butt of Doda has been attached under Section 68(F) NDPS Act in connection with an FIR registered at Rehambal police station, the spokesman said.

Iran's top diplomat briefly returns to Pakistan but Trump says sides can talk by phone

Islamabad, Apr 27: Iran's foreign minister briefly visited Islamabad again on Sunday as Pakistan's political and military leadership scrambled to reignite ceasefire negotiations between Tehran and Washington, but US President Donald Trump said they could talk by phone instead. Abbas Araghchi had left Pakistan's capital late the previous day, creating confusion around an expected second round of talks there, but he returned before continuing on to Moscow on Sunday, Iranian state media said. He had been in Oman, which previously mediated talks and is on the other side of the strategic Strait of Hormuz. The White House last week said it would dispatch envoys Steve Witkoff and Jared Kushner to Islamabad to follow up on historic face-to-face talks earlier this month. But shortly after Araghchi's departure Saturday, Trump said he had called off the mission because of a lack of progress with Iran. If they want, we can talk, but we're not sending people, Trump told Fox News on Sunday. He said earlier on social media: All they have to do is call!!! Indirect talks between the two sides were ongoing, two Pakistani officials said, speaking on condition of anonymity because they were not authorised to speak to the media. Trump last week indefinitely extended the ceasefire the US and Iran agreed to on April 7 that has largely halted the fighting that began with joint US-Israeli strikes on Feb. 28. But a permanent settlement remains elusive in the war that has killed thousands of people and shaken the global economy. Strait of Hormuz at the centre of Iran's discussions in Oman A standoff remained on in the Strait of Hormuz, the narrow mouth of the Persian Gulf through which a fifth of all traded oil and natural gas passes, as Iran has restricted movement through it and the US enforces a blockade of Iranian ports. Iran wants to persuade Oman to support a mechanism to collect tolls from vessels passing through the strait, according to a regional official who spoke on condition of anonymity because he was not authorised to discuss the matter. Oman's response wasn't immediately clear. The official, who is involved in mediation efforts, also said Iran insists on ending the US blockade before a new round of talks and that Pakistan-led mediators are trying to bridge significant gaps between the countries. Araghchi also spoke by phone with counterparts in Qatar and Saudi Arabia on Sunday. Even before Saturday's developments, Iran's Foreign Ministry said any talks would be indirect and Pakistani officials would act as go-betweens, reflecting Tehran's wariness after rounds of indirect talks last year and earlier this year ended with Iran being attacked by the US and Israel. Trump said Iran has offered a much better proposal The economic fallout is growing two months into the war as global shipments of oil, liquefied natural gas, fertiliser, and other supplies are disrupted by the near-closure of the strategic strait. Both sides have continued to make military threats. Iran's joint military command Saturday warned that if the US continues its aggressive military actions, including naval blockades, banditry, and piracy, it will face a strong response. Trump last week ordered the military to shoot and kill small boats that could be placing mines in the waterway. Trump told journalists on Saturday, before a security incident at the White House Correspondents' Dinner, that within 10 minutes of his cancelling Witkoff and Kushner's trip to Islamabad, Iran sent a much better proposal. He did not elaborate but stressed that one of his conditions is that Iran will not have a nuclear weapon. The status of Iran's enriched uranium has long been at the centre of tensions. Tehran has 440 kilograms (970 pounds) of uranium enriched to 60 per cent purity, a short, technical step from weapons-grade levels, according to the UN nuclear watchdog agency. Syed Mohammad Ali, an independent political analyst in Pakistan, said the delay in the talks must not be seen as a setback and that indirect talks were progressing. He said tensions between Washington and Tehran cannot be eased overnight, and the negotiation process requires patience. But the good thing is that the ceasefire is holding, and both sides have a desire to end the conflict in a way that does not backfire at home, Ali said. A growing toll even as fragile ceasefires hold Since the war began, at least 3,375 people have been killed in Iran and at least 2,509 people in Lebanon, where the Israel-Hezbollah fighting resumed two days after the Iran war started. Also, 23 people have been killed in Israel and more than a dozen in Gulf Arab states. Fifteen Israeli soldiers in Lebanon, 13 US service members in the region and six UN peacekeepers in southern Lebanon have been killed. Another ceasefire between Israel and the Iranian-backed Lebanese militant Hezbollah group has been extended by three weeks. Hezbollah has not participated in the Washington-brokered diplomacy.

NIT Srinagars GIF awards ignition grants to 10 startups

Srinagar, Apr 26: In a major push to strengthen the startup ecosystem in Jammu and Kashmir, the Greenovator Incubation Foundation (GIF) at National Institute of Technology Srinagar (NIT) awarded ignition grants to 10 emerging startups under Cohort 2.0 during the Ignition Grant Felicitation Ceremony 2026. Held under the theme Providing your ideas a hand of warmth and technology, the ceremony marked a significant step towards promoting innovation-driven entrepreneurship by supporting early-stage ventures across sectors such as artificial intelligence, agri-tech, healthcare, IoT, and automation. The event was organised by the GIF core team comprising Sana Aftab (CEO), Jehangir Hameed (Incubation Manager), and Waseem Ahmad Mir (DEO), who highlighted the importance of structured incubation support in enabling young entrepreneurs to scale their ideas. A total of nine startups were felicitated under Cohort 2.0 and provided grant support by the GIF NIT Srinagar for their innovative solutions, including DreamCabs KMR Pvt. Ltd., owned by Uzair Hameed Zargar & Murchana Baishya, which received 2,00,000; Safavi Organics LLP, owned by Syed Sakib Abbas, 1,50,000; FireProtek, owned by Syed Faizan & Midhat Yassin, 1,50,000; Kashbrew Innovations Pvt. Ltd., owned by Yousman Zahoor, 2,00,000 ReWright AI Pvt. Ltd., owned by Ovais Nazir & Aaliya Nazir, 1,00,000; Bluepulse Labs Pvt. Ltd., owned by Zubair Ahmad Dar, 1,00,000; Dextrogo LLP, owned by Sikandar Ahmad Mir, 1,00,000; Abilixa Assistive Technology Pvt. Ltd., owned by Sania Jan, 2,00,000; and Tree Task Technologies Pvt. Ltd., owned by Dr. Ahmer Bashir Shah, which also received 2,00,000. The programme was attended by senior faculty and officials, including In-Charge Director and Dean Research & Consultancy Prof. (HAG) Roohie Naaz Mir, Institute Registrar Prof. Atikur Rehman, Dean Faculty Welfare Prof. Manzoor Ahmad Ahangar, Dean Alumni and International Affairs Prof. M. A. Shah, Dr. M. Hanief (HOD MED), and Dr. Dinesh Kumar Rajendran, Assistant Professor. From the administration, Deputy Registrar (Accounts) Mrs. Nazia Nazir, Deputy Registrar (Administration, Directors Office) Mr. Faisal Irshad Ganai, Assistant Registrar (Administration) Mr. Mubashir Ahmad Wani, and Assistant Registrar (Accounts) Mr. Shahid Hamid Najar were also present. In his message, Director NIT Srinagar, Prof. Binod Kumar Kanaujia, said that such initiatives show the institutes commitment to promoting innovation and entrepreneurship among youth. He said that incubation support, along with financial help, allows young innovators to turn their ideas into meaningful solutions for society. Registrar Prof. Atikur Rehman said that platforms like GIF are important for nurturing talent and promoting research-based entrepreneurship. The continued institutional support will help startups grow and create job opportunities in the region, he added. Prof. Babar Ahmad (MED) said that working across different fields is important for building successful startups, adding that the selected startups reflect new technologies and also address local challenges. Dr. Saad Parvez (Principal Investigator GIF) said there is a need to build a strong culture of innovation in academic institutions. He noted that incubation centres help young entrepreneurs and stressed the importance of linking research, innovation, and entrepreneurship for economic growth. CEO GIF Sana Aftab said that such grant programmes help bridge the gap between ideas and their implementation. She said that timely funding and mentorship are important for startups to survive and grow. Incubation Manager Jehangir Hameed said the Ignition Grant programme supports early-stage startups by helping them turn ideas into practical products and services. He added that, in addition to funding, the programme provides mentorship, technical support, and access to resources to help startups grow. GIF-NIT was established in 202223 as a Section 8 company with the aim of fostering an innovation-driven economy in the region. It is supported by the Department of Science and Technology (DST) under the iTBI NIDHI Scheme, with Saad Parvez serving as Principal Investigator (PI) and Prof. Rakesh Sehgal as Co-Principal Investigator (Co-PI). The GIF is currently managed by a seven-member Board of Directors (BoD), chaired by Director NIT Srinagar. The board comprises distinguished professionals from academia, financial institutions, the startup ecosystem, and industry, ensuring diverse expertise and strategic guidance.

JK admin declares Shopian seminary unlawful under UAPA, cites JeI links

Srinagar, Apr 27: The Jammu and Kashmir administration has declared Darul Uloom Jamia Siraj-ul-Uloom at Imam Sahib in Shopian as an unlawful entity under the Unlawful Activities (Prevention) Act (UAPA), citing alleged links with banned outfit Jamaat-e-Islami and concerns over radicalisation, officials said. The declaration was made through an order issued by Divisional Commissioner Kashmir Anshul Garg under Section 8(1) of the UAPA. According to the order, the action follows a dossier submitted by the Senior Superintendent of Police, Shopian, on March 24, 2026. Authorities, after examining records and material on file, said the institution, though functioning as a religious educational establishment, was marked by legal, administrative and financial irregularities. These included alleged irregularities in land acquisition, lack of mandatory registration with competent authorities and attempts to evade statutory oversight, the order said. It further cited credible inputs indicating sustained and covert links of the institution with Jamaat-e-Islami, which was banned by the Centre in 2019. The order also alleged continued control of the seminary by individuals affiliated with the banned organisation, including their presence in administrative and academic roles. Officials said financial irregularities, including lack of transparency in fund management and changes in financial control structures, raised concerns about possible diversion and misuse of funds. The order also referred to reports suggesting that some former students of the institution were allegedly involved in militant activities, and that the premises were being used in a manner prejudicial to national security. The administration said due process was followed before issuing the notification. A show-cause notice was served to the chairman of the institution on March 31, seeking an explanation. The response was examined and comments were sought from the SSP Shopian, who termed the objections untenable. The order said the proceedings were preventive in nature and aimed at curbing misuse of the premises for unlawful activities. Invoking provisions of the UAPA, the administration has notified the institution as an unlawful entity, enabling further action, including sealing of the premises and freezing of financial assets. Officials said action against the institution, including possible seizure of the premises, is likely in the coming days.(KNS)

Udhampur bus crash survivor undergoes successful chest reconstruction in Jammu

Jammu, Apr 26: A 47-year-old man, who sustained grievous chest injuries and multiple rib fractures in the Udhampur bus crash recently, has got a new lease of life after surgeons at the Government Medical College here used specialised titanium plates and screws to fix the disrupted breastbone. At least 21 people were killed and 51 others injured when an overcrowded passenger bus plunged nearly 100 metres down a hillside in Ramnagar area of Udhampur district on April 20. The victim had suffered a complete disruption of the 'sternum' (breastbone), with displacement separating the manubrium (upper part) from the main body of the breast bone. The impact also fractured multiple ribs on both sides of his chest, leading to a life-threatening condition known as flail chest, a spokesperson of the Government Medical College (GMC) said on Saturday. The Head of Cardiovascular and Thoracic Surgery Department of the super speciality hospital, Dr Shyam Singh said the patient, upon arrival at the hospital, was in a state of shock and unable to maintain oxygen levels. The displaced segments of his chest wall were moving paradoxically -- sinking in while breathing in and bulging out while breathing out -- effectively paralysing his respiratory system. Adding to the complexity, the patient suffered from a pre-existing seizure disorder and had developed haemopneumothorax (a dangerous accumulation of blood and air in the chest cavity), he said. He said such trauma patients deteriorate rapidly due to the combination of flail chest and underlying lung contusions. Despite the insertion of bilateral chest tubes and being placed on a ventilator, the patient's oxygenation remained unstable. The surgical team decided on an advanced reconstructive procedure to restore the structural integrity of his chest, he said. Using specialised itanium plates and screws, surgeons meticulously fixed the disrupted breastbone and stabilised the fractured ribs, allowing the lungs to expand and contract naturally once again. Dr Puja Vimesh, Head of Cardiothoracic Anaesthesiology, said, His clinical condition, hemodynamic parameters and oxygen levels improved dramatically. We were able to successfully wean him off the ventilator post-surgery and he is currently convalescing well in the Cardiovascular and Thoracic Intensive Care Unit, she added. A GMC spokesperson said the successful outcome highlights the growing capabilities of the hospital in handling high-velocity trauma cases that previously carried a very high mortality rate.

Maintain 360-degree surveillance over criminal elements: DIG Patil

The Deputy Inspector General of Police (DIG-P), Jammu-Samba-Kathua (JSK) range, Shridhar Patil has asked the officers to maintain 360-degree surveillance over criminal elements to ensure that they (criminals) could face wrath of law. Patil was chairing a comprehensive security and crime review meeting with all supervisory officers i.e., Additional SP Kathua Sunil Kesar; SP Operations Kathua Brijesh Sharma; SP Ops Upper Kathua Prithpal Singh; Principal PTS Kathua Manjit Kour; CO IRP 19th Bn Kathua; all DySPs, SDPOs, SHOs and other officers of J&K Police of Kathua at Conference Hall DPL Kathua on April 25, 2026. Emphasising the strategic sensitivity of the border areas, DIG JSK range directed officers to maintain strict vigilance and heightened alertness to effectively foil any evil designs of anti-national elements. Officers were instructed to ensure robust naka checking, increased patrolling and seamless coordination with other security agencies to ensure a strong security grid along the border. Earlier on his arrival, the DIG JSK range was warmly received by SSP Kathua Mohita Sharma and was also presented a ceremonial guard of honour by the District Police Kathua contingent. At the outset, DIG Patil held one-to-one interactions with all participating officers to assess ground-level functioning and challenges. Thereafter, SSP Kathua delivered the welcome address and gave a detailed power-point presentation on the functioning of District Police Kathua, along with an overview of the crime and security scenario of the district. A detailed crime review meeting was also conducted wherein the DIG JSK Range examined cases registered across the Kathua district, their investigation status and disposal. He laid special emphasis on expediting the investigation of pending cases and ensuring timely disposal as per timeline prescribed in New Criminal Laws (NCL) to ensure that benefits of change in laws reach the society by way of ensuring speedy justice. The DIG JSK Range further reviewed the status of inquest proceedings, absconders, history sheeters and gangsters. He directed officers to maintain 360-degree surveillance over criminal elements and ensure that criminals face wrath of law by taking all necessary steps to curb the activities of criminals, particularly organised crime syndicates and gangsters, so as to ensure that the general public could feel safe and secure. During the meeting, the chairing officer laid special emphasis on the ongoing Nasha Mukt Abhiyan and directed all officers to take strict legal action against drug smugglers and peddlers to effectively curb the drug menace. DIG Patil further exhorted officers to take stringent action against bovine smugglers and other criminals. All officers were instructed to focus on proactive policing and ensure that habitual offenders and troublemakers were dealt with strictly under the law. SSP Kathua assured that District Police Kathua would work as a team to come up with the expectations of the general public and senior police formations.

Ramban residents assert stake in Sawalkote project, form panel

A public meeting was held at Dak Bungalow in Ramban on Sunday, bringing together residents, youth, and civil society members to deliberate on concerns surrounding the Sawalkote Hydroelectric Project and to safeguard the districts rights and interests. The gathering witnessed strong sentiment against any reported move to shift or divert project-related benefits away from Ramban. Participants unanimously resolved to oppose any such proposal, asserting that the people of the district would not accept decisions undermining their legitimate stake in the project. Speakers emphasised that Ramban must remain central to all aspects of the project, particularly in terms of road connectivity and access. They stressed that any all-weather road link to the project should originate from Ramban, ensuring the district retains its primary stakeholder status. During the discussions, participants referred to an official communication dated April 13, 2026, in which Union Minister Dr Jitendra Singh forwarded a proposal by MLA Udhampur (West) Er Pawan Kumar Gupta to Haryana Chief Minister Manohar Lal Khattar. The proposal reportedly suggested developing all-weather connectivity to the project from Udhampur instead of Ramban. The suggestion drew sharp criticism from attendees, who reiterated that Rambans centrality to the project must not be compromised. The meeting outlined several key demands, including retaining the projects focus within Ramban district, ensuring road connectivity through Ramban, providing compensation strictly in accordance with the Fair Compensation Act, and prioritizing employment opportunities for local residents. The participants announced the formation of the Sawalkote Joint Action Committee (JAC) to coordinate efforts and represent the collective voice of the people. Fairoz Khan was unanimously elected as President, while Muzaffar Lone was appointed Legal Advisor of the committee. The JAC is expected to engage with authorities to ensure transparency, justice, and protection of local interests. It also announced plans to hold a press conference on May 1 (Labour Day) to outline its future course of action, alongside a proposed public rally. The meeting concluded with a united pledge to continue the movement through democratic and lawful means until the rights of Rambans residents are fully secured, with participants voicing the slogan: Our land, our rights, our future we will not allow injustice.

Security, border preparedness reviewed in Poonch

Senior officers of the Jammu and Kashmir police in the border district of Poonch discussed a number of issues concerning the security scenario, including border security, intelligence coordination and operational preparedness. The vital issues came under discussion during a security meeting held in Poonch which was chaired by DIG Rajouri Poonch Police range, Sandeep Wazir, with senior officers of police, including SSP Poonch Shafket Hussain, who were present in it. Police stated that during the visit to the border district Poonch, DIG Rajouri Poonch police range Sandeep Wazir reviewed the prevailing security scenario and efforts to strengthen police-public relations. During this comprehensive review of the security arrangements, many vital aspects came under discussion that included strengthening the border security grid, improving intelligence coordination, and enhancing operational preparedness to meet emerging challenges. Officers of police were directed to remain vigilant and ensure proactive measures to maintain law and order. The DIG Police, Sandeep Wazir, also chaired public meetings under Nasha Mukt Jammu and Kashmir at police stations Mandi and Loran in the district. Both the DIG and SSP Poonch sensitised the public about the ill effects of drug abuse and highlighted the objectives of the ongoing Nasha Mukht Jammu & Kashmir Abhiyan. They urged the community, especially the youth, to stay away from drugs and actively support the police in eradicating the menace from society, whereas the citizens were encouraged to share information regarding drug peddling and related activities, assuring strict confidentiality and prompt action. A large number of local residents participated in these meetings and projected their grievances and issues, whereas DIG RP Range gave a patient hearing to all concerns raised by the public and issued on-the-spot directions to the concerned officers for prompt redressal. He emphasised the importance of responsive policing and maintaining close coordination with the public to ensure effective service delivery. While interacting with the locals, the DIG stressed the need for sustained community participation in maintaining peace and harmony in the region. He reiterated that public cooperation is vital in addressing security challenges and curbing anti-social activities. The visit concluded with a renewed commitment from the police to ensure peace, security, and public welfare across District Poonch through collaborative and people-friendly policing initiatives.

Five injured in Poonch road accident

Five persons sustained injuries in a road accident that happened at Sathra near Poonch Mandi on Sunday evening. Police said that a passenger mini-bus with registration number JK12 1697 turned turtle alongside a field on the Poonch to Mandi road, and five passengers sustained injuries. The injured were immediately evacuated to a local civil hospital and later referred to District Hospital Poonch, where they are under treatment. Police said to have taken up cognizance of the matter in police station Mandi.

Northern Railway GM inspects Jammu-Katra section

The General Manager (GM) of Northern Railway, Rajesh Kumar Pandey, on Sunday conducted a comprehensive inspection of the Jammu-Shri Mata Vaishno Devi Katra rail section to evaluate the operational readiness and safety standards of the Udhampur-Srinagar-Baramulla Rail Link (USBRL) project. During this significant visit, the General Manager was accompanied by the Divisional Railway Manager (DRM) of Jammu, Vivek Kumar, and other senior divisional officials. During his inspection, the General Manager focused on various key aspects as he reviewed the maintenance and operational protocols for the Chenab bridge - the world's highest railway arch bridge located in the Reasi district and the Anji Khad bridge, India's first cable-stayed rail bridge, Raghvender Singh, Public Relations Inspector, Jammu Railway Division said. Special attention was paid to track stability, signalling systems, tunnels, and safety infrastructure during the inspection. The rail section between Jammu and Shri Mata Vaishno Devi Katra was thoroughly reviewed. The General Manager also took stock of the passenger amenities available at the stations and the ongoing modernisation works being undertaken under the Amrit Bharat Scheme. During his inspection, GM Pandey issued directives to the officials to complete all pending works within the stipulated timeframes. He reiterated that Northern Railway remained fully committed to providing efficient, safe and high-quality rail services in this region. This inspection marks a significant step towards strengthening rail connectivity between Kashmir and the rest of the country, Singh said.

NC has abandoned Article 370 fight, betrayed mandate: Aga Ruhullah

Signalling a deepening political divergence over governance priorities rather than a fresh rupture, Srinagar MP Aga Syed Ruhullah Mehdi on Sunday asserted that the ruling Jammu and Kashmir National Conference has effectively stopped striving for restoration of Article 370, describing it as an injustice with the peoples mandate. Addressing reporters after a public event, Mehdi framed his criticism as a reflection of public sentiment, saying the partys electoral commitment was anchored in restoring constitutional guarantees rather than pursuing limited administrative goals. The National Conference leaderships primary promise to the people was to pursue an institutional struggle for the restoration of Article 370 and constitutional protections, he said, adding that hey (NC) dislike me because I continue to remind them of those principles. He rejected the argument that statehood alone constituted the core public mandate. People did not vote merely for the restoration of statehood. Had that been the case, they might have supported the BJP, which had itself assured statehood in Parliament, he said, referring to the Bharatiya Janata Party. According to Mehdi, the party initially recalibrated its position by prioritising statehood as an achievable step, but has since retreated further. Now, in its second year, the government appears to have abandoned even the demand for statehood, he said.He also pointed to what he described as a pattern of policy retreat. For some time, they pursued the issue of business rules, but that effort has also been abandoned. After certain decisions and protocols were approved by New Delhi for select individuals, the leadership has chosen silence, he said. In effect, the government is no longer actively pursuing statehood, constitutional protections, or even business rules. This represents a betrayal of the peoples mandate. Mehdi said the growing public discontent mirrors his own position. There is visible resentment among the people. I reflect that sentiment while maintaining my differences, he said. Expanding his remarks to national developments, Mehdi criticised the defeated Constitution (131st Amendment) Bill, linking it to a potential delimitation exercise tied to the implementation of the Women's Reservation Bill. He clarified that the womens quota legislation remains in force but argued that the rejected proposal could have enabled structural distortions. What has been defeated is a so-called delimitation bill that would have led to gerrymandering, similar to what was done in Jammu and Kashmir. Constituency boundaries were altered along communal lines, he alleged. He warned that the proposed expansion of parliamentary seats could have shifted national power dynamics. States like Uttar Pradesh, Bihar, Gujarat, Madhya Pradesh and Rajasthan would have seen a substantial increase in seatspotentially around 400 collectivelyallowing them to take decisions for the entire country, he said, adding that such a framework could marginalise southern states, West Bengal and several northeastern regions. Drawing a parallel with the 2019 developments surrounding Article 370, Mehdi questioned the democratic legitimacy of such processes. Was Article 370 removed with the concurrence of the people of Jammu and Kashmir? No. Similarly, this bill would have disenfranchised several regions, he said. Reiterating his central argument, Mehdi maintained that even a phased political approach is no longer visible. Even if we accept the argument of pursuing what is achievable first, this government does not seem to be fighting for even statehood now. This, to me, is an injustice with the mandate of the people of Jammu and Kashmir, he added. The Constitution (131st Amendment) Bill, which proposed increasing the strength of the Lok Sabha from 543 to 816 seats following a delimitation exercise based on the 2011 Census, failed to pass in Parliament after falling short of the required two-thirds majority, with 298 votes in favour and 230 against, against the required 352.

Grand civil society meeting in Boniyar demands ST-2 status for Uri Sub-Division

A grand civil society meeting was held in Boniyar as thousands across the political, social, religious and caste line came out in support of left out Pahari people from ST-2. As per a press release, it brought together political leaders from multiple parties including the National Conference, BJP, PDP, Apni Party, Congress, Peoples Conference, Aam Aadmi Party and Bharat Jado party, along with prominent members of civil society. The event organised by Pahari Ethnic Group Boniyar Mohammad Fareed Khan, Adv Abdul Khaliq, Dr Farooq Ahmed Sheikh, Mohammad Afzal and Er Abdul Ahad. During the meeting, all participating leaders unanimously demanded that the entire Uri sub-division be declared under ST-2 status. They emphasized that the majority population of the area, excluding Gujjar and Bakerwal communities, belongs to the Pahari ethnic group and deserves equal consideration in reservation benefits. The speakers strongly condemned what they termed as discrimination in the implementation of ST-2 reservation and expressed concern over the growing discontent among locals. They urged the administration to intervene immediately and address the issue on a priority basis to ensure that the social fabric of the sensitive border area remains intact. Among those present were former DDC and NC leader Mohammad Ismail Khan (Boniyar), District Vice President National Conference Raja Javed Khan, senior leaders Altaf Mir and Dr. Farooq Sheikh, PDP senior leader Prof. Ghulam Mohiuddin, Congress leader Manzoor Ahmad Wani, Apni Party leader Mohammad Aslam Dar, BJP leader Mir Mushtaq and Raja Waqar, Aam Aadmi Party Dr Shabir Ahmad Mangral,Bharat jado state president, Irfan Ahmed Chack, Peoples Conference leader Dr. Bashir Ahmad chalkoo, NC Block President Nazir Ahmad Chack, along with several other civil society members. At the end all participating leaders and civil society members appreciated the Pahari Ethnic Group Boniyar for successfully organizing the grand meeting and bringing leaders from different political parties onto a single platform. Speakers lauded the effort as a strong step towards unity and collective representation, stating that such initiatives are vital for addressing key issues like ST-2 status for the Uri sub-division.

Doon School Srinagar hosts annual cross country run

Doon School, Srinagar, hosted its annual cross-country run, which witnessed a huge participation of the students. The annual cross-country run was organised for the students of classes 5th to 12th. The event was flagged off from the scenic Nishat area at the break of dawn and saw enthusiastic participation from hundreds of students. The event was attended by SSP Traffic Police Srinagar Ajaz Ahmad Bhat as the Chief Guest, while DySP Suhail Hussain Reshi was the Guest of Honour. On the occasion, the dignitaries were formally felicitated by the Chairman of Doon School, Srinagar, Showkat Hussain Khan, for their presence and constant support to the initiatives taken by the school. In his address to the gathering, Chairman Showkat Hussain Khan congratulated the students for their spirited participation. He emphasised the importance of physical endurance and discipline, noting that such events are pivotal in shaping the overall personality of the students. He further remarked that the school remains committed to providing platforms that balance academic excellence with physical well-being. Speaking at the event, SSP Traffic Srinagar Ajaz Ahmad Bhat lauded the students for their energy and sportsmanship.

Martyr Mushtaq Ahmad BabaT-20 cricket tournament concludes in Ganderbal

Under Civic Action Program; Martyr Mushtaq Ahmad Baba T-20 Cricket Tournament organised by Ganderbal Police in the memory & honour of the brave Police Martyrs who laid down their lives in the line of duty, concluded on Sunday with a Grand Finale at Qamariya Stadium, Ganderbal with great enthusiasm, fervour and reverence. SSP Ganderbal Sudhanshu Dhama accompanied by Dy.SP Hqr's Ganderbal Umer Urfan and Dy.SP PC Ganderbal Ravinder Kumar graced the occasion, inspiring players and spectators with their presence. Senior officers, civil society members, respectable citizens, and a large number of spectators witnessed the thrilling final match. The family members of Martyr Mushtaq Ahmad Baba, whose presence added emotional significance to the event. The tournament was organised to commemorate the supreme sacrifices of Jammu & Kashmir Police martyrs, aimed at strengthening police-public relations while promoting sportsmanship and channelising youth energy in a positive direction. The Senior officers of district Police congratulated both the teams for showcasing exceptional talent, discipline, and team spirit. Officers reiterated that such events not only keep alive the memory of the fallen heroes but also encourages youth to pursue sports and stay away from drugs and other social evils. Trophies, Cash Prizes, Cricket-Kits, Medals and Appreciation Certificates were distributed among the Winning team (New Dream Land Cricket Club Ganderbal) and Runner-up team (Hilal Cricket Club Ahan) for outstanding performances. The spectators applauded the initiative and expressed gratitude to J&K Police for continuously engaging youth through sports and community-oriented programmes.

DG YSS Anuradha Gupta calls for resilient generation

The Directorate of Youth Services and Sports (YS&S) on Sunday marked a momentous chapter in the UTs sporting history with the inaugural ceremony of the Leagues of Classics Inter-District UT Level Football Tournament at the iconic Polo Ground, here. The event, as per a DYSS statement, was graced by Anuradha Gupta, Director General of Youth Services and Sports, who officially kicked off the competition amidst great fanfare and athletic fervor. While addressing a gathering of athletes and sports enthusiasts, the Director General articulated a visionary roadmap for the youth, noting that the Leagues of Classics is a dedicated platform designed to bridge the gap between students and non-students across all 20 districts of the UT. She emphasised that the Department is committed to creating an ecosystem where every young individual, regardless of their academic status, finds a home on the playing field. The Director General delivered a powerful message regarding the transformative power of sports in nation-building and character development. Our mission transcends the boundaries of the scoreboard; we are here to build a resilient generation that chooses the sweat of the stadium over the shadows of addiction. By bringing the Leagues of Classics to every Zone and district, we are not just playing a game, we are launching a movement to reclaim our youth from the clutches of drug abuse and social isolation. This tournament is a clear example of our belief that a ball at the feet of a youngster is the most potent tool we have to craft a future defined by health, discipline, and integrity, stated Anuradha Gupta. She further highlighted that the Departments momentum is in full swing, with UT-level competitions for Cricket and Volleyball also underway and scheduled to reach their crescendo in the coming days.

Union Sports Minister Dr Mansukh Mandaviya releases Srinagar Khel Sankalp

On the final day of the three-day Chintan Shivir in Srinagar, the Srinagar Khel Sankalp document was released by Dr Mansukh Mandaviya, along with State Sports Ministers and leading sporting stalwarts. The document, as per a PIB statement, outlines a collective national vision to strengthen the sports culture through cooperative federalism, with a focus on athlete-centric development, expansion of sports infrastructure, talent identification, development of regional sports clusters, and leveraging sports for unity, youth empowerment, health, tourism, and economic growth. It also reaffirms Indias aspiration to host major global sporting events. The Srinagar Khel Sankalp reflects a unified resolve of the Centre, States, and Union Territories to place sports at the heart of nation-building, recognising its role in fostering social cohesion, strengthening communities, and shaping a healthier, more empowered generation. It emphasises a collaborative and athlete-centric approach, where governments and sporting bodies work in harmony, aligning efforts and resources to create a seamless and supportive ecosystem for athletes across the country. The Sankalp further outlines the importance of leveraging Indias diversity as a strength, encouraging States to develop infrastructure, identify talent, and build sports ecosystems rooted in their unique geographical, cultural, and regional contexts. It also positions sports as a driver of socio-economic development, highlighting its potential to boost tourism, generate employment, promote local industries, and enable India to aspire towards hosting major global sporting events, including the Olympics and World Cups. The final day of the Chintan Shivir began with the Fit India Sundays on Cycle Cyclothon, led by Union Minister Dr Mansukh Mandaviya and MoS Raksha Khadse, reinforcing the message of fitness, discipline, and mass participation. This was followed by focused sessions on Sports Governance, Sports Goods Manufacturing, and Youth Engagement through MY Bharat, which emphasised strengthening institutional frameworks, enhancing transparency and coordination among stakeholders, and professionalising sports administration. Deliberations also highlighted the need to position India as a global hub for sports goods manufacturing through cluster-based development, innovation, and support for domestic industry, while outlining the importance of creating structured platforms for youth participation and leadership. The deliberations on the concluding day reaffirmed the importance of a unified and coordinated approach involving the Centre, States, and all stakeholders, with the Chintan Shivir serving as a key platform for dialogue, alignment, and collective action towards building a robust, inclusive, and future-ready youth and sporting ecosystem in India.

Delayed AIIMS Awantipora races to meet 2026 target

Srinagar, Apr 26:Multiple deadlines have lapsed for AIIMS Awantipora since 2019, when this project was announced. The new timeliness included starting OPD Services in March-April, and full operations by the end of this year. With a history of falling behind in progress, will AIIMS Kashmir, located in Awantipora catch up in the next seven months? AIIMS Kashmir was conceived under the Pradhan Mantri Swasthya Suraksha Yojana (PMSSY), and site identified at Awantipora. New AIIMS are aimed at making world-class tertiary and super-specialty healthcare accessible to people across India. However, years after the announcement, the project tells a story of logistical hurdles, unanticipated security situations and according to some, the gross error in selection of site. AIIMS are centrally funded Central Sector projects, their ownership, funding and policy control lying with the Centre. These were announced as part of the Prime Ministers Development Package (PMDP) for J&K, with Central Public Works Department (CPWD) as executing agency. The civil works are being carried out by NCC Limited. Coming up in Awantipora in Pulwama, AIIMS Kashmir remains mired in delays, year after year. In February 2026, the institute was reported to have progressed to 70 percent completion, a figure unchanged from the previous year. There reportedly are significant cost overruns. The project has suffered delays due to a combination of factors, including security-related objections that led to revisions in the master plan at the begining of site preparation. Further delays took place due to additional land acquisition for the site and access-related issues due to absence of any motorable road to the hilltop where it is coming up. The land for the road was acquired and a macademised road has now connected the site with the main road. In addition, administrative disruptions, as well as pandemic- and weather-related slowdowns affected construction activity and labour availability. Some experts believe the site-specific logistical constraints have also contributed to the project missing successive timelines. AIIMS Awantipora physical progress is stalled at 70 percent. In January 2026, J&K Chief Secretary Atal Dulloo said that the delays stem purely from execution snags. He said that the project will be complete by the end of 2026. The first batch of MBBS students was expected to be taken in mid-July, while OPD services were anticipated to start in April 2026. However, there is no news of any such progress being made. Kashmir is geographically isolated by the Pir Panjal range and prone to harsh winters. The absence of a functional AIIMS means denial of access to better healthcare. The delay in making this Institute operational, progresses from an administrative matter to become a matter of life and health as it turns into prolonged suffering, expensive detours, and delayed treatment for critical conditions including cardiac emergencies, neurological disorders, oncology, and neurosurgery. For patients requiring super-specialty interventions, there is no other option than to turn to overburdened SKIMS Srinagar or SMHS Hospital. The load of patients on these facilities often results in chronic delays as per the patients. Kashmirs far-flung geography amplifies the hardship. With many districts inaccessible or partially accessible through snow-bound roads in winter, the sheer distance from Srinagar to Delhi for faster interventions is a cruelty. A senior specialist working in J&K Medical Education said, AIIMS Jammu has begun fulfilling the promise of decentralised super-specialty care, and advanced medical education while for Kashmir, the promise remains on the horizon. He said it was imperative that the 2026 deadline be met to finally bring equitable, timely treatment to people of Kashmir.

In J&K, 8 out of 10 people rely on Govt hospitals: National Survey

Srinagar, Apr 26:A fresh set of data has reaffirmed the near-total reliance of Jammu and Kashmir populace on public healthcare system, and how this system shields households from higher medical expenses. J&K's out-of-pocket expenses on illness spells requiring hospitalisation remain in control despite the private healthcare costs in upper quadrant. According to the latest Household Social Consumption Health report released by the National Statistical Office, 80.5 percent of hospitalisations in J&K take place in government hospitals. This places J&K among states and UTs with the highest dependence on public healthcare in the country. Only Arunachal Pradesh, Ladakh, Tripura, and Andaman and Nicobar Islands recorded a higher share of hospitalisation in public sector hospitals. This reliance appears to be helping moderate treatment costs. The average out-of-pocket expenditure per hospitalisation in J&K is Rs 23,079, a mid-range figure nationally. This is in mid-range despite high treatment costs in private hospitals. Patients spend an average Rs 10,549 per hospitalisation in government hospitals in J&K. The costs are Rs 50,467 in private facilities of J&K. The gap in expenditure underscores the financial protection public hospitals offer to households. This is more significant in a scenario when a large majority of patients depend on them for inpatient care and treatment of conditions requiring multiple admissions in hospitals. The pattern is also visible in treatment-seeking behaviour. The report reveals that in rural J&K, 62.9 percent sought treatment at government facilities, and only 7 percent used private hospitals. In urban areas of J&K, 31.3 percent sought care in government facilities, while 17.2 percent used private hospitals. In addition, 48.6 percent utilised the service of private practitioners. The report estimates 25 persons per 1000 population in J&K required hospitalisation the 365-day period surveyed. Significantly, the OPD care, treatments not requiring admission, J&Ks average expenditure stood at Rs 1820 per episode. This is higher than almost all states except Arunachal Pradesh and Mizoram. The findings are significant in the context of hospitalisation coverage under schemes such as Ayushman Bharat and SEHAT Scheme. The scheme does not cover OPD costs of treatment but is a major relief in terms of financial protection for admitted patients. The data in the report amply shows that private healthcare in J&K remains on the expensive side, while non-medical costs linked to hospitalisation are also significant. In this scenario, the public sector acts as a crucial buffer against catastrophic health expenditures. While J&K public healthcare sector is mired by staffing challenges, it continues to be helping keep healthcare accessible and relatively affordable for the majority.

Organ, cornea, kidney donors are society's true role models, heroes: LG Sinha

Jammu, Apr 26:Lieutenant Governor Manoj Sinha on Sunday said that the organ, cornea, and kidney donors were the true role models and heroes of the society. Attending 'Naman Diwas', an event dedicated to honor organ donors and their families, LG Sinha paid his gratitude to organ donors and their families and said they had brought happiness in the countless lives. Because of you, someone is able to read today. Because of you, someone is seeing the colors of the world for the very first time. Because of you, someone is experiencing hope, freedom, and joy anew. I must emphasize with great responsibility that no award from the government or any institution can ever truly capture the value of your gift, he said. Addressing the gathering of cornea donors families and kidney donors, the LG said that no award could ever truly capture the value of organ donation and cornea as well as kidney donors who are the true role models and heroes of our society. In life, we often ask what is humanitys greatest gift? Across centuries, philosophers, poets, and thinkers have arrived at the same truth that the measure of life is not in what we accumulate, but in what we give. Those we honor today have given the most precious gift of all, the gift of organs, the gift that sustains life itself, he said. The LG also observed that in our culture, organ donation is regarded as one of the noblest and most sacred acts. I appeal to every citizen to take the pledge for organ donation today. Let society remember that each one of us is a potential donor. Each one of us holds the extraordinary power to save lives even after we are gone, he said. LG Sinha commended the work of State Organ and Tissue Transplant Organisation of J&K (SOTTO J&K) and said the team has worked with deep commitment to raise awareness across communities. He said SOTTO J&K through its campaigns, hospital partnerships, collaborations with NGOs, and training of medical professionals to sensitively identify and manage brain-dead donor cases, has become a movement of compassion and humanity. The LG urged the SOTTO J&K team to increase registrations and pledges through dialogue and outreach. He had pledged for Organ Donation last year by registering himself on Ayushman Bharat Organ Donation Registry of the Ministry of Health and Family Welfare, Government of India. LG Sinha also asked the SOTTO J&K's representatives to spread the message of organ donation through every social network, every community meeting, every school and college, every place of worship, and every workplace. To those who hesitate due to cultural or religious concerns, I wish to remind you that our traditions affirm the sanctity of life and the virtue of selfless giving. Speak to any spiritual guide, family members and community elders and you will find that this gift of life is not only respected across faiths but celebrated as a blessing. Throughout history, organ donation has been recognized as one of the most profound expressions of compassion across the civilizations. A person whose earthly journey has ended can still give new life. Through cornea donation, that same person can restore sight, dignity, and the simple joy of seeing a childs smile or a sunrise, he said.

Indian Hajj pilgrims reach Makkah from Madinah, accorded warm reception

Makkah, Apr 26:Indian Haj pilgrims arriving in the holy city of Makkah were accorded a warm reception after completing their stay in Madinah, officials said. According to information shared by the Indian mission in Saudi Arabia and visuals posted on social media, Ambassador Suhel Ajaz Khan and Consul General Fahad Ahmed Khan Suri received the first batch of Indian pilgrims on their arrival in Makkah via the Haramain High-Speed Railway. The pilgrims had reached Madinah on April 18 and spent eight days there before proceeding to Makkah as part of the Hajj pilgrimage. Glimpses from the reception showed officials interacting with the pilgrims and overseeing arrangements to ensure a smooth transition between the two holy cities. The movement of pilgrims between Madinah and Makkah through the Haramain High-Speed Railway - a modern rail network connecting the two cities - is aimed at providing faster and more comfortable travel, significantly reducing transit time. Earlier, the first batch of Indian pilgrims was also received in Madinah by Ambassador Khan and Consul General Suri, marking the beginning of Indias Hajj operations for the season. Every year, thousands of Indian pilgrims undertake the Hajj pilgrimage, with authorities coordinating logistics, accommodation and transport to facilitate their journey across the holy sites in Saudi Arabia.

Heatwave alert for 5 Jammu districts

Jammu, Apr 26:Plain areas in five districts of Jammu region - Jammu, Samba, Kathua, Reasi and Udhampur may experience heat wave like conditions in the next couple of days. The plain areas of Jammu, during the past couple of days have seen mercury spiralling up with several areas facing heat-wave like condition. Director Meteorological Department Mukhtar Ahmed stated, Jammu regions hill stations, Katra in Reasi and adjoining areas in Udhampur have been facing gruelling summer heat for the past few days. The hot and dry weather will continue in Jammu and adjoining areas. Besides, the heat wave may be experienced in the isolated pockets of Samba, Kathua, Reasi and Udhampur. The trend may persist during the next four days. On Sunday, April 26, 2026, Jammu recorded the maximum temperature of 39.4 degrees Celsius while on Saturday, it registered 40.2 degrees Celsius, five-seven notches above the normal. Amid persisting hot and dry weather conditions, people have been advised to avoid venturing out during peak noon hours to avoid direct heat. They have also been asked to increase intake of water and other traditional drinks like Lassi, lemon water etc., besides ORS (Oral Rehydration Solution) to prevent dehydration and other heat-related ailments.

El Nio to tighten its grip on Kashmir weather from June

Srinagar, Apr 26:An emerging El Nio event expected by mid-2026 is likely to influence Kashmirs weather, bringing below-normal precipitation, higher temperatures and added pressure on water resources, experts said. The World Meteorological Organization has indicated that El Nio conditions may weaken the southwest monsoon across large parts of India. El Nio is expected to bring below-normal precipitation during the 2026 southwest monsoon over many parts of India. Its effect will also be felt in Jammu and Kashmir, though not significantly in Ladakh, said Mukhtar Ahmad, Director of the Meteorological Department. El Nio and La Nia are opposite phases of the El NioSouthern Oscillation, a large-scale ocean-atmosphere system that shapes global weather patterns. El Nio involves unusually warm sea surface temperatures in the equatorial Pacific, while La Nia is marked by cooler conditions. Riyaz Ahmad Mir, a hydrologist at the National Institute of Hydrology in Jammu, said such conditions generally bring warmer-than-normal seasons to Kashmir. This accelerates snow and glacier melt at higher elevations, leading to higher river discharge early in the season and reduced flows later in summer, Mir said. The shift increases water stress and heightens risks such as flash floods, rain-on-snow events, slope instability and forest fires, while also affecting agriculture and ecosystems. Sonam Lotus, a climate expert, said multiple global and national models point to a likely El Nio during the upcoming monsoon. Most major weather models, including ECMWF, NCEP and MMCFS (India), indicate the possible development of a strong El Nio during the 2026 monsoon season, Lotus said. The India Meteorological Department, in its latest long-range forecast, has projected rainfall at around 92 percent of the long period average, which raises concerns as El Nio is often linked with deficient rainfall and above-normal temperatures, he added. Lotus said the impact in Jammu and Kashmir could vary due to its complex terrain. The plains of Jammu receive about 77 percent of their annual rainfall during the monsoon, whereas the Kashmir Valley typically receives only around 17 percent, he said. Near-normal rainfall and snowfall during March and April have ensured good snow accumulation over higher reaches, which is beneficial for water availability, Lotus added. He cautioned that forecasts remain uncertain at this stage. Given uncertainties in long-range forecasts, clearer projections are likely by mid-May to June as El Nio and the Indian Ocean Dipole evolve, he said. While there is no immediate cause for alarm, it is important to closely monitor developments for any signs of potential drought-like conditions, which are too early to assess with certainty, Lotus added. Globally, the phenomenon recurs every two to seven years and typically lasts nine to 12 months, often triggering drought in parts of South and Southeast Asia while increasing rainfall elsewhere. In India, it is usually linked to weaker monsoon rainfall. Kashmir has already experienced a prolonged dry spell this winter. Between November and February, the region recorded just 106.7 mm of precipitation against a normal of 320.1 mm, a deficit of 67 percent, categorized as large deficient. February remained particularly dry and warm before western disturbances brought some relief beginning around March 10. Despite intermittent wet spells, precipitation remained below normal. In March, the Union Territory recorded 100.7 mm rainfall against a normal of 115.9 mm, the official said, adding that April is also expected to end with a shortfall, though not huge. Officials attributed the winter precipitation deficit to warming sea surface temperatures associated with El Nio, which disrupted weather systems and reduced rainfall and snowfall across the Himalayan region. The declining precipitation and shrinking reserves could affect agriculture, horticulture and hydropower in the near term, while posing longer-term risks to groundwater recharge and glacier health, a Met official said. With conditions expected to evolve by mid-June, experts said authorities will need to closely track weather patterns and prepare for possible stress on water resources across the Valley.

LG Ladakh calls for integrated push to promote Ladakhi pashmina globally

Leh, Apr 26:Lieutenant Governor of Ladakh Vinai Kumar Saxena visited the Pashmina Goat Farm at Upshi, reiterating the administrations vision to position Ladakh as a global hub for premium Pashmina wool and strengthen livelihoods linked to the sector. During the visit, Saxena emphasised the need to enhance value realisation for local farmers and artisans by improving processing, branding and market linkages. He stressed minimising wastage of raw wool and promoting value-added utilisation of by-products to boost income for farmers, artisans and self-help groups engaged in Pashmina-related activities. Officials informed the Lieutenant Governor that Ladakh produces some of the finest Pashmina wool globally, known for its softness and quality. The Upshi farm alone produces around 150 kg of raw Pashmina annually. Extracted through traditional combing methods, the wool is processed at a dehairing plant in Leh, yielding about 35 per cent fine Pashmina from raw fibre. The fibre diameter typically ranges between 13 to 15 microns, with baby goat fibre as fine as 12 microns. The farm, which also functions as a green zone with over 50,000 willow and poplar trees and around 2,000 quintals of alfalfa fodder, is one of three such facilities in Ladakh supporting Pashmina production. Highlighting its tourism potential, Saxena called for developing the farm into a visitor destination with guided tours to promote awareness about authentic Ladakhi Pashmina and counter misinformation. He also directed the creation of basic amenities, including a canteen, and integration of the farm into Ladakhs tourism circuit. The Lieutenant Governor assured full administrative support to promote Ladakhi Pashmina as a globally recognised brand. He also visited the Changluk Breeding Farm and the Intensive Fodder Development Farm at Stakna to review efforts aimed at strengthening livestock and fodder resources in the region.

No LPG shortage despite West Asia crisis: Govt

New Delhi, Apr 26: The Government of India on Sunday said there is no shortage of LPG or other petroleum products in the country despite the evolving situation in West Asia, assuring that supply chains remain stable and adequate measures are in place to meet demand. In an official statement, the Ministry of Petroleum and Natural Gas said more than 51.8 lakh domestic LPG cylinders were delivered on April 25, with no dry-outs reported at distributorships across the country. The government urged citizens to avoid panic buying and rely only on official information. The advisory comes amid concerns linked to the geopolitical situation around the Strait of Hormuz, a key global energy route. Authorities said 100 per cent supply is being maintained for domestic LPG, piped natural gas (PNG), and compressed natural gas (CNG), while priority allocation has been ensured for essential sectors including hospitals, education, pharmaceuticals, and agriculture. To stabilise supply, the government has increased refinery production, extended LPG booking intervals, and made alternate fuels such as kerosene and coal available. It has also encouraged citizens to adopt PNG and electric cooking solutions to ease pressure on LPG demand. Officials said strict monitoring mechanisms are in place to prevent hoarding and black marketing. Over 2,100 raids were conducted nationwide, with penalties imposed on 310 LPG distributorships and 70 suspended for violations. The government also highlighted a significant push towards PNG adoption, noting that over 5.45 lakh connections have been activated since March, while more than 42,500 consumers have voluntarily surrendered LPG connections. Infrastructure for an additional 2.62 lakh PNG connections has also been created. On the supply front, commercial LPG availability has been raised to about 70 per cent of pre-crisis levels, with special provisions for migrant labourers through increased distribution of 5 kg cylinders. Meanwhile, retail fuel outlets across the country are operating normally, with adequate stocks of petrol and diesel. To cushion consumers from rising global crude prices, the Centre has reduced excise duty on fuel, while also increasing export levies to ensure domestic availability. The government said coordinated efforts with states and Union Territories are ongoing under the Essential Commodities Act, with control rooms and monitoring committees activated to ensure smooth distribution and prevent misinformation. In addition to energy security, the Centre also reviewed maritime and diaspora-related measures. More than 2,764 Indian seafarers have been safely repatriated from the Gulf region so far, including 24 in the last 24 hours, while around 12.96 lakh passengers have travelled from the region to India since February 28. The government reiterated that it remains fully prepared to manage the evolving situation, emphasising that citizens should conserve energy and cooperate with authorities to maintain stability.

From 200 yaks at 16,600 feet, this Ladakhi farmer built a globally celebrated business

Srinagar, Apr 26: Seven kilometres from Changla Pass, a winding mountain road climbs to Tsokar-like highland pastures in Tsoltak, a remote, windswept plateau in Ladakh perched at over 16,600 feet. Here, amid thin air and stark beauty, young entrepreneur Thenlay Nurboo tends to a herd of nearly 200 yaks central animals not just to survival in this cold desert, but now, unexpectedly, to global culinary recognition. Nurboos yak milk churpi, a traditional Himalayan cheese, has won a gold medal at the 4th edition of the Mundial do Queijo do Brasil 2026, placing Ladakh on the world cheese map for the first time. Yak churpi has never gone outside Ladakh before. This is the first time it has received such recognition, Nurboo said. He said that he had sent his product to the Brazil-based competition through the National Dairy Development Board (NDDB). Produced at his farm, the soft churpi stood out among global entries judged for taste, texture and aroma. For Nurboo, the award is not just personal, but it signals the arrival of a deeply local food tradition onto an international stage. I am very thankful to the Department of Animal Husbandry for extending all possible support, he said. Churpi is known for its long shelf life and unique texture. In Ladakh, it is inseparable from the pastoral lifestyle, where yak milk richer and more resilient than cows milk is turned into butter, curd and cheese to sustain communities through long winters. For communities in remote areas, these products are not only a dietary staple but also a means of preserving milk for long winters, said Dr Satnazin Rabgais, Chief Animal Husbandry Officer, Leh, pointing to the cultural and practical value of such foods. He said, adding that the recognition is significant not just for Ladakh but for the wider cheese industry. India, making its debut at the global event, won four medals in total, including a Super Gold for a Brie-style cheese from Mumbai-based Eleftheria. Prime Minister Narendra Modi described it as an impressive debut and said such achievements strengthen Indias artisanal dairy sector globally.

Centre clears major small hydro push, J&K among key beneficiaries

New Delhi, April 26: The Union government has approved a Rs 2,584.60 crore Small Hydro Power (SHP) Development Scheme to strengthen Indias energy security and expand clean power generation, with a strong focus on hilly regions such as Jammu & Kashmir. Cleared by the Union Cabinet for the period 202627 to 203031, the scheme aims to add around 1,500 MW of small hydro capacity nationwide, improving electricity access in remote and difficult terrains while advancing the countrys transition to a sustainable energy mix. Officials said small hydro projectsdefined as installations of up to 25 MWprovide reliable, round-the-clock power, unlike intermittent sources such as solar and wind. The initiative seeks to promote decentralised energy generation by harnessing locally available water resources, reducing dependence on conventional fuels and long-distance transmission networks. Indias total small hydro potential is estimated at 21,133.61 MW across more than 7,000 sites, of which about 5,171 MW has been developed so far. A substantial share of the untapped potential lies in northern and northeastern states, including Jammu & Kashmir, Himachal Pradesh and Uttarakhand, making them central to the schemes rollout. To improve project viability, particularly in challenging geographies, the scheme offers targeted financial incentives. Projects in northeastern states and international border districts will receive central assistance of up to Rs 3.6 crore per MW or 30 per cent of the project cost, subject to a ceiling of Rs 30 crore per project. For other regions, support will be up to Rs 2.4 crore per MW or 20 per cent of project cost, capped at Rs 20 crore. Additionally, Rs 30 crore has been earmarked for preparing Detailed Project Reports for at least 200 projects to ensure a steady development pipeline. The initiative is expected to attract investments of around Rs 15,000 crore and promote the use of indigenous equipment, supporting domestic manufacturing and the broader goal of self-reliance. During the construction phase, the scheme is projected to generate approximately 51 lakh person-days of employment, with further long-term opportunities in operation and maintenance, particularly in rural and remote areas. Officials emphasised that small hydro projects are environmentally sustainable due to their minimal land requirements, low ecological impact and long operational life. Many operate as run-of-the-river systems, generating electricity without the need for large dams. The government underscored the strategic importance of small hydro in ensuring grid stability and resilience as India expands its renewable energy capacity. With a significant portion of potential located in mountainous regions, the scheme is expected to benefit areas like Jammu & Kashmir by enhancing local energy access, reducing transmission losses and supporting regional development. The scheme forms part of broader efforts to diversify Indias renewable energy portfolio and accelerate progress towards a low-carbon, self-reliant energy future, while delivering socio-economic benefits to underserved regions.

BJP will end 'goonda raj', 'syndicate raj' if it comes to power in Bengal: Amit Shah

Kolkata, Apr 26:Union Home Minister Amit Shah on Sunday said the BJP will end goonda raj and syndicate raj in West Bengal if the party comes to power in the state. Addressing a public rally at Tehatta in Nadia district, Shah also claimed that voters wiped out the Mamata Banerjee government in the first phase of the assembly polls itself. The BJP has already won 110 seats in the first phase of polls held on April 23, he said. There will be an end to 'goonda raj' and 'syndicate raj' in West Bengal if the BJP assumes power in the state. Do not be afraid to step out and cast your votes, as the Election Commission has made ample arrangements. Nobody will be able to stop you from voting, Shah said. He said if the BJP is voted to power, it would identify infiltrators hiding in the state and take necessary action against them. The senior BJP leader had to cut short his speech because of sudden heavy rainfall despite a large gathering at the venue. Later, speaking at another gathering in Ranaghat in the same district, Shah alleged that most of the cattle smuggling takes place through Nadia. After forming the government in West Bengal, we will form a special squad to stop cattle smuggling, Shah said, lambasting the Mamata Banerjee dispensation for allegedly helping the crime flourish. Shah promised that women and unemployed youth would get a monthly allowance of Rs 3,000 and said that women would also get free rides in all state transport vehicles after the BJP assumes power in the state. Shah said if the BJP is voted to power in West Bengal, it would implement the Uniform Civil Code (UCC), end polygamy and enforce the ban on triple talaq.

Urdu may face challenges, but it wont die, we will keep it alive: MLA Baramulla

Baramulla, Apr 26: Amid growing concerns over the declining reading habits among youth in the age of social media, Member of Legislative Assembly (MLA) Baramulla Javid Hassan Baig Sunday said he will utilize his Constituency Development Fund (CDF) to revive library culture and promote book reading habits among students in government schools of his constituency. Talking to Greater Kashmir on the sidelines of a function organised by the Baramulla Writers Forum at Dak Bungalow here, MLA Baramulla highlighted the need to safeguard intellectual traditions in the face of rapid technological advancement. Every era presents its own challenges. The current age is marked by the dominance of technology, which, if left unchecked, could outpace social wisdom, he said. He said that technology will take over if the socially wise people do not come together and keep their intellectual and political wisdom alive. Highlighting the role of literary platforms, MLA described the Baramulla Writers Forum as a respectable initiative striving to preserve literary culture. About the demand of the forum to establish an auditorium and a well-equipped library while expanding its outreach, particularly to rural areas, MLA Baramulla every possible help will be done in this regard. He called for grassroots movement to revive reading habits and stressed the importance of taking literary activities to villages and schools. We have to develop this culture through books. Seminars should be held in schools besides local writers and intellectuals must be encouraged to organise such events, he said. MLA Baramulla however expressed concern over the fading culture of reading and cautioned that abandoning books would lead to a superficial understanding of knowledge. If the culture of reading dies, it will not lead you to knowledge but to artificial intelligence, artificial poetry, and artificial prose. Everything will become artificial, he said. He urged students to engage with diverse literature beyond religious texts and reflect that knowledge in society. On the issue of inadequate library infrastructure in government schools, MLA acknowledged the issue saying that library culture remains weak and outlined a roadmap to address the gap. I have started visiting government schools and will ensure that books are provided from my Constituency Development Fund, he said. He added that efforts are underway to create a participatory reading environment by encouraging students to share their learnings with elders and involving parents through regular meetings. I intend to work round the clock in this regard, he said. MLA said he has already initiated steps to promote reading and called for active participation from civil society as well. Where my role ends, civil society must begin. If society plays its part, we will not let books die, he said. He warned that the decline of languages, particularly Urdu, could have far-reaching consequences, reflecting on the broader cultural implications. Invoking literary greats like Mirza Ghalib, Allama Iqbal, and Mir Taqi Mir, MLA Baramulla said their depth and brilliance comes from a rich literary tradition that must be preserved. Urdu may face challenges, but it will not die. People may die, but languages endure. We will keep it alive, he said. He said that the survival of literature and language was essential to preserving cultural identity.

Numbing down of America: What the attack in 'non-hellhole' US points to

America faces a deluge of crises. Protests erupt, yet public response wanes due to 'compassion fatigue'. Airstrikes, immigration agent shootings, economic instability, and government failures overwhelm citizens. This constant stream of shocking events numbs people, disconnecting their feelings from action.

Intellectual property is acknowledgment of human intellect: Senior SC Lawyer Ashok Bhan

Srinagar, Apr 26:Speaking at a Lawyers Forum of India function in Delhi, Ashok Bhan, noted senior Advocate of Supreme Court of India said that on the occasion of World Intellectual Property Day, we gather to reflect on the profound significance of intellectual property rights in shaping a just, innovative, and progressive society. At its core, intellectual property is an acknowledgment of the human intellectthe originality of thought, the labor of creation, and the courage to innovate. In a knowledge-driven world, ideas are not merely abstract concepts; they are valuable assets that deserve both recognition and protection under the rule of law. Bhan said: As a member of the legal fraternity, I have witnessed how intellectual property law has evolved into a cornerstone of modern jurisprudence. Whether it is copyright, patents, trademarks, or designs, these legal instruments ensure that creators and innovators are rewarded for their contributions. More importantly, they create a structured framework that encourages investment in research, creativity, and enterprise. In the absence of such protections, innovation would risk stagnation, and originality would be overshadowed by imitation. Bhan added: However, the discourse on intellectual property cannot remain confined to protection alone. It must equally address the question of access and equity. In a country like India, where vast sections of society still struggle with access to education, healthcare, and technology, the challenge lies in balancing proprietary rights with the larger public interest. The law must serve as an instrument of both protection and inclusionensuring that knowledge and innovation ultimately benefit society as a whole. The legal eagle said: Furthermore, in the age of digital transformation and artificial intelligence, the contours of intellectual property are being constantly redefined. The emergence of new technologies raises complex legal and ethical questionsabout ownership, authorship, and accountability. It is imperative that our legal systems remain dynamic, responsive, and forward-looking, capable of addressing these challenges while safeguarding the fundamental principles of justice and fairness.

Branching out just got easier for NBFCs

The Reserve Bank of India has eased branch opening rules for NBFCs. This move helps gold loan NBFCs expand their reach. It allows them to provide timely credit to small businesses, farmers, and households. This reform strengthens India's credit architecture. It supports inclusive growth and economic momentum. Access to credit is crucial for these segments.

Ganderbal schools suffer staff shortages as rationalisation lags behind

Ganderbal, Apr 26:Ganderbal district schools are grappling with persistent Pupil-Teacher Ratio (PTR) imbalances as the concerned department has failed to implement staff rationalisation for the 2025-2026 academic session, unlike other Kashmir districts that completed the process by February. Sources told Greater Kashmir that Education Zones like Kangan and Hariganiwan, boasting the district's highest student enrollment suffers acutely from staff shortages that strain teaching capacity and violate PTR norms. Under the National Education Policy 2020, maintaining a healthy pupil-teacher ratio is key to ensuring learning outcomes. However, on the ground in Ganderbal, the same hasnt been implemented yet. Staff rationalisation, a key J&K education directive since mid-2025, redistributes teachers from surplus to deficit schools to balance PTRs and boost learning outcomes. Sources said that Districts like Kupwara kicked off efforts early, addressing over 1000 vacancies through mergers and reallocations by session start, while others finalized adjustments in February 2026 for optimal operations. In stark contrast, Ganderbal lingers without orders into late April. The fallout hits hardest in high-enrollment Hariganiwan, where elevated student numbers clash with limited faculty, eroding academic quality. Another institution head warned that mid-session rationalisation now risks further disruption, insisting it's the eed of the hour to salvage the year amid DSEK's ambitious calendar and NEP 2020 alignment. They have urged the administration to expedite the process before the mid-term exams, so that academic loss to students can be prevented. When contacted, CEO Ganderbal, Oneel Kumar Bhat said that the process of rationalisation will be started soon. We have approved it and will be completed shortly to ensure balanced staff deployment across the district CEO told this newspaper.

8 zones, 15 Hr secondary, 61 high schools headless in Baramulla

Srinagar, Apr 26: The delay in the fresh recruitment and continuous retirements of the officers has thrown up a major challenge for the School Education Department (SED). The department has key positions vacant, affecting day to day affairs of the offices and the schools throughout Kashmir. Baramulla is one such district in north Kashmir which is facing a acute shortage teaching staff while a huge number of schools are also headless. The key positions are also lying vacant in the district, affecting day to day affairs of the department at grass root level. As per the official figures, the district has eight out of 18 zones without permanent ZEOs while the District Institute of Education and Trainings (DIET) is also without a principal as well. The district also has 15 higher secondary schools out of 61 without principal and the charge has been given to the equivalent rank officials. As per the figures around 61 out of 140 high schools are without fulltime headmasters. In the district, the rural schools are facing acute dearth of teachers while the urban schools are having surplus staff. Talking to Greater Kashmir , minister for education Sakina Itoo said that there were lot of vacancies at the time of the formation of the government. A lot of work has been done since we took over. We also held several DPCs and promotions were ordered as well, she said. She however said that there has been no recruitment in the education department since 2019 which she attributed to the difficulties being faced in the department. As there was recruitment for these years, so many people retired from the department due to which vacancies got created with each passing year, she said. The minister however said that the department somehow managed the crisis by way of rationalisation of the staff. Even we filled some of the vacancies during the last one and a half year but it is a continuous process because people retire every year which again creates vacancy in the department, she said. She said the department was still working on the issue and efforts were made to fill all the vacancies. We have done a lot of work on this. If there are vacancies anywhere we will post the staff there. If someone has retired, new people will be sent to those positions, she said.

HDFC Bank exit spotlights board failures; from Satyam Computers to Tata Trusts, governance gaps hit corporates and nonprofits alike

Corporate and social sector boards face governance challenges. Recent events highlight the need for competent, diverse, and cohesive boards. Failures in oversight have led to scandals and organizational collapse. Non-profit boards often lack engagement and regulatory knowledge. Training and careful selection of members are crucial for effective governance and organizational well-being.

Political interference skews teacher postings, rural schools hit hard

Srinagar, Apr 26: Persistent political influence in teacher deployments is severely affecting the functioning of rural schools in Jammu and Kashmir, with staff shortages continuing despite repeated promises of reform in the education sector. Successive governments have pledged to streamline the School Education Department, particularly in ensuring a balanced pupil-teacher ratio (PTR). However, officials acknowledge that these efforts have largely remained on paper, with little visible impact on ground realities. The issue was raised several times in the Legislative Assembly since last year, and even before that, several orders were issued for streamlining PTR in schools. But all these initiatives remained confined to only speeches and papers. The official statistics not only raise eyebrows but also expose the crippling system. According to officials, the leaders raising their voices about the lopsided PTR in schools are managing the deployment of teachers from rural to other schools located in cities and towns. The schools located in rural areas have a good number of students enrolled, while the city schools, except a few, depict a grim picture of the system. While the rural schools are craving for adequate staff, in most of the schools located in towns and city areas, besides other easily accessible locations, the teachers are haphazardly posted, irrespective of the requirement. All these schools have surplus staff, and in some cases, teachers somehow outnumber the students. But nobody takes action on it officially because all of them are influential, a top official told Greater Kashmir . Amid this, there are dozens of those teachers who were transferred to very hard zones for one or two years, but are now stuck there without any intervention from the government. The teachers who were actually recruited in these far off areas to serve the community are deployed in city and town schools, the official said. He said the schools in urban areas do not have any shortage of teachers despite meagre enrollment but the rural schools continue to struggle with inadequate staff. The basic reason for this is the gap between the issuance of orders and their implementation on the ground. Whatever is claimed in speeches or in papers is contrary to the ground reality, he said. In the recently concluded budget session of the Legislative Assembly, some legislators raised the issue about the dearth of teachers and lecturers in the schools of their constituency. But, according to officials, the same MLAs are seen issuing letters to the ministers and pleading for deployment of teachers from far off areas to towns. Recently, the education minister was heard telling MLAs that if all the teachers are to be deployed in towns and cities, then who will run the schools in villages? the official privy to the development told Greater Kashmir . Recently, MLA Gurez raised the issue about the dearth of lecturers in his constituency and sought action from the government. The education minister, Sakina Itoo, outrightly informed the Assembly that dozens of teachers and lecturers from Gurez were working on deployment in Bandipora and Srinagar. I will send them back to their original place of postings, provided I don't see any political interference in it, she said. Her response hinted towards the political interference. Talking to Greater Kashmir , Minister for Education Sakina Itoo said that it has become a herculean task for the department as everybody wants to serve in urban areas. But the system cannot work like that. We are not entertaining any recommendations for deployment of teachers. Only those cases are reviewed or considered which have health issues, she said.

Security grid in J&K gets a major boost with enhanced response, preventive measures

Srinagar, Apr 26: Army and other security agencies have significantly upgraded the security grid across Jammu & Kashmir, focusing on both immediate response mechanisms and long-term preventive strategies. The major boost came almost a year after the deadly terror attack in Pahalgam that left 26 people dead. The attack, which exposed vulnerabilities in tourist-heavy zones such as Baisaran Valley, triggered a comprehensive overhaul of J&Ks security architecture. Officials said the changes include enhanced troop deployment, advanced surveillance technologies, better intelligence coordination, and proactive anti-infiltration measures. In the aftermath of the attack, security forces conducted a detailed audit of tourist destinations across the Valley. Out of nearly 87 locations reviewed, around 49 were temporarily closed to visitors due to security concerns. Troop deployment was recalibrated, with forces repositioned to vulnerable hinterland areas. The Army also implemented dynamic deployment strategies in higher reaches to counter infiltration attempts from across the Line of Control. Increased patrolling, area domination exercises, and search operations became a regular feature, particularly during the summer months when infiltration attempts typically rise. Temporary Operating Bases (TOBs) were established and intensified, allowing troops to operate in sensitive areas for 72 to 96 hours at a stretch. These bases have enabled forces to extend their reach into remote zones and conduct sustained anti-terror operations. Over the past year, security agencies have focused on strengthening the anti-infiltration grid through technology-driven solutions. Additional surveillance cameras, night-vision devices, and smaller drones have been deployed along the LoC and infiltration routes to detect suspicious movements in real time. Sources in the security establishment said vulnerable gaps in border fencing are being reinforced, while likely infiltration routes into the hinterland are under constant watch through both aerial surveillance and ground patrols. TOBs continue to be set up at strategic points to maintain pressure on terrorist networks. Efforts have also been made to improve human intelligence by increasing the presence of police and paramilitary units, including the Central Reserve Police Force, in sensitive areas. Clear demarcation of operational responsibilities and improved lateral communication between the Army and local units have reduced response time during incidents. A major shift in strategy has been the increased reliance on drones and advanced surveillance systems. The Army has procured a range of drones equipped with high-resolution cameras to monitor remote and vulnerable areas. Some platforms are also capable of carrying payloads, including grenades, enhancing operational flexibility. The deployment of counter-drone systems has also been scaled up to neutralise aerial threats, a key lesson drawn from recent operations such as Operation Sindoor. Integrated Command and Control Systems are being introduced, combining surveillance cameras, AI-enabled drone deployment, and strengthened border fencing for real-time monitoring and rapid response. Additionally, all-terrain vehicles have been inducted to ensure faster troop movement in difficult terrains, especially in mountainous and forested regions. Security forces have intensified seek and destroy missions, targeting terrorist hideouts in remote areas. Special Forces have been deployed in higher reaches to conduct combing operations, flush out militants, and dismantle their support infrastructure. These operations aim to deny terrorists safe havens and force them into the open.

1st Digital Census in 2027: Amit Sharma calls for citizen involvement

Jammu, Apr 26: Amit Sharma, Chief Principal Census Officer (CPCO) and Director of Census Operations (DCO), Ministry of Home Affairs, on Saturday outlined the roadmap for Census 2027, describing it as a transformative national exercise aimed at strengthening data-driven governance. Speaking as Chief Guest at a health talk organised by Rotary Club Jammu City in association with Fortis Hospital Gurugram, Sharma said the upcoming Census will be Indias first fully digital and paperless enumeration, designed to generate accurate, real-time and granular data for policy planning. He said the Census in Jammu and Kashmir will be conducted in two phases. The House Listing Operations (HLO) and Housing Census will be carried out from June 1 to June 30, 2026, preceded by a self-enumeration window from May 17 to May 31. The Population Enumeration (PE) phase is scheduled for February 2027, while snow-bound areas will be covered earlier in September 2026. Elaborating on the digital framework, Sharma said data collection will be conducted through mobile applications with in-built validation checks to ensure accuracy and consistency. He added that citizens will also be able to participate directly through a dedicated self-enumeration portal, making the process more inclusive and transparent. Highlighting the significance of Census data, Sharma said it forms the backbone of governance and is critical for policy formulation, targeted delivery of welfare schemes and efficient allocation of resources across sectors such as health, education, infrastructure and social development. He said preparatory work, including freezing of administrative boundaries, development of digital platforms and training of field staff, has already been completed to ensure smooth conduct of the exercise. On data security, Sharma assured that robust safeguards, including end-to-end encryption, secure transmission protocols and certified data centres designated as critical information infrastructure, have been put in place to ensure confidentiality under the provisions of the Census Act, 1948. He advised citizens not to share sensitive personal information such as bank details, PAN or Aadhaar numbers beyond the prescribed Census questions. Calling for active public participation, Sharma urged citizens, particularly members of Rotary networks across Jammu and Kashmir and Ladakh, to spread awareness and cooperate with enumerators. Census 2027 will play a crucial role in shaping Indias development trajectory and strengthening evidence-based governance, he said. The Rotary Club Jammu City also honoured Sharma for his address and efforts to raise awareness about the Census process.

How 2 Anantnag youth built a business from what others threw away

Anantnag, Apr 26:Two youths from a village in south Kashmirs Anantnag district have set up a plastic recycling unit, converting plastic scrap into a source of income while strengthening local waste management and sustainability efforts. Imtiyaz Ahmad, a 10+2 pass, and Javaid Ahmad, a graduate, both in their mid-30s from Turka-Tachloo village, started their venture, MA Brothers in 2021 with an investment of Rs 15 lakh. Coming from humble backgrounds, the duo built the enterprise through years of groundwork, including working as scrap collectors themselves. We used to go village to village collecting plastic scrap. Even today, we dont hesitate to do labour when needed, Imtiyaz said. Our aim is to reduce plastic scrap and make it useful, he added. The recycling unit also procures scrap through a network of collectors and small dealers. The material is brought to the unit, where it is sorted by colour and type before processing. We keep scrap in separate sheds based on colour. Even a small mismatch can damage the final product, Imtiyaz said. After segregation, the plastic scrap is ground into granules and packed for transport outside Kashmir, where it is used in manufacturing items such as buckets, pipes and other products. The recycling unit also compresses bottles and containers to reduce their volume. Compressed scrap is sent for further processing. Some of it is converted into fibre used in clothing, Imtiyaz said. The recycling unit employs around 10 people, each earning close to Rs 10,000 a month. This work helps keep our surroundings clean and gives us income, Javaid said. Officials estimate that Jammu and Kashmir generates over 51,000 tonnes of plastic waste annually, with nearly 31,000 tonnes from the Kashmir Valley. The recycling unit processes over 100 tonnes of plastic scrap each month and earns a profit of more than Rs 80 thousand, according to the entrepreneurs. This job helps me support my family, said Adil Ahmad, a worker at the unit. Youth should look at entrepreneurship, especially in waste management, Javaid said. It also contributes to sustainability.

On behalf of Kashmiri Pandits

Shriman ji, Namaskar....! On the occasion of their new year day, Kashmiri Pandits - the victims of genocide in Kashmir acknowledged the warm Navreh greetings from you, MoH Amit Shah and the President of BJP Nitin Nabin. Many other important dignitaries also conveyed their congratulations and greetings on the occasion mostly through the regular media and the social media. It goes to the credit of those who conveyed their greetings and also to the credit of those who acknowledged them with graciousness though undergoing their 37th year of exile. The Kashmiri Pandits are living as refugees in their own country continuously for 36 years now. About them, the National Human Rights Commission (NHRC) declared in its decision in June 1999 that acts akin to genocide were committed against the Kashmiri Pandits......and a genocide type design may exist in the minds and utterances of the militants and terrorists in Kashmir. The Commission added that the Kashmiri Pandits have not been given due understanding and relief that they deserved. The Delhi High Court in its judgement referred to their displacement as Ethnic Cleansing. The J&K High Court in an important judgement described the displacement of the Kashmiri Pandits from Kashmir due to terrorism as a migration that cant be compared with any other migration. It was an unparalleled migration. The Amnesty International, Global Human Rights Defence and several other human rights bodies expressed their disappointment with their displacement due to religious bias, terrorism and violence aimed at them. The unfortunate part of the story is that they were neglected by their own governments in the state and also at the centre. Though they received a lot of attention, consequent upon their forced mass exodus, by the organizations like RSS, VHP, BJP and other nationalist organisations, however this attention was limited to humanitarian support and assistance. What was lacking was the support at a political level, media and narrative level and also helping them to get support for their survival issues. Their human rights issues were consciously and deliberately given a twist by their own governments, political parties, the so-called intellectuals and human rights activists and a wrong & vicious narrative was created and spread about them, their life in the valley of Kashmir and the genocide that they were made victims of by the terrorism in and outside the valley. It was viciously spread and propagandised during the 1990s that their displacement due to terrorism was just a migration and they were officially called as migrants that continues till date. No government showed any willingness to make corrections and call them the displaced officially though people in the government would call them so by word of mouth. The NHRC was about to pass an order of recommendation to the government of India during the hearing of the genocide case that this author had filed with them to change their nomenclature to the displaced. But the governments council sought time to get the governments response to the suggestion which never came up before the NHRC Court. True to the NHRCs recommendations that the Kashmiri Pandits have not been given due understanding and relief they became the victims of the State too. They faced not only the displacement due to their genocide, they also faced dispersal and thus the dismemberment also as an indigenous community of Kashmir. They had to move from pillar to post for anything and everything connected with their survival and existence. It goes to the good fortune of the displaced community that some committed activists among the community itself strived hard to carry on the struggle of survival and the struggle of existence for the last almost four decades and they continue to do the same despite difficulties, age and lack of resources. While it is great to know that you have Kashmiri Pandit community in your thoughts particularly on the occasion of Navreh -the new year day festival of Kashmir that the indigenous people of Kashmir -the Kashmiri Pandits have been celebrating unabated for the last thousands of years of their civilization and history, there is also an urgent need to take up some important issues of concern. This is particularly so when the greetings have also come from the Home Minister and the President of the ruling party -the BJP too. Despite the constitutional and parliamentary sanction, the government has omitted to nominate 2 members from the displaced Kashmiri Pandit community to the J&K Assembly for the last one and a half years. The government in this regard should have been guided by the Supreme Court judgement in regard to the nominations to the Puducherry Assembly. Moreover, no court of the country has stayed the nomination process in Jammu and Kashmir yet there is silence on the issue. There is absolutely no thinking and action going on at any level in regard to the implementation of the parliamentary sanction of the provisions of the relevant Act. Silence in this regard speaks of apathy, neglect and biased mindset against the displaced community in J&K who stand unrepresented in the Assembly despite parliamentary approval to the J&K Reorganisation (Amendment) Act 2023. The Kashmiri Pandit community though are electorally insignificant due to their forced displacement from their homeland, however, they continue to be a very important political issue which many vested interests would like it to be diluted from the socio-political map of the J&K UT. Secondly, it is important to remind yourself about your solemn promises made during the election campaigning in September-2024 to the displaced community. You promised to enhance the monthly relief to the relief-holders but that promise stands unfulfilled till date. Now the issue is pending for the last eight years and the matter has also been recommended by the J&K government to the MHA for final approval which requires action on behalf of the Home Minister. We appeal to you for your kind intervention in the matter. Similarly, after a long struggle of one and a half years by the Delhi based displaced community, the Delhi government took decision in regard to streamlining the AMR to the relief holders in Delhi. Now again the matter is pending before the MHA for the last eight months and there is no headway seen in this context. People who depend upon the AMR havent received the relief for almost two years now. A simple decision at the MHA level is taking months and the sufference continues. Reminders after reminders have failed. Even the Delhi government and its administration have been following the issue but there is no result forthcoming. Kindly look into the matter for its solution at the earliest. The PM Package employees in the Kashmir valley face apartheid in their own departments for no fault of theirs. They seem to be the children of lesser gods. Over the last 36 years of exile of the community, various governments kept talking to the displaced community through their authorised representatives. In regard to the issue of Genocide, there is no word from the government on it. There has been complete silence for the last one decade in this connection. There should now be an open dialogue with the community in regard to all issues including their resettlement in the valley of Kashmir directly by the government of India and we appeal to you Modi Ji in this context to take such initiative so that new vistas are opened. The community looks up to you with hope and expectation. They also look up to HM and the BJP President in this context. The other issues also need urgent attention from the government/s and it is expected that both the central government and the UT government take appropriate initiatives. The J&K Administration for the benefit of the displaced population should implement all central schemes in favour of the displaced community in Jammu and Kashmir. In this respect, effective measures need to be taken in consultation with the respective quarters in the government/s. Consultation processes should also be encouraged at the department level by the JK administration. On the occasion of their new year day this time, the displaced community of Kashmiri Pandits have been greeted by a number of intellectuals, authors, film-makers, politicians and prominent activists too. This is a welcome change from the earlier scenario when many among the elite class would either ignore them or castigate them for no reasons. Prominent author-intellectual cum scientist Anand Ranganathans tweet on X regarding Navreh is a poignant message focusing on the continued displacement of the Kashmiri Pandit community rather than a celebratory greeting. It said on 20 March, 2026: Dear Kashmiri Hindus, I want to wish you happy Navreh but every time I think of you, I think of the hollowness of my wishes, I think of how we failed you, I think of how 700,000 of you still cannot return to your homes, and so please accept not my wishes but my apologies. Sorry. This is indeed tantamount to recognising the pain of the forced exile and expressing anguish for what we as a nation failed to do what we could have done for the last four decades. We still have time to learn lessons and both the government as well as the society need to work jointly to address the long pending issue of Kashmiri Pandits. However, the government holds the primary key to take the initiative and it also holds accountability to its people who day in and day out support it out of turn. By people here, the author means the Kashmiri Pandit community -the indigenous people of Kashmir....! Thanks and best regards. The author is a senior BJP and KP leader.

The Can(e) and the Able

In the brutal, Darwinian ecosystem of Indian politics, there are two distinct species of players. There is the Can(e). The crutch, the symbol of authority, the keeper of structure, hierarchy, and control. And then there is the Able. The talent, the strategist, the orator, the one who can actually energize a base and expand a partys imagination. The tragedy across parties, from Delhi to Srinagar, is not just that the Can(e) fears the Able. It is that it fears something even more dangerous: conviction. The story of Raghav Chadha and the evolving situation around Aga Syed Ruhullah Mehdi are not identical, but they are deeply connected. One is about ambition mishandled. The other is about morality mishandled. Both, however, expose the same institutional insecurity: parties that cannot metabolize strong internal forces without turning them into threats. Raghav Chadhas exit from the Aam Aadmi Party was not triggered by a wedding, a trip, or any singular controversy. Those were props in a larger drama. The real issue was structural: AAP had no space left for someone like him to grow without unsettling its internal power balance. Chadha had outgrown the role of a spokesperson. He had become a national face, articulate, sharp, media-savvy, and politically ambitious. In a party that once promised internal democracy but evolved into a tightly controlled command structure, that kind of upward momentum becomes destabilizing. So, the system did what such systems do. It clipped. By converting a personal matter into a disciplinary spectacle, AAP sent a clear signal: loyalty is not about contribution; it is about compliance. The result was predictable. Chadha chose exit over erosion. On one level, his move to the BJP is entirely rational. He is young, positioned, and unwilling to spend the next two decades waiting for permission to matter. The BJP offers scale, reach, and the possibility however uncertain of executive power. In pure career terms, it is a logical escalation. But logic has layers. Because what Chadha has walked into is not just a bigger party, it is a system that absorbs individuality. The BJP is not designed to showcase imported talent unless that talent brings immediate electoral capital. Otherwise, it standardizes, disciplines, and eventually flattens. So, while Chadha is right to leave a ceiling, he may have stepped into a structure where he disappears. Not defeated, just diluted. That is the paradox of his move: he escaped suffocation only to risk invisibility. Kashmir: Not Ambition, But Conscience Now shift to Kashmir, where a very different but equally consequential dynamic is unfolding within the Jammu & Kashmir National Conference. To treat Aga Syed Ruhullah Mehdi as a parallel to Chadha purely in terms of ambition would be a misreading. His situation is not about seeking office, rank, or proximity to power. It is rooted in something far less negotiable in politics: a moral premise. Ruhullah represents a strain of politics that is increasingly rare, one that is grounded in ideological clarity, emotional authenticity, and a willingness to confront uncomfortable truths, even within ones own party. His politics is not transactional; it is declarative. And that is precisely why he is difficult to manage. The friction between Ruhullah and the JKNC leadership is not about distribution of power, it is about direction of purpose. He believes, with some justification, that the party has drifted from certain foundational positions, diluted its voice, and become overly cautious at a time when clarity is demanded. He has a case. Not a perfect one, not an uncontested one but a legitimate one. The real failure of the JKNC is not that it disagrees with him. Parties can and should have internal disagreement. The failure is that it has chosen tocontainrather thanchannelhim. The Mishandling of a Moral Asset Every political party benefits from having a high rebel someone who speaks with moral intensity, who can energize the base, who can articulate dissent without abandoning the larger structure. These figures are not liabilities; they are pressure valves. They keep the party honest, alive, and connected. Ruhullah fits that role almost perfectly. He has grassroots legitimacy, a strong personal following, and the ability to frame political questions in moral rather than purely electoral terms. In a region like Kashmir, where politics is deeply intertwined with identity and sentiment, that matters enormously. What the JKNC should have done is simple, though not easy: give him space. Not unchecked freedom, but meaningful space. Let him be the voice that pushes boundaries while the party maintains institutional balance. That duality can be powerful. Instead, the party appears to have taken his assertiveness as defiance. Rather than integrating his energy, it has responded in ways that risk isolating him. This is not just a tactical mistake; it is a strategic one. Because isolating a figure like Ruhullah does not neutralize him. It amplifies him. It turns internal critique into public confrontation. It converts a moral voice into a political flashpoint. The Emerging Crisis If this trajectory continues, the JKNC risks walking into a slow-burning internal rupture. Not necessarily a dramatic split overnight, but a steady erosion: A widening gap between leadership and a segment of its own support base, a narrative that the party suppresses internal conviction and the transformation of a respected insider into a symbol of dissent. And unlike Chadhas case, where the exit led directly into another party, Ruhullahs path is less predictable and therefore more volatile. He is not, at least by current signals, positioning himself as someone seeking entry into another political machine. That makes the situation more complex. A morally anchored political figure operating outside or at the edge of a party structure can reshape discourse in ways that are harder to control or absorb. For the BJP, this kind of internal churn in regional parties is always advantageous. It does not need to immediately absorb such figures. It benefits simply from fragmentation, from weakened opponents, from the erosion of coherent political narratives. The Core Lesson: What links AAP and JKNC is not ideology, geography, or scale. It is a shared institutional weakness: an inability to accommodate strong internal forces without perceiving them as threats. In AAP, that force was ambition. In JKNC, it is conviction. Both are forms of strength. Both can be assets if managed with confidence. And both become liabilities when handled with insecurity. Raghav Chadha was pushed out because he was becoming too big within the system. Aga Syed Ruhullah Mehdi is being strained because he is too grounded in something the system finds inconvenient. The irony is sharp. Parties spend years trying to create leaders who can connect, articulate, and mobilize. And when such leaders emerge, they are often the first to be constrained. The difference between AAPs story and JKNCs unfolding situation is that the latter is still reversible. Chadhas exit is done. The consequences will play out over time. With Ruhullah, there is still a window. The JKNC can choose to recalibrate, to recognize that dissent rooted in belief is not disloyalty, that a morally driven leader is not a destabilizing force but a legitimizing one. It can choose to engage rather than isolate, to absorb rather than resist. If it does not, it risks creating exactly what it fears: not just an internal critic, but an external force. And in a place like Kashmir, where political space is already fragile and heavily contested, that is not just a party problem. It is a structural one. The deeper pattern remains unchanged. Political systems often prefer the dependable over the dynamic, the compliant over the convicted. The Can(e) is safe. The Able is unpredictable. But the real danger is not the Able walking away. It is the system that makes that departure inevitable. AAP learned that lesson too late. JKNC still has time but not much. Because when conviction is cornered, it does not disappear. It either breaks or it breaks the structure that tried to contain it.

One Skin, One Health

Human dermatology and veterinary dermatology, while historically regarded as separate medical fields, are deeply intertwined through common biological principles, disease mechanisms, and treatment strategies. The skin, being the largest organ in both humans and animals, acts as the primary barrier against environmental threats, infectious agents, and allergens. Therefore, gaining insights into skin diseases in animals not only enhances animal health and welfare but also offers significant understanding of human dermatological issues. This interrelation is fundamental to the One Health concept, which highlights the interconnectedness of human, animal, and environmental health. A notable illustration of this relationship is found in allergic skin disorders. Canine atopic dermatitis closely resembles human atopic eczema in terms of its genetic foundation, immunopathogenesis, and clinical manifestations. Both ailments are characterized by a compromised skin barrier and an overactive immune response to environmental allergens such as pollen, dust mites, and specific food ingredients. Dogs afflicted with atopic dermatitis frequently display symptoms of itching, redness, and recurrent infectionssymptoms that are remarkably similar to those seen in affected humans. Due to these parallels, dogs are considered valuable natural models for investigating allergic skin diseases, aiding in the advancement of innovative treatments such as targeted immunomodulators and biologics. Parasitic and infectious skin diseases further exemplify the intersection of veterinary and human dermatology. Scabies, which is caused by mite infestation, serves as a quintessential example that affects both humans and animals, resulting in severe itching and distinctive lesions. Likewise, dermatophytosis, commonly known as ringworm, is a fungal infection that is zoonotic, indicating its potential to transmit between animals and humans. These conditions highlight the significance of veterinary dermatology in public health, as veterinarians frequently play a crucial role in detecting and managing diseases that could otherwise threaten human populations. Autoimmune skin disorders also connect these two domains. Conditions such as pemphigus and lupus erythematosus are found in both humans and animals, especially in dogs. These disorders occur when the immune system erroneously targets the bodys own skin tissues, causing chronic inflammation, blistering, and ulceration. Investigating these conditions in animals offers vital insights into their pathogenesis and aids in the creation of innovative immunosuppressive therapies that are advantageous to both veterinary and human medicine. Diagnostic methods utilised in both veterinary and human dermatology are fundamentally similar. Techniques such as skin scrapings, cytological assessments, biopsies, and allergy tests are commonly applied in both disciplines. Recent technological innovations, like polymerase chain reaction (PCR), have significantly improved the capacity to accurately detect pathogens and the root causes of skin disorders. These common diagnostic methods underscore the potential for knowledge and advancements to be effectively adapted across different species. Treatment methodologies also exhibit considerable similarities. Numerous medications employed in human dermatologysuch as corticosteroids, antihistamines, antifungals, and antibioticsare extensively utilised in veterinary medicine. In recent times, the introduction of biologic therapies has transformed the treatment of chronic skin conditions. Monoclonal antibodies that target specific inflammatory pathways are now being utilised to manage atopic dermatitis in both humans and dogs, illustrating a collective progression in precision medicine. Environmental factors significantly influence dermatological health in both human and animal patients. Urbanisation, pollution, and climate change have led to a rise in the occurrence of skin disorders across various species. Pets frequently inhabit the same environments as their owners, which exposes them to the same allergens and irritants. As a result, trends in dermatological issues observed in animals can sometimes serve as early warning signs of similar problems in humans, highlighting the necessity of integrated health monitoring. The exploration of the skin microbiome is another promising field of convergence. The skin is home to a diverse array of microorganisms that are vital for its health. Disruptions in this microbial equilibrium, referred to as dysbiosis, have been associated with numerous dermatological conditions in both humans and animals. Comparative studies on the skin microbiome are paving the way for innovative treatments, including probiotic and microbiome-based therapies, which have the potential to enhance skin health across species. Despite these parallels, significant differences are present. Variations in skin structure, hair coverage, and species-specific immune responses can affect how diseases present and respond to treatment. In animals, the presence of fur may conceal early signs of illness, while the inability of animals to verbally express symptoms necessitate the veterinarians to depend heavily on clinical observation and behavioural indicators. Furthermore, treatment choices in veterinary dermatology may be swayed by economic factors and the role of the animal, in contrast to human medicine, which is predominantly focused on the patient. Translational research has further solidified the connection between veterinary and human dermatology. Naturally occurring skin diseases in animals, especially in dogs, offer realistic and dependable models for investigating human conditions. These models provide considerable advantages over artificially induced laboratory settings, allowing for more precise evaluations of dermatological health. Bottom line Human dermatology and veterinary dermatology are closely related fields that enhance and enlighten each other. The common comprehension of disease mechanisms, diagnostic methods, and treatment strategies highlights the importance of collaboration between veterinarians and human healthcare professionals. Embracing this synergy not only expands scientific understanding but also fosters a comprehensive approach to health. As the One Health concept lingers to gain momentum, the unification of veterinary and human dermatology will increasingly be crucial in enhancing the welfare of both animals and humans.

Wings Lying Stagnant!

The world feels louder than ever, filled with uncertainty, conflict, and constant change. Every day brings new challenges. People are dying, hurt, and in pain. Conflicts, achievements, and each breaking news item have become our trademarks. We are defined by them. We discuss them. We pity them. And we go on. Theres nothing wrong with it. The misery deepens when the question of belongingness arises: the phases of life painfully nibbling at your psyche. Thoughts revolve around personal failures, longings, and hope. Something paralyzing enough to numb the affairs of the outside world. Silent struggles follow like a shadow. The world that lives inside many of us isnt even a safer place to be: thoughts rising like mist, shaped by opinions, unfulfilled aspirations, and dreams. We process them and we writhe in pain. We lament the past long gone. We dread the future prospects. And we feel more like sandwiched between the two; one saddening, other worrying. Expectations thrust upon you without your consent weaken your agency and individuality. Humans, unfixed and unpredictable, cant just rule out aberration just for the sake of fulfilling the hunger of the people, however much sense or nonsense they make. One reason why many Western countries have advanced rapidly is their greater respect for autonomy and personal space. In this part of the world, we often turn irrational, bringing havoc upon each other and ripping apart individual originality. When we are conditioned to live a life built on social cohesion but weak individual independence, the byproducts are rarely promising: we fear judgment and rejection, choose careers for others happiness, we follow paths we least want to tread, and we become more of a robot eventually than an individual with wings to fly. No financial security can compensate for whats truly yours: freedom! Imagine this: how can wars, pandemics, and economic crises matter to you when you work in the Neonatal Intensive Care Unit, where both life and death exist at the same time? Your role remains unchanged. You cant seem to contribute to the world in different ways. You cant seem to contribute to your own life either. The agents, constructs and values people impose at a personal level subconsciously reinforce individual incapability. Free yourself, and you can do wonders. But where do you find the other fragments of your conscious being? When you live alone far from your family, the circumstances dont let you belong anywhere; and the days keep passing while you struggle to escape, to belong. Irony arises when you act more like a gentle liar in order not to dishearten your loved ones: justifying living away from home while craving connection, providing excuses for not responding to calls, assuring your parents that you are doing fine and had every meal of the day even if you missed lunch or dinner, or secretly calculating the days before meeting family again. Conflicts are rife! This is where a sharp rupture grows between the world inside you and the world outside! This is no drama or complaint or sympathy-seeking games. Nor is it mere questioning. It is a serious issue corroding many of us from within. Instead of having free will and making a choice, we are constrained by the circumstances. We wait for the right shape of words and sentences to frame our arguments. We get confused. We leave it aside. We repress it. We become dysfunctional, as it were. We dont fit in. We undervalue ourselves. We shrink. The world appears unappealing. The mirror reflects nothing. The void remains. You live with it. And one day, you die. Postscript: No clear exit is in sight. Resolve becomes abstract and hypothetical. Yet hope remains. Hope of reviving the wings now lying stagnant. Hope in what God may have in store does some good. A growing realization that mysteries do not always need to be written off. Acknowledge the good people with whom you feel secure and who encourage you. They are a few, but worth investing in. Love yourself, regardless. Or in the words of Zakir Khan, Self-pity is the best luxury a human can have.

Safeguard trees, save environment

What difference it will make to the environment if trees are felled for constructing roads! This is a notion nurtured surprisingly by authorities to undertake works for so-called development. The difference between felling trees for development is destruction! It takes decades for a Chinar tree to grow and a day to destroy it! It was evident when a mighty Chinar tree was recently felled to pave way for road widening in Kralgund area of north Kashmirs Kupwara district. Another case surfaced during axing of mulberry trees at Rawalpora canal road for widening without Environmental Impact Assessment (EIA). These cases of environmental vandalisation reflect lack of planning to strike balance between development and environment. How ruthlessly centuries old chinar trees are being felled seriously raises questions on the governments policy of environmental conservation. Unplanned development are gradually killing Chinars. The majestic tree flourished during the Mughal rule in Kashmir. Dogra rulers ensured conservation of Chinar by imposing blanket ban on its felling. However successive regimes failed to take measures for preserving Chinars. In the race for road expansions, Chinars have been bearing the brunt in Kashmir. Around 75 Chinar trees were felled along the Srinagar-Qazigund Expressway during execution of the project. Authorities measured the loss of Chinars through monetary means and collected Rs 28.17 lakh by selling these majestic trees. The question is can the loss of Chinars or other trees be compensated by money? No way. Loss of even a tree is irreparable. It is stated that 42,000 Chinars existed in Kashmir over 50 years ago. As per a census by the Forest Research Institute (FRI), 18,000 Chinar trees were found in the valley with at least one third of these diseased or damaged. It has warned that these trees may be lost in the next decade. Adding insult to injury, authorities gave existing Chinars digital identity cards on the pattern of Aadhar cards. A digital plate with a QR code affixed to Chinars provides information about age, height, girth, canopy, health status, ecological threat and pest presence of Chinars trees. Though scientific measures to treat diseased and decaying Chinars are missing on the ground. Besides Chinars, trees in forests are too facing an onslaught of so-called development. It is alarming that 82,000 trees have been felled in forests for multiple infrastructure projects without prior fulfillment of mandatory compensatory afforestation requirements in Kashmir. Countless trees were felled for construction of35-km HandwaraBangus Road project in Kupwara district which passes through an ecologically sensitive forest area. More than 1 lakh trees of Apple, Chinar, Walnut, Mulberry have been flattened to pave way for construction of Srinagar Ring Road. Around 6000 trees were felled wantonly in 2015 for setting up 1,115 pylons and 1,200 power towers inside forests to lay a 414-km transmission line via Mughal road, between Shopian and Poonch. During construction of the 220-kV Alastang-Leh transmission line spreading 320 kms, 150 hectares of forest land including areas of Sindh Forest Division in Sonamarg were handed over to Power Grid Corporation of India. More than 14,600 lush green and towering conifers in the Daruder forest belt were razed to the ground to pave way for laying transmission lines. Chief Minister Omar Abdullah recently stated that the Government will not allow indiscriminate felling of walnut trees saying the Union Territory is contributing nearly 3.5 lakh tonnes, over 90 per cent of the countrys total walnut production. Omar opposed a private members bill moved by a National Conference legislator seeking amendment in the Jammu and Kashmir Preservation of Specified Trees Act, to grant owners the free will to cut Walnut trees on their land. Omar maintained that while land and trees may belong to individuals, restrictions on cutting them exist for valid reasons, including conservation and long-term economic interests. The CM, who is a nature lover, had stated that similar to protections extended to Chinar trees, several other species are safeguarded under existing frameworks. But there is a need to translate protection of trees on the ground. We must have strict legislation on felling to protect trees. The National Green Tribunal (NGT) has taken on record a response from the Srinagar Municipal Corporation (SMC) stating that no permissions for tree cutting or removal have been issued within its jurisdiction over the past five years for large-scale felling of trees at Amar Singh College in Srinagar. But the trees are gone now and the loss is irreparable! Even if a tree comes in road alignment to pave way for expansion, why cannot we transplant it at another spot. There are advanced technologies to facilitate transplantation of trees instead of felling these natural assets. We had success in 2022 when two decayed Chinar trees in the iconic Char Chinar (four Chinars) Island in the middle of Dal Lake in Srinagar were restored with the transplantation of two grown-up trees. This was the first-of-its-kind transplantation of Chinar trees in Kashmir. Since then, the process has halted and trees falling under road widening red zones are being felled extensively. Government must make it mandatory for road construction agencies to transplant trees. We need to go for sustainable development. We have lost too much of tree cover, the famous green alley of popular trees on Srinagar-Baramulla road is gone too. Amid climate change and global warming we cannot afford to lose more trees and need to maintain ecological balance. We can build skyscrapers, not trees. Even the presence of a tree matters for our environment and loss too! Author is Executive Editor, Greater Kashmir

Lights, camera, Kashmir

Chief Minister Omar Abdullahs interaction with filmmakers in Bengaluru is part of a welcome government effort to bring back film-makers to Kashmir in greater numbers. Jammu and Kashmir and Indian cinema share a long, emotional and culturally rich relationship, one that deserves to be revived with renewed energy. For decades, Kashmir has been the favoured location of Hindi cinema, and to a lesser extent for the movies from South. Its lakes, gardens, meadows and mountains gave Indian films some of their most memorable imagery. From Raj Kapoors Barsaat in 1949 to the romance-filled musicals of later decades, Kashmir was not just a backdrop. It became part of the storytelling itself. Generations of Indians first encountered the Valleys beauty through the silver screen. That relationship was disrupted after militancy erupted in 1989. As security concerns grew, filmmakers moved elsewhere. Switzerland, Himachal Pradesh, Uttarakhand and foreign destinations replaced Kashmir. Films about Kashmir continued to be made, but often focused on conflict rather than everyday life, culture and beauty. A place once associated with romance became tied to headlines of unrest. Today, circumstances have changed. Security has improved, infrastructure has expanded, and the government has introduced policies that make shooting easier. Major productions featuring stars such as Shah Rukh Khan and directors like Rohit Shetty have already returned to the Valley in recent years. Their positive experiences should encourage others to follow. The return of filmmakers is not only about nostalgia. It makes strong economic sense. A film shoot creates jobs for local drivers, hoteliers, caterers, craftsmen, technicians and transport operators. It also boosts tourism. When audiences watch songs filmed on Dal Lake or scenes shot in Gulmarg, Pahalgam or Sonamarg, they see a welcoming Kashmir. Tourism numbers often rise when destinations are featured on screen. Yet attracting filmmakers requires facilitation from the government in addition to the local facilities. These can help transform Kashmir from an occasional location into a regular filmmaking hub. And to this end, the CMs meeting with South Indian filmmakers is a welcome outreach effort. With better infrastructure, simpler clearances and active promotion, Kashmir can attract filmmakers in far greater numbers in the years ahead.

Notorious gangster's associate injured in fire exchange in Jammu: Police

Jammu, Apr 26: Police said that a notorious gangster's associate was injured in an exchange of fire in Miran Sahib area of Jammu district on Sunday. An official said that acting on a specific intelligence regarding the movement of a known gangster/ drug smuggler Abhineet singh @ Nagi along with his associates, a specialized team from Police Station Miran Sahib laid a strategic trap near the designated area. He said Abhineet @ Nagi, a hardcore history-sheeter wanted in over 13 pending FIRs - ranging from attempt to murder and rioting to arms smuggling - attempted to break the naka. However upon being challenged, the accused and his associate riding one motorcycle tried to break the Naka and also opened fire at the police party. In the meantime driver also lost the control on the vehicle, official said. He also said that in a calibrated response for self-defense and to prevent public harm, the police team retaliated and both the accused left the motorcycle and tried to escape from the spot taking the advantage of darkness. However the police party chased them. Later on upon the search one of the accused was found in injured condition in the cannal. He was taken to the hospital while other managed to escape from the spot. Police party is in continued search. Further details will follow, official added.

West Asia crisis: Govt ensures fuel supply, maritime safety, support for Indians abroad; urges no panic buying, says Centre

New Delhi, Apr 26: In light of the evolving situation in West Asia, the Government of India remains actively engaged in ensuring preparedness and continuity across key sectors through coordinated response measures. The following update outlines the steps being taken with regard to energy supply, maritime operations, and support to Indian nationals in the region: Energy Supply and Fuel Availability The Ministry of Petroleum and Natural Gas is taking steps to ensure uninterrupted availability of petroleum products and LPG across the country, in the context of the ongoing situation involving the Strait of Hormuz. As per Ministry: Public Advisory and Citizen Awareness Citizens are advised to avoid panic purchase of petrol, diesel and LPG as the Govt is making all efforts to ensure availability of petrol, diesel and LPG. Beware of rumours and rely on official sources for correct information. LPG consumers are requested to use digital booking platforms and avoid visiting distributors. Citizens are encouraged to use alternate fuels such as PNG and electric or induction cooktops. All citizens are urged to conserve energy in their daily use during the current situation. Government Preparedness and Supply Management Measures Despite the ongoing geopolitical situation, the Government has ensured that 100% supply is being made to Domestic LPG, Domestic PNG and CNG (Transport). For commercial LPG, priority has been given to hospitals, educational institutions. Besides this, priority has also been given to pharma, steel, automobile, seed, agriculture, etc. In addition to this, supply of 5 Kg FTL to migrant labour is also doubled based on avg. daily supply on 2nd and 3rd March 2026. The Government has already implemented several rationalisation measures on both the supply and demand side, including enhancing refinery production, increasing the booking interval from 21 to 25 days in urban areas and up to 45 days in rural areas and prioritising sectors for supply. Alternate fuels such as kerosene and coal have been made available to ease pressure on LPG demand. The Ministry of Coal has directed Coal India and Singareni Collieries to allot additional coal to States for distribution to small and medium consumers. States have been advised to facilitate new PNG connections for domestic and commercial consumers. Coordinated Efforts with States/UTs and Institutional Mechanisms State Governments are empowered under the Essential Commodities Act, 1955 and LPG Control Order, 2000 to monitor supply and act against hoarding and black marketing. Govt. of States/UTs have to play a primary role in monitoring and regulating supply situation of essential commodities including Petrol, Diesel and LPG. Govt. of India has reiterated the same via multiple letters and VCs to all States/UTs. The Government of India vide letters dated 27.03.2026 and 02.04.2026 have stressed the need for proactive public communication to reassure citizens regarding adequate fuel availability. Regular review meetings are being held with States/UTs. In this context, meetings were convened on 02.04.2026 (Chaired by Secretary, MoPNG) and on 06.04.2026 (Chaired bySecretary, MoPNG along with Secretaries of I&B and Consumer Affairs), wherein the following was emphasized: To issue daily press briefings and issue regular public advisories. To actively monitor and counter fake news / misinformation on social media. To intensify daily enforcement drives by District admin and to continue raids and inspections in coordination with OMCs To issue Commercial LPG allocation orders within their States/UTs To issue SKO allocation orders for additional SKO allotted to the States/UTs. To promote PNG adoptions and alternate fuels. To prioritize LPG supply, especially for domestic needs, and adopt targeted distribution of 5 kg FTL cylinders to ensure supply stability. All States/UTs have established control rooms and district monitoring committees to curb hoarding and black marketing. Many states/UTs are issuing/carrying out press briefs. Enforcement and Monitoring Actions Enforcement actions continue across the country to curb hoarding and black marketing of LPG. Yesterday, more than 2100 raids were conducted across the country. PSU Oil Marketing Companies have strengthened surprise inspections and imposed penalties on 310 LPG distributorships and suspended 70 LPG distributorships till yesterday. LPG Supply Domestic LPG Supply Status: LPG supply continues to be affected by the prevailing geopolitical situation. Supply of LPG to domestic households has been prioritized. No dry-outs have been reported at LPG distributorships. Online LPG cylinder bookings increased to about 98%on an industry basis yesterday. Delivery Authentication Code (DAC) based deliveries have increased to about 94% to prevent diversion. DAC is received on the registered mobile number of the consumer. On 25.04.2026, more than 51.8 Lakh domestic LPG cylinders were delivered. Commercial LPG Supply and Allocation Measures: Total commercial LPG allocation has been increased to about 70% of pre-crisis levels, including 10% reform-linked allocation. The Government of India vide letter dated 06.04.2026 has conveyed that daily quantity of 5 Kg FTL cylinders in each State available for disbursal to migrant labourers is being doubled based on the average daily supply (Number of cylinders) to migrant labourers during 2nd-3rd March 2026 beyond the limit of 20% mentioned in letter dated 21.03.2026. These 5 Kg FTL cylinders are at disposal of the State Government for supplying only to migrant labourers in their State with assistance of Oil Marketing Companies (OMCs). Since 1st April 2026, more than 19.44 Lakh - 5 Kg FTL cylinders have been sold. Yesterday, about 82,000 5 Kg FTL cylinders were sold across the country. Since 3rd April 2026, PSU OMCs have organised more than 8950 awareness camps for 5 Kg FTL Cylinders, wherein more than 1,42,000 - 5Kg FTL cylinders were also sold. Yesterday, 3846 5 Kg FTLs were sold through more than 190 camps. A three-member committee of Executive Directors from IOCL, HPCL and BPCL is coordinating with State authorities and industry bodies to plan commercial LPG distribution in the States/UTs. During the month of April-26 (till 25.04.26), a total of 1,64,655 MT (Equivalent to more than 86.66 Lakh of 19 Kg LPG Cylinders) of Commercial LPG has been sold. On 25.04.2026, 9131 MT of Commercial LPG (Equivalent to about 4.80 Lakh - 19 Kg cylinders) was sold Natural Gas Supply and PNG Expansion Initiatives Consumers have been prioritised with 100% supplies to D-PNG and CNG-Transport. The overall gas allocation to fertilizer plants has been enhanced to approximately 95% of their six-month average consumption. Additionally, gas supply to other industrial and commercial sectors, including supplies through CGD networks, is enhanced up to 80%. CGD entities have been advised to prioritize PNG connections for commercial establishments such as hotels, restaurants and canteens across all their GAs, to address concerns regarding the availability of commercial LPG. CGD companies including IGL, MGL, GAIL Gas and BPCL are offering incentives for domestic and commercial PNG connections. States/UTs and Central Ministries have been requested to expedite approvals required for expansion of CGD networks. The Government of India vide letter dated 18.03.2026 has offered all States/UTs additional 10% allocation of commercial LPG to States provided they can help in long term transition from LPG to PNG. 22 States/UTs are receiving additional commercial LPG allocation linked to PNG expansion reforms. The Ministry of Road Transport & Highways vide letter dated 24.03.26 has adopted an Accelerated Approval Framework for CGD infrastructure with reduced timelines as a special for 3 months to process applications pertaining to CGD infrastructure on priority. The Government of India vide Gazette dated 24.03.2026 has notified the Natural Gas and Petroleum Products Distribution (Through Laying, Building, Operation and Expansion of Pipelines and Other Facilities) Order, 2026 under the Essential Commodities Act, 1955. The Order provides a streamlined and time-bound framework for laying and expanding pipelines across the country, addressing delays in approvals and access to land, and enabling faster development of natural gas infrastructure, including in residential areas. It is expected to accelerate PNG network growth, enhance last-mile connectivity, and support the transition to cleaner fuels, thereby strengthening energy security and advancing Indias gas-based economy. PNGRB has directed CGD entities to expedite D-PNG connections. Also, the National PNG Drive 2.0 has been extended till 30.06.2026 to sustain momentum in PNG expansion. To encourage a cleaner, more secure and self-reliant energy future, the Government of India has developed a model draft State CBG Policy. The model policy is intended to serve as a comprehensive flexible guiding framework to enable States to create their own investor-friendly and implementation-oriented ecosystem for CBG development. Those States which opt for this, will be prioritized for the next tranche of additional allocation of commercial LPG. MoEFCC vide order dated 07.04.2026 has directed CPCB to issue necessary directions to SPCB/PCCs for granting consent to establish or consent to operate within 15 days for CGD network/infrastructure. Since March 2026, about 5.45 Lakh PNG connections have been gasified and infrastructure has been created for additional 2.62 lakh connections taking the total to 8.07 lakh connections. Further, about 6.14 Lakh customers have been registered for new connections. Till 25.04.2026, more than 42,500 PNG consumers have surrendered their LPG connections via MYPNGD.in website Crude Position and Refinery Operations All refineries are operating at high capacity with adequate crude inventories, while sufficient stocks of petrol and diesel are being maintained. Domestic LPG production from refineries has been increased to support domestic consumption. An inter-ministerial Joint Working Group (JWG) has been set up to ensure availability of petrochemical feedstock supply for the domestic market. Subsequently, Govt. of India vide order dated 01.04.2026 has permitted Oil Refinery companies including Petrochemical Complexes to make certain minimum quantities of C3 & C4 streams available for critical sectors as determined by Centre for High Technology (CHT). Based on the requests received from the Department of Pharmaceuticals, Department of Chemicals & Petro Chemicals (DCPC), Dept. for Promotion of Industry and internal trade (DPIIT), the provision for 1000 MT/day, from LPG pool, has been made for Pharma and Chemical sector companies. Since 9th April 2026, more than 7600 MT of propylene has been sold by Mumbai, Kochi, Vizag, Chennai and Mathura refineries to the Chemical and Pharma Industry. Retail Fuel Availability and pricing Measures Retail outlets across the country are operating normally. The Middle East crisis has led to an abnormal increase in crude prices; however, to protect consumers, the Government of India has reduced excise duty on petrol and diesel by 10 per litre. Govt. of India vide Gazette notification dated 11.04.2026 has increased the export levy on diesel to Rs. 55.50 per litre and on ATF to Rs. 42 per litre, to ensure availability of these products in the domestic market. Panic Buying is observed at certain Retail Outlets due to rumours. It is informed that there are adequate stocks of petrol and diesel available at all Petrol Pumps in the country. Regular Retail Prices for Petrol and Diesel are unchanged and there is no price increase at PSU OMCs Retail Outlets. Kerosene Availability and Distribution Measures An additional allocation of 48,000 KL of kerosene has been provided to States/UTs over and above regular allocation. 18 States/UTs have issued SKO allocation orders, while Himachal Pradesh and Ladakh have indicated no requirement. Maritime Safety and Shipping Operations Necessary measures have been put in place to safeguard Indian vessels and seafarers operating in the region, by the Ministry of Ports, Shipping and Waterways. The Ministry stated that: The Ministry continues to coordinate with the Ministry of External Affairs, Indian Missions and maritime stakeholders to ensure seafare welfare and uninterrupted maritime operations. All Indian seafarers in the region are safe and no incident involving Indian-flagged vessels has been reported in the past 24 hours. The DG Shipping Control Room has handled 7,755 calls and more than 16,518 emails since activation. 57 calls and 192 emails have been received in the past 24 hours. DG Shipping has facilitated the safe repatriation of more than 2,764 Indian seafarers so far, including 24 in the past 24 hours from various locations across the Gulf region. Port operations across India remain normal with no congestion reported. Safety of Indian Nationals in the Region The Ministry of External Affairs continues to monitor developments in the Gulf and West Asia region, with focussed efforts on ensuring safety, security and welfare of the Indian community in the region. It was informed that: Indian Missions and Posts continue to operate round-the-clock helplines and are proactively assisting Indian nationals. They remain in close contact with the local Governments. Updated advisories are being issued regularly, including information on local government guidelines, flight and travel situations and consular services and various welfare measures being undertaken to support our community. Indian Missions remain actively engaged with the Indian community including the various associations, organizations, professional groups, Indian companies and other stakeholders in the region. Government is according high priority to the welfare of Indian seafarers in the region. Indian Missions are extending all assistance to the Indian crew members on vessels in the region including coordination with the local authorities and agencies, extending consular assistance and facilitating requests to return to India. Since 28 February, around 12,96,000 passengers have travelled from the region to India. In the UAE, airlines continue to operate limited commercial flights between the UAE and India based on operational and safety considerations, with around 110 flights expected today between UAE and India. Flights continue to operate from various airports in Saudi Arabia and Oman to destinations in India. With Qatar airspace partially open, Qatar Airways is operating flights to various destinations in India. Kuwait airspace is open. Jazeera Airways and Kuwait Airways have resumed limited flight operations from Kuwait to India. Bahrain airspace is open. Gulf Air is operating flights from Bahrain to various destinations in India. Iraq airspace is open with limited flight operations to destinations in the region, which can be used for onward travel to India. Iran airspace is partially open for cargo and chartered flights. Indian nationals are advised to avoid travelling to Iran and those already there in Iran are urged to leave via land border, with our Embassys support. So far, the Indian Embassy in Tehran has facilitated movement of 2,445 Indian nationals out of Iran through land border routes. Israel: Israel airspace is open and limited flight operations have resumed to destinations in the region, which can be used for onward travel to India.

Srinagar meet charts roadmap for Indias sports future: Mansukh Mandaviya

Lieutenant Governor pays gratitude to organ donors, their families at Naman Diwas in Jammu

Jammu, Apr 26: Lieutenant Governor Manoj Sinha today attended 'Naman Diwas' an event dedicated to honor organ donors and their families. The Lieutenant Governor paid his gratitude to organ donors and their families and said they have brought happiness in the countless lives. Because of you, someone is able to read today. Because of you, someone is seeing the colors of the world for the very first time. Because of you, someone is experiencing hope, freedom, and joy anew. I must emphasize with great responsibility that no award from the government or any institution can ever truly capture the value of your gift, the Lieutenant Governor said. Addressing the gathering of cornea donors families and kidney donors, the Lieutenant Governor emphasised that no award can ever truly capture the value of organ donation and Cornea as well Kidney donors are the true role models and heroes of our society. In life, we often ask what is humanitys greatest gift? Across centuries, philosophers, poets, and thinkers have arrived at the same truth that the measure of life is not in what we accumulate, but in what we give. Those we honor today have given the most precious gift of all, the gift of organs, the gift that sustains life itself, the Lieutenant Governor said. He also observed that in our culture, organ donation is regarded as one of the noblest and most sacred acts. I appeal to every citizen to take the pledge for organ donation today. Let society remember that each one of us is a potential donor. Each one of us holds the extraordinary power to save lives even after we are gone, the Lieutenant Governor said. The Lieutenant Governor commended the work of State Organ and Tissue Transplant Organization of J&K (SOTTO J&K) and said the team has worked with deep commitment to raise awareness across communities. He said SOTTO J&K through its campaigns, hospital partnerships, collaborations with NGOs, and training of medical professionals to sensitively identify and manage brain-dead donor cases, has become a movement of compassion and humanity. He urged the SOTTO J&K team to increase registrations and pledges through dialogue and outreach. The Lieutenant Governor had pledged for Organ Donation last year by registering himself on Ayushman Bharat Organ Donation Registry of the Ministry of Health & Family Welfare, Government of India. The Lieutenant Governor also asked the SOTTO J&K's representatives to spread the message of organ donation through every social network, every community meeting, every school and college, every place of worship, and every workplace. To those who hesitate due to cultural or religious concerns, I wish to remind you that our traditions affirm the sanctity of life and the virtue of selfless giving. Speak to any spiritual guide, family members and community elders and you will find that this gift of life is not only respected across faiths but celebrated as a blessing. Throughout history, organ donation has been recognized as one of the most profound expressions of compassion across the civilizations. A person whose earthly journey has ended can still give new life. Through cornea donation, that same person can restore sight, dignity, and the simple joy of seeing a childs smile or a sunrise, the Lieutenant Governor said.

Ladakh To Emerge As Global Hub For Finest Pashmina Wool: LG Saxena

LEH, Apr 26: Ladakh has the potential to become a global hub for finest Pashmina wool, Lieutenant Governor Vinai Kumar Saxena said on Sunday and stressed the need to maximise returns for farmers and artisans through value addition and better market access. To strengthen and promote Ladakhi Pashmina and position it as a global brand, Saxena visited the Pashmina Goat Farm at Upshi. The visit underlined the administrations commitment to establishing Ladakh as a premier hub for world-class Pashmina wool, [] The post Ladakh To Emerge As Global Hub For Finest Pashmina Wool: LG Saxena appeared first on Daily Excelsior .

DIG calls for heightened vigilance, robust security grid along IB in J-Ks Kathua

Jammu, Apr 26: Strategic sensitivity of border areas calls for strict vigilance and heightened alertness along the International Border in Jammu and Kashmirs Kathua district, Deputy Inspector General of Police, Jammu-Samba-Kathua Range Shridhar Patil has said. He made the remarks while chairing a comprehensive security and crime review meeting with all supervisory officers at the District Police Lines in Kathua, a police spokesperson said on Sunday. He asked the officers to maintain strict vigilance and heightened alertness to effectively foil any evil designs of anti-national elements. Officers were also instructed to ensure robust checking, increased patrolling and seamless coordination with other security agencies to ensure a strong security grid along the border, the spokesman said. Senior Superintendent of Police, Kathua, Mohita Sharma, gave a detailed presentation outlining the functioning of District Police Kathua, along with a comprehensive overview of the districts crime and security scenario. A detailed crime review was also conducted during which the DIG, JSK Range, examined cases registered across Kathua, their investigation status and disposal, and stressed expediting pending investigations while ensuring timely disposal in accordance with the new criminal laws to deliver speedy justice, the spokesman said. He also reviewed the status of inquest proceedings, absconders, history-sheeters and gangsters, and directed officers to maintain 360-degree surveillance over criminal elements. He said there was a need to take measures to curb criminal activities, particularly those of organised crime syndicates, to ensure offenders face the full force of law and the public feels safe and secure, the spokesman said. The DIG also reviewed the ongoing Nasha Mukt Abhiyan and directed strict legal action against drug smugglers and peddlers to curb the menace.

Tiranga bike & car rally held in Ramban to promote drug-free society

Ramban, Apr 26: In a significant initiative under the Nasha Mukti Abhiyaan, the Maitra Company of 23 Rashtriya Rifles on Sunday organised a Tiranga bike and car rally in Ramban district to spread awareness about a drug-free society. The rally witnessed enthusiastic participation from local youth, school children, government officials, and personnel from the army and police. It was flagged off by Deputy Commissioner Ramban Mohammad Alyas Khan in the presence of senior officials. The rally commenced at 11:00 AM from Dak Bungalow Ramban and passed through key locations including Jhula Bridge, Maitra Company Operating Base, Jaswal Bridge, Karool, and Ramban Market. Participants carried the national flag and displayed banners and placards highlighting the harmful effects of drug abuse. The event aimed to sensitise the youth about the dangers of narcotics and encourage collective efforts to eliminate drug addiction from society. The initiative also reflected the Indian Armys continued efforts to strengthen ties with the local population while promoting social awareness and youth engagement in the region. The rally concluded with a strong appeal to the youth to actively support the Nashamukti Abhiyan and contribute towards building a safer, healthier, and drug-free Ramban.

MHA To Convene Sub-Committee Meeting On Ladakh Dialogue On May 22: LG

JAMMU, Apr 26: The Ministry of Home Affairs (MHA) will convene a meeting of the sub-committee for political dialogue on Ladakh on May 22, Lieutenant Governor Vinai Kumar Saxena said on Sunday. The LG said the meeting will carry forward the process of constructive democratic dialogue with key stakeholders of Ladakh and pave the way for an enduring solution to address the aspirations of the people of the Union Territory. The proposed meeting is part of the Centres ongoing engagement [] The post MHA To Convene Sub-Committee Meeting On Ladakh Dialogue On May 22: LG appeared first on Daily Excelsior .

Woman dies, man injured in Charar-i-Sharief accident

Budgam, Apr 26: A woman was killed while a man sustained injuries when a car they were travelling in skidded off the road and fell into a deep nallah near Charar-i-Sharief in Central Kashmirs Budgam district on Sunday. An official said that the driver of the vehicle lost control near Zinpanchal village which led to the ill-fated vehicle plunging into the nallah. In the mishap, a woman died on the spot due to severe injuries. The driver of the vehicle sustained injuries. He was initially shifted to a nearby hospital from where he was referred to Srinagar for specialized treatment. Police have taken cognizance of the incident. Further details are awaited. (KNO)

J&K Police urge public to dial 112 for immediate assistance during emergencies

Srinagar, Apr 26: Jammu and Kashmir Police urged general public to actively utilize the services of Emergency Response Support System (ERSS)-112 for immediate assistance in case of any emergency, police officials said on Sunday. The ERSS helpline 112 is a 247 integrated emergency service, providing prompt response for incidents such as accidents, law & order situations, medical emergencies, fire incidents, and distress calls, including those involving women and children. The helpline system is manned by professional call takers, including trained women staff, to effectively assist and support members of the society in distress, a police spokesperson said in a statement. He said the service can be accessed by dialling 112 from any mobile or landline, sending alerts via SMS or SOS/panic buttons (available on 112 India App) on smartphones, and through ERSS-based digital platform (jk.erss.in). Swift response teams are promptly deployed through GPS-enabled Emergency Response Vehicles to ensure timely assistance. General public is requested to extend cooperation to the J&K Police and make responsible use of this facility, he said. He warned that misuse of the emergency helpline by making false or prank calls is a punishable offence under law. J&K Police reiterated its commitment towards ensuring a safe & secure society, and seeks active participation of citizens in this collective effort.

Govt orders transfers and postings of 4 DSPs in Jammu

Jammu, Apr 26: Jammu and Kashmir Police have ordered the transfer and posting of 4 Deputy Superintendents of Police (DSPs) in the Jammu region with immediate effect in the interest of administration. According to an order issued by Police Headquarters Jammu, Tahir Amin Sheikh, DSP DAR Jammu has been transferred and posted as SDPO Domana, while Dheraj Singh Katoch, SDPO Border Kathua, has been transferred and posted DSP DAR Jammu. Similarly, Mudassar Hussain, SDPO Domana, has been transferred and posted as DSP 4 JKAP and will join after expiry of his earned leave, while Karan Kumar, who was serving as DySP CID CI Jammu (JIC), has been posted as SDPO Border Kathua

Six border villages in J-K's Kathua brought under Centre's Vibrant Village Programme-II

The villages Bobiya, Kadyala, Gajnal, Karol Krishna, Rathua, and Gujjar Chak along the International Border were identified at a meeting chaired by Kathua Deputy Commissioner Rajesh Sharma on April 25, says officials

Fit India Cycle event in Srinagar; Mansukh Mandaviya, Satish Sharma join

India Achieves Major Milestone In Wind Energy; Capacity Now 56 Gigawatts: PM Modi

NEW DELHI, Apr 26: India has achieved a major milestone in wind energy, with the countrys wind energy generation capacity exceeding 56 gigawatts, Prime Minister Narendra Modi said on Sunday. In his monthly radio address Mann Ki Baat, Modi also said the country must save electricity and adopt clean energy. India recently achieved a major milestone in wind energy. Indias wind energy generation capacity has now exceeded 56 gigawatts. In just the past year, nearly 6 gigawatts of new capacity [] The post India Achieves Major Milestone In Wind Energy; Capacity Now 56 Gigawatts: PM Modi appeared first on Daily Excelsior .

Omar Abdullah runs Bengaluru 10K, praises event organization, flags humidity challenge

Bengaluru, April 26: Jammu and Kashmir Chief Minister Omar Abdullah participated in the TCS World 10K held in Bengaluru on Sunday, describing the race as a world-class event marked by high enthusiasm and strong participation. Speaking to reporters after completing the run, Abdullah said the event stood out for its organization and energy. Amazing event, world-class event, enthusiasm fantastic, he said, reflecting on his experience at one of Indias premier road races. He added that while he began the race at a strong pace, the weather conditions posed a challenge during the run. I started a bit fast, but the humidity of Bengaluru then caught up with me, Abdullah said, pointing to the physical demands posed by the citys climate. The TCS World 10K marathon is among the most prominent long-distance running events in India, drawing elite athletes, amateur runners, and public figures from across India and abroad. The event is known for its international standards and large-scale participation. Abdullah has been an active participant in marathon events in the past as well, having earlier taken part in runs held in Srinagar and Jammu, reflecting his continued interest in fitness and public sporting events. Sundays participation added to the growing presence of political leaders in public sporting platforms, often used to promote health awareness and community engagement. [KNT]

Amit Shah to embark on two-day visit to Ladakh from April 30

Srinagar, Apr 26: Union Home Minister Amit Shah is scheduled to visit Ladakh on April 30 for a two-day trip to review ongoing development projects in the Union Territory. He will also pay his respects to the holy relics of Lord Buddha on the occasion of Buddha Purnima and share his thoughts on the spiritual significance of the sacred exposition being held in Ladakh from May 1 to 14, official sources said on Sunday During his visit, Shah is expected to chair a high-level meeting with senior officers of the UT administration, Army, ITBP, and Central Armed Police Forces to assess the overall security situation. Sources said the Home Minister will also take stock of key infrastructure projects including border roads, mobile connectivity, and the status of Vibrant Villages Programme in forward areas of Eastern Ladakh. It gives me great pleasure in sharing that Hon'ble Union Home Minister, Shri @AmitShah ji will be arriving in Leh on 30th April for a two day visit. On 1st May, he will pay his respects to the Holy Relics of Lord Buddha on the occassion of Buddh Purnima and share his thoughts on the spiritual significance of the sacred exposition being held in Ladakh from 1-14 May, the LG Ladakh said in a post on X. Home Ministers visit underscores the commitment of Government of India for the development of Ladakh. Notably, the visit assumes significance as it comes ahead of the tourist season and in the backdrop of continued talks the LEh Apex Body and Kargil Democratic Alliance over statehood and constitutional safeguards for Ladakh. This will be Amit Shahs second visit to Ladakh as Home Minister after the Union Territory was carved out in 2019.

J&K Minister bats for strict action against drug addicts, calls them 'traitors'

Fit citizens will lead to a healthy society, developed India: Mandaviya

Srinagar, Apr 26: Union Minister for Youth Affairs and Sports, Mansukh Mandaviya, on Sunday said fitness of citizens is essential for a prosperous nation, asserting that a healthy society alone can build a developed India. Speaking on the third day of a three-day Chintan Shivir organised by his ministry on the banks of Dal Lake here in the summer capital city of Srinagar, the Union Sports Minister said a Sunday on Cycle event was held along the lake to promote fitness. If any country wants to become prosperous, its citizens need to be fit. Fit citizens lead to a healthy society, and only a healthy society can build a developed India, the minister said. He said the conclave was welcomed by the people of Kashmir. Union Minister Mandaviya informed that over 16,000 cycle rallies are being organised every Sunday across the country to further the Fit India message. From today, every Sunday, the youth of our country will cycle in Srinagar to spread this message, he added. (KNS)

Trump rushed out of White House Correspondents Dinner after gunfire scare; suspect held

US President Donald Trump was rushed out of the White House Correspondents Dinner on Saturday night after multiple gunshots were reported near the venue, triggering panic among attendees. The US Secret Service later confirmed that the President, the First Lady, Vice President and all other protectees were safe. Officials said a suspected shooter has been apprehended, reports BBC. Eyewitnesses described scenes of chaos inside the ballroom at the Washington Hilton, where the annual event was being held. Journalists and guests ducked under tables as security personnel moved swiftly to secure the area. We all crawled under our table for what felt like a long time, a BBC journalist present at the event said. According to reports, the disturbance began around 8:30 pm local time, when loud noises, initially mistaken for breaking glass, were heard. Within moments, Secret Service agents evacuated the main stage and began ushering attendees out, declaring the venue a crime scene. The presidential motorcade was seen leaving shortly after, and a heavy security cordon was placed around the hotel. In a post on Truth Social, Trump confirmed that all senior officials were in perfect condition and announced that the dinner would be postponed and rescheduled within 30 days. He is expected to address the media shortly from the White House. Authorities have not yet disclosed further details about the suspect or the motive behind the incident.

UAEIndia strategic ties, PakistanSaudi defence pact widen rift between two nations

PakistanUAE ties are showing visible strain over Abu Dhabis strategic and economic engagement with New Delhi, Islamabad s defence cooperation with Saudi Arabia and its overt support for Iran during the recent conflict. These important issues have further complicated the matters between the two countries The relationship has deteriorated further on the economic front. The UAEs decision not to extend the repayment deadline for a $3.5 billion loanoriginally provided to help Pakistan navigate a severe financial crisishas added to Islamabads woes and signalled a cooling of financial support. Together, these factors have contributed to a sharp downturn in bilateral ties, which were once marked by close strategic alignment and robust economic cooperation. UAE President Sheikh Mohamed bin Zayed Al Nahyan has profoundly strengthened strategic ties with India, culminating in a Comprehensive Strategic Partnership and a bilateral trade volume reaching US$ 100 billion in FY 2024-25. Through frequent high-level visits, including in January 2026, the leaders have deepened cooperation in defence, energy, technology, and economic sectors Sheikh Mohammed Bin Zayed paid an official visit to India in January and held extensive talks with Prime Minister Narendra Modi and two leaders acknowledged bilateral defence and security cooperation as a core pillar of the Comprehensive Strategic The bilateral relations between Pakistan and the UAE further deteriorate when the Emirates expressed displeasure over Pakistans neutral stance in regional conflicts involving Iran and Islamabads prioritization of Saudi Arabia and Iran over the UAE Pakistan also supported the Kingdom on the Yemen issue, The UAE was compelled to withdraw its troops from the troubled Yemen after Saudi Arabia gave it 24-hour ultimatum. UAE leadership reportedly communicated to Pakistans Army Chief, Asim Munir, that they felt Pakistan did not show the same level of solidarity with the UAE as it did with other regional partners during the recent conflicts. The strained ties highlight deeper discomfort in Islamabad regarding the growing strategic and economic partnership between the UAE and India, particularly the I2U2 grouping. Despite these strains, both countries officially continue to emphasize their long-standing partnership, with ongoing discussions to convert some debt into investment, though the immediate financial demands point to a significant, at least temporary, cooling in bilateral ties. Pakistans Iran tilt in the West Asian war seems to have further fractured the ties. The UAE came under missile attacks from Tehran during retaliatory strikes against the U S and Israel. Pakistans mediation effort appeared to give too little weight to Emirati security exposure, despite the supposedly close relationship and broader security understandings between the two sides, he said. There are over 1.8 million Pakistani workers who live and work in the UAE, and these migrant workers could face uncertainty if the disagreements between Islamabad and Abu Dhabi worsen and the diplomatic tensions escalate. Kristian Coates, a Middle East fellow at Rice Universitys Baker Institute for Public Policy, warned that a new regional alignment of Turkey and Pakistan drawing closer to the Saudi position, and Israel and the US remaining closely associated with the Emiratis could yet return and that UAE policymakers were likely to continue pursuing their own vision of national and regional interests once the war ended.

ED raids against Raheja Developers in home buyers fraud case

The Enforcement Directorate on Saturday conducted fresh searches against real estate company Raheja Developers as part of a money laundering investigation linked to alleged fraud with home buyers, officials said. They said about seven premises in Delhi-NCR are being covered as part of the action. The agency had raided the company, its promoters and some others in June 2025 too as part of a similar investigation. The latest searches are being conducted in the matter of alleged fraud with the home buyers and non-delivery of flats in its project Raheja Revanta, according to the officials.

Trader fined Rs 6.29 lakh for GST violations in Udhampur

The enforcement team on Saturday imposed a penalty of Rs 6.29 lakh on a trader for violation of GST norms in Udhampur district of Jammu and Kashmir, a spokesman of the Sales Tax Department said. The action was initiated after the trader was found attempting to manage the movement of goods without proper documentation, in clear contravention of GST regulations, he said. He said the trader was under surveillance for approximately 12 days based on specific intelligence inputs from reliable sources. The interception was successfully carried out with the assistance of RFID tracking, enabling effective monitoring of goods movement, the spokesman said. He said the enforcement operation was conducted by a team headed by Inspector Anil Parihar, along with Sub-Inspectors Sanjay Shan, Vikas Kumar, Kanwaljeet Shan and guard Ajay Kumar. The operation was supervised by State Tax Officer Sahida Akhtar and executed under the overall guidance of Deputy Commissioner, State Taxes Enforcement, Jammu North (HQ Udhampur), Anil Kumar Chandail, the spokesman said. Commissioner, State Tax Department, Jammu & Kashmir P K Bhat and Additional Commissioner, Jammu Namrita Dogra, appreciated the efforts of the enforcement team and emphasized the need for continued vigilance and similar proactive interceptions in the future to ensure strict compliance with GST laws.

Startup India FoF 2.0 guidelines issued to streamline funding, boost capital access

The Department for Promotion of Industry and Internal Trade (DPIIT) under the Ministry of Commerce and Industry has released detailed operational guidelines for the Rs 10,000-crore Startup India Fund of Funds 2.0 (FoF 2.0), aimed at improving capital deployment efficiency and widening funding access for startups. The scheme will operate through investments in SEBI-registered Alternative Investment Funds (AIFs), which will subsequently channel funds into DPIIT-recognised startups. Officials stated that this indirect investment model is intended to promote disciplined capital allocation, attract private participation, and ensure broader sectoral and geographic coverage. The Small Industries Development Bank of India (SIDBI) has been designated as the initial implementation agency. It will manage fund deployment through a structured mechanism involving the selection and monitoring of AIFs. DPIIT is also expected to onboard an additional implementation agency to expand outreach and strengthen institutional capacity. Under the framework, FoF 2.0 is positioned as a catalytic fund rather than a direct investor, with a clear mandate to mobilise private capital and generate a multiplier effect within the startup ecosystem. The guidelines introduce segmentation of AIFs into specific categories, including deep-tech funds, micro venture capital funds targeting early-stage startups, funds focused on technology-led manufacturing, and sector-agnostic funds. Each category will function under defined parameters such as corpus size, limits on government contribution, tenure, and minimum private capital requirements, aimed at ensuring targeted and efficient fund utilisation. A two-stage selection process has been outlined for AIFs. The implementation agency will carry out initial screening and due diligence, followed by evaluation by a Venture Capital Investment Committee comprising experts from industry, academia, and the innovation ecosystem. The committee will assess proposals based on fund management expertise, past performance, and investment strategy. The guidelines also provide for co-investment opportunities with ministries, government departments, and institutional investors in priority sectors. Additionally, provisions have been included to allocate a portion of returns towards ecosystem development initiatives such as mentorship programmes and shared infrastructure. Officials indicated that the framework has been designed to remain adaptable to evolving market conditions while maintaining transparency and accountability in fund deployment. The Startup India FoF 2.0 is expected to strengthen domestic venture capital, support innovation-driven enterprises, and enhance Indias position as a global startup hub by leveraging private investment and improving access to growth capital.

PM internship scheme widens net, includes final-year students

The Ministry of Corporate Affairs (MCA) has expanded the eligibility criteria of the Prime Minister Internship Scheme (PMIS), allowing final-year undergraduate and postgraduate students to apply for paid internships in leading companies across India. The move, announced during the pilot phase of the scheme, aims to provide early industry exposure to students and strengthen their employability before completion of formal education. The decision was taken in consultation with the Department of Higher Education under the Ministry of Education. Under the revised guidelines, final-year students aged between 18 and 25 years are now eligible to apply, subject to existing criteria. Applicants will be required to submit a No Objection Certificate (NOC) from their respective institutions, confirming that participation in the internship will not affect their academic commitments. The NOC must be issued by authorised officials such as Heads of Department, Deans, Principals or Training and Placement Officers. The MCA said the changes are aligned with the objectives of the National Education Policy (NEP), which emphasises experiential learning, industry engagement and skill development as key components of higher education. Officials noted that enabling students to undertake structured internships during their academic programmes would help bridge the gap between classroom learning and industry expectations, while equipping them with essential workplace skills such as communication, problem-solving and teamwork. The Prime Minister Internship Scheme is a flagship initiative aimed at providing structured, paid internship opportunities to youth across the country. Interns under the scheme receive a minimum financial assistance of 9,000 per month. More than 300 companies have participated in the pilot phase, offering internships across multiple sectors. The third round of the pilot is currently underway, with companies continuing to post opportunities on the PMIS portal. Eligible candidates can apply through the official portal to explore internship opportunities aligned with their interests and career goals.

HADP gains pace: 1.11 lakh units set up, Rs 368 Cr revenue generated in J&K

Chief Secretary Atal Dulloo on Saturday reviewed the progress and implementation of the Holistic Agriculture Development Programme (HADP), noting significant gains in unit establishment, revenue generation and employment creation across J&K. The programme has so far facilitated the establishment of over 1.11 lakh units, generating an estimated 368 crore in annual revenue and creating more than 2.45 crore man-days of employment, officials said. Chairing a high-level meeting, the Chief Secretary assessed key performance indicators, including financial returns, district-wise outcomes and conversion rates from approvals to operational units. He observed that the programme demonstrates strong financial viability, with a government subsidy of around 450 crore expected to be recovered within approximately 2.6 years through enhanced farm incomes. He directed officials to intensify outreach and ensure wider inclusion of eligible farmers, particularly in districts with lower coverage. Dulloo stressed the need for a data-driven, district-specific strategy to improve the current conversion rate of about 25 percent from approvals to unit establishment. He also called for enhanced training and capacity-building efforts to boost productivity and sustainability. Highlighting HADPs transformative potential, he urged departments to maintain momentum through effective convergence, stronger monitoring mechanisms and time-bound grievance redressal. The Chief Secretary also directed faster processing of applications, improved farmer registration and eKYC completion, and scaling up of high-value agricultural activities. On Kisan Khidmat Ghars (KKGs), he called for strengthening service delivery by expanding licensing and integrating banking and digital services. Additional Chief Secretary, Agriculture Production Department, Dr Ashish Chandra Verma, informed the meeting that the programme has benefited 74,589 farming families across all 20 districts, though overall coverage remains at around 8.1 percent of the PM-Kisan beneficiary base, indicating scope for expansion. Managing Director, J&K Bank, Amitava Chatterjee, presented a roadmap focusing on digital integration and stakeholder onboarding to enhance efficiency and outreach, assuring full institutional support. MD HADP, Dr Sagar Doifode Dattatray, said the programme has generated an estimated annual profit of 173 crore at the beneficiary level, translating into an average income increase of about 25,000 per family. He added that over 92.9 percent of units are functional and nearly 99 percent have been physically verified. District-wise review showed better performance in Kulgam, Ganderbal and Shopian, while Poonch, Kishtwar and Reasi were identified for focused intervention. Officials also noted that large-scale projects such as integrated farming systems, mechanisation and fodder development are driving growth, while high-value sectors like dairy and agri-marketing require further scaling. The meeting was informed that 1,807 Kisan Khidmat Ghars are currently operational across the Union Territory, serving over 8 lakh farmers and generating a combined monthly revenue of 43.52 lakh. HADP, comprising 29 integrated projects across agriculture, horticulture and livestock sectors, aims to enhance sustainability, profitability and resilience by providing financial incentives, skill development and improved market linkages.

CM Omar pitches J&K as premier filming destination during Bengaluru outreach

Chief Minister Omar Abdullah today interacted with filmmakers in Bengaluru, showcasing Jammu & Kashmirs scenic beauty and rich cultural heritage as an ideal destination for cinema. A delegation of leading film producers and representatives of major production houses met the Chief Minister to explore opportunities for film production and collaboration. The Chief Minister assured full support and a friendly, enabling environment for artists, reiterating the Governments commitment to making filmmaking in J&K easier and more accessible. The interaction formed part of the Jammu & Kashmir Governments focused outreach in South India, aimed at building stronger connections with key stakeholders in the regions tourism and film industries. Recognising South India as a major hub of cinema, creativity, and outbound tourism, the initiative seeks to position J&K as a preferred destination for both filmmakers and travellers. During the engagement, the Chief Minister highlighted J&Ks unparalleled natural beauty, diverse landscapes, and rich cultural heritage, ranging from serene valleys and snow-clad mountains to vibrant traditions and local craftsmanship. He also underlined recent policy measures introduced to facilitate film production in J&K, including streamlined permission processes, logistical support, and incentives for production houses. Assuring full cooperation, the Chief Minister said that the Government is committed to providing a safe, supportive and enabling environment for artists and filmmakers. He added that continuous engagement with the film fraternity will help address their requirements and strengthen collaboration. The Chief Minister also emphasised the role of cinema in boosting tourism, noting that films shot in J&K can significantly enhance its visibility and inspire travel, thereby generating economic opportunities for local communities. The interaction was also attended by Advisor to the Chief Minister Nasir Aslam Wani, MLA Zadibal Tanvir Sadiq, Director Tourism Jammu Vikas Gupta, and other concerned officials.

Census 2027 to be Indias first fully digital population count, caste data to be included

India is set to undertake its first-ever digital Census in 2027, marking a major shift in how the country collects and processes population data, reports Press Information Bureau. The exercise, backed by an outlay of 11,718.24 crore, will also include caste enumeration for the first time since Independence, following a decision by the Cabinet Committee on Political Affairs in April 2025. The Census, conducted under the provisions of the Census Act 1948, remains one of the largest administrative exercises in the world. Census 2027 will be the 16th such exercise overall and the eighth since Independence. The last Census due in 2021 was postponed due to the COVID-19 pandemic. For the first time, enumerators will use mobile applications for data collection, replacing traditional paper-based methods. The government has also developed a dedicated Census Management and Monitoring System to track progress in near real-time at district, state and national levels. A key citizen-centric feature is the option for self-enumeration through an online portal, allowing households to submit their data before the enumerators visit. Officials say this will help speed up the process and improve accuracy. The use of geo-referenced mapping tools and satellite imagery for creating enumeration blocks is also expected to ensure complete coverage without duplication. Two-phase exercise The Census will be conducted in two phases. The first phase, the Houselisting and Housing Census, will take place between April and September 2026, capturing details on housing conditions, assets and amenities. The second phase, Population Enumeration, is scheduled for February 2027 and will record detailed demographic, socio-economic and cultural information. It will also include caste enumeration, a politically significant addition to the exercise. For snow-bound regions such as Ladakh and parts of Jammu and Kashmir, Himachal Pradesh and Uttarakhand, the population count will be conducted earlier, in September 2026. The reference date for the Census has been fixed as March 1, 2027. Officials have emphasised that data confidentiality will remain a key pillar of the exercise. Under existing law, individual data collected during the Census cannot be shared publicly, used in court, or disclosed under the RTI Act. The government has also put in place a robust digital security system, including encrypted data transmission and storage in secure data centres designated as Critical Information Infrastructure, compliant with global standards. Preparations are already underway, including a nationwide pre-test conducted in 2025 covering around 5,000 census blocks. Administrative boundaries have been frozen as of January 1, 2026, to ensure consistency. The exercise will involve nearly 31 lakh enumerators and supervisors, along with over one lakh officials. More than 80,000 training sessions are being organised to equip them with digital tools and procedures. Officials estimate that the Census operations will generate over one crore man-days of employment. Experts note that Census data remains critical for governance, helping shape policies on welfare, infrastructure, healthcare and resource allocation. With the addition of digital tools and caste data, Census 2027 is expected to provide more granular and timely insights. The government says the exercise will strengthen evidence-based policymaking and ensure that development programmes are better targeted to meet the needs of Indias diverse population.

Modi Govt accelerated integration of Kashmir with improved connectivity: Dr Jitendra

Union Minister of State in PMO Dr Jitendra Singh Saturday reiterated that the Prime Minister Narendra Modi prioritised infrastructural development in J&K and his government Modi govt accelerated integration of Kashmir with improved connectivity including rail network. He was speaking to the media after presiding over the launching ceremony of the Jammu and Kashmir chapter of the Dr Ambedkar Chamber of Commerce here in an event at Jammu University. Announcing that the Vande Bharat Express service between Jammu and Srinagar would commence from 30 April, he informed, The number of coaches in the train has also been increased to 20 instead of the current 8. Dr Jitendra expressed gratitude to the Prime Minister Narendra Modi for prioritising infrastructure development in Jammu and Kashmir. He noted that while the rail network had reached Jammu in 1962, expansion remained stalled for several decades. Renewed efforts in recent years have accelerated progress, resulting in improved connectivity and integration of the Kashmir valley with the rest of the country, he said. Earlier Dr Jitendra, who is also the Union Minister of State (independent charge) for Science and Technology and Earth Sciences besides being the MoS PMO, Personnel, Public Grievances, Pensions, Atomic Energy and Space, launched the J&K chapter of the Dr Ambedkar Chamber of Commerce. He called for developing entrepreneurship mindset and an investment-oriented approach among Scheduled Caste (SC) community and other weaker sections of society to avail benefits of schemes rolled out by the Narendra Modi government. Addressing the gathering in Jammu University, Dr Jitendra stated that the government created a wholesome system for weaker sections, including SCs and STs for handholding and supporting them right from the early age. He underlined that members of marginalised sections should move beyond reliance solely on government employment and actively explore opportunities in entrepreneurship and enterprise development. Highlighting the initiatives of the government led by Prime Minister Narendra Modi, he said that a series of targetted schemes were introduced with a central focus on the upliftment of weaker sections of society. He termed Jan Dhan scheme as a financial inclusion initiative and described MUDRA loan scheme as a transformative step in enabling access to credit. He also referred to the Vishwakarma Yojana, aimed at preserving traditional crafts while creating sustainable livelihood opportunities. Dr Jitendra stated that statistical evidence reflected the positive impact of these schemes on the socio-economic advancement of Dalits and other marginalised groups. He noted a visible rise in aspirations among these communities, pointing out that candidates from humble backgrounds were increasingly succeeding in competitive examinations, including civil services. He also referred to the elevation of an Adivasi (Scheduled Tribe) woman as the President of India, a reflection of social empowerment. The Union Minister emphasised the importance of creating greater awareness about government welfare schemes to ensure maximum outreach and benefit. He highlighted initiatives such as Vigyan Jyoti, aimed at promoting scientific temper and innovation among girls. Referring to regional efforts, Dr Jitendra mentioned Khadi promotion camps organised in Udhampur district, where subsidies amounting to Rs 50 Cr were distributed in a single day. He noted that beneficiaries largely came from the Kashmir valley and stressed the need to expand awareness about such opportunities. Dr Jitendra Singh further listed several schemes supporting marginalized communities, including pre-matric and post-matric scholarships for SCs, STs and OBCs, Dr Ambedkar scholarships, National Fellowship for OBCs in biotechnology, inclusivity grants under the National Research Foundation (Anusandhan), Rozgar Melas providing employment opportunities, Venture Capital Fund for SCs and OBCs and the Ambedkar Innovation and Incubation Mission. He also highlighted region-specific initiatives such as the Aroma Mission, which provided alternative and sustainable livelihood opportunities and Science Technology Innovation Hubs, where a significant proportion of beneficiaries were from SC communities.

LoP must answer to people over statehood delay: Deputy CM

Deputy Chief Minister Jammu and Kashmir Surinder Choudhary on Saturday said the Leader of Opposition Sunil Sharma will have to answer to the people for the delay in restoration of statehood to Jammu and Kashmir, asserting that the demand reflects the aspirations of the people and a promise made by the BJP. Talking to media persons on the sidelines of a programme in Jammu, Deputy CM Surinder Choudhary said that both he and LoP Sunil Sharma come from a remote area and it is blessing of almighty that both are at good position in Jammu and Kashmir and this opportunity should be used for welfare of people. In a recent statement, LoP Sunil Sharma made high voltage remarks against Abdullah family which should be avoided and we must not make remarks, he said. Taking a dig at LoP Sunil Sharma, Deputy CM Surinder Choudhary said that the demand for restoration of statehood is not only by National Conference but it is the demand of people of J&K and it was also a promise made with the people by BJP. He is also answerable before the people and should always remember that BJP promised the people of J&K for restoration of statehood and he (LoP) will be answerable before public for this. he stated. Surinder Choudhary claimed that development in Jammu and Kashmir has gained immense pace since Chief Minister Omar Abdullah led Government took over and work on all the pending buildings, road projects, bridges is going on at war scale and these works will be inaugurated shortly after completion.

When memories come in swarms, emotions flow like cascade

It was a cascading flow of emotions built around cherished memories, both sweet-n-sour spanning decades. Memories were coming in swarms as a towering persona in the realm of broadcasting, literature and cultural activism across the country and even abroad, Dr Rafeeq Masoodi was delineating self and his illustrious literary journey. Sopore, known for its vibrant political history, dominated the discourses, yet pleasantly only for its literary connection as Dr Masoodi traced his (literary) journey from his native place, i.e., serene Dangiwacha of Rafiabad, to his prestigious alma mater JNU and then across the length and breadth of the country. Friendly banters among old pals, colleagues amused the gathering bound by delicate literary thread in the programme organised by Jammu and Kashmir Academy of Art, Culture and Languages (JKAACL) on its former Secretary Dr Rafeeq Masoodi under the series Meet the Eminent at Abhinav Theatre on Saturday. The event, focused on Dr Masoodi, a retired officer of the Indian Broadcasting Service (IBS), titled Main Aur Meri Sahityik Yatra (Me and My Literary Journey) witnessed the participation of eminent literary personalities, scholars and enthusiasts. For the illustrious audience also, it was an interesting sojourn to explore different facets of former Additional Director General of Doordarshan (Dr Masoodi) as a poet, writer, administrator, philanthropist and above all a witty human being. Earlier, at the outset, Secretary JKAACL, Harvinder Kaur, formally welcomed the distinguished guests and participants. In her address, she elaborated on the Academys sustained efforts to nurture literary culture, promote meaningful dialogue and provide a vibrant platform for writers and scholars. She particularly underscored the importance of documenting and celebrating the literary journeys of distinguished personalities like Dr Masoodi, whose contributions enriched the cultural and intellectual landscape of Jammu and Kashmir. The recorded messages of Principal Secretary Culture Brij Mohan Sharma and the former Principal Secretary Suresh Gupta eulogising the contribution of Dr Masoodi towards the expansion of JKAACL and growth of culture and literature in J&K during his (Dr Masoodis) tenure (in various capacities) too were played during the event. Notably, Dr Masoodi is the patron of Adbi Markaz Kamraz, the literary and linguistic organisation in J&K, also. In his keynote address, Dr Agnishekhar presented a deeply engaging and reflective discourse about his pal (Dr Masoodi). He fondly recalled his early association with Dr Masoodi, sharing personal anecdotes that highlighted his intellectual depth, literary sensibilities and administrative acumen. Our association dates back to the days in Government Degree College (GDC) Sopore in 1971 or 72 when Rafeeq (Dr Masoodi) joined Hindi classes in PUC at the insistence of Prof Ghulam Rasool Bacha. Prof Bacha had entrusted the responsibility of teaching him Hindi to me and our other friend Vinod Chadha. To everyones bewilderment, he (Rafeeq) cleared Hindi exams too while a Pandit student failed. It was Rafiqs perseverance which worked in his favour, Dr Agnishekhar reminisced. For many among the audience, the transition of Kuldeep Sumbli to the litterateur Dr Agnishekhar (pen-name) was also a revelation amid the cascading flow of memories. Another interesting nugget in the literary discourse was how Rafeeq was given the pen-name of Rafeeq Das following the analogy of Surdas, Kabir Das etc. Most significant aspect of Rafeeq, who has carved his niche as a multi-dimensional personality, is genial nature devoid of any ego, Dr Agnishekhar asserted, while recalling many cherished moments. His speech eloquently portrayed Dr Masoodi as a creative writer and a dedicated public servant, whose works reflected both sensitivity and social commitment. On the occasion, Nisar Azam presented a comprehensive and well-researched paper on Dr Masoodis literary oeuvre, with specific focus on his poetry in Kashmiri. He critically examined the thematic richness, stylistic nuances and socio-cultural relevance of his poetry, drawing appreciation from the audience for his scholarly insight and analytical depth. Dr Masoodi with his simplicity weaved in poetry compels the readers to pause and reflect upon the deep sensibilities. The most significant aspect of his poetry is that he introduces Maun (silence) evocatively and in the most eloquent manner, Nisar Azam stated. In his address, Dr Rafeeq Masoodi shared an illuminating account of his literary journey, interwoven with experiences from his public service. He fondly recalled his childhood friends Prem Nath Prem and Chaman Lal and Sopore college days where he was literally dragged out of his class by Prof Bacha to make him study Hindi, though against his (Rafeeqs) wish. Prof Bachas assertion was he wanted to repay what my father invested in him, Dr Masoodi reminisced. He profusely quoted incidents, cherished moments related to Dr Agnishekhar (then Kuldeep Sumbli), Vinod Chadha, Vijay Mohini Kaul who taught them, eminent broadcaster Shanta Kaul, Shehnaz Rashid, Aziz Hajini among others. Prof Bacha, renowned linguist Dr Namvar Singh and geographer of international repute Prof Moonis Raza shaped me into what Im today. They chiselled my persona, Dr Masoodi poignantly remembered, while sharing a treasure of memories. While reciting nuggets of poetry, he also remembered his father, mother and wife. Dr Masoodi spoke about the evolving literary environment, the challenges faced by contemporary writers, and the pressing need to preserve linguistic and cultural diversity. He emphasised that institutions like the Academy could play a pivotal role in fostering creativity, encouraging young writers and safeguarding the regions literary heritage. Dr Masoodi did not show any inhibition in mentioning the vigilance case filed against him as he disclosed that facts would find a glimpse in his upcoming book Tainted Me. The programme was presided over by prominent (bureaucrat-turned) Punjabi and Urdu litterateur Khalid Hussain, who, in his presidential remarks, highlighted the transformative power of literature in shaping societal values and fostering critical thinking. He remarked that such programmes served as vital forums for intellectual exchange and cultural continuity. A significant observation in Khalid Hussains engaging discourse was that while post-partition literature depicted shared pain, agony with humanistic approach and satire, post-90 literature bordered on divisive narrative. Politics of hatred never serves any purpose, he said, while sharing poignant moments from his personal life related to his son. The occasion also marked the release of Dogri translation of Dr Masoodis book My Pain, My Affliction. Among the distinguished attendees were prominent litterateurs Dr Jitendra Udhampuri, Prof (Dr) Lalit Magotra, Professor Rajkumar, Dr Naseeb Singh Manhas, Baljeet Singh Raina, Sonali Arun Gupta, Additional Secretary, JKAACL and Dr Javaid Rahi, Chief Editor, Gojri whose presence added to the significance of the occasion. Dr Jitendra Udhampuri, Prof Lalit Magotra, Dr Nasib Singh Manhas and Dr Javaid Rahi in their brief addresses acknowledged the significant contribution of Dr Masoodi as a litterateur and an administrator. The proceedings were efficiently conducted by Dr Chanchal Sharma, ensuring smooth flow and engagement throughout the event. The programme concluded with a formal vote of thanks presented by Lal Chand, who expressed gratitude to all participants, speakers and the audience for making the event a meaningful and memorable literary gathering.