Opinion

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

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

Doodhpathri Master Plan reviewed

Budgam, Apr 23:Deputy Commissioner (DC) Budgam, Athar Aamir Khan, on Thursday chaired a meeting at the DC Office Complex Budgam to review and finalise the mechanism for preparation of the Master Plan for Doodhpathri. The meeting focused on formulation of the Master Plan in accordance with SRO 525, the Jammu and Kashmir Development Act, 1970, and Government Order No 262-TSM of 2005, with special emphasis on the inclusion and planned development of areas notified under the Doodhpathri Development Authority (DDA). The meeting was attended by senior officers including the Chief Executive Officer Doodhpathri Development Authority (DDA), Chief Town planner Kashmir, Assistant Commissioner Revenue Budgam, SE R&B circle Budgam, Sub-Divisional Magistrate Khansahib, ASP Budgam, Divisional Forest Officer PirPanjal Division Budgam, and Divisional Head of the Ecology and Environment Department. During the meeting, the DC conducted a comprehensive review of the ongoing Master Plan preparation for Doodhpathri and stressed the need for adopting modern technological interventions to ensure accuracy, transparency, and long-term sustainability. The DC directed for completion of the GIS based mapping, ground level demarcation and detailed survey of the notified areas. He asked the Chief Town Planner Kashmir to involve expert institutions on master preparation for the exercise. The DC directed the concerned departments to work in close coordination and ensure timely completion of demarcation, digitization, and time bound completion of the Master Plan exercise.

Presentation Convent School hosts 16th inter-school rolling trophy debate

Srinagar, Apr 23:Presentation Convent Secondary School Rajbagh Thursday organised the 16th Venerable Nano Nagle Inter School Rolling Trophy Debate. A statement of the Presentation Convent school issued here said that 11 leading schools of Kashmir participated in the debate. The young debaters expressed their ideas and views on the topic 'NEP 2020 Ensures Inclusive and Equitable Quality Education and Lifelong Opportunities for All.' P J Johnson founder Principal, G D Goenka Public School Srinagar graced the occasion as the chief guest. The esteemed panel of judges included IffatMaqbool, Professor English Department, Kashmir University, Sheikh Gulzar Ahmad, senior academic officer in the languages branch SCERT and Farzana Syed news editor All India Radio, Srinagar. After an engaging and thoughtful debate, St Joseph, Baramulla won the runner-up trophy and the winners trophy was bagged by Presentation Convent Higher Secondary School. ToibaMushtaq from Saint Joseph Baramulla and Zoha from Presentation Convent won the best speaker trophy. The event was a grand success, the statement said.

Competency based medical education kickstarts at SKIMS Medical College

Srinagar, Apr 23:The Department of Community Medicine at SKIMS Medical College, Bemina, conducted the first session of the Innovative CBME Session Series in the Board Room of the institution. The session was organised under the patronage of Prof FazlQadirParray, Principal SKIMS Medical College, with the objective of sensitizing faculty members and senior residents to the principles and practical aspects of Competency-Based Medical Education (CBME). The session witnessed enthusiastic participation from faculty and senior residents belonging to various pre-clinical and para-clinical departments. This interdisciplinary participation added depth to the discussions and highlighted the collective commitment towards improving medical education practices. The programme commenced with a brief brainstorming exercise titled From Known to Unknown, conducted by Dr Yasmeen, DrQudsia, and DrManoj. This activity aimed to explore the participants baseline understanding of CBME and served as an engaging introduction to the topic. It encouraged active participation and set the tone for an interactive session. This was followed by a comprehensive slide presentation on 'CBME: The Basics,' delivered by DrAshfaq Ahmad Bhat. The presentation elaborated on the conceptual framework of CBME, emphasising goal-oriented teaching and the importance of a systems-based approach in curriculum design. The session provided valuable insights into the transition from traditional teaching methods to a competency-driven educational model. Subsequently, participants were engaged in reflection writing, facilitated by DrBeenish and DrAltaf. This segment allowed attendees to introspect and articulate their understanding and key takeaways from the session, reinforcing the concept of reflective learning as an integral component of CBME. An 'Exit Ticket' exercise was then conducted by Dr Fahd Bukhari and DrLabeeb Mir, wherein participants provided feedback and summarised their learning points. This helped in assessing the immediate impact of the session and identifying areas for further improvement. The session concluded with a brief discussion and closing remarks, during which participants queries were addressed and information regarding upcoming sessions in the CBME series was shared. Overall, the session was highly interactive and informative, successfully laying a strong foundation for understanding CBME principles among faculty and senior residents. It marked an important step towards strengthening competency-based teaching practices within the institution.

Mock drill conducted at GDC Ganderbal

Ganderbal, Apr 23:Police in Ganderbal conducted a comprehensive mock drill at Government Degree College (GDC) Ganderbal aimed to enhance the public preparedness and response during blackout and crisis situations. The primary objective of the exercise was to familiarise students, staff, and the general public with coordinated emergency response mechanisms in the event of unforeseen contingencies. The drill simulated real-time scenarios to ensure effective coordination and swift action. The mock drill witnessed active participation from the civil administration, SDRF, and Traffic Police, reflecting a unified approach towards disaster management and public safety. Police reiterated its commitment to strengthen the community awareness and to ensure readiness to tackle emergency situations through such proactive initiatives. This followed by a district wide blackout exercise from 8 pm to 8:10 pm.

Air raid mock drills, blackout exercises in Shopian, Baramulla today

Srinagar, Apr 23: In a move aimed at strengthening emergency preparedness and civil defence mechanisms, the District Disaster Management Authorities of Shopian and Baramulla have scheduled large-scale air raid mock drills and blackout exercises on Friday. According to officials, the exercise in Shopian will take place at Government Degree College in two phases. The first phase - a simulated air raid mock drill - will begin at 2 pm, followed by a blackout exercise from 8 pm to 8:10 pm. In Baramulla, similar drills will be conducted at Showkat Ali Stadium, with the mock exercise scheduled for 12 noon and the blackout phase also set for 8 pm. The coordinated drills will see participation from multiple agencies, including police, State Disaster Response Force (SDRF), Civil Defence, Fire and Emergency Services, Health, and Education departments, among others. These agencies will work in tandem to simulate real-time emergency scenarios and test response coordination under pressure. Officials said the exercises will replicate situations such as air raid sirens, emergency evacuations, search and rescue operations, casualty management, and inter-agency coordination in line with established standard operating procedures. Special emphasis will be placed on communication systems, rapid mobilization of resources, and public safety protocols during crisis situations. Authorities have reiterated that the drills are purely precautionary and part of routine preparedness measures, urging residents not to panic. Citizens have been advised to cooperate with officials, adhere to instructions issued during the drills, and switch off lights during the designated blackout period to simulate real conditions. Movement in and around the drill locations may be temporarily regulated to ensure smooth execution. Officials also cautioned the public against spreading rumours or misinformation, emphasising the importance of staying informed through official channels. The initiative reflects a broader effort by district administrations across J&K to enhance disaster readiness and ensure that both authorities and civilians are better equipped to respond effectively in emergency situations.

644 tonnes of cherries to be transported from J&K to Mumbai

Jammu, Apr 23:In yet another revolutionary achievement of Jammu Railway Division, aiming at benefitting horticulturists of Jammu and Kashmir, 644 tonnes of cherries will be transported from J&K to Mumbai. Establishing close coordination with cherry fruit growers in J&K, the Jammu Division of Northern Railway has successfully booked requisitions for 28 parcel vans for the transportation of cherries to Bandra Terminus during the 2026 season. Each parcel van has a capacity of 23 tonnes. Currently, the processing of these parcel van requisitions for cherries is underway, said Raghvender Singh, Public Relations Inspector, Jammu Railway Division. According to Singh, the requisitions represent an increase of approximately 100 percent compared to the previous season. All 28 requisitions have been duly registered by the users. These requisitions for Bandra Terminus are primarily intended for the cherry season, spanning from May 25 to July 10, for consignments originating from Jammu and Shri Mata Vaishno Devi Katra Railway Stations. Elaborating about the unique initiative, Singh said, There are 7 requisitions for consignments to be loaded from Jammu to Bandra Terminus while 21 requisitions for consignments will be loaded from Shri Mata Vaishno Devi Katra Station for same destination (Bandra Terminus). In the year 2025, approximately 14 parcel vans of cherries were transported from Shri Mata Vaishno Devi Katra Railway Station to Bandra Terminus via train number 12472, marking a historic initiative. Senior Divisional Commercial Manager (DCM), Jammu Railway Division, UchitSinghal, said, The year 2026 is set to be another historic year for the Jammu Division. Our continuous dialogue and coordination with fruit growers in Kashmir are yielding consistently successful results. We have registered 28 indents for Bandra Terminus for the current cherry season - a figure that represents a remarkable increase compared to last year. He said that the primary objective was to provide the horticulturists of Kashmir with a safe and rapid mode of transport, free from the uncertainties associated with road travel. This service will run directly from Jammu and Shri Mata Vaishno Devi Katra to Bandra Terminus. The Railways is committed not only to reducing freight costs but also to ensuring that perishable fruits, such as cherries, reach their destination within 30-33 hours while retaining their absolute freshness. This initiative is poised to prove a milestone in the economic progress of the farmers in the Valley, Singhal said. He said that the initiative by Indian Railways underscored its commitment to providing the horticulturists of Kashmir with a reliable and efficient means to safely and timely transport their perishable produce to distant markets.

India takes anti-terror message to Capitol Hill

New Delhi, Apr 23:The Embassy of India in Washington DC, organised one of its largest-ever outreach events on Capitol Hill this week, hosting a special exhibition on the human cost of terrorism at the Cannon House Office Building, drawing significant bipartisan participation from US lawmakers and officials. Held at the Cannon Caucus Room on April 22, the exhibition marked the first anniversary of the Pahalgam terror attack in J&K, in which 26 civilians were killed. The exhibition also served as a solemn commemoration of the first anniversary of the Pahalgam terror attack in J&K, where 26 civilians lost their lives. The tragedy, which sent shockwaves across India and beyond, was remembered through personal stories, visual documentation, and survivor accounts, underlining the enduring human cost of terrorism and the need for sustained global action against terrorism. The exhibition saw the participation of 19 Members of the US Congress cutting across party lines, along with representatives from more than 60 Congressional offices. Attendees included lawmakers and staff from key committees, including Foreign Affairs, Intelligence, Armed Services, Judiciary, and Homeland Security, highlighting the strategic importance of counterterrorism cooperation. Senior officials from the US administration, members of the Indian diaspora, students, media, and policy think tanks were also present in large numbers, making it one of the most well-attended Indian diplomatic events on Capitol Hill in recent years. Through interactive displays, video installations, and personal testimonies, the exhibition highlighted the devastating and long-term impact of terrorism on victims, families, and communities. It served both as a tribute to those who lost their lives and as a platform to reinforce international resolve against terrorism. Indias Ambassador to the US, Vinay Kwatra, reiterated New Delhis uncompromising stance on terrorism. Echoing Prime Minister Narendra Modi, he said, India will never bow to any form of terror. Members of Congress present at the event expressed strong solidarity with India and emphasised their commitment to deepening the India-US partnership in counterterrorism efforts, signalling continued bipartisan support for closer strategic cooperation.

Deputy CM calls for safety alignment of Ramnagar accident site

Udhampur, Apr 23:Deputy Chief Minister, Surinder Choudhary, Thursday called for safety alignment construction at Kaghoti Ramnagar accident site after detailed inspection of the spot. Expressing deep sorrow over the loss of lives in the recent bus accident, the Deputy Chief Minister, as per an official statement, called for immediate road safety alignment and a comprehensive safety audit of concrete parapet and protection walls across the 13 kilometres long Udhampur- Ramnagar stretch. We have lost many innocent lives in the unfortunate accident, however, responsibility shall be fixed on it, he said. The concerned Chief Engineer were instructed to prepare a plan after due consultation with the consultancy and ensure that the measures are enforced to prevent such tragic mishaps in the future. The Deputy Chief Minister who conducted an extensive tour of to assess progress of ongoing infrastructure works across Udhampur District stressed strict adherence to quality standards, timely completion, and accountability at all levels. He inspected the under-construction PWD Dak Bungalow at Udhampur and emphasized timely completion of the renovation works. He directed the officials to ensure that all the works are completed by May 2026. As part of the day-long tour, the Deputy Chief Minister also inspected several key road and bridge projects across the district, including Majalta Bridge, Doder Nallah Gudar Bridge and the DhanaBunal road. He directed the concerned to expedite the pace of work while maintaining the highest quality standards to ensure timely completion. Additionally, he reviewed the ongoing permanent protection works along the SidraSuransarMansar road, emphasizing durable and resilient construction at all flood-affected stretches. Reiterating the governments commitment to robust infrastructure development, the Deputy Chief Minister called for strict adherence to the set guidelines and quality benchmarks across all projects. He asserted that accountability must be ensured for any lapses, warning that action including blacklisting of contractors would be considered in cases of substandard work. The Deputy Chief Minister said that the government remains focused on strengthening the infrastructure, enhancing road safety and ensuring sustainable development across Jammu and Kashmir. During the visit, the Deputy Chief Minister also carried out surprise inspections of local stone crushers and macadam plants at Birma Pull, directing the officials to ensure strict compliance with the mining norms. He warned that any laxity would be dealt with strictly as per rules. He also assessed the ongoing mining operations and asked for ensuring strict ban on illegal mining operations. Chief Engineer PMGSY, Purshotam Kumar, Chief Engineer DIQC Atul Bali, SDM Ramnagar, SDPO, SEs, Tehsildars, Executive Engineers and other concerned officers accompanied the Deputy Chief Minister during the daylong tour.

Mystery shrouds doctors death in Doda

Jammu, Apr 23:The mysterious death of a young doctor from Jammu in Doda district has taken a serious turn, with the bereaved family alleging foul play and rejecting the possibility of an accidental fall, while demanding a fair and thorough investigation. Dr Prabhjot Chalotra, a resident of the Bahu Fort area in Jammu, was found dead in a gorge in the Gandoh area of Doda on April 20 under suspicious circumstances. His body was handed over to the family a day later. Family members have expressed strong reservations over the preliminary claims suggesting that the doctor may have slipped into the gorge, asserting that the circumstances surrounding his death indicate a possible conspiracy. We do not believe this is an accidental fall. The condition in which the body was found raises serious concerns, a family member said, calling for a high-level probe. In a video statement circulated on social media, the deceaseds sister Urmila pointed to several inconsistencies, stating, The incident does not appear to be a simple case of slipping from a cliff. She urged authorities to investigate all possible angles. She questioned the nature of injuries, claiming that despite reports of a fall from a 300-foot cliff, her brother reportedly sustained only a head injury, with no major fractures or bodily injuries. Officials said he fell from a height of 300 feet. How is it possible that there are no fractures or multiple injuries? Also, we were told locals helped recover the body, but there is not a single photo or video of the rescue, she said. The family further alleged that both of the deceaseds phones had been formatted and his social media accounts deactivated, raising additional suspicion. They have appealed to the LG administration and police Department for a transparent investigation to uncover the truth at the earliest. Meanwhile, police in Gandoh have initiated an inquiry into the incident and have reportedly detained a person for questioning. However, officials have not issued any detailed statement regarding the individuals role. Sources indicated that multiple angles, including the possibility of foul play, were being examined, though no official confirmation had been made so far.

Police seize foreign pistol, 13-live rounds from drug peddler in Jammu

Jammu, Apr 23:In a massive strike aligned with the Union Territorys Nasha Mukt Abhiyan, Police in Jammu have achieved a major success in dismantling a lethal narco-terror link with the seizure of a foreign (US made) pistol, 13 live rounds besides high-grade heroin, mobiles from a drug peddler in Bishnah. Peddler was apprehended on the spot.In a separate operation, the Police arrested two drug peddlers with heroin, cash amount of Rs 25,410 and six mobiles foiling drug distribution attempt at village Chak Chua in Bishnah area. During a high-vigilance operation on April 21, 2026, a specialised team from Police Station Bishnah intercepted a grey Baleno, bearing registration number JK21G-3867 and recovered a sophisticated US-made Beretta pistol with 13 live rounds besides approximately 256 grams of high-grade heroin (Chitta), 2 mobile phones and a weighing machine at Mehmoodpur naka in Bishnah. Related to this, a case FIR No 67/2026 U/S 8/21/22/25 NDPS Act, 3/25 Arms Act was registered at Police Station Bishnah, SP Headquarters Anna Lata Sinha, while addressing a press conference, said, adding, This successful interception effectively neutralised a significant threat to regional security, preventing both the spread of lethal narcotics and the potential for armed violence. The accused, identified as Amit Kumar, son of Swaran Lal, resident of Sehora, tehsil Bishnah was apprehended on the spot after he failed to provide any legal justification for the possession of the contraband and the illegal firearm. Following strict protocols under the NDPS Act and Arms Act, the police have formally registered a case and initiated an intensive investigation to trace the supply chain and potential linkages associated with this seizure. This recovery stands as one of the most significant in recent months, highlighting a dangerous nexus between drug trafficking and illegal weaponry that the Jammu Police is determined to crush, Superintendent of Police Headquarters said. This operation reflects the ironclad resolve of the Jammu Police zone headquarters to eradicate the drug menace and uphold the sanctity of public safety. A stern warning is issued to all anti-social elements - there is zero room for drug peddling or illegal arms in our society, and the law will act with maximum severity. The police urge the citizens of Jammu and Kashmir to continue their proactive support by sharing information regarding suspicious activities. Together, under the banner of a drug-free J&K, we will safeguard our youth and ensure a secure future for all, SP Hqs Sinha stated. In a separate operation causing a major blow to the local narcotics trade, she informed that the Police in Jammu intercepted and foiled a significant drug distribution attempt at village Chak Chua in Bishnah. On April 21, 2026, due to the anniversary of Pahalgam massacre, a special naka was established and during specialised naka operation, a team from Police Station Bishnah intercepted a Thar car, bearing registration number JK02DJ-9906. Upon a meticulous search, the team recovered 16 grams of heroin (Chitta), Rs 25,410 in cash suspected to be drug proceeds, 6 mobile phones and a weighing machine, SP Headquarters said. According to SP Sinha, the occupants of the car - Lovely Singh Manhas alias Kalu, resident of Kothi Morh, a known criminal, against whom cases of abduction, attempt to murder were already registered and Sarwan Kumar, resident of R S Pura, were apprehended on the spot after they failed to account for the contraband, which was clearly packaged for illicit sale. A formal case FIR No 66/2026 U/S 8/21/22/25/29 NDPS Act was registered at Police Station Bishnah and a high-level investigation was currently underway to dismantle the forward and backward linkages of the syndicate, she said. The seizure of multiple mobile phones is a critical lead, as digital forensics will be used to track the supply chain and identify the kingpins behind this operation. This crackdown is part of a broader, intensified offensive by the Jammu Police zone headquarter to purge the region of narcotics and ensure that those who attempt to profit from the destruction of our youth face the maximum penalties under the law, SP Sinha added.

Chip, chip, chipping away: Are GoI & Election Commission rewriting poll rules unilaterally and putting democracy in peril?

A proposed change to Lok Sabha seats and issues with voter roll revisions raise concerns. Independent institutions, like the Election Commission, are seen as acting with discretion. This pattern of unilateral rule-setting weakens democratic competition. Millions of citizens now question the fairness of upcoming polls.

LG Sinha attends foundation day of Sarv Shakti Chandi Mata Mandir, Dhammi, Nagrota

Jammu, Apr 23:Lieutenant Governor Manoj Sinha Thursday attended the foundation day of Sarv Shakti Chandi Mata Mandir at Dhammi, Nagrota. The Lieutenant Governor, as per an official statement, paid obeisance at the holy temple and prayed for peace, prosperity and well-being of all. The religious proceedings were marked by the lighting of the Akhand Jyot and the traditional reciting of Ved Path. During his visit, the Lieutenant Governor also reviewed the ongoing construction works of Yatri Halls, being developed by the Temple Committee, to facilitate the devotees traveling to the Shri Amarnath Ji and Shri Mata Vaishno Devi Shrine. He assured all the necessary support and assistance from the administration. Sanjay Gandotra, President, Sarv Shakti Chandi Mata Mandir, and temple committee members including Dr DS Jamwal, Vikas Singh Jamwal, Praveen Singh, Balwan Singh were present. Devyani Rana, Member of Legislative Assembly from Nagrota; Dr Nirmal Singh, former Deputy Chief Minister; Purnima Sharma, former Deputy Mayor, JMC, senior officials and devotees in large number also attended the foundation day ceremony.

AI transforming many sectors, human resource needs to be a step ahead: LG Manoj Sinha

Jammu, Apr 23:The Lieutenant Governor Manoj Sinha on Thursday inaugurated the New School Building of Swami Pranavanand Vidyamandir in Panjgrain, Nagrota. The School is run by Bharat Sevashram Sangha, a renowned socio-cultural and philanthropic organisation. Bharat Sevashram Sangh started pre-primary to Class 8 education here in 2014 under 'Har Ghar Shiksha'. Over half the students are from poor families; they have illuminated countless lives. Addressing a gathering on the occasion, the Lieutenant Governor, as per an official statement, said that new higher secondary building and skill infrastructure will ensure disadvantaged students get quality education. Once all the floors of building are complete, it will serve more than 1,500 students transform thousands of lives. With future residential facilities for 100 boys, local economy will get a boost, backward areas will be transformed, and society will advance with new confidence, the Lieutenant Governor said. In his address, the Lieutenant Governor called upon students and teachers to contribute to nation-building and adapt classrooms to todays changing global landscape, positioning India as the world's leading knowledge economy. We must strengthen cultural awareness in students, as unity in diversity defines global society. Promote communication skills for clear expression, enabling the new generation to improve lives, uphold democratic values, and foster collaboration for a prosperous J&K, the Lieutenant Governor said. The Lieutenant Governor observed that every student talented in art, craft, music, or entrepreneurship deserves equal respect and opportunity. Teachers must recognize that education focused solely on marks and narrow academics, sidelining art, sports, and skills, is unfit for the future. We must prepare students for irreplaceable human capacities like creativity, critical thinking, moral decision-making, collaboration, and lifelong learning which no machine can replace, he said. The Lieutenant Governor said the world is changing rapidly and unlike the stable careers in the past, professional workforce requires continuous learning, skilling and upskilling. We are at a threshold where AI and automation is transforming industries, offices, hospitals, and schools and our human resource need to be a step ahead, the Lieutenant Governor said. The Lieutenant Governor also highlighted the recommendations of the National Education Policy (NEP) and emphasised that the policy is a potent tool to meet national needs, boost societal capacity, and accelerate economic growth. To bridge rural-urban and regional-social gaps, NEP is a powerful tool, societal asset, and reliable partner for meritorious students. India will emerge as a robust knowledge economy, nurturing generations with scientific temper, moral strength, cultural values, skills, and a spirit of service and sacrifice, the Lieutenant Governor observed. He said a student's view of the external world depends on self-perception, shaped by experiences. True education balances both, equipping students with knowledge and skills for outer world, plus self-awareness and emotional resilience for inner world. This holistic approach is every school's core duty. Every student must blend science and values for progress. NEP measures guarantee Viksit Bharat; for the first time in decades, our talented children, teens, and youth are policy priorities, the Lieutenant Governor said. The initiative of Bharat Sevashram Sangha is supported by Indian Oil, Hindustan Petroleum and other donors. Srimat Swami Biswatmanandaji Maharaj General Secretary, Bharat Sevashram Sangha; Srimat Swami Ambarishanandaji Maharaj, Joint Secretary, and senior sanyasins of Bharat Sevashrasm Sangha; and senior officials were present. Shri Jugal Kishore Sharma, Member of Parliament; Ms Devyani Rana, Member of Legislative Assembly from Nagrota; Dr Nirmal Singh, former Deputy Chief Minister; Ms Rashmi Govil, Director HR, Indian Oil Corporation Limited; Shri Vilas Zode, Executive Director-HR, Hindustan Petroleum; Shri Chander Mohan Gupta, former Mayor JMC and other prominent citizens also attended the inaugural ceremony.

CEO SSCL inspects Goni Khan Market

Srinagar, Apr 23: In a continued effort to strengthen field-level monitoring and ensure efficient civic service delivery, Faz Lul Haseeb, Chief Executive Officer, Srinagar Smart City Limited (SSCL), conducted an on-site inspection of Goni Khan Market, one of the citys prominent and busiest commercial centres. During the visit, the CEO interacted with traders, shopkeepers, and local stakeholders to assess the condition of civic infrastructure and obtain first-hand feedback on issues affecting the day-to-day functioning of the market. Various concerns relating to sanitation, drainage management, and public utility services were brought to his notice during the interaction. Taking immediate cognisance of the issues raised, the CEO issued on-the-spot directions to the concerned wings for their prompt redressal. The Drainage Wing was instructed to clear existing bottlenecks and ensure the proper functioning and regular maintenance of the drainage network in and around Goni khan Market to prevent inconvenience to traders, commuters, and pedestrians. The inspection also included a review of the proposed connection of a feeder pillar with the main power cabling. It was informed that the work had faced interruptions due to objections raised by the Goni Khan Market Coordination Committee. Taking note of the matter, the CEO directed the Chief Engineer, SSCL, to engage with the concerned stakeholders and the committee to resolve the issue amicably and ensure that the feeder pillar is connected with the main power cabling at the earliest, facilitating the smooth functioning of the electrical infrastructure. The visit underscores the administrations continued emphasis on proactive field engagement, coordinated departmental action, and time-bound grievance redressal aimed at strengthening civic amenities and enhancing the overall urban experience in Srinagar. The CEO was accompanied by the Chief Engineer, SSCL; Chief Sanitation Officer, Srinagar Municipal Corporation; Executive Engineer (MCD Wing); AEE Mechanical (Left Sub-Division); Executive Engineer (CDC); along with other senior officials from SSCL and SMC.

Startups, not the only game in town

India faces a job creation challenge as millions enter the workforce. The nation needs to support entrepreneurship in key sectors like infrastructure and healthcare. Focusing solely on tech startups is a narrow view. Building strong domestic companies serving local demand is crucial for sustained growth. This requires patient development and policy support for traditional businesses.

Traffic diversions to be removed amid gridlocks in Srinagar

Srinagar, Apr 23: Amid mounting traffic concerns in Srinagar, the Traffic Police has begun removing several road diversions at key junctions, offering partial relief to commuters who have long complained of congestion and delays. However, officials maintain that the process will be gradual and based on real-time assessment, even as public demand for wider removal of diversions continues to grow. The move comes at a time when traffic pressure in the city is expected to rise further due to the onset of the tourist season and increased footfall to gardens and other attractions. Over the past few months, commuters have repeatedly flagged how traffic diversions, especially during peak hours, have crippled movement across the city, affecting daily routines and even emergency services. Residents from multiple areas said that the diversions often forced them to take long detours, adding to travel time and fuel costs. In the city center and adjoining localities, commuters said they frequently found themselves stuck in extended traffic snarls due to poorly planned or prolonged diversions. We often spend more time navigating diversions than actually reaching our destinations. At many junctions, the diversions create bottlenecks instead of easing traffic, said Altaf Ahmad, a commuter from downtown Srinagar. SSP Traffic Srinagar, Aijaz Ahmed, said that the department has already removed several major diversions and is actively reviewing others. We have removed diversions at key locations, including Hawal, Gojwara, Karan Nagar, SMHS Hospital, Sekidafar, and Qamarwari. These were major points where adjustments were needed. Traffic diversions are introduced to regulate flow and prevent complete halts, but we keep reviewing them regularly, he said. He added that the department is continuously monitoring traffic patterns and will make further changes wherever required. Our aim is to ensure smoother movement, especially with the expected increase in traffic in the coming weeks, he said. While commuters have welcomed the recent removals, many say that several problematic diversions still remain. One such point frequently highlighted is the diversion near Sangarmal in the city center. Commuters said that the existing arrangement forces vehicles to take a long U-turn towards the J&K Bank along MA Road, leading to congestion as traffic from Dalgate and other areas converges there. The Sangarmal diversion is a major issue, as it pops up on and off. It creates unnecessary congestion and delays. Removing it or modifying it should be a priority, said another commuter. Many residents also stressed the need for increased presence of traffic personnel on the ground to manage flow more effectively. They pointed out that the situation worsens due to dilapidated road conditions at several places, which, when combined with diversions, further aggravate congestion. Broken roads and diversions together make commuting a nightmare. Authorities need to address both issues simultaneously, said a local resident. Officials acknowledged these concerns and said efforts are underway to improve overall traffic management. We are conducting regular drives against wrong-way parking and other offenses. Our officers are on the ground, including senior officials, to regulate traffic. We are also coordinating with other departments wherever required, an official said.

Lusting for lasting in instant age: Why consumers are choosing forever over fast

Today's consumers are embracing a more sustainable mindset, steering clear of throwaway items in favor of possessions that stand the test of time. They are prioritizing quality and longevity over low-cost, frequent transactions. This trend shines brightly in the world of jewellery, where many are choosing to invest in a smaller number of exquisite pieces.

Cross Country Run champions green cause, anti-drug message in Srinagar

Srinagar, Apr 23: In a spirited celebration of Earth Day, Government Boys High School Habak Homehair in Srinagar organised a high-energy Cross Country Run under the theme Run for Earth, Run for Nasha Mukht Bharat. The event, as per a statement issued brought together over 350 students, combining athletic enthusiasm with a strong message of environmental responsibility and commitment to the Nasha Mukht Bharat Abhiyaan, promoting a healthy and drug-free lifestyle among the youth. The activities conducted during the programme also included, rally on Nasha Mukht Bharat Abhiyaan, spreading awareness in the community. A Pledge Ceremony, where students committed themselves to a drug-free lifestyle. A Plantation Drive, promoting environmental sustainability. A Cleanliness Drive, encouraging civic responsibility. The event was graced by the Principal, Higher Secondary School Gulabbagh Oscia Jabeen, as the Chief Guest, along with Special Guests, the Zonal Physical Education Officer Gulabbagh Shabir Ahmad, and Hina Amin, District Cultural Coordinator Srinagar, who appreciated the efforts of the institution in organising such a meaningful and socially relevant programme. A significant highlight of the programme was the sharing of inspiring messages from Dia Mirza, renowned environmental advocate, and Bittu Sahgal, distinguished wildlife conservationist. Their messages encouraged students to actively participate in environmental protection and adopt responsible lifestyles. The institution also expressed sincere gratitude to Nadeem Qadri, Environmental Lawyer, Chief Executive Director of Wildlife Conservation Fund (WCF), and Amicus Curiae of the High Court of J&K and Ladakh, for his valuable contribution in arranging refreshments through the Vidyanjali initiative as a volunteer. Special appreciation was extended to the Headmaster of Government Boys High School Habak Homehair, Syed Zubair Ahmad, whose leadership, guidance, and continuous support played a vital role in the successful conduct of the programme. His dedication towards student welfare, discipline, and promotion of co-curricular activities greatly contributed to the grand success of the event. The school also acknowledged the remarkable efforts of Green Teacher Awardee Rouf Ahmad Rather, whose commitment, planning, and tireless hard work were instrumental in organising and managing the programme smoothly. Special recognition was also given to Physical Education Teacher Tariq Rehman for his dedicated efforts, coordination, and active role in conducting the Cross Country Run and motivating students towards sportsmanship, fitness, and discipline. Special thanks were extended to the Chief Education Officer Srinagar for continuous support and encouragement, the Block Medical Officer Hazratbal for providing medical assistance, and the SSP Traffic for ensuring smooth and safe management of the event. The school also acknowledged the valuable support of the Headmaster, Middle School Bangi Mohalla. The programme concluded with an award ceremony where winners were felicitated and all participants were appreciated for their enthusiasm and discipline. Sharing the position holders details, as per the statement, awards were presented to winning students from different academic categories. 9th to 12th Category Boys 1st, Zuhaib Mushtaq, BHSS Tailbal, 2nd, Faheem Ahmad, BHSS Tailbal, 3rd, Musaib Shabir Bhat, BHSS Hazratbal 9th to 12th Category Girls 1st, Afroza, BHS Habak Homehair, 2nd, Zoya Gulzar, BHSS Tailbal 3rd, Shafiya Sultan, BHS Habak Homehair Middle Category Boys 1st, Faizan Manzoor, BMS Bangi Mohalla, 2nd, Rizwan Rashid 3rd, Faizan, MS Habak Pati Middle Category Girls 1st, Sabiya, BHS Habak Homehair, 2nd, Raziya Rashid, BHS Habak Homehair, 3rd, Zainab Shaban, MS Fisherman Colony Consolation prizes were also distributed among small kids for their energetic participation and sporting spirit. Overall, the event proved to be a grand success, delivering a strong message of environmental conservation, social responsibility, and youth empowerment, inspiring students to become responsible citizens committed to a greener and healthier future.

JKCA bars players from unapproved tournaments

Srinagar, Apr 23: The Jammu & Kashmir Cricket Association has issued a notification to players and officials, warning against participation in unapproved tournaments and leagues, and reiterating disciplinary action for violations. In an official notice, the association referenced Rule 38 of its constitution, stating that it prohibits members, players, umpires, scorers, and officials from participating in or extending any form of support to tournaments not approved by JKCA. The rule further empowers the Apex Council to take stringent action against violators, including suspension, stoppage of financial benefits, and other disciplinary measures. JKCA officials, while speaking with Greater Kashmir on the development, said the association has adopted a strong and uncompromising approach towards such violations. They said that all individuals associated with JKCA must refrain from participating in any match, league, or event that does not fall under its domain or control. The move is aimed at ensuring that all associated players and officials remain governed by JKCA guidelines and maintain discipline within the system, an official said. The association, however, said it does not discourage local cricket but stressed that players affiliated with JKCA must operate within a structured and professional framework. There are continuous efforts to hone the skill sets of players at JKCA. Coaches and management closely monitor development and know where and how to work on a player. Every step is evaluated, and we do not want our players to drift into setups that fall outside the professional ecosystem, a JKCA official added. The JKCA official added that the directive is seen as a significant step towards strengthening discipline and maintaining a standardised development pathway for cricketers in Jammu and Kashmir.

JKCA lifts age cap, opens senior mens T20 trials to all

Srinagar, Apr 23: In a significant move aimed at widening participation, the Jammu & Kashmir Cricket Association has removed the upper age limit for its upcoming Senior Mens T20 trials, allowing players above 26 years to compete for selection. The decision, as per the Jammu and Kashmir Cricket Association (JKCA), comes after the association received multiple representations from players seeking removal of the age cap. Officials of the JKCA, while speaking to Greater Kashmir, said the administration took note of these concerns and subsequently decided to scrap the upper age limit to ensure a more inclusive trial process. The move has come as a major relief for many aspiring cricketers across the region who are looking to establish themselves in the T20 format. According to the official notice, there is no change in the last date for submission of applications, which remains April 25, 2026, up to 1:00 PM. The JKCA in the notification has said that applicants must submit mandatory documents, including a digitised date of birth certificate with a QR code, an updated PVC Aadhaar card or passport, Class 10th and 12th marksheets, a PAN card, and a complete address with district and mobile number. Applications are to be submitted online via email. However, the association clarified that players who have already participated in the Under-23 mens trials this season are not eligible for the T20 trials. JKCA officials further said that the primary criterion for progressing in the selection process will be the physical fitness test. Only those players who qualify for the fitness benchmarks will be allowed to proceed to the next stage of the trials. The notification further adds that the players who were a part of the U-23 mens team for season 2025-26 and have become overage are also required to apply for T2o trials for consideration in the current season, stating that no direct entry will be permitted. Meanwhile, cricketers have welcomed the decision. A Srinagar-based player, Touseef Ahmad, said the earlier notification had left him disappointed as he was ineligible due to the age restriction. Earlier it was disappointing as the order had nothing to offer us. But now with changes, the upper age limit cap has been removed, and me and others who are above 26 years can participate now, Touseef said, terming the revised notification a much-needed relief for players like him. Notably, earlier in a notification this month, JKCA had imposed an upper age limit for the Senior Mens T20 trials, restricting eligibility to players. The move effectively barred a large section of experienced cricketers above the age of 26 from participating in the trials, leading to disappointment among aspirants who were left without an opportunity to showcase their skills.

The Mufti Model or Trojan Horse of 2014

The Mufti Model was not a shi In an article for Greater Kashmir titled The Mufti Model, published on April 23, 2026, Dr. Haseeb A. Drabu provides a compelling retrospective on a defining era of our political history. I hold Dr. Drabu in the highest regard, both for his formidable intellect and his significant contributions to the professional field. However, moving beyond personal admiration, I believe it is essential to revisit this model through a strictly non-partisan lens. My analysis seeks to offer a clear, objective assessment of the realities on the ground, examining the historical consequences that follow when political theory meets the complexity of practice. A closer look at the ground reality reveals that the turn toward the Mufti model in year 2014 was not merely a political shift, it was a foundational disaster that left Jammu and Kashmir uniquely vulnerable to the constitutional changes of 2019 and the subsequent decade of centralized rule. To understand what happened in 2019, one must return to the fatal compromise of 2014. Dr. Drabu speaks of statecraft and managing power asymmetries, but for the common man, the alliance between the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) and the Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) was the moment the bridge was sold to the highest bidder. By inviting the BJP into the heart of the states executive for the first time, the PDP did not act as a buffer for the Valley, it provided the very administrative platform required for the Center to eventually dismantle the states special status. This alliance made Jammu and Kashmir susceptible to the longest stretch of Governors Rule in its history. The Mufti Model was not a shield, it was the Trojan Horse that delivered the region into a state of direct rule that has persisted for ten years. The failure of the Mufti model offers a lesson in how compromised respect leads to political ruin. When PM Modi signaled in Srinagar that he needed no advice on Kashmir, he did more than just snub the Chief Minister, he undermined the very dignity of the office. When we strip away the lofty rhetoric of pragmatic engagement, the governance record of the coalition years reveals a stark, regional imbalance. During this period, the BJP ministers representing Jammu demonstrated a remarkable ability to deliver for their constituency. From infrastructure to administrative efficiency, the Jammu wing of the cabinet operated with focus and a direct line to central resources. In contrast, the PDP ministers in the Kashmir Valley were largely seen as being paralyzed by crisis management and internal contradictions. While Jammu saw tangible development, the Valleys ministers seemed more concerned with the optics of power than the substance of delivery. Mufti believed in maintaining a strong connection with grassroots workers despite a half a century of political defeat, prioritizing merit over nepotism and personal favor. This Mufti Model was eventually reversed by his own, the very principles that defined his leadership, the strict exclusion of relatives from the corridors of power were the first to be abandoned. Central to PDPs decline was the iron grip of Family Rule. For a party that once claimed to be the democratic antidote to the National Conferences dynastic legacy, the PDP quickly morphed into a mirror image of its rival. Decision-making was sequestered within a small circle of family members and loyalists, effectively silencing the voices of grassroots workers who understood the local grievances. This insularity led to a total loss of public trust. While the BJP was building a new tier of leadership in Jammu, the PDP was busy hollowing itself out, ensuring that when the crisis of 2019 arrived, there was no one left to lead. It is often said that the only straight thing in Kashmir is the poplar tree. But history shows that even the most well-intended political models can bend toward disaster when they lack a foundation of integrity. Today, in 2026, as South Asian undercurrents mirror the volatility of a world at war, the consequences of the 2014 gamble are still being felt. The decade of Governors Rule and the removal of the states identity are the direct legacies of a party that sought to bridge the North and South Poles but ended up leaving its people out in the cold. The Mufti Model was not a masterclass in statecraft, it was a strategic failure that traded long-term regional stability for short-term political access. To ignore this in our current reflections is to continue the very cycle of misunderstanding that has cost Kashmir its voice for a decade. What must be critically examined is the inherent paradox in the Mufti Model when applied to the current political climate. On one hand, there is a push for Omar Abdullah to adopt a more conciliatory stance, an approach he arguably attempted during the Prime Ministers visits to Sonamarg and Katra. However, those gestures were met with significant public backlash, as critics and even his own supporters viewed them as a dilution of his political promise. In this light, Dr. Drabus suggestion that the current leadership follow this path raises a vital question: Is this a viable blueprint for dignified governance, or is it a roadmap for political suicide? Author is a Lawyer, Assistant Professor with a specialized focus on Infrastructure Law. She serves as an analyst of South Asian politics

Public office is public trust

In a democracy, authority flows from the people, not from power. Indias Constitution is clear: every bureaucrat, police officer, and government employee is a public servant, bound by oath to serve citizens with fairness, dignity, and restraint. This understanding should guide every official from the moment duty begins. It is not a matter of discretionit is the very foundation of constitutional governance. The Preamble sets the spirit of governance through Justice, Liberty, Equality, and Fraternity. These values are meant to reflect in everyday conducthow applications are handled, how questions are answered, and how citizens are spoken to. Governance is not only about decisions; it is equally about behaviour, tone, and attitude. The smallest interaction often shapes the largest perception. Article 14 promises equality before law, while Article 21 protects life with dignity. Together, they remind us that authority must be exercised with courtesy and patience. Every citizen stands equalregardless of economic background, whether economically weaker, middle class, or affluent. Public office cannot and must not differentiate based on status, influence, or personal benefit. Polite behaviour is not an extra gesture; it is part of constitutional responsibility. Arrogance, indifference, or selective treatment are not signs of strengththey are departures from constitutional duty. This principle also calls for a thoughtful reflection on the persistence of VIP culture and selective governance practices. Preferential treatment or special access, even if occasional, can weaken the perception of fairness and equality before law. Institutions are strengthened when decisions are seen as impartial, consistent, and guided solely by public interest. In Kashmir, where public life is often demanding and sensitive, citizens form impressions of governance through everyday interactionssirens on busy roads, brief stoppages, conversations in offices, or the tone used while addressing the press. These routine moments carry lasting impact. It is important to acknowledge that many public servants discharge their duties with integrity under challenging circumstances. At the same time, the Constitution expects that even under strain, authority is exercised with restraint, respect, and calm. True authority is reflected not in assertion, but in composure. The Directive Principles reinforce this approach. Article 38 calls upon the State to promote public welfare and reduce inequality, while Article 39 urges institutions to serve the common good, especially those who may feel uncertain or unheard. These are not distant idealsthey are daily obligations that shape the credibility of governance. Every public servant takes an oath under the Third Schedule to discharge duties to the best of my ability and to uphold the Constitution. This oath is a reminder that the uniform, the badge, or the designation is not a symbol of privilege, but of trust. Authority without accountability weakens institutions; accountability with humility strengthens them. Citizens, too, carry clear responsibilities under Article 51A of the Constitution. Rights do not operate in isolation; they depend on civic discipline and responsible conduct. While public servants are entrusted with authority to serve a public purpose, citizens have a duty to engage respectfully, follow lawful procedures, and avoid unnecessary confrontation. Calm dialogue, patience in public spaces, and measured behaviour contribute significantly to the smooth functioning of institutions. These reflections are not directed at any individual or institution, but relate to broader systemic expectations that sustain public trust. Ultimately, governance is a shared space of responsibility. When authority is exercised with fairness and citizens act with responsibility, trust is strengthenednot demanded. And without trust, no system, however strong in structure, can truly succeed in spirit. The Constitution does not ask for perfection, only fairness and humilityremembering always that the citizen remains at the centre of governance. But fairness must be visible, and humility must be practiced. Only then can public office truly reflect public trust. (Syed Afaq has over 25 years of project management experience, including a long tenure at the Central Bank of Oman, and now mentors youth.)

From Bud to Basket

The horticulture sector is the backbone of the economy in the Union Territory of Jammu & Kashmir, playing a vital role in rural livelihoods and the regions Gross State Domestic Product (GSDP). According to the Economic Survey 2025-26, horticulture spans approximately 3.47 lakh hectares, generates around ` 10,000 crore annually, and supports nearly 35 lakh people directly or indirectly through allied sectors such as trade, transport, grading, packaging, and processing. Beyond income, horticulture drives employment, rural development, and overall economic stability. Among horticultural crops, apple cultivation dominates, contributing nearly 75% of total fruit production. The apple industry is a lifeline for a large segment of the population, particularly in the Kashmir valley, supporting farm families, traders, transporters, and various value-chain stakeholders. However, challenges including climate variability, pest and disease pressure, declining soil health, and stringent market quality standards demand improved and scientific orchard management practices. To enhance profitability, ensure sustainability, and optimize orchard performance, timely, precise, and scientifically guided interventions are essential at every crop growth stage. Addressing this need, the Integrated Management Guide for Apple Orchards, developed by the Sher-e-Kashmir University of Agricultural Sciences & Technology of Kashmir (SKUAST-K), has been refined with field-based improvements. Previously, recommendations largely consisted of a spray schedule focused on fungicides and insecticides. The updated guide now promotes a holistic, integrated approach to orchard management. Key Features Split application of nutrients and integration of organic and inorganic sources This approach prevents under- or over-fertilization, increases nutrient efficiency, and reduces costs. Plant Protection Measures De-weeding, mowing, and mulching for pest and weed management and moisture conservation Use protective clothing and clean water for spray preparation Need-based chemical interventions The guide reflects the vision of the Honble Vice Chancellor of Sher-e-Kashmir University of Agricultural Sciences & Technology of Kashmir, a visionary leader with a keen interest in the welfare of farmers. Always at the forefront and attentive to emerging challenges, the Vice Chancellor remains constantly engaged to ensure the upliftment of growers, bridging the gap between scientific research and practical field application. His proactive guidance has been instrumental in shaping a farmer-centric, stage-based advisory that addresses local challenges while promoting sustainable and profitable orchard practices. Special appreciation is due to the Director Research and his team, whose leadership, coordination, and field-based insights-together with contributions from scientists across various divisions-were instrumental in refining the guide. Valuable feedback from the Director of Extension, Directors of line departments, and their field functionaries ensured that the recommendations are practical, contextually appropriate, and aligned with local practices. This collaborative effort has resulted in a comprehensive, field-ready resource for apple growers across the region. Dr. Sajad Mohiuddin, Professor cum Chief Scientist, Division of Entomology, FoH, SKUAST-Kashmir

The unspoken legacy

We grow up believing that the world demands something extraordinary from us. That we must become someone remarkable, achieve something grand, leave behind a name that echoes long after were gone. We are conditioned to chase success, to be exceptional, to stand out in a crowd that is constantly measuring worth in achievements and applause. But somewhere, quietly and almost invisibly, the truth lives a different life. The world, in its most honest form, does not want us to be extraordinary. It wants us to be good. Not perfect. Not famous. Not endlessly productive. Just good. A good son/daughter who truly cares; who listens when his/her parents repeat the same stories,. who carries warmth into the home, who remembers that love is often shown in the smallest actssitting beside sharing silence, noticing when someone is struggling. A good husband who understands that love is not built in grand declarations and fancy dates but in consistency. In Care. In staying. In acknowledging in being there. A good wife who nurtures not just a home, but a sense of belonging, where someone can return and feel understood in all the seasons of inner ecology. A good mother whose love becomes a quiet shelter, not by being flawless, but by being present. A good father whose strength is not just in providing, but in caring. The world needs colleagues who dont compete but support and uplift. It needs people who make the first day easier for someone newwho offer a smile, a small introduction, a sense that you belong here. Because beginnings are fragile, and a little kindness can shape someones entire journey. It needs those in positions of power to remember their humanity. To treat subordinates, juniors, and those lower in hierarchy not as lesser, but as equally deserving of respect, dignity, and compassion. To speak gently, to guide instead of intimidate, and to understand that authority is not proven through fear, but through fairness. It needs workplaces where personal space is respected, where people are not reduced to deadlines and outputs. Where employees are seen as human beingswith families, responsibilities, emotions, and life . Where stepping away for family is not judged, but understood. Where boundaries are honored, not violated. It needs friends who stay. Not just in laughter, but in silence, in discomfort, in the in-between moments when life is not picture-perfect. Friends who listen without rushing to fix, who understand that sometimes presence is enough. It needs a decent shopkeeper who does not cheat, who does not take advantage of someones urgency or innocence. Someone who understands that honesty in small transactions builds trust in a world that often feels uncertain. And above all the world needs people who are grounded in something deeperwhether we call it faith, spirituality, or simply a moral compass. Being religious not in a showy way, but in a way that softens the heart, reminding us to be righteous, mindful, humble, patient, and grateful. Greatness lies not in being rich, famous or successful but in serving humanity in any possible way. Kindness is the only Qualification that world needs. We often underestimate this because this seem ordinary. It doesnt trend. It doesnt make headlines. But this is what holds the world together. A gentle word instead of a harsh one. ; Patience instead of agitation. Understanding instead of judgment. These are not small things. They are everything. Make Compassion your legacy. Takeaway At the end world does not remember how extraordinary we tried to beit remembers how kind we chose to be. In a world rushing toward greatness, choose goodness. We dont need to change the entire world. We just need to soften the part of it that touches our life. Sometimes, the most powerful thing we can do is simply being someone who makes life a little softer, a little kinder, and a little more human for others. Lets try to Be the person who makes others feel safe and valued; Be the reason someone still believes insincerity. Be the quiet proof that goodness has not disappeared. Make sure you didnt leave bruises; you didnt disturb somebodys peace Lets conclude by the beautiful Quote: Being human is given. But keeping our Humanity is a Choice. Lets make this choice a habit that flows effortlessly.

Story Behind the Story

Tailors Daughter Is Nowshehras First Female Judge. Her name does not appear anywhere in that headline. Her fathers occupation does. Ask yourself, would that headline exist if her father were a banker? The class angle is not entirely out of place. Being a tailors daughter in a profession where working-class families are severely under-represented has its own structural challenges. But the headline does not report that. It implies it using her fathers job title as a trope for a class narrative it never bothers to verify. It invites the reader to fill in the blanks: financial struggle, limited resources, and odds stacked against her. Without checking whether any of that is actually true. Maybe her family was financially comfortable despite her father being a tailor. Maybe her father ran a successful business. Maybe she had every resource she needed. The headline doesnt know. It assumes and asks you to assume alongside. The Despite Problem The Central Board of Secondary Education Class 10 results were announced on April 15th. What followed was a flood: social media and news outlets were overflowing with success stories, topper interviews, and result reaction videos. Among these was the story of Zainab Bilal, a student from DPS Srinagar who scored 95 per cent in her board exams. She also happened to be visually impaired and had written the exam independently on a laptop, without a scribe. That feat is remarkable. 95 per cent is high by any standard, and she achieved it on a laptop, navigating a system that was not devised for her. That is the story. Not because she is visually impaired. The news got it the other way around. Srinagars Zainab Bilal scripts an inspiring success story, scoring 95% in the CBSE Class X exams despite visual impairment. Let us dissect that headline. Her disability is clearly the reason this is a news story; thousands of students score 95 per cent and obviously do not get headlines. Therefore, naming her impairment is honest and necessary. But the headline does not just name it. It foregrounds it. It makes her condition the first thing you know about her. She is not a student who scored 95 per cent, she is a visually impaired student and the 95 percent is the surprise that follows. The word doing that work is despite. It is a small word with a particular function. Despite suggests that two things are in conflict. Riya plays good cricket despite being a girl. Read that and you understand that the writer thinks being a girl is a barrier to playing good cricket. It may not be explicit, but it does not have to be. Despite says it for you. Scoring 95 per cent despite visual impairment works the same way. It tells you that blindness and academic excellence are not expected to coexist. That her score is remarkable not on its own terms but in context to what her eyes can and cannot do. Then there is the word inspiring. The headline calls it an inspiring success story . And here the problem gets more nuanced because calling something inspiring is not inherently wrong. It is entirely valid to find Zainab Bilal inspiring for navigating a system not built for her, for choosing to write independently, and for developing her own methods in a world of textbooks and exam formats that catered to sighted students. That admiration is earned and true. The problem is more specific than the word. It is about what, exactly, is being found inspiring. Is it her choice, her method, her preparation, or her decision to write without a scribe? Or is it the fact of her blindness itself, against which her score becomes legible as remarkable? Stella Young, an Australian comedian, disability activist and writer, addressed this in her 2014 TED Talk, now one of the most cited pieces of writing on disability representation. We have been lied to about disability. Weve been sold the lie that disability is a bad thing, capital B, capital T. Its a Bad Thing, and to live with a disability makes you exceptional. Its not a bad thing, and it doesnt make you exceptional. Youngs argument was not that disabled people do not face difficulty. It was about where the difficulty actually exists . I use the term disabled people quite deliberately, because I subscribe to what is called the social model of disability, which tells us that we are more disabled by the society that we live in than by our bodies and our diagnoses. Zainab Bilal has lived in her body her whole life. She did not experience that exam as a sighted person suddenly functioning without vision. She experienced it as herself a person whose entire relationship with information and learning has been built around her actual sensory reality. Her eyes are not the obstacle she overcame. The obstacle was a system of textbooks not easily accessible and an exam format that required her to specifically request accommodation. When people call her inspiring, they are often without knowing it projecting their own imagined fear of blindness onto her actual life. What would happen to me if I lost my sight? And then resolving that anxiety through her. Under the Instagram reels covering her story, comments appeared that affirmed Youngs argument perfectly. She has proved there is no disability when one does hard work. The only disability is a bad attitude. Young had an answer for that too. No amount of smiling at a flight of stairs has ever made it turn into a ramp. Smiling at a television screen isnt going to make closed captions appear for people who are deaf. No amount of standing in the middle of a bookshop and radiating a positive attitude is going to turn all those books into braille. The systemic barriers are there. Acknowledging them is not condescending but accurate. The question is not whether to acknowledge them. The question is whether you see them in her body or in the system that was not built for her. The headline located them in her body. That is the problem. And thenalmost as an afterthought, in the second paragraph of the coverage came the most interesting detail of the entire story: she wrote the exam independently, on a laptop, without a scribe. That detail contains everything. It tells you something specific about her method, her confidence, her choice and the technology she used. It opens every question worth asking. It is the story. It was not the headline. When journalists write earning praise for her determination and grit as the coverage did, she becomes the object of other peoples admiration rather than the subject of her own story. She is a symbol held up, as Young put it, for the benefit of another group of people. That is what despite does. In one word, it takes a story about a student who scored 95 per cent on her own terms and turns it into a story about what her body is not and how amazing it is that she succeeded anyway. The better approach is simply to lead with the person. Lead with the achievement. Let the context follow. Take Zainab Bilal. Yes, she is visually impaired. That fact is relevant. It helps explain why her story drew attention in the first place. But it is not the most interesting thing about her. She scored 95 per cent. She wrote her exams independently, on a laptop, without a scribe. She is a technology enthusiast. She is also RJ Zainab for Radio DPS. She is ambitious, bright and confident. Blindness does not make her exceptional. Her intelligence and achievements do. Zainab Bilal Scores 95% in CBSE, Writes Exams Independently Without a Scribe Notice the difference. The disability is present, but it informs the story instead of defining it. Lilac Qadri, alumna GK School of Communications

Trump orders to 'shoot and kill' Iranian boats laying mines as Pak steps up efforts for US-Iran talks

Washington, Apr 23: President Donald Trump on Thursday ordered the US Navy to shoot and kill any Iranian boat that is putting mines in the Strait of Hormuz, even as Pakistan stepped up diplomatic engagements to bring America and Iran to the negotiating table for the second round of talks. In a social media post, Trump also said that the US has total control over the Strait of Hormuz, and no ship can enter or leave without its approval. It is Sealed up Tight, until such time as Iran is able to make a DEAL, he said. His comments came a day after the Revolutionary Guards intercepted and transferred two vessels to Iranian territorial waters for inspection of their cargo, documents, and related records. I have ordered the United States Navy to shoot and kill any boat, small boats though they may be... that is putting mines in the waters of the Strait of Hormuz. There is to be no hesitation, he said. Additionally, our mine sweepers are clearing the Strait right now. I am hereby ordering that activity to continue, but at a tripled up level! he added. Trump also claimed that Iran is having a very hard time figuring out who their leader is. They just don't know! The infighting is between the Hardliners, who have been losing BADLY on the battlefield, and the Moderates, who are not very moderate at all (but gaining respect!), is CRAZY! he said in a separate post. Earlier, Trump shared a post by a conservative commentator, calling for the assassination of Iranian officials who oppose diplomacy with the US. Meanwhile, US Central Command said the US forces have directed 33 vessels to turn around or return to port since the start of the blockade against Iran. In Islamabad, Interior Minister Mohsin Naqvi held an important meeting with US Charge dAffaires Natalie Baker during which they exchanged detailed views on the latest regional situation and discussed diplomatic efforts related to the proposed second round of peace talks, the interior ministry said in a statement. Thursday's meeting, the second between the two this week, took place amid uncertainty over the US-Iran talks, with Islamabad under tight security for the proposed engagement. Separately, Chinese Ambassador Jiang Zaidong called on Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif and discussed the regional situation in West Asia and Pakistan's peace efforts, according to a statement by the PM Office. Canadian High Commissioner Tarik Ali Khan met Foreign Minister Ishaq Dar and conveyed Canada's appreciation for, and support of, Pakistan's efforts to facilitate engagement aimed at advancing regional peace. Iranian Foreign Minister Abbas Araghchion Thursday termed attacks by the US and Israel against Iran as the root cause of insecurity in the Strait of Hormuz. During a meeting with Chung Byung-ha, South Korea's special envoy to Iran, Araghchi said that Iran has adopted measures to safeguard its security and national interests against the attacks, the Iranian media reported. In a post on X, the US Department of War on Thursday said that the US forces have intercepted a vessel in the Indian Ocean that was transporting oil from Iran. Overnight, US forces carried out a maritime interdiction and right-of-visit boarding of the sanctioned stateless vessel M/T Majestic X transporting oil from Iran, in the Indian Ocean within the INDOPACOM area of responsibility, it said. A day earlier, Iranian President Masoud Pezeshkian said Tehran has welcomed dialogue and agreement and continues to do so. However, breach of commitments, blockade and threats are the main obstacles to genuine negotiations, he added. World sees your endless hypocritical rhetoric and contradiction between claims and actions, he said, in an apparent reference to Trump. On Tuesday, Trump extended the two-week ceasefire with Iran indefinitely to give Tehran more time to prepare a unified proposal to end the war, just hours before the truce was set to expire. Pakistan had urged an extension of the truce due to uncertainty surrounding the second round of talks. There was still no clarity on the date of the next round of talks. In his meeting with the US diplomat on Thursday, Naqvi termed Trump's initiative to extend the ceasefire a welcome development that made significant progress towards reducing tensions. We also hope for positive progress from Irans side, he said. Naqvi and Baker emphasised the need to maintain diplomatic channels for a lasting resolution to the West Asia conflict. According to the statement, Naqvi told Baker that Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif and Chief of Defence Forces (CDF) Field Marshal Asim Munir were making all-out efforts at every level to facilitate a peaceful outcome. It is hoped that both parties will give a chance to a diplomatic and peaceful solution, the minister said. On Monday, Naqvi held separate meetings with Baker and Iran's Ambassador to Pakistan Reza Amiri Moghadam to discuss arrangements for the second round of talks. On Wednesday, The New York Post quoted President Trump as saying that the second round of the US-Iran talks could take place as early as Friday. However, Iranian Foreign Ministry spokesman Esmaeil Baqaei said Tehran has not yet decided whether to attend a new round of Pakistani-mediated talks in Islamabad. Pakistan has taken elaborate security measures, including deploying more than 10,000 security personnel, in preparation for the proposed talks. The first round of US-Iran talks held on April 11 and 12 failed to produce a breakthrough, prompting a flurry of diplomatic efforts by host Pakistan to cool tensions and revive hopes for another round of dialogue. The Iran war began on February 28 with US-Israeli strikes.

West Asia conflict: Focused efforts ensured safety of Indian community, says MEA

New Delhi, Apr 23: Amid the evolving situation in West Asia, the Government of India continues its efforts to keep citizens informed through regular updates. In this regard, a media briefing was held today at the National Media Centre, where officers from the Ministries of Petroleum and Natural Gas, Ports, Shipping and Waterways, and External Affairs provided updates on fuel availability, maritime operations, assistance to Indian nationals in the region, and measures being undertaken to maintain stability across key sectors. Energy Supply and Fuel Availability The Ministry of Petroleum and Natural Gas provided an update on the current fuel supply situation, outlining measures being taken to ensure uninterrupted availability of petroleum products and LPG in the context of the evolving situation in West Asia. It was noted that: 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 requested to make necessary efforts 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 supply 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 by Secretary, 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 2600 raids were conducted, wherein about 285 cylinders were seized across the country. Cumulatively, till date more than 1.5 Lakh raids have been conducted, and more than 66,000 cylinders have been seized across the country. Further, more than 1100 FIRs have been registered, and 255 persons have been arrested. PSU OMCs have strengthened and continued surprise inspections and imposed penalties on 298 LPG distributorships, and 70 LPG distributorships have been suspended 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 have increased to 98% on industry basis yesterday. Delivery Authentication Code (DAC) based deliveries have increased to around 94% to prevent diversion. DAC is received on the registered mobile number of the consumer. On 22.04.2026, more than 52 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 17 Lakh - 5 Kg FTL cylinders have been sold. Yesterday, more than 86,000 5 Kg FTL cylinders were sold across the country. Since 3rd April 2026, PSU OMCs have organised more than 8200 awareness camps for 5 Kg FTL Cylinders, wherein more than 1,27,000 - 5Kg FTL cylinders were also sold. Yesterday, 7877 5 Kg FTLs were sold through more than 320 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 22.04.26), a total of 1,40,362 MT (Equivalent to more than 73.87 Lakh of 19 Kg LPG Cylinders) of Commercial LPG has been sold. On 22.04.2026, 8483 MT of Commercial LPG (Equivalent to more than 4.46 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 5.18 Lakh PNG connections have been gasified and infrastructure has been created for additional 2.58 lakh connections, taking the total to 7.76 lakh connections. Further, about 5.87 Lakh customers have been registered for new connections. Till 21.04.2026, more than 41,000 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 6300 MT of propylene has been sold by Mumbai, Kochi and Mathura refineries to 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. 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 The Ministry of Ports, Shipping and Waterways provided an update on the prevailing maritime situation in the Persian Gulf, detailing the measures being undertaken to ensure the safety and security of Indian vessels and crew in the region. It was stated that: In the past 24 hours, some incidents of firing on foreign-flagged vessels have been reported in the Strait of Hormuz involving Indian seafarers. All seafarers on board both vessels are safe. a. Vessel Euphoria, a container ship flagged with Panama has 21 Indian seafarers onboard. All of them are safe. b. Vessel Epaminondas, a container ship flagged with Panama has 1 Indian seafarer onboard. He is safe. All Indian seafarers in the region are safe. Indian-flagged crude oil tanker Desh Garima safely crossed the Strait of Hormuz on 18 April 2026. The vessel, carrying 31 Indian seafarers, reached Mumbai on 22 April 2026. The Ministry of Ports, Shipping and Waterways continues to coordinate with the Ministry of External Affairs, Indian Missions, and maritime stakeholders to ensure seafarer welfare and uninterrupted maritime operations. DG Shipping Control Room Update: The Control Room has handled 7,403 calls and more than 15,639 emails since activation. In the past 24 hours, 161 calls and 320 emails have been received. The Ministry, through the Directorate General of Shipping (DG Shipping), has facilitated the safe repatriation of more than 2,680 Indian seafarers so far, including 65 in the last 24 hours from various locations across the Gulf region. Port Operations: 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 focused efforts on ensuring safety, security and welfare of the Indian community in the region. It was informed that: Dedicated special control rooms in the Ministry of External Affairs are operational and are working in coordination with Indian missions. The Ministry of External Affairs is in regular contact with State Governments and Union Territories for sharing of information and better alignment of efforts. 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 are actively engaged with the resident Indian community. Ambassadors are regularly interacting with the Indian community associations, organizations, professional groups, an Indian companies to address their concerns. Government is according high priority to the welfare of Indian seafarers in the region. Indian Missions are extending all assistance to them including coordination with the local authorities and agencies, extending consular assistance, and assisting for requests to return to India. The overall flight situation continues to improve with additional flights operating from the region to various destinations in India. Since 28 February, around 12,12,000 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 various destinations in India. With Qatar airspace partially open, Qatar Airways is operating flights to various destinations in India. Kuwait airspace remains closed. Jazeera Airways and Kuwait Airways are operating non-scheduled commercial flights from Dammam Airport in Saudi Arabia 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 embassy in Tehran continues to facilitate movement of Indian nationals through Armenia and Azerbaijan for onward travel to India. So far, 2428 Indian nationals have moved out of Iran into Armenia and Azerbaijan. This includes 1096 Indian students and 657 Indian fishermen. Israel airspace is open and limited flight operations have resumed to destinations in the region, which can be used for onward travel to India.

Sports Ministry to organise ''Chintan Shivir'' in Srinagar from tomorrow

New Delhi, Apr 23: The Sports Ministry will organise a three-day 'Chintan Shivir' in Srinagar from Friday, bringing together sports and youth affairs ministers from states and Union Territories to deliberate on strengthening sports governance and youth development frameworks through enhanced Centre-State collaboration. The event, which will conclude on Sunday, will be held at the Sher-i-Kashmir International Convention Centre and will be led by Union Minister for Youth Affairs and Sports Mansukh Mandaviya, along with Minister of State for Youth Affairs and Sports Raksha Khadse. The Chintan Shivir will serve as a high-level platform for structured deliberations aimed at strengthening sports governance and youth development frameworks through enhanced Centre-State collaboration, policy alignment and institutional convergence, said a ministry statement. The deliberations will place significant emphasis on strengthening the sports ecosystem in the country, with focused discussions on medal strategies and athlete development pathways under the Khelo India Mission, improving Centre-State coordination through the proposed Khelo Bharat Niti, and advancing systems for talent identification and grassroots sports development, it added. Among the key issues on the agenda will be promoting clean sport and exploring ways to position the country as a global hub for sports goods manufacturing. Issues related to sports governance, promotion of clean and safe sport, and the development of a robust sports goods manufacturing ecosystem will also be taken up. The Shivir will further review the Action Taken Report of previous editions to ensure continuity, accountability and measurable outcomes, it said. The Shivir will also include activities aimed at promoting holistic engagement, including Yoga sessions, a Fit India Cyclothon and a cultural programme, along with opportunities for informal consultations among participating States and Union Territories. Besides sports, the Shivir will also deliberate on youth affairs, with a focus on expanding engagement, strengthening delivery frameworks, and enhancing institutional impact. In line with the government's vision of building a 'Viksit Bharat' by 2047, the Shivir is being envisaged as a significant step towards fostering convergence among stakeholders and enhancing programme effectiveness across both the sports and youth development sectors. The outcomes are expected to guide future policy direction and contribute to building a robust sports ecosystem alongside an empowered and engaged youth base, in line with the vision of Viksit Bharat at 2047, the release added. The sessions will include keynote addresses, presentations by ministry officials and states, sharing of best practices, structured discussions and thematic group work.

MP Mian Altaf seeks parole for Er Rashid to visit ailing father

Srinagar, Apr 23: National Conference (NC) Member of Parliament from Anantnag-Rajouri Mian Altaf Ahmad has sought parole for incarcerated Baramulla MP Er Rashid to allow him to visit his ailing father. In a statement issued, Mian Altaf said Er Rashids father, Abdul Rashid Sheikh, is seriously ill and undergoing treatment. He urged the authorities to consider the case on humanitarian grounds and grant parole so that Er Rashid can meet his father. This is a humanitarian issue. Every person has the right to be with their parents during illness, Mian Altaf said, adding that Er Rasheed should be allowed to see his ailing father.

J-K LG calls upon teachers, students to position India as worlds leading knowledge economy

Jammu, Apr 23: The Lieutenant Governor Manoj Sinha today inaugurated the New School Building of Swami Pranavanand Vidyamandir in Panjgrain, Nagrota. The School is run by Bharat Sevashram Sangha, a renowned socio-cultural and philanthropic organisation. Bharat Sevashram Sangh started pre-primary to Class 8 education here in 2014 under 'Har Ghar Shiksha'. Over half the students are from poor families; they have illuminated countless lives. Addressing a gathering on the occasion, the Lieutenant Governor said that new higher secondary building and skill infrastructure will ensure disadvantaged students get quality education. Once all the floors of building are complete, it will serve more than 1,500 students transform thousands of lives. With future residential facilities for 100 boys, local economy will get a boost, backward areas will be transformed, and society will advance with new confidence, the Lieutenant Governor said. In his address, the Lieutenant Governor called upon students and teachers to contribute to nation-building and adapt classrooms to todays changing global landscape, positioning India as the world's leading knowledge economy. We must strengthen cultural awareness in students, as unity in diversity defines global society. Promote communication skills for clear expression, enabling the new generation to improve lives, uphold democratic values, and foster collaboration for a prosperous J&K, the Lieutenant Governor said. The Lieutenant Governor observed that every student talented in art, craft, music, or entrepreneurship deserves equal respect and opportunity. Teachers must recognize that education focused solely on marks and narrow academics, sidelining art, sports, and skills, is unfit for the future. We must prepare students for irreplaceable human capacities like creativity, critical thinking, moral decision-making, collaboration, and lifelong learning which no machine can replace, he said. The Lieutenant Governor said the world is changing rapidly and unlike the stable careers in the past, professional workforce requires continuous learning, skilling and upskilling. We are at a threshold where AI and automation is transforming industries, offices, hospitals, and schools and our human resource need to be a step ahead, the Lieutenant Governor said. The Lieutenant Governor also highlighted the recommendations of the National Education Policy (NEP) and emphasised that the policy is a potent tool to meet national needs, boost societal capacity, and accelerate economic growth. To bridge rural-urban and regional-social gaps, NEP is a powerful tool, societal asset, and reliable partner for meritorious students. India will emerge as a robust knowledge economy, nurturing generations with scientific temper, moral strength, cultural values, skills, and a spirit of service and sacrifice, the Lieutenant Governor observed. He said a student's view of the external world depends on self-perception, shaped by experiences. True education balances both, equipping students with knowledge and skills for outer world, plus self-awareness and emotional resilience for inner world. This holistic approach is every school's core duty. Every student must blend science and values for progress. NEP measures guarantee Viksit Bharat; for the first time in decades, our talented children, teens, and youth are policy priorities, the Lieutenant Governor said. The initiative of Bharat Sevashram Sangha is supported by Indian Oil, Hindustan Petroleum and other donors. Srimat Swami Biswatmanandaji Maharaj General Secretary, Bharat Sevashram Sangha; Srimat Swami Ambarishanandaji Maharaj, Joint Secretary, and senior sanyasins of Bharat Sevashrasm Sangha; and senior officials were present. Jugal Kishore Sharma, Member of Parliament; Devyani Rana, Member of Legislative Assembly from Nagrota; Dr Nirmal Singh, former Deputy Chief Minister; Rashmi Govil, Director HR, Indian Oil Corporation Limited; Vilas Zode, Executive Director-HR, Hindustan Petroleum; Chander Mohan Gupta, former Mayor JMC and other prominent citizens also attended the inaugural ceremony.

J-K woman cricketer, brother among 3 arrested in alleged sextortion racket

Srinagar, Apr 23: A woman cricketer associated with the Jammu and Kashmir T20 League, along with her brother and another associate, was arrested on Thursday by the Mumbai Police's Crime Branch in a case of sextortion and extortion. The woman and her brother were taken into custody from a hotel in Delhi, while another associate was arrested from Srinagar, NDTV reported. The arrested accused have been identified as Farkhanda Aziz Khan (30), her brother Bazil Aziz Khan (27), and their associate Uddin Imtiyaz Wani (22). According to police sources, the complainant is a 28-year-old businessman from Mumbai. In 2024, the businessman came into contact with Farkhanda. Gradually, communication between them increased, and they began chatting regularly. During this time, Farkhanda allegedly initiated explicit conversations with him. Later, she introduced the man to her brother Bazil Khan and their associate Uddin Imtiyaz Wani as well. She then allegedly demanded money from the complainant, citing financial needs. When he refused, police sources said she threatened to make their private chats public. Out of fear, the complainant allegedly transferred Rs 23.61 lakh through 32 bank transactions between April 30, 2024, and January 13, 2026, to Farkhanda's bank account. The police investigation also revealed that a large portion of this money was transferred to Uddin Wani's bank account. Some amount was also transferred to the bank account of Farkhanda's father, Abdul Aziz Khan. Police sources further stated that Wani and Bazil Khan also threatened the complainant, claiming they possessed screenshots of his chats with Farkhanda and warning him that if he did not pay, they would have him sent to jail. Following these threats, the victim transferred an additional Rs 40 lakh in January 2026. The investigation revealed that the first transaction in this case took place in April 2024, amounting to Rs 20,000. Accused Farkhanda is a resident of the Ankur Vihar area in DelhiNCR, Uddin Wani is from Khalapur in Jammu and Kashmir, while accused Bazil Khan is a resident of Nurkhaw Village in Jammu and Kashmir. Based on the complaint, an FIR has been registered at the West Region Cyber Police Station under relevant sections of the BNS 308(2), 308(6), 351(2), and 351(3), along with Sections 61(2) and 3(5) of the IT Act. Further investigation is underway. Authorities are now investigating if the accused have trapped other victims and how the extorted money was used.

SSP Traffic (Rural) Kashmir leads special drive on NH-44, warns drivers against overloading

Police take out anti-drug rally in Sopore

Why Modi govt brought delimitation along with Women's reservation bill? Min Rathore explains

Imams, mosques join 'war on drugs' in Anantnag

Srinagar, Apr 23: Imams and management committees of various mosques in Anantnag district of Jammu and Kashmir have joined the government's war on drugs, using their religious platform to create awareness against drug abuse, officials said on Thursday. In a significant community-driven initiative against the drug menace, mosques across Anantnag have extended full support to the ongoing efforts of the police in combating drug abuse and illegal narcotic cultivation, a police official said. During congregational gatherings and through loudspeaker announcements, imams and mosque committees appealed to the public to actively participate in the war against drugs and refrain from engaging in or supporting any form of illegal crop cultivation, particularly narcotic substances such as cannabis and opium poppy, he said. The announcements emphasised the social, moral, and legal consequences of drug abuse and illicit cultivation, and highlighted the importance of collective responsibility, urging families and community members to report such activities to the authorities, he said. The police appreciated the proactive and responsible role played by religious institutions, terming it a strong example of police-public partnership, the official said. Such coordinated efforts are expected to significantly contribute to the success of anti-drug campaigns and the eradication of illegal cultivation in the region, he said.

People suffering due to lack of jobs and basic services: Sunil Sharma

BJP workers protest in Banihal over leaders arrest, burn effigies of CM Omar Abdullah, MLA Sajjad Shaheen

Banihal, April 23: Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) workers staged a protest demonstration on Thursday at the Municipal Park in Banihal against the arrest of party leader Mohammad Saleem Bhat and the ongoing shortage of doctors in the area. During the protest, demonstrators raised slogans against the Omar Abdullah-led government and also burned effigies of Chief Minister Omar Abdullah and Banihal MLA Sajjad Shaheen. They accused the National Conference government of failing to provide basic public services and expressed strong resentment over the healthcare situation. Addressing the gathering, BJP leader Mohammad Saleem Bhat said that he would continue to raise his voice for the rights of the people and was ready to make any sacrifice for the cause. He stated that following his protest, the intervention of Member of Parliament Jitendra Singh led to action by the Health Department. According to him, the Director Health Services Jammu has issued orders for deputing one doctor to Sub-District Hospital Banihal, while three more doctors are in the process of being posted. It is pertinent to mention that on April 21, Mohammad Saleem Bhat had locked the Sub-District Hospital Banihal for a brief period in protest against the shortage of doctors, disrupting services temporarily. The lock was later removed following intervention by the local administration, which assured redressal of the issues, and normal functioning was restored. Subsequently, on April 22, police registered a case against Bhat and took him into custody. He was later released on bail on Wednesday evening.

SKUAST to Establish Kashmirs First Spice Grinding Facility: Tanvir Sadiq

NC govt failed to address peoples concerns despite majority: Mehbooba Mufti

NC govt betrayed voters despite massive electoral support: Mehbooba Mufti

Baramulla, Apr 23: Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) President, Mehbooba Mufti on Thursday launched a sharp attack on the National Conference-led government headed by Omar Abdullah , accusing it of betraying the mandate of the people despite receiving massive electoral support. Addressing a party convention in north Kashmir's Baramulla, Mufti said the youth of Jammu and Kashmir were facing an uncertain future due to rising unemployment. Despite being meritorious, our young people are jobless. Their parents are deeply worried, and as a result, many youths are falling into drug addiction, she said. She alleged that the present government had failed to deliver on key promises, including providing 200 units of free electricity. Instead, power projects are being handed over to outsiders while local promises remain unfulfilled, she added. Referring to her outreach programme Kath Baat, Mufti said she personally interacted with people across Kashmir and found widespread stress and anxiety among the masses. People are distressed. Even in mosques, prayer leaders are being forced to vet sermons before delivering them, she claimed. She also alleged that Mohalla Committees were unable to carry out rehabilitation and social programmes due to alleged harassment by agencies. Highlighting concerns of the Sikh community, Mufti said, The Sikh community has always stood shoulder to shoulder with the people of Kashmir, yet they have not been provided adequate support packages. It is time they are given due attention. Responding to criticism over her partys past alliance with the Bharatiya Janata Party , the PDP chief said the party never compromised on the rights of the people. We are targeted for aligning with the BJP, but we did not compromise on peoples rights, she said. Accusing the current regime of failing to safeguard land and job rights, Mufti said that during the PDPs tenure, significant confidence-building measures were taken. She cited the opening of the SrinagarMuzaffarabad trade route. Today, that route has been shut down citing concerns of drug smuggling, hurting traders and fruit growers, she said. She also highlighted the plight of fruit growers, alleging that trucks carrying produce remain stranded for weeks on the Srinagar-Jammu highway, while traffic is cleared swiftly during pilgrimage movements. Urging people not to lose hope, Mufti said oppression cannot last forever. Drawing a parallel, she remarked that even powerful regimes eventually bow to the will of the people. The time will come when justice prevails. People must remain hopeful, she added.

Noida workers unrest: A story of hidden inflation and its impact

Noida factory workers protest: Years of rising costs have diminished buying power, creating widespread discontent among many. Wage growth lags behind essential expenses like education and healthcare. This disparity fuels resentment and impacts household finances. Addressing these structural issues is crucial for inclusive growth and social stability.

Anti-narcotic drives held in Srinagar as part of 'Nasha Mukt Bharat'

Mandaviya to inaugurate 30-bedded ESIC Hospital in Budgam on Friday

New Delhi, Apr 23: Union Minister of Labour and Employment and Youth Affairs and Sports, Mansukh Mandaviya, would inaugurate the newly constructed 30-bedded ESIC Hospital (expandable upto 100 bedded) at Ompora, Budgam, on Friday. The facility, which is extendable up to 100 beds, marks a major milestone in enhancing healthcare delivery under the Employees State Insurance (ESI) scheme in the region. In a special gesture, Mandaviya would honour the construction workers who contributed to the development of the hospital. The facility would serve over 50,000 workers and their families of the region, improving healthcare access for residents of Budgam and surrounding districts. The hospital project is constructed on a sprawling area of 5 acres with a project cost of around Rs 165 crore. The hospital project includes the hospital building, service building, and 32 residential quarters covering the plinth area of around 24,500 sq m. Initially, the hospital will begin with 30-beds and gradually, the bed strength will be increased to 100-beds. The facility includes three modular operation theatres and one dedicated emergency OT for both planned and critical procedures. It is equipped with four patient lifts for efficient movement and a modern HVAC system to ensure optimal air quality and comfort. The infrastructure features eco-friendly systems such as solar water heating and sewage and effluent treatment plants. The ESI scheme was introduced in J&K on October 16, 1989, covering about 7000 workers in Jammu, Kathua, and Srinagar. At present, the ESI scheme is implemented across all districts of J&K serving approximately 1,83,119 insured persons and about 7,00,000 beneficiaries and is administered through the ESIC Regional Office at Jammu and the Jammu-Kashmir Employees State Insurance Society (JKESIS). The Medical Benefit Delivery System in J&K provides primary healthcare through five Dispensary Cum Branch Offices at Srinagar, Kathua, Katra, Samba, and Udhampur, and eight Employees' State Insurance Scheme (ESIS) Dispensaries - three in Srinagar, two in Jammu, and one each in Budgam, Kathua, and Samba under the JKESI Society. Secondary care is available at the 50-bedded ESIC Model Hospital, Bari-Brahmana, Samba, with additional tie-up arrangements with 15 private nursing homes, hospitals, and diagnostic centres for secondary and super-specialty treatment. Cash benefits are delivered through a branch office at Jammu and five DCBOs located at Kathua, Samba, Udhampur, Katra, and Srinagar.

Crown Prince MBS urges safe and seamless Hajj operations amid West Asia conflict

Saudi Arabia, Apr 23: Saudi Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman has directed authorities to take all necessary measures to ensure a safe and smooth Hajj pilgrimage. He emphasized the pride of this blessed land in serving the Grand Mosque of Makkah and the Prophet's Mosque of Madinah and in offering the best care for their visitors. Crown Prince Mohammed, who chaired a cabinet meeting to discuss the Haj preparations, ordered the full mobilization of operational, security and preventive plans, stressing the need to deliver the highest standards of service across the holy cities, pilgrimage sites and all air, land and sea entry points. Over three lakh pilgrims from India, Bangladesh, Pakistan, Malaysia, Indonesia and other nations have arrived in the kingdom for the annual Hajj pilgrimage. More than twenty thousand Indian pilgrims, including around 1100 from Jammu and Kashmir have reached the Saudi kingdom for performing the Hajj, one of the fundamental principles of Islam. 28 flights will operate from Srinagar embarkation to carry 4,704 pilgrims from Jammu and Kashmir which will continue till May 5. Approximately 3,990 of these pilgrims will fly directly from Srinagar, with the remainder departing from Delhi and Mumbai. Akasa Air has been awarded the tender to operate the Haj flights from Srinagar for this Haj season. Meanwhile, Minister of Hajj and Umrah,Tawafiq al Rabiah inspected the readiness of camps in Mina as part of field tours to assess service quality ahead of the Hajj season. He said preparations began early, with coordinated efforts among authorities to enhance camp readiness and operational efficiency. Mr Al -Rabiah said that new electronic systems have been introduced to monitor pilgrim movement and regulate entry and exit, supported by clear signage to guide timings and instructions, adding: These measures support crowd management and enhance pilgrim safety, aligning with efforts to advance Vision 2030 and the Pilgrim Experience Programme. Over 12,000 scheduled and charter flights will carry around 1.5 million pilgrims from all over the world. Authorities said regulatory teams have been deployed to ensure airlines and airports meet performance and service standards. Six key airports have been designated to receive Hajj flights, operated by a workforce of more than 22,000 staff. New initiatives include a baggage-free traveler service, allowing luggage to be shipped directly from accommodation, alongside expanded pre-shipment of Zamzam water. In a statement, Minister of Media Salman Al-Dossary said the Crown Prince instructed to continue providing the highest quality services and facilities for the pilgrims .ends

Four held for providing logistic support to terrorists in J-K

Srinagar, Apr 23: Four over ground workers (OGWs), including a woman, were arrested in Jammu and Kashmir's summer capital here for allegedly providing logistic support to terrorists, officials said on Thursday. Police arrested the four OGWs from Hazratbal area of the city here on Wednesday night. They identified the OGWs as Zahoor Ahmad Mir, Bashir Ahmad Bhat, and Ghulam Mohammad Bhat, all residents of Hazratbal. The woman was identified as Shazia Mohammad, a resident of Hazratbal as well, the officials said. They said a hand grenade, 15 AK-47 rounds, four mobile phones and some cash were recovered from their possession. A case has been under against them under various sections of the UAPA and Arms Act, the officials added.

Voting begins across TN, people briskly turn up before polling booths to cast votes

Chennai, Apr 23: Voting for the Tamil Nadu Assembly election commenced at 7 AM on Thursday amidst tight security with people briskly lining up in front of the polling stations across the state. The DMK, which heads the Secular Progressive Alliance, is seeking to retain power, and is leading a multi-party coalition that includes Congress, Left parties and the VCK. The AIADMK, heading the National Democratic Alliance, on the other hand, is pushing for a return to power with allies BJP, AMMK and PMK, among others, in tow. Actor Vijay-led TVK is attempting to break the decades long tradition of DMK and AIADMK alternatively ruling the state and form its government. On Thursday AIADMK chief Edappadi K Palaniswami, veteran Congress leader P Chidambaram, former Telangana governor and BJP candidate Dr Tamilisai Soundararajan and NTK top leader Seeman were among the early voters and they cast their votes in Salem, Sivaganga and Chennai respectively. Union Minister L Murugan stood in a serpentine queue and cast his vote in Chennai. Similarly, BJP leader Kushbhu alongwith her filmmaker husband Sundar C voted in the city. Chief Electoral Officer Archana Patnaik voted at Virugambakkam which falls under Maduravoyal Assembly constituency. Tamil Nadu's electorate is 5.73 crore strong and they will vote in as many as 75,064 polling stations in 33,133 locations to decide the fortunes of 4,023 candidates. The total electorate comprises 2.93 women, 2.83 crore men, and 7,728 third-gender persons. The TN Assembly is 234-member strong. The Election Commission has deployed 1,06,418 ballot units along with 75,064 control units and VVPAT machines. To prevent any technical delays, a reserve of 20 per cent for EVMs and 30 per cent for VVPATs is being maintained, according to officials. To ensure peaceful polling, 300 companies of Central Armed Police Forces (CAPF) have been deployed, alongside 83,875 state police personnel. Tamil Nadu has 14,59,039 first-time voters and 3,98,513 electors aged 85 and above and many of them had already utilised the home voting facility. Over 3.60 lakh government staff are on polling duty. For ease of voting, election authorities have said that amenities including drinking water, toilets, help desk, ramps with proper gradient and volunteer and wheelchair facility has been provided. Officials strictly enforced the ban against taking cellphones and smartwatches inside the polling room.

PM Modi appeals people of Tamil Nadu, Bengal to vote in large numbers

New Delhi, Apr 23: Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Thursday appealed to the people of Tamil Nadu and West Bengal to enthusiastically take part in the voting for the Assembly elections in their states. Modi especially urged the youth and women of the two states to vote in record numbers. Polling has started at all 234 assembly constituencies in Tamil Nadu while voting began for 152 assembly seats, out of the 294, in West Bengal this morning. As Tamil Nadu votes in the Assembly elections, I call upon all voters to take part enthusiastically in this sacred duty of democracy. I urge the youth and the women of Tamil Nadu in particular to come out and vote in record numbers, Modi said in a post on X. The prime minister, in another post, said, Phase 1 of the West Bengal Assembly elections takes place today. I urge all citizens to participate in this festival of democracy with full strength. I especially appeal to my young friends and to the women of West Bengal to vote in large numbers. The second phase of polling in West Bengal will be held on April 29. Counting of votes in both states, along with Assam, Kerala and Puducherry, will take place on May 4.

US Navy Secretary quits amid West Asia war tensions

US Navy Secretary, John Phelan has stepped down as the United States Secretary of the Navy with immediate effect, the Pentagon announced, according to the BBC. Pentagon spokesman Sean Parnell said in a social media post that Phelans departure would be effective immediately, adding that Navy Undersecretary Hung Cao will take charge as acting secretary. On behalf of the Secretary of War and Deputy Secretary of War, we are grateful to Secretary Phelan for his service to the Department and the United States Navy. We wish him well in his future endeavours, Parnell said. The Pentagon did not provide any official reason for Phelans sudden exit. His departure comes amid heightened geopolitical tensions, including the ongoing conflict involving Iran and the United States, Iran as well as Washingtons continued blockade of the Strait of Hormuz, a key global shipping route. Phelan is the latest in a series of senior military leaders to exit the administration in recent months. His departure follows a broader reshuffle within the US defence establishment under Defence Secretary Pete Hegseth, who has removed more than a dozen top officers since taking office. Just weeks earlier, Army Chief of Staff Randy George was asked to step down. Two other senior Army officials, Gen David Hodne and Maj Gen William Green, have also been removed from their posts. Phelan, a businessman and major donor to President Donald Trump, was sworn in as Navy Secretary in March 2025 after being nominated in 2024. Notably, he had no prior military service. According to the BBC, his tenure included backing Trumps proposal for a new fleet of heavily armed naval vessels, part of a broader Golden Fleet initiative aimed at expanding US maritime strength. The role of Navy Secretary is largely administrative, overseeing policy formulation, recruitment, training, budgeting, and logistics, including the construction and maintenance of naval ships and facilities. Hung Cao, who will now serve as acting secretary, is a 25-year Navy veteran and has been serving as undersecretary since October 2025.

Cemtac Cements holds plantation drive at Khrew plant

Srinagar, Apr 22: Cemtac Cements organised a plantation drive at its plant site in Pulwama, with officials from the Forest Department and the Jammu and Kashmir Pollution Control Committee in attendance. The drive witnessed the presence of Mudasir Mehmood, DFO Awantipora Division, officials of the Forest Department, and Fayaz Ahmad, District Officer, Pulwama Division (JKPCC), among others. Around 1000 saplings of different species were planted as part of the initiative aimed at enhancing green cover and promoting ecological balance in the area. Members of J&K Eco Watch also participated in the drive. Speaking on the occasion, DFO Awantipora Division, MudasirMehmood, said, Such initiatives by industrial units are a positive step towards environmental conservation. Increasing green cover is essential for maintaining ecological balance, and we appreciate Cemtacs efforts in this regard. We hope to collaborate with them in future plantation and afforestation drives as well. District Officer, Pulwama Division (JKPCC), Fayaz Ahmad, said, Industries have a crucial role in ensuring environmental compliance and sustainability. This plantation drive reflects a responsible approach, and we encourage more such initiatives that align development with environmental protection. Director of Operations, RumanRiaz, said the company remains committed to sustainable practices. At Cemtac, we believe that industrial growth must be balanced with environmental responsibility. This drive is a step towards that vision, and we are committed to continuing such efforts in the future to contribute to a greener and more sustainable ecosystem, he said. The company said the initiative forms part of its broader commitment to sustainability and community engagement, with similar programmes planned in the coming months.

No shortage of Fuel, LPG or fertilizers in J&K: Officers to Chief Secretary

As part of a periodic review a high-level meeting was convened today by Chief Secretary, Atal Dulloo to take stock of the availability and distribution of essential commodities across the districts of J&K in the aftermath of the recent West Asia crisis that had initially given rise to the apprehensions of impacting the supply chains. The meeting was attended by senior officers including Commissioner Secretary, FCS&CA; Commissioner Secretary, School Education; Secretary, IT and, Transport Departments; Divisional Commissioner, Jammu/Kashmir; IG Traffic; and other concerned officials. The Chief Secretary emphasised the need for continuous monitoring of the situation to ensure ease and convenience for the public. He directed Deputy Commissioners to saturate the e-KYC of all active beneficiaries under the Public Distribution System within the next two weeks, ensuring transparency and efficiency in service delivery. The Chief Secretary further stressed the importance of closely monitoring the distribution and usage of fertilisers to prevent hoarding or disproportionate consumption by any individual or entity. He directed that mechanisms be put in place to ensure equitable access for all farmers and stakeholders. He also underscored the need to implement an Aadhaar-enabled distribution system for fertilisers to ensure transparency and fair allocation. Reviewing the supply position, it was informed that both Kashmir and Jammu divisions currently have adequate stocks of petroleum products and LPG. The Divisional Commissioner, Jammu, Ramesh Kumar while aporising about Jammu Division, revealed that the diesel availability stands at about 11 days and petrol around 4 days, with additional supplies in transit improving the overall position. LPG stocks in Jammu are sufficient for 810 days, while kerosene reserves remain comfortable, he added. Similarly for Kashmir Division, the Divisional Commissioner, Anshul Garg divulged that the petrol and diesel stocks provide coverage of around 1719 days, extendable up to 2022 days with supplies in transit, while LPG stocks are sufficient for about 15 days. The meeting also took detailed note of district-wise price trends of LPG and petroleum products, along with enforcement actions taken against violators. It was informed that strict action has been initiated against those indulging in hoarding or attempting to create artificial scarcity in the market, with a clear directive to maintain market discipline and protect consumer interests. Availability of fuel and LPG to commercial and industrial establishments was also reviewed. The meeting was apprised that adequate arrangements are in place to ensure uninterrupted supply to key sectors. Special emphasis was laid on ensuring availability of food, cooking fuel and other essentials to critical residential institutions such as hospitals, hostels and other care facilities across all districts. Additional Chief Secretary, Agriculture Production Department, Ashish Chandra Verma, apprised the meeting that fertiliser stocks across J&K remain stable, though continuous monitoring is essential. He advised that consumers should be encouraged to use fertilisers judiciously to maintain balanced availability.

KCCI pays tribute to victims of Pahalgam attack on 1st anniversary

The Kashmir Chamber of Commerce and Industry (KCCI) today paid solemn tribute to all 26 individuals who lost their lives in the tragic attack in Pahalgam on April 22, 2025, marking the first anniversary of the incident. In a statement, the Chamber expressed deep condolences and remembered each of the 26 victims with profound respect. It stated that the loss of these lives continues to be felt across society, with families and communities still grappling with the aftermath of the tragedy. KCCI also paid homage to the sacrifice of Syed Adil Shah, a tourist guide who lost his life while saving tourists, highlighting the spirit of Kashmiris who have always stood to host and protect visitors. Describing the incident as a painful chapter, the Chamber said it remains a moment of collective grief and reflection. The Chamber further emphasised the importance of continued efforts towards peace, stability, and a conducive environment for all.

Kabir Chhillar of ALLEN bags All India Rank-1 in JEE-Main 2026

The National Testing Agency has announced the All India Rank list and Session 2 results of JEE-Main 2026, with Allen Career Institute once again registering a strong performance. Allen Classroom student Kabir Chhillar has secured All India Rank (AIR) 1, achieving a perfect score of 300 out of 300. The institute also saw four classroom students in the top 10, including Arnav Gautam (AIR 5), Shubham Kumar (AIR 6), and Rishi Premnath (AIR 8). In total, nine students from Allen featured in the top 20, while 42 students secured ranks in the top 100. Additionally, 21 state toppers are from the institute. Allen Career Institute CEO Nitin Kukreja said the results have been independently validated by leading audit firm EY India to ensure transparency and authenticity. He added that over the past two years, every fourth student admitted to IITs has been from Allen, highlighting the institutes consistent performance in both JEE Main and Advanced examinations. A record 1.538 million students appeared for JEE-Main 2026 across both sessions, with 26 candidates scoring 100 percentile. The results also include state-wise and category-wise toppers. Kabir Chhillar, a classroom student at Allen Career Institute, Kota, hails from Gurugram and has been enrolled in the institute for the past two years. Born on July 30, 2008, he previously scored 98 per cent in his Class 10 examinations. His father, Mohit Chhillar, is an IIT graduate working in the private sector, while his mother, Priyanka Chhillar, is a school teacher. Reflecting on his achievement, Kabir credited his success to structured guidance and disciplined preparation. I focused on quality learning and attention span during self-study. After every test, I analysed my performance and worked on weak areas. Regular mock tests and detailed analysis helped improve my accuracy and time management, he said. He emphasised conceptual clarity over rote learning, adding that breaking down study goals into smaller targets, maintaining concise notes, and consistent revision played a crucial role in his preparation. Kabir also highlighted the importance of mental balance, noting that spending time with friends helped him stay refreshed. Looking ahead, he aims to pursue B.Tech in Computer Science from IIT Bombay, followed by higher studies at the Massachusetts Institute of Technology (MIT).

Petrol-diesel, LPG supply normal in J&K, Ladakh: IOCL Executive Director

Executive Director (ED) and State Head of Indian Oil Corporation Limited (IOCL) for J&K, Punjab and Himachal Pradesh Ashutosh Gupta Wednesday stated that the supply of petroleum products, including petrol and diesel was normal in Jammu and Kashmir and Ladakh. He said LPG supplies were also stable, with adequate stock to meet public demand. Accompanied by Director, PIB Jammu Neha Jalali, Ashutosh Gupta was responding to media queries in a press conference organised by the Press Information Bureau (PIB) Jammu on the current status of fuel and LPG supply in Jammu and Kashmir amidst the ongoing situation in West Asia. State-level coordinator of oil Industry in Jammu and Kashmir and Ladakh Himanshu Sharma besides other officials of OICL were also present on the occasion. Gupta also mentioned that the Government of India appealed for the utilisation of PNG (Piped Natural Gas) and that a main trunk line was expected to ensure PNG supply to Jammu and Kashmir within a year. The IOCL Executive Director said the stock position of Motor Spirit (MS) and High-Speed Diesel (HSD) was normal across J&K, adding that Oil Marketing Company (OMC) depots were maintaining healthy inventory levels. Retail outlets have sufficient stock for uninterrupted sales. There is no cause for concern regarding the availability of automotive fuels, he stated. Ashutosh Gupta said oil refineries were currently operating at more capacity to meet the growing demand, ensuring that there were no dry outs or artificial shortages. He said despite the unprecedented national supply disruption, J&K successfully maintained commercial LPG supply more than 70 percent of its pre-crisis average. This figure reflects the sustained and coordinated efforts of Oil Marketing Companies (OMCs) and the J&K government. Against the pre-crisis daily average of 2072 cylinders (commercial sale 19 kg equivalent on February 26), we are currently delivering 1958 cylinders per day ensuring that commercial kitchens, industries and establishments continue to receive a substantial and functional share of their requirement, he said. Gupta stated that it had been achieved through strict supply chain management, priority-based allocation, and active monitoring even as the nation continued to face a 2530 percent overall LPG supply deficit due to the Hormuz disruption. He assured the public that there was no need to panic as there was no issue with respect to the availability of LPG in the region and informed that there had been a 25-30 per cent increase in indigenous production of LPG to further strengthen supply lines. With regard to hoarding and black-marketing practices, Gupta stressed the Corporations zero tolerance policy. He informed that 9,128 raids were conducted and 181 surprise inspections carried out. We have already seized 295 cylinders, and three FIRs have been registered against illegal practices. Dealers have been working with patience to discourage hoarding and legal action will be taken against anyone involved in hoarding or black marketing, he said. The government was committed to maintaining a disciplined market, with 69 show cause-notices issued to violators, he added. The complaints of malpractices by some of the LPG distributors are being reported on social media as well as through complaints from the customers. Some complaints were received on social media about the current crisis. Immediate response is given to the genuine concerns. Relevant information and updates for the benefit of the customers is shared via our various social media handles from time to time, Ashutosh Gupta said. The IOCL Executive Director pointed out that booking for LPG currently was being managed efficiently with an OTP-based verification system. He informed that this system had seen 92 per cent of bookings made via digital mode by genuine customers. Additionally, FTL 5-kg cylinders have been made available for migrant workers. 55 camps have been organised for daily wage workers to provide easy access to fuel in the form of FTL cylinders, he said. The Executive Director said that total commercial LPG allocation had been increased to about 70 percent of pre-crisis levels. Additional measures were undertaken to support vulnerable sections, including doubling the allocation of 5 kg Free Trade LPG (FTL) cylinders for migrant labourers, he informed. Regarding commercial LPG supply, Gupta stated that the demand from hospitals, educational institutes and hotels increased from 20 percent to 70 percent, demonstrating the growing reliance on fuel in critical sectors. Earlier in her opening remarks, Director, PIB Jammu Neha Jalali provided an overview of the steps taken by the Government of India to ensure a continuous and uninterrupted supply of essential petroleum products, including diesel, petrol and LPG, across the country. She highlighted that the government implemented several proactive measures to mitigate any disruptions to the supply chain. Neha Jalali informed that more than 30 inter-ministerial briefings were held in New Delhi to provide a status on the supply of fuel, LPG, and fertilisers. She also emphasised the crucial role played by the Ministry of Information and Broadcasting, through PIB and its associated media units, in disseminating accurate and factual information regarding fuel availability. She stated that the PIB had been actively countering misinformation and fake news related to fuel shortages. She urged the public to rely only on verified information from official sources and to refrain from spreading unverified news, which could cause unnecessary panic and disruptions.

Unutilised amount of Rs 85.75 Cr remained locked up with UTLBC for 341 days: CAG

An un-utilised amount of Rs 85.75 Cr out of Rs 750 Cr, released by J&K Finance Department for implementation of its interest subvention scheme under its Business Revival Package 2020, remained locked up with Union Territory Level Bankers' Committee (UTLBC) for 341 days, and the funds were not credited to eligible beneficiaries, in violation of norms. As per the terms and conditions of the sanction, the funds were to be credited immediately to eligible beneficiaries. The Comptroller and Auditor General (CAG) of India flagged a startling revelation in its compliance audit report for the year ended March 2022 on Revenue and Public Sector Undertakings (PSUs) of J&K. Considering the difficulties being faced by the various sectors of the economy in J&K, a committee was constituted in August 2020 by the Industries and Commerce Department, Government of Jammu and Kashmir for preparing a proposal for relief and revival of the business sector in the Union Territory. The Committee, in September 2020, submitted its report after deliberations with various business associations in the UT. Based on the recommendations of the Committee, the J&K Finance Department in October 2020 approved scheme of interest subvention of five per cent for all borrowers, excluding borrowers under Kissan Credit Card (KCC), Artisans Credit Card (ACC), loan against deposits, loans under personal segments and Non-Banking Financial Corporation (NBFC) for a period of six months with effect from April 1, 2020. The benefit under the scheme was to be provided to those borrowers whose accounts were standard as on July 31, 2019 or March 31, 2020, whichever is applicable. The scheme also provided for pending interest subvention under the rehabilitation schemes of 2014 and 2016. The scheme was floated by J&K Industries and Commerce Department whereas the Finance Department was the implementing agency and the Union Territory Level Bankers' Committee (UTLBC) acted as a monitoring agency for the scheme. J&K Finance Department in October 2020 approved the Business Revival Package with financial implication of Rs 950 Cr for the Interest Subvention Scheme of 2020 and an amount of Rs 139.24 Cr for rehabilitation schemes of 2014 and 2016. J&K Finance Department, however, released Rs 750 Cr in three tranches during October 2020 to May 2021 to UTLBC, which included an amount of Rs 138.03 Cr, earmarked for rehabilitation schemes of 2014 and 2016. As per the audit, out of Rs 750 Cr, an amount of Rs 526.50 Cr was utilised towards five per cent Interest Subvention Scheme of 2020 and an amount of Rs 137.75 Cr was utilised for the Interest Subvention Schemes of 2014 and 2016. It was also noticed that the unutilised amount of Rs 85.75 Cr remained locked up with UTLBC for 341 days i.e., from May 14, 2021 to April 19, 2022 though as per the terms and conditions of the sanction, the funds were to be credited immediately to eligible beneficiaries and were not to be parked unnecessarily, the CAG report revealed. The UTLBC refunded the balance amount in April 2022. On being pointed out by audit in April 2023, the J&K government, in December 2023, attributed the reasons for parking of funds to the receipt of representations by UTLBC from the trade bodies, individuals and firms claiming their eligibility under the scheme. The reply of the government is not satisfactory as the funds were required to be credited immediately to the eligible beneficiaries and were not to be parked as per terms and conditions of the sanction order, whereas the unutilised funds remained parked for 341 days with the UTLBC, the report noted. Not only this, the report also revealed interest subvention to ineligible accounts. As per the conditions of the Scheme, the benefit was to be provided to those borrowers whose accounts were standard as on July 31, 2019 or March 31, 2020 whichever is applicable. However, as per audit report, it was noticed that Jammu and Kashmir Bank Limited (JKBL) provided interest subvention to 2.43 lakh accounts under the Scheme which included 1,243 accounts that were restructured by the JKBL in February 2017 under the rehabilitation package rolled out by it. Audit analysis showed that these 1,243 accounts were wrongly considered as standard accounts as on July 31, 2019 by the JKBL and were provided interest subvention of Rs 6.78 Cr under the scheme of 2020. These accounts were classified as Non-Performing Assets (NPA) by the Bank in March 2020 with retrospective effect in accordance with the RBI norms. By considering these 1,243 accounts as standard accounts on July 31, 2019, the Bank extended undue benefit of interest subvention of Rs 6.78 Cr under the scheme of 2020, against the conditions governing the Scheme as these accounts were NPA as on July 31, 2019 as well as on March 31, 2020. On being pointed out by audit in April 2023, JKBL confirmed that these accounts were downgraded as NPA with effect from February 2017. However, the J&K government, in its reply in December 2023, stated that these accounts were provided interest subvention as per the guidelines of the scheme as they were standard as on July 31, 2019. The reply of the government has not taken into account the fact that the effective NPA classification dates of these accounts were when they were restructured (between November 2016 and February 2017), the report stated.

Baramulla hosts multi-zone inter-school sports competitions

The DYSS Baramulla continues to energise the district with a remarkable blend of competitive sports and social awareness under the ongoing Inter-School Zonal Level Competitions alongside the Nasha Mukt Abhiyan J&K. The initiative, as per an official statement issued on Wednesday, is witnessing enthusiastic participation across multiple zones, reinforcing the commitment towards nurturing young talent while promoting a drug-free society. In Zone Baramulla, inter-school zonal level competitions for U-14 and U-17 boys were successfully conducted at HS Dewanbagh, witnessing the participation of around 60 students from various government and private institutions. Before the commencement of the competitions, all participants and teaching staff solemnly took a pledge under the banner of Nasha Mukt Abhiyan J&K, reaffirming their commitment towards eradicating drug abuse. Zone Singpora Kalan organised inter-school zonal level Chess competitions for Under-14 and Under-17 boys and girls at BHS Singpora Kalan, where young minds showcased exceptional strategic skills and sportsmanship. Similarly, Zone Tangmarg conducted inter-school zonal level Badminton competitions for Under-14 boys. Prior to the matches, a pledge ceremony was held under the Nasha Mukt Abhiyan J&K, highlighting the importance of a healthy and addiction-free lifestyle. In Zone Dangerpora, on the third day of the ongoing competitions, Badminton events for Under-14 and Under-17 girls were organised at BHSS Dangerpora, witnessing active participation and competitive zeal among the students. Zone Rohama hosted inter-school zonal level Chess competitions for Under-14 and Under-17 girls at GHS Tragpora, with 47 students participating and displaying commendable talent. Likewise, Zone Chandoosa conducted Chess competitions for Under-14 and Under-17 girls at Cradle Public School, where 28 students took part enthusiastically. Zone Nehalpora organised inter-school zonal level Carrom competitions for Under-14 boys and girls at BMS Waripora, with approximately 40 students participating in the indoor sporting event. Meanwhile, Zone Wagoora conducted inter-school zonal level Badminton competitions for Under-17 boys at HSS Kreeri, witnessing the participation of 48 students. Across all zones, the integration of sports with the Nasha Mukt Abhiyan J&K through rallies and pledge ceremonies has significantly amplified awareness among youth regarding the harmful effects of drug abuse. The initiative continues to inspire students to adopt a disciplined, healthy, and purpose-driven lifestyle through active participation in sports.

J&K SnowShoe Association felicitates Naseem Chaya, Adnan Shah in Srinagar

The J&K SnowShoe Association held a meeting on Wednesday at Radisson Collection & Spa, Riverfront Srinagar, to review snowshoe activities and discuss upcoming development projects. The meeting, as per a statement, was chaired by Senior Vice President Naseem Chaya and attended by Vice Presidents Arif Laigaroo and Adnan Shah, General Secretary Dr Altaf-ur-Rehman, and members Reyaz Wani, Gulzar Ahmad, and Abid Hussain, among others. During the meeting, the association reviewed activities carried out during the recent winter season. Naseem Chaya congratulated the team led by Arif Laigaroo for the successful conduct of the 10th National SnowShoe Championship 2026 held in Sonamarg in collaboration with the Directorate of Tourism, Kashmir, and the SnowShoe Federation of India. He was briefed on the impact of the event, which aimed to promote Sonamarg as the next major winter sports destination in Kashmir. The meeting also included a review of other activities, with special focus on grassroots development of snowshoe running in Jammu and Kashmir. It was a great success, and I congratulate the entire team led by Arif Laigaroo for making it happen. It is a significant achievement to see our J&K team emerge as overall champions, with athletes winning multiple medals, Chaya said. Apart from national-level events, activities were also held in Gulmarg, South Kashmir, and Dodapathri during the winter season. J&K athletes also represented India in Italy, he added. He emphasised that snowshoe running is an accessible sport compared to skiing. Unlike skiing, which takes years of training, snowshoeing is an activity that any active person can do. It does not require extensive traininganyone can pick up snowshoes and enjoy walking or hiking on snow. We should make snowshoes available at all tourist destinations, and hotels should provide them for guests, he said. The association also felicitated Naseem Chaya and Adnan Shah for their contributions to the development of snowshoe running and winter sports in Jammu and Kashmir. They were presented with mementos and souvenirs.

Govt committed to strengthen sports infrastructure across J&K: Satish Sharma

Minister for Food, Civil Supplies & Consumer Affairs, Information Technology, Transport, Youth Services & Sports and Science & Technology, Satish Sharma, underscored the importance of youth engagement through sports while addressing the grand finale of the 2nd Sher-e-Kashmir T20 Cricket Tournament at MA Stadium, Jammu. Highlighting the transformative role of sports, the Minister, as per an official statement issued on Wednesday, stated that such tournaments provide a constructive platform for the youth to showcase their talent, develop discipline and stay away from social evils like drug abuse. He emphasised that sports not only build physical fitness but also nurture leadership qualities and a spirit of teamwork among young individuals. The Minister lauded the efforts of the Youth National Conference for organising the tournament under the Say No to Drugs initiative, terming it a significant step towards channelising youth energy in a positive direction. He reiterated the governments commitment to strengthen the sports infrastructure and ensure wider participation of youth across Jammu and Kashmir. The tournament witnessed enthusiastic participation from several teams, including KT Lions, Royal Legends Club, Warriors XI, Rising Stars, Friends Club and Young Strikers, reflecting the growing interest of youth in cricket and competitive sports across the region. Congratulating the players, Satish Sharma appreciated their sportsmanship and competitive spirit, noting that such events foster unity, camaraderie and a sense of purpose among the youth. He encouraged the young players to remain dedicated and pursue sports as a means to achieve excellence and contribute positively to society. The Minister also complimented the organisers for successful conduct of the tournament and expressed hope that more such initiatives would be organized in future to engage the youth meaningfully. The event was attended by Rattan Lal Gupta, Tejinder Paul Singh Aman along with former minister Bahu Ram Pal, senior leaders and a large number of youth participants.

HC overturns eviction order over Sonwar land dispute

Srinagar, Apr 22:Underscoring that the disputed questions of land title cannot be decided through summary proceedings under the Public Premises Act, the High Court of J&K and Ladakh Wednesday quashed an eviction order issued by the Cantonment authorities against some residents of Sonawar here. Allowing the four aggrieved persons plea, a Bench of Justice M AChowdhary, set aside the order dated August 8, 2022, passed by the Estates Officer, Cantonment Board, BadamiBagh Srinagar. In their plea, the petitioners had assailed the eviction proceedings initiated under the Public Premises (Eviction of Unauthorised Occupants) Act, 1971, asserting ownership and long-standing possession of land at Bonamsar, Sonawar Srinagar. They relied on revenue records, mutations, and a civil court decree to claim the land as proprietary. Opposing the plea, the Union of India and Cantonment authorities argued that the land formed part of Defence property recorded as B-4 land in the General Land Register (GLR). The petitioners, they alleged, were unauthorised occupants. In its decision, the court held that both sides had raised competing claims over the land, identified differently in revenue and defence records, thereby involving complex and bona fide disputes of title. Summary eviction proceedings cannot be used where title is seriously disputed, the court said. With regard to the petitioners claim that the land in question was purchased by their predecessor-in-interest in terms of a registered sale deed June 3, 1971, the court said: In respect of a registered sale deed, the well settled proposition of law lays down that a registered sale deed carries a formidable presumption of validity and genuineness and that the burden of proof to displace this presumption rests heavily upon the challenger, requiring material particulars and cogent evidence to demonstrate that the deed was never intended to operate as a bona fide transfer of title. The petitioners were claiming title and possession over the subject property through their predecessors-in-interest from the year 1950, whereas, the respondents claimed the subject land is dovernment/ defense land which had been encroached upon by the Petitioners. In such a situation, having regard to the referred legal position, unless they establish their title through competent civil court, the respondents are not entitled to initiate and pass the eviction order exercising the powers conferred under the Act of 1971, which is summary in nature, thereby rendering the same without jurisdiction, the court said. The question raised before the court was whether the Cantonment Board was entitled to initiate proceedings against the Petitioners under the Act of 1971, being summary in nature. The law is that the summary remedy for eviction, as is provided under the Act of 1971, can be resorted to by the concerned authority only against the persons who are in unauthorised occupation of any land which is the property of the government, the court said. However, the court said: If there is a bona fide dispute regarding the title of the government to any property, the government cannot take a unilateral decision in its own favour that the property belongs to it, and, on the basis of such decision, take recourse to the summary remedy provided by the Act of 1971 for evicting the person who is in possession of the property under a bona fide claim or title. With regard to reliance on the General Land Register (GLR), the court said the same is not prepared after issuing any notification calling for the objections from the interested persons, as in a case relating to the provisions of the Land Revenue Act and the Record of Rights in Land Regulations. There is no wide publicity given and none is heard before making such entries in GLR. Where a record is prepared by a public servant and such record affects the persons who have no opportunity to object to the same, such record does not carry any probative value, it said. The court said that the principles of natural justice, are required to be complied with by the public servants in the matter of preparation of any documents, which may have a tendency of adversely affecting the rights of the private citizens. Only such documents prepared after due notice and hearing of all the concerned shall be deemed to be made by a public servant in the discharge of his official duty within the meaning of Section 35 of the Indian Evidence Act, it said. The GLR, as such, cannot be said to be prepared and maintained in respect of the rights in or over the land, the court said.

Fruits, vegetables under scanner

Srinagar, Apr 22: Pesticide residues in our food chain are carcinogenic. In a bid to ascertain the types and levels of pesticides, as well as other harmful chemicals on the fresh fruits and vegetable, the surveillance drive by the J&K Food and Drug Administration (J&K FDA) is underway. Simultaneously, the Department will also dig into the practice of artificial ripening of these edibles, following directions from Food Safety and Standards Association of India. Speaking to Greater Kashmir, J&K Commissioner of Food Safety, Smita Sethi said the department has intensified its vigil on fresh horticulture produce in market. She said over the past month, the department has been carrying out matket checks to ensure there is no violation to the standards and public health is not compromised. A surveillance drive on fresh fruits and vegetables has been undertaken to examine contamination levels of pesticide residues and heavy metals, Sethi said. She said that 184 samples were lifted during this drive for testing and analysis. Sethi said that this was in compliance with the directions issued by the FSSAI. She said that another sampling drive was in offing and planned to be carried out in May. The drive follows the order issued by FSSAI on April 16, 2026, to all states and UTs. FSSAI has urged special enforcement drives for presence of calcium carbide treated edibles and collect circumstantial evidence for prosecution under the Food Safety and Standards Act. The directive urged them to step up monitoring and inspections to check the use of prohibited artificial ripening agents in fruits. FSSAI has reiterated the ban on calcium carbide, commonly called masala for ripening mangoes, bananas, papayas and other fruits. Such fruits flood the market even before the season with the use of banned chemicals, and pose threat to human health. FSSAI has cited serious health risks like difficulty in swallowing, vomiting and skin ulcers as effects of these chemicals. It has also prohibited dipping fruits in ethephon solution, directing that ethylene gas must be used only as per the approved guidance note. The chemical must not have direct contact with the produce. All state and UT Commissioners of Food Safety and Regional Directors have been directed to inspect fruit markets, mandis, storage facilities, wholesalers and distributors, especially during the seasonal fruit season. Use of strip paper tests by enforcement officials to detect acetylene in godowns or ripening chambers has also been permitted. Over the past year, the J&K FDA has uncovered serious malpractices in the food business including unhygienic meat, adulterated cheese, ghee, and others edibles.

Anantnag goods terminal to anchor Ladakh food supply via rail

Srinagar, Apr 22:The Anantnag goods terminal will serve as a key hub for routing rice and wheat consignments to Ladakh, replacing longer and more difficult traditional supply routes, officials said. Earlier, consignments for Ladakh were transported by road from Punjab and Jammu, a system that required advance stocking due to seasonal disruptions. The shift is expected to improve the movement of essential food grains, particularly during winter when the Zojila Pass remains closed for nearly six months. Officials said the earlier system required maintaining large buffer stocks for extended periods because the Srinagar-Zojila-Leh National Highway closed. As the Zojila road to Ladakh remains shut for half the year, we had to maintain buffer stock for that entire period, which was cumbersome, said ChitruNaiyak, General Manager, Food Corporation of India (FCI), Jammu & Kashmir and Ladakh. Under the new arrangement, consignments from Punjab and Jammu will arrive at the Anantnag goods terminal and then be transported to the nearby Batengoo facility for weighment before being dispatched to Leh, Kargil and Zanskar, he said. Previously, any consignments to the Anantnag goods terminal were taken to the FCI godown at Mir Bazar along the Srinagar-Jammu National Highway for weighment during both unloading and loading, which caused delays, Naiyak said, adding that the process also raised security concerns due to the proximity of a CRPF camp. Officials said the absence of a dedicated weighbridge had further complicated handling of incoming rail consignments. To address this, we engaged private parties to install a weighbridge at Batengoo, which has resolved both weighment and security concerns, Naiyak said. He said the lack of such a facility earlier meant incoming racks often had to be diverted, affecting efficiency. The Batengoo goods facility, located about 3 km from the Harnag-Anantnag terminal, has direct access to the Srinagar-Jammu National Highway, enabling faster movement of trucks toward Srinagar and other parts of Kashmir. Officials said the new infrastructure is expected to streamline supplies to Ladakh and improve distribution across Kashmir. The system will help reduce transit time and strengthen overall food supply logistics, Naiyak said. Rail-based food grain movement to Anantnag has picked up in recent months. On January 22, Northern Railways Jammu Division transported a 42-BCN rake loaded with rice from Sangrur, Punjab, to Anantnag in about 24 hours. On December 21 last year, a goods train carrying 21 BCN wagons from the Firozpur divisions Ajitwal goods shed delivered around 1,384 tonnes of food grains to the terminal.

J&K witnessed 1800% startup growth in 6 years: LG Manoj Sinha

Jammu, Apr 22:Lieutenant Governor Manoj Sinha on Wednesday said that Jammu and Kashmir had witnessed 1800% startup growth in the past six years. The number of startups has risen from just 69 in 2020 to 1305 in FY 2025-26, a growth of over 1800 percent. Combined with all industrial units and PMEGP supported units, millions of young people have gained better employment opportunities, LG Sinha said inaugurating Eveready Industries India Limiteds new industrial unit in Samba. Addressing a gathering after inauguration ceremony, he shared significant figures to highlight industrial transformation of J&K after New Industrial Policy was launched in 2021. The LG said in financial year 2025-26 alone, J&K attracted investment of Rs 5824 crore, more than 13 times the average investment recorded before 2021. He said that in FY 2022-23 investment was Rs 2153 crore, in FY 2023-24 Rs 3389 crore, and in FY 2024-25 Rs 4145 crore. In addition, half the preliminary work has already been completed on 312 units worth Rs 7864 crore, with production expected to begin in FY 2026-27, LG Sinha said. He said that J&K had also seen, for the first time, the establishment of several units with investments exceeding Rs 500 crore, including ChiripalPolyfilms (Rs 1215 crore), Kandhari Beverages (Rs 830 crore), and Aegios (Rs 666 crore). The LG said that three more units were expected to start production in FY 2026-27. He said that the Eveready plant established with an investment of Rs 200 crore would create local jobs, boost ancillary units, suppliers, and service providers, promote skill development, generate opportunities for women, and make a significant contribution to the economic development of J&K. Inauguration of Eveready's plant, along with the changed atmosphere in J&K, reflects the sustained efforts of Prime Minister Narendra Modi, under whose leadership a new destiny has been written for J&K. His vision has turned the dream of a prosperous J&K into reality, LG Sinha said. Across Samba, Kathua, Jammu, and many parts of Kashmir, the industrial revolution we are witnessing today is a living symbol of new era for J&K. He said in the past 5 years, the scale of industrial development had moved beyond mere economic figures and become the most powerful medium of transformation across J&K. Establishing this esteemed company's plant is a landmark moment for the entire Jammu and Kashmir. It signals readiness to embrace opportunity, serve the nation and light the way to the future. It also reflects strong confidence in the immense potential of Jammu and Kashmir, the LG said. On the occasion, he also paid homage to all the civilians killed in the Pahalgam terrorist attack on April 22 last year. We have not forgotten those who had dared to cast a covetous eye on our mothers and sisters Sindoor. I also recall the brave soldiers of 'Operation Sindoor', who had avenged every single tear. Today, the inauguration of this new industrial unit in Jammu Kashmir is a clear and powerful declaration that India will neither halt nor pause, but will march forward on the path of development with renewed vigour and self confidence, LG Sinha said. He said through the plant's inauguration, a message had been sent to the entire world that while eighbouring country continues to run factories of terrorism, India is building factories of progress and success. Today we have told the world that while our neighbours factories churn out terrorists, Indias factories are engaged in nation building. We are also conveying that the economic potential, industrial energy and inclusive development of Jammu Kashmir are advancing with a new sense of pride, the LG said. Mohit Burman, Non-Executive Director, Eveready Industries India Limited said that the state-of-the-art greenfield facility would generate around 500 direct and indirect employment opportunities at full scale in the region. He said the company also aims to contribute to Aatmanirbhar Bharat vision. According to him, Evereadys new manufacturing plant boasts a robust annual peak production capacity of approximately 360 million alkaline batteries with an annual installed capacity of 456 million. Marking a significant scale-up in the industrys production capabilities, Evereadys Jammu facility will give an impetus to Indias domestic manufacturing while catering to the countrys growing demand for high-performance power solutions, he said. Arjun Lamba, Non-Executive Director; Eveready Industries India Limited; Anirban Banerjee, Chief Executive Officer; BibekAgarwala, Executive Director and CFO; Sandeep Banerjee, Chief Human Resource Officer; Arun Sahay, Head Operations and other members of Eveready Industries India Limited were present. Vikramjit Singh, Commissioner Secretary, Industries and Commerce Department; Ayushi Sudan Deputy Commissioner Samba; Arun Kumar Manhas, Director, Industries and Commerce, Jammu; senior officials and representatives of trade and industrial organisations also attended the inaugural ceremony.

Army reaffirms anti-terror resolve

Srinagar, Apr 22: Marking one year since the deadly terror attack in Pahalgam that claimed 26 civilian lives, the Indian Army on Wednesday reiterated its firm resolve to combat terrorism, invoking the decisive military response carried out under 'Operation Sindoor' and warning of assured retaliation against acts targeting the country. On April 22, 2025, the country was left stunned when heavily armed terrorists stormed a tourist destination, turning a place known for its scenic beauty into a site of tragedy. The attack saw 26 civilians killed in what officials later described as a targeted and brutal assault. Commemorating the anniversary, the Additional Directorate General of Public Information (ADG PI) of the Army posted a message on X, stating, For acts against India, the response is assured. Justice will be served. Always, alongside a graphic reading, Operation Sindoor continues. Investigations into the incident had revealed that the attackers singled out victims based on their religious identity before carrying out the killings, deepening the shock and grief among families and communities across the country. Following the attack, security forces conducted 'Operation Mahadev', a joint effort that led to the elimination of three terrorists identified as being directly involved in the Pahalgam attack, marking a significant breakthrough in the investigation. Beyond military measures, India also undertook a series of non-military steps in response to the attack, including suspending the Indus Waters Treaty and halting bilateral trade ties with Pakistan.

Heightened security across Pir Panjal

Rajouri, Apr 22:Security was significantly intensified across PirPanjal region on the first anniversary of the Pahalgam terror attack that occurred on April 22 last year in Baisaran, Pahalgam. Officials said that, as a precautionary measure, the entire security grid had been placed on high alert, with enhanced surveillance and increased area domination to prevent any untoward incident. The anniversary prompted authorities to adopt a proactive approach, ensuring a strong security presence in sensitive locations. In the border districts of Rajouri and Poonch, where forces are already maintaining a high state of alert, additional measures were put in place. Security personnel stepped up vigilance with intensified patrolling, area sanitisation drives, and strategic deployment across key locations and routes. Multiple checkpoints were established on busy roads and public places, with teams conducting thorough checking of vehicles and individuals, official sources said. Regular patrols and search operations were also underway to maintain strict vigil and reassure public safety. On Wednesday alone, dozens of Cordon and Search Operations (CASOs) were conducted by the forces across PirPanjal with thick forests prioritised for operation. Officials reiterated that all necessary steps were being taken to ensure peace and security across J&K.

Tourism still reeling under Pahalgam attack impact, anticipating revival: CM Omar

Jammu, Apr 22:Chief Minister Omar Abdullah Wednesday stated that the tourism in J&K was reeling under the impact of Pahalgam terror attack to some extent even a year after the tragedy yet exuded optimism about turnaround with gradual increase in tourist-influx during peak season. While poignantly remembering those killed in Pahalgam terror attack last year and paying tributes to them, CM Omar asserted that all, who were part of governance grid, were working with whole of government approach to prevent recurrence of Pahalgam-like tragedy. He was responding to media queries after visiting the April 20 Ramagar accident victims, undergoing treatment at Government Medical College, Udhampur. Regarding the Ramnagar accident, the Chief Minister stated that it occurred due to negligence of the bus owner yet assured stringent action after receiving the inquiry report. On account of the US-Iran war, CM Omar called for its early end while reiterating that it was impacting the entire world though the situation was comparatively better in India so far. REMEMBERING PAHALGAM VICTIMS WITH HEAVY HEART All of us recall this day (April 22) with a heavy heart as it reminds us of that unfortunate and painful tragedy that struck Pahalgam. We remember all those martyrs, who fell prey to the bullets (of assassins) for no fault of theirs. They (tourists) had come to enjoy vacations yet were targetted by those terrorists. They (terrorists) brutally snatched away those precious lives. All of us mourn that terrible loss and still stand in solidarity while sharing the grief of their families, he said, while responding to a query about the Pahalgam terror attack on its first anniversary on Wednesday, April 22, 2026. CM Omar said on the day of Pahalgam tragedy, the helmsmen with a whole of government approach had decided not to allow recurrence of such tragedy ever again. On that day we had decided and we still stand committed to that resolve that we all who form part of the governing grid- would and should make all-out endeavours not to allow the recurrence of tragedies like this (Pahalgam) ever again. For that whether it is the elected government; central government or law and order machinery we will work together in perfect synergy to make this endeavour successful, he asserted. With regard to a query if he witnessed any change in the approach of Pakistan vis--vis sponsoring of terrorism in J&K post Operation Sindoor, the Chief Minister remarked that it could be replied only by those, privy to such intel inputs. This youll have to ask those who get such kind of intelligence reports. I can only tell you that our all-out endeavour will only be that such mishaps or (terror) attacks, even if Pakistan wishes to undertake yet again, will not be allowed to happen ever our all efforts will be directed at this approach only, he remarked. Confronted with a query about the evolving scenario with regard to tourism in J&K after it nosedived following Pahalgam terror attack, CM Omar, To give a report card is your (media) job. Our focus is to make endeavours to bring normalcy, improve the situation and make it congenial. It is correct to say that as compared to last year, tourism was still reeling under the impact of the Pahalgam terror attack to some extent, he said. Yet in the next breath, he exuded optimism vis-a-vis turnaround in the number of people as the (tourism) season would progress. However, as the tourism season progresses, we hope that a good number of people will visit J&K whether they come to pay obeisance to Mata (Vaishnodevi) or (Baba) Amarnathji or purely for tourism purposes, CM Omar said. Regarding the upcoming AmarnathYatra, he said, We want maximum influx of people here in J&K to pay obeisance at Amarnathji shrine. NEGLIGENCE OF BUS OWNER COSTS PRECIOUS LIVES IN RAMNAGAR With regard to questions about the Ramnagar bus accident that occurred on April 20 claiming 21 lives and rendering around 60 others injured, the Chief Minister assured action after the completion of inquiry ordered by the Deputy Commissioner Udhampur in the incident. He asserted that the incident occurred due to negligence of the bus owner. This was a very tragic incident which claimed many precious lives. The most unfortunate thing is that this mishap occurred due to the negligence of the bus owner. He (owner) handed over the command of the bus to the person who was not its (bus) actual driver. Actual driver was on leave and the owner handed over the steering of the bus to a person, who was driving the truck earlier, CM Omar said. He stated it could not be said that the action was not taken by the government against such people. When the previous roll of this bus was checked, it was found that the driver of the same bus was challaned for over 15 times. Now DC has instituted an inquiry. One of our senior officers is investigating this incident. Let the investigation be completed. Once we receive the report of the officer. All the recommendations will be implemented, the Chief Minister assured. He rejected the contention that the accident occurred because of dilapidated condition of road. No there was no problem on account of the (condition of) road. Had the road been in dilapidated condition, probably this accident would not have occurred. That condition would have compelled the driver to drive slowly, cautiously. Problem is we do repair the roads. But we cannot fix the minds and behaviour of drivers. They would operate vehicles on the wrong side, resort to over-speeding and overloading, he pointed out. The Chief Minister asserted that the government would definitely fulfil its responsibility as it remained accountable always but the transport operators too needed to act responsibly. CALLS FOR END TO US-IRAN WAR Responding to queries about a probable fresh round of talks between the United States and Iran in Islamabad to end war in West Asia, the Chief Minister said, We want that the war should end. In the first instance, this war should not have happened. Why was Iran attacked- this question can be answered by only two countries One America and the second one Israel. What was their objective- we still did not comprehend it. Whatever they did- was wrong. But at least now, they should stop it. The war must stop as every country across the world is being impacted by this war one way or the other way. Oil prices are spiralling up and its supply is getting disrupted. Essential supplies and the supply chain are getting impacted. Still, as compared to other countries, the situation in our country is better. European countries have started rationing provision of fuel supply for ships or planes. In our neighbouring country, they are permitting planes but not allowing them to refuel before departure, CM Omar said. He asserted that compared to that scenario, the situation in India was way better. Still we want that war should end as early as possible, he added.

Constant AI labelling, lasting pain: Why govt's label mandate could reshape social media

India's MeitY is proposing a significant new rule for social media platforms. Platforms must now display labels on synthetic content continuously throughout its playback. This requirement is more demanding than previous regulations. The move aims to address concerns about artificially generated information. Stakeholders have until May 7 to provide comments on the proposal.

India watches, Pakistan acts: The optics war Delhi is losing

Pakistan's diplomatic engagement with Iran is earning praise, contrasting with India's cautious stance. Pakistan's efforts are creating opportunities while India navigates economic and energy challenges. India faces scrutiny over its response to global events and its trade relationship with the US. Diplomatic access and strategic positioning are key themes.

Bengal polls: Politicians switch parties here because the system consistently rewards leverage over loyalty

West Bengal's elections see politicians switching parties not for ideology but for calculated advantage. Past trends show poor success rates for defectors, yet the movement continues. Factors like central agency investigations and ticket denial fuel these shifts. Now, voter list management adds a new layer, influencing choices based on ground machinery's ability to protect voter bases.

NIA attaches multiple properties of JeM operative in 2017 fidayeen attack case

New Delhi, Apr 22: The National Investigation Agency (NIA) on Wednesday attached several properties belonging to a Jaish-e-Mohammad (JeM) terror operative in a 2017 case of Fidayeen attack on a CRPF camp, in which five paramilitary personnel were killed and three seriously injured. In a statement issued, NIA said the attachment action, taken under Section 33 (1) of UA (P) Act, 1967, in pursuance of recent orders of the NIA Special Court at Jammu, comes as a major step towards dismantling the terror outfits operating in J&K. It said the immovable properties attached by NIA include several pieces of land and residential premises in Lethpora in Awantipora police station area of Pulwama district of J&K. These properties, deemed to be proceeds of terrorism, belonged to accused Fayaz Ahmed Magray. Fayaz, who hailed from Lethpora, was arrested in connection with the case RC.10/2018/NIA/DLI in February 2019. NIA had charged him under various sections of RPC and UA (P) Act in August 2019, and the trial against him is continuing, statement said. The CRPF camp, located in Lethpora, was attacked on the night of 30th December 2017 by three unknown terrorists, armed with sophisticated weapons, explosives and ammunition. The trio had forced their way into the camp and attacked the personnel there before being killed in retaliatory action. NIA investigations had revealed Fayaz to be an active Over Ground Worker (OGW) of the proscribed JeM terror organisation in south Kashmir. He was found to have participated in the meetings with the terrorists who had planned and executed the deadly attack on the CRPF centre. Along with two other men, identified as Noor Mohammad Tantray and Mudasir Ahmad Khan, Jaish operatives he had also conducted a recee of the target camp, besides arranging weapons for Mudasir and subsequently helping him escape Lethpora. Noor Mohammad was killed in an encounter with security forces before the CRPF camp attack while Mudasir was killed in another encounter later, statement added.

J-K leaders across party lines pay homage to victims of Pahalgam attack on first anniversary

Srinagar/Jammu, Apr 22: Political parties cutting across party lines on Wednesday paid tributes to the 26 people who were gunned down by Lashkar-e-Taiba (LeT) terrorists in Pahalgam last year, saying the attack is a wound whose scar will never truly heal. The tragic incident not only saddened our hearts, but brought tears to our eyes. It brought grief to every Kashmiri, ruling National Conference (NC) state spokesperson Imran Nabi Dar said on the first anniversary of the attack. He, however, said Kashmiris stood united and condemned the attack. A united message came from the people that the entire Kashmir was in grief. People came out everywhere, candlelight marches happened, and this gruesome attack was unanimously condemned by everyone, he said, adding that the attack had a damaging effect on the Union territory's economy. The NC spokesperson expressed hope that such an attack should not happen again and that security agencies augment their defences across the valley, especially at the tourist spots. J&K Pradesh Congress Committee (JKPCC) president Tariiq Hameed Karra, while paying tribute to the victims, said the remembrance of the attack is accompanied by a continuing sense of anguish. The promise of democracy appears diminished when institutions lack meaningful authority, and when citizens continue to live under the shadow of recurring security concerns. There is a growing perception that governance is becoming reactive rather than anticipatory, he said. At such a juncture, statesmanship demands reflection, course correction, and above all, a willingness to listen, understand, and act in the larger national interest, he added. Karra's party colleague and Congress Legislature Party leader Ghulam Ahmed Mir said terrorism will not be able to break their spirit and reaffirmed commitment to end violence and build a future where every life in J&K is safe and valued. Meanwhile, J&K BJP took out a rally in Anantnag district, in south Kashmir, to commemorate the day as a lack day. Today marks one year of the horrific carnage. We pay our tribute to the martyrs and stand with their families. Modi showed Pakistan that if it does anything, we will strike inside their homes, BJP leader and former MLC Sofi Yusuf told reporters. In Jammu, BJP leaders and activists gathered at Maharaja Hari Singh Park and offered solemn tributes. Senior BJP leaders, led by party president and MP Sat Sharma, paid homage amid sloganeering in favour of the martyrs and the nation. Speaking on the occasion, Sharma said that the entire nation was remembering those who laid down their lives. He asserted that India has conveyed to the world that while it does not strike first, it knows how to defend itself when required. Referring to the governments firm stance against Pakistan, he said decisive action had demonstrated the countrys strength and resolve. BJP MLA Shagun Parihar, while paying tribute, said with tear-filled eyes she remembered the victims and expressed hope that such incidents would not recur. As someone from a martyrs family, I understand the pain endured by families after such tragedies. We pray that Jammu and Kashmir never witnesses such incidents again, she said. Party leader Divyani Rana termed the attack a deeply tragic incident that plunged the entire nation into grief. She said the central leadership had made it clear that any harm to Indian citizens would be met with a strong response, adding that the country today feels secure under decisive leadership. People's Conference chief and MLA Handwara Sajad Lone said the scars of the Pahalgam attack will remain. The scars will always remain. How innocent blood was spilt. Let us hope and strive for a peaceful J&K. Let us hope the scourge of terror is eradicated from our lands for all times to come. My humble homage to those who were martyred, he said. Sharing similar sentiments, Apni Party chief Altaf Bukhari on X said, Even today, the pain and sense of loss are felt strongly. On this day, as we mark its anniversary, I bow my head in deep respect and offer my heartfelt tribute to every soul we lost. Former J&K DGP S P Vaid said the country stood united in remembering the victims. Today, we join the nation and Indians across the world to remember those who lost their lives in the barbaric Pahalgam terror attack. India today follows a zero-tolerance policy against terrorism, he said, praising the response of security forces. Meanwhile, Shiv Sena (UBT) workers held a protest in Jammu city under the leadership of its J&K unit president Munish Sinha and raised slogans condemning Pakistan. The Dogra Front Shiv Sena organised a yagya to pay homage to the victims. Its president, Ashok Gupta, said prayers were offered for the departed souls and to express solidarity with their families. Furthermore, the Traders Federation Warehouse organised a function here to pay floral tributes to the victims. Speaking on the occasion, Federation President Deepak Kumar said, We pay tribute and pray for the peace of the departed souls. We will make every effort to stand with their families and continue to remember those martyrs in one way or another. People from every section of society will support them. He stressed the need for unity, saying, Our effort will be to remain united with their families, and as the country moves forward, we must work together to ensure that people of all religions stay united. Several other organisations, including VHP, Bajrang Dal and local social groups, besides some educational institutions, also held tribute programmes to honour the victims of the Pahalgam attack.

Bilaliya school organises plantation drive on World Earth Day today

J-K LG visits GMC Jammu to meet Udhampur accident victims

Jammu, Apr 22: Lieutenant Governor Manoj Sinha today visited Government Medical College in Jammu to inquire about the health of citizens who were critically injured in an unfortunate road accident in Ramnagar, Udhampur on April 20. The team of doctors briefed the Lieutenant Governor on the health condition of the injured and the specialized treatment protocols being followed. Hospital authorities informed the Lieutenant Governor that Hans Raj and Lakhwinder Singh are under the constant supervision of senior healthcare professionals and receiving the highest standard of clinical attention. The Lieutenant Governor directed the Hospital administration to ensure the best possible medical care for their speedy recovery.

Heart attack cases among young men in Kashmir? | Doctors Mic Ep 14

Court reserves order on Er Rashids interim bail plea, verdict on April 24

New Delhi, Apr 22: A Delhi court reserved its order on the interim bail plea of Baramulla Member of Parliament Engineer Rashid, who has sought temporary relief to visit his ailing father. The plea was heard at Patiala House Court, where Rashid requested interim bail on humanitarian grounds, stating that his father is on ventilator support. The National Investigation Agency (NIA) opposed the plea during the hearing. After hearing arguments from both sides, the court reserved its order and said it will pronounce the decision on April 24. The case pertains to proceedings in which Rashid is currently in custody, and the interim bail request was limited to seeking permission to meet his father. Further details are expected following the courts order later this week. (KNT)

BJP leader booked for locking SDH Banihal during protest over doctor shortage

Banihal, Apr 22: Aday after briefly locking Sub-District Hospital (SDH) Banihal in protest against the shortage of doctors, BJP leader Mohammad Saleem Bhat was detained by police and booked under relevant sections of law. Police officials said that an FIR No. 63/2026 has been registered at Banihal Police Station under Sections 125, 126 and 127 of the Bharatiya Nyaya Sanhita (BNS) in connection with the incident. These provisions broadly relate to acts endangering human life or personal safety, wrongful restraint or obstruction, and conduct likely to cause public inconvenience or harm. Mohammad Saleem Bhat, who had contested the recent Assembly elections on BJP mandate, had on Tuesday locked the main gate of the hospital located along the Jammu-Srinagar National Highway and staged a protest, alleging severe staff shortage. The protest had briefly disrupted hospital services before the lock was removed following intervention by the local administration, which assured action. Defending his protest, Bhat said that at least four doctors had been shifted from SDH Banihal without any replacements, causing serious inconvenience to thousands of patients from Banihal, Ramsoo and Gool areas. He also highlighted that adequate medical staff is crucial in view of the upcoming Shri Amarnath Yatra.

Poor family loses livestock after fire guts cattle shed in Rajouri

Yasin Malik promoted J&K secession while in touch with top Pakistan leaders: NIA

The National Investigation Agency (NIA) told the Delhi High Court that Yasin Malik propagated narratives against India to further a secessionist agenda in Jammu and Kashmir, using his contacts in Pakistan, including the Prime Minister, the President, members of the Senate, and the chief ministers of all provinces of the country, according to a report in Bar and Bench. It is manifest that the accused, Yasin Malik , was in contact with the top leadership of Pakistan, including the Prime Minister, the President, senators of the Pakistani Senate, and the Chief Ministers of all provinces, and was using such contacts to propagate narratives against India and to further the secessionist agenda in Jammu & Kashmir, the NIA said in its affidavit filed before the High Court. As per the affidavit, Malik's claims about proximity to senior Indian politicians, foreign delegates, bureaucrats and media persons is for gaining popularity and drawing sympathy from the public. Mere mention of senior politicians and bureaucrats does not negate the fact that Malik had links with militants likeLashkar-e-Taibas Hafiz Saeed and Hizbul Mujahideens Syed Salahuddin, the agency contended. It is humbly submitted that the convict himself has admitted that he was the Commander-in-Chief of JKLF [Jammu Kashmir Liberation Front]. Rest of the matters related to taking names of Senior Politicians, Media personnel, foreign delegates and Bureaucrats is only with a view of gaining popularity and to draw sympathy of the public and has no bearing to the merit of the instant case,the NIA affidavit said. The rejoinder affidavit was filed in response to a detailed reply filed by Malik in NIAs plea seeking the death penalty for him for funding terror. The trial court has sentenced Malik to life imprisonment. Yasin Malik had earlier told the High Court that after his arrest in 1990, he was actively engaged by six consecutive governments headed by VP Singh to Manmohan Singh, to speak about the Kashmir cause and resolve the issue. He stated that he met Pakistan-based terrorist Hafiz Saeed and other militants in 2006 at the request of then Intelligence Bureau (IB) Special Director VK Joshi. Healso recounted his engagement with former Prime Minister Atal Bihari Vajpayees government and meetings with the then Intelligence Bureau (IB) Special Director Ajit Doval. He said Doval visited him in jail in the early 2000s and broke the news of his release. The NIA has now said that mere mention of the names of government officials does not absolve Malik of the crimes for which he has been charged and convicted. As per NIA's affidavit,the said matters pertain to the accuseds personal communications with senior politicians and other forums of the Indian Government, which are within his exclusive knowledge, and appear to have been raised solely to elicit public sympathy. The case was listed for hearing today before a bench of JusticesNavin ChawlaandRavinder Dudeja. However, Malik stated that he had not received NIAs rejoinder. The Court adjourned the matter to July for arguments on enhancement of the sentence. Special Public Prosecutor (SPP) Akshai Malik with advocate Khawar Saleem appeared for the NIA. Yasin Malik is arguing his case in person.

No dearth of any petroleum products in J&K: IOCL state head

Preventing Pahalgam-like terror attack top priority of Govt: CM Omar Abdullahk

Pahalgam attack anniversary: Mirwaiz pays tribute, says such attacks reopen painful memories

Srinagar, Apr 21: Mirwaiz Umar Farooq on Wednesday paid tributes to the victims of the Pahalgam terror attack on its first anniversary, expressing deep sorrow and solidarity with the bereaved families. In a statement on X, he said such dates reopen painful memories of past tragedies witnessed over the last three decades, including incidents at Gaw Kadal, Zakoora, Hawal, Sopore, Wandhama, and Chittisinghpura, where thousands of lives were lost. The Mirwaiz said that despite the suffering, the people of Jammu and Kashmir continue to uphold their faith in non-violence and aspire for lasting peace with dignity through dialogue. He expressed hope that such tragic events would never recur and prayed for a future free from violence. The Pahalgam terror attack last year had claimed 26 lives, mostly tourists, after terrorists targeted civilians in the popular tourist destination in south Kashmir. On the first anniversary of the Pahalgam terror attack, we remember with deep sorrow those who lost their lives and stand in solidarity with their families, who continue to bear the pain of this tragedy, and unfortunately always will. These dates in our calendar every year Mirwaiz Umar Farooq (@MirwaizKashmir) April 22, 2026

2 ships attacked in Strait of Hormuz, complicating diplomatic efforts to resume talks

Dubai, Apr 22: Two ships came under attack Wednesday in the Strait of Hormuz, the British military said, complicating efforts to bring the United States and Iran together in Pakistan for talks to end the war. Wednesday morning, Iran's paramilitary Revolutionary Guard attacked a container ship, damaging it but causing no injuries. The British military's United Kingdom Maritime Trade Operations centre did not immediately identify who shot at the second ship, but suspicion immediately fell on Iran. In the second attack, a cargo ship said it had been fired upon and was stopped in the water. It said there was no reported damage to the vessel. The two attacks came days after the US seized attacks in the Strait of Hormuz came after the US seized an Iranian container ship after shooting it this past weekend and boarded an oil tanker associated with Iran's oil trade in the Indian Ocean. Late on Tuesday, US President Donald Trump said the US would indefinitely extend the ceasefire with Iran, which had been due to expire on Wednesday, to give Tehran time to come up with a unified proposal ahead of possible negotiations. Iran has offered no formal acknowledgment of Trump's ceasefire extension. Pakistan's Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif thanked Trump for agreeing to the extension, saying it would buy time for ongoing diplomatic efforts. With the trust and confidence reposed in us, Pakistan shall continue its earnest efforts for a negotiated settlement of the conflict, he wrote on X. Trump said the US would continue its blockade of Iranian ports, which Iran has called unacceptable, and has indicated was a reason it had not yet agreed to join talks in Islamabad. The Revolutionary Guard vowed Wednesday to deliver crushing blows beyond the enemy's imagination to its remaining assets in the region. The United Kingdom Maritime Trade Operations Centre, a monitoring agency run by the British military that first reported the earlier 7:55 am attack, said a Revolutionary Guard gunboat did not hail the ship before firing. It added that nobody was hurt in the attack. Iran's Nour News, however, reported that the Guard only opened fire on the ship after it had ignored the warnings of the Iranian armed forces. Iran's semiofficial Fars news agency described the attack as Iran lawfully enforcing its control over the Strait of Hormuz. In peacetime, about 20% of the world's oil and natural gas transits the strategic waterway, which leads from the Persian Gulf to the open oceans and was fully open until the US and Israel attacked Iran on Feb 28 to start the war. Since then Tehran has throttled shipping traffic through the strait, causing oil prices to skyrocket and impacting global economies. In early trading on Wednesday, Brent crude oil, the international standard, was trading at close to $98 a barrel, up more than 30% since the day the war started. Pakistan has been working tirelessly to bring both sides together for a second round of talks. So far, Iran has not committed but Pakistani officials there have expressed confidence that Tehran will send a delegation to resume negotiations. The first round April 11 and 12 ended without an agreement. Over the weekend, Iran said that it had received new proposals from Washington, but also suggested that a wide gap remains between the sides. Issues that derailed the previous round of negotiations included Iran's nuclear enrichment program, its regional proxies and the strait. Following Trump's announcement of the ceasefire extension, UN Secretary-General Antonio Guterres said he hoped it would create critical space for diplomacy and confidence-building between Iran and the United States, according to his spokesman, Stephane Dujarric. Since the war started, at least 3,375 people have been killed in Iran, according to authorities. More than 2,290 people has been killed in Lebanon, 23 people have died in Israel and more than a dozen have died in Gulf Arab states. Fifteen Israeli soldiers in Lebanon and 13 US service members throughout the region have been killed.

Young crochet artist from Srinagar turns yarn into stunning handmade art

Muskan Nazir from Tengpora Bypass, a young crochet artist, represents a growing wave of creative youth reviving traditional handmade crafts with a modern touch Through her crochet work, Muskan creates beautiful handmade items such as decorative pieces, garments, flowers, and accessorieseach reflecting patience, creativity, and dedication. Crochet, as an art form, is known for its calming and expressive nature, allowing artists to turn simple yarn into intricate designs.

EU expresses solidarity with India on Pahalgam terror attack anniversary

London, Apr 22: The European Union (EU) on Wednesday expressed solidarity with the people of India in commemoration of the first anniversary of the heinous terrorist attack in Pahalgam, which claimed the lives of 26 people on April 22 last year. In a statement on behalf of the 27-member economic bloc, the EU reiterated its condemnation of terrorism in all its forms. On the commemoration day of the heinous terrorist attack in Pahalgam, the European Union and its 27 Member States stand in solidarity with the people of India in remembrance of the innocent victims murdered one year ago, reads the EU statement. Together with their families and the Indian authorities, we honour their memory. We reiterate our outright condemnation of terrorism in all its forms, which can never be justified, it stated. The British High Commission in New Delhi also issued a statement on social media in tribute to the lives lost and condemning all acts of terror. It stated: Today, we mark one year since the horrific terrorist attack in Pahalgam. We pay our respects to the victims, and our thoughts remain with everyone affected. The UK condemns terrorism in all its forms. We remain committed to working with partners to secure peace and security. Pakistan-based terror group Lashkar-e-Taiba (LeT) carried out the attack at Pahalgam in Jammu and Kashmir on this day last year, killing 26 people, mostly tourists from across India. After the attack, India carried out a retaliatory military offensive against Pakistan named Operation Sindoor, in which Indian armed forces destroyed military and terror infrastructure in Pakistan and Pakistan-occupied Kashmir (PoK).

Kashmir BJP unit pays tribute to Pahalgam victims in Srinagar, holds protest rally

'We must ensure such incidents never happen again': CM Omar Abdullah on Pahalgam attack

Srinagar, Apr 22: Jammu and Kashmir Chief Minister Omar Abdullah on Wednesday said the government remains committed to ensuring that incidents like the Pahalgam terror attack never happen again. Speaking with reporters, CM Omar said this day is painful as the region remembers the victims who were killed while on vacations. Today is a very painful day for all of us because we remember the sad incident of Pahalgam. We remember all those martyrs who were shot, who were not at fault. They came to celebrate their vacations, and terrorists targeted them and took their precious lives, he said. The Chief Minister said the tragedy continues to weigh heavily on the people of Jammu and Kashmir. We are still in the grief, he said. Omar Abdullah said the government had taken a firm position after the attack to strengthen preventive measures. We had decided that day, and we are still on that stand, that our complete effort should remain to ensure such incidents never happen again, he said. He added that responsibility for preventing such incidents lay collectively with all institutions. Whether it is the elected government, the central government or the law and order machinery, we all together will make this effort possible, he said. (KNO)

Shopian Police attach double-storey house allegedly acquired through proceeds of drug trafficking

Shopian, Apr 22: Continuing its crackdown on narcotics-related activities under the Nasha Mukti Abhiyan, Shopian Police on Wednesday said that they have attached a double-storey residential house acquired through the proceeds of drug trafficking in the Vishroo Payeen Keller area of the district. As part of its continued crackdown on narcotics-related activities, Shopian Police have attached a double-storey residential house falling under Khasra No. 58 and valued at 31,65,577 in the Vishroo Payeen Keller area, a police spokesperson said in a statement. The property was identified as having been acquired through proceeds generated from the illegal trade of drugs and narcotics. Accordingly, the said property has been attached in connection with FIR No. 03/2026 of Police Station Keller, he added. The spokesperson said the attachment proceedings were carried out in the presence of duly constituted police team, Executive Magistrate, Lambardar and Chowkidar, ensuring full compliance with all legal procedures and maintaining transparency. Shopian Police reiterate its firm commitment to eradicating the menace of drugs by targeting both offenders and the financial assets generated through illicit activities. The general public is urged to come forward with any information regarding drug trafficking or related activities.

LG Sinha, CM Omar pay tributes to Pahalgam terror attack victims

Srinagar, Apr 22: Jammu and Kashmir Lieutenant Governor Manoj Sinha and Chief Minister Omar Abdullah on Wednesday paid tributes to the victims of the Pahalgam terror attack on its first anniversary. In a post on X, LG Sinha said, Humble tributes to the innocent souls who lost their lives in the gruesome terror attack in Pahalgam on this day in 2025. Their memory endures indelibly in our hearts. He said his thoughts and prayers were with the bereaved families, as Jammu and Kashmir remembered one of the worst terror attacks in the region in recent years. Meanwhile, Chief Minister Omar Abdullah also paid homage to the victims and reaffirmed the governments commitment to combating terrorism and violence in the Union Territory. In a post on X, Omar said, One year on, we remain united against terror & against violence. We remain resolute in our desire to rid J&K of suffering & innocent deaths. We remain committed to doing everything to ensure it never happens again. We also remain in eternal solidarity with the families who lost their loved ones a year ago in that cowardly attack. May the souls of the victims of the terror attack rest in peace, he added. The Pahalgam terror attack, which took place on April 22, 2025, was among the deadliest civilian-targeted terror strikes in Jammu and Kashmir in recent years. (KNO)

Pahalgam attack anniversary: PM Modi remembers lost innocent lives

Srinagar, April 22: Prime Minister Narenda Modi, on the first anniversary of Pahalgam terror attack, paid tributes to the innocent lives lost in the gruesome act of terrorism, saying hey (the victims) will never be forgotten. Remembering the innocent lives lost in the gruesome Pahalgam terror attack on this day last year. They will never be forgotten. My thoughts are also with the bereaved families as they cope with this loss, the PM stated. PM Modi said the whole nations stands united in grief and resolve. India will never bow to any form of terror, he said, adding that the heinous designs of terrorists will never succeed. In a post on X, the PM wrote, Remembering the innocent lives lost in the gruesome Pahalgam terror attack on this day last year. They will never be forgotten. My thoughts are also with the bereaved families as they cope with this loss. As a nation, we stand united in grief and resolve. India will never bow to any form of terror. The heinous designs of terrorists will never succeed. Remembering the innocent lives lost in the gruesome Pahalgam terror attack on this day last year. They will never be forgotten. My thoughts are also with the bereaved families as they cope with this loss. As a nation, we stand united in grief and resolve. India will never bow to Narendra Modi (@narendramodi) April 22, 2026 Pertinently, on April 22 last year, terrorists killed 26 people, mostly tourists, in Pahalgam in south Kashmir, triggering nationwide outrage.

Kashmir University suspends scientist following arrest in FIR registered at Womens Police Station

The University of Kashmir has placed a Scientist-C from its Department of Computer Sciences under suspension following his arrest in connection with an FIR registered at the Womens Police Station Rambagh. According to an official order issued by the Kashmir University, the employee, identified as Sajad Mohammed Khan, has been suspended with immediate effect under Rule 31 of the Jammu and Kashmir Civil Services (Classification, Control and Appeal) Rules, 1956. The action follows his detention in custody in connection with FIR No. 11 of 2026. The order states that the suspension is a procedural step invoked when a government employee is held in custody, and does not imply guilt. University officials said the move is in line with established service rules to ensure administrative propriety while investigations are underway. Sources in the administration indicated that further action, if any, will depend on the outcome of the police investigation. Meanwhile, the university has not issued additional details regarding the nature of the allegations cited in the FIR.

Two visually impaired DPS Srinagar students shine in CBSE Class 10 exam

Two visually impaired students of Delhi Public School (DPS) Srinagar have secured outstanding marks in the Central Board of Secondary Education (CBSE) class 10 examinations, the results of which were declared last week. CBSE conducted the phase-I of class 10th exam from February 17 to March 11, 2026 while the phase-II will be tentatively conducted from May 15 to June 1, 2026. Zainab Bilal and Farees Rafiq, both the students of DPS scored an impressive 96 and 93 percent marks respectively, earning praise as the pride of their school and setting a new benchmark for students with special needs in the Valley. What makes their achievement even more significant is that both students wrote their examinations independently using computers, without the assistance of a scribe, a first-of-its-kind feat in J&K. Excited with their performance, both the students shared their experience during a candid conversation on Radio DPS schools in-house platform. The duo described their results as a mix of relief, joy and disbelief. We were actually nervous because we wrote our exams through computers. There were fears along with hope, Farees said during the interaction. Zainab highlighted the broader significance of their accomplishment and called it a big milestone in inclusive education that could inspire systemic change. We are the first visually impaired students in J&K to write exams independently without a scribe. This will impact inclusive education in general, she said. Farees further pointed out the sense of independence that comes with using technology over traditional methods. While a scribe is reliable, writing through a computer gives you full control. You are responsible for every word you write, he said. Both students credited their success to the strong support system at DPS Srinagar, particularly the Learning Resource Centre (LRC), teachers and school administration. They also acknowledged the unwavering encouragement from their families as well. The schools facilities and environment made this possible. Without DPS, achieving such a milestone would have been nearly impossible, Farees said. Farees and Zainab thanked the school staff and mentors who guided them. The duo expressed hope that their achievement would encourage others in the differently-abled community to strive for self-reliance and independence. They also called upon educational institutions to create inclusive spaces that support students with special needs. If DPS Srinagar can do it, every school in the Valley and the country can follow. All the schools should adopt similar practices, they said. Both the students concluded their conversation with a message of perseverance and emphasized consistency, hard work and belief in ones goals. Strive for your aims with dedication, and success will follow, they said.