Opinion

Kulgam Police solve hit-and-run case, two drivers arrested, vehicles seized

Kulgam, Nov 8: Kulgam Police has solved a hit-and-run case that occurred on the evening of November 07, 2026, at Badarmuna near Prime Steel, falling under the jurisdiction of Police Post Jawahar Tunnel, Police Station Qazigund, resulting in the death of Shabir Ahmad Sheikh S/o Late Ab Kareem, R/o Baihama. A police spokesperson said that on November 07, Police Post Jawahar Tunnel received information regarding a road accident in which one person had sustained injuries. The injured was shifted to SDH Dooru, where he was declared brought dead. Accordingly, FIR No. 273/2026 under relevant sections of law was registered at Police Station Qazigund. He said during investigation, CCTV footage and other reliable inputs revealed that the deceased was travelling as a pillion rider on a scooty. While crossing a brick-loaded tipper, the scooty tilted due to loose gravel on the road and came into contact with the middle portion of the tipper, resulting in fatal injuries to the deceased. He also said that CCTV analysis and reliable inputs led to the identification of the scooty bearing registration No. JK03M-1577 and its driver, Khursheed Ahmad Sheikh S/o Lassi Mohd Sheikh, R/o Chingund, Dooru. The tipper bearing registration No. JK02BL-1557 was traced through CCTV footage and investigation of the brick kiln from where it had loaded bricks. Its driver was identified as Mushtaq Ahmad Lone, R/o Kaschipora. Both drivers, who had fled the spot, have been arrested, and both vehicles have been seized. Further investigation is underway, spokesperson added. Kulgam Police appealed to motorists not to flee accident sites, to immediately inform the Police and ensure timely medical assistance to the injured. They advised heavy vehicle drivers to maintain safe speeds and exercise due caution.

Maoists gone, but 'dimagi Naxals' instigating people against Constitution and democracy: PM Modi

Prime Minister Narendra Modi highlighted the elimination of armed Maoists while addressing the ideological threat of 'dimagi Naxals'. He emphasized the need to identify and defeat these elements infiltrating various organizations and political parties. Modi referenced past failures in addressing Naxalism while stating that strong policies and political will led to significant improvements.

Four alleged drug peddlers arrested in J-Ks Anantnag, Kupwara

Srinagar, Nov 08: Police on Sunday arrested four alleged drug peddlers in Anantnag and Kupwara districts of Jammu and Kashmir and recovered heroin and charas from their possession, officials said. Continuing its sustained crackdown against drug trafficking, J&K Police arrested four drug peddlers in Anantnag and Handwara (Kupwara) and recovered contraband substances from their possession, a police spokesperson said. A police team from Mattan police station intercepted a motorcycle during naka checking at Gopalpora Crossing in Anantnag and recovered 14 grams of heroin from its rider and pillion, the spokesperson said. The two men were arrested and identified as Ubaid Ahmed Khan and Yawar Sultan, he said. A case under Sections 8/21 of the NDPS Act has been registered at Mattan police station and an investigation is underway, the spokesperson added. In another incident, a police team from Sangam police post intercepted a vehicle travelling from Jammu towards Srinagar during naka checking at Sangam Chowk, he said. The vehicle was being driven by Waseem Bashir Bhat, a resident of Lal Chowk in Srinagar. During a search, 6.15 grams of charas was recovered from his possession, the spokesperson said. In Handwara, police apprehended a man during naka checking at Champora Crossing, under the jurisdiction of Vilgam police station, and recovered a charas-like substance from him. The accused was identified as Mohammad Ashraf Bhat, the spokesperson said. An FIR under Section 8/20 of the NDPS Act has been registered at Vilgam police station. The accused has been arrested and further investigation is underway to ascertain the forward and backward linkages of the case, he added.

Banner seeking info on four wanted terrorists surfaces in Srinagar's Lal Chowk

Srinagar, Nov 08: A banner surfaced on Sunday in Srinagar's Lal Chowk area, seeking information about the whereabouts of four terrorists wanted by security forces in Kashmir. A flex banner was found hanging this morning on the wall of Pratap Park here, seeking information about the four terrorists, including Mohammad Lateef Bhat, who was involved in the killing of a cop in Anantnag in July this year. The others featured on the banner include Bilal Ahmad Mir, Mohammad Umar Mir and Abid Qayoom Lone, all from Baramulla district. Anyone who can provide credible information regarding the movement/presence of these terrorists, the identity of the informant will be kept strictly confidential and a handsome reward will be given for reliable information, the banner reads.

Driver killed as tipper rams into three-wheeler in Budgam

Budgam, Nov 08: A three-wheeler driver was killed after his vehicle collided with a tipper at Hajibagh area of Budgam district on Sunday, officials said. An official said that the accident occurred at Hajibagh when the three-wheeler collided with a tipper, leaving the driver critically injured. He said the driver was shifted to a hospital, where doctors declared him dead. Medico-legal formalities are underway. The deceased was identified as Mohammed Umar Hajam, a resident of Soibugh, Budgam. Meanwhile, cognisance of the incident has been taken and an investigation has been initiated.(KNO)

End of Maoist terror victory of right policies and strong political will: Modi

Jagdalpur, Nov 08: Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Sunday said the end of Maoist terror and Naxal menace was a victory of the countrys right policies and a strong political will. Our government took decisions which dealt very big blows to the funding of Naxals and secessionists, Modi said, while celebrating Diwali with security personnel at a CRPF camp in Chhattisgarhs Bastar district. Decisions taken by the government destroyed fake currency nexus and choked the supply line of Naxals and secessionists, Modi said. The fight against Maoist terror and Naxalism was not easy; there was a time when more than 230 districts in nearly 20 states were affected by Naxalism, he said. To move the country forward, the nations enemies must be crushed with unwavering determination and a well-planned strategy, Modi said. The lack of political will that the country had faced was addressed in 2014, when you gave this Pradhan Sevak the opportunity to serve Mother India, Modi said. For the first time in 47 years, not a single CRPF jawan lost his life in the line of duty over the past year, he said. Bastar, long known as the epicentre of Left-Wing Extremism (Naxalism) in Chhattisgarh, has undergone a major transformation following aggressive counter-insurgency operations, massive surrenders, and development push.

Mehbooba holds Diwali get together with media in Jammu

SSP Ramban conducts joint foot patrol with all ranks ahead of Diwali

Ramban, Nov 08: In view of the upcoming Diwali festival, Ramban Police conducted an extensive joint foot patrol in the markets of Ramban and Chanderkote, with the participation of SOG, CRPF and police personnel of all ranks, as part of heightened security and law-and-order arrangements. The patrol was aimed at strengthening the security grid, enhancing police visibility in crowded market areas, maintaining vigilance and ensuring a peaceful and safe festive atmosphere for the general public. During the exercise, SSP Ramban Anna Lata Sinha IPS, Addl SP Ramban, DySP DAR, DySP Headquarters, SHO Ramban, SHO Chanderkote and officers and personnel of CRPF and SOG monitored market areas, interacted with shopkeepers and members of the public, and reviewed the overall security environment. Special emphasis was laid on maintaining public order, preventing any untoward incident and ensuring the smooth movement of people during the festive rush. Ramban Police appeals to the general public to celebrate Diwali peacefully and responsibly, remain vigilant, cooperate with security personnel and immediately report any suspicious activity to the nearest police establishment or dial 112 in case of an emergency.

Physically challenged man found dead in Jammu

Jammu, Nov 08: A 50-year-old physically challenged man was found dead under suspicious circumstances in Jaswan village of Kanachak area in Jammu on Sunday morning, officials said. An official said that the man was found dead in the area, following which police reached the spot and took the body into custody. He said the body was shifted to a hospital for medico-legal formalities to ascertain the exact cause of death. The deceased was later identified as Jay Singh (50), son of Bhag Singh, a resident of Jaswan village. Meanwhile, police have taken cognisance of the incident and initiated an investigation.(KNO)

PM Modi greets all citizens on Diwali, says will celebrate festival with soldiers

New Delhi, Nov 08: Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Sunday conveyed Diwali greetings to all citizens of country. Heartfelt Diwali greetings to all my family members across the country. Happy Diwali, Modi said in a post on X. While conveying Diwali greeting on Saturday, the prime minister said like the previous year, he would celebrate the festival along with the brave soldiers of the country. In a video message posted on his social media handles, Modi had said like everyone, he will also celebrate Deepavali with great enthusiasm. My heartiest greetings to all of you for Deepavali. I wish for peace, prosperity and happiness for all of you in the coming days. I also celebrate Deepavali like you with great enthusiasm, he said. The prime minister said every year he celebrates Deepavali with the brave soldiers of the country. This time also I will continue the tradition, he said. He, however, did not disclose in which military station or post he will celebrate the Deepavali.

Commissioner SMC reviews NGT Action Plan, AMRUT 2.0 Projects

Srinagar, Nov 7: Commissioner, Srinagar Municipal Corporation (SMC), Dr. Basharat Qayoom, on Saturday chaired a review meeting at SMC Headquarters, Karan Nagar, to assess the implementation of National Green Tribunal (NGT) Action Plan and review progress of ongoing AMRUT 2.0 projects. The meeting took stock of the progress achieved under various components of both initiatives, with particular focus on water supply augmentation, quality parameters, inter-departmental coordination and timely execution of approved works. Reviewing the progress under AMRUT 2.0, the Commissioner stressed that strengthening the citys water supply infrastructure and addressing areas facing water shortages must remain a priority. He directed the concerned executing agencies to expedite the ongoing works and ensure that all projects are completed within the stipulated timelines while maintaining the prescribed technical and quality standards. The Commissioner observed that the commissioning of the approved AMRUT 2.0 projects is expected to bring further improvement in supply of different localities of Srinagar, including Batamaloo, Aloochibagh, Jenab Sahab Soura, Bagwanpora, Lal Bazaar, Natipora, Malbagh, Jawahar Nagar, HMT and Lawaypora. Emphasising the importance of quality in public infrastructure, Dr. Basharat directed the concerned officers to ensure that all prescribed quality parameters are duly addressed during execution, with no compromise on technical specifications or standards. He called for closer field-level supervision, regular assessment of physical and financial progress and prompt resolution of bottlenecks affecting the pace of work. The Commissioner remarked that the people of Srinagar deserve better basic civic facilities and that ongoing developmental initiatives must translate into tangible improvements in the quality of services delivered to citizens. He stressed that all concerned departments and executing agencies must work in close coordination and with a clear sense of responsibility to address existing infrastructure gaps and improve the availability and reliability of essential civic services. Taking up the NGT Action Plan, the Commissioner reviewed the status of various environmental interventions and stressed the need for coordinated efforts by all stakeholder departments to ensure effective implementation of the prescribed measures and compliance with the directions of the National Green Tribunal. He called for regular monitoring and timely action on all pending issues. The Commissioner further directed the concerned departments and executing agencies to submit comprehensive and updated reports on the status of works under their respective jurisdictions, clearly indicating the progress achieved, pending activities, implementation-related challenges and proposed timelines for completion. The reports shall facilitate a detailed assessment of project implementation, identify areas requiring intervention and ensure effective monitoring and timely follow-up. Reiterating the need for accountability and effective project management, the Commissioner directed all concerned officers to maintain close coordination, strengthen monitoring at the field level and ensure that ongoing projects are completed expeditiously without compromising quality. The meeting was attended by Joint Commissioner, Administration; Joint Commissioner, R&E; Joint Commissioner, Works); Joint Commissioner, H&S); Financial Advisor/Chief Accounts Officer; Superintending Engineer, Drainage Circle; Divisional Forest Officer; Executive Engineer, Mechanical/SWMO; Executive Engineer, UEED; Executive Engineer, Jal Shakti-PHE; Executive Engineer, Jal Shakti-Masterplan; Assistant Legal Remembrancer; and Chief Enforcement Officer, Srinagar Municipal Corporation.

Dr Farooq Abdullah visits Ahsan Pardesi's residence, attends condolence gathering

Srinagar, Nov 7: JKNC President Dr Farooq Abdullah visited the residence of MLA Lal Chowk, Ahsan Pardesi, at Shivpora, Srinagar, to attend a Majlis-e-Isal-e-Sawab held on the fourth day following the demise of veteran party leader and former MLC Haji Sheikh Ghulam Qadir Pardesi. Addressing the gathering, Dr Farooq Abdullah, as per a statement, emphasised the importance of religious education and urged the youth to learn and follow the teachings of the Holy Quran and Hadith for success in this world and the hereafter. He expressed concern over the growing addiction among young people to drugs and excessive mobile phone use, stressing the need to guide them towards positive values, knowledge and spirituality. On the occasion, Dr Farooq Abdullah presented the Holy Quran to Ahsan Pardesi, while Dastar Bandi was also performed for him. Among those present were Party Additional General Secretary Advocate Chaudhary Mohammad Ramzan, MLA Eidgah Haji Mubarak Gul, MLA Hazratbal Salman Ali Sagar, State Spokesperson Imran Nabi Dar, District President Peer Afaq Ahmad, In-charge Constituency Langate Shafaqat Watali and In-charge Constituency Sangrama Khawaja Mohammad Yaqoob Wani, along with other party functionaries and local residents. Ahsan Pardesi expressed his heartfelt gratitude to everyone who stood by the family during this difficult time and prayed for the departed soul.

Apni Party leaders, workers visit Altaf Bukhari to offer condolences

Srinagar, Nov 7: On the second day of condolence visits following the demise of the sister-in-law of Apni Party President Syed Mohammad Altaf Bukhari, several prominent party leaders and senior workers from different parts of the Valley on Saturday visited the bereaved family at Sheikhpora Budgam, to express their sympathies and solidarity. The deceased passed away on Friday following a brief illness. As per a statement issued, Apni Party leaders and senior workers expressed their heartfelt condolences to the bereaved family, reaffirming their solidarity with the party president and his family during this difficult time. They also prayed for eternal peace to the departed soul and strength and patience for the family to bear the irreparable loss. Meanwhile, several political, social, and religious leaders, besides people from different walks of life, also visited Syed Mohammad Altaf Bukhari and other members of the bereaved family over the past two days to offer their condolences and express sympathy.

Ravinder Raina visits bereaved family in Sopore

Sopore, Nov 7: BJP National Executive Member and senior party leader Ravinder Raina on Saturday visited Sopore and met the bereaved family of Adnan Rather, an MBBS student from Dangerpora, Sopore, who tragically lost his life in Bangladesh. During the visit, Raina expressed his heartfelt condolences to the grieving family and shared their sorrow over the demise of the young medical student. He conveyed his deepest sympathies to the family members and prayed for strength and courage for them to bear this irreparable loss.

Public representatives must listen to people, address their grievances: Dr Farooq Abdullah

Srinagar, Nov 7: The Jammu & Kashmir National Conference President Dr Farooq Abdullah Saturday said for building a better and peaceful society, it is essential not only to follow religious teachings but also to promote mutual respect, humanity, compassion, brotherhood and concern for the poor. He said these values form the foundation of human dignity, respect and social harmony. He made these remarks while addressing a function in Srinagar. Expressing serious concern over the growing social evils and undesirable practices in society, particularly the increasing trend of drug abuse, he expressed hope that every section of society would play an active role in the ongoing fight against drugs. He said collective efforts could help eradicate this menace from its roots. Dr Farooq Abdullah, as per a party statement issued, also expressed concern over the adverse impact of excessive and irresponsible use of mobile phones and social media on the younger generation. He said this trend was affecting the precious time and future of young people. He stressed the need for parents, teachers and responsible members of society to guide youngsters properly and encourage them to participate in positive activities. Dr Farooq Abdullah said that Allah had given the party MLAs the opportunity to serve the people, which was both a great responsibility and a sacred trust. He said the primary duty of public representatives was to listen seriously to people's problems and difficulties and make every possible effort to resolve them.

Defence Minister asks armed forces to maintain high operational readiness, counter cyber and drone threats

New Delhi, Nov 7:Defence Minister Rajnath Singh on Saturday called upon the armed forces to maintain the highest level of operational readiness, with particular focus on domain awareness, cyber resilience and information integrity to effectively counter emerging security threats. Interacting with Indian Air Force (IAF) personnel at Air Force Station Bagdogra in West Bengal on the eve of Diwali, he said the security environment had become increasingly complex, with warfare extending beyond conventional border engagements to include asymmetric warfare, proxy wars, cyber-attacks, drone swarms and information operations. He cautioned that adversaries were increasingly avoiding direct confrontation and attempting to exploit vulnerabilities through misleading information and social media campaigns. Through social media, the adversary may attempt to sow doubt in the minds of the local population and our soldiers by spreading misleading information. In such a scenario, your role extends beyond that of an ordinary soldier, he said. Describing Bagdogra as a strategically important location and a crucial link in Indias security framework, particularly for the North-Eastern region, Rajnath Singh praised the courage and dedication of the personnel deployed there. He said the Air Warriors stationed in the region served as a strong shield for the security of the eastern sector and that their preparedness was essential for maintaining regional stability. The Defence Minister also stressed that discipline and courage remained indispensable despite rapid technological advancements. He said the conduct, language and restraint of armed forces personnel shaped the militarys image among local communities. Urging the personnel to strengthen their engagement with people in and around Bagdogra, he said building public trust was equally important for national security. The more you engage with the local community, the weaker the adversarys conspiracies will become, he said. Reaffirming the governments commitment to Aatmanirbhar Bharat, Rajnath Singh highlighted the growing contribution of Indian start-ups and industries to the development of drones, anti-drone systems and advanced military equipment. He appreciated the armed forces for adopting indigenous technologies and acquiring new skills in drone operations and cyber security, emphasising that the military must become increasingly technology-driven to meet future challenges. Referring to the Cabinets approval of the Second Tour of Duty for Agniveers, the Defence Minister said the decision would provide them another opportunity to serve the country. He said that after completing the two-year engagement period, all Agniveers would have an opportunity to be enrolled as regular soldiers, subject to their willingness and fulfilment of selection criteria. He described the decision as a significant Diwali gift for Agniveers. Rajnath Singh also extended Diwali greetings to the Air Warriors and their families, acknowledging the sacrifices made by personnel who remain away from their homes during festivals to protect the country. He expressed gratitude to their families for their contribution and assured them that the nation would always stand by them and look after their welfare. Chief of the Air Staff Air Chief Marshal Ashutosh Dixit, Air Officer Commanding, Air Force Station Bagdogra, Air Commodore Manish Sharma, and other senior IAF officials were present on the occasion.

Amit Shah reviews Gujarats internal security, directs action against drug networks, illegal migrants

New Delhi, Nov 7:Union Home Minister Amit Shah on Saturday reviewed the law and order and internal security situation in Gujarat at a high-level meeting in Ahmedabad, directing security agencies to strengthen coastal and border surveillance and intensify action against drug trafficking, cybercrime and illegal migration. Gujarat Chief Minister Bhupendra Patel, Deputy Chief Minister Harsh Sanghavi, Union Home Secretary and senior officials of the Union Home Ministry and Gujarat government attended the meeting. Several key issues, including border and coastal security, implementation of new criminal laws, drug trafficking, cybercrime, terrorism, illegal migration and disaster management, were discussed. Taking note of Gujarats nearly 2,340-km-long coastline and its international border with Pakistan, Shah stressed the need for stronger surveillance and better coordination among the Border Security Force (BSF), state police, Coast Guard and central agencies. Appreciating the states performance in implementing the new criminal laws, Shah said 92 per cent of chargesheets in Gujarat were filed within 60 days and 86 per cent within 90 days. He, however, directed the state government to launch a special drive to clear more than 25,000 pending forensic cases. On drug trafficking, the Home Minister said action should not be limited to small-time peddlers but must target the entire network and its main kingpins. He also called for prioritising financial investigations to identify and seize their illicit assets. Shah directed authorities to strengthen the capacity of the State Cyber Crime Coordination Centre (S4C) and the 1930 cybercrime helpline. He also called for strengthening counter-terrorism agencies and expediting the identification and deportation of illegal foreign nationals in accordance with the law. He appreciated Gujarats efforts in deporting 2,412 illegal foreign nationals during special drives. The meeting also reviewed disaster management, fire safety, the Ahmedabad Urban Flood Management Project and the survey and disposal of enemy properties. At the conclusion of the meeting, Shah directed Central and state agencies to work in close coordination and regularly review progress against prescribed targets. He reiterated the commitment to building a secure India through a safe, developed and drug-free Gujarat.

Court dismisses complaint against BCCI President over DOB allegations

Jammu, Nov 7: The Court of Special Railway Magistrate, Jammu, has dismissed an application seeking directions for registration of an FIR against Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI) President Mithun Manhas over allegations of discrepancies and alleged manipulation in his date-of-birth records. The court, while examining the complaint, supporting documents and police inquiry report submitted by the Station House Officer, Police Station Nowabad, observed that there was no prima facie material to warrant registration of an FIR against Manhas. As per a statement issued, the police inquiry found no material indicating manipulation or fabrication of his date of birth. According to the inquiry report, Manhass date of birth was consistently recorded as September 12, 1977, in his official documents, including educational records, PAN card, Aadhaar card and employment records. The court observed that the complainant had relied substantially on a photocopy of information purportedly obtained from the Delhi and District Cricket Association (DDCA) website, which was insufficient to establish that Manhas had submitted any fabricated document or made a false declaration before the association.

Trump appoints hardliner Stephen Miller as White House chief of staff after Republican election setback

New Delhi, Nov 7:US President Donald Trump has appointed his longtime adviser and hardline political operative Stephen Miller as the new White House chief of staff, signalling a tougher political approach following the Republican Partys sweeping defeat in Tuesdays midterm elections, the BBC reported. The appointment on Friday comes just days after Trump said he was willing to work with the newly strengthened Democrats in Congress following the Republican setback. Miller will replace Susie Wiles, who played a key role in managing Trumps successful 2024 presidential election campaign and was widely regarded as a steadying influence in his administration. The BBC said Millers elevation, rather than indicating a willingness to compromise with Democrats, could suggest that Trump is preparing for political battles by placing a staunch loyalist in one of the most powerful positions in Washington. The mission now is more clear than ever: Fight with all of our soul to support our president and defend this magnificent republic, Miller wrote on X, describing his appointment as an honour. Announcing the decision, Trump said Miller had been with him from the beginning of his political journey. He gets it, the President told reporters. The White House chief of staff controls access to the President, helps set the administrations agenda and plays a crucial role in negotiations with Congress and other political stakeholders. Miller is best known as the principal architect of Trumps aggressive immigration policies, including expanded enforcement operations and increased funding for deportations. He also attracted criticism after describing Alex Pretti, who was shot dead by federal immigration officials during a major deportation operation in Minneapolis, as a domestic terrorist and an assassin. Miller later softened his remarks, acknowledging that federal agents might not have followed proper procedures. According to the BBC, Miller has also reportedly played a leading role in US military operations in Venezuela and against suspected drug-trafficking operations in the Caribbean and eastern Pacific, which critics have condemned as unlawful killings. Miller joined Trumps political campaign in 2016 as a strategist and became known for his fiery speeches at campaign rallies. He was among the few senior officials who remained with Trump throughout his first presidential term and continued to support him after his defeat in the 2020 election. He returned to the White House in Trumps second term as deputy chief of staff for policy. Wiles, meanwhile, had earned a reputation for professionalism and for avoiding the internal conflicts, frequent staff changes and policy reversals that marked Trumps first term. However, Trump reportedly became increasingly dissatisfied with her in recent months as his political standing weakened, culminating in the Republican defeat in Tuesdays elections. He was also said to be unhappy over reports that people close to Wiles were securing lucrative consulting assignments through their links to the President. Millers appointment is likely to strengthen the influence of hardliners within the administration as Trump faces a more assertive Democratic opposition in Congress.

DCW Anantnag lifts Inter-College T-10 Cricket title

Srinagar, Nov 7:DCW Anantnag emerged champions of the Inter-College T-10 Cricket Tournament organised by Abdul Ahad Azad Memorial Degree College, Bemina defeating the host colleges womens team by 30 runs in the final. Chasing a score of 108 runs to win, Bemina Womes team could manage only 77 runs. The tournament concluded on November 7 at the college sports ground, with eight teams competing. SSP Srinagar Dr G. V. Sandeep Chakravarthy (IPS), as per a statement, attended the concluding ceremony as Chief Guest. Imtiaz Ahmad, SP West Srinagar, was the Guest of Honour, while Aditi Verma (IPS), SDPO West Srinagar, attended as Special Guest. The Principal of the college, Prof. Muzaffar Ahmad Bhat warmly received the dignitaries and presented mementos to them on the eve of the event. The guests presented medals to the deserving players and handed over the winners trophy to the DCW Anantnag team. Nadiya Nazir of the host college was the declared the Player of the Series while as Farzana Itoo of DCW Anantnag, who scored a half-century, secured the Player of the Match award. The ceremony celebrated the participants sporting spirit and the growing presence of women in competitive sports. Dr Rayees Ahmad Sheikh, Assistant Professor in Chemistry, officiated as umpire, while Dr Niyaz Ahmad Khan, Secretary, Staff Council, conducted the proceedings of the presentation ceremony. The successful tournament was hailed as an encouraging initiative towards womens empowerment and greater participation in sports within the college and across the Higher Education Department, Jammu and Kashmir.

Prices of anti-cancer medicines to be reduced from November 9

New Delhi, Nov 7:Prices of 1,031 formulations of anti-cancer medicines have been reduced following the governments decision to cap trade margins on 137 drugs, with consumers expected to save an estimated Rs 3,502.31 crore annually. The National Pharmaceutical Pricing Authority (NPPA), under the Department of Pharmaceuticals, has capped trade margins on these medicines following recommendations of an expert committee constituted by the Directorate General of Health Services. The revised prices will come into effect from November 9, 2026. According to the government, 76 pharmaceutical companies have so far reported revised maximum retail prices (MRPs) for 1,225 formulations covering 121 drugs. Of these, 600 brands have reported price reductions of more than 50 per cent, with the highest reduction being 96.45 per cent. The trade margin rationalisation measure will also apply to the remaining drugs among the 137 identified medicines that have not yet been launched in India, once they enter the market. Among the major reductions, the price of Zydus Lifesciences Bevacizumab injection (Bryxta), used for lung, colon, ovarian and cervical cancers, has been reduced from Rs 25,995 to Rs 3,318. The price of Abiraterone acetate tablets, used for prostate cancer, under the brand Abirone has come down from Rs 41,250 to Rs 3,218.23. The price of Palbopro, used for breast cancer, has been reduced from Rs 40,421.33 to Rs 2,720. The NPPA said the measure was aimed at improving the affordability and accessibility of essential anti-cancer medicines. Retailers, dealers, hospitals and medical institutions have been directed to prominently display revised price lists on their premises and websites. State Drug Controllers will monitor compliance by manufacturers and sellers. Consumers can check revised prices through the Pharma Sahi Daam mobile application and the NPPA website. Complaints regarding overcharging or non-compliance can be lodged through the NPPA helpline at 1800-11-1255 or by email at monitoring-nppa@gov.in .

J&K Sports Council Secretary reviews infrastructure, interacts with footballers in Jammu

Jammu, Nov 7: Continuing her extensive inspection tour of sports infrastructure in Jammu, the Secretary of the J&K Sports Council, Tazayun Mukhtar, visited the Mini Stadium Parade, Green field Gandhi Nagar and K.K.Hakhu Stadium. The site visits, as per a statement, covered key sporting venues, including Mini Stadium Parade, Green Field (Gandhi Nagar), and K.K. Hakhu Stadium. During the inspections, she reviewed the progress of ongoing works on-site. She instructed the concerned officers and executing agencies to strictly adhere to timelines while upholding high-quality construction standards. Emphasising the importance of rigorous monitoring and cross-departmental coordination, she noted that the upgraded infrastructure must be tailored to meet the evolving needs of athletes and active sporting programs. At the Mini Stadium Parade, the Secretary took time to interact directly with local football players. She listened to their feedback and specific requirements concerning football development in the region. Assuring the athletes of the Council's full backing, she stated that focused efforts are underway to strengthen football infrastructure, enhance training facilities, and expand competitive opportunities for young talent. Reiterating the Council's broader mandate, the Secretary emphasised that these infrastructure upgrades are designed to foster grassroots sports development. By providing reliable access to quality training environments, the J&K Sports Council aims to create a robust foundation for young athletes across Jammu and Kashmir to excel at regional national and international levels.

Horticulture skill programme held in Bandipora

Bandipora, Nov 7:In an initiative aimed at promoting modern horticultural practices and strengthening farmers livelihoods, Chinar Uphar Foundation (CUF), in collaboration with the Department of Horticulture, Jammu and Kashmir, organised a skill development programme on modern horticulture, high-density plantation and the formation of Farmer Interest Groups (FIGs) at Panchayat Ghar, Benlipora, Aloosa, Bandipora. Described by the organisers as a first-of-its-kind initiative in the area, the programme witnessed the participation of more than 50 farmers, who were sensitised about modern horticultural techniques, collective farming and opportunities available under various government schemes. Officials from the Department of Horticulture briefed participants on the importance of Farmer Interest Groups, highlighting their role in promoting collective farming, improving orchard management, facilitating access to government schemes and introducing technological interventions to enhance agricultural productivity. A key outcome of the programme was the formation of three Farmer Interest Groups. In another significant development, three borewells were sanctioned at an estimated project cost of around Rs 75 lakh to strengthen irrigation facilities and support horticultural activities in the area. The programme also focused on high-density plantation techniques, modern horticultural practices, capacity-building and sustainable orchard management, with an emphasis on improving productivity and creating better economic opportunities for farmers. Speaking on the occasion, Altaf Bhat, President of Chinar Uphar Foundation, thanked the Department of Horticulture, Jammu and Kashmir, for its cooperation and support. He also expressed gratitude to Deputy Commissioner Bandipora Indu Kanwal Chib for her administrative support and encouragement towards initiatives aimed at rural development and farmers welfare. Bhat said the formation of three FIGs and the sanctioning of three borewells were important outcomes of the initiative, demonstrating the potential of collaboration between government departments and civil society organisations in addressing grassroots development needs. He reiterated that Chinar Uphar Foundation would continue working with government departments and local communities to promote skill development, sustainable livelihoods, rural empowerment and inclusive development across Jammu and Kashmir.

JKCSR App now available on Apple store, retirement benefits calculator in pipeline

Jammu, Nov 7: The Jammu and Kashmir Civil Service Regulations (JKCSR) App is now available on the Apple App Store, extending access to iPhone users alongside its existing availability on the Google Play Store for Android users. The application, conceived, designed and developed by Shahnawaz Qadir, Assistant Accounts Officer, Codes Division, Finance Department, Jammu and Kashmir, aims to simplify access to service-related regulations for government employees, pensioners, Drawing and Disbursing Officers (DDOs) and other stakeholders. The app provides access to all 643 Articles of the Jammu and Kashmir Civil Service Regulations, with facilities for keyword search, bookmarking and sharing provisions, besides offline accessibility. Qadir said the launch on the Apple App Store would enable a wider section of government employees and other stakeholders to access service regulations conveniently through their smartphones. He acknowledged the technical assistance extended by his younger brother, Er. Mir Suhail, and Er. Wahdat Jan, both software engineers, in facilitating the applications publication on the Apple App Store, particularly through support provided via their Apple user account. In another significant development, Qadir announced that ILLIYEEN A Retirement Benefits Calculator would shortly be introduced as an integrated feature of the JKCSR App. The proposed facility is designed to simplify several retirement-related calculations, including pension, family pension, retirement and death gratuity, terminal gratuity for eligible temporary employees, service gratuity, commutation of pension and leave encashment. The calculator is being developed to cater to employees covered under the Old Pension Scheme (OPS) and National Pension System (NPS), as well as permanent, quasi-permanent and temporary employees, subject to applicable rules and eligibility conditions. Its proposed features include rule-based calculations with references to relevant government orders and regulations, automatic selection of applicable Dearness Allowance rates and a save-and-resume facility. It will also generate structured calculation sheets explaining how individual retirement benefits have been worked out. Qadir said several additional features were in the pipeline, including a Retirement Date Calculator, a comparative retirement planning facility titled What If I Retire On? and Should I Commute My Pension?. These facilities will help employees assess different retirement scenarios and understand the financial implications of pension commutation, including the break-even period and restoration of commuted pension after the prescribed 15 years. Additional calculators covering pay fixation, promotions, increments, pay revisions, career advancement and financial progression are also being developed. Sharing the vision behind the initiative, Qadir said the aim was to develop the JKCSR App into a comprehensive digital companion for government employees throughout their service careers. .

Contractors seek relief over pending payments, mining restrictions in J&K

Srinagar, Nov 7:The J&K Contractors Coordination Committee (JKCCC) has urged the government to address a range of issues confronting the contractor fraternity, including long-pending payments, restrictions on construction material availability, unrealistic tendering practices, inadequate budgetary allocations and delays in renewal of contractor cards. In a statement issued to the press, Purza welcomed J&K Banks recently launched Rahat Scheme but urged the banks Chairman and Managing Director and its management to extend similar relief to contractors facing financial distress due to substantial payments pending with the government. He said several contractors had been struggling with mounting financial liabilities as payments for works executed over the years, including those dating back to 2014, remained unsettled. The prolonged delays, he said, had pushed many contractors into financial difficulties, with several bank accounts turning into Non-Performing Assets (NPAs). We welcome the Rahat Scheme launched by J&K Bank. However, the contractor fraternity should also be brought within its ambit. Our payments have remained pending with the government for years, and many contractors are struggling with financial liabilities, with their bank accounts having turned into NPAs. The contractor community also needs financial relief and institutional support, Purza said. Highlighting the difficulties faced by contractors in procuring essential construction materials, Purza said restrictions on mining activities and the absence of a clear regulatory framework had severely affected the availability of sand, bajri and other construction materials. He alleged that vehicles transporting construction materials were being intercepted and subjected to heavy penalties, with fines sometimes reaching Rs 50,000 and even Rs 1 lakh. Development cannot progress without the availability of essential raw materials. If the government wants developmental activities to continue, it must clearly establish where contractors are supposed to procure sand, bajri and other construction materials. There is an urgent need for a concrete and transparent mining policy so that contractors can execute government works without unnecessary uncertainty and harassment, he said. Purza said the issue had repeatedly been brought to the attention of the government, but contractors were still awaiting a concrete resolution. He maintained that uncertainty over mining regulations and the availability of construction materials was directly affecting project execution and contributing to the lapse of development funds. The JKCCC Chairman said substantial liabilities pertaining to 2014, 2018 and subsequent years remained unsettled, creating serious financial hardships for contractors who had already completed the assigned works. He said the issue had earlier been taken up with the Lieutenant Governor-led administration, following which the pending liabilities were examined and a phased payment mechanism was proposed. According to Purza, the matter was also raised with Chief Minister Omar Abdullah and Deputy Chief Minister Surinder Choudhary, but contractors were still awaiting further payments. Contractors have already executed the works on the ground, and the Anti-Corruption Bureau has also submitted its report confirming the execution of the works. A decision had been taken to release the pending payments in instalments, and the initial instalments were released during the Lieutenant Governors administration. However, no further instalments have been released during the present governments tenure, he said. Appealing to Chief Minister Omar Abdullah and Lieutenant Governor Manoj Sinha to intervene personally, Purza sought the immediate release of genuine pending liabilities, saying timely payments would help financially distressed contractors recover and resume developmental activities. Raising concerns over tendering practices, Purza questioned the practice of contractors quoting exceptionally high discounts, sometimes ranging between 40 and 50 per cent below the government-approved Schedule of Rates. He said such bidding practices raised serious questions about the financial viability of projects, particularly when the prices of construction materials, fuel and transportation had increased substantially. How can a contractor execute quality work after quoting discounts of 40 or 50 per cent when the prices of construction materials and other essential inputs have increased considerably? Such practices compromise the workability of projects and raise serious concerns about the quality and sustainability of developmental works. The government must examine this issue and ensure that projects are awarded on realistic and workable financial terms, Purza said. He urged the authorities to review the tendering mechanism and ensure that bidding remained within financially viable limits so that contractors could execute works without compromising quality or standards. The JKCCC Chairman also flagged what he described as a mismatch between the value of tendered works and the actual budgetary allocations available for their execution. Citing instances, he said works worth Rs 1 crore were being tendered against allocations of merely Rs 10 lakh or Rs 20 lakh, leaving contractors uncertain about the availability and release of the remaining funds. He said such practices placed an unreasonable financial burden on contractors, who were expected to execute projects despite inadequate initial allocations and uncertainty over subsequent payments. The tender value must correspond with the actual budget allocation. If only Rs 20 lakh is available for a project, the tendering process should be planned accordingly. How can a contractor execute a work worth Rs 1 crore when the available allocation is only Rs 10 lakh or Rs 20 lakh and the remaining amount may take years to arrive? This creates unnecessary financial pressure and discourages contractors from undertaking developmental works, he said. Purza said that under the previous administrative arrangement, tenders were generally issued in accordance with the funds available for the particular financial year, providing contractors greater financial certainty for planning and executing projects. He urged the Chief Secretary, Finance Department and other concerned authorities to ensure that tendering was aligned with realistic budgetary provisions and the availability of funds. Purza also expressed concern over difficulties in the renewal of contractor cards, stating that even experienced contractors with 30 to 50 years of professional experience were facing administrative hurdles due to additional verification requirements. He questioned the requirement of verification by the Additional Director General of Police (ADG), CID, for the renewal of contractor cards, arguing that the procedure was causing delays and unnecessary hardships. He said the matter had been brought to the attention of senior government authorities, including the Chief Minister and Deputy Chief Minister, but the contractor fraternity continued to face difficulties. Contractors who have been serving the system for decades should not be subjected to unnecessary procedural hurdles. There must be a reasonable and transparent mechanism for the renewal of contractor cards. Repeated orders and additional requirements are creating uncertainty instead of facilitating the functioning of the contractor fraternity, he said. Making an appeal to Chief Minister Omar Abdullah and Lieutenant Governor Manoj Sinha, Purza urged the government to accord priority to resolving the issues concerning mining regulations, pending payments, contractor card renewals, unrealistic tendering practices and inadequate budgetary allocations. He said contractors were an essential component of the developmental process and that their financial and operational difficulties had a direct bearing on the execution of public infrastructure projects and the livelihoods of those associated with the sector. If the government genuinely wants Jammu and Kashmir to progress and developmental activities to continue at the desired pace, the genuine concerns of contractors must be addressed without further delay. Payments should be released, a clear mining policy should be formulated, contractor card renewal issues should be resolved and the tendering process should be made realistic and transparent, Purza said.

J&K auto retail falls 28.5% in October; 2-wheeler sales plunge 34%

Srinagar, Nov 7:Automobile retail in J&K witnessed a sharp contraction in October 2026, with total vehicle registrations declining by 28.50 per cent year-on-year and 6.50 per cent month-on-month, reflecting subdued consumer demand across most vehicle categories. According to the October 2026 retail data released by the Federation of Automobile Dealers Associations (FADA), total automobile retail in the Union Territory stood at 19,856 units, compared to 27,771 units in October 2025, marking a decline of 7,915 units. The month-on-month performance was also negative, with registrations falling from 21,234 units in September 2026 to 19,856 units in October, representing a contraction of 6.50 per cent. The downturn was primarily driven by a sharp decline in two-wheelers and passenger vehicles, which together accounted for the bulk of the overall contraction. The two-wheeler segment, traditionally a major contributor to automobile retail in the region, recorded a decline of 34.10 per cent, with sales falling to 10,472 units in October 2026 against 15,890 units in the corresponding month last year. Passenger vehicle retail also remained under pressure, registering a year-on-year decline of 27.98 per cent. Registrations in the segment fell to 6,488 units from 9,009 units in October 2025, translating into a reduction of 2,521 vehicles. The commercial vehicle segment recorded a relatively moderate contraction of 3.73 per cent, with retail declining to 930 units from 966 units a year earlier. Tractor registrations also remained in negative territory, falling by 12.04 per cent to 336 units in October 2026 compared to 382 units in October 2025. However, two categories bucked the broader downward trend. Three-wheeler retail registered a growth of 6.21 per cent, increasing to 1,590 units from 1,497 units in October 2025. Construction equipment emerged as the fastest-growing category in percentage terms, recording a 48.15 per cent increase, although on a relatively small base. Registrations in the segment rose to 40 units from 27 units in the corresponding month last year. Commenting on the October performance, Sanjay Aggarwal, Chairperson of the Federation of Automobile Dealers Associations (FADA), J&K, said the industry had not achieved the retail targets set for the month, with registrations declining both annually and compared to September. He said Octobers performance reflected a relatively cautious phase for the automobile industry in J&K, with the sharper year-on-year contraction indicating that demand recovery remained uneven across vehicle categories. Festive periods traditionally play an important role in driving automobile sales. However, this year, the timing of purchases and delivery schedules appears to have influenced Octobers retail numbers. We remain hopeful that deferred purchases will translate into improved retail activity in the coming weeks, Aggarwal said. He observed that consumer sentiment remained an important factor influencing automobile demand in the Union Territory. While customers continued to show interest in personal mobility and vehicle upgrades, purchasing decisions were increasingly being influenced by affordability, financing options and prevailing economic conditions. According to Aggarwal, these factors were shaping buying behaviour across vehicle categories, with consumers exercising greater caution before committing to purchases. Despite the overall contraction, Aggarwal identified the growing acceptance of electric vehicles as a positive development for the automobile industry in J&K. He said increasing consumer interest in electric mobility reflected a gradual shift in purchasing preferences, adding that improved charging infrastructure, wider product availability and greater consumer awareness would be important in accelerating EV adoption in the region. The industry, he said, remained hopeful that improvements in the supporting ecosystem would strengthen the electric vehicle market in the coming months. Looking ahead, the FADA J&K Chairperson expressed cautious optimism about the automobile retail outlook, identifying the upcoming festive and marriage seasons as potential drivers of renewed demand. He said periods such as Dhanteras, Diwali and the marriage season traditionally witnessed increased consumer spending and higher demand for personal mobility, particularly in the passenger vehicle and two-wheeler segments. Dealers across Jammu and Kashmir, he added, were preparing to cater to the anticipated increase in customer enquiries and showroom footfall. Aggarwal said attractive product offerings, financing options and festive campaigns by manufacturers and dealerships could further support purchasing activity. We are hopeful that the combination of the festive and marriage seasons can help the industry regain momentum and improve retail performance in the coming months, he said.

J&K moves to build GCC ecosystem, constitutes apex committee to attract investors

Srinagar, Nov 7:Jammu and Kashmirs ambition to emerge as a destination for Global Capability Centres (GCCs) has entered a new phase with the Government constituting a high-level apex committee to attract investments, identify prospective companies and prepare a time-bound action plan for developing the sector. The move follows the two-day J&K GCC Summit held at the Indian Institute of Management (IIM) Jammu on October 9 and 10, which brought together policymakers, industry representatives, technology experts and academic institutions to explore the regions potential in the rapidly expanding global services industry. The General Administration Department, through Government Order No. 1683-JK(GAD) of 2026 dated October 28, constituted the apex committee under the chairmanship of NIIT Chairman Rajendra Singh Pawar. The committee includes the Administrative Secretaries of the Information Technology and Labour and Employment departments, Directors of IIM Jammu and IIT Jammu, a NASSCOM representative and the Chief Executive Officer of the Centre for Innovation and Transformation in Governance (CITaG), who will function as its secretary. The committee has been mandated to identify prospective companies, GCC operators and technology firms and facilitate engagement with them to explore opportunities for establishing centres in J&K. Significantly, its responsibilities extend beyond investment promotion. It will prepare and oversee a time-bound action plan specifying priority interventions, expected outcomes, institutional responsibilities and measurable targets. It will also examine policy, regulatory and infrastructure requirements and recommend measures to address bottlenecks affecting the establishment and expansion of GCCs. The constitution of the committee provides an institutional mechanism for pursuing the GCC agenda. However, the larger challenge will be translating the initiative into actual investment, operational centres and sustainable employment. From summit discussions to an implementation roadmap The IIM Jammu summit brought the issue of GCC development into a structured government-industry discussion, with six major themes covering the global GCC landscape, policy enablement, talent and workforce development, technology and innovation, investment and growth, and a roadmap for Jammu and Kashmir. The discussions placed particular emphasis on the need for closer coordination between government, industry and educational institutions. While the Government has identified several sectors for GCC development, including artificial intelligence, data analytics, cybersecurity, software and product engineering, financial and business services, and research and development, the availability of reliable infrastructure will remain critical. Global Capability Centres increasingly undertake complex functions for multinational companies, including technology development, financial operations, analytics, cybersecurity and research. Their requirements extend well beyond conventional office accommodation. Reliable power supply, high-speed connectivity, data security, business continuity arrangements, transport facilities and suitable office infrastructure are essential for companies operating across international time zones. A September 2026 report by Moneycontrol, citing research by 3AI QuantX, highlighted infrastructure and specialised talent shortages as two major obstacles to the expansion of GCCs into Tier-II cities. The report estimated a 20-25 percent gap in advanced artificial intelligence and data roles, with shortages in specialised areas such as MLOps, LLMOps and agentic AI. It also pointed to the importance of housing, commuting and social infrastructure in attracting and retaining skilled employees. These challenges are relevant to J&K, where the development of a GCC ecosystem will require more than financial incentives. The availability of plug-and-play office space is another immediate concern. As highlighted in the earlier assessment of J&Ks IT infrastructure, the proposed IT park in the Kashmir division has not yet reached the stage where companies can access ready-to-use commercial office space. For an investor evaluating multiple locations, the ability to commence operations within a predictable timeframe can be as important as the cost of setting up a centre. Universities and industry must work together The Governments apex committee has also been tasked with coordinating with academic institutions, NASSCOM and other stakeholders to align educational programmes and skill-development initiatives with industry requirements. This is particularly important because the nature of GCC employment is changing. Companies are increasingly moving towards artificial intelligence, cloud computing, data engineering, cybersecurity and product development rather than limiting their Indian operations to routine back-office functions. The summit also witnessed the signing of a Memorandum of Understanding between IIM Jammu and KPMG Advisory Services Private Limited to strengthen industry-academia engagement through academic programmes, executive education, research, consultancy and skill development. Such collaborations could help bridge the gap between academic qualifications and the competencies required by multinational companies. However, their effectiveness will depend on whether training programmes are designed around actual industry requirements, accompanied by internships, practical exposure and employment pathways. Indias GCC industry has expanded into a major employment and services segment. The Nasscom-Zinnov FY26 landscape estimates cited in the first part of this series put the countrys GCC count at 2,117, with a workforce of 2.36 million and annual revenue of $98.4 billion. Although the established metropolitan centres continue to dominate the sector, the growing interest in Tier-II locations provides an opportunity for regions such as Jammu and Kashmir to attract a share of future expansion. For J&K, the immediate priority should be to convert the newly constituted committees mandate into measurable deliverables: identifying potential investors, assessing infrastructure requirements, establishing industry-linked training programmes and creating a predictable approval mechanism. The region does not necessarily need to compete with Bengaluru or Hyderabad by replicating their entire technology ecosystems. It can instead build on specialised delivery capabilities, remote operations and partnerships with established GCC operators before moving towards larger independent centres. The apex committee now provides a formal platform to coordinate this effort. Its success, however, will ultimately be judged not by the number of meetings held or proposals discussed, but by the number of companies that establish operations, the quality of jobs created and the extent to which local talent becomes part of the global technology and services economy.

Early detection can significantly improve cancer treatment outcomes

Srinagar, Nov 7: A painless lump, persistent change in voice, unexplained weight loss, anaemia or prolonged fatigue may indicate an underlying health problem, including cancer, and should not be ignored, an AIIMS New Delhi expert has cautioned, emphasising that early detection can significantly improve treatment outcomes. Dr Atul Batra, Additional Professor in the Department of Medical Oncology at Dr B.R.A. Institute Rotary Cancer Hospital (IRCH), AIIMS New Delhi, highlighted the importance of recognising early warning signs and seeking timely medical attention in a video message released by the institute on National Cancer Awareness Day on Friday. In the video shared on AIIMS New Delhis official social media handle, Dr Batra explained that cancer is a group of diseases characterised by the uncontrolled growth of abnormal cells, which can spread to other parts of the body if not detected and treated in time. He said that growing awareness about common warning signs, combined with timely screening and medical consultation, could help identify cancers at an earlier stage, when treatment is generally more effective. Emphasising that cancer-related symptoms should not necessarily be accompanied by pain, Dr Batra cautioned people against dismissing a painless lump or persistent changes in their voice. He also stressed the importance of regular screening and urged people to consult qualified healthcare professionals if they notice unusual or persistent symptoms. The oncologist also highlighted the role of preventive measures, including avoiding tobacco, maintaining a balanced diet and remaining physically active, in reducing cancer risks. National Cancer Awareness Day is observed every year on November 7 to promote awareness about cancer prevention, early detection and treatment. The observance is associated with the birth anniversary of Nobel laureate Marie Curie, whose pioneering work in radioactivity contributed significantly to cancer research and treatment. The message assumes particular significance for Jammu and Kashmir, where the cancer burden has emerged as a growing public health concern. Health-related estimates and official records have pointed to around 51,000 cancer patients in the region over recent years, while oncologists have frequently highlighted an average of 35 to 38 new cases being diagnosed daily. Cancers of the gastrointestinal tract, particularly oesophageal and stomach cancers, along with lung and breast cancers, figure among the commonly reported malignancies in Kashmir. Doctors have also expressed concern over patients frequently approaching healthcare facilities at advanced stages of the disease, limiting treatment options and affecting outcomes. Delayed diagnosis, lack of awareness and social stigma surrounding the disease remain among the factors contributing to late presentation. While screening initiatives, awareness campaigns and efforts to strengthen cancer treatment infrastructure are underway, the existing facilities at SKIMS Soura, SMHS Hospital and hospitals in Jammu continue to face considerable patient loads. The upcoming AIIMS at Awantipora is expected to strengthen access to specialised cancer care in Kashmir once fully operational. However, healthcare experts maintain that improving infrastructure must go hand in hand with public awareness, timely screening and early medical consultation to address the growing disease burden.

NHM staff get 5% annual increment; employees call it routine exercise

Srinagar, Nov 7: The Jammu and Kashmir government on Saturday sanctioned a 5 per cent annual increment for eligible contractual employees engaged under the National Health Mission (NHM). However, the announcement triggered a sharp reaction from the NHM Employees Association, which termed the move a routine administrative exercise rather than a fresh concession to employees. The order, issued by Mission Director NHM J&K Athar Aamir Khan, covers contractual employees working at the state, divisional, district and block levels. Employees engaged under the National Urban Health Mission (NUHM) and various disease control programmes have also been brought under its ambit. As per the order, employees who completed one year of service on or before March 31, 2026, will be entitled to the increment with effect from April 1, 2026. Those completing one year of service between April 1 and September 30, 2026, will receive the benefit from October 1, 2026, while employees completing one year after September 30, 2026, will become eligible from April 1, 2027. The increment follows the Union Ministry of Health and Family Welfares approval dated June 19, 2026, regarding the NHM State Programme Implementation Plan for 2026-27. Health and Medical Education Minister Sakina Itoo described the decision as fulfilment of the governments commitment to NHM employees. In a post on X, she termed the increment an important step towards recognising the contribution of NHM staff to the healthcare system. However, the J&K National Health Mission Employees Association (JKNHMEAK) rejected the governments portrayal of the decision as a significant achievement, maintaining that the 5 per cent annual increment was already part of the existing NHM framework. Chief spokesperson of the Association, Abdul Rauoof, said the increment was a routine annual provision and could not be presented as a special concession. There is nothing new or extraordinary in this announcement. The 5 per cent increment is already part of the annual NHM budgetary framework and has been approved by the Government of India. It cannot be projected as a special concession or a historic achievement, he said. Speaking to * Greater Kashmir *, Association members said the Health Minister had earlier informed the Legislative Assembly that NHM employees were being paid a consolidated honorarium with a provision for a 5 per cent annual increment. They pointed out that a similar increment for 2025-26 had also been ordered in September last year, arguing that the latest decision merely continued an existing arrangement. Expressing disappointment over what they termed the governments failure to address the broader grievances of NHM employees, Rauoof said their long-pending demands for salary enhancement, equal pay for equal work, job security, social security and retirement benefits remained unresolved. He also referred to a meeting held on September 18, 2026, at the Civil Secretariat in Srinagar, during which, he said, various employee-related issues were discussed and assurances were extended by the government. The government must honour the commitments made during that meeting instead of expecting NHM employees to remain silent indefinitely. The continued delay, despite repeated assurances, is pushing employees towards the streets once again. We do not want confrontation, but the patience of NHM employees is not unlimited, Rauoof said. He urged the government to take concrete decisions on the employees demands without further delay, warning that continued inaction could leave them with no option but to resume protests.

J&K government notifies sweeping business reforms, allows start of enterprises on self-declaration

Srinagar, Nov 7:The Jammu and Kashmir Government has notified a series of significant changes to the business regulatory framework, providing for the establishment of eligible enterprises through self-declaration, time-bound in-principle approvals, protection from routine inspections for three years and removal of multiple licensing requirements for businesses holding specified statutory registrations. Through three separate notifications issued by the General Administration Department (GAD), the government has operationalised key provisions of the Jammu and Kashmir Ease of Doing Business Act, 2026, covering the Right to Business, appointment of a Single Nodal Agency for investment-related approvals and dispensation of duplicate licences. The notifications, issued by the Commissioner/Secretary to the Government, M Raju, seek to address procedural delays, overlapping regulatory requirements and the need for investors to approach multiple departments for approvals at different stages of establishing and operating an enterprise. The first notification, concerning the Right to Business, provides that an enterprise can obtain a Certificate of In-Principle Approval (CIPA) on the basis of a self-declaration furnished through a Declaration of Intent to the District Empowered Committee. The provision is based on Sections 9 and 11 of the Act, which establish a mechanism for eligible enterprises to initiate the process of setting up their businesses without waiting for all conventional approvals before commencing establishment activities. Under Section 11, the Certificate of In-Principle Approval will act as approval for such regulatory services as may be prescribed and will remain valid for three years. During this period, an enterprise can establish its unit, undertake construction and commence operations, while obtaining the applicable regular approvals at any time, but not later than three years from the date of issuance of the certificate. The government has prescribed different timelines for issuing the certificate depending on the location of the proposed enterprise. In approved industrial parks, the certificate must be issued within three working days, while enterprises located outside industrial parks must receive it within 30 days. A significant feature of the provision is the introduction of deemed approval. Under Section 11, if the District Empowered Committee fails to take a decision within the stipulated period, the Certificate of In-Principle Approval shall be deemed to have been issued. The notification further clarifies that the concerned enterprise will have the facility to download the deemed approval from the designated portal. The government has also provided safeguards against arbitrary rejection of applications. A Certificate of In-Principle Approval cannot be refused except through a reasoned order in writing, after the applicant has been given an opportunity to rectify deficiencies and be heard. Another significant provision of the notification relates to protection from routine inspections. Under Sections 13 and 14 of the Act, an enterprise holding a valid Certificate of In-Principle Approval will be protected from routine inspections for three years from the date of grant of the certificate. The protection, however, is subject to specified exceptions. Inspections are permitted upon complaints of a serious nature. The notification also provides for inspections through the competent authority or officers authorised by it, with the approval of the Deputy Commissioner or Additional District Development Commissioner, wherever such authorisation is required by the government. The notification further refers to Section 23 and Schedules III and V of the Act, which provide for compliance through self-certification or third-party certification in respect of specified activities and approvals. The government has identified six broad elements of the framework: establishment on self-declaration, time-bound approvals with deemed grant upon expiry of the prescribed period, protection from routine inspections, facilitation through the Single Window System and Invest, district-level decision-making through District Empowered Committees, and reliance on self-certification and third-party certification. In a separate notification, the government has designated the Executive Committee as the Single Nodal Agency for all investment-related approvals required by enterprises in Jammu and Kashmir. The notification acknowledges that enterprises, particularly those establishing units in industrial areas and clusters, presently have to obtain approvals from multiple departments and agencies. These approvals relate to land, building plans, fire safety, electricity, water supply, effluent disposal, environment, factory licensing and municipal matters. It notes that each department and agency operates with its own checklists, timelines, portals and documentation requirements, leaving investors to coordinate independently with multiple authorities. There is no single authority accountable for taking an enterprise from project conception to commencement of production. To address this fragmentation, the government has notified that the Executive Committee shall function as the Single Nodal Agency for all pre-establishment, construction, connection and operation-stage approvals required by enterprises across Jammu and Kashmir. The arrangement will also cover enterprises located within notified industrial areas, industrial parks and clusters. The notification invokes the One State Principle under clause (b) of Section 3 of the Act, under which the government is required to function as a single entity for regulatory compliance. It also refers to clause (a) of Section 8, which provides that the Executive Committee shall function as a single point of contact for investors of eligible enterprises, in coordination with District Empowered Committees, and ensure that necessary approvals are granted in a time-bound manner. The notification further refers to Section 9, sub-section (1) of Section 11 and sub-clause (i) of clause (a) of sub-section (5) of Section 10, under which the District Empowered Committee is responsible for receiving Declarations of Intent and issuing Certificates of In-Principle Approval under the supervision of the Executive Committee. The arrangement is intended to provide investors with a central coordination mechanism for securing approvals instead of requiring them to independently pursue different departments at every stage of establishing their enterprises. The third notification deals with implementation of Section 24 of the Ease of Doing Business Act, 2026, and provides relief from duplicate licensing requirements for enterprises holding specified valid registrations. The government has directed that recognised registrations and licences under the laws identified in the notification shall be deemed sufficient compliance for the corresponding activities, establishments and regulatory purposes. For food businesses, a valid registration or licence under the Food Safety and Standards Act, 2006, will be sufficient compliance. Such businesses will not be required to obtain separate municipal or local trade licences, health trade licences, eating house licences, restaurant licences or hotel licences for the same food business activity and premises. Similarly, GST registration under the Central or Jammu and Kashmir Goods and Services Tax laws will be sufficient, and no separate municipal or local trade licence will be required. The exemption also covers registration, licence or approval under the Micro, Small and Medium Enterprises Development Act, 2006, and the specified labour legislation. These include the Occupational Safety, Health and Working Conditions Code, 2020, the Code on Social Security, 2020, the Code on Wages, 2019 and the Industrial Relations Code, 2020. For enterprises covered by these provisions, no separate municipal or local trade licence will be required. Importantly, the notification states that no competent authority shall require an enterprise holding a valid recognised registration to obtain any additional licence, registration or approval, or levy any fee, in respect of matters covered by Section 24. The government has directed that the provisions of Section 24 be given full effect to remove the burden of duplicate licences on enterprises.

Mortar teams on high alert

Rajouri, Nov 7:Amid Diwali festivities across the country, the Indian Army is maintaining a high level of operational preparedness along the Line of Control (LoC), with mortar teams remaining on alert to respond to any emerging security situation. Given the sensitive nature of the border and the possibility of attempts by terrorists to infiltrate or disturb peace, the Army has maintained heightened vigilance across forward locations, with the readiness of mortar teams forming an important component of its operational preparedness. Mortars remain an important part of the Army's firepower and response mechanism, particularly in situations requiring an effective response to hostile activity along the LoC. Their operational readiness is considered crucial for strengthening security at sensitive forward locations. To maintain preparedness, mortar teams regularly undertake drills and practice exercises, ensuring coordination and the ability to respond swiftly whenever required. These specialised teams remain prepared to move to designated positions and undertake assigned operational tasks at short notice, while regular exercises help maintain their coordination and combat readiness. Amid the festive season, when security forces are maintaining heightened alertness along the LoC, these exercises form part of the Army's broader efforts to ensure operational readiness and prevent any attempt to disturb peace along the borders.

National Conference at a crossroads

The National Conference is passing through one of the most uncertain phases of its political history. What began as dissatisfaction over the recent Cabinet reshuffle has gradually developed into a wider crisis involving leadership, internal democracy, ideological differences and the future direction of the party. The departure of Aga Syed Ruhullah Mehdi has added another dimension to an already complicated situation, raising questions about whether the National Conference can retain its political coherence and organisational unity. For a party that returned to power in October 2024 with considerable political expectations, the present developments are significant. The crisis is no longer confined to a few disappointed legislators or one prominent leader. It has exposed differences over the manner in which the party is being run, the distribution of political authority and the extent to which its elected representatives participate in important decisions. The uncertainty surrounding the National Conference is therefore not merely about its present government. It concerns its future as a political organisation. A cabinet reshuffle that opened a pandora's box The October 27 Cabinet reshuffle was expected to strengthen Omar Abdullah's government by filling vacancies and accommodating competing political interests. Instead, it exposed dissatisfaction that had apparently been simmering within the party for some time. The meeting of 18 legislators on October 30 was an important indication of the depth of discontent. Subsequent meetings suggest that the differences have not been resolved. The dissatisfied legislators have raised concerns about the exclusion of senior leaders, ministerial performance, regional representation and the influence of individuals outside the elected legislature. The situation is particularly sensitive because the discontent involves experienced legislators who have contributed to the party's political fortunes over several years. The appointment of Mubarak Gul as general secretary was apparently intended to address some of the dissatisfaction, but his reported reluctance to accept the position demonstrated that organisational appointments alone may not resolve the underlying grievances. The question now is whether Farooq Abdullah and Omar Abdullah can persuade the dissatisfied legislators to return to a common political understanding or whether the differences will acquire a more permanent organisational character. Ruhullah's exit While the legislators' dissatisfaction is primarily connected with the functioning of the government and the distribution of political authority, Ruhullah's departure represents a different challenge. His objections concern the ideological commitments and electoral promises of the National Conference, particularly Article 370 and the constitutional aspirations associated with the party's political programme. Ruhullah had been an important face of the party, particularly among sections of the younger electorate. His public disagreement with the leadership and subsequent decision to leave the organisation have exposed a gap between competing understandings of the party's political direction. His departure also raises a difficult question for the NC leadership: how does a regional political party maintain the confidence of supporters whose expectations were built around promises that cannot necessarily be implemented through the existing institutional arrangement? Ruhullah's proposed political initiative could create an additional centre of political activity. However, whether it develops into a substantial alternative will depend on its organisational strength, political programme and ability to attract support beyond his immediate constituency. The Abdullah leadership The National Conference has historically drawn considerable strength from the Abdullah family's political legacy. Sheikh Abdullah, Farooq Abdullah and Omar Abdullah have each occupied important positions in the party's political evolution. However, historical legacy and contemporary political authority are not necessarily the same thing. The present situation raises questions about whether the party has sufficiently developed a second line of leadership capable of independently managing organisational responsibilities and accommodating competing political interests. The perception among some dissatisfied legislators that decision-making is concentrated around the Chief Minister and his immediate circle is particularly relevant. Whether every allegation is justified is a separate matter, but the fact that such concerns have surfaced publicly is itself an organisational challenge. Farooq Abdullah's intervention may help facilitate reconciliation, but the longer-term question concerns the institutional structure of the party. Can the NC develop a decision-making system in which elected representatives have a meaningful voice? Can it accommodate ideological disagreements without treating them as personal confrontations? Can it create space for emerging leaders without weakening established organisational structures? These questions will influence its future beyond the present political controversy. A political breakaway? The most uncertain aspect of the present situation is the possibility of different forms of dissent developing into separate political initiatives. The legislators dissatisfied with the Cabinet reshuffle may eventually reach an understanding with the leadership. Their immediate demands appear to involve ministerial representation, administrative functioning and organisational consultation. Ruhullah's disagreement, however, concerns the party's ideological direction and political commitments. These two streams should not automatically be treated as one rebellion. Their objectives are different, and their political interests may not necessarily converge. Nevertheless, prolonged dissatisfaction could create opportunities for new political alignments. If the party fails to resolve its differences, individual leaders may explore political options outside the established organisational framework. The National Conference therefore faces a challenge that cannot be addressed simply by distributing positions or making temporary adjustments. Changing political space The internal uncertainty within the NC also has implications for the wider political environment of Jammu and Kashmir. The BJP, PDP and other political formations will naturally examine the developments for their implications on the government's functioning and the opposition's role. For the BJP in particular, the situation provides an opportunity to raise questions concerning the performance of the government, its regional balance and the fulfilment of electoral commitments. However, political criticism will have to be accompanied by a clearly articulated alternative programme. The PDP, meanwhile, operates in a political space where questions of regional representation, constitutional aspirations and the performance of the ruling party remain important. Ruhullah's possible political initiative could further complicate the established political equations. It remains uncertain whether his future course will produce an independent platform or some form of wider political understanding. What is becoming clear is that the existing political arrangement should not be assumed to remain unchanged. Jammu's representation The uncertainty within the NC cannot be examined exclusively through developments in Kashmir. The recent Cabinet exercise has also brought questions of regional representation into focus. The exclusion of certain areas and the dropping of the Jammu-based minister Satish Sharma have generated discussion about the political balance within the government. For a Union Territory comprising diverse geographical and political interests, regional representation is not merely an arithmetic exercise. It has a direct bearing on public confidence in governance. The political future of Jammu and Kashmir requires a framework in which Jammu, Kashmir and the erstwhile Doda district, Poonch-Rajouri and other regions receive meaningful representation. Any political organisation seeking a long-term mandate must recognise this diversity. Three possible directions The coming period could broadly produce three different developments. 1. Reconciliation: Farooq Abdullah and Omar Abdullah may succeed in addressing the grievances of legislators through consultation and organisational adjustments. This could restore immediate stability, although ideological differences may continue. 2. Prolonged internal instability: The legislators may remain within the party but continue to question the leadership's decisions. Such a situation could weaken organisational coordination and create uncertainty around government functioning. 3. Political fragmentation: If disagreements become irreconcilable, some leaders could explore separate political platforms or alignments. Ruhullah's departure has already demonstrated that a prominent leader can choose to leave rather than continue an internal struggle. None of these outcomes should be treated as inevitable. Much will depend on the response of the party leadership and the decisions of the dissatisfied legislators. The future The National Conference has survived many political challenges in its long history. It retains an established organisation, an electoral base and the advantage of being in government. These factors cannot be ignored when assessing its future. But the present developments demonstrate that electoral strength does not automatically translate into organisational unity. The party must confront questions of accountability, collective leadership, regional balance and the credibility of its political commitments. It must also decide how much space it is prepared to give to dissenting voices and emerging leadership. The most important question is whether the National Conference can adapt to changing political expectations or whether its internal contradictions will continue to shape its future. The political future of the National Conference is no longer a question confined to its next election or its present Cabinet. It is a question of organisational identity, leadership succession and ideological direction. A party that has played such a central role in Kashmir's political history now faces the challenge of redefining its relevance in a changing political environment. The coming weeks will be important. Whether the present crisis ends in reconciliation, prolonged factionalism or the emergence of new political formations remains uncertain. One thing, however, is evident: the National Conference cannot take its political future for granted. Its historical legacy may explain its past influence, but its ability to accommodate dissent, deliver governance and maintain public confidence will determine its future. Advocate Sunil Sethi, Chief Spokesperson BJP J&K.

Army intensifies LoC surveillance amid Diwali festivities, infiltration alert

Rajouri, Nov 7:With Diwali celebrations underway across the country, Indian Army troops, deployed along the Line of Control (LoC) in Rajouri and Poonch, have intensified surveillance and security measures amid intelligence inputs suggesting possible infiltration attempts by terrorists and attempts to disturb peace during the festive season. In the Nowshera sector of Rajouri district, Army troops have stepped up foot patrolling, with teams maintaining round-the-clock vigilance to ensure effective domination of sensitive stretches along the LoC, particularly vulnerable locations that could potentially be exploited for infiltration. Besides ground surveillance, the Army is also using drones to monitor areas along the LoC, keeping a close watch on vulnerable routes and suspected infiltration corridors. A media visit was also conducted through Public Relations Unit Jammu at some forward LoC locations in Nowshera sector wherein the visiting journalists had a close understanding of Army's alertness. At LoC locations, Quick Reaction Teams (QRTs) have also been positioned at strategic locations to ensure an immediate response to any emerging situation. Equipped with armoured vehicles, these specialised teams remain on standby to move swiftly towards vulnerable spots whenever required. The multi-layered security arrangements, combining intensified foot patrolling, aerial surveillance and rapid response capabilities, are aimed at maintaining effective area domination and ensuring a high level of operational preparedness along the LoC during the festive period.

Security bolstered ahead of Diwali in Ramban

Ramban, Nov 7:In the wake of upcoming Diwali festival and winter preparations underway, Police have intensified security arrangements, evening foot patrolling and preventive measures across Ramban district to ensure peaceful celebrations and public safety. Sharing details of the ongoing security drive late Saturday evening, SSP Ramban Anna Lata Sinha said that during the past seven days, police had issued 449 challans for traffic violations, seized 36 vehicles under relevant legal provisions and initiated preventive proceedings against 44 persons identified as potential troublemakers. SSP said that police personnel, SOG teams, police lines personnel and officials of the concerned police stations were working in close coordination to strengthen security arrangements. Evening foot patrolling has been intensified in busy market areas and other vulnerable locations, particularly during peak business hours. The SSP said that special attention was being given to areas identified as vulnerable hotspots, including locations where complaints regarding alleged drug peddling had been received. Concerned Sub-Divisional Police Officers (SDPOs) are personally leading evening foot patrols in these areas to maintain vigilance and prevent unlawful activities. Sinha added that SOG teams and other police units were also actively engaged in security-related operations to ensure that people could celebrate Diwali in a safe and peaceful atmosphere. Search operations, including those assisted by sniffer dogs, and cordon-and-search operations were being conducted in sensitive and vulnerable areas as part of the enhanced security arrangements. Regarding winter preparedness, SSP Anna Lata Sinha said that the district had a comprehensive winter preparedness strategy in place. While operational details could not be disclosed due to security considerations, she assured that the entire police and security machinery was working in coordination to ensure the safety and security of people throughout the winter season. The SSP was accompanied by Additional SP Mujeeb Ur Rehman, DySP Headquarters Waqar Younus Bhat, DSP DAR Kuldeep Kumar, SHO Vikram Parihar and other police officers during evening foot patrolling in market areas, public places and sensitive locations.

Uneven Dewal road, Maroog-Kishtwari Pather narrow stretch hamper traffic flow on Srinagar Jammu NH

Ramban, Nov 7:The Srinagar Jammu National Highway (NH-44) remained open for two-way traffic of light, medium and heavy vehicles on Saturday, although vehicular movement continued to be slow at several locations between Udhampur and Banihal due to ongoing road construction, widening work and other traffic-related constraints. The uneven road surface at Dewal in Udhampur district and the narrow, single-lane stretch between Maroog and Kishtwari Pather in Ramban district continued to pose major challenges to the smooth movement of traffic. According to traffic officials, hundreds of vehicles crossed the Chenani-Nashri and Banihal-Qazigund tunnels during the day. However, traffic movement remained sluggish at several points due to narrow carriageways, ongoing construction activities, uneven road surfaces and occasional vehicle breakdowns. A 3040-metre stretch of uneven road at Dewal and the single-lane section between Maroog and Kishtwari Pather remained the major bottlenecks. Vehicle breakdowns between Nachlana and Ramsoo also contributed to congestion. The movement of nomadic livestock herds along narrow stretches of the highway, particularly between Maroog and Kishtwari Pather, may further affect traffic flow. Commuters have been advised to maintain lane discipline and avoid overtaking. Meanwhile, in view of ongoing highway widening work on the Digdol-Khooni Nalla stretch, restrictions on the movement of Kashmir-bound oil and gas tankers will continue during daytime hours. As vehicles carrying inflammable materials are not permitted to pass through highway tunnels, Kashmir-bound oil and gas tankers will be allowed to proceed beyond Chenani only during the designated night window from 5 pm to 5 am, while their movement on the Digdol-Khooni nullah stretch will remain restricted from 7 am to 7 pm. Tanker operators have been advised to plan their journeys accordingly. Transporters carrying perishable goods and livestock have also been directed to ensure that vehicles are loaded strictly in accordance with the advisories issued by Traffic Police Headquarters. Traffic authorities have advised passengers and light motor vehicle operators to undertake their journeys during daylight hours and avoid night travel, particularly in view of the possibility of shooting stones, landslides, movement of nomadic herds and ongoing construction work along the Ramban-Banihal stretch. Heavy vehicle operators have been directed to avoid overloading, ensure proper vehicle fitness and carry sufficient fuel before starting their journeys. Commuters have also been advised to avoid unnecessary halts between Ramban and Banihal, especially near landslide- and shooting-stone-prone locations. Traffic authorities have indicated that NH-44 is scheduled to remain open for two-way traffic on Sunday, subject to favourable weather and road conditions.

Groundwork completed for Ladakh Hill Council elections across 8 districts

Kargil, Nov 7:The Union Territory of Ladakh has moved significantly closer to holding its landmark first-ever elections to eight newly restructured Hill Development Councils, following a series of key regulatory and administrative decisions by the State Election Commission (SEC) and the Revenue Department. The upcoming polls mark an expansion from the region's historical political framework. Previously limited to the twin administrative centers of Leh and Kargil, the Ladakh Autonomous Hill Development Councils (LAHDC) now encompass eight distinct administrative districts following the Union Ministry of Home Affairs' decision to create six new districts across the high-altitude territory. Delimitation Finalized for 100 Constituencies In an order issued by Commissioner-Secretary Shurbir Singh under Section 5(1) of the LAHDC Act, the administration formally notified the delimitation of 100 council constituencies across the eight districts. Landmark 33% Womens Reservation Under Rule 3 of the Ladakh Autonomous Hill Development Councils (Election) Rules, 2026, at least one-third of seats in every council have been reserved for women. Across the 100 constituencies, a total of 36 seats are reserved for female candidates. Highest number of eight seats has been reserved for women out of a total of 22 in Leh Hill Council followed by seven in Kargil Council which has 21 seats. Officials said women received five reserved seats in the 13-member Sankoo Hill Council and four in the 10-member Changthang Hill Council. In Nubra, Sham and Zanskar Hill Councils, which have nine seats each, three seats each have been reserved for females. In the seven-member Drass Hill Council also, women got three reserved seats. Deputy Commissioners in all eight districts were authorized to execute a transparent draw-of-lots process for seat rotation. For example, in LAHDC Zanskar, the sub-divisional administration identified the Raru, Phay and Cha constituencies for female representation out of its 9 total seats following public proceedings. Key Milestone Timeline November 5, 2026 is the timeline for formal notification of the delimitation of 100 LAHDC constituencies; November 67, 2026 period is the timeline for district-level draw of lots to finalise women-reserved constituencies. November 10, 2026 will be the timeline for publication of the final electoral rolls. November 2130, 2026 wll be the scheduled window for Ladakhs local Panchayat and Municipal elections. While local body polls are scheduled to conclude by the end of November, the official election dates for the 8 LAHDCs will be finalised after the publication of the final electoral rolls on November 10. State election authorities noted that final scheduling would also take into account impending harsh winter weather conditions across the mountain passes.

Delhis illegal construction problem

Another building collapse in Delhi, another loss of precious lives and, once again, the familiar sequence of official responses. Hardly the memory of PG building in Satya Niketan had faded, where seven young college going students were killed in a building collapse, another three-storey building under construction in Old Delhis Chawri Bazaar collapsed on November 5, killing two people and leaving several others trapped under the debris. Rescue teams rushed to the spot, the Chief Minister visited the site and two engineers were suspended. But the question that Delhi must ask goes beyond this particular incident: Why do we repeatedly wake up only after people have died? The tragedy comes at a time when the city is preparing for the festival season and restrictions under Graded Response Action Plan (GRAP) are being imposed to deal with rising pollution. While the administration is busy responding to one crisis, another, equally serious problem continues to grow largely unchecked: illegal and unsafe construction. Every time a building collapses, the response is almost predictable. An inquiry is ordered, officials are suspended, inspections are announced and strict action is promised against those responsible. For a few days, there is intense activity. Buildings are inspected, notices are issued, and some structures are sealed. Then the urgency disappears. When the headlines change, public memory fades, and the machinery that was supposed to prevent the disaster returns to its routine. Until another building collapses. This is the most disturbing aspect of Delhis illegal construction problem. It is not that the authorities are unaware of the violations. It is that they have failed to stop them before they turn into tragedies. One need look no further than Delhis neighbourhoods to see how they have changed over the years. Residential houses are converted into commercial establishments, garages become shops, additional floors come up, balconies and terraces are covered, and narrow lanes become even narrower because of encroachments. In many areas, buildings are altered without considering whether their original foundations and structures can bear the additional load. Residential properties are converted into paying guest accommodation, hostels, offices and other commercial establishments without adequate attention to fire safety, ventilation and structural stability. What makes the situation dangerous is that these violations rarely happen overnight. An additional room comes up, then another floor, a wall is removed or a passage is blocked. Each violation may appear small in isolation, but together they can make an entire neighbourhood unsafe. The problem is no longer simply illegal construction. It is the normalisation of illegal construction. When you ask someone why they are doing illegal construction, the answer is simple: rhetoric - that everyone does it cannot become an excuse for the authorities to look the other way. Building regulations exist for a reason. They are meant to protect people, not merely to complete official formalities. Why does the administration fail to act in time? This is where the real issue of accountability begins. Municipal officials, building inspectors and other enforcement agencies are expected to keep a watch on construction activity in their respective areas. They are supposed to identify violations, examine complaints and prevent unauthorised structures from coming up. Everyone asks, Are they doing their jobs? But we dont ask ourselves. How much we are responsible for violations, in our own properties. Who encourages them, who bribes them to look on other side. I assure you today, when GRAP 3 that doesnt allow construction, just walk into your neighbourhood and see how behind false curtains, construction in several buildings continue. It is difficult to believe that illegal construction can take place without coming to the notice of the local authorities. Construction anywhere is a visible activity. It is time consuming and neighbours can see them. Residents can report them. Local officials are expected to know about them. Yet, in many cases, action comes only after a building collapses or a fire claim life. This raises a simple question that we so commonly discuss. Are inspections being conducted merely on paper? Are complaints being ignored? Is there political or local pressure against taking action? Does corruption allow violations to continue? And why is responsibility so rarely fixed on the officials who were supposed to prevent them? Suspending two engineers after the Chawri Bazaar collapse may be an immediate administrative response. But suspension alone cannot answer these questions. If an officer ignored a complaint or allowed dangerous construction to continue, there must be a proper inquiry and accountability. Equally, property owners, builders, contractors and professionals who knowingly facilitate unsafe construction must face the consequences. The responsibility cannot end with a few junior officials being made scapegoats. Delhis housing problem is real. Property prices and rents are high, while the demand for affordable accommodation continues to grow. Students, migrant workers and people coming to the capital for employment need places to stay. Meanwhile, property owners see an opportunity and take advantage to earn more by adding floors or converting residential premises into commercial establishments. But economic necessity cannot justify putting human lives at risk. A building designed for residential use cannot automatically be treated as a hostel, commercial establishment or high-occupancy accommodation. Such changes require compliance with safety regulations and an assessment of the buildings capacity. There is also the uncomfortable issue of influence. The rules must apply equally to ordinary residents and influential property owners. Political connections, money or local pressure cannot become protection against enforcement. Delhi does not lack rules, regulations or departments responsible for enforcing building norms. What it lacks is consistent implementation. The administration needs to move away from this crisis-driven approach. There should be a systematic survey of old and vulnerable buildings, particularly those where additional floors or major structural changes have taken place. Paying guest accommodations, private hostels, coaching centres, nursing homes and other establishments operating from residential buildings should be checked for structural safety, fire gaps, fire exits and emergency access. The approved building plan should be compared with the actual structure. Major deviations should be identified early, not after a disaster. Complaints from residents should be registered through a transparent system, with a tracking number and information about the action taken. The identity of complainants should be protected wherever necessary so that people do not have to enter into personal confrontations with those violating the rules. Municipal authorities should also make ward-wise information available about complaints, notices, inspections, sealing and pending enforcement cases. Such transparency would make it harder for complaints to disappear into official files. Most importantly, accountability must extend up the administrative chain. If illegal construction continues in an area for months or years, the responsibility of the officers supervising that area must also be examined. The city cannot afford another cycle of mourning. Behind every death is a family whose life may never be the same again. Many victims are breadwinners. Their families lose not only a loved one but also their source of livelihood and security. Many such deaths could have been prevented if timely action had been taken. Delhi cannot continue to respond to every tragedy with condolences, suspensions and inspection orders. It needs an administration that acts before a building becomes dangerous, not one that discovers violations after rescuers have recovered bodies from the debris. A modern city is not defined only by its Metro network, flyovers, shopping complexes and high-rise buildings. It is also defined by the safety of its residents, the condition of its neighbourhoods and the ability of its civic agencies to enforce the law. How I wish we learn lessons from the tragedy of Chawri Bazaar and so many earlier ones, where aspiring students died in another incident not so long ago. Let these tragedies not become another headline that disappears in a few days. It must force the administration to examine why illegal construction continues despite repeated warnings and loss of lives. It must also jog the collective conscience to raise their voices against illegal activities. Delhi has mourned enough. It is time to fix responsibility, stop the rot and act before the next building collapses. Author is National Editor, Greater Kashmir

Doc You Rock 2026: Dr Jitendra honours around 60 Jammu doctors

Jammu, Nov 7: Union Minister of State (IC) for Science & Technology and Earth Sciences, and MoS in the Prime Ministers Office, Personnel, Public Grievances and Pensions, Atomic Energy and Space, Dr Jitendra Singh, today presented awards to nearly Jammu 60 doctors representing different medical specialities, with a Lifetime Achievement Award for veteran Cardiologist and Professor, Dr C D Gupta. Presiding over the Doc You Rock 2026 awards ceremony here, Dr Jitendra expressed concern over the growing incidence of lifestyle-related diseases among younger people and stressed the need to move beyond treatment-based healthcare towards prevention, early diagnosis and greater public awareness. Congratulating Big FM 92.7 for organising the awards, the Minister said it was commendable that a media organisation had taken the initiative to recognise and celebrate the contributions of doctors. He observed that occasions dedicated to honouring medical professionals were relatively rare, despite the critical role they play in serving society. Dr Jitendra said the initiative was particularly significant as it brought recognition to doctors and specialists from diverse medical and scientific disciplines, whose work often goes beyond public visibility but remains central to society's well-being. He said the future of healthcare would be shaped by the convergence of modern technology, scientific research and sound clinical judgement. He emphasised that technological innovation must complement, rather than replace, the experience and expertise of medical professionals. Dr Jitendra called for a greater emphasis on preventive healthcare and the integration of technological advancements with clinical expertise, saying these would shape the future of medicine and healthcare delivery in India. Highlighting India's growing stature in medical research, the Minister said the country had made significant progress in developing indigenous healthcare technologies and was increasingly contributing to global medical innovation. Referring to India's development of an indigenous DNA vaccine against COVID-19, he said the achievement reflected the country's expanding scientific capabilities and growing self-reliance in vaccine research. He also pointed to ongoing research efforts in areas such as dengue and malaria, underscoring India's potential to develop solutions to major public health challenges. He said such advances demonstrated how India's scientific ecosystem was increasingly translating research into healthcare solutions with wider national and global relevance. At the ceremony, Dr C D Gupta was conferred the Lifetime Achievement Award, recognising five decades of excellence, dedication, service and humanity. Nearly 60 Jammu doctors representing different medical specialities were felicitated for their professional achievements and contribution to society. The awards sought to bring the medical fraternity into the spotlight and acknowledge the dedication, commitment and service of doctors who continue to play a pivotal role in strengthening healthcare delivery.

Right to live an ordinary life

They say the world is governed by powerful people and lived by ordinary ones. There is a point beyond which people stop listening to speeches about victory. They stop being impressed by displays of strength. They become tired of explanations, excuses, and promises about a better tomorrow. They simply want their ordinary lives back. This is one of the most important lessons of our times. People worldwide are beginning to understand that war and violence, however attractively packaged, do not make life good. It only makes living harder. War has its vocabulary. Victory. Defeat. Honour. Territory. Security. Revenge. These are powerful words. They sound impressive from podiums, television studios and social media handles. But they sound very different inside an ordinary home. A mother is not interested in how many nuclear sites have been bombed. A father does not count how many ships are blocked in a strait. A labourer does not measure success by how many military facilities have been destroyed. They have other concerns. A mother wants her child to be safe. A father wants to afford his daughters education. A labourer wants work, and a shopkeeper wants to open his shop and earn his daily bread. The idea of victory for them is simply a life without fear and uncertainty. The razzle-dazzle of politicians is crap for them. Besides, those who make decisions about violence rarely experience its full consequences. They may announce operations, deliver speeches and celebrate outcomes. However, the ordinary citizen lives with the aftermath. The devastated generations. The damaged house. The lost income. The missing neighbour. The anxious child. The sleepless night. For some, warbe it verbal or realis merely a political calculation. For others, it is a daily struggle for survival. When violence and uncertainty become normal, it is the poor who pay the highest price. They cannot relocate easily. They cannot afford protracted skepticism. They cannot suspend their lives indefinitely. And yet, ordinary people are remarkably patient. They endure. They adjust. They rebuild. They forgive more often than history records. Patience of an ordinary man should never be mistaken for approval. There comes a time when people withdraw their consent from the politics of confrontation. They dont write editorials or deliver speeches. Sometimes, they express their rejection by withdrawalthrough their votes, changing their choices and refusing to stand behind those who keep them trapped in turmoil. Their message is subtle, but unmistakable. This is a dominant distinction. Rejecting violence or volatility is not necessarily an act of surrender. It can be an assertion of self-respect. It is a refusal to allow ones entire existence to be defined by vulnerability. Silence is not weakness, and the silence of an exhausted society can carry a powerful message. People have other things to do. They want to work, educate their children, celebrate small joys, build businesses and grow old peacefully. They do not want every generation to inherit the unfinished battles of the previous one. And what does all this ultimately leave behind? Often, more questions than answers. More bitterness than justice. More memories of loss than memories of fulfilment. Choosing peace does not mean giving up on what people seek. Differences can be resolved and aspirations addressed through conversation, mutual understanding and respect. Violence only deepens wounds; dialogue opens the way forward. A society should never have to choose between its dignity and its survival. It deserves both. There is a simple test for every policy, every political decision and every exercise of power. Does it make an ordinary persons life safer, more secure and more meaningful? Does it give us a better chance? Does it create any difference? If the answer is no, maybe it is time to reconsider the definition of winning any kind of war. Yes, history remembers the powerful. But it is ordinary people who have to live through history. Across the world, ordinary people dont ask for too much. They ask for just one thing that should not have been made so difficult: the right to live an ordinary life. And that has become the most extraordinary demand of our times!

Ensure adequate power supply during Winter

Srinagar, Nov 7:Minister for Power Development Department (PDD), Revenue, Relief and Rehabilitation, Disaster Management and Elections, Ali Mohammad Sagar, today visited the 220/132/33 KV Grid Station at Alusteng to review the power supply scenario and assess the preparedness of the department for the upcoming winter months. During the visit, the Minister took a detailed assessment of the functioning of the grid station, its existing capacity, power distribution arrangements and measures being undertaken to ensure adequate and reliable electricity supply to consumers, particularly in Srinagar and Ganderbal districts. Emphasising the need for uninterrupted power supply during the winter months, the Minister directed the officers to minimise unscheduled power cuts and ensure that consumers are provided adequate electricity as per the prescribed curtailment schedule. He stressed that effective planning, timely maintenance and better coordination among field functionaries were essential to address the challenges associated with increased power demand during winter. The Minister asked the Chief Engineers and other senior officers to maintain close coordination with local representatives and residents, regularly assess ground-level requirements and address public grievances promptly to ensure positive feedback from consumers. He also directed the officers to pay special attention to Kangan and adjoining areas and take appropriate measures to resolve issues related to power supply. The Minister also stated that an amnesty scheme for electricity consumers is in the pipeline, adding that the proposal is under consideration. The Minister was informed that the Alusteng Grid Station, having an existing transformation capacity of 320 MVA, caters to several areas of Srinagar and Ganderbal districts, including Alusteng, Shuhama, Nagbal, Gadoora, Tulbagh and adjoining areas through its associated receiving stations. To strengthen the transmission infrastructure and meet the growing power demand, the capacity of the grid station is proposed to be augmented from the existing 320 MVA to 475 MVA at an estimated cost of approximately Rs 56.78 crore. The Minister observed that the proposed augmentation would significantly strengthen the power transmission network and improve the availability, reliability and quality of electricity supply to the adjoining areas of Srinagar and Ganderbal. Chief Engineers of the concerned wings of the Power Development Department and other senior officers were present during the visit. Later, the Minister met several deputations and individuals who apprised him of various public issues and developmental requirements. The Minister gave a patient hearing to their grievances and assured them that genuine issues would be taken up with the concerned departments for their timely resolution. Reiterating the government's commitment towards improving public service delivery, Ali Mohammad Sagar directed the officers to remain responsive to people's concerns and ensure that all necessary arrangements are put in place well in advance to provide reliable and adequate power supply throughout the winter season.

SYSF's NEXGEN holds student-administration interaction at GDC Sopore

Baramula, Nov 7:Save Youth Save Future Foundation (SYSF), through its students' wing NEXGEN, organised an interactive session between students and the administration at Government Degree College Sopore on Saturday. The programme, the second in the foundation's Students-Administration Interactive Series, brought together students from different localities to discuss issues concerning education, employment, youth welfare and civic amenities. Deputy Commissioner Baramulla Syed Fakhruddin Hamid attended the session as chief guest, while Sopore Superintendent of Police Neha Jain was also present. Students raised concerns regarding academic facilities, career opportunities, employment and developmental issues affecting their villages and towns. DC listened to the participants, responded to their queries and assured them that the issues raised would receive due consideration. He also assured administrative assistance through the concerned departments. SP Neha Jain heard the students' concerns and assured them that matters falling within the police administration's jurisdiction would be taken up appropriately. SYSF founder and chairman Wajahat Farooq Bhat and Head of the Women's Wing Anika Nazir stressed the importance of providing young people with platforms to engage directly with decision-makers and contribute to community development. The session was attended by the college principal, faculty members, other dignitaries and students.

DC Kulgam calls for door-to-door waste collection in all villages

Kulgam, Nov 7:Deputy Commissioner Kulgam, Shahzad Alam, on Saturday directed Block Development Officers (BDOs) to ensure door-to-door garbage collection in every village and household across the district. Chairing a meeting to review the implementation of the Solid Waste Management Rules, 2026, the DC assessed waste management arrangements in urban and rural areas and reviewed progress made by the concerned departments and Urban Local Bodies. Officers from the Rural Development Department and Executive Officers of Municipal Councils and Committees briefed the meeting on achievements, ongoing activities and issues requiring intervention. The review covered village and household coverage under door-to-door collection, registration of Bulk Waste Generators, functioning of waste processing plants and four-way segregation of waste at source. The meeting also examined retrofitting of garbage collection vehicles, implementation of the Single-Use Plastic Portal, penalties for violations, management of seized plastic and capacity-building programmes ahead of the implementation of the new rules. The DC stressed strict enforcement, segregation of waste at source and scientific processing and disposal. He directed BDOs to ensure that no village or household was left out of the door-to-door collection mechanism and called for measures to strengthen waste management in rural areas. The meeting was attended by Assistant Commissioner Development Bilal Ahmad Kamgar, Chief Planning Officer Malik Suhail, BDOs, Executive Officers of Municipal Committees and other concerned officials.

Govt approves Rs 7.93 crore project to boost border tourism in Uri

Jammu, Nov 7: The government, led by Chief Minister Omar Abdullah, has accorded administrative approval for the creation of tourist infrastructure to promote border tourism in Uri at an estimated cost of Rs 7.93 crore. The comprehensive project envisages infrastructure development across five locations Uri Town, Bosiyan-Gingal, Mahura, Garkote and Bela Boniyar with a focus on enhancing tourist facilities and improving the overall visitor experience. The proposed interventions include the development of tourist huts, facilitation centres, riverfront and scenic parks, viewpoints, trekking paths, and public conveniences. The initiative aims to strengthen tourism infrastructure while providing visitors with better facilities to explore the regions scenic landscapes and natural attractions. The project is expected to give fresh impetus to tourism-related economic activities in Uri, create livelihood opportunities for local communities and strengthen the areas potential as an emerging border tourism destination. CM Omar expressed hope that the initiative would enhance Uris profile on the tourism map, promote its rich natural heritage and generate new avenues of economic growth for the local population.

Pulwama to launch financial literacy, cyber safety programmes in colleges

Pulwama, Nov 7:Deputy Commissioner Pulwama, Kuldeep Krishan Sidha, on Saturday directed the launch of structured awareness programmes across colleges in the district to educate students about financial literacy, cyber security and banking-related career opportunities. Chairing a financial literacy programme organised in collaboration with ICICI Bank at the District Administrative Complex, the DC called for day-wise sessions in all colleges from next week. The programme focused on safe banking practices, digital and financial frauds and awareness about the bank's Probationary Officer (PO) Programme. Sidha asked ICICI Bank representatives to prepare an informative pamphlet detailing the programme, including eligibility criteria, available opportunities and application procedures, for circulation among students. He also directed the Chief Education Officer to facilitate similar programmes in educational institutions in coordination with Zonal Education Officers. The DC stressed sustained institutional engagement to equip students with financial knowledge, cyber safety awareness and skills relevant to emerging career opportunities. The programme was attended by Chief Planning Officer Aashiq Khanday, principals and representatives of degree colleges, Chief Education Officer and ICICI Bank representatives.

NHM Mission Director reviews healthcare delivery, national health programmes in Anantnag

Anantnag, Nov 7: Mission Director, National Health Mission (NHM), J&K, Athar Amir ul Shafi Khan, on Saturday reviewed the implementation of national health programmes and healthcare services in Anantnag district. He chaired a review meeting at the Conference Hall of Government Medical College (GMC), Anantnag, Dialgam, attended by Principal GMC Anantnag, heads of departments, Chief Medical Officer, Deputy Chief Medical Officer, District Tuberculosis Officer, medical superintendents, Block Medical Officers and district and block programme management teams. The meeting reviewed maternal and child healthcare, routine immunisation, Janani Suraksha Yojana (JSY), Janani Shishu Suraksha Karyakram (JSSK), Pradhan Mantri Surakshit Matritva Abhiyan (PMSMA), Rashtriya Bal Swasthya Karyakram (RBSK), the National Non-Communicable Disease (NCD) Programme, ambulance and blood bank services, dialysis and critical care facilities, PM-ABHIM infrastructure projects and the Diplomate of National Board (DNB) programme at GMC Anantnag. Khan assessed the district's performance in institutional deliveries, antenatal care, tracking of high-risk pregnancies, immunisation coverage, screening for non-communicable diseases, referral services and availability of essential healthcare facilities. He stressed the need to achieve saturation under all health schemes, improve service delivery, ensure 100 percent data reporting and utilise funds in a timely manner. He directed officers to strengthen maternal and child healthcare, ensure the availability of essential medicines, diagnostic facilities and manpower, improve referral mechanisms and expedite ongoing infrastructure projects under PM-ABHIM. He also called for greater accountability, effective monitoring and coordination among health institutions to ensure quality healthcare reaches every eligible beneficiary. Later, Khan inspected Associated Hospital, GMC Anantnag, and Sub-District Hospital (SDH) Achabal. He visited various departments, interacted with doctors, hospital staff and patients, and reviewed the availability of medical equipment, medicines, manpower and patient care services. The visit was aimed at assessing the ground-level implementation of NHM programmes and strengthening healthcare delivery across Anantnag district.

Sopore bypass bridge develops fresh damage weeks after reopening

Sopore, Nov 7:Weeks after reopening following a two-week closure for repairs, the 216-metre Sopore Bypass Bridge continues to cause problems for commuters, with uneven concrete patches, structural dips and damaged expansion joints reported along the deck. Motorists say vehicles experience sudden jolts while crossing the bridge, raising questions about the quality and durability of the resurfacing work. The deterioration is particularly concerning for fruit growers and transporters who depend on the bridge to move apple consignments from Sopore Fruit Mandi. Heavy trucks carrying fruit negotiate the damaged stretches daily. The bridge was closed on October 22 for repair work and reopened after nearly two weeks. However, commuters say the work has failed to provide the expected relief. We thought the closure would lead to proper repairs. But the bridge is still uneven, and vehicles continue to experience jolts while crossing it, local commuters said. The recurring damage has raised questions about the execution of repairs, particularly around the expansion joints, which are subjected to repeated stress from moving traffic. Civil engineering experts say durable bridge-deck repairs require proper surface preparation, suitable bonding materials and adequate curing to ensure that fresh concrete adheres firmly to the existing structure. They caution that superficial patching without addressing underlying defects can result in premature failure, particularly on structures carrying heavy commercial traffic. Fruit growers and transporters have sought immediate intervention, saying the damaged surface adds to the difficulties of moving apple consignments from Sopore. Locals have urged the authorities concerned to conduct a technical inspection and restore the damaged portions in accordance with prescribed engineering standards. They said the bridge, an important link for the area's commercial traffic, needs comprehensive repairs rather than repeated temporary fixes. They have also sought accountability for the work carried out during the recent closure, saying commuters should not be left to face the same problems weeks after the bridge's reopening.

Handwaras Nagni Shartigam villagers carry patients, essentials as unpaved road cripples connectivity

Handwara, Nov 7:Residents of Nagni Shartigam and Geelani Mohalla in Upper Rajwar area of Handwara are struggling with poor connectivity as a nearly two-kilometre unpaved road remains unattended, forcing them to carry patients on makeshift cots and transport essential supplies on their backs. The road, which branches off from Shartigam, has never been macadamized. Its dilapidated condition becomes particularly difficult during winters and rains, when vehicles struggle to reach the villages. During winters, we are forced to carry patients on makeshift cots to Shartigam, from where we board passenger cabs to reach CHC Zachaldara or GMC Handwara for treatment, Mamdin, a local resident, told Greater Kashmir . He said the Roads and Buildings (R&B) Department carried out repair work last year, but covered only 750 metres, leaving the remaining stretch unattended. Rainfall has further worsened the road's condition, making daily commuting difficult. We have no option but to walk nearly two kilometres from Shartigam, carrying ration and other essential items on our backs. Cab drivers refuse to enter the village because of the road's condition, said Ghulam Din, another resident. Syed Abdul Kabir Geelani of Geelani Mohalla said residents had been seeking the road's upgradation for the past decade, but repeated assurances had failed to translate into action. We have been knocking at every door for the last 10 years. Every year, we are told that macadamization has been included in the plan, but by the end of the year, these assurances turn out to be hollow, he said. The residents have urged the authorities to macadamize the entire stretch without further delay. They have also sought the intervention of Handwara MLA Sajad Gani Lone to address the long-pending demand. Meanwhile, Junior Engineer R&B Upper Rajwar Wajahat Hussain said the road had been included in the plan. Hopefully, it will be upgraded and macadamized after receiving administrative approval, he said.

High Court denies bail to accused in heroin trafficking case

Srinagar, Nov 7: The High Court of J&K and Ladakh has declined to grant bail to a man, accused of financing an alleged narcotics trafficking network. A bench of Justice M A Chowdhary dismissed the accused Shabir Ahmed Wanis plea, observing that the prosecution case was not only confined to physical possession of contraband but also alleged Wanis involvement in financing narcotics trafficking and association with co-accused in furtherance of a criminal conspiracy. Wani, a resident of Syedpora Eidgah Srinagar is facing trial in an FIR (17/2023) registered at Police Station Rajbagh under relevant sections of the NDPS Act and IPC. He petitioned the High Court assailing the rejection of his bail by the Special Court (NDPS Cases) Srinagar on August 5, 2025. The accused took the plea that no contraband had been recovered from his possession and that his implication was primarily based on disclosure statements of co-accused, which were inadmissible in evidence. He contended that the prosecution had relied upon a transfer of Rs 1.50 lakh to his bank account, which was related to a proposed sale of a vehicle. Since the deal did not materialise, Rs 1.48 lakh was returned to the sender on the same day, he said. Wani submitted that he had been in custody for approximately two years and five months, while 18 of the 33 prosecution witnesses had already been examined. The witnesses examined so far had not implicated him in the alleged offences, he argued. Opposing the plea, the prosecution maintained that Wani was involved in financing and facilitating the trafficking of commercial quantities of heroin and that his release could enable him to indulge in similar activities. Examining the chargesheet, the Court observed that Rs 5,000 had been transferred from Wanis bank account to the account of co-accused Gairat Ali, from where the amount was subsequently transferred to the principal accused, Sajad Ahmad Badana. The prosecution relied upon this financial transaction as one of the circumstances connecting Wani with the alleged narcotics trafficking network. The absence of recovery from the petitioner, therefore, is a circumstance which may be examined during trial but does not, at this stage, conclusively displace the allegations founded upon the other material collected by the investigating agency, the court observed. The Court underscored that where an offence involves commercial quantities of narcotic substances, the twin conditions prescribed under Section 37 of the NDPS Act must be satisfied before an accused can be enlarged on bail. The court must be satisfied that there are reasonable grounds for believing that the accused is not guilty of the alleged offence and that he is not likely to commit any offence while on bail, it said. The court held that the first condition under Section 37 of the NDPS Act had not been fulfilled as the material on record did not suggest the petitioner's innocence. In response to the argument of prolonged incarceration, the court observed that although the period of custody and progress of trial were relevant considerations, they could not, in the circumstances of the case, override the statutory restrictions governing bail in offences involving commercial quantities of narcotic substances. The Court dismissed Wanis plea with this conclusion that prolonged incarceration and delay in conclusion of trial may, in an appropriate case, furnish an independent ground for consideration of bail.

US military says it fired on commercial vessel in Gulf of Oman after it attempted to breach blockade

U.S. Central Command disabled a ship flagged by St. Kitts after it attempted to leave Iranian waters. This action follows multiple warnings regarding naval movements in the region. Meanwhile, explosions were reported in the Strait of Hormuz, raising concerns about maritime safety. The Iranian military also announced that two tankers caught fire after hitting mines. Military tensions in the area have escalated following recent limited strikes by U.S. forces.

Can we not be so txtually depraved, please?

Many people now share personal details about their whereabouts in their text messages and phone calls. The prevalence of mobile phone use extends even to private settings like bathrooms, complicating social norms. While video calls have altered professional attire expectations, they have not changed the number of distractions available. The immediacy of notifications can intrude on personal moments and create pressure to respond.

The big sleep, a Diwali eye-closer: For someone who thinks sleeping is for losers, a 24-hr Kumbhakarnian stretch can be a magnificent snooze-fest

The author plans to sleep the entire day and night during Diwali festivities. They critique societal perceptions of sleep as unproductive and wasteful. The article references Kumbhakarna, a character known for his long sleep cycles. The author emphasizes the need to reevaluate the stigma surrounding oversleeping and its effects.

All the world's problems stem from lack of belongingness: Bhagwat

Nagpur, Nov 7: Rashtriya Swayamsevak Sangh chief Mohan Bhagwat on Saturday said all the problems in the world stem from a lack of a sense of belongingness towards others, stressing the need to develop a feeling that everyone belongs to us. The RSS chief was addressing a gathering at the silver jubilee celebrations of the social service organisation Samarpan Foundation in Nagpur. He said a sense of belongingness connects the entire world, helps identify its problems and offers solutions to them. All the problems in the world, he said, arise from a lack of this feeling of kinship. Referring to his recent visit to the United States for a conference, Bhagwat cited the remarks of a speaker from Nigeria, who had said, Look, as long as me and mine does not go away, peace will not come to the world. Taking the argument forward, Bhagwat emphasised the importance of a sense of belongingness or kinship. He said all problems are linked to the notions of me and mine. However, to move beyond me and mine, one must develop a feeling that everyone belongs to us, he said. One should wish for others to live well, just as one wishes for oneself, he added. This is a particular disposition. By nurturing it, the welfare of everyone is ensured, Bhagwat said. He said human beings are compassionate by nature, which is why they have embraced the spirit of service. Service should not be performed for show but should continue quietly and relentlessly, said the RSS chief. Recalling the COVID-19 pandemic, he said that when he sought information from RSS workers in Nagpur about service initiatives, he learnt that 40 such activities had been undertaken within two months. The Samarpan Foundation was among them, he said. Bhagwat said the only difference between humans and animals is their sensitivity and compassion. Being sensitive, human beings care for others and consider not only their own lives but also the lives of others, Bhagwat said. Service is a permanent disposition of human beings. Even if not a single person in the world were suffering, there is no doubt that human beings would continue to carry out some form of service, he added.

Nepal releases details of 2,294 nationals, 171 foreigners missing after August 26 floods

Kathmandu, Nov 7: Nepal on Saturday released details of 2,294 nationals from 32 districts, along with 171 foreign nationals from seven countries, who went missing after a devastating flood hit the Himalayan nation on August 26. The move comes a month after the government ended the 40-day search and rescue operation for victims of the Bhotekoshi-Trishuli floods, which killed at least 1,455 people and left 5,285 missing, according to Nepal's National Disaster Risk Reduction and Management Authority (NDRRMA). The authority said the list includes only those whose missing status has been verified by the respective District Disaster Risk Reduction and Management Committees. No further details were available about the remaining missing people who were not named in Saturday's list. The disaster management authority requested that if any individual listed as missing is found to be alive or has been located, they -- or their immediate family members -- should submit a claim within seven days. The highest number of missing Nepali nationals, 1,538, are from Rasuwa district, according to the list released by the NDRRMA. The NDRRMA has also released details of 171 missing foreign nationals from seven countries, excluding India. The authority's website has the complete list. Among them, 54 are from Malaysia and Ukraine, 33 from Australia, 11 from Russia, nine from South Korea, eight from Germany and two from Italy. The NDRRMA said it had not yet received a confirmed list of missing Indian nationals from the Indian Embassy. The list of missing Nepali nationals was prepared based on recommendations from the local governments where they had permanent residence and subsequently approved by the respective District Disaster Risk Reduction and Management Committees. For missing foreign nationals, the information was obtained through the Department of Consular Services and diplomatic missions based in Nepal or those designated to oversee the country, the authority said. The NDRRMA will issue a revised notice after receiving details from district administration offices across the 32 districts and relevant diplomatic missions on missing foreign nationals. Nepal ended the 40-day search-and-rescue operation for victims of the Bhotekoshi-Trishuli floods on October 5, shifting its focus to rehabilitation and reconstruction in the affected areas. The flash floods originated near the Nepal-Tibet border on August 26 and devastated towns and villages in northern and central Nepal. The Bhotekoshi River, which flows south from the Himalayan border region, carried the floodwaters downstream, sweeping away homes, vehicles, roads and bridges and damaging hydropower projects.

'We'll live happily ever after, we have retirement funds, & bifocals': Why do Indian films show parents and grandparents as babysitters but rarely as people with love lives?

Why are Indian films and web series reluctant to portray parents and grandparents as people with romantic lives, desires and relationships of their own? While shows such as the US series Newlyweds explore love and intimacy among senior citizens, Indian popular entertainment often confines older characters to parental, advisory or babysitting roles. The piece examines ageism in the film industry, the limited opportunities for older female actors and the social attitudes that shape how India views romance after 60.

US CENTCOM forms task force 'Iron Gate' to restrict Iranian ground transit routes

CENTOM forms task force 'Iron Gate' to restrict Iranian ground transit routesThe Commander of U.S. Central Command (CENTCOM) directed the establishment of a task force that will support ongoing U.S. government efforts to prevent Iran from using ground routes to transport advanced weapons and other materials. Adm. Brad Cooper has directed the formation of Task Force Iron Gate, an internal staff of approximately 20 civilian and military personnel based in Tampa, Florida. The new CENTCOM team will coordinate with other U.S. government agencies on preventing the movement of advanced weapons systems, dual-use technologies, sanctioned materials, and illegal revenue streams across Iran's land borders and the Caspian Sea. The establishment of Task Force Iron Gate reinforces the success of our ironclad blockade against Iran at sea, said Cooper. Strengthening CENTCOM's collaboration with U.S. interagency partners will further constrain Iran's ability to finance terrorism, rebuild weapons factories, and replenish their military. In recent months, America's naval blockade has prevented Iran from exporting more than $25 billion in crude oil. Strict enforcement at sea continues against all ships entering or departing Iranian ports.

Amid festive season, Indian Army exercising highest level of alertness on LoC

GOC Northern Command visits Siachen, extends festive greetings to troops

Srinagar, Nov 7: General Officer Commanding (GOC) Northern Command Lieutenant General Pratik Sharma visited troops deployed at the icy heights of the Siachen glacier on the eve of Diwali. The Army Commander interacted with the brave hearts in the worlds highest battlefield and conveyed festive greetings to troops. Lt Gen Pratik Sharma, #ArmyCdrNC visited troops deployed at the icy heights of the #SiachenGlacier on the eve of Diwali. Interacting with the brave hearts in the worlds highest battlefield, he conveyed warm festive greetings and lauded their indomitable spirit. Amidst unforgiving terrain, the resolve of the #IndianArmy shines brighter than a thousand lights, Armys Northern Command said in a post on X. Courage in every step, fortitude in every heart: leadership stands with its troops, Army added.

AIIMS Jammu functional, Kashmir facility awaits OPD launch: Sakina

Vande Mataram symbolises national identity, self-respect: President Murmu on 151 years of composition

New Delhi, Nov 7: President Droupadi Murmu on Saturday congratulated all citizens on the 151 years of the composition of the national song 'Vande Mataram' and said it symbolises our national identity, self-respect and devotion to the motherland. I hope that our fellow citizens will embrace the spirit of nation first embodied in 'Vande Mataram' and contribute to nation-building, she said in a post on X in Hindi. The national song was written by Bengali novelist and poet Bankim Chandra Chattopadhyay on the occasion of Akshaya Navami, which fell on November 7 in 1875. On the completion of 151 years since the composition of the national song 'Vande Mataram', I extend my heartfelt congratulations to all fellow citizens. During the freedom movement, this song served as a rallying cry of courage, unity and resolve for patriots, the president said. Even today, it symbolises our national identity, self-respect and devotion to the motherland, she added.

Defence forces must maintain highest level of operational readiness to counter emerging threats effectively: Rajnath

New Delhi, Nov 7: Defence Minister Rajnath Singh has called upon the Defence Forces to maintain the highest level of operational readiness, with special focus on strengthening domain awareness, cyber resilience and information integrity to effectively counter emerging security threats. Interacting with the personnel of the Indian Air Force (IAF) on the eve of Diwali at Air Force Station, Bagdogra, West Bengal, on Singh emphasised that the security landscape has become increasingly complex, with warfare extending beyond conventional engagements along the borders to encompass asymmetric warfare, proxy wars, cyber-attacks, drone swarms, information operations and narrative management. Often, the adversary avoids direct confrontation and instead seeks to exploit our vulnerabilities. Through social media, the adversary may attempt to sow doubt in the minds of the local population and our soldiers by spreading misleading information. In such a scenario, your role extends beyond that of an ordinary soldier, said Defence Minister. Describing Bagdogra as a strategically important region and a crucial link in India's security framework, particularly for the North-Eastern region, Rajnath Singh commended the courage and dedication of the defence forces personnel towards safeguarding national interests. He stated that the Air Warriors deployed in the region serve as a robust shield for the security of the eastern sector, and their preparedness is fundamental to maintaining stability in the region. Defence Minister underscored that discipline and courage remain indispensable, irrespective of technological advancements, stating that the conduct, bearing, language and restraint of the Defence Forces personnel shape the image of the military among local communities. Lauding the soldiers for discharging their duties with these qualities, he urged them to strengthen their engagement with the local population, particularly in and around Bagdogra, and nurture the deep bond of trust and affection between the people and the Defence Forces. The more you engage with the local community, the weaker the adversarys conspiracies will become, he said. Reaffirming the Government's resolve to achieve Aatmanirbhar Bharat, Rajnath Singh highlighted the growing contribution of Indian start-ups and industries in developing drones, anti-drone systems and advanced military equipment. He appreciated the defence forces for embracing indigenous technologies and acquiring new skills in drone operations and cyber security. He underlined the importance of making the military increasingly technology-driven to effectively address future security challenges. Referring to the Cabinets approval of the 'Second Tour of Duty' for Agniveers, Defence Minister stated that the decision would provide Agniveers with another opportunity to serve the nation. He added that upon completion of the two-year engagement period, all Agniveers will get an opportunity to be enrolled as regular soldiers subject to their willingness and their meeting selection criteria. He termed the decision as a significant Diwali gift for Agniveers, reiterating the Government's commitment to the welfare of the Defence Forces personnel and their families. Rajnath Singh extended his Diwali greetings and wished the Air Warriors and their families good health, happiness and prosperity. He said that the personnel, despite missing their families during the festival, remain steadfast in ensuring the security of their fellow citizens. He expressed gratitude to their families for their sacrifices and contributions. He emphasised that while the soldiers remain committed towards safeguarding the borders, the nation will always stand by their families and ensure their well-being. Chief of the Air Staff Air Chief Marshal Ashutosh Dixit; Air Officer Commanding, Air Force Station, Bagdogra Air Commodore Manish Sharma; and other senior officials of the IAF were present on the occasion.

Deeply concerning: MLA Waheed Para on age limit set by J&K Bank in fresh job notification

Srinagar, Nov 7: PDP leader and MLA Pulwama Waheed-ur-Rehman Para on Saturday expressed grave concern over the age limit set by Jammu and Kashmir Bank Limited in its recent job notification, and demanded the increase in upper age limit, besides revocation of reservation norms in the job recruitment process. Calling the age limit of 20 to 30 years as completely unfair, the MLA Pulwama said why J&K Bank aspirants are being penalized when JKSSB (Jammu and Kashmir Service Selection Board) allows an age limit to 40 years. Taking to micro-blogging site X, Para said: Deeply concerning to see the latest JK Bank notification for PO & Banking Associate posts. Keeping the age limit at 20-30 years is completely unfair to thousands of overaged aspirants who have been waiting patiently for years. When JKSSB allows an age limit up to 40 years, why are JK Bank aspirants being penalized? Furthermore, applying reservation policies in a commercial institution like JK Bank undermines meritocracy for our local youth. Para said that demands are simple: Increase the upper age limit to 40 years. Revoke reservation in the recruitment. Give our educated youth a fair & equal chance!.

GK TV Exclusive: MLA Adv. Majeed Larmi speaks on outcome of meeting with NC leadership

'Move on': J&K Dy CM Choudhary seeks end to rumours over discontent among NC MLAs

Jammu, Nov 7: Jammu and Kashmir Deputy Chief Minister Surinder Choudhary on Saturday sought to end the ongoing rumours of discontent among a group of National Conference MLAs, maintaining that the party leadership has addressed the issue through discussions with the legislators. Talking to reporters after paying obeisance at Bawe Wali Mata temple on the eve of the Diwali festival, Choudhary said National Conference president Farooq Abdullah and Chief Minister Omar Abdullah held discussions with all the MLAs and that there was no reason to prolong the controversy, urging the media to focus on other pressing issues confronting Jammu and Kashmir. On Friday, the National Conference leadership met with the dissident MLAs in Srinagar, dismissing speculation about internal rifts within the party as baseless rumours. The meeting was held to pacify party legislators reportedly unhappy at being omitted from the council of ministers. The expressions on their faces make it quite clear... When my leader, the NC president, and the chief minister discussed the matter with all the MLAs, that was the end of it, the deputy chief minister said. He urged the media to move on to other pressing issues concerning Jammu and Kashmir, questioning whether repeated coverage of controversies surrounding the National Conference would help resolve unemployment or ensure the regularisation of daily-wage workers. He also accused sections of the media of focusing more on political controversies than on issues concerning the people of the J&K. Choudhary questioned the media's silence on local representation in key administrative positions, citing the retirement of former chief secretary Atal Dulloo and the absence of an extension. ...If officials in other parts of the country were granted extensions, why was Dulloo not given one (after his retirement on November 1)? If a chief secretary has to be appointed in J&K, why can't someone from the region itself be appointed? If Dulloo was not to be given an extension, they could have appointed someone local from here, whether Hindu or Muslim. At least that person would have been a son of the soil, he said. Choudhary questioned whether the BJP had ever raised the issue, alleging that the party appeared to be following a narrative rather than highlighting concerns specific to J&K.

Srinagar markets buzz with activity ahead of Diwali

Two arrested with 1.5 kg charas-like substance in J-K's Bandipora

Srinagar, Nov 07: Two persons were arrested and approximately 1.5 kg of charas-like substance was seized from their possession in Jammu and Kashmirs Bandipora district, police said on Saturday. Acting on its drive against drug abuse and narcotics trafficking, police apprehended the two persons during naka checking at Garoora Crossing and recovered the contraband, a police spokesperson said. The accused have been identified as Rafaqat Ali Gojar, a resident of Halwadi, Aragam, and Zakir Hussain Qureshi, a resident of Chapran, Aragam, in the north Kashmir district. A case has been registered at Aragam police station under relevant sections of the Narcotic Drugs and Psychotropic Substances (NDPS) Act, and an investigation has been initiated to ascertain further links and establish the source and intended destination of the recovered substance.

Former Supreme Court judge Justice Rajesh Bindal appointed NCLAT chairperson, ending interim arrangement

New Delhi, Nov 07: Former Supreme Court judge Justice Rajesh Bindal has been appointed chairperson of the National Company Law Appellate Tribunal (NCLAT), filling the key position that had been held on an officiating basis since July 2026, according to a report by Livelaw. Justice Bindal, who served as a judge of the Supreme Court from February 13, 2023, to April 15, 2026, succeeds the interim arrangement under which Justice Yogesh Khanna had been discharging the duties of NCLAT chairperson following the completion of Justice Ashok Bhushan's tenure. Justice Bindal brings with him extensive judicial experience across several High Courts. He was elevated to the Punjab and Haryana High Court in 2006 before being transferred to the Jammu and Kashmir High Court in 2018. During his tenure in Jammu and Kashmir, he also served as the Acting Chief Justice of the High Court in December 2020. Subsequently, he was transferred to the Calcutta High Court in January 2021 and assumed charge as its Acting Chief Justice in April 2021. He took the oath as Chief Justice of the Allahabad High Court on October 11, 2021, before his elevation to the Supreme Court in 2023. After retiring from the Supreme Court, he was appointed as Emeritus Professor at the National Forensic Sciences University (NFSU) and joined Galgotias University School of Law as an Honorary Distinguished Jurist. His appointment marks the end of the interim arrangement at the appellate tribunal, which deals with appeals arising from orders passed by the National Company Law Tribunal (NCLT).

E20 petrol meets quality standards; 893 samples tested across 27 states, UTs found compliant

New Delhi, Nov 07: The Ministry of Petroleum and Natural Gas has taken note of the press release issued by the Department of Food, Civil Supplies, Consumer Affairs and Legal Metrology, Government of Karnataka, claiming that petrol sold at certain retail outlets in the State contains between 26% and 31% ethanol. In this regard, the three public sector Oil Marketing Companies (OMCs) Indian Oil Corporation Limited (IOCL), Bharat Petroleum Corporation Limited (BPCL) and Hindustan Petroleum Corporation Limited (HPCL) have clarified that the claims, as reported, are not supported by testing conducted in accordance with the prescribed statutory and technical procedures. E20 petrol supplied by the three OMCs across the country, including Karnataka, conforms to IS 17021, the Bureau of Indian Standards specification for ethanol-blended motor gasoline. They have also raised concerns regarding the sampling procedure and testing methodology adopted for the October 2026 exercise. Concerns over Sampling and Testing Methodology The Motor Spirit and High Speed Diesel (Regulation of Supply, Distribution and Prevention of Malpractices) Order, 2005, issued under the Essential Commodities Act, 1955, read with the Marketing Discipline Guidelines (MDG) 2024, prescribes a defined procedure for sampling, retention, testing and communication of results. The prescribed procedure requires six one-litre samples to be drawn, with two samples handed over to the dealer against acknowledgement, two retained by the oil company or department, and two sent to a laboratory specified under Schedule III of the Control Order or notified in the Official Gazette. The sample labels are required to be jointly signed, and the test results communicated to the dealer and the oil company within the prescribed timeframe. While samples drawn during the September 2026 exercise were routed through the State Level Coordinator to designated OMC laboratories and tested for the quality parameters requested under the MDG 2024, the subsequent exercise in October reportedly involved samples drawn without the participation of OMC representatives. The OMCs have also not received the corresponding retention samples, complete outlet-wise details or laboratory reports, despite seeking these through the State Level Coordinator. The OMCs have further stated that the reported findings rely on certificates issued by a third-party laboratory rather than testing conducted at a laboratory specified under the Control Order. The certificates do not provide the complete technical details necessary to independently verify the reported ethanol content. The absence of counterpart samples and the prescribed documentation has also denied the OMCs and concerned dealers an opportunity to seek verification or retesting. Testing Methodology Must Conform to IS 17021 A preliminary technical assessment by the OMCs has also highlighted concerns regarding the ethanol testing methodology cited in the certificates. Under IS 17021:2018 (Amendment No. 3, August 2025), ethanol content in E20 fuel is required to be determined through prescribed methods, namely Fourier Transform Infrared Spectroscopy (FTIR) under ASTM D5845, water extraction under Annex C, or Gas Chromatography under ASTM D4815/D6839. Importantly, when Gas Chromatography is used under ASTM D4815/D6839, the sample must first be diluted in a 1:1 ratio with oxygenate-free petrol, and the result corrected against an E10 certified reference material. However, the certificates cited in the Karnataka press release merely mention Ethanol % by Gas Chromatography, without specifying the applicable standard test method, the prescribed dilution procedure or the reference material used for correction. In the absence of these essential details, the reported ethanol figures of 2631% cannot be independently validated against the methodology prescribed under IS 17021. The reported density readings also warrant examination. The certificates indicate densities ranging from 0.742 to 0.749 g/cc for samples claimed to contain 2631% ethanol. This is lower than the 0.7520.760 g/cc recorded for E20 samples tested by the OMCs under the QCC-1 and QCC-2 surveys. Given that ethanol has a higher density than petrol, a higher ethanol proportion would ordinarily be expected to increase the density of the blend. This discrepancy further underscores the need for testing through the prescribed methodology and verification against appropriate reference samples. OMC and CHT Quality Monitoring Confirms Compliance The Centre for High Technology (CHT), under the Ministry of Petroleum and Natural Gas, has been continuously monitoring ethanol blending and fuel quality across OMC retail outlets. As part of the OMC/CHT Quality Coordination Cell (QCC) exercise, 893 E20 samples drawn from IOCL (330), BPCL (280) and HPCL (283) depots and retail outlets across 27 States and Union Territories have been tested for ethanol content as per IS 17021, Annex C, at refinery and OMC quality-control laboratories. All 893 samples were found within the prescribed ethanol content range of 1921%. Significantly, all 56 samples tested in Karnataka, comprising samples from different locations and all three OMCs, also conformed to the prescribed specifications, recording ethanol content between 19% and 20%, with an average of 19.30%. These results demonstrate that ethanol blending at OMC retail outlets is monitored and controlled within the prescribed specifications. The findings are inconsistent with the substantially higher ethanol levels reported in the Karnataka press release and reinforce the need for a transparent, technically sound and jointly verifiable testing exercise. Ethanol Blending is a Controlled and Automated Process Ethanol blending at OMC refineries and depots is undertaken through established, calibrated and controlled systems. The process involves automatic calibration and proportioning arrangements at the refinery and depot levels, with blending governed by prescribed specifications and quality-control protocols. It is not a manual or arbitrary process of adding ethanol to petrol. The OMCs maintain established quality-assurance systems across their supply and distribution networks to ensure that the blended fuel meets the applicable BIS specifications before it reaches consumers. Consumer Impact Claims Require Scientific Assessment The claims of an estimated annual consumer mileage loss of approximately 62,000 crore and vehicle-repair costs of approximately 39,000 crore, aggregating to around 1.01 lakh crore, also require careful examination against established technical evidence. More than 30 crore two-wheelers and 4 crore four-wheelers have been running on E20 fuel for over three years. Every day, over 6 crore people visit petrol pumps to refuel their vehicles. If there were a widespread issue with E20 fuel quality, it would be expected to manifest in vehicle breakdowns across this large vehicle base. No such widespread incidence has been reported. This extensive, real-world usage is an important consideration in assessing claims relating to fuel quality and vehicle performance. The performance and mileage implications of E20 have been examined by the Inter-Ministerial Committee and through studies involving Indian Oil Corporation Limited (IOCL), the Automotive Research Association of India (ARAI) and the Society of Indian Automobile Manufacturers (SIAM). As outlined by the Ministry of Petroleum and Natural Gas in its response titled Response to Concerns on Blending of Ethanol in Petrol and Beyond, published by the Press Information Bureau on August 12, 2025, vehicles calibrated for E20 can experience a mileage reduction of approximately 12%, while certain other vehicles may experience reductions of approximately 36%, depending on vehicle category and calibration. Accordingly, applying a blanket assumption of 10% mileage loss across the entire vehicle population and extrapolating it into a national consumer-loss figure of 62,000 crore does not constitute a scientifically established assessment. Similarly, the 39,000 crore vehicle-repair estimate needs to be substantiated through a transparent assessment of actual vehicle-performance data, materials compatibility studies and documented repair costs. Concerns relating to materials compatibility and vehicle performance have already been examined through studies involving technical agencies and the automobile industry. Any assessment of the programme's impact must therefore take into account vehicle category, manufacturing specifications, fuel compatibility and the findings of these technical studies, rather than relying on blanket assumptions. Ethanol Blending Programme Delivers Wider Economic and Environmental Benefits India's ethanol-blending journey spans more than two decades, beginning with the pilot programme in 2001 and progressing through successive policy interventions, including the National Policy on Biofuels, 2018, and the NITI Aayog Roadmap for Ethanol Blending in India by 2025, prepared in consultation with stakeholders. The Ethanol Blended Petrol (EBP) Programme is an important component of India's efforts to reduce dependence on imported crude oil, strengthen domestic agricultural value chains and advance energy security. Ethanol blending programme, since ESY 2014-15, has resulted in: Foreign-exchange savings of more than 1.97 lakh crore. Substitution of approximately 316 lakh metric tonnes of crude oil. Reduction of approximately 952 lakh metric tonnes of CO emissions. Transfer of more than 1.66 lakh crore to farmers. These measurable outcomes underline the wider economic, environmental and agricultural benefits of the programme, which cannot be assessed solely through a selective comparison of OMC profitability and alleged consumer costs. During ESY 2025-26 ending 31st October 2026, PSU OMCs procured 1,089 crore litres of ethanol and blended 1,134 crore litres against petrol sales of approximately 5,673 crore litres, in pursuit of the national 20% blending target. The programme operates within a defined national framework, with blending levels and quality parameters monitored across the supply chain. Isolated and unverified allegations of substantially higher or lower blending at individual locations do not provide a meaningful assessment of the programme's overall performance. The suggestion that OMCs have a commercial incentive to undertake blending beyond the prescribed target is also misplaced. Ethanol procurement involves a significant cost, and every additional litre blended beyond the prescribed proportion would add to the OMCs' procurement costs. The OMCs have no commercial rationale to undertake arbitrary or excess blending. OMCs Seek Transparency and Independent Verification In view of the concerns raised, the three OMCs have requested the Government of Karnataka to share the complete sampling documentation, outlet-wise laboratory reports and details of the test methodology adopted for the reported findings. They have also sought access to the counterpart samples for independent testing at an authorised laboratory using the prescribed referee method, in the presence of representatives of the State Government and OMCs. The OMCs remain committed to cooperating with the State Government and other competent authorities in conducting joint sampling and testing in accordance with the Control Order and the MDG 2024. Any deviation established through the prescribed procedure will be dealt with in accordance with the applicable guidelines. The Ministry of Petroleum and Natural Gas reiterates its commitment to ensuring the quality of petroleum products supplied to consumers, regulatory compliance and consumer protection, supported by established quality-assurance and monitoring mechanisms across the nationwide supply and distribution networks of OMCs.

Indian Air Force achieves world's highest-altitude IL-76MD landing at Nyoma

Farooq Abdullah, Sunil Sharma, Ravinder Raina visit Ahsan Pardesis residence to offer condolences

India-EU conclude negotiations to join Horizon Europe programme

New Delhi, Nov 07: India and the European Union (EU) have successfully completed negotiations for Indias association with Horizon Europe, the EUs flagship research and innovation programme. The association of India with the programme marks a strategic move into a long-term institutional framework of research cooperation between both sides, building on existing R&D projects and cooperation under the IndiaEU Agreement on Science and Technology Cooperation and the India-EU Trade and Technology Council. The association will facilitate Indian researchers, institutions and industry to participate in the calls for funding under the Programme through collaborative research projects, and have access to European consortia and cutting-edge research infrastructure. It will also deepen talent mobility and lead to co-development of critical technologies, standards and solutions at scale. The thematic clusters of Pillar II of Horizon Europe, which include health, digital technologies, industry and space, climate, energy and mobility, food and the bioeconomy, align closely with India's research priorities and can build on its scientific strengths. The association adds a significant value to the innovation ecosystem of the country as it marches towards Viksit Bharat 2047. An exploration of the possible association was launched after the historic India-EU Summit on January 27, 2026, and formal negotiations were initiated as an outcome of the ministerial meeting of the Trade and Technology Council held in Brussels on July 15, 2026.

Security heightened along NH-44 ahead of Diwali in Kulgam

District Administration Ramban issues notice for Hajj-2027 second installment payment

Ramban, Nov 07: The District Administration Ramban has issued a directive for wide publicity of the schedule for depositing the second installment of Hajj-2027 (1448 AH) by selected pilgrims from the district. As per the official communication issued by the Office of the Deputy Commissioner, selected pilgrims are required to deposit the second installment of 1,25,000 per pilgrim on or before November 30, 2026. In this regard, the Assistant Commissioner Revenue (ACR), Ramban, has directed all Tehsildars to inform selected Hajj pilgrims within their respective jurisdictions about the payment deadline and ensure timely dissemination of the information. The District Information Officer (DIO), Ramban, has also been asked to publicise the payment schedule and prescribed procedure through print, electronic and social media platforms. The directive has been issued in pursuance of a circular from the Haj Committee of India, Ministry of Minority Affairs, Government of India. Selected pilgrims have been advised to deposit the prescribed amount within the stipulated deadline to avoid any inconvenience.

Compulsory retirement order is neither punitive nor stigmatic in character: SC

The Supreme Court upheld the Chhattisgarh government's order of compulsory retirement for several employees. It noted such orders are not punitive or indicative of misconduct against the employees. The court emphasised the importance of objective evaluations when determining an employee's suitability for continued service. It clarified that the decision should not be based on mere conjecture or whim.

Jammu-based employees in Kashmir get special leave today, Monday

Srinagar, Nov 07: The Jammu and Kashmir Government on Saturday sanctioned two days of Special Casual Leave for PM Package, migrant and Jammu-based employees posted in various departments across the Kashmir Division to celebrate Diwali in Jammu. According to an order issued by the Governments General Administration Department (GAD), the special leave has been sanctioned for November 7 (today) and November 9 (Monday). Sanction is hereby accorded to the grant of two days Special Casual Leave on 7th November, 2026 (Saturday) and 9th November, 2026 (Monday) in favour of PM Package/Migrant/Jammu based employees, posted in different departments in the Kashmir Division, for celebrating Diwali at Jammu, the order reads.(KNO)

MHA orders transfer of two IAS officers from J&K to Ladakh

Srinagar, Nov 07: The Ministry of Home Affairs has ordered the transfer of two IAS officers of AGMUT Cadre from Jammu and Kashmir to Ladakh with immediate effect and until further orders. As per the order issued by the Ministry of Home Affairs from Kartavya Bhavan-3, New Delhi, with the approval of the Competent Authority, Rakesh Minhas, IAS (AGMUT:2016), and Fazlul Haseeb, IAS (AGMUT:2018), have been transferred from Jammu and Kashmir. The order will come into force with immediate effect.(GNS)

Youth found dead in Jammus Miran Sahib

Jammu, Nov 07: A 23-year-old youth was found dead inside his rented room in the Miran Sahib area of Jammu district on Saturday morning, officials said. An official said that the youth was found dead inside his rented accommodation in Miran Sahib, Jammu. He was immediately shifted to Government Hospital, Gandhi Nagar, Jammu, where doctors declared him brought dead. The deceased has been identified as Chander (23), a native of Bihar who was residing in Jammu. Meanwhile, cognizance of the incident has been taken up.(KNO)

Kashmir shivers as Shopian freezes at minus 0.9C

Srinagar, Nov 07: Shopian recorded the coldest night of the ongoing season in Kashmir at minus 0.9 degrees Celsius, while temperatures across the Valley continued to hover around the freezing point, with Leh in Ladakh recording the lowest minimum temperature at minus 4.2 degrees Celsius. According to temperature data, Pulwama recorded a minimum temperature of minus 0.3 degrees Celsius, followed by Pahalgam at 0.0 degrees Celsius and Kukernag at 0.2 degrees Celsius. Srinagar recorded a minimum temperature of 2.0 degrees Celsius, while Qazigund also settled at 2.0 degrees Celsius. Kupwara recorded 1.5 degrees Celsius and Gulmarg 1.2 degrees Celsius. Srinagar Airport recorded 0.8 degrees Celsius, while Sonamarg settled at 0.6 degrees Celsius. Budgam and Konibal Pampore recorded 1.1 degrees Celsius each. Baramulla recorded 3.7 degrees Celsius, while Kulgam settled at 3.3 degrees Celsius. In Jammu division, Jammu Airport recorded a minimum temperature of 15.3 degrees Celsius, followed by Kathua at 15.2 degrees Celsius. Jammu city and Katra both recorded 14.0 degrees Celsius. Bhadarwah recorded 4.8 degrees Celsius, Banihal 6.7 degrees Celsius, Rajouri 7.2 degrees Celsius and Kishtwar 8.8 degrees Celsius. Meanwhile, Ladakh continued to experience sub-zero temperatures, with Leh recording minus 4.2 degrees Celsius, the lowest across Jammu and Kashmir and Ladakh. Kargil recorded minus 1.4 degrees Celsius, while Nubra Valley settled at minus 0.9 degrees Celsius.(KNO)

A 'Jai Jawan, Jai Kisan' test: Risks of reforms without consultation

Between the farm laws and Agnipath, you could say the Modi government erred in taking its most loyal constituencies for granted: Hindi-heartland farmers and soldiers

Iran reviewing proposals on Tehran's nuclear programme: Officials

Washington, Nov 07: Iran is reviewing proposals presented by chief mediator Qatar aimed at addressing differences with the United States about Tehran's nuclear programme, government officials from both West Asian countries said Friday. The development is raising hopes that the two sides could be inching toward indirect talks on one of the thorniest issues that US President Donald Trump says must be resolved as part of any deal meant to end the more than eight-month-old war. But one of the officials stressed that Iran, at least at the moment, is unwilling to engage in negotiations with the Trump administration over its atomic activities until the US agrees to several core conditions that Iran has been demanding be part of any ceasefire agreement. Both officials were not authorised to comment publicly on the delicate negotiations and spoke on the condition of anonymity. Iran and Qatari officials' stepped-up engagement -- and Tehran showing a glint of openness to the possibility of negotiating on its nuclear programme -- comes just days after Trump's Republican Party was dealt a stunning repudiation in Tuesday's midterm elections in the US. Signs of hope for talks emerge after Iran war contributed to Republican losses The electoral setback was stoked in part by voter dissatisfaction with Trump's execution of the conflict and elevated fuel prices, a byproduct of the war that's affected nearly every sector of the global economy. The White House declined to comment about the Qatar-presented proposals, but Trump noted Friday in an exchange with reporters that mediators' discussions with Iran continue. We are talking to Iran. We have been, said Trump, who insists the US military remains in control of the conflict with a battered Iran. Yet, Tehran insists on several concessions from the US, which Trump has declined in the past. Among the core demands Iran says must be met before engaging in nuclear talks: ending the US blockade on Iran's ports, lifting sanctions, unfreezing its assets, issuing compensation for war damage, and ending hostilities throughout the region, including Israeli operations in Lebanon. Qatar and Iran discuss bridge deal to get to nuclear talks Mediators and Iran have discussed a potential bridge deal aimed at helping pave the way for further talks on Tehran's nuclear programme, according to regional officials. They said the proposal, which was recently presented to the two sides by Qatar mediators, called for implementing trust-building measures over the course of two days. These measures include lifting the US blockade and releasing some of the billions of dollars in Iranian frozen funds seized over the years as part of a US campaign to isolate Iran over its nuclear programme. In return, Tehran would allow International Atomic Energy Agency inspectors at its sites bombed by the US and Israel, the officials said. On the second day, Iran would reopen the Strait of Hormuz in line with a modified agreement that Iran and Oman have reached on the waterway but has not been approved by the US, the officials said. That mechanism would be temporary until a permanent deal is reached on the strait in cooperation with other Gulf countries, they said. Following the implementation of the measures, the US and Iran would embark on extensive talks addressing Iran's stockpile of highly enriched uranium as well as other aspects of its programme, the officials said. Iran has long maintained that its nuclear programme is peaceful. According to the International Atomic Energy Agency, Iran has 440.9 kg of uranium that is enriched up to 60 per cent purity, a short, technical step from weapons-grade levels of 90 per cent. Diplomatic efforts pick up following US election A flurry of diplomatic phone calls in recent days between leaders in the Persian Gulf and beyond has been aimed at easing tensions in the region. Concerns have mounted over the possibility that Trump could still order the US military to carry out new strikes against Iran. Defense Secretary Pete Hegseth spoke on Friday with his Qatar counterpart, Sheikh Saoud bin Abdulrahman Al Thani, about developments, according to the Qatar government. Qatar announced the call between the countries' defense officials after confirming earlier Friday that Trump and Qatar's emir had a separate call to discuss efforts to deescalate tensions. Iranian Foreign Minister Abbas Araghchi also held phone calls with his Iraq and Tunisian counterparts on Friday to discuss tensions in the region. Araghchi discussed with Iraq Foreign Minister Fuad Hussein Tehran's vision for resuming negotiations with the US, according to Iraq's News Agency. Egyptian Foreign Minister Badr Abdelatty, who held two calls with Araghchi this week, said in a post on X on Friday that it was critical that both sides demonstrate flexibility to achieve the compromise solutions necessary to prevent the region from sliding into a new wave of escalation. Egypt's top diplomat also held a phone call with his Emirati counterpart, Abdullah Bin Zayed Al Nahyan, to emphasise the importance of political negotiations to prevent another military confrontation that could fuel violence and destruction, according to a statement by Egypt's Foreign Ministry.

US military carries out fresh targeted strike on Iran as Tehran weighs mediator's proposals

Washington, Nov 07: President Donald Trump said the US military on Friday carried out fresh limited strikes on Iran, targeting its air defense systems. Iranian state media reported the sound of two explosions in the Suza area of Qeshm Island, which is in the crucial waterway for oil shipments. Trump in an exchange with reporters described the military action as minor. They knocked out -- they built a little bit of an anti-aircraft device and we knocked it out in about 15 minutes, maybe five, Trump told reporters shortly after arriving in West Palm Beach, Florida, on Friday evening. The US military also reported carrying out what it described as defensive strikes on Monday. Explosions were heard on the islands of Qeshm and Hengam in the strategic Strait of Hormuz, and in the nearby mainland area of Bandar Abbas. Friday's strikes are the first since Trump's Republican Party was dealt a stunning repudiation in Tuesday's midterm elections in the US. The electoral setback was stoked in part by voter dissatisfaction with Trump's execution of the conflict and elevated fuel prices, a byproduct of the war that's affected nearly every sector of the global economy. In the days since Republicans' shellacking at the polls, Trump has vacillated between threatening to destroy Iran and suggesting that a resolution to the war is near. Qatar presents new proposals to Iran officials Earlier Friday, officials from the two West Asian governments said Iran is reviewing proposals presented by chief mediator Qatar aimed at addressing differences with the US about Tehran's nuclear programme. But one of the officials stressed that Iran, at least at the moment, remains unwilling to engage in negotiations with the Trump administration over its atomic activities until the US agrees to several core conditions that Iran has been demanding be part of any ceasefire agreement. Difference over Iran's nuclear programme is the thorniest issue and one that Trump insists must be resolved as part of any deal meant to end the more than eight-month-old war. Both officials were not authorised to comment publicly on the delicate negotiations and spoke on the condition of anonymity. The US Central Command, which oversees US military operations in West Asia, announced in a post on X late Friday that the United States was offering a reward of up to USD 20 million and possible relocation for information about Iran's nuclear programme, including its facilities, equipment, and associated personnel, such as those in the scientific community, or the movement of any of the above. The post included a link to the State Department's Rewards for Justice programme. Iran insists on several concessions before nuclear talks The White House declined to comment about the Qatar-presented proposals on Iran's nuclear programme, but Trump noted earlier Friday in an exchange with reporters that mediators' discussions with Iran continue. We are talking to Iran. We have been, said Trump, who insists the US military remains in control of the conflict with a battered Iran. Yet, Tehran insists on several concessions from the U.S., which Trump has declined in the past. Among the core demands Iran says must be met before engaging in nuclear talks: ending the U.S. blockade on Iran's ports, lifting sanctions, unfreezing its assets, issuing compensation for war damage, and ending hostilities throughout the region, including Israeli operations in Lebanon. Qatar and Iran discuss bridge deal to get to nuclear talks Mediators and Iran have discussed a potential bridge deal aimed at helping pave the way for further talks on Tehran's nuclear programme, according to regional officials. They said the proposal, which was recently presented to the two sides by Qatar mediators, called for implementing trust-building measures over the course of two days. These measures include lifting the US blockade and releasing some of the billions of dollars in Iranian frozen funds seized over the years as part of a US campaign to isolate Iran over its nuclear programme. In return, Tehran would allow International Atomic Energy Agency inspectors at its sites bombed by the US and Israel, the officials said. On the second day, Iran would reopen the Strait of Hormuz in line with a modified agreement that Iran and Oman have reached on the waterway but has not been approved by the US, the officials said. That mechanism would be temporary until a permanent deal is reached on the strait in cooperation with other Gulf countries, they said. Following the implementation of the measures, the US and Iran would embark on extensive talks addressing Iran's stockpile of highly enriched uranium as well as other aspects of its programme, the officials said. Iran has long maintained that its nuclear programme is peaceful. According to the International Atomic Energy Agency, Iran has 440.9 kg of uranium that is enriched up to 60 per cent purity, a short, technical step from weapons-grade levels of 90 per cent. Diplomatic efforts pick up following US election A flurry of diplomatic phone calls in recent days between leaders in the Persian Gulf and beyond has been aimed at easing tensions in the region. Concerns have mounted over the possibility that Trump could still order the US military to carry out new strikes against Iran. Defense Secretary Pete Hegseth spoke on Friday with his Qatar counterpart, Sheikh Saoud bin Abdulrahman Al Thani, about developments, according to the Qatar government. Qatar announced the call between the countries' defense officials after confirming earlier Friday that Trump and Qatar's emir had a separate call to discuss efforts to deescalate tensions. Iranian Foreign Minister Abbas Araghchi also held phone calls with his Iraq and Tunisian counterparts on Friday to discuss tensions in the region. Araghchi discussed with Iraq Foreign Minister Fuad Hussein Tehran's vision for resuming negotiations with the US, according to Iraq's News Agency. Egyptian Foreign Minister Badr Abdelatty, who held two calls with Araghchi this week, said in a post on X on Friday that it was critical that both sides demonstrate flexibility to achieve the compromise solutions necessary to prevent the region from sliding into a new wave of escalation. Egypt's top diplomat also held a phone call with his Emirati counterpart, Abdullah Bin Zayed Al Nahyan, to emphasise the importance of political negotiations to prevent another military confrontation that could fuel violence and destruction, according to a statement by Egypt's Foreign Ministry.

China says discussions underway on Xi-Trump-Putin meeting

WASHINGTON: Beijing has confirmed for the first time that it is discussing a historic meeting between Chinese leader Xi Jinping, US President Donald Trump and Russian President Vladimir Putin. Mao Ning, a spokesperson for the Chinese foreign ministry, said at a press briefing this week in Beijing that China is in communication with relevant parties []

5-day specialised training course at SKPA Udhampur concludes

Udhampur, Nov 6:The five-day specialised training course on Advance technology in Forensic Science, organised by Sher-i-Kashmir Police Academy (SKPA), Udhampur, concluded on Friday with a valedictory function held at the interaction hall, admin block of the Academy. The course was aimed to familiarise the participants with the latest technological advancements and emerging trends in forensic science, along with their practical applications in criminal investigations. It provided police personnel an opportunity to gain valuable insights into modern forensic techniques, scientific examination of evidence and the effective utilisation of advanced technologies in crime detection and investigation. Director SKPA Udhampur IGP Dr Mohd Haseeb Mughal, while addressing the participants at the valedictory function, highlighted the growing significance of forensic science and technological advancements in modern policing and criminal investigations. He emphasised that scientific investigation and the effective utilisation of advanced forensic technologies had become indispensable components of professional policing. He stressed the need for investigating officers to remain abreast of the latest developments in forensic science to ensure the proper collection, preservation, examination and effective utilisation of scientific evidence in criminal cases. The Director further observed that the integration of modern technology with conventional investigative practices would significantly enhance the quality, credibility and effectiveness of criminal investigations. He encouraged the participants to make optimum use of the knowledge and practical skills acquired during the training programme and apply them effectively in their respective professional assignments. The training programme was specifically designed to enhance the professional competence of participating personnel and strengthen their capabilities to undertake scientific, systematic and evidence-based investigations. Through such specialised training initiatives, SKPA Udhampur continues to reaffirm its commitment to capacity building, professional excellence and continuous upgradation of investigative skills among police personnel, enabling them to effectively address emerging challenges in the field of law enforcement, a spokesperson said.

Rajouri circular road restored for one way traffic

Rajouri, Nov 6: A vital circular road passing through Rajouri town, has been partially restored - after remaining closed for several months, ahead of the Diwali festival, providing much-needed relief to commuters. The road was damaged during recent floods, with a portion washed away thus disrupting traffic movement along the important stretch. The Public Works Department had taken up restoration work following the damage. Keeping in view the Diwali festival and the expected increase in movement of people, the road has now been partially restored to facilitate traffic. Traffic Police has informed that the road has been reopened from one side, allowing only Light Motor Vehicles (LMVs) to ply between Bela bridge and Tariq bridge. The restoration is expected to ease traffic movement in the town, while further restoration work is likely to continue.

AIIMS Jammu doctors perform RFA for trigeminal neuralgia in high-risk patient

Jammu, Nov 6: Doctors at the All India Institute of Medical Sciences (AIIMS), Jammu, successfully performed Radiofrequency Ablation (RFA) for Trigeminal Neuralgia in a high-risk patient with multiple comorbidities, including diabetes, hypertension, chronic kidney disease and heart block. The 72-year-old male patient from Samba district had been suffering from severe facial pain for almost 10 years and had consulted multiple doctors. Over time, the pain had become refractory to medications and was severely affecting his quality of life, as he was unable to eat or sleep properly. He presented to the Pain Clinic at AIIMS Jammu and was diagnosed with Trigeminal Neuralgia. Trigeminal Neuralgia causes severe, electric shock-like pain in the face that occurs multiple times a day, often triggered by simple activities such as eating or talking. The pain is so intense that the condition is also known as the suicide disease. In view of his heart block, a pacemaker was first inserted by the Department of Cardiology. Performing RFA in a patient with a pacemaker requires specialised care, as the radiofrequency current can interfere with the device. The mode of the pacemaker was therefore changed accordingly, and the patient was kept under advanced haemodynamic monitoring throughout the procedure. The advanced interventional procedure was performed under X-ray guidance by Dr Kanika Gupta, Associate Professor, Department of Anaesthesiology, Critical Care and Pain. Anaesthesia and advanced haemodynamic monitoring were managed by Dr Jagriti and Dr Disha, along with anaesthesia technical team. Following the procedure, the patient is now completely pain-free and off all pain medications and is able to eat and sleep normally, the doctors said. The successful outcome was made possible through close inter-departmental collaboration between the Departments of Cardiology and Anaesthesiology. Prof (Dr) Sunana Gupta, Professor and Head, Department of Anaesthesiology, said, This case shows that even high-risk patients with multiple diseases can safely benefit from interventional pain procedures when performed with the right precautions and teamwork. Our department is committed to expanding these services so that more patients can live pain-free. Prof (Dr) Sanjeev Sinha, Executive Director & CEO, AIIMS Jammu, lauded the medical teams for their coordinated efforts and highlighted the institutes commitment to providing advanced, safe and patient-centred care. He emphasised that multidisciplinary teamwork and specialised expertise could play a vital role in managing complex cases and improving the quality of life of patients suffering from chronic pain.

Sat Sharma releases special edition of BJP magazine Kamal Sandesh on SIR

Jammu, Nov 6:Jammu and Kashmir BJP president and Rajya Sabha MP Sat Sharma released a special edition of the party's magazine Kamal Sandesh, exclusively dedicated to the Special Intensive Revision (SIR) of electoral rolls, at a function held at the party headquarters in Jammu on Friday. The special edition was released in the presence of BJP general secretaries Sanjita Dogra, Baldev Singh Billawaria and Gopal Mahajan, Publication Department incharge Rajnish Jain and Department for Development of Literature incharge Varinderjeet Singh and BJP ST Morcha president Choudhary Abdul Gani. The special edition contains informative articles, poems, columns and other writings highlighting the importance, objectives, benefits and significance of SIR in strengthening the democratic system. Senior BJP leaders have contributed their writings and efforts towards preparing this edition to create greater awareness among the people. Speaking on the occasion, Sat Sharma said that bringing out a special edition of Kamal Sandesh on SIR was indeed a commendable initiative aimed at educating the people about the importance of maintaining accurate, transparent and updated electoral rolls. He said that every eligible citizen had the right to vote and it was equally important to ensure that electoral rolls were free from errors, duplicate entries and names of deceased or otherwise ineligible persons, following the prescribed procedure. Sat Sharma said that SIR was an important exercise which could strengthen public confidence in the electoral system and help ensure free and fair elections. He stressed that genuine voters should not face difficulties and that public awareness is essential for the successful implementation of such an exercise. Appreciating the efforts of the Publication Department, Department for Development of Literature and all contributors, Sat Sharma said that literature and publications played an important role in spreading awareness and presenting important issues in simple and understandable language. Sat Sharma expressed hope that this special edition would prove to be of great educational and informative value for party workers, voters and the general public. He said that it would help readers understand the purpose of SIR, clear misconceptions and encourage responsible participation in the democratic process. He also called upon party workers to take the magazine's message to the grassroots level and encourage people to remain informed about their electoral rights and responsibilities.

Security heightened in Rajouri, Poonch during festive season

Rajouri, Nov 6: Security has been strengthened across Rajouri and Poonch districts ahead of Diwali, with security forces stepping up vigil in crowded areas and market places amid increased public movement during the festive season. Markets in the twin districts are witnessing a rush of shoppers, with people visiting different market areas to purchase goods ahead of the festival. To maintain law and order and ensure the safety of the public, additional security personnel have been deployed in busy markets and other crowded locations. Security forces are also maintaining heightened surveillance in vulnerable areas. Explosive detection teams and sniffer dogs have been pressed into service to conduct checks in crowded places as part of the security arrangements. Meanwhile, police personnel are making public announcements across the twin districts, urging people to immediately report any suspicious object, activity or person to the Police Control Room (PCR).

Police intensify foot patrolling, surveillance in Ramban

Ramban, Nov 6:In view of the upcoming Diwali festival, Police have intensified security and preventive measures across Ramban district to ensure peaceful celebrations and maintain law and order. As part of the enhanced security arrangements, Police, in coordination with the Special Operations Group (SOG) Ramban, have launched a series of coordinated security and checking operations at various locations across the district. The measures include extensive foot patrolling in market areas, public places and other sensitive locations, besides sanitisation of dhoks and vulnerable areas to strengthen the security grid and prevent any untoward incident. Police teams are also conducting inspections of firecracker sale points to ensure compliance with prescribed safety norms and regulations. Meanwhile, the SOG Ramban has established Mobile Vehicle Check Posts (MVCPs) at strategic locations, while intensive vehicle checking is being carried out to maintain surveillance and strengthen security. Traffic violators are also being challaned as part of efforts to ensure road safety and discipline. Officials said these proactive measures were aimed at preventing anti-social activities, strengthening security arrangements and ensuring a safe and peaceful environment for the public during the festive season. Police appealed to the general public to celebrate Diwali responsibly, adhere to safety guidelines, cooperate with police and other security personnel, and immediately report any suspicious activity to the nearest police station.

DIG-UR reviews security arrangements ahead of Diwali

Jammu, Nov 6:Deputy Inspector General of Police (DIG-P), Udhampur-Reasi (U-R) range, Swarn Singh Kotwal on Friday chaired a security review meeting to assess the preparedness and security arrangements in Udhampur and Reasi districts ahead of the Diwali festival. The meeting was attended by SSP Udhampur, SSP Reasi, Chief Medical Officers of both districts, Additional SP Udhampur, Additional SP Katra, Additional SP Reasi, DCIO Intelligence Bureau (IB) Udhampur and other supervisory officers of the two districts. Some officers also participated in the meeting virtually. During the meeting, the DIG reviewed the prevailing security scenario and preparedness for the festive period. He directed officers to remain extra vigilant and ensure peaceful and incident-free Diwali celebrations. Emphasis was laid on strengthening the security grid, intensifying naka checking, maintaining heightened surveillance and ensuring adequate deployment of police personnel at vulnerable and sensitive locations. The DIG also stressed the need for effective traffic regulation and management, particularly around crowded markets, religious places and other public gathering points, to ensure smooth movement of commuters and devotees. Special attention was given to regulating the sale and storage of firecrackers, with directions to ensure strict adherence to prescribed safety norms in coordination with the concerned departments. The role of the Health department and emergency response services in ensuring timely assistance during any eventuality was also discussed. Stressing the importance of coordination among police units, intelligence agencies and civil administration, the DIG directed officers to maintain a high level of alertness and adopt a proactive approach throughout the festive period. He further instructed officers to remain accessible to the public, promptly address security-related concerns and put in place all necessary arrangements to ensure that Diwali is celebrated in a peaceful, safe and secure atmosphere across Udhampur and Reasi districts.

Formulate comprehensive traffic management plans for Diwali celebrations across J&K: IGP traffic

Jammu, Nov 6:Inspector General of Police (IGP), Traffic J&K, M Suleman Choudhary has directed officers to formulate comprehensive traffic management plans for Diwali celebrations in both Jammu and Srinagar cities as well as other major towns, keeping in view of the expected increase in vehicular and pedestrian movement due to festive shopping and public gatherings. He was reviewing traffic arrangements for the Diwali celebrations, winter preparedness in Kashmir and along the National Highway, while chairing a meeting with senior Traffic Police officers on November 5. He also focussed on identifying traffic congestion points and accident-prone locations, assessing enforcement measures besides reviewing road accident hotspots and black spots. The meeting also deliberated upon the measures aimed at preventing road accidents, easing traffic congestion and strengthening traffic regulation and enforcement across Jammu and Kashmir. The meeting was attended in-person by Mohammad Rashid Bhat Staff Officer to IGP Traffic, Amit Bhasin SSP Traffic City Jammu, Master Popsy SSP Traffic Rural Jammu, Dr Sunniya Wani DySP Traffic City South Jammu, Ashwani Kumar, DySP Traffic City North Jammu, Tilak Raj Bhardwaj, DySP Traffic City Rural Jammu, Gowhar Yasin Qadri, DySP Traffic Hqrs J&K and Farooq Ahmad, ADO, Traffic Hqrs J&K. The out stationed officers Haseeb-Ur-Rehman, DIG Traffic Range Kashmir, Bisma Qazi, SSP traffic City Srinagar, K M Priyanka SSP Traffic NHW Ramban and Liaqat Ali SSP traffic Rural Kashmir attended the meeting through video conferencing. With regard to comprehensive traffic management plans for Diwali celebrations, IG Traffic stressed that special attention should be given to market areas, shopping complexes, religious places, major intersections and locations where temporary stalls, particularly those selling sweets and firecrackers, were likely to be established. Officers were directed to ensure visible deployment of traffic personnel, regulate roadside parking, prevent unauthorised encroachments and ensure smooth movement of emergency vehicles. M Suleman Choudhary also directed the Kashmir based Traffic Police officers and SSP Traffic NHW to remain fully prepared for the forthcoming winter season and formulate a comprehensive winter traffic management plan, particularly for Qazigund, the National Highway, Mughal Road and Sonamarg. Officers were instructed to identify vulnerable stretches, landslide-prone areas, snow accumulation points and other critical locations in advance. In the event of any prediction of heavy rainfall or snowfall, adequate manpower and machinery, including snow cutters and other snow-clearance equipment, should be kept in a state of readiness in coordination with the concerned road maintaining agencies. No vehicle will be allowed to proceed towards vulnerable stretches without proper assessment of road conditions and necessary clearance from the competent authorities, he issued instructions. Emphasising road safety, IGP Traffic directed all officers to adopt a proactive approach towards prevention of road accidents and intensify enforcement against traffic violations that pose a serious threat to human life. He reiterated that public convenience, road safety and smooth regulation of traffic must remain the foremost priorities of all Traffic Police formations. He called upon officers to ensure effective implementation of the directions issued during the meeting. IGP Suleman Choudhary emphasised that coordinated efforts, professional commitment and timely intervention were essential for ensuring safe, smooth and hassle-free movement of traffic throughout Jammu and Kashmir, particularly during the forthcoming festive season and challenging winter months.

FIR against ex Naib Tehsildar, ex Patwari, others in Samba state land occupation case

Jammu, Nov 6:The Jammu and Kashmir Anti-Corruption Bureau (ACB) has registered an FIR against a former Naib Tehsildar, ex Patwari and certain private persons for their alleged involvement in facilitating the wrongful occupation of state land at village Gurha Brahmana, Jammu. The FIR, according to an ACB spokesperson, has been registered on the basis of the outcome of verification number 02/2024, conducted into a complaint lodged by Sohan Singh. The verification prima facie revealed that the accused public servants had allegedly abused and misused their official positions and failed to discharge their official duties in accordance with law, thereby facilitating wrongful gain to private persons and causing consequential wrongful loss to the complainant as well as the state of Jammu and Kashmir. The complainant had alleged that he had purchased one kanal of land falling under Khasra number 65-min through a registered sale deed dated January 17, 2005, followed by attestation of mutation number 2229 dated February 18, 2005. However, during verification, it was revealed that the land actually delivered to and occupied by the complainant fell under Khasra number 96, which was recorded as state land. The verification further revealed that the then Patwari Babu Ram and the then Naib Tehsildar Ram Lal Sharma, allegedly in connivance with private persons Chaman Lal and Ram Chand, facilitated the preparation and issuance of revenue documents on the basis of an unauthenticated Dasti Khaka, without properly verifying the authentic revenue records and the actual position of the land at the spot. It was further revealed that the private persons, through their respective attorney holders, namely Ram Pal and Kasturi Lal, allegedly executed the sale deed and delivered possession of land falling under Khasra number 96 instead of the land covered under Khasra number 65-min. The report submitted by the Tehsildar, Jammu North, dated July 10, 2026, further confirmed that the complainant was not in possession of land falling under Khasra number 65-min but was occupying land under Khasra number 96, which stood recorded as state land. Accordingly, a case has been registered under Section 5(1)(d) read with Section 5(2) of the J&K Prevention of Corruption Act, Svt. 2006, and Sections 120-B, 420, 467, 468 and 471 RPC. Further investigation in the case is underway, spokesperson said.