Opinion

Mehbooba Mufti leads candlelight vigil on eve of Article 370 abrogation anniversary

Railway officers torchbearers of New Indias pace, capability and resolve: LG Sinha

Srinagar, Aug 04: The Lieutenant Governor Manoj Sinha today addressed and congratulated the officer trainees of the Indian Railways Institute of Transport Management, Lucknow, who are on the field visit to Jammu Kashmir. The Lieutenant Governor highlighted their important role in shaping the future of the Indian Railway Management Service (IRMS) and expressed immense pleasure in interacting with the 69 officer trainees selected through the Civil Services Examination in 2022, 2023, and 2024 batch. You are the torchbearers of New Indias pace, capability, and resolve. The diversity of backgrounds among the trainees, spanning engineering, medicine, law, science, and the arts, and representing states/UTs across the country including Uttar Pradesh, Rajasthan, Delhi, West Bengal, Gujarat, Maharashtra, Karnataka, Uttarakhand, Haryana, Bihar, Madhya Pradesh, Kerala, Odisha, and Chandigarh, reflects the soul of India. This diversity transforms into a shared national purpose during training, making the Institute a true laboratory of national unity, the Lieutenant Governor said. The Lieutenant Governor emphasized the key role of Indian Railways in Indias transformation. He highlighted the progress achieved over the past 12 years under the leadership of the Prime Minister Narendra Modi. Electrification at record levels, the expansion of the dedicated Freight Corridor, the realization of the dream of connecting Kashmir to Kanyakumari, the launch of world-class Vande Bharat trains, and modernization of stations under the Amrit Bharat Station Scheme are hallmarks of this new era. It must be noted by the officer trainees that Indian Railways is no longer just a passenger transport system but the driving force of economic development, logistics efficiency, and national unity, he said. The Lieutenant Governor urged the officer trainees to embrace their responsibilities as tough administrators and also as nation-builders. He also stressed the importance of efficiency in freight and passenger transportation. Every minute saved reduces logistics costs, strengthens industry competitiveness, and enhances Indias global standing. Officers of IRMS, IRPFS, and Accounts must balance administrative discipline with human sensitivity, ensuring safety, financial prudence, and public service, he said. The Lieutenant Governor outlined three guiding principles for the trainees including continuous innovation through digital technology, artificial intelligence, and data-driven systems, citizen-first service with respect, accessibility, and sensitivity for all passengers and freight customers and integrity and transparency as custodians of unprecedented national investments in Indian Railways. India is moving forward with confidence towards becoming a developed nation by 2047. Your decisions, strategies, and leadership will directly shape the future of millions of Indians. I hope you will remain dedicated to the selfless service of Mother India, lighting the path to a bright and prosperous future, the Lieutenant Governor said. Rahul, Course Director and Professor (Traffic Planning & Costing), officials and faculty members of Indian Railways Institute of Transport Management were also present.

LG Manoj Sinha urges ICLS officer trainees to strengthen corporate governance, investor trust

Srinagar, Aug 04: The Lieutenant Governor Manoj Sinha interacted with the Officer Trainees of the Indian Corporate Law Service (ICLS) today at Lok Bhavan. The Lieutenant Governor in his address to the officer trainees, highlighted the pivotal role of the service in strengthening Indias corporate governance and economic credibility. In an era of globalisation, where economies are deeply interconnected through capital, technology, innovation, and trade, India has emerged as one of the fastest-growing economies. However, true economic strength is not measured merely by production, investment, or trade, but by the robustness of institutions, respect for the rule of law, protection of investors interests, and adherence to transparency and accountability, the Lieutenant Governor said. The Lieutenant Governor underlined that the Indian Corporate Law Service is a strong administrative mechanism which forms a cornerstone of Indias corporate governance. He said the officers of the service, working under the Ministry of Corporate Affairs, play a crucial role in implementing key legislations such as the Companies Act and the Insolvency and Bankruptcy Code. Their work ensures a balanced environment for industry, trade, and investment, fostering trust and credibility in Indias corporate sector. The identity of a developed economy also lies in institutional systems that encourage honest enterprises and effectively monitor irregularities. In this context, the ICLS works as the guardian of balance, ensuring that corporate growth contributes to inclusive national prosperity, the Lieutenant Governor noted. The Lieutenant Governor stated that the investors trust is Indias greatest asset as the nation has become a major global investment destination. This trust is reinforced when companies operate transparently, maintain financial discipline, and act swiftly against irregularities. The ICLS, through its responsibilities, continuously strengthens this trust, making it an essential guardian of Indias economic credibility. Rapid economic growth, responsible institutions, transparent governance, ethical business conduct and a strong legal framework are vital for inclusive development. The ICLS will be a critical link in achieving this goal by creating a bridge of trust between industry and governance, the Lieutenant Governor said. The ICLS Officer Trainees of 2023 and 2024 Batches, accompanied by Haamid Bukhari, Registrar of Companies, J&K, shared the experience and learning from their visit to Jammu Kashmir, as a part of Domestic Study Tour. They also briefed the Lieutenant Governor on the functioning of the offices of Registrar of Companies (ROCs) and the dual mandate of ICLS in maintaining the Regulation, developmental role as well as effective enforcement of multiple corporate laws. The Lieutenant Governor was also briefed about the recently filed winding up petition on the basis of which the Assets of one Not-for-Profit Company was taken over by the Office of ROC cum Official Liquidator, J&K. This was probably the first case in which the corporate laws were invoked in the matter of National Security. The Lieutenant Governor expressed confidence that ICLS officers will continue to strengthen transparent corporate culture, investors confidence and strengthen Indias journey toward becoming a leading global economy.

Pak drone activity triggers searches in Kathua; suspected terrorist movement reported in Poonch

Jammu, Aug 4: Security forces on Tuesday launched a search operation after spotting a Pakistani drone hovering over forward villages along the International Border in Jammu and Kashmir's Kathua district, officials said. Police, assisted by the Rashtriya Rifles, also carried out extensive searches across dozens of remote villages in Poonch district following inputs about the suspected movement of two groups of terrorists, the officials said. A Pakistani drone intruded into Indian territory and was seen hovering over the forward villages of Shukhmal, Devindera and Tapan in the Bobiyan area of Kathua's Hiranagar sector around 2 pm, they said. Alert Border Security Force (BSF) personnel initiated countermeasures to bring down the drone, but the flying object, which was at a high altitude, managed to return across the border, the officials said. The BSF, along with the police, later conducted a thorough search of the area to ensure that the drone had not carried out any airdropping, they said, adding the operation was continuing when last reports were received. In border district of Poonch, the officials said personnel of the Special Operations Group (SOG) of the Jammu and Kashmir Police, assisted by troops of the Rashtriya Rifles, launched a cordon-and-search operation in dozens of villages including Dhara Sangla, Gujjar Naar and Kherowali Dhok in Surankote tehsil. The operation was initiated following reports suggesting the movement of two separate groups of suspected terrorists in the densely forested region, they said. No contact had been established with the suspected terrorists so far, the officials said, adding the operation was continuing, with security personnel carrying out systematic searches to trace the suspects. The officials said the police and Rashtriya Rifles also conducted searches at Kalaban and adjoining areas in Mendhar tehsil on Tuesday but no one was taken into custody. In another development, an old rusted mortar shell was recovered from the courtyard of a house near the International Border in the Hiranagar sector of Kathua district on Tuesday morning, the officials said. The unexploded shell came to light when labourers engaged in excavation work at the residence of Subash Chander in Kattal-Brahmana village noticed the suspicious object and immediately alerted the authorities, they said. According to the officials, a police team, accompanied by the Bomb Disposal Squad (BDS), rushed to the spot, secured the area and safely removed the mortar shell for disposal.

Amit Sharma hails public participation in Census 2027 awareness marathon in Leh

Leh, Aug 04: Hundreds of participants took part in the Census 2027 Awareness Marathon organised by the Directorate of Census Operations, Jammu & Kashmir and Ladakh in Leh today to promote public awareness and participation in the upcoming Census 2027 which was hailed by Amit Sharma, Chief Principal Census Officer (CPCO) and Director Census Operations (DCO), Jammu & Kashmir and Ladakh UTs, Ministry of Home Affairs, Government of India. The Census 2027 Marathon was jointly flagged off from Martyrs Chowk, Leh at 6:30 am by Director General of Police, Ladakh, Anand Jain, IPS, Chief Principal Census Officer (CPCO) and Director of Census Operations (DCO), Jammu & Kashmir and Ladakh, Amit Sharma, IAS, and Vice Chancellor, University of Ladakh, Prof. Saket Kushwaha in the presence of a large gathering. Participants showed lot of enthusiasm while competing in the 11-km Mini Marathon and the 3-km Fun Run. The 11-km route passed through LehKeylong Road, SpitukChoglamsar Road, Choglamsar Village, Jawahar Navodaya Vidyalaya and HP Petrol Pump before culminating at NDS Memorial Stadium at Leh. Among others who were present in this early morning event held at Leh included Additional Superintendent of Police, Leh, Rishabh Shukla, IPS, Tsewang Gyalson, Director Economics & Statistics/Joint Director, Planning, Development and Monitoring Department; Chief Planning Officer, Leh, KonchokGyalson, Tehsildar Leh, Executive Officer, Municipal Committee Leh, besides Deputy Director Census Amit Bhargav, AD Vijay Kumar, AD Balbir Singh, AD Rohini Pokhrel and other officers and officials associated with Census Operations. Welcoming the august gathering, CPCO Amit Sharma, IAS, highlighted the significance of Census 2027 as one of the country's most important statistical exercises, stating that reliable census data forms the foundation for evidence-based planning, policy formulation and effective governance. He informed that the first phase of House Listing Operations has been completed successfully in the month of June, while the second phase of Population Enumeration will be conducted from September 1 to September 30, 2027. CPCO Amit Sharma said the Census 2027 Marathon has been organised to spread awareness about the forthcoming Population Enumeration (PE) and urged participants to become ambassadors of the Census by encouraging every household to participate and sharing the accurate data with Enumerators and Supervisors who shall soon visit their homes for it. Sharma also shared that Ladakh would emerge as the first State/UT amongst all states in the nation to complete the Census by September 30, contributing to India's first comprehensive indigenous paperless census database in the ongoing Census 2027 exercise. He further exhorted upon the huge number of youth especially student community present in the event in huge numbers to support the vision of Nasha Mukt Bharat and become messengers for a Drug-Free India, which is the need of the hour. Addressing the gathering, DGP Ladakh Anand Jain, IPS, stressed the importance of accurate and complete census data, noting that quality data is essential for informed governance and public welfare. He also urged the youth to actively support the Nasha Mukt Bharat campaign and spread awareness for building a drug-free society. Vice Chancellor, University of Ladakh, Prof. Saket Kushwaha, underscored the importance of the Census and the critical role of accurate data collection in policy making and effective implementation of government welfare schemes. He also invited students and the public to participate in the Census 2027 Quiz Competition to be held at the University of Ladakh on August 05. A prize distribution ceremony was held after the Census 2027 Marathon in which Tsering Namgyal, Jaffer Ali and Javed Ahmad secured 1st, 2nd and 3rd positions respectively in 11-km Mini Marathon (Male) category, Stanzin Dolkar, Diskit Dolma and StanzinYangdol secured 1st, 2nd and 3rd positions respectively in 11-km Mini Marathon (Female) category and Stanzin Thardok, UrgainDorjay and Dechen Chorol secured 1st, 2nd and 3rd positions respectively in 3-km Fun Run category for which they were felicitated with prizes and certificates by the Directorate of Census Operations. Before culmination of this memorable historical event, CPCO Amit Sharma expressed deep gratitude to all the participants, especially DGP Ladakh Police, Vice Chancellor, University of Ladakh and the district administration, Ladakh Police, volunteers and supporting departments who played a vital role towards ensuring the successful conduct of Census 2027 Marathon in Ladakh.

India urges Pakistan to dismantle terror infrastructure, dismisses PoK polls as complete farce

New Delhi, Aug 4: India on Tuesday renewed its call on Pakistan to take decisive action against cross-border terrorism and rejected the second phase of local elections in Pakistan-occupied Kashmir (PoK), describing the exercise as a complete farce. Responding to a question during the Ministry of External Affairs' (MEA) bi-weekly media briefing on a video circulated by a militant group blaming India for the killing of some of its commanders, MEA spokesperson Randhir Jaiswal reiterated India's position on terrorism. Cross-border terrorism, we continue to call upon countries to take strong action against cross-border terrorism and those promoting cross-border terrorism. We call upon Pakistan to take strong action against cross-border terrorism and the terrorist infrastructure that they have on their soil that needs to be dismantled, Jaiswal said. Replying to another question on the second phase of local elections in Pakistan-occupied Kashmir, the spokesperson said the electoral exercise could not conceal the ground reality in the region. This so-called local elections in PoK is a complete farce. The real happening is that of public protest and wanton killings by Pakistani forces. Such hollow exercises cannot hide realities. Since June this year, at least 90 civilians have lost their lives in the continuing crackdown, many more have been injured, Jaiswal said. He alleged that he Pakistan establishment has answered public discontent with bullets, blackouts, intimidation and repression, and now seeks to manufacture legitimacy through a hollow electoral exercise. It must be held accountable, and the world should see through the veneer of Pakistan's hypocritical lecturing on human rights, the MEA spokesperson added.

Policeman dismissed for involvement in narcotics smuggling in J-K's Kathua

Jammu, Aug 4: A policeman was dismissed from service for his alleged involvement in narcotic smuggling in Jammu and Kashmir's Kathua, police said on Tuesday. In a strict action reinforcing its zero-tolerance policy against drugs, Senior Superintendent of Police (SSP) Kathua Mohita Sharma dismissed Selection Grade constable Aftab Ahmed, a resident of Reasi district from service for his involvement in the narcotics case, a police spokesperson said. He said the dismissal follows a departmental enquiry linked to an FIR registered under various sections of Narcotic Drugs and Psychotropic Substances (NDPS) Act at Billawar police station earlier this year. The policeman was apprehended along with heroin during checking by a police party and was subsequently placed under suspension for grave misconduct and indiscipline with immediate effect on April 8, the spokesperson said. He said a departmental inquiry was also initiated and entrusted to Superintendent of Police, operations who furnished his report on July 27, confirming the charges against the accused and recommending his dismissal from service. Acting under Rule 335 of the J&K Police Rules, the SSP Kathua ordered his immediate dismissal in order to enforce strict institutional discipline and to serve as an exemplary deterrent to all ranks against any involvement in narcotics-related offences, the spokesperson said.

Pakistan needs to act on cross-border terror: MEA

Two-way traffic restored on Abshar Park bridge in Batkote, Pahalgam

Prof. Syeda Afshana Bhat given additional charge of EMMRC Director at Kashmir University

Srinagar, August 4: Kashmir University has assigned Prof. Syeda Afshana Bhat, faculty member at the Media Education Research Centre (MERC), the additional charge of In-Charge Director of the Educational Multimedia Research Centre (EMMRC) until further orders. According to an official order issued by the University's Administration (Teaching Section), Prof. Syed Afshana Bhat will discharge the responsibilities of In-Charge Director, EMMRC, in addition to her existing duties at MERC. The order has been made effective retrospectively from August 1, 2026. The appointment was notified through an administrative order issued on August 4 by the University of Kashmir and has been circulated to all concerned university authorities, academic departments, research centres and other offices for compliance and information. The Educational Multimedia Research Centre functions as the University's media production and educational content centre, supporting audio-visual and digital learning initiatives. [KNT]

CM Omar inaugurates DP World PGTI J&K Open 2026 at Srinagar's Royal Springs Golf Course

Pulwama gives hero's welcome to MMA Star Owais Yaqoob after BRAVE CF 107 victory

PDP to hold protests across J&K to mark anniversary of Article 370 abrogation

Srinagar, Aug 4: PDP president Mehbooba Mufti on Tuesday directed all party office bearers to ensure participation in district-level protests to be held by it across Jammu and Kashmir to mark the seventh anniversary of abrogation of Article 370. The protests will be held on August 5, demanding the restoration of Article 370 and release of political prisoners, the party said. The decision was taken at a PDP meeting chaired by Mehbooba on Tuesday As decided by the PDP president Mehbooba Mufti during today's meeting with senior party leaders, MLAs, district presidents of parent, women and youth wings .... all party functionaries are hereby directed to ensure active participation in the district level protests across Jammu and Kashmir on August 5 in support of restoration of Article 370, the party said in a release. Article 370, which granted special status to Jammu and Kashmir, was abrogated in 2019.

Two Punjab residents chargesheeted in fake MES recruitment fraud case in J&K

Jammu, Aug 4: The Crime Branch of the Jammu and Kashmir Police has filed a chargesheet against two Punjab residents for their alleged involvement in a fake recruitment scam in the Military Engineering Services (MES), an official said on Tuesday. The scam came to light in 2023 after the accused allegedly duped two residents of J-K's Samba district of Rs 14 lakh by promising them jobs in the MES, a Jammu Crime Branch spokesperson said. He said the Special Crime Wing (SCW) of the Crime Branch Jammu filed the chargesheet against the accused -- Bakshish Singh of Amritsar and Amandeep Singh of Jalandhar -- in the court of the Additional Special Mobile Magistrate, Samba on Monday. The case under relevant sections of the Indian Penal Code was registered in 2023 on the complaint of two residents of Samba who alleged that the accused induced them to pay Rs 14 lakhs on the false promise of securing MES jobs. While Bakshish was arrested from Amritsar after sustained efforts, the co-accused Amandeep remains absconding despite extensive raids and a lookout notice. Proceedings have been initiated for declaring him a proclaimed offender, the spokesman added. He mentioned that the victims were provided forged appointment letters and repeatedly sent to different locations, including Ranchi and Meerut, under the pretext of medical examinations, document verification and joining formalities. Subsequent verification from MES authorities confirmed that the appointment letters were fake and had never been issued by the department, the spokesman said. During the investigation, he said the SCW collected documentary, digital and financial evidence, including bank transaction records and forensic examination of questioned documents, which corroborated the allegations. The crime branch has advised the public to remain vigilant against fraudulent job rackets and to verify the authenticity of recruitment offers through official government channels before making any payment.

Modi Govt brought back 274 fugitives from 36 countries between 2019 and 2026: MHA

New Delhi, Aug 04: The Ministry of Home Affairs (MHA) on Tuesday said that 274 fugitive criminals were brought back to India from 36 countries between 2019 and 2026 under the leadership of Prime Minister Narendra Modi and the guidance of Union Home Minister Amit Shah. According to a PIB release, the government said that the extradition of fugitives was made a ational priority, in contrast to previous governments, which it claimed lacked the political will to pursue such cases effectively. The MHA said India has developed an integrated, intelligence-driven and technology-enabled framework to trace and repatriate fugitives. The strategy, it said, rests on three pillarsglobal operations, stronger inter-agency coordination and smart diplomacy. The ministry stated that the issue of fugitive criminals is linked to the country's sovereignty, economic stability, law and order, and national security. It added that the process of bringing fugitives back to India has been pursued in mission mode under Amit Shah's guidance, backed by legal and institutional reforms. According to the release, the government enacted the NIA (Amendment) Act and the UAPA (Amendment) Act in 2019 and later introduced three new criminal laws in 2024. For the first time, Sections 355 and 356 of the Bharatiya Nagarik Suraksha Sanhita (BNSS) provide for trial in absentia, enabling legal proceedings against accused persons who remain outside India. The MHA also highlighted the launch of BHARATPOL in January 2025, describing it as a platform connecting over 1,400 units of central and state agencies with INTERPOL to facilitate faster information sharing. It said the response time for sharing information has been reduced to 310 days in some cases. The government further said that 401 Red Corner Notices have been issued against fugitives over the last three years. It added that Operation Trishul has been used to trace fugitives hiding abroad through satellite technology, surveillance and digital footprint analysis, even in cases where identities had allegedly been changed. The ministry also said that strict enforcement of the Prevention of Money Laundering Act (PMLA) led to the attachment of 17,874 crore worth of assets belonging to fugitives between 2019 and 2026, while 18,762 crore was recovered through restitution during the same period, including money linked to economic offenders who had fled the country. As per the year-wise data released by the MHA, 274 fugitives were brought back between 2019 and July 2026. These included accused wanted in cases related to murder, organised crime, sexual offences, terrorism, narcotics, financial fraud, human trafficking, cybercrime and other serious offences. The ministry said India's success in repatriating fugitives has been driven by improved legal preparedness, sustained diplomatic engagement and close coordination among agencies including the IB, CBI, R&AW, NIA, ED, MEA, NCB, DGGI and state police forces. It described the approach as a Whole of Government model aimed at ensuring timely justice and strengthening national security.

NC will continue peaceful protests until J&K statehood is restored: Sakina Itoo

LPG tanker tyre catches fire on NH-44; major tragedy averted near Chanderkoot

Ramban, Aug 04: A major tragedy was averted on the Jammu-Srinagar National Highway (NH-44) near Chanderkoot in Ramban district on Tuesday after the tyre of a liquefied petroleum gas (LPG) tanker suddenly caught fire while it was on its way from Jammu to Srinagar. According to officials and eyewitnesses, flames erupted from one of the tanker's tyres, triggering panic among commuters on the busy highway. Locals immediately rushed to the spot and alerted the authorities. Personnel of the CRPF and the Fire and Emergency Services swiftly responded to the incident and launched a firefighting operation. The blaze was brought under control before it could spread to the gas-filled tanker, averting what could have been a major disaster. Traffic on the highway was briefly affected during the operation, but normal movement was restored after the fire was completely extinguished. Officials said the timely response of local residents, CRPF personnel, and firefighters prevented any loss of life or property. The exact cause of the fire is being investigated, though it is suspected to have originated from overheating of the tyre. ...........................................................

964 pilgrims depart Jammu for Baltal; over 2,000 return in fresh Amarnath Yatra convoys

Banihal, Aug 04: A fresh batch of 964 Amarnath Yatra pilgrims left the Bhagwati Nagar Yatri Niwas in Jammu for the Baltal base camp in the early hours of Tuesday under tight security arrangements. According to the Zonal Police Control Room, Jammu, the 27th batch departed at 3:05 a.m. in a convoy of 39 vehicles, comprising 21 buses, 8 medium motor vehicles (MMVs) and 10 light motor vehicles (LMVs). The batch included 744 men, 177 women, one child, 32 sadhus and 10 sadhvis. With this departure, the total number of pilgrims who have left the Bagwati Nagar base camp Jammu during the ongoing Yatra has reached 1,41,712. Meanwhile, the 25th down convoy carrying returning pilgrims also left the Baltal base camp for Jammu on Tuesday. Officials said 2,073 pilgrims, including 1,552 men, 461 women, 11 children, 41 sadhus and eight sadhvis, returned in a convoy of 63 vehicles, comprising 42 heavy motor vehicles (HMVs), six MMVs, 14 LMVs and one truck. The Shri Amarnath Yatra is continuing smoothly under multi-layer security arrangements, with both upward and downward convoys moving as per schedule.

Fraternit, Solidarit & the Tree: A small Quebec municipality, a big idea for the world's trees

Terrasse-Vaudreuil municipality adopted a resolution recognizing fundamental tree rights. This action acknowledges trees' rights to life, growth, integrity, and regeneration. The resolution aligns with a universal declaration drafted in France in 2018. It clarifies that trees are not granted legal personhood or citizenship status. This initiative offers a model for global relationships and coexistence with trees.

Automatic for the people: Rising incomes reshape India's car market

As incomes rise and family earnings change, India's automotive market is poised for a notable shift. In the coming decade, middle-income households are expected to be the primary drivers of new car demand, while affluent consumers will foster trends in premium vehicles and multi-car ownership. The uptake of electric vehicles will hinge on income growth, necessitating that manufacturers adapt to this revamped, income-focused automotive landscape.

India's education crisis: Overqualified yet underqualified

India's education system is leaving graduates both overqualified and underqualified, failing to meet the needs of a changing labour market. While employers struggle to fill skilled jobs, millions remain unemployed or stuck in informal work. The article argues for a three-track education model that prepares youth for formal employment, entrepreneurship and the demands of an ageing society.

Population Census in Ladakh, J&K, HP, Uttarakhand to begin on Sep 1: Govt

New Delhi, Aug 3: The Centre on Monday notified that the second phase of the ongoing Census -- population enumeration -- for Ladakh and snow-bound non-synchronous areas of Jammu and Kashmir, Himachal Pradesh and Uttarakhand shall take place from September 1 to 30. In a gazette notification on Monday, Registrar General of India and Census Commissioner Mrityunjay Kumar Narayan said that conduct of Census of the population shall be undertaken in these regions from September 1 to 30 this year, with a revisional round from October 1 to 5. For the conduct of the above Census, there shall be an option for self-enumeration from August 17 to 31 just before the start of house-to-house population enumeration, it said. The notification said the reference date for the Census in Ladakh and snow-bound non-synchronous areas of Jammu and Kashmir, Himachal Pradesh and Uttarakhand shall be 00.00 hours of October 1, 2026. The second phase population enumeration for the rest of the country is likely to begin next year. The Census, the eighth since Independence, is being conducted in two phases, the first stage, known as house listing and housing census (HLO), and the second stage, the population census. For the first time, caste details will also be collected during the population enumeration phase of the Census. The decision to include caste enumeration in the upcoming census was taken by the Cabinet Committee on Political Affairs, chaired by Prime Minister Narendra Modi, on April 30 last year. The first phase -- house listing and housing census (HLO) -- is going on till September 30. Field visits for the housing listing and housing census began on April 16 in several states and union territories. Enumerators will list all structures, houses and households across the country to create a foundation for population enumeration. During the housing listing operations, enumerators physically visit each house and building and ask 33 questions regarding basic facilities in homes, details of the head of the household such as name and sex, ownership status and other information. The decadal exercise, scheduled for 2021, was postponed due to the COVID-19 outbreak. The Union Cabinet has approved Rs 11,718 crore for conducting the Census, which will be the biggest headcount exercise.

MP Chowdry Ramzan attends INDIA bloc meeting, invites leaders to join August 5 protest

New Delhi, Aug 03: National Conference senior leader and Member of Parliament Chowdry Mohammad Ramzan attended a meeting of INDIA Bloc leaders held in the Chamber of Congress President and Leader of Opposition in the Rajya Sabha, Mallikarjun Kharge, in New Delhi today. Leader of Opposition in the Lok Sabha, Rahul Gandhi, was also present during the meeting, where leaders deliberated on key parliamentary and national issues and discussed the joint strategy of the INDIA Bloc for the ongoing session of Parliament. During the meeting, MP Chowdry Mohammad Ramzan extended a cordial invitation to the leaders of the INDIA Bloc to join a peaceful protest at Makar Dwar on 5th August against the unilateral decisions taken by the Central Government concerning Jammu and Kashmir. He urged the alliance partners to stand in solidarity with the people of Jammu and Kashmir and support the demand for the restoration of its full statehood. He reminded the leaders that the Government of India has repeatedly assured, on the floor of Parliament, that statehood to Jammu and Kashmir would be restored, a commitment that remains unfulfilled. The leaders of the INDIA Bloc including Congress, Samajwadi Party, DMK, TMC, CPI, AAP and others expressed their solidarity with the people of Jammu and Kashmir, appreciated the concerns raised by MP Chowdry Mohammad Ramzan, and conveyed their willingness to participate in the peaceful protest on 5th August in front of the Parliament. They reaffirmed their commitment to safeguarding constitutional values, democratic rights and supporting the legitimate demand for the restoration of full statehood to Jammu and Kashmir.

Prashant Kishors victory can be a gamechanger for Bihar, impacts BJP and RJD

Prashant Kishor has transitioned from strategist to lawmaker after winning Bihar's Bankipur by-election. He defeated the BJP in their traditional stronghold, which had been loyal for decades. This victory marks a significant upset, similar to past by-election results in other states. Kishor is expected to challenge the current Bihar government and the RJD opposition. His win could impact the BJP's upper caste vote bank in urban areas.

IGP Kashmir reviews security; directs officers to thwart attempts aimed at disturbing peace, targeting civilians

Srinagar, Aug 03: Inspector General of Police (IGP) Kashmir Zone V. K. Birdi chaired a security review meeting at the Conference Hall of PCR Kashmir in view of forthcoming events and to assess the prevailing security scenario & strengthen the overall security framework across the Valley. The meeting was attended by IG BSF Ftr. Hqrs, IG CRPF KOS, IG CRPF Srinagar, Addl. Commissioner SB Srinagar, DIG SSB Srinagar, DIG CID Kashmir, all range DIsG of Kashmir Zone, DIG Traffic Kashmir, DIG IR/ Armed Kashmir, DIG ITBP Srinagar, DIG RPF Kashmir, DIsG of CRPF South/North Srinagar, SSP PCR Kashmir, all district SSsP of Kashmir Zone, SSsP of Railways Kashmir, Traffic Rural Kashmir, CID SB (K), APCR Srinagar, CID CI (K), Security Kashmir, Asstt. Director SIB Srinagar, SP Cargo, GSO (I) 15 Corps and other senior officers. At the outset, the participating officers briefed the IGP Kashmir on the prevailing security situation in their respective jurisdictions. A detailed review of the recent security developments, emerging challenges and the measures adopted to effectively counter them was carried out during the meeting. Emphasizing the need for sustained preparedness, IGP Kashmir V K Birdi directed all officers to continuously review and strengthen existing security arrangements and devise robust counter-insurgency strategies. He stressed the importance of seamless coordination among all security agencies for maintaining a proactive and effective security grid. He also reviewed the security measures in place for the protection of National Highways, railway tracks and railway stations across the Valley. He directed officers to further strengthen security deployments and checkpoints by way of placing dynamic nakas and enhanced foot patrolling, particularly during night hours, at vulnerable locations and along inter-district boundaries. IGP Kashmir laid special emphasis on ensuring the safety and security of critical infrastructure and other vulnerable sections, directing officers to take all necessary preventive measures, intensify area domination, and maintain close surveillance in sensitive areas to thwart any attempt aimed at disturbing peace or targeting civilians. He further instructed district heads to maintain strict vigilance against anti-national and anti-social elements, enhance intelligence-based operations, and closely monitor social media platforms to prevent the spread of misinformation, rumours and malicious content that could adversely impact public peace, safety and communal harmony. The meeting concluded with the resolve to ensure heightened vigilance, improved coordination and effective implementation of security measures to maintain peace and safety across the valley.

Aqib Nabi's India test selection sparks celebrations in Baramulla

Cloudbursts hit Batkoot and Awoora in Pahalgam, trigger flash floods

Rajya Sabha passes MSME Bill aims to address delayed payments and simplify dispute resolution

New Delhi, Aug 03: Rajya Sabha has passed the Micro, Small and Medium Enterprises Development (Amendment) Bill 2026. The Bill aims to further amend the Micro, Small and Medium Enterprises Development Act, 2006. It aims to address payment delays and simplify dispute resolution. The Bill provides that every central public sector enterprise must settle all invoices for procurement of goods or services from MSMEs on the Trade Receivables Discounting System. As per the bill, if mediation fails in case of dispute, then, the reference for arbitration must be made within 30 days from the date of termination of mediation. It also adds that an award must be made within 90 days from the date of completion of pleadings. The Bill provides that if a case has been pending for more than six months, at least 50 per cent of the awarded amount must be paid to the supplier. When the House met after the first adjournment at 2:00 PM, Minister of Micro, Small and Medium Enterprises Jitan Ram Manjhi moved the bill. Replying to the debate on the Bill, Mr Manjhi said, the outstanding credit extended to the MSME sector has witnessed a significant increase in recent years. He informed that the credit, which stood at around 10 lakh crore rupees in 2014-15, has now risen to over 38 lakh crore rupees. The Minister said, this reflects that credit flow to MSME sector is continuously increasing. Highlighting the role of the Credit Guarantee Fund Trust for Micro and Small Enterprises, the Minister said that the total credit guarantee extended to MSMEs between 2000 and 2022 was about three lakh 14 thousand crore rupees. However, in the last four years, from 2022-23 to 2025-26, this amount has surged to more than 10 lakh 47 thousand crore rupees. Mr Manjhi added that the government is committed to strengthening the MSME sector, enhancing its growth potential, and promoting business expansion. Sumitra Balmik of BJP said that Prime Minister Narendra Modi has worked for the welfare and empowerment of the women, Scheduled Castes, Scheduled Tribes and the last person standing in the queue. She stated that prior to 2014, development largely remained confined to paperwork but under the leadership of Prime Minister Modi, the country has witnessed significant transformation. She added that the governments focus is on bringing real change in society, promoting self-reliance, and empowering citizens. Ms Balmik said that this Bill has been brought with the objective of uplifting the poor and ensuring their meaningful integration into the nations growth and development. Dola Sen of TMC said, MSMEs are the backbone of the countrys economy. She said the manufacturing sector alone contributes to 17 per cent of the nations GDP and MSMEs can address the countrys unemployment issue. Ms Sen alleged that the Government is not taking initiative to protect the MSME sector. Santrupt Misra of BJD said the MSME sector contributes to 36 per cent of GDP and it is giving employment to around 30 crore people. He expressed concern that funds of around 8 to 10 lakh crore rupees of the MSME sector are stuck in the pipeline. Mr Misra stressed for concrete reforms rather than cosmetic solutions. Golla Baburao of YSRCP, M Thambidurai of AIADMK, Rajendra Jain of NCP, Masthan Rao Yadav Beedha of TDP, Ravi Chandra Vaddiraju of BRS, Pramod Boro of UPPL, and Ramji of BSP participated in the discussion among others. After passing the Bill, the Rajya Sabha was adjourned for the day to meet again at 11:00 AM tomorrow.

Dr Jitendra Singh appreciates CVCs sustained reforms in strengthening vigilance ecosystem

New Delhi, Aug 03: Union Minister of State (Independent Charge) for Science & Technology and Earth Sciences, and Minister of State in the Prime Minister's Office, Personnel, Public Grievances & Pensions, Atomic Energy and Space, Dr. Jitendra Singh today said that sustained institutional reforms, technology-driven governance and continuous monitoring have significantly strengthened the country's vigilance framework, leading to a sharp reduction in the pendency of disciplinary cases from more than 4,000 to nearly 700 in about three to four years. Dr. Jitendra Singh made these remarks when the outgoing Central Vigilance Commissioner Praveen Kumar Srivastava called on him on the completion of his tenure and briefed him on the major initiatives undertaken by the Central Vigilance Commission (CVC) in recent years to modernise vigilance administration through technology, process reforms and capacity building. The Minister said that transparent and time-bound vigilance mechanisms are essential for good governance and inspire greater public confidence in institutions. He said the significant reduction in pending disciplinary cases demonstrates the impact of sustained administrative reforms and closer coordination among Ministries, Departments and vigilance authorities. During the meeting, Srivastava apprised the Minister of the Commission's efforts to simplify and modernise vigilance administration by reviewing more than 600 vigilance-related circulars and instructions, resulting in the issuance of nine Master Circulars, two Public Notices and an updated Vigilance Manual to provide a consolidated and user-friendly framework for vigilance officials and organisations. The Minister was also briefed on the launch of the Vigilance Status Portal (VSP), which enables end-to-end digital processing of vigilance clearance proposals and is expected to substantially reduce the turnaround time for granting vigilance clearances. He was informed that the revamped Vigilance Case Management System (VCMS) has introduced end-to-end digital processing of vigilance cases while facilitating real-time monitoring and data-driven decision-making. Discussions also covered the Commission's initiatives to strengthen public procurement through updated Procurement Manuals prepared in collaboration with the Department of Expenditure, bringing various procurement guidelines under a unified framework to promote greater consistency, transparency and ease of implementation across government organisations. The meeting reviewed the Commission's increasing emphasis on technology-enabled vigilance through initiatives relating to digital governance, fraud prevention in banking and financial institutions, cyber security and ethical use of Artificial Intelligence. Dr. Jitendra Singh said that emerging technologies have the potential to make vigilance administration more preventive, predictive and efficient, while ensuring greater transparency and accountability in public institutions. Srivastava also shared details of the Commission's online Complaint Management System, which has streamlined the receipt, processing and tracking of complaints, besides expanding training programmes for vigilance officers through specialised courses, digital learning modules and collaboration with Mission Karmayogi to strengthen institutional capacity. The Minister was informed that the Commission has continued to deepen public engagement through Vigilance Awareness Week by promoting integrity and ethical governance across educational institutions, Gram Sabhas and public organisations, while encouraging citizen participation in the fight against corruption through nationwide outreach programmes. The discussions further covered the Commission's future roadmap, including wider adoption of the Probity Portal for monitoring disciplinary cases, undertaking Time and Motion Studies to streamline vigilance processes, and leveraging Artificial Intelligence and other emerging technologies to further strengthen predictive vigilance and improve the efficiency of vigilance administration. Dr. Jitendra Singh said that the Government remains committed to building a governance ecosystem driven by transparency, accountability, technology and simplified procedures. He conveyed his appreciation to Praveen Kumar Srivastava for his contribution towards strengthening the country's vigilance framework and extended his best wishes for his future endeavours.

Third consecutive cloudburst in three days hits Shopian, flash flooding inundates Badrhama village

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Six J&K cricketers named in North Zone squad; Kanhaiya Wadhawan to lead team

Jammu, Aug 3: In what is being hailed as one of the biggest milestones in Jammu and Kashmir cricket, six cricketers from the Union Territory have been selected for the North Zone squad, with wicketkeeper-batter Kanhaiya Wadhawan being named captain. The development marks a watershed moment for J&K cricket, which until a few seasons ago celebrated the selection of just one or two players in the prestigious inter-zonal team. This time, however, J&K has emerged as the joint-highest contributor alongside Delhi, underlining the Union Territory's rapid rise in domestic cricket. According to highly placed sources, the six J&K players selected are Kanhaiya Wadhawan (captain), Qamran Iqbal, Abdul Samad, Abid Mushtaq, Sunil Kumar and Yudhvir Singh. The 15-member squad also includes Sanat Sangwan, Yash Dhull, Ayush Doseja and vice-captain Ayush Badoni from Delhi; Nishant Sindhu, Anshul Kamboj and Nikhil Kashyap from Haryana; Arshdeep Singh from Punjab; and Arjun Sharma from Services. Wadhawan's appointment as captain makes the achievement even more significant, reflecting the confidence of the North Zone selectors in the J&K wicketkeeper-batter's leadership abilities and consistent performances. J&K's unprecedented representation is widely seen as a testament to the Union Territory's growing stature in Indian domestic cricket after a string of impressive performances over the past few seasons. The Jammu and Kashmir Cricket Association (JKCA) has evolved from being an occasional contributor to one of the strongest talent pools in the North Zone. With six players in the squad and the captaincy entrusted to a J&K cricketer, the announcement marks one of the most significant moments in the history of J&K cricket. Adding to the achievement, J&K senior team coach Ajay Sharma has also been appointed head coach of the North Zone team.

Kashmiri MMA fighter Owais Yaqoob stuns undefeated Delyan Georgiev with first-round TKO in Bulgaria

Military-civil integration key to robust defence ecosystem to tackle emerging challenges: Rajnath Singh

Defence Minister Rajnath Singh emphasized integrating military and civil ministry components. He highlighted the need for synergy to address evolving security challenges. Civilian officers' expertise in cyber tools could benefit defence forces significantly. Singh stressed cross-exposure and joint training for better decision-making. The minister urged the cadre to focus on research and innovative ideas.

IUST Kashmir brings global experts together to discuss nature-based climate solutions

Auqib Nabi earns maiden India Test call-up | GKTV report

Jammu and Kashmir fast bowler Auqib Nabi has earned his maiden call-up to the Indian senior men's cricket team after being named as a replacement for the injured Jasprit Bumrah in the Test squad for the upcoming series against Sri Lanka. As per the BCCI, the Men's Selection Committee has named Auqib Nabi as Bumrah's replacement Nabi claimed 104 wickets across the last two Ranji Trophy seasons, including 60 wickets in the 2025-26 campaign, playing a pivotal role in Jammu and Kashmir's maiden Ranji Trophy triumph.

NC to continue agitation until J&K statehood is restored: Sogami

Sakina Itoo calls for wider awareness of social welfare schemes across J&K

Army, police launch relief operations after flashfloods in Kargil

Kargil, Aug 03: Flash floods triggered by heavy rainfall and cloudburst hit parts of the Kargil region, damaging infrastructure, disrupting road connectivity and prompting rescue operations by the Army, police and civil administration, officials said on Monday. Heavy rain triggered flash floods in Hardass and Tumail villages of Kargil district on Sunday evening, inundating habitations and damaging roads and other public infrastructure, officials said. The Army said troops of the Forever in Operations division launched immediate rescue and relief operations after a cloudburst struck Gund in Hardass, with flash floods snapping road connectivity and leaving residents stranded. In another area, the Army, in coordination with the civil administration, assisted in clearing debris and restoring roads, water supply and electricity to facilitate relief operations in affected villages.

Electrical engineers flag safety risks in J&K's 11 kV Self-Certification Policy

States can close or withdraw FIRs against students who participated in NEET protests: SC

New Delhi, Aug 03: The Supreme Court on Monday clarified that the governments of Delhi and other states can close or withdraw FIRs against students who participated in protests against the NEET paper leak, provided they do not have antecedents involving grave and heinous offences. A bench comprising Chief Justice Surya Kant and Justices Joymalya Bagchi and V Mohana also made it clear that the expression criminal antecedents referred only to grave and heinous offences. At the outset, Solicitor General Tushar Mehta told the top court that the Union government was serious in its commitment not to pursue FIRs against protesting students except those with criminal antecedents. Mehta said that FIRs against over 2,700 people with antecedents involving grave and heinous offences would not be withdrawn. During the hearing, senior advocate Gopal Sankaranarayanan submitted that even lawyers' children were beaten during the protests. The videos are very shocking. We have given 300 videos to the court. Since directions have come from the top, the commissioner of police must look at all this. Ideally, we have identified un-uniformed individuals committing such police excess. A direction has to go to the Commissioner of police and the RAF director as to why police used pellet guns etc, he said. The matter is now listed for hearing on August 18. The apex court had earlier said police excesses or a 'lathi charge' cannot be justified merely because there is an agitation and underlined that the right to peaceful protest was absolutely guaranteed. The CJP-led march on July 20 in Delhi saw clashes between protesters and security personnel, who used lathis and teargas shells to disperse crowds attempting to move towards Parliament.

Soldier killed in accidental weapon discharge in Jammu

Jammu, Aug 3: An Army personnel lost his life after his service rifle accidentally discharged while he was on duty at a post in Akhnoor sector of Jammu, officials said on Monday. The incident occurred during operational duty at forward Jogwan area of Khour on Sunday, the officials said. They said preliminary information suggests that the weapon of the soldier went off accidentally, causing critical injuries to him. He was immediately provided medical assistance but succumbed to injuries, the officials said. They said the body of the slain soldier was shifted to military hospital Akhnoor for postmortem and would be handed over to his next of kin after completion of legal formalities.

Delhi HC seeks NIA stand on appeals by Aasiya Andrabi, 2 others against conviction in UAPA case

New Delhi, Aug 3: The Delhi High Court on Monday sought the stand of the NIA on appeals by hardline separatist Aasiya Andrabi and her two associates challenging their conviction for conspiring to wage war against India and being members of a terrorist organisation under stringent anti-terror law UAPA. Andrabi (62), the founder of the all-women separatist group Dukhtaran-e-Millat (DeM) in 1987, and her close aides -- Nahida Nasreen (58), and Sofi Fehmeeda (48)-- were convicted by the special NIA court on January 14, which said the trio had orchestrated a systematic campaign to destabilise J-K. On March 24, the trial court awarded life imprisonment to Andrabi, while Fehmeeda and Nasreen received a 30-year prison sentence. On Monday, a bench of Justices Prathiba M Singh and Vikas Mahajan condoned the delay in filing the appeals against the trial court decision and said it would issue notice to the investigating agency in the matter. The bench also gave time till September 15 to the National Investigation Agency (NIA) to reply to their pleas seeking suspension of sentence and listed the matter for hearing on October 6. Andrabi and her two associates were formally charged with multiple offences under the stringent UAPA and the IPC in February 2021. It was alleged that they plotted to wage war against the country, besides conspiring to carry out terror-related activities. The trial court found them guilty of offences under UAPA sections 18 (punishment for conspiracy) and 38 (offence relating to membership of a terrorist organisation). It also convicted the three under IPC sections 153 A (promoting enmity between different groups), 153B (imputations, assertions prejudicial to national-integration), 121-A (conspiracy to wage war against Government of India), 120B (criminal conspiracy) and 505 (statements conducing to public mischief). While sentencing the convicts, the trial judge said o remorse has been shown by any of the convicts in respect of their acts; rather it is submitted that they are proud of what they were doing and also that they will continue to do the same work. Showing any leniency will amount to infusing a fresh lease of life and vigour in the spirit of convicts which aims at secession of an integral part of India, the trial judge had stated. In April 2018, on directions of the Union Home Ministry, the NIA registered a case against them as well as the DeM. According to the FIR, the central government has received information that Aasiya Andrabi and her associates namely Sofi Fehmeeda and Nahida Nasreen are actively running a terrorist organisation named as 'Dukhtaran-E-Millat' (DeM) which is proscribed under the First Schedule to the UAPA. They are using various media platforms to spread insurrectionary imputations and hateful speeches that endanger the integrity, security and sovereignty of India. The DEM through Andrabi openly advocates secession of Jammu and Kashmir from the Union of India and has also called for Jihad and use of violence against India, the FIR alleged. The agency also said that Andrabi and her associates had spoken, written and also published visible representations that bring into hatred and contempt apart from exciting disaffection towards the Government of India. The organisation, it added, is promoting enmity, hatred and ill-will between different communities on the grounds of religion and is doing acts prejudicial to maintenance of harmony. Andrabi has solicited help from proscribed terrorist organisations and along with her associates, has entered into a criminal conspiracy to wage war against the Government of India, the FIR alleged. Andrabi was arrested by the Jammu and Kashmir police in Anantnag in April 2018 for allegedly planning to organise a large-scale demonstration and stone-pelting in the area. She was subsequently sent to jail.

SC Agrees to Examine PIL Seeking Alternative to Jantar Mantar as Protest Venue

The petition seeks an alternative arrangement for holding demonstrations, saying protests at Jantar Mantar create difficulties for local residents and disrupt the supply of essential goods and medical services

Auqib Nabi's father hails son's maiden India Test call-up: 'Our dream has come true'

Emotions ran high at the residence of Jammu and Kashmir pacer Auqib Nabi after he was named in India's Test squad for the upcoming series against Sri Lanka, with his father describing the selection as the fulfilment of a long-cherished dream. Calling it a moment beyond words, Auqib Nabi's father while speaking to Greater Kashmir said the family's years of hard work, patience and prayers had finally borne fruit with the Jammu and Kashmir fast bowler earning his maiden call-up to the Indian Test team. It is difficult to explain my feelings today. This was our dream, and it is fulfilled today, he said shortly after the Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI) announced Nabi's inclusion in the national squad. Auqib, who replaces injured pace spearhead Jasprit Bumrah for the Test series against Sri Lanka, had earlier broken into the IPL and India A setup. His father said seeing his son now reach the Indian Test team was a moment of immense pride for the entire family. He said the family had always believed that Auqib would eventually earn his place in the national side despite facing disappointments when his name did not figure in earlier selections. We always had faith. We trusted the selection committee and believed that if he continued performing, his opportunity would come. Today, he has rewarded for that patience, he said. Auqib's selection comes on the back of outstanding domestic performances, including a starring role in Jammu and Kashmir's historic maiden Ranji Trophy triumph last season.

Centre Must Ensure Every Road Has Encroachment-free Space for Walking: SC

The bench gave him two weeks to instruct the authorities while emphasising that pedestrians should have confidence that the space is meant for them and they can walk freely without any threat of moving vehicles

Two rusted mortar shells found in J-K's Poonch, destroyed safely

Mendhar/Jammu, Aug 3: Two rusted mortar shells were recovered from two forward villages in Jammu and Kashmir's Poonch district on Monday and safely destroyed by the Army's Bomb Disposal Squad, officials said. In the first case, villagers spotted an unexploded mortar shell in an open field near Chajjla bridge in Mankote area and immediately alerted the police and security forces, who rushed to the spot and secured the area, the officials said. They said the Army Bomb Disposal Squad was subsequently called in to examine the explosive, which was later destroyed in a controlled explosion following all standard safety procedures. Another unexploded mortar shell was found in agricultural fields in Adhaki village near Mendhar Nallah, the officials said, adding the explosive was safely neutralised by the experts. The unexploded ordnance is believed to be a remnant of past cross-border shelling along the Line of Control (LoC), the officials said.

Rescuers intensify search as operation to trace drowned Sopore teen enters second day

Sopore, Aug 3: The search for a 13-year-old boy who drowned in Nallah Pohru at Wadoora in Sopore entered its second day on Monday, with rescue teams intensifying efforts to trace his body. The victim has been identified as Fuqan Rafeeq Hajam, son of Mohammad Rafeeq Hajam, a resident of Wadoora Payeen. According to officials, the teenager accidentally slipped into the nallah on Sunday evening while near its bank and was swept away by the strong current. A joint rescue operation involving the Civil Defence, State Disaster Response Force (SDRF), and Jammu and Kashmir Police was launched immediately after the incident. Despite hours of searching on Sunday, the boy could not be traced, prompting authorities to resume the operation early Monday. Local volunteers and residents have also joined the search, assisting rescue personnel in combing different stretches of the nallah. Officials said the operation will continue until the missing boy is traced. They also urged people to stay away from the banks of fast-flowing streams and nallahs during the monsoon season, warning that swollen water bodies pose a serious risk.

Fresh batch of 1056 Amarnath pilgrims leaves Jammu for Baltal in Kashmir

BANIHAL, Aug 3: A fresh batch of 1,056 Shri Amarnath Yatra pilgrims left the Bhagwati Nagar Yatri Niwas in Jammu for the Baltal base camp in the early hours of Monday under tight security arrangements. According to the Joint Police Control Room, the 26th batch departed at 2:49 am and comprised 832 male pilgrims, 205 women, two children, 15 sadhus and two sadhvis. No convoy was dispatched for the Pahalgam axis. The pilgrims travelled in a convoy of 46 vehicles, including 24 buses, seven medium motor vehicles (MMVs) and 15 light motor vehicles (LMVs), escorted by security personnel. With the departure of the latest batch, the total number of pilgrims who have left Jammu for the ongoing Amarnath Yatra this year has reached 1,40,748, officials said. The convoy was escorted by personnel of the CRPF and Jammu and Kashmir Police to ensure the safe movement of pilgrims along the Jammu-Srinagar National Highway to the Baltal base camp.

Trump says Gulf leaders' input weighed heavily in decision to hold off on ordering new Iran strikes

Washington, Aug 3: US President Donald Trump said on Sunday he decided to hold off on ordering American forces to carry out new strikes against Iran at the urging of Gulf allies Qatar, Saudi Arabia and the United Arab Emirates. The president added that a plan was in place for US forces to carry out he biggest attack since World War II on Sunday. But he decided to scrap the plan and give diplomacy more time to play out after hearing from key Gulf leaders -- including Saudi Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman -- as well as at the request of unnamed Iranian officials. I said to the crown prince, 'What would you rather do? Would you rather us do this or not?' Trump told reporters on Air Force One as he flew back to Washington after spending the weekend at his golf club in Bedminster, New Jersey. They said we would much prefer a deal as opposed to an attack, because you don't know where these attacks lead. Trump and the crown prince spoke on Saturday before the US president announced in a social media post that Mideast allies had reached the perimeters of a deal to end the five-month-old war. It was another turnabout for Trump, who a day earlier said he is losing faith in negotiations with Iran and offered the ominous warning that the US military will be hitting them very hard. Trump on Sunday reiterated that the emerging deal would include a reopening of the Strait of Hormuz, the critical waterway where about a fifth of the world's energy flowed before the start of the war, and would resolve US concerns about Iran's nuclear programme. Iran has repeatedly attacked vessels attempting to transit through the Strait of Hormuz without its authorisation as part of its conflict with the US. And Iran's Foreign Ministry spokesperson Esmail Baghaei said on Sunday that the Strait of Hormuz will in no way return to the status it was before February 28, the day the war started. On a call with Iranian state TV, he added that Iran is discussing shipping through the strait with Oman, on the other side of Hormuz, but that there is no current talk about reopening the crucial waterway. Trump has announced halts to strikes on Iran on several occasions since the US and Israel attacked Iran on February 28, only for things to unravel and fighting to resume again. Iran's defence minister said on X that the country was either surprised nor passive following Trump's announcement and said Iran remains alert in the face of concrete threats from the US. While Iran's leaders appear united in a war strategy signalling strength and endurance, a struggle for control seems to be brewing within the theocracy's leadership between those who oppose all negotiations with the US and others who count on military pressure to win at the negotiating table. The latest proposal would bring sides back to negotiations Trump on Sunday said he expected negotiations to resume omorrow afternoon but did not detail who would be involved in such talks. A regional official said the proposal announced by Trump over the weekend calls for the US and Iran to return to negotiations and continue working out many of the issues that have stymied prior progress on the deal. The official, who is involved in the mediation efforts, said the proposal calls for reopening of the Strait of Hormuz and halting attacks across the region, including by Iranian-backed militias in Iraq on the Arab Gulf countries and Jordan. The US, in exchange, will end its naval blockade on Iran and allow Tehran to export its oil as stated in the tentative ceasefire deal, he said. No deal has been reached yet, but mediation efforts are underway, said the official, who spoke on condition of anonymity because he was not authorised to talk to the media. Trump said that Israel is joining his commitment to end the war by implementing the ceasefire deal reached in June. Israel did not publicly comment on the announcement. Saudis are concerned about Iran's retaliation Prince Mohammed, the kingdom's de-facto leader, raised concerns about the US potentially escalating the conflict when he spoke with Trump by phone on Saturday. The call was candid and constructive, according to a person briefed on the call who was not authorised to comment publicly and requested anonymity. The crown prince conveyed that an escalation in fighting could have a severe impact on the global economy if Tehran responded to a new US bombardment by targeting some of the United States' Gulf allies. The call happened before Trump's social media announcement, the person said. The crown prince sought clarity from Trump on what potential new action he was weighing to take against Iran. Saudi officials, the person added, have underscored in their engagements with the Trump administration that the kingdom -- as well as fellow Persian Gulf energy titans the United Arab Emirates and Qatar -- are in a good position to defend against further potential Iranian attacks, but that Kuwait could be more vulnerable to attacks by Iranian-backed militias in Iraq. Trump suggested that his conversation with the Saudi crown prince weighed heavily in his decision to halt his plans to carry out strikes on Iran. It would have been disastrous for them. And they didn't want us to do it, Trump said. And frankly, Saudi Arabia didn't want it either. They thought that a deal is imminent. (AP)

SKIMS, KMC Pampore faculty collaborate on landmark superspeciality surgery textbook

In a landmark development for the medical fraternity of Jammu and Kashmir,and at at National Level , a team of distinguished medical visionaries from the Sher-i-Kashmir Institute of Medical Sciences (SKIMS) Soura and faculty from KMC Pampore have coordinated for a highly anticipated, superspeciality book designed to revolutionize modern surgical education and postgraduate training. This authoritative publication represents a highly successful, multi-institutional academic collaboration meticulously engineered to address a long-standing scarcity of highly structured, high-yield learning materials for competitive medical examinations across India. The textbook is authored by an elite panel of medical professionals, including the internationally acclaimed medical educationist Dr. (Prof.) Ashfaq (Head of Anatomy, SKIMS), Dr. (Prof.) Zubaida (Professor of Pathology, SKIMS) an Emerging Talent in The Field of Pathology Particularly GI & Liver Pathology , Dr. Irshad Teli (Associate Professor, KMC Pampore), Dr. Zahida Akhter (Associate Professor of Surgery and Minimal Access Surgery, SKIMS), and Dr. Ayaz Rehman (Associate Professor and ENT Surgeon, SKIMS). The authorial and editorial teams have expressed their profound gratitude to Prof. (Dr.) M. Ashraf Ganie, Director of SKIMS Soura & EOSG, whose relentless dedication to institutional research and tertiary care excellence provided the bedrock for this project, alongside Dr. Fazlul Qadir Parray, Principal of SKIMS Medical College, Bemina, for his unwavering academic backing.Furthermore, the final quality and clinical depth of the book were heavily enhanced by the mentorship, rigorous review, and expert insights of veteran medical luminaries, most notably Prof. Nisar Chaudhary (Former Head of Surgery, SKIMS Soura), Prof. Saleem Wani (Former Head of Urology and Renal Transplant, SKIMS Soura), Prof. Iqbal Saleem (Professor of Surgery, SMHS), and Dr. Omar Baba (Additional Professor of Plastic and Reconstructive Surgery, SKIMS Soura), with additional specialized diagnostic and clinical inputs contributed by Dr. Obaid (Radiodiagnosis, SMHS ), Dr. Zahida Rasool (Medical Consultant, IUST), and Dr. Zubair (MCh CVTS). Acting as an all-encompassing, single-point reference for modern surgical practices, the comprehensive volume systematically spans every critical superspeciality discipline, including Neurosurgery, Urology, Surgical Oncology, Gynaecological Oncology, Surgical Gastroenterology, Hepato-Pancreato-Biliary (HPB) Surgery, Plastic and Reconstructive Surgery, Cardiothoracic and Vascular Surgery (CTVS), Paediatric Surgery, Endocrine Surgery, and Head and Neck Surgery. To guarantee maximum knowledge retention and exam readiness for ambitious superspeciality aspirants, the text is uniquely structured to feature precisely crafted, high-scoring systematic answers, a thorough integration of past national and institutional Previous Year Questions (PYQs), targeted Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs) covering complex clinical scenarios and recurring viva concepts, curated high-yield point summaries for rapid last-minute revision, and advanced image-based integration to align with modern, visually-driven medical board examination formats.

13-year old boy slips into Puhroo stream in Sopore

A 13-year-old boy accidentally slipped into the Puhroo stream in the Wadoora area of Sopore in north Kashmir's Baramulla district on Sunday, prompting a large-scale rescue operation by police, SDRF personnel and local volunteers. The missing boy has been identified as Furqan Rafeeq Hajam, son of Rafeeq Ahmad Hajam, a resident of Hajam Mohalla, Wadoora Payeen, Sopore. According to officials, the incident occurred when the boy accidentally fell into the river under circumstances that are being ascertained. Soon after receiving information, a team from Police Station Bomai rushed to the spot and launched a rescue operation with the assistance of local residents. Officials said personnel from the State Disaster Response Force (SDRF) also joined the operation, deploying extensive search efforts along the river. Police, rescue teams and volunteers are conducting a coordinated search in an attempt to trace the missing boy. Eyewitnesses said a large number of residents gathered at the riverbank soon after the incident and have been assisting the rescue teams in the ongoing operation. Officials added that the rescue operation was continuing on a war footing till the filing of this report. No trace of the boy had been found so far, and search efforts are expected to continue until he is located. Meanwhile, the administration has urged people, particularly children, to stay away from rivers, streams and other water bodies, especially during the monsoon season when water levels and currents can rise suddenly, making such areas extremely dangerous.

Drang Khag residents appeal for preservation of water canal

Residents of Drang in Khag tehsil of Budgam district have appealed Deputy Commissioner Budgam to direct Tehsildar Khag to remove a sheep shed from where animal excreta pours into potable water canal at Ganie Mohalla of Drang area. 'Despite constant reminders and numerous appeals, the local administration in Khag tehsil has failed to save this potable water canal from being polluted due to pouring the excreta from sheep shed into the kul which is main source of drinking water for many mohallas, said a delegation from the area. The Mohalla Committee has many times reminded the Municipal body and Tehsildar to intervene but no action has been taken so far. The issue is not sheep shed but the outlet of animal excreta into the Kul, which forces us to complain as a lot of locals have fallen sick due to usage of the water, he said in his representation.

Muslims join final rites of 90-year-old Kashmiri Pandit in Kupwara village

Hundreds of people, including members of the Muslim community gathered in Khanoo, Babagund village of Langate to pay their last respects to 90-year-old Kashmiri Pandit Mohan Lal who passed away at his ancestral home after a brief illness. Mohan Lal was among the few Kashmiri Pandits who has been living in his native village in Langate after displacement of many Pandit families in 1990. Mohan Lal was known for his simplicity, humility, and warm relations with people across communities. His final rites were performed in accordance with Hindu traditions in the presence of family members, relatives. Local Muslims joined the final rites in large number, offered condolences to the bereaved family and stood in solidarity with them. Mohan Lal was an elder of our village and we all respected him throughout his life. Our bond with him was built on trust, affection, and mutual respect. His decision to remain in his ancestral village during difficult times strengthened the bond between communities, said Mushtaq Ahmad, a local. Mohan Lal lived among us with dignity and love for decades. I believe attending his final rites was our duty and a way of honouring a man who was respected by everyone in the area. Lately he didn't kept well but he was an intellectual who would always care for others, said former BDC Chairman Langate Showkat Pandit. The overwhelming participation in the final rites of Mohan Lal reflects the enduring tradition of communal harmony and peaceful coexistence of Kashmir, he added.

NFHS-6 shows only 1 in 2 infants in J&K exclusively breastfed

Every year, the first week of August is observed as World Breastfeeding Week. This is an occasion that renews the global commitment to ensuring every child receives the best possible nutritional start in life. However, National Family Health Survey shows a dropping percentage of infants are exclusively breastfed for first six months of life. Although breastfeeding is a natural and widely accepted practice, in real world, many mothers continue to face social, institutional and workplace barriers preventing them from exclusively breastfeeding their infants for the recommended six months. Medical science has made it amply evident that breastfeeding is one of the most effective interventions for improving child survival and long-term health. The World Health Organization (WHO) and UNICEF recommend initiating breastfeeding within the first hour after birth. This must be followed by exclusive breastfeeding for the first six months of life. Early, the first hour preferably, skin-to-skin contact immediately after delivery helps regulate a newborn's body temperature. It also stabilizes blood sugar levels and encourages successful initiation of breastfeeding. This also feeds the newborn colostrums, the first milk rich in antibodies and nutrients. Colostrum provides crucial protection against infections during the earliest days of life, and ensures better infant survival. However, inspite of the awareness campaigns, achieving these recommendations remains a challenge in J&K. According to the National Family Health Survey-6 (202324), only 59.2 per cent of infants below six months in J&K are exclusively breastfed. This is lower than the 62 per cent in NFHS-5. The survey also found that just 52.8 per cent of newborns are breastfed within the first hour of birth. This low despite clear evidence that early initiation significantly improves infant health and survival. The introduction of supplementary feeding before six months is often perceived as a matter of parental choice, or infant readiness. Doctors insist that the decision is frequently shaped by circumstances beyond a mother's control. It is influenced by mothers need to work shortly after childbirth and inadequate maternity support. The lack of breastfeeding-friendly workplaces also contributes greatly to early discontinuation of exclusive breastfeeding. Mothers are too often held solely responsible for shortfalls in breastfeeding practices. This approach overlooks the broader ecosystem that determines whether breastfeeding can be sustained. Any successful breastfeeding depends not only on the mother's willingness but also on the support she receives from her family. The employers and policymakers have an equally important responsibility towards ensuring continuity of breastfeeding among working mothers. The hospitals where the baby is delivered play a critical role during the first few hours after birth. Delays in initiating breastfeeding and unnecessary separation of mothers and newborns after delivery compromises on early initiation of breastfeeding. In addition, inadequate assistance from trained healthcare staff can discourage successful breastfeeding. There are very few hospitals in J&K, especially in private sector, that follow evidence-based newborn care practices. In public hospitals, the space and overcrowding issues make it difficult for new mothers to breastfeed at ease, and without the feeling of breach of privacy. Doctors also emphasize the importance of counselling expectant mothers before childbirth by a well trained counselor, who must be available at Pre-natal Clinics. A significant number of women encounter practical difficulties in positioning, latching or maintaining milk supply during the first few days after delivery. Timely guidance could help them overcome these challenges, and reduce the number of families that introduce formula feeding unnecessarily. In addition, workplace support remains another major challenge. An increasing numbers of women in J&K are employed in offices, educational institutions, healthcare facilities, businesses, service industries and the informal sector. Balancing employment with infant feeding becomes a difficult task, in absence of uniform laws governing paid maternity leave. Women face the challenge of losing their jobs if they are unable to join back to their work within a couple of months of giving birth. Even the Government sector has ambiguity over maternity benefits. Government employees generally benefit from maternity leave provisions. These allow mothers to remain with their infants during the crucial early months. However, many women employed in the private and unorganised sectors continue to face inconsistent implementation. They have limited paid leave, while others are compelled to return to work soon after childbirth. The Maternity Benefit Act, as amended in 2017, expanded paid maternity leave for eligible women in covered establishments to 26 weeks for the first two children. The legislation also introduced provisions relating to crche facilities in establishments employing a specified number of workers. These legal protections represent important progress but implementation remains poor. Almost no workplace in J&K has a dedicated breastfeeding room or lactation facilities or functional crches. These could enable mothers to continue breastfeeding during working hours. The long distance from home to workplace and rigid work schedules leave mothers with little option but to introduce bottle feeding earlier than recommended. J&K, pediatricians and neotal experts believe, needs to create breastfeeding-friendly workplaces . This must not be viewed merely as an employee welfare measure but an investment in public health. A number of studies have demonstrated that breastfed children have lower rates of diarrhoeal diseases, respiratory infections and several other childhood illnesses. Breastfeeding has also been found to be associated with improved cognitive development. As the child grows, it also reduces risk of obesity and certain chronic diseases. Mothers also experience faster postpartum recovery and lower risks of certain cancers. NFHS data indicates that a substantial proportion of children in JJ&K continue to experience stunting, wasting or underweight, while a higher number is obese or overweight. This reflects multiple nutritional and socioeconomic challenges, the reduction of which could be aided with exclusive breastfeeding in infants. Public health experts have repeatedly stress that promoting breastfeeding requires families, including fathers and grandparents to must understand that breastfeeding is not solely the mother's responsibility. Emotional encouragement and household support greatly influence whether mothers are able to breastfeed exclusively for the first six months.

2 firefighting helicopters collide as Greece battles devastating Wildfires

Two firefighting helicopters crashed while battling wildfires west of Athens on Sunday, triggering a major search and rescue operation as Greece continued to battle multiple blazes fuelled by extreme heat and strong winds, the international media and BBC reported. According to the Greek Fire Service, the collision occurred in the wider Psatha area of Attica, west of Athens. The two Bell helicopters, leased by the fire department, had taken off from the Elefsina military airport and each was carrying a crew of two. Authorities said a search and rescue operation was under way but had not disclosed the condition or identities of the four crew members. The cause of the mid-air collision was also not immediately known. The helicopter crash came as Greece faced one of its most severe wildfire emergencies in recent years. Prime Minister Kyriakos Mitsotakis warned that the country was experiencing extreme weather conditions and that extremely difficult days lay ahead. In a Facebook post, Mitsotakis said winds had reached 100 kmph, making aerial firefighting operations highly dangerous. There are moments when nature and the intensity of weather phenomena surpass any human planning and any operational capability, he said. The Prime Minister also paid tribute to three firefighters who lost their lives earlier this week while battling the blazes and praised the efforts of firefighters, volunteers and military personnel working to contain the fires. The wildfires have forced the evacuation of thousands of people across Greece, including residents and tourists. On the island of Crete, fires have scorched thousands of hectares of land and led to the temporary evacuation of around 8,000 people. About 500 people, most of them tourists, were evacuated from central Greece on Friday, while fresh fires have also broken out on the islands of Paros, Andros and Kalymnos. The wildfires in Greece are part of a broader wave of extreme fires sweeping southern Europe following successive heatwaves and prolonged dry conditions. France, Spain, Portugal, Italy and parts of the Balkans have all battled major wildfires in recent weeks, forcing thousands of evacuations, destroying forests and homes, and stretching firefighting resources. Authorities across the region have warned that soaring temperatures, strong winds and drought are creating increasingly dangerous conditions, with climate experts saying extreme weather is making wildfire seasons longer and more intense. According to the BBC, several European countries remain on high alert as fresh outbreaks continue to threaten communities and tourist destinations.

Executive body of SSI unit holders bonafide group formed

A general body meeting of the SSI Bonafide Group of Unit Holders was held in Srinagar. Various industrialists attended the meeting, SSI unit holders from across Jammu and Kashmir. After detailed deliberations. The General Body unanimously approved the constitution of the Executive Body through a voice vote. The following officers were elected: Chief Coordinator Shabir Abdullah, Vice Chief Coordinator Shoaib Hakak, Central Coordinator Sheikh Showkat, Organiser Manzoor Ahmad Khan, Convener Syed Ayaullah Rizvi, and Treasurer Imran Qureshi. The general body congratulated the newly elected office bearers and expressed full confidence in their leadership to present and safeguard the interests of SSI unit holders. SSI Bonafide Group is registered with the Directorate of Industries and Commerce, J&K.

Top-10 most-valued firms add Rs 2.51 Lakh Crore in market value

India's 10 most-valued listed companies witnessed a sharp increase in investor wealth last week, with the combined market capitalisation of nine firms rising by Rs 2.51 lakh crore, driven by a strong rally in domestic equities. Bajaj Finance emerged as the biggest gainer following its robust June quarter earnings. The surge in valuations came as benchmark indices posted their strongest weekly gains in months. The BSE Sensex climbed 2,034.87 points, or 2.67 per cent, during the week, while the NSE Nifty advanced 616.15 points, or 2.59 per cent, reflecting broad-based buying across sectors. Among the top-10 companies by market capitalisation, only Hindustan Unilever Ltd (HUL) ended the week with a decline in valuation, while the remaining nine companies registered gains. Bajaj Finance recorded the highest increase in market value, adding Rs 80,345.97 crore to take its market capitalisation to Rs 7,10,817.51 crore. The stock rallied more than 8 per cent on Friday after the non-banking financial company reported a 28 per cent year-on-year rise in consolidated profit after tax for the April-June quarter of FY27. Telecom major Bharti Airtel added Rs 44,959.50 crore to its market value, taking its overall valuation to Rs 12,30,005.63 crore. Tata Consultancy Services (TCS) saw its market capitalisation increase by Rs 40,414.03 crore to Rs 8,55,894.78 crore, while Reliance Industries, India's most valuable listed company, added Rs 39,447.35 crore, pushing its valuation to Rs 17,69,108.79 crore. Engineering and infrastructure major Larsen & Toubro gained Rs 21,096.80 crore in market capitalisation to reach Rs 5,41,844.69 crore. State Bank of India (SBI) added Rs 10,845.97 crore, taking its valuation to Rs 9,47,799.81 crore, while HDFC Bank's market capitalisation rose by Rs 8,164.73 crore to Rs 11,52,150.63 crore. Life Insurance Corporation of India (LIC) gained Rs 4,427.49 crore to end the week with a market value of Rs 5,37,435.05 crore. ICICI Bank registered a comparatively modest increase of Rs 1,660.37 crore, taking its valuation to Rs 10,29,878.30 crore. In contrast, Hindustan Unilever was the only company among the top-10 to witness an erosion in investor wealth. Its market capitalisation declined by Rs 10,326.46 crore to Rs 4,93,602.13 crore during the week. At the close of trading, Reliance Industries retained its position as India's most valuable listed company, followed by Bharti Airtel, HDFC Bank, ICICI Bank, SBI, TCS, Bajaj Finance, Larsen & Toubro, LIC and Hindustan Unilever. The gains underscore renewed investor confidence in the equity markets, supported by strong corporate earnings, sustained domestic inflows and positive sentiment across key sectors.

Jammu Railway Division rationalises freight rates for essential food grains

Jammu Railway Division of the Northern Railway, with the objective of providing relief to the general public from inflation and ensuring affordable supply of essential commodities, has rationalised the freight rates for rail transportation of essential food items such as wheat, rice and flour. Under this rationalisation, according to Raghvender Singh, Public Relations Inspector, Jammu Railway Division, the freight rates have now been fixed on the basis of distance in a descending scale. Accordingly, for distances up to 1000 km the rate will be Rs 1.55 per tonne per kilometer. For distances between 1001 to 3000 km, the rate has been reduced from Rs 1.55 to Rs 1.15 per tonne per kilometer. For distances beyond 3001 km, the rate will be Rs 1.15 per tonne per kilometer. This will make transportation of foodgrains over long distances even more economical, Singh stated. Senior Divisional Commercial Manager (DCM), Jammu Railway Division Uchit Singhal, said, This rationalisation is part of the Railway's people-centric policy. Our goal is to ensure transportation of essential commodities in an economical, safe and timely manner. We appeal to J&K farmers and traders to make maximum use of rail services for transportation of foodgrains and avail the benefits of this scheme. He asserted that transporting foodgrains by rail, compared to road, would provide several direct benefits to farmers, traders and common consumers. Due to lower rail freight, transportation costs will reduce significantly, which will help in stabilizing the prices of wheat, rice and flour in the markets. Additionally, it will also provide relief from the frequent closure of National Highways due to heavy rains, snowfall and landslides, as rail services operate without interruption in all weather conditions. This will ensure timely and uninterrupted supply of essential commodities, Singhal stated. Since transportation by rail is done in bulk, the chances of damage and breakage of goods are also minimal. Further, with fewer trucks on the roads, traffic congestion, pollution and fuel consumption will reduce, which is an important step towards environmental conservation, he added.

South Korea's margin trading shock holds lessons for India's retail investors

The sharp correction in South Korea's stock market in July has reignited concerns over one of the biggest risks in equity investingexcessive leverage. While the immediate trigger for the sell-off was profit booking and weakening sentiment in technology stocks, analysts say the severity of the decline was amplified by record borrowing by retail investors through Margin Trading Facility (MTF). For India, where margin funding has expanded rapidly alongside the retail investing boom, the Korean experience serves as a reminder that leverage can magnify both profits and losses, often turning an ordinary market correction into a much deeper decline. When optimism fuels borrowing South Korea witnessed one of its strongest equity rallies in recent years, driven largely by the global enthusiasm surrounding artificial intelligence. Semiconductor giants such as Samsung Electronics and SK Hynix became the biggest beneficiaries as investors bet that AI demand would lead to a prolonged earnings boom. The rally encouraged retail investors to increase exposure using borrowed money instead of relying solely on their own capital. Margin financing outstanding reportedly climbed to a historic KRW 38.6 trillion by June 2026almost double the level seen a year earlier. As long as markets continued rising, leverage worked in investors' favour. Small investments generated disproportionately large returns because borrowed funds increased purchasing power. The problem emerged when the rally lost momentum. How leverage accelerates a fall Unlike conventional investing, margin trading requires investors to maintain a minimum level of equity in their trading accounts. When share prices decline, the value of the investor's collateral also falls. Once this equity drops below the required maintenance margin, brokers issue a margin call, asking investors to deposit additional money or securities. If the investor fails to comply within the stipulated period, brokers have the right to sell shares pledged under the margin account without seeking further consent. In South Korea, thousands of investors reportedly faced this situation simultaneously. The compulsory liquidation of leveraged positions flooded the market with additional selling at a time when investor confidence was already weakening. As prices declined further, more investors breached margin requirements, resulting in another round of forced selling. This chain reaction transformed what could have remained a routine correction into a far steeper decline. Why the Korean experience matters to India Although India's market structure differs from South Korea's, the rapid growth of Margin Trading Facility has raised similar concerns. Margin funding has become increasingly popular among retail investors seeking to maximise gains during the ongoing bull market. Industry data shows that the outstanding MTF book in India has crossed Rs 1.25 lakh crore, registering robust growth over the past year. The facility allows investors to purchase shares by paying only a portion of the transaction value while the remaining amount is financed by the broker against approved securities. For example, an investor with Rs 5 lakh can potentially take exposure worth Rs 10 lakh or more, depending on the broker's margin requirements. While this increases profit potential, it equally magnifies losses. A 10 per cent fall in a leveraged portfolio can wipe out a substantial portion of the investor's capital, making additional funding necessary to avoid liquidation. The hidden risks beyond price decline Many retail investors focus only on whether a stock will rise or fall, overlooking several other costs associated with margin funding. Interest is charged daily on borrowed funds irrespective of market performance. Holding leveraged positions for extended periods increases financing costs, reducing overall returns. During volatile markets, investors may also be forced to sell quality stocks simply because margin requirements have increased, even if they remain confident about the company's long-term prospects. Liquidity poses another challenge. If heavily leveraged positions are concentrated in small-cap or mid-cap stocks, sudden selling pressure may trigger lower circuits where trading becomes difficult. In such cases, investors may find themselves unable to exit positions before losses escalate. Psychology often drives excessive leverage One of the biggest lessons from South Korea is behavioural rather than financial. Bull markets tend to reduce investors' perception of risk. When portfolios appreciate consistently, confidence rises and investors begin assuming that temporary corrections will always be followed by recoveries. Rising portfolio values also increase borrowing capacity, encouraging even greater leverage. This creates a self-reinforcing cycle. Higher prices lead to higher borrowing, which generates more buying, pushing prices even higher. However, the cycle reverses just as quickly. Falling prices reduce collateral values, resulting in margin calls, forced selling and additional downward pressure. History has shown that markets experiencing excessive leverage often witness sharper corrections than markets driven primarily by cash investments. India's regulatory safeguards India's regulatory framework provides stronger safeguards compared with several overseas markets. The Securities and Exchange Board of India (SEBI) has prescribed margin norms, risk management systems and capital adequacy requirements for brokers. MTF is permitted only in approved securities, and brokers are required to monitor client positions continuously. These safeguards reduce systemic risks but cannot eliminate market risk for individual investors. If stock prices decline sharply, margin calls remain unavoidable regardless of the regulatory framework. Experts advise disciplined use Market participants increasingly advise investors to treat margin funding as a tactical tool rather than a long-term investment strategy. Leverage may be suitable for experienced investors with strict risk management, diversified portfolios and sufficient liquidity to meet unexpected margin calls. For first-time or inexperienced investors, excessive dependence on borrowed money can expose them to disproportionate losses during periods of heightened volatility. Maintaining adequate cash reserves, avoiding concentrated leveraged positions and limiting borrowing during euphoric market phases remain among the most effective ways to manage risk. The broader takeaway The South Korean experience underlines a simple but often ignored reality: leverage does not create risk; it amplifies existing risk. When markets rise, borrowed money enhances returns and creates the impression that investing has become easier. But when sentiment changes, the same leverage can rapidly erode capital and force investors to sell at the worst possible time.

J&K Govt asks banks to raise credit-deposit ratio to 81%

The Jammu and Kashmir government has directed banks operating in the Union Territory to prepare a comprehensive roadmap to raise the Credit-Deposit (CD) Ratio from the existing 61 per cent to around 81 per cent, bringing it on par with the national average. The direction was issued during the 19th meeting of the Union Territory Level Bankers' Committee (UTLBC) held at SKICC here on Friday. According to sources, the issue of the low CD ratio figured prominently during the meeting, with Chief Secretary Atal Dulloo expressing concern that despite healthy deposit mobilisation and record credit disbursement, the banking sector continues to lag in recycling local savings into productive investments within Jammu and Kashmir. Sources said the Chief Secretary asked all banks to draw up a clear, time-bound strategy with measurable interventions to progressively improve the CD ratio, observing that the current level of 61 per cent remains significantly below the national average of around 81 per cent. The government, sources said, maintained that while banks have performed well in meeting credit targets, greater emphasis must now be placed on ensuring that money deposited by people in Jammu and Kashmir is invested back into the local economy through higher lending to productive sectors. The issue assumes significance as banks operating in Jammu and Kashmir recorded their highest-ever annual credit deployment during the financial year 2025-26. According to official figures reviewed during the meeting, banks collectively disbursed loans worth Rs 84,384 crore to nearly 19.37 lakh beneficiaries, achieving 108 per cent of the Annual Credit Plan (ACP) target. Of the total credit disbursed, Rs 44,228.30 crore was extended under the priority sector, accounting for more than half of the overall lending. J&K Bank alone contributed 63.41 per cent of the total priority sector advances, underlining its dominant role in financing agriculture, MSMEs and other priority segments in the Union Territory. While appreciating the banking sector for surpassing the annual lending target and achieving a historic milestone in priority sector financing, the government made it clear that improvement in the CD ratio would remain a key focus area in the coming financial year. According to sources, the Chief Secretary observed that increasing the CD ratio is critical for accelerating economic activity, encouraging entrepreneurship and ensuring that local financial resources contribute to employment generation and business expansion within the Union Territory. The meeting also reviewed the performance of banks across different sectors and expressed concern over the weak showing of several public sector banks in priority sector lending. Banks were urged to adopt a more proactive lending approach, particularly towards agriculture, which the government believes offers substantial business opportunities besides supporting rural livelihoods. The government also flagged the relatively poor flow of institutional credit to the education and housing sectors. Banks were directed to examine the factors restricting lending in these segments and introduce more competitive loan products and pricing to improve credit offtake. To strengthen financial inclusion, banks were instructed to prepare a one-year roadmap for expanding their brick-and-mortar branch network, particularly in rural and far-flung areas where access to formal banking services remains limited. The expansion is expected to improve financial access and reduce dependence on distant banking facilities. The meeting further reviewed the implementation of central government social security schemes and noted that enrolment in the Pradhan Mantri Suraksha Bima Yojana (PMSBY), Pradhan Mantri Jeevan Jyoti Bima Yojana (PMJJBY) and Atal Pension Yojana (APY) continues to remain below the national average in Jammu and Kashmir. Banks were asked to intensify enrolment drives to widen coverage among eligible beneficiaries. In another direction aimed at improving credit delivery, banks were asked to proactively engage with eligible farmers, women Self-Help Groups (SHGs), Udyam-registered micro, small and medium enterprises (MSMEs) and artisans for onboarding onto the Unified Lending Interface (ULI), enabling faster and seamless access to institutional loans.

Aryans LL.B. students bring laurels in exams conducted under PUP

LLB Students of Aryans College of Law, Rajpura, near Chandigarh, brought laurels to the institution by securing outstanding results in the examinations conducted by Punjabi University, Patiala. In the LL.B. First Semester examinations, Richa Agarwal and Taranjit Singh jointly secured the first position with a CGPA of 8.40. Sheetal Mahajan secured the second position with a CGPA of 8.20, while Gurjot Kaur and Haq Nawaz Chaudhary jointly secured the third position with a CGPA of 8.00. Congratulating the achievers, Dr Anshu Kataria, Chairman, Aryans Group of Colleges, appreciated the dedicated efforts of the students and faculty members.Aryans students have consistently demonstrated excellence not only in academics but also in sports, innovation and cultural activities. Such remarkable results enhance the reputation of the institution and inspire other students to aim higher, said Dr. Kataria. Recently, Aryans College of Law was honoured with the title of Best Private Law College of the Chandigarh Region at the Iconic Brands of North 2026 Awards held in Chandigarh. The award was presented by Bollywood actor Neil Nitin Mukesh and received by Dr. Anshu Kataria. Aryans College of Law has also achieved several significant milestones in legal education. The college was associated with the Common Law Admission Test (CLAT) during the years 2019, 2020 and 2021. The institution was also selected as an examination centre for the Law School Admission Test (LSAT) conducted through Pearson VUE on behalf of the Law School Admission Council. LSAT scores are recognised by several internationally renowned law schools and universities in the United States and Canada.

Bilal Gani Lone hints contesting Assembly elections from home constituency Trehgam

Former Hurriyat leader Bilal Gani Lone Sunday hinted to contest the next Assembly election from his home constituency of Trehgam. Calling for public support for politics based on truth, honesty and accountability, Lone said his political journey will remain centred on public service and transparent leadership. Addressing a public convention at his native village Dard Harai in Kralpora area of north Kashmirs Kupwara district, Bilal said that the changing political landscape requires leaders to uphold integrity and public service. Recalling the advice of his late father Abdul Gani Lone, he said that politics should always be treated as a form of service and devotion. I have learnt from my late father that politics is a form of service and devotion. Therefore, one should always practice truthful politics, Lone said. He urged people not to form opinions without fully understanding issues and appealed them to carefully assess every matter before reaching conclusions. I stand alone. I have nothing to offer except a request for your support. My mission is to promote politics founded on truth, integrity and commitment to public welfare, he added. Talking about new generation politics, the former Hurriyat leader said that he intends to introduce a new generation of politics that differs from the style adopted by traditional political parties. People have repeatedly been misled in the name of politics and I want to build public trust through honesty and accountability. I have neither decided to join any political party nor to float a new one. Instead I have launched an independent political initiative and hope people from Kupwara district and across Kashmir will join me, he said. I owe a lot to the people of Kupwara. If they accept me, well and good. If they don't, I will accept that. I need nothing for myself as I am well established but I want to work for the underprivileged who have been deprived of everything over the years, Bilal said.

GCC seeks proactive public participation in census operations

The Group of Concerned Citizens, J&K (GCC) has asked the public at large to extend fullest support to Census staff in connection with Census 2027. Noting that, as per reports, house-listing part is over with 100% digital data collection and Population Enumeration scheduled for September 2026 in areas that remain snow- bound or otherwise inaccessible in winter , the Group has asked for disaggregated data of progress in different phases of Census 2027 being placed in the public domain. That would also help adding area-specific focus as and when occasioned In a statement issued here, GCC referred to complaints of some houses in some areas having been left out or not properly documented. Then there are changes in templates in relation to previous Census Operations. For instance , what used to be Pucca/ Kacha or Partially Pucca / Kacha is replaced by Good, Liveable and Deteriorated. Likewise, housing data that used to be captured in 33 columns under 10 Headers is now condensed into two--house identification and family composition. There is a widely felt need for reinforced capacity building of Enumerators and other field staff, on the one end, and a more effective oversight mechanism, on the other , to rule out any gaps including double listing . The GCC has appealed the public at large to appreciate that Census is a most important national database relied upon across several areas including planning and development , political representation , delimitation of Parliamentary and Assembly constituencies, reservation of SC/ST Parliamentary/Assembly Constituencies as also reservation in Urban local bodies and Panchayati Raj institutions, allocation of funds to states/UTs etc. The ongoing Census Operations would therefore deserve all-out support and co-operation from all sections of society , including public figures and political Parties of all hue without exception.

NH-44 Restoration | DIG Udhampur-Reasi range reviews work at Samroli-Chenani area

Deputy Inspector General (DIG) of Police, Udhampur-Reasi (UR) range, Shiv Kumar Sharma on Sunday visited Samroli near Dewal bridge, Udhampur to inspect the ongoing debris clearance and restoration work on the Jammu-Srinagar National Highway following the recent landslide. During the visit, the DIG reviewed the restoration efforts being undertaken by the National Highways Authority of India (NHAI) with the help of heavy earth-moving machinery. He emphasised the need for expeditious clearance of the debris to facilitate the early restoration of traffic while ensuring the safety of personnel engaged in the operation. Sharma also interacted with local residents and heard their grievances regarding the inconvenience caused by the closure of the National Highway. He assured them that the Police, in close coordination with the NHAI and the district administration, was making every possible effort to restore traffic at the earliest and ensure the smooth movement of commuters. Prominent members of the local community appreciated the proactive approach of the administration in addressing their genuine concerns and expressed their full support and cooperation with the police and civil administration during the restoration process.

LG Ladakh VK Saxena decentralises land-use approvals

In a major step towards decentralising decision-making, The Lieutenant Governor of Ladakh, Vinai Kumar Saxena, has decentralised the land-use approval process to eliminate procedural bottlenecks and accelerate development across areas outside municipal limits. Because Ladakh currently lacks notified Master Plans and Zonal Development Plans, all land-use approvals previously required direct sanction from the Lieutenant Governor, causing significant administrative delays for both local residents and developers. The new interim framework delegates authority based on the size of the land parcel. Ladakh Lieutenant Governor Vinai Kumar Saxena has authorised the chief secretary and the divisional commissioner to approve land-use proposals for development projects in areas outside municipal committees. The move is part of the ongoing pro-people deregulation initiative aimed at promoting citizen-centric governance in the Union Territory, an official spokesperson said on Sunday. The lieutenant governor had, on July 8, exempted residential, commercial, industrial and mixed-use development on land measuring up to two kanals from the requirement of prior approval. He has now further delegated powers by authorising the divisional commissioner to approve changes in land-use plans for plots measuring more than two kanals and up to four kanals. For land parcels measuring above four kanals and up to two acres, the chief secretary has been empowered to approve land-use applications, while the approval for change in land use on land above two acres will continue to be granted by the lieutenant governor. Earlier, the lieutenant governor was the sole authority for deciding all such matters. This decentralisation of the regulatory framework will, therefore, ensure speedy disposal of the applications for land developmental works, the spokesperson said. Aligned with Prime Minister Narendra Modi's vision of deregulating governance and promoting Ease of Living and Ease of Doing Business, he said the decision addresses the regulatory challenges arising due to the absence of notified Master Plans and Zonal Development Plans in Ladakh. Until now, developmental proposals and building permission applications in Ladakh were often affected or delayed because of centralised power and uncertainty regarding land use. However, recognising the inconvenience faced by citizens, the lieutenant governor approved a transparent interim framework and decentralised powers to facilitate legitimate development while ensuring orderly regulation until the statutory planning framework is notified, the spokesperson said. He said the new framework is expected to provide significant relief to people residing in villages by enabling them to construct houses, establish commercial establishments, undertake small-scale industrial activities and develop mixed-use properties without unnecessary procedural delays. Together with the earlier framework for municipal areas, the initiative ensures that both urban and rural residents benefit from greater regulatory clarity, reduced compliance burden and faster approvals, thereby promoting planned development, economic activity and investment across Ladakh, the spokesperson said. According to the lieutenant governor, the objective was to make governance simpler, more transparent and people-centric to ensure that citizens do not suffer due to statutory planning instruments not being notified. Authorising the chief secretary and the divisional commissioner with the powers to approve development proposals will ensure that people living in rural areas can build homes, establish businesses and undertake legitimate developmental activities without unnecessary procedural hurdles. This interim framework strikes the right balance between facilitating development and safeguarding environmental and planning concerns until the Master Plans and Zonal Development Plans are notified, the Lt Governor said. The spokesperson said the Revenue Department has been directed to issue detailed operational guidelines for effective regulation of land use and construction activities outside municipal limits. The framework shall remain in force until the Master Plans, Zonal Development Plans and related statutory regulations are notified, after which all future development shall be governed by the notified planning framework, he said.

Ujh project to facilitate irrigation to 90,000 hectares of land in 4 distts of J&K, Punjab: Dr Jitendra Singh

Union Minister of State in PMO Dr Jitendra Singh on Sunday stated that the delay in implementation of the Ujh multipurpose project and the Shahpurkandi project resulted in the waters of the Ravi river and its tributaries continuing to flow into Pakistan although India controlled it (Ravi), even when the Indus Waters Treaty (IWT) was in force. He asserted that the revival of Ujh after a hiatus of 100 years and Shahpurkandi project, which was almost completed, would optimise the use of Ravi water and 90,000 hectares of agricultural land in four districts of J&K and Punjab would get irrigation facilities after the phased completion of Ujh project. Dr Jitendra was reviewing the status and phased implementation roadmap of the Ujh multipurpose project (MPP) in Kathua district of Jammu and Kashmir, in a meeting held in the union capital on August 2, 2026. The Ujh multipurpose project, located on the Ujh river, a main tributary of the Ravi River, is designed to generate around 186 MW to 212 MW of electricity. Besides bolstering irrigation and drinking water facilities, it also has an important security and border-management dimension and is backed by the Ministry of Home Affairs to restrict unregulated water flows and plug vulnerable cross-border infiltration routes along the riverbed. In a detailed meeting with the officials of Water and Power Consultancy Services (WAPCOS) Limited, a Government of India undertaking under the Ministry of Jal Shakti, which has been entrusted with the implementation of the project, the Union Minister, on Sunday, August 2, 2026, emphasised the need for expeditious implementation so that the benefits of the strategically important project reached the people at the earliest. Dr Jitendra, who is also the Union Minister of State (independent charge) for Science and Technology; Earth Sciences besides being the Minister of State for PMO, Department of Atomic Energy, Department of Space, Personnel, Public Grievances and Pensions, advised WAPCOS to explore innovative solutions and implementation strategies while maintaining the highest standards of quality, safety and efficiency. The Minister was informed that the project was being taken up in a phased manner. Work will commence while acquisition of the remaining land is pursued simultaneously, without waiting for completion of the entire land acquisition process. The implementing agency is also working out the project site and related requirements, it was stated. Under the leadership of Prime Minister Narendra Modi, Dr Jitendra said, long-pending national projects were being taken forward with renewed urgency. He noted that the Ujh multipurpose project, conceived nearly a century ago, had remained in limbo for decades, while the Shahpurkandi project had remained pending for about four decades. The delay in implementation of these projects resulted in the waters of the Ravi river and its tributaries continuing to flow into Pakistan. Even when the Indus Waters Treaty was in force, Ravi, Satluj and Beas were Indias three rivers under the Treaty, with Ravi being the major river among them, he maintained, adding that the Treaty was currently in abeyance. Dr Jitendra said, The revival of the Shahpurkandi project in 2019, which is now almost complete and the revival of the Ujh multipurpose project in 2026 reflect the governments resolve under Prime Minister Narendra Modi to realise long-delayed projects, optimise the use of Indias water resources and deliver tangible benefits to the people. The Ujh multipurpose project is expected to provide irrigation to nearly 90,000 hectares of agricultural land in Kathua and Samba districts of Jammu and Kashmir and Pathankot and Gurdaspur districts of Punjab. The project will also supply drinking water to Kathua district and provide industrial water availability. The project is expected to strengthen agricultural productivity, improve water security, create new opportunities for economic development and contribute to the overall socio-economic progress of the Union Territory. Dr Jitendra reviewed the implementation milestones in detail and stressed the need for close coordination among all stakeholders and effective monitoring for timely execution. He assured WAPCOS of the governments full support and cooperation for the successful implementation and timely completion of the prestigious project.

Srinagar Premier League 2026 | Kashmir Avengers FC beats IFC Kashmir 81

Kashmir Avengers FC delivered a commanding performance to register a resounding 81 victory over IFC Kashmir in the Srinagar Premier League 2026, played at TRC Turf, Srinagar, under the aegis of the District Football Association Srinagar. From the opening whistle, Kashmir Avengers FC, as per a statement, imposed their authority on the game with quick passing, relentless attacking football, and disciplined defending. Their dominance was evident throughout the contest as they consistently created scoring opportunities while restricting IFC Kashmir to very few chances. The encounter concluded with an emphatic 81 scoreline in favour of Kashmir Avengers FC, highlighting their attacking strength and overall team performance. The victory strengthens their position in the competition and serves as a significant confidence boost for the matches ahead.

Winning team shines on opening day of J&K Open Pro-Am at RSGC

The opening day of the prestigious J&K Open 2026 Pro-Am, organised under the Professional Golf Tour of India (PGTI) at Royal Springs Golf Course, Srinagar, witnessed an exciting display of golfing excellence as professionals and amateur golfers came together for a memorable day of competition against the breathtaking backdrop of the Zabarwan Hills. The event, as per a statement, is part of the J&K Open, being held from August 47, 2026, with the support of the Government of Jammu & Kashmir and J&K Tourism. The highlight of the opening days Pro-Am competition was the outstanding performance of the winning team comprising Arindam Sudan, Amarjeet Singh, Manav Gupta and Sameer Baktoo. The quartet delivered an impressive team performance, demonstrating excellent coordination, precision and sportsmanship to emerge as the winners of the Day One Pro-Am competition. The event witnessed enthusiastic participation from leading professional golfers, corporate representatives and amateur golf enthusiasts, further reinforcing Jammu & Kashmirs growing stature as a premier destination for golf tourism. The spectacular setting of the Royal Springs Golf Course added to the grandeur of the tournament, providing participants and visitors with an unforgettable experience. Speaking on the occasion, participants appreciated the flawless organisation of the event and lauded the efforts of J&K Tourism, PGTI, and all stakeholders for promoting golf and showcasing Kashmir as a world-class sporting and tourism destination. The J&K Open continues over the coming days with Indias top professional golfers competing for top honours, while simultaneously highlighting the immense tourism potential and natural beauty of the Kashmir Valley.

Kashmir deserves a permanent place on golf calendar: India's No. 1 golfer Saptak Talwar

India's top-ranked golfer Saptak Talwar has hailed the return of the J&K Open after several years, saying the tournament has the potential to become a major driver of golf tourism while inspiring youngsters in J&K to take up the sport. Speaking to Greater Kashmir during the DP World PGTI's visit to Royal Springs Golf Course, Talwar thanked the J&K Government and Tourism Department for reviving the event and expressed hope that it would become a permanent fixture on India's professional golf calendar. The entire professional golf fraternity is extremely thankful to be here. Reviving the J&K Open is important not only for professional golf but also for promoting tourism and golf tourism in Jammu and Kashmir, he said. Making his maiden visit to Kashmir, Talwar described the Valley as one of the most beautiful places he has experienced despite travelling extensively across India and Europe. The mountains here are comparable to places like Switzerland and Austria, but what sets Kashmir apart is its hospitality. That is something truly special and we hope this tournament shines a light on everything Jammu and Kashmir has to offer, he said. After playing his first practice round at Royal Springs Golf Course, Talwar said the venue promises to test the country's leading professionals. The course is in excellent condition despite the monsoon. Hopefully the weather stays good because it will provide a great challenge over the coming days, he said. Talwar said he hopes the J&K Open becomes an annual stop on the DP World PGTI schedule. If this tournament returns every year, I will definitely circle it on my calendar. Kashmir is a place every golfer would love to visit, and I also want to experience its culture and cuisine, he said. Encouraging young golfers from Jammu and Kashmir, Talwar urged them to watch the country's leading professionals in action and consider taking up the sport. If we can inspire even a few youngsters here to pick up golf, this tournament will have achieved something much bigger than producing a champion. I urge people to come out, support the event and discover the sport, he said.

The modern odyssey of studying abroad: Why parents need a CFO's mindset

Indian parents now manage multi-year budgets for overseas education expenses. They meticulously track currency exchange rates and various associated costs. Admission is only the initial step in this complex financial undertaking. Families are actively comparing financing options and remittance structures. This shift transforms study abroad into a strategic financial project.

Police say no knife attack after two teenagers injured in road rage scuffle in Srinagar

Srinagar, Aug 02: Two teenagers sustained minor injuries after a scuffle broke out over a road rage incident at Polo View in Srinagar on Sunday, officials said. Officials identified the injured as Momin Gassi (18), an auto driver from Bemina, and Sahil Ahmad Mandoo (16) of Bemina. The altercation also involved Imran Ahmad Badyari of Bemina and Ruhaib (17) of Alamgari Bazar. During the scuffle, Momin and Sahil suffered minor injuries, reportedly caused by a screwdriver. Both were shifted to a hospital by police for treatment and were later discharged after receiving medical care. Police said there was no knife attack in the incident, clarifying that the injuries were minor and allegedly caused with a screwdriver during the altercation. A case has been taken up for investigation, and police said the alleged accused is a minor. [KNT]

Two youth injured in knife attack in Srinagar

Srinagar, Aug 02: Two youth were injured in an alleged knife attack near Polo View Market in the Kothibagh area of Srinagar on Sunday evening, officials said. Officials told news agency JKNS that a police party from Police Station Kothibagh shifted the injured to SMHS Hospital, Srinagar, after they were allegedly attacked with a knife by a known person. The injured have been identified as 18 and 19 year old, both residents of Chinar Colony, Bemina. Officials said both youths sustained multiple injuries in the attack. They are undergoing treatment at SMHS Hospital, and their condition is stated to be stable. Police have taken cognizance of the incident and initiated an investigation to ascertain the circumstances surrounding the attack.

Post Article 370 abrogation transformation under PM Modis leadership will be remembered by future generations: J-K LG

Srinagar, Aug 02: Lieutenant Governor Manoj Sinha today said that the historic transformation brought under the leadership of Prime Minister Narendra Modi after Article 370 abrogation, which connected Jammu and Kashmirs aspirations with those of the nation, will be remembered by future generations. He said the empowerment of the Pahari community, along with other marginalised groups, marked a turning point in Indias democratic journey. The Lieutenant Governor expressed these remarks while attending the launch of a book Sarhad to Sansad, authored by Dr A H Shah. The Lieutenant Governor extended his heartfelt congratulations to Dr. Shah for his scholarly contribution, and described the book as not merely a chronicle of history but as a meaningful dialogue between heritage and hope, between the wisdom of the past and the democratic aspirations of the present. In his address on the occasion, the Lieutenant Governor highlighted the historical background of the Pahari community, their glorious culture, and their resilience in preserving traditions across centuries. He emphasized that the book offers a fresh perspective on the continuity of the ancient civilization of Sharda Peeth and the vitality of modern Indias democratic institutions. Books related to history, civilization, and culture often serve as bridges between generations. Through Sharda to Sansad, Dr. Shah has built such a bridge, reminding us that history and culture never truly pass away. They remain alive within us, the Lieutenant Governor said. The Lieutenant Governor also highlighted how literature and scholarship illuminate the human spirit and connect different eras. He drew a powerful parallel between Sharda Peeth, the ancient seat of learning, and Parliament, the symbol of collective consciousness in modern India. If Sharda nurtured the wisdom of society, Parliament has worked to fulfil the aspirations of the nation, he said. The Lieutenant Governor observed the historic transformation brought about under the leadership of Prime Minister Narendra Modi, after the abrogation of Article 370, which connected Jammu Kashmirs aspirations with those of the nation. He noted that the empowerment of the Pahari community, along with other marginalized groups, marked a turning point in Indias democratic journey. Future generations will remember this transformation well, he said. Reflecting on Indias civilizational legacy, the Lieutenant Governor said that Indias strength has always lain in its intellectual confidence, its courage to ask questions, and its culture of dialogue. He recalled centres of learning such as Nalanda, Takshashila, and Vikramshila, which once illuminated the world, and emphasized that while buildings may be destroyed, the pursuit of knowledge in Indian civilization is eternal. The Lieutenant Governor praised the Pahari community for preserving its language, folklore, folk music, and traditions with dignity and patience. he noted that their oral literature and rich traditions are powerful expressions of courage, harmony, and human values. The journey from Sharda to Sansad is not merely the journey of a community but it is the journey of India itself. It is the journey of a civilization that carried its ancient knowledge tradition into the institutions of democracy while keeping its faith in both equally intact. I believe culture is a living force. Every generation inherits cultural heritage as a bequest and passes it on to the next generation with its own distinct identity, and this is the foundation of a strong and vibrant democracy, he said. The Lieutenant Governor also urged the scholars, teachers, artists, and citizens to invest in preserving Indias civilizational heritage. There are villages whose stories remain unwritten, dialects whose grammar is yet to be studied, and folk songs that have not been recorded. Each of these efforts will enrich our national archive, he said. The Lieutenant Governor also emphasized the importance of inspiring the younger generation to innovate while staying rooted in tradition. Continuity and change together have preserved the human aspiration for dignity, knowledge, and peaceful coexistence. I hope this book will encourage dialogue, inspire new research, and deepen respect for Indias rich cultural fabric, he observed. Responding to the issues raised by the Chairman of J&K Pahari Welfare Society, the Lieutenant Governor stated that even after the implementation of the law, certain elements are deliberately causing trouble. He assured that a robust mechanism will be put in place to relieve people from this distress. Zafar Iqbal Manhas, Chairman, J&K Pahari Welfare Society; Dr. AH Shah, author; Khush Dev Maini, Dr Jahangir Danish, and other prominent literary personalities, and members of various Pahari organisations attended the book launch ceremony. Dr Sajjad Shafi, Member of Legislative Assembly from Uri; Safina Baig, former DDC Chairperson, Baramulla; Rajiv Pandey, DIG CKR; Dr. GV Sundeep Chakravarthy, SSP Srinagar; Harvinder Kour, Secretary JKAACL and senior officials were also present.

Dr Jitendra Singh reviews status of Ujh Multipurpose Project in Jammu and Kashmir

New Delhi, Aug 02: Union Minister of State (Independent Charge) for Science and Technology; Earth Sciences and Minister of State for PMO, Department of Atomic Energy, Department of Space, Personnel, Public Grievances and Pensions, Dr. Jitendra Singh reviewed the status and phased implementation roadmap of the Ujh Multipurpose Project (MPP) in Kathua district of Jammu & Kashmir. The Minister held a detailed meeting with the officials of WAPCOS Ltd., a Government of India undertaking under the Ministry of Jal Shakti, which has been entrusted with the implementation of the project. Dr Jitendra Singh emphasised the need for expeditious implementation so that the benefits of this strategically important project reach the people at the earliest. He advised WAPCOS to explore innovative solutions and implementation strategies while maintaining the highest standards of quality, safety and efficiency. The Minister was informed that the project is being taken up in a phased manner. Work will commence while acquisition of the remaining land is pursued simultaneously, without waiting for completion of the entire land acquisition process. The implementing agency is also working out the project site and related requirements. Under the leadership of Prime Minister Narendra Modi, Dr Jitendra Singh said, long-pending national projects are being taken forward with renewed urgency. He noted that the Ujh Multipurpose Project, conceived nearly a century ago, had remained in limbo for decades, while the Shahpurkandi project had remained pending for about four decades. The delay in implementation of these projects, he said, resulted in the waters of the Ravi River and its tributaries continuing to flow into Pakistan. The Minister said that even when the Indus Waters Treaty was in force, Ravi, Satluj and Beas were Indias three rivers under the Treaty, with Ravi being the major river among them. He noted that the Treaty is now in abeyance. Dr Jitendra Singh said that the revival of the Shahpurkandi project in 2019, which is now almost complete, and the revival of the Ujh Multipurpose Project in 2026 reflect the Governments resolve under Prime Minister Narendra Modi to realise long-delayed projects, optimise the use of Indias water resources and deliver tangible benefits to the people. The Ujh Multipurpose Project, located on the Ujh River, a main tributary of the Ravi River, is designed to generate around 186 MW to 212 MW of electricity. It is expected to provide irrigation to nearly 90,000 hectares of agricultural land in Kathua and Samba districts of Jammu & Kashmir and Pathankot and Gurdaspur districts of Punjab. The project will also supply drinking water to Kathua district and provide industrial water availability. The project is expected to strengthen agricultural productivity, improve water security, create new opportunities for economic development and contribute to the overall socio-economic progress of the Union Territory. It also has an important security and border-management dimension and is backed by the Ministry of Home Affairs to restrict unregulated water flows and plug vulnerable cross-border infiltration routes along the riverbed. Dr Jitendra Singh reviewed the implementation milestones in detail and stressed the need for close coordination among all stakeholders and effective monitoring for timely execution. He assured WAPCOS of the Governments full support and cooperation for the successful implementation and timely completion of the prestigious project.

Drugs can give you brief high but make your entire life low: PM Modi to youth

New Delhi, Aug 2: Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Sunday asked the country's youth to take a pledge against substance abuse, saying drugs can give them a high for some time, but would make their entire career and personal life low. Launching the 'Nasha Mukt Yuva for Viksit Bharat Sankalp Abhiyan', Modi said the country's youth must be mentally and physically fit, for which it is necessary for them to stay away from all kinds of substance abuse. He also said that enemy countries use the supply of drugs as part of their terror plans because they know that youth are the future of our country. Drugs can give you a high for some time, but it makes your entire career and personal life low, he said. Questioning the taboo around drug addicts, Modi said those who come out of drug addiction are fighters and should be honoured by society. Society should respect them, embrace them and give them a second chance, he said. The prime minister launched the campaign virtually in the presence of a large number of youth, who described themselves as representatives of Gen-Z, days after large-scale protests by students demanding reforms in the public examination system rocked Delhi and other parts of the country. Our culture teaches us that one can get rid of substance abuse with the support of society, yoga and meditation, Modi said. The Nasha Mukt Yuva campaign is a resolve for the individual, family, society and, most importantly, the nation, and the name of the initiative itself reflected its objective, the prime minister said. When the country has set the goal of building a developed India, it is essential that the youth stay away from harmful addictions to remain physically and mentally healthy and full of self-confidence, Modi said. This is the objective of this campaign, he added, urging everyone to take a pledge to ensure that young people understand the dangers of drug addiction and remain aware and vigilant in every possible way. From today, the Nasha Mukt Yuva Abhiyan is being launched across the country. When this becomes a collective campaign, even those who are unable to do something on their own will receive new energy. The resolve taken today will move forward in the same manner for the next 100 weeks. Every Sunday, activities related to art, culture, sports, meditation, spirituality and service will be organised. The message of de-addiction will reach new people, Modi said. The coming 100 Sundays will mark 100 strong steps towards a drug-free India, he added. The prime minister also said that addiction not only harms the body, but also takes away a mother's smile, shatters a father's dreams, weakens a sister's hope, and takes away the respect of a younger brother. Family members live with this pain every day, watching their children gradually lose themselves before their eyes, he said. Modi also said the government stands firmly with the youth in this campaign against drugs. Strict action is being taken against drug traffickers across the country. The arrests have gone up several times as compared to before, and drugs worth thousands of crores of rupees have been seized. This shows how strongly our government is acting against drugs, the prime minister said. He also urged families not to hide their childrens addiction out of concern for social reputation, and instead communicate openly with them and seek expert and medical help to help them overcome substance abuse. The 'Nasha Mukt Yuva for Viksit Bharat Sankalp Abhiyan' aims to inspire youth to stay away from substance abuse and encourages them to become ambassadors of positive social change in their communities. The launch marked the beginning of a 100-week nationwide 'Jan Bhagidari' campaign, under which activities will be organised every Sunday across the country to promote awareness and encourage public participation in building a drug-free society. The activities will include sports events, walkathons, meditation sessions, cultural programmes, awareness campaigns, nukkad nataks, discussion forums, art competitions and community engagement programmes. The Nasha Mukt Bharat Abhiyaan was launched in 2020 in line with the prime ministers vision of creating a Nasha Mukt Bharat, Union Minister for Sports and Youth Affairs, Mansukh Mandaviya, said at the launch.

Jammu Railway Division earns nearly Rs 78 lakh in fines for ticketless travel in July

Jammu, Aug 2: The Jammu Division of Northern Railway generated about Rs 78 lakh in revenue by penalising more than 10,000 ticketless and irregular travellers during a month-long special drive in July, reflecting intensified enforcement against fare evasion, an official spokesperson said on Sunday. The drive was carried out across the Jammu Division to curb ticketless travel, unauthorised travel in higher classes, the carriage of unbooked luggage, and other violations of railway rules through stringent ticket-checking and enforcement measures, the spokesperson said. He said the ticket checking staff conducted surprise and regular checks in all mail, express, and passenger trains as well as at major stations of the division under the guidance of Senior Divisional Commercial Manager, Jammu, Uchit Singhal. The special drive yielded highly encouraging results, with the vigilance and alertness of the ticket-checking staff leading to the detection of 10,014 cases of ticketless and irregular travel during July. Penalties were imposed in accordance with railway rules, generating revenue of Rs 77,97,430, the spokesperson said. Singhal appreciated the commendable work of the ticket checking staff and said the objective of Jammu Division is not only to increase revenue, but also to create awareness among passengers and encourage them to travel as per rules. This achievement has been possible only due to the hard work and dedication of our ticket checking staff. Jammu Division will continue to conduct such intensive checking drives in the future as well for the convenience of passengers and for the safety of railway property, he said.

Jagti: Over three decades in 'exile', a crumbling township of daily hardships

Jammu, Aug 2: Each morning Totaram Bhat got up and looked at the small hill close to the Jagti migrant settlement, thinking it was the ridge that formed the boundary of his ancestral village in the Anantnag district of south Kashmir. He died last month, firmly convinced that he had finally returned to his home in the valley. Bhat's story is not the lone one from the Jagti satellite township, which is situated 30 km from the winter capital of Jammu and Kashmir. Many residents who had lived there for nearly three decades, including Madhusudan Zutshi and Jankinath Bhat, spent their last years dealing with dementia and Alzheimers disease, caught between the memories of their former homes and the harsh truth of their displacement. They died after an endless wait, without ever managing to return home. According to lawyer Vishwa Ranjan Pandita, the tragedy experienced by Kashmiri Pandits who lived in the township following their mass exodus after terrorism broke out in the Kashmir Valley between 1989 and 1990 has now developed into a long-term fight against neglect on the part of the state. He pointed out that although the township was built around 2010 with the intention of providing safer and more dignified housing, it has in fact become a symbol of deteriorating infrastructure and unfulfilled promises. A prominent organisation of the Kashmiri Pandits, Panun Kashmir, is at present making preparations to take legal action, citing the failure of various governments to maintain the housing units built for the displaced community. Panun Kashmir Chairman Tito Ganju said that the bad condition of Jagti township and the other camps has made the rehabilitation of the victims and survivors of the Kashmiri Hindu genocide a serious public safety issue, pointing out that the risk of a preventable disaster increases with each monsoon season. As Ganju pointed out, the abolition of the Engineering Wing of the Relief Department has seriously affected the supervision of important projects. We are demanding the immediate reestablishment of the Engineering Wing, urgent repairs, and a structural safety review of all the residential blocks; if this is not done, Panun Kashmir will ask the High Court for appropriate intervention, he said. The township includes 4,242 two-room flats distributed among 24 buildings and provides accommodation for about 5,600 families. Each family has a unit of 495 sq ft which consists of a bedroom, a kitchen and a lobby. Even though there is serious overcrowding and families are growing, about 80 flats are still unoccupied and more than half of the 200 commercial shops in the township have never been assigned. Locals say that the buildings are rapidly falling into disrepair -- the outer plaster is coming off while the inside walls are affected by continuous water seepage. The condition gets worse during the monsoon when the leaking roofs result in serious water accumulation inside. The government has not kept its promises, said T K Kaul (72), a retired official from the Accountant General's office who was born in Rainawari in downtown Srinagar. Our situation is bad since not a single one of our complaints has been dealt with over the last ten years. Authorities replaced the damaged doors after repeated requests, but it was poorly done and inferior material was used. The roofs leak, the buildings require urgent repair, and our block has not had drinking water for four months, he said. It is now an ongoing ordeal for several generations. Tej Krishan Kaul (52), who is originally from Bijbehara, described the bureaucratic nightmare which left his family in a difficult situation. Having lost his brother to crossfire in Kashmir, he was then given a housing unit. Three years ago officials took my documents on the grounds that I had only a temporary registration, Kaul said. I live with my wife, three children and my elderly mother, and we have no income from which to draw. I have asked for assistance everywhere, but my appeals have been ignored. Activists and community leaders claim that political parties have reduced the displaced community to nothing more than a political tool. Vinod Kumar, who is known in the area as Appu and is a shopkeeper in the township, said: We are being used by the political parties as a vote bank, but no actual measures are taken to rehabilitate us. The things that concern us every day -- such as the need for building repairs, shortages of water and unreliable electricity -- are completely ignored, and there is a strong feeling of despondency all through the township. Sunil Pandita, a community activist from Handwara in Kupwara district who migrated in 1990, lamented, Lord Ram's exile lasted for 14 years, whereas we have been away from our homes for 36 years and there seems to be no end to our suffering. Pandita pointed out that although the United Progressive Alliance (UPA) government had started the housing project and had announced a package of 6,000 migrant jobs in 2009, there was no work under successive governments on the transit accommodation in Kashmir meant for the beneficiaries of the Prime Minister's package. Residents alleged that their peaceful demonstrations asking for basic services such as water and electricity are also dealt with high-handedness. Add to this the fact that government financial assistance has not kept up with inflation, they said. At present, each registered relief recipient gets 9 kilograms of rice and a monthly cash payment of Rs 3,200 per person -- a sum which residents stress is not enough to meet basic living expenses, healthcare and education. Citizens turn to the government for assistance, but no single problem has recently been solved, said B J Bhat, who has resided there for nine years. Although we are thankful to the Congress government which first provided the flats and introduced the relief measures, the present administration has entirely let us down. Attempts to contact officials for a response did not yield result. Reflecting the sense of despair in the community, some have now asked the National Human Rights Commission (NHRC), in a petition through their advocate Vishwa Ranjan Pandita, that it would be more humane for the government to put them to death quickly rather than have them endure such daily suffering. The petition points out structural faults in housing units, persistent water seepage and unsanitary conditions, stating that these dangers have been neglected for more than five years because of the supposed lack of a specific repair budget. It also highlights serious problems with connectivity, particularly regarding the important road linking Nagrota and Jagti, which has had dangerous potholes for eight years. Residents claim they have been treated unfairly, pointing out that while the roads throughout Jammu have been quickly resurfaced after the last assembly elections, their own vital link road has been ignored on the grounds of a supposed lack of funds. The petition calls on the NHRC to take urgent action, summon the relevant officials and order immediate structural repairs to the flats and resurfacing of the Nagrota-Jagti road in order to avoid further loss of life.

Pakistan made every effort to dismantle goodwill under Indus Water Treaty: Kwatra

Washington, Aug 2: The Indus Water Treaty was signed in the spirit of goodwill and friendship, and Pakistan spent half a century dismantling it, Indias envoy to the US Vinay Mohan Kwatra said. In an article published in Newsweek magazine, Kwatra said Indias decision to keep the Indus Water Treaty (IWT) in abeyance merely acknowledged what Pakistans conduct had already destroyed. Kwatra's article came days after Pakistan hosted a conference recently to protest Indias decision to hold the IWT in abeyance on April 23 last year, a day after Pakistan-trained terrorists killed 26 people, most of them tourists, at Pahalgam in Jammu and Kashmir. It is worth remembering that the treaty's preamble declares it was concluded in a spirit of goodwill and friendship. Pakistan spent half a century dismantling that goodwill and friendship. The abeyance merely acknowledges what Pakistan's conduct had already destroyed, the envoy said. The IWT, signed by India and Pakistan in 1960, gave New Delhi control over three of the six Indus basin rivers that carry roughly 20 per cent of the basins water, while Islamabad got rights to rivers that carry roughly 80 per cent. That asymmetry stifled development for decades in Indian regions that could have benefited from better water rights. India honoured the treaty anyway, Kwatra said. He said Pakistan responded by launching wars against India in 1965, 1971 and in 1999; and through decades of persistent hostility and cross-border terrorism, including an attack on Indias Parliament in 2001, Mumbai terror carnage in 2008, Uri and Pathankot attacks in 2016, the Pulwama attack in 2019 and the Pahalgam attack in 2025. Kwatra said if Pakistan sincerely wants Indias cooperation on bilateral issues, it must first dismantle the terror infrastructure it has built over the years. Obstruction and bureaucratic delays have been Pakistans principal responses to any India-initiated projects under the treaty, he said. Pakistan also consistently blocked India's initiatives to renegotiate the treaty in light of six decades of technological change, which would have let India develop its hydropower potential, he said. Bit by bit, Pakistan eroded India's faith that it could exercise its rights under the treaty, or hope for a better one suited to today's realities, Kwatra said. The envoy said those advocating talks between India and Pakistan have not taken note of the history of these initiatives taken in the past or they must believe that doing the same thing over and over again and expecting different results is not insanity. Prime Minister Narendra Modi has clearly voiced Indias stand today: Terror and talks cannot go together... Terror and trade cannot go together... Water and blood cannot flow together', Kwatra said. He said the water scarcity Pakistan faces is a result of mismanagement by the government in Islamabad. ...the Government of Pakistan would do better to fix its dismal water productivity, than to stage conferences blaming India and issuing threats, Kwatra said, adding that the habit of pinning every domestic failure on India has grown old. The world should say so, unequivocally, he said.

LG attends Nasha Mukt Yuva for Viksit Bharat Sankalp Abhiyan, says Indias strength lies in young population

Srinagar, Aug 02: The Lieutenant Governor Manoj Sinha attended the launch of the Nasha Mukt Yuva for Viksit Bharat Sankalp Abhiyan today at a UT-Level function organised by Department of Youth Affairs and Sports and SKUAST-Kashmir. The 100-week mega campaign was virtually inaugurated by Prime Minister Narendra Modi, marking a nationwide resolve to secure Indias future by empowering its youth and eliminating the menace of drugs. Addressing the youth of Jammu Kashmir, the Lieutenant Governor emphasized that Indias greatest strength lies in its young population, with nearly 65% below the age of 35. He also highlighted that 37 crore youth in the 1529 age group are eager to contribute to nation-building. The Nasha Mukt Yuva for Viksit Bharat Sankalp Abhiyan seeks to energize this demographic, guiding them toward healthy lifestyles and active participation in development. Our youth must emerge like a cloud of energy and spread across the horizon of development, he said. The Lieutenant Governor observed that the Nasha Mukt Bharat Abhiyan, launched in 2020 by Prime Minister, is not merely a government programme but a social movement against drug menace. Its objective is to instill values of self-discipline, positive thinking, and strong determination among citizens. The Lieutenant Governor noted that over 1 crore youth are joining the Nasha Mukt Yuva for Viksit Bharat Sankalp Abhiyan at nearly 10,000 locations nationwide, reflecting the collective responsibility of society to protect young people from drugs. More than 35,000 MY Bharat youth clubs, Nehru Yuva Kendras, schools, colleges, and industry organizations are participating in the 100-week campaign, which connects youth every Sunday across the country. The Lieutenant Governor expressed confidence that this initiative will become a milestone in uprooting drugs from society. Congratulating the youth of Jammu Kashmir, the Lieutenant Governor praised their active participation in the 100-day Nasha Mukt J&K Abhiyan conducted from April 11 to July 20. This campaign, he said, has become a model of success for the entire nation. The combined efforts of administration, police, social organizations, educational institutions, religious leaders, and citizens proved that even the biggest challenges can be overcome when society unites for a common purpose, the Lieutenant Governor said. The Lieutenant Governor also highlighted the significant achievements of the Nasha Mukt Jammu Kashmir campaign. Around 2,300 FIRs have been registered, 2,600 people arrested, and 1,500 kilograms of narcotics seized. More than 331 properties worth around Rs 200 crore belonging to narco-terrorists and drug smugglers have been attached. Additionally, over 370 driving licenses and 750 vehicle registrations have been cancelled, with recommendations made to cancel nearly 3,000 Aadhaar cards. The Lieutenant Governor said these actions demonstrate the governments unwavering policy against the drug network that threatens the future of youth. While enforcement remains crucial, public awareness and rehabilitation are equally important. We will soon initiate the Rehabilitation and Socio-Economic Reintegration Scheme for Drug Abuse Victims, 2026. The pilot project will begin in two most-affected districts of Kashmir and Jammu divisions. Designed as a three-year rehabilitation cycle, the scheme will focus on medical treatment, counselling, education, skill development, employment, reintegration, and long-term monitoring. I see youth affected by drugs as victims and we need to ensure their dignity, livelihood, and a meaningful future, the Lieutenant Governor said. The Lieutenant Governor urged families, teachers, and youth organizations to play a proactive role in guiding youth. Parents and teachers are the greatest guides and must support youth through dialogue, trust, and encouragement. Volunteers of MY Bharat, Nehru Yuva Kendras, and youth clubs should take the campaigns message to every village, school, college and community, he said. The Lieutenant Governor exhorted the youth to stay away from drugs, inspire peers, and become healthy, disciplined, and responsible citizens. He expressed confidence that the youth of Jammu Kashmir will dispel the darkness of drugs and spread the light of knowledge, progress, and positive energy. A healthy youth, a strong family, and an aware public will become the identity of Viksit Bharat, the Lieutenant Governor said. On the occasion, the Lieutenant Governor also administered the Nasha Mukt Yuva Pledge to the youth of Jammu Kashmir. Prof. Nazir Ahmad Ganai, Vice Chancellor SKUAST Kashmir; Dr. Shahid Iqbal Choudhary, Commissioner/Secretary, Youth Services and Sports Department; Anshul Garg, Divisional Commissioner Kashmir; Nitin Hangloo, Director, Mera Yuva Bharat (MY Bharat) J&K; senior officials, members of Youth Clubs, Nehru Yuva Kendras, prominent citizens, and youth in large number attended the UT Level function.

LG Sinha attends 'Nasha Mukt Yuva' Campaign event at SKUAST-Kashmir

Srinagar, Aug 02: Lieutenant Governor Manoj Sinha today attended the UT-level function of the Nasha Mukt Yuva for Viksit Bharat Sankalp Abhiyan at SKUAST-Kashmir. Addressing the gathering, LG Sinha said the 100-week campaign, launched under the leadership of Prime Minister Narendra Modi, is a clarion call to empower the youth, eradicate drug abuse, and build a healthy, disciplined, and developed India. He emphasized that the initiative aims to mobilize young people across Jammu and Kashmir to take the lead in spreading awareness against narcotics and to strengthen efforts for a Nasha Mukt Bharat. Officials, students, and youth representatives participated in the event held at SKUAST-Kashmir.(GNS)

School, several houses damaged after landslide hits J&K's Mendhar

Poonch, Aug 02: A huge landslide has caused widespread damage in Sarouti Jabran village of Sub-Division Mendhar of Poonch where a school and several houses have already collapsed, while cracks are gradually developing in many of the remaining houses. According to local residents, the landslide had been moving slowly for the past several days, but the situation has now become extremely serious as the ground continues to slide. The entire settlement is reportedly under threat, with fears that more houses may collapse in the coming days. The affected residents are living in fear and uncertainty, particularly due to the continuous movement of the land and the increasing cracks appearing in their houses. The residents have appealed to the Government and local administration to immediately assess the situation and take urgent measures to shift the affected families to a safe location to prevent any loss of life. They have also appealed to all political leaders and public representatives of Mendhar to come forward and extend every possible assistance to the affected families during this difficult time. The residents have urged the administration to send an expert team to the spot on an emergency basis, conduct a detailed assessment of the affected area, and make immediate arrangements for the safe relocation of the entire vulnerable settlement.

Heavy rains trigger flash flood in Safapora, Ganderbal

Ganderbal, Aug 02: Heavy spell of rainfall across central Kashmir on Sunday morning triggered a sudden flash flood in the Safapora area of Ganderbal district, leading to a sharp rise in local water bodies and sparking widespread panic among residents. According to locals, a spell of heavy downpour early in the day and a possible cloudburst in upper belt resulted in a flood-like situation, causing water levels in local streams and drainage channels to overflow rapidly. The sudden surge of muddy water inundated low-lying sections and local tracks in the area, temporarily disrupting normal routine. Officials said flashfloods in Safapora led to a sudden surge of floodwaters, inundating several houses and creating panic among residents. The flash floods affected multiple residential pockets, forcing people to rush to safety as water entered their homes. The worst-hit localities in Safapora included Kohistan Colony, Gulab Sheikh Colony and Bakshi Mohalla, where floodwaters entered residential houses following intense rainfall, causing damage to household belongings and affecting daily life. Meanwhile, incessant rainfall also resulted in extensive waterlogging in Alasteng Busserbugh, where several houses were submerged after rainwater accumulated in low-lying areas, leaving residents facing considerable hardship. locals said that the Flashfloods entered several residential houses and damaged a large agriculture fields besides standing crops in the area. The incident in Safapora comes amid a wider spell of active monsoon weather across Jammu and Kashmir.

Trump says US cancelled planned strike on Iran after deal proposal

New Delhi, Aug 02: US President Donald Trump said he had cancelled a planned military strike against Iran after Tehran and several West Asian countries sought more time to finalise a deal that would include the immediate reopening of the Strait of Hormuz and an end to Iran's nuclear threat. In a post on Truth Social, Trump said: The U.S.A. is locked and loaded and ready to go against the Islamic Republic of Iran, at levels of Military Terror, Strength, and Power not seen since World War II. Despite this, we have just been asked by Iran, and other Middle Eastern Countries, to hold off any attack in that the perimeters of a deal has been agreed to. This would include the Immediate, Complete, and Total OPENING OF THE HORMUZ STRAIT, and an end to Irans nuclear threat. Based on this request, I have agreed, for the future benefit of the WORLD and, likewise, the survival of a successful and prosperous Iran, to cancel the attack, subject to being able to rapidly make a DEAL. The Country of Israel joins me in this commitment. Get to work, everybody, and get it DONE. Thank you for your attention to this matter! President DONALD J. TRUMP. Trump's statement came amid heightened tensions across West Asia after he had earlier warned that the United States would hit Iran very hard. US media reports had said Washington was preparing fresh military strikes that could take place as early as this weekend. The latest development followed intense diplomatic efforts by regional mediators, including Qatar and Pakistan, to prevent a fresh military escalation. According to reports, officials from the two countries held urgent contacts with Iranian and US officials, including Trump's special envoy Steve Witkoff, while discussions also focused on restoring commercial shipping through the Strait of Hormuz. Saudi Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman reportedly urged de-escalation during a phone conversation with Trump, expressing concerns over possible US strikes on Iran. Saudi Arabia has consistently stressed the need to avoid a wider regional conflict. Iran, however, maintained its warning against any fresh military action. Iranian Foreign Minister Abbas Araghchi, in separate conversations with Turkish Foreign Minister Hakan Fidan, Pakistan's Field Marshal Asim Munir and Saudi Foreign Minister Prince Faisal bin Farhan Al Saud, said Tehran would respond decisively and proportionally to any aggression by the United States, Israel or their allies. The situation remains tense despite Trump's announcement. The US State Department has issued a fresh travel advisory urging Americans in the Middle East to consider leaving the region due to the risk of unforeseen escalation. Tehran has also warned countries hosting US military bases against supporting any attack, while Kuwaiti authorities reported Iranian drone activity earlier on Sunday. Trump's announcement, if followed by a negotiated agreement, could temporarily ease fears of a wider regional conflict, although no formal confirmation of such a deal has yet been announced by Iran or other parties.

Even my late mother was abused at Jantar Mantar, but we must forgive our misguided children: PM

Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Friday said it pained him that even his late mother was subjected to filthy abuses at Jantar Mantar and lamented that our daughters had used such language, even as he called for forgiving the misguided children. In another late-night video message released on Instagram, the prime minister said he could understand the anguish prevailing in society, but stressed that this was the time to embrace the youth and guide them on the right path. The remarks drew a sharp response from the Congress, which said that while the country was asking the PM to apologise, he had instead forgiven the country. Tagging the PMs video and post, Congress media and publicity department head Pawan Khera said in a post on X in Hindi, Listen to this. The country is asking him to apologise, yet he has forgiven the country. In his video message, Modi said he was speaking because his heart told him to address the youth over what had happened during the protests against alleged irregularities in the NEET examination at Jantar Mantar. He said some naughty children had hurled filthy abuses at him, using language unfit for a civilised society. Not only was I subjected to abusive language at Jantar Mantar, but even my late mother was abused there with filthy language. But abuses never solve anything; lets guide the misguided, he said. I want to forgive them. People make mistakes, but it was a cultural shock that our daughters are using such abusive language. We must forgive our youth who were misguided; after all, they are our children. Its our duty to show them the right path, he said. Drawing an analogy, he said, We dont disown our teeth even if they bite our tongue; both belong to us, just as our youth are our own. The prime minister appealed to the youth to come forward and learn from their mistakes. Our country is moving forward, and they too must move ahead with it, he said. Modi said there is scope for correction during childhood. That is why I fully understand the anguish in the society... This is the time to show these children the correct path by hugging them, he said. The prime minister said the situation could not be changed by dragging such children into courts or parading them before society. Society should also accept my submission because sometimes people go astray, but that does not mean they should be punished. The children are ours. It is our responsibility to show them the correct path. It is a hard task, but I have to do it, he said. Referring to young protesters, Modi said he wanted to tell these friends to come forward to work for the country, learn something new, and learn from their mistakes. The country is progressing well. Move forward, and you too will progress. This is my dream. I live for you and work for your bright future. Let us move forward and take the country ahead. Let us learn from our mistakes and move forward, he said. The students protest was led by the Cockroach Janta Party (CJP) at Jantar Mantar here. It began on June 20 and ended after 36 days on July 25 following the resignation of Dharmendra Pradhan as the Union education minister and the governments acceptance of the protesters demands. The agitation galvanised thousands of students in protests across the country and received the support of major opposition parties. The discontent spilt over into a massive march to Parliament on July 20, which witnessed a strong police response involving lathicharge and the use of tear gas. After three rounds of talks, the CJP and the government reached an agreement on July 25 under which the government accepted its demands, following which the protest was called off.

AIP welcomes PM's message on compassion, urges similar relief for J&K Youth

Awami Itihaad Party has welcomed Prime Minister Narendra Modi's recent video message advocating compassion towards young people who commit mistakes at a young age, while urging the Prime Minister to extend the same approach to the youth of Jammu and Kashmir. In a video message shared on social media, AIP Senior Leader and MLA Langate Sheikh Khursheed said the Prime Minister's remarks reflected an important and positive message of compassion, forgiveness and reconciliation. However, he questioned why the same humanitarian approach was not being applied to thousands of young people in Jammu and Kashmir. I appreciate the Hon'ble Prime Minister for conveying that society should not drag young people into police stations and courts for mistakes committed during their younger years and that elders should guide and forgive them. It is a positive message. But I sincerely ask, should this compassion not also extend to the youth of Jammu and Kashmir? Sheikh Khursheed said. The AIP leader said that thousands of Kashmiri youth continue to face prolonged legal cases, repeated police summons and other difficulties despite aspiring to build normal lives. Even today, whenever an unfortunate incident takes place anywhere in Jammu and Kashmir, particularly in Kashmir, hundreds of young people are summoned to police stations. Many educated youth who successfully clear competitive examinations continue to face verification-related hurdles. Others encounter difficulties in passport verification or remain entangled in cases for years. Families expect relief, dignity and equal treatment under the law, he said. Sheikh Khursheed also referred to those incarcerated under different security-related laws and urged the government to adopt a humanitarian approach wherever legally and constitutionally possible. Many young people have spent the prime years of their lives behind bars while legal proceedings continue. Every case has its own legal process, but wherever there is scope under the Constitution and the law, the Government should consider humanitarian measures that help deserving youth return to normal life and contribute positively to society, he added. Appealing directly to the Prime Minister, Sheikh Khursheed said he hoped the message of compassion would also reach the people of Jammu and Kashmir. I hope the Hon'ble Prime Minister will also address the youth of Jammu and Kashmir with the same spirit of compassion and reassurance, and take appropriate steps to resolve genuine issues relating to long-pending cases, verifications and other hardships in accordance with the law. The youth of Jammu and Kashmir deserve hope, fairness and an opportunity to build their future with dignity, he said. He added that extending equal compassion and justice to the youth of Jammu and Kashmir would strengthen trust, promote reconciliation and reinforce the country's commitment to fairness and inclusive governance.

PDP holds organisational meeting at Kani Mazar, Habba Kadal

PDP senior leader and Constituency Incharge Habba Kadal, Arif Laigaroo, along with District Secretary Mohammad Altaf Tambakoo Saturday chaired an organisational meeting at Kani Mazar, Nawab Bazar, the meeting was organised by zone president habba kadal tufail bhat during which Bilal Naikoo was unanimously nominated as the Ward President for Nawab Bazar. The meeting witnessed enthusiastic participation from local residents and party workers, who discussed various public issues affecting the area and reviewed feedback received from the people. Discussions also focused on strengthening the party at the grassroots level, enhancing public outreach, and ensuring regular interaction with residents to address their concerns effectively. Addressing the gathering, Laigaroo emphasised the importance of strong grassroots coordination and urged party workers to remain closely connected with the people. He called upon all office bearers and workers to work with dedication and unity in serving the public and promoting the overall welfare and development of the constituency. The meeting was attended by Zone President Tufail Bhat, Vice Zone President Mohd Imtiyaz Mir, Hajira G, Asma bilal , Faheem Bhat, Bilal Naikoo, Shabir Ahmad, Fayaz Reshi, Zahoor Ahmad, Sheikh Numan, and several other senior party workers.

Apni Party stages protest, says Govt has failed; urges NC to fulfil promises

Accusing the government of failing to address pressing public issues and grievances, Apni Party on Saturday staged protest demonstrations at Srinagars press colony. Party's Provincial President for Kashmir, Mohammad Ashraf Mir, led the protest demonstration by the party leaders and workers against the government's failures in Jammu and Kashmir. The protesters raised slogans condemning the government's failure to create employment opportunities for educated youth, end random arrests, address development deficits, and resolve other pressing public issues and grievances, said a press release. After the vibrant protest demonstrations, Mohammad Ashraf Mir spoke to reporters and said that the government had failed on every front to deliver effective governance. He said, People gave a massive mandate to the ruling party in the hope that it would fulfil the promises it made during its 2024 election campaign. However, the reality is that the government has failed to deliver on those promises and has even been unable to provide basic necessities to the people. He further said, What has this government done to create employment opportunities for our educated youth, who are currently grappling with the challenges of unemployment? Unemployment is one of the major factors contributing to the growing drug menace in our society. The ruling party had promised that it would provide one lakh jobs to the youth soon after assuming power in Jammu and Kashmir. Where are those jobs? Mir also accused the government of failing to bridge the developmental deficit in Jammu and Kashmir. He said that the entire development process has come to a halt and alleged that the government is least bothered about the situation. He expressed grave concern over the killing of two migrant labourers in Kulgam on Friday evening. He said, A few days ago, a policeman was killed in Anantnag, and now two innocent people, who had come here only to earn their livelihood, have been brutally killed. This is a deeply painful situation. He also urged the government to play its role in putting an end to the alleged arbitrary arrests of youth in various parts of Kashmir.

Illegal 'Bengali Nets' destroying future of Kashmir's fisheries: Usman Majid

Former Minister and Ex-MLA Bandipora Usman Majid has voiced serious concern over the alarming decline in the fish population of Wular Lake, attributing it to the growing use of large fishing nets, locally known as Bengali nets, by a section of fishermen. He described the practice as one of the biggest threats to the lake's fragile aquatic ecosystem, saying these oversized nets indiscriminately trap fish of every size, including juvenile fish and breeding stock, leaving little opportunity for natural regeneration. He warned that if this destructive practice is not stopped immediately, Wular Lake could lose much of its fish wealth, resulting in a sharp decline in fish production and pushing hundreds of families dependent on fishing towards economic distress. Majid said Wular Lake has for generations sustained the livelihoods of thousands of fishermen and served as one of Kashmir's richest freshwater fisheries. However, unchecked exploitation through illegal fishing methods is pushing the lake towards an ecological crisis. He said protecting fish stocks is not merely an environmental responsibility but an economic necessity for the survival of the traditional fishing community. He appealed to all genuine fishermen to reject such harmful practices and work collectively to conserve the lake's fish resources for future generations. Calling for urgent intervention, Majid urged the Lieutenant Governor's Administration, the Jammu & Kashmir Government, the Director of Fisheries, the Fisheries Department, the District Administration Bandipora, and all concerned agencies to launch a comprehensive drive against the use of illegal Bengali nets. He demanded regular inspections, seizure of prohibited nets, strict enforcement of fisheries laws, and continuous monitoring to prevent further destruction of fish stocks. He said the administration must act before the damage becomes irreversible. Expressing concern over the continued use of such illegal nets despite existing regulations, Usman Majid said there should be a fair and transparent inquiry into whether any officials responsible for protecting Wular Lake have failed in their duties or, if evidence establishes it, have facilitated these activities. Anyone found guilty of negligence, collusion, or violating the law should face exemplary legal and departmental action without fear or favour. Wular Lake is the lifeline of Kashmir's fisheries. If we fail to protect its fish today, future generations will inherit an empty lake instead of a thriving ecosystem. This is not merely about fish production, it is about safeguarding our environment, our heritage, and the livelihood of thousands of hardworking families. The time for complacency has ended. What is needed now is immediate action, strict enforcement, and zero tolerance for those destroying the priceless aquatic wealth of Wular Lake, Majid said.

J&K Judicial Academy holds Day-44 induction training for newly appointed Civil Judges

The Jammu and Kashmir Judicial Academy on Saturday conducted the 44th day of its Pre-Appointment Induction Training Programme (Batch-2026) for newly appointed Civil Judges (Junior Division) at its Mominabad campus here. Held under the patronage of Acting Chief Justice Sanjeev Kumar and the guidance of Rajnesh Oswal, Chairman of the Academy's Governing Committee, the programme focused on criminal proceedings and judicial case management. The forenoon sessions were conducted by Mohd. Yousuf Wani, who delivered lectures on criminal proceedings from registration of an FIR to cognizance, and on the commencement of trial and judicial management of criminal cases. Justice Wani described induction training as a bridge between academic learning and practical judicial functioning. He familiarised trainee judges with various stages of criminal proceedings, including investigation, cognizance, framing of charges, recording of evidence and judicial management of criminal trials. He also stressed the importance of judicial discretion, procedural safeguards, independence, integrity and ethical conduct. In the afternoon session, Rahul Bharti addressed the trainee judges, urging them to approach judicial service with seriousness, dedication and maturity. He encouraged the officers to embrace challenges as opportunities for learning, saying professional excellence comes through knowledge, competence, integrity and hard work rather than promotions alone. He also advised them to remain committed to continuous learning, humility and compassionate delivery of justice. Director of the Judicial Academy Naseer Ahmad Dar highlighted the expertise of the resource persons and underscored the importance of practical understanding of criminal law and active participation in training. The academy said the sessions were interactive, with trainee officers seeking clarifications on practical and procedural aspects of criminal law.

Uri court acquits woman, orders action against police officials

A court in Uri has acquitted a woman who, it said, was falsely implicated in a criminal case after she visited a police station to lodge a complaint in 2020, while directing action against the investigating officer and asking the Senior Superintendent of Police (SSP), Baramulla, to ensure such incidents are not repeated. The case stemmed from FIR No. 111/2020 registered at Police Station Uri under Sections 353, 336, 323 and 506 of the IPC. Police had alleged that Fatima abused a woman constable, obstructed her official duties, pelted stones causing injuries and issued threats after being stopped at the police station gate. However, the court found major inconsistencies in the prosecution case. It noted that the alleged stone used in the assault was never seized, medical evidence did not support the claim of injuries, and the shirt produced as part of the complainant's police uniform did not conform to the prescribed uniform pattern. The court also observed that prosecution witnesses admitted a police station is a public place where citizens are entitled to enter to submit complaints. It noted that Fatima was frisked in the open despite witnesses acknowledging that women should be searched in privacy. Rejecting the police version, the court said there was no evidence to support the claim that entry to the police station had been restricted because of an official meeting. It also observed that senior officers allegedly present at the station never appeared despite the commotion described by the prosecution. The court held that preventing the woman from entering the police station, publicly frisking her and subsequently prosecuting her instead of addressing her complaint amounted to a violation of her fundamental rights and an abuse of police authority. It further observed that the woman was within her rights to object to being frisked in public and said her alleged implication on concocted evidence after the destruction of her mobile phone reflected a misuse of legal process. While acquitting Fatima of all charges, the court directed initiation of separate proceedings (Robkar) against the investigating officer and the complainant to explain why action should not be taken against them for falsely implicating her. The court also directed that a copy of the judgment be sent to the SSP, Baramulla, with instructions to ensure private enclosures or screens are provided for frisking women at police stations and that no citizen approaching a police station to seek redress suffers a similar ordeal.