Opinion

High Court issues notice to J&K govt in PIL seeking appointment of Advocate General

Srinagar, Sep 14: The High Court of Jammu and Kashmir and Ladakh on Monday issued a notice to the government on a Public Interest Litigation (PIL) seeking the immediate appointment of a regular Advocate General for the Union Territory. A bench comprising Chief Justice Pushpendra Singh Bhati and Justice Rajnesh Oswal issued the notice to the Union Territory of Jammu and Kashmir through its Chief Secretary and law secretary by October 21, the next date of hearing. The PIL, filed by advocate Harsh Dubey through counsel Kannu Karan Prasher, in Jammu, seeks a direction to the competent authority to take immediate steps for filling the constitutional post of Advocate General, which has remained vacant for a considerable period. During the virtual hearing, the Court observed that the post of Advocate General should, ideally, be filled by the next date of hearing. The petitioner, a practicing advocate before the High Court, stated in the plea that he has no personal interest in the matter and is approaching the Court in public interest, given that the continued vacancy of the constitutional office has affected the administration of justice and the discharge of statutory functions attached to the post. The petition draws attention to an earlier order dated June 4, 2025, passed by the High Court in Shri Nav Durga Jhaleri Mata Trust v. UT of J&K & Ors (WP(C) No. 1433/2025), in which the Court had already taken note of the prolonged vacancy and observed that it was rendering Section 92 of the Code of Civil Procedure, 1908 which contemplates a role for the Advocate General in matters relating to public charitable and religious trusts practically inoperative. The petitioner also highlighted that the vacancy has affected the functioning of the Jammu & Kashmir Advocates' Welfare Fund Trustee Committee, since the Advocate General serves as its ex-officio Chairperson under the Advocates' Welfare Fund Act, 2001 and the notification constituting the Committee (S.O. 466 of 2022). The petition seeks directions to the respondents to initiate and complete, within a reasonable time frame fixed by the Court, the process contemplated under Section 79 of the Jammu & Kashmir Reorganisation Act, 2019, for appointment of an Advocate General. It also seeks directions for the smooth functioning of the Advocates' Welfare Fund Trustee Committee, and for the respondents to place on record an affidavit disclosing the reasons for the continued vacancy and the steps taken so far. The petitioner has clarified that the plea does not seek the appointment of any particular individual to the post, and is confined to seeking expeditious action in accordance with law.

If situation in J&K has improved, its benefits should reach people: Tanvir Sadiq

Srinagar, Sep 14: Senior National Conference leader and MLA Tanvir Sadiq on Monday said the BRICS summit was an important development, but argued that any improvement in the situation in Jammu and Kashmir must translate into tangible benefits for its people. Sadiq was responding to questions about the BRICS summit and recent statements by Union Home Minister Amit Shah, including his remarks on the situation following the abrogation of Article 370 and Article 35A in 2019. If we are only talking about the BRICS summit, then it is a good thing that economies from different parts of the world have come together, and that it happened in India, Sadiq said. However, he said the summit should not be used in isolation to assess the situation in Jammu and Kashmir. But if you are relating it to how the situation has been in Jammu and Kashmir, then if the situation has improved, I would like to raise that point again: its dividend should reach the people of Jammu and Kashmir, he said. Sadiq said those who had contributed to the improvement in the situation should be the beneficiaries of its gains. The benefits that come from this dividend should go to the people of Jammu and Kashmir, the people who have participated wholeheartedly, he said. He also argued that the administration should respond to public demands if the situation in the region was indeed normal. If the situation has become better and people today come out on the roads and make their demands, then those demands should be fulfilled, Sadiq said. The NC leader also questioned whether the concerns and expectations of Jammu and Kashmirs elected government were being adequately addressed by the Centre. Where the BRICS summit is important, the BJP and the government in Delhi also need to see whether the representation and the sentiments of their elected government in Jammu and Kashmir are being fulfilled, he said. Sadiq said the Centre had yet to deliver on commitments made to Jammu and Kashmir, despite two years having passed since the current elected government took office. Because it has been two years now, and what was promised to us by this very government in Delhi has still not been fulfilled, he said. I feel that while other things are important, this is also very important, Sadiq added.

Waqf Board working to modernise shrines, expand public facilities: Darakhshan Andrabi

Cleanliness cannot be achieved through govt spending alone: Mandeep Kaur

Imran Reza Ansari urges accountability over Brari Nambal landfilling

Srinagar, Sep 14: Former minister and senior political leader Imran Reza Ansari has urged the Jammu and Kashmir Government to take strict action over alleged landfilling at Brari Nambal, saying partial demolition of the structures would not be enough to address the damage caused to the waterbody. In a statement, Ansari said the action at Brari Nambal risked becoming an eye wash if it ended with partial demolition alone. Referring to a report by Greater Kashmir, he said landfilling had allegedly continued for nearly 15 days. The bigger question is: who brought the material, who carried out the filling, and how was it allowed to continue? he asked. Ansari called for identification of those responsible, removal of the entire filling and restoration of the waterbody at the encroachers cost. He also demanded a proper investigation into the alleged violation and said that wherever offences were established, FIRs and prosecution should follow. Partially demolishing what was built after allowing the damage to happen is not enough. We need accountability for the original act as well as for any failure of monitoring, he said. Ansari stressed the need to protect Kashmirs remaining lakes, wetlands and other waterbodies for future generations. We need to keep something for our generation. Our children deserve to inherit clean lakes, wetlands and water bodies, not filled-up land and concrete, he said, adding that the remaining natural water systems must be protected from further destruction. He further said that protecting waterbodies and enforcing existing laws did not require statehood, but required political will, administrative seriousness and responsible citizenship. Quoting the Quran, Ansari said, And We made from water every living thing. (Quran 21:30) Water is a trust and a source of life. Protecting it is not merely an environmental responsibility; it is a moral responsibility, he said. Ansari urged Chief Minister Omar Abdullah to take cognisance of the matter.

J&K first to implement National Education Policy: Education Secretary

EOW chargesheets Kupwara man in fake govt job scam; 15 cases registered across Kashmir

Srinagar, Sep 14: The Economic Offences Wing (EOW) Kashmir of Crime Branch J&K has filed a chargesheet against a Kupwara man accused of cheating people on the pretext of securing government jobs, officials said on Monday. The chargesheet was filed before the Court of Forest Magistrate, Srinagar, in FIR No. 12/2026 under Sections 420, 468 and 471 of the Indian Penal Code (IPC) against Abdul Majeed Mir, son of Abdul Rahim Mir, a resident of Lishtiyal, Kalaroos, Kupwara. According to the EOW, the case was registered following a written complaint alleging that the accused had taken lakhs of rupees from the complainant on the promise of securing a government job for his son. The accused allegedly provided an appointment order purportedly issued by the Airports Authority of India, which was subsequently found to be fake and forged. The EOW said the allegations were substantiated during the investigation, following which the chargesheet was presented before the competent court for judicial determination. The accused, against whom 15 criminal cases have been registered across the Kashmir Valley, was arrested on July 18, 2026, and is presently lodged in Central Jail, Srinagar. The EOW alleged that Mir impersonated influential persons and bureaucrats to deceive and cheat unsuspecting people. The agency has advised the public to remain vigilant against economic fraud and verify claims of government employment before making any payments. People who have been victims of economic fraud can report their complaints to SSP EOW Srinagar Abdul Waheed Shah or email sspeow-kmr@jkpolice.gov.in . The allegations against the accused are subject to judicial determination.

Will take up NHM employees issue with CM, health minister: G.A. Mir

Javed Rana lays foundation stone for macadamisation of ChajjalaRamkund Road in Mendhar

JKMSA seeks revision of stipends, remuneration for PG, senior resident doctors

Srinagar, Sep 14: The Jammu and Kashmir Medical Students Association (JKMSA) has sought a comprehensive revision of stipends for postgraduate (PG) residents and remuneration for senior resident doctors in government medical institutions across Jammu and Kashmir. In a representation addressed to the Health Minister, Government of Jammu and Kashmir, the association urged the government to review the existing remuneration structure, citing disparities with other major government and apex medical institutions. The association also extended its support to the demands raised by the Resident Doctors Association (RDA) of Jammu and other resident doctors' associations across the Union Territory. JKMSA said postgraduate and senior resident doctors form an indispensable part of the healthcare system, providing round-the-clock patient care, emergency and casualty services, intensive care, operation theatre duties, labour room services and specialist consultations. It said resident doctors also undertake clinical documentation, teaching, supervision and other responsibilities alongside their medical training. The association said the existing remuneration structure needed a comprehensive review in the interest of resident doctors' welfare, equitable compensation, recruitment and retention of qualified doctors, quality of postgraduate medical education and uninterrupted patient care. Seeks parity with other medical institutions In its representation, JKMSA cited remuneration benchmarks from several medical institutions, including the Sher-i-Kashmir Institute of Medical Sciences (SKIMS), AIIMS Jammu, Government Medical College Chandigarh and Government Medical College Jammu. According to the figures cited by the association, PG residents at SKIMS receive approximately Rs 80,000 per month in the first year, Rs 85,000 in the second year and Rs 88,00090,000 in the third year. The representation puts senior resident remuneration at SKIMS at approximately Rs 1.30 lakh per month, while the corresponding figure for AIIMS Jammu is stated to be around Rs 1.40 lakh. It also cites senior resident remuneration of approximately Rs 1.40 lakh to Rs 1.50 lakh per month at Government Medical College Chandigarh. For Government Medical College Jammu, the association listed the current monthly stipends as Rs 64,000 for first-year PG residents, Rs 68,000 for second-year residents and Rs 72,000 for third-year residents. Senior residents, it said, receive Rs 94,000 per month. The association said these figures highlighted the remuneration differences faced by resident doctors in the region and reinforced the need for a rational and time-bound review. It added that the figures could be verified against applicable official orders and pay structures during the government's review. Cites NMC regulations JKMSA also referred to the Post-Graduate Medical Education Regulations, 2023, notified by the National Medical Commission (NMC), stating that postgraduate students are entitled to stipends on a par with those paid to postgraduate students of state or Central government medical institutions in the state or Union Territory where the institution is located. The association urged the government to assess the prevailing stipends across Government Medical Colleges Jammu and Srinagar, SKIMS, AIIMS Jammu and other applicable government medical institutions, and rectify any disparities in accordance with the relevant NMC requirements. The representation further highlighted the clinical responsibilities shouldered by PG residents and senior residents, including emergency duties, inpatient care, intensive care, operative procedures and other essential medical services. JKMSA said a fair and uniform remuneration structure would help improve resident doctors' welfare while strengthening the healthcare delivery system across Jammu and Kashmir.

Yemen's Houthi rebels seize more key islands in southern Red Sea, tighten grip on shipping routes

Cairo, Sep 14: Yemen's Houthi rebels captured more strategic islands in the southern Red Sea, Yemeni government and Houthi officials said on Monday, strengthening their control of a major maritime shipping route. The rebels deployed fighters on the islands of Greater Hanish and Lesser Hanish 160 kilometres north of Bab el-Mandeb Strait, according to two government officials and a Houthi official. The Houthis took over the islands after hundreds of government-allied forces withdrew from the archipelago, said the officials who spoke on condition of anonymity because they were not authorised to talk to journalists. The capture of the islands came after the rebels last week seized the port city of Mokha and the island of Mayun, located inside Bab el-Mandeb Strait from Saudi-backed Yemeni government forces. (AP)

Bigg Boss 20: Salman Khan praises Kashmiri contestant Qazi Tauqeer

Srinagar, Sep 14: Salman Khan showered full praise on Kashmiri contestant Qazi Tauqeer, during the latest episode of Bigg Boss 20, saying, Theres only one rockstar amongst you all. Qazi Touqeer, the entire week you played quite well. Although, this season, Big Boss 20, receives mixed reaction- mostly criticism- ove an underwhelming cast, however Fame Gurukul 2005 winner, Qazi Touqeer has emerged as one of the shows most talked-about contestants, earning overwhelming praise from host Salman Khan during the seasons first Weekend Ka Vaar. Let me tell you guys, no matter how many stars exist in this house, theres only one rockstar amongst you all. Qazi Touqeer, the entire week you played quite well. Salman Khan said on Tauqeer's performance. Putting the spotlight on Qazi, Salman later asked Qazi, Tell me one thing: you got everything in life so soon; you became a rockstar, did a show with Arijit Singh, you won the show. Arijit is doing so well right now. You got this platform now, but what did you do in the last 20 years? Qazi replied, I did a lot of live shows. Further, Salman further said Qazi Tauqeer that people initially wondered how he sang and now hey cannot stop praising you now. The bollywood superstar said people appreciate Tauqeer's humor and performance. Furthermore, comparing Qazi's struggle with Hollywood actor John Travolta and bollwood actor Bobby Deol, Salman Khan said that even the biggest stars today, went through a bad phase, but they never gave up. Everyone faces ups and downs, and during the downtime, you have to work 10 times harder, he said, adiing that Sometimes in life, you get a few things very quickly, and you lose them also quickly. A good thing about the bad times is that it ends, and when you take good times for granted, as I do sometimes, it also ends. I know that during the bad times, keep working hard, as Qazi Touqeer did. He achieved so much, then he lost it, but he didnt stop working. Through all your struggles and challenges, the biggest effort was to stay mentally strong, which a lot of people cant do. So people should learn this from you, the host added. Bigg Boss 20 contestant Qazi Touqeer is a singer who rose to fame after participating in the singing reality show Fame Gurukul in 2005. He went on to win the show, reportedly receiving the highest number of votes recorded for a singing reality show at the time. It was during Fame Gurukul that Qazi met Arijit Singh and the two went on to become close friends.

Fighting in Yemen intensifies as Houthis launch more attacks on Saudi Arabia

Aden, Sep 14: The conflict in Yemen intensified on Sunday, as government forces launched attacks against Iran-backed Houthi rebels along the Red Sea and Houthis fired into neighbouring Saudi Arabia, which supports Yemen's government. The Yemeni government vowed to send more forces to the Red Sea coast and one official conceded a painful defeat last week when Houthis captured the port city of Mokha and an island on the Bab el-Mandeb Strait, a crucial shipping alternative to the Strait of Hormuz. The escalation -- especially Houthi attacks on Saudi oil infrastructure and its shipping in the Red Sea -- adds pressure on global oil supplies and prices, and that could give Iran leverage in its war with the United States. As Yemen risks descending into another civil war, the United Nations estimated that more than 80,000 people in the impoverished country have been displaced by the fighting since the start of September. One woman said a mortar shell fell nearby as she fled in the middle of the night from the town of Khawkha in Hodeida province along the Red Sea, shortly before it was captured by Houthis. I saw with my own eyes cars and buses burning, and bodies of children and women were lying on the road in a horrific scene, said the woman, who spoke on condition of anonymity out of concern for her and her family's safety. Houthis claim attacks against Saudi Arabia Saudi authorities sounded sirens Sunday afternoon in the southern city of Abha and Khamis Mushait province, warning residents to take shelter from potential incoming fire. Both areas were repeatedly attacked by the Houthi in recent weeks. The Houthis claimed to have used drones and missiles to target Saudi Arabia, including a military base just over the border with Yemen. Houthi military spokesperson Brig. Gen. Yahya Saree didn't provide evidence or say when the attack occurred. The Saudi civil defence overnight said a projectile fell in a different area near the border with Yemen along the Red Sea, injuring two people and damaging a mosque and several other buildings. The statement blamed the Houthis. Saudi Arabia did not announce any new attacks targeting the Houthis. The Houthis are targeting Saudi oil infrastructure and shipping as part of a recently declared blockade, but they have said they do not intend to threaten other countries' commercial shipping. Yemen says 500 soldiers killed as it vows to fight back The National Resistance, a government-allied force that had controlled coastal areas, said more than 500 government fighters were killed on the west coast over the past four weeks -- its first comprehensive toll. It also said more than 1,000 Houthis had been killed in Hodeida and Taiz provinces. A spokesman for the Houthis didn't respond to a request for comment. Yemen is home to over 40 million people who fear a return to the civil war that began more than a decade ago and killed 150,000, bringing many others to the brink of famine. Yemen's internationally recognised government and Saudi Arabia have been battling the Houthis for 12 years. A ceasefire that began in 2022 had mostly halted the fighting. A senior government official in Yemen said its forces will return to the Red Sea coast and fight back. People fleeing the Houthi advance told The Associated Press they saw forces withdrawing and urging people to run. Sultan al-Arada, a member of the ruling presidential leadership council, described the collapse of government forces in the port city of Mokha and elsewhere on Yemen's west coast as painful and regrettable. He said in the televised interview aired late Saturday that forces are currently regrouping and will return to the battle. On Sunday, Rashad al-Alimi, who leads the presidential council, sought to downplay the defeats as incidental, according to comments published by the country's state-run SABA news agency. The government, he said, will remain clear and fixed on the goal of retrieving (state) institutions and of reclaiming sovereignty over all national territories. On Sunday, the Yemeni military said it launched airstrikes on Houthi positions in Mokha, the coastal town of Dhubab and elsewhere in Taiz province. The rebels reported strikes by the Saudi-backed forces in Taiz province and artillery shelling in Saada province, a Houthi stronghold on Yemen's northern border with Saudi Arabia. The advance puts Houthis closer to a major US base in Djibouti The Houthis' advance puts them just 32 kilometres from the US military base in Djibouti, on the other side of the Bab el-Mandeb Strait. It's the main US base in Africa and one of several foreign military bases in Djibouti, including those of China, France and Japan. The small Horn of Africa nation is already seeing the arrival of displaced Yemenis making the perilous water crossing. More than 2,000 Yemenis have reached Djibouti, the International Organisation for Migration said Sunday. Djibouti's Economy and Finance Minister Ilyas M Dawaleh, said on X that the country's navy, coast guard and other specialized agencies were conducting rescue operations and providing emergency assistance. Yemenis displaced by fighting worry about their survival The UN migration agency said Sunday that more than 82,000 people in Yemen have been displaced since the beginning of September. The displaced people are in a very bad condition, said Ahmad al-Masawi, the director of the Al Salam camp in the southern port city of Aden, who appealed to international organisations for assistance. They left their homes quickly without any clothing or anything. They are crammed in camps, houses and even on roads. Hussein Haydara sat outside a shelter at the camp in a white undershirt, as his children waited to be assigned to a tent. He worried about how far the shelter is from schools, hospitals and markets, and wondered how they will survive the next weeks or months. Haydara had fled his home in Hodeida once before, when the Houthis took it over in 2015. But this time feels more precarious. With the first displacement, we had time to plan things but this time we were forced to escape all of a sudden. One could hardly take their children and the lightest stuff possible, he said.

Kashmiri Pandit group demands time-bound return roadmap

Srinagar, Sep 14: The Kashmir Policy & Strategy Group, chaired by senior advocate Ashok Bhan, organised a web meeting on the eve of Kashmiri Pandit Balidan Divas, with participants calling for a time-bound roadmap for the communitys return and rehabilitation in Kashmir. According to a statement issued by the group, the meeting was attended by intellectuals, former bureaucrats, academicians, media personalities, social and womens rights activists, representatives of community organisations, overseas diaspora representatives and youth. The participants paid tributes to Kashmiri Pandits who, according to the statement, were killed by militants and discussed the displacement of the community from the Valley. The meeting also discussed the impact of the communitys 37-year displacement, including loss of life, destruction, demographic changes and disruption of cultural and social ties. According to the statement, participants reiterated their resolve to return to Kashmir, with emphasis on security, dignity, equality and participation in the social and economic life of the region. The group called on the Government of India to formulate a comprehensive and time-bound Return, Rehabilitation and Restitution Roadmap in consultation with representative Kashmiri Pandit organisations. It said such a framework should address security, voluntary return, property restitution, housing and livelihood opportunities, as well as the protection of temples and cultural heritage. The participants also called for measurable targets, designated institutional responsibilities and periodic public review of the implementation of any such roadmap. The meeting concluded with a call to translate the communitys demand for return into a structured policy framework, the statement said.

Two killed, seven injured as Matador overturns near Reasi

Reasi, Sept 14: Two people were killed and seven others injured after a passenger Matador overturned near the Bakkal Tunnel area of Reasi district on Monday, officials said. An official said that the Matador, bearing registration number JK14B-2973, was travelling from Bakkal towards Reasi when it overturned on the road near the tunnel. He said two persons died in the accident, while seven others sustained injuries and their identities are being ascertained. Police and rescue teams have reached the spot and shifted the injured to a nearby hospital for treatment, the official said. Meanwhile, police have initiated necessary proceedings.(KNO)

'A proud moment for Indian cricket': PM Modi, President congratulate Indian women's T20 cricket team for winning Asia Cup

New Delhi, Sep 14: Prime Minister Narendra Modi and President Droupadi Murmu on Monday congratulated the Indian women's cricket team for winning the T20 Asia Cup Championship, with both terming the triumph a proud moment for Indian. Harmanpreet Kaur-led Team India defeated Sri Lanka by 72 runs in Dubai on Sunday to lift their record-extending eighth Asia Cup title. A proud moment for Indian cricket! Congratulations to the Women's team on winning the Asia Cup, Modi said in a post on 'X'. The prime minister said the confidence of the players, their consistency and remarkable spirit were on full display throughout the tournament. May this triumph inspire millions of youngsters across the country to play more and shine, he said The President of India, Droupadi Murmu, also expressed pleasure over the victory, saying that the girls in blue are a source of inspiration for our youth, especially our daughters. They are a source of great inspiration for our youth, especially our daughters. I am sure, they will script many more inspiring chapters of success and excellence, she said in a post on X. My heartiest congratulations to all the members of Team India on winning Women's T20 Asia Cup Championship 2026. They played superbly as a team throughout the tournament, winning all the matches. They have done the country proud, the President said.

Trump downplays need to check AI development, says he doesn't want to cede edge to China

AI has become a major election-year issue in the US as some of the country's largest companies seed small towns with a national network of computing warehouses

18-year-old girl dies of gunshot under mysterious circumstances In Reasi

Reasi, Sep 14: An 18-year-old girl died of a gunshot injury under mysterious circumstances at her residence in Panassa area of Thakrakote block in Reasi district late last night. Officials said that the deceased has been identified as Priyanka Devi, daughter of Kapoor Singh, resident of Panassa, Thakrakote. As per initial reports, the girl allegedly shot herself dead at her house. The exact circumstances leading to the incident are yet to be ascertained. Police have taken cognizance of the incident and started investigation.(GNS)

Iranian cargo ship struck; talks between Tehran, neighbours postponed

Cairo, Sep 14: An Iranian cargo vessel was struck early Sunday off Qeshm Island in the Strait of Hormuz, Iranian state media said, and Tehran postponed a plan to brief neighbouring countries on its contested efforts to manage shipping in the strait. The attack drew attention back to the strait after threats to shipping in the Red Sea intensified last week. Iran-backed Houthi rebels battling government forces in Yemen captured an island on the Bab el-Mandeb Strait, a crucial shipping alternative to the Strait of Hormuz. Iran's state-run IRNA news agency quoted the Qeshm governor as blaming a errorist enemy for Sunday's attack, which it said killed one and wounded four. There was no immediate comment by the US military, which has struck Iranian-flagged vessels during its blockade of Iranian ports and faces a new threat from Iranian ballistic missiles launched at its warships. Qeshm Island, about 22 kilometres from the port city of Bandar Abbas, is key to Iran asserting control over the Strait of Hormuz. Hours before the attack, Iran's government remained defiant. Our people can't be bullied into submission. Iran won't surrender, President Masoud Pezeshkian said in a social media post. US President Donald Trump disagreed, saying on Sunday that Iran wants to make a deal so bad that hey're calling constantly. Trump spoke at his golf course in Doonbeg, Ireland, where he was attending a tournament. Later, when asked by a reporter whether the US struck the Iranian cargo vessel early Sunday in the Strait of Hormuz, Trump said, I don't want to say. He then boarded Air Force One to head back to Washington. Iran aims to brief regional countries on the strait Iran had said foreign ministers from regional countries would meet Monday in Oman to discuss efforts by Iran and Oman, located on the other side of the strait, to manage shipping on it. But the foreign minister of Oman, Badr Albusaidi, said on X late Sunday that the meeting had been postponed in the interests of consensus. Iran and Oman agreed to postpone the talks at the request of some regional countries, said Mohammad Ali Bak, an official in Iran's foreign ministry who was quoted by IRNA on X. Saudi Arabia has submitted amendments to the Iran-Oman agreement, citing concerns that the emerging deal could have lasting implications for the Strait of Hormuz that could negatively impact other Gulf Cooperation Council countries, according to a Gulf official familiar with the matter who spoke on the condition of anonymity. Commercial ship traffic remains low in the Strait of Hormuz as attacks continue on what was seen as an international waterway before the US and Israel launched the war on February 28. The United Kingdom Maritime Trade Operations monitor said Sunday that a vessel was hit by a projectile while transiting the strait, though it was not clear if this was referring to the attack Iran had reported off Qeshm. The monitor said a severe fire had broken out and that local authorities were evacuating those on board. The US has asserted that plenty of oil is getting out as its military helps to guide ships along Oman's coast, at the risk of being struck. Before the meeting in Oman was postponed, only Iraq had publicly confirmed plans to attend. Bahrain had said it would not attend, citing a lack of diplomatic relations with Tehran. Since early in the war, Iran has expressed interest in having ships pay fees for transit. It has said traffic into the Persian Gulf would pass through Iranian waters, while the outbound route would pass partly through Iranian waters and partly through Oman's. There had been some optimism in the region about the planned meeting, with hope that Gulf nations might use it to assert a collective response to a war they had no part in starting. For months, they have faced Iranian attacks that Tehran has claimed target US military assets on their lands. On Sunday, Iran's president said he had a good talk over the weekend with a top official from the United Arab Emirates on the sidelines of a global summit of leading developing nations. Iran has fired thousands of missiles and drones at the Gulf country, a close US ally. Pezeshkian said he met with Abu Dhabi's crown prince, Sheikh Khaled bin Mohamed bin Zayed, while attending the BRICs summit in New Delhi. We talked about the issues of concern so that it's possible to put the past behind us, to look toward the future and how we can build the future together, Pezeshkian said. His comments were aired live on Iranian state television.

Iran-backed Houthis in Yemen claim new attacks on Saudi Arabia

Iran-backed Houthis in Yemen overnight claimed new attacks on neighbouring Saudi Arabia, as Yemen's Saudi-backed government described the rebels' swift advance along the Red Sea coast as a painful development in a new front in the Iran war. The Houthis' capture of a key port city and an island on the Bab el-Mandeb Strait, a crucial shipping alternative to the Strait of Hormuz, in recent days has alarmed markets and Yemeni civilians who fear a return to devastating civil war. Overnight, the Houthis claimed more attacks with missiles and drones on Saudi Arabia, which supports Yemen's internationally recognised government that's been fighting the rebels. A Houthi military spokesperson, Brig Gen Yahya Saree, claimed in a statement that they targeted a military base in Sharurah province in Saudi Arabia's Najran region. He didn't provide evidence or say when the attack occurred. The Saudi civil defence overnight said a projectile fell in al-Tawwal governorate near the border with Yemen along the Red Sea, injuring two people and damaging a mosque and several other buildings. The statement blamed the Houthis. It also said sirens went off in Sharurah province but didn't report casualties or damage. There was no Saudi statement on Sunday on any new attacks targeting the Houthis, who have been hitting Saudi oil infrastructure and shipping as part of a recently declared blockade. While the rebels have said there is no threat to other commercial shipping, markets remain wary, and oil prices have risen again. A senior government official in Yemen said its forces will return to the Red Sea coast and fight back, after people fleeing the Houthi advance told The Associated Press they saw forces withdrawing and urging people to run. Sultan al-Arada, a member of the ruling presidential council, described the collapse of government forces in the port city of Mokha and elsewhere on Yemen's west coast as painful and regrettable. Al-Arada, also governor of central Marib province, said in the televised interview aired late Saturday that forces are currently regrouping and will return to the battle in one form or another. On Friday, a senior military official with Yemen's internationally recognised government blamed lack of coordination between Yemen's army and multiple allied militias, saying it gave the Houthis a priceless opportunity. The official, who spoke on condition of anonymity because he wasn't allowed to speak to the media, also said they were stunned that the Saudi air force didn't act to prevent the capture of Mokha, about 80 kilometres from the strait. The rebels' rapid advance has been a major setback both to Yemen's internationally recognised government and Saudi Arabia, which have been battling the Houthis for 12 years. The latest escalation threatens a 2022 ceasefire. The advance also puts the Iran-backed rebels just 32 kilometres from the US military base in Djibouti, on the other side of the Bab el-Mandeb. It's the main US base in Africa and one of several foreign military bases in Djibouti, including those of China, France and Japan. The small Horn of Africa nation is already seeing the arrival of Yemenis making the perilous crossing of the strait. More than 2,000 people have reached Djibouti, the International Organisation for Migration said Sunday. Djibouti's Economy and Finance Minister Ilyas M. Dawaleh said on X that the country's navy, coast guard and other specialised agencies were conducting rescue operations and providing emergency assistance.

Worlds water cycle speeding up, raising flood and drought risks: Study

Climate change is accelerating the movement of water through the atmosphere, potentially intensifying rainfall extremes while worsening water stress in vulnerable regions, a new IIT Kharagpur study has found. Published in the Journal of Hydrology, the study by Prof. Jayanarayanan Kuttippurath and his research team documents a widespread increase in atmospheric water vapour and projects further increases through the end of the century. It examines atmospheric moisture changes between 1980 and 2020 and uses CMIP6 climate models to assess future trends. The future water cycle is not simply a story of a wetter world. It is a story of a more energetic and uneven atmosphere, where some regions may experience increasingly intense rainfall while others face growing water stress, Prof. Kuttippurath said. The researchers found a clear increase in total column water vapour (TCWV), particularly over tropical oceans and major monsoon regions. By 2100, atmospheric moisture could increase by approximately 518 mm under the SSP2-4.5 scenario and 728 mm under the high-emissions SSP5-8.5 pathway. But a wetter atmosphere will not necessarily mean a wetter world everywhere. A warmer atmosphere can hold more moisture, and when that moisture converges into storms and monsoon systems, it can provide additional fuel for intense rainfall, cloudbursts and flooding. In contrast, regions experiencing moisture divergence, declining soil moisture or changes in atmospheric circulation could face greater drying and drought risks. The study identifies significant changes across climate-sensitive regions including the HimalayaTibetan Plateau, Amazonia, Central Africa, the Sahel, Sahara and western Pacific. The HimalayaTibetan Plateau, the Third Pole, is of particular concern because changes in atmospheric moisture could affect precipitation, snow and glacier processes and river discharge, with implications for water resources supporting millions of people downstream. The researchers say the uneven response could create a future of hydrological whiplash more intense wet extremes in some regions and periods alongside prolonged drying and water stress in others. Water vapour is emerging as a critical link between global warming and future climate extremes, said S. Sarkar, lead author of the study. Understanding where atmospheric moisture is increasing and where it is becoming limited is essential for anticipating future risks to water, ecosystems and society. Indias monsoon risk The findings have particular implications for India. The study records increasing atmospheric moisture over major monsoon regions, with TCWV rising by up to about 0.16 mm per year over parts of the Indian monsoon domain. The increase does not automatically mean higher seasonal rainfall. However, greater atmospheric moisture can provide additional fuel for intense monsoon systems, potentially increasing the ingredients for episodes of very heavy rainfall and flooding. For India, which is already dealing with combinations of extreme heat, intense rainfall, floods and drought, the researchers say understanding changes in atmospheric moisture will be increasingly important for climate-risk planning. The contrast between emissions pathways is also significant. Under SSP5-8.5, atmospheric water vapour and associated radiative effects are projected to increase substantially more than under SSP2-4.5, indicating stronger water-vapour feedback and greater intensification of the hydrological cycle. The study calls for better representation of regional moisture processes and land-atmosphere interactions in climate models, alongside adaptation strategies that account for both extremes. As the researchers put it, future water security cannot be addressed by preparing for floods and droughts separately: climate change may increasingly bring too much water, too little water and sometimes both.

Psy-STEM workshop concludes in Bandipora

A six-day Psy-STEM workshop organised by Government College for Women (GCW), M.A. Road, Srinagar, in collaboration with NIT Srinagar under the Jammu and Kashmir Science, Technology and Innovation Council (JKST&IC)-sponsored Research and Extension Programme, concluded in Bandipora district on Sunday. The workshop was conducted simultaneously at Nadim Memorial Boys Higher Secondary School, Kaloosa, and Government Higher Secondary School, Shagund, under the initiative Psychology Driven STEM Learning to Build Scientific Temper in the Border Villages of Kashmir. The programme aimed to equip teachers and students with experiential STEM learning methods integrated with psychological principles, with a focus on scientific temper, critical thinking, problem-solving and innovation. In his message, NIT Srinagar Director Prof. Anurag Misra said such initiatives were important for taking contemporary STEM education beyond conventional classrooms and promoting practical learning. Integrating psychology with STEM can help students learn through curiosity, experimentation and problem-solving. Such outreach programmes are vital for nurturing scientific temper and innovation among students, he said. NIT Srinagar Registrar Prof. Atikur Rehman said the institute remained committed to strengthening academic and community outreach programmes in collaboration with educational institutions. GCW M.A. Road Principal Prof. Yasmeen Farooq said the initiative reflected the colleges focus on innovative and interdisciplinary education. Our endeavour is to connect psychological understanding with STEM learning so that students develop not only technical skills but also confidence, creativity and scientific thinking, she said. The inaugural session was attended by Deputy Commissioner Bandipora Indu Kanwal Chib, who stressed the importance of nurturing scientific temper among teachers and students. She also emphasised the effective functioning of Atal Tinkering Labs (ATLs) and encouraged students to participate in STEM-based innovation. The workshop was conducted with the support of the District Administration Bandipora and coordination of Chief Education Officer Bandipora Rafeeq Ahmad Mir. The programme was led by Principal Investigator Dr Eshrat Ara, Assistant Professor, Department of Psychology, GCW M.A. Road, and Co-Principal Investigator Dr Dinesh Kumar Rajendran, Assistant Professor, Department of Mechanical Engineering, NIT Srinagar. During the workshop, parallel sessions covered Psy-STEM integration, basic sensors and block programming, Arduino and ESP32 applications, robotics, drone technology and 3D printing. Modules on problem-solving, examination anxiety management, metacognition and developing a scientific mindset were also conducted. A total of 30 teachers and 150 students were trained across the two venues. The resource team included Dr Parsa Sarosh, Assistant Professor, Department of Electronics, GCW M.A. Road; Abid Fayaz, CTO, Koshur Scientist; Ajaz Hussain, Faculty, Robotics, MSME Srinagar; and Haripriyan K., Drone Engineer, Aramvisai Pvt. Ltd., along with trained master trainers and facilitators associated with the project.

Centre rolls out incentive scheme to push domestic PNG connections

The Centre has introduced a new incentive scheme to accelerate the expansion of domestic Piped Natural Gas (PNG) connections, offering City Gas Distribution (CGD) entities additional access to lower-priced domestic gas for every incremental household connection. The Incentive Scheme for Promotion of Domestic PNG Connections was launched on August 18, 2026, and came into effect on September 1. The scheme is aimed at increasing the number of active and billed domestic PNG connections while encouraging CGD companies to expand their networks into new areas. According to the Petroleum and Natural Gas Regulatory Board (PNGRB), authorised entities are currently developing City Gas Distribution networks across 309 geographical areas covering the mainland of the country. As of August 18, India had 1.74 crore domestic PNG connections. Under the new scheme, a minimum connection threshold has been fixed for each geographical area. CGD entities that add billed domestic connections beyond the prescribed threshold during the performance period will receive an additional allocation of 200 Standard Cubic Metres (SCM) of domestically produced Administered Price Mechanism (APM) gas for every incremental connection. The government said the cheaper APM gas would partly replace costlier Liquefied Natural Gas (LNG) currently sourced by CGD entities for their Compressed Natural Gas (CNG) transport operations. The resulting reduction in gas procurement costs is expected to improve the economics of domestic PNG expansion. The scheme is expected to reduce the payback period on capital invested in a domestic PNG connection from around 10 years to nearly three years, creating a stronger commercial incentive for companies to connect more households. The scheme will be implemented in two tranches over six months. PNG expansion is also being supported through regulatory and infrastructure measures. An Accelerated Approval Framework under the Natural Gas and Petroleum Products Distribution Order, 2026, provides for faster approvals and uniform Right-of-Way charges for laying pipelines. The Centre has also encouraged states to reduce VAT on natural gas to 5 per cent, with several states having already adopted the lower rate. A nationwide National PNG Drive 2.0 was conducted from January 1 to June 30, 2026, to accelerate domestic connections, while a unified digital portal for applying for and tracking PNG connections is also being developed. The government said PNG provides households with continuous metered supply without the need to store or replace LPG cylinders and produces fewer pollutants than conventional cooking fuels.

SKUAST-K Bio-Enzyme course concludes, students pitch waste-to-wealth ideas

A week-long certificate course on Bio-Enzyme Entrepreneurship, jointly organised by the Sher-e-Kashmir University of Agricultural Sciences and Technology of Kashmir (SKUAST-K) and the Bio-Enzyme Entrepreneurs Academy of India, Bengaluru, concluded at the universitys Shalimar Main Campus. Organised by the SKUAST-K Innovation and Incubation Entrepreneurship Centre (SKIIE), the course combined classroom sessions, practical demonstrations and field visits to landfills, waste-collection sites and fruit mandis. The programme provided students, farmers and rural entrepreneurs with practical exposure to bio-enzyme production, value addition, waste management and marketing, with a focus on converting agricultural and kitchen waste into useful and marketable products. The concluding session featured pitch-deck presentations by student innovators, who showcased business ideas based on bio-enzyme technology and waste-to-wealth models. A total of 10 ideas were received, covering eco-friendly cleaning products, organic fertilisers and waste-recycling solutions for campus and community applications. A jury evaluated the ideas on originality, feasibility, market potential and environmental impact, and appreciated the participants preparation and clarity of presentation. Addressing the valedictory session, Naveed Bhat, CEO, SKIIE, thanked the Vice Chancellor of SKUAST-K for supporting the collaborative programme with the Bio-Enzyme Entrepreneurs Academy of India and congratulated the participants on completing the course. Bhat said the ideas demonstrated the potential to convert agricultural and kitchen waste into value-added, eco-friendly products and encouraged participants to take their concepts towards commercialisation. He also assured continued support from SKIIE to participants seeking incubation for further development of their ideas. The programme concluded with an emphasis on waste-to-wealth entrepreneurship, sustainable resource utilisation and innovative waste-management solutions.

Walnut harvest deaths revive debate over high-density plantations in Kashmir

Seven people have died after falling from towering walnut trees during the ongoing harvest season in Kashmir, renewing concerns over the safety of traditional orchards and reviving a debate over replacing ageing trees with high-density plantations. The recurring accidents have highlighted the risks faced by workers who climb tall walnut trees to harvest the crop, with growers saying the traditional orchard system is becoming increasingly difficult to sustain. The deaths have also brought renewed attention to long-standing problems in Kashmirs walnut sector, including ageing trees, declining productivity and restrictions on the felling of existing trees. Walnut traders and growers have increasingly called for a shift towards high-density plantations, arguing that newer varieties can provide better returns while making orchard management and harvesting easier. It is high time to shift to high-density walnut plantation, said Haji Bahadur Khan, president of the Dry Fruit Association of Kashmir. Khan said many of the regions walnut trees had become old and were no longer providing the yields that farmers could expect from newer varieties. Ageing trees and low productivity have necessitated their replacement, Khan said, arguing that growers needed greater flexibility to rejuvenate their orchards. He said that GST and cheaper imports from Chile, California and other countries had reduced the demand for local produce. Bilal Ahmad, a walnut farmer from south Kashmirs Shopian district, said traditional walnut trees also posed challenges because of the amount of land they occupied. Traditional walnut trees occupy a large space and their yield is also low, Ahmad said, adding that high-density plantations could allow farmers to grow more trees on smaller plots and potentially improve returns. The push for high-density cultivation, however, faces a legal hurdle. Walnut trees in Kashmir are protected under the Jammu and Kashmir Preservation of Specified Trees Act, 1969. The law requires government permission for their felling and places restrictions on cutting healthy or fruit-bearing trees. Growers say the restrictions can make it difficult to remove old or unproductive trees and replace them with newer varieties, even when the existing trees have become less commercially viable. Traditional walnut varieties can take more than a decade to begin bearing fruit and require considerable space as they mature. High-density varieties can start producing in about four to five years and can be planted at closer intervals, potentially allowing farmers to obtain higher yields from smaller holdings. For growers, the debate is therefore not only about improving productivity but also about reducing the risks associated with harvesting from increasingly tall and ageing trees. The recent deaths have added urgency to those concerns, with traders and farmers calling for a policy that would allow gradual orchard rejuvenation while protecting the interests of growers. The sector needs a transition towards modern plantations, Khan said, stressing that replacing ageing trees was becoming increasingly important for the future of walnut cultivation in Kashmir. The challenge for the authorities, growers say, is to balance the protection of walnut trees with the need to modernise orchards and make harvesting safer and economically viable.

CIK carries out raids in Shopian, Kulgam, Kupwara

Counter Intelligence Kashmir (CIK) on Sunday conducted coordinated searches at multiple residential locations in Shopian, Kulgam and Kupwara districts as part of an ongoing investigation into the alleged dissemination of radical and anti-national content on social media platforms, officials said. The searches were carried out in connection with FIR No. 05/2026 registered at Police Station CIK Srinagar under Sections 505 and 153-A of the Indian Penal Code and Sections 13 and 18 of the Unlawful Activities (Prevention) Act. Investigators seized digital devices and other electronic material during the operations. The items have been sent to a forensic laboratory for detailed examination, officials said. Official sources said CIK teams, assisted by other security agencies, searched residential premises including a house in Naidgam in Shopian and another in Ladgoo Rambhama in Kulgam. The operations were conducted in the presence of an Executive Magistrate. The raids form part of CIKs continuing probe into online activity alleged to carry radical and anti-national narratives, including the glorification and projection of individuals associated with terrorism and extremist viewpoints that investigators say could influence or radicalise impressionable minds. Officials said the forensic examination of seized devices is expected to yield digital evidence relating to communications, social media activity, account details and other material relevant to the case. Investigators are examining whether the alleged dissemination of radical content was confined to a limited set of persons or involved a wider network, and which platforms and accounts were used. The searches come a day after the National Investigation Agency conducted searches at multiple locations in a separate LeT-linked cross-border conspiracy case. CIK has, through 2025 and 2026, registered and pursued several UAPA cases over alleged misuse of social media to circulate secessionist or terror-glorifying material, seize devices and send them for forensic analysis. Sundays operation, officials said, continues that line of work amid heightened scrutiny of how extremist narratives are propagated online in Jammu and Kashmir.

Mirwaiz writes to Iranian President Pezeshkian, says India can play constructive role for peace in West Asia

With war clouds continuing to hover over West Asia, Kashmirs chief preacher Mirwaiz Umar Farooq has called for restraint and said India, with its legacy of Mahatma Gandhis philosophy of Ahimsa, can play a constructive role in encouraging dialogue and preventing further escalation of the conflict. In a two-page letter addressed to Iranian President Masoud Pezeshkian, the Mirwaiz also cautioned against allowing the conflict to become another source of division within the Muslim community, urging the followers to stand together against sectarianism and political rivalries. It was a privilege to meet and interact with Your Excellency during your visit to New Delhi. At this grave and uncertain moment, I particularly valued your emphasis that humanity must remain at the centre of our collective pursuit of peace, he said in his letter to the Iranian president. The letter was handed over to Iranian Foreign Minister Abbas Araghchi during a meeting on the sidelines of the BRICS summit. The Iranian president was in India to attend the BRICS summit. During his stay in the capital, the visiting dignitary met many intellectuals and scholars, including the Mirwaiz. Later, a delegation led by the Mirwaiz, along with Aga Syed Hassan and Molvi Imran Raza Ansari, met Araghchi. The Mirwaiz expressed solidarity with the people of Iran and voiced concern over the mounting humanitarian crisis in the region, including the continuing devastation in Palestine and instability in Lebanon. He broadened his appeal beyond religious or regional considerations, stressing that concern for human suffering must extend to everyone. Our concern must extend beyond Muslims alone. Human dignity has no sect or nationality. Every innocent life is precious, he said, urging the international community to remain on the side of justice, humanity and peace. The former separatist leader said the grave challenges facing the world could not be resolved through ever-widening wars and called for dialogue and negotiations to address conflicts. India, with its legacy of Mahatma Gandhis philosophy of Ahimsa (non-violence), can also play a constructive role in encouraging restraint, engagement and diplomacy. The grave challenges facing our world cannot be settled through ever-widening wars. Confrontation will only aggravate them; ultimately they must be addressed through dialogue and negotiation, the Mirwaiz said. Calling for wisdom and statesmanship, he said war only multiplies human suffering. My prayer is that this difficult moment does not lead to further widening of conflict, but instead awakens the conscience of the international community and the Muslim world alike. May Allah preserve the unity of the Ummah, protect us from sectarian discord, and guide all of humanity towards justice, reconciliation and lasting peace, he said. He said Muslims across the world were already facing Islamophobia and uncertainty and warned that sectarian differences and political rivalries must not be permitted to further weaken us. Quoting a Quranic verse, he said Muslim unity did not require agreement on every political or theological question. Rather, differences should not overcome our fundamental bonds of faith, brotherhood and shared humanity. He called for Muslims to stand together against sectarianism and against attempts to transform political conflicts into divisions within the Ummah (Muslim community). The Mirwaiz also presented a small walnut-wood replica of Srinagars historic Jama Masjid to the Iranian President and said the gift carried a significance beyond the object itself. For centuries, the Jama Masjid has stood at the heart of the religious and spiritual life of the people of Kashmir, he wrote, adding that its pulpit had consistently sought to promote faith, brotherhood and the wider responsibilities of the Muslim Ummah. Highlighting centuries-old relations between Kashmir and Iran, the Mirwaiz said Persian scholarship, literature, art and spirituality had left a deep imprint upon Kashmiri civilisation. He described these as bonds between peoples that had survived changing political circumstances and generations. The Mirwaiz also recalled the visit of Ayatollah Sayyid Ali Khamenei to Kashmir in the years following the Islamic Revolution, when he addressed the Friday congregation at Jama Masjid in the presence of the Mirwaizs late father, Mirwaiz Moulvi Mohammad Farooq. Khameneis message on that occasion focused on the Holy Quran, brotherhood and Shia-Sunni unity, he said, adding that the memory of the visit remained alive more than four decades later.

J&K scans 7.29 crore revenue records, digitises 99.4% Jamabandis

Jammu and Kashmir has made significant progress in digitising land and revenue records, with 7.29 crore revenue documents scanned and 99.4 percent of Jamabandi records digitised across 6,844 villages, according to the latest government figures. The data also highlights an expansion of digital governance and welfare delivery, with a growing number of public services being brought online and wider coverage reported under food security and social-assistance schemes. Under the IT reforms programme, e-Office has been implemented at the Secretariat, offices of Heads of Departments and district levels, while e-Office 2.0 is being rolled out at tehsil and block levels. According to the figures, more than 45,953 users across 430 organisations have been onboarded, while 1,710 services are currently available online. Over 70 lakh digital documents have also been delivered through the system. Around 114 services under the Public Services Guarantee Act (PSGA) have been integrated with auto-appeal provisions. The DigiLocker ecosystem has 188 services and 35.50 lakh registered users, while around five lakh digital transactions are being recorded daily through 942 Common Service Centre (CSC) touchpoints. The 3K Samadhan App is receiving around 300 grievances daily, with a reported disposal rate of 94 percent. More than 40 IT initiatives have also been undertaken in collaboration with BISAG-N. In the land-record digitisation drive, map digitisation has reached 94.23 percent, with 6,544 of the 6,850 identified sheets digitised. A total of 6,455 villages, or 93.4 percent, have been mapped, of which 5,700 have undergone ground-truthing. Sub-parcelisation has been completed in 1,925 villages across 20 districts. The government has also brought 881 revenue courts online through the Revenue Court Case Management System (RCCMS). Drone surveys have been undertaken in 4,368 villages, of which 3,091 have been verified. Under the SVAMITVA scheme, 58,265 property cards have been distributed across 1,491 villages. On the social-inclusion front, 25.69 lakh families, covering 103.88 lakh beneficiaries, have been enrolled under the National Food Security Act (NFSA). Meanwhile, 16.61 lakh households, representing 67.84 lakh beneficiaries, are receiving free ration under the Pradhan Mantri Garib Kalyan Anna Yojana (PMGKAY). The figures underline the administrations ongoing push towards technology-driven governance, particularly in land administration and delivery of essential public services.

J&Ks peak power demandrises to 3,325 megawatts

Jammu and Kashmirs peak electricity demand has crossed 3,300 megawatts (MW), reaching 3,325 MW in 2025-26, while the Joint Electricity Regulatory Commission (JERC), which oversees the electricity sector in J&K and Ladakh, has projected a slower increase in demand over the next three years. The figures are part of JERCs examination of the business plan and tariff proposal of the J&K Power Transmission Corporation Limited (JKPTCL) for the three years from 2026-27 to 2028-29. JKPTCL had projected a faster increase in electricity demand, using an annual growth rate of 3.08 per cent. On that basis, it had estimated peak demand at 4,033 MW in 2026-27, 4,154 MW in 2027-28 and 4,278 MW in 2028-29. JERC has instead adopted a lower annual growth rate of 1.97 per cent after examining actual figures reported by the Central Electricity Authority (CEA). According to the actual CEA data cited by the Commission, peak electricity demand in J&K and Ladakh increased from 3,076 MW in 2021-22 to 3,137 MW in 2022-23, 3,181 MW in 2023-24, 3,236 MW in 2024-25 and 3,325 MW in 2025-26. In simple terms, the highest amount of electricity required in the region increased by 249 MW over five years. Peak demand is the maximum electricity requirement recorded at a particular time. It is important for the transmission system because power lines and substations need enough capacity to carry electricity during the hours when consumption is at its highest. The CEA figures also show that the region did not always have enough electricity available to meet its peak requirement. In 2021-22, peak demand was 3,076 MW while peak supply was 2,826 MW, leaving a gap of 250 MW. The shortfall declined to 170 MW in 2022-23 and 48 MW in 2023-24. The gap widened sharply in 2024-25, when demand reached 3,236 MW but only 2,836 MW was met, leaving a shortfall of 400 MW, or 12.4 per cent. The situation improved in 2025-26, when peak demand of 3,325 MW was fully met, according to the actual CEA figures cited by JERC. JERC said JKPTCL had based its original forecast on the CEAs Load Generation Balance Report. The Commission pointed out that actual figures were also available in the CEAs monthly Executive Summary on the power sector and found these figures more appropriate for calculating the recent demand trend. Based on the actual figures, the Commission calculated a compound annual growth rate of 1.97 per cent for peak demand over the five-year period. It has therefore taken 3,325 MW, the 2025-26 peak, as the base figure for future planning. Using that growth rate, peak demand would rise to around 3,391 MW in 2026-27, 3,457 MW in 2027-28 and 3,525 MW in 2028-29. This is significantly lower than JKPTCLs original projection of 4,278 MW by 2028-29. The difference between the two estimates is around 753 MW. JERC also noted that the peak demand recorded during 2026-27 up to the time of its assessment was 3,063 MW, below the 3,325 MW peak recorded in the previous financial year. Despite this, the Commission retained 3,325 MW as the base figure because the overall trend in peak demand during the preceding five years remained upward. For the common consumer, the numbers point to a simple trend: J&K is using more electricity than it did five years ago, particularly during periods of highest consumption, but the electricity panel does not expect demand to rise as rapidly as JKPTCL had estimated. The difference is important for the transmission network. JKPTCL is responsible for carrying electricity through the high-voltage network to different parts of J&K and ensuring that transmission infrastructure is capable of handling the maximum load. If demand increases, more capacity may be required in the form of transmission lines, substations and associated equipment. But building infrastructure far ahead of actual requirements can also lead to higher costs. This is why demand forecasting plays an important role in deciding the pace and scale of investment. The recent figures also show that rising demand by itself does not automatically result in a power shortage. In 2025-26, the region recorded its highest peak demand in the five-year period considered by JERC and still managed to meet the entire requirement at peak. At the same time, the 400-MW shortfall in 2024-25 shows how quickly a gap can emerge when available supply is unable to keep pace with demand. JERCs decision therefore provides JKPTCL with a more conservative basis for planning its transmission requirements during the current three-year period. The Commission has not said that demand will fall; rather, it expects the increase to be more moderate than the transmission utility had projected. The final trajectory will also depend on how electricity consumption develops across homes, businesses, industry and other sectors, as well as on the availability of power and the capacity of the transmission network to deliver it when demand peaks. For now, the central figure is clear: J&Ks peak electricity requirement has reached 3,325 MW, and JERC expects it to increase to around 3,525 MW by 2028-29 under the approved growth assumption.

NHIDCL floats fresh bids for Rs 3,567 Cr Singhpora-Vailoo tunnel

The National Highways and Infrastructure Development Corporation Limited (NHIDCL) has floated fresh bids for the Rs 3,567.51-crore Singhpora-Vailoo twin-tube tunnel project on National Highway-244, with work expected to begin in the next financial year. The tender was issued on September 10. Bids can be submitted until October 26 and will be opened on October 27. NHIDCL General Manager Raghu Nath Sharma said the re-tendering followed official communication approving the project from the Ministry of Road Transport and Highways (MoRTH). We re-tendered the Singhpora-Vailoo tunnel soon after receiving the official communication to proceed, Sharma told Greater Kashmir . The bidders will have to quote rates based on site visits and design parameters. We expect work on the project to begin in the next financial year, he said. The tunnel will bypass the snowbound Sinthan Top and provide an all-weather road link between south Kashmir and the Chenab Valley. It will also provide an alternative route to NH-44. The Singhpora-Vailoo project forms part of the wider NH-244 corridor linking Anantnag with Kishtwar, Batote and Chenani. The corridor also includes the 4.5-km Sudhmahadev-Dranga tunnel, for which NHIDCL floated a separate tender a few weeks ago. The Singhpora-Vailoo package covers 38.611 km and will be executed in Engineering, Procurement and Construction (EPC) mode. It comprises two unidirectional tunnel tubes - a 10.331-km left tube and a 10.363-km right tube - besides approach roads and associated structures. The project will connect Chatroo in Kishtwar district with Vailoo in Anantnag district. The eastern approach from Chhatroo to the tunnel portal will cover 17.088 km, while the western approach towards Vailoo will extend 11.160 km. The eastern portal near Singhpora will be located at about 2,243 metres above sea level, while the western portal at Gadole will be at around 2,404 metres. Each tunnel tube will have a nine-metre carriageway, footpaths and emergency facilities. The two tubes will be connected through 20 cross-passages, each 6.1 metres wide and 18.5 metres long, at intervals of about 500 metres to facilitate emergency evacuation. As part of the tunnels standard safety and operational requirements, it will have a semi-transverse ventilation system, fire detection and firefighting systems, CCTV surveillance, emergency communication, traffic control, lighting, drainage and waterproofing. Fire hydrants will be installed every 250 metres as part of the firefighting arrangements. The package also includes 21 major and minor bridges, viaducts and viaduct-cum-bridge structures, with the longest viaduct measuring 1,345 metres. The approach roads will be two-lane roads with paved shoulders, supported by more than 54 km of roadside and catch drains for surface-water management. The stipulated construction period is 60 months, followed by 120 months of maintenance. Land acquisition for the Singhpora-Vailoo approach roads has been completed on both the Kashmir and Jammu sides, with more than half of the compensation already disbursed. Land acquisition for the Sudhmahadev-Dranga project has also been completed, while compensation is being processed. The Singhpora-Vailoo project was approved in 2017 and reaffirmed in 2021, but implementation was delayed. The previous tender was scrapped in 2024 after security clearance was denied to the lowest bidder, a joint venture between Transrail Lighting and Azerbaijan-based EVRASCON. The fresh tender has revived hopes in the Chenab Valley and south Kashmir, where the project has been awaited for years. The Singhpora-Vailoo tunnel is a lifeline. We have been waiting for it for a decade, but every time our hopes were dashed. We hope work begins now without any further delay, said Advocate Sheikh Nasir, president of the Kishtwar Bar Association. For the 4.5-km Sudhmahadev-Dranga tunnel, social activist Ishtiyaq Ahmad Dev of Doda said the deteriorating condition of the existing road had made the project necessary for safer travel. Once completed, the two tunnel projects are expected to strengthen the NH-244 corridor and provide a more reliable year-round road link between the Kashmir and Chenab Valley regions.

Prof Romshoo elected NASI Fellow

Prof. Shakil Ahmad Romshoo, Vice-Chancellor, Islamic University of Science and Technology (IUST), has been elected as Fellow of the National Academy of Sciences, India (NASI), the countrys oldest science academy, established in 1930. The prestigious Fellowship recognises Prof. Romshoos sustained contributions to Earth and Environmental Sciences and adds to the recognition of his scientific work. He will be formally inducted into the Academy during the 96th annual session of NASI at Banaras Hindu University, Varanasi, in December 2026. Prof. Romshoo has made significant contributions to glaciology, hydrology, climate change and remote sensing, with particular emphasis on understanding climate-change impacts on Himalayan glaciers and water resources. To mention, Prof. Romshoo is already an elected Fellow of the prestigious Indian Academy of Sciences, besides being a Fellow of the Indian Society of Remote Sensing and the Indian Society of Geomatics. He is also a recipient of the prestigious J. C. Bose Fellowship and several international, national and state-level awards and honours.

MLA Javid Baig calls for overhaul of education system

Member of Legislative Assembly (MLA) Baramulla Javid Hassan Baig Sunday said the existing curriculum must be drastically reduced and children should be equipped with practical and vocational skills to prepare them for an increasingly challenging employment landscape. In his address during a day-long conference organised by the J&K Teachers Forum (JKTF), Baig called for a fundamental overhaul of the education system saying the country was facing a serious mismatch between the number of educated youth entering the job market and the employment opportunities available to them. He said India has a very large young population, with around 70 crore people below the age of 30, while thousands of graduates enter the job market every year with limited employment opportunities. Every year, 50,000 graduates leave our colleges, and we cannot give more than 8-10 percent employment, Baig said. He stressed that the issue required a serious rethink of existing education and economic policies. The MLA questioned whether merely framing policies and repeatedly discussing their implementation would be sufficient when the economy was unable to absorb the growing number of educated young people. He also raised concerns over growing disparities in access to quality education, saying the education system had developed multiple layers in which children from affluent families have access to elite institutions while a large majority study in comparatively under-resourced schools. The education system should not be confined to academic qualifications alone but there should be greater emphasis on vocational and traditional skills, he said. I would like my eighth or tenth child to know about carpentry, handicrafts and he should know about knitting, he added. He said traditional crafts and skills associated with Kashmir should also be incorporated into the education system so that children could acquire skills that could help them earn livelihoods beyond conventional white-collar employment. Baig also questioned the relevance of an excessively lengthy syllabus, saying it should be substantially reduced to provide space for practical learning. If I get a chance in my life, I will tell you to reduce this syllabus to 30 percent, he said. He added that students should be given greater exposure to practical skills rather than being burdened with excessive academic content. The MLA also highlighted the role of teachers in transforming the lives of students, recalling how teachers had influenced his own life despite the absence of adequate infrastructure and facilities during his childhood. He said teachers could change the destiny of children even when the system failed to provide adequate support. There are so many teachers here. You cannot do anything. You cannot change the system that is inside it. Meaningful educational transformation will require changes at the systemic level, he added. He also spoke about the growing competition in professional education, particularly medical education, saying students from India were increasingly pursuing medical training abroad while employment opportunities for qualified professionals remained limited. Baig urged teachers and education stakeholders to look beyond conventional approaches and critically examine the long-term consequences of the policies being advocated. He called for a broader debate on the future of education, employment and the younger generation. The challenge before policymakers is not merely to educate children but to ensure that the education they receive are equipped to survive and succeed in the real world, he added.

Government, private school children have same aspirations, educational goals: JKTF

The representatives of Jammu and Kashmir Teachers Forum (JKTF) Sunday called for equal focus on the interests and future of students across the education system saying there was no divide between children studying in government and private schools as both have the same aspirations, values and educational goals. Talking to reporters on the sidelines of a Teachers Conference at Dak Bungalow Baramulla, a senior representative of the JKTF said teachers in both government and private schools ultimately share the same responsibility of shaping the younger generation. All the teachers, whether they belong to private or government schools, have the same values. Our children belong to government schools as well as private schools. They all have the same mission and the same goal, he said. The statement comes amid continuing discussions over issues concerning private schools, including fee hikes. The Forum representatives said the government should intervene wherever an increase in fees was found to be unreasonable or unjustified. If there has been a fee hike, the government should look into it. If there has been an irresponsible or irrelevant hike, the government should look into it, the representative said. The JKTF representative said the Baramulla conference was organised not merely as a Teachers Day event but also as a platform to discuss issues confronting the education sector and recognise teachers for their contribution. Teachers representing all 18 educational zones of Baramulla district were part of the programme, while clerical and CPW staff associated with the department were also felicitated for their services. The Forum said a committee had been constituted under its leadership to identify teachers deserving appreciation through surveys conducted across different zones. The representative said the organisation would continue to take up issues concerning teachers with the government and press for their resolution. Among the major concerns raised during the conference was the Teacher Eligibility Test (TET), which he described as a burning issue for teachers. The Forum also demanded that the large number of vacancies in the Education Department be filled as early as possible. There are around 30,000 vacancies in the Education Department. They should be filled, he said. The Forum also flagged the in-charge system, saying that teachers were being entrusted with responsibilities without receiving corresponding promotions in official records. Transfer-related issues concerning regularised Rehbar-e-Taleem (ReT) teachers were also highlighted during the conference. The representative said many such teachers had already completed 20 to 25 years of service and that their concerns needed to be addressed. He further pointed to difficulties faced by teachers in correcting official records and dealing with admission-related issues, saying that teachers often have to approach the department for changes in records maintained on government portals. Beyond service-related demands, the Forum said its conference also sought to strengthen the role of teachers in shaping students beyond academics. The representative said teachers were being sensitised so that they could, in turn, guide students towards development, patriotism, nationalism and other positive values. Today's children should be given the right direction and shown the right path, he said. He stressed that teachers have a crucial role in ensuring that students are guided towards positivity. He said the JKTF would continue organising such programmes while ensuring that academic time of students was not affected. The Forum also called for a positive approach within the education system, saying teachers should focus on identifying students who need additional attention and work towards ensuring that no child is left behind.

Prayers, protests mark day 4 of search as minor drowned in Bandipora remains untraced

With moist eyes, hands are being raised in prayers both silent and loud, seeking the recovery of a 14-year-old boy who drowned in the Madhumati stream in Kaloosa of north Kashmir's Bandipora district on Thursday. On Sunday, rescue efforts were intensified, with the SDRF, police and local volunteers putting in every effort to fish out the body of Momin Ahmad Ganie of Ganie Mohalla in Kaloosa. Momin was swept away by the raging waters of the Madhumati on Thursday evening when he and his friend were on a cycling trip neaby his home. Momin drowned after he spotted a cricket ball floating on the water's surface. After chasing it for some distance, collecting it and throwing it towards his friend, Momin slipped and fell into the water. Before his friend or his sister, who was some distance away, could react, Momin was nowhere to be seen. Ever since, Momin's mother has not left the riverbank. She has been waiting for her only son, among four sisters, to return. Those visiting the spot join in prayers, asking for divine intervention and hoping the family can find closure. Locals recall Momin, a fourth-standard student at a local government school, as a bright student who excelled in studies, with an energy that lit up the faces around him. On Friday, local women staged a sit-in, asking the administration to ramp up the rescue and recovery operation, with local MLA Nizamuddin Bhat also putting in efforts to cut a crate and lower the water level in the Madhumati, aiding rescuers in the search for Momin's body. Former MLA Usman Majid also visited the site, urging the administration to recover the minor's body sooner. Notably, Hamza Sheikh, a volunteer rescue swimmer, also arrived in Bandipora on Friday, aiding the search efforts. Pertinently, the National Hydroelectric Power Corporation (NHPC), which diverts water from the Kishanganga river in Gurez, which then discharges into the Bonar Nallah and Madhumati, has been turning off the turbines during the day to help with the recovery efforts. However, Momin remains untraced.

LG VK Saxena launches mega project to revive shrinking Tso Kar Lake

In a major effort for high-altitude ecological restoration, Ladakh Lieutenant Governor Vinai Kumar Saxena launched an ambitious project to revive the rapidly drying Tso Kar Lake in the high-altitude Changthang region of Ladakh. The landmark initiative aims to channelise up to 320 million litres of glacier meltwater daily to restore the Ramsar site to its former scale. Over the past decade, Tso Karonce spanning nearly 11,000 acreshas desiccated by almost 70 percent, shrinking to just 3,200 acres. The sharp decline has severely degraded surrounding pastures, disrupted local salt-trading traditions and threatened wildlife habitats, including nesting grounds for the endangered Black-necked Crane. Tso Kar, one of Ladakhs iconic high-altitude glacial lakes, once covered nearly 11,000 acres but has now reduced to around 3,200 acres. The shrinking water body has also affected its ecosystem, with a sharp decline in migratory birds, including the famed Black-necked Crane. The project was conceived after LG Saxena visited Tso Kar on August 10, 2026, where local villagers and the Nambardar informed him about the lakes rapid decline and the resulting reduction in bird populations and grazing land. Following the visit, the Lieutenant Governor directed the Public Health Engineering (PHE) Department to conduct a detailed survey. After around 15 days of groundwork, the department submitted its report on August 30, initially proposing an 11-km RCC channel. However, citing ecological concerns, Saxena directed officials to avoid constructing a new RCC channel and instead use a simple earthen channel to divert the glacier water. With winter approaching and temperatures expected to fall sharply, work was subsequently taken up on a war footing. The revival of Tso Kar is also expected to benefit local communities, particularly Pashmina goat herders who depend on surrounding grazing lands. The Rupsho Kharnak stream originates at an altitude of around 18,000 feet, approximately 11 km from Tso Kar. At present, a substantial volume of its glacier meltwater flows unused into the Sindhu River. The administration expects that diverting the water could help restore the lake significantly within a year. The initiative follows the successful channelisation of around 90 million litres of Stok Glacier water into canals serving Igoo-Phey and Chuchot villages near Leh for irrigation. Under the Tso Kar revival plan, water from the Rupsho Kharnak stream will be diverted through a series of three natural depressions located along its route towards the lake. The first depression covers around 270 acres, the second 24 acres and the third around 10 acres. Check dams equipped with three RCC pipes will be constructed at the outlets of each depression to regulate water levels and control downstream flow. Water from the third depression will then be channelised into Tso Kar, located around 400 metres away, using gravity flow. The administration plans to rely on simple, low-cost earthworks rather than constructing new concrete channels. Work on the project began on September 2, and from September 9, around 20 cusecs of water has reportedly been successfully diverted into the first depression. The pond has already begun filling rapidly, with around 20 per cent of its area reportedly covered with water within four days. The project is also expected to create three new freshwater wetlands before the water reaches Tso Kar. These wetlands will allow sediments to settle naturally and ensure that relatively clean water enters the main lake. Together, the three depressions are expected to hold nearly 1,230 million litres of water. The newly created wetlands, visible from the Leh-Manali Highway, could also become additional tourist attractions while providing new habitats for migratory birds. Speaking about the initiative, LG VK Saxena said the success of the Stok Glacier project had demonstrated that large-scale and sustainable water management could be achieved in Ladakhs cold desert through simple engineering solutions. He said the Rupsho Kharnak project would serve as a model for high-altitude ecological restoration while supporting agriculture, rural livelihoods and long-term climate resilience. The administration expects the project to combine ecological restoration, tourism development and livelihood support while helping preserve the unique high-altitude ecosystem of Tso Kar for future generations.

Multi-agency contingency response rehearsal held at Baramulla Railway Station

Police in Baramulla conducted a Contingency Response Rehearsal at Railway Station Baramulla to assess and further strengthen the preparedness, coordination and response mechanism of various security and emergency response agencies during a simulated contingency situation. The rehearsal, as per a statement, was conducted under the supervision of SP Operations Baramulla and witnessed active participation of SOG Baramulla, CRPF units including 53 Bn with K9 Team and 2nd Bn, OCAPS Baramulla, 52 RR, BSF 31 Bn, RPF, GRPF, Police Station Baramulla, Police Post Delina, SDRF Baramulla, Fire & Emergency Services, GMC Baramulla, MI room DPL Baramulla, BSD/AST/PSK9, SDRF Baramulla along with other concerned personnel. The exercise focused on inter-agency coordination, mobilisation, communication, response preparedness, evacuation and emergency management, besides assessing the effectiveness of the existing contingency response mechanism at the railway station. The rehearsal also provided an opportunity to identify operational gaps and areas requiring improvement, enabling participating agencies to further enhance their readiness and ensure a coordinated and timely response to any unforeseen situation.

Mirwaiz, Aga Hassan, Imran Ansari call for dialogue, restraint during meet with Iranian FM

Mirwaiz-e-Kashmir Dr Moulvi Mohammad Umar Farooq, along with Aga Syed Hassan and Molvi Imran Raza Ansari, met Iranian Foreign Minister Abbas Araghchi on the sidelines of the BRICS Summit in New Delhi and exchanged views on the grave situation confronting the region, the need for restraint and diplomacy, and the importance of safeguarding unity within the Muslim Ummah. During the interaction, the delegation, as per a statement, conveyed solidarity with the people of Iran and expressed deep concern over the loss of innocent lives, destruction of homes and infrastructure, and the climate of fear and insecurity created by war. They also referred to the continuing devastation in Palestine and the loss of life and instability in Lebanon, saying the widening cycle of conflict had created an extremely serious situation across the region. Mirwaiz said that at such a critical moment, wisdom, restraint and statesmanship were needed more than ever. War only multiplies human suffering. However serious the differences may be, endless confrontation cannot resolve them. Ultimately, even the most difficult disputes have to return to dialogue, engagement and negotiation, he said. He stressed that the present conflicts must not be allowed to deepen sectarian divisions within the Muslim world. At a time when Muslims in many parts of the world are already facing Islamophobia, insecurity and uncertainty, he said political rivalries and sectarian differences should not be permitted to further weaken the Ummah. Our differences must never overcome the larger bonds of faith, brotherhood and shared humanity. The suffering of people in Iran, Palestine, Lebanon and elsewhere should bring us closer in compassion and responsibility, not push us further apart, Mirwaiz said. He recalled the historic association of Iran with Srinagars Jama Masjid, including the commemorative gathering held there following the passing of Imam Ruhollah Khomeini (RA) in 1989. He also recalled Ayatollah Sayyid Ali Khameneis historic visit to Kashmir in the early years following the Islamic Revolution, when he addressed the Friday congregation at Jama Masjid in the presence of Shaheed-e-Millat Mirwaiz Moulvi Mohammad Farooq (RA), stressing the message of the Quran, brotherhood and Shia-Sunni unity. On the occasion, Mirwaiz presented Foreign Minister Araghchi with a specially crafted walnut-wood souvenir depicting the historic Jama Masjid Srinagar, symbolising the enduring cultural and spiritual bonds between the people of Kashmir and Iran. Referring to the wider regional and global situation, Mirwaiz said South Asias own experience had demonstrated the heavy human cost of prolonged tensions and unresolved disputes and had reinforced the need for sustained engagement and dialogue. He said India, with its legacy of Mahatma Gandhis philosophy of Ahimsa, could play a constructive role in encouraging restraint, diplomacy and peaceful engagement at a time of growing international tensions. The grave challenges facing our world cannot be settled through ever-widening wars. Confrontation will only aggravate them. Human dignity has no sect or nationality, and every innocent life is precious. We must remain on the right side of history on the side of justice, humanity and peace, Mirwaiz said. The delegation expressed hope that the present crisis would not widen further and that diplomacy, dialogue and reconciliation would prevail over confrontation.

Elected govt remains deprived of full powers even after 2 years: Dr Farooq Abdullah

The Jammu and Kashmir National Conference President Dr Farooq Abdullah Sunday said the Union Government must take serious and meaningful measures to address the growing sense of alienation, disappointment and distrust among the people of Jammu and Kashmir. He said that although elections were held in J&K, the elected government has remained deprived of full powers even after two years, which is contrary to democratic, constitutional and moral principles. Dr Farooq, as per a party statement, said that the decisions taken on August 5, 2019, were a major mistake by New Delhi, and the sooner the Central Government rectifies this mistake, the better it will be for the unity, integrity and democratic system of the country. He said that the Centre will eventually have to restore Jammu and Kashmirs special position, and the National Conference will continue its struggle for this demand until it is achieved. The party, he said, will continue to raise the issue of restoration of J&Ks constitutional and democratic rights in every Assembly, Parliament and other appropriate forum. Expressing strong resentment over the continued extension of the Union Territory system in Jammu and Kashmir, Dr Farooq said that the people had given a mandate through their votes to an elected government to run the affairs of the region and address their problems and difficulties. However, New Delhi has imposed an undemocratic system over the elected government, creating hurdles in its efforts to provide relief to the people and resolve their day-to-day issues. He said that the demand for restoration of statehood is being pursued precisely to enable the J&K government to serve the people more effectively and reduce, to the extent possible, the multiple difficulties confronting them. He made it clear that demanding restoration of statehood in no way means that the National Conference has abandoned its demand for restoration of special status. Our party will continue, under all circumstances, to struggle for restoration of the constitutional rights that the people of Jammu and Kashmir enjoyed under the Constitution of India. We will not hesitate to make any sacrifice for this cause, he said. Dr Farooq said that despite the toughest challenges, hurdles and constraints, the present National Conference government is making every possible effort to provide relief to the people, strengthen the infrastructure for development and ensure the delivery of essential and basic services. He said that National Conference legislators are also continuously available in their respective constituencies, listening to peoples grievances and making every possible effort to address them. He reiterated that the National Conference remains firmly committed to its basic and principled position and said that Safeguarding the interests of the people of Jammu and Kashmir remains the partys foremost priority.

Best of BS Opinion: A test of how power becomes credible

Power lasts only when the underlying institutions are credible

The BRIC-a-brac khana Xi missed

Chinese President Xi Jinping and Abu Dhabi Crown Prince Sheikh Khaled bin Mohamed missed a significant BRICS dinner event. Their absence became a notable point during the multilateral gathering in India. The elaborate meal featured diverse Indian dishes symbolizing international cooperation and diplomacy. Attendees enjoyed a culinary experience intended to represent global unity and shared goals. The event's menu itself offered a rich tapestry of flavors and cultural influences.

Velouria by The Pixies

The Pixies' song 'Velouria' from their Bossanova album is a tender love song. Its guitars surge and glitter, and Kim Deal's bass provides a pulse. A theremin suggests gravity has been suspended, adding to its glorious strangeness. Black Francis sings as if astonished by finding someone miraculous and potentially staying. The song combines rock force with delicate half-remembered summer feelings.

BRICS 2026: A declaration, no roadmap

India displayed diplomatic strength by forging consensus for the New Delhi Declaration. Member nations hold differing perspectives on BRICS's future direction and goals. China's influence is evident as it prepares for its upcoming chairmanship of the grouping. The declaration reiterates support for UNSC reform without setting a clear timeline. BRICS members aim to shape global rules rather than merely follow them.

India-China thaw: Engagement returns, but strategic trust stays elusive

Xi Jinping's India visit marked managed competition, not reconciliation. Both nations seek mechanisms to control rivalry and avoid escalation. India emphasizes mutual respect and boundary settlement, while China seeks stability. Diplomatic and economic ties offer cautious optimism for future engagement. Sustained peace and political dialogue are key for durable relations.

New Delhi scripts a post-US worldview

The New Delhi Declaration signifies a transformative shift in global dynamics, asserting a multipolar world that transcends Western dominance. BRICS stands against unilateral sanctions, branding them as coercive actions that undermine legitimacy. This unified stance underscores the importance of sovereignty and dialogue while highlighting a move towards strategic autonomy. India's advocacy for UNSC reform further supports this newly conceived worldview, as BRICS actively engages with the shifting global landscape.

Tighter US Visa isn't all that bad for India

Stricter visa regulations in foreign nations will intensify competition for India's skilled workforce. Additionally, numerous students are burdened with unmanageable debt due to the high costs of studying abroad. The imposition of job entry barriers in Western countries is hindering immigrant students, prompting universities to consider establishing more campuses overseas. As a result, India may see a reverse brain drain supported by the rise of global competency centers.

Destroy old files totally

Bureaucracy creates unnecessary work by copying and destroying files, mirroring how people accumulate useless memories. Emptying one's inner being leads to greater spaciousness and heightened consciousness. This allows for efficient responses to situations instead of mere reactions. An empty mind perceives reality directly and responds appropriately without regret. Such individuals move forward unburdened by past experiences and failures.

IGP Kashmir emphasises on intelligence-based operations

Srinagar, Sep 13: Inspector General of Police (IGP) Kashmir Zone Sujit Kumar today visited District Baramulla and Police District Sopore and chaired separate review meetings to assess the prevailing security scenario, counter-terrorism grid, law & order preparedness, crime situation and overall operational preparedness. IGP Kashmir was accompanied by Deputy Inspector General of Police, North Kashmir Range, Dr Vinod Kumar. During the first leg of his visit, IGP Kashmir visited District Baramulla, where he paid homage to the fallen heroes at the Martyrs Memorial, District Police Lines Baramulla, and remembered their supreme sacrifice in the service of the nation. Thereafter, IGP Kashmir chaired a comprehensive security and operational review meeting at Baramulla. SSP Baramulla Gurinderpal Singh briefed the IGP regarding the prevailing security scenario, ongoing counter-terrorism operations, intelligence inputs, area domination measures, security of vulnerable locations, law & order preparedness and crime situation in the district. All Gazetted Officers of District Police Baramulla attended the meeting and briefed IGP Kashmir regarding their respective areas of responsibility and operational assignments. IGP Kashmir stressed upon strengthening intelligence generation at the grassroots level and conducting intelligence-based specific operations against terrorists and the terror ecosystem. He emphasised maintaining sustained operational pressure, adopting a proactive and coordinated approach, and underscored the importance of effective surveillance, fine-tuned naka/interception mechanisms, and close coordination among field formations. As part of his visit to Baramulla, IGP Kashmir also inspected Police Station Baramulla to review its functioning. He impressed upon the officers and personnel to ensure professional and responsive policing, effective crime prevention and investigation, proper maintenance of records and prompt redressal of public grievances. Later, IGP Kashmir visited Police District Sopore, where SSP Sopore Iftikhar Talib along with SDPOs and DySsP Operations, presented a detailed briefing on the prevailing security scenario and measures being undertaken across various fronts. Concluding the visit, IGP Kashmir appreciated the efforts of the officers and personnel across both districts and exhorted them to continue working with professionalism, vigilance and commitment towards maintaining a peaceful and secure environment.

Police arrest 4 drug peddlers in Anantnag and Kulgam; contraband recovered

Srinagar, Sep 13: Continuing its sustained crackdown against drug trafficking and substance abuse, Police in Anantnag and Kulgam districts have arrested four drug peddlers in three separate operations and recovered contraband from their possession. A police spokesperson said that in the first operation, a police party from Police Station Bijbehara, during naka checking at Katriteng-Waghama Road, apprehended two persons identified as Ubaid Rashid Dar son of Abdul Rashid Dar resident of Waghama, and Javaid Ahmad Parray son of Mohd Maqbool Parray resident of Jablipora. During their search, 4.49 grams of brown sugar was recovered from their possession. In this connection, FIR No. 259/2026 has been registered at Police Station Bijbehara, and investigation has been initiated. He said that in another operation, a police party from Police Station Anantnag, during routine checking near Batapora Bridge, apprehended Shahid Maqsood Khuroo son of Maqsood Ahmad resident of Guri Kharipora Anantnag. During search, Charas was recovered from his possession. Accordingly, FIR No. 303/2026 has been registered at Police Station Anantnag, and investigation has been set into motion. Meanwhile, in Kulgam, Police arrested another drug peddler during dynamic naka checking in the jurisdiction of Police Station Devsar. At Sopat near Ziyarat Sharif Link Road, a dynamic naka party intercepted a suspicious person identified as Rouf Ahmad Dar son of Abdul Rashid Dar resident of Gund Tankipora. During search, a polythene bag containing 746 grams of charas-like substance was recovered from his possession. In this connection, FIR No. 65/2026 has been registered at Police Station Devsar, and investigation has been set into motion, spokesperson said. J&K Police appealed to the general public to remain vigilant and extend their cooperation by sharing credible information regarding drug peddling or any other suspicious activities with the Police. They added the identity of informants will be kept confidential.

Ladakh LG sanctions Rs 1.52 crore aid for statehood protest violence victims

Leh, Sep 13: Ladakh Lieutenant Governor Vinai Kumar Saxena on Sunday sanctioned Rs 15 lakh each to the next of kin of the four persons who lost their lives in the September 24 violence last year in Leh. Leh witnessed large-scale protests last year, demanding statehood and the extension of the Sixth Schedule of the Constitution to Ladakh. Violence erupted during the agitation, leaving four people dead and scores injured allegedly in police firing. An ex-gratia assistance of Rs 3 lakh for persons who sustained major injuries and Rs 1 lakh for those who sustained minor injuries has also been approved, a Lok Bhavan spokesman said. He said the total financial commitment of the administration under the approved compensation measures will be Rs 1.52 crore, comprising Rs 60 lakh for the four deceased, Rs 72 lakh for 24 persons with major injuries and Rs 20 lakh for 20 persons with minor injuries. The incident had resulted in the loss of four lives, while 43 civilians sustained major or minor injuries. As Ladakh did not have a general policy prescribing compensation in cases of death or injury arising from incidents of public unrest or rioting, the administration examined the matter with a view to extending appropriate humanitarian assistance to the affected families and individuals. Saxena, after taking over in March this year, accorded priority to the matter and worked towards finalising an appropriate compensation package for the affected families and injured persons, the spokesperson said, adding that the compensation is intended as a measure of support and solidarity with the affected families and individuals. He expressed his deep gratitude to Union Home Minister Amit Shah for his sensitive, humanitarian and guiding approach, and for always standing in solidarity with the victims and their families. While no compensation amount can replace a life lost or erase the pain endured, the Ladakh Administration firmly stands beside every affected family in their journey towards healing and overcoming the grief, Saxena said.

Nepal flood death toll reaches 1,388

Kathmandu, Sep 13: The death toll in Nepal flash floods climbed to 1,388 on Sunday as more bodies were recovered from the eight affected districts, authorities said. The flash floods, triggered by an ice-rock avalanche near the Nepal-Tibet border on August 26, devastated towns and villages in northern and central Nepal. According to the latest data released by the National Disaster Risk Reduction and Management Authority, 364 bodies were recovered from Chitwan district, 230 from Nawalparasi East, 222 from Nawalparasi West, and 199 from Nuwakot. Similarly, 185 bodies were recovered from Rasuwa, 77 from Gorkha, 71 from Dhading and 38 from Tanahun. Two others died while undergoing treatment in Kathmandu. Only 104 of the recovered bodies have so far been identified and handed over to their families. The joint command of security personnel has continued its search and rescue operations, with the number of missing people estimated to be 5,130. A total of 13,728 people have been rescued so far, officials said.

BJP-led NDA governments in 21 states to introduce UCC before 2029: Amit Shah

Mumbai, Sep 13: Union Home Minister Amit Shah on Sunday said BJP-led NDA governments in 21 states will introduce Uniform Civil Code (UCC) before 2029. Shah was speaking to reporters here while highlighting the achievements of the Centre over the last 12 years and the BJP's 25-year journey under Prime Minister Narendra Modi's leadership. Triple talaq has been abolished, giving Muslim women equal rights. We have introduced the Uniform Civil Code (UCC) in several states and I am confident that in the 21 BJP-NDA ruled states, we will introduce the UCC before 2029, Shah said. The next Lok Sabha polls are scheduled for 2029. He said the government had strengthened the country's criminal justice system through the Bharatiya Nyaya Sanhita and claimed that several states had recorded a 30 per cent increase in the conviction rate in a single year. He also said a system was being established to ensure justice could be delivered within three years. On national security, Shah said the abrogation of Articles 370 and 35A had been achieved without a single drop of blood being shed or a bullet being fired, and asserted that Kashmir was now fully integrated with India. He said the government had ended five decades of Naxalism and signed more than 14 peace agreements in the country's North-East region. More than 9,000 people have surrendered and today we have taken the North-East on the path of development, Shah said. He said surgical strikes, air strikes and Operation Sindoor have established a policy of zero tolerance towards terrorism. On being asked whether the 1951 baseline would be used for implementing National Register of Citizens (NRC) in Manipur, Shah said the Centre was holding discussions with its allies and political parties on the issue. We are discussing these issues with our allies and also with the political parties of Manipur. Whatever decision is taken, we will inform you, he said. Asked about illegal Bangladeshi infiltrators and their detection in cities such as Mumbai, Shah said the government would not disclose the tools used to identify them. You are asking the Home Minister to make the tools public and tell you how it will be done. Then how will we catch them? They will also come to know, he quipped. Shah reiterated the government's resolve to identify and deport illegal infiltrators from the country. I repeat our resolve that we will take out each and every illegal infiltrator from this country, identifying them one by one and sending them out, he said. On the government's anti-drugs campaign, Shah said he had recently launched the 'Nasha Mukt Bharat Abhiyan' and would visit every state as part of the campaign. He said he had spoken to a chief minister the previous day and a full-day meeting would be held to ensure the campaign reaches the grassroots. It will definitely reach the grassroots and India will achieve victory over drugs, Shah said.

Modi era shifted India from corruption, casteism, dynastic politics to politics of performance: Amit Shah

Union Home Minister Amit Shah stated India has entered a new era of performance politics. He said corruption, casteism, and dynastic politics have ended since 2014. Prime Minister Narendra Modi has freed the country from policy paralysis and poor decision-making. A campaign called 'Seva Sankalp Abhiyan' will promote public participation for a developed India. This initiative marks Modi's birthday and significant years of his governance.

Mega project launched to revive Ladakh's Tso Kar lake with glacier water

Leh, Sep 13: Ladakh Lieutenant Governor Vinai Kumar Saxena on Sunday launched a mega project to revive the rapidly drying Tso Kar Lake by channelising 320 million litres of water per day from a glacier-fed stream at an altitude of 18,000 feet into the water body, which has lost nearly 70 per cent of its water in the past decade. The initiative comes after the successful channelisation of 90 million litres of water from the Stok Glacier into canals serving Igoo-Phey and Chuchot villages, helping irrigate parched agricultural land in Leh's vicinity. The project focuses on recharging Tso Kar by channelising untapped glacier meltwater from the Rupsho Kharnak stream, situated nearly 11 km from the lake. The peak discharge from the Rupsho Kharnak stream during summers is estimated at around 132 cusecs or 320 million litres per day, a Lok Bhavan spokesperson said. He said the project stands as a vital blueprint for high-altitude ecological restoration. By transforming untapped glacier water into permanent lifelines, Ladakh is taking decisive steps toward agricultural prosperity, revitalised rural economies, and long-term climate resilience. This will ensure that the iconic landscapes like Tso Kar and the life they sustain are preserved for generations to come, Saxena said. The lieutenant governor, during his visit to Tso Kar on August 10, was informed by local villagers and the 'nambardar' (village head) that the Lake was once a massive, thriving body of glacial water that sustained centuries of local salt trading and a delicate ecological balance. Subsequently, Saxena conceived the initiative. However, in recent years, the Tso Kar Lake has receded, leading to the dwindling of bird populations and the loss of grazing land. The vast, dry patches of land can be seen around the lake, where deep waters once stood. Accordingly, the lieutenant governor directed the Public Health Engineering Department to conduct a detailed survey of the area. Following 15 days of intensive groundwork and survey, the department submitted its report to the lieutenant governor on August 30, suggesting construction of an 11 km RCC channel. However, considering the ecological concerns, Saxena suggested avoiding construction of any new RCC water channel in the area and bringing water to the first depression only through a simple earthen channel, the spokesperson said. Keeping in view the winter season ahead, when the water freezes, the work began on a war footing from September 2 to bring water from Rupsho Kharnak stream to the first large pond. The revival of Tso Kar is expected to benefit local communities, the official said, adding that most villagers near the lake are Pashmina goat herders, and with the lake shrinking, the grazing grounds for the Pashmina goats have also vanished. This has forced Pashmina herders to shift 50 to 75 kms away from their homes in search of grazing lands. The revival of the lake will create grasslands, livelihood opportunities for locals and bring even herders back to their homes, the spokesperson said. He informed that the Tso Kar, one of the most iconic glacial lakes in Ladakh, originally spread over nearly 11,000 acres, has now reduced to just 3200 acres. Consequently, the lake, once a thriving habitat of migratory birds and the famed Black-Necked Crane, is also rapidly vanishing, with only a small number of birds arriving at the site now. By fully utilising the available water, the lake is expected to be restored to its original glory within a year, the spokesperson said. He mentioned that the plan utilises three natural depressions along the stream's downward flow from the glacier towards the lake. Glacial runoff from the Rupsho Kharnak stream is being channelised into the first depression, spread over 270 acres, before being transferred to the second depression of 24 acres and subsequently to the third, spread over 10 acres. In each of the three depressions, a check dam with three RCC pipes will be constructed at the outlet to augment the water level and to control the flow downstream. Finally, the water from the third depression will be regulated to flow directly into the Tso Kar Lake, located just 400 metres from the third depression. The water will be diverted utilising gravity flow through simple, low-cost earthworks, without constructing any concrete channels, the official said. Starting September 9, 20 cusecs of water from the Rupsho Kharnak glacier stream is being successfully diverted to the first depression, which has already started filling fast. The water is being channelised from the glacier through the earthen channel as well as a concrete canal lying defunct at the site since 1995, the spokesperson said. In four days, around 20 per cent of the area of the first depression has already filled, he said, adding that this cascading system would offer dual ecological benefits. Before the water reaches Tso Kar, the filling of the three natural depressions will create three entirely new, freshwater wetlands and transfer only pure water into the lake, as all sediments will be settled in three newly created water bodies. These newly created water bodies, measuring 270 acres, 24 acres and 10 acres respectively, will hold nearly 1230 million litres of water, the spokesperson said. He added that these new water bodies, visible from the adjoining Leh-Manali Highway, will effectively strengthen the region's ecological character while simultaneously recharging the main lake.

Minor Sisters Die After Snakebite in Rajouri

SRINAGAR: Two minor sisters died after being bitten by a snake at Manma Barmari village in the Kalakote subdivision of Rajouri district on Sunday, officials said. Quoting an official, the news agency KNO reported that the sisters were sleeping in a room along with other family members when a snake appeared on the bed and []

Kashmirs Dr Mushtaq Ahmad Malla completes 72-Km Khardung La Challenge

Leh, Sep 11: Dr Mushtaq Ahmad Malla of Kutabradie, Kulgam, has achieved a remarkable feat of endurance by successfully completing the 72-km Khardung La Challenge, one of the worlds toughest high-altitude ultra-marathons. Dr Malla completed the gruelling race, organised as part of the 13th Ladakh Marathon, which was held on September 11 and took runners through the challenging terrain of Ladakh to Khardung La at an altitude of 17,618 feet. The official event website describes the Khardung La Challenge as one of the highest and most demanding ultra-marathons in the world. According to race-related information, Dr Malla completed the 72-km challenge in 11 hours, 20 minutes and 9 seconds, enduring extreme altitude, thin air and demanding mountain terrain. A medical doctor and hybrid athlete, Dr Malla has built his endurance career through participation in challenging races, including the Border Ultra in Jaisalmer and the Goa Ultra, before taking on the Khardung La Challenge. His achievement is being described as a landmark accomplishment for endurance sport in Kashmir, with Dr Malla reported to be the first athlete from the Kashmir Valley to complete the Khardung La Challenge. Speaking about his achievement, Dr Malla dedicated the accomplishment to the youth of Kashmir and urged young people to embrace fitness, discipline and a healthy lifestyle. If my journey inspires even one young person to choose health and discipline, that is true success, he said. The 2026 Khardung La Challenge brought together ultra-runners from across the country for a demanding test of physical endurance and mental resilience. A total of 477 ultra-runners participated in the two high-altitude ultra events of the Ladakh Marathon this year, including the 72-km Khardung La Challenge and the 122-km Silk Route Ultra. (Ladakh Administration) Dr Mallas achievement adds another notable chapter to Kashmirs growing presence in endurance and adventure sports.

No ban but avoid spilling of food to maintain sanctity of Khankahs: Darakhshan Andrabi

Srinagar, Sep 13: Asserting that her recent comments on distribution of food in the premises of Khankahs have been wrongly portrayed, Chairperson of J&K Waqf Board Dr Syed Darakhshan Andrabi has said that objective of her statement was to create awareness that traditional food such as Tehri be distributed in a more organised manner. People can bring Tehri to Khankahs as it is an integral part of our culture. My comment has been used out of context. All I wanted to say was that we have constructed Tehri sheds, where people should distribute it, said Andrabi. Speaking with Greater Kashmir, Darakhshan Andrabi said spilling food in the premises of Khankahs is an act of disrespect. She said food distribution at Khankahs in a haphazard way leads to littering of the premises of these holy places, which will not be tolerated, she further added. We have put a lot of effort in giving a facelift to these Khankahs. It becomes our duty to make people aware that they should not spread litter at these holy places, she added.

J&K Waqf Board plans complete ban on food distribution, bird feeding at Khanqahs

An Iranian commercial ship is struck near Strait of Hormuz, 1 person killed, Iran's state media say

The United Kingdom Maritime Trade Operations monitor separately reported a vessel was hit by a projectile while transiting the strait, with no details.

Contrasting claims raise questions over Sherbagh hospitals functioning

Over 8,000 runners take part as LG Saxena flags off Ladakh marathon

Srinagar, Sep 13: Ladakh Lieutenant Governor Vinai Kumar Saxena today flagged off the 42-km Full Marathon and 21-km Half Marathon at the 13th Ladakh Marathon in Leh, which saw the participation of more than 8,000 people. Flagged off the '42 km Full Marathon' and '21 km Half Marathon' at the 13th Ladakh Marathon in Leh today, the LG said. It is inspiring to see runners from across India and the world come together in Ladakh, embracing the spirit of endurance, determination and adventure, he added. Saxena said that the Ladakh Marathon has grown into a prestigious global sporting event and is showcasing its unique landscape, culture and warm hospitality to the world. The LG extended his heartfelt congratulations to all the participants, organisers, volunteers and support teams for making the event a success. I wish every runner the very best and hope they carry unforgettable memories of Ladakh with them, he said.

PM Modi, Putin, Alupo arrive at Bharat Mandapam on Day 2 of BRICS Summit

Saudi FM Faisal bin Farhan Al Saud in Delhi this morning to attend BRICS Summit

Saudi Arabia has few options as it faces mounting threats from Iran, allies

Dubai, Sep 13: A lightning advance by Houthi rebels threatens a crucial Red Sea shipping route. Drone attacks blamed on Iraqi militias have forced the closure of a major pipeline, and Iran is still disrupting the Strait of Hormuz. It is a nightmare scenario for Saudi Arabia, and it has sent jitters through global markets. The Saudis' most essential ally, the United States, has been unpredictable and sometimes unreliable. US President Donald Trump seems reluctant to widen an already unpopular and stalemated Mideast war ahead of congressional elections. For Iran, the rebels' advance and closure of the pipeline ramp up global economic pressure as its grip over the Strait of Hormuz has been loosened. Michael Ratney, a former US ambassador to Saudi Arabia, said the latest developments are incredibly frustrating for the kingdom. Despite their antipathy for the Iranians, this is a war they never asked for, they had great trepidation about. And once it started, all of their worst-case scenarios started coming true. The Saudi government did not respond to a request for comment. But a Saudi official, who was not authorised to brief media and spoke on condition of anonymity, said the kingdom would defend itself and work with partners, including the United States, to ensure freedom of navigation in the Red Sea. Saudi hopes for a new Mideast have gone up in smoke Saudi Arabia's crown prince and de facto ruler, Mohammed bin Salman, has spent years trying to build a very different Middle East, with wide-ranging social and economic changes aimed at transforming the ultra-conservative kingdom into a global business hub in a more prosperous and integrated region. Those efforts suffered major setbacks after Hamas' October 7, 2023, attack on Israel, which triggered one war after another. When the US and Israel attacked Iran on February 28, it responded with missile and drone attacks on Saudi Arabia and other Gulf states, and effectively shut down the Strait of Hormuz, bottling up their oil and gas exports and jolting the world economy. Saudi Arabia escaped some of the worst effects by piping its oil across the Arabian Peninsula to the Red Sea, where it could be exported to Europe via Egypt's SUMED pipeline and the Suez Canal, or to Asia via a route running through the Bab el-Mandeb Strait, and toward the Indian Ocean. But tensions reignited with the Houthis in July, leading the rebels to declare a blockade of Saudi shipping and resume large-scale attacks for the first time in four years. Over the last two days, the Houthis have seized the port city of Mokha and a Red Sea island from Saudi-backed Yemeni government forces, enhancing the rebels' ability to block Saudi shipments through the Bab el-Mandeb. On Friday, Saudi Arabia said it shut down the pipeline leading from major oil fields in the east to the Red Sea in the west because of drone attacks originating in Iraq, where Iran supports powerful militias. Regional officials recently told The Associated Press that the Houthis have helped the Iraqi militias carry out attacks. Houthi attacks have already caused a plunge in Saudi oil exports to Asia, from around 3.4 million barrels a day in June to 1,28,000 in August, though they have recovered somewhat this month to 7,00,000, according to figures compiled by Kpler, a global trade monitor. Saudis have few options Saudi Arabia fought against the Houthis for years beginning in 2015, but its allies made little progress on the ground. The conflict killed an estimated 1,50,000 people and at times pushed Yemen to the brink of famine before a 2022 ceasefire. Saudi Arabia has spent several years trying to move beyond the Yemen conflict and focus on economic transformation and regional stability, said Neil Quilliam, a Middle East expert at Chatham House. Recent Houthi gains increase pressure on Riyadh to respond, but every available option carries significant costs and uncertain outcomes. The Saudis could step up their military response and try to dislodge the Houthis, but that would prolong the conflict and lead to even heavier Houthi attacks on Saudi energy infrastructure, said Sherwan Hindreen Ali, Middle East research manager at ACLED, a conflict monitoring group. The kingdom already faced this in the past, but Houthi weaponry is more sophisticated now than it was back then, and the Saudis likely have less interceptor missiles available as a result of the US-Iran conflict, he said. The Saudis could also seek a diplomatic solution with either the Houthis or their patrons in Tehran. But the Houthis have demanded the lifting of a Saudi-led blockade, which would allow them to grow much stronger over the long term, and Iran has little interest in stabilising the region without securing major US concessions. US help may not be forthcoming For decades, Saudi Arabia and other Gulf states have relied on US security guarantees. Those have eroded under Trump, who did not respond during his first term when a 2019 attack claimed by the Houthis temporarily knocked out half of Saudi Arabia's oil supply. In February, the US joined Israel in attacking Iran without consulting its Gulf allies, and since then it has struggled to defend them from Iranian attacks. The US started airstrikes against the Houthis in January 2024 under the Biden administration, and the attacks continued until January 2025. Trump launched an air campaign against the rebels in March last year in response to earlier attacks on Red Sea shipping linked to the war in Gaza. But this time, US forces are heavily deployed around the Strait of Hormuz, where they are blockading Iran and trying to prevent attacks on shipping there. The fighting has visibly strained the US military and drawn down supplies of sophisticated interceptors. The war is also deeply unpopular and has eroded Trump's support after he had promised to keep the US out of Mideast wars. Launching another military campaign in Yemen could compound the struggles of fellow Republicans in tight House and Senate races. Trump on Saturday said that Iran was probably behind the Saudi pipeline attack. Asked about a recent call with Saudi Arabia's crown prince, he said: He's a good friend of mine, and I can just say everything's going to work out fine and dandy. The White House did not respond to a request for comment on whether it plans to intervene in Yemen. Speaking about the war with Iran on Thursday, Trump dismissed the idea of increasing military pressure, as some US hawks have suggested. Maybe I don't do that because of the election, he told the Fox News show The Ingraham Angle. Ratney, the former US ambassador, said it would be difficult for the Saudis to achieve their objectives without consistent US support, which they had at previous times while fighting the Houthis. My understanding at this point is the White House is not enthusiastic about getting involved, he said.

Loneliness among elderly emerging as silent epidemic taking toll on health: Doctors

Loneliness among the elderly is emerging as a serious but often overlooked concern, doctors have warned. Older adults can feel isolated even while living with their families, and prolonged social disconnection can take a toll on both their mental and physical health, they say. According to Dr Harjit Singh Bhatti, a senior consultant of geriatric medicine at Sitaram Bhartia Hospital, loneliness is not simply about living alone but an emotional state in which a person feels disconnected, neglected or deprived of meaningful relationships. An elderly person can live with their family and still feel lonely, while someone living alone may remain socially active and well connected. Loneliness, therefore, cannot be assessed simply by looking at whether a person lives alone or with others, said Dr Bhatti. Changing family structures, urbanisation, migration of younger people for education and employment and the growing prevalence of nuclear families have further complicated the problem, he said. Older adults who have lost a spouse, live alone, have disabilities or suffer from chronic illnesses can be particularly vulnerable, while retirement and children moving to other cities or countries may further reduce social interaction, Dr Bhatti said. Dr Avinash Chakrawarty, Professor of Geriatric Medicine at National Centre for Ageing (NCA), Delhi AIIMS, said loneliness should be viewed as a health issue rather than a consequence of ageing. Social connection is an important component of healthy ageing, and when it erodes, it can affect sleep, appetite, physical activity, mood and even treatment adherence in an elderly person, he said. Many seniors gradually withdraw from social activities because of mobility problems, hearing difficulties or a feeling that they are no longer needed, Dr Chakrawarty said. This can create a cycle in which isolation leads to poorer mental and physical health, which in turn makes the person less willing or able to engage with others. Families need to recognise subtle changes such as loss of interest in routine activities, reduced communication or spending most of the day alone. Regular conversations, shared meals, outings and involving seniors in family decisions can help restore a sense of belonging and purpose, Dr Chakrawarty said. Dr Anup Singh, Founder Head of the Department of Geriatric Medicine, IMS-BHU, and nodal officer/Chief of the upcoming National Centre of Ageing at BHU, said prolonged loneliness has been linked with several physical and cognitive health concerns. Persistent stress associated with loneliness may contribute to sleep disturbances, high blood pressure and cardiovascular risk, while reduced physical and social activity can worsen existing chronic conditions, he said. There is also growing evidence linking social isolation and loneliness with depression, anxiety and cognitive decline. In older adults, therefore, assessing social connectedness should be part of a broader health evaluation, he added. Doctors must ask about who the patient interacts with, how often they participate in activities and whether they feel supported, rather than limiting consultations to medicines and laboratory reports, Dr Singh said. The problem is not restricted to cities, doctors insist. While busy urban lifestyles and limited neighbourhood interaction can leave seniors isolated, migration of younger generations for employment can similarly leave older adults in rural areas without regular companionship, Dr Singh said. Technology can help bridge geographical distances through phone calls, video calls and social media, though, he stated. Dr Bhatti said tackling loneliness does not necessarily require major interventions. Regular conversations, sharing meals, involving older family members in everyday activities and genuinely listening to them can go a long way. They need to feel that they continue to be an important part of the family, he said. Senior citizen clubs, community centres, volunteering opportunities, cultural programmes and intergenerational activities can also help older adults remain socially engaged. As Indias elderly population continues to grow, doctors said addressing loneliness will become increasingly important to ensure that longer life also translates into healthier and more fulfilling ageing.

PM Modi wishes Israeli PM Netanyahu on Jewish new year

Prime Minister Narendra Modi and President Droupadi Murmu on Saturday greeted their Israeli counterparts and the Jewish community on their new year. Modi conveyed his wishes to Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu in a post on X. Shana Tova! Wishing a very happy Rosh Hashanah to Prime Minister Netanyahu, the people of Israel and Jewish communities across the globe. May the new year be filled with peace, hope, good health and continued progress for all, he said. Murmu extended her greetings to Israeli President Isaac Herzog. May the new year usher in peace, prosperity, good health and renewed hope for all, she said in a post on X. Excellency @Isaac_Herzog, On behalf of the people of India, I convey heartfelt #RoshHashanah greetings to you and the Jewish community across Israel and the world, Murmu said in the post, tagging the Israeli president.

Sports store inaugurated in Srinagar

The Cricket Hub by Wasi, a premier new sports store and hub, was inaugurated with a grand opening led by former J&K Ranji team captain cricketer Samiullah Beigh and celebrated international footballer Ishfaq Ahmad, bringing together some of the most prominent names in the valleys sporting fraternity. The star-studded inauguration ceremony, as per a statement, also witnessed the presence of renowned first-class cricketers, including Adil Reshi and others. Their attendance underscored the united support of the local sports community for this new venture, which aims to elevate the standard of sports equipment and facilities available to athletes in the region. The Cricket Hub by Wasi is designed to be a comprehensive one-stop destination for cricket enthusiasts, professionals, and aspiring athletes. The store will provide access to top-tier, professional-grade sporting goods, apparel, and expert advice, bridging a crucial gap for the valley's burgeoning talent. Speaking at the ribbon-cutting ceremony, cricketer Samiullah Beigh highlighted the importance of the new establishment. Having a dedicated, high-quality sports hub with original players edition equipment is crucial for nurturing the immense athletic talent we have in the valley, he said. Initiatives like The Cricket Hub by Wasi will go a long way in providing our youth with the right resources and gear to excel on the field. Veteran footballer Ishfaq Ahmad echoed these sentiments, praising the initiative. Sports have the power to unite us, and seeing the sporting fraternity come together to support this launch is truly inspiring. Providing our youth with access to quality equipment is the first step toward building future champions. The event concluded with the dignitaries touring the new store, exploring the equipment on display, and interacting with young sports enthusiasts and fans who had gathered to celebrate the opening.

Aqua Kashmir Avengers, Athwas Hyundai XI play out goalless draw in KSL 2

Aqua Kashmir Avengers FC and Athwas Hyundai XI FC played out a goalless draw in the Kashmir Super League (KSL) Season 2 on Saturday, with neither side able to find the back of the net despite a competitive encounter. Both teams, as per a statement, created opportunities during the match but failed to convert them into goals. The defensive units of both sides remained firm throughout, ensuring that the scoreline stayed 0-0 at the final whistle. The KSL action will continue on Sunday, with United Elegant FC taking on New JK United FC in the next fixture.

Sakeena Itoo lays foundation stone for Rs 1 Cr volleyball academy in Kulgam

Minister for Social Welfare, Education, Health and Medical Education, Sakeena Itoo, on Saturday, visited Nehama and laid the foundation stone for a volleyball academy being established at an estimated cost of Rs 1.00 crore. The proposed Volleyball Academy is aimed at strengthening the sports infrastructure in the area and providing local youth with modern and better facilities to hone their sporting skills. The initiative is expected to encourage greater participation of young people in sports and promote a healthy and active lifestyle. During her visit, the Minister, as per an official statement, interacted with the local residents and listened to their grievances, developmental concerns and demands. People from Nehama and adjoining villages projected various issues related to development and sought timely intervention for their resolution. Sakeena Itoo assured the people that their genuine concerns would be examined and taken up with the concerned departments for appropriate action. Emphasising the need for quality and timely execution of developmental works, the Minister directed the engineering and concerned departments to maintain strict focus on the quality of works and ensure their completion within the stipulated timelines. Sakeena Itoo stressed that every rupee allocated by the government for public welfare is valuable and must be utilized judiciously, transparently and effectively. The Minister also called upon the Youth Services and Sports Department to ensure proper upkeep and systematic development of all playgrounds and sports facilities in the district. She emphasized the need for adequate fencing and other essential infrastructure so that playgrounds remain functional, safe and accessible to young people. Sakeena Itoo underscored the importance of providing youth with adequate opportunities and facilities to participate in sports. She stated that investment in sports infrastructure contributes not only to sporting excellence but also to the overall physical and social development of the younger generation. On the occasion, the Minister also distributed appointment orders among newly selected Anganwadi Workers, appreciating role of frontline staff in strengthening the community-based services and women and child welfare initiatives.

Director Sericulture unveils Silk Kash quarterly journal

Director Sericulture J&K Ajaz Ahmad Bhat, unveiled the second issue of *Silk Kash*, the departments Quarterly Journal 2026, aimed at strengthening information dissemination and outreach among stakeholders in the sericulture sector. The journal was unveiled in the presence of senior officers and departmental staff. Speaking on the occasion, Bhat highlighted the potential of sericulture as a cost-effective and remunerative livelihood activity, particularly for rural households. He called for an intensive and result-oriented awareness campaign to disseminate information about silkworm rearing, its benefits and the opportunities available to stakeholders. He said Silk Kash has been conceived as a dedicated knowledge and outreach platform to showcase best practices, document the achievements and success stories of progressive silkworm rearers and create greater awareness about Centrally Sponsored Schemes and flagship initiatives being implemented by the department. Bhat highlighted the implementation of programmes including Silk Samagra-2 and the Holistic Agriculture Development Programme (HADP), saying these initiatives are aimed at strengthening the sericulture sector and extending the benefits of government interventions to stakeholders at the grassroots level. He stressed that an informed stakeholder community is essential for effective implementation of schemes and maximising their impact. The Director said the journal would also seek to bridge the information gap among silkworm rearers, farmers, silk reeling and weaving unit holders, educated youth, women and tribal communities by providing information on schemes, subsidies, training programmes, departmental facilities and technical support. He further underscored the importance of capacity building and continuous skill development for the sustainable growth and modernisation of sericulture in Jammu and Kashmir. He said the department is undertaking skill-upgradation programmes for field functionaries, exposure visits for silkworm rearers and farmers, and targeted awareness camps for educated youth, women and tribal communities. Bhat expressed hope that Silk Kash would evolve into an effective platform for knowledge sharing and dissemination, providing stakeholders with practical information and technological insights while giving wider visibility to the departments initiatives and achievements. The unveiling of the journal marks an effort by the department to strengthen communication and stakeholder engagement with the broader objective of promoting sericulture as a productive and sustainable livelihood avenue across Jammu and Kashmir.

ATMs to issue RuPay cards, UPI QR codes for merchants

ATMs could soon evolve beyond cash withdrawals and deposits, with new technology unveiled at the Global Fintech Fest (GFF) 2026 enabling instant issuance of personalised RuPay cards and UPI QR codes for merchants. Secretary, Department of Financial Services, Ministry of Finance, Sanjay Lohiya, launched the innovations at GFF 2026 in the presence of UIDAI CEO Saurabh Vijay. The open-source Android-based ATM solution will allow customers to receive personalised RuPay debit, credit and NCMC cards directly from machines through a self-service process. Merchants will also be able to generate UPI QR codes instantly to accept digital payments. The machines are designed to offer additional banking services, including cheque deposits, account opening and loan applications. The team demonstrated the technology at the GFF venue. The initiative aims to transform ATMs into intelligent banking access points, reducing dependence on branches and courier-based card delivery. Banks are also exploring their deployment as Digital Banking Units in semi-urban and rural areas, as well as at airports, transit hubs, educational campuses and corporate parks. Nine banks, including SBI, Bank of Baroda, Union Bank of India, PNB and Airtel Payments Bank, are currently engaging with NPCI and ATM manufacturers to assess the solution.

Starting small, growing strong: Abida builds livelihood through poultry

At a time when traditional household practices are gradually disappearing amid changing lifestyles, Abida Hameed of Shirpora in Pattan has revived an age-old Kashmiri practice and turned it into a source of livelihood. What began with just a few desi hens, primarily to ensure a supply of traditional eggs for her children, has now grown into a small poultry enterprise with more than 250 birds. Abida started the unit on her own, without any initial assistance, and gradually expanded it as demand for desi eggs and traditional poultry grew. For her, the venture was not initially about starting a business. It was born out of the difficulty of finding genuine desi eggs in the market. I started this mainly because I wanted to feed my children desi eggs. Keeping desi hens at home was once common, but that tradition is slowly disappearing. I found it increasingly difficult to get desi eggs, so I decided to keep hens myself, Abida said. She later approached the Animal Husbandry Department seeking assistance but encountered difficulties in setting up the infrastructure required for the poultry unit. I found it difficult to construct a concrete shed in the beginning. Instead of waiting, I decided to start on my own and built a wooden shed for the hens, she said. That modest beginning has since developed into a growing enterprise. Abida now keeps more than 250 hens and says she is receiving a good response from the local market, with demand for both desi eggs and traditional hens remaining strong. Today, I have more than 250 hens. There is good demand for desi eggs and hens, and I am satisfied with the response I am getting from this business, she said. Her journey also reflects a broader economic tradition in Kashmir, where poultry and small-scale household farming once formed an important part of rural livelihoods. Keeping desi hens at home was common, and eggs and poultry were often sold by families to meet everyday household expenses and purchase essential items. With changing lifestyles, however, such traditional practices have gradually declined. At the same time, demand for desi poultry has given the practice a renewed commercial value. Desi eggs are currently fetching around Rs 25 to Rs 30 a piece in the local market, while there is also steady demand for desi hens among consumers who prefer traditional poultry over commercially raised broilers. For women like Abida, the revival of such traditional livelihoods offers more than an additional source of income. It provides an avenue for economic independence while reconnecting rural households with practices that were once an integral part of Kashmirs economy. Her experience also demonstrates how a small household activity can gradually develop into an income-generating enterprise when linked with market demand. At a time when government employment opportunities remain limited, Abidas journey from keeping a few hens for her children to maintaining a flock of more than 250 birds shows how traditional skills and local resources can be turned into sustainable livelihood opportunities.

Dettol launches school hygiene education programme in Ladakh

Reckitt, under its flagship Dettol Banega Swasth India (BSI) campaign, launched the Dettol School Hygiene Education Programme in Ladakh on Saturday in collaboration with the Directorate of School Education, Ladakh. The programme was formally launched at Council Model School, Ayu Saboo, Leh, in the presence of Bhanu Prabha (IAS), Administrative Secretary, School Education Department, UT Ladakh. The initiative aims to provide structured hygiene education to schoolchildren across the Union Territory, focusing on strengthening hygiene awareness in remote and high-altitude communities. According to Reckitt, the programme will use age-appropriate and interactive learning modules covering five key hygiene themes: personal hygiene, hygiene at school, hygiene at home, hygiene during illness, and hygiene in neighbourhoods. The initiative seeks to promote healthy practices among children and encourage behaviour change within families and communities. Speaking at the launch, Bhanu Prabha said schools play an important role in shaping lifelong habits and children can help spread hygiene practices within their homes and communities. She said the programme combines classroom learning with practical demonstrations and interactive tools to encourage the adoption of healthy hygiene practices. Prof Ravi Bhatnagar, Director of Corporate Communications and Corporate Affairs, South Asia, MENARP and Africa at Reckitt, said the expansion of the Dettol Banega Swasth India programme to Ladakh reflects the company's effort to extend hygiene education to underserved and geographically remote regions. Jagran Pehel will implement the programme on the ground. It will provide students and teachers with hygiene education workbooks, teacher training manuals and curriculum-based classroom activities. The programme will also include animated educational content, child-friendly videos developed with Sesame Workshop, digital hygiene games, an interactive hygiene chatbot, hygiene-themed comic books, awareness posters and 3D do-it-yourself hygiene and sanitation kits. Schools participating in the programme will conduct live handwashing demonstrations to teach the correct handwashing technique and promote hand hygiene as a measure to prevent the spread of infections. Reckitt said the Dettol Banega Swasth India campaign has reached more than 30 million children through over 900,000 schools across India over the past decade and has enabled more than 43 billion handwashing occasions through its hygiene education initiatives.

Slow mobile internet irks Kupwaras Mawer residents

Residents of several villages in the Mawer area of Handwara sub-district expressed resentment over poor mobile internet speeds provided by private telecom operators Jio and Airtel, saying the inadequate connectivity has caused hardships in their daily lives. Residents said that while much of Kashmir has access to 5G services, people in Mawer continue to struggle with slow internet speeds. Villages including Umer Abad, Lam, Audoora, Warpora, Checki Audoora and Drugnsoo are among the worst affected, they said. The poor connectivity has affected online education, remote work, access to information and other digital services, residents said. Students in the area are suffering because of the low internet speed. Several job aspirants, including those preparing for civil services examinations, have repeatedly raised the issue but nothing has been done. Many have now shifted to relatives homes to continue their preparations, a local resident told Greater Kashmir . Residents said reliable high-speed internet has become essential for education, employment, communication and access to government and other online services. They alleged that despite repeatedly bringing the issue to the notice of the concerned telecom operators, their complaints had not been addressed. The residents sought the intervention of Deputy Commissioner Kupwara Shrikant Balasaheb, urging him to take up the matter with the telecom operators and ensure reliable mobile internet connectivity in the affected areas.

DGP Anand Jain concludes 2-day Kargil visit, reviews security and policing

Director General of Police (DGP), UT Ladakh, Anand Jain concluded his two-day visit to Kargil on Saturday after reviewing the security situation and overall policing in the district. During the visit, the DGP held meetings with police officers and security agencies and stressed the need for close coordination among security forces and heightened alertness to ensure the safety and security of the people. A crime review meeting was held at the District Police Office, Kargil, and attended by supervisory officers, Station House Officers (SHOs) and Investigating Officers (IOs) from police stations in Kargil, Wakha, Panikhar and Drass. Jain reviewed the district's crime situation and directed officers to expedite long-pending investigations in Kargil and Drass. He asked police to give priority to investigations related to heroin trafficking under the NDPS Act, theft, POCSO cases and cybercrime, while also strengthening community policing initiatives. During the tour, the DGP inaugurated three newly constructed residential quarters for gazetted officers at Baroo and a new mess-cum-kitchen building at Sankoo. He also inaugurated a 72-foot-high National Flag at the District Police Lines, Kargil, in the presence of Deputy Commissioner Kargil Rakesh Kumar, Senior Superintendent of Police Kargil Nitin Yadav and Major General (Retd) Asim Kohli of the Flag Foundation of India. The flag project was executed jointly by the civil administration, district police and the Flag Foundation of India. Jain also attended public meetings in Kargil, Sankoo and Rangdum, where delegations from different sections of society raised issues including drug abuse, cybercrime awareness and other local concerns. The DGP assured the delegations that their genuine concerns would be examined through appropriate mechanisms. He appealed to people to share information related to drug trafficking with the police and encouraged youth to apply for constable recruitment and join the police force.

Ladakh Police gets 4 new tech-driven initiatives

Lieutenant Governor (LG) of Ladakh Vinai Kumar Saxena on Saturday inaugurated four new initiatives aimed at modernising policing, strengthening tourist safety and improving emergency response across the Union Territory. The initiatives include Jullay 2.0, the Ladakh Police Tourist Assistance App; 20 e-Challan devices for the Traffic Wing; five new Rescue Beats under the Emergency Response Support System (ERSS) 112; and Tourist Facilitation Centres-cum-Check Posts at North Pulu in Nubra and Serchu in Changthang. Jullay 2.0 brings tourist assistance, safety services, weather information and other essential facilities onto a single digital platform. Its live notification system will provide tourists with real-time alerts, advisories and updates, particularly important in Ladakh where weather and road conditions can change rapidly. The app also allows tourists and local residents to lodge complaints and report incidents directly to the Police, including through anonymous reporting. The app has been rolled out for Android devices on the Play Store, while its availability on the App Store is expected shortly. The introduction of 20 e-Challan devices will digitise traffic enforcement. The system is integrated with VAHAN, Sarathi and e-Challan, creating a digital trail from identification of a violation and verification of vehicle and licence details to challan generation and receipt. Centralised digital records will help monitor violations, identify repeat offenders and traffic-violation hotspots and support evidence-based traffic management. The larger objective is to improve road safety and protect human life. The ERSS 112 network has been expanded with five new Rescue Beats at Nimoo, Nyoma, Sankoo, Panamik and Tangtse, taking the total number of Rescue Points from 11 to 16. The network is supported by 16 Emergency Response Vehicles (ERVs) of Ladakh Police, along with four additional ERVs of the Fire Department and UTDRF. The vehicles are equipped with GPS and Mobile Data Terminals. During July 2026, ERSS Ladakh received 3,375 calls and registered 117 events, with an average response time of around 20 minutes. The Tourist Facilitation Centre-cum-Check Post at North Pulu in Nubra has been established to strengthen police presence and tourist services in the remote area. The facility at Serchu in Changthang has been completed under the SDP through CPWD. Saxena commended the Ladakh Police for introducing measures tailored to the Union Territorys geography, climate, connectivity challenges, high-altitude terrain and growing tourist footfall. These initiatives demonstrate that Ladakh Police is not merely adopting technology for modernisation, but is using it to meet the specific needs of our people and visitors, the LG said. He said combining technology with infrastructure and trained manpower would make policing more responsive, transparent and accessible, particularly in remote and strategically important areas. The Lieutenant Governor called for continued modernisation and regular evaluation of such measures based on practical experience and public feedback. He said every technological intervention should ultimately translate into quicker response, greater transparency and better public service.

One-Time Exemption: Teachers urge Govt to extend cut-off date from March 2024 to September 2026

The teachers have urged the government to extend the eligibility cut-off date for acquiring higher qualifications under the One-Time Exemption provision from March 15, 2024, to September 30, 2026. The teachers appealed to the Minister for Education, Sakina Itoo saying their demand was not merely for extending the deadline for submission of documents, but for extending the eligibility cut-off date for acquiring higher qualifications. They said scores of teachers pursued and completed higher degrees through distance and online modes during their service, making considerable personal and financial efforts to upgrade their academic and professional qualifications. Such employees deserve an opportunity to have their qualifications considered under the One-Time Exemption mechanism, subject to verification and fulfilment of the prescribed conditions, the teachers said. Notably, J&K School Education Department (SED) earlier issued Government Order No. 188-JK(Edu) of 2024, dated March 15, 2024, providing a one-time exemption mechanism for eligible teaching and other staff who had acquired higher qualifications during service without obtaining prior permission. The teachers said the benefit of the mechanism should be made more inclusive and aligned with the contemporary educational policy framework, particularly the National Education Policy (NEP) 2020, which places significant emphasis on continuous professional development, lifelong learning and upgradation of teachers knowledge and competencies. The teachers who voluntarily pursued higher education through recognised distance or online programmes should not be placed at a disadvantage merely because their qualifications were acquired after the existing cut-off date, the teachers said. The teachers said extending the cut-off date would enable the department to examine such cases on their individual merits without compromising the prescribed rules and verification requirements. The teachers urged the Minister for Education to extend the cut-off date for acquiring higher qualifications from March 15, 2024, to September 30, 2026, so that teachers who completed their degrees during this period could be brought within the ambit of consideration. The teachers said such an extension would be a progressive, equitable and teacher-friendly measure consistent with the spirit of NEP 2020 and the broader objective of strengthening the professional capacity of the teaching workforce. Our demand is for a comprehensive extension of the eligibility cut-off date, and not an extension of the document-submission deadline, so that teachers who have invested in higher education and professional development are given a fair opportunity for consideration, the teachers said.

Budgam launches project to screen 1.67 lakh Govt School children

The Budgam district administration launched the Nayonika Child Vision initiative to ensure primary eye screening of around 1.67 lakh children across the district, with the project aiming to make Budgam the first district in India to undertake comprehensive eye screening of all government schoolchildren. As per a statement, Nayonika Child Vision an initiative of the Budgam District Administration and Nayonika Eye Care Charitable Trust with ReRoot Foundation aims to enrich Government school children and will benefit 1.67 lakh children from 917 Government schools. The project has been successfully implemented in the states of Karnataka and Pondicherry by Nayonika Eye Care Charitable Trust. The project will create mass eye health awareness with Vision Walls, support of good quality spectacles, and Alcon lenses for surgeries, if needed. Goal is to ensure each and every child is screened for eye problems( primary eye screening ) and September 11-2026 training for teachers launched by DC Athar Amir khan IAS. Next Phase followed by support of Free Spectacles for all Children. Project to be in perpetual mode so that services to needy is never stopped.

Remembering Dr Aziz Hajini: A legacy of language, literature, learning

The 5th death anniversary of the towering literary icon, former secretary of the J&K Academy of Art, Culture and Languages (JKAACL) & eminent critic, writer and language activist Dr Aziz Hajini was observed on Saturday with profound reverence and enthusiasm. The commemorative event, as per a statement, was organised by the Wahab Cultural Society, (WCS) Hajin, in collaboration with the Department of School Education Bandipora. The solemn yet inspiring occasion brought together hundreds of school children, teachers, educationists & prominent members of civil society to pay glowing tributes to a visionary leader who dedicated his entire life to the preservation and promotion of the Kashmiri language and cultural heritage. Dr Hajinis legacy spans monumental contributions across diverse premier institutions, including his leadership as former president of Adbi Markaz Kamraz (Kashmirs largest literary amalgam), alongside his impactful associations with the J&K Board of School Education, the Directorate of School Education Kashmir, the University of Kashmir, and the Sahitya Akademi, New Delhi, among several other Union Territory and national-level organisations. The programme commenced with a warm and inspiring welcome address presented by Nazir Javed, Patron of the Wahab Cultural Society, Hajin. This was followed by a detailed and insightful keynote address by well-known writer and poet Shahbaz Haqbari, who eloquently highlighted Dr Hajini's exceptional contributions to education, literature and various other spheres of public life. The presidential chair was graced by Shakit Shafi, President of Halqa-e-Adab Sonawari Arshid Ahmad Lone, Senior JKAS Officer & Chief Accounts Officer of the Kashmir Power Development Corporation, honoured the event as the Chief Guest. The presidium also included the Chief Education Officer Bandipora and the Zonal Education Officer Hajin. Engineer Farhan Manzoor Shah, Provincial Secretary of JKEEGA & Additional Secretary NIT Alumni Association and Azhar Hajini son of the late literary icon, noted broadcaster, television presenter, and Media Secretary of Halqa-e-Adab Sonawari added special grace to the gathering by their distinguished presence.

PIB Srinagar organises media tour to Chennai for 13-member journalist delegation

The Press Information Bureau (PIB), Srinagar Region, is organising a media tour for journalists from Srinagar to Chennai from September 13 to 19, 2026 as part of its ongoing media outreach initiatives. A 13 member delegation, as per a PIB statement, comprising journalists from Srinagar and PIB officials will participate in the tour. Prior to the departure, Director, PIB Srinagar, Qazi Salman, briefed the delegation on the objectives of the visit and urged the participants to make meaningful use of the interactions during the tour. The delegation is being led by Shahid Lone, Field Publicity Officer, CBC Anantnag, serving as the Conducting Officer, with Ifham Ul Islam, Information Assistant, PIB Srinagar, accompanying the delegation. The tour is aimed at providing journalists with firsthand exposure to key Central Government institutions, projects and initiatives in Chennai and enhancing their understanding of national level policies and their implementation on the ground. During the visit, the delegation will visit various Central Government establishments and projects in Chennai and interact with senior officials to gain an understanding of their functioning and operations. Addressing the delegation, Qazi Salman congratulated the participants and expressed confidence that the visit would provide an opportunity for professional engagement and a better understanding of the functioning of Central Government institutions.

Apni Party leaders visit NHM protesters, express solidarity

Apni Party leaders, led by Provincial President Mohammad Ashraf Mir, on Saturday visited the protesting National Health Mission (NHM) workers who are observing a sit-in and hunger strike at a park near the PHC in Bonpora Batamaloo, and expressed solidarity with their demands. Pertinently, NHM employees have been carrying out protests across Jammu and Kashmir for the past several days in support of their long-pending demands, including pay revision, job security, and retirement benefits. According to a press release issued here, Apni Party Provincial President Mohammad Ashraf Mir, Womens Wing President Dilshad Shaheen, Spokesperson Ishrat Bhat, Provincial Youth President Kashmir Jibran Dar, District President Srinagar and Constituency In-charge Central Shalteng Zaffar Habib, as per a party statement, along with other party leaders, visited the protesting NHM employees and expressed their unwavering solidarity with them.

MMF launches free Moul Mouj Dementia helpline across J&K

Responding to a growing and urgent demand for dementia support from families across Jammu and Kashmir, Moul Mouj Foundation (MMF) today launched a free dedicated Moul Mouj Dementia Helpline offering tele-consultation, counselling and caregiver support across Jammu and Kashmir, coinciding with World Alzheimers Month. The initiative comes amid growing concern over dementia in the region. A nationwide study published in Alzheimers & Dementia reported a dementia prevalence of 11.04% among people aged 60 and above in J&K, compared with a national estimate of 7.4%. The live helpline will operate Monday to Saturday, 8:009:00 PM, addressing the difficult evening hours when dementia-related confusion and agitation often worsen. A 24/7 WhatsApp service will also allow caregivers to seek guidance and receive tailored care and digital resources. All services are free. Caring for a loved one with dementia is an incredibly demanding journey, particularly during the evening when behavioural challenges often peak, said Dr Zubair Saleem, Founder of MMF and leading geriatrician. This helpline ensures that caregivers are never alone when they need support most. Beyond tele-consultation, MMF will provide customised caregiver digital kits, behavioural logs and home-safety checklists, based on the patients needs. Dementia affects the entire family, not just the patient, said Dr Shakeel ur Rehman, Secretary General, MMF. We aim to combine clinical advice with practical tools and counselling that can reduce caregiver stress and improve quality of life. Families can access the service by calling the helpline 1800-20-30-337 or 6005463346 on weekdays from 8:009:00 PM, or messaging the team on WhatsApp at 6005463346.

Chief Justice inaugurates 3rd National Lok Adalat at District Court Complex Srinagar

In a significant stride towards delivering timely and amicable justice, District Legal Services Authority (DLSA) Srinagar successfully organised the 3rd National Lok Adalat of the year 2026 at the District Court Complex, Mominabad, Srinagar and Court of the Additional Special Mobile Magistrate/JMIC Pantha Chowk. The National Lok Adalat was inaugurated by Dr Pushpendra Singh Bhati, Chief Justice of High Court of J&K and Ladakh (Patron-in-Chief, J&K Legal Services Authority), in the presence of Justice Sanjeev Kumar, Judge, High Court of J&K and Ladakh and Executive Chairman, J&K Legal Services Authority. The inaugural ceremony was attended by M.K. Sharma, Registrar General, High Court of J&K and Ladakh, Shazia Tabasum, Member Secretary, J&K Legal Services Authority and. Haq Nawaz Zargar, Principal District & Sessions Judge/ Chairman, DLSA Srinagar, along with the Secretary, DLSA Srinagar and other Judicial Officers of District Court Complex Srinagar. Moreover, a ceremonial Guard of Honour was presented by the Jammu & Kashmir Police, marking a dignified and respectful beginning to the proceedings. Following the guard of honour, a Chinar sapling and a yellow maple sapling were planted by the Chief Guest and Executive Chairman, J&K Legal Services Authority, within the court premises, as a gesture towards environmental protection and promotion of a greener and cleaner environment. The dignitaries visited and observed the functioning of various benches at the District Court Srinagar, offering encouragement to litigants and reinforcing the ethos of participatory justice. Speaking on the occasion, the Chief Justice emphasised the transformative role of Lok Adalats in the justice delivery system, stating, Lok Adalat is not just a mechanism for resolving disputes; it is a platform that creates a win-win situation for all parties involved. It saves time, reduces litigation costs, and fosters goodwill. I encourage the public to actively participate in this initiative for peaceful, timely, and amicable settlements. Justice through Lok Adalats strengthens the very foundation of participatory and compassionate justice. The Lok Adalat received an enthusiastic response from litigants, a testament to the growing public trust in alternative dispute resolution mechanisms. A wide range of cases, including civil matters, matrimonial disputes, criminal compoundable offences, bank recoveries and pre-litigation issues, were taken up, with a significant number being resolved on the spot. To facilitate the amicable settlement of cases, 11 benches were constituted in the district. The Bench where MACT claims were settled was presided over by Farooq Ahmad Bhat (Add. District & Sessions Judge Sgr) and Dinesh Gupta 3rd Add. District & Sessions Judge Sgr) in which 85 cases were taken, out of which, 33 cases were amicably settled and Rs 6,72,35,000 were awarded as settlement amount and cheques amounting Rs 3,42,45,000 were on-spot distributed among the claimants by the Chief Justice in presence of Justice Sanjeev Kumar, Judge High Court of J&K and Ladakh (Executive Chairman, J&K Legal Services Authority), Haq Nawaz Zargar Principal District & Sessions Judge Srinagar, Ms. Shazia Tabasum, Member Secretary, J&K Legal Services Authority and other Ld. Judicial Officers of District Court Srinagar. The Bench No. 05 was presided over by Fida Hussain Nayak (Municipal Magistrate Srinagar) and comprised of Junaid Imtiyaz Mir (Sub-Judge, Srinagar). Out of the 63 cases, 19 cases were settled with an amount of Rs. 1,01,24,17,752. By the concerted efforts of all presiding officers of all the courts, cooperation rendered by the learned advocates and officers of various government departments, insurance companies and banking institutions, a total number of 9,888 cases were taken up by 11 benches in the district, out of which, 9,394 cases were settled in the said Lok-Adalat. An amount of Rs, 1,11,14,88,832/ (One Hundred Eleven Crores Fourteen Lakh Eighty-Eight Thousand Eight Hundred Thirty-Two Only ) was awarded as settlement amount in all the cases including award of Rs. 6,72,35,000 in 33 MACT Cases. The 3rd National Lok Adalat of 2026 witnessed a huge participation of officers and officials from different departments, besides litigants. The success of the event reflects the judiciary's commitment to resolve the disputes through mutual understanding and compromise. Such initiatives not only lessen the backlog of cases in the courts but also strengthen the publics faith in the legal system.

Landfilling near Brari Nambal for car parking raises questions

The demolition drive at Brari Nambal has raised questions over the monitoring of landfilling and alleged encroachments around the sensitive waterbody, after a portion of the site was reportedly filled over a period of nearly 15 days and subsequently allegedly occupied by car dealers. According to KNT, the occupation was demolished by authorities on Saturday, bringing renewed focus on how the alleged landfilling was allowed to continue before enforcement action was taken. According to residents, landfilling continued at the site for around 15 days before the filled-up area was allegedly taken over for parking and commercial use by car dealers. Residents questioned why action was not initiated when filling material was being dumped instead of after the site had allegedly been occupied. Speaking to the news agency Kashmir News Trust (KNT), locals also questioned the monitoring of the area, particularly as an office of the Lakes Conservation and Management Authority (LCMA) is located nearby. They asked how landfilling could allegedly continue for several days in the vicinity of an area monitored by agencies responsible for protecting Srinagar's water bodies. Residents said the issue goes beyond Saturday's demolition and concerns the circumstances that allegedly allowed the landfilling to take place in the first place. They sought clarification on whether any permission had been granted for the activity and which agency was responsible for monitoring the site. Brari Nambal, located in the heart of Srinagar, has faced recurring concerns over encroachment, dumping and unauthorised alterations to its surroundings. Residents said the latest incident highlights the continuing pressure on the city's remaining water bodies and wetlands. The alleged commercial use of land created through filling has further heightened concerns among locals, who said unchecked landfilling can make subsequent enforcement and restoration increasingly difficult. Residents have called on the authorities to explain how the reported 15-day landfilling activity went unchecked, identify those responsible and establish whether any official permission or clearance was obtained. They have also demanded restoration of the affected portion of the waterbody and measures to prevent further dumping, filling and construction at the site. Residents said protection of water bodies should focus on preventing encroachment at the outset rather than relying solely on demolition drives after unauthorised occupation has taken place.

Srinagar Ring Road: Land handover, demolition put on fast track

The clearance of land and structural bottlenecks for the Srinagar Ring Road (SRR) Phase-II and II-A has been put on a fast track, with authorities setting deadlines for handing over acquired land and removing private structures along the project alignment. Divisional Commissioner Kashmir Anshul Garg chaired a meeting to review the impediments affecting the execution of the project and directed the concerned departments to ensure time-bound action to expedite its completion. The meeting was attended by Deputy Commissioner Ganderbal, SSP Traffic Rural, Project Director NHAI and officers from the Roads and Buildings (R&B), Public Health Engineering (PHE) and Kashmir Power Distribution Corporation Limited (KPDCL). During the meeting, NHAI officials gave a detailed presentation on the status of the project and apprised the authorities of various bottlenecks, including land acquisition, disbursement of compensation, demolition of government and private structures, shifting or alteration of establishment structures, utility shifting, court cases and tree felling. Garg directed the Deputy Commissioner Ganderbal to constitute a joint team comprising the Additional Deputy Commissioner Ganderbal, Tehsildar, NHAI officials and the contractor to ensure that possession of the acquired land is handed over to the executing agency by Tuesday. He also directed NHAI to take possession of the available greenfield land parcels, where no impediments have been reported, so that work can proceed without further delay. Regarding private structures falling within the project alignment, the Divisional Commissioner directed that their documentation be completed and the structures demolished by Saturday to clear bottlenecks and remove identified black spots along the project. He further directed that felling of Chinar and Walnut trees falling within the road alignment be carried out in phases and strictly in accordance with the prescribed procedure. The meeting also took note of damage caused to existing roads in Ganderbal due to the movement of vehicles associated with the project. Garg directed NHAI officials to undertake immediate repairs and maintenance of the affected roads to ensure that the condition of existing road infrastructure does not deteriorate further due to project-related traffic.

PM Modis birthday to be celebrated with month long campaign: Ex DyCM

Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) will launch its month-long Sewa Sankalp Abhiyan on September 17, marking the birthday of Prime Minister Narendra Modi and commemorating his 25 years of dedicated public service, with 8.5 lakh diyas to be illuminated across J&K and blood donation camps organized across the Union Territory as the opening initiatives. The campaign, continuing till October 17, will take a series of service-oriented programmes to every section of society, with special emphasis on youth participation and grassroots outreach. Former Deputy Chief Minister Dr Nirmal Singh, accompanied by BJP J&K general secretary Baldev Singh Billawaria, BJP J&K general secretary and Sewa Sankalp Abhiyan Incharge Gopal Mahajan and media incharge Dr. Pardeep Mahotra, stated this during a press conference at BJP headquarters, Trikuta Nagar, Jammu, and outlined the extensive programme. Dr Nirmal Singh said that the Abhiyan reflected the spirit of 25 years of Narendra Modis public life, marked by uninterrupted dedication to the nation, first as Chief Minister of Gujarat and subsequently as Prime Minister of India. He said that under Modis leadership, India moved with confidence towards becoming a developed nation by 2047, adding that the objective of the campaign was not merely to commemorate a birthday but to connect people with the larger national development journey. He said that the ambitious programme would be taken from the national level right down to every booth, involving common citizens and particularly the youth. He highlighted that Aashirwad Ka Diya would reach households across J&K, with a target of 100 diyas at every booth, symbolising peoples participation in the journey of a developed India. Blood donation camps would simultaneously be organised by BJYM on September 17, while blood testing facilities would also be arranged for those who were unable to donate on the day. Giving an overview, Gopal Mahajan said that the BJP observed service programmes every year around the Prime Ministers birthday, but this year the party expanded the initiative into a month-long Sewa Sankalp Abhiyan from September 17 to October 17, with the purpose of making service a mass movement. He said the campaign would include Aashirwad Ka Diya, Seva ChitraSapno Ka Bharat, Namo SevaUnkahi Kahaniyan, Aangan Milan Sewa, Sewa Ke RangRashtra Ke Sang, Sewa Jyoti Yatra, Sewa Mera Yogdan, Sewa Setu Abhiyan and Jan Sewak Mahakumbh, among other programmes. Explaining the programmes, Dr Nirmal Singh said Sewa ChitraSapno Ka Bharat would engage the younger generation through drawing and speech competitions, taking the message of Indias history, present achievements and the vision of Viksit Bharat to students. Through Namo SevaUnkahi Kahaniyan, nukkad nataks would narrate stories of development and positive transformation taking place on the ground. Aangan Milan Sewa would highlight the contribution of Anganwadi centres and those working at the grassroots, while Sewa Ke RangRashtra Ke Sang will use traditional rangoli activities with organic materials to spread the message of national service.

ACB chargesheets ex Patwari, associate in Udhampur bribery case

The Anti-Corruption Bureau (ACB), Jammu and Kashmir, on Saturday produced a charge sheet against a former Patwari and another accused in a bribery case registered in 2023 before the Court of Special Judge, Anti-Corruption, Udhampur. The charge sheet has been filed in FIR No. 01/2023 registered at Police Station ACB Udhampur under Section 7 of the Prevention of Corruption Act, 1988, as amended in 2018, against Darbinder Singh, the then Patwari of Patwar Halqa Rasli Gadheran, Basantgarh, Udhampur, and Nashar Ahmad, son of Mohd Iqbal, a resident of Basantgarh. According to the ACB, the case originated from a written complaint lodged by Bodh Raj, a resident of Rasli Gadheran, who alleged that he had applied for issuance of a fard (land record extract) in connection with the proposed sale of his land to one Madan Lal. The complainant alleged that after approaching the then Patwari, Darbinder Singh, for issuance of the fard, the official demanded a bribe from him. The complaint was subsequently verified by an officer of the ACB Udhampur-Reasi Branch. During verification, the allegations were found to be genuine, following which a formal case was registered, and a trap was laid by the anti-corruption agency. The ACB stated that during the trap operation, Darbinder Singh, the then Patwari, and Nashar Ahmad, who was driving the vehicle bearing registration number JK02BV-9048, were allegedly caught red-handed while demanding and accepting the bribe amount from the complainant. During the investigation, the ACB collected documentary and other evidence and concluded that the offence punishable under Section 7 of the Prevention of Corruption Act, 1988, as amended in 2018, had been established against the accused persons. Accordingly, the charge sheet was presented before the Special Judge, Anti-Corruption, Udhampur, on Saturday for further judicial proceedings. The filing of the charge sheet marks the culmination of the investigation conducted by the ACB in the bribery case, with the matter now before the competent court for further proceedings in accordance with law.

Ruhullah joins veterinary students strike, seeks stipend hike

Srinagar, Sep 12:Srinagar Lok Sabha MP Aga Syed Ruhullah Mehdi on Saturday joined protesting veterinary interns at the Sher-e-Kashmir University of Agricultural Sciences and Technology-Kashmir (SKUAST-K), Shuhama campus, and pressed the Jammu and Kashmir administration to urgently address their demand for an increase in the monthly stipend. The veterinary interns, protesting under the banner of the Jammu and Kashmir Veterinary Students Association (JKVSA), have been holding a peaceful protest at the campus for the past six days. The students are demanding parity with veterinary interns in other parts of the country, pointing out that their monthly stipend of Rs 6,000 to Rs 9,000 has remained unchanged for years. They are seeking an increase to Rs 20,00023,000. Expressing solidarity with the protesters, Ruhullah said veterinary professionals play an important role in public health and should be provided dignified stipends and safe working conditions. He questioned the rationale behind paying interns as little as Rs 6,000 a month, saying students who spend years pursuing professional education should not be expected to work for such a meagre amount. Ruhullah also raised broader concerns concerning medical interns and reservation, saying an elected government should listen to the grievances of those who elected it. He urged Agriculture Minister Javed Ahmad Dar to meet the protesting students and address their concerns. Ruhullah said he would wait for a day or two for the department or senior authorities to engage with the students. The Agriculture Minister is a good person. I know him and he has been my friend. I am sure he will connect with the students, Ruhullah said. He warned that if no engagement takes place, he would involve more people and amplify the issue. The MP assured the students that he would continue to advocate for their concerns and raise their grievances with the administration if the matter was not resolved promptly.

Jammu Chamber concerned over demolition of shops in Satwari-Nai Basti

Chamber of Commerce and Industry, Jammu, president Arun Gupta has expressed serious concern over the demolition of shops in the Satwari-Nai Basti area of Jammu city in connection with the ongoing highway expansion and infrastructure development works. Gupta stated that the concerns emerged as the demolition was done without providing any kind of financial help to the affected shopkeepers and also written assurance to these shopkeepers by the concerned authorities. On September 10 and 11, the Jammu Municipal Corporation demolished over 30 shops, kiosks for the road widening project. The demolition drive has caused immense hardship and distress among the business community. The affected shopkeepers have been displaced overnight and are facing severe financial hardship as most of the shopkeepers have taken loans from the banks and other financial institutions to run their business smoothly, Jammu Chamber president said. He maintained that while the Chamber understood the importance of infrastructure development and highway expansion, the interests and livelihoods of the business community could not be overlooked in the process. The demolition of these shops has completely disrupted the livelihood of several families. These are not merely structures; they are the source of income and sustenance for families who have been carrying on their businesses for decades. The manner in which the exercise has been carried out has sent a wrong message among the business community, Arun Gupta pointed out. We are not aware whether the earmarked land for rehabilitation and resettlement of affected shopkeepers has been transferred to JMC or whether it will take some more time to complete the process. In case any formalities are pending, the same should be completed without any further delay so that the construction of the said complex is started and completed at the earliest, he asserted. Reference was to the rehabilitation and resettlement scheme approved by the Union Territory (UT) cabinet for the shopkeepers and kiosk owners affected by road widening in Nai Basti and Satwari Chowk. CCI Jammu president, on behalf of the Chamber, requested the government to provide the suitable financial help to the affected shopkeepers to feed their families till they were allotted fresh shop sites and fully rehabilitated. He appealed to the UT administration to immediately ensure that the affected shopkeepers were provided proper rehabilitation and an alternative means of carrying out their businesses.

NC could have chosen CM outside Abdullah family, but couldnt resist temptation: Aga Ruhullah

Srinagar, Sep 12: Srinagar Lok Sabha MP Aga Syed Ruhullah Mehdi on Saturday said his political course beyond November 3 would be decided collectively with the people of Jammu and Kashmir, particularly the youth, while leaving open the possibility of forming a new political party. Ruhullah, who has already announced that he will resign as Srinagar MP and from the National Conference on November 3, made the remarks while speaking to media persons after joining the protest by veterinary students at SKUAST-K. His decision to resign on November 3, the death anniversary of his father Aga Syed Mehdi, was announced last month following his escalating differences with the NC leadership. Asked about his future political plans, Ruhullah said November 3 would first mark his freedom from what he described as political chains. First let me free myself from some chains on 3rd November. I will break those chains, I will free myself, I will cut the rope, he said. He made it clear that he was not announcing a new political party at this stage, saying any such decision would be taken after consultations across Jammu and Kashmir. Whether to make a party or not, what to do, it will be a collective decision, with the people of the whole of Jammu and Kashmir, sitting together, and especially with the youths, he said. Ruhullah also stepped up his criticism of the National Conference leadership over its decision to retain the Chief Ministers position within the Abdullah family following the 2024 Assembly elections. He said the party could have chosen a Chief Minister from outside the family. If they wanted, they could have done a leadership role; they could have made a Chief Minister outside the family; they could have made someone else, he said. Taking a further swipe at the party leadership, Ruhullah said, Chief Minister is a temptation; we could not resist that temptation. Leadership is the name of principle stand. Leadership is the name of conviction, he added. Ruhullahs remarks come amid a widening political rift with the NC leadership. His differences have centred on the partys post-2019 political position and its approach towards issues including the restoration of Jammu and Kashmirs special status. He had earlier accepted NC president Farooq Abdullahs challenge to resign and seek a fresh mandate. Responding to comments by NC MP Mian Altaf Ahmad on the functioning of the government, Ruhullah said he did not want to interpret his colleagues remarks. I respect him. He should interpret his own words, he said, adding that Mian Altaf should explain himself if he had any complaint against the government. On Farooq Abdullahs challenge, Ruhullah said he would respond politically at an appropriate time. God willing, it is being arranged. We will play this match politically, in the coming time, he said.

Kashmirs future is bright, filmmakers should focus on its beauty, peace: A R Rahman

Srinagar, Sep 12:Oscar-winning music composer A R Rahman on Saturday said Kashmir is beautiful, uncluttered, and an inspiring place, and urged filmmakers to celebrate the regions peace and natural beauty rather than violence and conflict. Rahman, who was in the Union Territory to shoot an advertisement, called for cinema to help reshape the narrative around Kashmir. When asked about Bollywoods role in promoting the Valleys picturesque locales and rich culture, the music maestro said the focus should be on showing harmony rather than the past strife. I think that is what should happen from now. They should bring the beauty and the peace, what you see in nature, as a positive thing, than taking anything about violence or the past. The past was past, the future is bright, Rahman told reporters. He believes J&K provides rare creative clarity for creators. As artists, we seek inspiration. And when we come here, it is uncluttered, beautiful, and it inspires us, he added. Describing Kashmir as a beautiful and blessed place, Rahman said it was commendable that the union territory hosted its first-ever International Film Festival of Jammu and Kashmir. Everybody can see the beauty of Kashmir and the vibration of Kashmir. I wish this film festival becomes really famous and a lot of people come here and enjoy the hospitality of the Kashmiri people, he said. This is a great idea. And I wish it will grow and grow, and become beautiful, and become such a great experience. Like we go to, Amsterdam, and we go to London Film Festival, or all those places, Sundance. I wish Kashmir becomes the best festival of India, he added. The internationally-acclaimed composer said he enjoyed shooting for the ad in J-K and hopes to perform in the valley soon. We have some plans and we are talking. Hopefully, I want to come and perform here, he said. He also welcomed the suggestion of greater collaboration between Bollywood and folk musicians from J&K. I would love to because I came here for Rockstar and I recorded ladies singing folk songs, and we used it in Rockstar. And we want to come and do more things here, he said.