Opinion

Stalemate ends, Lok Sabha takes up debate on anti-paper leak Bill

New Delhi, Jul 28: Ending a week-long logjam, the Lok Sabha on Tuesday began a discussion on the anti-paper leak Bill, with Union minister Jitendra Singh describing it as a reaffirmation of the government's commitment to safeguard the welfare of students and the youth. Speaking on the Public Examination (Prevention of Unfair Means) Amendment Bill, 2026, the minister of state in the PMO said the Modi government finished an unaccomplished task to bring a law to prevent examination malpractices in 2024. Incidents of paper leaks have taken place in various states ruled by different parties... The anti-paper leak Bill is a reaffirmation of the government's commitment to safeguard the welfare of students and youth. The amendment... (is being) brought to make the law more stringent, Singh said. RSP MP N K Premchandran moved that the Bill should be circulated for stakeholder consultations till December 1, so that it can be made more fruitful. The government introduced the Bill in the Lok Sabha on Monday, days after student protests over the NEET fiasco led to Dharmendra Pradhan's resignation as education minister, to provide for stricter punishment of up to 10 years in jail and a heftier fine of Rs 50 lakh for paper leaks. The Bill was introduced by Singh amid sloganeering by the opposition demanding a response from the government over the police crackdown on students during the Cockroach Janta Party (CJP)-led July 20 protest march to Parliament. However, no discussion could take place on the Bill amid the din on Monday. The opposition has been raking up the NEET paper leak issue since the Monsoon session began on July 20. As a result, no legislative business could be taken up until Monday, except for the introduction of two Bills.

JK: 11 security forces personnel injured in separate road accidents in Shopian, Anantnag

Srinagar, July 28: At least 11 security forces personnel, including an officer, were injured in separate road accidents in Shopian and Anantnag districts of Jammu and Kashmir, officials said on Tuesday. A bunker vehicle carrying CRPF and police personnel skidded off the main road at Wachi in Shopian district late on Monday night, the officials said. Seven CRPF personnel, including an inspector, sustained injuries in the accident, they said, adding that a policeman was also among the injured. In another accident, three ITBP personnel were injured when a civilian pick-up van rammed into their temporary bunker in Pahalgam in Anantnag district after losing control, the officials said, adding the driver was also injured. Authorities have ruled out any foul play.

Husband, wife must share home, child's education cost; equality can't be claimed selectively: HC

Mumbai, Jul 28: Equality cannot be claimed selectively, and both earning partners must contribute to household and childs education expenses to maintain a lifestyle, the Bombay High Court has said while granting relief to a man seeking reduction in monthly maintenance for his estranged wife and minor son. A single bench of Justice M M Sathaye, in the order passed last week, set aside the January 2025 order of a family court directing the man to pay Rs 50,000 monthly maintenance to his estranged wife and son, and reduced the amount to Rs 25,000. It noted that the man was paying EMIs towards two houses - one in Mumbai's Andheri area where his wife and son are staying and the other at Panvel in Navi Mumbai, while he himself lived in Bihar. The wife was not contributing anything towards the EMIs, the court noted in the order, a copy of which was made available on Tuesday. The man had, in his plea, urged the HC to reduce the monthly maintenance he has to pay his wife and son from Rs 50,000 to Rs 25,000. He had requested his wife to either live with him in Bihar or at least shift to the Panvel house so he could sell the Andheri home to reduce his financial burdens. The wife, however, refused. The court said no fault can be found with the man's requests. In a matrimonial dispute, if the wife expects the luxury of staying at a premium location like Andheri without paying EMI or contributing to it from her own pocket, then it cannot be expected from the husband, who is already paying the entire EMI, not to plead the same as a reason to seek reduction in the maintenance amount, the bench said. Equality cannot be claimed selectively and certainly not when both parties are earning. If lifestyle is to be maintained, then both parties must contribute, the court observed. When both husband and wife are earning and want their child to get the best education, then both are expected to contribute towards the expenses, it added. The man said he had lost his job during the COVID-19 pandemic, and was now working at a much lower salary and was under financial pressure. The court noted that the COVID-19 pandemic affected several people's professional careers and also businesses, and hence there was an explanation for the reduction in the man's earnings.

JK: Woman raped in Baramulla; 2 arrested

Srinagar, Jul 28: Two men have been arrested for allegedly raping a woman in Baramulla district of Jammu and Kashmir, police said on Tuesday. According to the woman's complaint, she, along with a male friend, had gone for an outing to Jalsheeri Drangbal in Baramulla on July 25 when the two accused accosted them. A police official said the accused sexually assaulted the girl and also recorded a video of the assault. The officer said the survivor knew the accused only by their first names. However, using technical evidence and human intelligence, police identified the suspects -- Shakir Ahmed Lone and Mohammed Ashraf, both residents of Jalsheeri and working as drivers -- and arrested them on Monday.

Elderly man seriously injured after hit by vehicle on NH 44 near Toll Plaza Banihal

Banihal, Jul 28: A 65-year-old man sustained serious injuries after being hit by a vehicle near the Lamber Toll Plaza along the Jammu-Srinagar National Highway in Banihal on Tuesday, officials said. The injured has been identified as Abdul Rashid, son of Gh. Nabi Wani, a resident of Asher, Banihal. Officials said the accident occurred when an Innova vehicle bearing registration number JK-03M/3693 allegedly struck the pedestrian. He was immediately shifted to the Sub-District Hospital (SDH) Banihal. They said doctors at SDH Banihal found that the victim had suffered a severe head injury and a fracture in his left leg. He was provided emergency treatment and stabilised as per standard medical protocol. Considering the seriousness of his condition and the need for specialised care, doctors referred him to Government Medical College, Anantnag, for advanced treatment and further management. Meanwhile, police have taken cognizance of the incident.

J&K youth architects of India's future, skills, not just degrees, will shape tomorrow: LG Sinha

Dream big, focus on new discoveries: LG Sinha addresses 77th State-Level Mega Job Fair in Srinagar

Srinagar, Jul 28: The Lieutenant Governor, Manoj Sinha today addressed aspiring youth and representatives from leading industries at the 77th State-Level Mega Job Fair, held at Amar Singh College, Srinagar. Organised by Desh Bhagat University, Punjab & Cluster University, Srinagar in collaboration with NIELIT, Nations Development Association (NDA) and MY Bharat, the Mega Job Fair aims to directly connect youth with industries. The fair brought together more than 50 reputed companies across diverse sectors including information technology, healthcare, banking, financial services, manufacturing, retail, hospitality, education, logistics, and engineering. In his keynote address, the Lieutenant Governor described the job fair as a powerful means of connecting the aspirations of the youth with opportunities, and as an important step toward building the nations bright future. This is a platform where dreams meet direction, where education meets industry, and where the foundation of a new Jammu Kashmir is being strengthened, he said. Highlighting the participation of thousands of registered students, the Lieutenant Governor emphasized that the greatest value of such initiatives lies in the confidence they instill in young people. You are not merely job-seekers. You are the makers of Indias future. In your hands rests your career as well as the direction of the nations development. You are the strength of Skill India, the face of Digital India, and the true bearers of Aatmanirbhar Bharat, the Lieutenant Governor told the aspirants. The Lieutenant Governor also outlined six key objectives of the Mega Job Fair. He said the fair will ensure meaningful employment for youth to become self-reliant and contribute to society. It will also pave the way for Industry-academia partnerships to bridge the gap between degrees and workplace skills. The Lieutenant Governor said that the Job Fair will ensure that skill development programmes are aligned with digital literacy and technical capabilities and a roadmap will be created for simplified recruitment through on-the-spot interviews and direct hiring. He said the Job fair will also ensure entrepreneurship promotion to encourage job creators alongside job seekers and it will prepare a future-ready workforce to strengthen Indias development journey. The Lieutenant Governor urged students to embrace three guiding principles- never make dreams small, never stop learning, and always embrace innovation. Dream big and focus on new discoveries. The future belongs to those who seek new solutions, develop new thinking, and lead change. Success is meaningful only when achieved with ethics and responsibility, he said. The Lieutenant Governor stressed that colleges and universities must evolve into institutions that prepare students for life beyond examinations. Education should not be confined to classrooms. It must prepare every student to begin lifes journey with confidence, skills, and practical understanding, he said. The Lieutenant Governor also called upon industry representatives to act as recruiters, mentors and partners in shaping the future workforce. If industry and education work together, we can create an environment where knowledge and experience strengthen each other, and innovation and employment advance together, he said. The Lieutenant Governor underscored the growing interest of youth in entrepreneurship, citing that since 2020, lakhs of youth became entrepreneurs. He recalled that the UnionTerritory led the country in PMEGP in 202122, and expressed confidence that the UT will carve a new identity in innovation, startups, and modern industries. He further emphasized that unemployment cannot be solved through government jobs alone, as government vacancies are limited. Instead, he outlined three priorities- aligning skills with industry needs, promoting private sector job creation through MSMEs and SMEs, and bridging the transition from college to workplace through internships, mentorships, and career guidance. Let us resolve that this 77th Mega Job Fair will mark the beginning of a new chapter in the employment history of Jammu Kashmir, the Lieutenant Governor said. Shri Ram Niwas Sharma, Commissioner/Secretary, Higher Education Department; Prof. Mohammad Mobin, Vice Chancellor, Cluster University of Srinagar; Prof. K.S. Chandrasekar, Vice Chancellor, Cluster University of Jammu; Prof. Shakil Ahmad Romshoo, Vice Chancellor, IUST; Dr. Sandeep Singh, President of Desh Bhagat University; Prof. Tehmina Yousuf, Principal, Amar Singh College, senior officials, representatives of leading industries, heads of educational institutes, and youth in large number were present.

'Mehbooba's apology came with excuses, not regret': Tanvir Sadiq

Two Arrested for alleged gang rape, filming assault in Baramulla: Police

32 Amarnath pilgrims injured after bus skids off road in J-K's Kangan

CWG: Sharmila wins historic gold in para athletics as India shines with multiple medals

Glasgow, Jul 28: Sharmila Dhankar scripted history by becoming India's first-ever Commonwealth Games para-athletics gold medallist, while high jumper Sarvesh Kushare and weightlifters Valluri Ajaya Babu and Gyaneshwari Yadav clinched a silver each, as the country enjoyed a rewarding day in the multi-sport event here. Sharmila delivered a landmark performance by winning the women's shot put F57 title with a season-best effort of 9.81m, becoming the first Indian to win a gold medal in para-athletics at the Games late on Monday night. Her triumph ended Indias 20-year wait for a para-athletics medal at the Games. The last para athletics medal in CWG was won by Ranjith Kumar Jayaseelan in the men's seated Discus Throw event in the 2006 edition. The F57 classification is for athletes with lower limb impairments, limb deficiencies or reduced muscle power. Soon after, national record holder Kushare created history by becoming the first Indian to win a silver medal in the men's high jump at the Games. The 31-year-old cleared 2.25m before narrowly missing out on gold on countback to Jamaica's Romaine Beckford after both failed to clear 2.28m. England's Jack Kimani took bronze with 2.20m. Kushare improved upon the bronze won by Tejaswin Shankar in Birmingham four years ago, which had been India's only medal in the event. Tejaswin, who also competed on Monday, retired after failing to clear 2.05m in his opening attempt as a precaution ahead of the decathlon beginning later this week. Adarsh Ram finished fifth with 2.15m . Lifters continue dominant run Weightlifting continued to be India's richest source of medals as 21-year-old Valluri Ajaya Babu clinched silver in the men's 79kg category after a gripping duel with Malaysia's Erry Hidayat Muhammad. The Andhra Pradesh lifter totalled 330kg (149kg snatch and 181kg clean and jerk), narrowly missing the gold by a kilogram after Hidayat finished with a Games record total of 331kg (147kg and 184kg). The duo repeatedly rewrote the Games records during an enthralling clean and jerk contest before the Malaysian sealed victory with his final lift. Ajaya Babu's silver took India's weightlifting tally to six medals at the Games. India had already enjoyed a productive day on Monday with Gyaneshwari Yadav winning silver in the women's 53kg event and Bindyarani Devi adding a bronze in the 58kg class. Gyaneshwari produced career-best lifts to total 199kg (88kg and 111kg), finishing behind Nigeria's Onome Omolola Didih, who rewrote the Commonwealth and Commonwealth Games records with a total of 206kg. Bindyarani fought hard but had to settle for bronze after finishing with 199kg (87kg and 112kg), while Nigerias Rafiatu Folashade Lawal stormed to a record-breaking gold. Boxers inch closer to medals The Indian boxers also kept themselves firmly in medal contention with Sachin Siwach, Ankush and Sakshi Chaudhary advancing to the quarterfinals of their respective categories. Former world youth champion Sachin defeated England's William Hewitt 4-1 in the men's 60kg division and will next meet Botswanas Treasure Moremi for a place in the semifinals. Ankush outclassed Jan Zalaan of Antigua and Barbuda 5-0 in the men's 80kg category to set up a quarterfinal against Seychelles' Jade Micock, while former world youth and junior champion Sakshi registered a unanimous 5-0 win over Botswana's Lethabo Modukanele in the women's 51kg event and will face Northern Irelands Caitlin Fryers next. However, Sumit bowed out after losing a closely-fought men's 70kg round of 16 contest 1-4 on split decision to Northern Ireland's Jon McConnell. Fastest man Gurindervir disappoints In athletics earlier in the day, national record holder Gurindervir Singh endured a disappointing outing after crashing out of the men's 100m heats. The 25-year-old, who came into the Games with a personal best of 10.09 seconds and hopes of becoming the first Indian to break the 10-second barrier, clocked 10.39 seconds to finish 28th overall and miss the semifinals. Meanwhile, national record holder Tejas Shirse became the first Indian to qualify for the men's 110m hurdles final at the Games but finished last in the medal race after sustaining an injury. The 24-year-old Shirse finished third in Heat 1 with a time of 13.76 seconds and made it to the final at sixth place overall. However, in the final later in the evening, an injured Shirse could only manage 15.39 seconds to finish eighth and last. His national record stands at 13.27 seconds. In the warm up, I suffered a Navicular stress fracture in my left leg. I didn't want to pull out so I told my physio to tape it, Shirse told PTI after the race. I am the first Indian to qualify for the 110m hurdles final in the CWG, so I didn't want to let the whole nation down (by pulling out), he added. No success in pool There was little joy in the pool as two-time Olympian Sajan Prakash and Aryan Nehra both finished eighth in their respective finals. Prakash clocked 1:58.05 in the men's 200m butterfly final, while Nehra returned a time of 8:07.26 in the mens 800m freestyle final. In para swimming, Swatik Patil finished fifth in the men's 100m breaststroke SB9 event with a timing of 1:15.82.

Ex-IPS officer, two victims move SC for decommissioning of pellet guns

New Delhi, Jul 27: A petition was filed in Supreme Court on Monday by a former IPS officer and two persons, who claimed to have been injured by pellet guns fired during the recent Cockroach Janta Party-led Parliament march to protest against NEET paper leak. The petition filed by Yashovardhan Azad, Prashant Kumar and Sheikh Irshad Mansoori through advocate Vrinda Grover, sought direction for decommissioning or banning the use of wholly or partly metallic kinetic projectiles or pellets, fired from pump action rifles or Projectile Action Guns (PAG) for dispersal of civilian assemblies by law enforcement agencies. Kumar (25), an artist, said he was present at the Sansad Chalo march on July 20 as a peaceful protester and claimed that he received pellet injuries from firing by Rapid Action Force (RAF) personnel without provocation or aggression from his end. Mansoori (26), on the other hand, said he was at Delhi's Connaught Place after attending to passport and visa-related work and had received pellet injuries from RAF firing despite there being no provocation or aggression from his end. The plea said, On July 20, 2026, during the 'Sansad Chalo' march organised by the Cockroach Janata Party as part of a protest regarding rampant paper leaks wreaking the credibility of higher education in India, the Delhi Police used the assistance of the CRPF's Rapid Action Force for crowd management. Petitioner Nos 2 and 3 personally witnessed that around 4-4.30 pm on that day, the police and RAF personnel incessantly fired tear gas shells and resorted to lathi charge and pushed the protestors towards the inner circle of Connaught Place, New Delhi. It further said pertinently, no water cannons were used, and no announcements were made about the impending use of force. While the protesters were fleeing, with many raising their arms up as if in surrender mode, despite no provocation, RAF personnel suddenly fired pump action gun(s), releasing a wide spray of splinter-like pellets, which penetrated the bodies of Petitioner Nos 2 and 3, causing immediate pain and bleeding. The petitioners said the Right to Freedom of Assembly is a constitutionally guaranteed fundamental right, amenable to be curbed only through reasonable restrictions imposed pursuant to Article 19(3) of the Constitution of India. They added that the restrictions imposed under Article 19(3), to pass the test of being a easonable restriction, must be demonstrably compliant with the doctrines of necessity and proportionality as laid down in various judgments of the Supreme Court. projectile action guns are per se unfit for dispersal of peaceful assemblies, and the petitioners contend that use of such weapons should be banned or decommissioned in deployment of security personnel when dealing with civilian assemblies, the petitioners said. They said the sporadic and unpredictable nature of the trajectory of pellets once fired makes pellet guns an unreasonable, arbitrary and dangerous tool unfit for deployment to disperse civilian assemblies. The very mechanism of the pellets disqualifies them from being a legally valid option for crowd control, as it cannot be qualitatively stated to fall within the 'least amount of necessary force' at any given point of time, in view of its erratic kinetic projectile movement, the petition said. Besides seeking decommissioning or banning the use of pellet guns wholly or partly, the petitioners sought exemplary compensation to all victims of pellet injuries caused by the State action on July 20 in New Delhi, as well as to ensure their complete medical treatment, care and rehabilitation.

3029 pilgrims leave Jammu for Amarnath Yatra in Kashmir

Banihal, July 28 : A fresh batch of 3,029 pilgrims left the Bhagwati Nagar Yatri Niwas in Jammu early Tuesday for the Baltal base camp in Kashmir under tight security arrangements, officials said. According to the Joint Police Control Room, the 21st batch departed at 2:45 a.m. in a convoy of 151 vehicles, including 57 buses, 30 medium motor vehicles (MMVs), 58 light motor vehicles (LMVs), and six two-wheelers. The batch comprises 2,310 male pilgrims, 590 women, 14 children, 45 sadhus, 40 sadhvis, and 30 foreign male pilgrims. No convoy was scheduled for the Pahalgam axis. Officials said the convoy is proceeding towards the Baltal base camp under multi-layer security and is expected to cross the Jammu-Srinagar National Highway subject to traffic and weather conditions. With the departure of the latest batch, the total number of pilgrims who have left the Jammu base camp for the annual Shri Amarnath Yatra this year has reached 1,30,355, the officials added.

Kapil Sibal donates Rs 1 crore to CJP legal aid fund for student protesters

Senior advocate Kapil Sibal has contributed Rs 1 crore to a legal aid fund set up by the Cockroach Janta Party (CJP) to support students and protesters facing criminal cases following last weeks Jantar Mantar demonstrations over the exam paper leak issue, LiveLaw reported. The announcement came after CJP spokesperson Saurav Das expressed concern at a press conference that, despite assurances from the Centre, there were credible reports that criminal cases could be filed against students in several states. According to LiveLaw, Das said the CJP had approached Sibal to help create a legal support mechanism for those booked in connection with the protests. Responding to the request, Sibal said he had agreed to provide legal assistance and announced that the CJP would launch a website to document cases registered against affected students and protesters. The portal will also enable lawyers willing to offer legal services, either pro bono or otherwise, to join the initiative. As far as peaceful protests are concerned, wherever students or protesters have been targeted, we have decided to create a mechanism to track the legal cases lodged by governments so that our lawyers can provide legal aid, Sibal said, according to LiveLaw. He added that the demand remained that no FIRs should be filed against peaceful protesters and that any cases already registered should be withdrawn. Sibal also appealed to lawyers across the country to contribute to the fund. From my side, I have contributed Rs 1 crore and I urge the advocates throughout India to extend their help in contributing to this fund so that we can help those affected. Our lawyers are standing up for those who have been affected by the misuse of law, he said, as quoted by LiveLaw.

Jamkash Vehicleades launches all-new Maruti Suzuki Brezza

Jamkash Vehicleades (KMR) Pvt. Ltd., an authorised dealer of Maruti Suzuki India Limited, on Monday launched the All-New Maruti Suzuki Brezza at its ARENA showroom in Hyderpora, Srinagar. The vehicle was unveiled at a function attended by customers, bankers, business associates, automobile enthusiasts and other dignitaries. The All-New Brezza was formally unveiled by Sheikh Mohammad Muzaffar, Zonal Head, J&K Bank, Srinagar, in the presence of Dr. Nahid Ali, Executive Director, Dr. Amber Ahmad, Chief Operating Officer, A.R. Bhat, Chief General Manager, senior banking officials, customers and members of the Jamkash management. Speaking on the occasion, Dr Amber Ahmad described the launch as a significant milestone in the compact SUV segment. The All-New Brezza combines bold styling, advanced technology, enhanced safety features and strong performance, making it an ideal choice for todays customers. We are confident it will further strengthen Maruti Suzukis presence in the SUV segment across Jammu and Kashmir, she said. She said the company remains committed to its Customer First philosophy by focusing on transparency, trust and quality ownership experience. Our endeavour is not just to sell vehicles but to build long-term relationships with customers. Being recognised as North Indias No. 1 Maruti Suzuki dealer reflects the confidence customers have reposed in us, and we remain committed to exceeding their expectations, she added. According to the company, the All-New Brezza is available with multiple powertrain options, including the Turbo Boosterjet petrol engine, K15C Smart Hybrid petrol and S-CNG variants, offering customers a range of choices. The SUV is available in two new colour optionsVivacious Orange and Lustrous Beigealong with Pearl Bluish Black, Magma Grey, Sizzling Red, Splendid Silver and Pearl Arctic White. Dual-tone variants with a Bluish Black roof are also being offered. The company said the launch reflects its commitment to bringing the latest automotive products to customers in J&K while providing a premium sales and ownership experience.

Javid Dar chairs 45th AGM of JKHPMC; reviews Corporations performance, future roadmap

Minister for Agriculture Production, Rural Development and Panchayati Raj, Cooperatives and Election Department, Javid Ahmad Dar, today chaired the 45th Annual General Meeting (AGM) of the Jammu and Kashmir Horticultural Produce, Marketing and Processing Corporation (JKHPMC) at the Civil Secretariat, here. The Annual General Meeting unanimously adopted the audited accounts of the Corporation for the financial years 2019-20 to 2023-24. Addressing the meeting, the Minister underscored the pivotal role of JKHPMC in strengthening the horticulture value chain and creating better marketing opportunities for the growers. He directed the Managing Director to institutionalise biannual review meetings to regularly assess the Corporations performance, monitor implementation of decisions and formulate a forward-looking strategy for sustainable growth. Javid Dar stressed the need to identify new areas of expansion and innovation in agricultural and horticultural marketing, processing and value addition so that the farmers receive better returns for their produce. He called upon the Corporation to adopt a result-oriented approach and align its activities with the evolving needs of the farming community. The Minister directed the officers to undertake a comprehensive assessment of all Corporation assets and ensure their proper maintenance, effective monitoring and optimum utilisation. He said that efficient asset management and timely execution of development projects would significantly enhance the Corporations operational capacity and financial sustainability. Reaffirming the governments commitment to the holistic development of the agriculture and horticulture sectors, the Minister said that JKHPMC has a vital role in promoting post-harvest management, value addition, market linkages and processing infrastructure. This would immensely contribute towards higher farm incomes and sustainable rural economic growth in Jammu and Kashmir, he added. The meeting was attended by Additional Chief Secretary, Agriculture Production Department, Dr. Ashish Chandra Verma; Managing Director, JKHPMC, Mohammad Farooq Dar; Shareholders of the Corporation; members of the Board of Directors and senior officers of JKHPMC. Earlier, the Managing Director made a detailed presentation highlighting the Corporations performance, achievements, financial position and key initiatives undertaken during the review meeting. He also apprised the meeting of the status of statutory audits, progress made in clearing the backlog of audited accounts and the roadmap for completing the remaining audit process within the stipulated timeline. The meeting held comprehensive deliberations on a wide range of issues, including the Corporations financial management, operational performance, implementation of projects under CAPEX and NABARD, infrastructure development, marketing initiatives and strategies to strengthen the Corporations role in supporting the horticulture sector across J&K.

SKUAST-K, IIM Calcutta Innovation Park host Spark Social to ignite social entrepreneurship in J&K

Sher-e-Kashmir University of Agricultural Sciences and Technology of Kashmir, through its Innovation, Incubation and Entrepreneurship Centre (SKIIE), joined hands with the IIM Calcutta Innovation Park (IIMCIP) to organise Spark Social, a high-impact outreach seminar under the 14th Tata Social Enterprise Challenge (TSEC) 2026. The event, held at the SKUAST-K Shalimar campus, aimed to inspire and guide students, researchers, and early-stage innovators towards building scalable, impact-driven social enterprises. Vice Chancellor, SKUAST-K, Prof Nazir Ahmad Ganai, who was the chief guest at the occasion, emphasised that innovation and entrepreneurship are now essential pillars of higher education. He called on young innovators to leverage their creative potential to address real-world societal problems while driving socio-economic growth across Jammu & Kashmir. He reaffirmed the universitys dedication to supporting startups through robust incubation, expert mentorship, and strategic industry linkages. During the event, Soujit Das, Assistant Vice President of Incubation at IIMCIP, delivered a detailed overview of the Tata Social Enterprise ChallengeIndias premier platform for social impact ventures. He walked participants through the application process, detailing available incubation support, mentorship, investor connections, and funding channels. The seminar also featured insightful technical sessions, including a presentation on sustainable, impact-led business models by Dr Shuvendu Prasad Roy, Social Entrepreneur and CEO of Pietbillo Solutions Pvt Ltd. Earlier, CEO, SKIIE, Naveed Hamid, while delivering the welcome address, underscored SKUAST-Ks vision of nurturing an innovation-driven ecosystem to transform young minds from job seekers into job creators. The event capped off with an interactive Pitching Session, where aspiring entrepreneurs presented their business ideas directly to an expert panel from IIMCIP and SKIIE, receiving hands-on feedback and mentorship to refine their business concepts. The enthusiastic participation from students, faculty, and local founders reaffirmed SKUAST-Ks growing status as a powerhouse for youth-led social innovation.

Govt working to ensure steady willow supply for Kashmir bat industry: CM Omar Abdullah

Chief Minister Omar Abdullah on Monday said the government was working to ensure a steady supply of willow wood for Kashmirs cricket bat industry, describing uninterrupted access to raw material as critical for the sector. Abdullah made the remarks after meeting members of the Bat Manufacturers Association at Sangam. He said the association had met him in Srinagar three weeks ago and raised several issues, with willow availability emerging as its primary concern. The Bat Manufacturers Association met me in Srinagar three weeks ago. They had a few important demands. Their biggest concern was that the supply of raw material should continue. Since the court has directed that no new willow trees be planted around Wular, trees are being cut but not replaced. We have taken some decisions on that, he said. The High Court and Environmental authorities have restricted willow plantations around Wular Lake as part of efforts to restore the wetland. More than 135,000 willow trees have been removed to improve the lakes water-holding and flood-absorbing capacity. Abdullah said the government was also considering the industrys demand for uninterrupted power supply and a dispensary for workers. These demands are also under consideration, he said. He said workers injured in factory accidents currently have to travel to the Sub-District Hospital in Bijbehara for treatment. During accidents or injuries, labourers have to go to the SDH at Bijbehara. A dispensary here would ensure immediate treatment, he said. The Chief Minister also said the Common Facilitation Centre (CFC), established in 2003-04 for the industry, was not functioning as intended. The manufacturers will discuss the issue with the Industries Department and suggest whether the CFC can be made functional or if an alternative is required, he said. Deputy Chief Minister and Industries and Labour Minister Surinder Choudhary, Forest and Environment Minister Javed Ahmad Dar and Bijbehara MLA Bashir Ahmad Shah Veeri accompanied Abdullah during the visit.

ADC Sopore inspects flood-prone areas, reviews embankments along Jhelum, Wular

Additional Deputy Commissioner (ADC) Sopore S.A. Raina on Monday inspected flood-prone areas in Warpora and adjoining villages to review the condition of flood protection embankments along the Jhelum River and Wular Lake ahead of the monsoon. Accompanied by officials from various departments, Raina visited vulnerable locations and assessed the condition of the embankments built to protect residential areas and agricultural land from flooding. During the visit, he reviewed ongoing maintenance and repair works with officials from the Irrigation Department and sought updates on measures being taken to strengthen flood protection at critical locations. The ADC directed the Executive Engineer and Assistant Executive Engineer of the Irrigation Department to ensure all embankments are repaired, strengthened and maintained before any rise in water levels. He said strong flood protection infrastructure is essential to reduce the risk of inundation in vulnerable areas during heavy rainfall. Raina also stressed the need for close coordination among the Irrigation, Revenue and Disaster Management departments and the district administration to ensure timely completion of flood preparedness works. He instructed officials to remain on alert, monitor vulnerable spots continuously and respond promptly to any emerging situation to safeguard lives and property. Reiterating the administration's commitment to disaster preparedness, the ADC called for regular inspections of flood control structures and urged officials to adopt a proactive approach to minimise flood risks across the sub-division.

Food Safety Department probes complaints of substandard flour at Ganderbal government outlets

The Food Safety Department on Monday launched an inquiry into complaints of allegedly substandard wheat flour being distributed through government sale centres in central Kashmir's Ganderbal district, collecting samples for laboratory testing and seizing the available stock pending the results. A team of Food Safety officials inspected several government sale centres across the district and lifted legal samples of wheat flour to assess whether the stock complies with the quality and safety standards prescribed under the Food Safety and Standards Act. The action followed complaints from consumers, particularly in Lar and adjoining areas, who alleged that the wheat flour supplied through the public distribution system was of poor quality, unhygienic and unfit for consumption. Residents demanded an immediate inquiry into the quality of the flour and sought strict action against the supplying flour mill, including its blacklisting if any irregularities are established. We rely heavily on government sale centres for our basic food supplies. The recent batch of flour was of such inferior quality that it raised health concerns. Authorities must ensure proper quality checks before distributing food to the public, said Abdul Rashid, a resident of Wakura. Residents said food grains supplied through government outlets should be thoroughly examined to ensure they meet prescribed standards and do not pose a risk to public health. They urged the authorities to expedite the inquiry and ensure that only safe and standard-quality wheat flour and other food grains are distributed through government sale centres. Responding to the complaints, officials from the Food Safety Department, accompanied by personnel from the Food, Civil Supplies and Consumer Affairs (FCS&CA) Department, inspected several sale outlets across the district. Legal samples were collected as per standard operating procedures and sent to an accredited food testing laboratory for detailed analysis. Food Safety Officer Ganderbal Sheikh Abbas said inspections were conducted at all outlets from where complaints had been received and samples had been collected for testing. Further action will be taken after the laboratory reports are received, Abbas said. He said the department has also seized the flour stock available at the inspected outlets until the test reports are received.

Workshop on national security journalism begins at MHA's RRU Gujarat

Rashtriya Raksha University (RRU), the National Defence University of Gujarat Monday kickstarted an 11-day residential workshop on National Security Journalism. The workshop has been designed to help journalists understand the changing dimensions of national security and their role in ensuring accurate, ethical and fact-based reporting. As many as 42 participants including journalists, research scholars and academicians are part of the programme organised under the aegis of Ministry of Home Affairs (MHA), Government of India (GoI). The journalists from Kashmir who are part of the programme include Muneeb ul Haq, Sheikh Saleem Bin Ahmad, Syed Rizwan Geelani, Suhail Khan and Waris Fayaz. The workshop is being organised by the School of International Cooperation, Security and Strategic Languages (SICSSL) to strengthen reporting on national security and strategic affairs. The programme aims to enhance the professional capacity of journalists by equipping them with a deeper understanding of national security, ethical reporting, and the evolving information landscape. Addressing the inaugural session, the Pro Vice-Chancellor RRU Prof. (Dr) Kalpesh H. Wandra said the national security today extends far beyond the protection of territorial borders and encompasses information warfare, digital technologies, strategic communication, fact verification, and responsible journalism. The initiative seeks to build stronger engagement between the media and the national security ecosystem while promoting responsible dissemination of information in the public interest, Prof. Wandra said. He said the sessions will focus on contemporary security challenges, strategic communication, information integrity, and the responsibilities of journalists in reporting on national security-related issues. The programme is expected to strengthen journalists' professional capabilities and foster informed, balanced and responsible coverage of national security matters, he added. The National Security Journalism Programme is an 11-day residential capacity-building initiative designed for a select group of journalists representing national, state and regional media organisations. The workshop combines expert-led sessions, interactions with practitioners, case-based learning, practical reporting tools and structured field exposure to strengthen journalists' understanding of security-related issues. The training will focus on reporting related to defence, internal security, terrorism, border management, coastal security, cyber incidents, public order, disasters, critical infrastructure and other national security concerns. The participants will also visit key national security institutions to gain first-hand operational exposure. National security reporting has become increasingly significant in the digital age, where media plays a crucial role in shaping public perception during security events, Pro VC RRU said. He further said that the rapid growth of digital platforms has accelerated the spread of misinformation and hostile narratives, making responsible journalism more essential than ever. The programme seeks to equip journalists with the domain knowledge, contextual understanding and verification skills required to report security issues accurately, responsibly and in a manner that strengthens democratic discourse.

IUST signs MoU with Germany's Paderborn University to boost academic collaboration

The Islamic University of Science and Technology (IUST) on Monday signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) with Germany's Paderborn University to strengthen international academic collaboration and promote joint research and academic exchanges. The agreement was signed between the Department of Philosophy at IUST and the Centre for the History of Women Philosophers and Scientists at Paderborn University. The collaboration will be coordinated by Dr. Muzaffar Ali Malla, head of the Department of Philosophy at IUST, and Prof. Ruth Hagengruber, director of the Centre for the History of Women Philosophers and Scientists at Paderborn University. The MoU signing ceremony was presided over by IUST Registrar Prof. Shamim Ahmad Shah, who described the agreement as a significant step in the university's efforts to expand its international academic engagement. He said the partnership would promote high-quality research, academic exchange and innovative scholarly initiatives while creating opportunities for students, researchers and faculty members of both institutions. Shah said such collaborations reflect IUST's commitment to academic excellence, innovation and knowledge creation, while strengthening its presence in the global academic community. Dean of the School of Humanities and Social Sciences, Prof. Afroz Ahmad Bisati, welcomed the initiative and said the partnership would enhance international academic cooperation, interdisciplinary research and the university's global outreach. The ceremony was attended by Finance Officer Samir Wazir, Dean Research Dr. Aabid Hussain Shalla, Dean Outreach Dr. Ruheela Hassan, and In-charge International Affairs and Dean Students Dr. Monisa Qadiri. Representing Paderborn University, President Prof. Dr. Matthias Bauer and Prof. Ruth Hagengruber welcomed the collaboration and expressed confidence that it would lead to sustained academic cooperation, joint research projects, faculty and student exchanges, and long-term intellectual engagement between the two institutions.

Baltal camp has adequate capacity to handle pilgrim rush: Div Com

The Baltal base camp has adequate capacity to accommodate the current rush of pilgrims undertaking the annual Shri Amarnathji Yatra, while the administration is taking a day-to-day call on the movement of pilgrims after assessing weather and track conditions, Divisional Commissioner Kashmir Anshul Garg said on Monday. Speaking to reporters, Garg said the pilgrimage was being regulated strictly under the prescribed Standard Operating Procedure (SOP), with weather advisories issued by the India Meteorological Department (IMD) and the condition of the tracks reviewed before permitting the movement of pilgrims. The Yatra had been temporarily suspended in recent days due to adverse weather conditions, following which repair work was required along the traditional Pahalgam axis. The restoration work is currently being undertaken by the Border Roads Organisation (BRO), while the Baltal route remains open, he said. Garg said fresh pilgrims arriving from Jammu, including those who reached by train over the past two days, were being directed straight to the Baltal Base Camp to prevent inconvenience. He said the holding capacity of the Baltal Base Camp had earlier been increased to accommodate 40,000 to 45,000 pilgrims, while the current daily inflow stood at around 15,000 to 20,000. The camp is therefore operating at nearly half its capacity and is presently adequately equipped to manage the pilgrim rush, he said, adding that additional arrangements would be made if required based on the number of pilgrims arriving in the coming days. Garg said teams from the district administration, health department, sanitaation services, camp commanders, Mountain Rescue Teams (MRTs) and other agencies were maintaining continuous monitoring to ensure the safety and convenience of pilgrims. He said the latest IMD advisory had forecast adverse weather, including heavy rainfall, from July 28 to July 31. Evening review meetings are being held with all stakeholders, including officials of the Shri Amarnath Ji Shrine Board, and the decision on the following day's pilgrimage is taken after assessing the weather forecast and track conditions, he added. Garg said more than 4.22 lakh pilgrims had paid obeisance at the holy cave shrine by 1 p.m. on Monday. The figure has surpassed the total of 4.14 lakh devotees who undertook the pilgrimage during the entire 2025 Yatra, despite this year's Yatra witnessing a six-day suspension due to heavy monsoon rainfall and landslides that damaged sections of the Jammu-Srinagar National Highway and the traditional Pahalgam route.

Govt apathy leaves tourist cafeteria, gazebo at Kupwaras Zachaldara in disrepair

A tourist cafeteria and a gazebo at Galganzar in Zachaldara, in the foothills of Bangus Valley, have been lying abandoned for years, with locals accusing the authorities of neglect and demanding their immediate renovation. Residents told Greater Kashmir that the cafeteria was built nearly a decade ago but has never been handed over to the Tourism Department. The building was completed, but it was never made functional. We don't know why it has been left to decay, said Farooq Bhat, a resident. He said the government had spent a huge amount on the project, but the building was now deteriorating due to official neglect. The windowpanes and glass have been damaged by miscreants. Had the building not been left unattended, it would still be in good condition, Bhat said. Residents said the cafeteria, located along the Handwara-Rajwar-Bangus road, could serve as a halt for tourists visiting Bangus Valley and help promote tourism in the area. It can also generate employment for local youth, who can set up stalls and sell their products, a local youth said. Former District Development Council (DDC) member from Rajwar, Sulaiman Mir, said the Zachaldara cafeteria was not the only abandoned tourism asset in the area. Tourist huts at Wader Balla and Wader Payeen have also been left unattended, causing inconvenience to tourists visiting Bangus Valley, he said. Mir also raised the issue of watch and ward employees posted at these facilities. He said the workers, engaged on a temporary basis, had not received salaries for several months. They are already poorly paid and salaries are often delayed. They have now gone without wages for months, Mir said, urging the government to release their pending dues. MLA Handwara Sajad Gani Lone said several tourism-related structures across Kupwara district had been abandoned. I will take up the issue with the concerned department, he said.

NLCO concerned over road construction in eco-fragile Miskeen Bagh

Nigeen Lake Conservation Organisation (NLCO) has expressed concern over construction of road in eco-fragile Miskeen Bagh area. In a statement, NLCO Chairman Manzoor Wangnoo said, What we are witnessing near Miskeen Bagh today is deeply disturbing. In what appears to be a serious lapse of oversight by J&K Lake Conservation and Management Authority road-related work has reportedly been carried out by Srinagar Municipal Corporation raising grave concerns over filling and encroachment of the waterbody. The question is simple: How can development be allowed at the cost of the very lake we are duty-bound to protect. If any portion of Dal has been filled to facilitate road construction or macadamisation, the matter deserves immediate verification, accountability, and, if necessary, intervention by the National Green Tribunal (NGT). Dal Lake cannot become a casualty of departmental lapses, unchecked development, or political interests. The filling must stop, Wangnoo added.

Sat Sharma urges Nitin Gadkari for major road infra push in J&K

J&K Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) president and Rajya Sabha MP Sat Sharma on Monday called on Union Minister for Road Transport and Highways Nitin Gadkari in New Delhi and highlighted the disruption of highways due to landslides and adverse weather especially in the rainy season. Seeking additional measures to address the landslides issues in the rainy season, Sat Sharma requested the Union Minister to encourage the use of advanced engineering solutions and modern technologies to make roads more resilient. He stressed the need for scientific slope stabilisation, modern monitoring systems and other innovative interventions to minimise road closures and ensure safer travel. During the meeting, Sat Sharma raised several important issues concerning J&Ks road network with the objective of securing faster infrastructure development and addressing critical connectivity challenges faced by the people. He apprised the Union Minister of the need to further strengthen road infrastructure across Jammu and Kashmir in view of its strategic importance, difficult terrain, growing tourism potential and the aspirations of the people. He stressed that improved connectivity was the backbone of economic growth, tourism, trade, healthcare, education and national security and urged the Ministry to continue prioritising infrastructure development in the Union Territory. While thanking the Minister for the major road infrastructure push in J&K, ensuring 12-month all-weather connectivity between the major regions of Jammu and Kashmir and with the Union Territory of Ladakh, Sharma particularly emphasised the need to take additional measures to address the landslides issues in the rainy season. Sharma said uninterrupted road access would greatly benefit people living in remote and border areas while facilitating smoother movement of goods, tourists and essential services throughout the year. The BJP leader also sought the time-bound completion of ongoing National Highway projects, tunnels, elevated road corridors and flyovers at crucial locations to improve traffic flow, reduce travel time, and enhance commuter safety. He said timely completion of these projects would further accelerate economic activity and open new avenues for investment, employment, and tourism across Jammu and Kashmir. Sat Sharma said that under the leadership of Prime Minister Narendra Modi, Jammu and Kashmir witnessed unprecedented progress in road connectivity, with several long-pending highway, bridge and tunnel projects being executed at a record pace. He added that this transformative vision had its roots in the developmental approach of former Prime Minister Bharat Ratna Atal Bihari Vajpayee, which was now being carried forward with renewed commitment. The Union Minister gave a patient hearing to the issues raised by Sat Sharma and assured him that the Ministry would continue to extend all possible support for strengthening road infrastructure and connectivity in Jammu and Kashmir.

Handwara Tragedy: 10-year-old boy drowns in pond

A 10-year-old boy drowned in a pond at Sarband in the Magam area of Handwara in north Kashmirs Kupwara district on Monday. His body was later retrieved after a joint rescue operation involving the State Disaster Response Force (SDRF), the Army, police, and local residents. The deceased was identified as Ayan Ahmad, son of Abdul Qayoom Tantary, a resident of Bumdoogar, Magam. Officials said that the boy reportedly drowned while bathing in the pond. On receiving information about the incident, rescue teams from the SDRF, Army and police, assisted by local volunteers, rushed to the spot and launched a search operation. After sustained efforts, the body was recovered from the pond and handed over to the family for last rites. Police have taken cognisance of the incident, while further proceedings have been initiated. GNS

J&K government sanctions Rs 6.05 crore for restoration of historic Shopian Jamia Masjid

The Jammu and Kashmir Government has sanctioned a Rs 6.05 crore project for the restoration and revival of the historic Jamia Masjid Sharief in south Kashmirs Shopian district, with the work to be carried out in keeping with the mosques heritage architecture. Announcing the decision on X, Chief Minister Omar Abdullah said the project aims to preserve the mosques unique architectural identity and cultural significance. The Government of Jammu & Kashmir has approved a 6.05 crore project for the revival and restoration of the historic Jamia Masjid Sharief in Shopian on heritage lines. The project will preserve its distinctive architectural character and rich cultural legacy, the Chief Minister posted. The announcement was welcomed by local residents and civil society members, who described it as a significant step towards preserving one of Kashmirs prominent historical landmarks. We thank the Chief Minister and the local MLAs for approving the restoration project. It is a welcome step, and we hope the funds will be utilised judiciously, said civil society member Mitha Gatoo. Gatoo stressed that local residents, civil society representatives and conservation experts should be actively involved in the restoration process to ensure that the mosques historic character and architectural integrity are preserved. Spread over nearly nine kanals, the Jamia Masjid Shopian is regarded as the second-largest mosque in Kashmir after the historic Jamia Masjid in Srinagar. Built with contributions from local residents, the mosque is renowned for its traditional wooden architecture, featuring deodar wood turrets, intricately designed geometric windows and dozens of carved wooden columns that define its interior. According to local accounts, camels were used to transport boulders from the nearby Rambiara stream during the mosques construction, reflecting the scale of the effort undertaken to build the centuries-old structure. Residents said the restoration project presents an opportunity not only to repair the mosque but also to preserve its architectural and cultural legacy for future generations. They urged the authorities to undertake the conservation work with utmost care and in consultation with heritage experts so that the mosques original design and traditional features remain intact.

Kashmir schools reopen; academic activities resume after extended summer break

Schools across Kashmir reopened on Monday after remaining closed for 20 days due to an unprecedented heatwave followed by prolonged heavy rainfall that triggered flood-like conditions in several parts of the Valley. The reopening marked the return of normal academic activity as thousands of students, dressed in school uniforms and carrying backpacks, were seen heading to educational institutions early Monday morning. Morning assemblies resumed in most schools, while teachers welcomed students back after an unusually long mid-summer disruption. The School Education Department had initially ordered the closure of all government and private schools from July 6 for 13 days in view of an intense heatwave that gripped Kashmir, with temperatures soaring well above normal. Authorities had cited concerns over the health and safety of students, particularly younger children, amid the unusually high daytime temperatures. However, before schools could reopen, weather conditions changed dramatically as widespread rainfall lashed the Valley around July 18. Continuous rain over several days led to waterlogging in urban areas, overflowing streams and rivers, landslides, and flood-like situations in parts of Kashmir, prompting the government to extend the summer vacation until July 26. With weather conditions improving over the past few days and the flood threat receding, the administration decided to resume classes from Monday. At several schools in Srinagar and other districts, students expressed happiness at returning to classrooms and reconnecting with their classmates after the prolonged break. I was missing my friends and teachers. It feels good to be back in school, said Aira , a class 10th student. Another student said the extended closure had disrupted studies despite online learning resources. We tried to study at home, but classroom learning is always better. We are happy that schools have reopened, she said. Teachers also welcomed the resumption of regular classes but acknowledged that the extended closure had affected the academic calendar. Our immediate priority is to assess the learning levels of students and revise the academic schedule wherever necessary. We will make every effort to complete the syllabus without compromising the quality of teaching, a senior teacher at a higher secondary school in Srinagar said. School authorities said they would focus on academic recovery in the coming weeks while ensuring students settle back into their routines. Parents accompanying children to schools also expressed relief over the reopening. The last few weeks were challenging because children remained indoors due to both the heat and the heavy rains. We hope the weather remains stable so that academic activities continue without further interruptions, said Abdul Rashid, a parent waiting outside a private school. Officials said schools had been advised to remain vigilant regarding local weather conditions and to ensure the safety of students, particularly in areas that had witnessed waterlogging or infrastructure damage during the recent spell of rain. The 20-day closure reflected the Valleys rapidly changing weather conditions this month. Kashmir first experienced one of its hottest summers in recent years, prompting authorities to suspend classroom teaching. The subsequent shift to persistent rainfall brought relief from the heat but created fresh challenges, with heavy downpours disrupting normal life and forcing educational institutions to remain shut longer than initially planned. With classes resuming on Monday, education officials expressed hope that regular academic activities would continue uninterrupted and that schools would be able to recover the teaching time lost during the extended closure.

Dismantle ecosystem supporting narcotics trafficking

Deputy Commissioner (DC) Srinagar, Akshay Labroo on Monday chaired a comprehensive meeting of the District-Level NCORD Committee here at Meeting Hall of the DC Office to review the progress of the intensified anti-drug enforcement drive launched under the 100-Day Jammu & Kashmir Nasha Mukt Bharat Abhiyan in the District. Senior Superintendent of Police (SSP) Srinagar, Dr. Sundeep Chakravarthy, also attended the meeting, which assessed the impact of coordinated enforcement measures against drug trafficking and substance abuse. The meeting was attended by Regional Transport Officer Kashmir, Qazi Irfan, Additional Deputy Commissioner, Aadil Fareed, SP Headquarter, Umar Shah, Joint Commissioner SMC, Nuzhat Khurshid, IAS Probationer, Alfred Thomas, SDM West, Irfan Bahadur, SDM East Zubair Ahmad, Chief Education Officer, Ghulam Mohi-Din, DSWO, Mohammad Yousuf and Officers from Excise, Drug Control Organisation, DYS&S, heads of ATFs and Officers of other concerned departments. At the outset, the meeting undertook a comprehensive assessment of the Districts anti-drug strategy, focusing on enforcement measures, preventive interventions, rehabilitation measures and the outcomes of the recently concluded 100-day Jammu and Kashmir Nasha Mukt Abhiyan. During the meeting, it was informed that the intensified enforcement operations, coupled with coordinated efforts by the Police, Civil Administration, and other stakeholder departments, have yielded significant outcomes across Srinagar district. The multi-pronged action has focused on dismantling drug trafficking networks, disrupting the financial ecosystem supporting illicit activities, and ensuring strict legal action against those involved in the illegal trade of narcotics. The NCORD Committee was informed that the ongoing crackdown has resulted in the registration of 169 FIRs and the arrest of 238 alleged drug peddlers. In addition, illegal movable and immovable properties worth about Rs 103 crore linked to drug traffickers have been attached, while 89 bank accounts have been frozen as part of financial investigations. The Committee was further informed that 101 driving licences, 59 vehicle registration certificates (RCs) and 70 chemist licences have been suspended for violations related to narcotics. The enforcement agencies also reviewed action taken to dismantle drug supply networks through coordinated legal, financial and administrative measures Further more, authorities have recommended suspension of passport and Aadhaar numbers of various accused under relevant laws. Reviewing the progress of the campaign, the Deputy Commissioner and SSP appreciated the coordinated efforts of the Civil Administration, Police and allied Departments and stressed the need for sustained, intelligence-driven enforcement to eliminate the drug menace and ensure lasting outcomes under the ongoing campaign. On the occasion, the DC directed all concerned departments to further strengthen inter-departmental coordination and intensify action against drug peddlers and trafficking networks to ensure a drug-free and safer environment in the District. He emphasized renewed focus and coordinated efforts to curb drug abuse and dismantle the ecosystem supporting narcotics trafficking in Srinagar District. The DC further stressed the importance of a multi-pronged strategy combining strict law enforcement with awareness generation, counselling and rehabilitation measures to effectively tackle the menace of drug abuse, particularly among youth. The SSP reiterated the commitment of the Police in collaboration with civil authorities towards sustained action against narcotics-related activities and called for active support from the public in identifying and reporting drug-related offences.

J&Ks Majid Magray to lead India in Mixed Disability Cricket series against England

New Delhi, Jul 27:The Differently Abled Cricket Council of India (DCCI) has announced a 16-member Indian squad for the upcoming Mixed Disability Cricket Series against England, scheduled to be played from August 5 to August 19 across England. Majid Ah Magray has been named captain, while Sai Akash Saivamani will serve as the vice-captain. India will begin the seven-match IT20 series with the opening two matches at OurCoop County Ground, Derby, on August 5 and August 7, followed by the third IT20 at Uptonsteel Grace Road, Leicester, on August 9. The fourth match, as per a statement, will be played at the County Ground, Hove, on August 12, before the action shifts to Arundel for the fifth and sixth IT20s on August 15 and August 16, respectively. The series will conclude with the seventh and final IT20 at the iconic Lords Cricket Ground on August 19. All matches are scheduled to begin at 2:30 PM local time. DCCI Secretary Ravi Kant Chauhan said, Majid Magrays appointment as captain is a proud moment not only for Jammu & Kashmir but for the entire differently abled cricket fraternity. His leadership will inspire many aspiring cricketers from the region to pursue the sport with greater confidence and determination. DCCI Vice President Sumit Jain said, I wish the entire team and support staff a successful tour and hope they inspire many more aspiring differently abled cricketers through their performances. The Indian Mixed Disability Cricket Team is currently undergoing a preparatory training camp at Chhawla, near Dwarka, New Delhi, as part of its preparations for the upcoming Mixed Disability Cricket Series against England. The support staff for Indias Mixed Disability Cricket Series against England will be led by former Rajasthan Ranji captain Rohit Jhalani, who has been appointed as the Head Coach. He will be assisted by Dev Dutt as Coach, while Rohit Sharma will serve as the Fielding Coach. Ramswaroop Saini has been named the Strength & Conditioning Coach, and Mayank Pushkar will accompany the team as the Physiotherapist, ensuring the players are in peak physical condition throughout the tour. Jammu & Kashmir is represented by Majid Ah Magray (Captain), Rizwan Altaf Bhat, and Hilal Ahmad Wani. Tamil Nadu has Sai Akash Saivamani (Vice-Captain) and Sudarsun Elangovan, while Haryana is represented by Kuldeep Singh and Tarun. Karnataka has Rajesh Irappa Kannur and Shiva Shankara Guntiganapalli Subbarayappa in the squad. The remaining players include Yashwanth Naidu Ravuri (Andhra Pradesh), Vivek Kumar (Uttar Pradesh), Arjun Rajesh Gawre (Vidarbha), Ravindra Gopinath Sante (Mumbai), Yogender Singh Bhadoria (Madhya Pradesh), Vrushant Sandip Gunjal (Maharashtra), and Jayesh Parmar (West Bengal).

FC Ganderbal registers 32 victory over City Gate FC

Srinagar, Jul 27:The Srinagar Premier League 2026, organised under the aegis of the District Football Association (DFA) Srinagar, commenced with an electrifying encounter as FC Ganderbal secured a hard-fought 32 victory against City Gate FC in the tournament's opening fixture at the TRC Turf, Srinagar. The opening match, as per a DFA statement, lived up to expectations, delivering an entertaining contest filled with attacking football, tactical discipline, and relentless determination from both sides. Right from the opening whistle, both teams displayed high intensity and a strong desire to begin their campaign on a winning note. FC Ganderbal started the match with confidence, creating several attacking opportunities through quick passing combinations and disciplined build-up play. Their efforts were rewarded with crucial goals that gave them the advantage, while City Gate FC responded with resilience, keeping the contest alive until the final whistle. The closely fought encounter witnessed end-to-end action, with both teams showcasing quality football, fighting spirit, and excellent sportsmanship. Players from both FC Ganderbal and City Gate FC earned appreciation for their commitment, teamwork, and determination, making the tournament opener a memorable spectacle for football enthusiasts present at the venue. The District Football Association Srinagar, through the successful organisation of the Srinagar Premier League 2026, continues to reaffirm its commitment to the promotion and development of football in the region. The league serves as a prestigious platform for local clubs to compete at a high level while providing emerging footballers with valuable exposure and opportunities to showcase their talent. FC Ganderbal now begins its Srinagar Premier League 2026 journey with three valuable points and will aim to carry this winning momentum into the forthcoming matches.

Aqua Kashmir Avengers return as 3rd franchise

Srinagar, Jul 27: The Khyber Cement Kashmir Super League 2026, powered by Athwas Retail & Athwas Hyundai, continues to gather momentum with the confirmation of Aqua Kashmir Avengers Football Club as the third official franchise for the upcoming season. Aqua Kashmir Avengers, who, as per a statement, emerged as the runners-up in the inaugural edition of the league after an impressive campaign, have once again reaffirmed their commitment to football in Jammu & Kashmir by securing their place in Season 2. The franchise signing was formalised by Arshid on behalf of Aqua Kashmir Avengers in the presence of the league management. Speaking on the occasion, the Khyber Cement Kashmir Super League management welcomed the return of the franchise and appreciated their continued faith in the league. Aqua Kashmir Avengers played a remarkable brand of football in the inaugural season and won the hearts of football fans across Kashmir. Their return further strengthens the competitive landscape of the league and reflects the growing confidence of corporate houses in the vision of the Kashmir Super League, said the league management. Backed by the renowned Aqua Group, Aqua Kashmir Avengers represent one of the regions most respected business conglomerates. Established in 1999, Aqua Group has grown into a diversified enterprise with an annual turnover exceeding Rs 150 crore, delivering innovative products, engineering solutions and specialized services across multiple sectors. With businesses spanning Aqua PUF Panels & Heating Systems, Aqua Engineers & Fabricators, Aqua Pharma, Aqua Motors, and AB Engineering, the group has earned a reputation for quality, innovation and excellence. Expressing his enthusiasm, Arshid said, Being part of the inaugural season was a memorable experience, and reaching the final only strengthened our belief in the immense potential of football in Kashmir. We are delighted to return for Season 2 and look forward to building an even stronger team to compete for the championship while continuing to support the growth of local football talent. With three franchises now officially confirmed, the Khyber Cement Kashmir Super League 2026 is steadily shaping up to be an even bigger and more competitive spectacle, bringing together leading corporate houses and the finest football talent from across Jammu & Kashmir. The league is scheduled to kick off in August 2026 at the TRC Ground, Srinagar, promising high-quality football, passionate fan engagement, and another landmark chapter in the development of the sport in the region.

On Harmukh, a Kashmiri mountaineer seeks summits few have attempted

Srinagar, Jul 27:For seven days, Wasim Hassan Rather climbed across the ridgelines of Harmukh, one of Kashmir's most mountainous massifs, moving from one unnamed or little-documented summit to another. When he descended, he believed he had become the first person to complete a traverse of four subsidiary peaks in a single expedition. There was no official ceremony waiting at the base, no international expedition sponsor, and no satellite broadcast marking the achievement. Instead, the significance of the climb spread quietly through Kashmir's close-knit mountaineering community, where veteran climbers began comparing routes, maps and memories to determine whether anyone had done it before. For Hassan, a ski guide from north Kashmir who has spent more than a decade working in the mountains, the expedition represents something larger than a personal milestone. People see Kashmir for its meadows and lakes, he said. Very few know what lies higher up. For decades, Kashmir's mountains attracted European explorers and surveyors. Later, years of conflict shifted attention away from adventure sports. Today, a new generation of local climbers is returning to peaks that have received little modern attention, often funding expeditions from their own savings. Hassan's journey into mountaineering began with weekend hikes before formal training in alpine techniques. Since then, he has completed more than 20 expeditions, including several climbs above 6,000 meters. The expedition also revealed how little is settled about some of Kashmir's mountains. One summit long described as standing at 5,142 meters now appears in newer mapping at roughly 5,120 meters, reflecting updated surveying rather than a shrinking mountain. Adventure tourism has become an increasingly important part of Kashmir's economy, but mountaineers say technical climbing remains overshadowed by trekking and skiing. There is enormous potential here, Hassan said. But people need training before they think about climbing these mountains. Whether his Harmukh traverse is ultimately recognised as a first ascent will depend on documentation and scrutiny by the climbing community. Even so, mountaineers say the expedition signals something more enduring, that Kashmir's highest mountains, long overshadowed by politics and tourism, are once again becoming places of exploration.

J&K's Shariya Manzoor picked for inaugural Asian Kabaddi League

Srinagar, Jul 27:The J&K Amateur Kabaddi Association has expressed immense pride and happiness over the selection of Shariya Manzoor from Pulwama for the first-ever Asian Kabaddi League (Women Chapter 1), marking a historic achievement for Jammu & Kashmir and Indian womens kabaddi. Congratulating Shariya on her remarkable accomplishment, Dr Kuldeep Kumar Gupta, General Secretary, J&K Amateur Kabaddi Association, said that her selection is the result of years of hard work, dedication, and disciplined training. He also congratulated her coach, Arshid Rather, under whose guidance and coaching Shariya honed her skills and developed into an elite kabaddi player capable of competing at the international level. He appreciated the Sports Councils continued efforts in the effective functioning of Khelo India Centres and PMDP Centres, which have played a vital role in nurturing young sporting talent across the Union Territory. He further lauded the recent decision of the Secretary, J&K Sports Council, to sanction 10 new Kabaddi Centres across Jammu & Kashmir, stating that the initiative will significantly strengthen grassroots development and provide aspiring players with greater opportunities to excel in the sport. Dr. Kuldeep Kumar Gupta, as per an official statement, also highlighted that Jammu & Kashmir kabaddi is witnessing unprecedented growth. He noted that two players from the Union Territory participated in the Pro Kabaddi League (PKL) in 2026, and Shariyas selection for the inaugural Asian Kabaddi League further reflects the steady rise of kabaddi talent from J&K on national and international platforms. The J&K Amateur Kabaddi Association extended its best wishes to Shariya Manzoor for a successful campaign in the Asian Kabaddi League and expressed confidence that she will make the nation and Jammu & Kashmir proud through her outstanding performances

PM Modi congratulates Raja Muthupandi on winning Silver in Weightlifting

New Delhi, Jul 27:Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Monday highlighted another medal for India in Weightlifting. He congratulated Raja Muthupandi on winning a Silver in the Mens 65 kg event at the Glasgow Commonwealth Games. PM Modi, as per a PIB statement, stated that his success makes every Indian happy and proud, conveying his best wishes for his upcoming endeavours. In a post on X, the Prime Minister shared: Another medal for India in Weightlifting! Congrats to Raja Muthupandi on winning a Silver in the Mens 65 kg event at the Glasgow Commonwealth Games. His success makes every Indian happy and proud. My best wishes for his upcoming endeavours.

Asif Jalal takes over as new IG BSF Jammu frontier

Jammu, Jul 27:Senior Indian Police Service (IPS) officer Asif Jalal has taken over as new Inspector General of Border Security Force (BSF) Jammu Frontier. Jalal replaced another senior IPS officer IG Shashank Anand, who took charge of strategically very crucial Jammu frontier in February, 2025. Inspector General of Police (IGP) Jammu, Bhimsen Tuti, on Monday bid a warm farewell to outgoing IG, BSF Jammu frontier, Shashank Anand, on his transfer and extended a warm welcome to Asif Jalal, who has assumed charge as the new IG, BSF Jammu Frontier, responsible for guarding Jammu, Samba, Kathua districts and parts of Rajouri and Poonch districts. The function was attended by Maj Gen Ajit M Yeole, GOC, 26 Infantry Division; Ramesh Kumar, Divisional Commissioner, Jammu; Amol V Homkar, IG CRPF, Jammu sector; all Range DIGs of Jammu zone and senior officers of the BSF, SSB, CRPF, CISF, NIA, J&K Police and the civil administration, reflecting the enduring spirit of inter-agency coordination, mutual cooperation and collective commitment towards ensuring peace, security and effective border management in the Jammu region. New IG BSF is an IPS officer of Himachal Pradesh cadre of 2002 batch. He was appointed IG BSF in February 2022 and will remain on deputation with BSF till September, 2027.

Old Pul Doda Bridge shut for safety inspection after heavy rains

Ramban, Jul 27:The Old PulDoda Bridge was closed to vehicular traffic on Monday as a precautionary measure after concerns were raised over suspected cracks following recent heavy rainfall and flash floods in the region. Authorities said the temporary closure was ordered solely in the interest of public safety while a comprehensive technical inspection is carried out. According to official sources, apprehensions regarding the bridge's condition surfaced on Sunday evening, prompting the district administration and police to immediately suspend traffic on the structure. The bridge is a crucial road link connecting Doda with Kishtwar, Bhaderwah and Jammu, and its closure has affected the movement of commuters and transport vehicles. Officials of the Public Works Department (PWD) clarified that an initial inspection has not revealed any structural damage to the bridge. They stated that the visible marks and irregularities noticed on portions of the structure are surface construction overlaps and not signs of structural failure. However, as a precaution, the PWD has requisitioned a team of experts from its Design Inspection and Quality Control (DIQC) wing to conduct a detailed structural safety assessment. The bridge will remain closed until the expert team completes its inspection and certifies it safe for public use. The decision to suspend vehicular movement has been taken purely as a preventive measure. There is no confirmation of structural damage at this stage, and the final position will be known only after the expert team's detailed inspection, officials said. The district administration has appealed to the public to cooperate with the temporary traffic restrictions and refrain from using the Old PulDoda Bridge until further orders. Commuters have been advised to use the Ganpat Bridge as the designated alternate route for travel. Authorities also urged people to avoid unnecessary travel during the ongoing spell of inclement weather and to strictly follow official advisories. They assured that an official update regarding the bridge's structural condition and reopening will be issued immediately after the DIQC team submits its inspection report. Officials reiterated that the temporary closure is a precautionary step aimed at ensuring public safety and preventing any potential risk while the technical evaluation is underway.

Searches conducted after drone movement on LoC

Rajouri, Jul 27:Security forces on Monday conducted area domination exercise and searches in areas close to Line of Control (LoC) in Nowshera Lam after a drone intrusion attempt was reported. Official sources said that in the intervening night of Sunday and Monday, a drone intrusion attempt came to fore on Line of Control (LoC) in Lam area of Nowshera sector in Rajouri district. The suspected drone, they said, returned to other side of LoC after roaming on and around LoC. Meanwhile, on Monday, security forces conducted speculative searches and area domination exercise after picking up the drone intrusion attempt. The teams of forces carried out searches and heightened the vigil, they said.

PDD begins permanent restoration of damaged transmission network

Rajouri, Jul 27:The Power Development Department (PDD) has initiated permanent restoration of vital transmission lines and power feeders damaged during the recent devastating floods in Rajouri district, marking the beginning of long-term repair works after temporary restoration ensured the resumption of electricity supply in affected areas. Several key transmission lines and feeders across the twin border districts of Rajouri and Poonch suffered extensive damage in the July 19 floods, disrupting power supply to hundreds of villages. While the department had restored electricity through temporary arrangements in many areas to minimise public inconvenience, it has now started phased permanent restoration of the damaged infrastructure. On Monday, the Power Transmission Wing of the department launched permanent restoration work on the crucial 33 KV Kallar - DoongiAgrati transmission feeder in Rajouri district. The feeder, which connects the Kalakote Receiving Station with the Keri Receiving Station, was severely damaged after floodwaters washed away portions of the transmission network on July 19. The department had restored electricity supply temporarily through an alternate arrangement on July 21. Executive Engineer, Power Transmission Division, Munir Hussain, said dedicated teams and manpower were deployed to undertake permanent restoration of the feeder. He said the work continued throughout the day despite challenging conditions. Braving strong river currents and elevated water levels, the field staff laid new transmission lines across the affected river stretch and completed the restoration work, enabling the department to shift power supply back to the main feeder. The Executive Engineer further said that permanent restoration of other damaged transmission lines and feeders would be undertaken in a phased manner wherever required to strengthen the power infrastructure and ensure reliable electricity supply in the flood-affected areas. Anees Kassana, a civil volunteer of the area, was leading a team of volunteers who also assisted the power department employees in this work. Anees hailed the working of power department staff saying that the employees deserve an applause.

Baglihar Dam opens spillway gates to regulate rising water level

Ramban, Jul 27:Authorities opened multiple spillway gates of the 900 MW Baglihar Hydroelectric Power Project Dam in Jammu and Kashmir's Ramban district on Monday to regulate the rising water level in the reservoir, following sustained heavy rainfall across the region over the past week. Official sources said the decision was taken as a precautionary measure to manage the increasing inflow of water into the reservoir safely. While weather conditions have improved and rainfall has largely ceased over the last 24 hours, runoff from the upper catchment areas of the Chenab River continues to flow into the reservoir, resulting in a steady rise in water levels. The controlled release of water is being carried out in accordance with standard operating procedures to maintain the reservoir within safe operating limits and ensure the structural safety of the dam. Authorities emphasised that the opening of the gates is a routine reservoir management exercise undertaken during periods of high inflow and should not be viewed as a cause for alarm. Officials are continuously monitoring inflow patterns, reservoir levels and downstream discharge, and the situation remains under close surveillance. Water releases will be regulated depending on the volume of incoming water and prevailing hydrological conditions. Residents living along the downstream stretches of the Chenab River have been advised to remain cautious, avoid venturing close to the riverbanks, and follow advisories issued by the district administration and disaster management authorities. The administration has urged the public not to spread rumours and to rely only on official updates regarding the operation of the dam and river conditions. The Baglihar Hydroelectric Power Project, with an installed capacity of 900 MW, is one of the major hydroelectric projects on the Chenab River and plays a crucial role in power generation as well as regulated water management in the region.

Love is not loud

There is a phrase we throw around too easily today. Generation gap. We say it like it is a law of nature, something as fixed as gravity, something no family can escape. I want to tell you it is not true, because I watched a man disprove it every single day of his life, and I am still learning to live with the fact that he is gone. I write this not just for my family, but for anyone out there who has ever felt like the older people in their life belong to a different world. I promise you, they do not have to. My grandfather was born in 1934. He lived through a version of the world most of us will only ever read about. And yet he never once let his age become a wall between himself and the people he loved. He read the news every morning, local and international, not to complain about how things had changed but to understand why. He asked questions the way young people are supposed to ask questions, with hunger, with humility, never assuming he already knew the answer. That is the first thing I want the world to hear from his life. Age does not create distance but stopping your curiosity does. He taught me history that no textbook ever could, the real weight of Jammu and Kashmir, its wounds, its politics, its people. He did not simplify it for me because he trusted me with the truth. And then he would ask me, a young student who had studied economics for a few years, to explain the same subject back to him in the simplest words possible. A man who had lived through decades of governance sat and listened to his own grandson like a student in a classroom. If there is one lesson every parent, every grandparent, every elder in this world should take from him, it is this. Listening to the younger generation is not a weakness. It is the closest thing to real wisdom there is. He did not preach values to us. He lived them, quietly, every single day, and left it to us to notice. That is the second message I want to leave behind for anyone reading this. The world is full of people telling other people how to live. Very few people actually live it themselves. My grandfather never gave a lecture on honesty. He simply never lied. He never gave a speech on discipline. He simply woke early every single day of his life until the very end. Children do not remember what you told them to become. They remember what they watched you become. His four grandsons are scattered across different corners of the world, one in UK, one in Canada, one in another city in India, and me in Delhi. None of us ever felt distant from him. With children he somehow became a child himself. With people his own age he stood as an equal. I still do not fully understand how one man managed to belong to every generation at once, but I know this much. It was not an accident. It was attention. He gave people his full presence, and in a world that scrolls past everything in seconds, that alone made him rare. But there is a part of his life I carry more heavily than anything else, and it is this part I want the world to sit with the longest. I watched him hold my grandmothers feet in his hands and gently trim her nails, an act so small and so tender that it broke something open in me. I watched him wait patiently every single morning for her to wake up and eat so he could give her the right medicine at the right time, all of it memorized, none of it written down. He carried her care inside his mind the way you carry the name of someone you have loved for a lifetime. Now that he is gone, we write it on paper. We set reminders on our phones. And every single time I do, I am reminded of how much silent, invisible labor of love he carried without ever once complaining or asking for recognition. This is what I want the world to understand about love, especially in a generation that measures affection in likes and grand gestures. Love is not loud. Love is not a performance for an audience. Love is a man in his nineties waiting silently for his wife to wake up so he can care for her one more time. He carried his own final days the same way so that none of us would feel the fear he must have known. He protected us until his very last breath. And I was not there. I was in Delhi when he left this world, and by the time I understood how little time remained, there was none left at all. I could not sit beside him. I could not hold his hand. I could not press my lips to his forehead the way he must have done to mine when I was too small to remember. I could not say the one word that still sits unspoken in my chest, thank you. I could not even stand among the people who came to say goodbye to him. That absence inside the absence is a pain that will never fully leave me, and if you are reading this and you still have the chance to say thank you to someone who raised you, please do not wait the way I was forced to. Grief, I am slowly learning, is simply love that has run out of places to go. So I am giving it somewhere now. I am giving it in these words, and I am giving it in the way I try to sit longer with my own parents, ask more questions, listen harder, because he taught me without ever saying it out loud that presence is the only inheritance that truly outlives a person. He did not leave a gap behind him. He left a standard, and an entire generation of us are still trying to live up to it. If his life says anything to the wider world, let it say this. There is no such thing as a generation gap. There is only the space we create when we stop listening to each other, and the space that disappears the moment we choose not to. Thank you, Dadu, for everything you gave without ever asking to be thanked. Malik Daniyal is an economics graduate from University of Delhi.

Kashmir once again holding its breath

Nearly twelve years after the devastating flood inundated the Valley, Kashmir is once again holding its breath as another deluge threat looms over the region. Its not for the first time after 2014 that Kashmir is facing a flood scare. Whenever it rains continuously the Valley is pushed to edge. Rivers swell and threaten the dwellers with roaring waters and remind them about their power to cause devastation. After 2014 deluge, the Centre and the World Bank provided more than Rs 2,000 crore for recovery and flood management of Jhelum. Despite that Jhelum and other rivers cross the danger mark just within 2-3 days of moderate rainfalland it happens quite often. The Jhelum remains Kashmirs lifeline, but it also poses the Valleys greatest flood threat when its carrying capacity is compromised. The fundamental concern remains unchanged. The Jhelum continues to overflow with alarming ease, exposing the Valleys fragile flood management system. Every fresh flood alert raises the uncomfortable question: if thousands of crores have already been spent, why does Kashmir continue to remain so vulnerable? Climate change and unpredictable weather patterns with short-duration but high-intensity rainfall events are becoming more frequent across the Himalayan region. Flood protection infrastructure designed decades ago is insufficient to meet these emerging realities. Whenever it pours memories of the 2014 floods are refreshed. Scenes of the catastrophe which Kashmir witnessed return to haunt people. The rivers crossing the danger mark every now and then reflect that flood management system in the Valley is not robust and cant handle difficult situations. The fear is no longer confined to those who witnessed the devastation firsthand; it has become a recurring psychological burden for an entire generation that knows how quickly the tranquil waters of the Jhelum can transform into a force of destruction. During the past few years Kashmirs natural capacity to absorb excess water has witnessed a steep decline. Wetlands that once acted as natural flood reservoirs have shrunk due to encroachments, unplanned construction and changing land use patterns. Concrete surfaces have replaced permeable landscapes, increasing surface runoff and reducing groundwater recharge. Disaster management is not only about engineering structures; it is also about restoring public confidence. Unfortunately, repeated flood scares suggest that this confidence remains fragile. The prevailing situation in Kashmir has proven beyond doubt that flood management cannot depend solely on emergency preparedness once water levels begin rising. It requires a comprehensive strategy encompassing scientific river management, restoration of wetlands, regular dredging, maintenance of flood channels, protection of floodplains and strict enforcement against illegal encroachments. Urban planning must also take flood risk into account, ensuring that future development does not aggravate existing vulnerabilities. After 2014, the investments made in recovery and flood mitigation have laid an important foundation, but the work remains incomplete. The recurring rise of the Jhelum and other rivers to dangerous levels has put a big question mark on the flood prevention mechanism. Flood resilience cannot be achieved through isolated projects but through continuous vigilance, maintenance and adaptation to changing climatic conditions. KASHMIRS BATTLE AGAINST FLOODS REMAINS UNFINISHED Kashmirs battle against floods remains unfinished. The time has come to accelerate pending works, strengthen river management, restore natural flood buffers and build a system capable of protecting both lives and livelihoods. The next major flood should not become another lesson in missed opportunities. It should instead be a test that Kashmir is finally prepared to pass. The J&K Government with financial assistance from the Central Government, launched an ambitious flood management programme aimed at reducing the risk of future flooding. Several important interventions were initiated, including dredging of the Jhelum River, strengthening of embankments, construction of protection works, installation of modern flood forecasting systems and restoration of flood channels. One of the major initiatives has been the dredging of the Jhelum River to improve its water-carrying capacity. Decades of silt accumulation had significantly reduced the rivers depth, making it more vulnerable to overflowing during periods of heavy rainfall. Dredging operations were carried out in phases, but still lot needs to be done. NEED TO STRENGTHEN EMBANKMENTS AT VULNERABLE LOCATIONS The work needs to undertaken to strengthen embankments at vulnerable locations and improving pumping stations to facilitate quicker drainage of floodwaters. Modern hydrological monitoring stations need to be established to provide better flood forecasting and early warning. It will be unfair to claim that the government has remained inactive. Considerable public funds have been invested, and consultants have been engaged to prepare detailed project reports and technical recommendations. Yet the overall objective of making Kashmir substantially flood-resilient remains far from being achieved. Perhaps no project symbolises the unfinished agenda more than the Flood Spill Channel. Originally constructed to divert excess water from the Jhelum during floods, the channel has gradually lost much of its designed carrying capacity due to heavy siltation, encroachments and inadequate maintenance. The stretch from Rambagh to Pattan continues to require extensive dredging, widening and strengthening. This portion remains one of the most critical bottlenecks in Kashmirs flood management network. Technical experts have repeatedly stressed that unless the spill channel functions at its full designed capacity, Srinagar will continue to remain vulnerable during periods of exceptionally heavy rainfall. Over the years, tenders have been floated for various components of the project, consultants have prepared reports and surveys have been conducted. However, the pace of execution has been far slower than expected. Administrative delays, contractual issues, funding bottlenecks and procedural formalities have contributed to the slow progress. Still lot needs to be done to prevent Kashmir from sinking again. Sheikh Khalid Jehangir is a policy analyst, Director of the International Centre for Peace Studies (ICPS), former Vice Chairman of JKPCC, and 2019 BJP Lok Sabha candidate from Srinagar.

Whose electricity is it, anyway?

Jammu and Kashmir has long been regarded as Indias hydropower treasure. Endowed with mighty rivers such as the Chenab, Jhelum and Indus and their tributaries, J&K possesses one of the countrys richest renewable energy resources. For decades, experts have recognised that these rivers have the potential to generate thousands of megawatts of clean electricity, making Jammu and Kashmir a vital contributor to Indias energy transition. Yet this extraordinary natural wealth presents a striking paradox. Whenever river flows diminish and hydropower generation declines, J&K grapples with electricity shortages and remains heavily dependent on power imported from the national grid. This contrast between immense resource potential and persistent seasonal shortages raises an important question that deserves thoughtful public discussion that Whose electricity is it, anyway? The latest development bringing this question into focus is the 260 MW Dulhasti Stage II Hydroelectric Project in Kishtwar. Awarded only in April 2026, the project is still in the earliest stages of construction. The ink on the construction contract has barely dried, yet the electricity it is expected to generate has already been committed for the next forty years. NHPC Limited and Uttar Pradesh Power Corporation Limited have signed a long-term Power Purchase Agreement under which Uttar Pradesh will purchase electricity generated from the project from the date of its commercial operation. Before the first turbine has been installed, before the reservoir has been impounded and before a single unit of electricity has entered the national grid, the future destination of the projects generation has already been determined. It is important to recognise that there is nothing unusual or improper about such an arrangement. Long term Power Purchase Agreements are a well-established feature of the electricity sector. They provide financial certainty to project developers, reduce commercial risk and enable banks and financial institutions to finance capital intensive infrastructure projects. Hydroelectric projects require enormous upfront investment and several years of construction before they begin generating revenue. Without assured buyers, many such projects would struggle to achieve financial closure. From this perspective, the agreement for Dulhasti Stage II reflects accepted industry practice. However, recognising the commercial rationale behind these agreements does not prevent a broader policy discussion. The question is not whether Power Purchase Agreements should exist. Rather, it is whether sufficient attention is being given to Jammu and Kashmirs own long term energy requirements before future electricity generated within the Union Territory is committed through agreements spanning four decades. As demand for electricity continues to grow because of urbanisation, industrial development, tourism, electrification of transport and rising household consumption, the choices made today will influence the regions energy security for generations. Nor is Dulhasti Stage II an isolated example. The 850 MW Rattle Hydroelectric Project, also under construction in Kishtwar, has already entered into a forty-year Power Purchase Agreement for supply of electricity to Rajasthan. The 624 MW Kiru Hydroelectric Project has similarly committed 100 MW of its future generation to Odisha through a long-term agreement. Even earlier, the 330 MW Kishanganga Hydroelectric Project had signed a thirty-five-year agreement for supply of 100 MW to Chhattisgarh Viewed individually, each agreement serves a commercial purpose. Viewed collectively, however, they reveal an emerging pattern in which future electricity from major hydroelectric projects is increasingly being contractually committed long before the projects themselves begin producing power. This trend becomes particularly significant when considered alongside Jammu and Kashmirs own electricity situation. The Union Territory has an installed hydropower generation capacity of approximately 3,700 MW, including both Central Sector and J&K owned projects. Of this, only around 1,197 MW belongs to JKSPDC. During winter, when river flows reduce substantially, local hydropower generation frequently falls to merely 300 to 500 MW, while electricity demand rises to around 4,200 to 4,300 MW. To bridge this gap, Jammu and Kashmir imports approximately 2,900 to 3,100 MW of electricity from the national grid. Despite these substantial imports, the region can still experience a peak winter shortfall of around 800 MW. These figures illustrate that while Jammu and Kashmir possesses abundant hydropower resources, it continues to face significant seasonal constraints in meeting its own electricity requirements. This reality calls for looking beyond the conventional framework of project financing. Every new hydropower project is more than an engineering accomplishment or a commercial investment. It is a strategic public asset with long term implications for economic development, industrial growth, employment generation and regional energy security. As J&Ks economy expands and electricity demand continues to rise, future hydropower projects will play an increasingly important role in determining whether Jammu and Kashmir remains dependent on imported electricity or gradually strengthens its own energy resilience. None of this should be interpreted as an argument against interstate cooperation or the national electricity market. Hydroelectric projects in Jammu and Kashmir are important national assets and naturally contribute to Indias broader energy security. Nor is this a suggestion that electricity generated within the Union Territory should not benefit consumers elsewhere. Rather, the issue is one of balance. A region that contributes significantly to Indias renewable energy future should also have confidence that its own long term energy needs have been comprehensively assessed before future generation is committed through multi decade agreements. The recent Dulhasti Stage II agreement therefore offers an opportunity to initiate a wider and more informed discussion on future power planning. It invites policymakers to examine whether existing allocation mechanisms adequately account for Jammu and Kashmirs evolving energy requirements alongside national priorities. Such a review need not undermine the importance of long-term Power Purchase Agreements. Instead, it can help ensure that commercial viability, national energy objectives and the long-term interests of the host region progress together. The discussion also extends to the everyday concerns of electricity consumers. In recent years, the affordability and reliability of power have become matters of increasing public interest, particularly during the winter months when demand peaks and curtailments continue to affect many areas. The present government has announced its intention to provide up to 200 units of free electricity to eligible domestic consumers, reflecting an effort to ease the burden on households. As this commitment is implemented, it will need to be considered alongside J&Ks evolving power requirements and the realities of its seasonal electricity deficit. A further dimension of this challenge is that many of Jammu and Kashmirs major hydropower projects are Central Sector projects, with power allocation governed through national mechanisms. Addressing J&Ks long-term energy needs therefore requires close coordination between the Government of India and the Government of Jammu and Kashmir. As future projects are planned and commissioned, it may be useful to periodically review whether existing allocation arrangements adequately reflect the regions changing demand, seasonal generation patterns and development priorities. Such a review could also examine whether the mechanisms for allocating power continue to strike an appropriate balance between national energy objectives and the long-term needs of the host region. As more hydroelectric projects move from planning to commissioning across Jammu and Kashmir, energy policy will increasingly shape the Union Territorys economic future. The rivers of Jammu and Kashmir have the capacity to illuminate millions of homes across the country and make an important contribution to Indias clean energy transition. The challenge for policymakers is to ensure that, while serving national objectives, these projects also support J&Ks own long term energy security, economic aspirations and the welfare of its people. Peerzada Mohsin Shafi hails from Anantnag and writes on issues related to public infrastructure.

A Strategic Step

The recent Jammu & Kashmir National Conference (JKNC) protest at Jantar Mantar for the restoration of statehood was more than a political demonstrationit was a carefully planned assertion of the democratic aspirations of the people of Jammu & Kashmir. Despite relentless criticism from political opponents before and after the event, the protest achieved its objective by conveying a clear and unified message to the nation. One aspect that deserves appreciation is the thoughtful manner in which the entire programme was managed. In politics, timing and priorities matter. Just before the scheduled protest, parts of Poonch and Rajouri witnessed a flood-like situation, demanding the immediate attention of the government. Chief Minister Omar Abdullah rightly chose to visit the affected areas, assess the damage firsthand, and oversee the administrations response before leaving for Delhi. This decision was not merely administrative; it was politically prudent. Had the Chief Minister travelled directly to Delhi, the opposition would undoubtedly have accused him of abandoning the people who had elected him while pursuing political programmes elsewhere. By first standing with the affected families, he fulfilled his constitutional responsibility and, at the same time, denied his critics an opportunity to distort the narrative. The protest itself was disciplined, peaceful, and remarkably successful. It demonstrated that the demand for the restoration of statehood is not confined to a political party but reflects the legitimate aspirations of the people of Jammu & Kashmir. The message reached the national leadership loud and clear: the restoration of statehood cannot be delayed indefinitely. Unfortunately, some political voices continue to conflate the demand for statehood with the restoration of Article 370 in an attempt to create confusion and stall progress. This is both misleading and counterproductive. The National Conference has never diluted its commitment to the restoration of Article 370 and the constitutional rights that existed prior to 5 August 2019. That commitment remains unwavering. However, political maturity requires recognising that progress is often achieved step by step. Restoring statehood is an essential democratic objective that strengthens institutions, restores accountability, and returns a measure of political dignity to the people of Jammu & Kashmir. Pursuing this goal does not weaken the larger struggle for the restoration of constitutional rights; rather, it creates a stronger democratic foundation from which that struggle can continue. Those attempting to pit statehood against Article 370 present a false choice. Supporting the restoration of statehood does not mean abandoning the demand for Article 370. The two are connected but distinct objectives. One should not become an obstacle to achieving the other. The Jantar Mantar protest was therefore not the culmination of a movement but the beginning of a renewed democratic campaign. Statehood is the immediate goal, but it is not the final destination. The larger aspiration remains the restoration of the constitutional guarantees and rights that the people of Jammu & Kashmir enjoyed before August 2019. Achieving statehood will strengthen that journeynot replace it. The success of the recent protest demonstrated that a disciplined strategy, responsible leadership, and clarity of purpose remain the most effective tools in advancing the democratic aspirations of the people of Jammu & Kashmir.

The Art and Practice of Funeral Diplomacy

The state funeral of the supreme spiritual leader of Iran, Ayatollah Ali Khamenei, has been recorded as one of the largest funeral events in recent history. It was notable for its massive scale and political messaging. The Western media were granted rare access to project an image of an indomitable, united regime despite recent military and leadership setbacks. The funeral has prompted theorists to re-examine the potential of funeral diplomacy for peace in the international system. Pertinently, the nature of diplomacy is changing from secretive to public, and diplomats are negotiating complex borderless issues. South Asia has, on different occasions, found in funeral diplomacy a potential source of stability for inter-state relations. DIPLOMACY Diplomacy, according to Sir Ernest Satow, is the application of intelligence and tact to the conduct of official relations between the governments of independent states by peaceful means. It was British ambassador Sir Henry Wotton who humorously remarked that an ambassador is an honest man who is sent to lie abroad for the good of his country. King James 1st (obviously taking this remark seriously) expressed shock at his envoys comment, sacked him, and never employed him again. Diplomacy, as an art and practice, was much time secretive, invisible, and largely elitist. It had no public dimension, and as a profession, it had seen little expansion due to the complex nature of inter-state relations. The rigid and archaic notions of sovereignty acted as real internal pressures on its workings. The nation-state model after the decolonization became the template for conducting inter-state relations among sovereign states. The emergence of public diplomacy saw a rise in various forms of diplomacy, mostly coined by the media resulting in democratising the domain of diplomacy. In April 2005, then Pakistan President General Musharraf arrived in New Delhi to strengthen ties with the new government and for a spot of cricket diplomacy. The visit coincided with a one-day international cricket match between India and Pakistan, parts of which Musharraf watched alongside Prime Minister Manmohan Singh. Prime Minister Modi is also known for his Jhappi Pappi (hug and kiss) diplomacy, which has, on occasions, been severely criticized by the political opposition. Manmohan Singh once angrily observed that diplomacy is not all about hugging foreign leaders. Mr. Modis impromptu stopover in Lahore in December 2015, on his way back from Kabul, added more flavour when certain sections of the media coined the term pappi-jhappi / assi-tussi diplomacy. India and Pakistan musical diplomacy also played a role in transforming atmospherics of bilateral relationship. Ajay Bisaria, who was the Indian High Commissioner in Pakistan before 2019, observed: Pakistani music always touched special chords with the audiences at India House in Islamabad, because it was essentially subcontinental music. I would invariably introduce the artist, mentioning that while the relationship did not permit the exchange of cultural troupes, we did inhabit the same cultural space and could enjoy the same music. FUNERAL DIPLOMACY Funeral diplomacy between nations has added unique layer to the art and practice of diplomacy. Funeral diplomacy has attracted the attention of scholars and practitioners of international relations. What is funeral diplomacy, and how has it been employed over the decades is an issue being discussed in many forums. Funeral diplomacy is the practice of world leaders employing state funerals as a venue to conduct international relations. Diplomats view funerals as a highly calculated instrument of soft power and protocol. For them, state funerals are strategic forums to project geopolitical relevance, gauge rivalries, and hold informal negotiations that would otherwise not be possible through rigid diplomatic channels. Many scholars view it as brush-by diplomacy a way to deliberate on pressing matters and find common ground in times of mourning. There is no formal or structured agenda for such occasions, but they enable international actors to hold impromptu side conversations. Attendance, absence, and the level of delegations send powerful messages about a countrys alliances and foreign policy standing. British Prime Minister Harold Wilson coined the term working funeral at the 1965 funeral of Winston Churchill. Many international relations experts opine that state funerals are the densest concentration of diplomatic activity outside the UN General Assembly. The state funeral of the Iranian supreme leader became a global event due to the war and the targeted killing of the leader and his close family members. According to some media reports, the USA pressured at least 13 countries, including two Gulf states, to scale back or cancel their participation in the funeral. The US Secretary of State, Marco Rubio, personally contacted at least five Arab governments, urging them not to attend the event. However, it should be emphasized that the USA has utilized the funerals of its own leaders at different times to reach out to both adversaries and allies. Following the assassination of John F. Kennedy, leaders from almost 90 countries attended his state funeral. The televised display of grief served as a moment to unify a polarized world during the Cold War. The Indian delegation to Iran was led by Bihar Governor General Attah Hasnain, while a non-official delegation comprising religious and opposition leaders was also present to achieve a geopolitical balancing act. The Bangladesh delegation was led by the Speaker of the Jatiya Sansad. This delegation met with Mr. Ghalibaf, the Speaker of the Iranian Parliament, and invited him to Bangladesh. It was also emphasized that Hormuz remains a key gateway for Dhakas energy imports from the region. Notably, India sent a high-level delegation led by Foreign Minister Jaishankar to Bangladesh when Begum Khaleda Zia ( mother of PM Tariq Rehman) passed away. FUNERAL DIPLOMACY IN INDIA AND PAKISTAN The deaths of leaders have often brought the neighbouring countries together through funeral diplomacy, even amidst suspicions of convenient or insincere grief, as noted by Ajay Bisaria. A high-level delegation from Pakistan participated in the 1964 state funeral of Indian Prime Minister Jawaharlal Nehru. The then Pakistani Foreign Minister Z. A. Bhutto led the delegation, and Pakistan temporarily opened its airspacewhich had been closed since the 1962 Sino-India warto allow foreign flights carrying delegates and journalists to reach Delhi for the funeral. Pakistan observed official mourning, with national flags flown at half-mast on all public buildings. In Lahore, Karachi, and Rawalpindi, shopkeepers displayed signs of mourning at the loss of the Indian leader. In 1984, when Prime Minister Indira Gandhi was killed by her bodyguards, General Zia personally led the Pakistani delegation to participate in the state funeral. For Pakistan, the most important meeting General Zia had was with Rajiv Gandhi. The two leaders met privately for nearly an hour while their delegations waited in an anteroom. According to various sources, the two sides favoured progress in their bilateral relationship. In August 1988, when President of Pakistan General Zia died in an air crash, the then Indian Ambassador to Pakistan, S. K. Singh, began planning for a round of funeral diplomacy in Islamabad. A high-level Indian delegation consisting of forty members, led by President Shri R. Venkataraman, visited Pakistan. Within three days of the crash, a high-profile funeral was held in Islamabad, attended by several heads of state. The late K. Natwar Singh, who was part of the Indian delegation, recalled in his book One Life is Not Enough: the crowd was enormous, but the coffin was almost empty; it contained only Zias spectacles, jawbone, and false teeth. There have been many other occasions when state and non-official funerals provided opportunities for leaders and diplomats to reach out and solidify relationships and mutual understanding. CONCLUSION In conclusion, it needs to be emphasised that funeral diplomacy by its very nature is occasional and ad hoc; it cannot substitute for formal diplomatic structures through which states conduct their relations. During our student days, Politics Among Nations by Hans Morgenthau was essential an reading. The prominent US political scientist wrote that diplomacy is the brain of national power, and statecraft must harmonize national interests with available power, prioritizing pragmatic compromise, calculating adversary intentions, and avoiding ideological crusades over legalistic moralism. His theory of diplomacy holds relevance for our times as well. Prof Gull Wani is Kashmir based Political Scientist.

KU begins workshop on rehabilitation of alpine grasslands in Western Himalayas

Srinagar, Jul 27:The Centre for Biodiversity & Taxonomy, Department of Botany, University of Kashmir (KU), commenced a three-day workshop on Rehabilitating Alpine Grasslands of the Western Himalayas: Connecting Science, Policy and Communities at the main campus. A statement of KU issued here said that the workshop is being organised in collaboration with the G B Pant National Institute of Himalayan Environment, CSIRInstitute of Himalayan Bioresource Technology, University of Ladakh and HNB Garhwal University. It is sponsored by the Ministry of Environment, Forest and Climate Change (MoEFCC), Government of India, under the National Mission on Himalayan Studies (NMHS). The workshop aims to facilitate discussions on the conservation and restoration of alpine grasslands in the Western Himalayas by bringing together scientists, policymakers, forest managers and local stakeholders. It seeks to promote evidence-based strategies for biodiversity conservation, sustainable ecosystem management and community participation in the restoration of fragile mountain landscapes. Speaking at the inaugural session, Vice Chancellor KU, Prof Nilofer Khan, said that the conservation of Himalayan ecosystems requires sustained collaboration between academic institutions, government agencies and local communities. Universities have an important role in generating scientific knowledge that supports informed environmental policies and sustainable resource management. Collaborative initiatives strengthen research and encourage practical solutions to ecological challenges, she said.

JKHARA delegation visits family of slain cop, offers employment assistance

Srinagar, Jul 27: A delegation of the Jammu and Kashmir Hotels and Restaurants Association (JKHARA) on Monday visited the family of slain Head Constable Ashiq Hussain and expressed solidarity with them following his killing. The delegation, led by JKHARA president Babar Chowdhary, comprised vice president Latif Lone, secretary general Muhammad Shafi and member Amir Kaloo. The delegation members expressed grief over the killing and termed it a murder of humanity, saying that the people of Kashmir stood with the bereaved family in this hour of grief. As a gesture of support, JKHARA offered employment to the next of kin of the deceased in the hospitality sector to help the family secure a livelihood. The delegation also prayed for eternal peace to the departed soul and expressed hope that the bereaved family would find strength to bear the irreparable loss.

Whats on J&Ks mind?

Srinagar, Jul 27:From checking weather forecasts to being obsessed with real time cricket scores, the online search habits of people in J&K over the past year offers a sneak-peek into their priorities, interests, and daily lives. Google Trends data for J&K shows that weather emerged as the most searched query over the past 12 months. This underscores the undeniable dependence on forecasts amid erratic weather, snowfall, rainfall, and highway closures. Plus the recurrent flood concerns have people glued to their phones for updates on rainfall. The Urdu word for weather 'Mausam' figured among the top searches, indicating strong interest from areas where Urdu is a more preferred medium of search.Between July 19 and July 25, the term weather search reach 100 Google Trends Index value, indicating how people worried about incessant rains that brought water bodies to the brink of flooding. Cricket is the king of online attention in J&K. Besides Cricbuzz, the second most searched query, significant interest was recorded in searches related to IPL 2026, Asia Cup, India vs South Africa, Pakistan vs Sri Lanka, and the T20 World Cup.Among the fastest-rising queries, IPL 2026 recorded a reakout surge.The searches for the FIFA World Cup 2026 jumped nearly 3900 percent over the recent past. The data also suggests that artificial intelligence is steadily entering the mainstream in J&K.ChatGPT featured among the top searched queries with a 60 percent increase over the previous year. Google Gemini has ranked among the fastest-rising searches with a growth of massive 1600 percent. The appearance of Gemini AI separately among rising searches also reflects growing curiosity among netizens about AI-powered tools.Government recruitment continues to command public attention with JKSSB among the most searched terms.This highlights sustained interest in recruitment notifications and examinations amid shrinking avenues of employment. Beyond major events, WhatsApp, WhatsApp Web, YouTube, Translate, and News also feature prominently among searches.Users, it appears, are increasingly relying on Google as a gateway to frequently used online services. Some consumer goods have also featured in top searches, and search trends: queries for bluetooth speakers, microwave ovens, and bridal lehengas have recorded sharp increases. Google Trends measures relative search interest rather than absolute search volumes. The rankings reflect the popularity of search queries over time and not the total number of searches.

Unregistered agreement cant confer ownership rights: HC

Srinagar, Jul 27:Unregistered mortgage-cum-conditional sale agreement does not confer ownership rights and cannot override the protections provided under the Jammu and Kashmir Migrant Immovable Property (Preservation, Protection and Restraint on Distress Sales) Act, 1997, the High Court J&K and Ladakh Monday held. A bench of Justice Moksha Khajuria Kazmi said this while dismissing a plea challenging the eviction of occupants from a migrant property in south Kashmirs Verinag. The petitioners had claimed possession of the land since 1986 based on a notarised mortgage-cum-conditional sale agreement executed by the original owner, Radha Krishen, and a 1988 decree passed by the Assistant Collector, Agrarian Reforms. Furthermore, their contention was that Krishen had borrowed Rs 3.60 lakh from their predecessors as security for the loan and mortgaged the land with the stipulation that in the event of failure to repay, the ownership of the property would stand transferred to the mortgagee. They also submitted that the documents conferred lawful ownership and possession over the property. In response to their plea, which it eventually dismissed, the court upheld the orders issued by the District Magistrate, Anantnag, and the J&Ks Financial Commissioner (Revenue), directing eviction of the petitioners from land measuring 3 kanals and 13 marlas at Bagwanpora, Verinag, and restoring its custody to the District Magistrate as mandated under the 1997 Act. The court held that an unregistered agreement could not legally transfer ownership of immovable property and could not be relied upon to claim possession. The petitioners, if seeking enforcement of the agreement, must approach the appropriate civil court rather than invoke writ jurisdiction, it said. The court underscored that the property was undisputedly a migrant property protected under the 1997 Act and that the petitioners had earlier admitted this status in previous litigation. It noted that the District Magistrate acts as custodia legis of migrant properties and is empowered to evict unauthorised occupants to safeguard such assets. In response to the 1988 decree relied upon by the petitioners, the court emphasised that the Assistant Collector, Agrarian Reforms, lacked jurisdiction to pass such a declaration, rendering the decree a nullity in law and incapable of conferring any legal rights. It is thus settled by the Apex Court that if an authority acts wholly outside its jurisdiction a citizen does not need to proactively file an appeal to kill something that is already legally dead, the court said. Since the decree passed by the Assistant Collector, Agrarian is without jurisdiction, as such is void(nullity) in the eyes of law, and has no legal sanctity. The court observed that it is settled law that decree passed by a court without jurisdiction on the subject matter or on the grounds on which the decree made which goes to the root of its jurisdiction or lacks inherent jurisdiction is a coram-non-judice. Finally, the court observed the decree dated March 22, 1988 as nullity and void ab-initio saying as such the same has no validity as per law.

Mughal Road again proves it's importance during highway disruptions

Rajouri, Jul 27: For yet another time, the Mughal Road has reaffirmed its strategic and public importance by emerging as the only reliable surface link connecting Kashmir with rest of the country as prolonged disruption on the Srinagar-Jammu National Highway continues due to heavy rainfall and landslides. With the closure of the Srinagar-Jammu National Highway over the past several days, thousands of commuters and transporters have been left stranded, raising concerns over Kashmir's road connectivity. Amid challenging circumstances, the Mughal Road has once again stood the test of adverse weather, ensuring uninterrupted movement of vehicles and preventing the Valley from being completely cut off by road. Despite widespread landslides, shooting stones and weather-related disruptions affecting road networks across Jammu and Kashmir, including the strategic Jammu-Srinagar National Highway, the Mughal Road has largely remained operational. Officials said the road witnessed only a brief disruption two days ago when a landslide blocked traffic for nearly one-and-a-half hours before the route was restored. Authorities said that the road has remained open for all categories of vehicles throughout the spell of inclement weather. With the Srinagar-Jammu National Highway currently closed, the Mughal Road has become the sole surface route connecting Kashmir with the rest of the country, resulting in a significant increase in vehicular movement, particularly Kashmir-bound traffic. Sub-Divisional Magistrate Surankote, Farooq Khan, said the Mughal Road remained open despite continuous adverse weather conditions. He said traffic volume on the road nearly doubled in recent days and the administration is taking all necessary measures to ensure smooth and safe movement of vehicles. The importance of the Mughal Road was similarly demonstrated last year when it served as the only surface link to Kashmir after massive flash floods caused extensive damage to the Srinagar-Jammu National Highway in Ramban during May. The road had then played a crucial role in maintaining connectivity between Kashmir and the rest of the country. It was only Mughal Road that was open during Pahalgam attack last year and a huge number of tourists present in the Valley dropped their travel and returned homes after attack using Mughal Road. The recurring dependence on the Mughal Road during emergencies has once again highlighted its strategic significance and strengthened the long-standing demand for its further development, improved maintenance, and all-weather upgradation to ensure uninterrupted connectivity during natural disasters and highway disruptions.

Fresh landslides on Dewal-Samroli stretch

Ramban, Jul 27: Traffic on the Srinagar-Jammu National Highway was once again disrupted on Monday after a fresh landslide, slush accumulation, and sinking of the road surface at the Dewal-Samroli stretch in Udhampur district. This forced authorities to suspend regular traffic and allow only stranded vehicles to move on a regulated basis. Following several hours of restoration work by the National Highways Authority of India (NHAI), the highway was partially reopened late Monday afternoon for the clearance of stranded vehicles from both the Udhampur and Banihal sides through a single carriageway on an alternate basis. Senior Superintendent of Police (Traffic), National Highway, Ramban, Raja Adil Hamid, said road repair work is continuing at Dewal while stranded traffic is being cleared in a regulated manner. Stranded vehicles from both ends are being allowed to cross the affected stretch alternately through the available single carriageway. Fresh traffic will not be allowed until the road is fully restored and declared safe, he said. According to traffic authorities, nearly 1700 trucks along with a large number of passenger vehicles remain stranded between Udhampur and Banihal. Priority is being given to passenger vehicles while repair work continues on the damaged and uneven road surface. A stranded driver, Kabir Bhat, who crossed the affected stretch around 8 pm after remaining stranded since Monday morning at Udhampur, said motorists faced considerable difficulty negotiating the damaged section. The road is covered with slush and sticky clay soil, making it extremely difficult for vehicles to pass. Traffic is being regulated on a one-way basis, and a large number of vehicles are still stranded on both sides of the landslide-hit area, he said. Officials said fresh landslides blocked the highway around midnight on Sunday. Although debris was cleared early Monday morning, allowing the scheduled Amarnath Yatra convoy to pass safely through the Udhampur-Banihal sector, vehicular movement was subsequently halted to facilitate extensive restoration work. Traffic authorities reiterated that no fresh vehicles from Jammu towards Srinagar, Ramban, Doda, Patnitop, or vice versa were being permitted until the damaged stretch is fully restored. They advised commuters to avoid travelling on the highway until it is officially declared safe, warning that continuous monsoon activity has increased the risk of fresh landslides, mudslides, and shooting stones along vulnerable stretches. The authorities also appealed to the people not to rely on rumours regarding the highway status and urged commuters to follow only official traffic advisories issued through the Traffic Police's social media platforms and Traffic Control Units (TCUs) at Jammu, Srinagar, Udhampur, and Ramban. The Srinagar-Jammu National Highway had been partially reopened on Sunday evening for stranded traffic after NHAI restored the Dewal-Samroli stretch and the landslide-hit Gangroo area of Ramsu in Ramban district. However, fresh weather-related incidents once again hampered traffic movement, highlighting the continuing impact of persistent monsoon rains on the vital highway. Authorities said restoration teams, heavy machinery, and emergency response personnel remain deployed at vulnerable locations to ensure early restoration and facilitate the safe movement of stranded vehicles as weather conditions permit. Meanwhile fresh spell of rain started lashing in Udhampur-Chenani stretch of the highway and hundreds of vehicles on both sides of landslides affected area at Dewal are moving, although at a slow pace. Chenani-Banihal road stretch remains open for two-way traffic as no fresh landslides were reported till late Monday evening.

The Nilekani panel must rethink how India tests students

The committee should use the paper leak crisis as an opportunity to rethink India's entire public examination architecturefrom NTA's role and centralisation to AI-driven testing and the future of CUET.

How to pass Agni Pariksha: Its politically vital for GoI to restore confidence among those who comply

The NEET protest reveals systemic issues and a loss of faith among compliant students. National Testing Agency's admission of a paper leak caused a nationwide retest. The current system devalues school-leaving exams and over-relies on coaching centers. Restoring institutional credibility and school importance is now a vital necessity. This situation demands a political assessment to rebuild public confidence in governance.

KPDCL announces power shutdown

Srinagar, July 27: The Kashmir Power Distribution Corporation Limited (KPDCL) today announced power shutdown in Kashmir parts on July 28. In a statement issued, Chief Engineer, Distribution, KPDCL informed that the shutdown of 33 KV Alusteng-Zakura line will be observed due to which power supply to Pandach, Khalmullah, Umerheir, Panchayat, Ahmadnagar, Pathan Colony, Gulabagh and adjoining areas will be affected from 08 AM to 02 PM on 28 July 2026.

YourStory founder Shradha Sharma meets CM Omar to discuss Kashmir's startup ecosystem

Srinagar, July 27: Jammu & Kashmir Chief Minister Omar Abdullah today met Shradha Sharma, Founder & CEO of YourStory and The Bharat Project, to discuss a collaborative roadmap for strengthening entrepreneurship, innovation, and economic opportunities for young people and women across Jammu & Kashmir. As per a press release shared by the office of Sharma, the meeting focused on building a stronger startup ecosystem by identifying practical ways to inspire, educate, mentor, and provide greater market access to entrepreneurs from every district of the Union Territory. Sharma shared a set of proposals aimed at accelerating grassroots entrepreneurship, including entrepreneurship education programmes, storytelling initiatives to showcase successful founders from the region, and national platforms to help startups from Jammu & Kashmir access wider markets, networks, and investment opportunities. A key part of the discussion was Orchardly, the Kashmir-based startup working to build premium apple brands and create greater value for the regions horticulture sector. The conversation explored how such ventures can become examples of value addition, branding, and innovation emerging from Kashmir. The meeting also discussed initiatives to celebrate and promote women entrepreneurs, inspire the next generation of founders, and build a stronger national narrative around Kashmirs emerging innovation economy. Sharma appreciated the Chief Ministers openness and willingness to engage with new ideas. The spirit of Kashmir is not just found in its mountains or valleys. It lives in its tehzeeb its grace, humanity, hospitality, and openness to dialogue. I am grateful to Chief Minister Omar Abdullah for taking the time to listen and engage so thoughtfully on ideas that can create opportunities for the youth and women of Jammu & Kashmir. I leave this meeting with optimism, she said. The interaction reflected the Government of Jammu & Kashmirs continued focus on expanding opportunities for entrepreneurship, innovation, and job creation by empowering young founders, women-led enterprises, and locally built businesses. With one of Indias youngest populations, Jammu & Kashmir is witnessing a growing community of entrepreneurs building startups across technology, agriculture, tourism, handicrafts, food processing, and other emerging sectors. The meeting reaffirmed a shared vision of supporting this new generation through collaboration between government, industry, and the entrepreneurial ecosystem. The discussions concluded with a commitment to explore partnerships that can help educate aspiring entrepreneurs, strengthen market linkages, amplify success stories from the region, and contribute to building a globally recognised brand for Kashmir rooted in innovation, enterprise, and resilience, added the statement.

J-K LG highlights need to redefine tourism as responsibility towards nature, culture and society

Srinagar, July 27: Lieutenant Governor Manoj Sinha today addressed the Ethical Tourism Conclave organized by the Tourist Trade Interest Guild, J&K, underscoring the imperative of developing a tourism model that is responsible, sustainable, and inclusive. In his keynote address, the Lieutenant Governor extended heartfelt congratulations to the organizers for the conclave, which he described as a significant step in redefining tourism as a moral responsibility for the tourism stakeholders. He emphasized that the theme Responsible Today, Sustainable Tomorrow, Beneficial for All reflects the collective duty of society to safeguard natural and cultural heritage for future generations. The Lieutenant Governor observed that Jammu Kashmir has historically been regarded as heaven on earth for the unique harmony between nature and culture. Tourism in Jammu Kashmir must be seen as a celebration of this heritage, and ethical tourism must be the guiding principle for its future, he stated. The Lieutenant Governor also highlighted the remarkable progress achieved in the tourism sector. Tourist arrivals have reached record levels, confidence among domestic and international travellers has been restored, investments have increased, and employment opportunities have expanded. However, the true success lies not in numbers alone but in ensuring that prosperity reaches local communities and contributes to social inclusion, he said. The Lieutenant Governor stressed that Responsible Tourism must ensure that every visitor departs with cherished memories while natural resources should also thrive. He called for heightened sensitivity towards forests, lakes, and rivers, and reiterated that development must proceed in balance with conservation. He emphasized the importance of inclusivity, stating that boatmen of Dal Lake, pony owners serving mountain trails, artisans engaged in crafts such as pashmina and papier-mache, and families running homestays in Gurez and Bangus must be equal stakeholders in the tourism journey. Profits should not remain confined to large enterprises. Tourism must provide dignified incomes, training, and opportunities to all stakeholders to ensure sustainability. Together, let us ensure that prosperity reaches to the last village, the last family, and the last citizen in the queue, he said. Highlighting the dimension of Beneficial to All, the Lieutenant Governor stated that the success of tourism can be achieved when lives of artisans and small entrepreneurs are transformed and the sector provides fair value for local labour and creates dignified livelihood opportunities for youth and women. The Lieutenant Governor also observed that sustainable tourism is an approach where nature and progress are partners. He urged that infrastructure such as roads, hotels, and facilities must be developed with zero ecological impact. He called for eco-friendly tourism to become a mass movement, encouraging tourists and stakeholders to adopt practices such as avoiding single-use plastics, proper waste management, prudent use of water and energy, and respect for wildlife. The Lieutenant Governor urged all stakeholders to translate discussions at the conclave into concrete action plans with clear goals, timelines, and evaluation mechanisms. He proposed certification standards for eco-friendly homestays and hotels to encourage healthy competition, comprehensive training programmes for youth to become protectors of nature and guardians of culture, and use of digital platforms to connect tourists directly with local communities. If local communities and youth combine innovation with sensitivity, link technology with culture, and development with environmental conservation, then I am confident that Jammu Kashmir can emerge as a model of sustainable tourism for the entire nation, the Lieutenant Governor said. Zahoor Ahmed Karnai, Chairman, Tourist Trade Interest Guild; Prof. Nilofer Khan, Vice Chancellor University of Kashmir; Prof. Shakil Ahmad Romshoo, Vice Chancellor IUST; Anshul Garg, Divisional Commissioner Kashmir; Rajiv Pandey, DIG CKR; Dr. G.V. Sundeep Chakravarthy, SSP Srinagar; Akshay Labroo, Deputy Commissioner Srinagar; industry leaders, heads of various business organizations, members of Tourist Trade Interest Guild, and prominent citizens from different walks of life were present.

NEET paper leak case: First hearing adjourned after CBI counsel doesn't appear in fast-track court

New Delhi, Jul 27: The first hearing in the designated court to deal with the NEET paper leak case was adjourned on Monday after no one appeared on behalf of the Central Bureau of Investigation (CBI). Bail pleas of two accused, Dinesh Biwal and Vikas Biwal, were listed for hearing before Special Judge Anu Grover Baliga. None appears on behalf of the state till 10.45 am to argue on the bail application, the judge said. She noted the submissions of the counsel of the accused that the matter be adjourned to August 3 as he had to argue a matter in the Rohini district courts and that he was unable to wait any longer. Adjourning the matter to August 3, the judge directed the director of prosecution to depute a public prosecutor in the present court. The special judge took charge of the designated court to deal with criminal cases arising from paper leaks and the use of other unfair means in public examinations on Saturday. Earlier on July 23, the Delhi High Court had issued a notification, saying that Judicial Officer Baliga's court would function as a Specially Designated Fast Track Court to try offences under the Public Examinations (Prevention of Unfair Means) Act, 2024 and connected offences with immediate effect. The notification was issued after Prime Minister Narendra Modi's announcement that fast-track courts would be set up to swiftly deal with cases of paper leaks. Earlier on Friday, Special Judge Ajay Gupta, who was initially hearing the NEET paper leak case, had extended the judicial custody of all 13 accused till August 6 while dismissing the bail plea of accused paediatrician Dr Manoj Bhagwanrao Shirure, saying it is prima facie clear from the probe that he was one of the active conspirators of an organised paper leak gang. On May 12, the National Testing Agency (NTA) cancelled the National Eligibility cum Entrance Test (Undergraduate), or NEET-UG, held on May 3 for medical admissions amid allegations of paper leak. A re-exam was then held on June 21.

Gold rebounds Rs 2,440 to Rs 1.49 lakh/10g; silver climbs Rs 5,300 amid strong global cues

New Delhi, Jul 27: Gold prices rebounded by Rs 2,440 to Rs 1.49 lakh per 10 grams while silver prices climbed Rs 5,300 to Rs 2.3 lakh per kg in the national capital on Monday following strong trends in global markets. Gold of 99.9 per cent purity jumped Rs 2,440 to Rs 1,49,640 per 10 grams (inclusive of all taxes), according to the All India Sarafa Association. The metal traded at Rs 1,47,200 per 10 grams in the previous session. Silver prices also rebounded by Rs 5,300 to Rs 2,30,000 per kg (inclusive of all taxes) from Friday's closing level of Rs 2,24,700 per kg. Traders said both precious metals rebounded after two consecutive sessions of losses amid easing inflation concerns as crude oil prices retreated, boosting investor sentiment. Gold gained on Monday as easing tensions in West Asia triggered a sharp decline in crude oil prices, easing inflation concerns, while a weak US dollar and lower Treasury bond yields provided further support for bullion, said Saumil Gandhi, Senior Analyst - Commodities at HDFC Securities. He, however, added that gains in the domestic market remained limited as the Indian rupee strengthened against the US dollar. In the global markets, spot gold gained USD 42.13, or 1.04 per cent, to USD 4,095.30 per ounce, while silver rose 1.47 per cent to USD 59.04 per ounce. Spot gold hovered near USD 4,100 per ounce on Monday, while silver extended gains to USD 59 per ounce in the international markets, Kaynat Chainwala, AVP Commodity Research, Kotak Securities, said. She said the retreat in crude oil prices after a temporary pause in US-Iran strikes eased inflation concerns that had been fuelling expectations of a tight monetary policy, providing relief to bullion. Pranav Mer, Senior Vice President, EBG - Commodity & Currency Research, JM Financial Services Ltd, said investors will track developments in West Asia, inflation data from the Eurozone, Japan and the United States. Besides, GDP number releases, US Consumer Confidence, weekly jobless claims, and monetary policy decisions by the Federal Reserve, the Bank of England, and the Bank of Japan for further direction on bullion prices, he added.

CJP seeks written assurance on withdrawal of FIRs, warns of fresh protest

New Delhi, Jul 27: The Cockroach Janta Party (CJP) on Monday said it was awaiting thegovernment's promised written agreement on the withdrawal of criminal cases against protesters and organisers, and warned that it would be forced to resume its agitation if the assurance was not received by Tuesday. Addressing a press conference, CJP national spokesperson Ashutosh Ranka said the issue was discussed during the third round of talks with the government before the 36-day protest at Jantar Mantar was called off. In the third round of talks, we had agreed that all FIRs filed against protesters and organisers across the country would be withdrawn and no new FIR would be filed against any organiser and protester in future, Ranka said. He said the CJP had submitted a draft agreement to Union ministers J P Nadda and Jitendra Singh, and it was agreed that the government would share a written agreement by Tuesday after legal consultations. We are waiting for the government to share the written agreement. We hope a senior Cabinet minister will honour the agreement and FIRs will be withdrawn, no protester or organiser would be harassed, and no cases would be filed in future, he said. Ranka said if the written agreement was not received by Tuesday and protesters and organisers arrested in connection with the agitation were not released, the outfit would be forced to protest again. CJP chief spokesperson Saurav Das said the CJP had ended its protest in good faith after the government agreed to act on its principal demands or assured action within a specified timeline. Ranka said the organisation had consulted senior advocate Kapil Sibal before and after calling off the agitation to ensure that the youth movement was not derailed by what he described as politically motivated litigation or other attempts to weaken it. When we called off the protest, we had doubts that once the momentum went down, the government might target people at an individual level. The same playbook has been used in other protests, where people have been individually targeted, he alleged. He said the CJP had been providing legal and medical assistance to protesters across the country since the beginning of the movement. Senior advocate Kapil Sibal, who also addressed the press conference, said no action should be taken against students who participated in what he described as an organic protest. We don't want action to be taken against students who did a protest. It was an organic movement. Governments want no dissent, Sibal said. The CJP had called off its 36-day agitation at Jantar Mantar on Saturday after the government accepted key demands of the protesters, including the resignation of then Union education minister Dharmendra Pradhan, and assured action on other demands within an agreed timeline.

J&K BJP slams Rahul Gandhi; calls for ban on PDP

Jammu, Jul 27: Senior Jammu BJP leader Sunil Sharma on Monday accused Congress leader Rahul Gandhi of deriving political mileage from the protests over the alleged NEET paper leak, asserting that the Centre already addressed concerns through an agreement. Sharma, leader of the opposition in the Jammu and Kashmir Legislative Assembly, launched a attack on the People's Democratic Party (PDP) over its reported demand for the release of around 2,500 detainees on the lines of the relief extended after the Delhi agitation, and demanded that the party be banned, alleging it was trying to evive and give space to separatist ideology. Rahul Gandhi is unnecessarily trying to insert himself into this entire issue (student protest)...the young people who were part of this movement reached a very amicable resolution with the government, following which they called off their protest, Sharma said, reacting to the letter written by Gandhi to Home Minister Amit Shah. Whether it was their demands for compensation, the withdrawal of FIRs, resignations, or any other issue, the government of India reached an agreement with them on all their demands. Now I fail to understand what Gandhi is looking for. He is simply trying to create political space for himself. Unfortunately, the Congress Party, which has been facing defeats on all fronts, is now trying to find relevance here, Sharma added. In his letter to Shah, Gandhi demanded accountability for the arbaric assault on peacefully protesting students in Delhi and asked whether he approved the use of lethal force, including pellet guns, against the youth. Sharma termed as unfortunate PDP chief Mehbooba Mufti's reported demand for the release of around 2,500 people detained by police following the killing of a policeman by a lone terrorist in south Kashmir last week, questioning whether the party was equating separatists and terrorists with those students who were fighting for their careers and their professional future. The BJP leader alleged that the PDP was advocating the release of those involved in stone-pelting and supporters of terrorists. Unfortunately, I would say that a party whose very foundation was built on separatism should face the same treatment as Jama'at-e-Islami and other Hurriyat organisations that have been banned, he said The PDP should be anned, Sharma said, for its attempt to revive and once again give space to the separatist ideology. Meanwhile, BJP spokesperson Zorawar Singh targeted the National Conference government over the recent controversy surrounding two books allegedly glorifying separatism, accusing it of failing to uphold moral accountability. Drawing a comparison with the Centre's handling of the alleged NEET paper leak, Singh said the then Union Education Minister had resigned on moral grounds despite the National Testing Agency being an autonomous body. In contrast, he alleged, the Omar Abdullah-led government had failed to take responsibility for the textbook controversy. Questioning Chief Minister Omar Abdullah's silence, Singh demanded the resignation or removal of Education Minister Sakina Itoo, accusing the National Conference of practising double standards on morality.

Army dog squad joins search for seven missing persons in Poonch and Rajouri

Jammu, Jul 27: With the weather improving, the Army deployed a specially trained dog squad to aid the search for a government employee washed away in flash floods in Rajouri district, officials said on Monday. Rescue teams have intensified efforts to locate six other missing victims in neighbouring Poonch district. All seven people have been missing since July 19, when heavy rains triggered flash floods and landslides across the twin border districts, killing 22 people, most of them in the Surankote area of Poonch. Among the missing are four members of a family from Lower Murrah and two members of another family from Sangla village in Surankote. Officials said rescue teams comprising police, NDRF, SDRF, and civil administration are combing the affected areas to trace the missing employee -- Abdul Ghani, a daily-wage worker for the Jal Shakti Department -- despite challenging terrain and the impact of recent heavy rain. He was inside a water pumping station when it was washed away in the July 19 flash floods and has remained missing since. In the worst-hit Surankote area of Poonch, multi-agency teams have also stepped up search efforts for six people from two families who are reported missing after flash floods and landslides triggered by a cloudburst. Officials said personnel are searching riverbanks, nallahs and other flood-hit locations. Heavy machinery is also clearing debris from houses and restoring access to affected areas. They said rescue and relief operations will continue until all the missing persons are accounted for. The recent spell of torrential rain caused widespread damage to roads, bridges and public and private infrastructure, including residential houses and agricultural land, besides claiming five more lives in Doda and Ramban districts.

Lieutenant Governor chairs governing board meeting of Gandhi Memorial College Srinagar

Srinagar, July 27: Lieutenant Governor Manoj Sinha today chaired the introductory meeting of the newly constituted Governing Board of Gandhi Memorial College Srinagar, at Lok Bhavan. The meeting was attended by Additional Chief Secretary, Finance Department, Shailendra Kumar; Commissioner/Secretary, Higher Education Department, Ram Niwas Sharma; Commissioner/Secretary, Department of Law, Justice and Parliamentary Affairs, Achal Sethi; Director Colleges, Prof. (Dr.) S. Ajaz Bashir; President, Hindu Education Society Kashmir, Prof. B. L. Zutshi; other members including Prof. Ashok Aima, Prof. Veena Pandita, Prof. Verinder Rawal, V K. Raina, M. K. Jalali; Dean Academic Affairs, University of Kashmir, Prof. Shariefuddin Pirzada; Dean, College Development Council, University of Kashmir, Prof. (Dr.) Aneesa Shafi, Principal, Gandhi Memorial College, Prof. Masood Ahmad Malik and other senior officials. The Governing Board, which met under the chairmanship of Lieutenant Governor, discussed various matters of academic and administrative importance, to further improve the overall functioning of the College. The Lieutenant Governor directed for laying out a comprehensive policy aimed at streamlining the administrative and operational framework across the institution. The Board also held detailed deliberations on adoption of the Rules of Business of the Governing Board; Grant-in-Aid to G. M. College of Education, Bantalab, Jammu; streamlining recruitment process; pensionary benefits for existing staff and retired employees w.e.f. 2002; augmentation of campus infrastructure; revision of existing curriculum, and the introduction of new courses aligned with the National Education Policy (NEP).

J&K business rules file still pending; will take up with Centre if delayed, says Omar

Indian Army's specialised dog unit joins search for missing govt employee in Rajouri floods

Properties worth Rs 5.6 crores attached under NDPS Act in Srinagar: Police

Srinagar, Jul 27: As part of the Nasha Mukti Jammu & Kashmir Abhiyan, Srinagar police on Monday attached immovable properties worth approximatly rupees 5.6 crore under the Narcotic Drugs and Psychotropic Substances (NDPS) Act, officials said. Continuing its sustained and uncompromising crackdown against drug trafficking under the Nasha Mukti Jammu & Kashmir Abhiyan, Srinagar Police has attached immovable properties worth approximately 5.60 crores under the provisions of Section 68F of the Narcotic Drugs and Psychotropic Substances (NDPS) Act, 1985, dealing a significant blow to the financial infrastructure of narcotics traffickers, a police official said. In a press statement, a police spokesperson said that the properties attached by Police Station Saddar include a property worth approximately 65 lakh belonging to Mohd Yaseen Rather, son of Abdul Salam Rather, a resident of Chanapora, in connection with FIR No. 42/2023 registered under Sections 8/21 and 22 of the NDPS Act. Another property worth around 60 lakh belonging to Suhail Rashid Haroon, son of Abdul Rashid Haroon, a resident of Lane-I, Gousia Colony, Lal Nagar, was attached in connection with FIR No. 41/2025 registered under Sections 8/22 and 29 of the NDPS Act. A property worth approximately 75 lakh belonging to Mohd Asif Rather, son of Abdul Rahman Rather, a resident of Bagh-i-Mehtab, was attached in connection with FIR No. 35/2026 under Section 8/21 of the NDPS Act. Similarly, a property valued at around 35 lakh belonging to Arsalan Syed Beigh, son of Syed Ahmad Beigh, a resident of Azad Basti, Natipora, was attached in connection with FIR No. 28/2026 under Section 8/21 of the NDPS Act. The police also attached a property worth approximately 1 crore belonging to Hilal Ahmad Parray, son of Mohd Ismail Parray, a resident of Budshah Nagar, Natipora, in connection with FIR No. 23/2026 registered under Sections 8/21 and 29 of the NDPS Act. Another property worth around 75 lakh belonging to Danish Reyaz Shah, son of Reyaz Ahmad Shah, a resident of Sanat Nagar, was attached in connection with FIR No. 21/2025 under Sections 8/22 and 29 of the NDPS Act. Besides, a property valued at approximately 70 lakh belonging to Saqib Naseer Beigh, son of Naseer Ahmad Beigh, a resident of Baramulla presently residing at Natipora, was attached in connection with FIR No. 45/2025 under Sections 8/21 and 29 of the NDPS Act. Police Station Saddar also attached a residential house worth approximately 80 lakh belonging to Shaheem Farooq Bhat, son of Farooq Ahmad Bhat, a resident of SD Colony, Natipora. The property was attached in connection with FIR No. 08/2026 registered under Sections 8/21 and 29 of the NDPS Act. All the attached properties have been identified as illegally acquired assets generated from the proceeds of illicit drug trafficking. The attachments have been carried out strictly in accordance with the provisions of the NDPS Act and are subject to confirmation by the Competent Authority wherever applicable, the statement said. These actions reflect Srinagar Police's unwavering resolve to dismantle the financial backbone of drug trafficking syndicates by targeting assets amassed through the illegal narcotics trade. By depriving drug peddlers of their unlawfully acquired wealth, Srinagar Police aims to effectively disrupt the economic networks sustaining the drug menace and send a strong message that crime will not pay, the spokesperson said. Srinagar Police reiterated its steadfast commitment to making society drug-free and appeals to the public to continue extending their cooperation by sharing information regarding drug trafficking and other criminal activities. Every credible input received from the public is treated with utmost confidentiality and contributes significantly towards the success of the ongoing Nasha Mukti Jammu & Kashmir Abhiyan.

Fresh landslide leaves 1700 trucks stranded on Jammu-Srinagar NH; Doda bridge closed

Jammu, Jul 27: A fresh landslide on Monday blocked the 250-km JammuSrinagar National Highway in the Udhampur district, leaving hundreds of vehicles stranded, while the main bridge in the Doda district was temporarily closed to vehicular movement after suspected cracks triggered a safety inspection, officials said. A massive landslide struck the strategic JammuSrinagar National Highway at Dewal in the Udhampur district early Monday, forcing authorities to suspend vehicular traffic from both directions, a traffic department official said. He said the closure of the highway left around 1700 trucks and numerous passenger vehicles stranded between Udhampur and Banihal, which were being cleared through the single carriage way while repairs to the bumpy road surface were underway. Priority is being given to passenger vehicles, he said, clarifying that no fresh vehicles from Jammu towards Srinagar, Doda, Ramban and Patnitop or vice versa would be allowed until the restoration work is completed. He said the National Highway Authority of India (NHAI) had deployed men and machinery to clear the debris and restore traffic at the earliest. Commuters are advised to avoid travelling on the highway until it is declared safe and reopened for traffic, as there is a risk of further landslides and shooting stones. People are also urged not to pay heed to rumours and to rely only on updates issued through the Traffic Police's official social media handles for the latest road status, the spokesman said. However, officials said a fresh batch of 3,823 Amarnath pilgrims, travelling in a 140-vehicle convoy to the Baltal base camp under tight security, was allowed to cross the affected stretch after authorities restored one-way traffic on the highway. Officials said normal traffic would resume once the second tube becomes operational within the next few hours. They said the temporary suspension of vehicular traffic was intended to enable the restoration agency to carry out the work swiftly and without any disruption. Traffic on the highway had resumed on Sunday after remaining suspended for three days due to multiple landslides and shooting stones triggered by heavy rainfall. However, following the passage of the Amarnath Yatra convoy, vehicular movement was once again suspended for almost the entire day to facilitate landslide clearance operations in the Gangroo area along the RambanBanihal stretch. Authorities closed the Pul Doda bridge late Sunday night after reports of visible cracks raised safety concerns. Executive Engineer, Public Works Department (PWD), Anil Mehra said an inspection by engineers found that the markings were not structural cracks but were likely caused by concrete overlap at shuttering joints during construction. There were speculations that cracks had developed on the bridge (following recent heavy rainfall). As a precautionary measure and from a safety point of view, we closed it to vehicular traffic during the night. After a detailed inspection this (Monday) morning, our initial assessment indicates that these are not structural cracks, he said. He said an expert team from Design Inspection and Quality Control had also been called in to independently assess the bridge and conduct quality checks to ensure there were no structural defects. Once the bridge is certified as safe, it will be reopened for vehicular traffic. At present, traffic has been diverted through the alternate Ganpat bridge. If the expert team identifies any defect, it will be rectified immediately before the bridge is reopened, he said.

World IVF Day 2026 celebrated in Srinagar; Int'l experts highlight latest advances in fertility care

Srinagar, July 27: World IVF Day 2026 was celebrated with great enthusiasm in Srinagar as the Indian Fertility Society (IFS), in collaboration with MED AGE IVF Centre, organised a high-profile scientific programme that brought together leading fertility specialists, gynaecologists, embryologists and healthcare professionals from across Jammu & Kashmir. The event marked a significant milestone in promoting excellence in reproductive medicine and advancing fertility care in the region. The programme featured distinguished international faculty, Prof. Denny Sakkas (USA) and Dr. David Mortimer (Canada), both globally recognised pioneers in reproductive medicine and clinical embryology. They delivered insightful lectures on the latest scientific advances, emerging technologies and evidence-based practices in Assisted Reproductive Technology (ART), highlighting innovative strategies to improve IVF success rates and optimise patient outcomes. One of the major attractions of the event was an engaging panel discussion titled IUI vs IVF Where to Draw the Line? jointly moderated by IFS National Convenor and Managing Director, MED AGE IVF Centre, Dr. Syed Sajjad Hussain, and eminent gynaecologist Prof. Dr. Mehmooda Hamid Wani. The discussion focused on selecting the most appropriate fertility treatment based on individual patient characteristics, infertility factors and current scientific evidence, while emphasising the importance of personalised, ethical and patient-centred care. The scientific programme witnessed an overwhelming response, with participation from a large number of gynaecologists, infertility specialists, embryologists and medical professionals from across the Union Territory. The event provided an excellent platform for academic exchange, professional networking and continuing medical education, reaffirming the growing importance of reproductive medicine in Jammu & Kashmir. Addressing the gathering, the organisers emphasised that infertility affects millions of couples worldwide and that increasing public awareness, timely evaluation and access to advanced fertility treatments can significantly improve the chances of parenthood. They reiterated the commitment of the Indian Fertility Society and MED AGE IVF Centre towards promoting scientific excellence, ethical practice, innovation and collaborative research in reproductive healthcare. The celebration concluded with a renewed pledge by the medical fraternity to further strengthen fertility services in the region through continuous education, cutting-edge technology and compassionate, evidence-based care, offering renewed hope to countless couples aspiring to build their families through modern reproductive medicine.

BJP greets Pradhan with 'Zindabad' slogans; opposition counters with 'Paper Chor' jibe

New Delhi, Jul 27: BJP leader Dharmendra Pradhan, who resigned as Union education minister following students' protests over NEET row, was welcomed by some BJP leaders in the Parliament complex on Monday with a traditional cap and stole amid slogans like 'Pradhan Zindabad'. Opposition MPs at the same time shouted slogans like 'Chor Chor, Paper Chor' and hit out at the ruling dispensation for felicitating Pradhan. Congress leader Pawan Khera said, These are the same people who even welcomed the rapists in the Bilkis Bano case, so let's leave them aside. Pradhan is an RSS hero because he implemented the RSS agenda through the education ministry. That's why he's their hero. But as far as Pradhan is concerned, people now know his true self has we can see on social media and on roads. Hitting out at the government, Congress deputy leader in the Lok Sabha Gaurav Gogoi alleged that the BJP government is ot serious about reforming the education system and termed the proposed anti-paper leak legislation a cosmetic Bill. I see that this government is not serious about reforming the Indian education system. Therefore, they have brought a cosmetic Bill... we already know that a main culprit of a previous scam, was let go by the court. Because sufficient evidence was not gathered, so what use of this fast-track amendment Bill. When this BJP government is hell-bent upon protecting those who are indulging in all this kind of scams, Gogoi said. Gogoi also questioned the government's announcement of a new high-powered committee on education reforms, saying a similar panel headed by K Radhakrishnan had been constituted two years ago but othing happened and it remained only on paper. Secondly, Prime Minister Modi himself is touting this new high-powered committee as if it's a major reform. But just two years ago, there was another committee tasked with the same objective under K Radhakrishnan. Nothing happened, just mere on paper and for them even today, Pradhan is a successful education minister, he said. So clearly, the BJP government and Prime Minister Modi do not want to reform the Indian education system, he said. PM Modi on Sunday announced the constitution of a high-powered task force headed by Infosys co-founder Nandan Nilekani to recommend reforms to make the exam system leakproof. Referring to the police action against student protesters on July 20, Gogoi alleged that the government wanted to protect Home Minister Amit Shah and claimed that students in BJP-ruled states were facing FIRs and arrests, creating a fear of reprisal. He reiterated the opposition's demand that the home minister make a statement in Parliament on the police action. ...They don't want to remove the RSS triangle hole on the Indian education system. They don't want reform and for us, our purpose remains the same that the home minister must give a statement on the floor of the House as to how the police brutality was undertaken on 20th of July, Gogoi said. When asked about Pradhan being welcomed by BJP leaders, Congress MP Renuka Chowdhury said, I see it in the same way they did for Bilkis Bano's killers. By welcoming Pradhan, they are making him, a guilty person, hero from zero. This is exactly what they do. Their attitude has always been the same. That's what I've been saying all along. This is the character of this government, and their values are zero. When reporters asked Pradhan for his reaction to the new anti-paper leak bill and on his resignation, he did not respond. The government on Monday introduced a Bill in the Lok Sabha to amend the anti-paper leaks law with stricter punishment of up to 10 years in jail and Rs 50 lakh fine, within days of large-scale student protests against the NEET fiasco rocking the nation that forced Pradhan to resign as education minister. The proposed legislation was introduced by Minister of State for PMO Jitendra Singh amid protests and sloganeering by the opposition demanding a response from the government over the police crackdown on students during the Cockroach Janta Party (CJP)-led July 20 protest march to Parliament. According to the Public Examinations (Prevention of Unfair Means) Amendment Bill, 2026, investigations into paper leak cases are to be completed within two months.

Peoples Conference protests against Mehbooba Muftis Kashmir ka toh banta hai remark

Asha workers hold protest, demand implementation of minimum wages act

How to Get a Used Car Loan Faster Without Overpaying Interest

Buying the right used car is often easier than arranging the loan. Delayed approvals, confusing interest rates, hidden processing fees, and unclear eligibility criteria can turn an affordable purchase into an expensive one. The good news is that with the right preparation, you can secure a used car loan quickly while keeping your overall borrowing cost under control. A used car loan is often two checks rolled into one: the lender checks you, and it also checks the car. Lenders look at your credit score, income proof, and bank statements, in addition to separately verifying the car's age, kilometres driven, RC status, and resale value. If anything in the vehicles file is unclear, the case moves out of the standard track into manual review. Why used car loans take longer than new car loans Unlike new cars, lenders must evaluate both the buyer and the vehicle. Besides assessing your income, repayment capacity, and credit history, they also verify the used car's age, ownership records, insurance, outstanding loans, inspection report, and resale value. Because two separate evaluations are involved, incomplete documentation on either side can delay approval. What actually decides how fast you get approved Used car loan approvals depend on more than just your income. Lenders also evaluate your credit score, employment stability, existing loan obligations, down payment, and the age and condition of the car you're buying. Here are the most important factors that lenders consider when disbursing a used car loan: Credit Score : most lenders want 700+ for the fastest track. Anything between 650 and 700 still gets approved but at a higher rate and with more documentation. Income Documents: salaried buyers with 3 months of salary slips, 6 months of bank statements, and Form 16 move fastest. Self-employed buyers need 2 years of ITR and audited financials and are usually slower. Car Paperwork : RC in seller's name, valid insurance, no pending challans, and a clean inspection report keep the file on the standard track. Loan-to-value (LTV) : a smaller loan against a higher down payment is approved faster because the lender carries less risk. Lender Type : bank loans typically take longer than NBFC loans, but bank rates are usually lower. Platform-tied finance (an organised platform or used-car dealer that has lender tie-ups) is often the fastest because the car check and customer check run in parallel. How to not overpay: the four pillars that actually matter The total cost of a used car loan depends on more than just the advertised interest rate. Factors such as the loan tenure, down payment, processing fees, and prepayment or foreclosure charges can significantly affect how much you repay over time. Understanding and comparing these four factors before choosing a lender can help you secure a faster loan without paying more than necessary. 1. Effective interest rate The advertised interest rate is only one part of the borrowing cost. Two loans with similar interest rates can end up costing very different amounts once processing fees, documentation charges, insurance, and other mandatory expenses are included. Whenever possible, compare the Annual Percentage Rate (APR) or ask the lender for the total cost of borrowing over the entire loan tenure. This provides a more accurate comparison than looking at the interest rate alone. 2. Processing and documentation fees Many borrowers focus on the EMI but overlook the upfront costs associated with the loan. Most lenders charge processing fees ranging from 1% to 3% of the loan amount, along with documentation, stamp duty, or verification charges where applicable. These costs increase the overall expense of the loan, so request a complete fee breakup before signing the agreement. During festive offers or promotional campaigns, some lenders may also waive or reduce these charges. 3. Tenure A longer loan tenure reduces your monthly EMI, but it also increases the total interest paid over the life of the loan. For many used cars that are less than six years old, a repayment period of three to four years often strikes a better balance between affordability and overall borrowing cost. While a six-year tenure may appear attractive because of the lower EMI, the additional interest can significantly increase the total amount repaid. 4. Prepayment and foreclosure charges If you expect your income to increase or plan to repay the loan early, check the lender's prepayment and foreclosure policy before applying. Floating-rate retail car loans are generally prepayable without penalty under RBI guidelines, whereas fixed-rate loans may attract foreclosure charges, which can increase the overall borrowing cost. Understanding these terms in advance gives you greater flexibility and helps avoid unexpected expenses later in the loan tenure. Common mistakes that delay used car loan approval Applying to multiple lenders within a few days: Every hard credit enquiry can affect your credit profile and make lenders view your application as higher risk. Incorrect income proof: Missing or inconsistent salary slips, bank statements, or ITRs can delay verification. Mismatch between Aadhaar and PAN: Differences in name, address, or date of birth often require manual verification. Buying a vehicle with incomplete RC documentation: Missing ownership records or pending transfers can delay the lender's vehicle verification. Existing unpaid EMIs: A high debt burden reduces your repayment capacity and may slow approval. Choosing a loan amount above the vehicle's valuation: Most lenders finance only a percentage of the car's assessed value. Documents you should have ready before you apply KYC : PAN card, Aadhaar, plus one of voter ID/passport/driving licence for address. Income (salaried) : last 3 months' salary slips, 6 months' bank statement, latest Form 16. Income (self-employed) : 2 years' ITR with computation, audited financials if applicable, 6-12 months' bank statement. Car papers : RC, valid insurance certificate, pollution-under-control certificate, inspection report from the seller or platform. Optional but useful : latest credit report so that you and the lender are looking at the same number. Headline rate vs total cost: A practical example Loan A (low EMI, long tenure) Loan B (slightly higher EMI, shorter tenure) Loan amount 5,00,000 5,00,000 Interest Rate (Reducing) 11.5% 11.0% Tenure 6 years 4 years EMI (Indicative) ~9,500 ~12,900 Total interest paid ~1,86,000 ~1,20,000 Verdict Cheaper monthly, costlier overall Higher EMI, lower total cost *The table is indicative in nature The headline interest rate is only one part of the borrowing cost. The effective interest rate reflects what you actually pay after factoring in processing fees, insurance charges, documentation costs, and other mandatory expenses associated with the loan. Before committing to a used car loan, compare the effective borrowing cost, not just the headline rate, to understand the true cost of financing and avoid paying more over the loan tenure. Use any standard used-car EMI calculator such as those offered by organised used car platforms like Cars24 to model your exact tenure and down payment. How Cars24s flexible financing changes the game Many organised used car platforms now offer integrated financing, where vehicle verification and loan approval happen simultaneously. Cars24 follows this approach by combining digital eligibility checks, transparent EMI options, flexible EMI tenures of up to 72 months and end-to-end documentation support, helping eligible buyers complete both the car purchase and financing process with fewer delays. Depending on their credit profile, eligible buyers can also benefit from up to zero down payment options, reducing the upfront financial burden. Throughout the process, buyers can view their loan eligibility, EMI options, repayment tenure, and applicable charges upfront, making it easier to compare offers and make informed decisions. Combined with end-to-end paperwork support and a seamless digital experience, Cars24's financing solution helps buyers secure a used car loan faster while keeping the process transparent, convenient, and hassle-free. FAQs What CIBIL score do I need for a used-car loan? Most lenders prefer 700+ for their best rates. Approvals between 650 and 700 happen at higher rates with more documentation. Below 650, expect either rejection or a sharply higher rate from an NBFC. Can I get 100% finance on a used car? Sometimes, depending on the car's valuation and your profile. Lenders may fund up to the car's assessed value or higher; in practice, putting some down payment lowers the rate and improves approval odds. Does same-day disbursal mean same-day car delivery? Not always. Same-day disbursal refers to the loan amount being released; car delivery still depends on the completion of other formalities and paperwork. What is the safest tenure for a used-car loan? A tenure that ends before the car turns 10 years old is the practical safe limit, because resale value and insurer comfort both drop sharply after that. For most used cars, 3 to 4 years is the cost sweet spot. Are processing fees negotiable? Often, yes, especially in the platform-tied lender channel during festive periods. Ask in writing for the processing fee waiver or a reduced rate; one of the two is usually possible.

Omar says students, not politicians, deserve credit for Pradhan's resignation

Omar Abdullah says Mehbooba Mufti should apologise for 'banta hai' remark, warns against alienating Kashmiris

Srinagar, Jul 27: Jammu and Kashmir Chief Minister Omar Abdullah on Sunday intensified his attack on PDP president Mehbooba Mufti over her controversial Kashmir ka toh banta hai remark at Delhi's Jantar Mantar, saying she should apologise for comments that appeared to justify the alleged misuse of power and arrests in Jammu and Kashmir. Abdullah said Mufti's remarks sent a dangerous message by suggesting that extraordinary measures against people in Jammu and Kashmir were acceptable because of militancy. What she said there... justifying the misuse of power, arrests and all these things by saying that because there is militancy in Kashmir, 'it is justified'. On what basis is it justified? Abdullah asked. Questioning the logic behind the statement, he said, Does militancy mean the law should not apply here? Does militancy mean children should not get justice? Does militancy mean people's passports should be withheld? I don't understand what is justified about it. The Chief Minister said Mufti should have acknowledged her mistake after facing criticism. It would not have diminished her stature if she had simply admitted that she had spoken in the heat of the moment and apologised, he said, accusing the PDP of aggravating the controversy by claiming through one of its legislators that the viral video was AI-generated. The entire national media was present there. There is more than one recording. You should at least acknowledge that what you said was wrong, he said. Abdullah also linked the remarks to the broader political atmosphere in Jammu and Kashmir, arguing that such statements undermine democratic dissent. When a former Chief Minister says suppressing protests through force is justified, then who among Kashmiris will come out to demand their rights? he said. If tomorrow we protest for statehood, people will hesitate because they will believe there is open permission for repression. He further criticised what he described as a dual political approach, saying, It is an old habitone thing in Kashmir and another in Delhi. Referring to the recent arrests of thousands of protesters, Abdullah reiterated that excessive coercive measures would be counterproductive in tackling militancy. We cannot eliminate militancy this way. To truly end militancy, it is essential to keep the people with us. Without public support, we cannot achieve the final success, he said. Arguing that mass detentions deepen public resentment, Abdullah said that if 3,000 people were arrested, at least 15,000 people would feel alienated when their families were taken into account. If we continue making arrests, using bulldozers and harassing young people, people will not stand with us. If we alienate so many people, how will we succeed in the fight against militancy? he asked. Separately, commenting on the resignation of Union Education Minister Dharmendra Pradhan, Abdullah said it should have come earlier but added, Better late than never. He credited protesting students rather than political parties for forcing the resignation. Many people will claim credit for his resignation. But if anyone truly deserves the credit, it is the students who refused to move from the protest site and did not back down from their stand, he said.

Omar Abdullah slams Mehbooba Mufti over 'Kashmir Ka Toh Banta Hai' remark

Schools Reopen in Kashmir after summer break

NEET row: Right to peaceful protest guaranteed, says SC, fixes pleas for hearing on Tuesday

Life of every individual irrespective of who they are is important, the bench asserted when a lawyer said that police personnel were also beaten up

India is where AI gets figured out

India's linguistic, cultural and digital diversity is turning it into a proving ground for artificial intelligence, argues JioStar's chief architect. As AI shifts from showcasing capabilities to solving real-world problems, success will depend on understanding context, intent and human behaviourmaking India's complex market a blueprint for global AI innovation.

Kashmir schools reopen after summer vacations

Srinagar, Jul 27: Schools in Kashmir reopened on Monday, 20 days after they were closed due to a heatwave followed by heavy rain. Dressed in uniforms, the students made their way to schools early in the morning. The schools were closed on July 6 for 13 days as the valley was reeling under an unusually hot summer. The heatwave came to an end with heavy rains around July 18, but the continued downpour and a flood-like situation forced the government to extend the holidays till July 26.

You give me hope, Gen Z

Delhi's student protests erupted following unsettling exam paper leaks and government neglect. Gen Z utilised Gandhian techniques to challenge the establishment. The government's harsh response aggravated public opinion, rallying support for the protesters. Unified across faiths, these young activists displayed an unwavering spirit, shining a light on all that has gone wrong.

FES paper leak scam: ACBs massive crackdown nabs 12 more, probe points to deep-rooted conspiracy

Srinagar, July 27: In a significant breakthrough in the ongoing investigation into the Jammu and Kashmir Fire and Emergency Services (FES) recruitment paper leak, the Anti-Corruption Bureau (ACB) has arrested 12 more individuals, officials said on Monday. The fresh detentions mark a major escalation in the probe, signaling what authorities describe as a well-orchestrated conspiracy to compromise the integrity of the selection process. With this latest wave of arrests, the total number of accused held in connection with the high-profile recruitment scandal has risen sharply, underlining the agencys determined efforts to dismantle the network operating across the Union Territory. Official sources confirmed that the arrests were made in connection with FIR No. 01/2025, registered over the leakage of the examination paper and the larger criminal conspiracy that undermined the sanctity of the recruitment drive. The arrested individuals have been identified as Abdul Majid Ganie of Chadoora (Budgam), Bilal Ahmad Halwai of Bijbehara (Anantnag), Irshad-ul-Hamid Hakeem of Hajin (Bandipora), Shahnawaz Ahmad Khan of Sumbal (Bandipora), Ali Mohammad Bhat of Chadoora (Budgam), Shabir Ahmad Malik of Soibugh (Budgam), Mohammad Akram Bhat of Dharmunna (Budgam), Mushtaq Ahmad Rathi of Tangmarg, Sameer Ullah Rather of Chadoora (Budgam), Muzaffar Ahmad Bhat of Kakapora (Pulwama), Zaker Hussain of Phagsoo (Doda), and Sanjay Datta of Jammu. Notably, the arrests span multiple districts including Budgam, Bandipora, Pulwama, Anantnag, Doda, and Jammu, pointing to a well-coordinated racket with tentacles spread across the Union Territory. Investigators have gathered incriminating evidence and carried out sustained interrogations leading to the detentions, sources added. Meanwhile a senior official said the ACB is currently probing multiple angles to unravel the entire conspiracy, with a sharp focus on identifying all beneficiaries and establishing the precise role of each accused in subverting the recruitment process. He said the investigating agency has made it clear that the crackdown is far from over, and further arrests, searches, and legal actions are imminent as scrutiny of evidence and financial trails continues. (KNS)

3,823 pilgrims leave Jammu for Baltal in 20th batch of Amarnath Yatra

Banihal, Jul 27: The annual Shri Amarnath Yatra continued smoothly on Monday as 3,823 pilgrims left the Bhagwati Nagar Yatri Niwas in Jammu for the Baltal base camp in Kashmir under tight security arrangements. According to the Joint Police Control Room, Bhagwati Nagar, the 20th batch departed at 2:47 am in a convoy of 140 vehicles, including 82 buses, 20 medium motor vehicles (MMVs) and 38 light motor vehicles (LMVs). The batch comprised 2,882 male pilgrims, 838 female pilgrims, two children, 84 sadhus and 17 sadhvis. No pilgrims were scheduled to travel via the Pahalgam axis on Monday. The convoy travelled along the Jammu-Srinagar National Highway under multi-tier security provided by the Jammu and Kashmir Police, CRPF and other security agencies. Traffic officials facilitated the movement of the convoy through vulnerable stretches of the highway to ensure the safe passage of pilgrims. Officials said that with the departure of Monday's batch, the cumulative number of pilgrims undertaking the annual pilgrimage from Bagwati Nagar base camp Jammu has reached 1,27,326. The annual pilgrimage to the 3,880-metre-high holy cave shrine in the Himalayas has been progressing under elaborate security and logistical arrangements, with authorities closely monitoring weather conditions and highway status to ensure the safety of the pilgrims. Meanwhile, A total of 4,331 pilgrims returned to Jammu from the Baltal base camp on Monday as the 19th down convoy of the Shri Amarnath Yatra left at 6:00 am under tight security. According to officials, the convoy comprised 129 vehicles, including 96 HMVs, eight MMVs, 15 LMVs and 10 motorcycles. The returning pilgrims included 3,440 men, 838 women, four children, 42 sadhus and seven sadhvis.

NH-44 blocked again at Dewal hours after reopening; restoration underway

Banihal, Jul 28: The Jammu-Srinagar National Highway (NH-44) was blocked again shortly after midnight on Monday following a fresh landslide at Dewal in Udhampur district, barely hours after the strategic highway was reopened on Sunday evening after remaining closed for nearly 12 hours due to heavy rain, mudslides and shooting stones. Traffic officials said men and machinery of the National Highways Authority of India (NHAI) were immediately pressed into service to clear the debris and restore traffic. Commuters have been advised to avoid travelling on the highway until it is declared safe, as the possibility of fresh landslides and shooting stones continues in vulnerable stretches. Despite the fresh disruption, the 20th batch of the Shri Amarnath Yatra, comprising 3,823 pilgrims, crossed the affected Dewal stretch safely through one tube of highway, which had been opened exclusively for the Yatra convoy. The Baltal-bound convoy later entered Ramban district without any interruption under a multi-tier security cover. Senior Superintendent of Police (Traffic), National Highway, Raja Adil Hameed, said the Traffic Police and NHAI teams were working round the clock to restore the highway at the earliest. He appealed to commuters not to pay heed to rumours and to verify the latest road status through official Traffic Police advisories and Traffic Control Units before undertaking their journey. Meanwhile, hundreds of vehicles were left stranded at various locations between Qazigund and Udhampur following the fresh landslide, with authorities awaiting improvement in road conditions before resuming traffic.

Pulwama villagers demand road upgrade, allege land taken without compensation

Residents of Nownagri village in south Kashmir's Pulwama district have demanded the construction of a proper road connecting the village with Shitparpora, alleging that the government acquired hundreds of kanals of their land years ago but neither built the promised infrastructure nor paid compensation. A group of residents said the road linking Nownagri and Shitparpora has remained in poor condition for years, making commuting difficult for students, patients and commuters. They alleged that the government had acquired nearly 400 kanals of land from villagers for development purposes, assuring them that the area would benefit from improved infrastructure, including roads. The government took around 400 kanals of land from the village with the assurance that it would undertake various developmental works. However, neither was a proper road constructed nor were the affected landowners compensated, the residents said. They said the damaged road becomes particularly difficult to use during the rainy season, with potholes and an uneven surface slowing traffic and increasing the risk of accidents. Abdul Rehman Mir, a resident, said repeated representations to the authorities had failed to yield any results. We have approached the concerned departments several times, but nothing has changed. Our local MLA never visited the area despite approaching him many times, Mir said. Residents said the poor road was affecting their daily lives, making it difficult sometimes for ambulances or school buses and other vehicles to travel through the area. They added that dust during the summer and slush during the rainy season had become a persistent problem. The villagers urged the district administration and the local MLA to take up the matter on priority. We appeal to them to construct the road without further delay so that they could get relief from the recurring inconveniences caused to them, they added.

J&K Pensioners Welfare Federation, senior citizens, civil society organise 1-Day conference

A one-day conference was organised by pensioners Welfare Federation senior citizens civil society at Sumbal Sonawari District Bandipora. The event brought together esteemed leaders and dedicated members to address the welfare concerns of pensioners and senior citizens across the Union territory of J&K. The conference graced by the esteemed presence of Gh Mohiuddin Bhat, General Secretary of J&K pensioners welfare federation senior citizens civil society. The other Trade Union leaders from Srinagar Gh Nabi Bhat Khanyari and From District Budgam Gh Hassan Khag Beerwah addressed the gathering of pensioners of Sumbal Sonawari at Dak bunglow Sumbal Sonawari. In the welcome by the senior Trade Union leaders Haji Ghulam Rasool of Sumbal and Habib ullah and Assadullah Sumbal Sonawari extended greetings to the guests. The conference witnessed enthusiastic participation from members of adjoining areas of Sonawari. Ghulam Mohiuddin Bhat highlighted the demands of Pensioners urging the government to redress the grievances of pensioners are being paid Rs 300 as Monthly Medical allowance, whereas the pensioners ofUT of Ladakh are drawing Rs 1000, and demands parity in this regard. Other demands raised included issuance of senior citizens cards duly signed by District Magistrate backed by a circular from J&K Govt. GAD for its implementation in letter and spirit. Provisions of Waqat House (Senior citizens Welfare Centre) for pensioners at all district levels in the UT of J&K.; Enhancement of pension from the age of65 yrs instead of 80 years; Release of pending dues leave salary, gratuity etc without further delay. The State President was in Jammu and could not attend the conference in person due to closure of National Highway but addressed the gathering through video conference.

Chinar Corps pays tribute to Kargil heroes on 27th Kargil Vijay Diwas

Chinar Corps Commander Lt Gen Balbir Singh on Sunday paid glowing tributes to the soldiers who laid down their lives during the 1999 Kargil War, marking the 27th Kargil Vijay Diwas with solemn ceremonies across Kashmir. The Chinar Corps Commander laid a wreath at the Chinar War Memorial and paid homage to the Bravehearts who made the supreme sacrifice in defence of the nation. On Kargil Vijay Diwas, Chinar Corps Commander laid wreath at the Chinar War Memorial and paid homage to the Bravehearts who made the supreme sacrifice for the Nation. Chinar Corps salutes the indomitable spirit of our Bravehearts on the 27th Kargil Vijay Diwas. Chinar Corps said in a post on X. The wreath-laying ceremony was attended by senior Army officers and personnel, who observed a moment of silence in memory of the fallen soldiers. Kargil Vijay Diwas is observed every year on July 26 to commemorate Indias victory in the Kargil War of 1999, when the Indian Armed Forces successfully evicted Pakistani troops and Pakistan-backed intruders who had occupied strategic heights along the Line of Control (LoC) in the Kargil sector of Ladakh. The conflict began after infiltrators crossed the LoC during the winter months and occupied several mountain peaks overlooking National Highway-1A, the vital road linking Srinagar with Leh. The Indian Army launched Operation Vijay, supported by the Indian Air Forces Operation Safed Sagar, to recapture the occupied positions. Fought under some of the worlds most challenging high-altitude conditions, with soldiers battling at elevations exceeding 16,000 feet, the conflict lasted nearly three months. On July 26, 1999, India declared the successful completion of military operations after all major infiltrated positions had been recaptured. The war claimed the lives of more than 500 Indian soldiers, whose courage and sacrifice remain a defining chapter in the nations military history. Among the most celebrated heroes of the conflict were Captain Vikram Batra, Lieutenant Manoj Kumar Pandey, Grenadier Yogendra Singh Yadav and Rifleman Sanjay Kumar, who were awarded the Param Vir Chakra for displaying exceptional gallantry. Every year, Kargil Vijay Diwas is observed across the country with commemorative events, particularly at the Kargil War Memorial in Dras, where families of the fallen, veterans, serving personnel and senior government officials gather to honour the martyrs and reaffirm the nations commitment to safeguarding its sovereignty and territorial integrity.

Tarun Chugh gets new responsibility in Home, Defence ministries

BJP National General Secretary and Rajya Sabha MP, Tarun Chugh has been entrusted with an important responsibility with his nomination as a member of Parliamentary Standing Committee on Home Affairs and the Consultative Committee for the Ministry of Defence. The twin assignments are being seen as a recognition of Chughs long organisational experience and his contribution to matters of national security, said a statement. A popular BJP leader from Punjab, Indias frontline border state, Chugh has worked extensively in Punjab, Jammu & Kashmir and Ladakh over the years. His inclusion in the two key parliamentary panels is expected to strengthen the voice of border states and ensure that issues concerning border districts, cross-border terrorism, drone incursions, narco-smuggling, national security and the welfare of border residents receive greater attention at the policy-making level. The Standing Committee on Home Affairs examines issues relating to internal security, border management, policing, disaster management and Union Territories, while the Defence Consultative Committee deliberates on defence preparedness, military modernisation and strategic security matters. Many party leaders and workers welcomed the new responsibility given to Chugh and wished him great success.

Batamaloo vendors seek basic facilities in designated market

The street vendors at Batamaloo's designated vendor market have sought basic amenities for convenience of traders and customers. The market, which remained partially affected following recent rains in Srinagar, has resumed normal activity. However vendors said waterlogging and accumulation of mud are severely affecting their business. It is difficult to leave the market amid so much dirt. When Smart City works have been carried out in other parts of the city, similar attention should also have been given to this market, one shopper said. A shopper said that the market plays an important role in the daily lives of ordinary people as vegetables and other essential items remain easily available there. This is a place where people come to buy vegetables and other daily use items. If such a market remains closed or is not properly maintained, it has a direct impact on the common people. Since these things are easily available here, authorities should give special attention to maintaining the marketshe said. A student who had come to purchase stationery raised concerns over absence of dustbins and the lack of proper sanitation in the market. I do not understand why there are still no dustbins here despite hundreds of people visiting the market every day. Proper arrangements for waste disposal and regular removal of garbage are very important, he said. An elderly shopper said that stray dogs also frequently enter the market and stressed the need for proper fencing and better cleanliness. Since the authorities have already created a dedicated space for vendors, it should have been properly maintained as well. Proper fencing would keep dogs out, help protect the vendors goods and make the market look more organised he said. A vendor said that authorities had assured them that the remaining portion of the market would be macadamised and urged that the process be expedited.

NLCO seeks immediate action on cycle track misuse at Nishat pedestrian walkway

The Nigeen Lake Conservation Organisation (NLCO) has expressed serious concern over the apparent misuse of the dedicated cycle track and pedestrian pathway near Nishat water pump station. NLCO Chairman Manzoor Wangnoo said that the inner stretch near Nishat water pump station, developed for cyclists and pedestrians, appears to have gradually turned into a regular motorable road, with vehicles moving and parking on the track, defeating the very purpose for which the infrastructure was created. More seriously, NLCO drew attention to observations of suspicious activity along vulnerable lakeside stretches during late-night hours, including suspected filling of portions of the Dal Lake bed, allegedly to facilitate unauthorised construction, Wangnoo said. Elaborating he said, these observations need immediate verification by the concerned authorities. If any illegal filling or construction is taking place within the waterbody, it must be stopped firmly before irreversible damage is caused, Wangnoo said. It is particularly disturbing that such concerns were emerging from one of Kashmirs most iconic tourism landscapes, celebrated globally for the breathtaking beauty of Dal Lake and its surroundings, he said. NLCO appealed to Srinagar Smart City, J&K Lake Conservation and Management Authority (LCMA), Srinagar Municipal Corporation and other concerned authorities to restore the cycle track at Nishat Pipeline Bund to its intended purpose, prevent regular vehicular movement and parking, strengthen night-time vigilance along vulnerable lakeside stretches, and investigate any suspected filling or illegal construction within the lake. This is an apolitical and constructive appeal. Dal Lake is our natural heritage and a lifeline of Kashmirs environment and tourism. Protecting it is a collective responsibility, Wangnoo said. Let the cycle track remain a cycle track. Let Dal breathe.Let us save what is still left to save, he added.

Sunshine brings relief after week-long wet spell

After more than a week of intermittent rainfall, Srinagar witnessed a sunny Sunday bringing much-needed relief to residents. Water levels in river Jhelum, Tailbal Nallah and other water bodies receded. Markets witnessed improved footfall, restaurants and public spaces saw visitors returning, while tourists were seen thronging Boulevard Road, Dalgate and Mughal Gardens as the weather turned pleasant. The receding water levels also eased anxiety among residents living along the banks of the Jhelum and Tailbal Nallah, who had remained on edge over the past week following continuous rainfall. For the first time in several days we feel relaxed. We were constantly monitoring the river level, especially during the night. Seeing the water recede has brought relief, but we hope the authorities remain vigilant, said Faizan Ahmad, a resident living in Rajbagh. Officials from the Irrigation and Flood Control Department said water levels in the Jhelum, Tailbal Nallah and other streams had declined and remained well below the flood declaration mark. The weather has improved and water levels have receded. However, our teams continue to monitor all vulnerable locations round the clock and remain prepared for any change in weather conditions, an official said. While the improving weather brought relief, residents said the week-long wet spell had exposed serious shortcomings in Srinagar's civic infrastructure that now require immediate attention.