Opinion

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Heavy rains trigger flash flood in Safapora, Ganderbal

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

Trump says US cancelled planned strike on Iran after deal proposal

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

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

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

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

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

PDP holds organisational meeting at Kani Mazar, Habba Kadal

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

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

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

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

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

Uri court acquits woman, orders action against police officials

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

Drug abuse awareness programme held at Chanapora

Ahata Waqar, Senior Citizens Council, Chanapora, on Saturday organised a drug abuse awareness workshop to sensitise people about the growing menace of substance abuse and the need for collective efforts to tackle the issue. The programme was attended by senior citizens, social activists, students, youth and members of civil society. Delivering the keynote address, renowned physician, author and scholar Dr Nissar Ahmad Bhat Trali described the rising incidence of drug addiction among youth as a matter of grave concern. He said substance abuse had emerged as one of the biggest challenges confronting society and called upon parents, teachers, religious scholars, social organisations and government agencies to work together to combat the menace. Dr Trali stressed the importance of promoting moral, educational and spiritual values among young people, encouraging healthy recreational activities and ensuring timely counselling and guidance. He also highlighted the need to strengthen de-addiction, rehabilitation and counselling centres to help affected youth return to normal life. Appreciating Ahata Waqar for organising the programme, Dr Trali called for intensified public awareness campaigns against drug abuse. Referring to available reports, he said nearly 1.06 lakh children in Kashmir had reportedly fallen victim to drug addiction, describing the issue as a humanitarian crisis with far-reaching social consequences. On the occasion, Mohammad Morifat Qadri, Editor-in-Chief of the Urdu daily Afaaq, was conferred with the Sharaf-e-Waqar Award in recognition of his contribution to raising public awareness against drug abuse and highlighting important social issues through responsible journalism. Presenting the citation, Ahata Waqar Executive Member and Media Consultant Mushtaq Shah Mehram highlighted Qadri's contributions to journalism, literature, social welfare and humanitarian work. He said Qadri had also played a significant role in preserving Kashmir's culture and heritage while rendering distinguished services in print and electronic media for nearly three decades. Geriatric expert Dr Saqiba Afzal spoke about the early warning signs of drug addiction and urged parents to closely monitor behavioural changes in their children to ensure timely intervention. Students of Candid Higher Secondary School, Nowgam, participated in a debate on drug prevention, emphasising the role of youth in building a drug-free society. The students also pledged to spread awareness among their peers. Chairman of Ahata Waqar, while welcoming the guests, called for united efforts to curb drug abuse. The programme began with the recitation of the Holy Qur'an by Javed Ahmad Beigh, followed by Naat and Manqabat by Khazir Mohammad Trag and Qazi Abdul Rashid. The proceedings were conducted by Laila Sultan. The workshop concluded with an appeal for sustained community participation, coordinated institutional efforts and continued public awareness initiatives to safeguard the younger generation from the harmful effects of drug addiction

Over Rs 30 lakh compensation disbursed to labourers in Kupwara

The district administration Kupwara on Saturday disbursed more than Rs 30 lakh as compensation to two labourers under the Employees' Compensation Act. Deputy Commissioner (DC) Kupwara, Shrikant Suse, handed over the compensation in two separate cases under Section 4 of the Act after the cheques were presented by Assistant Labor Commissioner Rahil Amin. In the first case, compensation of Rs 15,37,704 was disbursed, while the second beneficiary received Rs 15,28,875, taking the total amount released to Rs 30,66,579. Speaking on the occasion, the DC reaffirmed the administration's commitment to safeguarding workers' rights and ensuring the timely settlement of compensation claims in accordance with the provisions of the Employees' Compensation Act.

J&K Assembly speaker hears grievances at Kanidajan public outreach camp

Speaker of the Jammu and Kashmir Legislative Assembly, Abdul Rahim Rather, on Saturday visited Kanidajan village in the Charar-i-Sharief constituency, where he held a public outreach camp to listen to the grievances of the people, review the developmental needs of the area, and assess the overall progress of various public welfare initiatives. During the interaction, residents apprised the Speaker of several issues concerning the area and outlined their developmental aspirations while expressing appreciation for his continued outreach and accessibility. A major concern raised by the villagers pertained to the alleged harassment following the issuance of eviction notices by the Forest Department and the reported obstruction of agricultural activities on lands which, they said, have been under their possession and cultivation for generations. The residents informed the Speaker that a large number of families are solely dependent on the produce from these lands for their livelihood and urged the government to safeguard their legitimate rights. Addressing the gathering, the Speaker categorically stated that no one would be allowed to act in violation of the provisions of the Forest Rights Act (FRA), 2006. He asserted that the rights of all eligible beneficiaries under the Act would be protected in letter and spirit, adding that no undue harassment of villagers would be tolerated. The Speaker said that officers and officials of the Forest Department are expected to be fully conversant with the provisions of the law and must discharge their responsibilities in strict conformity with the legal framework.

JKPSC makes 1,152 selections in 2025-26, submits annual report to LG Sinha

The Jammu and Kashmir Public Service Commission (JKPSC) on Saturday submitted its 67th Annual Report for the year 2025-26 to Lieutenant Governor Manoj Sinha at Lok Bhavan, Srinagar. The report, submitted in compliance with Article 323(2) of the Constitution of India, highlights the Commissions recruitment performance, administrative reforms and measures introduced to improve transparency and efficiency in the selection process. A delegation comprising JKPSC Chairman Arun Kumar Choudhary, members Dr Rajiv Singh and Asaf Mehmood Sagar, and Secretary Bashir Ahmad Dar presented the report to the Lieutenant Governor. During the meeting, the Chairman briefed the LG about structural and technological interventions undertaken by the Commission to streamline recruitment procedures. According to the report, JKPSC made 1,152 selections against 1,263 posts referred to it during 2025-26. The selections included appointments to Jammu and Kashmir Administrative Service, Jammu and Kashmir Police Service, Jammu and Kashmir Accounts Service, Junior Judges in the subordinate judiciary, faculty positions in medical and degree colleges, besides other gazetted posts. The Commission received 94,546 applications against the advertised posts and conducted 52 written tests/preliminary examinations and two mains examinations during the year. The report stated that JKPSC also conducted 29 Departmental Promotion Committee (DPC) meetings, clearing 508 officers for promotions. It also conducted three departmental examinations in which 813 candidates appeared. In the area of recruitment rules, the Commission gave its assent to the service rules of two departments. The report highlighted several reforms introduced by JKPSC, including 100 percent written-examination-based recruitment to strengthen transparency and merit-based selection. The Commission has also adopted the On-Screen Evaluation system to ensure error-free assessment and reduce delays in the recruitment process. Besides, candidates are now being informed about examination and interview schedules through SMS services. The LG appreciated the Commissions efforts towards maintaining fairness, speed and integrity in the recruitment process while upholding meritocracy.

Junk Food still rules school canteens in Kashmir, raises health concerns

The widespread sale of junk food in school canteens across Kashmir is emerging as a major public health concern, with parents and health experts warning that unhealthy eating habits are increasingly affecting children's nutrition, fitness and overall well-being despite guidelines discouraging such foods on school premises. The Food Safety and Standards Authority of India (FSSAI) has proposed strict restrictions on the sale and advertisement of foods high in fat, salt and sugar (HFSS) in school canteens and within a 50-metre radius of school campuses. The proposed restrictions cover chips, crisps, chocolates, ice creams, carbonated soft drinks and instant noodles. However, most school canteens continue to stock and sell potato chips, instant noodles, soft drinks, chocolates, packaged snacks and ice creams. These items have become the preferred choice for many students, often replacing healthier homemade meals. Parents say easy access to junk food is encouraging children to consume calorie-dense, nutrient-poor foods almost every day. Many complain that their children return home with little appetite after spending money on snacks during school hours. Most of the time our children don't feel hungry after returning from school because they have already consumed chips, noodles and other junk food during school hours. This is gradually affecting their eating habits and health, said Mohsin Sheikh, a resident of Baramulla town. Medical experts warn that regular consumption of junk food can have serious long-term health consequences. Diets high in saturated fats, sugar and salt but low in essential nutrients have been linked to rising cases of childhood obesity, type-2 diabetes, cardiovascular diseases, non-alcoholic fatty liver disease and other lifestyle-related illnesses. Doctors also say excessive consumption of processed foods can affect children's concentration, energy levels and academic performance. FSSAI has categorised these products as foods high in fat, salt and sugar and proposed that they should neither be sold nor advertised within school premises or within a 50-metre radius of educational institutions. The regulator has also recommended that schools transform their campuses into Eat Right Schools by promoting safe, nutritious and balanced diets in line with guidelines issued by the National Institute of Nutrition. The draft regulations also call for nutritionists and dietitians to help schools prepare healthy menus, regular inspections of school canteens, and strict compliance with hygiene and food safety standards. Food business operators supplying meals to schools are expected to comply with licensing norms and avoid promoting unhealthy foods through branding, posters or other promotional material on school campuses. Educationists and parents believe stricter enforcement of these guidelines is essential in Kashmir, where junk food consumption among schoolchildren is steadily increasing. Concerned parents have urged school managements, education authorities and food safety officials to intensify inspections and ensure canteens prioritise healthy, locally prepared food over packaged snacks. Director School Education Kashmir, Naseer Ahmad Wani, told Greater Kashmir that the department would look into the issue. I have not received any complaint regarding this issue so far. However, I will look into the matter, Wani said. With childhood obesity and other lifestyle-related disorders emerging as growing concerns, stakeholders say schools must play a greater role in promoting healthy eating habits and ensure that canteens serve as a source of nutrition rather than a gateway to unhealthy food choices.

NH-44 partially reopens for stranded traffic, Amarnath Yatra convoy suspended

The strategic Srinagar Jammu National Highway (NH-44) was partially restored on Saturday afternoon to facilitate the movement of stranded vehicles after fresh landslides and heavy rainfall blocked the highway at the Ladha-Samroli stretch in Udhampur district, disrupting traffic and forcing the suspension of the scheduled Shri Amarnath Ji Yatra convoy. According to official sources, a fresh spell of heavy rain during the morning triggered landslides, slush and mud accumulation along the Ladha-Samroli stretch, rendering the highway unsafe for vehicular movement. The adverse weather conditions prompted authorities to suspend traffic, while the day's Amarnath Yatra convoy from Jammu was also halted as a precautionary measure. Traffic officials stated that restoration work was immediately undertaken by the National Highways Authority of India (NHAI), involving the deployment of personnel and machinery. After improvement in weather conditions and partial clearance of the debris, stranded passenger vehicles were first allowed to cross the affected stretch under strict traffic regulation. Later, stranded light and medium commercial vehicles were also cleared, followed by the movement of heavy vehicles on a regulated one-way basis through the single available carriageway. Officials monitoring the restoration work at around 4 pm said repair operations were still underway at the Ladha-Samroli stretch. They noted that the road surface remained highly slushy, muddy, and extremely slippery due to continuous rainfall, posing a risk to motorists. NHAI personnel, assisted by Traffic Police, continued round-the-clock efforts to stabilise the damaged road and improve driving conditions. Authorities advised commuters to avoid travelling on NH-44 until the highway is declared fully safe for traffic, adding that further movement would depend on prevailing weather conditions and the progress of restoration work. Dileep Singh, a local bus driver, said that restoration resumed after the weather improved, enabling stranded vehicles to cross the affected stretch. However, he pointed out that transport operators continued to face severe hardships due to deep slush, muddy patches and the single-lane traffic arrangement at Dewal. Vehicles are being allowed to cross one by one, and NHAI workers are continuously laying stones and other material on the damaged road to prevent vehicles from getting stuck in mud and clay, he said. Earlier this week, the Traffic Police Headquarters had granted permission to NHAI to undertake urgent restoration and safety works on the Udhampur-Banihal section of NH-44. The District Magistrates of Udhampur and Ramban also permitted widening of the hill-side carriageway at Ladha and Samroli and removal of loose overhanging debris at vulnerable locations, including Gangroo and Kishtwari Pather. The Jammu-Srinagar National Highway has witnessed repeated disruptions since mid-July due to incessant rainfall, landslides and shooting stones, particularly along the Dewal-Samroli stretch in Udhampur district and the Gangroo area near Ramsu in Ramban district. Despite continuous restoration efforts by NHAI and other agencies, intermittent rainfall has repeatedly hampered repair works and traffic movement. Officials said debris clearance and road repair operations were continuing at Ladha-Samroli, Gangroo and other vulnerable stretches. They expressed hope that, subject to favourable weather conditions, full restoration of the highway would be completed at the earliest, allowing normal traffic to resume safely. Meanwhile, the Traffic Police advised commuters and transporters to undertake journeys on NH-44 only after confirming the latest road status in view of the Indian Meteorological Department's forecast of continued rainfall over the next few days. Travellers have been urged to obtain real-time traffic updates from the Traffic Control Units at Jammu, Ramban and Srinagar before commencing their journey and to follow official updates issued through the Jammu and Kashmir Traffic Police's social media platforms.

Athwas Retail, Athwas Hyundai named title sponsors for JKPL Season 3

Athwas Retail and Athwas Hyundai, flagship ventures of IA Multi Ventures (P) Ltd., have been announced as the Title Sponsors of the Jammu & Kashmir Premier League (JKPL) Season 3. The partnership, as per a statement, was formally announced during a signing ceremony attended by Managing Director Irfaan Guju and Joint Managing Director & CEO Arshad Guju of IA Multi Ventures (P) Ltd., along with JKPL Chairman Marouf Abdullah, President Zeeshan Ahmad Bhat, Secretary Suhaib Altaf, and other senior representatives from both organisations. This collaboration marks the beginning of a strategic partnership dedicated to strengthening the sporting ecosystem in Jammu & Kashmir by nurturing emerging cricketing talent, promoting youth participation, and fostering a culture of discipline, excellence, and sportsmanship.

J&K Bank Academy beats North Hall United 2-1

J&K Bank Academy registered an impressive 21 victory over North Hall United FC in an entertaining encounter of the Srinagar Premier League 2026, played at the TRC Turf, Srinagar, under the aegis of the District Football Association (DFA) Srinagar. The match, as per a DFA statement, showcased quality football, determination, and tactical discipline from both teams, keeping spectators engaged throughout the ninety minutes. After a competitive opening half that saw both sides battle for control of possession and create promising opportunities, neither team was able to find the breakthrough before the interval. Strong defensive performances and disciplined organisation ensured the first half concluded with the scoreline locked at 00. The second half, however, brought a completely different intensity. J&K Bank Academy returned with greater attacking intent, pressing higher up the field and moving the ball with increased purpose. Their persistence eventually paid off as they found the opening goal, giving them a deserved lead and lifting the tempo of the contest.

LG Ladakh VK Saxena approves new Sports Policy 2026

In a major boost to sports development in the Union Territory, the Ladakh administration on Saturday unveiled the Ladakh Sports Policy 2026, introducing monthly scholarships, cash incentives of up to Rs 1 crore, and enhanced support for athletes as it seeks to build a strong sporting ecosystem. Approved by Lieutenant Governor V.K. Saxena, the policy aims to ease the financial burden on athletes and encourage more youngsters to pursue sports as a full-time career. Built around the motto Scout, Facilitate and Recognise, the initiative aligns with Prime Minister Narendra Modis vision of strengthening grassroots sports through programmes such as Khelo India. Calling it a landmark initiative, Saxena said the policy reflects the administrations long-term commitment to creating a vibrant and self-sustaining sports culture in Ladakh. In a post on X, Saxena said the policy aligns with Prime Minister Narendra Modis vision of promoting sports through initiatives such as Khelo India. The Ladakh Sports Policy 2026 is a long-term commitment to our youth for a vibrant sporting culture and an institutional support system to excel in sports, Saxena said. He added that the policy aims to identify sporting talent at the grassroots while ensuring sustained financial support, institutional backing and continuous motivation throughout an athletes career. Saxena said every medal won by a sportsperson from Ladakh is a matter of pride for the nation and that the administration has a responsibility to ensure talented athletes and their families are not burdened by the cost of pursuing sporting excellence. According to an official spokesperson, the policy, guided by the motto scout, facilitate and recognise, provides, for the first time, monthly scholarships and cash rewards for medal winners at recognised international, national, state and school-level competitions, including the National School Games and Khelo India Games. Under the scheme, international gold medallists will receive Rs 1 lakh per month, national gold medallists Rs 75,000 per month, and state-level gold medallists Rs 10,000 per month for 12 months from the date of winning their medals. Proportionate scholarships will be provided to silver and bronze medallists. The administration said athletes who progress to higher levels of competition will automatically receive upgraded scholarships for a fresh one-year period without losing benefits already paid under the previous category. In addition to the monthly assistance, the policy offers one-time cash incentives ranging from Rs 5 lakh to Rs 1 crore for medal winners at recognised international, national, state and school-level events. These awards will be paid over and above the monthly scholarships. The policy also introduces a one-time cash award of Rs 10 lakh for mountaineers from Ladakh who successfully summit peaks above 8,000 metres anywhere in the world. Special cash awards have also been approved for outstanding performances in the Paralympic Games, Para Asian Games, Para Commonwealth Games, national para sports championships, and competitions for visually impaired, hearing-impaired and Special Olympics athletes. According to the officials, The policy was finalised after more than two months of consultations with stakeholders under the leadership of the Lieutenant Governor. The initiative followed representations from sportspersons and their families highlighting financial difficulties in pursuing training and competition.

Union Cabinet approves Sudhmahadev-Dranga, Singhpora-Vailoo tunnel projects: DrJitendra

Jammu, Aug 1:Union Cabinet has approved the strategically crucial uni-directional twin tube SudhmahadevDranga and the twin tube SinghporaVailoo tunnel projects with approach roads on NH-244 in Jammu and Kashmir, at a total cost of Rs 9779.42 Cr. Approval was granted to these projects in the union cabinet meeting, chaired by the Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Friday, July 31, 2026. Union Minister of State in PMO DrJitendra Singh, while announcing it on his social media handle on Saturday, expressed his gratitude to the Prime Minister for the cabinet approval to these ambitious tunnel projects in his Lok Sabha constituency. He also thanked the Union Minister of Road Transport and Highways (MoRTH) Nitin Gadkari for facilitating it. DrJitendra represents the Doda-Kathua-Udhampur parliamentary constituency in Lok Sabha. Fully Centre-funded SudhmahadevDranga and SinghporaVailoo tunnel projects with their approach roads on Anantnag-Chenani corridor will bolster road connectivity in Udhampur and Chenab valley districts. In mid-April this year, uni-directional twin tube SudhmahadevDranga tunnel (length 12.85 km, including 2 L (lane) plus Paved Shoulder (PS) approaches) and the twin tube SinghporaVailoo tunnel (length 38.61 km, including 2L plus PS approaches) on NH-244 received an official approval through an Office Memorandum issued by the (Union) Ministry of Finance, Department of Expenditure, confirming the minutes of the Public Investment Board (PIB) meeting held on April 7, 2026, thereby formalising the transformative project. My heartfelt gratitude to PM Sh @narendramodi Ji for the cabinet approval of the landmark 9800 Cr SudhmahadevDranga and SinghporaVailoo tunnel projects on NH-244 in my Lok Sabha constituency. This visionary decision is a defining milestone in the transformation of Jammu and Kashmirs transport infrastructure and a testament to the governments unwavering commitment to balanced regional development, DrJitendra posted, with a screenshot of a national daily report about the cabinets approval to the projects. Union Minister of State in PMO asserted that the strategically significant projects would provide seamless all-weather connectivity between Jammu and the Kashmir valley while substantially improving access to the Chenab region. By bypassing road stretches vulnerable to landslides, snowfall and adverse weather, the tunnels will enhance road safety, reduce travel time, improve disaster resilience, strengthen strategic and defence mobility and ensure uninterrupted movement of people, goods and essential services throughout the year, he stated. Beyond infrastructure, DrJitendra said, This initiative will unlock unprecedented opportunities for economic growth, tourism, trade, employment and social development, bringing lasting benefits to the people of Doda, Kishtwar, Ramban, Udhampur and the entire Union Territory. While thanking Union Minister MoRTH, he described the initiative as a visionary investment in the future of J&K and a significant stride towards a stronger, safer and more connected India. Later, DrJitendra, while speaking to media persons on the sidelines of an official function in Kathua on Saturday, August 1, 2026, stated during last one year, misleading reports were carried about the Sudhmahadev tunnel that the project was cancelled. He clarified that reports about stoppage of work were incorrect. The Union Minister said the earlier tender was cancelled because of the security issue related to the allottee. He said that later a new tender was floated and on July 31, 2026, the Union Cabinet approved the tunnel projects. With regard to the Chhatergala tunnel project, DrJitendra informed that it was taken up in the plan Vision 2047 document. We are trying to include it in our next five-year plan as it would take longer to complete it. But once completed, it would provide round the year connectivity and would thus prove to be a game changer for the region. Because presently it becomes a hideout for terrorists during extreme weather conditions when the road gets closed, the Union Minister of State in PMO said. Notably, the Chief Minister Omar Abdullah too had recently written to the Prime Minister Narendra Modi and the Union Minister for Road Transport and Highways Nitin Gadkari seeking early completion of both the projects. Prior to it, on March 25, 2026, the Union Minister of Road Transport and Highways Nitin Gadkari, while replying to National Conference MP Sajjad Ahmad Kichloos question in Rajya Sabha about the present status, DPR, tendering, land acquisition, environment and security clearances, funds sanctioned and released, work awarded and timeline fixed for the projects related to the Sudhmahadev-Chenani tunnel, Singhpora-Vailoo tunnel besides other tunnels and road projects had informed that DPRs were completed for both the projects. Sudhmahadev-Dranga and Singhpora-Vailoo tunnels fall under National Highway (NH) 244. The Detailed Project Reports (DPRs) for these tunnels have been completed by National Highways Infrastructure Development Company Limited (NHIDCL), Gadkari had stated. The Sudhmahadev-Daranga tunnel including approaches is having a length of 12.85 km and Singhpora-Vailoo tunnel including approaches is having a length of 38.61 km. The projects for construction of these tunnels are at appraisal stage, the Union Minister of Road Transport and Highways had informed. Regarding road projects, Gadkari had informed that the road stretch of Batote-Doda-Kishtwar is divided into two stretches. The Batote-Khellani section of NH-244 is of 2-lane standards. However, due to deficient alignment having steep curves, this stretch is to be bypassed through development of Chenani-Sudhmahadev-Goha-Khellanigreenfield alignment. Out of total length of 38 km from Chenani to Khellani (excluding Sudhmadev-Dranga tunnel portion) the 2-lane has been completed in 34 km and 2-laning is in progress in the remaining 4 km, which is scheduled to be completed by October, 2026, he said. The Khellani-Doda-Kishtwar section of NH-244 (112.66 km) is being developed to 2-lane with paved shoulders configuration in 9 civil work contract packages, of which, 47.38 km length has been completed and remaining length is in progress, Gadkari had shared.

Cloudburst leaves trail of damage in Minamarg

Drass, Aug 1: A cloudburst struck the Minamarg area of Drass on Saturday, triggering flash floods and landslides that damaged temporary shelters of nomadic Bakerwal families and led to the suspension of traffic on the Srinagar-Leh National Highway. Officials said four temporary shelters (deras) belonging to Bakerwal families, housing around 20 people and located opposite Police Post Minamarg, were affected by the flash floods. Police personnel from Police Post Minamarg launched an immediate rescue operation and safely evacuated all the affected families to the Police Post Minamarg building and the nearby Sheep Husbandry Department building. A Wagon R car was also swept away by the flash flood. However, all its occupants escaped unhurt, and no casualties were reported. The cloudburst also triggered landslides, forcing authorities to temporarily suspend traffic on the Drass-Srinagar National Highway at the affected location. Police teams, assisted by road clearance machinery, are on the spot clearing debris and working to restore traffic at the earliest. The District Police Drass has urged commuters, tourists and residents to avoid crossing overflowing streams, water channels and flood-prone areas and to exercise caution while travelling until normal conditions are restored.

Intense downpour triggers flash flood in Shopian

Shopian, Aug 1:At least five houses were inundated after intense overnight showers triggered flash flooding in Pehlipora village of south Kashmirs Shopian district early on Saturday, officials and residents said. The heavy rainfall lashed the village at around 5 a.m., sending a surge of water through residential areas and damaging household belongings. Sheeraz Ahmad, a resident of the village, said floodwater entered at least five houses, forcing families to rush to safety. Water entered a few homes within minutes after the intense rainfall. Household goods were damaged, but fortunately all the families were evacuated safely, Ahmad said. He said that rainwater also entered a local school. Residents said the streets were submerged as water gushed through the village, disrupting normal life. The entire locality was flooded. Water was flowing through the streets, making it difficult for people to move out of their homes, another resident said. Teams of the State Disaster Response Force (SDRF), police and the district administration reached the village shortly after the incident and evacuated the affected families to safer locations, residents said. Officials said an assessment of the damage was underway. There were no reports of casualties or injuries. The incident followed a night of intense rainfall across parts of south Kashmir, raising water levels in local streams and drainage channels. Authorities have advised residents living in vulnerable areas to remain alert as intermittent rain is forecast to continue. Intense rainfall over a short period triggered flash floods and landslides in Kashmir over the last three weeks, damaging homes, roads and agricultural land. Officials from the local administration said they were monitoring the situation and would provide all assistance to the affected families.

Flash floods ravage Chatroo after cloudburst

Ramban, Aug 1:A cloudburst accompanied by torrential rain in the upper reaches of Chatroo in Kishtwar district triggered flash floods early Saturday, causing extensive damage to shops, houses, vehicles, public infrastructure and agricultural land. No loss of life or injuries was reported. The flash floods and mudslides inundated the Chatroo market, damaging several commercial establishments and houses while burying roads under mud, boulders, and debris. The Kishtwar-Chatroo-Sinthan Top National Highway (NH-244) was blocked, disrupting traffic and cutting off road connectivity to several areas. Sub-Divisional Magistrate (SDM) Chatroo, Nayeem Mughal, said teams equipped with heavy machinery were immediately deployed to clear debris and restore road connectivity. He said the administration has launched a comprehensive assessment to determine the extent of damage to public and private property, agricultural land and infrastructure. Two houses in Dedhpeth were partially damaged in the incident, following which the affected families were evacuated to safer locations. MLA KishtwarShagunParihar expressed concern over the damage caused by the flash floods and said she remained in touch with Deputy Commissioner Pankaj Kumar Sharma and the SDM Chatroo to monitor the situation. She urged the administration to ensure immediate relief, restore road connectivity at the earliest and provide all possible assistance to the affected families. MLA Paddar-Nagseni Sunil Sharma said the overnight cloudburst caused flooding in several localities, damaging property and washing away vehicles. He said the district administration was assessing the losses while restoration work was underway. He added that NH-244 had been closed as a precaution until it is declared safe for traffic. Union Minister DrJitendra Singh also reviewed the situation after speaking to the Deputy Commissioner. He said no casualties had been reported and assured that affected shopkeepers and owners of damaged commercial establishments would receive compensation. He said that after last years Chasoti cloudburst, the Ministry of Earth Sciences installed two Early Warning Systems (EWS) in Kishtwar and Machhail. An Automatic Weather Station (AWS) is also being established in the Padder area to strengthen weather forecasting and disaster preparedness. PDP leader Advocate Sheikh Nasir and senior Congress leader G. M. Saroori also expressed concern over the damage and urged the administration to conduct an immediate assessment and provide adequate compensation to affected families and traders. Saroori appealed to the National Highways and Infrastructure Development Corporation Limited (NHIDCL) to deploy sufficient machinery and manpower to clear mud and debris from NH-244 and restore traffic on a war footing. He also called for long-term flood mitigation measures, including strengthening drainage systems and creating protective infrastructure to reduce the impact of future disasters. Restoration work continued throughout the day as officials monitored the situation and assessed the damage. Authorities advised residents to avoid vulnerable areas and unnecessary travel until weather conditions improve and affected roads are declared safe.

Crime Branch files chargesheet in Rs 3.11 Cr Central Co-operative Bank scam

Srinagar, Aug 1: The Economic Offences Wing (EOW) Kashmir of the Crime Branch has filed a chargesheet in a Rs 3.11 crore embezzlement case involving the Central Co-operative Bank, Baramulla, before the Court of the Chief Judicial Magistrate, Handwara. The chargesheet has been filed in FIR No. 25/2016 under Sections 420 (cheating), 468 (forgery), 471 (use of forged documents) and 120-B (criminal conspiracy) of the Ranbir Penal Code (RPC). The case was registered following a written communication from the then Registrar of Co-operative Societies, J&K, alleging large-scale financial irregularities and embezzlement in various branches of the Central Co-operative Bank, Baramulla. According to the investigation, the then Branch Manager of the bank's Langate branch, in connivance with another accused, fraudulently sanctioned fictitious loans and allowed overdrafts far beyond his delegated financial powers, resulting in the misappropriation of approximately Rs 3.11 crore from the bank. The probe further revealed that the accused had entered into a criminal conspiracy to facilitate the fraudulent transactions, causing substantial financial loss to the bank. The allegations were substantiated during the investigation, following which the chargesheet was presented before the competent court for judicial proceedings. The accused named in the chargesheet are Ghulam Mohd Beigh, a retired Branch Manager and son of Ghulam Mohi-ud-Din Beigh, a resident of Kenyal Tarthpora, Handwara, and Abdul Hamid Gojrii, Cashier-cum-Clerk, son of Abdul Razzak Gojrii, a resident of Gund Karim Khan, Rafiabad. The Crime Branch has urged the public to remain vigilant against economic offences and report any suspicious financial activities to the Senior Superintendent of Police, EOW Kashmir.

CBI books Anil Ambani for causing EPFO loss of over Rs 1,800 cr

New Delhi, Aug 1:The CBI has registered an FIR against Reliance Capital Limited (RCL) and its former chairman Anil D Ambani for allegedly causing a loss of Rs 1,816.22 crore to the EPFO, officials said on Saturday. Ambani, however, denied any wrongdoing, according to a statement issued by his spokesperson. The action follows a July 21 complaint from the Union Ministry of Labour and Employment alleging commission of offences of cheating, criminal conspiracy and causing wrongful loss to the Employees' Provident Fund Organisation (EPFO), the officials said. The present complaint is being lodged on behalf of EPFO through its authorised officer pursuant to the approval of the competent authority in relation to the substantial loss suffered by the EPFO arising out of its investment in the secured Non-Convertible Debentures issued by Reliance Capital Limited and the subsequently discovered material indicating fraudulent conduct connected with such investment, the complaint alleged. Responding to the complaint, Ambani's spokesperson said, The FIR registered by the CBI pertains to Reliance Capital Limited. Mr. Ambani served as a Non-Executive Director/Chairman of the Board of Reliance Capital Limited from 2005 until November 2021, when the Reserve Bank of India superseded the Board of Directors of the company and appointed an administrator. Anil Ambani denies any wrongdoing whatsoever, and reserves all rights available to him in law, the spokesperson said. According to the complaint, which is now part of the CBI FIR, during 2013 and 2014, RCL issued secured Non-Convertible Debentures (NCDs). Pursuant thereto, investments aggregating to Rs 2,500 crore were made by the portfolio managers on behalf of the EPFO in the aforesaid NCDs, with maturity in 2023 and 2024, the complaint alleged. The Ministry of Labour and Employment sent the complaint after it was intimated by the Enforcement Directorate (ED) that it had found documentary evidence and a transaction audit conducted by BDO India LLP showed prima facie a number of fraudulent transactions by RCL and the persons in charge of its management during the period from December 7, 2019, to December 6, 2021. In addition, during an earlier period as well, various fraudulent transactions have been found which also led to ultimate failure of RCL as a consequence of siphoning off of money of RCL, the complaint alleged. It claimed that the ED probe prima facie indicated a series of transactions involving irregular lending, diversion of funds, impairment of security and other acts by RCL that require investigation. If established upon investigation, such conduct may have materially contributed to the financial deterioration of RCL, its inability to honour its obligation towards Debenture Holders, and the consequent loss of Rs 1,816.22 crore suffered by EPFO, the complaint alleged.

'Banks in J&K disbursed credit of Rs 84,384 Cr during FY 2025-26 to 19.37 lakh beneficiaries'

Srinagar, Aug 1:Chief Secretary Atal Dulloo today chaired the 19th meeting of the Jammu & Kashmir Union Territory Level Bankers' Committee (UTLBC) at SKICC here to review the performance of the banking sector and Government departments in deployment of credit and implementation of banking-related initiatives during the financial year 2025-26 ended March 31, 2026. During the financial year 2025-26, banks operating in the Union Territory collectively disbursed credit worth Rs 84,384 Cr to 19.37 lac beneficiaries thereby achieving 108% of the annual target. Out of total credit disbursed during FY 2025-26, Rs. 44,228.30 Crore was deployed in priority sector. J&K Bank has the contribution of 63.41% in the total credit disbursed under Priority sector. The meeting was attended by Financial Commissioner (Additional Chief Secretary), Finance Department, Shailendra Kumar; Convener, UTLBC and MD & CEO, J&K Bank, Amitava Chatterjee; Regional Director, RBI, Chandrashekhar Azad; General Manager, NABARD, Vikas Mittal; Executive Director, J&K Bank, Sudhir Gupta; and senior officers of the Government, RBI, NABARD, J&K Bank and other banks operating in J&K UT. Reviewing the performance of the banking sector, the Chief Secretary expressed satisfaction over the historic achievement of the Priority Sector lending targets by the banking sector in Jammu & Kashmir and appreciated the collective efforts of all stakeholders in achieving this milestone. Expressing concern over the Union Territory's Credit-Deposit (CD) Ratio, the Chief Secretary stressed the need to progressively raise it from the present level of 61% to the national average of around 81%. While the overall performance under ACP is encouraging, the Credit-Deposit Ratio remains below the national average which is a cause of concern. Banks must prepare a clear roadmap with well-defined strategies and interventions to progressively improve the CD Ratio. This is essential to ensure that local savings are effectively channelled into productive investments within the region, he observed. The Chief Secretary also emphasised the need to strengthen banking outreach in rural and far-flung areas by expanding the branch network. He directed banks to prepare a time-bound roadmap for establishing new Brick and Mortar branches over the next one year to improve access to formal banking services. Taking serious note of the unsatisfactory performance of several public sector banks under Priority Sector lending, the Chief Secretary observed that the challenge lay more in intent than in capacity and urged them to adopt a more proactive approach towards agriculture finance by viewing the sector as a viable business opportunity. He also expressed concern over the poor performance in education and housing finance and directed banks to analyse the underlying constraints and introduce more competitive products and pricing to improve credit flow in these important sectors. The Chief Secretary further observed that the Union Territory continues to lag behind the national average in enrolment under the Government's flagship social security schemesPradhan Mantri Suraksha Bima Yojana (PMSBY), Pradhan Mantri Jeevan Jyoti Bima Yojana (PMJJBY) and Atal Pension Yojana (APY)and called upon banks to intensify enrolment drives to ensure wider coverage of eligible beneficiaries. Chief Secretary directed banks to proactively engage with eligible farmers, women SHG, Udyam-registered MSMEs and artisans for onboarding them on Unified Lending Interface for uninterrupted loan journeys. Earlier, welcoming the dignitaries and participants, Convener, UTLBC and MD & CEO, J&K Bank, Amitava Chatterjee highlighted the banking sector's pivotal role in the socio-economic development of the Union Territory. He said, The banking sector plays a pivotal role in driving economic transformation, and we remain steadfast in our mission to strengthen financial empowerment, promote entrepreneurship, and enhance access to credit across all segments of society, he said.

Fruit Growers urge J&K MPs to raise NH-44 crisis in Parliament

Srinagar, Aug 1: The Kashmir Valley Fruit Growers-cum-Dealers Union has urged Members of Parliament from Jammu and Kashmir to raise the issue of frequent disruptions and traffic restrictions on the Srinagar-Jammu National Highway (NH-44) in Parliament, warning that delays in transporting fresh fruit are causing heavy losses to growers. In a representation addressed to Lok Sabha MPs Mian Altaf Ahmad Larvi and Syed Ruhullah Mehdi, and Rajya Sabha MP Chowdry Mohammad Ramzan, Union Chairman Bashir Ahmad Basheer, who also serves as President of the New Kashmir Fruit Association, highlighted the challenges confronting the Valley's horticulture sector during the peak harvesting season. Basheer said around 100-120 trucks carrying early varieties of apples, pears, plums and Babgosha leave the Valley daily for markets across the country. As these fruits are highly perishable, even short delays in transportation can significantly affect their quality and market value, resulting in substantial losses for growers. He noted that fruit growers have already suffered heavy losses due to hailstorms and strong winds during April and May this year, making uninterrupted transportation all the more critical. Describing NH-44 as the lifeline of Kashmir's horticulture sector, Basheer said it is the only route capable of handling 10-, 12- and 16-tyre trucks used to transport fruit outside the Valley. Although transporters have been advised to use the Mughal Road during highway disruptions, he said the alternative route is not suitable for large-scale fruit transportation. He said the horticulture sector contributes nearly Rs 12,000 crore to Jammu and Kashmir's economy and supports more than seven lakh families directly or indirectly. The Union also expressed concern over traffic restrictions on NH-44 owing to road maintenance and the ongoing Amarnath Yatra. It said fruit-laden trucks, which previously reached destination markets within a day, are now taking up to four days, adversely affecting the quality and prices of early-season varieties such as Gala apples, pears, plums and Babgosha. The Union called for better coordination among traffic authorities, highway agencies and district administrations to provide real-time updates on road conditions and facilitate the smooth movement of fruit-laden vehicles. Appealing for immediate intervention, Basheer urged the MPs to raise the issue in Parliament through a Calling Attention Motion or Question, seeking urgent repairs to NH-44 and restoration of two-way traffic to ensure uninterrupted transportation of Kashmir's fresh fruit to markets across the country.

DLSA Srinagar organises Special Lok Adalat for Matrimonial Cases

Srinagar, Aug 1: In compliance to the directions of NALSA & JK Legal Services Authority, District Legal Services Authority (DLSA) Srinagar, organized a Special Lok Adalat for Matrimonial Cases. The Special Lok Adalat, aimed at amicably resolving Cases, was held under the guidance of Haq Nawaz Zargar, Chairman District Legal Services Authority (Principal District & Sessions Judge) Srinagar, and overall supervision of Secretary DLSA Srinagar. To facilitate the amicable settlement of cases, two benches were constituted for the Special Lok Adalat. The 1st bench was presided over by Mehreen Mushtaq, Principal Judge Family Court, Srinagar, and Massarat Jabeen, PT&E Magistrate, Srinagar as Member, and the 2nd bench was presided over by Preet Simran Kaur, 4th Additional Sessions Judge, Srinagar and Fida Hussain Nayak, Municipal Magistrate, Srinagar as member. 85 cases were taken up by these benches for amicable settlement, out of which 14 cases were settled.

After years of delay, SMC to build J&K's first modern mechanised abattoir at Allochi Bagh

Srinagar, Aug 1: After years of administrative delays, Srinagar Municipal Corporation (SMC) has finally taken over the construction of Jammu and Kashmir's first modern mechanised sheep and goat abattoir at Allochi Bagh. The project is scheduled to be completed within two years. SMC Commissioner, Fazlul Haseeb told news agency Kashmir Dot Com, that the civic body has floated the project on Engineering, Procurement and Construction (EPC) mode for the establishment of the Modern Mechanized Sheep & Goat Abattoir in Srinagar City, a facility designed to process 5,000 sheep and goats daily, making it one of the largest such facilities in the Jammu and Kashmir. Haseeb said that the project aims to modernise Srinagar's meat processing infrastructure by replacing conventional slaughtering practices with a hygienic, scientific and environmentally sustainable system conforming to national standards and international best practices. The project has witnessed multiple setbacks since its inception. Initially, its execution was entrusted to the Jammu and Kashmir Projects Construction Corporation (JKPCC), which had even begun preliminary civil works several years ago. In March 2022, JKPCC had reported that the foundation work for the slaughter hall was in progress and was directed to expedite execution. However, following the financial closure and cessation of JKPCC's operations in August 2023, the project came to a standstill. Although its execution was later transferred to the R&B, officials said the project witnessed negligible physical progress. The prolonged delay had also attracted public attention. Earlier reports highlighted that the proposed modern abattoir had remained incomplete for years despite repeated assurances, leaving Srinagar without a modern slaughtering facility. Work on the project also came under judicial monitoring in a Public Interest Litigation relating to slaughterhouses in Jammu and Kashmir. Following a comprehensive review, SMC decided to execute the project directly through its own Works Division under the EPC mode, ensuring single-point responsibility for design, procurement, construction, installation, testing and commissioning. SMC said a revised Detailed Project Report (DPR) was subsequently prepared after incorporating modern technologies and additional infrastructure required to meet contemporary standards of food safety, environmental protection and operational efficiency. The Government accorded administrative approval to the revised project in March 2025. The proposed facility will include fully mechanised slaughtering and meat processing lines, scientifically designed lairage areas, mechanised slaughter halls, carcass dressing units, chilling and cold storage facilities, by-product processing units and supporting utility infrastructure. One of the key features of the project will be an advanced bio-digestion system integrated with a modern Effluent Treatment Plant (ETP), enabling scientific treatment of slaughterhouse waste and recycling of treated wastewater for non-potable uses within the premises. Officials said the system has been designed to minimise environmental pollution, promote water conservation and eliminate unhygienic disposal practices. SMC said the project would significantly improve public health and sanitation while strengthening the livestock sector by providing a modern, organised processing system for farmers, meat traders and consumers. Besides creating direct and indirect employment during construction and operation, the facility is expected to introduce internationally accepted standards in slaughterhouse management, food safety, waste disposal and hygiene, setting a benchmark for future meat processing infrastructure across Jammu and Kashmir. According to SMC, the project is expected to be completed within two years, after which the mechanised abattoir will be commissioned for public use.

Rains bring hope, but for J&K it is despair

Every time clouds gather over Jammu & Kashmir and rain turns heavy, an invisible tension runs through our lanes and markets. It is not just fear of getting flooded, it is fear of loss. Loss of our homes, loss of stock, loss of harvest, loss of sleep and much more. The Governments own figures tell a story that many Kashmiris have been living for years: floods have become a recurring blow to our wealth, our health, and our peace of mindand yet, funds and projects meant to protect us are also steadily increasing As per official data from J&Ks Disaster Management Relief, Rehabilitation and Reconstruction Department year 2025 there were 152 deaths and 179 injuries caused due to floods, cloudbursts, landslides and massive rainfall. Behind every digit is a family that did not expect to say goodbye so suddenly. Very recently we lost around two dozen precious lives in Pir Panjal region of Jammu. In Poonch district alone a single family lost eight lives? There was massive disaster of property in Rajouri near Bela bus stand where three two dozen cars, buses and matadors were damaged? In year 2025, 3,316 houses were fully damaged due to landslides in rains, 1,862 were severely damaged, and 12,219 houses were damaged partially ? Around 3,602 cattle sheds were also damaged and we lost around 1515 sheep , goats and cattle as well. The 2025 further reveals that 77,915 hectares of agriculture land was also affected across Jammu and Kashmir Imagine these numbers as faces: a child watching muddy water eat into the walls of his room; a shopkeeper pulling up shutter after shutter, only to see a years worth of goods floating; a farmer staring at a field that should have been green and is now brown sludge. Mohammad Yousuf Mir from Beerwah lost his everything during recent flashflood in Sukhnag. He could not even take out his good from his garments shop which got washed away. He was with his wife in a Srinagar hospital and floods shattered his dreams . In 2025 Govt of J&K disbursed around Rs 8,873.99 crore in relief and compensation for the losses. This season the loss is even more and we dont know what all we will have to face now in coming few months? Met officials have again forecast heavy rains in the days and weeks to come? Our Economy: Growing on paper, drowning on ground On paper, our Union Territory of J&K talks about growth, investments and bigger budgets, but flood statistics show a different side of the ledger: In recent years, the government has reported over 15,000 houses and structures damaged in floods and cloudbursts, with Rs 5,246.47 lakh paid as compensation for housing loss alone. Crops on tens of thousands of hectares have been damaged in flood seasons, cutting rural income and weakening markets. For a family, the economic story feels like this: Years of saving for a better house or shop upgrade, wiped out in one week of rains. Money meant for childrens school or a health check up, diverted to buying bricks, cement, and timber. Gold sold at a low price, loans taken at a high interest, just to make walls stand again ? Floods here do not just damage property; they reset financial plans, forcing people to start again from zero. Support from Central and UT It is important to acknowledge that support from Govt has not been absent at all. The Centre and the UT Governments have opened their wallets to support people through State Disaster Response Fund -SDRF. The official records show that J&K had an opening balance of Rs 2,499 crore in its Disaster Response Fund on 1 April 2025. Over four years up to August 2025, J&K received Rs 1,046.25 crore as central assistance under the Disaster Response Fund. For 202526, the Centre allocated Rs 279 crore towards disaster relief and response, maintaining the same level of funding as the previous year. In 202526 alone, Rs 289.39 crore were released under SDRFRs 200.39 crore for Jammu division and Rs 89 crore for Kashmir divisionto undertake urgent flood restoration works. -The UT Government also released Rs 100 crore under its Capex Budget (Rs 5 crore per district) specifically for flood relief measures. A High Level Committee led by the Union Home Minister approved Rs 330.34 crore of additional central assistance to J&K from the National Disaster Response Fund-NDRF , as part of a broader Rs 1,912.99 crore package to flood hit states for 2025 disasters. Based on Inter Ministerial Central Team-IMCT assessments, another Rs 1,431 crore was allocated to J&K under the SASCI scheme for flood restoration works. Flood Management Projects Under the Flood Management and Border Areas Programme (FMBAP), the Union Cabinet set aside Rs 4,100 crore for national flood management works for 202126, with special category states and UTs like J&K receiving central funding at a 90:10 ratio. For J&K alone 44 flood management projects have been sanctioned, with a total estimated cost of Rs 2,594.12 crore. The Central assistance of Rs 805.27 crore has already been released to J&K for these projects up to March 2025. The JhelumTawi Flood Recovery Project (JTFRP) grant has been increased by nearly 40%, from Rs 185.34 crore to Rs 259.25 crore, to enhance disaster resilience and local response capacity. Emotionally, these figures mean something important, someone is trying to help, money is coming, projects are sanctioned, post flood relief and rehabilitation work is executed. The question is whether these funds are properly utilized on ground or not ? The JTFRP funds have been looted and mismanaged. I remember around Rs 55 Crores were allocated for augmenting 13 storm water pump stations on Doodh Ganga from Chanapora to Tengpora via Natipora Pamposh Colony and Barzullah, but this money was again mismanaged as all the sewerage lines were connected with these storm water pump stations. This is an open violation of Water Act 1974 and National Green Tribunal- NGT penalised Srinagar Municipal Corporation -SMC for these criminal acts. Now a separate budget of Rs 140 crores have been allocated to set up two major Sewerage Treatment Plants -STPs on Doodh Ganga and again this is a burden on the taxpayers pockets ? Ironically having done so much gross mistakes post 2014 floods the 22 MLD STP is being set up in a low lying area of Aloochi Bagh which can be another disaster in future ? Flood Audit in J&K When we put all these pieces togetherofficial losses, central funds, urban flood mitigation programme, rising disease and stressit becomes clear that J&K needs a flood audit to hold officials accountable. What such an audit should ask, in human language. Over the last 1015 years, how many lives, homes, shops, animals and hectares of crops have we lost to floods, year by year? How much moneyUT plus Centre share have we poured into relief, compensation and flood management projects over the same period ? In which mohalla, village, colony and market do the losses keep repeating, despite the spending? Which all wetlands and rivers are used to protect those areas, and what is their condition now according to official and audit reports? How can we design simple insurance, early warning and health support systems so that the poorest do not carry the heaviest emotional and financial burden? Legally, this can sit comfortably within the Disaster Management Act, CAGs audit mandate, and national policy on disaster management. Emotionally, it would send a message: we see your pain, we value your data, and we are ready to change. (To be concluded) Dr Raja Muzaffar Bhat is Founder of J&K RTI Movement and Chairman JK Climate Action Group- Irshad Mushtaq is Financial and Market expert based in Srinagar

Less Land, More Value

Kashmirs horticulture has long rested on apples. Today, the sector faces shrinking landholdings, rising production risks, and an urgent need for high value crops that yield more from smaller plots. J&Ks official horticulture roadmap stresses diversification, higher productivity, and a shift toward quality driven, high value production rather than dependence on traditional orchard expansion. In this context, blueberries emerge as a compelling candidate to reshape the Valleys horticultural future. My startup Ziraat Agro Ventures has tried to move blueberries beyond a curiosity into a sectoral opportunity. Firstly, we have created a reliable access to disease free planting material. Local varietal testing program has been set with representative climatic conditions. Secondly demonstration units have been planted so that farmers can see practical models for PH management, protected or semi protected cultivation, irrigation scheduling, and harvest handling. Thirdly we are trying to create a market architecture that protects growers. Policy support can accelerate this transition. Incentives for protected cultivation, drip systems, acidified growing media, nursery development, and farmer training could lower the entry barrier for early adopters. Blueberries are more than another exotic fruit they represent a different model of horticulture compact, high value, precision managed, and tailored to premium fresh markets. Emerging evidence from Indias blueberry sector shows that the crop can generate high returns per acre, responds well to intensive planting systems, and suits temperate regions with cold winters and mild summers. A strong climatic fit Blueberries are temperate shrubs that require a clear winter chilling period for dormancy, followed by mild spring and summer conditions for flowering and fruit development. Kashmir already possesses one of the most important prerequisites for successful blueberry cultivation. This gives the region a natural comparative advantage. Commercial guidance points to medium to high chill northern highbush varieties. Suitable microclimates, and wider experience from similar temperate zones provides ready made models that Kashmir can adapt. That means the Valley can move relatively quickly from discussion to demonstration and scaling. Less land, more value The most compelling argument for blueberries in Kashmir is economic. It offers unusually high value from a small land base. Mature plantations in Indian commercial systems commonly report yields in the range of 3,500 to 6,500 kilograms per acre under practical field conditions, while more intensive systems sometimes target even higher outputs depending on plant density, management, and growing medium. Even with year to year variation, these figures indicate a level of land productivity that is highly relevant for small growers. The financial picture is equally striking. Blueberries typically sell in a premium price band, often as a specialty health or superfruit product rather than a bulk commodity. As a result, per acre revenue projections usually far exceed those of many conventional fruit crops, especially when the crop is marketed correctly. This matters acutely in Kashmir, where many families farm one kanal or a fraction of an acre and cannot rely on scale but can benefit from crops that reward quality, niche positioning, and careful management. For Kashmir, this shifts the strategic question from How much additional land can we bring under orchards? to How much more income can we generate per unit of land? Blueberries fit that shift because they allow a small plot to function as a high value horticultural enterprise, not just a scaled down version of a conventional orchard. A crop suited to fragmented holdings Land fragmentation is one of Kashmirs most intractable structural constraints. Small, fragmented holdings limit mechanization, reduce economies of scale, and often make large scale orchard expansion unviable. Blueberries are better aligned with this reality because they can be planted at high densities, managed at shrub height, and arranged in compact layouts that do not require large, contiguous blocks of land. This makes the crop particularly relevant for peri urban growers, progressive young farmers, and households running mixed farming systems. A family that cannot economically justify a full sized apple orchard on a tiny parcel may still be able to operate a small blueberry unit profitably, provided planting material, irrigation, and market access are well organised. In this sense, blueberries are not only a new fruit but also a new scale of horticultural opportunity. Precision horticulture over conventional orcharding Blueberries fit the broader trend toward precision horticulture. They demand attention to root zone conditions, drainage, moisture, fertigation, and mulching requirements that sound demanding but align with the future of high value, technology intensive farming. The crop responds especially well to controlled systems such as drip irrigation and soilless or semi soilless cultivation, which allow growers to produce more on smaller, carefully managed spaces. The crop generally prefers acidic soils, commonly in the pH range of about 4.5 to 5.5, which can be difficult to achieve in many ordinary field soils without intervention. However, recent practice shows that blueberries can be grown successfully in grow bags, airpots, and cocopeat cocochip media, enabling growers to manage the root environment directly rather than relying entirely on field soil. Market demand aligns with Kashmirs strengths No crop can transform horticulture without a functioning market, and blueberries benefit from a strong consumer narrative. They are widely marketed as a superfruit because of their antioxidant profile and premium health image, and this branding underpins robust demand in urban India. Since domestic production remains limited, the fruit still enjoys scarcity value in many markets, which helps sustain premium prices. This premium image works in Kashmirs favour. The Valley already carries a reputation for clean mountain produce and premium horticultural identity, built over decades through apples, cherries, and saffron. Blueberries grown in Kashmir can be positioned as naturally temperate, high altitude, premium fruit with strong appeal to metro retail chains, hospitality outlets, tourism circuits, and e commerce led fresh fruit channels. The implication is important even small quantities of high quality fruit can be economically meaningful. That kind of market structure is precisely suited to regions with limited land but a strong branding advantage. Scope for women, youth, and local entrepreneurship Blueberries also fit the social dimension of horticultural transformation. Because the crop can be grown on compact areas with relatively structured management, it is well suited to backyard enterprises, small commercial clusters, and group based cultivation models. This makes it particularly relevant for womens self help groups, educated rural youth, and entrepreneurs who want a modern, manageable, and brandable horticultural enterprise. In Kashmir, where educated unemployment and underemployment remain pressing concerns, a crop like blueberry can offer a different kind of entry point into horticulture. A young grower may be more willing to invest in a one kanal high value berry unit with drip irrigation, substrate systems, and direct market linkages than in a long gestation conventional orchard that depends on large land ownership. In this way, horticultural diversification becomes not only an agronomic strategy but also a rural enterprise strategy. A strategic crop for Kashmirs next phase Kashmir does not need blueberries to replace apples for the crop to matter. Their importance lies in their ability to diversify risk, improve returns on small holdings, and introduce a more intensive and knowledge driven model of horticulture. In a region where land is finite and family holdings are under pressure, this is a strategic advantage rather than a niche experiment. This logic is reinforced by NITI Aayogs April 2026 roadmap for horticulture development in Jammu and Kashmir, which stresses a shift toward quality driven, high value horticulture supported by modern nurseries, better post harvest systems, diversification, and productivity enhancing technologies, rather than relying solely on expansion of traditional orchards. Blueberries fit this vision because they are compact, premium, and technology intensive, and they can raise value per unit of land without expanding acreage. The larger lesson is clear the future of horticulture in Kashmir will be decided not only by how much land is cultivated but by how intelligently that land is used. Blueberries offer a compelling answer to that challenge because they combine premium pricing, compact production, and compatibility with precision systems. If the Valley invests in research, nurseries, farmer training, and market development, blueberries could become one of the crops that helps rewrite Kashmirs horticultural model from land intensive to value intensive. The author is an entrepreneur managing infrastructure and agricultural ventures in Kashmir. He is also a fellow of the Ananta Aspen Global Leadership Network (AGLN)

Honk. Litter.Complain. Repeat.

Every day we complain. Roads are dirty. Air is polluted. Traffic never moves. Water bodies are shrinking. Dogs roam in packs. City is becoming unlivable. However, before pointing at others, we should ask a difficult question: What part of this mess belongs to us? Yes, not everything is in our hands. But many things are. We often throw garbage just a few steps away from our homes. The logic is simple. It is no longer my problem. A plastic bag lands on the roadside. Leftover food is dumped near a drain. Fruit peels are tossed into an empty plot. By morning, stray dogs have scattered everything across the road. Then we complain about the filth. We complain about the growing menace of dogs. Rarely do we connect the two. Garbage is not just waste. It becomes food. It attracts stray animals. It blocks drains. It breeds flies and rodents. A single careless act can affect an entire neighbourhood. The same story repeats itself everywhere. Some people spit on roads without a second thought. Some throw bottles, junk-food wrappers, and fruit peels from car windows. Others leave picnic spots dirtier than they found them. Traffic is another example. A parking space is available barely fifty metres away. Still, many stop exactly outside the shop. It will only take two minutes. Those two minutes become ten. A line of vehicles builds up behind. Then begins the orchestra of horns. Everyone honks. Nobody moves. Then come sirens. Except for ambulances, the siren has become our language of impatience, shoving away commoners. Ironically, it solves almost nothing. Yet we use both horns and sirens as though they are a rescue button. Footpaths are built for pedestrians. Yet they disappear under parked cars, shop displays or merchandise. People are forced to walk on the road. Then we wonder why accidents happen. The first heavy rain arrives. The water has nowhere to go. The streets flood. We call it a failure of the drainage system. Maybe, but sometimes, it is a failure of civic sense. The way we clog our drains with garbage and plastic. For our lakes and streams, the less said the better. Every year they become a little smaller. Waste enters them. Sewage enters them. And encroachments slowly eat away at their banks. Unplanned urbanization adds another layer. Unauthorised buildings rise faster than infrastructure, even on river banks. Open spaces vanish. Trees are cut but rarely replaced. Concrete is getting concretised. Roads become narrower while vehicles become more numerous. There are other habits we hardly notice. Using far too many single-use plastics. Wasting water while washing cars or courtyards. Leaving taps leaking because it is only a few drops. Breaking traffic signals. Driving on the wrong side to save a minute, only to flex and flee, endangering even cops and bystanders. Removing, damaging or stealing public dustbins. Damaging parks. Ignoring broken streetlights instead of reporting them. Littering randomly. None of these makes news. Together, they change the face of a city. The truth is uncomfortable. A clean city cannot be created by municipal workers alone. A greener Kashmir cannot be achieved by government departments alone. No campaign can succeed if citizens refuse to become partners. Real change begins with ordinary habits. Carry your waste until you find a dustbin. Walk the extra fifty metres to park properly. Avoid unnecessary honking and siren-blaring. Learn how to drive as per rules. Plant a tree and protect it. Report illegal dumping. Keep your surroundings clean, not just your drawing room. Teach children that public spaces are also their home. Civilisation gets depicted through these routine behaviours. Civic responsibility is not about rhetoric; its about small daily decisions. Its being shaped every morning when we step out of our homes. Perhaps the fact is Kashmir is changing. It certainly is. The issue is whether we are willing to change with it. Since the future of our city will not be decided only in government offices, it will also be decided on our streets, in our neighbourhoods, and by the choices each one of us makes every single day.

The Water Behind AI

The story of computing over the last three decades is not merely a story of technological progress; it is also a story of changing human aspirations, consumption patterns and environmental consequences. Those who saw the early days of computers during the mid-1990s remember a very different world. Computers were considered valuable assets. They were installed in specially designed air-conditioned rooms, protected from dust and moisture and access was often restricted to trained personnel. Educational institutions, government offices and a handful of private establishments possessed these machines. Entering a computer laboratory often required removing shoes or wearing protective footwear to prevent dust from affecting the equipment. As technology matured, computers gradually became common. Desktop publishing (DTP) centres emerged in every town, where computers operated continuously in shops with little regard for environmental conditions. Over time, technological advancement accelerated. Hardware became obsolete within a few years. Faster processors, larger memories, better graphic cards and improved operating systems continually replaced older generations. Software evolved at an equally rapid pace, demanding more powerful hardware, creating a cycle of continuous upgrading. The same transformation occurred in personal electronics. Basic mobile phones evolved into smartphones, followed by increasingly sophisticated devices with enhanced processing power, artificial intelligence capabilities and constant high speed internet connectivity. Laptops, tablets, smart watches and numerous digital devices became integral parts of daily life. Society gradually embraced a culture where upgrading devices every few years became normal rather than exceptional. Contrast this with earlier technologies such as the traditional tungsten filament bulb. For decades, a single bulb often served a household with only occasional cleaning. There was little concept of planned uselessness or frequent replacement. Our grandparents experienced technologies that remained functional for years, reflecting a culture of maintenance rather than replacement. Today humanity has entered another technological revolutionthe era of Artificial Intelligence (AI), machine learning, cloud computing and hyperscale data centres. The emphasis is no longer merely on computation but on instantaneous and fast computation. Every improvement aims at reducing response times, increasing processing speed and delivering intelligent services within fractions of a second. Society increasingly expects machines to perform tasks at almost unimaginable speeds. However, behind every intelligent response generated by an AI system lies an enormous physical infrastructure that remains largely invisible to users. Artificial intelligence does not exist solely in software; it depends on thousands of powerful servers operating continuously inside massive data centres distributed across the world. These facilities require enormous quantities of electricity and sophisticated cooling systems because high-performance processors generate tremendous amounts of heat during computation. Water has become one of the most important yet least visible resources supporting this digital revolution. Many modern data centres rely on water-based cooling systems to maintain optimal operating temperatures. Water is also indirectly consumed in generating the electricity that powers these facilities, particularly where thermal power plants contribute significantly to electricity production through two primary pathways: the direct use of freshwater for cooling data centres and the indirect use of water in electricity generation. Recent scientific studies have highlighted the growing environmental footprint of AI systems. Estimates of water consumption per interaction vary considerably depending on the complexity of the task, the efficiency of the data centre, the local climate and the energy source. One widely discussed academic estimate suggested that every 20 to 50 interactions with a large language model may correspond to approximately 500 mL bottle of water when cooling and associated electricity generation are considered. Viewed individually, this quantity appears insignificant. However, when multiplied by millions or even billions of daily interactions worldwide, the cumulative environmental impact becomes substantial. Scientific projections indicate that global AI-related infrastructure could consume several billion cubic metres of water annually during the coming years, particularly as artificial intelligence becomes integrated into education, healthcare, banking, transportation, entertainment, manufacturing, agriculture and governance. This growing demand for water raises an important question. At a time when climate change is already altering rainfall patterns across many parts of the world, can humanity afford another rapidly expanding sector with increasing water and energy demands? The growing water footprint of artificial intelligence calls for a two-pronged approach. At the individual level, users should be mindful of unnecessary AI usage and embrace responsible digital consumption. At the scientific level, researchers and engineers must innovate to reduce the environmental costs of AI by improving computational efficiency, advancing low-water cooling systems, integrating renewable energy sources and designing sustainable data centres. Many regions are already experiencing irregular precipitation, declining groundwater levels, shrinking glaciers, frequent droughts and unpredictable weather events. Agriculturethe largest consumer of freshwateris under tremendous pressure. Farmers increasingly face uncertainty due to delayed monsoons, heat waves and water scarcity. Livestock production is similarly affected as fodder availability declines and water become increasingly limited. Similarly the food industry is one of the largest consumers of freshwater, requiring substantial quantities of water for food processing, cleaning, packaging etc. Thus, humanity appears to be entering an era where two major transitions are occurring simultaneously. On one hand, digital technologies and artificial intelligence are expanding at unprecedented speed. On the other hand, natural ecosystems that sustain human civilisation are becoming increasingly fragile. This contrast presents a profound sustainability challenge. Technological progress undoubtedly offers remarkable benefits. Artificial intelligence can improve disease diagnosis, optimise irrigation, predict floods, monitor forests, reduce energy waste, assist scientific research and enhance disaster management. Nevertheless, these benefits should not impact the environmental costs associated with maintaining the underlying computational infrastructure. Agriculture accounts for approximately 70% of global freshwater withdrawals according to the Food and Agriculture Organization. Google reported that applying AI to optimise cooling in some of its data centres reduced cooling energy requirements by approximately 40%, demonstrating AIs potential to improve operational efficiency. Artificial intelligence helps conserve water in agriculture, optimise energy use, predict floods and monitor ecosystems. Yet the computational infrastructure supporting these capabilities also demands increasing quantities of electricity and fresh water. Morgan Stanley projects that AI-related data centres could consume more than 1 trillion litres annually by 2028, an eleven-fold increase from 2024. Nearly half of the worlds 9,000+ data centres are already located in regions of high-water stress. In Spain, Amazon requested a 48% increase in water permits for its Aragn facilities in 2024. In the UK, a government report projected a daily shortfall of nearly five billion litres by 2050 unless digital infrastructure is integrated into water planning. These are not abstract numbers. They are litres of drinking water redirected from agriculture, ecosystems and communities into the invisible machine of artificial intelligence. Despite these remarkable achievements, these benefits should not overshadow the environmental costs associated with maintaining the computational infrastructure that powers AI. The challenge before policymakers, scientists, engineers and citizens is therefore not to reject artificial intelligence but to develop it responsibly. Future AI systems must become significantly more energy-efficient and water-efficient. Data centres should increasingly operate on renewable energy, employ advanced cooling technologies, recycle cooling water wherever feasible and be located in regions where environmental impacts can be minimised. Governments should encourage green computing standards, transparent environmental reporting and sustainable digital infrastructure. Equally important is public awareness. Just as society has gradually learned to conserve electricity, the digital age demands awareness of our invisible environmental footprint. Every online search, video stream, cloud backup, AI interaction, cryptocurrency transaction and data transfer carries an environmental cost that extends beyond the screen. The future should therefore not be viewed as a choice between technology and nature. Rather, the challenge is to harmonise technological advancement with ecological sustainability. Artificial intelligence should become an instrument for conserving natural resources rather than accelerating their depletion. The essential question facing humanity is therefore, not whether artificial intelligence will transform civilisationit undoubtedly will. The real question is whether humanity can ensure that this transformation occurs within the ecological limits of our planet. If we fail to integrate environmental sustainability into the digital revolution, we risk exchanging one crisis for another. But if technological innovation is guided by ecological wisdom, artificial intelligence can become one of humanitys greatest allies in addressing climate change, conserving biodiversity, managing water resources and securing a sustainable future for generations to come. The author is working as associate professor in HED J&K.

People of Kashmir want an end to vicious cycle of violence: Dy CM

Jammu, Aug 1:Deputy Chief Minister Surinder Choudhary on Saturday, while condemning the killing of two migrant labourers in Kulgam, in a sharp dig at the Centre asked if its experiment to abrogate Article 370 in J&K on the premise of ending terrorism failed. He also demanded investigation into terror killings claiming innocent lives, which he claimed witnessed a spurt after the National Conferences statehood protest at Jantar Mantar on July 20. Centre had abrogated Article 370, truncated J&K into two Union Territories asserting that it would end terrorism. However, terror related violence still continues, claiming innocent lives. They (Centre) need to explain if their experiment failed, Choudhary stated, while speaking to media persons here. Asserting that the people of J&K, which has been fighting terrorism for the past more than three decades, want an end to this vicious cycle, the Deputy Chief Minister said, We express our deepest condolences to the bereaved families. But the people here are tired of condemning such incidents. It should end now. If terrorism has ended as it is claimed, why have these killings continued? Where are these militants coming from? It is happening even when the security forces are on high alert in wake of ongoing Amarnath Yatra and upcoming Independence Day, he stated, seeking the setting up of a high-level committee, by the Prime Minister and the Union Home Minister, to probe into the killings and identify the culprits. It was also staggering to note that the recent spurt in killings was noticed after NCs statehood protest in the union capital, Choudhary maintained. Seemingly someone does not want it (restoration of statehood) to happen. If Pakistan is behind these killings, the Centre must take stringent action, he stated.

Chenab steel girder bridge in Akhnoor to remain closed for 2 hours for repairs today

Jammu, Aug 1:Steel girder bridge over river Chenab in Akhnoor will remain closed for vehicular traffic for two hours on Sunday, August 2, 2026 for maintenance purposes. T he traffic will be diverted to the new bridge on Jammu-Poonch National Highway during this period. Referring to a letter No 3354-59/ D Akhnoor dated July 31, 2026, received from the office of the Executive Engineer, PWD (R&B) Division, Akhnoor regarding the stopping of vehicular movement for minimum of two hours i.e., 10 am to 12 pm on Sunday, August 2, 2026, for maintenance of steel girder bridge over river Chenab in Akhnoor, Sub Divisional Magistrate (SDM) Akhnoor Ankush Hans, in a communique addressed to the Sub Divisional Police Officer (SDPO), Akhnoor and Deputy Superintendent of Police (DySP) Traffic, Jammu, have asked them to take appropriate action for diverting of traffic through new bridge on Jammu-Poonch National Highway during the specified time slot.

LOP meets victim families

Srinagar, Aug 1:Leader of Opposition in the Jammu and Kashmir Assembly and senior BJP leader Sunil Sharma on Saturday strongly condemned the killing of two non-local labourers in Kulgam, terming the attack an assault on humanity and asserting that those responsible would not be spared. Speaking to reporters after meeting the bereaved families, Sharma said both victims hailed from Sakti district of Chhattisgarh and had come to Kashmir only to earn a livelihood as labourers. These cowardly terrorists have once again shown their cowardice by targeting innocent labourers who had nothing to do with the conflict. The killing of these two labourers is a killing of humanity, he said. Expressing deep grief, Sharma said that one of the deceased is survived by a one-and-a-half-year-old child, while the other has left behind a devastated wife. My heart cries when I see the condition of these families. They had come here only to earn an honest living, he said. The BJP leader blamed Pakistan-sponsored terrorism for the attack and described it as a sign of the terrorists desperation. This is the last phase of terrorism. It will not survive for long. I have complete faith in our security forces. Those who carried out this attack and those supporting or sheltering them will be brought to justice, Sharma said. He said he had spoken to the Chief Minister and Deputy Chief Minister of Chhattisgarh, conveyed his condolences, and urged the state government to extend all possible assistance to the bereaved families. Sharma said that the J&K government would provide relief in accordance with existing rules and assured the families of full support during this difficult time. Referring to the recent killing of Head Constable of Budgam in Anantnag, Sharma said the Kulgam incident was the second terror attack in around 10 days and asserted that the renewed attempts by terrorists to spread fear would fail. We are standing with these families not only as a political party but as fellow human beings, he said. The two brick kiln workers from Chhattisgarh were shot at point-blank range in Kilam village of Kulgam on Friday. One died on the spot while the second, critically injured, succumbed to his injuries at a Srinagar hospital on Saturday morning. Security forces have since launched a massive search operation in the area.

Massive security build up across Kashmir

Srinagar, Aug 1: Security forces on Saturday stepped up anti-terror measures across Kashmir following the killing of two migrant labourers from Chhattisgarh in a terror attack in Kulgam, setting up additional check-posts, intensifying frisking, launching speculative Cordon and Search Operations (CASOs), and keeping close surveillance on elements considered inimical to peace. The heightened security response came as security forces continued a massive manhunt in and around Kilam village of Kulgam district, where terrorists shot two brick kiln workers at point-blank range on Friday evening. The second injured labourer, Bhupinder, succumbed to his injuries at Sher-e-Kashmir Institute of Medical Sciences (SKIMS), Srinagar, on Saturday morning, taking the death toll in the attack to two. Senior officials in security establishment said security deployment has been strengthened across south, central and north Kashmir, with the Jammu and Kashmir Police, Army, and Central Armed Police Forces (CAPFs) maintaining heightened vigil at vulnerable locations. Additional vehicle check-points have been established on highways and major roads, while frisking and checking of commuters have been intensified at sensitive places, particularly in Srinagar and the districts of south Kashmir. In view of the recent terror attack, security arrangements have been further strengthened. Area domination, surveillance and preventive measures have been enhanced to ensure that any attempt to disturb peace is effectively thwarted, a senior security establishment official said. Sources said speculative CASOs were launched at several locations in south Kashmir based on intelligence inputs. Security agencies have also intensified monitoring of suspected overground workers and other elements with possible links to terror networks. The stepped-up security measures followed directions from Lieutenant Governor Manoj Sinha, who on Friday instructed security forces to step up operations and eliminate the terrorists responsible for the attack. The victims, identified as Deepak and Bhupinder, both residents of Chhattisgarh and employed at a brick kiln in Kilam, were attacked by terrorists at close range on Friday evening. Deepak died on the spot, while Bhupinder was initially operated upon at Government Medical College (GMC), Anantnag, before being shifted to SKIMS Srinagar, where he succumbed to his injuries on Saturday. The Kulgam attack is the second terror incident in south Kashmir in less than two weeks and the first targeted killing of migrant workers in the Valley since October 2024. On July 22, a policeman attached to the Special Operations Group (SOG) of Jammu and Kashmir Police was shot dead by terrorists in Anantnag town. Security forces continued extensive search and combing operations in Kilam and adjoining areas throughout the day, with additional reinforcements deployed to seal possible escape routes. Officials said the operation would continue until the attackers are tracked down, while security across the Valley has been placed on heightened alert to prevent any further terrorist strike.

CM Omar announces Rs 10 lakh each for Kulgam victims families

Srinagar, Aug 1:Chief Minister Omar Abdullah on Saturday strongly condemned the dastardly killing of two labourers in Kulgam and announced an ex-gratia relief of Rs 10 lakh each from the Chief Ministers Relief Fund (CMRF) for the next of kin of the deceased. CM Omar expressed profound grief over the loss of innocent lives and said the assistance would be in addition to the Rs 6 lakh immediate relief being provided by the district administration. He also conveyed his heartfelt condolences to the bereaved families and reaffirmed that the government stands firmly with them during this difficult time. The CM conveyed his heartfelt condolences to the families of the deceased and prayed for eternal peace to the departed souls. He also prayed for strength and courage to the bereaved families to bear this irreparable loss.

LG Sinha directs SOP review to protect migrant workers

Srinagar, Aug 1:Lieutenant Governor Manoj Sinha on Saturday said directed all the Deputy Commissioners (DCs) and Senior Superintendents of Police (SSPs) to conduct a comprehensive review of the Standard Operating Procedures (SOPs) established to protect labourers from outside Jammu Kashmir. Chairing a high-level security review meeting, LG Sinha said also directed that the employers must ensure all workers from other states and union territories of the country are provided insurance and that their details are registered with local police and district authorities. We must intensify precise, high-impact anti-terror operations to neutralise the terrorists, he said. The LG instructed the authorities to ensure dignified last rites for the victims of the Kulgam terror attack and to provide all the support to bereaved families. The meeting was attended by Atal Dullo, Chief Secretary; Nalin Prabhat, DGP; Chandraker Bharti, Principal Secretary Home Department; S J M Gillani, Special DG Coordination PHQ; Nitish Kumar, ADGP, CID; M Raju, Commissioner Secretary, GAD; IGPs; Divisional Commissioners; DCs; SSPs, and other senior officials. The meeting also discussed the security arrangements in place for the ongoing Amarnath Yatra and strengthening of the security grid.

The quiet joy of raising ordinary kids

A mother reflects on her parenting journey as her children become adults. She redefines exceptionalism, valuing kindness and character over elite achievements. Many parents pursue foreign education, facing financial and emotional pressures. Children's diverse experiences build discipline and perspective, not just professional skills. Ultimately, fostering emotional security and resilience offers a more valuable foundation.

Why we can't handle the sheer filth & the fury of 'kacha khisti'

Todays Gen Z utilizes technology as a means to circulate offensive language and visuals, echoing the crude expressions of older generations. While past generations also employed harsh words, they lacked the means to broadcast them widely. This article highlights current societal outrage over profanity, suggesting a re-evaluation of what constitutes truly unacceptable behavior in modern times.

Boy killed in landslide in Kupwara

Srinagar, Aug 1: A seven-year-old boy died after he was struck by a landslide in Jammu and Kashmir's Kupwara district on Saturday, officials said. The child was identified as Rehan Ahmad Dar. Dar was hit by the landslide that occurred near his school in the Mawer area of Handwara in the north Kashmir district. He was rushed to a hospital, where doctors declared him brought dead, the officials said. Education Minister Sakina Itoo condoled the loss of life. Deeply saddened by the tragic loss of young Rehan Ahmad Dar, a Nursery student of Frontline Model School, Mawer, who lost his life in a landslide today. My heartfelt condolences to the bereaved family during this unimaginable time of grief, she said in a post on X. The minister also directed the concerned authorities to extend all possible assistance to the family and to examine measures for ensuring the safety of students in vulnerable areas. The Private Schools Association (PSA) expressed grief over the incident. This incident is an irreparable tragedy that has plunged the entire educational fraternity of Jammu and Kashmir into deep shock and mourning, the PSA said in a statement. The untimely loss of an innocent child is heartbreaking and has left the entire school community grief-stricken, it said.

Going totally nuts over coco de mer: A very long journey for a very unusual coconut

The author and partner journeyed to Praslin in the Seychelles seeking the unique coco de mer nut. This rare fruit grows on tall palms and has a fascinating history of myths. They visited shops and a nature park to find an authentic specimen. The coco de mer nut is a protected botanical treasure with a high price. Their successful acquisition now adorns their living room as a travel memento.

Can AI replace teachers? Why human educators still matter

AI robots like Sally are making their way into classrooms, raising fundamental questions about the role of teaching. While AI can handle repetitive tasks and tailor learning experiences to individual students, it lacks the vital human touch that teachers provide. Empathy and belief in a student's potential are emotions that robotics can't replicate. As this technology transforms education, we must thoughtfully evaluate its implications.

Palestinians in Gaza hope Hamas will disarm but fear Israeli forces won't withdraw

Cairo, Aug 1: For Palestinians in Gaza, President Donald Trump's announcement that Hamas had agreed to disarm was a small sign of hope that Israel's attacks might end, allowing them to rebuild their lives and what remains of their homes. But it also clashed with the reality on the ground, where Israeli strikes have continued since Trump first touted the deal late Thursday in Washington, and where few steps have been taken to advance a broader ceasefire agreement that went into effect in October. Most of Gaza's 2 million Palestinians are still displaced or live in tent camps, where poor conditions and overcrowding have led to rodent infestations and outbreaks of infectious diseases such as chickenpox. They can talk about withdrawal and disarmament, said Abdel Moneim Aboul-Roos, 24, a tuk-tuk driver who lost his leg in an Israeli airstrike. I don't care about any of it as long as there is no food or medicine. Israel and Hamas signed a US-backed ceasefire plan last year that ended major combat operations, saw the return of Israeli hostages and allowed for an increase in humanitarian aid to the Palestinian enclave. It also called for the gradual withdrawal of Israeli troops, the creation of an international stabilization force and a program to decommission weapons held by Hamas. But as each side accused the other of violating the ceasefire, negotiations stalled. Hamas held onto its weapons and the Israeli military refused to withdraw. Since October, Israel has killed more than 1,200 Palestinians in Gaza and expanded the amount of territory it controls. Five Israeli soldiers have also been killed in militant attacks. Many Palestinians don't trust Israel or Hamas The road map Trump announced and that Hamas confirmed addresses in more specific terms the type of weapons the militant group and its allies will be required to hand over to a new technocratic government. The document says Israel will not be involved in the decommission of Hamas' weapons and that it should halt all military operations in Gaza so the transition can proceed and recovery can begin. But residents in Gaza say they have been repeatedly promised that the war will stop and their lives will improve. They see the road map as a positive development but remain skeptical that either Israel or Hamas will adhere to the terms. This is enough. We need improvement in our lives, said Ayman Ahmed, a displaced Palestinian living in southern Gaza. He said he hopes Hamas gives up its arms but does not see it happening anytime soon. They don't care about Palestinians' lives, he said. The war began when Hamas-led militants attacked southern Israel on Oct. 7, 2023, killing around 1,200 people and taking 251 others back to Gaza as hostages. Israel's retaliatory offensive has killed more than 73,300 people, according to the Gaza Health Ministry, which was part of the Hamas-run government. The ministry maintains detailed records viewed as generally reliable by UN agencies and international organizations. It does not distinguish between civilians and militants, but says women and children make up around half of all fatalities. Because of the high death toll and ongoing attacks, other Palestinians say they believe Israel will refuse to make concessions. In southern Gaza, Ghazal Astal lives among the rubble. She said there is near-constant Israeli gunfire and that the territory has been transformed into an indescribable battlefield. Ammar Kaskeen, 30, said he doesn't believe the road map will force Israeli troops to withdraw. For Israel, according to Kaskeen, the goal is not only to disarm Hamas but to also drive the Palestinian population out of Gaza. They will make us suffer, he said. Even as Israel digs in, Palestinians dream of returning home Israel has not commented publicly on the road map but Israeli officials, speaking anonymously over the past two days, have signalled that the document does not align with the country's interests. The officials also reiterated that Israel would not withdraw from the Yellow Line in Gaza, which divides Israeli-controlled territory in the east with the western part of the enclave. In recent months, the military has built a massive earthen barrier roughly along the same line, developing what it described as a security zone adjacent to the berm, equipped with intelligence and technological assets. Israel has also carried out controlled demolitions and clearing operations across much of the territory it controls. Palestinians who lived there have yet to return and are unsure whether their homes are still standing. Anas Nakla was displaced from Rafah in southern Gaza during the war. He said he knows his house has been destroyed but still wants to return home with his wife and children. It doesn't exist anymore, he said. But we can return and rebuild. Similarly, Mohamed Hamad, who had to leave his home behind in northern Gaza, hopes that the US-backed road map will pressure Israel to leave some of the areas it controls. He believes that even if only a small number of people could go back to their homes, it will give hope to the rest that some day they may also return. (AP)

Pakistan-Occupied Kashmir protests explained: Why unrest has erupted over 12 Assembly seats

Pakistan-Occupied Kashmir (PoK) is witnessing its biggest political unrest in years, with weeks of protests, deadly clashes with security forces, an internet shutdown, mass arrests and a fierce debate over democracy, autonomy and political representation. The immediate trigger is a dispute over 12 reserved seats in the Legislative Assembly, but analysts say the protests reflect much deeper frustrations over governance, economic conditions and Islamabad's control over the region. What triggered the latest protests? The protests are being led by the Jammu Kashmir Joint Awami Action Committee (JAAC), a grassroots coalition of traders, civil society groups and activists. The immediate dispute centres on 12 seats reserved in Pakistan-Occupied Kashmir's Legislative Assembly for refugees from Jammu and Kashmir who settled in different parts of Pakistan after 1947. The JAAC argues that only people who actually reside in Pakistan-Occupied Kashmir should elect representatives to its Assembly. As JAAC committee member Kashif Abbasi told Al Jazeera: This election is meant for people who actually live in AJK. These 12 seats sit outside AJK's jurisdiction. This doesn't happen anywhere else. The government, however, maintains that the reserved seats are constitutionally protected and cannot be abolished without a constitutional amendment. Pakistan's Defence Minister Khawaja Asif urged protesters to contest the issue politically rather than through street protests, asking: How could you exclude them from the electoral process? Why are the 12 seats so controversial? Pakistan-Occupied Kashmir's Legislative Assembly has 45 elected seats, 33 of which are elected from constituencies within the territory, and 12 seats are reserved for refugees from Indian-administered Jammu and Kashmir now living in Pakistan. The arrangement dates back to the early decades after Partition and was formally incorporated into the 1974 Interim Constitution. #Watch | Pakistan-occupied Kashmir protests explained: Why unrest has erupted over 12 assembly seats Pakistan-Occupied Kashmir is witnessing one of its biggest political crises in years. Protests over 12 reserved seats in the Legislative Assembly have escalated into violent pic.twitter.com/WcVz9sGvFC Greater Kashmir (@GreaterKashmir) August 1, 2026 How did the protests escalate? Negotiations between the JAAC and the government collapsed in late May after failing to reach an agreement on the reserved seats. The authorities responded by banning the JAAC under the Anti-Terrorism Act, suspending internet and mobile services, advising outsiders to stay away from the region, deploying paramilitary forces, and arresting more than 100 activists. The crackdown soon turned violent. Amnesty International raises alarm Amnesty International has sharply criticised Pakistan's response, calling the ban on the JAAC unlawful. Isabelle Lassee, Amnesty International's Deputy Regional Director for South Asia, said: Branding a grassroots organization as 'terrorist' on vague grounds, while simultaneously cutting the region off from the outside world, raises serious concerns regarding the Pakistani authorities' conduct and their disregard for human rights. The proscription of JKJAAC under anti-terror laws is disproportionate, unlawful and a violation of the right to freedom of association. Following deadly clashes, Amnesty added: The alarming escalation of violence, including deaths of protesters, raises serious questions. It urged Pakistani authorities to: ake immediate steps to deescalate the situation and practice restraint and strict adherence to international standards on the use of force. The protests are about much more than 12 seats Although the refugee seats dominate the current debate, they are only the latest flashpoint. The JAAC originally emerged in 2023 over soaring electricity prices, flour shortages and broader economic hardship. By late 2025, it had expanded its movement into a 38-point charter of demands that included subsidised electricity and flour, investigations into corruption, improved social welfare, infrastructure development, and the abolition of the 12 reserved Assembly seats. The unrest has also revived debate over where real political authority lies in Pakistan-Occupied Kashmir. JAAC, according to its leaders, had written directly to Pakistan Army chief Field Marshal Asim Munir after concluding that its concerns were not reaching him through civilian channels. The controversy goes beyond electoral arithmetic. Supporters of the reserved seats say they preserve Pakistan's international position on Kashmir issue and reinforce the claim that Pakistan-Occupied Kashmir represents the entire former princely state. Critics argue the arrangement undermines democratic representation by allowing people living outside the territory to influence governments formed in Muzaffarabad. What happens next? Pakistan-Occupied Kashmir's elections have been conducted in phases amid continuing unrest. The JAAC has called for a boycott of the polls, while the government insists constitutional questions must be resolved through elected institutions rather than street protests. For now, the dispute over 12 Assembly seats has become the focal point of a much larger struggle over governance, political representation, regional autonomy and the future direction of Pakistan-Occupied Kashmir. Reactions from the Valley Kashmir's chief cleric Mirwaiz Umar Farooq called for an impartial investigation into the killings and urging Pakistan to engage with protesters through dialogue rather than force. Addressing a congregation at Srinagar's historic Jama Masjid, the Mirwaiz said he was: Deeply concerned over the continuing unrest and tragic loss of lives across the Line of Control, particularly in Rawalakot. He also led special prayers for those killed in PoK and said: We are deeply anguished by the continuing unrest and the tragic loss of precious lives during the past month and a half. The truth must be established through a prompt, impartial and transparent investigation. We mourn every life lost, whether that of a civilian protester or a member of the police force, and pray for the speedy recovery of all those injured. Calling upon Pakistan to show restraint, the Mirwaiz appealed to Islamabad and the authorities across the Line of Control: Durable peace and stability can only be achieved through dialogue, constitutional fairness and respect for the rights and dignity of every segment of society. Mirwaiz also stressed the shared identity of people on both sides of the Line of Control. We are one people, bound together by history, family, culture and our common State Subject identity. Whether we live in Srinagar, Muzaffarabad, Birmingham or elsewhere across the world, we remain one people. The LOC has divided the territory, but not our families, our shared history or our collective stake in our destiny, he said. He further said that the rights of nearly three million Kashmiri refugees and migrants living across Pakistan's provinces should not become a matter of political bargaining or exclusion, urging all stakeholders to find a fair and mutually acceptable solution. Chief Minister Omar Abdullah also expressed concern over reports of force being used against protesters. As far as the situation in that part of Kashmir is concerned, we are all worried, Abdullah told reporters in Ganderbal. The reports coming from there, the way force is being used and innocent people are being targeted we can only hope that peace is maintained there, he added. National Conference president Farooq Abdullah criticised New Delhi for what he described as its silence over the situation in PoK. If the Government of India considers PoK an integral part of the country, why is it silent? It must raise its voice over the reported killings and hardships faced by people there. I have not heard any statement from them, he said. Farooq Abdullah also appealed to the United Nations Human Rights Commission to visit PoK and document the situation there. PDP president Mehbooba Mufti urged Pakistan to abandon the use of force and engage with protesters through dialogue. The visuals emerging from across the LoC in the other part of Kashmir are deeply heartbreaking. It is painful to see peaceful protesters being met with brute force. The Government of Pakistan must adopt a more humane approach and choose dialogue over force, she said in a post on X. She added: No nation grows stronger by disempowering its own people or by silencing them at gunpoint. The government must end the crackdown and stop spraying bullets at peaceful protesters. Kashmiris deserve dignity, justice, and the right to be heard, not repression.

Kathua Biotech Park to drive innovation, jobs across J&K, north India: Jitendra Singh

Jammu, Aug 1: Union Minister Jitendra Singh on Saturday said the Industrial Biotech Park (IBP) at Ghatti in Jammu and Kashmir's Kathua would emerge as a major hub for biotechnology-driven innovation, startup incubation, research, entrepreneurship and industrial development, creating new opportunities for youth, scientists, farmers and industry in the Union Territory and across north India. He was addressing a gathering during the signing of a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) between CSIR-Indian Institute of Integrative Medicine (CSIR-IIIM), Jammu and the Jammu and Kashmir Science, Technology and Innovation Council for the operationalisation and management of the Industrial Biotech Park. Describing the project as another milestone in Kathua's development journey and a transformative initiative, the minister said J&K possesses immense strengths in biodiversity, medicinal and aromatic plants, agriculture, horticulture, floriculture and other bio-resources, which can be transformed into high-value products through scientific research, biotechnology and innovation. He said the IBP would provide a common platform where scientists, researchers, startups, entrepreneurs, industries and farmers can collaborate under one roof. Highlighting the transformation of India's innovation ecosystem under the leadership of Prime Minister Narendra Modi, Singh said the vision of the Government is to create job creators rather than job seekers. He referred to flagship initiatives such as Startup India and said India has witnessed an unprecedented startup revolution since 2014, with the number of recognised startups growing from only a few hundred to more than two lakh, reflecting a fundamental shift in the aspirations and entrepreneurial mindset of India's youth. Recalling the success of the CSIR Aroma Mission and the Purple Revolution, he said lavender cultivation has transformed the lives of farmers in J&K by converting traditional agriculture into profitable entrepreneurship. He noted that the success of lavender has demonstrated how scientific interventions, value addition and market linkages can generate employment, enhance farmers' incomes and establish sustainable bio-based enterprises. He said similar opportunities exist in medicinal plants, aromatic crops, floriculture and other biotechnology-based sectors. The Minister said the IBP should become a centre where innovative ideas are converted into successful enterprises. It will promote biotechnology startups, agri-entrepreneurship, technology incubation and commercialization while encouraging young innovators and researchers to develop solutions that directly address societal needs. Explaining the key ingredients of a successful innovation ecosystem, Singh said sustainable innovation rests on four essential pillarsideas from the young, experience from the elders, support from the Government and investment from industry. He said meaningful innovation can flourish only when these four components work together in harmony. Government will continue to provide enabling policies, infrastructure and institutional support, while scientific institutions will generate knowledge and technology, industry will commercialise innovations and young entrepreneurs will convert ideas into successful enterprises, he said. Describing the MoU as much more than a formal agreement, Singh said it represents the Government's commitment to an integrated and collaborative approach where scientific institutions, academia, industry and government departments work together rather than in isolation. The collaboration, he said, will strengthen research, accelerate technology transfer, promote entrepreneurship and create a vibrant biotechnology ecosystem in the region. Expressing confidence in the future of the project, Singh said the IBP will emerge as one of North India's leading centres for biotechnology innovation. It will strengthen research, promote commercialisation of indigenous technologies, encourage startup culture, create employment opportunities and contribute significantly to the knowledge-based economy of J&K, he said. Referring to Modi's vision of Viksit Bharat 2047, Singh said J&K has the potential to become a major contributor to India's journey towards becoming a developed nation. He said the Union Territory's rich biodiversity, scientific institutions, skilled youth, medicinal and aromatic plant resources, and growing innovation ecosystem place it in a unique position to drive biotechnology-led growth and contribute significantly to the country's economic transformation. Earlier in his welcome address, Director, CSIR-IIIM Jammu, Dr Zabeer Ahmed, he apprised the Union Minister about the various milestones in the setting up of the Industrial Biotech Park and the future plan to meet the objectives of this high-end facility. He said the Park, established by CSIR-IIIM with support from the J&K Science & Technology Department and the Department of Biotechnology, Government of India, is the first Industrial Biotech Park in North India.

Div Com Kashmir reviews progress on compassionate appointment cases, SVAMITA, AgriStack

Srinagar, Aug 01: Divisional Commissioner Kashmir, Anshul Garg, today chaired a meeting of Deputy Commissioners (DCs) to review the progress of compassionate appointment cases, pending SVAMITA matters under MAPS 1.0, implementation of AgriStack, and the locking of Jamabandies across the Kashmir Division. During the meeting, the Divisional Commissioner conducted a district-wise review of the progress achieved under each initiative and emphasized the need for timely completion of all pending tasks. He directed the Deputy Commissioners to ensure that the prescribed targets are achieved within the stipulated timelines through close monitoring and coordinated efforts. Reviewing the status of compassionate appointment cases, the Divisional Commissioner instructed the DCs to expedite the disposal of all pending cases in accordance with the established norms and procedures. The Divisional Commissioner also directed the Deputy Commissioners to furnish details of encroachments on public land and public spaces by religious structures within the next two days to facilitate further action. To prevent the dissemination of misinformation and fake news on social media platforms, the Divisional Commissioner instructed all Deputy Commissioners to ensure strict adherence by media channels & users to the advisories issued by the Information Department and take punitive action incase of noncompliance.

Ladakh LG approves new sports policy offering monthly scholarships, one-time cash incentives

Leh, Aug 1: Ladakh Lieutenant Governor V K Saxena on Saturday approved a new sports policy, describing it as a landmark and future-oriented framework aimed at ensuring financial security for young sportspersons while transforming the Union territory into a vibrant and self-sustaining sporting hub. For the first time, the sports policy provides for cash incentives and monthly scholarships to motivate sportspersons to excel at school, district, state, national and international levels. Guided by the motto scout, facilitate and recognise, the Ladakh Sports Policy 2026 policy seeks to enable talented youth to pursue sports as a viable career without financial constraints, in line with Prime Minister Narendra Modi's vision of promoting sports through initiatives such as 'Khelo India', Saxena said in a post on X. The highlight of the policy is the introduction of a comprehensive framework for financial support to outstanding sportspersons from Ladakh, an official spokesman said. Medal winners in recognised international, national and state-level competitions, including the National School Games and Khelo India Games, will receive monthly scholarships for 12 months, from the date of winning the medal, he said. The scholarship would motivate sportspersons to compete for higher-level sporting events, without worrying about expenses on nutritious diet or sports equipment, the spokesman said. Under this framework, international gold medallists will receive Rs 1 lakh per month, national gold medallists Rs 75,000 per month, and state-level gold medallists Rs 10,000 per month, with proportionate scholarships for silver and bronze winners for a period of 12 months, he said. The policy ensures that as the beneficiary athletes progress to higher levels, their scholarship is correspondingly upgraded. For instance, a sportsperson receiving Rs 10,000 per month for winning gold at the state level will become eligible for a higher scholarship upon securing a medal at the national or international level. Medal scholarships will be awarded for 12 months, from the date of winning the medal, the spokesman said. However, he said, if a sportsperson qualifies for a higher level, the scholarship will be automatically upgraded for a fresh one-year period, as per the higher scholarship slab, from the month he or she qualifies during the ongoing scholarship period. In such a case, the scholarship already paid to the sportsperson at a lower slab will not be recovered. The spokesman said the policy also provides one-time cash incentives, from Rs 5 lakh to Rs 1 crore, for medal winners at recognised international, national, state and school-level competitions. This incentive will be paid over and above the monthly scholarship, he said. The policy also introduces a one-time Rs 10 lakh cash award for mountaineering achievers from Ladakh who successfully summit peaks above 8,000 metres anywhere in the world, the spokesman said. Besides, the new policy also provides for special cash awards for outstanding performances in Paralympic Games, Para Asian Games, Para Commonwealth Games, national para sports championships, and events for visually impaired, hearing-impaired and Special Olympics athletes, the spokesman said. The policy has been finalised following threadbare discussions with all stakeholders for over two months under the leadership of Saxena, the spokesman said. In recent months, several sportspersons and their parents met Saxena, putting forth their inability to meet the expenses for further preparations and training due to financial constraints. Considering the requirements, the L-G directed the UT administration to formulate a comprehensive sports policy where medal winners start earning automatically, the spokesman said. The Ladakh Sports Policy 2026 is a long-term commitment to our youth for a vibrant sporting culture and an institutional support system to excel in sports. The policy not only seeks to identify talented athletes at the grassroots, but will also ensure that they receive sustained financial support, institutional backing and constant motivation to excel at every stage of their sporting career, Saxena said. Every medal won by a sportsperson from Ladakh is a matter of pride for the entire nation, he said. It is, therefore, the duty of the administration to support our talented youth, without the sportspersons and their families having to worry about the expenses. Through assured scholarships, cash incentives, modern infrastructure, scientific coaching and career opportunities, we are creating an ecosystem where talent is recognised, nurtured and rewarded without financial burdens on families, Saxena said.

Chhattisgarh govt declares Rs 20 lakh aid for kin of two workers killed in Kulgam terrorist attack

Raipur, Aug 1: The Chhattisgarh government on Saturday announced an ex gratia of Rs 20 lakh each for the families of two migrant workers from the state killed in a terrorist attack in Jammu and Kashmir's Kulgam district, officials said. Deepak Ratre, a resident of Sakti district, and Bhupendra Bhaina from Sarangarh-Bilaigarh district, both in their 20s, were gunned down at the brick kiln where they were employed in the Kelam area of south Kashmir's Kulgam district late on Friday evening. Condemning the attack, Chief Minister Vishnu Deo Sai said targeting innocent civilians is a crime against humanity and such acts of terror have no place in a civilised society. The Chhattisgarh government stands firmly with the bereaved families in this hour of grief, he said while announcing the financial assistance of Rs 20 lakh each to the next of kin of the deceased workers. Sai said he has directed senior state officials to coordinate with their counterparts in Jammu and Kashmir immediately after receiving information about the incident to ensure necessary assistance. He said a nodal officer will be appointed by the Chhattisgarh government to coordinate with the Jammu and Kashmir administration and oversee the process of extending all possible support to the affected families.

Blind murder solved within six hours, mother-son duo held: Srinagar Police

Srinagar, Aug 01: Srinagar Police on Saturday solved a blind murder case within six-hours of the recovery of an unidentified dead body, leading to the arrest of two accused involved in the crime from Kupwara. Police spokesperson said that on July 30, 2026, Police Station Khanyar received information regarding an unidentified dead body wrapped in gunny bags lying in the Babademb Canal beneath Baba Dawood Khakhi Bridge, Khanyar. Accordingly, FIR No. 49/2026 under Sections 103 and 238 of the Bharatiya Nyaya Sanhita (BNS) was registered, and investigation was taken up. He said that considering the gravity of the offence, a Special Investigation Team (SIT) was constituted under the supervision of senior officers. Through sustained investigation and corroboration of available evidence, the identity of the accused was established as Haleema Bano and her son Moomin Ahmad, originally residents of Machil, Kupwara, who were residing as tenants at Mughal Mohalla, Rainawari, spokesperson said. He said that after committing the offence, both accused fled Srinagar in an attempt to evade arrest, however, Srinagar Police meticulously pursued all available leads, relentlessly chased the accused, and successfully traced and apprehended them from Lolab, Kupwara, within hours of the recovery of the body. During the course of investigation, the deceased was identified as Nazir Ahmad Bhat, son of Ghulam Mohammad Bhat, a resident of Kalantpora, Hawal. Investigation revealed that he was murdered inside the accused's rented accommodation following a financial dispute. The accused subsequently disposed of the body in the Babademb Canal in an attempt to conceal the offence and destroy evidence, spokesperson said. He said that several incriminating articles connected with the commission of the crime have been recovered during the investigation, while as further investigation is underway to ascertain the involvement of any other person and to complete all legal formalities in accordance with law. The prompt detection of this blind murder case within six hours of the recovery of the body reflects the professionalism, dedication, and coordinated efforts of Srinagar Police in ensuring that perpetrators of serious crimes are swiftly brought to justice, spokesperson added.

Kulgam terror attack: Deputy CM demands high-level probe, questions Centre's security narrative

Jammu, Aug 1: A day after two migrant labourers were killed in a terror attack in Kulgam, Jammu and Kashmir Deputy Chief Minister Surinder Choudhary on Saturday questioned the Centre's narrative on security in the Union Territory. Choudhary called into question the effectiveness of the security framework put in place ever since the abrogation of Article 370 in August 2019, and demanded a high-level probe into the killing of innocents ever since the ruling National Conference staged a protest in New Delhi on July 20 seeking the restoration of Jammu and Kashmir's statehood. Expressing condolences to the bereaved families, the deputy chief minister said the people of Jammu and Kashmir have become ired of condemning terror attacks and want an end to the more-than-three-decade-long militancy. Jammu and Kashmir has been battling militancy for the last 37 years. The Centre revoked the region's statehood, separated Ladakh, and abrogated Article 370 on the promise that terrorism would be eradicated. Six years later, if innocent people are still being killed, the Centre must explain whether its experiment has failed, he told reporters here. Choudhary said the recent killings -- of a policeman in Anantnag on July 22 and two migrant labourers in Kulgam on July 31 -- came in the wake of the National Conference's protest at Delhi's Jantar Mantar demanding statehood restoration. We are compelled to point out that, just a few days ago, we held a protest at Jantar Mantar seeking statehood. It appears that someone, whether in Pakistan or elsewhere, is unhappy with the demand, he said, claiming that whenever the demand for statehood restoration gains momentum, a major terror incident takes place in Jammu and Kashmir, pushing the issue into the background. Choudhary said Prime Minister Narendra Modi and Union Home Minister Amit Shah should set up a high-level committee to conduct a free and impartial investigation into the terror attacks to identify those responsible for disrupting peace in the region. He questioned repeated assertions by security agencies that the situation in Jammu and Kashmir had normalised. If militancy has been crushed, then where are these militants coming from? Why are these killings continuing? he asked. The deputy chief minister said the latest killings took place even as the security forces were on high alert in view of the ongoing Amarnath Yatra and the upcoming Independence Day. A probe is mandatory to fix responsibility. If Pakistan is behind these attacks, then the strongest possible action must be taken. A decisive response cannot be delayed indefinitely, he said, adding that the people of Jammu and Kashmir deserve a credible assurance that such killings will not recur. Pointing out that BJP leaders have repeatedly spoken about reclaiming Pakistan-occupied Kashmir, he urged the Centre to demonstrate the same resolve by translating its assertions into tangible action. Jammu and Kashmir's Jal Shakti Minister Javed Ahmed Rana also strongly condemned the killing of the two labourers in Kulgam and expressed solidarity with their families. It is very unfortunate that people who came here to earn their livelihood and contribute to Kashmir's development were killed. We deeply regret the incident, he said. However, he said, law and order is not under the jurisdiction of the Jammu and Kashmir government. Questions regarding the security lapse should be directed to the Home Ministry and the authorities responsible for maintaining law and order, as they are better placed to answer them. I strongly condemn this act. It is sheer barbarity. Killing unarmed and innocent persons is nothing less than the murder of humanity itself. It is a deeply tragic incident, Rana said. The minister appealed to the Central government to strengthen security measures and take effective steps to prevent innocent civilians from being targeted.

Apni Party protests in Srinagar over jobs, power, ration, development; seeks justice for killings

APSCC condemns Kulgam terror attack

Srinagar, Aug 01: Chairman of the All Party Sikh Coordination Committee (APSCC) and senior political leader Jagmohan Singh Raina today strongly condemned the recent terrorist attack in Kulgam that claimed the lives of two non-local labourers. Speaking to reports, Raina described the attack as a cowardly and inhuman act that must be condemned by all sections of society. He expressed deep condolences to the families of the victims and prayed for strength for them during this difficult time. Raina demanded a thorough and transparent investigation into the incident, noting that this is the second such attack within the last 10 days. He said the repeated incidents are a matter of serious concern and urged the administration and security agencies to identify those responsible and bring them to justice without delay. He emphasized that such acts are aimed at disturbing peace and harmony in Jammu and Kashmir and appealed to the people to remain united against terrorism while maintaining communal harmony.

LG reviews security after Kulgam terror attack, orders high-impact operations against terrorists

Srinagar, Aug 01: Lieutenant Governor Manoj Sinha chaired a high-level security review meeting today. The meeting was attended by Atal Dullo, Chief Secretary; Nalin Prabhat, DGP; Chandraker Bharti, Principal Secretary Home Department; S.J.M.Gillani, Special DG Coordination PHQ; Nitish Kumar, ADGP, CID; M Raju, Commissioner/Secretary, GAD; IGPs; Divisional Commissioners; SSPs, Deputy Commissioners and other senior officials. The Lieutenant Governor directed all the Deputy Commissioners and SSPs to conduct a comprehensive review of the Standard Operating Procedures (SoPs) established to protect laborers from outside Jammu Kashmir. He also directed that the employers must ensure all workers from other states and UTs of the country are provided insurance and that their details are registered with local police and district authorities. We must intensify precise, high-impact anti-terror operations to neutralise the terrorists, the Lieutenant Governor said. He instructed the authorities to ensure dignified last rites for the victims of the Kulgam terror attack and to provide all the support to bereaved families. The meeting also discussed the security arrangements in place for the ongoing Shri Amarnathji Yatra and strengthening of the security grid.

Heightened security arrangements in Srinagar following Kulgam terror attack

3 killed, over dozen injured as Russia hits Ukrainian capital with ballistic missiles, drones

Kyiv, Aug 01: At least three people were killed and over a dozen others injured after Russia launched an intense barrage of ballistic missiles and drones targeting Kyiv overnight into Saturday, local authorities said. A five-story residential building in the Solomianskyi District was damaged by falling debris with people believed to be still trapped inside and a fire in the courtyard, said Vitalii Klitschko, mayor of Kyiv in a post on Telegram. People were also reportedly trapped in another residential building the Shevchenkivskyi district, after a partial collapse on the first and second floors, Klitschko said. Elsewhere in the capital, warehouse buildings were on fire in the Darnytskyi district, he said. The attack came just two days after a large-scale Russian ballistic missile and drone attack across Ukraine killed 10 civilians and wounded more than 50 others and saw a Russian missile enter Polish airspace. President Volodymyr Zelenskyy has been pressing Ukraine's need for more Patriot anti-ballistic missile defence systems to counter missile attacks from Russia with the US and other Western partners. Late Friday, the Ukrainian leader said he had spoken to US Vice President JD Vance and discussed the meeting earlier this week in Washington with President Donald Trump which he described as positive and productive. The Russian air strikes on our country continue and air defence, specifically interceptors for Patriot systems against ballistic missiles, remains a top priority, Zelenskyy said in a post on Telegram Friday. At a NATO summit in Ankara in July, Trump said the US would give Ukraine a license to make Patriot systems but he appeared to move away from that commitment on Friday during a Cabinet meeting at the presidential retreat in Camp David, Maryland, saying he had not yet made a final decision on the matter.

US Marine Corps says F-35B stealth fighter crashed in California, pilot ejected safely

San Diego, Aug 01: The US Marine Corps says the pilot of an F-35B stealth fighter is expected to live after ejecting from the jet before it crashed in California. The jet went down Friday near the Miramar air base in San Diego. The pilot ejected, was transported to a local medical facility in stable condition for evaluation and treatment of non-life-threatening injuries, the Marine Corps said in an updated statement. Aerial video from a news helicopter showed a plume of black smoke rising from the wreckage in a dirt field, with multiple military and firefighting vehicles and people standing nearby. What appeared to be white flame retardant covered the ground, and at least one person was spraying the wreckage with a fire hose. Wade Lott saw the crash as he drove to work at a concrete company just south of the flight line. It just blew up, it was crazy, said Lott, 36, who watched from his truck as two jets descended toward the runway together. The first landed without incident, but the second suddenly began slowing down, almost as if it were trying to hover, Lott said. When the jet was about 100 feet (30 m) above the ground, the pilot ejected and their parachute deployed as they rose about 200 feet (61 m) into the air just in time. The jet hit the ground right next to another plane, said Lott. It plowed into the runway and just blew up. Candace Hadley, a spokesperson for San Diego Fire, said firefighters were on scene to respond to a vegetation fire that sparked near the crash site. She referred additional questions to Marine Corps Air Station Miramar. The base used to host the Navy fighter pilot training school depicted in the original Top Gun movie, and was known as Fightertown USA in its heyday. The school was relocated to Naval Air Station Fallon in Nevada in 1996 after the base was transferred to the Marine Corps. The US Marine Corps, Navy and Air Force together have more than 630 F-35s, according to a 2024 analysis by the Government Accounting Office. The F-35B is one of several versions, and has an engine designed for short takeoffs and vertical landings. A single F-35B costs about USD 109 million. The report estimated that the overall F-35 programme will cost roughly USD 2 trillion after the military buys more than 1,800 more jets and operates them for decades to come. A Marines statement called Friday's crash a Class A mishap. That's the most severe mishap category, used when the damage totals more than USD 2 million, an aircraft is destroyed or a service member killed. In the Air Force alone, there have been at least 17 other Class A mishaps involving F-35 aircraft since 2000, according to Air Force Safety Centre statistics. At least seven other military aircraft mishaps have happened in the US this year, according to the Flight Safety Foundation's Aviation Safety Network database. The F-35s are considered the safest and most capable fighter jets the military has in its fleet, according to the Lexington Institute think tank that focuses on defence technology and national security. There have been fewer crashes involving any of the F-35 models since the jet was adopted in 2015 compared to other fighters when those planes were new, and fatal crashes are rare in F-35s. In five F-35 crashes, the pilots were able to eject, though at least one sustained injuries. That pilot was injured when an F-35 crashed near the international airport in Albuquerque, New Mexico, in May 2024. The jet was heading an Air Force base in California from Texas.

SDRF rescues residents after cloudburst hits Pehlipora, Shopian; five houses, school building affected

Srinagar, Aug 01: The State Disaster Response Force (SDRF) Shopian launched a swift rescue and evacuation operation on Saturday following a cloudburst in Pehlipora area of the district. Officials said that the cloudburst, triggered by intense rainfall, caused a heavy flow of water and mud that inundated five residential houses and one school building in the locality. SDRF teams along with local police reached the spot promptly and safely evacuated residents from the affected area. Authorities confirmed that no loss of life has been reported in the incident so far. Damage assessment and relief measures are underway, while officials continue to monitor the situation in vulnerable areas amid ongoing rainfall.(GNS)

NH-44 remains closed; Amarnath Yatra suspended, schools shut in Ramban, Doda amid incessant rain

Banihal, Aug 01: The Jammu-Srinagar National Highway (NH-44) remained closed for traffic on Saturday morning as restoration work continued in the Ladha-Samroli stretch of Udhampur district following heavy rainfall and adverse weather conditions. According to the Traffic Police's 4:00 am update, the road surface has become highly slushy, muddy and extremely slippery, making it unsafe for vehicular movement. NHAI personnel, along with Traffic Police teams and machinery, are carrying out restoration works. Commuters have been advised not to travel on NH-44 until the highway is cleared and declared safe for traffic. With the highway remaining closed, no civilian traffic or Shri Amarnath Yatra convoy was allowed to move on NH-44 on Saturday morning. Meanwhile, light to moderate rainfall continued across Ramban and Udhampur districts, including the Chenani-Nashri tunnel area, hampering restoration efforts. In view of the prevailing weather conditions, the District Administration Ramban ordered the closure of all government and private schools in the district for the day. The Chief Education Officer directed all educational institutions to conduct online classes to ensure that academic activities remain uninterrupted. All Govt & Pvt schools in District Doda will remain closed today (01-08-2026) due to adverse weather, as per directions of District Administration. Online classes to continue as per schedule, said theChief Education OfficerDoda, in a statement.

Migrant worker injured in Kulgam terror attack succumbs; toll 2

A migrant worker critically wounded in a terror attack in south Kashmir's Kulgam district last evening succumbed at SKIMS Srinagar, taking the death toll to two, officials said today. A senior police official told Greater Kashmir that the militants targeted the labourers at the brick kiln in the Kelam area of the south Kashmir district late on Friday evening. He said the two labourers were injured in the attack, and one of them -- identified as Deepak Ratray-- succumbed to his injuries before he could be taken to a hospital. The other injured person -- Bopinder -- was first taken to GMC Anantnag and later referred to SKIMS Hospital in Soura, officials said, adding that he died during treatment. The attack follows closely on the heels of another incident less than 10 days ago, in which terrorists allegedly shot and killed a police officer in Anantnag town. Before this, two labourers were killed here in the summer capital of Jammu and Kashmir in 2024. On February 7, 2024, two non-local workers from Punjab, Amritpal Singh and Rohit Masih, were shot dead by a terrorist in the Shaheed Gunj area of Srinagar. Lieutenant Governor Manoj Sinha strongly condemned the terror attack and spoke to Director General of Police (DGP) Nalin Prabhat, directing security agencies to intensify anti-terror operations and ensure the perpetrators are brought to justice. In a post on X, the Lieutenant Governor said he had directed security forces to step up operations to eliminate the terrorists involved in the attack. He also expressed condolences to the bereaved families and reiterated that the Jammu and Kashmir administration and the entire nation stand firmly with them.

Delegation of Imams from UP hails shrine-transformation in J&K, meets Dr Darakhshan

A delegation of Imams and Ulema from Uttar Pradesh after visiting many prominent shrines in J&K have hailed the transformative development at these shrines. Maulana Farooq Naqashbandi from Rajouri accompanied the delegates during their spiritual tour. The delegation termed the development done by the Waqf Board here as the role model for whole of the country. The delegation later called on the Chairperson of the J&K Waqf Board Dr Syed Darakhshan Andrabi at Waqf Headquarters in Srinagar and expressed their appreciation for the Board under the leadership of Dr Andrabi for creating great infrastructure at all the spiritual shrines throughout Jammu and Kashmir, said a press release. In the detailed interaction, Dr Syed Darakhshan Andrabi said that on the basis of her years long administrative experience in Central Waqf Council, she could undertake the transformation and accountability mission into her hands just after taking charge as the first Chairperson of J&K Waqf Board as per the Central Waqf Act. Like J&K, Waqf Boards throughout the country were used for political interests by the earlier rulering dispensations. But under the Prime Minister Narendra Modis rule, we see changes everywhere and the Waqf system also saw many transformative changes throughout the country. I am thankful to the Prime Minister for providing me a chance to take the lead in J&K to enforce transparency and accountability in Waqf management system. I along with my team feel encouraged when our efforts are appreciated, said Waqf Board Chairperson. She assured the delegation that this mission of development with transparency will continue and our spiritual spaces will see more glory in the days to come.

CPI(M) announces protest on August 5 against abrogation of J&Ks special position

CPI(M) on Friday said it would hold a protest in Srinagar on August 5 against the scrapping of Jammu and Kashmir's special constitutional status in 2019. Addressing a press conference in south Kashmir's Kulgam district, CPI(M) Jammu and Kashmir secretary Mohammad Abbas Rather said that party workers would stage a peaceful demonstration at Lal Chowk against the Centres unilateral decision of reading down the special constitutional provisions of Jammu and Kashmir on August 5, 2019. The decision was not acceptable to us then, and it is not acceptable to us now, Rather said. On August 5, 2019, the Union government revoked the provisions of Article 370, which granted special status to the erstwhile state of Jammu and Kashmir, and bifurcated it into the Union Territories of Jammu and Kashmir and Ladakh. Rather said that the protest was aimed at reminding people across the country that the decision was taken unilaterally and without the consent of the people of Jammu and Kashmir. The government abrogated the special status of Jammu and Kashmir and split the historic state into two Union Territories. We have never accepted the decision and will continue to oppose it through democratic and peaceful means, he said. He argued that while Union Territories are generally upgraded to states, Jammu and Kashmir was instead downgraded from a state to a Union Territory, describing it as an unprecedented move. When new states or Union Territories are created, stakeholders are usually taken into confidence. In our case, the decision was imposed without consulting the people, Rather said. The CPI(M) leader also rejected the argument that Jammu and Kashmir's constitutional provisions were unique, saying several other Indian states enjoy special safeguards under different constitutional provisions. He said the party believed the revocation of Jammu and Kashmir's special status had set a precedent that could weaken constitutional protections available to other states.

Accidental firing in Kokernag: SOG man injured

A Special Operations Group (SOG) personnel was injured after his service weapon accidentally discharged during a patrol in the Magam area of Kokernag in south Kashmirs Anantnag district on Friday, officials said. The injured officer has been identified as Mohd Altaf Khan, son of Habibi Ull Khan. According to officials, the weapon went off accidentally during patrolling, and the bullet struck Khan in the foot. He was immediately taken to the Sub-District Hospital (SDH) Kokernag for first aid and was later referred to Government Medical College (GMC) Anantnag for specialised treatment. Police have taken note of the incident, and further details are awaited.

BSF ASI found dead with bullet injury at Boniyar, Baramulla

A Border Security Force (BSF) Assistant Sub-Inspector was found dead with a bullet injury at his place of posting in the Boniyar area of Baramulla district on Friday, officials said. The deceased was identified as ASI Shiv Dutt, son of Late Shimru Singh, a resident of Shoran in Muzaffarnagar district of Uttar Pradesh. He was around 56 years old. Officials said Shiv Dutt was serving with the 175 Battalion BSF and was posted with E Company in Boniyar. According to official sources, the ASI was found with a bullet injury at the camp. Preliminary information suggests that he may have died after allegedly shooting himself with his service rifle. However, the exact cause and circumstances of the incident are yet to be established. A police team from Police Station Boniyar rushed to the spot and initiated an investigation.

J&K International Film Festival: Deadline extended to August 1

The film submission deadline for 1st International Film Festival of Jammu and Kashmir (IFFJK) 2026 has been extended until 1st August, 2026 11:59 PM, to provide filmmakers final opportunity to register their entries for participation in the inaugural edition of the festival. The IFFJK, organised by the Department of Information and Public Relations (DIPR), is scheduled to be held from September 7 to 10, 2026. The festival aims to establish Jammu & Kashmir as a vibrant destination for cinema, creativity and cultural exchange while providing a prestigious platform for filmmakers from across the world to showcase their work. The Festival is receiving tremendous response with more than 900 entries received from around 50 countries. This encouraging response from both national and international filmmakers underscores the growing confidence in Jammu & Kashmir as an emerging hub for film production, cinematic excellence and creative collaboration. The four-day festival will feature screenings of selected films, interactive sessions, master-classes, panel discussions and cultural engagements, offering opportunities for filmmakers, industry experts, students and cinema lovers to exchange ideas and explore new avenues of collaboration. The festival also aims to promote the culture of Jammu & Kashmir through Cinema, promote artistic excellence, cultural exchange, and cinematic innovation by exhibiting and recognising outstanding films from around the world. The DIPR is planning a slew of activities to ensure participation from all stakeholders. Pertinent to mention, the curtain raiser ceremony of the festival was held on July 17, 2026, inviting filmmakers, artists, producers and cinema enthusiasts from around the world to participate in the landmark event.

CSC established at Seemari Border village

In a significant step towards ensuring inclusive governance and extending digital services to the remotest areas, the District Administration Kupwara today established a Common Service Centre (CSC) at Seemari Village of Sub-Division Karnah, a strategically located border village covered under the Vibrant Village Programme Phase-II. The initiative reflects the commitment of the District Administration towards proactive governance, digital inclusion, and last-mile delivery of public services, enabling residents of the far-flung border areas to access essential government services closer to their homes. The CSC will facilitate various online services, including government service delivery, banking facilities, e-KYC services, Aadhaar updation and other digital services. Additional services and necessary logistics support are being strengthened to make the centre more effective and citizen-friendly in the coming days. The establishment of the CSC is part of a series of initiatives being undertaken by the District Administration Kupwara under the Vibrant Village Programme Phase-II to bridge the digital divide and ensure that the benefits of development reach every citizen, including those residing in remote border villages. SDM Karnah, along with sectoral officers and Nodal Officer Kupwara associated with CSC operations, were present during the establishment of the facility. The local residents appreciated the initiative and expressed their gratitude to the District Administration for bringing essential digital services closer to the people of Seemari. The initiative further reinforces the vision of accessible, responsive and technology-driven governance in border areas.

People demand establishment of fire service station at Langate

The residents of Langate in north Kashmirs Kupwara district Friday expressed strong resentment against authorities for failing to establish a fire service station in the area. They said that Langate comprises of dozens of villages with thousands of population but has been deprived of this basic and fundamental need. Residents said that the nearest fire station happens to be at Handwara and at the time of any fire incident, they have to wait long for fire tenders to reach the spot. Mohammad Ishaq a local youth told Greater Kashmir that they have approached successive dispensations for establishment of a fire service station at Langate on numerous times but to no avail. He said that Langate being a Tehsil Headquater and centrally located place has been left without fire service station which according to him was injustice with the people of Langate. The residents have appealed Director General Fire Service Jammu and Kashmir to establish a fire service station at Langate so that their genuine grievance is redressed. The residents have also sought immediate intervention of MLA Langate Sheikh Khursheed in this regard.

JKPCI Colleges Association aghast over pharma-education lapses

J&K PCI Colleges Association has voiced serious concerns over regulatory lapses and policy shortcomings affecting pharmacy education in J&K. It has called for urgent Government intervention to safeguard the interests of pharmacy institutions and students. The Association highlighted these issues during a press conference at Press Club Jammu. Sushil Sudan, President, J&K PCI Colleges Association, drew attention to the key issues affecting the pharmacy sector. Among these, the major ones are examining Authority for Pharmacy Courses. The Association demanded that the examining authority for the conduct of examinations of Pharmacy courses should be vested with the Jammu & Kashmir State Pharmacy Council instead of the Jammu & Kashmir State Nursing Council, as the present practice is in explicit contravention of Section 12 of the Pharmacy Act, 1948. The State Pharmacy Council has already submitted representations to the Government on two occasions and has demonstrated its capability and preparedness to conduct Pharmacy examinations with the necessary infrastructure and resources. The Association has said that the domiciliary bar has adversely affected the children of Government employees, including personnel serving in the Armed Forces and Central Armed Police Forces such as the CRPF and BSF, who are posted in or otherwise connected with the Union Territory of Jammu & Kashmir. These students are rendered ineligible for admission to Nursing and Pharmacy courses solely on the ground that they do not possess domicile status. Such a restriction causes undue hardship and runs contrary to the spirit of the abrogation of Article 370, which was intended to promote greater integration, equality and the removal of discriminatory barriers in educational opportunities. The Association also urged the Government to exempt admissions to the Diploma in Pharmacy (D.Pharmacy) course from the JKBOPEE counselling process. Considering the unique nature of the D.Pharmacy programme, the limited intake capacity of PCI-approved institutions, and the need for timely admissions, the Association recommended that admissions be conducted directly by Pharmacy Council of India (PCI)-approved institutions in accordance with the applicable PCI norms and guidelines instead of through JKBOPEE. The Association emphasized that such a mechanism would facilitate timely and efficient admissions, minimize administrative delays, ensure optimum utilization of available seats, reduce the financial burden on students and institutions, and promote the overall growth of pharmacy education in the Union Territory while maintaining complete transparency and compliance with the regulations of the Pharmacy Council of India. Sushil Sudan urged the Government to redress the genuine demands of the Association at the earliest. Dr Davinder Chopra (General Secretary ), Sajad Ahmad Bhat (Vice President), Dr Hyat Mukhtar, Qayoom Yousuf, Nazir Ahmad, Adil Mushtaq, Rajeshwar Verma participated in the press conference.

New Fast Tea contains synthetic colors

The Food Safety Department , Pulwama, has prohibited the sale of a batch of Dust Tea (Premium Instant Mix Tea) marketed under the brand name New Fast Tea (Batch No. 10) after it was declared unsafe for human consumption by the National Food Laboratory, Ghaziabad. According to the Designated Officer, Food Safety, Pulwama, the sample of the tea product was procured by the Food Safety Officer, Tral, from the market and subsequently sent for analysis. The laboratory report found the product to be unsafe due to the presence of water-soluble synthetic colour Tartrazine and Sunset Yellow, rendering it non-compliant with the provisions of the Food Safety and Standards Act, 2006. The department stated that the consumption of the said product may be harmful to public health and is liable to prohibition under Regulation 2.3.7 of the Food Safety and Standards (Prohibition and Restriction on Sales) Regulations, 2011. It was further stated that the manufacture and sale of unsafe food, as defined under Section 3(1)(zz)(vii) of the Food Safety and Standards Act, 2006, is prohibited and punishable under Section 59(i) of the Act. Accordingly, exercising powers conferred under Section 36(3)(b) of the Food Safety and Standards Act, 2006, the Designated Officer, Food Safety, Pulwama, has ordered an immediate prohibition on the sale of the aforesaid food product within the territorial jurisdiction of District Pulwama until further orders.

Four ghee samples found unsafe: FDA

The Food & Drugs Administration (FDA), J&K has initiated enforcement action following the declaration of four Ghee samples, namely Dairy Mohan, Apna Dairy Milk, Sahi Taj, and Milk Bite, as unsafe by the National Food Laboratory, Ghaziabad. Based on the laboratory reports, the Designated Officer, Food Safety, Anantnag, seized 1,250 litres of Ghee belonging to the affected batch numbers, valued at approximately Rs 4.88 lakh, and issued a Prohibition Order under the provisions of the Food Safety and Standards Act, 2006. The sale and distribution of the affected batches have also been prohibited under Section 36(3)(b) read with Section 18(1)(f) of the Food Safety and Standards Act, 2006. Further, Food Safety Teams in the Jammu Division conducted inspections, collected three additional samples of the affected Ghee brands, and forwarded them to NABL-accredited laboratories for analysis of quality and safety parameters. During the inspections, 1,277 litres of Ghee, valued at approximately Rs 4.97 lakh, were seized under the provisions of the Food Safety and Standards Act, 2006, pending receipt of laboratory analysis reports. In a separate enforcement action, the Food Safety Team, Srinagar, conducted inspections of seven establishments dealing in meat and meat products. During the inspection, 2,600 kg of frozen meat, valued at approximately Rs 5.98 lakh, was seized from an establishment at Bubghair, Kawadara, Srinagar, as the product was found to be misleading due to a mismatch between the contents of the package and the declarations made on the label, in violation of the labelling requirements prescribed under the Food Safety and Standards Act, 2006 and the regulations. The frozen meat was also found to be stored under unsanitary conditions. Accordingly, a complaint has been filed before the Additional Deputy Commissioner, Srinagar (Adjudicating Officer) under Section 61 of the Food Safety and Standards Act, 2006, for furnishing false or misleading information or declarations, and under Section 56 for storing food under unhygienic or unsanitary conditions. Section 61 provides for a penalty of up to Rs 10 lakh, while Section 56 provides for a penalty of up to Rs 1 lakh. The Food & Drugs Administration, J&K advises members of the public to remain vigilant and report the sale or availability of the prohibited Ghee batches or any suspected case of unsafe, adulterated, or misbranded food through the Toll-Free Helpline 104 or by email at cfsjandk.fnd@jk.gov.in .

Govt approves Rs 13.75 crore for heritage conservation projects at Purmandal, Imambara Zadibal

The Government of Jammu & Kashmir has approved two major heritage conservation projects worth Rs 13.75 crore for the restoration and revival of the historic heritage site of Purmandal in Samba and the conservation and upgradation of the historic Imambara Zadibal in Srinagar. The twin initiatives reaffirm the Governments commitment to preserving Jammu & Kashmirs rich religious, cultural and architectural heritage while enhancing facilities for pilgrims, devotees and visitors. The Government has approved a Rs 7.16 crore project for the restoration and revival of the historic heritage site of Purmandal in Samba. The initiative aims to preserve the sites unique heritage character while improving essential infrastructure to enhance the experience of pilgrims and tourists visiting the revered shrine town. The Government has also sanctioned a Rs 6.59 crore project for the conservation and upgradation of the historic Imambara Zadibal in Srinagar. The project seeks to conserve the architectural and heritage character of the centuries-old Imambara while upgrading essential infrastructure to provide improved facilities for the large number of devotees and visitors who visit the revered religious site throughout the year. These projects form part of the Governments sustained efforts to protect and restore places of immense religious, historical and cultural significance across Jammu and Kashmir through focused investments in heritage conservation and infrastructure development. The approval of the Purmandal and Imambara Zadibal projects follows a series of similar initiatives undertaken by the Government in recent months. Earlier, the Government sanctioned a Rs 6.38 crore project for the development of the revered holy spring of Khoo Sahib at Yarwan in Shadimarg, Pulwama. The project aims to upgrade essential infrastructure and improve facilities for devotees while preserving the sites religious, cultural and historical significance, thereby enhancing the overall pilgrim experience. The Government has also recently approved two major heritage conservation projects worth Rs 16.36 crore for the revival and restoration of the historic Jamia Masjid Sharief in Shopian and the revered Sarvadhar Chaumanda Mata Mandir in Ramban. These projects are designed to protect important heritage structures while strengthening amenities for worshippers and visitors.

LoP Sunil Sharma meets LG, seeks justice for left-out sportspersons

Leader of Opposition in the Jammu & Kashmir Legislative Assembly, Sunil Sharma, along with Billawar MLA Satish Sharma, on Friday met Lieutenant Governor Manoj Sinha and discussed a range of issues related to sports, religious affairs, infrastructure development and public welfare in the Union Territory. During the meeting, the BJP leaders raised concerns over the reported exclusion of several accomplished sportspersons from Jammu and Kashmir from the recently announced selection list. They specifically highlighted the cases of deserving para-athletes and Arjuna Award recipients, stating that these athletes have brought laurels to both Jammu and Kashmir and the country through their achievements. The delegation urged the Lieutenant Governor to ensure that all deserving sportspersons are duly recognised and provided the benefits, support and opportunities they rightfully deserve. The leaders also took up issues concerning the Shri Sukrala Mata Shrine Board, stressing the need to strengthen the Board and undertake measures to improve infrastructure and pilgrim amenities. They said better facilities and planned development would help establish the shrine as a major religious and tourism destination in the region. In addition, Sharma and Satish Sharma apprised the Lieutenant Governor of several issues concerning infrastructure development, public welfare, tourism, road connectivity and the timely execution of ongoing developmental projects across different parts of Jammu and Kashmir. They sought expeditious intervention to ensure that development projects are completed without delay and that the benefits of development reach all regions of the Union Territory in a balanced and inclusive manner. The delegation emphasised that improved infrastructure, enhanced connectivity and accelerated implementation of public projects are essential for promoting economic growth, boosting tourism and improving the quality of life of the people. Lieutenant Governor Manoj Sinha gave a patient hearing to the issues raised by the delegation and assured them that all genuine concerns would be examined on priority. He also assured the leaders that appropriate directions would be issued to the concerned departments to facilitate timely action. Following the meeting, Sunil Sharma thanked the Lieutenant Governor for his positive response and expressed confidence that the issues highlighted by the delegation, particularly those concerning deserving sportspersons, the development of the Shri Sukrala Mata Shrine Board and the acceleration of developmental works, would receive due consideration in the larger interest of the people of Jammu and Kashmir.

PM Modi's 'vocal for local' call boosts sales of Kashmiri products during Amarnath Yatra

Prime Minister Narendra Modi's appeal to Amarnath pilgrims to embrace the Vocal for Local campaign has translated into tangible economic gains for thousands of small traders, artisans and service providers in Jammu & Kashmir during the ongoing Shri Amarnath Ji Yatra 2026. The annual pilgrimage, one of the country's largest religious events, has traditionally supported the local economy. However, this year's yatra has witnessed a notable rise in the purchase of locally made products and the use of local services after the Prime Minister urged devotees to dedicate at least 10 per cent of their travel expenditure to local goods and businesses. In a letter addressed to pilgrims ahead of the yatra, Prime Minister Modi outlined five pledges for devotees, including maintaining cleanliness, ensuring safety, protecting the environment and supporting the local economy. Inspired by the spirit of 'Vocal for Local,' if we spend at least 10 per cent of our travel expenses on purchasing local products, it will directly strengthen the livelihoods of families and youth in Jammu & Kashmir, the Prime Minister had said in his message. The appeal has resonated strongly with pilgrims travelling via the Baltal and Pahalgam routes, according to local traders and service providers. Small shopkeepers and roadside vendors selling Kashmiri shawls, pherans, embroidered suits, saffron, dry fruits, walnuts and traditional handicrafts reported a sharp increase in sales as pilgrims sought authentic local products to take back home. The economic impact has extended well beyond retail trade. Thousands of pony operators, pithoos, palki bearers, tea stall owners and other service providers along the pilgrimage routes have also witnessed sustained business throughout the season. For many families, the annual pilgrimage remains the primary source of income, with earnings from the two-month yatra supporting them for much of the year. This year, pilgrims are consciously asking for locally made goods and Kashmiri saffron, said Ghulam Hassan, a dry-fruit vendor at the Baltal base camp. When they hear about the Prime Minister's 10 per cent pledge, many purchase additional packs of almonds and walnut kernels to take home. It has made a significant difference to our business. Several local vendors welcomed the initiative, saying it has helped improve sales while promoting Kashmir's traditional crafts and agricultural products. We are thankful to Prime Minister Narendra Modi for encouraging Amarnath Yatra pilgrims to spend at least 10 per cent of their travel budget on local products. This initiative directly benefits traders, artisans and small businesses and strengthens the Valley's economy, a group of vendors at Baltal said. Pony operators and labourers, whom the Prime Minister also acknowledged in his message for their dedicated service to pilgrims, said they have experienced steady demand throughout the yatra. They credited the coordinated efforts of the Shri Amarnathji Shrine Board (SASB) and the local administration for ensuring smooth operations and regulated service arrangements. As the pilgrimage enters its final phase, the Vocal for Local initiative is emerging as a key factor in enhancing local livelihoods, demonstrating how a major religious event can also serve as a catalyst for grassroots economic development in Jammu & Kashmir.

Former AAP councillor Tahir Hussain, 4 others get life term for murder of IB officer

A Delhi court on Friday sentenced former Aam Aadmi Party (AAP) councillor Tahir Hussain and four others to life imprisonment for the murder of Intelligence Bureau (IB) officer Ankit Sharma during the 2020 Delhi riots, reports Bar & Bench. Additional Sessions Judge Praveen Singh of the Karkardooma Court rejected the prosecutions plea for the death penalty, holding that although the crime was marked by nauseating and sickening brutality, the convicts were not beyond reformation. The court observed that Sharma was caught by a murderous mob baying for blood during the communal violence and that his body was later thrown into a drain after the killing. It said the brutality of the offence made it an aggravating circumstance, but noted that the prosecution had failed to establish that the convicts had a violent disposition or were beyond reform. Besides Hussain, the court awarded life imprisonment to Nazir, Asim, Javed and Anas, who were convicted of murder, rioting, promoting enmity and other offences under the Indian Penal Code. Delhi Police had sought capital punishment, describing Sharmas killing as a cold-blooded and brutal murder. The defence argued that the case did not fall within the rarest of rare category required for awarding the death penalty. The case stems from an FIR lodged by Sharmas father, Ravinder Kumar, after the IB officer went missing during the riots on February 25, 2020. Sharmas body was later recovered from the Khajuri Khas drain, with the complainant alleging that Hussain and his associates were responsible for the killing.

Around 60,000 migrants enter Spains Ceuta from Morocco; at least 34 die

Around 60,000 migrants crossed into Spains North African enclave of Ceuta from Morocco over the past 24 hours, while at least 34 people died during the dangerous journey, according to media reports. Ceutas President Juan Jess Vivas described the situation as unsustainable, saying the number of new arrivals was equivalent to nearly 70 per cent of the enclaves population. Spains Interior Ministry, however, estimated the number of arrivals at around 50,000, the BBC reported. The mass influx came days after Spains Supreme Court ruled that migrants intercepted at sea while trying to reach Ceuta or Melilla cannot be summarily returned to Morocco. Spanish Prime Minister Pedro Snchez termed the influx an attack on Spains territorial integrity and said all illegal migrants would be sent back to Morocco as soon as possible. Spain has deployed troops to reinforce security in Ceuta and Melilla, while more than 25,000 migrants have already returned to Morocco voluntarily, according to officials. The BBC reported that thousands of migrants, including women, children and minors, swam into Ceuta after border controls appeared to collapse, raising fresh concerns over migration and border security in Europe.

J&K Sports Council begins Junior Boys Football trials for National Championship, 375 register

The J&K Sports Council on Friday commenced open selection trials for the Junior Boys Football Team for the 2026-27 Dr B.C. Roy Trophy National Football Championship, organised under the aegis of the All India Football Federation, with 375 players from across the Union Territory registering for the process. Simultaneous divisional trials began in Srinagar and Jammu, with selected players set to advance to the UT-level selection camp in Srinagar next week. As many as 248 from Kashmir division and 127 from Jammu division have registered themselves. The first day of divisional trials, as per a statement, was held simultaneously at the Synthetic Turf Football Stadium, TRC, Srinagar for Kashmir division players and at the Mini Stadium Synthetic Turf, Parade Ground, Jammu for Jammu division players. Divisional trials continue on the second day, 1 August 2026, at the same venues. Players selected at the divisional stage will proceed to UT level selection trials at the Synthetic Turf Football Stadium, TRC, Srinagar on 3 and 4 August 2026. The trials are open to boys born between 1 January 2011 and 31 December 2012 who are residents of J&K. Players reported in full playing kit and carried original birth certificates issued by the Municipal Corporation or competent authority, Aadhaar cards updated with recent photographs, and passport-sized photographs for verification. Players selected at UT level will undergo a coaching camp in Srinagar, with the final squad announced before the teams screening and departure. In accordance with AIFF guidelines, selected players may be required to undergo Bone Age Verification Tests. The selection committees decision will be final and binding.

WHS Sports Hub partners with Test Twenty for J&K cricket trials

WHS Sports Hub has partnered with Test Twenty to host the official J&K Trials for the worlds first Mixed-Gender Youth Cricket Championship. The trials, as per a WHS statement, are open to boys and girls aged 1321 years and offer aspiring cricketers a direct pathway to the global stage. Supported by cricket legends AB de Villiers, Matthew Hayden and Sir Clive Lloyd, and led by Rajkumar Sharma, coach of Virat Kohli and Chairman of the Global Selection Committee, Test Twenty is redefining youth cricket by creating merit-based opportunities for talented players from around the world. The statement adds that players selected from the J&K Trials will progress to the Global Challenger Pool, with opportunities to advance to the Elite Pool, the Players Draft, and gain access to scholarships, elite academies and professional cricket pathways based entirely on performance. As the Exclusive Ground Partner for J&K, WHS Sports Hub invites aspiring cricketers from every district of the Union Territory to register early and seize this opportunity to showcase their talent on an international stage, the statement adds. Venue for the trials is at WHS Sports Hub, Sonwar Bagh, Srinagar, Jammu and Kashmir with trial date on 16 August 2026. For registration the statement has shared the website address as www.testtwenty.com/register and for queries, it has asked to contact WHS Sports Hub Sonwar Bagh, Srinagar, Jammu and Kashmir on 91 97977 33171.

Cabinet approves revamped Khelo India Scheme, enhanced Assistance to National Sports Federations (ANSFs)

The Union Cabinet chaired by the Prime Minister Narendra Modi has approved an expanded Khelo India Scheme and enhanced Assistance to National Sports Federations (ANSFs) with a combined outlay of Rs.36,441 crore for the period 202627 to 203031, reaffirming the governments commitment to harnessing the power of sports for youth development and nation-building. This is the countrys most ambitious sports development programme since independence. The aspirations of the youth of the country towards sports has been given a major boost and will have a transformational impact over the coming decade. The approved outlay, as per a PIB statement, is nearly eight times that of the previous Khelo India Scheme, reflecting the Governments commitment to making sports a cornerstone of youth development, nation-building and Indias emergence as a global sporting powerhouse. The revamped scheme is designed to create a seamless pathway for every talented young Indianfrom school playgrounds and village sports fields to the Olympic podium. It seeks to ensure that no sporting talent is left undiscovered because of geography, economic background or lack of opportunity. Aligned with the vision of Khelo Bharat Niti 2025 and the National Education Policy 2020, the scheme integrates sports with education, fitness, technology and high-performance training while laying a strong foundation for Indias long-term sporting ambitions, including the 2030 Commonwealth Games and the countrys bid to host the Olympic and Paralympic Games. Every talented youth gets a pathway to excellence: For the first time, a comprehensive athlete development pathway has been created to support young sportspersons at every stagefrom talent identification and scientific training to international competition and Olympic preparation. The scheme establishes an integrated nationwide sports ecosystem comprising National Centres of Excellence (NCOEs), Khelo India Centres of Excellence (KICoEs), SAI Training Centres (STCs), Khelo India Accredited Academies (KIAAs), Khelo India Centres (KICs) and Youth Sports Companies (YSCs) of the Armed Forces. Together, these institutions will provide world-class coaching, sports science support and modern infrastructure across the country. To strengthen the school sports ecosystem, the Government has introduced two new initiativesKhelo India Feeder Schools (KIFS) and Khelo India Utkrishta Vidyalayas (KIUV)which will integrate sports with mainstream education and enable early identification and systematic nurturing of talented children. Indias athlete pool to expand nearly ten-fold: A major reform under the scheme is the creation of the Emerging Khelo India Athletes (E-KIAs) category alongside the existing Khelo India Athletes programme. This will expand the structured athlete development ecosystem by nearly ten times, bringing thousands of additional young athletes under professional coaching, scientific support and long-term mentoring. A strengthened nationwide talent identification framework involving Talent Identification Development Committees, Zonal Committees, Talent Scouts, High Performance Directors and High Performance Managers will ensure continuous identification, tracking and development of promising athletes across the country. The scheme also establishes a clear progression pathway from grassroots competitions to Khelo India, and subsequently to the Target Olympic Podium Scheme (TOPS), enabling deserving athletes to receive world-class training, international exposure and comprehensive support to compete for medals at the highest level. More competitions, greater opportunities: Recognising that sporting excellence depends on regular competition, the revamped scheme significantly strengthens Indias domestic competition ecosystem. It supports school, university, regional and sport-specific leagues alongside national championships to provide sustained competitive exposure to young athletes. Special emphasis has been placed on expanding opportunities for women athletes, para-athletes, indigenous sports, and sports as a tool for peace, inclusion and community development. The scheme also provides support for organising the National Games and hosting major international sporting events in India. Building a fitter and healthier India: The Fit India Movement will be significantly expanded to promote fitness as a nationwide movement, particularly among young people. Campaigns will encourage active lifestyles, womens participation in sports, outreach in border and remote areas and sports-based initiatives against substance abuse, reinforcing sports as a vehicle for social transformation. Investing in coaches, technology & innovation: Recognising that athletes can excel only with world-class support systems, the Government will establish the National Coach Accreditation Board (NCAB) to standardise coaching qualifications, improve professional standards and strengthen the capacity of coaches and support staff across the country. The scheme also envisages a unified digital sports platform integrating athlete databases, infrastructure, competitions, coaching resources, talent assessments, funding and Fit India participation. The platform will enable data-driven planning, transparent governance and personalised athlete development. Stronger partnerships for sporting excellence: The Government will deepen collaboration with private academies, corporate partners and other institutions to leverage investment, innovation and expertise in sports infrastructure, talent development and athlete support, creating a truly national sports ecosystem driven by both public and private participation. Supporting Indias global sporting ambitions: To complement the revamped Khelo India Scheme, the Government has also approved a strengthened Assistance to National Sports Federations (ANSF) Scheme for the period 2026-31. The scheme will support Indian athletes and teams through funding for coaching, sports science, modern equipment, international exposure, coaching camps, engagement of foreign experts and participation in major international competitions. It will also support sports cooperation with countries of the Global South and promote Indias indigenous sports internationally. A national mission for Viksit Bharat: The revamped Khelo India Scheme represents one of the largest investments ever made in Indias sporting future. More than a sports programme, it is a national mission to empower young Indians with opportunity, confidence and excellence. By creating a seamless pathway from grassroots talent to global sporting success, the scheme aims to nurture champions, inspire a culture of fitness, strengthen Indias sporting ecosystem and position the country among the worlds leading sporting nations as it moves towards the vision of Viksit Bharat@2047.

Commonwealth Games 2026 | PM Modi congratulates Lovepreet Singh, Seema on winning medals

The Prime Minister, Narendra Modi, congratulated Lovepreet Singh and Seema on winning the medals at the Glasgow Commonwealth Games 2026. Lovepreet Singh won Silver medal in the Mens +110 kg weightlifting event at the Glasgow Commonwealth Games 2026. The Prime Minister, as per a PIB statement, noted that Lovepreet Singh set a new Commonwealth Games record in the snatch event with his outstanding effort. PM Modi lauded his dedication and determination and extended his best wishes for his future endeavours. The Prime Minister wrote on X; Exceptional performance by Lovepreet Singh for winning a Silver in the Mens +110kg event. His outstanding effort in the snatch set a new Commonwealth Games record too. His dedication and determination are truly admirable. My best wishes to him for the endeavours ahead. #CWG2026 PM Modi also congratulated Seema on winning the bronze medal in the Womens Discus Throw event at the Glasgow Commonwealth Games 2026. The Prime Minister noted that Seema secured the medal with a best throw of 58.65 metres. PM Modi said that her achievement has made India proud and inspired the youth of the nation. He wished her the very best for her future endeavours. Shri Modi posted on X; Congratulations to Seema for securing a Bronze in the Womens Discus Throw event with a best throw of 58.65m. Her efforts have made India proud and motivated the youth of our nation. Wishing her the very best for the endeavours ahead. #CWG2026

Revamped Habba Kadal wooden bridge in shambles

Srinagar, Jul 31: Pedestrian bridge at Habba Kadal, refurbished under the Srinagar Smart City project just a few years ago, has once again come under scrutiny as its deteriorating condition poses risk to pedestrians. Conceived as a heritage-inspired pedestrian corridor with wooden aesthetics and public spaces, the bridge presents a contrasting picture in absence of repairs. Several wooden planks have worn out, portions of the surface have developed damage, while uneven patches have made crossing difficult, particularly for the elderly and school-going children. With persistent rainfall over the past several weeks, locals said the situation has become even more hazardous as rainwater accumulates over damaged sections, making the wooden surface slippery and concealing broken portions beneath puddles. Crossing the bridge during rain has become even more dangerous. There have already been instances where pedestrians have stumbled after their feet got caught in the broken surface. Unless repairs are taken up immediately, a serious accident cannot be ruled out, said Fayaz Ahmad, a resident. Shopkeepers operating on both sides of the bridge said business activity has continued to decline since vehicular movement was stopped, adding that repeated requests to permit at least two-wheelers and light motor vehicles have not received any response. We were told the project would improve the locality and attract more visitors, but many customers now avoid this route because of the poor condition of the bridge. Our business has suffered considerably and nothing has changed despite repeated appeals, said Shabir Ahmad, a trader. Residents said the bridge also witnesses the presence of stray dogs during evening hours, making pedestrians, particularly women, students and senior citizens, feel unsafe after dusk. The bridge should be a safe public space, but poor maintenance and lack of regular monitoring have created unnecessary problems. Authorities need to restore the damaged portions before the situation worsens, said Mudasir Hussain, another local. Earlier senior government officials and public representatives visited the site and assured repairs. We will ensure the restoration is taken up without delay and all the related issues will be resolved accordingly, An official said However, residents and traders said no visible work has been initiated even after the passage of several months. Residents and traders have once again appealed to the authorities to undertake immediate restoration of the damaged bridge and review the demand for allowing limited movement of light vehicles to revive commercial activity in the historic market. They said timely intervention would not only improve pedestrian safety but also help restore confidence among people who depend on the bridge every day.

J&K notifies agriculture pause periods under VB-GRAM G to protect peak sowing, harvesting seasons

The J&K Government has officially notified specific agricultural pause periods under the newly launched Viksit BharatGuarantee for Rozgar and Ajeevika Mission (Gramin) (VB-GRAM-G), effectively halting public works during peak farming seasons to prevent labour shortages. The move comes as the Union Territory transitions from the erstwhile MGNREGA to the VB-GRAM-G. According to the order issued by the Secretary, Rural Development and Panchayati Raj Department Mohmmad Aijaz Asad, the pause schedules have been tailored to the distinct agro-climatic calendars of the Kashmir and Jammu divisions. In the Kashmir Division, no new works will be commenced or executed during three key windows: April 26 to May 10 for Kharif sowing; May 25 to June 10 for Kharif transplanting and Rabi harvesting; and September 26 to October 23 for Kharif harvesting and Rabi sowing. For the Jammu Division, the enforced pause will occur from April 15 to April 29 for Rabi harvesting; June 15 to June 29 for Kharif sowing and transplanting; and October 15 to November 13 for Kharif harvesting and Rabi sowing. The notification, issued under Sections 6(2) and 6(3) of the VB-GRAM-G Act, strictly bars the initiation or execution of scheme works during these windows. However, a carve-out allows the Government to undertake specific projects during the pause period if expressly permitted by the Government of India under Section 7 of the Act on grounds of public interest. This enforcement of a mandatory 60-day agricultural pause is a core feature of the newly notified Jammu Kashmir Viksit BharatGuarantee for Rozgar and Ajeevika Mission (Gramin) Scheme, 2026, which was formally rolled out on July 1st,2026. The Secretary said that the flagship programme enhances the guaranteed wage employment from the previous 100 days to 125 days annually for every eligible rural household willing to do unskilled manual work. Asad said that with the agricultural pause periods now legally defined, we are ensuring that our drive for rural infrastructure development does not come at the cost of farm productivity The transition to 125 days of work under VB-GRAM-G, coupled with technology-driven planning, marks a significant shift towards the vision of Viksit Bharat@2047, he said.

Progress of Lake Conservation initiatives reviewed

Srinagar, Jul 31: The Vice Chairman (VC), Jammu & Kashmir Lake Conservation and Management Authority (JKLCMA), Khurshid Ahmad Shah, convened a review meeting today, to take stock of various ongoing activities and works being undertaken by the Authority for the conservation, protection and management of water bodies in Jammu & Kashmir. During the meeting, a detailed review of the progress of various ongoing works and field activities was undertaken. The Vice Chairman emphasized the need for time-bound execution, effective monitoring and regular field inspections to ensure that the objectives of lake and waterbody conservation are achieved in a coordinated and sustainable manner. The meeting also reviewed measures being undertaken for the protection of water bodies from encroachments, illegal constructions, dumping of solid waste, and discharge of untreated sewage. The concerned officers were directed to maintain close coordination with the field agencies and take prompt action wherever violations affecting the water bodies are noticed. The progress of demarcation and clearance of encroachments, cleaning and maintenance of water channels, outlets and other associated works was also reviewed. The officers were directed to intensify field-level monitoring and ensure that cleared areas are protected from re-encroachment. Issues relating to the 19 inlet channels coming from hinterlands came up for discussion. The Vice Chairman stressed the importance of ensuring proper functioning and maintenance of the regulatory gates installed on these inlet channels. It was desired that J&K PCC, in light of the directions of the High Court, shall be approached for banning the use of pesticides/chemicals by farmers along the hinterlands and ultimately flowing into these inlet channels thereby deteriorating the water quality of the lake. The functioning and maintenance of aerators, fountains and other lake conservation infrastructure were also reviewed. Directions were issued for early rectification of deficiencies and ensuring that such infrastructure remains operational and is properly maintained. The Vice Chairman further stressed upon the officers to ensure regular submission of progress reports, proper documentation of works and close supervision of projects at the field level. The concerned officers were directed to adhere strictly to the timelines and submit updated status reports on the progress of works. The Vice Chairman reiterated that conservation of the water bodies is a collective responsibility and called for sustained efforts, inter-departmental coordination and strict enforcement of applicable provisions to safeguard the fragile aquatic ecosystems of Jammu & Kashmir for future generations.