Opinion

Before anything else, recognise a national tragedy

A tragic stampede occurred during Durga Pujo celebrations in Kolkata, resulting in the deaths of at least 19 people. The chaos reportedly started after an announcement about a pandal collapse triggered a panic rush for a narrow exit. This incident highlights the ongoing issues with crowd management and the lack of safety measures at such events. Authorities need to adopt non-negotiable safety regulations to prevent future tragedies.

Time to engage smartly with China: Push premium Indian exports

Piyush Goyal has articulated a vision for recalibrating India's economic ties with China, focusing on balanced trade. Both nations are engaging in dialogue to stabilize their economic relations despite existing tensions and imbalances. India aims to improve market access and reduce dependency on Chinese imports through selective investment policies. Opportunities exist for increasing exports of premium Indian goods and securing strategic supplies from China.

Melody for Monday - Tanishk Bagchis Makhna

Tanishk Bagchis song Makhna from the movie Drive captivates listeners with its enchanting melody and lyrics. The song portrays love and joy through its immersive and playful words sung by various artists. Makhna combines a beautiful tune with meaningful lyrics, creating a profound musical experience. Its construction ensures that it remains engaging even when stripped down to a single voice.

Make employees your customers

Snabbit operates in India's gig economy by selling mandatory workwear to its workers, increasing revenue significantly. Rather than focusing solely on customer acquisition, the company monetizes its own workforce effectively. This practice has contributed to the company's operational revenue despite existing losses. The approach may redefine how companies engage with gig workers in the future. Such strategies highlight emerging business models in the evolving economy.

Get a tech list to tick: Can India achieve true self-reliance without an evidence-based technology list?

India aims to achieve self-reliance by systematically identifying critical technologies for its national strategy. The government has established initiatives, such as the Anusandhan National Research Foundation, to drive research and development. A clear list of vital technologies will help prioritize investments and reduce dependency on foreign entities. Strategic instruments can then be directed toward fostering domestic capabilities in specified sectors.

Essential requirement

Intuitional practice, or sadhana, is considered a fundamental duty for every individual. Many individuals are discouraged by fear from pursuing this practice in their everyday lives. It is a misconception that sadhana requires complete renunciation of worldly life and interactions. Avidyamaya, or ignorance, follows a person regardless of their physical environment, whether busy or isolated.

GOC Northern Command visits security formations in north Kashmir, reviews operational preparedness

Srinagar, Oct 18: General Officer Commanding-in-Chief (GOC-in-C) Northern Command Lieutenant General Pratik Sharma today visited Rashtriya Rifles units in north Kashmir to review operational preparedness and assess the prevailing security situation. While interacting with officers and troops on ground, the Army Commander emphasized the importance of constant vigil, operational synergy and regional outreach in the hinterland to retain an upper hand over the inimical elements. The GOC commended the professionalism of troops to maintain the resolve of terror-free Jammu and Kashmir.

2.7 lakh students set for JKBOSE exams from Monday, Itoo extends wishes

Srinagar, Oct 18: Around 2.7 lakh students are set to appear in the annual Class 10th, 11th and 12th examinations across Kashmir and the winter-zone areas of Jammu, beginning Monday, as Education Minister Sakina Itoo on Sunday extended her best wishes to the candidates. Taking to social media platform X, the minister, as per the news agencyKashmir News Observer (KNO), extended her heartfelt wishes to all students appearing in the examinations. Around 2.7 lakh students are scheduled to appear in the examinations across Kashmir and the winter-zone areas of Jammu. The Class 10th examinations will commence on October 19, followed by Class 12th on October 21 and Class 11th on October 29, 2026, the minister said. She said JKBOSE had completed all necessary preparations to ensure the smooth and orderly conduct of the examinations. Itoo urged students to approach the examinations with confidence, relying on their hard work, dedication and perseverance. Stay confident, manage your time wisely and approach every examination with a calm and positive mindset, she advised. The minister also appealed to parents to support their children with patience, understanding and encouragement, avoid unnecessary pressure and provide a peaceful environment that safeguards their physical and mental well-being. She further urged centre superintendents and examination staff to ensure that the examinations are conducted in a fair, transparent, disciplined and impartial manner, while upholding the sanctity and integrity of the examination system. Itoo also said JKBOSE had constituted a Grievance-cum-Monitoring Cell to ensure transparency and timely redressal of examination-related complaints. Students, parents and other stakeholders can contact the designated offices for assistance. For the Kashmir Division, they can email jsexamskd.jkbose@jk.gov.in or call 0194-3186762. For the Jammu Division, they can email jsexamsjd.jkbose@jk.gov.in or call 0191-2585732, the minister said.

Woman among two feared drowned in Chenab in J-K's Doda, Ramban

Jammu, Oct 18: Two persons are feared drowned after allegedly jumping into the Chenab in Doda and Ramban districts of Jammu and Kashmir on Sunday, officials said. Rescue operations are underway to trace the missing persons, they said. Officials said a 30-year-old woman, identified as Priya -- resident of Balwana village and mother of two minor children -- allegedly jumped into the Chenab from Bug Bridge in Doda district Sunday afternoon. The woman was swept away by the strong current, following which a search operation was launched to trace her, they said. In a separate incident, a search operation was launched for a youth, identified as Mohammad Imran, who is suspected to have jumped into the Chenab near his residence in Rajgarh area of Ramban district on Saturday. Search teams comprising police and State Disaster Response Force (SDRF) personnel, and local volunteers, launched efforts to trace the missing youth. During the operation, his mobile phone was recovered from the banks of the river, officials said. A purported suicide message, allegedly forwarded by Imran to his family from his mobile phone, claimed that he was taking the extreme step due to alleged harassment by some individuals over a financial dispute involving Rs 9 lakh, they added.

Govt caps trade margins on 137 anti-cancer drugs at 30 pc; retail prices likely to fall 70 pc

New Delhi, Oct 18: Drug pricing regulator NPPA on Saturday capped trade margins on 137 non-scheduled anti-cancer formulations at 30 per cent, according to an official statement. The move, effective November 9, is expected to slash retail prices of these critical life-saving medicines by up to 70 per cent depending on their current price structures, the Ministry of Chemicals and Fertilisers statement said. The National Pharmaceutical Pricing Authority (NPPA), functioning under the Department of Pharmaceuticals, implemented the Trade Margin Rationalisation (TMR) mechanism under Paragraph 19 of the Drugs (Prices Control) Order (DPCO), 2013, following a gazette notification issued on Saturday. The intervention stems from recommendations by an expert committee constituted under the Directorate General of Health Services (DGHS), comprising leading oncologists, medical specialists, hospital experts from across the country, and government officials. The committee recommended 137 drugs for margin rationalisation, and the list will be updated periodically. The exercise builds on the success of NPPA's 2019 pilot TMR initiative, in which trade margins on 42 anti-cancer medicines were capped at 30 per cent, leading to an MRP reduction of up to 90 per cent across 526 brands. The measure broadens that framework to cover a significantly larger basket of cancer medicines, the statement said. Drugmakers are mandated to publish revised price lists on their official websites and disseminate widely among retailers and hospitals. Furthermore, retailers and hospitals must charge reduced rates from November 9 and display the revised prices in their pharmacies. Hospitals, which directly procure a substantial share of oncology medicines, are also required to prominently exhibit the new rates on their websites and will bear direct responsibility for ensuring the revised prices are implemented on the ground, it said. Consumers can verify and check the updated drug rates through the NPPA website and the 'Pharma Sahi Daam' mobile app. To ensure strict adherence, state drug controllers have been directed to enforce compliance across manufacturers, dealers, retailers, hospitals, and medical institutions. Addressing supply-chain concerns, NPPA underscored that the rationalisation seeks to curb excessive margins in the distribution and retail channels without denting legitimate manufacturing revenues or causing artificial shortages. Pharmaceutical companies have been directed to maintain their current production and supply levels for the notified formulations to guarantee uninterrupted and timely access to vital medicines for patients across the country, the statement added.

Trump endorses embattled Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu for reelection

West Palm Beach (US), Oct 18: President Donald Trump on Sunday endorsed embattled Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu for reelection, a coveted boost because of Trump's popularity but one that the US leader withheld for months as their strategies in the Middle East diverged. Trump said in a post on social media that Netanyahu has been a Great Warrior Prime Minister, and an even greater Partner for Peace in combating the Islamic Republic of Iran. Israelis are set to vote Oct. 27, in the first national elections since the 2023 Hamas attack on Israel. The absence of an endorsement was a setback for the Likud party politician, who had billed his tight ties to Trump as a selling point for keeping him in power. (AP)

Actor Tiger Shroff escapes firing attempt in Mumbai's Juhu; manhunt launched for perpetrators

Mumbai, Oct 18: Unidentified person/s fired at actor Tiger Shroff's car in Mumbai's Juhu area on Sunday evening, though he is unhurt, police said. The incident took place near Pushpa Park under Juhu police station limits in the western suburb, and the chain of events leading to the incident is being pieced together, an official said. Shroff is safe and has not sustained any injuries in the firing incident, the official reiterated. As per preliminary reports, an unidentified individual fired upon the actor and his friend. A viral video showed an unidentified person opening fire on the actor's car. A massive manhunt has been launched to nab those involved, with specialised teams checking CCTV footage of the area for leads, the official added.

CJI announces virtual access to Supreme Court for Leh, Kargil lawyers

Leh, Oct 18: Chief Justice of India Justice Surya Kant on Sunday said lawyers from Leh and Kargil would soon be able to virtually access the Supreme Court from the Ladakh Bench of the High Court. All matters originating from Ladakh would be listed on a single day and heard through video-conferencing, sparing lawyers and litigants the time, cost and hardship of travelling to Delhi, Justice Kant said as he inaugurated the Ladakh Bench of the High Court of Jammu and Kashmir and Ladakh here. Describing the inauguration as a historic step, the CJI referred to the establishment of a Special Court in Leh in 1870, observing that while the institution had passed into history, the geographical challenges that restricted access to justice persisted for generations. For close to a century, the high court that served Ladakh sat beyond the Great Himalayas, reachable in winter only by air, he said. The CJI said the insertion of the name 'Ladakh' in a high court after it became a Union Territory in 2019 was an important step, but the gesture remained largely symbolic. A name on a court's letterhead is not the same as a court at one's doorstep, he said. Justice Kant emphasised that the bench belongs equally to Leh and Kargil the two districts in the Union Territory and said its purpose would be served only when people in every corner of Ladakh start to feel a sense of ownership over the institution. He also said that once video-conferencing facilities have been set up at the bench, the Supreme Court would list all matters originating from Ladakh on a single day and hear them on a day-to-day basis virtually. The arrangement, the CJI said, would enable members of the Leh and Kargil bar associations to argue cases before the top court without leaving Ladakh. In this way, the distance will no longer stand between people of Ladakh and the highest Court of our country, he said. Justice Kant said that the true measure of a court is not its geographical elevation but its accessibility to the people it serves. We are some 3,500 metres above the sea, and I am told no high court in our country has ever sat higher. Of course, what matters today is not how high this court sits. What is important is how close it now stands to the people it serves, he said. The CJI recalled the role of village institutions and customary practices in resolving disputes, noting that the region had long relied on community-based mechanisms to uphold fairness and settle grievances. On improving access to justice, he identified technology and legal aid as two essential instruments for overcoming geographical barriers. In a land of such vast distances, technology can do what no road ever could, he said. The CJI also underlined the importance of legal aid, calling it a constitutional promise that no citizen should be denied justice because of poverty or disability. He stressed the need for legal awareness camps, para-legal volunteers, affordable legal representation, lok adalats and timely compensation for victims of crime. Access to justice, after all, begins not in the court's compound, but at the litigant's door, he said, expressing confidence that the Ladakh Legal Services Authority and the court's Legal Services Committee would work together to reach people awaiting justice in remote areas. The CJI spoke of a young child studying in a classroom in Kargil or Nubra who might one day argue a case before the court or even serve as a judge on its bench. When that day comes, we will know that this bench has not merely arrived in Ladakh, but taken root here, Justice Kant said.

IAF C-130J evacuates critically ill patient from Leh to Delhi

Leh, Oct 18: An Indian Air Force (IAF) C-130J aircraft undertook a short-notice casualty evacuation, airlifting a critically ill 30-year-old civilian patient from Leh to Delhi's Palam for further medical care, an official said on Sunday. The mission was carried out late Saturday night despite darkness and challenging weather conditions, requiring a high degree of operational preparedness, professional coordination and timely execution, a spokesperson of the IAF said in a statement here. He said the patient was subsequently transferred to the All India Institute of Medical Sciences (AIIMS) for further treatment. The mission reflects the IAFs operational readiness and its ability to respond promptly to critical humanitarian requirements, including medical evacuation under challenging conditions, the spokesperson said.

CJI inaugurates Ladakh bench of HC in Leh; 'historic milestone,' says LG Saxena

Leh, Oct 18: Chief Justice of India Justice Surya Kant on Sunday inaugurated the Ladakh Bench of the High Court of Jammu and Kashmir and Ladakh here. Ladakh Lt Governor Vinai Kumar Saxena called the day a landmark milestone, fulfilling a long-standing demand for a court closer to home. A new era of accessible justice begins in Ladakh! Deeply grateful to Chief Justice of India, for inaugurating the Ladakh Bench of the High Court of J&K and Ladakh, today at Leh, in the gracious presence of Supreme Court Judges and the Chief Justice and other companion Judges of the High Court of J&K and Ladakh, Saxena said on X after the event. He said the Ladakh Bench of the High Court and the CJI's successive visits to the Union Territory within six months reflect his commitment to ensuring access to justice to all, particularly to remote communities in Ladakh. My sincere thanks and gratitude to the Prime Minister, Narendra Modi and Home Minister, Amit Shah, for consistently guiding Ladakh on the path of prosperity and inclusive development, he said. Justice Surya Kant inaugurated the Ladakh Bench of the High Court at the High Court Complex, Melangthong, Leh. Supreme Court Justices M M Sundresh, P S Narasimha, N Kotiswar Singh and Arun Palli, along with Attorney General for India R Venkataramani, Chief Justice of the High Court of J&K and Ladakh, Justice Pushpendra Singh Bhati, and companion Judges of the high court attended the function, officials said. The inauguration has been hailed as an important occasion in Ladakh's institutional development.

Five tippers involved in illegal mining operations seized in Awantipora: Police

Srinagar, Oct 18: As part of its ongoing drive against illegal mining, Jammu and Kashmir Police in Awantipora has intensified patrolling and checking to curb the unlawful extraction and transportation of minerals across the Police district, an official said. He said that during routine patrolling at Hatiwara, a police team from Police Station Awantipora, seized 05 tippers allegedly involved in illegal mining activities. Accordingly, FIR No. 240/2026 has been registered at Police Station Awantipora under relevant provisions of law. J&K Police remains committed to curbing illegal mining and preventing the unlawful exploitation of natural resources, official said and added, that strict legal action will be taken against those found involved in such activities. J&K Police appealed to the public to cooperate with the police and report any instances of illegal mining to the nearest police station.

Police arrest 2 drug peddlers in Anantnag, contraband substance recovered

Srinagar, Oct 18: Jammu and Kashmir Police in Anantnag apprehended two drug peddlers in separate naka checking operations in Larnoo and Dooru and recovered contraband substances from their possession. A police spokesperson said that at Nowbough, a police party from Police Station Larnoo apprehended Mohd Abass Wani, son of Ab Rahman Wani, resident of Nowbough, Larnoo. During the search, 720 grams of cannabis powder was recovered from his possession. A case under the relevant provisions of law has been registered, and investigation is underway. Meanwhile, a police party from Police Station Dooru established a naka near Nowpora, where Sufion Badsh, son of Usman Gani resident of Assam, was apprehended. During his personal search, approximately 95 grams of charas was recovered. Accordingly, FIR No. 166/2026 under relevant sections of law has been registered at Police Station Dooru, and further investigation is in progress, spokesperson said.

Law ministry brings new rules for adjudicating court fee violations in UTs

The Union law ministry has come out with a set of rules to set up a framework to handle violations related to court fees and stamp rules in the Union territories. The Union Territories Court Fees (Adjudication of Penalties and Appeal) Rules, 2026, issued on Saturday operationalise sections 34A and 34B of the Court Fees Act, 1870, which were recently added following amendments under the Jan Vishwas (Amendment of Provisions) Act, 2026. Instead of changing the court-fee system, the rules focus on administrative enforcement, accountability and time-bound conflict resolution. The amended Jan Vishwaas law tweaked the Court Fees Act to replace criminal punishment with financial penalties for minor, non-fraudulent violations of stamp-sale rules. Under the newly-notified rules, revenue officers, licensed stamp vendors and members of the public can report violations to the designated adjudicating officers empowered to investigate and levy penalties under the Court Fees Act. The rules prescr

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Menstrual hygiene: SC expresses displeasure over states, UTs not responding to Centre

New Delhi, Oct 18: The Supreme Court has expressed displeasure over states and Union territories not responding to the Centre on how its judgment declaring menstrual hygiene as a part of the fundamental right under Article 21 of the Constitution is being implemented. If what we have said in the judgment is only going to remain on paper, how is the Union, states/UTs going to give effect to this fundamental right? a bench of Justices J B Pardiwala and R Mahadevan said. It said the apex court had declared menstrual hygiene/menstrual health as one of the facets of Article 21 of the Constitution, which deals with the protection of life and personal liberty. The bench said that on September 1, it had directed the states and UTs to take into consideration the deficiencies highlighted by it and report in that regard by the next date of hearing. In a significant judgment delivered on January 30, the apex court said that the right to life under Article 21 of the Constitution includes the right to menstrual health. During the hearing in the matter on October 13, Additional Solicitor General Aishwarya Bhati, appearing for the Centre, told the bench that the Union of India has taken up this issue very seriously with all the states and UTs to respond in what manner the judgment is being implemented. Unfortunately, the states/UTs have not responded to the Union so far. We fail to understand that once the Union calls for the necessary information, why the states/UTs do not respond, the bench said. We are sure that the Union, the states/UTs have realised the importance of the judgment that we delivered, declaring menstrual hygiene as a part of the fundamental right, it said. The bench said the apex court's verdict was in the interest of young girls who were giving up education, more particularly, in remote parts of the country because of the problem of menstrual hygiene, etc. We direct the Union to take up this issue very seriously with each state/UT and call for the necessary information in writing as to what steps they have taken so far for giving effect to the judgment delivered by this court, it said. The bench said the Centre should study the verdict once again and accordingly call for information on each and every aspect of the matter. On the next date of hearing, if we hear from the Union that some of the states/UTs have not responded, we shall proceed to issue contempt notice to the concerned chief secretary, the bench said. While granting one last opportunity to do the needful, it posted the matter for next hearing on December 14. In its September 1 order, the bench had said the focus should be on the number of schools that lack gender-segregated, functional toilets with usable water connectivity, ensuring accessibility and privacy. The Centre had then informed the top court that 30,458 gender-segregated toilets with washing facilities have been constructed in schools across the country while 4,236 were under construction. In its judgment delivered in January, the apex court had directed the states and UTs to ensure that every school, whether government-run or privately managed, in both urban and rural areas, was provided with functional, gender-segregated toilets with usable water connectivity. The top court had also directed the states and UTs to ensure that every school provides sanitary napkins to girl students free of cost. The judgment was delivered on a plea seeking pan-India implementation of the Centres menstrual hygiene policy for schoolgoing girls in government and government-aided schools from classes 6 to 12.

J-K: Army officers wife booked for 'sharing' sensitive info with foreign intelligence operatives

Jammu, Oct 18: Jammu and Kashmir Police have booked the wife of an Army officer for allegedly collecting and sharing sensitive information with foreign intelligence operatives, including individuals linked to China, official sources said on Sunday. According to the sources, she was pursuing certain research-related activities, which are being examined. The police are also examining the nature of her activities and whether any information or material was communicated to foreign intelligence operatives, they said. The case was registered at Gandhi Nagar Police Station on Friday under the Official Secrets Act and relevant provisions of the Bharatiya Nyaya Sanhita (BNS), they said. The accused, who hails from Telangana and currently resides in Jammu with her husband, was questioned by a Deputy Superintendent of Police (DSP)-rank officer as part of the investigation following the registration of the FIR, they said. The accused has not been arrested so far, and the preliminary inquiry has ot established that any sensitive information was shared by her, the sources said. The sources said investigators are also looking into the circumstances that led to the registration of the FIR and the allegations concerning possible links with foreign entities. The investigation is ongoing and further details are awaited.

Police register FIR after Kashmir-bound bus attacked with stones in Haryana; two held

Karnal, Oct 18: Two men have been rounded up for allegedly throwing stones at a Jammu and Kashmir-bound bus following a dispute in Haryanas Karnal district, leaving a passenger and a dhaba employee injured, police said on Sunday. The incident drew a reaction from Jammu and Kashmir Chief Minister Omar Abdullah, who said his office had taken up the matter with the Haryana government. Abdullah said the Haryana administration had assured prompt and stringent action in accordance with the law. The J&K Government stands with the affected passengers and is closely monitoring the situation, he said in a post on his official X handle. The incident occurred around 11.30 pm on Saturday at the parking area of Divine Star Dhaba in Karnal, Inspector General of Police (Karnal Range) Ashwin Shenvi said. According to Shenvi, two youths from Yunispur village in Kurukshetra district arrived at the spot in a car. The bus, travelling from Delhi to Srinagar, also stopped in the dhabas parking area. While attempting to reverse and move ahead, the youths allegedly hit the bus, triggering a verbal altercation that escalated into a physical fight. Some bus passengers and dhaba employees also joined the confrontation, police said. During the altercation, the two youths allegedly threw stones at the bus, breaking its windowpanes and damaging seats inside the vehicle. A passenger and a dhaba employee sustained injuries, Shenvi said. The bus left for its destination around 1.30 am. Police registered an FIR and rounded up both men for questioning. Further investigation is underway. Shenvi urged people to remain calm and maintain peace and harmony while the police investigate the matter.

Pakistan Extends Airspace Ban on Indian Aircraft Till November 24

The restriction, covering Indian-registered planes and aircraft operated or leased by Indian airlines, remains in place amid strained bilateral ties.

Highway worker killed, truck conductor injured in Ramban accident

Ramban, Oct 18: A worker associated with a highway construction company was killed and a truck conductor injured after a truck ran over the worker near Seri on the Jammu-Srinagar National Highway in Ramban district on Sunday morning. The deceased has been identified as Mohammad Azam (30), son of Showkat Ali, a resident of Bonzwa, Kishtwar. The injured truck conductor was identified as Mohammad Irfan, son of Mohammad Shafi, a resident of Kupwara. According to reports, a truck had broken down on the highway last night. Mohammad Azam was reportedly engaged in removing the faulty vehicle when another truck ran over him, leaving him critically injured. Soon after the incident, locals, police personnel and Civil Quick Response Team (QRT) Ramban volunteers rushed to the spot and shifted both men to District Hospital Ramban, where doctors declared Azam brought dead. Police have registered a case and initiated further investigation into the circumstances surrounding the accident.

J&K govt takes up bus attack with Haryana, seeks action: CM's office

Srinagar, Oct 18: The Jammu and Kashmir Chief Ministers Office has taken up the reported attack on a J&K-bound bus with the Haryana Government, expressing concern over the safety and well-being of the passengers. In a statement, the Chief Minister's office said the Haryana administration had assured prompt and stringent action in accordance with the law. The J&K Government stands with the affected passengers and is closely monitoring the situation, the statement said. The development comes after a Delhi-Srinagar luxury bus was reportedly attacked near Kurukshetra in Haryana late Saturday night, leaving an elderly Kashmiri passenger injured. The incident has drawn condemnation from political leaders in Jammu and Kashmir, who have called for action against those responsible and measures to ensure the safety of passengers.

CRPF jawan commits suicide in J-K's Ganderbal

Srinagar, Oct 18: A CRPF jawan allegedly committed suicide inside a camp in Manasbal area of Ganderbal district of Jammu and Kashmir on Sunday, officials said here. Constable Ranjit Das allegedly committed suicide by using a nylon rope to hang himself inside the Central Reserve Police Force (CRPF) camp at Manasbal, the officials said. Das hailed from Hajo Tehsil in Kamrup district of Assam, they said, adding the body has been sent for medico legal formalities. The officials said it was not immediately known as to why Das took the extreme step.

Dry weather likely in J&K till Oct 23, rain and snow forecast for Oct 2425

Srinagar, Oct 18: The Meteorological Centre Srinagar has forecast mainly dry weather across Jammu and Kashmir till the evening of October 23, with light rain and snowfall over higher reaches likely at a few places on October 24 and 25. According to the latest forecast issued by the MeT Centre Srinagar, weather is expected to remain generally dry on October 18, although a brief spell of light snow may occur at a few higher-altitude locations. Mainly dry conditions are likely to continue from October 19 to the evening of October 23. The forecast indicates generally cloudy weather on October 24 and 25, with light rain at some places and light snowfall over higher reaches. Thunderstorms and gusty winds are also possible at a few locations during this period. Weather is expected to remain mainly dry again from October 26 to 29, the MeT Centre said.

Ranji Trophy 2026-27: J&K lose both openers early after Vidarbha opt to field

Srinagar, Oct 18:Defending champions Jammu and Kashmir made several changes to their playing XI for their second Ranji Trophy Elite match against Vidarbha at Sher-i-Kashmir Stadium in Srinagar on Sunday, with India pacer Umran Malik returning to the side. Vidarbha won the toss and elected to field first, putting J&K in to bat. J&K have left out Shubham Khajuria and Shubham Pundir, while Yawer Hassan, Kawalpreet Singh and wicketkeeper Rydham Sharma have been brought into the playing XI in place of Kanhaiya Wadhawan and other players. The bowling attack has also been reshuffled, with Abid Mushtaq returning to strengthen the spin department and Umar Nazir coming in place of Auqib Nabi who is leaving for New Zealand. Umran's inclusion adds pace to the J&K attack. J&K, however, got off to a shaky start with both openers departing early. They were 40 for two at the time of reporting this report, leaving the middle order with the responsibility of rebuilding the innings. Squads J & K - Playing XI - (Abdul Samad, Abid Mushtaq, Kawal Preet Singh, Lone Nasir Muzaffar, P K Dogra (C), Qamran Iqbal, Rydham (Wk), Sunil Kumar, Umar Nazir, Umran Malik, Yawer Hassan) Vidarbha - Playing XI - (A Mokhade, A V Wadkar (C, Wk), Bhute, Danish Malewar, Dhruv Shorey, Harsh Dubey, Mandar Mahale, Praful Hinge, R N GURBANI, Samarth R, Y R Thakur)

14 killed, 28 injured as truck ploughs into devotees outside temple in Gwalior

Gwalior, Oct 18: Fourteen persons were killed, and at least 28 others suffered injuries when a speeding truck ploughed into several devotees before crashing into a temple's entry gate in Madhya Pradesh's Gwalior district in the wee hours of Sunday, police said. A wall of the temple crashed under the impact of the collision, they said, adding that two to four of the injured persons were critical. The incident, which occurred around 1.30 am outside the Sheetla Mata temple near a slope on Chinor Road, raised concerns about security arrangements at the shrine, as the truck, with a Punjab registration number, entered the no-entry zone, officials said. The truck crashed into several devotees and roadside shops before hitting the temple's entrance gate, an official said. An investigator said the trucks brakes may have failed, forcing the driver to swerve left in a desperate attempt to control the vehicle. Had it continued straight, he said, it would have ploughed into at least 600 to 700 devotees. Fourteen persons were killed and 28 injured, acting Inspector General of Police, Gwalior range, Asit Yadav told PTI. The impact brought down a temple wall on the structure's left side, he said. Earlier, a senior police official had said that nearly 40 persons were injured in the incident. The truck driver fled from the spot, and police teams were searching for him. Asked how the truck entered the no-entry zone, Yadav said the lapses will be investigated. After the incident, the bodies and injured persons were shifted to different hospitals, including Gwalior's trauma centre. Relatives of victims gathered near the post-mortem facility at the trauma centre and expressed anger over the incident, with many questioning how a heavy truck could enter an area where, they claimed, even a bicycle could not pass. Lokendra Singh Tomar, nephew of the deceased Sarla Tomar, asked how the truck was allowed to enter the temple premises despite security arrangements. His aunt was on her way to offer prayers at the shrine, he told reporters and demanded answers from those responsible for the accident. Pawan Rathore (23), a resident of Gadaipur in Gwaliors Hazira area, was among those killed. His family took the body away amid inconsolable grief. He had gone to the temple to offer prayers when the accident occurred. Sandeep, a relative of injured devotee Nikesh, said the family received a phone call around 5 am informing them that Nikesh had been hurt at the temple. When they reached the hospital, he was in critical condition with both legs fractured and was placed on a ventilator, he added. Savitri, a relative of the deceased Divyansh, said the family realised he was missing after the group came out of the temple following prayers. Despite searching for him and alerting the police, they could not locate him at first. Later, they went back inside and identified him, she said. Gajendra Prajapati, the brotherinlaw of an injured man, said his relative, who ran a shop at the temple, was admitted to hospital after the accident. He added that his relative told the family he could not comprehend what had happened, as smoke had engulfed the area.

Elderly Kashmiri injured as Delhi-Srinagar bus attacked with bricks in Haryana; CM Omar condemns incident

Srinagar, Oct 18: An elderly Kashmiri passenger was reportedly injured after a luxury bus travelling from Delhi to Srinagar was attacked in Haryana late Saturday night, with claims that the vehicle was targeted over its Jammu and Kashmir registration number. According to accounts circulating online, the incident took place around 10:45 pm on October 17 near Divine Star Dhaba. The bus, operated by Star World Ventures, reportedly suffered damage to its windowpanes and tail lights. Videos purportedly showing broken windows, debris inside the bus and the injured passenger with blood on his face have circulated on social media. Several Kashmiri politicians, including J&K Chief Minister Omar Abdullah, condemned the incident and called on Haryana Police to take action against those responsible. This unfortunate incident should never have taken place. I hope the Haryana government catches the culprits & take action to ensure these things dont happen again, said Omar, in a post on X. This unfortunate incident should never have taken place. I hope the Haryana government lead by @NayabSainiBJP ji & @police_haryana catch the culprits & take action to ensure these things dont happen again. https://t.co/7syQ37P2oP Omar Abdullah (@OmarAbdullah) October 18, 2026 PDP MLA Waheed-ur-Rehman Parra said 'hate is making ordinary Kashmiris unsafe while condemning the attack. A DelhiSrinagar sleeper bus was attacked with bricks in Kurukshetra while passengers slept. An elderly Kashmiri was left bleeding. Disturbingly, reports suggest police targeted passengers instead of the attackers. Hate is making ordinary Kashmiris unsafe. We demand arrests and Waheed Ur Rehman Para (@parawahid) October 18, 2026 The circumstances surrounding the incident, including the alleged motive and reports concerning police action, could not be independently verified. National Conference leader Imran Nabi Dar condemned what he descibed as a murderous attack on innocent people. Stones and bricks pelted on Kashmir bus (JK number), on Delhi to Srinagar route, near Kurukshetra Haryana in an alleged hate crime. One elderly Kashmiri man injured in the attack, families left helpless and terrified. We condemn the murderous attack on innocent people and Imran Nabi Dar (@ImranNDar) October 18, 2026 The bus had stopped at Divine Star Dhaba when some unidentified persons allegedly began abusing the driver before pelting stones at the vehicle, damaging its window glass, reported news agency GNS. When contacted by GNS, Star World Ventures confirmed the incident, stating that the bus was on its way from Delhi to Srinagar when the incident occurred in Haryana.

CEO SSCL inspects Smart City infrastructure

Srinagar, Oct 17:Chief Executive Officer, Srinagar Smart City Limited (SSCL), Dr. Basharat Qayoom, today conducted a comprehensive review of key Smart City infrastructure at Souq Market and Craft Centre, Batamaloo, the under-construction Electric Bus Charging Station at Batamaloo, and the Integrated Command and Control Centre (ICCC) at HMT. The review focused on construction quality, timely completion of ongoing works, infrastructure maintenance, effective utilisation of technology and strengthening sustainable urban mobility across Srinagar. During his visit to Souq Market and Craft Centre at Batamaloo, the CEO inspected the facilities and reviewed their operational status, maintenance requirements and overall upkeep. He stressed the importance of maintaining these public infrastructure assets in a functional, orderly and well-maintained condition, ensuring that the facilities serve their intended purpose efficiently and contribute to the citys urban development objectives. At the under-construction Electric Bus Charging Station at Batamaloo, Dr. Basharat reviewed the progress of ongoing works and took stock of the construction status, execution quality and associated infrastructure requirements. He stressed the importance of maintaining prescribed quality standards, ensuring proper coordination among the executing agencies and adhering to the stipulated timelines. He directed the concerned officers to closely monitor the pace and quality of construction, address bottlenecks promptly and ensure timely completion of the project so that the facility can be made operational to support Srinagars electric bus fleet and strengthen sustainable urban mobility. Highlighting the importance of sustainable urban transportation, the CEO emphasised that the development of reliable electric bus charging infrastructure is essential for strengthening Srinagars public transport system and promoting cleaner mobility. He directed the concerned officers to ensure that all essential components of the charging facility are executed in accordance with prescribed standards, with due attention to quality, functionality, safety and long-term operational requirements. At the ICCC, the CEO reviewed its functioning, monitoring mechanisms and technology-enabled operational activities. The review reaffirmed SSCLs focus on ensuring the timely completion of ongoing infrastructure projects, maintaining existing Smart City assets and promoting technology-driven urban governance, sustainable public transportation and responsive civic service delivery for the people of Srinagar. The CEO was accompanied by the Joint Commissioner, Administration, SMC; Chief Engineer, SSCL; Joint Commissioner, Works, SMC; General Manager ICCC, SSCL; concerned Executive Engineers from KPDCL, Mechanical Engineering Department (MED) and other line departments; and officers of Srinagar Municipal Corporation (SMC) and Srinagar Smart City Limited (SSCL).

NLCO launches restoration of 3rd spring in Anchar

Srinagar, Oct 17:The Nigeen Lake Conservation Organisation (NLCO), under its flagship community-led initiative, Mission Ehsaas, Phase 7, today inaugurated the restoration and rejuvenation of the traditional spring at Taploo Mohalla near Anchar lake in Soura locality. NLCO Chairman Manzoor Ahmad Wangnoo said the initiative marks the third traditional spring taken up for restoration by NLCO in Anchar, reaffirming its commitment to reviving Kashmirs traditional water sources and safeguarding its ecological heritage. The spring, which had fallen into a dilapidated condition, is being revived through the collective efforts of NLCO volunteers, civil society representatives and local stakeholders. The restoration initiative aims to reclaim this traditional water source and encourage community ownership to ensure its long-term upkeep. The inauguration was led by NLCO Chairman Manzoor Ahmad Wangnoo in the presence of Prof. Sajad Gangoo, SKUAST, Burhan Misgar, President of the TAFI J&K Chapter, Er. Abdul Rashid of Kashmir University, and other civil society members, volunteers and local stakeholders. Speaking on the occasion, Wangnoo emphasised that restoring traditional springs is an important step towards conserving Kashmirs water heritage. He interacted with local residents and stakeholders, urging them to extend their cooperation, facilitate the restoration work and ensure that the spring remains clean, green and functional for future generations. I express gratitude to all those who participated in and encouraged the initiative. I acknowledge the cooperation extended by the Srinagar Municipal Corporation (SMC) and the support of the local community. I thank the print media, particularly Greater Kashmir, for highlighting the initiative and helping raise public awareness about the importance of restoring traditional water sources, Wangnoo said. While undertaking restoration work on the ground, he said NLCO has consistently advocated the restoration of Anchar Lake and its placement under a competent and accountable authority. The organisation believes that Anchars ecological revival is critical not only for the lake itself but also for the wider interconnected water network of Kashmir, including its lakes, wetlands and traditional navigation routes, he said. We reiterate that Anchar Lake needs a sustained, scientific and coordinated restoration approach, supported by clear institutional responsibility and adequate resources. Reviving the lake would help restore its ecological character, strengthen the regions water network and create opportunities for responsible tourism, bringing Anchar back onto Kashmirs tourism map, he said. Every spring restored is a step towards reviving Kashmirs water heritage. Our collective responsibility is to ensure that these natural resources are protected, preserved and passed on to future generations. Wangnoo added.

Chief Secretary lays foundation stone for restoration of historic Vittal Bhairav Temple at Rainawari

Srinagar, Oct 17:Chief Secretary Atal Dulloo on Saturday laid the foundation stone for the revival and restoration of the historic Vittal Bhairav Temple at Motiyar, Rainawari, in Srinagar district, marking a significant step towards preserving Kashmirs rich cultural and architectural heritage. The restoration project is being undertaken at an estimated cost of Rs 2.84 crore under the Governments heritage conservation initiative. The project aims to preserve the temples historical, religious and cultural significance. Divisional Commissioner Kashmir Anshul Garg, Deputy Commissioner Srinagar Akshay Labroo, Commissioner Srinagar Municipal Corporation Dr Basharat Qayoom, Director Archives, representatives of the Kashmiri Pandit community and other concerned officials were present on the occasion. During his visit, the Chief Secretary reviewed various components of the proposed restoration project and directed the concerned officers to expedite the work while ensuring strict adherence to prescribed timelines and quality standards. Emphasising the importance of the project, Atal Dulloo said the restoration and conservation efforts were aimed at reviving the temples decades old glory and preserving its architectural and cultural heritage. He said the initiative reflected the Governments commitment to conserving the regions heritage while recognising the cultural contributions of different communities of Kashmirs diverse social fabric. The Chief Secretary observed that the temple holds considerable historical, cultural and religious significance and represents an important part of Kashmirs shared heritage. He expressed hope that the restoration work would help preserve its aesthetic appeal, heritage value and social significance for future generations. Additional Deputy Commissioner Srinagar Mir Imtiyaz Ul Aziz, Chief Planning Officer Fayaz Ahmad Dar, Joint Commissioners of the Srinagar Municipal Corporation Syed Abu Qasim and Nuzhat Qureshi, Superintending Engineer R&B Tatheer Manzoor, along with Officers from the R&B, PHE, KPDCL, SMC, Police, Revenue and other concerned departments, were present on the occasion.

Groundwater planning must be based on science, says ACS Shaleen Kabra

Srinagar, Oct 17:Underscoring the importance of scientific assessment and coordinated action for safeguarding Jammu & Kashmirs groundwater resources, Additional Chief Secretary, Jal Shakti Department, ShaleenKabra, today chaired a Union Territory-level Coordination Committee (UTLCC) meeting to review the assessment of groundwater resources across J&K under the Groundwater Resource Assessment (GWRA-2026). The meeting focused on strengthening inter-departmental coordination, streamlining data sharing and leveraging scientific expertise to ensure reliable assessment, informed planning and sustainable management of this vital natural resource. Emphasising the need to translate scientific knowledge into actionable interventions, the Additional Chief Secretary, JSD, ShaleenKabra directed CGWB to share its technical reports, scientific publications and relevant resource documents with the concerned UT departments. This, he termed, will facilitate informed planning and decision-making, strengthen groundwater conservation measures and enable departments to formulate interventions based on reliable scientific evidence. The ACS while highlighting the significance of the exercise also called for close collaboration among all stakeholder departments and agencies to ensure the long-term sustainability of groundwater resources and strengthen water security across Jammu & Kashmir. He underscored the need for a well coordinated, data-driven and science-based approach to groundwater management, with due emphasis on conservation, efficient utilisation and the long-term protection of available resources. Earlier, Dr. M. Sivakumar, Regional Director, Central Ground Water Board (CGWB) outlined the agenda, highlighting the importance of scientific groundwater assessment, coordinated data sharing and institutional collaboration for effective groundwater resource management. On this occasion Dr. Owais Ahmad, Secretary, Planning, Development and Monitoring Department, emphasised the need for harmonisation of data between CGWB and the concerned UT departments to ensure consistency, reliability and accuracy in the assessment process. During the meeting, PirRayees Ahmad, Senior Scientist, CGWB, made a detailed presentation on the Boards ongoing activities in Jammu & Kashmir, covering groundwater resource assessment, aquifer mapping, groundwater management studies and other related technical interventions. The presentation highlighted CGWBs role in providing scientific inputs, technical guidance and expert recommendations to support the UT Government in assessing groundwater resources, characterising aquifers and formulating sustainable groundwater management strategies for the times to come. Various issues concerning groundwater management were discussed during the meeting, with CGWB officers offering technical recommendations and suitable management measures for the conservation and sustainable utilisation of groundwater. Detailed deliberations were held on the methodology and analytical framework for GWRA-2026, inter-departmental data sharing and the implementation of the National Aquifer Mapping and Management Programme (NAQUIM). The committee reviewed the proposed assessment of dynamic groundwater resources across 149 assessment units in Jammu & Kashmir, emphasising the need for timely, accurate and reliable data on groundwater recharge, extraction and associated water conservation structures. The members stressed the importance of coordinated efforts among all concerned departments, backed by CGWBs scientific expertise, to ensure a robust and credible assessment of groundwater availability and utilisation across the Union Territory. The exercise is expected to provide an important scientific basis for identifying groundwater management priorities and supporting evidence-based interventions for the conservation and sustainable utilisation of this precious resource. The meeting also reviewed the findings of aquifer management studies undertaken by CGWB in Anantnag, Rajouri and the Jammu Urban Agglomeration. These studies offer valuable scientific insights for identifying area-specific groundwater management challenges, strengthening conservation measures and developing targeted strategies for sustainable groundwater utilisation. Concluding the Regional Director, CGWB also responded to queries raised by the committee members and assured the concerned departments of continued technical support and scientific assistance from the Board throughout the assessment and management process to culminate it successfully across the length and breadth of J&K.

DC Ganderbal visits Wandhama Transit Camp; reviews basic amenities

Ganderbal, Oct 17: Deputy Commissioner (DC) Ganderbal, Shreya Singhal, today visited the Wandhama Transit Camp and interacted with employees appointed under the Prime Ministers Package, listening to their demands and grievances and reviewing the availability of basic amenities at the camp. During the visit, the Deputy Commissioner took stock of the existing infrastructure and reviewed the status of drinking water supply, electricity and sanitation facilities. She listened to the concerns raised by the employees and assessed the requirements for improving the living conditions at the transit camp. The DC directed the concerned Executive Engineer, R&B, to ensure immediate repairs and maintenance of the infrastructure wherever required. She also directed the concerned officers to ensure proper sanitation arrangements and adequate availability of drinking water at the camp, stressing that essential facilities must be maintained and deficiencies addressed promptly. Emphasising the need for responsive administration and regular monitoring, the DC directed the concerned departments to take necessary measures to address the issues highlighted during the visit and ensure the availability of essential amenities for the employees residing at the transit camp. The Deputy Commissioner was accompanied by the Additional Deputy Commissioner Ganderbal, Chief Planning Officer Ganderbal, Executive Engineer R&B, concerned Block Development Officer and other officers and officials.

Govt caps trade margins on 137 anti-cancer drugs at 30%; retail prices likely to fall 70%

New Delhi, Oct 17:Drug pricing regulator NPPA on Saturday capped trade margins on 137 non-scheduled anti-cancer formulations at 30 per cent, according to an official statement. The move, effective November 9, is expected to slash retail prices of these critical life-saving medicines by up to 70 per cent depending on their current price structures, the Ministry of Chemicals and Fertilisers statement said. The National Pharmaceutical Pricing Authority (NPPA), functioning under the Department of Pharmaceuticals, implemented the Trade Margin Rationalisation (TMR) mechanism under Paragraph 19 of the Drugs (Prices Control) Order (DPCO), 2013, following a gazette notification issued on Saturday. The intervention stems from recommendations by an expert committee constituted under the Directorate General of Health Services (DGHS), comprising leading oncologists, medical specialists, hospital experts from across the country, and government officials. The committee recommended 137 drugs for margin rationalisation, and the list will be updated periodically. The exercise builds on the success of NPPA's 2019 pilot TMR initiative, in which trade margins on 42 anti-cancer medicines were capped at 30 per cent, leading to an MRP reduction of up to 90 per cent across 526 brands. The measure broadens that framework to cover a significantly larger basket of cancer medicines, the statement said. Drugmakers are mandated to publish revised price lists on their official websites and disseminate widely among retailers and hospitals. Furthermore, retailers and hospitals must charge reduced rates from November 9 and display the revised prices in their pharmacies. Hospitals, which directly procure a substantial share of oncology medicines, are also required to prominently exhibit the new rates on their websites and will bear direct responsibility for ensuring the revised prices are implemented on the ground, it said. Consumers can verify and check the updated drug rates through the NPPA website and the 'Pharma SahiDaam' mobile app. To ensure strict adherence, state drug controllers have been directed to enforce compliance across manufacturers, dealers, retailers, hospitals, and medical institutions. Addressing supply-chain concerns, NPPA underscored that the rationalisation seeks to curb excessive margins in the distribution and retail channels without denting legitimate manufacturing revenues or causing artificial shortages. Pharmaceutical companies have been directed to maintain their current production and supply levels for the notified formulations to guarantee uninterrupted and timely access to vital medicines for patients across the country, the statement added.

Rotten apples leave a stench in hail-hit orchards of Shopian

Shopian, Oct 17:An overpowering stench of rotting apples hangs over orchards in south Kashmirs Shopian district, where piles of decayed fruit lie beneath the trees after repeated hailstorms damaged the crop. Growers in villages including Dangam, Wangam, Kachdoora and Amshipora said a significant portion of the hail-damaged apples rotted on the trees before they could be harvested. Several hailstorms this season caused extensive damage across Shopian, one of Kashmirs major apple-producing districts. The hailstones bruised the fruit, making it prone to decay, and by the time harvesting began, much of it was unfit for sale. There was no option but to discard such apples, said Showkat Ahmad, a grower from Dangam. He said hail damaged more than 60 per cent of his crop, and a substantial portion of the affected fruit rotted on the trees. The smell in some orchards is so strong that walking through them has become difficult, he said. In densely planted orchards spread over hundreds of kanals, mounds of rotten apples lie on the ground. Fruit that would normally have been picked, sorted and sent to markets has become waste. Growers must now spend extra time and labour clearing the orchards, even as they absorb the financial loss. There is now additional work. We have to clear our orchards of these rotten apples, said Mushtaq Ahmad, another farmer. The damage has come at a crucial stage of the horticulture cycle, when growers depend on the harvest to recover the costs of maintaining their orchards through the year. With large quantities of fruit unmarketable, they have far less produce to sell. For many growers, the decaying fruit beneath the trees is a reminder of the crop they could not save.

3,000 cancer patients registered at GMC Anantnag, but none can get radiotherapy there

Anantnag, Oct 17:Around 3,000 cancer patients have registered with Government Medical College (GMC) Anantnags Radiation Oncology Department since 2019, including 800 this year, but patients who need radiotherapy still have to travel to Srinagar for treatment. The department provides only chemotherapy and palliative care from a cramped, makeshift space inside the hospital. A dedicated two-storey oncology block is under construction, but it cannot offer radiotherapy without specialised equipment. GMC Anantnag has already submitted a proposal worth Rs 40 crore to the government for the required equipment. We hope to shift to the new block by March next year, but the department can become fully functional only when the necessary equipment is available, said DrShahid Bashir Wani, head of the Radiation Oncology Department. The proposal includes a linear accelerator for radiation treatment, a CT simulator for radiotherapy planning, a PET scanner and other equipment required to expand cancer care. The equipment cost is separate from the building expenditure. Rs 5 crore has been sanctioned under the CAPEX budget for the block, construction of which has been underway for about a year. Syed Ishfaq Ahmad, Superintendent Engineer of the Roads and Buildings (R&B) Department, said the building would take another six months to complete. It will take another six months to complete the building, after which it will be handed over to GMC Anantnag authorities, he said. DrWani said that even after construction, radiotherapy services will depend on procuring, installing, and commissioning the equipment. For now, patients from Anantnag, Kulgam, Pulwama and Shopian, as well as parts of the Chenab Valley and PirPanjal region, must travel to Shri Maharaja Hari Singh Hospital (SMHS) or Sher-i-Kashmir Institute of Medical Sciences (SKIMS), Soura, in Srinagar. Radiotherapy often requires treatment five days a week for four to five weeks, making repeated journeys costly and physically exhausting, a medic said. He said the burden was difficult for some patients to sustain. Medical experts estimate that 60% to 65% of cancer patients require radiotherapy at some stage. Meanwhile, the Indian Council of Medical Research (ICMR) has recently allocated Rs 2 crore to GMC Anantnag for two breast cancer projects. The college is among four medical colleges in Jammu and Kashmir selected for the initiative. One project focuses on early detection through screening, while the other will assess whether standardised treatment, coordinated care and timely follow-up can improve survival. Under this, GMC Anantnag and GMC Baramulla will be linked with SKIMS, Soura, through a hub-and-spoke model to coordinate treatment and follow-up. The projects aim to strengthen breast cancer screening and care, but radiotherapy remains unavailable at GMC Anantnag. Until the required equipment is installed and commissioned, patients will continue to travel to Srinagar for treatment.

NC and Congress: History of political misadventures

The history of Jammu and Kashmir since 1947 is not merely a story of Pakistani aggression, separatism and terrorism. It is equally a history of political miscalculations, shifting loyalties, personal ambitions and repeated betrayals of democratic principles by the two political parties that dominated its political landscape for decadesthe National Conference and Congress. Their relationship, oscillating between political friendship and bitter hostility, created recurring crises of legitimacy and governance. While Pakistan bears direct responsibility for sponsoring cross-border terrorism, the political misadventures of Congress and the National Conference deserve serious scrutiny for creating conditions of alienation and instability that hostile forces subsequently exploited. The fundamental question is uncomfortable but unavoidable: could the tragic history of terrorism in Jammu and Kashmir have taken a different course had Congress and the National Conference placed democratic institutions above political convenience? Friendship of Convenience The political relationship between Sheikh Mohammad Abdullah and Jawaharlal Nehru established a pattern that would haunt Jammu and Kashmir for generations. Initially portrayed as an ideological partnership rooted in secularism and democracy, their relationship gradually exposed serious differences concerning political authority, constitutional integration and Kashmirs future. Nehru supported Sheikh Abdullah as a central figure in Kashmirs politics following accession to India. Yet the relationship deteriorated as disagreements emerged over constitutional arrangements and Sheikh Abdullahs political intentions. The dismissal and arrest of Sheikh Abdullah in August 1953 represented an extraordinary political reversal. The leader who had enjoyed Nehrus confidence was suddenly removed from power. The episode raises serious questions about political judgment on both sides. If Sheikh Abdullahs political positions were considered dangerous in 1953, why had they previously received such substantial political support? Equally, why did Sheikh Abdullahs political approach generate such profound uncertainty about Kashmirs constitutional future? The consequences extended far beyond two political personalities. The episode became a lasting source of political grievance and distrust. Democracy Subordinated to Power The removal of Sheikh Abdullah initiated a prolonged period in which the legitimacy of successive governments became a recurring controversy. Congress increasingly exercised political influence over Kashmirs governmental arrangements, while the National Conferences internal divisions shaped the struggle for authority. Rather than consolidating democratic confidence, political interventions encouraged the perception that governmental survival depended upon political approval from New Delhi. The damage was institutional. Political competition increasingly revolved around access to power instead of stable democratic principles. Such developments provided separatist elements with arguments against the credibility of constitutional politics. The responsibility for this deterioration cannot be assigned exclusively to one party. Congress and the National Conference both participated in political decisions whose consequences extended beyond their immediate interests. Principles Sacrificed for Power? The Indira GandhiSheikh Abdullah Accord of 1975 was another dramatic example of the changing political relationship between Congress and the National Conference. After more than two decades of confrontation, Sheikh Abdullah returned to power through an arrangement with the Congress leadership. Political reconciliation is not inherently objectionable. Indeed, accommodation can strengthen democratic stability. However, the accord exposed the striking transformation of political positions that had previously appeared irreconcilable. The same political establishment that had supported Sheikh Abdullahs removal facilitated his return. What had changed so fundamentally that yesterdays political adversary became todays indispensable partner? The accord restored Sheikh Abdullah to office but did not permanently resolve the underlying tensions concerning constitutional identity, regional aspirations and political trust. Instead of creating enduring institutional reconciliation, Kashmirs political stability remained excessively dependent upon understandings between powerful individuals. Another Assault on Democratic Credibility The dismissal of Farooq Abdullahs government in 1984 represented another damaging chapter. Following Sheikh Abdullahs death, Farooq Abdullah emerged as the principal leader of the National Conference. His relationship with Congress deteriorated, eventually culminating in a political rebellion led by G. M. Shah. The formation of a rival government with Congress support was widely criticised as an exercise in political manipulation. The episode reinforced the perception that elected governments could be destabilised through political manoeuvring. For a sensitive border region already experiencing political uncertainty, the consequences were particularly serious. Congress pursued immediate political advantage, while the National Conferences internal divisions exposed weaknesses within its own political organisation. The larger casualty was public confidence in democratic stability. A Historic Failure The 1987 Jammu and Kashmir Assembly elections constitute perhaps the most consequential political episode in the history of CongressNational Conference cooperation. The two parties contested the elections in alliance against opposition forces, including the Muslim United Front. Widespread allegations of electoral manipulation, intimidation and irregularities seriously damaged the credibility of the electoral process. Several political observers and historical studies have identified the disputed elections as an important factor contributing to the alienation of sections of Kashmiri youth and the subsequent growth of militancy. The precise relationship between individual electoral grievances and decisions to join armed organisations requires careful historical examination. Nevertheless, the broader political consequences were profound. A democratic system that fails to convince citizens of the fairness of electoral competition risks losing its most important source of legitimacy. The National Conference and Congress must face political accountability for their conduct during this critical period. The tragedy was that Pakistan-backed terrorist organisations subsequently exploited the disillusionment arising from domestic political failures. The 1987 elections remain a powerful reminder that manipulating democratic institutions for short-term political gain can produce consequences far beyond the immediate electoral contest. Political Leaderships Failure Pakistans responsibility for sponsoring, training, financing and supporting terrorist organisations operating in Jammu and Kashmir is central to any honest account of the insurgency. The emergence of militancy also reflected regional developments, radicalisation, cross-border networks and the consequences of the Afghan conflict. However, external aggression becomes more dangerous when domestic political institutions are weakened. The recurring conflicts between Congress and the National Conference contributed to an environment in which constitutional politics was frequently viewed with suspicion. Their repeated political confrontations, followed by opportunistic accommodations, weakened confidence in the consistency of governance. Pakistan exploited these vulnerabilities to promote separatism and armed violence. It would be historically inaccurate to claim that Congress and the National Conference alone caused terrorism. Yet it would be equally irresponsible to ignore the role of their political decisions in weakening democratic legitimacy during crucial periods. Pakistan must answer for the terrorism it sponsored; Congress and the National Conference must answer for the political failures that helped create opportunities for its exploitation. The Human Cost The consequences of terrorism devastated Jammu and Kashmir. Thousands lost their lives. Security personnel, civilians, political workers and public officials became victims of violence. Kashmiri Pandits suffered targeted killings, intimidation and mass displacement. Ordinary Muslim families also endured terrorism, coercion and prolonged insecurity. Economic development suffered, tourism declined, educational opportunities were disrupted and generations grew up amid violence. The political leadership cannot escape historical scrutiny by treating this tragedy merely as an unfortunate consequence of external aggression. The central issue is whether earlier political decisions could have strengthened democratic institutions sufficiently to reduce the vulnerabilities exploited by militant organisations. For Congress and the National Conference, that question remains unanswered. The Politics of Contradiction Another striking feature of National Conference politics has been its alternating emphasis on autonomy and cooperation with national political establishments. The party has repeatedly presented itself as the guardian of Kashmirs regional identity while entering alliances with Congress at different historical stages. Congress has similarly adopted changing positions concerning Kashmirs constitutional and political arrangements. Constitutional demands and political alliances are legitimate democratic activities. The criticism arises when contradictory political narratives are used to secure electoral advantage without offering clarity about long-term governance. Such inconsistency encouraged political uncertainty and allowed competing forces to exploit public confusion. Kashmir needed constitutional stability and credible democratic institutions. Instead, it frequently witnessed political bargaining over questions that demanded responsible and consistent leadership. Accountability Cannot Be Avoided Political responsibility does not require proof of criminal involvement in terrorism. Those who commit, finance and sponsor terrorist violence bear criminal responsibility for their actions. Political accountability concerns something different: whether decisions taken by those exercising power strengthened or weakened the institutions entrusted to them. Congress must answer for controversial interventions in Kashmirs democratic processes and its role in destabilising elected governments. The National Conference must answer for its own political contradictions, internal power struggles and participation in the disputed electoral process of 1987. Neither party can claim the moral authority to lecture others about Kashmirs political history without confronting its own record. The tragedy is that both parties repeatedly portrayed their decisions as necessary for Kashmirs welfare, even when their political arrangements produced instability and distrust. Conclusion The political relationship between Congress and the National Conference has been characterised by extraordinary reversalsfrom the Sheikh AbdullahNehru confrontation to the 1975 Accord, from the 1984 political crisis to the controversial 1987 elections. These were not isolated political disagreements. Collectively, they contributed to the erosion of democratic confidence at critical moments in Jammu and Kashmirs history. Pakistan exploited political vulnerabilities through terrorism, but its culpability does not eliminate the responsibility of domestic political leadership. The people of Jammu and Kashmir deserve an honest reckoning with this past. Congress and the National Conference cannot seek credit for every achievement while disclaiming responsibility for the consequences of their political misadventures. The lasting lesson of Kashmirs history is that when political power becomes more important than democratic integrity, the resulting damage can endure for generations. Jammu and Kashmir has paid an enormous price. History demands accountability, not convenient explanations. Advocate Sunil Sethi, Chief Spokesperson BJP J&K.

Dignity is non-negotiable

There is a strange contradiction in the way we treat women. We celebrate their achievements. We rush to interview them when they top examinations, crack competitive tests, enter prestigious professions or clear the civil services. We publish their photographs, share their success stories and proudly call them role models. However, beyond the headlines and congratulatory messages, do we give them the everyday respect they deserve? Do we listen to their voices with the same enthusiasm with which we celebrate their achievements? Do we respect their opinions, acknowledge their individuality and allow them to disagree without being ridiculed? A womans worth cannot be celebrated in public and diminished in everyday life. We speak of equality, yet expect women to accommodate behaviour that we would never consider acceptable if the roles were reversed. It is time to look beyond slogans. A womans dignity is not a ceremonial subject. It is an everyday responsibility. It lives in the way a father speaks to his daughter. In the way a husband listens to his wife. In the way a mothers opinions are valued at home. In the way a colleague addresses a woman in a meeting. In the way a teacher corrects a student. In the way a senior speaks to a junior. We have mistaken many things for strength. A raised voice. A sharp retort. The ability to silence someone. The power to make another person uncomfortable without feeling uncomfortable ourselves. But what kind of strength needs someone else to feel small? There is a difference between being authoritative and being arrogant. Between correcting a mistake and ridiculing the person who made it. Between having a disagreement and turning it into a demonstration of power. The distinction is not complicated. Our willingness to practise it is. A woman does not lose her dignity because someone refuses to recognise it. However, the refusal reveals something about the person who cannot offer basic respect. And let us be clear. Respect is not the same as agreement. A woman can be challenged. Her ideas can be questioned. Her decisions can be scrutinised. She can be wrong, just as any human being can. But none of this requires humiliation. Disagree with her argument, not her dignity. Condemn her failings, not her esteem. Correct her work, not her worth. Question her decision, not her right to be heard. Why should this be difficult to understand? Maybe because we have inherited a culture in which age, designation, gender and social standing are sometimes treated as licences to speak without restraint. Nonetheless, respect cannot be a one-way arrangement. And it cannot be reserved for drawing rooms, public functions or carefully worded speeches. A woman deserves respect when she is serving tea at home, raising her children, leading a department, raising a difficult question, managing a workplace or simply expressing an opinion that others dislike. Her dignity does not depend on her education, income, age, marital status or designation. It is not earned through achievement. It is not granted by a husband, a father, a colleague or a society. It belongs to her. I often wonder why ordinary courtesy appears so difficult in relationships where power is unequal. Is it because we believe that the person with less power must accept more indignity? Or have we confused someones patience with permission? Silence does not always mean acceptance, and the ability to endure an unpleasant exchange does not mean that the exchange was justified. I am writing this, not to divide men and women, but to remind both that dignity is not a contest. Men do not become smaller by respecting women. Leaders do not lose authority by exercising courtesy. And institutions do not weaken when dignity becomes non-negotiable. They become better. So, before our next conversation, correction, disagreement or display of authority, we should ask ourselves one question: Am I using my words to address a persons mistake, or to make the person feel like one? The answer may reveal more about us than we intend because dignity is not a favour to be bestowed when convenient. It is a standard to be upheld everywhere. At home. At work. In public. In private. Everywhere a woman lives, speaks, works and dreams.

Starlink: The Promise and the Risk

India should welcome new technology, foreign investment and competition in telecommunications. But it must also recognise that some commercial services can become matters of national security. When communications networks are used by the armed forces, emergency services and critical public institutions, their availability cannot be left entirely to commercial considerations. The controversy surrounding Elon Musks Starlink satellite internet service has brought this question into focus. Musks public clash with Reliance Industries chairman Mukesh Ambani is ostensibly about competition, market access and consumer choice. But the larger issue is whether India can afford to become excessively dependent on a critical communications network controlled by a foreign private company. Ukraines experience offers an important lesson. According to Reuters, Ukrainian military operations faced disruption in October after restrictions were imposed on satellite communications supporting drone missions. A Reuters report on October 15 said the reported order to limit access to the military-oriented Starshield system had come from within the White House. The service was subsequently restored following discussions between the US and British defence leadership. An important distinction must be made here. Starlink provides satellite broadband services, while Starshield is a separate, military-oriented system developed by SpaceX for government and defence applications. Nevertheless, the episode raises a serious question: what happens when a country becomes dependent on a communications network whose operations are controlled by a private company based abroad? The fact remains, Ukraine has benefited enormously from Starlink since Russia launched its full-scale invasion in February 2022. The service helped keep hospitals, government offices and emergency services connected when conventional communications infrastructure was damaged. It also became important for military communications and drone operations. Starlink has played an important role in helping Ukraine withstand the crisis. But its recent experience also shows that over-reliance on a privately run network can pose a security risk when circumstances change. India needs to learn from this. It does not mean that Starlink is unsafe or that American technology should be avoided. The point is simple: no country should depend so heavily on a foreign-controlled communication network that its national security is at risk if that service is disrupted or restricted. India must have reliable alternatives of its own. Elon Musk has accused influential Indian business interests of trying to obstruct Starlinks entry to protect their existing market positions. In a sarcastic remark, as national media reported, directed at Ambani, he used the expression Prime Minister Ambani, arguing that competition would give consumers more choices and encourage companies to offer better services at affordable prices. Reliance, in its October 16 statement, said it had never feared competition and welcomed satellite communications services, including Starlink. It also said its own satellite services were awaiting government clearances and maintained that Indian and foreign operators should be governed by the same rules. Communications Minister Jyotiraditya Scindia has said that three operators Starlink, Reliance Jios satellite venture and Bharti-backed Eutelsat OneWeb, have received licences, subject to the remaining requirements for commercial operations. There are important, legitimate questions about the pace of regulatory clearances and whether established companies are trying to protect their market positions. These issues should be examined on the basis of facts and transparent rules, rather than through public exchanges between wealthy businessmen. But the debate must not end there. Even if every allegation of commercial lobbying were proved wrong, New Delhis security concerns would and should remain. Similarly, even if Starlink offered the most attractive prices, affordability alone would not settle the question of strategic dependence. Satellite internet can bring benefits to a country as geographically diverse as India. It can connect remote Himalayan villages, islands, border settlements, ships and disaster-hit areas where laying fibre-optic cables is difficult or uneconomical. We agree that people living in remote regions need better connectivity to improve access to education, healthcare, banking and government services. Businesses can also benefit from more reliable communication. Starlinks established technology and extensive satellite constellation could help expand connectivity in underserved areas. India should not deny these advantages merely because the service is foreign-owned. However, satellite networks differ from conventional telecom infrastructure. A terrestrial internet provider relies substantially on infrastructure located within the country. Satellite broadband depends on spacecraft in orbit, ground equipment, specialised terminals, software and a network operated by a company headquartered abroad. Indian authorities can regulate services offered within the country, but independently verifying every aspect of a complex satellite network presents a different challenge. The first concern is continuity of service. What would happen if a foreign operator restricted connectivity during a military confrontation, border emergency or diplomatic dispute? Would hospitals, emergency services and security agencies be able to continue their work? The second concern is data security. Satellite networks can generate information about users, terminals, locations and network activity. Some of this information may be commercially valuable, while other data could have security implications. India must establish enforceable safeguards governing the collection, storage, processing and sharing of such information. The most important issue is operational control and compliance with Indian law. It cannot be taken in a lighter way. Authorities, in all circumstances, should be able to address unlawful use, enforce legitimate restrictions and ensure that satellite services meet the countrys regulatory requirements. These safeguards become particularly important in sensitive border areas and strategically significant locations. These are genuine policy questions, not arguments for protectionism. The country should also not be dependent on a single point of dependence Indias digital transformation has made communications infrastructure essential to banking, commerce, public services, defence and disaster management. A disruption that once affected a limited number of users can now have consequences for entire systems. Consider a major earthquake, flood or other disaster that damages terrestrial networks. Satellite internet could become invaluable when conventional communication lines fail. But if the satellite service itself becomes unavailable, or its capacity is restricted at the very moment it is needed most, the country could face another crisis. The answer is not to reject satellite technology but to ensure that no single network becomes the only option. The same principle applies to national security. India cannot assume that a commercial service will remain available under every geopolitical circumstance. Equally, it should not presume that a foreign company will necessarily act against Indian interests. National planning must be based on safeguards and alternatives, rather than either assumption. This concern is not just about Elon Musk or the United States. The same questions would arise if a company from any other country controlled a communication network on which India depended for its critical needs. Allowing a foreign company to provide a service is one thing; depending on it for essential national functions is quite another. The first gives people more choices and improves connectivity. The second calls for much greater caution. India, now one of the leading global powers, should neither shut its doors to Starlink nor let a dispute between two business leaders decide the countrys technology policy. The government must encourage new technology and investment while ensuring that national interests are not compromised. First, there should be clear rules for all satellite service providers on data protection, security, access to information by lawful authorities and accountability. Indian and foreign companies should follow the same standards. Second, the government must ensure that essential communication services continue to work during emergencies. Defence establishments, disaster management agencies and other critical services should have access to alternative networks. These arrangements must also be tested regularly so that the country is not caught unprepared if one service is disrupted or restricted. Third, India needs to strengthen its own satellite technology and infrastructure. Indian companies and research institutions should get the support needed to develop local expertise and capabilities. Depending too much on a single foreign provider can limit the countrys options during a crisis. A mix of domestic and foreign services would give India greater flexibility. Finally, all decisions on satellite services must be foolproof and based on complete national security, technical needs and the public interest. They should not be influenced by pressure from technological giants, powerful business groups, or political considerations. Competition is important, but companies must also be held accountable for their services. Ukraines experience shows that technology can be a great help during a crisis, but it can also create new problems. A communication network that works well in normal times may become a source of concern when political relations change, or a conflict intensifies. The lesson for New Delhi is clear. India should neither shield domestic companies from competition nor reject foreign technology without reason. It must, however, ensure that dependence on any one company does not put the country at risk at a crucial moment: man-made or natural disaster. India should welcome new technology, guard completely against its risks and protect its strategic independence. Author is National Editor, Greater Kashmir

Javid Dar attends review meeting on nationwide Khet Bachao Abhiyan

Srinagar, Oct 17: Minister for Agriculture Production, Rural Development and Panchayati Raj, Cooperative and Election Departments, Javid Ahmad Dar, on Saturday participated virtually in a review meeting held to discuss implementation of the nationwide Khet Bachao Abhiyan (Save the Farm Campaign), scheduled to commence on October 22 and continue until November 30, 2026. The meeting was chaired by Union Minister for Agriculture and Farmers Welfare, Shivraj Singh Chouhan, who reviewed the campaign's implementation framework. He stressed the need for coordinated efforts to ensure its effective execution at the grassroots level, with a focus on reaching farmers in every village. During the meeting, the Union Minister directed the concerned Ministers and departments to put in place a robust implementation mechanism to ensure effective outreach and tangible benefits for the farming community. He underscored that soil conservation is not merely an agricultural priority but is fundamental to the country's long-term sustainability and the nutritional security of future generations. Briefing the meeting on Jammu and Kashmir's preparedness, Javid Dar reiterated that the Government of Jammu and Kashmir, under the leadership of Chief Minister Omar Abdullah, remains committed to extend all necessary support and facilities to the farmers and strengthen the agricultural sector across J&K. Dar stated that Jammu and Kashmir had achieved its targets during the previous Kharif season in accordance with the directions of the Union Government.

Sakeena Itoo lays foundation stone for Rs 10.44 Cr Govt Model HSS building at Banihal

Srinagar, Oct 17:Minister for Health and Medical Education, Social Welfare and Education, Sakeena Masood Itoo on Saturday laid the foundation stone for Government Model Higher Secondary School (Boys), Banihal building, to be constructed at an estimated cost of Rs 10.44 crore. The project is being executed by the Public Works (R&B) Department, Banihal Division. The minister was accompanied by MLA Banihal Sajad Shaheen, Director School Education Jammu Naseem Javaid Chowdhary, Director Health Services Jammu Poonam Sethi, Joint Director Education Doda Mohammad Ashfaq, SDM Banihal Mohammad Naseeb Bajraan, Executive Engineers and other senior officers. Addressing a public gathering on the occasion, the Minister said the Government is committed to strengthen the educational infrastructure, expanding access to higher education and improving healthcare services, particularly in remote and rural areas. Responding to developmental issues raised by the MLA, Sakeena Itoo assured that several initiatives will be taken in the education and health sectors in Banihal. She said the Government is taking necessary measures to fulfil the long-pending demand for a University Campus at Banihal to facilitate students of the hilly district, especially girls, in pursuing higher education closer to home. The minister announced 10 additional Smart Classrooms for the Banihal constituency, supplementing the existing network of 76 Smart Classrooms and 104 ICT Labs. Highlighting the scale of educational infrastructure development, she informed that 543 developmental works have been executed or taken up in the district, including 113 additional classrooms, 34 computer labs, 112 girls toilet units, 33 libraries, 18 science laboratories, 18 resource rooms and 58 solar power units. On demands for degree colleges and a Nursing College in Banihal, the Minister assured that the request for development of Degree Colleges would be considered while establishment of a Nursing College would be pursued subject to availability and finalisation of suitable land.

Sabarmati-Jammu Tawi Express extended up to Katra with 3 new halt points

Jammu, Oct 17: The Ministry of Railways has approved the extension of Sabarmati BG-Jammu Tawi Express up to Katra with effect from October 18, 2026 from Sabarmati and from October 20, 2026 from Katra. The extension has been approved with three new halting points i.e., Samba, Bari Brahmana and Udhampur railway stations. Thousands of passengers, Railway officials stated, would get direct benefit from this decision. However, due to operational reasons, consequent upon its extension, the timings of around two dozen trains passing through Jammu Railway Division, originating or terminating at Katra have also been partially revised. The extended train will ensure direct train connectivity from Gujarat to Vaishno Devi. After the extension, lakhs of pilgrims of Mata Vaishno Devi coming from Gujarat, Rajasthan, Haryana, Punjab will get the facility to reach Katra directly without transhipment, said Raghvender Singh, Public Relations Inspector, Jammu Railway Division of Northern Railway. Additional halts of train numbers 19223/19224 approved at Samba, Bari Brahmana and Martyr Captain Tushar Mahajan Udhampur railway stations will facilitate the passengers, providing direct long-distance train facility to the local people, students, traders and military personnel of these areas. It will be especially beneficial for the people connected with the Bari Brahman industrial area, Singh said. He asserted that in terms of tourism and economy also, the extended daily train would connect Katra via Sabarmati, Bathinda, Firozpur, Jalandhar, Pathankot, boosting religious tourism as well as trade and employment. With regard to the extended trains schedule, according to Singh, the train number 19223 will depart from Sabarmati at 10.25 am and will reach Jammu Tawi at 15.35 pm on the second day and Katra at 18.55 pm. On its return journey, train number 19224 will depart from Katra at 4.50 am and reach Jammu Tawi at 7.40 am, which is convenient for onward journeys. Jammu Division appeals to all passengers to avail maximum benefit of this extended facility. For detailed information about the train, information can also be obtained from the official website of Railways and NTES, Singh said. Giving a detailed account of the revised schedules of trains following extension of Sabarmati BG-Jammu Tawi Express up to Katra, Singh informed that train number 22478 - Shri Mata Vaishno Devi Katra - New Delhi Vande Bharat would depart from Katra at 5.40 am, from Udhampur at 6.08 am, from Jammu at 7.08 am and from Martyr Captain Sunil Kumar Choudhary Kathua railway station at 8.01 am with effect from October 20, 2026. Train number 14503 Kalka-Shri Mata Vaishno Devi Katra will depart from Jammu Tawi at 3.20 am, from Udhampur at 4.12 am and arrive at Katra railway station at 4.47 am, effective from October 20. Train number 15656 - Shri Mata Vaishno Devi Katra-Kamakhya will depart from Katra at 3.40 am, from Udhampur at 4.06 am, with effect from October 21. Train number 14612 - Shri Mata Vaishno Devi Katra - Ghazipur City will depart from Katra at 3.40 am with effect from October 22. Train number 19415 Sabarmati-Shri Mata Vaishno Devi Katra will depart from Jammu at 4.15 am, from Udhampur at 5.16 am and reach Katra at 6.25 am, with effect from October 25. Train number 74909 - Jammu Tawi-Martyr Captain Tushar Mahajan DMU will depart from Jammu at 8.10 am, reach Udhampur at 10.10 am, with effect from October 20. Train number 22318 will depart from Jammu at 6.50 am with effect from October 21. Train number 16031 will depart from Jammu at 8.42 am, from Udhampur at 10.38 am and reach Katra at 11.50 am with effect from October 18. Train number 16317 will depart from Jammu at 8.30 am, from Udhampur at 10.02 am, reach at Katra at 11.50 am with effect from October 23 and train number16787 will depart from Jammu at 8.42 am, from Udhampur at 10.38 am, reach Katra at 11.50 am from October 19. Similarly, time schedules have been partially revised for around over a dozen other trains passing through Jammu Railway Division, originating or terminating at Katra.

Govt approves 671 kanal in Samba for Plug and Play Industrial Park

Srinagar, Oct 17:I n a major push to strengthen industrial infrastructure and accelerate investment in Jammu and Kashmir, the government has approved the transfer of 671 kanals of land in Samba to the Industries and Commerce Department for the development of a state-of-the-art Plug and Play Industrial Park under the Bharat Audyogik Vikas Yojna (BHAVYA). The initiative aims to provide ready-to-use industrial infrastructure, reliable services and streamlined approvals, enabling enterprises to establish operations faster and with greater ease. Chief Minister Omar Abdullah said the initiative would give a significant boost to industrial growth in Jammu and Kashmir by attracting fresh investment, strengthening local micro, small and medium enterprises (MSMEs) and promoting entrepreneurship. He said the development would support balanced regional growth and create new employment opportunities for the youth, while further strengthening Jammu and Kashmirs industrial ecosystem.

Govt sets fiscal-year-end deadline to finalise Master Plans for 25 cities, towns

Srinagar, Oct 17:The government has set a target of finalising GIS-based master plans for 25 cities and towns during the current financial year, but the exercise is moving at markedly different speeds across Jammu and Kashmir. Only the Anantnag-Bijbehara-Mattan plan has reached the draft stage, while Bandiporas preliminary draft is under scrutiny. Being prepared or reviewed under AMRUT 2.0, the plans are meant to give towns a structured framework for urban growth, land use and future development. The Housing and Urban Development Department has indicated that all are expected to be finalised this financial year. The Anantnag-Bijbehara-Mattan Master Plan-2044 is the most advanced. After the inception report, base-map vetting, data analysis and pre-draft proposals were approved, the draft plan was placed in the public domain, and objections and suggestions are now being scrutinised. The Bandipora Master Plan-2046 has cleared its approach and methodology, revised work plan, base map and field-vetted existing land-use plan. Its preliminary draft has been submitted and is under scrutiny. Pulwama-2046 and Kupwara-2046 have completed their base maps and existing land-use plans, which were examined and returned to the consultants with remarks. The departmental statement lists no draft stage for either town. Kulgam, Baramulla, Sopore and Pattan, all with a 2047 horizon, have had their data-analysis reports and proposals on projected requirements, issues and development potential approved. Budgam-2047 has only its inception report and base maps approved, while Ganderbal and Awantipora have had data-analysis reports examined, with remarks sent to consultants. For Shopian, only the inception report and base maps are listed as approved. In Jammu division, inception reports have been approved for Akhnoor, Reasi, Ramban, Banihal, Kathua, Samba, RS Pura and Doda. The reviews of the Katra Master Plan-2031 and Udhampur Master Plan-2031 are also at the inception-report stage. The review of the Jammu Master Plan-2032 is at its final stage. Four master plans are already notified: Srinagar Master Plan-2035 (SRO 160 of 2019), Jammu Master Plan-2032 (SRO 90 of 2017), Udhampur Master Plan-2032 (SRO 91 of 2017) and Katra Master Plan-2031 (SRO 125 of 2016). Plans for Rajouri, Poonch and Kishtwar are being handled separately because their Development Authorities fall under the Tourism Department, which is expected to float tenders shortly. Government Order No 1152-JK(GAD) of 2026, dated July 1, constituted high-level vetting, steering and implementation committees to oversee master plans for 10 Tourism Development Authorities in the first phase. Kanwar Surjit Singh Institute for Spatial Planning and Environment Research is listed as consultant for Anantnag-Bijbehara-Mattan, Bandipora, Pulwama and Kupwara. The School of Planning and Architecture (SPA), Bhopal, is listed for Budgam, Kulgam, Sopore, Akhnoor and Reasi, while SPA Delhi is listed for Ganderbal and Awantipora and SPA New Delhi for the Katra review. Guru Nanak Dev University, Amritsar, is listed for Ramban, Banihal, Udhampur, Kathua, Samba, RS Pura and Doda. The statement does not name a consultant for every town.

Rail, road, air links reshape J&Ks connectivity

New Delhi, Oct 17:Jammu and Kashmir is witnessing a major expansion of its transport infrastructure, with new railway links, highways, tunnels and airport facilities aimed at improving year-round connectivity, boosting tourism and linking local businesses with markets across the country. According to the Press Information Bureau (PIB), the Udhampur-Srinagar-Baramulla Rail Link (USBRL), inaugurated in June 2025, has connected Kashmir with the national railway network. The project, built at a cost of Rs 43,780 crore, stretches 272 km through the Himalayan region and includes 36 tunnels measuring 119 km and 943 bridges. Its most prominent engineering achievement is the Chenab Rail Bridge in Reasi district, the world's highest railway arch bridge. The 1315-metre-long structure stands 359 metres above the riverbed and is designed to withstand strong winds and seismic forces. Another major structure is the Anji Khad Bridge, India's first cable-stayed railway bridge. The railway project has also created more than five crore man-days of employment. Faster rail travel The Vande Bharat Express service between Katra and Srinagar began in June 2025 and was extended to Jammu Tawi in April 2026, strengthening rail connectivity between Kashmir and Jammu. The journey between Jammu and Srinagar now takes less than five hours. The trains have been expanded from eight to 20 coaches and are equipped to operate in extreme weather conditions. A snow-removal train and specialised safety features support operations in the difficult Himalayan terrain. Railway infrastructure is also being upgraded at four stations in Jammu and Kashmir under the Amrit Bharat Station Scheme Budgam, Jammu Tawi, Martyr Captain Tushar Mahajan (Udhampur) and Shri Mata Vaishno Devi Katra. Further projects under consideration or in the pipeline include a third railway line between Jalandhar Cantt and Jammu Tawi, an additional line between Jammu and Katra, and a proposed railway link connecting Jammu and Reasi with Poonch. Tunnels to improve all-weather connectivity Road connectivity is being strengthened alongside the railway network, particularly in areas where snowfall, avalanches and landslides frequently disrupt movement. The 6.4-km Sonamarg tunnel, inaugurated in January 2025 at a cost of more than Airport expansion and regional links Air connectivity is also receiving attention. A Rs 1677-crore expansion of Srinagar International Airport; s=\ civil=\ enclave=\ was=\ approved=\ in=\ february=\ 2026. The project includes a new 71,500-square-metre terminal designed to handle up to 2,900 passengers during peak hours and 10 million passengers annually. It will also include 15 aircraft parking bays and a multi-level parking facility for 1000 cars. The proposed terminal will incorporate elements of Kashmiri architecture and traditional craftsmanship, along with water harvesting and other sustainable building features. Regional aviation plans under the UDAN scheme include facilities at Udhampur and Kishtwar to improve access to areas beyond the region's main urban centres. Connecting farmers and businesses to markets The expansion of transport infrastructure is also intended to improve the movement of agricultural produce, handicrafts and other goods from Jammu and Kashmir to markets elsewhere in the country. Under the Gati Shakti Multi-Modal Cargo Terminal policy, a cargo terminal commissioned at Samba in 2024 is operational. In-principle approvals have also been granted for three proposed terminals in Kathua, Anantnag and Jammu districts. Such facilities can support the transportation of apples, dry fruits, saffron, pashmina shawls and handicrafts, while improving access to warehousing, cold storage, and other logistics services. The government's broader objective is to integrate railways, highways, airports and cargo infrastructure into a coordinated transport network. Better connectivity is expected to support tourism, encourage investment and create employment opportunities. The scale of the projects marks a major leapfrog change for a region where difficult terrain and seasonal road closures have long restricted movement. Their lasting impact, however, will depend on reliable operations, affordable transport, effective maintenance and the extent to which farmers, small businesses and residents benefit from the improved links.

SC panel seeks complaints over July violence

Srinagar, Oct 17:A High Powered Enquiry Committee (HPEC), constituted by the Supreme Court of India to investigate incidents of violence at Jantar Mantar in New Delhi and other places during July 2026, has launched a dedicated portal to receive complaints and representations from affected persons and other stakeholders. According to a statement issued by the Press Information Bureau (PIB) on Saturday, the portal, http://hpec.nic.in, has been launched to facilitate submissions from those affected by the violence, including police personnel. The committee will examine issues outlined in paragraphs 12 and 13 of the Supreme Court's order dated August 18, 2026, and paragraph 5(i) of its order dated September 10, 2026. Priority will be accorded to complaints concerning the use of pellet guns, targeted violence and harassment of female protesters, and allegations of excessive violence and destruction of property by either side, the statement said. The portal has been designed to provide protection to vulnerable witnesses and allow affected persons to keep their identities confidential, if they so wish. The HPEC has encouraged affected persons and other stakeholders to submit their complaints and representations online using the prescribed formats. Individuals wishing to share information or suggestions relating to the issues referred to the committee may also do so through the portal. Those seeking to submit complaints, representations or supporting material physically can approach the HPEC office at Shiksha Sadan, 17, Rouse Avenue Institutional Area, New Delhi, between 2 pm and 4 pm on working days. Submissions can also be sent by post to the committee's office or via email at hpec2026.enquiry@nic.in, the PIB statement said.

CM Omar thanks PM Modi, Union Minister forRs 475.41 crore approval for J&K ITI clusters

Srinagar, Oct 17:Chief Minister Omar Abdullah on Saturday thanked Prime Minister Narendra Modi and Union Minister for Skill Development and Entrepreneurship Jayant Chaudhary for approving Strategic Investment Plans (SIPs) worth Rs 475.41 crore under the Pradhan Mantri Skilling and Employability Transformation through Upgraded ITIs (PM-SETU) scheme for upgrading key Industrial Training Institute (ITI) clusters across Jammu and Kashmir. Under the initiative, the Jammu ITI Cluster, with ITI Jammu as the hub and ITIs at R S Pura, Nowshera, Samba and Kathua as spokes, will be upgraded with an approved investment of Rs 240 crore. Similarly, the Srinagar ITI Cluster, with ITI Srinagar as the hub and ITIs at Ganderbal, Kangan, Budgam and Charar-e-Sharief as spokes, will be modernised with an investment of Rs 235.41 crore. The initiative will follow a hub-and-spoke model to modernise training infrastructure, introduce contemporary courses and align curricula with evolving industry requirements and domestic and global skill demands. The Chief Minister said the initiative would strengthen industry linkages, promote outcome-based training and equip the youth of Jammu and Kashmir with industry-ready skills, enhancing their employability and access to better livelihood opportunities. He said the investment would help transform ITIs into modern skill development hubs, ensuring that vocational training remains responsive to changing economic needs and emerging employment opportunities.

Sopore hosts North Kashmir literary conference

Sopore, Oct 17: Bazm-e-Sher-o-Adab North Kashmir organised a one-day literary conference and Naatia Mushaira at Government Boys Higher Secondary School, Sopore, bringing together prominent literary figures, poets, writers and admirers of Urdu literature to celebrate the regions rich literary and cultural heritage. The event provided a platform for intellectual exchange, literary discussion and poetic expression, highlighting the enduring significance of literature in preserving cultural identity, promoting linguistic heritage and strengthening social and moral values. During the conference, speakers emphasised the need to promote literary and cultural activities across North Kashmir, particularly among the younger generation. They stressed that languages and literature are vital components of a societys identity and called for collective efforts to preserve the regions rich linguistic traditions, encourage creative expression and cultivate a lasting interest in reading, writing and poetry among young people. The speakers also underlined the importance of organising literary gatherings, Mushairas and conferences to provide emerging poets and writers with opportunities to showcase their talent, interact with established literary personalities and contribute to the growth of Urdu and other regional languages. A special felicitation ceremony was also held during the programme in honour of Yousuf Samim, President of Bazm-e-Sher-o-Adab North Kashmir, in recognition of his association with the literary organisation and his contribution to promoting literary and cultural activities in the region. The ceremony reflected the gatherings appreciation for individuals dedicated to preserving and advancing the literary traditions of North Kashmir. The Naatia Mushaira added a spiritual dimension to the programme, with the gathering reflecting the reverence, devotion and literary beauty associated with Naatia poetry. The proceedings created an atmosphere of literary appreciation, cultural pride and spiritual reflection. At the conclusion of the event, Mohammad Saeed Masoodi delivered the vote of thanks, expressing gratitude to the distinguished guests, poets, writers, organisers and all participants for their presence, cooperation and contribution to the successful conduct of the programme. The one-day literary conference and Naatia Mushaira concluded in a warm and spiritually enriching atmosphere, reaffirming Bazm-e-Sher-o-Adab North Kashmirs commitment to nurturing literary talent, preserving linguistic heritage and keeping the regions rich traditions of poetry and literature alive for future generations.

Director Colleges Twinkle Suri meetsKashmir college principals

Srinagar, Oct 17: Prof. (Dr.) Twinkle Suri, Director Colleges, Jammu and Kashmir, held an interactive meeting with the principals of government degree colleges in the Kashmir Division at Government College for Women, M.A. Road, Srinagar, to discuss institutional challenges and explore measures to strengthen the overall functioning of colleges. Prof. Seema Naz, Nodal Principal, welcomed the Director Colleges and the principals and assured her commitment to collective efforts towards strengthening the Department of Higher Education. Addressing the gathering, Prof. Twinkle Suri emphasised the need to understand institutional challenges and practical realities at the grassroots level to develop effective and responsive policy perspectives. She underscored that meaningful progress in higher education institutions requires collective efforts, mutual coordination and a shared commitment to ensuring effective academic delivery. She highlighted that principals are not merely administrative heads but also academic leaders who play a pivotal role in shaping the academic environment, guiding faculty members and empowering students. She stressed the importance of strengthening their leadership capacities and enabling them to address institutional needs effectively. The Director Colleges further emphasised the need to remain sensitive to student grievances, as students are the most important stakeholders of educational institutions. She called for the effective implementation of robust mentorship programmes across all colleges to ensure appropriate guidance and support for students. Prof. Twinkle Suri also stressed the importance of promoting innovation, research and skill development to make students industry-oriented and employment-ready. She noted that such initiatives would help equip students with the knowledge and competencies envisaged under the National Education Policy (NEP) 2020. During the interactive session, the principals shared their perspectives on the functioning of their respective institutions and highlighted various academic, administrative and infrastructural challenges faced by the colleges. Taking note of the issues raised, Prof. Suri assured the principals that the concerns discussed would be taken up for appropriate redressal. She reiterated that collective efforts, effective coordination and sustained engagement among stakeholders are essential for ensuring the smooth functioning of colleges and strengthening the higher education ecosystem across the Kashmir Division. Prof. Yasmeen Farooq, Principal, Government College for Women, M.A. Road, Srinagar, proposed the vote of thanks.

Mian Altaf Ahmad releases Nahida Mushtaqs novel Zaytoon

Srinagar, Oct 17: Member of Parliament Mian Altaf Ahmad today released Zaytoon : A Tale of Survival and Solitude, a novel authored by emerging writer Nahida Mushtaq, at a literary programme organised by the Jammu and Kashmir Academy of Art, Culture and Languages (JKAACL) at its Seminar Hall, Lal Mandi, Srinagar. Speaking on the occasion, Chief Guest Mian Altaf Ahmad appreciated Nahida Mushtaqs creative endeavour, describing the novel as a significant literary expression of the struggles, resilience and emotional experiences of a Gujjar woman. He lauded the author for bringing to the forefront the lived realities of tribal women through creative writing, observing that literature possesses the unique power to give voice to experiences that often remain undocumented or unheard. He emphasised that creative writing is not merely an artistic pursuit but also a means of preserving collective memory, documenting social realities and highlighting the human dimensions of struggle, survival and solitude. He particularly appreciated the authors courage and creativity in exploring a subject rooted in the life and experiences of tribal society. He also commended JKAACL for providing a meaningful platform to emerging writers and nurturing literary talent across the region. Dr Abid Ahmad, Editor, JKAACL, welcomed the Chief Guest, the author and other dignitaries. He stated that the Academys initiative aimed at encouraging young authors, promoting creative expression and fostering intellectual engagement through meaningful literary activities. Presenting a review of the novel, Manzoor Ahmad Baba examined its central themes and literary dimensions, offering insights into its treatment of survival, solitude, resilience and the complexities of human experience. Author Nahida Mushtaq shared the story behind Zaytoon and spoke about her creative journey and the process of writing the novel. She reflected on the inspiration behind the narrative and her effort to portray the experiences and struggles of tribal women through fiction. Mushtaq Bajad, the authors father, observed that tribal society possesses numerous untold stories that deserve to be documented through literature. He appreciated his daughters dedication and hard work in bringing one such story to life and expressed gratitude to the Academy for providing her with a platform to present her creative work. The programme was attended by prominent members of the literary, cultural and intellectual fraternity, including Prof. Nasir Mirza, Mansha Khaki, Sanjay Saraf, Rafi Ahmad Khari, Abdus Salam Kousari and Advocate Arshad Ahmad, besides other writers, scholars and literary enthusiasts. The release of Zaytoon : A Tale of Survival and Solitude marked a significant occasion for the emerging author and reaffirmed the importance of encouraging creative voices from tribal communities. The novel brings attention to the power of literature in documenting untold stories, celebrating human resilience and enriching the literary landscape of Jammu and Kashmir.

2 GMC Anantnag nursing graduates qualify forAIIMS NORCET-11

Anantnag, Oct 17: In a remarkable achievement for Government Nursing College, GMC Anantnag, two nursing graduates from the 2021 batch have qualified the AIIMS NORCET-11 (Nursing Officer Recruitment Common Eligibility Test) conducted by the All India Institute of Medical Sciences, New Delhi. Seerat Yousuf, a resident of Pahroo, Nowgam, secured an impressive All India Rank (AIR) of 208. Her performance places her among the top nursing candidates in the country. Noorul Ain, a resident of Chadoora, Budgam, also made the region proud by securing AIR 1749. A nursing graduate from GMC Anantnag, she has demonstrated that dedicated preparation and institutional support can yield success at the national level. Both candidates belong to the 2021 batch of the Nursing College at GMC Anantnag, which has steadily built a reputation for producing competent nursing professionals despite being a new institution. NORCET is a competitive computer-based test conducted by AIIMS, New Delhi, for the recruitment of nursing officers across AIIMS institutions and other central government hospitals. Securing ranks such as AIR 208 and 1749 reflects the candidates performance and the role of nursing education and mentorship. Faculty members at GMC Anantnags Nursing College recalled both students as hardworking and focused. Seerat and Nooruls success is a reflection of their resilience and our departments commitment to academic excellence and mentorship, the faculty members said. For years, nursing graduates from Kashmir have aspired to work at AIIMS and other central institutions but have often lacked guidance and exposure. Achievements such as these boost the morale of nursing students across J&K, highlight the need for better coaching, libraries and career counselling in nursing colleges, and showcase GMC Anantnags growing role in nursing education. The Principal, GMC Anantnag, and the Nursing College administration congratulated the qualifiers and wished them success in their future careers.

CUKs DTS concludes World Tourism Day celebrations

Ganderbal, Oct 17: The Department of Tourism Studies (DTS), Central University of Kashmir (CU of Kashmir), brought its week-long World Tourism Day 2026 celebrations to a close at the Green Campus here on Friday, recognising students achievements across various competitions. In her welcome address, Dr Shahnaz Akhtar, Coordinator, DTS, highlighted the activities conducted during the week-long celebrations. She stated that the Department had extended the observance beyond a single-day programme to provide students with opportunities to showcase their talents, engage in creative activities and gain practical exposure to event management. She emphasised that such initiatives help students develop skills relevant to the tourism and hospitality industry and reaffirmed the Departments commitment to organising meaningful learning experiences. Dr Ashaq Hussain Najar, Senior Assistant Professor, DTS, presented an overview of the activities organised as part of the celebrations, including quiz competitions, reel-making and videography, photography, and handicraft and regional cuisine displays. He appreciated the active participation of students, congratulated the winners in various categories, and expressed gratitude to the jury members, Dr Shabir and Dr Rameez, and Dr Ruban, faculty member of the B.Voc. programme, for their contributions to conducting and evaluating the competitions. Dr Faizan Ashraf Mir, Senior Assistant Professor, DTS, emphasised the importance of co-curricular activities in the overall development of students and appreciated the Departments initiative in organising the celebrations. He observed that education extends beyond textbooks and examinations, and participation in such events helps students develop confidence, creativity, a sense of responsibility and diverse skills essential for their personal and professional growth. During the event, Faisal, a student of the third semester of MBA-TTM, presented a video reel highlighting the Departments latest in-house and external events and activities. The winners in various categories were felicitated with awards and certificates. Dr Adil Amin Nazki, Assistant Professor, DTS, moderated the event, while Dr Abid Suhail Nika, Assistant Professor, DTS, proposed the vote of thanks.

Animal welfare facilities, modern abattoir under review in Srinagar

Srinagar, Oct 17: Commissioner, Srinagar Municipal Corporation (SMC), Dr Basharat Qayoom, today inspected the animal welfare facility at Tengpora, reviewed the ongoing construction of an animal welfare facility at Chaterhama and took stock of the construction of the Modern Abattoir at Aloochibagh. During the visit to Tengpora, the Commissioner reviewed the overall functioning, maintenance and upkeep of the animal welfare facility. He directed the concerned officers to ensure proper sanitation, cleanliness, regular maintenance and systematic upkeep of the premises, with particular emphasis on hygienic conditions, functional infrastructure and a suitable environment for the animals. He stressed that the facility must be maintained to high standards, with regular monitoring and prompt resolution of maintenance-related issues. At Chaterhama, the Commissioner reviewed the progress of the ongoing construction of the animal welfare facility. He directed the concerned engineers and executing agencies to adhere strictly to prescribed quality standards, ensure proper workmanship and expedite the remaining work without compromising structural quality or functional requirements. He emphasised the importance of completing the facility within the stipulated timeline. The Commissioner also inspected the under-construction Modern Abattoir at Aloochibagh, reviewing the projects status and the quality of ongoing construction. He directed the concerned officers to closely monitor execution, ensure compliance with approved specifications and maintain accountability at every stage. He stressed that the facility must be developed with due attention to hygiene, sanitation, operational efficiency and prescribed standards for safe and scientific slaughterhouse operations. Emphasising the importance of infrastructure development and sustained maintenance, Dr Basharat observed that modern civic facilities must be complemented by effective upkeep, regular supervision and adherence to established operational standards. He called upon the concerned officers to ensure that ongoing projects are executed efficiently, public assets are properly maintained and all facilities remain fit for their intended use. The Commissioner reiterated that SMC remains committed to strengthening animal welfare infrastructure and upgrading essential civic facilities through quality-driven project execution, timely completion and improved maintenance mechanisms. He directed the concerned officials to maintain close oversight of the projects and ensure that prescribed standards of quality, cleanliness and functionality are consistently upheld. The Commissioner was accompanied by the Joint Commissioner, Administration, SMC; Joint Commissioner, Works, SMC; executive engineers from the Mechanical, Electric, Water Works and Civil divisions; Divisional Forest Officer; Municipal Veterinary Officer; and other SMC officers.

Ankur Maitrika Hospital, Johnson & Johnson organise Laparoscopic Surgery training programme

Jammu, Oct 17: Ankur Maitrika Hospital, in collaboration with Johnson & Johnson, organised the GALOP Preceptorship Programme in Gynaecological Laparoscopic Surgery, aimed at enhancing surgical skills and promoting advanced minimally invasive gynaecological procedures among medical professionals across Jammu & Kashmir. The programme, as per a statement, featured advanced laparoscopic gynaecological surgeries performed by Dr Ajay Wakhloo, Director of Ankur Maitrika Hospital and a renowned Gynaecological Laparoscopic Surgeon. The initiative provided participating gynaecologists with an opportunity to observe advanced surgical procedures and gain practical insights into modern laparoscopic techniques. The programme was attended by several medical professionals, including Dr Humera Noor, Dr Mudasir Ahmad Dar of GMC Baramulla, Dr Imtiyaz Ahmad Ganaie of SKIMS Medical College, Dr Shazia of GMC Srinagar, Dr Meenakshi Rana of GMC Kathua, and Dr. Shazia Jeelani of GMCH Baramulla. The preceptorship programme was designed to strengthen the practical knowledge and surgical competencies of participating doctors, enabling them to develop and expand laparoscopic gynecological surgery services at their respective institutions. Laparoscopic surgery, a minimally invasive approach, can offer several benefits to eligible patients, including smaller incisions, reduced blood loss, less postoperative pain and faster recovery, depending on the procedure and individual clinical circumstances. By facilitating specialised training and knowledge-sharing among gynecologists, the initiative aims to improve access to modern surgical techniques and help patients across the region receive advanced treatment closer to their homes. The programme marks a significant step towards strengthening medical education, promoting surgical excellence and expanding access to minimally invasive gynaecological care across Jammu & Kashmir.

Flow cytometry, IHC services to strengthen precision cancer diagnosis at GMCH Jammu

Jammu, Oct 17: Government Medical College and Hospital (GMCH) Jammu has taken a significant step towards strengthening advanced cancer diagnostics with the introduction and operationalisation of specialised diagnostic services in Flow Cytometry and Immunohistochemistry (IHC). The initiative aims to enhance diagnostic accuracy, facilitate early and precise classification of malignancies, and support personalised cancer treatment for patients in Jammu and Kashmir. The services are being strengthened through the collaborative efforts of Government Medical College Jammu, the State Cancer Institute (SCI), Jammu and Homi Bhabha Cancer Hospital and Research Centre (HBCHRC), New Chandigarh, under the aegis of the Association of Academic and Clinical Pathologists (AACP) and the Jammu and Kashmir chapter of the Indian Association of Pathologists and Microbiologists (IAPM). To mark this important advancement, GMC Jammu organised a Continuing Medical Education (CME) programme-cum-workshop titled Transforming diagnosis with Immunohistochemistry and Flow Cytometry on Saturday, October 17, 2026, at its auditorium. The scientific programme was centred on the theme Diagnostic pathology in the era of precision medicine: The evolving role of Immunohistochemistry and Flow Cytometry. The initiative was undertaken under the guidance of Dr Ashutosh Gupta, Dean and Principal, GMC Jammu and Dr Ashish Gulia, Director-Principal, Homi Bhabha Cancer Hospital and Research Centre, New Chandigarh, with the objective of building institutional capacity, strengthening technical expertise and expanding access to advanced diagnostic facilities. Immunohistochemistry and flow cytometry are essential tools in contemporary diagnostic pathology and precision oncology. Immunohistochemistry enables accurate tumour characterisation, differentiation of morphologically similar malignancies and assessment of prognostic and predictive biomarkers that guide targeted and individualised treatment. Flow cytometry plays a pivotal role in the diagnosis, classification and immunophenotypic characterisation of haematolymphoid malignancies, particularly leukaemias and lymphomas. The integration of these technologies with conventional histopathological examination and molecular testing can significantly improve diagnostic precision and support evidence-based therapeutic decisions. The availability of these advanced diagnostic capabilities at GMC Jammu is intended to strengthen comprehensive cancer care and facilitate access to specialised investigations within the region, Dr Ashutosh Gupta stated. The academic programme brought together eminent specialists from HBCHRC, New Chandigarh and GMC Jammu for expert lectures, interactive discussions, case-based learning and hands-on training. The scientific sessions featured Dr Kinjal Biyani, who spoke on Driving precision diagnostics with high medical value assays, and Dr Ravikiran N Pawar, who delivered a lecture on Flow Cytometry in Haematological Malignancies. Further sessions included Hodgkin Lymphoma: Approach and Differentials, by Dr Sankalp M Sancheti; Mastering the Pillars of IHC Set-up, by Dr Nilay Nishith; and Immunotherapy in Cancer, by Dr Ashutosh Gupta. An interactive panel discussion on integrated oncology, involving Dr Sankalp M Sancheti, Dr Nadeem Shoket, Dr Sanjeev Dhingra and Dr Aditya Mahajan, highlighted the importance of multidisciplinary collaboration in cancer diagnosis and management. The discussion emphasised the need to integrate histomorphology, immunophenotyping, immunohistochemistry and molecular diagnostics to ensure accurate classification and appropriate treatment selection. A major component of the programme was the conduct of parallel hands-on workshops for scientific and laboratory personnel. Practical training in immunohistochemistry was organised in the Department of Pathology, GMC Jammu, while the flow cytometry workshop was conducted at the State Cancer Institute, Jammu. The sessions provided practical exposure to laboratory workflows, technical requirements, quality assurance and essential procedures for establishing and strengthening advanced diagnostic services. A dedicated session by Dr Jitendra addressed the practical requirements for establishing and operationalising a flow cytometry facility. These training activities are expected to support capacity building among pathologists, laboratory professionals and scientific staff, while promoting standardised practices and reliable diagnostic outcomes, t was anticipated. The programme was attended by senior faculty members, clinicians and medical administrators from GMC Jammu and its associated hospitals. Those present included Dr Meena Sidhu, Professor and Head, Department of Blood Transfusion; Dr Sanjeev Dhingra, Professor and Head, Department of Paediatrics; Dr Rajeev Gupta, Medical Oncologist, State Cancer Institute, Jammu; Dr Virender Trisal, Medical Superintendent, GMC Jammu; Dr Dara Singh, Medical Superintendent, SMGS Hospital; Dr Rehana, Medical Superintendent, Super Speciality Hospital and Dr Rakesh Sharma, Medical Superintendent, CD Hospital and Bone and Joint Hospital. Senior faculty members Dr Deepti Mahajan, Dr Sindhu Sharma, Dr Deepa Hans, Dr Ameet, Dr Rajat Gupta, Dr Deepti Gupta, Dr Navneet Naz, Dr Anu Gupta, Dr Akhtar Salaria, Dr Priyanka, Dr Era Hans, Dr Bhavneet, Dr Sahil Sachdev, Dr Kamakshi, Dr Suby Singh, Dr Mahima, Dr Poonam and Dr Ishani, along with other faculty members and healthcare professionals attended the programme. The programme also witnessed the participation of senior and junior residents of the Department of Pathology, undergraduate and postgraduate students, heads of various departments of GMC Jammu and representatives of the institutional administration. Addressing the significance of the initiative, Dr Jyotsna Suri, Organising Secretary and Professor, Department of Pathology, GMC Jammu, highlighted that the strengthening of immunohistochemistry and flow cytometry services represents an important advancement in the institutions efforts to modernise diagnostic pathology and support precision medicine. She emphasised that access to advanced diagnostic technologies, combined with trained personnel and multidisciplinary collaboration, is essential for improving cancer diagnosis, identifying appropriate therapeutic targets and supporting individualised patient care. She also underscored the importance of continuous medical education and hands-on training in ensuring the effective utilisation of these technologies. The initiative reflects the continued commitment of GMC Jammu and the State Cancer Institute to academic excellence, innovation, capacity building and the advancement of specialised cancer diagnostics in Jammu and Kashmir, she asserted. The introduction and strengthening of Flow Cytometry and Immunohistochemistry services, complemented by scientific collaboration and professional training, mark an important step towards enhancing regional diagnostic capabilities and advancing comprehensive, evidence-based cancer care, it was stated.

Suraj Singh, Ravi Raguvanshi enthral audience in Katra devotional song competition

Katra, Oct 17: Renowned singer Suraj Singh and former winner of All India Devotional Song Competition (AIDSC), Ravi Raguvanshi enthralled the audience on the sixth day of AIDSC, presently underway at Katra, as a part of Navratra festival 2026. The contest is being organized by SMVD Shrine Board; Department of J&K Tourism; PTC Network in association with SMVD Narayana Super Speciality Hospital; J&K Bank; Nice Gems; Nidheesh Builders Jammu Private Limited; 92.7 Big FM; Yog Ashram complex with active support of district administration and the local hosts. Sixth day programme was inaugurated at Yog Ashram complex in the evening by lighting of a traditional lamp by Amit Sharma, Commissioner Census J&K and Ladakh in presence of Uday Bhaskar Bureau Head of J&K Punjab Kesari and Hind Samachar group; Rajesh Raina Assistant Director Tourism; celebrity singer Suraj Singh; former AIDSC winner Ravi Raguvanshi; chairman All India Devotional Song Committee and president Hotel and Restaurant Association Katra Rakesh Wazir; Swami Yoganandji Maharaj; Kirti Khajuria; PHD Chamber of Commerce and Industry Katra head Virender Kesar; Subash Chander, Gopal Singh besides others. On the sixth night, Rahul Lakhotra bagged first position, whereas second position was shared by Bunty and Narinder Kumar and third position was shared by Dr Arvind Kaur, Netra Tikku, Ajay Kumar from Jammu, Gurdeep Singh and Surjit Lalka among the 15 auditioned participants. The winners were provided with the cash prizes of 10,000, 5,000 and 3,000 by the distinguished guests. The devotional song competition was judged by the panels of experts in music including Dr Surinder Sharma Head of the department Government Degree College Sanjoli Himachal Pradesh; C L Verma ex Chairman, Post Graduate University of Himachal Pradesh; Suraj Singh HoD Music Department Jammu and Ravi Raguvanshi. Wazir, while speaking on the occasion, said that renowned personalities from media, film industry viz., Ganesh Jain Managing Director Venus Records and Tapes Limited; famous actors Deepak Parashar, Preeti Sapru; film maker and film trade analyst Kumar Mohan; CEO PTC Network Rajee S Shinde would reach Katra and interact with media on October 18 at The Vaishnodevi Sarovar Portico, Katra at 1.15 pm. He further said that semi-final of the contest would be on October 18, 2026 while the final would be held on October 19, 2026.

CS Ladakh highlights infrastructure achievements, progress on constitutional safeguards for Ladakh

Kargil, Oct 17: A day after the Leh Apex Body (LAB) and the Kargil Democratic Alliance (KDA) rejected the Centre's draft proposal on Ladakh's demands, Chief Secretary Ashish Kundra on Saturday termed the response very unfortunate, saying the document was dismissed within two hours of its receipt without its clauses being examined in depth. Addressing a press conference in Leh, Kundra said the draft had been prepared after considerable effort and was open to suggestions, stressing that the Centre was willing to consider changes to reach a consensus on constitutional safeguards and the proposed democratic structure for Ladakh. Chief Secretary described the successive meetings between Ladakhs representatives and the MHA as constructive, with tangible progress towards addressing the aspirations of the people. He highlighted key measures already undertaken, including enhancement of Scheduled Tribe reservation to 84 per cent, recruitment of 107 local candidates against 109 Group A doctor posts through UPSC, recognition of Bhoti and Purgi as official languages, and one-third reservation for women in the Ladakh Autonomous Hill Development Councils (LAHDCs). The Chief Secretary informed that, following discussions on October 15, the MHA shared a detailed framework document with Ladakhs representatives on October 16. The document proposes a two-stage approach involving a constitutional amendment and a subsequent regulation under Article 240 of the Constitution, with provisions envisaged for a directly elected Union Territory-level body and safeguards concerning land, natural resources, culture and other issues raised by the representatives. He clarified that the document was intended to facilitate further discussion and was not the outcome of a concluded legislative process. The proposed constitutional provisions and the subsequent regulatory framework would require detailed examination and deliberation before being finalised. The Chief Secretary said that several institutional questions remained open for consideration and examination, including the nomenclature and composition of the proposed body, the method of election, representation of women and underrepresented communities, nominated and ex-officio members, the authority responsible for conducting elections, delimitation of constituencies, electoral rolls, tenure and the relationship of the proposed body with existing institutions such as the LAHDCs, Panchayats and municipalities. Reaffirming the Central Governments commitment to the dialogue, the Chief Secretary said the objective was to arrive at a balanced and workable framework that reflects the democratic aspirations of the people while ensuring institutional clarity and taking into account its distinctive geographical, cultural and administrative circumstances through sustained dialogue and mutual understanding. The Chief Secretary emphasised that these issues could not be settled unilaterally and required broad-based consensus among the leadership and stakeholders of Ladakh. He urged all stakeholders to approach the process constructively and expressed hope that the remaining issues would be resolved through continued consultation in the coming weeks and months. The Chief Secretary, highlighted major infrastructure achievements dedicated to the people of Ladakh by the Prime Minister on October 15 and outlined the progress made in discussions with the Ministry of Home Affairs (MHA) on constitutional safeguards and the proposed democratic framework for the Union Territory. The Chief Secretary said that infrastructure projects worth approximately Rs 3,350 crore were dedicated to the people of Ladakh, with around 10,000 people from all seven districts participating virtually in the programme. Key highlights included the completion of the Leh Airport Terminal, valued at approximately 640 crore, with flight operations commencing on October 16; improved connectivity to Zanskar, reducing travel time from Leh from nearly 12 hours to approximately three hours; and the commissioning of the 9 MW Hanu Hydropower Project, taking the combined capacity of the Dha and Hanu projects to 18 MW. Emphasising water conservation, the Chief Secretary stated that, in response to public demand, the Lieutenant Governor had directed an increase in the number of Amrit Sarovars from 40 to 100 across Ladakh. He also highlighted the Petroglyph Park along the Indus as an important initiative for preserving and showcasing the regions rich archaeological heritage and historical links with the Silk Route. The Chief Secretary also highlighted the establishment of the High Court Bench in Leh as a significant milestone in improving access to justice in Ladakh. The presence of the Chief Justice and Judges of the High Court of Jammu & Kashmir and Ladakh, along with the Attorney General of India, underscored the importance of the occasion. He noted that the initiative, operationalised within a span of two months, would significantly ease access to High Court services for the people of Ladakh by reducing the need to travel to Jammu or Srinagar. He described it as a proactive initiative of the Government of India, reflecting its sensitivity to Ladakhs geographical challenges and commitment to bringing justice closer to the people.

Ownership rights to DPs, WPRs: Div Com Jammu directs expedited disposal of pending cases

Jammu, Oct 17: Divisional Commissioner Jammu, Vikas Kundal, Saturday chaired a meeting to review the progress on the conferment of ownership rights to Displaced Persons (DPs) and West Pakistani Refugees (WPRs) under the relevant Government Orders, including Government Orders No. 100, 101 and 105. During detailed deliberations, the Deputy Commissioners of Jammu Division, as per an official statement, apprised the chair of the district-wise progress in the receipt, scrutiny, approval and disposal of claims, besides highlighting issues requiring intervention for expeditious processing of cases. Emphasising time-bound disposal of claims, the Divisional Commissioner directed all Deputy Commissioners to expedite verification of pending cases and strengthen coordination among district administrations, SDMs, tehsil offices and the Custodian Department. He stressed that eligible beneficiaries should not face unnecessary delays in securing their rightful ownership claims. The Divisional Commissioner called for a thorough review of rejected cases and directed officers to examine the grounds of rejection on merit, ensuring that every decision is supported by proper justification. He emphasised that eligible claims must be dealt with fairly and transparently and called for the involvement of senior revenue officers wherever required to review such cases. He also underscored the need to intensify outreach efforts to ensure that all eligible beneficiaries are informed about the scheme and encouraged to submit their claims. Deputy Commissioners were directed to organise awareness camps, undertake field visits, contact beneficiaries individually and coordinate with relevant organisations to facilitate the submission of applications and requisite documents. Reviewing cases referred to the Custodian Department, the Divisional Commissioner directed the officers concerned to promptly address observations and deficiencies and resubmit the cases without delay. He also stressed the need to deploy additional staff, including Patwaris and other revenue functionaries, wherever necessary to accelerate verification and processing. The meeting also deliberated on procedural issues concerning documentation required to establish land allotment and possession under the relevant Government Orders. The Divisional Commissioner said that the matter would be taken up with the competent authorities for necessary clarification. Directing all districts to adhere to prescribed timelines, the Div Com called for accelerated progress during October and measurable improvement before the next review meeting. Deputy Commissioners of Jammu, Samba, Kathua, Udhampur, Reasi, Rajouri and Poonch, along with Additional Deputy Commissioners and other senior officers, attended the meeting in person and through virtual mode.

CMs vision for sustainable tourism in J&K laudable: Dr Varinder Sharma

Jammu, Oct 17:J&K BJP Health Cell co-convener Dr Varinder Sharma has appreciated Chief Minister Omar Abdullah's vision of moving Jammu and Kashmir from volume-driven footfall to a high-value, sustainable tourism model and of pitching Gulmarg to the Government of India as a flagship, world-class destination. Dr Varinder said he fully concurred with the Chief Minister that tourism must be eco-friendly and value-rich rather than a race for numbers. Unchecked mass tourism, he noted, strains fragile Himalayan ecosystems, and premium visitor experiences, higher spending per tourist and strong ecological safeguards are the right way forward. He asserted that both Kashmir and Jammu divisions hold unexplored potential for foreign tourists seeking camping, hiking and trekking amid the serene beauty of the hill districts. He highlighted Rajouri, Poonch, Doda, Kishtwar and Bani Basohli as upcoming destinations that deserve focused attention. Dr Varinder emphasised the need to develop Patnitop on the pattern of Gulmarg, as envisioned by the Chief Minister. He pointed out that the J&K government formally proposed Gulmarg from Kashmir and Patnitop from Jammu to NITI Aayog and the Union Ministry of Tourism for development into world-class destinations. He urged the Chief Minister to begin work on the Patnitop Convention Centre, for which the Supreme Court already granted permission, saying it would go a long way in projecting Patnitop as a major tourist destination. Noting that people across India constantly look for hill stations for weekend breaks and long holidays, Dr Varinder stressed that the Chief Minister's vision must be implemented in mission mode. Tourism is an ever-expanding industry and many developed countries sustain their economies largely on it. To make J&K economically self-sustaining, tourism must be extended to every possible site, he said. He acknowledged that the Government was already working on Mantalai, Shiv Khori and Sudhmahadev, and expressed confidence that a structured, time-bound approach could transform J&K into a mega tourism state, generating jobs in homestays, transport, guiding, handicrafts and adventure services for local communities.

Kargil's sub-division celebrates new district status

Kargil , Oct 17: Festive fervour gripped the valley of Sankoo on Saturday as thousands of residents poured onto the streets to celebrate the official announcement granting district status to the region. The long-standing aspiration of the local population finally came to fruition, transforming the sub-division into a newly minted administrative district. The air echoed with patriotic slogans, traditional drumbeats, and joyous cheers as jubilant crowds waved flags, distributed sweets, and danced to folk tunes. Lieutenant Governor Ladakh Vinai Kumar Saxena along with the Member of Parliament Ladakh , Mohd Haneefa , CEC Kargil Dr Mohd Jaffer, Chief Secretary Ladakh Ashish Kundra, DGP Ladakh Anand Jain and other prominent political, social and religious leaders joined the gathering of people in celebration. Local community leaders, religious heads, and prominent political representatives gathered at the main bazaar to address the mammoth gathering. Speaker after speaker expressed profound appreciation to the central government for recognizing the developmental needs and strategic importance of the region. Leaders extended their heartfelt gratitude to Prime Minister Narendra Modi and Union Home Minister Amit Shah, Lieutenant Governor Ladakh Vinai Kumar Saxena and other officials of the Administration praising their vision for inclusive growth, grassroots governance, and equitable development across the Union Territory of Ladakh. This is a historic milestone for the people of Sankoo. For years, we have awaited administrative decentralisation that addresses our unique geographical and cultural needs. Today, under the visionary leadership of Prime Minister Modi and Home Minister Shah, our dreams have turned into reality, CEC Kargil Dr Jaffar Akhoon said during the celebratory rally. Sankoo, renowned for its lush green landscapes, historical significance, and vibrant multicultural heritage, has long faced administrative bottlenecks due to its distance from district headquarters. Community elders and youth representatives highlighted that the new district status will usher in a transformative era. Leadership from the Ladakh Autonomous Hill Development Council (LAHDC) Kargil and local socio-religious bodies welcomed the decision, describing it as a historic milestone that honours the voice and aspirations of the region's people. Chief Executive Councillor LAHDC Karhil Dr Mohd Jaffar while speaking to Greater Kashmir express gratitude to the Prime Minister Narendra Modi, Home Minister Amit Shah and the LG Ladakh for fulfilling the genuine demand of the Sankoo area. MP Ladakh Mohd Hanifa also thanked the Prime Minister, Union Home Minister and the LG Ladakh for granting Sankoo a district. The creation of Sankoo as the eighth district follows the earlier rollout of five new districts in LadakhZanskar, Drass, Sham, Nubra, and Changthangreflecting an unprecedented administrative reorganisation of the Union Territory aimed at boosting local governance and development across its expanse. Bhartiya Janta Party leaders also hailed the decision to grant district status to Sankoo. Meanwhile LG Ladakh expressed happiness over the overwhelming response of people and jubilation after the announcement. Overwhelmed by the massive gathering and jubilant celebrations in Sankoo today, on declaration of Sankoo as Ladakhs 8th district, followed by the announcement to constitute Ladakh Autonomous Hill Development Council (LAHDC), as in all other districts of Ladakh. The immense joy and gratitude of the people, braving the icy winds on a chilly evening, is truly heartwarming. This historic milestone fulfils their long-standing demand and brings the administration right to their doorstep, in one of the most populous regions in Ladakh LG Ladakh said. LG Ladakh expressed Deepest gratitude to PM Narendra Modi and HM AmitShah for consistently guiding Ladakh on the path of progress and inclusive development. I assure the people of Sankoo that all administrative requirements, including the posting of officials, will be addressed at the earliest, so that the benefits of development reach every single household LG said.

Agriculture Graduates Association seeks resolution of pending demands, meets PDP leader Gh Nabi Lone Hanjura

Srinagar, Oct 17: A delegation of the Agriculture Graduates Association Jammu and Kashmir on Saturday called on People's Democratic Party (PDP) General Secretary Organisation and former Agriculture Minister, Adv Gh Nabi Lone Hanjura, and apprised him of their long-pending demands concerning the service structure, recruitment policy and career prospects of agriculture graduates in Jammu and Kashmir. The delegation, as per a statement, raised several key demands, including the creation of a Gazetted cadre for Agriculture Extension Officers (AEOs) under SRO-433, entry-level provisions for Junior Agriculture Extension Officers (JAEOs) under SRO-442, a direct recruitment quota in the JAEO cadre, and the merger of the Agriculture Extension Assistant (AEA) and JAEO cadres. Adv Gh Nabi Lone Hanjura gave the delegation a patient hearing and listened to their concerns regarding the future of agriculture graduates and the need for a fair and well-defined service structure. Expressing concern over the issues raised by the delegation, Hanjura appealed to the government to consider and fulfil their genuine demands at the earliest, stating that the concerns of agriculture graduates must be addressed to safeguard their professional future and career prospects. The former Agriculture Minister assured the delegation of his full support and said he would extend every possible assistance in taking up their concerns with the concerned authorities. He reiterated his commitment to raising their voice and advocating measures that would benefit agriculture graduates and strengthen the agricultural extension system in Jammu and Kashmir.

No place for intimidation, coercion, suppression of people's voices in democracy: Dr Farooq Abdullah

Srinagar, Oct 17: The Jammu and Kashmir National Conference President Dr Farooq Abdullah Saturday said in democracy there is no place for intimidation, coercion, harassment, fear, injustice, or the suppression of people's voices adding that the Constitution of India does not permit such actions either. As per a party statement issued, he said that respecting the human rights is a fundamental responsibility of a democratic society and no region or citizen should be subjected to discrimination on the basis of religion or faith. He said Jammu and Kashmir has been subjected to step-motherly treatment by the BJP government. First our special status was revoked without seeking the people's consent and the historic state was demoted into two Union Territories, while J&K's statehood continues to remain in suspended animation. The people of J&K were assured in Parliament and before the Supreme Court that statehood would be restored soon after the elections. However, even two years after the elections, no progress has been made in this direction. He said, to make matters worse, the elected government of Jammu and Kashmir has been denied even the powers ordinarily available to a Union Territory government. The Lieutenant Governor's administration leaves no opportunity to interfere in the functioning of the democratically elected government and create obstacles in its work, he said. Expressing concern over the growing communalism and religious discrimination in the country, Dr Farooq said that issuing arbitrary decisions by disregarding democratic and constitutional principles and using official authority for personal or political interests runs contrary to the interests of the nation and its people. Such actions not only undermine social harmony but also weaken the country's unity and integrity. He said that India's secular character and Constitution have always been a source of national identity and pride across the world, but today these fundamental values are facing serious challenges. He added that the policies and conduct of the ruling party are increasing the sense of insecurity among Muslims and other minority communities, which is a matter of grave concern for the country's secular and democratic character. Dr Farooq Abdullah also expressed concern over the desecration of religious places and bulldozer actions targeting Muslim places of worship. He said that the sanctity of religious places must be upheld under all circumstances.

Qaziabad Volleyball League 2026 kicks off in Langate

Langate, Oct 17: The Qaziabad Volleyball League 2026 commenced at Army Camp Langate on Saturday under Operation Sadbhavana, witnessing enthusiastic participation from teams representing Langate, Rafiabad and Sopore. The league aims to provide a platform for the youth of North Kashmir to showcase their sporting talent while promoting teamwork, discipline and sportsmanship through healthy competition. The initiative also reflects the Indian Armys efforts to encourage youth engagement, nurture emerging sporting talent and strengthen ties with local communities. Through such sporting activities, the Army seeks to promote unity, harmony and mutual trust while fostering the Awam-Army connect across the region.

Kilo North Kashmir T20 Premier League: Pathan Panthers Lolab beat NCC Narbal by 37 runs in first semi-final

Lolab, Oct 17: Pathan Panthers Lolab stormed into the final of the Kilo North Kashmir T20 Premier League after registering a convincing 37-run victory over NCC Narbal in the first semi-final at Chandigam Cricket Ground, Lolab, on Friday. With an impressive performance in the knockout encounter, Pathan Panthers Lolab, as per an official statement, became the first team to secure a place in the tournaments grand finale, taking another significant step towards the coveted championship title. The victory marks a major milestone in the Panthers campaign, as the team continues its strong run in the competition and strengthens its bid for the title. Meanwhile, the battle for the second spot in the final will be decided in the upcoming semi-final, where Friends XI Lolab will take on Sopore XI in what promises to be a keenly contested encounter. With the tournament entering its decisive stage, cricket fever is gripping North Kashmir, as fans eagerly await the final showdown. The league has provided a platform for local cricketing talent while promoting sportsmanship, competitive spirit and community participation across the region. All eyes are now on the second semi-final, with the winner set to join Pathan Panthers Lolab in the much-anticipated title clash.

Income Tax XI Kashmir beat CA XI by 17 runs in Bijbehara

Bijbehara, Oct 17: Income Tax Eleven Kashmir, captained by Moin Siddiqui, registered a convincing 17-run victory over CA Eleven Kashmir, led by Abrar Hussain, in an exciting cricket encounter played at Bijbehara Cricket Stadium. After winning the toss, Income Tax Eleven Kashmir, as per a statement, elected to bat first and put up a competitive total of 156 runs for the loss of four wickets. Parvez Rasool contributed a valuable 41 runs, while Muntazor chipped in with 34 runs to strengthen the team's batting effort. In reply, CA Eleven Kashmir fought hard but fell 17 runs short of the target, handing Income Tax Eleven Kashmir a well-deserved victory. The standout performer of the match was Parvez Rasool, who followed up his impressive batting performance with a devastating spell of bowling, claiming three crucial wickets to derail the opposition's chase. For his outstanding all-round performance, Rasool was deservedly adjudged Man of the Match. The victory further underlined Income Tax Eleven Kashmir's dominance in this rivalry, marking their tenth win over CA Eleven Kashmir and adding another memorable chapter to their head-to-head encounters. The match witnessed an engaging display of cricket, with Income Tax Eleven Kashmir combining disciplined batting and effective bowling to secure a deserved triumph.

Srinagar Premier League 2026: Kashmir Elegant FC secure 21 victory over Sports Council Football Academy

Srinagar, Oct 17: Kashmir Elegant FC registered a hard-fought 21 victory over Sports Council Football Academy in the Srinagar Premier League 2026 at TRC Srinagar. Kashmir Elegant FC, as per a statement, went into half-time with a 21 lead and maintained their advantage throughout the second half to secure all three points. Sports Council Football Academy fought to get back into the game, but Kashmir Elegant FC held firm to preserve their lead until the final whistle. The match showcased the competitive spirit and determination of both teams, adding another exciting chapter to the Srinagar Premier League 2026. The league is being organised under the aegis of the District Football Association (DFA) Srinagar, providing a platform for local football clubs and players to demonstrate their talent and compete at a high level.

70th National School Games:192 Wushu bouts held on day 3 in Ganderbal

Ganderbal, Oct 17: The Wushu competitions of the 70th National School Games (NSG) 2026 continued for the third consecutive day at the Government College of Physical Education, Ganderbal, with a total of 192 bouts contested across two arenas. The championship, as per a DYSS statement, is being hosted by the Directorate of Youth Services and Sports, Jammu and Kashmir, under the aegis of the School Games Federation of India (SGFI). On the third day, Arena 1 witnessed 64 bouts across male and female categories, covering weight categories from 45 kg to 80 kg. Meanwhile, Arena 2 also hosted 64 bouts in the respective weight categories. In addition, 32 pre-quarterfinal bouts were conducted in each arena, taking the total number of bouts held during the day to 192. The competitions witnessed enthusiastic participation from young Wushu athletes representing different states and Union Territories, showcasing their skills, determination and sporting spirit. A major highlight for Jammu and Kashmir was the impressive performance of Madiya Javeed, who secured a place in the semifinals in the girls' under-45 kg weight category. Her achievement brought encouragement to the host contingent as the championship moved towards its decisive stages. The tournament will continue tomorrow, with semifinal bouts scheduled across different weight categories. The upcoming contests are expected to feature intense competition as athletes strive to secure places in the finals. The smooth conduct of the championship reflects the efforts of the Directorate of Youth Services and Sports, Jammu and Kashmir, in promoting school-level sports and providing young athletes with a national platform to demonstrate their talent.

Nana Patekar: An Essayist of Characters

Nana Patekar died in the early hours of Thursday, 8 October 2026 of a cardiac arrest at his home in Goa. He was seventy-five. Four days earlier, at a function near Panaji, he had spoken of death without theatre. We all have to go someday. I dont know whether I will be here tomorrow But before the time comes we have to think am I able to do what I want to do? Have I made the effort? Then, The Indian Express reports, he danced with a troupe and told a fan who asked for a Krantiveer dialogue that none would leave his throat until he heard the jingling of money in his ears. Frank, funny, faintly dangerous, and honest about the clock: that was Nana to the last. I keep a short roll of honour among the worlds actors: Gregory Peck, Marlon Brando, Robert De Niro, Al Pacino, Dilip Kumar, George C. Scott, Donald Sutherland, Sir Anthony Hopkins, Charles Chaplin, Alec Guinness, Jack Nicholson. Nana Patekar belongs on that roll, and not as a courtesy of nationality. He was an essayist of characters. Each of his men arrived as a thesis, made its case in a rasp or a silence, and left the audience altered. Look at the range. In Salaam Bombay! (1988) he was Baba, a drug dealer and pimp without a flicker of pity. In Parinda (1989) he was the crime lord Anna Seth, whose maniacal laugh won him his first National Award. In Krantiveer (1994) he turned anger into a public argument against corruption and won Best Actor. In Khamoshi: The Musical (1996) he played a deaf-mute father with no dialogue to lean on; the Express called it pure performance, the hallmark of a true actor. In Ab Tak Chhappan (2004) he was a police inspector so obsessed with cleaning up crime that all semblance of balance disappeared. In Natsamrat (2016) he became Ganpat Appa Belwalkar, the stage legend who neglected his family in his prime and found they had little time for him in old age. What I prize in the men on my roll is economy: a pause doing the work of a paragraph. Nana had it. His villains were never cartoons, and his heroes never forgot they were angry men. Honorary ranks are often treated as ornaments. Nana Patekars was not. He came to my Regiment first through a film. In Prahaar (1991), which he co-wrote, directed and starred in, he played Major Chavan of the Maratha Light Infantry, a hard taskmaster to his cadets. By several accounts he prepared by training with the Regiment for about three years. He joined the Territorial Army as an honorary Captain around 1990, and held his honorary commission, rising to Lieutenant Colonel, until 2013. Then came 1999. He asked to go to the front and was told that only the Defence Minister could permit it. So he telephoned George Fernandes, who agreed. He reached the Line of Control in August, weeks after the Kargil war was officially declared over, and did the unglamorous work: a base hospital, a quick-response team, patrols. He did not play at being a combatant. Kashmiri readers will know the places. By his own telling, his travels took in Dras, Leh, Kupwara, Baramulla and Sopore. I know that belt. Kupwara is my home district, and Baramulla is where I commanded my battalion on the Line of Control. When I reached Srinagar, my weight was 76 kg, he recalled. When I came back, my weight became 56 kg. In a recent interview he said of that time, simply: I felt happy. I could at least do this little bit for the country. That is how soldiers speak of service: without ornament. There is a coincidence I cannot leave alone. In 1978, the year I was commissioned into the 16th Battalion of the Maratha Light Infantry, Nana Patekar made his screen debut in Gaman . Two roads began that year, and they met in one Regiment. A regiment is a family of obligations. Whoever wears its uniform and means it, belongs to it. Nana meant it. He knew his own faults. I get violent, he told the Express in 2016. Thats the difference. I lost so many things because of that. Few public men name their flaw so plainly. In the same breath he said: Acting is not just a profession for me. This is how I breathe. His generosity was quieter than his temper. In 2015 he and Makarand Anaspure founded the NAAM Foundation to help drought-hit farmers and their families in Maharashtra. And when he learnt that the young shooter Anjali Bhagwat and two teammates were sharing one rifle and one kit for want of money, he stepped in. He is the first sponsor of my career, she says. To newcomers on the range he would say, on the spot: Take my ammunition and shoot. No glove? Here, take mine. Ill get a new one. I must also set down a private regret. I have created and written a screenplay of an eight-episode feature for Netflix that marries Dostoevskys quiet pathos to the reckonings of love in King Lear . Its lead is an ageing patriarch who reeks of lust and greed. My sponsors offered a distinguished shortlist of the countrys finest actors. I insisted on Nana Patekar. My reason was what I call the Al Pacino frequency: volatile, razor-edged, soul-piercing. Nana had an innate, unpredictable savagery. In Parinda it announced itself. In Apaharan , as the MLA and underworld don Tabrez Alam, it learned to wait. Even in The Vaccine War , in a very different part, he kept his power in reserve. With age the fire had hardened into something more dangerous: a quiet, sardonic, bone-chilling cruelty. I wanted that savagery of intent dripping from my patriarchs face and eyes before he spoke a word. I could not imagine another face carrying it. Every writer has a role written for one particular face. Mine was his. Now it is my loss, and a regret I will carry for life. He was cremated late on Thursday night at his farmhouse in Donje village, outside Pune, with full state honours and a 21-gun salute, before more than a thousand mourners. The salute fitted. He had worn two uniforms, the actors and the soldiers, and neither was a disguise. Rest well, Colonel. The Regiment remembers you. Bol Shri Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj ki Jai. (The writer, a retired Colonel of the Maratha Light Infantry, is a strategic analyst and author.)

Ahead of mega IPO, Jio identifies 3 growth engines, targets 100 million homes

Mumbai, Oct 17: Ahead of its proposed initial public offering (IPO), Jio Platforms has outlined its next phase of expansion, identifying mobility, home broadband and enterprise and international services as its three principal growth engines. Speaking to journalists in Mumbai, Managing Director Akash Ambani said the company would focus on expanding its customer base, strengthening digital infrastructure and monetising its technology capabilities as Indias digital economy moves towards an estimated $1.4 trillion by FY31. Jio currently serves around 533 million connectivity customers and carries more than 60 per cent of Indias data traffic. The most important unit of our business is our customers, Ambani said, reiterating the companys focus on delivering affordable digital services to individuals, households and enterprises. In the mobility segment, Jio estimates an industry opportunity of around 340 million new 4G and 5G additions between FY26 and FY31. This includes approximately 100 million first-time mobile users and 240 million customers expected to migrate from 2G networks to 4G and 5G services. The company said it added nearly three times as many net active mobile users as its second-largest competitor in FY26. Home broadband is another major growth area, with Jio targeting expansion from its existing base of around 28.6 million fixed broadband customers to 100 million homes. The company accounted for approximately 67.5 per cent of Indias net fixed broadband additions in FY26. Combining fibre connectivity with its proprietary wireless technology, Jio aims to extend its services across nearly 19,000 PIN codes. The enterprise and international business offers further expansion opportunities. Jio estimates Indias addressable enterprise digital services market at 5.1 lakh crore, or $56.8 billion. Nearly 65 per cent of bank branches in the country are connected to its network, alongside its expanding portfolio of security and video surveillance services. Internationally, Jio plans to offer its end-to-end technology stack in select markets, positioning itself as a managed services partner for global telecom operators rather than merely a software vendor. Earlier, Isha Ambani highlighted Reliances emphasis on long-term thinking, scale, execution and financial discipline. The event opened with Uday Kotak recalling Dhirubhai Ambani and Reliances landmark 1977 public offering.

Philips Home Appliances launches Sone Pe Double Suhaga festive campaign

Srinagar, Oct 17: Philips Home Appliances has launched its festive campaign, Sone Pe Double Suhaga, offering assured gifts on eligible purchases and a chance to win gold worth Rs 9,999 every hour and a diamond worth Rs 50,000 every day. Running from October 11 to November 11, 2026, the campaign builds on the success of last years Sone Pe Suhaga initiative, which reached consumers across 70 cities. This year, the company aims to expand its reach to more than 200 million consumers across 112 cities. Under the campaign, customers purchasing eligible Philips Home Appliances with a minimum retail price (MRP) of 1,500 will receive an assured gift and become eligible for a chance to win the gold and diamond rewards. The initiative combines conventional festive offers with aspirational rewards, seeking to make appliance purchases more rewarding during the festive season. Pooja Baid, Chief Marketing Officer, Versuni India, said the response to last years campaign had encouraged the company to expand its festive proposition. With Sone Pe Double Suhaga, consumers purchasing eligible Philips Home Appliances can enjoy an assured gift on purchase, along with the chance to win gold every hour and a diamond every day, she said. Baid said the campaign aimed to add excitement, surprise and aspiration to festive shopping while offering consumers additional value. Gold and diamonds hold cultural significance during Indian festivals, symbolising prosperity, good fortune and new beginnings. Through the campaign, Philips Home Appliances seeks to combine these traditions with its home appliance portfolio to enhance the festive shopping experience across India.

CSIR-IIIM, CAD Team explores feasibility of cultivating medicinal, aromatic plants in Patyari Cluster

Jammu, Oct 17: Experts from CSIR-IIIM Jammu and CAD today conducted a joint visit to various sites of the Patyari Cluster under the Modernisation of Command Area Development and Water Management (MCADWM) scheme. The visit was undertaken under the supervision and directions of the Director, Command Area Development Project Jammu Pankaj Magotra to explore the feasibility of cultivating medicinal and aromatic plants in the Patyari Cluster and obtain expert recommendations on suitable crop options based on the prevailing agro-climatic conditions. The expert team deputed by the Director, CSIR-IIIM Jammu, consisted of Principal Scientist (Soil Science) Dr Rajendra Bhanwaria; Principal Technical Officer (Agronomy) Dr Siya Ram Meena; and Project Associate-I (Soil Science) Mahnaz. The team was accompanied by District Subject Matter Specialists (SMSs), S. Sukhbir Singh and Pankaj Verma, along with SCA Rajeev Kumar from CAD Jammu. During the visit, the team interacted with local farmers to understand their agricultural practices and field-level requirements. Soil samples were also collected from different locations for laboratory analysis to assess their suitability for the proposed cultivation. The CSIR-IIIM team shall submit a detailed report to the Directorate of CAD Jammu after receipt and analysis of the soil sample reports. The findings and expert recommendations will help identify suitable medicinal and aromatic plant species and formulate a viable cultivation strategy for crop diversification and enhancement of farmers income under the MCADWM scheme.

Director Agriculture Kashmir inaugurates sale of onion seedlings at Gangbugh for farming Community

Srinagar, Oct 17: Director Agriculture Kashmir, Sartaj Ahmad Shah, today inaugurated the sale of onion seedlings for the farming community at Seed Multiplication Farm, Gangbugh, reaffirming the Departments commitment to ensuring timely availability of quality planting material to farmers. The initiative is aimed at facilitating farmers in undertaking timely transplantation of onion seedlings and encouraging them to adopt scientific cultivation practices for enhanced productivity and improved farm returns. On the occasion, the Director emphasized the importance of making quality planting material readily accessible to farmers and strengthening field-level support to promote crop diversification and sustainable agricultural practices across Kashmir. The initiative is part of the Department's continued efforts to empower the farming community through timely interventions, improved access to agricultural inputs and the promotion of remunerative crops. The Department remains committed to extending technical guidance and necessary support to farmers to enhance agricultural productivity, improve farm incomes and strengthen the overall agricultural economy of the region.

At a pandal near you: Who's dressed for whom? Who's being watched?

Durga Pujo is one giant fashion show - and tell - when saris and panjabis flaunt and compete to get their due on cam phones, and pandals become location shoots with the goddess tactically in the background

So, it's trendy-ing, grey is the new black: Indian women challenge beauty norms through silver transitions

Women in India are increasingly embracing grey hair, challenging traditional beauty standards associated with aging. This movement showcases many women documenting their transition to natural colors, which defies societal norms. While the beauty industry has historically pressured women to cover their grey, attitudes are slowly changing among younger actresses. Notable figures like Revathi and Neha Dhupia represent this evolving perspective on beauty and age.

Mocking 'ghar ka khana' on flights, eh? The jokes on sneering 'dehatists', since we know airline food is crap

A viral video of an elderly couple eating home-cooked food from a steel thali on a domestic flight has sparked debate over food choices, passenger etiquette and airline rules. The article criticises online shaming of the couple, arguing that carrying traditional meals while travelling is commonplace in India and that the backlash reflects class prejudice and commercial interests rather than genuine concerns about manners or safety.

Disagree to disagree? Go fight with Gandhi: Why arguments matter

India thrives on a democratic ethos that invites citizens to engage in extensive debates over diverse issues. Figures such as Mohandas Karamchand Gandhi exemplified this through contentious dialogues on significant social topics. In his book, Ramachandra Guha delves into Gandhi's arguments, linking them to modern challenges related to caste, religion, and gender.

Crime Branch files chargesheet against 15 accused in Kishtwar minor's rape and death case

Jammu, Oct 17: The Special Investigation Team (SIT) of the Crime Branch has filed a chargesheet against 15 accused in connection with the alleged rape and death of a 15-year-old girl in Jammu and Kashmir's Kishtwar district, an official said on Saturday. The tribal girl was allegedly subjected to repeated sexual assault by a teacher in her school over months, resulting in her pregnancy. She died following an alleged attempt to terminate the pregnancy in the Chatroo area on August 20. The chargesheet was filed within 60 days of the SIT taking over the investigation, the official said.

Delhi-bound Emirates flight suffers bird strike

New Delhi, Oct 17: A Delhi-bound Emirates flight from Dubai suffered a bird hit on arrival, forcing the airline to delay the return flight by over 14 hours. The return flight was scheduled to depart at 4.25 pm on Saturday and is expected to depart at 7 am on Sunday, Emirates informed its passengers. Emirates flight EK517 from Dubai to Delhi on 17 October encountered a bird strike on arrival. As a result, the return flight EK517 from Delhi to Dubai will be delayed while the aircraft undergoes necessary repairs, the Gulf airline said in a media statement without sharing crucial details such as the number of passengers on board. Hotel accommodation is being arranged for affected passengers, Emirates said. The flight is now expected to depart at 7 am Delhi local time on October 18, it added. Emirates apologises for any inconvenience caused, it noted.

Ladakh deadlock: Centre says committed to political solution, urges leaders to keep talks alive

Leh, Oct 17: With the Leh Apex Body (LAB) and Kargil Democratic Alliance (KDA) rejecting the Centre's draft on constitutional safeguards and democratic governance, Chief Secretary Ashish Kundra on Saturday expressed disappointment over the move and urged the region's leaders to continue negotiations with mutual trust, patience and an open mind. Addressing a press conference in Leh, Kundra said the 32-page proposal prepared by the Union Ministry of Home Affairs was dismissed within hours of being presented to the Ladakh representatives on October 16, a day after they held discussions with the Centre. The government of India is fully committed to finding a political solution at the earliest and to establishing a democratically elected body that fulfils the aspirations of the people of Ladakh, the chief secretary said. The LAB and KDA have maintained that the Centres proposal does not meet their demands for constitutional safeguards and a legislature with meaningful powers. Kundra said the government had made concerted efforts to develop an alternative constitutional framework and asserted that further discussions were necessary to arrive at a mutually acceptable arrangement. It was surprising to see that the document was dismissed outright within just two hours of being received, he said, adding that officials had spent three to four weeks preparing the proposal in good faith. Explaining the framework, Kundra said the home ministry had shared a detailed document outlining a possible constitutional framework for Ladakh, following discussions with the region's leaders on October 15. The document proposes a two-stage approach involving a constitutional amendment and a subsequent regulation under Article 240 of the Constitution, with provisions envisaged for a directly elected Union Territory-level body and safeguards concerning land, natural resources, culture and other issues raised by the representatives, the chief secretary said. He clarified that the document was intended to facilitate further discussion and was not the outcome of a concluded legislative process. The proposed constitutional provisions and the subsequent regulatory framework would require detailed examination and deliberation before being finalised, Kundra said. Several institutional questions also remained open for consideration and examination, including the nomenclature and composition of the proposed body, the method of election, representation of women and underrepresented communities, and nominated and ex-officio members. The authority responsible for conducting elections, delimitation of constituencies, electoral rolls, tenure and the relationship of the proposed body with existing institutions such as the LAHDCs, Panchayats and municipalities would also need to be examined. The proposal envisages introducing a new constitutional provision, Article 371-K, specifically for Ladakh, followed by a separate regulation under Article 240 to define the functioning of the proposed institution, he said. Not every detail can be incorporated into a constitutional amendment. Therefore, a separate regulation would also be framed under Article 240, Kundra said. Appealing to the leaders involved in the dialogue, Kundra said mutual trust was essential for meaningful negotiations with an open mind. Negotiations require an open mind, mutual trust and, above all, patience, he said. He said the government did not want to rush into an arrangement that could shape Ladakhs governance for decades without ensuring that it met the expectations of the people. We must ensure that the framework ultimately established for Ladakh is one with which the people are satisfied, not only the political leaders but also ordinary citizens, he said. Kundra also urged the leadership not to allow disappointment over individual meetings to create a perception that the process had yielded no progress. Seeking to underline the Centres efforts to address local concerns, Kundra cited the increase in reservation for local residents, recognition of regional languages and reservation for women in the hill councils. He said reservation for Scheduled Tribes in Ladakh, which stood at 10 per cent in 2019, had been increased to 84 per cent for local people. The LAB and KDA have expressed dissatisfaction with the home ministry's proposal and maintained that their demands for constitutional safeguards and a legislature with executive, legislative and financial powers remain central to the negotiations. The two sides will meet again in New Delhi on October 22 to discuss their respective proposals and attempt to bridge the differences. Kundra expressed hope that the process would move towards a conclusion in the coming weeks and months, reiterating that the Centre remained committed to establishing a democratically elected body for Ladakh at the earliest. There is no reason for anyone to lose hope, he said.

SabarmatiJammu Tawi Express extended to Katra from Oct 18; three new halts approved

Jammu, Oct 17: The Ministry of Railways has approved the extension of Sabarmati BGJammu Tawi Express to Shri Mata Vaishno Devi Katra, with the extended service commencing from Sabarmati on October 18 and from Katra on October 20, an official said on Saturday. The extension will add another train service to Katra, the base camp for pilgrims visiting the Mata Vaishno Devi shrine, and provide an additional travel option for passengers from Gujarat, Rajasthan, Haryana and Punjab along the route, a Northern Railway Jammu Division spokesperson said. He said the railways has also approved additional halts for the train at Samba, Bari Brahmana and Martyr Captain Tushar Mahajan railway stations in the Jammu region. The new stoppages are expected to benefit local residents, students, traders, industrial workers and military personnel, particularly those associated with the Bari Brahmana industrial area, the spokesman said. He said the daily service will connect Katra with Sabarmati and major stations along the route, including Bathinda, Firozpur, Jalandhar and Pathankot. The extension is expected to support religious tourism, facilitate passenger movement and provide a boost to trade and employment in the region. As per the announced schedule, train number 19223 will depart from Sabarmati at 10:25 am and reach Jammu Tawi at 3:35 pm on the second day, before arriving at Shri Mata Vaishno Devi Katra at 6:55 pm. On the return journey, train number 19224 will depart from Katra at 4:50 am and reach Jammu Tawi at 7:40 am.

CJI Surya Kant to visit Ladakh tomorrow to inaugurate Ladakh Bench of High Court

Ladakh, Oct 17: The Chief Justice of India, Justice Surya Kant, will visit Ladakh on Sunday to inaugurate the newly constituted Ladakh bench of the High Court of Jammu & Kashmir and Ladakh, Chief Secretary Ashish Kundra said at a press conference today. He said the CJI will be accompanied by four Supreme Court judges, the chief justice of the Jammu and Kashmir and Ladakh High Court, and other high court judges. The attorney general of India will also attend the event, he said. It is a very big thing. Frankly speaking in recent times, if you scan the history of the High Courts in India, I don't think that in the last 40 years any sitting bench has been set up in this fashion for any other High Court. The only example which comes to my mind is maybe that of the North Eastern States, where the Guwahati High Court, had benches in Arunachal Pradesh, where I have worked, he said. Justice coming closer to the people is a very big thing, the CS said. Otherwise, anyone who was aggrieved and wanted to file a writ petition would have to go to Srinagar or Jammu. I think the fact that this is now possible here in Ladakh is an extremely positive development, he added. He said the bench was established within two months and was not among the demands raised during negotiations, describing it as a unilateral initiative by the Centre. Negotiations are currently underway between Ladakhi political leaders and the Ministry of Home Affairs. The Ladakhi leaders are seeking a Union Territory with a legislature and constitutional safeguards under Article 371. The Government of India fully understands how difficult this terrain is, the challenging circumstances in which people live here and how crucial it is to ensure that justice is accessible closer to their doorstep, Kundra said.

Youth should choose libraries and playgrounds over drugs: SSP Srinagar

From shelves to the roads, books are now being sold on the streets, while shoes occupy the shelves.

Kashmir has talent but lacks opportunities, says filmmaker Anirban Dhar

IGP asks Kashmir police stations to adopt tech-driven, citizen-centric policing

Srinagar, Oct 17: Kashmir Inspector General of Police (IGP) Sujit Kumar Singh on Saturday directed all police stations in the Valley to adopt modern, technology-driven and citizen-centric policing. He was chairing a conference on 'SMART Policing and Digital Beat Policing', attended by Range DIGs, District SSPs, Additional SPs, Zonal SPs, DySPs and SHOs from across Kashmir Zone. According to a police spokesperson, in line with directions of the Jammu and Kashmir Director General of Police, the IGP Kashmir directed all police stations across the Kashmir Zone to adopt SMART Policing and Digital Beat Policing as an integral part of their day-to-day functioning. The initiative aims to transform police stations into modern, efficient, accountable and citizen-friendly institutions, ensuring better and faster delivery of services to the public, he said. During the conference, the IGP Kashmir emphasised the five fundamental principles of SMART policing: S for Strict and Sensitive, M for Modern and Mobile, A for Alert and Accountable, R for Reliable and Responsive, and T for Techno-savvy and Trained. Digital beat policing, or e-beat policing, replaces traditional paper-based beat books and physical check-ins with mobile apps, GPS tracking and QR code or RFID scanning. Singh stressed that the SMART policing concept should not be confined to policy documents but must be reflected in the conduct, working culture and public service delivery of every police station. He directed all station house officers to institutionalise Digital Beat Policing in their jurisdictions. Beat officers shall undertake regular field visits, maintain meaningful interaction with locals and ensure that policing services reach the last person, he said. Digital Beat Policing should facilitate public outreach, digital beat records, quick public service delivery, accountability, community participation, and future-ready policing, he said. The IGP said police station is the key point of contact between police and public, and it must remain accessible, responsive and tech-empowered.

Trumps super intelligence diplomat: Marco Rubio

NCB Jammu seizes 385 grams of suspected heroin in Digiana; one arrested

Jammu, October 16: The Narcotics Control Bureau (NCB), Jammu Zonal Unit, conducted an intelligence-based operation in the Digiana area of Jammu and seized 385 grams of suspected heroin, arresting one person reportedly residing in Miran Sahib. According to a press note issued by NCB Jammu on Saturday, the operation followed specific intelligence regarding suspected heroin trafficking. During surveillance, the NCB team intercepted the suspect while he was allegedly attempting to deliver the contraband. Four packets containing a total of 385 grams of suspected heroin were recovered and seized during the operation. Preliminary investigation has indicated possible links between Jammu-based traffickers and sources in Punjab, with the suspected contraband believed to have been intended for distribution within Jammu district. Further investigation is underway to identify other persons involved and establish the forward and backward linkages of the suspected trafficking network, including possible interstate connections. NCB Jammu has appealed to the public to share credible information regarding drug trafficking and substance abuse through the National Narcotics Helpline, MANAS (1933), assuring that information can be shared confidentially. The bureau reiterated its commitment to intelligence-led enforcement against drug trafficking under the national mission of Nasha Mukt Bharat.

Ramban Police conduct CASO in Khari, check mobile phones during security verification

Ramban, Oct 17: As part of its ongoing efforts to strengthen security and maintain vigilance, Ramban Police on Saturday conducted a Cordon and Search Operation (CASO) at the residences of Jammu and Kashmir National Over Ground Workers (JKNOPs) and Over Ground Workers (OGWs) in the Khari area of Ramban district. During the operation, police checked mobile phones belonging to family members as part of security-related verification. The family members were also sensitised about the importance of remaining vigilant and advised to promptly inform the police about any suspicious international calls or communications. The operation was aimed at strengthening security surveillance and ensuring public safety in the area. Ramban Police reiterated its commitment to maintaining peace and order, strengthening the security grid and ensuring the safety and security of the general public.