Opinion

This time from Africa? Economic lessons from the beautiful game, especially the African model

High-income nations dominate football, while lower-income countries show potential. African football academies demonstrate successful development models for emerging economies. These academies operate independently, attracting private investment and player transfer fees. This model fosters local talent and creates economic opportunities within Africa. The success of these institutions offers valuable lessons for global development strategies.

Not a risk worth taking: Solar geoengineering could put India's monsoon at risk

Global heatwaves prompt discussions on solar radiation modification technologies. This approach involves significant logistical challenges and potential ecological risks. SRM does not address root causes of climate change and may weaken emission reduction incentives. Its impacts on rainfall and monsoons create considerable scientific uncertainty and geopolitical risks. Developing nations and scholars advocate for restraint and equitable governance of this technology.

Engage in the solar geoengineering debate: Why India must shape the rules before the sun goes dim

Solar radiation modification offers potential climate solutions but demands careful governance. This technology could cool the planet while shifting rainfall patterns globally. Developing nations like India must actively shape research and governance standards. India possesses the scientific and institutional capacity to lead these crucial discussions. A legitimate approach prioritizes transparency and accountability in parallel with scientific advancement.

J&K police chief calls for speeding up anti-terror operations

Srinagar, July 10: Director General of Police (DGP) Jammu and Kashmir, Nalin Prabhat today chaired a security review meeting at Police Control Room Kashmir with senior officers from the Army, CAPFs, intelligence agencies, and the Jammu & Kashmir Police. The meeting was attended by GOC 15 Corps, BB Cantt Srinagar; Spl. DG Coordination J&K; Spl. DG CRPF J&K; ADGP CID J&K; AX SIB J&K/L; IGsP of Kashmir Zone, Security J&K, Railways J&K, Traffic J&K & CID J&K, IGs of BSF Ftr Hqrs Kashmir, CRPF KOS, NHW ITBP, and CRPF Srinagar; Commissioner SB; Addl. Commissioner SB Srinagar; GOC CIF (K) Shariefabad Srinagar; GOC CIF (V) Awantipora; GOC 19 Inf Div Baramulla; GOC 28 Inf Div Kupwara; all Range DIGs of Kashmir Zone; DIGs of SSB Srinagar, CRPF (South) Srinagar, CRPF (North) Srinagar, and ITBP Srinagar; Dy. GOC 31 Sub Area, BB Cantt Srinagar; SSP PCR Kashmir; all District SSPs of Kashmir Zone; Col GS (IS) 15 Corps; DPT J&K; SP Cargo Srinagar; and other senior officers. During the meeting, senior officers presented detailed assessments of the security measures currently in place and shared updates on field-level preparedness across the Kashmir Valley. The DGP also reviewed the overall security environment and the effectiveness of the multi-tier security arrangements put in place for the safe and peaceful conduct of the annual pilgrimage. Reiterating the importance of synergy among security forces, the DGP called upon all participating agencies to work in close coordination, ensuring seamless intelligence sharing, real-time information exchange, and joint operational planning to achieve better operational outcomes. He emphasized that coordinated action and the timely dissemination of actionable intelligence remain critical for maintaining a robust security grid. The DGP instructed all agencies to intensify anti-terror operations across the Valley and maintain relentless pressure on terrorist networks and their support structures. He directed officers to keep a close watch on terrorist associates and other anti-national elements and to take timely preventive and legal action, wherever required, in accordance with the law. The DGP J&K further emphasized the importance of area domination, enhanced night domination, and increased surveillance in vulnerable areas to deter any attempt to disturb peace and public order. He also directed the establishment of effective naka checkpoints at sensitive locations across the Valley to strengthen access control, improve surveillance, and facilitate the interception of suspicious movement. Special emphasis was laid on strengthening security at vulnerable stretches of the Yatra route, key transit points, and other strategically significant locations. The DGP also called for enhanced security oversight of the National Highway and railway infrastructure to ensure uninterrupted movement and the overall safety of yatris. He also instructed field officers to conduct regular operational briefings for deployed personnel. The DGP further directed officers to intensify public awareness initiatives at base camps and transit locations by educating pilgrims about safety guidelines and precautionary measures. The meeting concluded with the DGP reiterating the need for sustained coordination, operational preparedness, and proactive policing among all security agencies.

Govt notifies framework for evaluation of books, academic material in educational institutions

Srinagar, July 10: In view of recent concerns regarding books available in institutional libraries and the procurement of educational material, the School Education Department and Higher Education Department of Jammu and Kashmir have issued comprehensive circulars. The action has been taken in pursuance of the directions of the government. The circulars prescribe a structured institutional framework for the academic evaluation, content verification and periodic review of books and other academic resources across all schools, colleges and universities in the Union Territory. The framework is aimed at strengthening the institutional mechanisms governing the evaluation, recommendation, circulation, retention and periodic review of educational material. It seeks to ensure that the academic resources available in educational institutions possess established academic merit, factual authenticity, pedagogical relevance and educational value, while remaining consistent with the Constitution of India, the laws in force, the National Education Policy, the applicable regulatory framework and the curricular standards prescribed by the competent authorities. Under the framework, all the government and recognised private schools and universities functioning under the administrative jurisdiction of the respective departments and public libraries have been directed to undertake a comprehensive Academic and Content Audit of books, reference material, journals, research publications, dissertations, theses, digital repositories and other educational resources available in their libraries and academic units, irrespective of the year of procurement, adoption or inclusion. The circulars further provide that no publication or academic material containing factually inaccurate, misleading, distorted, inflammatory, unlawful or otherwise objectionable content, including material that directly or indirectly promotes, glorifies, legitimises or justifies terrorism, violent extremism, secessionism, radicalisation or any activity prejudicial to the sovereignty, unity, integrity and security of the Nation, shall be procured, prescribed, recommended, retained. circulated, published, hosted or otherwise made available in educational institutions. To ensure effective implementation, the government has institutionalised multi-tier academic and content scrutiny mechanisms across the school and higher education sectors. These mechanisms provide for systematic academic evaluation, content verification, quality assurance, periodic review and institutional oversight through committees constituted at the institutional, district, directorate, university and administrative department levels while respecting the statutory and academic autonomy of universities within the framework of the applicable laws and University Grants Commission regulations. The circulars also assign clearly defined responsibilities to the Vice Chancellors, Principals of Colleges, Chief Education Officers, Zonal Education officers and Heads of Institutions (Hols), librarians, School Managements and other academic authorities entrusted with the academic governance to ensure meticulous implementation of the prescribed framework within the stipulated timelines. Institutional heads shall be responsible for ensuring compliance within their respective jurisdictions, and any omission, negligence or deviation from the prescribed procedures shall be viewed with utmost seriousness. The initiative is intended to reinforce the academic standards, strengthen institutional accountability, preserve the integrity of the educational ecosystem and establish a transparent, objective and uniform framework for the periodic academic and content review of educational resources across schools, colleges and universities in the Union Territory.

NC awaiting nod for J&K statehood protest at Jantar Mantar on July 20: Omar Abdullah

Srinagar, Jul 10: Jammu and Kashmir Chief Minister Omar Abdullah on Friday said his National Conference (NC) party is seeking permission for a protest at Jantar Mantar, but alleged that some people were trying to sabotage their plan. The NC had announced a sit-in protest in the national capital on July 20, the opening day of Parliament's Monsoon Session, to press the Centre to restore Jammu and Kashmir's statehood. The party has also invited 52 leaders of political and religious outfits across the country to join its protest. Speaking to reporters here on the sidelines of an event, the CM said the party is yet to get permission for the protest. On the 20th (of July), a programme is to take place, if we get permission for it. We are trying to get the permission, he said. Referring to permission granted to the Cockroach Janta Party for the protest, the chief minister said that while the digital outfit received approval within 24 hours, the National Conference had been waiting for the past 4-5 days. Abdullah also alleged that some people were trying to sabotage the NC plan. We have been trying for four-five days. Some people are engaged in sabotaging our programme. They have changed their dates and matched them with our dates, he said, without naming anyone. To a question about the suspension of four teachers in Ganderbal district over irregularities in Amarnath Yatra duty, the CM said the issue is up to the Shrine Board, asserting the elected government does not interfere in the management of the annual Yatra. There might be interference in our work occasionally, but we do not interfere in the management of the yatra. Our role is to support. And every department has to play a role in yatra management and yatra support, that we have to fulfill, he said. Abdullah said most of the responsibility lies with the Tourism Department as it is the parent department for the yatra. The funds that are released happen through tourism; the coordination happens through tourism. So, from our side, our complete effort is that the Shrine Board should continue to receive the cooperation it should get from the government, he said. On the scope of religious tourism in J-K, Abdullah said there is no lack of potential for the sector in the region. There is something for every religion. We have shrines, mosques, gurudwaras, temples, churches, and stupas. Amarnath Yatra is underway, and you can see that the number of people on pilgrimage is much more than those who have registered. It is becoming difficult for the Shrine Board to adhere to the Supreme Court orders, which put a ceiling on the number of yatris. So, that is a part of religious tourism, he said. He also said that this year, more people came for the annual Kheer Bhawani Mela than last year. Last year, I think not more than 5-6 thousand people came. This time, 10,000 stayed there for the night. The number during the day was more than 30,000. Similarly, in other places, religious tourism is going on, whether it is in Jammu or in Kashmir, he said. Abdullah added that wherever shrines need to be repaired or renovated, or where access needs to be made easier, the government approves such projects wherever they come to it. On the issue of climate change, Abdullah said it is a global problem and not a local one. If it were a problem of Srinagar or Kashmir, we would fix it. But this is a global problem. This problem has been created by those countries which made a lot of progress while creating the problem. When we fell behind, these countries went ahead like the G7 and G8, and became the most developed countries. They ruined the environment for their progress, the chief minister said. Now that they have achieved progress, they are telling other countries to save the environment. Saving the environment is our responsibility; we have to do it. But no one can do it alone, he said. The CM said people need to acknowledge that climate change is a reality. Some people are not even ready to believe that. Even today, many people are absolutely not ready to accept this thing that there is climate change. Global warming is a thing, he said. He pointed out that mountains used to be adorned with snow even in summers, but now nothing of that remains. There was a time when the (Amarnath) Shivling would remain for 15, 20, 25 days for the pilgrims. Today, it hasn't even been a week (it has melted). And this is something you cannot create artificially. You might remember a governor tried to make a fake one. What happened to that? You cannot do anything fake in this. It is made by the Almighty. It comes and goes. If we fix climate change, maybe it will last a little longer, he said. Abdullah also expressed hope that the tourism destinations closed in the wake of last year's Pahalgam terror attack would be reopened soon. He said Union Home Minister Amit Shah had assured him during his visit to Jammu earlier this year that those places would be reopened in summer. He had assured that it would happen in the summer months this year. I hope that when the Yatra ends and the forces that have been deployed for the yatra are redeployed, then these closed places will be reopened, he added.

Awaiting permission for Delhi protest; some people trying to sabotage it: CM Omar

Omar Abdullah unveils Kashmir Marathon 2026 merchandise, hopes to make it a national sporting event

Congress Pawan Khera reiterates demand for SC-monitored probe into Ram temple donation row

Jammu, July 10: All India Congress Committee (AICC) Media and Publicity Department chairman and MP Pawan Khera on Friday reiterated the demand for Supreme Court-monitored high-level probe into Ayodhya Ram temple donation row. Taking exception to, what he alleged, the silence by the Prime Minister on this issue, he also demanded the dissolution of existing temple Trust and its reconstitution with the inclusion of Shankaracharyas, saints and other religious heads. Addressing a press conference at Rajiv Bhawan today, Khera, joined by JKPCC working president Raman Bhalla, chief spokesperson Ravider Sharma and other senior leaders, expressed concern over great resentment amongst people over, what he said, big financial fraud vis--vis donations at holy Ram temple, hurting the religious sentiments of the Hindus in the country. Prime Minister should break his silence and seek apology from the country for this theft in the temple. We want a high level impartial, independent probe headed by a sitting or retired High Court judge monitored by the Supreme Court as the people had no faith in the existing SIT. Besides, the Trust should be handed over to committees (samitis) of religious, spiritual heads, Shankaracharyas, he sought. Khera accused the Rashtriya Swayamsevak Sangh (RSS) and the Vishwa Hindu Parishad of being complicit in the temple donation theft.

Ladakh gets its first EV charging stations; LG says move crucial for UT's ecology

Leh, Jul 10: Ladakh LG Vinai Kumar Saxena on Friday inaugurated the first EV charging stations in the Union territory and described the initiative as a major step towards the Union territory's goal of becoming carbon neutral. He also urged people to adopt electric vehicles (EVs) for a cleaner and sustainable future. The five charging stations have been set up at the main bus stand in Leh, Tia Rong, Solar Colony, Chuchot Shamma and Khaltsi. A sixth charging station near Magnetic Hill in Leh is in the final stages of completion, officials said. The network of stations aims to promote electric mobility by providing convenient charging infrastructure for residents and tourists travelling across the high-altitude region, they said. Each charging station is equipped with two fast-charging guns capable of charging electric vehicles up to 80 per cent within 30 minutes to one hour. The facilities also feature advanced fire safety measures and emergency shutdown systems, they added. Speaking at the inauguration, Saxena termed the launch of the charging stations a historic milestone in Ladakh's transition towards clean energy and sustainable transportation. He said the initiative was in line with Prime Minister Narendra Modi's vision of making Ladakh a carbon-neutral region through greater use of clean energy while preserving its fragile Himalayan ecosystem and reducing dependence on fossil fuels. The inauguration of these EV charging stations reflects our unwavering commitment to clean energy, sustainable mobility and environmentally responsible development. Ladakh's fragile ecology demands that we adopt technologies that minimise pollution and reduce carbon emissions, the LG said. Appealing to the people of Ladakh to embrace electric mobility, Saxena urged citizens to gradually replace conventional petrol and diesel vehicles with electric vehicles, saying such a transition would help reduce pollution and protect the Union territory's unique ecological heritage.

Nearly 91% students appear in NMMSS exam across J&K: JKBOSE

Srinagar, Jul 10: Nearly 91 percent of enrolled students appeared in the National Merit-cum-Means Scholarship (NMMSS) examination 2025-26, the J&K Board of School Education (JKBOSE) said on Friday. As per the official handout as many as 6,000 candidates took the examination out of 6,644 enrolled candidates, registering an overall attendance of 90.30 percent. The NMMSS examination was conducted under the Centrally Sponsored Scheme of the Government of India, which aims to identify and support meritorious students from economically weaker sections studying in government and government-aided schools. JKBOSE said the examination was conducted smoothly across the J&K UT under the overall supervision, guidance and support of Chairman JKBOSE Ghulam Hassan Sheikh. As per handout, Dr. Parveen Singh, Director Academics and Liaison Officer, NMMS, coordinated the conduct of the examination in association with officers and officials of the academics division. JKBOSE appreciated the cooperation extended by Chief Education Officers (CEOs), who functioned as District Nodal Officers for NMMSS, as well as centre superintendents, deputy centre superintendents, invigilators and inspection teams in conducting the examination in a transparent and orderly manner throughout the Union Territory. The Board also expressed gratitude to all stakeholders who contributed to the successful conduct of the examination and helped provide an enabling environment for the examinee students. JKBOSE further reiterated its commitment to transparency, fairness and excellence in implementing the National Merit-cum-Means Scholarship Scheme and extended its best wishes to all candidates who appeared in the examination.

Jammu Film Festival sees overwhelming global response, draws 180 entries from 35 countries

Jammu, Jul 10: The fifth edition of the Jammu Film Festival has received an overwhelming response from filmmakers worldwide, with 180 entries from 35 countries submitted ahead of the July 31 deadline, the organisers said on Friday. The submissions include 130 short films, 35 documentaries and 17 feature films representing diverse cultures, languages and cinematic traditions from across the world, the organisers said, adding more entries are expected before the close of submissions later this month. The milestone 5th edition of the Jammu film festival is scheduled to be held on 2829 September 2026 in Jammu. The festival has received an overwhelming response from filmmakers across the globe. The festival continues its remarkable journey of connecting Jammu with the global film community and has emerged as one of North India's leading international film festivals, jury head Kapil Mattoo told reporters here. Mattoo said the quality, diversity and international spread of the entries reflected the festival's increasing recognition within the independent film ecosystem. The festival has received an overwhelming response from filmmakers across the globe, with 180 film submissions from 35 countries already received well ahead of the submission deadline of 31 July 2026, he said. Jointly presented by Vomedh and Koshurwood Studio, the festival is expected to bring together filmmakers, delegates, artists and cinema enthusiasts from India and abroad. He said delegates from several countries, including the United States, have expressed interest in attending the event, while discussions are underway with performers from Singapore for the festival's cultural programme. Festival directors Rakesh Roshan Bhat and Rohit Bhat said the festival was conceived with the vision of creating a cultural institution that would connect Jammu with the world through cinema. Sanjeev Kak of Koshurwood Studio said the organisation was proud to partner with a festival that has evolved into an important cultural bridge between Jammu and the global filmmaking community. He said the steady growth of the festival over five editions reflected the commitment of its organisers and the increasing appetite for meaningful cinema and cultural engagement in the region. Meanwhile, the organising committee announced a three-tier jury system for the 2026 edition to ensure a transparent and merit-based selection process. The screening committee comprises festival directors Rakesh Roshan Bhat and Rohit Bhat as well as Kamal Razdan, Suman Pandita, Ifra Kak and Manzoor Mir. The review committee includes Rahul Sharma, Kusum Tickoo, Rani Bhan, J R Sagar, Dr Kuldeep Raina Sudeshi and Shadab Khan. The final jury will be headed by filmmaker Kapil Mattoo and includes actors Vipin Sharma, Ashwath Bhatt and Tanvir Dar. The organisers said the first four editions of the festival had witnessed the participation of several noted personalities from the Indian film industry, including M K Raina, Rahul Roy, Yashpal Sharma, Kashmera Shah, Deepika Singh, Ayub Khan, Lalit Parimoo, Mushtaq Kak, Mir Sarwar and Ayaz Khan.

Udhampur road accident: LG directs officials to ensure best possible treatment to injured Amarnath pilgrims

Srinagar, July 10: Lieutenant Governor Manoj Sinha has taken immediate cognizance of the road accident near Toldi Nallah in Udhampur in which six Shri Amarnath Ji Yatra pilgrims sustained injuries. The Lieutenant Governor spoke to the senior administrative and medical officials, and directed them to ensure all necessary and best possible treatment for the swift recovery of those injured. In a post on X, the Lieutenant Governor has said: Received the report of a road accident near Toldi Nallah in Udhampur involving 6 Shri Amarnath Ji Yatra pilgrims from Rewa, Madhya Pradesh. The devotees were traveling to Pahalgam base camp for holy cave darshan when their vehicle skidded off the road. One pilgrim is seriously injured, while the other five are in stable condition and currently receiving care at GMC Udhampur. The critically injured pilgrim has been shifted to GMC Jammu. I have directed the Divisional Commissioner of Jammu, the Deputy Commissioner of Udhampur and medical officials at GMC Jammu and Udhampur to ensure they receive the best possible treatment. I pray to Lord Shiva for their swift recovery.

Mirwaiz pays tribute to July 13 martyrs in his Friday sermon

Srinagar, July 10: Mirwaiz-e-Kashmir Dr. Moulvi Mohammad Umar Farooq on Friday paid tributes to the July 13, 1931 martyrs, saying their sacrifice remains etched in our collective memory and that the people of Jammu and Kashmir will always honour them for their struggle for rights and dignity. Addressing the Friday congregation at the historic Jamia Masjid in Srinagar ahead of the 95th anniversary of the killings, Mirwaiz recalled that 21 Kashmiris were shot while demanding basic rights, describing the incident as the beginning of the people's long struggle for human rights and dignity. 13th July is upon us, a day when we recount the sacrifice of 21 innocent Kashmiris who were shot dead on this day 95 years ago in 1931 for demanding basic rights, and laid the foundation for the long struggle of the people of Jammu and Kashmir for human rights and dignity, he said. Mirwaiz said the historic Jamia Masjid had witnessed the funeral prayers of the slain protesters, led by Muhajir-e-Millat Mirwaiz Moulana Muhammad Yusuf Shah and attended by tens of thousands of people. He said that since the time of Mirwaiz Moulvi Muhammad Farooq, it had been a tradition to take out a peaceful procession to the Martyrs' Graveyard to pay homage to the July 13 martyrs and renew the people's commitment to peacefully pursue the ideals for which they laid down their lives. Mirwaiz said that if the authorities permit, people would follow the longstanding tradition this year by visiting the Martyrs' Graveyard at Naqshband Sahib after Zuhr prayers on July 13 to offer Fatiha and pay tributes. Turning to the National Conference's proposed protest at Jantar Mantar, Mirwaiz said he had received an invitation from party president Farooq Abdullah to participate. He welcomed efforts aimed at restoring the rights of the people of Jammu and Kashmir, saying such initiatives were necessary if pursued with sincerity. He also said the National Conference government had a responsibility to fulfil its electoral promise of restoring Jammu and Kashmir's pre-2019 constitutional position, including statehood and Articles 370 and 35A.

Amarnath Yatra boosting J&K economy as 1.7 Lakh pilgrims visit shrine: LG

Srinagar, Jul 10: Jammu and Kashmir Lieutenant Governor Manoj Sinha on Friday said nearly 170,000 pilgrims have offered prayers at the Amarnath cave shrine during the first eight days of the annual pilgrimage, while praising the coordinated efforts of the administration and security agencies in ensuring a safe and smooth Yatra. The seven-day phase of the Yatra has been completed and today is the eighth day. So far, approximately 170,000 pilgrims have paid obeisance, Sinha told reporters after reviewing arrangements along the pilgrimage route. He said all departments of the Jammu and Kashmir administration, along with the J&K Police, the Army and other security forces, had worked together to ensure the pilgrimage remained safe and pleasant. Sinha noted that the administration had successfully managed a significantly higher number of unregistered pilgrims than last year by patiently counselling them and facilitating their journey. Every effort is being made to ensure that pilgrims leave with a pleasant experience, he said, expressing hope that devotees arriving from across the country would continue to have a positive experience. Highlighting the pilgrimage's economic impact, the Lieutenant Governor said the annual Yatra benefits a wide cross-section of the local population. While the Yatra has immense religious significance, I believe it also makes a substantial contribution to Jammu and Kashmir's economy, he said, noting that pilgrims purchase local products and generate business for hotels, transport operators and people engaged in providing tents, ponies and other services. Reviewing facilities for pilgrims, Sinha said he had personally inspected the accommodation tents and found the arrangements satisfactory. I personally inspected the tents. Officers on duty are continuously monitoring the facilities. Special attention has been paid to safety, and fire extinguishers have been placed in every tent, he said. On healthcare facilities, Sinha said two 100-bed hospitals at Baltal and Chandanwari have been operational for the past three years and are playing a crucial role during the pilgrimage. Doctors informed me that around 1,300 to 1,400 patients are treated daily in the outpatient departments. When I visited, only nine patients were admitted. Some were suffering from mountain sickness, while others had vomiting, he said, adding that the hospitals were providing valuable medical support to both pilgrims and personnel deployed for the Yatra. Appealing to devotees to adhere to official guidelines, Sinha urged them to seek assistance from designated officials whenever required and warned them against being misled by touts. There are always some unscrupulous middlemen who try to mislead people. Pilgrims should remain cautious, he said. He also warned service providers against overcharging pilgrims. Charges for every service have been fixed. If anyone demands more than the prescribed rates, they should immediately report the matter to the Camp Director or the police, and strict action will be taken, the Lieutenant Governor said.

Deputy CM Surinder Choudhary accuses BJP of disrupting NC event, urges Centre to restore statehood

Surinder Choudhary says Hiranagar protest was politically motivated, renews push for statehood

Srinagar, Jul 10: Jammu and Kashmir Deputy Chief Minister Surinder Choudhary on Friday accused the BJP of planting a protester to disrupt a National Conference programme in Hiranagar, demanded action against police officers over alleged security lapses, and appealed to people to join the party's renewed campaign for restoration of statehood. Addressing reporters in Jammu, Choudhary said the National Conference's tour of Samba and Kathua districts was successful except for one incident in Hiranagar, where, he alleged, a BJP worker created a disturbance. He claimed the individual's social media profile reflected his political affiliation and said that if he was not linked to the BJP, the party should itself seek registration of an FIR against him. Calling the disruption undemocratic, Choudhary said political parties should not send workers to disrupt rival programmes. He also questioned the security arrangements, alleging the protester attempted to climb onto the stage before being stopped by his Personal Security Officers, and demanded action against the local SHO and DSP. Referring to an earlier attack on National Conference president Farooq Abdullah, Choudhary said security agencies must also be held accountable for such incidents. He added that every citizen, not just political leaders, deserved adequate security. On the controversy surrounding the proposed National Law University, Choudhary said the issue had effectively been resolved after Chief Minister Omar Abdullah assured students that their concerns would be addressed. He rejected suggestions that the Hiranagar protest was linked to the university and dismissed allegations that the government was discriminating against Jammu, saying he had consistently fought for the region's interests. Choudhary also urged people to attend the National Conference's statehood rally at Hari Singh Park in Jammu on July 12 and announced a protest at Jantar Mantar in New Delhi on July 20 during Parliament's Monsoon Session. He said Prime Minister Narendra Modi and Union Home Minister Amit Shah had promised to restore Jammu and Kashmir's statehood after the Assembly elections, but the commitment remained unfulfilled. Stressing that the campaign was being held in both Jammu and Kashmir, Choudhary said the demand for statehood belonged to the entire Union Territory and was essential for better governance, development and employment.

Attempt to divert attention from real issues: LoP Sharma on NCs statehood protest

NIA chargesheets Shabir Ahmad Shah, five other Hurriyat leaders in 1996 Srinagar violence case

New Delhi, July 10: The National Investigation Agency (NIA) on Friday filed a chargesheet against six senior Hurriyat Conference leaders, including Shabir Ahmad Shah, in connection with a 1996 case involving alleged mob violence, indiscriminate firing on police personnel and anti-India activities during a funeral procession in Srinagar. The chargesheet, filed before the NIA Special Court in Jammu, names Shabir Ahmad Shah, Syed Ali Shah Geelani, Abdul Ganie Lone, Mohd Yaqoob Wakeel alias Mohd Yaqoob Vakil, Javid Ahmad Mir and Shakeel Ahmad Bakshi as accused. According to the NIA, all six have been charged under relevant provisions of the Ranbir Penal Code (RPC), 1989, for criminal conspiracy, attempt to murder, rioting and assault on public servants, along with Section 13 of the Unlawful Activities (Prevention) Act, 1967. The agency said proceedings against Syed Ali Shah Geelani, Abdul Ganie Lone and Mohd Yaqoob Wakeel stand abated following their deaths. However, it maintained that the chargesheet establishes their alleged roles in the criminal conspiracy and the unlawful assembly, supported by evidence gathered during the investigation. According to the NIA, the incident occurred on July 17, 1996, during the funeral procession of slain militant Hilal Ahmad Beigh at Naaz Crossing in Srinagar. The agency alleged that the six Hurriyat leaders jointly led the procession and instigated large-scale violence against police personnel. It claimed that armed militants had mingled with the funeral procession and opened indiscriminate fire on police, injuring several personnel, while government vehicles were extensively damaged in heavy stone-pelting. The NIA further alleged that the accused raised anti-India, pro-Pakistan and secessionist slogans and delivered inflammatory speeches advocating armed struggle. According to the investigation, the violence formed part of a larger, pre-planned conspiracy by the Hurriyat leadership to use the funeral procession as a platform to propagate separatist ideology, mobilise public support against the Government of India, provoke public disorder and incite violence against law enforcement agencies while demonstrating the Hurriyat's organisational strength in Jammu and Kashmir. The case, registered as RC-01/2026/NIA/JMU, was originally filed at Shergarhi Police Station, Srinagar, on the day of the incident in 1996. The Ministry of Home Affairs transferred the investigation to the NIA in April 2026. The agency said further investigation into the case is continuing.

'One nation, one election' mechanism may be ready for rollout by 2029: Joint panel chief

Panaji, Jul 10: The joint committee of Parliament examining the bills on simultaneous elections is working to create a mechanism that could make the 'One Nation, One Election' reform fully operational by the 2029 general elections, its chairperson said on Friday. Speaking to reporters on the sidelines of the panel's two-day meeting in Goa, PP Chaudhary claimed that nearly 99 per cent of civil society stakeholders consulted so far have backed the proposal, which aims to curb an estimated Rs 7 lakh crore economic loss caused by frequent polls. The committee began its deliberations in Goa on the Constitution (129th Amendment) Bill, 2024, with an interaction with Chief Minister Pramod Sawant and members of his cabinet, seeking their views on the challenges involved in implementing simultaneous elections and ways to address them. We had an informal interaction with the chief minister and cabinet ministers, who represent the people of Goa. We discussed how 'One Nation, One Election' can be implemented, what challenges exist and how they can be mitigated while maintaining a fine balance acceptable to all, Chaudhary said. He said that the committee has visited several states, including Gujarat, Karnataka, Maharashtra, Himachal Pradesh, Uttarakhand, Punjab, Haryana and Delhi, where it interacted with constitutional experts, civil society organisations, educationists and other stakeholders. An overwhelming majority of those consulted have supported the idea of simultaneous elections, said the BJP MP from Pali in Rajasthan. We have found that almost 99 per cent of stakeholders, particularly from civil society and various organisations, favour simultaneous elections. The effort now is to evolve a mechanism that is acceptable to all political parties, he said. Asked about the timeline for implementation, he said the committee was examining various options, indicating that the reform could become operational by the time the next general elections are due in 2029. He said there is also a possibility of bringing some states into alignment before that if political parties and the chief ministers voluntarily agree to synchronise their electoral cycles. Highlighting the economic rationale behind the proposal, Chaudhary cited findings placed before the high-level committee headed by former President Ram Nath Kovind. He said that an economic study submitted to the Kovind committee estimated that holding elections separately across the country results in an economic loss of nearly Rs 7 lakh crore, while synchronised elections could generate equivalent gains for the national economy. Elections are now not confined to one state. If elections are held anywhere in the country, they have an impact on other states because the economy is interconnected, Chaudhary said. Using Goa as an example, he said that elections in any major state affect tourist arrivals in Goa, while elections in the coastal state itself impact its tourism industry. The economy today is globalised. An adverse impact in one state affects other states as well. Frequent elections have economic consequences beyond state boundaries, he said. The BJP MP also argued that repeated elections disrupt governance and adversely affect education, as teachers are routinely deployed for election-related duties, including preparation of electoral rolls, training and polling work. As a result, teaching in government schools suffers. The worst affected are children from economically weaker sections who depend on government schools. This is a serious concern if the situation continues over the coming decades, he said. Chaudhary described simultaneous elections as a major electoral reform envisioned by Prime Minister Narendra Modi, saying it would help the country achieve its goal of becoming a developed nation by 2047. The details will emerge with time. The objective is to build a broad consensus and evolve a practical mechanism acceptable to all, Choudhari said.

Don't hide governance failures behind statehood demand: Altaf Bukhari to Omar Abdullah

Srinagar, July 10: Apni Party president Altaf Bukhari on Friday accused the Omar Abdullah-led government of bringing development works in Kashmir to a standstill and using the demand for restoration of statehood to mask its governance failures. He also demanded a white paper on the utilisation of government funds, alleging that nearly 7,000 crore lapsed last year due to the administration's inability to execute projects. Addressing a press conference in Srinagar, Bukhari said more than half of Kashmir's limited working season had already passed without significant progress on development works. In Kashmir, the working season lasts only from April till the end of September. More than 50 per cent of this period has already lapsed, yet hardly any developmental work is taking place. Roads are in a terrible condition, projects have come to a standstill, and contractors are on strike. The government has not even initiated talks with them, he said. Bukhari alleged that the slowdown in development appeared to be a well-planned conspiracy against Kashmir and claimed that local contractors were being systematically discriminated against. He alleged that essential construction materials such as boulders, crushed stone and sand had been leased to outside contractors, who were selling them to local contractors at inflated prices. On one hand, local contractors are denied legal access to raw material, while on the other hand contractors executing Central Government projects are being allowed to extract soil and construction material from rivers, streams and mountains with extraordinary concessions. They are allotted multiple extraction sites and pay only nominal royalty, whereas local contractors are burdened with restrictions, he alleged. According to Bukhari, local contractors are allowed to procure raw material only from two designated locations, resulting in transportation costs that are nearly 50 per cent higher than those incurred by outside contractors. He further alleged that the administration was imposing conditions for clearing contractors' bills while simultaneously denying them access to legal sources of construction material. Every day, a new order is issued saying bills will only be cleared after royalty receipts are produced. But how can local contractors produce royalty receipts when the government itself is not providing them legal sources for raw material? The facilities available to outside contractors are not extended to local contractors, he said. Referring to the rise in bitumen prices following the Iran-US conflict earlier this year, Bukhari said the cost had increased from around 50,000 to over 1 lakh, making road construction significantly more expensive. When the government is asked why developmental works are not progressing, it blames contractors for not participating in tenders. But how can contractors come forward when they have not been paid for works executed over the years? Contractors have been financially crippled, he said. Bukhari alleged that payments for several works executed since 2016 were still pending and said the government's failure to clear dues had discouraged contractors from taking up fresh projects. He also accused the government of compromising construction quality by removing the earlier requirement that contractors undertaking road construction must own plants and machinery. There was a time when only contractors possessing proper plants and machinery were eligible for road works. That clause was removed merely to accommodate favoured people. We fully support quality construction, but quality can only be ensured when contractors have the necessary infrastructure. If a contractor does not even own a plant, how can quality be maintained? he asked. Launching a direct attack on Chief Minister Omar Abdullah, Bukhari said the government should stop attributing every administrative failure to the delay in restoration of statehood. Chief Minister Omar Abdullah, don't hide your failures under the garb of statehood. Statehood has nothing to do with stopping development in Kashmir. You are the Chief Minister and it is your responsibility to deliver. Whatever powers are presently available with your government should be utilised instead of allowing development to come to a halt, he said. Bukhari further alleged that the government was deliberately allowing funds to lapse so that it could later claim it lacked sufficient powers to execute projects. It appears that funds are being allowed to lapse deliberately so that later the government can claim it wanted to undertake development but had no powers. If you already have administrative authority, why are you not using it? he asked. He said tourism alone could not address the economic needs of the people unless basic infrastructure was strengthened. Tourism is important and we fully recognise its importance, but tourism alone will not fill our stomachs. Tourists will come only when infrastructure improves. Our patients can receive proper healthcare only when hospitals are adequately developed. Roads, hospitals and civic infrastructure are equally important, Bukhari said. Questioning the government's repeated announcements regarding financial assistance from the Centre, Bukhari demanded complete transparency over the utilisation of funds. Every few months the government thanks the Prime Minister for sanctioning 5,000 crore or 8,000 crore. A white paper should now be issued detailing how much money has been received since this government assumed office, how much has been spent and how much has lapsed. According to the information available to me, nearly 7,000 crore lapsed last year. The government must answer for this, he said. Bukhari said the public discourse had become excessively focused on statehood while issues of governance and development were being ignored. Everyone is talking only about statehood. But if development itself has stopped, how can we talk about progress? Wherever there are vested interests, permissions are granted overnight and work is completed immediately. But projects that benefit ordinary people continue to remain neglected, he alleged. Claiming that poor roads and civic infrastructure were visible across Srinagar as well as Baramulla, Sopore, Anantnag, Shopian and several other parts of the Valley, Bukhari urged the government to immediately resume stalled projects and make development its highest priority. People witness every day the condition of roads and traffic management. Developmental works are neither properly planned nor executed. My appeal to the government is to treat development as the highest priority and immediately resume stalled projects, he said.

'Only tourism won't fill our stomach': Altaf Bukhari targets Government

Srinagar, jul 10: Apni Party president Altaf Bukhari on Friday accused the Jammu and Kashmir government of prioritising tourism at the expense of basic infrastructure, alleging that development across the Kashmir Valley had virtually come to a standstill. Only tourism will not fill our stomach. It is important, but it is not the only important thing, Bukhari said at a press conference, stressing that roads, hospitals and other public infrastructure required equal attention. Claiming that more than half of Kashmir's six-month construction season had already passed without significant work, Bukhari alleged there was a well-thought-out conspiracy to stall development in the Valley. He said roads were in poor condition and criticised the government for failing to engage with striking contractors. He also alleged that construction raw materials had been leased to outside firms, forcing local contractors to buy them at inflated prices while enjoying fewer concessions. Bukhari said soaring bitumen prices and pending payments for works executed since 2016 had crippled local contractors, making it difficult for them to participate in fresh tenders. He further alleged that the government had diluted quality standards by removing mandatory requirements for contractors to own construction plants and machinery. Urging the administration not to blame every governance failure on the delay in restoration of statehood, Bukhari said the government should fully utilise the powers it already possesses. Addressing Chief Minister Omar Abdullah, he said, You are the Chief Minister. It is your responsibility to deliver. Bukhari also demanded a White Paper on the utilisation of development funds, claiming that 7,000 crore had lapsed last year. He alleged that projects moved quickly only in select areas while roads and public infrastructure in Srinagar, Baramulla, Sopore, Anantnag and Shopian remained neglected. He urged the government to immediately resume development works, saying deteriorating roads, worsening traffic congestion and stalled infrastructure projects reflected a lack of planning and execution.

Indonesian plantation worker rides cargo drone home, video goes viral

An Indonesian plantation worker has become an internet sensation after a video showed him flying home on a heavy-lift agricultural drone, turning a routine commute into a viral spectacle. The video, posted by TikTok user Mbahkurahon, features plantation worker Daeman perched on a large cargo drone as it lifts him above a banana and melon plantation in Jombang Regency, East Java. The drone, typically used to carry up to 100 kilograms of fertilizer or spray crops, transports him over fields that would otherwise require a walk of more than a mile. According to the plantation's director, the drone ride was filmed just for content, but it also highlighted a practical challenge faced by workers in the sprawling plantation, where poor road access makes commuting difficult. Plantation workers in Indonesia are using a farming drone to transport themselves from the field to their vehicles about a mile away. The flights are reportedly taking place in Jombang Regency, East Java. According to CNN, the drone costs about $20,000. Looks fun. pic.twitter.com/KGkzKFel97 Collin Rugg (@CollinRugg) July 8, 2026 The footage quickly amassed millions of views across social media, with users expressing a mix of amazement, amusement and envy. Many joked that drone rides could replace carpools, while others remarked that such a stunt would be impossible under stricter aviation regulations in many countries. The incident has also sparked debate over safety. Heavy-lift agricultural drones, including models manufactured by DJI and other companies, are designed exclusively for carrying cargo or spraying crops and are not equipped with passenger safety features such as harnesses, emergency systems or certified seating. Aviation experts caution that using such drones to transport people poses significant risks. Agricultural drones have become increasingly common across Asia, where they are used to spray pesticides, distribute fertilizer and carry supplies across difficult terrain. However, using them to transport people remains highly unconventional and is generally outside their intended purpose. While the viral video was meant as a light-hearted social media stunt, it has also drawn attention to the logistical challenges faced by agricultural workers in remote plantations and to the growing capabilities of heavy-lift drones that are reshaping modern farming.

Govt assures E20 fuel safe for older vehicles, dismisses engine damage fears

New Delhi, Jul 10: Amid growing concerns over the nationwide rollout of E20 petrol, the Ministry of Petroleum and Natural Gas on Friday sought to allay fears over its impact on older vehicles, asserting that the fuel is safe, scientifically validated and does not damage engines or significantly reduce vehicle life. In a detailed set of Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs), the ministry said reports circulating on social media about E20 causing engine failures, corrosion of rubber components or fuel system damage were misinformation not supported by scientific evidence or real-world experience. The ministry said the transition to 20 per cent ethanol-blended petrol followed years of testing and consultations involving automobile manufacturers, the Automotive Research Association of India (ARAI), the Society of Indian Automobile Manufacturers (SIAM), oil companies and technical institutions. Addressing concerns over vehicles labelled E10 compatible, the ministry said such labels merely reflected the fuel standards prevailing when the vehicles were certified and did not imply that they were unsafe to use with E20 after extensive testing and regulatory approval. It cited field data from Maruti Suzuki, which serviced nearly 2.84 crore vehicles during 2025-26, including around 1.5 crore older vehicles not originally certified for E20, and reported no E20-related corrosion, abnormal wear or component-life damage. Hero MotoCorp has also reported similar findings, it said. The ministry acknowledged that some vehicles may experience a 3-5 per cent reduction in fuel economy but said E20 offers higher octane, smoother engine performance, lower emissions and reduced dependence on imported crude oil, making it a cleaner and more efficient fuel. Responding to demands for the continued sale of pure petrol or E10 alongside E20, the ministry said maintaining multiple grades of petrol across India's nationwide fuel distribution network would be logistically difficult and economically inefficient. It added that substantial investments had already been made in ethanol production infrastructure as part of the country's long-term energy security strategy. The ministry advised consumers not to be misled by rumours or unverified claims, maintaining that E20 has been extensively tested, validated by automobile manufacturers and is fully backed by regulatory authorities.

Three Kashmir Valley DEMU trains to remain cancelled from July 11 to 25 for track maintenance

Banihal, Jul 10: Northern Railway has cancelled three DEMU train services on the BanihalBaramulla section from July 11 to July 25, 2026, to facilitate critical track maintenance work aimed at ensuring the safety and reliability of railway operations in the Kashmir Valley. According to an official train handling plan issued by railway authorities, the cancellations are linked to the high-temperature pre-BCM destressing of Long Welded Rail (LWR) before the commencement of BCM (Ballast Cleaning Machine) deep screening works in the BanihalBaramulla section under the jurisdiction of the Assistant Divisional Engineer (ADEN), Budgam. The trains to remain cancelled during the block period are:Train No. 74615: BanihalBaramulla, train No. 74632 BaramullaBudgam and train No. 74628 Budgam Banihal. The railway document states that the maintenance work is being undertaken as part of a planned engineering exercise to improve track stability during high temperatures and to prepare the line for deep ballast cleaning. The proposal has been approved by the Divisional Railway Manager (DRM), Jammu. The cancellation is expected to affect hundreds of daily commuters, including students, office-goers, traders and other passengers who rely on these services for travel across the Kashmir Valley. Railway authorities have advised passengers to plan their journeys accordingly and use alternative train services operating on the route during the maintenance period.

Fact check: Shopian Police arrest two, debunk fake news

Shopian, Jul 10: Shopian Police on Friday termed the information being circulated on social media regarding two persons as false and misleading. The police urged people to rely only on official sources for information. In a post on X, police said both individuals, along with their associate, have been arrested in connection with FIR No. 55/2026 registered at Police Station Heerpora and are in lawful custody. The public is advised not to believe or circulate unverified information. Strict legal action shall be initiated against anyone found spreading false rumours or misinformation, Shopian Police wrote.

A sea of mourners bids final farewell to Ayatollah Khamenei

DyCM seeks action against officers for breach of security in Kathua public function

Jammu, Jul 10: Deputy Chief Minister Surinder Choudhary on Thursday demanded action against the officials responsible for, what he alleged, security breach during the National Conference function addressed by him, in Hiranagar of Kathua district. This is purely a security lapse by the Police. Earlier also, there was a security lapse at Greater Kailash. Im the Deputy Chief Minister of Jammu and Kashmir on a tour-programme. This breach (protest) happened with the knowledge of the concerned DySP and SHO. They (protesters) were deliberately sent here to disrupt my programme, Choudhary said, speaking to the media after his scheduled programme in Hiranagar. Reference was to a protest by an advocate, who briefly disrupted DyCMs party (NC) function to register protest against, what he alleged, the non-fulfillment of promise by the Chief Minister to announce National Law University (NLU) in Jammu as well. The public function (rally), addressed by Choudhary along with NC provincial president Jammu Rattan Lal Gupta, was organised in connection with the partys ongoing campaign to mobilise support for its movement for early restoration of statehood to J&K. NC has already announced to hold a protest at Jantar Mantar on July 20- the opening day of the Monsoon session of Parliament. The Deputy Chief Minister asserted that if the group of protesters had a genuine demand, they could take it up with the Chief Minister. I believe that Jammu and Kashmir Police (JKP) does not want the J&K government or its ministers to move anywhere. Ill request the DGP and LG Sahib to initiate action against the SHO Hiranagar and the DySP concerned, Choudhary said. Describing the incident as a big security lapse due to dereliction of duty by the concerned Police officials, the Deputy Chief Minister alleged, You (Police) cannot allow a security breach in case of a protectee. This particular youth tried to jump on the stage with the intention to attack. Ill ask the DC Sahib to take notice of this incident and a letter should be dispatched to the DGP from the DC office also as it is related to Police failure, Choudhary said. The protester, who was whisked away by the Police from the rally venue after his brief altercation with the Deputy Chief Minister, later protested with a group of youth along the road, outside the venue. After the NC function was over, the Deputy Chief Minister had a brief verbal confrontation with the youth and his associates outside the venue as well. The CM had promised to address the issue in 15 days. Now four months have lapsed and the promise has not been met. We were not here to disrupt DyCMs function, we came here only to remind him of the CMs promise to Jammu youth, the protesting youth told the media. The Deputy Chief Minister, however, accused the Police of facilitating the protest. With regard to the public function, Choudhary, while responding to queries of media persons, said that it was aimed at requesting the Prime Minister and the Union Minister to restore statehood at the earliest. This is an effort to remind them of their promise. We are mobilising support of all sections of society in J&K for the NC protest at Jantar Mantar to rake up this demand forcefully. We want all political parties, including J&K BJP which too had promised statehood as an electoral promise, to join us. This is not just the responsibility of NC only. We have taken initiative and have invited all Bar, transporters, civil society, Chamber etc., to join us. Lets see who joins us there to prove their commitment to J&K people, he said. In response to a question about the Leader of Opposition in J&K Legislative Assembly Sunil Sharmas repeated prophecies about the imminent fall of NC government, Choudhary dared, Let him (Sunil) or his party buy those MLAs, who are saleable and form the government, if they can. NCs red flag delineates a history of sacrifices. One cannot bully us with such hollow threats. NC has formed the government by winning peoples trust while BJP can come to power only through deceitful means. Let them do it if they have the courage. Were not afraid.

Narcotics worth Rs 2.32 Cr destroyed in Kathua

Jammu, Jul 09: District Police Kathua on Thursday destroyed a consignment of approximately 174.981 kg narcotic drugs and 1,945 capsules, tablets (narcotic drugs and psychotropic substances) valuing over Rs 2.32 Cr, through incineration at the approved facility in Samba district. The destroyed narcotics, with an estimated value of Rs 2,32,86,490, includes 2.05 kg of heroin; 1,036 capsules; 909 tablets; 7.68 kg of Ganja; 162.649 kg of poppy straw; 2.126 kg of charas and 482 grams of opium, the Police said. The destruction was carried out by a police team led by Senior Superintendent of Police (SSP) Kathua, Mohita Sharma, with the approval of the competent authority, in the presence of the committee members, following the prescribed legal procedure for incineration. The seized narcotics pertained to 43 different NDPS cases registered by J&K Police in Kathua and had been stored in various police malkhanas. The destruction was carried out through incineration at the approved facility of M/s Anmol Healthcare, Rara under the jurisdiction of Police Station Ramgarh in district Samba, after fulfilling all legal formalities as prescribed under law, Police said. Speaking on the occasion, SSP Kathua reiterated the commitment of J&K Police Kathua towards its anti-drug campaign and stated that the district police would continue to take stringent action against drug traffickers and ensure the timely disposal of seized narcotics in accordance with the law.

Over 8,700 pilgrims leave Jammu in ninth batch of Amarnath Yatra; 33 foreign male pilgrims among them

Banihal, Jul 10: A total of 8,796 pilgrims left the Bhagwati Nagar Yatri Niwas in Jammu in the ninth batch of the ongoing Shri Amarnath Ji Yatra-2026 during the early hours of Friday under tight security arrangements. According to officials, the convoy was divided between the two routes leading to the holy cave shrine. While 3,450 pilgrims departed for the Baltal axis, 5,346 pilgrims were bound for the Pahalgam axis. The Baltal-bound convoy left Jammu at 2:42 a.m., while the Pahalgam-bound convoy departed at 3:24 a.m. The batch comprised 6,426 male pilgrims, 2,042 female pilgrims, 228 sadhus, 56 sadhvis, 10 children, 33 foreign male pilgrims, and one transgender pilgrim. A total of 354 vehicles were deployed for the convoy, including 175 buses, 70 medium motor vehicles (MMVs), 106 light motor vehicles (LMVs), and three two-wheelers. Of these, 173 vehicles were assigned to the Baltal route and 181 vehicles to the Pahalgam route. With the departure of the ninth batch, the total number of pilgrims who have left the Jammu base camp for the annual pilgrimage has reached 61,612. The yatra convoys have reached Ramban district, where pilgrims are halting separately for breakfast at Chanderkote Yatri Niwas in Ramban and the Lamber Yatri Ground in Banihal, before proceeding towards the twin base camps of Baltal and Nunwan (Pahalgam). It may be mentioned that the entire district administration, led by Deputy Commissioner Ramban Mohammad Alyas Khan, Senior Superintendent of Police (SSP) Ramban Arun Gupta and SSP Traffic National Highway Raja Adil Hameed, along with the sub-divisional administration headed by SDM Banihal Mohammad Naseeb, remains actively engaged in receiving and facilitating the Shri Amarnath Ji Yatra convoys as they enter Ramban district, ensuring smooth movement and all necessary arrangements for the pilgrims.

Ayatollah Khamenei laid to rest as seven-day funeral attracts over 15 million people

Iran has concluded a seven-day state funeral for its late Supreme Leader Ayatollah Ali Khamenei, with authorities claiming that more than 15 million mourners participated in ceremonies held across Iran and Iraq. Khamenei, who led Iran for nearly 37 years, was laid to rest in his hometown of Mashhad, bringing to an end one of the largest funeral processions in the country's modern history. The funeral began last Saturday and passed through several major cities, including Tehran, Qom, Najaf and Karbala, before concluding in Mashhad. The funeral procession began at around 3:00 pm on Imam Reza Street and concluded late in the evening at the Holy Shrine of Imam Reza (AS), where funeral prayers were led by Khamenei's eldest son, Hojjatoleslam Seyyed Mostafa Hosseini Khamenei. The procession also honoured members of Khamenei's family who were killed alongside him, reports IRNA news agency. Huge crowds lined the procession route, surrounding the vehicle carrying the remains of the late leader and his family members. Mourners waved Iranian national flags and red flags symbolizing vengeance, while chants of Death to America and Death to Israel echoed through the streets. The week-long ceremonies saw millions of mourners gather along procession routes, at mosques and major Shiite shrines. Iranian state media described the turnout as a demonstration of national unity and regional solidarity, while the funeral also drew large crowds in the Iraqi holy cities of Najaf and Karbala. Authorities imposed extensive security measures throughout the funeral period, including road closures, flight restrictions and heightened deployment of security personnel to manage the massive crowds. Khamenei became only the second ruler in Iran's history to be buried in Mashhad, following Nader Shah, who was laid to rest there in 1747. The funeral unfolded amid continued regional tensions following the conflict that claimed Khamenei's life. Despite the ongoing geopolitical developments, the week-long mourning ceremonies remained the central focus across Iran, with millions paying their final respects to the country's longest-serving Supreme Leader. Iranian officials described the funeral as one of the largest public gatherings in the country's history, with participation spanning seven days and two countries. However, the funeral concluded under the shadow of renewed military escalation in the Middle East. The United States launched fresh airstrikes across Iran early Thursday, targeting about 90 sites that Washington said were linked to Tehran's military capabilities and threats to navigation in the Strait of Hormuz. The US military said the operation was intended to further weaken Iran's ability to disrupt international shipping. Iran responded by launching missiles and drones towards several US-allied countries in the region, including Bahrain, Kuwait, Qatar and Jordan. Air defence systems intercepted most of the incoming projectiles, although Kuwait reported one person injured by falling debris. Iran's Health Ministry said the latest wave of US strikes killed at least 14 people and injured 78 others, most of them members of the armed forces. Iranian officials also accused the United States of carrying out strikes near the country's only nuclear power plant at Bushehr, although US Central Command did not confirm targeting the facility. The renewed exchange of attacks has raised fears that the fragile ceasefire announced last month could collapse completely. US President Donald Trump accused Iran of violating the ceasefire by attacking commercial vessels in the Strait of Hormuz and warned of a stronger military response if such incidents continued. This is in retribution for yesterday's bombing of ships by Iran. If it happens again, it will get much worse, Trump said on social media. Iran rejected the accusations and maintained that it would respond to any military action targeting the country. Parliament Speaker Mohammad Bagher Qalibaf said, If you strike, you'll get hit, while Foreign Minister Abbas Araghchi held consultations with regional leaders, including counterparts from Saudi Arabia, Turkey and Oman, in an apparent effort to reduce tensions. Despite the renewed violence, diplomatic efforts to negotiate a permanent ceasefire are expected to resume following the completion of Khamenei's funeral. The talks are expected to focus on reopening the Strait of Hormuz, easing regional tensions and addressing Iran's nuclear programme.

NC betrayed people's mandate: Sat Sharma

J&K Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) president and Rajya Sabha MP Sat Sharma on Thursday accused the National Conference (NC) of betraying peoples mandate and asserted that the BJP would robustly fight for citizens rights by exposing its (NCs) failure. He was chairing a meeting of senior party leaders at the party headquarters, Trikuta Nagar, Jammu, to review the organisational and prevailing socio-political situation in Jammu and Kashmir and finalise the party's strategy to intensify public outreach and safeguard the interests of the people. The meeting was attended by J&K BJP general secretaries Sanjita Dogra, Baldev Singh Billawaria and Gopal Mahajan; MLA Sham Lal Sharma, along with other senior party leaders. Sat Sharma alleged that the Omar Abdullah-led National Conference government utterly failed to fulfill the promises it made in its 2024 election manifesto. He said the NC secured votes by making unrealistic assurances, but after assuming office it abandoned the very people who trusted it. The government has failed on every major front, including unemployment, inflation, erratic power and water supply, poor civic amenities, delayed development works, deteriorating road infrastructure, and effective grievance redressal. Instead of providing accountable governance, the NC leadership is busy misleading the people through political rhetoric and diversionary tactics, he maintained. He said that the people voted with hope, but the NC government repaid their trust with betrayal. The gulf between its promises and performance continues to widen. Rather than solving public problems, the government is trying to distract people from its failures, Sat Sharma said.

PDP holds review meetings for Shopian, Pulwama

J&K People's Democratic Party (PDP) on Thursday held important organisational meetings for its Shopian and Pulwama units at the party headquarters in Srinagar, reaffirming its commitment to strengthening the organisation and expanding its grassroots presence across South Kashmir. The meetings were chaired by PDP General Secretary (Organisation) Ghulam Nabi Lone Hanjura and attended by senior party leaders and district functionaries, said a press release. Deliberations centred on reinforcing the party's organisational structure, widening grassroots outreach and enhancing public engagement across the district. Leaders reviewed the party's organisational framework and discussed measures to improve coordination, strengthen grassroots networks and intensify public outreach across Pulwama. The PDP leadership emphasised the importance of a strong organisational structure and sustained engagement with the public, reiterating the party's resolve to consolidate its presence at the grassroots level throughout South Kashmir.

Ashok Koul calls for booth-level expansion of BJP in Karnah

J&K BJP General Secretary (Organization) Ashok Koul chaired an organisational meeting with the office bearers of Karnah Constituency at Dak Bungalow, Tangdhar, to review the party's organizational activities and discuss the roadmap for strengthening the BJP at the grassroots level in the border constituency. Koul, while addressing the meeting, emphasised that a strong organization is the greatest strength of the BJP and asked the party workers to further expand the party's reach by actively engaging with the people at every booth. He stressed that every office bearer must remain in regular contact with booth committees and ensure that the organizational structure is strengthened down to the grassroots level. As per a press release, Koul said that booth-level workers are the backbone of the BJP and their dedication determines the party's success. He directed the office bearers to regularly organize party programmes, public outreach activities, and awareness campaigns at the booth level so that the policies and welfare initiatives of the Narendra Modi-led government reach every household. He also called for enrolling more dedicated workers, and identifying emerging local leadership to make the party stronger and more effective in Karnah, which will help to strengthen the partys base in Kashmir.

HinduMuslimSikh unity defines J&Ks true strength, identity: Dr Farooq

National Conference Minority Cell (Kashmir Province) held a special meeting at the party headquarters, Nawa-e-Subha Complex, under the chairmanship of Party President Dr Farooq Abdullah. Dr Farooq said that NC was founded on the enduring principles of equality, justice, secularism, and communal harmony. He said the party's Constitution and the historic Naya Kashmir manifesto place the protection of minority rights, equal opportunities, adequate representation, and the preservation of the religious, social, educational, and cultural identity of all communities at the centre of its vision, said a party press release. Recalling the leadership of Sher-e-Kashmir Sheikh Mohammad Abdullah, Dr Farooq said that the people of Jammu, Kashmir, and Ladakh were brought into the mainstream of governance and development without discrimination. He added that the National Conference has faithfully carried forward this legacy and has never indulged in politics based on religion, caste, or community. Dr Farooq emphasised that Sher-e-Kashmir historic slogan of Hindu, Muslim, Sikh Unity remains the ideological cornerstone of the National Conference and continues to embody the true strength, character, and identity of Jammu and Kashmir. A separate press release issued here said that a meeting of representatives of the Sikh community from across Jammu and Kashmir was held at the Nawa-i-Subh. The meeting was presided over by Party President Dr. Farooq Abdullah. The representatives highlighted the issues and hardships faced by the Sikh community over the past decades. They reiterated their long-pending demand for granting minority status to the Sikh community in Jammu and Kashmir, sought the protection and preservation of the community's historical and religious sites and urged intervention to safeguard historic Gurdwara lands from commercial exploitation.

Agriculture minister Chouhan meets Taliban agriculture minister, discuss agricultural cooperation

In another sign of the expanding engagement between India and Afghanistans Taliban administration, Union Agriculture Minister Shivraj Singh Chouhan held wide-ranging talks with Afghanistans Agriculture, Irrigation and Livestock Minister Mawlawi Ataullah Omari to strengthen cooperation in agriculture, irrigation, livestock, research, education, capacity building and agri-trade. The meeting, attended by senior officials of the Ministry of Agriculture and Farmers Welfare and the Indian Council of Agricultural Research (ICAR), reviewed the existing agricultural partnership and explored new avenues of collaboration. Welcoming the Afghan delegation, Minister Shivraj Chouhan said India and Afghanistan shared centuries-old civilizational ties founded on trust, friendship and strong people-to-people relations. Reaffirming New Delhis commitment to strengthening agricultural cooperation, he said India was ready to share its scientific expertise, technological innovations and institutional experience to support Afghanistans food security, agricultural productivity and farmers prosperity. Food security and seed development emerged as key areas of discussion, with the Afghan side seeking Indias assistance in improving wheat productivity through advanced seed technologies and research collaboration. Chouhan assured Indias support through the supply of quality wheat, maize and potato seeds, climate-resilient and biofortified crop varieties, as well as technical expertise from ICAR institutions. The two sides also discussed water management and climate-resilient agriculture, with the Afghan delegation highlighting challenges posed by water scarcity and climate change. Chouhan shared Indias experience in micro-irrigation, rainwater harvesting, watershed development and efficient water-use technologies, and expressed willingness to support Afghanistan in developing sustainable irrigation systems. The ministers also explored cooperation in agricultural research, education and capacity building. India proposed enhanced collaboration between ICAR and Afghan agricultural institutions through joint research, faculty and student exchanges, laboratory support and training programmes for scientists, veterinarians and extension personnel. Discussions also covered horticulture, dairy, livestock, poultry, fisheries, animal health, post-harvest management, digital agriculture and soil health. Omari thanked India for its continued support to Afghanistans agriculture sector and sought deeper cooperation in improving wheat productivity, irrigation, livestock development, agricultural research, education, technology transfer and agri-business. Both sides also discussed expanding bilateral agricultural trade, strengthening agricultural value chains and promoting business-to-business engagement. The two countries agreed to work towards establishing a Joint Working Group to prepare a long-term roadmap for cooperation in agriculture and livestock and to facilitate regular institutional engagement. The meeting comes amid steadily growing engagement between New Delhi and the Taliban administration. New Delhi over the past two years, has maintained regular diplomatic contacts with Kabul while continuing humanitarian assistance and development cooperation. The visit also follows a series of high-level engagements between the two sides. Earlier this year, External Affairs Minister S. Jaishankar held a telephone conversation with Afghanistans acting Foreign Minister Amir Khan Muttaqi, reaffirming Indias support for the Afghan people and discussing ways to expand bilateral cooperation. Taliban delegations have also travelled to New Delhi in recent years for discussions with Indian officials on political, trade, humanitarian and development issues, reflecting a gradual normalization of contacts since India reopened its technical mission in Kabul in 2022 and upgraded it to fully operational embassy in October 2025. Thursdays meeting is being seen as another step in deepening practical cooperation between the two countries, particularly in sectors such as agriculture and food security, where India has traditionally played an important developmental role in Afghanistan.

CM Yogi targets SP, Congress over Ram Mandir; launches Rs 710-crore projects in Banda

Uttar Pradesh Chief Minister Yogi Adityanath on Thursday accused the Samajwadi Party (SP) and Congress of opposing the development of religious sites, saying those who love graveyards are the ones opposing the Ram Mandir. Addressing a public meeting after inaugurating and laying the foundation stone of 229 development projects worth over Rs 710 crore in Banda and Baberu Assembly constituencies, Adityanath alleged that previous SP governments spent public money on constructing graveyard boundary walls instead of developing temples and pilgrimage centres. The Chief Minister highlighted the transformation of Bundelkhand over the past nine years, citing improved connectivity, irrigation, law and order and employment opportunities. He also criticised the SP MLA from Baberu, alleging that he was interested in harassing the poor rather than promoting development, while appealing to people to reject negative and anti-development politics.

PM Narendra Modi addresses Indian diaspora in Melbourne

Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Thursday addressed a large gathering of the Indian community at Melbournes Marvel Stadium, with Australian Prime Minister Anthony Albanese joining the event in a special gesture reflecting the close ties between the two countries. PM Modi thanked the diaspora for the warm welcome and praised its contribution to strengthening India-Australia relations, describing the community as a living bridge between the two nations. He highlighted the growing partnership in education, noting the large number of Indian students in Australia and the increasing presence of Australian universities in India. The Prime Minister also spoke about Indias rapid economic growth, digital transformation, infrastructure development and advances in sectors such as semiconductors, electronics and defence manufacturing. He urged the diaspora to contribute ideas and expertise towards the goal of building a Viksit Bharat by 2047. Australia is home to nearly one million people of Indian origin.

India, Australia adopt new defence, security declaration

India and Australia on Thursday adopted a new Joint Declaration on Defence and Security Cooperation, committing to significantly deepen military, maritime and strategic collaboration in response to evolving security challenges in the Indo-Pacific. The declaration, unveiled during Prime Minister Narendra Modis annual summit with Australian Prime Minister Anthony Albanese, replaces the 2009 Joint Declaration on Security Cooperation and builds on the Comprehensive Strategic Partnership established in 2020. The two countries agreed to enhance interoperability between their armed forces, expand the scale and complexity of joint military exercises, strengthen defence information-sharing and increase deployments of military aircraft from each others territories. They also pledged to deepen cooperation in defence industry, advanced technologies, cyber security, counter-terrorism, humanitarian assistance and disaster relief (HADR), and maritime security. As part of the new framework, India and Australia adopted a Maritime Security Collaboration Roadmap to boost information sharing, operational coordination and capability development in the Indo-Pacific. The two sides also committed to expanding cooperation in critical minerals, clean energy technologies and resilient supply chains. Reaffirming their support for a free, open, peaceful and rules-based Indo-Pacific, the leaders underscored the importance of international law, including the UN Convention on the Law of the Sea (UNCLOS), freedom of navigation and overflight, and respect for sovereignty and territorial integrity. The declaration also calls for closer cooperation against terrorism, including information sharing on terrorist threats, countering terror financing, tackling online radicalisation and protecting critical infrastructure. Both countries agreed to strengthen collaboration on cyber security and emerging technologies under the Australia-India Partnership on Cyber, Critical Technologies and Supply Chains (PACTS). India and Australia also pledged to deepen cooperation through regional groupings, including the Quad, ASEAN, the Indian Ocean Rim Association (IORA) and the Pacific Islands Forum, while expanding trilateral initiatives with the United States and Japan to promote peace, stability and prosperity across the Indo-Pacific.

CS sets monthly targets for PM Surya Ghar Yojana, Solarisation Mission in J&K

Chief Secretary, Atal Dulloo, today chaired a comprehensive review meeting to assess the progress achieved under the PM Surya Ghar: Muft Bijli Yojana and the ongoing Solarisation of Government Buildings Programme across the Union Territory. The meeting was attended by the Additional Chief Secretary, Power Development Department; Additional Chief Secretary, Finance; Divisional Commissioner, Jammu/Kashmir; Managing Director, JPDCL/KPDCL; CEO, JAKEDA, besides representatives of several other concerned departments. While taking this review the Chief Secretary emphasised the need to achieve the targets assigned to both the Power Distribution Companies (DISCOMs) within the stipulated timelines. He directed the concerned agencies to ensure installation of all the rooftop solar (RTS) systems pertaining to nearly 57,000 beneficiaries where vendor agreements have already been executed, so that these consumers receive the benefits of the scheme without any delay. Stressing the importance of timely implementation, the Chief Secretary instructed the concerned departments to prepare a well-defined timeline for achieving the targets considerably before the sunset date of the PM Surya Ghar: Muft Bijli Yojana, thereby ensuring that Jammu & Kashmir fully utilizes the opportunity provided under the flagship programme of the Government of India. Reviewing the progress of the Solarization of Government Buildings, the Chief Secretary called upon the Science & Technology Department and JAKEDA to expedite execution and ensure that all identified government buildings are brought under rooftop solar coverage in a mission mode. He directed that over 1,400 more government buildings under the CAPEX mode and around 1,300 buildings under the RESCO mode be targeted for completion by the end of July 2026. He also stressed the simultaneous completion of smart metering in all commissioned buildings to ensure effective net metering, accurate energy accounting and optimum utilization of the installed solar assets. Speaking during the meeting, Additional Chief Secretary, Power Development Department, Ashwani Kumar, outlined the roadmap for bridging the existing implementation gaps and highlighted the measures being taken to further streamline execution. He elaborated upon the strategy to strengthen inter-agency coordination, simplify operational processes and accelerate the pace of implementation so that the targets under both the PM Surya Ghar: Muft Bijli Yojana and the Solarisation of Government Buildings Programme are achieved within the prescribed timelines. Additional Chief Secretary, Finance, Shailendra Kumar, while appreciating the progress made under the scheme, suggested that districts demonstrating outstanding performance should be suitably recognised to encourage healthy competition among the implementing agencies. He particularly commended the exemplary work carried out in the Kupwara and Shopian districts in the implementation of this Yojana, and recommended that the officers and field functionaries responsible for these achievements be appropriately appreciated to motivate similar performance across the Union Territory. The meeting was informed by the MD, KPDCL, Mehmood Ahmad Shah that under PM Surya Ghar: Muft Bijli Yojana, the Government of India has fixed a national target of one crore residential rooftop solar installations by 31st March 2027. In line with this, J&K has set a target of 83,500 residential consumers for itself, comprising 39,500 consumers under JPDCL and 44,000 consumers under KPDCL. Reviewing the implementation status, the Chief Secretary was further informed that as on 07 July 2026, rooftop solar systems had been installed for 37,138 residential consumers across Jammu & Kashmir with a cumulative installed capacity of 133.40 MW. These installations have enabled beneficiaries to receive Central Financial Assistance amounting to Rs 291.38 crore, while the Union Territory has additionally extended Rs 10.50 crore as UT subsidy, thereby significantly reducing the financial burden on consumers and encouraging wider adoption of rooftop solar systems. The Chief Secretary also reviewed the progress achieved under the ambitious programme for Solarization of Government Buildings, being implemented through JAKEDA under both CAPEX and RESCO modes. The meeting was informed by CEO, JAKEDA, PN Dhar that J&K has emerged as one of the leading performers in the country in this sector. The Union Territory presently ranks 3rd among all States and Union Territories in the number of government buildings solarized, with 8,131 government buildings already equipped with rooftop solar power systems, representing 36.14 per cent of the 22,494 identified government buildings across the UT. Additionally under the CAPEX mode, against an allocated capacity of 65 MW covering 5,500 government buildings, rooftop solar systems have already been installed on 3,338 buildings with a cumulative installed capacity of 46.30 MW. Besides these completed works, material has already been supplied for 1,462 additional buildings, while material for another 800 buildings is currently under transit, indicating substantial progress towards completion of the remaining works.

SKUAST-K reviews mid-term progress of 1st IIT Bombay RuDRA internship cohort

Sher-e-Kashmir University of Agricultural Sciences and Technology of Kashmir (SKUAST-K) on Wednesday reviewed the progress of its first batch of students undergoing a one-month internship at IIT Bombay under the Centre of Excellence for Rural Data Research & Analysis (RuDRA), an initiative supported through HADP-19 and HADP-20. The program is designed to equip students with advanced technological skills, research exposure, and interdisciplinary learning at one of Indias premier institutions, enabling them to develop innovative, data-driven solutions for agriculture and rural development in Jammu & Kashmir. The review was chaired by Vice-Chancellor Prof. Nazir Ahmad Ganai in the presence of Prof. Masood Saleem Mir, Principal Investigator, HADP-20; Prof. Shabir Ahmad Bangroo, Principal Investigator, HADP-19; Prof. Irfan Ahmad Bisati, Co-Principal Investigator, HADP-20; and IIT Bombay faculty members Dr. Pennan Chinnasamy; Dr. Mohammad Kasim; and Dr. Somdeep Kundu. The internship is a key outcome of the Memorandum of Understanding signed between SKUAST-K and IIT Bombay to strengthen collaboration in sustainable agriculture, environmental management, and rural development. As part of the partnership, SKUAST-K has established the Centre of Excellence for Rural Data Research & Analysis (RuDRA), in collaboration with IIT Bombays RuDRA Lab, to advance decision-support systems for rural development and to promote joint research, curriculum development, knowledge transfer, faculty and student exchange, and internship programs. The inaugural cohort comprises 14 students from different faculties and academic programs, making it the universitys first interdisciplinary batch under the initiative. During the review, the students presented the progress of their projects at IIT Bombay, highlighting work on geospatial technologies, data analytics, digital agriculture and AI-enabled decision-support systems for agriculture and rural planning. Addressing the interns, Prof. Nazir Ahmad Ganai urged them to maximise the opportunity by acquiring cutting-edge technological expertise that can be adapted to address the evolving needs of farmers and rural communities in Jammu & Kashmir. The internship programme is expected to build a pool of skilled professionals capable of translating advanced technologies into practical solutions for sustainable agriculture, rural livelihoods, and evidence-based rural governance in Jammu & Kashmir.

NIT Srinagar inks MoU with NIELIT Leh to strengthen startup ecosystem

National Institute of Technology (NIT) Srinagars Greenovator Incubation Foundation (GIF) has signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) with the National Institute of Electronics & Information Technology (NIELIT), Leh to foster innovation, entrepreneurship, startup incubation, and technology commercialisation across Leh, Ladakh, and adjoining regions. The MoU was signed on July 7 at the NIELIT Leh campus by Director and Principal Investigator, GIF NIT Srinagar, Dr. Saad Parvez, on behalf of GIF. Officials from NIELIT Leh attended the signing ceremony, while the GIF team, including Sana Aftab, CEO, Jehangir Hameed, Incubation Manager, and other members, joined virtually. The collaboration aims to strengthen the regional innovation and entrepreneurship ecosystem by providing incubation support, mentorship, business advisory services, industry linkages, and access to funding opportunities for innovators, startups, and student entrepreneurs. In his message, Director, NIT Srinagar, Prof. Binod Kumar Kanaujia said the collaboration reflects the institutes commitment to extending innovation and entrepreneurial opportunities to underserved and strategically important regions. At NIT Srinagar, we believe innovation must address real-world challenges while creating sustainable livelihoods. This partnership with NIELIT Leh will provide a strong platform for nurturing startups, supporting young innovators, and developing technologies suited to the unique needs of the Himalayan region. We are confident that this collaboration will strengthen the startup ecosystem in Ladakh and contribute to inclusive regional development, he said. Institute Registrar, Prof. Atikur Rehman, said NIT Srinagar remains committed to building meaningful institutional partnerships that promote research, innovation, and entrepreneurship. This MoU marks another significant step towards strengthening collaboration between premier institutions. By combining our expertise and resources, we aim to create new opportunities for students, innovators, and aspiring entrepreneurs. Such partnerships will play a vital role in promoting technology-led growth, skill development, and sustainable socio-economic progress in the region, he said. Dr. Saad Parvez, Director and Principal Investigator, GIF, NIT Srinagar, said the partnership will provide a strong platform to nurture innovation and entrepreneurship in Ladakh. This collaboration is aimed at empowering local innovators and startups through mentorship, incubation, skill development, and industry linkages. Together with NIELIT Leh, we hope to build a vibrant innovation ecosystem that supports technology-driven solutions and sustainable entrepreneurship in the region, he said. As part of the partnership, both institutions will jointly organise boot camps, hackathons, ideathons, Entrepreneurship Development Programmes (EDPs), Innovators Development Programmes (IDPs), workshops, seminars, and skill development initiatives to nurture entrepreneurial talent and promote a culture of innovation. The MoU also provides for collaboration in business model development, market validation, Intellectual Property Rights (IPR) facilitation, patent filing, technology commercialisation, and access to incubation facilities, laboratories, and prototyping infrastructure, subject to institutional policies. To enhance industry engagement, GIF and NIELIT Leh will facilitate corporate connect programmes, startup showcase events, investor interactions, and networking opportunities through NIT Srinagars extensive alumni network, enabling startups to access mentorship, strategic partnerships, and growth opportunities. In addition, the two institutions will collaborate on joint research, consultancy, and technology development by leveraging the research expertise, faculty, and innovation ecosystem of NIT Srinagar and the technical capabilities of NIELIT Leh. A key focus of the partnership will be developing context-specific technologies tailored to the unique challenges of mountain regions while preserving Ladakhs cultural heritage and traditional knowledge.

Scientific sheep farming takes centre stage at breeders interaction programme

A one-day ScientistSheep Breeders Interaction Programme-cum-Exposure Visit for progressive sheep breeders from Budgam was organised at the Mountain Research Centre for Sheep & Goat (MRCS&G), SKUAST-Kashmir, on Thursday by the Sheep Husbandry Department, Kashmir, under the Agricultural Technology Management Agency (ATMA). The programme focused on strengthening the technical knowledge and practical skills of sheep breeders through expert lectures and field demonstrations on scientific nutrition, breeding, disease prevention, flock health management, and modern housing practices. Scientists highlighted innovative technologies to improve sheep productivity and farm profitability. As part of the programme, participants visited the Centres research and livestock farms, where they observed improved sheep breeds, scientific management practices, fodder production systems, and ongoing research. Live demonstrations provided hands-on exposure to modern sheep farming technologies. An interactive session enabled farmers to discuss field-level challenges with scientists and receive practical, science-based solutions for effective flock management. The program was led by Dr Parvaiz Ahmed Reshi, Senior Scientist & Head, MRCS&G, along with Dr Muzamil Abdullah, Dr Abul Qayoom Mir, and Dr Zulfiqar-ul-Haq from MRCS&G. Dr Muzamil Bashir and Dr Asma Khan from the Sheep Husbandry Department also interacted with the participants. The farmers appreciated the initiative, describing it as a valuable platform for learning scientific sheep-farming practices and for strengthening collaboration between researchers and the farming community.

Low yield, higher returns: Kashmir cherry growers end season on a positive note

Kashmirs cherry growers are ending this years harvest on a positive note despite a sharp decline in production, as strong market prices helped make up for losses caused by adverse weather. The cherry season, which begins in late May and concludes by the end of June, witnessed an estimated 35-40 per cent drop in output after erratic weather affected fruit set and yields across major producing districts. However, robust demand and lower supplies pushed prices to multi-year highs, enabling growers to earn better returns than they had initially expected. Cultivators said premium cherry varieties fetched between Rs 250 and Rs 400 per kg this season, significantly higher than the usual Rs 150-Rs 180 per kg. Traditional varieties such as Double and Mishri sold for Rs 170-200 per kg, nearly double last years Rs 80-Rs 100 per kg. Even early varieties, including Siya and Makhmali, commanded Rs 100- Rs 200 per kg, around Rs 100 higher than the previous season. The production was considerably lower this year, but the market remained exceptionally strong throughout the season. The higher prices compensated for much of the production loss, Mohammad Ashraf Wani, president of the Fruit Mandi Shopian, told Greater Kashmir Wani said Shopian, one of Kashmirs key cherry-producing districts, harvested around 500-600 metric tonnes this season. He attributed the strong prices to lower arrivals from producing regions, including Srinagar, Ganderbal and Baramulla and sustained demand from wholesale markets across the country. Growers in other parts of the Valley echoed similar views, saying buyers competed for quality fruit, particularly premium and late-season varieties, resulting in firm prices throughout the harvest period. The favourable price trend comes at a time when Kashmirs horticulture sector has been grappling with increasingly erratic weather. Untimely rainfall and hailstorms during the flowering and fruit development stages affected yields in several orchards, reducing overall production. While the lower crop initially raised concerns among growers, the resulting supply shortage helped support prices. Kashmir accounts for more than 90 per cent of Indias cherry production and has witnessed rapid expansion of cherry cultivation over the past decade as growers increasingly shifted to high-density orchards and premium cultivars that command better prices in domestic markets. The Valley produces around 12,000 to 13,000 metric tonnes of cherries annually from nearly 2, 800 hectares under cultivation. Besides meeting domestic demand, exporters have also been exploring overseas markets for premium Kashmiri cherries, supported by improvements in grading, packaging and cold-chain infrastructure. Industry representatives said the season highlighted the importance of quality over quantity, with growers cultivating premium varieties benefiting the most from higher market realisations. While better prices brought relief this year, improving weather resilience, expanding cold storage and strengthening export infrastructure would be critical to sustaining the profitability of cherry cultivation in the Valley, said Basharat Ahmad, a cherry trader and cultivator.

Inspection Wing Kashmir conducts divisional level training program on electrical safety

Reaffirming its commitment to place safety as the foremost priority in power sector operations, the Electrical Inspection Division, PDD Kashmir, successfully conducted a series of training programs on the theme Electrical Safety and Accident Prevention for the field employees of Electric Division Baramulla, Electric Division Sopore, Electric Division Kupwara, Electric Division Handwara and Special Sub Division Tangmarg. The training programs were organized on the directions of Additional Chief Secretary PDD, Ashwani Kumar with the objective of enhancing safety awareness among field staff and promoting safe work practices during operation, maintenance and restoration of the power distribution system. Around 300 field employees participated in these programs, which were conducted at centrally located places of concerned districts to ensure wider outreach and participation. The training programs were conducted to equip field employees with the knowledge and practical skills required for safe execution of electrical works, said a press release. During the training sessions, participants were sensitized about the potential hazards associated with electrical works and were imparted practical knowledge on accident prevention, risk assessment and adherence to prescribed safety protocols while carrying out operation and maintenance activities. Informative lectures and practical demonstrations on electrical safety practices were also showcased to familiarize the employees with modern safety standards and procedures. Special emphasis was laid on the proper use of Personal Protective Equipment (PPE), insulated tools, safety devices and standard operating procedures while carrying out field assignments. The employees were strongly advised not to undertake any electrical work without observing mandatory safety precautions, emphasizing that strict compliance with safety protocols is essential for protecting human life and ensuring reliable power system operations. The training sessions were organized and conducted by officers of the Electrical Inspection Wing Kashmir of J&K PDD. Er. Fayaz Wani and Er. Adil Bashir Gurkha, served as Master Trainers for the program under the supervision of Er. Malik Habib Ahmad, Executive Engineer, and under the overall guidance of Er. Sanjay Sharma, Chief Electrical Inspector, J&K. The Electrical Inspection Wing reiterated its commitment to continue organizing such capacity-building initiatives across the Union Territory with the objective of strengthening the safety culture within the power sector and significantly reducing electrical accidents through awareness, training and strict adherence to established safety practices.

J&K Govt constitutes core implementation committee for health reforms

The J&K Government has constituted a six-member Core Implementation Committee for Health Reforms in the Health and Medical Education (H&ME) Department. The committee will facilitate the coordination, implementation, monitoring and periodic review of health reform initiatives across J&K. The Government Order No. 538-JK(HME) of 2026 dated July 9 has stated that the committee will be chaired by Mission Director, J&K National Health Mission, Akriti Sagar, IAS. The members include Executive Director, SMVD Institute of Medical Excellence Dr Yashpal Sharma, J&K Medical Council President Dr S. Muhammad Salim Khan (Member Secretary), Medical Superintendent, Children's Hospital Bemina Dr Abdul Rasheed Parra, NHM Programme Manager Dr Jitendra Mehta and NHM Divisional Nodal Officer Dr Mushtaq Dar. The order states that the committee may co-opt technical experts and representatives from departments and institutions. This can be done on the need basis. The committee will meet once every fortnight and submit its recommendations and reports to H&ME.

Locals raise concern over unattended highway excavation in Baramuallas Khawkabagh

An open pit along the National Highway at Khawkabagh in Baramulla has emerged as a serious safety hazard, with residents alleging that the excavation has been left unattended for several months without any explanation from the authorities. The pit, dug on both sides of the highway, remains uncovered or warning signage, posing a constant threat to motorists and pedestrians. The commuters say no official has clarified why the stretch was excavated or why the work has remained incomplete for such a long period. According to locals, the open trench has already caused multiple accidents. In the latest incident, a scooty rider reportedly lost control and fell into the drain, sustaining injuries. Residents fear that the poorly protected excavation could result in a major tragedy, particularly during the night when visibility is low. The drain has become a death trap. Every day commuters narrowly escape accidents. We fail to understand why it has been left open for months, said Bashir Ahmad Dar, a local resident. The issue has also affected the movement of pedestrians, schoolchildren and elderly residents, who are forced to navigate the hazardous stretch daily. Locals have appealed to the concerned authorities to immediately complete the pending work or securely cover the drain and install proper safety barriers and reflective warning signs until the project is finished.

Fire guts 2 factories at Zakura Industrial Estate

Two factories were gutted after a massive fire broke out at a textile manufacturing unit in the Zakura Industrial Estate on the outskirts of Srinagar on Thursday evening, triggering a large-scale firefighting operation. Officials said the blaze erupted inside the premises of a textile manufacturing unit, following which multiple fire tenders from different fire stations were rushed to the spot to contain the flames and prevent the fire from spreading to adjoining industrial units. Thick plumes of smoke billowed into the sky as flames engulfed the factory complex, with the fire visible from several parts of the city. Firefighters battled the blaze for several hours before bringing it under control. The fire caused extensive damage to two units. However, officials said timely intervention by the Fire and Emergency Services personnel prevented the blaze from spreading to neighbouring industrial establishments, averting a potentially major disaster in the industrial area. No loss of life or injuries were reported in the incident. The cause of the fire was not immediately known. Authorities said an investigation would be conducted to ascertain the circumstances that led to the blaze and assess the extent of the damage. The incident caused panic in the area as workers and local residents watched firefighters bring the raging flames under control.

Degree under DYD programme | KU students seek clarity; flag staff shortage, delayed results

Students enrolled under the Centre for Design Your Degree (DYD) programme at University of Kashmir (KU) have raised serious concerns over uncertainty surrounding the degree to be awarded upon completion of the course. The students alleged that prolonged ambiguity, staff shortages, inadequate infrastructure and delayed examination results were adversely affecting their academic future. The students said their primary concern relates to the qualification they will receive after completing the programme.The students said despite spending years pursuing the course, the university has yet to provide a clear and final clarification on the degree that will be awarded. The students claimed that earlier, the admission notification stated that candidates from Science, Arts, Commerce, Medical and Non-Medical backgrounds were eligible for admission and would receive a B.Tech in Data Science and Artificial Intelligence under the Design Your Degree model. But we are now informed that awarding a B.Tech degree may not be possible in certain cases, particularly for students who did not study Mathematics in Classes 11 and 12, a group of students told Greater Kashmir . The students questioned that why admissions were opened to candidates from all academic streams if there was uncertainty regarding eligibility for a B.Tech degree. The students said that such issues should have been resolved before the commencement of admissions. We opted for programmes based on the flexibility promised under the Design Your Degree concept and the assurance of a professional engineering qualification, the students said. They said any change in the degree structure now would directly affect their academic progression and career prospects. Besides concerns over the degree, the students alleged that the programme has been grappling with a severe shortage of teaching staff since its inception. The shortage of staff is now impacting classroom instruction and the quality of education, the students alleged. The students claimed that the whole programme was operating with only two classrooms despite multiple batches already being enrolled. Another batch is expected to join shortly. The lack of adequate infrastructure will create more crisis in coming times, the students said. The students further expressed concern over delays in the declaration of semester examination results, including the first semester. The prolonged wait will affect our internships, higher education opportunities and career planning, the students said. The students alleged there was inadequate planning and communication regarding academic matters saying that student grievances often remaining unresolved for extended periods. The students urged the university administration to issue a public clarification on the exact degree to be awarded besides the legal and academic status of the programme. The varsity must take measures to address faculty shortages, plans for infrastructure expansion and a timeline for declaring pending examination results, the students said. Director Admissions KU, Prof. Fayaz Ahmad when contacted said there was no clarity in the nomenclature when the first batch of students ws enrolled under DYD. The notification issued that time indicated that these students will be awarded B.Tech degree but the degree is governed by AICTE. The students who did not appear in JEE exams cannot be awarded B.Tech degree, Director Admissions told Greater Kashmir . Dean Academic Affairs KU, Prof. Pirzada Shariefuddin told Greater Kashmir that a committee constituted into the matter has given its resolution under which the students are being benefited as well. One of the options for the students of first two batches under DYD programme can be B.Tech if they have studied PCM in class 12th. Other students who have studied PCB in 12th can be awarded B.Tech if they clear the class 12th mathematics exam. Many students have already appeared in the class 12th mathematics exam, Dean Academic Affairs KU told Greater Kashmir . About the Arts students, Prof. Shariefuddin said these students can get lateral entry for AI in computer science department without qualifying mathematics.These options are only for the first two batches of students, he added.

Director DDK Srinagar Qazi Salman calls on LG

Director News at Doordarshan Kendra (DDK) Srinagar, and Director Press Information Bureau Srinagar, Qazi Salman called on Lieutenant Governor Manoj Sinha on Thursday. He briefed the Lieutenant Governor on the programs being run by Doordarshan in spreading mass public awareness on Nasha Mukt J&K Abhiyan and various government schemes and campaigns, said an official press release.

Several delegations call on CM Omar at 'Raabita', seek resolution of public issues

Chief Minister Omar Abdullah Thursday met several public delegations at Raabita and listened to their grievances and demands concerning various public and sector-specific issues. A delegation of the Industrial POP Association, Khunmoh, called on the Chief Minister and highlighted the challenges confronting the Plaster of Paris (POP) industry in Kashmir due to the non-availability of gypsum. The Chief Minister gave a patient hearing to the delegation and assured its members that the matter would be examined in consultation with the concerned departments to explore a sustainable solution. Later, a delegation of the Khidmat Centre Association met the Chief Minister and submitted a proposal concerning them. The Chief Minister assured the delegation that its representation would be examined on merit in consultation with the concerned departments.

Court denies bail to accused evading arrest for 10 years in narcotics case

A Special NDPS court in Baramulla has declined to grant bail to an accused who allegedly remained absconding for more than a decade in a case related to recovery of a commercial quantity of charas (narcotics). The Special Judge Abdul Quayom Mir dismissed the accused Muhammad Rafiq Wanis bail plea in connection with FIR No. 68/2016 registered under Section 8/20 of the NDPS Act at Police Station Baramulla. Moreover, the court allowed an application by police seeking permission for further investigation, including a Test Identification Parade (TIP). The prosecution contention is that on March 24, 2016, a police naka at Kanispora intercepted two suspects carrying polythene bags. Shakeel Ahmad Wani, one of the accused was apprehended with a bag containing three kilograms of charas while the other allegedly fled, abandoning a bag containing three kilograms of the contraband. The total seizure of six kilograms falls within a commercial quantity under the NDPS Act, the prosecution said. The accused who was arrested by police identified the fleeing suspect as his brother, Muhammad Rafiq Wani. While the charge sheet was filed against the arrested accused, his brother Rafiq allegedly evaded arrest and was declared a proclaimed offender in August 2016 prior to his surrender before the court in May this year. In his bail plea, the accused claimed he never absconded, saying that he had openly contested panchayat and District Development Council elections and remained publicly active. His further argument was that the case against him was based solely on the disclosure statement of his co-accused, which he described as inadmissible evidence. In support of his contention, the accused cited his family circumstances including his pregnant wife and especially abled son. Opposing the bail, the prosecution argued that the accused deliberately evaded arrest for over ten years, altered his appearance to avoid detection, and was facing four other criminal cases. The stringent conditions under Section 37 of the NDPS Act also barred his release on bail, it said. After hearing the arguments, the court observed that the recovery involved a commercial quantity of narcotics and that his criminal antecedents and prolonged abscondence weighed against granting bail. In response to a plea by police, the court allowed further investigation in the case, however, it declined the request for 15 days' custody remand, noting that the statutory period for police custody had already expired. However, to facilitate the investigation, the court permitted investigators to interrogate the accused inside District Jail Baramulla for five days after the Test Identification Parade. Emphasising that a timeline was necessary to safeguard the right of the accused to a speedy trial under Article 21 of the Constitution, the court directed the investigating agency to complete the further investigation and file a supplementary charge sheet within 60 days.

Sewage pollution, disease caused Panzath spring fish deaths: SKUAST-K

Severe sewage contamination has degraded water quality in the Panzath springs of Qazigund in South Kashmir's Anantnag district, causing ecological stress, oxygen depletion and disease that triggered the recent mass fish deaths, an expert investigation by the Faculty of Fisheries at SKUAST-K has found. The expert team from SKUAST-K's Rangil campus in Ganderbal collected water and fish samples last month after large-scale fish mortality was reported to determine the cause and recommend corrective measures. Professor and Head, Faculty of Fisheries, Dr Feroze Ahmad Shah, said the investigation found that the physico-chemical characteristics of water in the lower reaches of the spring had deteriorated because of sewage discharge, siltation and other effluents entering the waterbody. Our team collected baseline data on water quality and fish health. We found the aquatic life under tremendous stress, while opportunistic bacterial and fungal pathogens have caused disease in the fish, Shah told Greater Kashmir , quoting the report. He said pollution had weakened the fish, making them more vulnerable to infection. The sewage and kitchen waste entering the springs must be stopped immediately. Management issues also need to be addressed, the report said. It said exposed drinking water pipelines of the Public Health Engineering (PHE) department running across the springs were contributing to algal blooms, aquatic weed growth and water stagnation. Besides spoiling the appearance of the springs, these pipelines encourage algae and weed growth. The PHE department should relocate them, the report suggested Shah said SKUAST-K had recently conducted an awareness programme to educate local residents on the scientific management and conservation of the springs. Professor Adnan, Head, Division of Aquatic Environment Management, SKUAST-K, said analysis of water samples confirmed deterioration in water quality, ecological stress and oxygen depletion. The scientists recommended maintaining cleanliness, regulating fish feeding and preventing visitors from throwing food or waste into the spring as part of a long-term conservation strategy. Overfeeding and indiscriminate disposal of food and waste into the water must be avoided to safeguard fish health, the report added. Meanwhile, members of the Environmental Policy Group (EPG), led by former bureaucrat Khurshid Ahmad Ganai, former Power Development Commissioner Manzoor Ahmad Salroo and former Chief Conservator of Forests Manzoor Ahmad Tak, visited Panzath and assured residents of support in conserving the springs. We appreciate the cleaning efforts being carried out regularly by local people. However, the administration, the Irrigation Department and the Public Health Engineering department also need to play their role in conserving this natural treasure, Ganai said. He said he had taken up the matter with senior officials and suggested preparing a joint conservation plan for the springs and their aquatic ecosystem. Residents have meanwhile continued de-weeding and cleaning drives. Cleaning alone will not help unless sewage from kitchens and toilets is stopped from flowing into the lower reaches of the springs. Either people must stop it voluntarily or the administration should intervene, said local resident Abdul Salam. He also urged the PHE department to remove pipelines crossing the springs and relocate them saying they contributed to silt deposition, weed growth and water stagnation. This is our asset. We must protect it, otherwise future generations will blame us, Salam said. A preliminary assessment by the Fisheries Department had earlier also linked the fish mortality to untreated sewage, waste accumulation and a suspected bacterial infection. It said prolonged pollution had likely stressed the indigenous Schizothorax population, leaving it vulnerable to opportunistic bacterial and fungal infections. Following the incident, the department treated affected portions of the spring with potassium permanganate and benzalkonium chloride, carried out de-weeding and cleaning operations, and referred the matter to the National Surveillance Programme for Aquatic Animal Diseases for further investigation. Known locally as Panzath Nag, the spring is believed to have given the village its name. The term derives from Paanch Hath - Kashmiri for five hundred - because the spring once fed hundreds of smaller water sources, totalling nearly 500 springs in the area. Nearly 45 villages in the Qazigund belt depend on the springs for drinking water, while its rivulet irrigates paddy fields downstream. A government-run trout hatchery and fish sales centre nearby also rely on the springs perennial flow. The Panzath incident is the sixth reported case of mass fish mortality in Kashmir in the past six months. Similar incidents have been reported from Nagbal and Andernag springs in Anantnag, Chamgund stream in Kulgam, springs in Zainapora in Shopian, Beehama in Ganderbal and the Martand springs in Mattan, with indigenous Schizothorax species affected in each case.

Apni Party to stay away from NC's Delhi Statehood stir: Altaf Bukhari

Jammu and Kashmir Apni Party president Altaf Bukhari on Thursday ruled out joining the National Conference's proposed protest in New Delhi seeking restoration of statehood, saying his party believes in a consultative political process and was not taken into confidence before the programme was announced. Speaking to reporters, Bukhari said he had received the invitation sent by the National Conference but had not yet gone through it. I have received the letter from the General Secretary. Honestly, I have not opened it yet, he said when asked about the invitation. Asked whether he would participate in the proposed protest after reading the letter, Bukhari said the National Conference was free to organise its own political programme but the Apni Party would not be part of it. If they have come out in support of statehood, why should I oppose them? They can do it with pleasure. But this is a consultation process, and they have not done that. We believe in consultation. We do not believe in unilateral work, Bukhari said. He said the National Conference had every right to hold its own political programme. A National Conference can have its own function. I wish them all the best, he added. Bukhari also questioned the process through which more than 150 civil society representatives were recently brought together by the National Conference to adopt a resolution demanding restoration of statehood. The government should have come out with the names. Who were they? Who will be called civil society? Let us also know, he said. Referring to the National Conference's outreach on the statehood issue, Bukhari said the party had chosen to proceed on its own rather than evolve a broader political consensus. They have not followed a consultation process. We believe issues of such importance should be discussed collectively instead of being pursued unilaterally, he said. During the interaction, Bukhari also took an indirect swipe at the National Conference leadership over what he described as conflicting statements made by senior leaders on various issues. There is only one thing between father and son. Father says one thing and son says another. Who are we to comment? They are elders, so we don't comment on them, he said, apparently referring to remarks made by National Conference president Farooq Abdullah and Chief Minister Omar Abdullah on recent political issues. Responding to a question on political parties from Jammu and Kashmir aligned with the BJP, Bukhari said they did not represent the aspirations of the people of the Union Territory. It is their fate that they are not the leaders of Jammu and Kashmir, he said. The Apni Party president also criticised the Omar Abdullah-led government over its handling of development works, particularly road construction and payments to contractors. He said the Chief Minister appeared disconnected from the ground situation. Unfortunately, the Chief Minister does not know the ground realities. The government's primary responsibility is to work on development. If they think they will extract everything from contractors, roads cannot be built with their blood, Bukhari said. He alleged that contractors were yet to receive payments for works executed several years ago. Even payments for works carried out in 2015 have not been fully released. How can contractors continue to work under such circumstances? he asked. Referring to allegations regarding hoarding of construction material and black marketing, Bukhari questioned the government's approach, saying authorities already possess mechanisms such as the GST system to monitor inventories and transactions. If the government believes material has been stockpiled somewhere, it has all the information through the GST system. I do not understand the logic behind these allegations, he said. During the interaction, Bukhari also dismissed speculation about his political ambitions, saying he had never pursued public office for personal gain. The National Conference has announced a protest in New Delhi demanding the immediate restoration of Jammu and Kashmir's statehood and has invited various political parties and stakeholders to join the demonstration.

Development works at SK Sports Stadium reviewed in Bandipora

Bandipora, Jul 9: Deputy Commissioner Bandipora, InduKanwalChib on Thursday visited S.K. Sports Stadium, Bandipora, to inspect the stadium and review the progress of ongoing developmental works aimed at improving sports infrastructure in the district. During the visit, the Deputy Commissioner, as per an official statement, inspected various ongoing works and reviewed their physical progress with the concerned officers, engineers, contractors and representatives of sports associations. Reviewing the development of the playfield, the Deputy Commissioner directed the concerned executing agency to complete the filling and levelling work within one month to make the ground ready for sporting activities at the earliest. Inspecting the indoor sports hall, the Deputy Commissioner directed the concerned engineers to complete the remaining work within two weeks and ensure that the facility is made operational without any further delay. The Deputy Commissioner also reviewed the progress of the construction of the pavilion and directed the executing agency to expedite the pace of work and complete the project at the earliest. During the review, the Deputy Commissioner directed the Executive Engineer, R&B Bandipora to hold detailed discussions with the Engineering Wing of the J&K Sports Council and representatives of sports associations to ensure effective coordination and timely resolution of project-related issues. The Deputy Commissioner interacted with the contractors executing the works and urged them to mobilise adequate resources and complete all ongoing works within the shortest possible time while maintaining the prescribed quality standards. The Deputy Commissioner urged all concerned departments and executing agencies to work in close coordination and complete the projects within the prescribed timelines so that the facilities are made available to the sportspersons at the earliest. Among others, the visit was attended by Executive Engineer R&B Bandipora, Executive Engineer PDD Bandipora, AE and JE J&K Sports Council along with the concerned contractors, Tehsildar Bandipora, and representatives of sports associations.

Streamline traffic in Srinagars congested areas

Srinagar, Jul 9:Inspector General of Police (Traffic), Sulaiman Choudhary, on Wednesday conducted an extensive tour of Srinagar's Downtown areas to review the prevailing traffic arrangements and assess measures to improve vehicular movement in the city's congested localities. The IGP was accompanied by Senior Superintendent of Police (Traffic) Ajaz Ahmad Bhat and Deputy Superintendent of Police Ghulam Mohammad Bhat during the tour. During the visit, the IGP emphasised the need for streamlining traffic management in the city's congested pockets and called for a participative and people-friendly approach while dealing with commuters and the public. He appreciated the recent interventions undertaken by the Traffic Police to improve traffic mobility and discussed additional measures aimed at easing congestion in the downtown area. The IGP directed officers to ensure a visible presence on the ground, particularly in busy market areas and around places of religious importance, so that timely assistance could be provided to the public. He also instructed officers to remove encroachments that impede the smooth movement of traffic. Stressing the importance of coordinated efforts, IGP asked traffic officers to involve all stakeholders in improving the traffic scenario to bring about lasting changes in the old city. The senior officer also inspected locations where one-way traffic regulations have recently been introduced and reviewed their impact on traffic flow. According to officials, members of the public interacted with the IGP during the visit and appreciated the efforts made by the Traffic Police in recent months to improve traffic management and ensure smoother vehicular movement across Downtown Srinagar.

High Court Judges inspect New High Court Complex site in Srinagar

Srinagar, Jul 9:Justice Sanjay Dhar, Chairman of the Building and Infrastructure Committee, along with Justices Rahul Bharti, Moksha Khajuria Kazmi, Member of the Building and Infrastructure Committee and Justice Shahzad Azeem, on Thursday visited the site of the new High Court Complex, Srinagar to review the progress and pace of construction work. On the occasion, the Executive Engineer, R&B Project Division-I Srinagar, delivered a detailed presentation on the status of the ongoing project. He apprised the Judges of the various phases of construction completed so far and outlined the new works scheduled to be taken up in the future. During the on-spot inspection, the Judges reviewed all aspects of the construction work. They directed the concerned authorities and executing agencies to expedite the pace of work and ensure timely completion of the project, while underscoring the need to adhere to quality and the highest standards of workmanship. Registrar Judicial, Srinagar, Joint Registrar Judicial, Srinagar, Registrar Infrastructure and other officers of the R&B Department accompanied the Judges during the visit.

It is our collective responsibility to make stay of pilgrims in J&K divine, comfortable: LG Sinha

Srinagar, Jul 9: Lieutenant Governor Manoj Sinha on Thursday visited the Yatra Transit Camp and Yatri Niwas at Pantha Chowk in Srinagar and reviewed the arrangements made for the pilgrims of ongoing Shri Amarnath Ji Yatra. The Lieutenant Governor interacted with the officials and pilgrims and enquired about the facilities. He directed the officials to ensure that every devotee of Lord Shiva receives round-the-clock care. From registration to accommodation and food, no pilgrim should face any inconvenience. It must be our collective responsibility to make their stay in Jammu Kashmir divine and comfortable, the Lieutenant Governor told the officials. The Lieutenant Governor took stock of the arrangements, including accommodation, sanitation, security, healthcare, drinking water, power supply, firefighting measures and other essential services made by different departments aimed at ensuring the comfort and safety of the yatris. The figures from the past week reveal that this years Shri Amarnath Ji Yatra has witnessed a greater number of devotees compared to last year. This surge is not only a blessing for our spiritual heritage but also a positive sign for tourism in Jammu Kashmir, giving fresh momentum to the local economy. I want that the rich handicrafts and handloom products of Jammu Kashmir should travel across the country and this unique heritage find a place in every devotees home. This will honor our artisans and it will also strengthen the spirit of One District One Product campaign, weaving together faith, culture and prosperity, the Lieutenant Governor said. The Lieutenant Governor lauded the coordinated efforts of District Administration, all line departments, Shrine Board, Police, security forces and other stakeholders. He emphasized the need to maintain the close coordination and vigilance in ensuring effective crowd management, hassle-free registration process and dissemination of timely information updates to the pilgrims throughout the pilgrimage. He also directed for strict legal action against those found involved in fraudulent registration practices. The Lieutenant Governor was accompanied by Nalin Prabhat, DGP; Dr. Mandeep K. Bhandari, CEO, Shri Amarnathji Shrine Board; V K Birdi, IGP Kashmir; Anshul Garg, Divisional Commissioner Srinagar; Rajiv Pandey, DIG CKR; Dr. GV Sundeep Chakravarthy, SSP Srinagar; Akshay Labroo; Deputy Commissioner, Srinagar; Faz Lul Haseeb, Municipal Commissioner Srinagar and other senior officers.

Chenab water level rises, 3 gates of Salal Dam opened

Ramban, Jul 9: Three spillway gates of the Salal Hydroelectric Project on the Chenab River were opened on Thursday following a significant rise in the river's water level due to continuous monsoon rainfall in the upper catchment areas of the Chenab basin. The dam authorities opened the gates as a precautionary measure to regulate the increased inflow into the reservoir and ensure the safe operation of the hydroelectric project. The move comes after persistent rainfall over the past several days led to a substantial increase in the discharge of the Chenab River. Officials said the enhanced inflow was caused by heavy monsoon rains in the upper reaches of the Chenab region, resulting in a steady rise in the reservoir's water level. Authorities have advised people living along the downstream areas of the Chenab River to remain vigilant and avoid venturing close to the riverbanks, as water levels and flow are expected to remain high while excess water is being released from the dam. The administration is closely monitoring the situation, and further action will be taken depending on the inflow and prevailing weather conditions.

GOC Rising Star Corps reviews operational readiness of troops

Rajouri, Jul 9:Lt Gen AkaashJohar, General Officer Commanding (GOC) Rising Star Corps, on Thursday conducted an in-depth review of security arrangements put in place for smooth and safe conduct of Shri AmarnathJiYatra. Army said that GOC Rising Star Corps reviewed the operational readiness of troops deployed for yatra and also assessed response mechanism and combat readiness of troops and commended all ranks for their unwavering professionalism, steadfast commitment and inter agency coordination to achieve mission accomplishment. The GOC also interacted with officers of other forces including Jammu and Kashmir police and discussed the measures of security put in place.

NHPC CMD reviews CVPPL hydropower projects in Kishtwar, focuses on timely commissioning

Jammu, Jul 9:National Hydroelectric Power Corporation (NHPC) Chairman and Managing Director (CMD) Bhupender Gupta and Director (Projects) Sanjay Kumar Singh reviewed the progress of CVPPLs PakalDul, Kwar and Kiru hydropower projects in Kishtwar, emphasising timely commissioning. NHPC Chairman and Managing Director along with Director (Projects) conducted a three-day visit to the ongoing hydropower projects of Chenab Valley Power Projects Limited (CVPPL) in Kishtwar from July 5 to July 7, 2026. The visit focussed on reviewing construction progress and ensuring the timely execution of key hydroelectric projects. On their arrival in Kishtwar, the NHPC leadership was welcomed by CVPPL Managing Director Ramesh Mukhiya and senior project officials. The review began on July 6 with an inspection of the PakalDul dam site at Dangduru. The senior officials assessed the progress of ongoing civil works and reviewed the overall status of the project. The delegation then visited the Kwar Hydroelectric Project, where CMD Bhupender Gupta inaugurated the Tail Race Tunnel (TRT) outlet bridge. Another important milestone was achieved with the inauguration of the draft tube elbow erection works for Unit 4, officially marking the start of electro-mechanical (E&M) equipment installation at the project. The NHPC team later inspected the Kiru Hydroelectric Project, where they reviewed the construction progress of the dam and powerhouse. During the visit, the dignitaries witnessed the successful lowering of the 38-ton runner for Unit 2, a major milestone in the projects execution. On July 7, Bhupender Gupta chaired a series of review meetings with project stakeholders to assess overall progress and address key implementation issues. He stressed the importance of close coordination among all agencies involved to ensure the timely commissioning of the CVPPL hydropower projects. CVPPL Managing Director Ramesh Mukhiya thanked the NHPC leadership for their continued guidance, support and encouragement in advancing the companys hydropower developments in Jammu and Kashmir. The PakalDul, Kwar and Kiru hydropower projects are among the most significant hydroelectric developments in the Chenab basin. Once completed, these projects are expected to boost Indias renewable energy capacity, strengthen power supply and contribute to the sustainable development of Jammu and Kashmir while supporting the countrys clean energy goals.

Belgium gets serious for World Cup quarterfinal with Spain

Carson (US), Jul 9: No more playful dances. No more taunting social media posts. Belgium is done celebrating its victory over the host United States and hard at work on extending its World Cup run on American soil. The Red Devils trained in the Los Angeles area on Wednesday with the memory still fresh of their 4-1 thrashing of the Americans in Seattle on Monday. After surviving a test from Senegal with a thrilling comeback and then thoroughly dominating the U.S. in its first two knockout games, Belgium faces its toughest challenge yet against unbeaten Spain in the quarterfinals on Friday. But this tumultuous World Cup run has sparked something in this Belgian team, goalkeeper Thibaut Courtois believes. We gained a lot of confidence, because we knew it was going to be a hard game against America, Courtois said at the LA Galaxy's suburban stadium. They're obviously the home team with a full stadium (that's) with them, so it's nice to perform in a good way defensive, offensively, and just play our game. Belgium went into the U.S. matchup with a world of indignant motivation after star American forward FolarinBalogun's one-game red-card suspension was curiously lifted by FIFA. The Red Devils took it out on an outclassed American team and then celebrated gleefully, both on the pitch and in the dressing room. In the most viral moment, many players did the simplistic dance associated with U.S. President Donald Trump and performed by numerous athletes across the sports world in recent months, including American star Christian Pulisic. Belgium left back Diego Moreira smiled slightly when asked about the meaning of doing the dance after Trump called FIFA President Gianni Infantino to ask for a review of Balogun's reAssd card.

YSS organises cricket matches, sports activities in Poonch

Poonch, Jul 9: The Department of Youth Services & Sports (YSS), Poonch, continued its district-wide campaign under the ongoing NashaMukt Bharat Abhiyan by organising cricket matches for different age groups of boys and girls, along with awareness programmes, coaching activities, and various sporting events across different schools and sports zones of the district. The initiative, as per a DYSS statement, witnessed enthusiastic participation from students, youth, and sports enthusiasts. A total of 1,288 participants actively took part in a wide range of sports competitions, coaching sessions, fitness activities, and awareness programmes aimed at promoting physical well-being, healthy lifestyles, and the vision of a drug-free society. Cricket matches conducted for different age groups of boys and girls remained the major attraction of the day's activities, providing young players with an opportunity to showcase their talent, sportsmanship, teamwork, and competitive spirit. Alongside cricket, participants also engaged in coaching sessions, fitness drills, and other sporting activities organised across various schools and sports zones, highlighting the importance of regular physical exercise and healthy living. Several awareness rallies, interactive sessions, and educational programmes were also organised to sensitise students and youth about the harmful effects of drug abuse and the importance of adopting positive habits through sports and physical activity. Participants were encouraged to stay away from substance abuse and contribute towards building a healthy, vibrant, and drug-free society. On the occasion, all participants took a collective pledge against drug abuse and reaffirmed their commitment to leading disciplined lives, promoting healthy practices, and supporting the vision of a Drug-Free India. The programmes generated tremendous enthusiasm and reflected the department's unwavering commitment to youth development, fitness promotion, and public awareness through sports. The activities were conducted under the guidance and supervision of MohdQasim, DYSSO Poonch, and Vijay Kumar Sharma, Activity Incharge, who appreciated the enthusiastic participation of students, teachers, field staff, and sports personnel in making the initiative a grand success.

India win 5 medals including a gold

Ordos (China), Jul 9: India clinched five medals, including a gold in the mixed 4x400m relay, to begin their Asian U-23 Athletics Championships on a strong note here on Thursday. The Indian quartet of Astik Pradhan, Sandra MolSabu, Sethu Mishra and ShravaniSachinSangle clocked 3 minute 18.64 seconds to take the top spot in the last event of the day for the country. Besides the gold, the Indians added one silver and three bronze medals on the opening day of competitions. It was Bhartpreet Singh who opened India's medal account with a bronze in the men's discus throw with an effort of 52.91m. Chinas Li Zhixin clinched the gold with a throw of 60.79m, while compatriot Jiang Zehao took the silver with 59.60m. Indians finished 2-3 in the men's 5000m race final with ShivajiParashuramMadappagoudra taking the silver in 14:08.19 and Vinod Singh claiming the bronze with a timing of 14:23.67. Japans Rui Suzuki won gold, clocking 14:01.24. The last Indian medal of the day -- a bronze -- was won by PrachiDevkar in the women's 3000m steeplechase, clocking 10 minute 32.69 seconds. It was 1-2 for China with Yang Yiting taking the gold with a time of 10:14.68, while Liu Yuxin pocketing the silver in 10:25.51. India are being represented by 53 athletes in the inaugural edition of the championships.

Guru Nanaks connect with Kashmir

Since time immemorial, Kashmir has been the abode of various deities, sufi saints, seers and savants of high spirited splendour, intensity and grace who have enriched the culture and thought process of the people. This Divine land has been blessed by deities Lord Shiva, Mata Parvati, Brahma, Vishnu, Lord Ram, Mata Sita, Lord Krishna Sufi and Rishi Saints Nund Rishi, Lal Ded, Shah-e-Hamdan, Janbaz Wali and many others. The land has also been blessed by Sikh Gurus, Guru Nanak Dev Ji, Guru Hargobind Sahib ji, Guru Har Rai Sahib Ji and Buddhist Guru Padmasambhav. These noble men believed in the magnanimity of God and spread the message of Universal Brotherhood. The land of Ladakh, Jammu and Kashmir has been blessed by Guru Nanak Dev Ji. Nanak was a great unifier of the world and worked for interfaith peace and harmony. He was born in an era when people worshiped many gods, believed in superstitions and rituals that were in total defiance of the call of the Almighty. Guru Nanak travelled far and wide to spread the message of oneness of God and universal brotherhood and Harmony (after receiving the Benevolence of the Lord Almighty at Sultanpur) His visit to Jammu and Kashmir and Ladakh has been written by various revered authors and Scholars (Giani Gian Singh Ji, Bhai Santokh Singh Ji, Macauliffe, Bhai Vir Singh Ji, Prof SS Kohli and many others). Guru Nanak Dev Ji is supposed to have entered this blessed land through Ladakh, after visiting Tibet. Whereas, various places visited by the Guru have been specified in the accounts, the probable route that Nanak would have taken remains debatable. Guru Nanak Dev Ji covered vast distances during his four Udhasis - travels. His first travel was to east, second to south (upto Srilanka), third to the north (including China) and fourth to the west (upto Mecca). During his travels, Nanak was addressed by various names, like Nanak Shah Fakir, Nanak Lama, Nanak Peer, Nanak Kalandar, Nanak Rinpoche and others. Guru Nanak Dev Ji is supposed to have entered the valley after visiting Leh, Kargil, Skardu North Waziristan (Gurdwaras Pathar Sahib and Gurdwara Datun Sahib Commemorate his Visit in Ladakh). Nanak visited Harmukh Ganga and after travelling through Ganderbal area entered Srinagar. At Srinagar Guru Nanak had discussions with religious heads at Hari Parbat and Shankaracharya. During the Sikh Rule, S Hari Singh Nalwa constructed a historical gurdwara at Hari Parbat, however, the same way destroyed during subsequent rules (Presently a Gurdwara Sahib in one room barrack maintained by security forces stands tall in the Fort). Guru Nanak Dev Ji then travelling through Awantipora, Bijbehara, Anantnag, Mattan and Pahalgam visited Shri Amarnath Cave. At Mattan Guru Nanak held discussions with a very learned intellectual Pandit Braham Das and also a Muslim Fakir named Kamal. The story of a local shepherd Juma and his sheep (who were revived by reciting Waheguru name) is also worthy of mention here. Pandit Braham Das had posed a number of questions to the Guru and Guru Nanak Dev Ji answered them all. Two hymns in reply to questions recited by Guru Nanak Dev Ji are an integral part of Shri Guru Granth Sahib Ji. First hymn: Parh Parh Gadee Ladee ah Parh Parh Bharee ah Saath Parh Parh Bayrhee paa ee ai Parh Parh Gadee ah Khaat Pareehee ah Jaytey Baras Baras Parhee ah jaytay maas Parhee ai Jaytee aarja Parhee ah Jaytay saas Nanak laykhai ai ik gal Hor Homey Jhakh naa Jhaakh You may read and read loads of books; you may read and study vast multitudes of books; you may read and read boat loads of books; you may read and read and fill pits with them; you may read them year and year; you may read them as many months are there; you may read them with every breath. O Nanak, only one thing is of any account, Everything else is useless babbling and idle talk in ego. Similarly, Macauliffe in his work The Sikh Religion has written that when Pandit Braham Das asked Guru Nanak about what existed before creation, the Guru replied by reciting the following hymns: Arbad Narbad Dhundhookara Dharan na Gagna Hukam Apsara Naa Din Raen na Chand na Sooraj Sunn Samadh lagaa i daa......... For endless eons, there was only utter darkness; there was no earth or sky; there was only the infinite Command of His Hukam; there was no day or night; No moon or sun; God sat in Primal, profound Samadhi........... After listening to the answers of Guru Nanak, Pandit Braham Das fell on his feet and sought forgiveness. He started following Gurujis faith and one can easily say he was the first to embrace Sikhism in Kashmir. S Hari Singh Nalwa had brought handwritten Seven Saroops of Shri Guru Granth Sahib Ji to Mattan and they were installed in seven rooms. Subsequently only two rooms were given to Sikhs. A long standing dispute at Mattan between Pandits and Sikhs has prevented construction of a historical Gurdwara. Presently existing Gurdwara has only two rooms. Bhai Kahan Singh Nabha in Mahan Kosh (Encyclopedia of Sikh History) also mentions that Guru Nanak Dev Ji has blessed the international tourist destination Gulmarg and its surrounding areas. It is therefore important that the Gurdwara Sahib in Gulmarg should be named commemorating the Visit of Guru Nanak Dev Ji to Gulmarg. The writer is former Deputy Assistant Chief of Integrated Defence Staff (IT)

Disturbing trends

The rapid increase of digital technology such as Artificial Intelligence among the college going students is significantly changing the personal life and academic performance. The use of AI in Higher Education is becoming indispensable tool for students for improving their academic careers as well as enjoying their personal lives. Despite having many advantages, there is ample evidence form the research that excess use of digital technology (such as, AI) among students poses various issues, such mental fatigue, stress, anxiety, isolation and other psychological abnormalities. The ultimate effect of digital exposure on the life of student will impact their social connection and their inability to maintain balance between personal life and academics. In order to evaluate the effect of AI-driven overstimulation on the learning behaviour (such as attention and concentration) a study was conducted on the students currently enrolled in the Govt. Degree College Dooru (rural college). The overarching aim of this study was to measure the self-reported effect of AI-driven overstimulation on the learning pattern of students by using a structured questionnaire. This study was carried out by the 8th semester student (Honours with Research (FYUGP), Danish Ayoub Mir under the supervision of Dr. Ummer Rashid Zargar (Assistant Professor, Department of Zoology). In this survey study, AI Exposure Scale (AIES) scale, consisting of 30 items with seven subscales, was used to elucidate and quantify the effect of AI-Driven digital tools on the learning and cognitive behaviours of students. Each subscale was designed to measure the specific domain of digital overstimulation and its effect on the attention and concentration among the students. All these items employed 5-point Likert Scale (where, 1=Never and 5=Always). Benchmarks (severity level) for the AI Exposure Scale was developed to categorise the exposure level among the students. Questionnaire Google Form was created to collect responses from the students enrolled in different semesters. Students were given proper guideline for the submission of their responses and were also informed about the aims and objectives of this survey. After one week, 100 respondents send their responses which were further analysed by using statistical tools. The survey results showed that 39.0% of respondents reported 24 hours/day screentime and only 6% respondents indicated their screen time was less than 8 hours/day. Thirty percent (30%) of student respondents reported screen time addiction of 46 hours per day. The results indicate that 73% of students reported no major anxiety disorder due to overstimulation of different AI/Digital tools. However, 12% of respondents revealed some sort of anxiety disorder and only 5% reported Attention-Deficit/Hyperactivity Disorder (ADHD). Few students (3%) also reported some mental conditions due to overuse of AI/Digital tools. As per this study, the surge in AI or digital tool exposure among college students increased cognitive stimulation, influenced content-switching behaviour and is responsible for fragmented attention span. The results from this study showed moderate screen addiction of AI drive digital tools. The increased screen time among adolescents, especially among college going student is a major concern among the higher education policy makers. The surge in screen time addiction among student may reduce various leaning behaviours, such as book reading, regular library visits and other conventional learning methods. The moderate screen addiction among the students of college reflects that this college is rural and some student may not have access to advanced AI-driven digital tools. Majority of recent research suggest that screen time addiction of digital tools is increasing among undergraduate students. The results from the present study reveals that AI driven tools are impacting attention span of student studying in different semesters. This could be due to that fact that fundamental idea behind the creation of digital tools is to captures the attention of subjects, thereby increasing their subscript and popularity. These results could be also explained on the basis attention economy, which provides explanation of various digital tools (social medial applications, websites, AI-based platforms) are tailormade to keep continuous attention of subscribers through various means (including continuous notification, curated content through different algorithms etc.). Overall, these results clearly indicated that overstimulation of AI-driven digital tools significantly contributes to the decline in concentration and attention span among the college going students. The result further indicates that unregulated use of these digital devices seem to be major obstacle for the enhancing learning behaviour of students as excessive use of these devices cause distractions, reduction in attention control and also leads to decline in cognitive behaviour. However, it is pertinent to mention that there are also advantages of AI-driven tools ranging from effective online education to easy access to knowledge from various sources. There is urgent need to find a way to promote digital well-being in colleges, judicious use of technology, and modified methods to sustain concentration and deep learning while using AI-driven tools. The main application of this study is that the data generated will provide a baseline information for the evaluation of excess use of AI-driven tools on the students currently enrolled in different colleges of J&K. Although this study was meticulously carried out to avoid any shortcoming, nevertheless, the study has some limitations. The sample size of study was comparative low (100 students) which may not allow us to make general inferences that could be applicable for academic institutions. It is strongly recommended to make AI-Curated policies in higher education system to prevent the digital overstimulation during teaching-learning process which may be useful for maintaining the attention and concentration. Disclaimer: The research and ideas presented in this article are for research purposes only and do not reflect the views or position of the institution. Danish Ayoub Mir, Dr. Ummer Rashid Zargar, Prof. Nusrat Jan, Department of Zoology, Govt. Degree College Dooru.

Khameneis Funeral as a Map

The funeral ceremonies around late Ayatollah Ali Khamenei in Tehran were not merely an act of mourning. They were a political theatre, a diplomatic signal, and perhaps most importantly, a map of a changing world. Around one coffin gathered the anxieties, loyalties, calculations and resentments of an international system no longer obedient to the old grammar of American power. Reports said representatives from more than 100 countries were expected to attend the ceremonies. The numbers matter, but the symbolism matters more. Iran has been sanctioned, attacked, isolated, vilified, economically squeezed and militarily pressured for decades. Yet, at the moment of its supreme political-religious transition, much of the non-Western world chose to show up. Not all came as allies. Some came out of geography, some out of faith, some out of energy interests, some out of strategic caution, and some because Iran can no longer be treated as a country to be erased from the regional equation. That is the real story. A funeral is normally an occasion of protocol. States send representatives, offer condolences and return home. But Tehran turned this funeral into statecraft. The procession, the crowds, the sacred geography, the chants, the visiting delegations and the ritual language all worked together to produce one central message: Iran may be wounded, but it is not isolated; it may be battered, but it remains embedded in the politics of West Asia, Eurasia and the wider Global South. This is where the ceremony becomes analytically important. Irans political system has always drawn heavily from the language of martyrdom, memory and resistance. In the Shia imagination, defeat is not always defeat; suffering can become legitimacy; death can become mobilisation. The Islamic Republic understands this grammar deeply. It does not merely mourn its dead. It places them inside a larger narrative of resistance, sacrifice and continuity. That is why Khameneis funeral could not be an ordinary burial. It had to be a demonstration of survival. The state needed to show its own people that the system had not fractured. It needed to show its adversaries that assassination had not produced panic. It needed to show its allies that Irans networks remained intact. And it needed to show the world that the old strategy of isolating Tehran had failed to empty the room. The most striking interpretive claim emerging from commentary on the ceremonies is that Quranic verses were recited before different foreign delegations in ways that appeared to carry coded political meanings. Such claims must be treated with caution unless officially confirmed. But even as interpretation, they are revealing. They point to a distinctive Iranian style of diplomacy in which scripture, symbolism, martyrdom and political messaging often operate together. In Western diplomatic culture, states speak through communiqus, summits, sanctions and press briefings. Iran often speaks in a layered idiom: theological, historical, strategic and emotional at the same time. A verse may console an ally, caution a hesitant partner, rebuke a rival or invoke endurance in the face of military pressure. To miss this language is to misunderstand Tehran. Iran does not always separate religion from strategy; it frequently fuses the two into a single political message. The guest list was equally significant. Pakistans high-level presence reflected not only religious and neighbourhood sentiment, but also Islamabads renewed attempt to position itself as a broker in West Asian politics. Chinas representation signalled continuity: Iran remains part of Beijings Eurasian calculus. Russias presence was unsurprising but meaningful, reflecting the convergence of two sanctioned powers resisting Western pressure. Central Asian, Caucasian, Gulf and regional delegations showed that Irans importance is not ideological alone. It is geographic, economic, sectarian, military and civilisational. Indias representation deserves particular attention. New Delhi did not send its Prime Minister or External Affairs Minister, which preserved diplomatic caution. But India did not stay away either. Its delegation reflected the old instinct of strategic autonomy: engagement without surrender, balance without theatrics. Iran matters to India because of Chabahar, Central Asia, Afghanistan, energy, Gulf stability, maritime access, Shia networks and the need to avoid being trapped in a purely American-Israeli reading of West Asia. For India, Iran is not a sentimental question. It is a strategic necessity. The absence of the West was also eloquent. Europe was largely invisible, reportedly because it had not been invited. The United States was, predictably, absent. President Trumps shabby and unbecoming remark at Mount Rushmore on 4 July suggesting that he could eliminate the entire gathering in Tehran with one shot only exposed the crudity of a power increasingly unsure of its own moral authority. It sounded less like strategic confidence than a self-soothing performance by an enlarged but bruised ego. Israel, meanwhile, stood outside the ceremony not merely as an adversary, but as the principal antagonist in the conflict that had produced this moment. Yet the absence of the West did not empty the ceremony of meaning. That is precisely the point. There was a time when American hostility could turn a state into a diplomatic quarantine zone. That power has weakened. It has not vanished, but it no longer commands automatic obedience. The distinction is important. The United States remains the worlds most powerful military actor. The dollar remains central to global finance. Europe remains economically consequential. Israel remains militarily formidable. But power is not the same as hegemony. Power can punish; hegemony can make others accept its punishments as legitimate. What Tehrans funeral showed is that American power survives, but American hegemony is fraying. This does not mean the birth of a clean new world order. The phrase is often used too easily. What we are witnessing is not order, but disorder: multipolar, transactional, unstable and resentful. China does not want to police the world like America. Russia wants disruption and leverage. India wants autonomy. Pakistan wants relevance. The Gulf wants security without total dependence. Turkey wants room for manoeuvre. Iran wants deterrence and recognition. The Global South wants respect, but does not speak with one voice. This is not a new order; it is the breakdown of an old one. The funeral revealed this transition with unusual clarity. Around Khameneis coffin stood not a disciplined anti-Western alliance, but a gathering of states and movements connected by overlapping interests, grievances and necessities. Some admired Iran. Some feared it. Some needed it. Some used the ceremony to signal independence from Washington. Their presence did not mean they accepted Irans ideology. It meant they could not accept Irans erasure. There is, however, a danger in romanticising the spectacle. A huge funeral cannot solve Irans economic crisis. A powerful procession cannot erase internal dissent. Sacred symbolism cannot settle succession. Diplomatic attendance cannot remove sanctions or repair the damage of war. Irans strength lies in endurance, but its weakness lies in exhaustion. Both were visible in Tehran. That is why the funeral must be read with balance. It was neither empty propaganda nor proof of Iranian triumph. It was a strategic ritual at a moment of deep transition. It showed the Islamic Republics capacity to mobilise memory, faith, crowds and networks. It also showed that the world around Iran has changed. The West can still sanction, strike, threaten and isolate. But it can no longer assume that the rest of the world will automatically stand aside. A coffin became a diplomatic table. A funeral became a summit. A guest list became a map. And the map tells us this: the American century may not be over as power, but it is over as certainty. The old world in which Washington could decide who was legitimate and who was untouchable is fading. In its place is a harsher, more fragmented world, where attendance itself becomes strategy, mourning becomes messaging, and even a funeral can announce the arrival of historys next turn.

Why Viksit Bharat Shiksha Adhishthan?

Education is a key driver of growth, innovation, research, technology and nation-building. Educational policies ensure that education contributes to long-term national priorities. The transition from the National Policy on Education 1968 to the National Policy on Education 1986 and now the National Education Policy 2020 reflects changing national priorities. Change is the law of nature, so is the educational landscape, which is going through transformations to align with the changing regional and global scenarios. Similarly, the Acts establishing the University Grants Commission (UGC), All India Council for Technical Education (AICTE), and National Council for Teacher Education (NCTE) were enacted respectively in 1956, 1987 and 1993 to regulate, coordinate, and improve different sectors of higher education in India. No single policy or act can remain effective indefinitely, as every generation faces new challenges and opportunities. Every policy and act have limitations that become evident only during implementation. The Viksit Bharat Shiksha Adhishthan (VBSA) seeks to replace the UGC, AICTE and NCTE acts as a Unified Higher Education Regulatory Framework aiming to reduce regulatory overlap while maintaining academic standards as envisioned in NEP 2020. The VBSA will not be applicable to PCI, BCI, VCI, RCI, NMC, NDC, NCISM, NCAHP, NNMC. The VBSA bill was introduced with the hope that it carries the solution to the existing challenges faced by Indian higher education system, where the role of existing regulatory bodies either overlap or dont suffice. Although the bill has faced severe criticism arguing that VBSA is violative of the federal structure of the constitution and paves way to more centralisation and political control than autonomy contrary to what NEP 2020 features. However, how the transition from existing regulatory bodies to the VBSA based system will take place is not clear. Its implementation will be a time testing activity in lieu of the decline in HEI funding and diminished enrolment in universities and colleges during the last few years throughout the country either due to mushrooming of HEIs or lack of employability avenues of the existing degree curriculum Therefore, VBSA will come into action with these existing issues and the faculty shortages in HEIs. It should endeavour to boost quality education and research with adequate funding and support with global benchmarks and regional recognition. It must strengthen the employability avenues of academic programmes and enable the student community to rethink the career paths in a changing economy and emerging market trends. It must increase R&D investment from the current ~0.7% of GDP to at least what has been proposed in the NEP 2020 policy document, with strategic focus on NRF led projects in areas relevant to our culture, society and economy. Although skill integration and employability avenues have been initiated, curricula and syllabi are yet to be aligned with industry and societal needs in the real spirit, hence skill integration is still a dream apart due to physical infrastructural deficit and human resource shortfall at the institutional level. The vocational professions and culinary skills such as welding, masonry, plumbing, carpentry, electrical work, digital construction skills, safety skills, as well as soft skills must form the end point of academic certificates, diploma and degrees. Educational policies often remain in documents; they should move from their documented vision to the class room applicability. The visible sign of transformation is the changed classroom, innovative pedagogy and adaptive examination system. When we look at the structure of VBSA, it seems a major structural reform through its separation into three verticals under a single umbrella, which are expected to form the foundation of a strong higher education regulation. For example, its Regulatory Council (Viniyaman Parishad) is entrusted that all HEIs attain full accreditation and autonomy in a graded manner; to transform the current higher education sector into one comprising autonomous, vibrant and empowered multidisciplinary HEIs, to provide the minimum standards and development of roadmap for setting up and operation of HEIs, to specify standards for foreign universities to operate in India and vice-versa; to facilitate colleges to attain accreditation benchmarks. Similarly, the Gunvatta Parishad (Accreditation Council) shall develop an Outcome based Institutional Accreditation Framework (OIAF) to assess and accredit HEIs using technology driven systems and to develop high-quality and high-integrity accreditation system with adequate capacity to meet the requirements of accreditation of HEIs. To frame the expected programme learning outcomes, to provide the nomenclature of qualifications and the broader framework for levels of educational qualifications, to provide the norms for credit transfers, equivalence and other related matters, to lay down clear minimum standards for setting up and operation of HEIs, to lay down such qualifications that should be required for appointments in HEIs shall be the domain of the third vertical - theManak Parishad (Standards Council). VBSA will not be the grant disbursing agency. Its aim is to simplify the Indian higher education regulatory system by removing the existing regulatory overlaps. Presently the VBSA parliamentary committee is visiting different states and UTs to collect feedback and suggestions from the stakeholders on academic governance, research, innovation, quality enhancement, institutional development, and other key issues related to educational reforms in tune with Viksit Bharat. Author is Associate Professor of Zoology, Islamia College of Science and Commerce (Autonomous), Srinagar.

A warm welcome

Over the decades, pilgrims coming to Kashmir have acknowledged the hospitality of local people. Many locals voluntarily provide homes, guidance, and assistance to the Yatris. This year, the LG administration involved locals as well as all stakeholders to ensure a successful Yatra. The cooperative understanding between the local community and civil administration helps maintain the safety and smooth movement of pilgrims. Beyond logistical support, Kashmiri hospitality embodies the spirit of Kashmiriyat, brotherhood, religious harmony, and goodwill. Amarnath Yatra is deeply rooted in the cultural and spiritual fabric of Kashmir. Besides its religious significance, it brings socio-economic benefits to local communities, acting as an agent of tourism and local youth engagement in the region. Each year, the pilgrimage not only visits the holy Amarnath cave, situated at an altitude of 3,880 meters in the Himalayas, which holds important religious significance, but also offers a new experience of travel and exchange of culture and dialogue with the Kashmiri people. The journey is challenging, involving trekking through rugged terrains and harsh weather, but pilgrims undertake it with unwavering devotion. The Yatra not only generates revenue but also restores and rejuvenates people-to-people contact. During the visit, the influx of Yatris increases local business such as hotels, restaurants, transport services, and shops, creating vital job opportunities for local youth who work as guides, helpers, and service providers. The Yatra season stimulates the local economy and fosters the overall development of the region by encouraging tourists to explore other attractions, thereby extending the economic benefits beyond the pilgrimage itself. The arrangements by the local government have ensured the safety, sanitation, and convenience of pilgrims. The Lt Governor has assured that all Yatra tracks are being upgraded with improved infrastructure, including better accommodation, transportation, and waste management facilities. The Shri Amarnathji Shrine Board (SASB) and the Rural Development Department (RDD) have deployed around 4000 sanitary workers to maintain cleanliness along the Yatra routes. Security is a top priority; the involvement of security forces, local civil societies, and administrative bodies ensures the peaceful and smooth functioning of the Yatra. The significant presence of security personnel reflects the prevailing peace in the valley, highlighting the regions stability. One of the most heartening aspects of the Yatra is the role of the Kashmiri people. Locals treat the pilgrims as cherished guests, offering hospitality that reflects the true spirit of Kashmiriyat, a tradition of mutual respect, religious harmony, and brotherhood. Civil society organizations in Kashmir make extensive arrangements to welcome Yatris with warmth and respect, ensuring their journey is comfortable and memorable. This tradition of hospitality not only reinforces religious tolerance but also strengthens communal bonds between different religious communities in the region. The Amarnath Yatra allows a meaningful interaction between pilgrims and the local communities. It is important to promote intra-faith dialogue among Kashmirs diverse religious groups during the Yatra, fostering mutual understanding and respect. Encouraging regular cultural and religious exchanges will strengthen bonds of brotherhood and celebrate religious diversity. Special focus should be given to youth, providing them dedicated time and space to interact and build the foundation for lasting peace. Involvement of religious leaders from all faiths in Kashmir accompanying the Yatra would symbolize unity and shared commitment to communal harmony. People who come specifically for the Amarnath Yatra should be allowed to travel to other places to visit additional tourist sites and meet locals in open-air settings. A few years ago, Yatris not only visited the Amarnath cave but other tourist destinations as well. This approach helps build strong bonds and boosts local engagement.

Re-imagining Kashmir beyond Srinagar

My recent article, Srinagar Cannot Breathe Forever, published in Greater Kashmir on June 28, argued that the challenges confronting Srinagar - traffic congestion, environmental degradation, shrinking public spaces, housing shortages and overstretched civic infrastructure - are not isolated urban problems. They are symptoms of a deeper structural imbalance. For decades, Srinagar has grown not merely as the capital city but as the Valleys dominant destination for governance, commerce, education, healthcare, tourism and employment. Every new institution, office, shopping complex or commercial establishment has added another layer of pressure to a city whose physical limits are increasingly defined by its lakes, wetlands, floodplains and fragile ecology. The question before us is therefore much larger than improving traffic management or constructing another flyover. It is whether Kashmir can envision a future where prosperity is shared across the Valley instead of being concentrated in one city. The answer must be an emphatic yes. BEYOND A SRINAGAR-CENTRIC DEVELOPMENT MODEL Every morning, tens of thousands of people travel from Budgam, Ganderbal, Bandipora, Baramulla, Kupwara, Pulwama, Shopian, Kulgam and Anantnag into Srinagar ( also from peripheries of Srinagar Administrative District). They come for work, higher education, specialised healthcare, government services, trade and business. By evening, they return home, repeating a cycle that consumes time, fuel and productivity while adding to congestion and air pollution. No city, however well governed, can indefinitely sustain such a daily influx. Road widening, better junction design, intelligent traffic systems and stricter parking regulations are all necessary. Yet they can only postpone the inevitable if the underlying pattern of excessive centralisation remains unchanged. The real challenge is not mobility; it is concentration. A VALLEY OF MULTIPLE GROWTH CENTRES Around the world, successful metropolitan regions have adopted a polycentric model of development, where several well-planned cities complement rather than compete with each other. Such models reduce pressure on the primary city while creating new engines of economic growth, a shift from Administrative Districts to Infrastructural cum Institutional Districts . We may have to abandon tourism (destination centric) development authorities which have done less good to these prime locations by way of reducing their green cover with unabated construction boom, which should have been around these places rather than deep inside. Now give a thought to having three Development Authorities viz Centre, North and South Kashmir. Kashmir can adopt a similar vision. Anantnag has the potential to evolve into a premier education and healthcare hub for South Kashmir. With the near completion of Ring Road Project Baramulla can emerge as a logistics, warehousing and agro-industrial gateway, particularly as regional connectivity continues to improve. Sopore can strengthen its traditional role as the Valleys agri-business and horticultural capital, with modern fruit-processing industries adding value to local produce. Pulwama, already known for agriculture and entrepreneurship, can become a centre for agro-technology, biotechnology, research and innovation - with its IUST and IIMA-CSIR. Now JKMPCL is also planning to establish its second largest milk processing facility after Cheshmashahi. Budgam, because of its proximity to Srinagar International Airport, is ideally positioned for logistics parks, convention facilities, hotels, guesthouses and medical facilities, besides aviation-linked businesses. Ganderbal, Bandipora, Kupwara and other districts possess unique strengths in tourism, hydropower, education, horticulture and eco-enterprises that deserve focused investment rather than peripheral attention. Each region has comparative advantages. Planning should build upon them instead of replicating identical urban models everywhere. PLANNING FOR 2050, NOT 2030 Urban planning often becomes reactive. Infrastructure follows population growth instead of anticipating it. Kashmir has an opportunity to reverse that approach. A Regional Spatial Development Plan for Kashmir 2050 should identify future growth corridors, economic clusters, satellite townships, conservation zones and transport networks before unplanned urbanisation overtakes available land. Such a blueprint should integrate land use, transport, housing, climate resilience, tourism, industry and environmental conservation into a single long-term vision. The objective should not simply be to accommodate growth but to direct it intelligently. INSTITUTIONS SHAPE CITIES Cities grow where opportunities exist. If every major university, tertiary hospital, secretariat, convention centre, sports complex and commercial district continues to be located in Srinagar, migration towards the capital will remain inevitable. Balanced regional development requires a conscious policy of dispersing future public investments. New universities, specialised hospitals, IT parks, research centres, tourism infrastructure and administrative offices should increasingly be established across different districts. Government policy has the power to influence geography. Once institutions move, investment follows. Housing develops. Services expand. Employment grows. Eventually, migration patterns begin to change. BETTER CONNECTIVITY, LESS CONGESTION Regional development does not diminish Srinagars importance; it strengthens it. Improved public transport linking district headquarters, modern bus rapid transit, integrated regional mobility and digital governance can substantially reduce unnecessary daily travel. Equally important is expanding digital infrastructure. Telemedicine, online public services, remote education and hybrid workplaces can reduce physical dependence on the capital while improving access across the Valley. The objective is simple: bring services closer to citizens rather than forcing citizens to travel to services. PROTECTING SRINAGAR BY REDUCING ITS BURDEN Srinagars greatest assets are not its shopping centres or office complexes. Its identity lies in the Dal and Nigeen lakes, the Jhelum, Mughal gardens, heritage architecture, historic neighbourhoods and centuries-old urban character. These cannot survive endless expansion. The city should increasingly focus on conservation, cultural tourism, high-quality public spaces, pedestrian-friendly neighbourhoods and environmental restoration rather than unrestrained commercial growth. Relieving pressure on Srinagar is therefore not an economic sacrifice. It is an investment in preserving Kashmirs cultural and ecological heart. A DEFINING CHOICE History offers societies moments when incremental change is no longer sufficient. Kashmir may be approaching such a moment. Population growth, rapid urbanisation, increasing tourism, rising aspirations and climate uncertainty require a development strategy measured not in election cycles but in generations. If we continue concentrating every opportunity in Srinagar, we will inevitably continue discussing congestion, pollution, housing shortages and declining quality of life. If, however, we choose balanced regional development - building strong district economies, creating specialised urban centres and planning for the next fifty years - we can transform the Valley into a network of prosperous, connected and sustainable cities. That is the real solution to helping Srinagar breathe again. The future of Kashmir will not be secured by building a bigger Srinagar. It will be secured by building a stronger Kashmir beyond Srinagar. Dr G N Qasba, Senior Advisor IRADe, New Delhi Former Commissioner SMC, Vice Chairman SDA

Why micro-irrigation needs more than subsidies

India faces significant economic losses from water scarcity and weak monsoons. Micro-irrigation offers substantial benefits for farmers and agricultural productivity. However, a significant adoption gap exists, particularly among smallholder farmers. Effective strategies involve field demonstrations, peer learning, and local water ambassadors. Sustained adoption requires integrating capacity building with financial incentives and practical support.

India must finish the capital account reforms begun in 1991

India's capital controls have transformed from restrictive permissions to more refined regulations. As the nation pursues its economic aspirations, a more open and predictable capital framework is essential. Recent moves by regulators were unexpected and lacked clarity for investors.

World witnessed capability, credibility of India's defence platform during 'Op Sindoor': PM Modi

Melbourne, Jul 9: Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Thursday said that the world witnessed the capability and credibility of India's defence platform during 'Operation Sindoor' when explosions were taking place at terrorists' hideouts across the border. He made the remarks while speaking at an Indian diaspora event, 'Melbourne meets Modi', also attended by Australian Prime Minister Anthony Albanese. The world is witnessing the capability and credibility of our defence sector. You must have seen the demonstration in Operation Sindoor, PM Modi said. The explosions were taking place at the terrorists' hideouts, and their echoes were reverberating across the world, he said. Did you feel proud of the action taken against terrorist camps? Modi asked, amid cheers and applause from the audience. India launched Operation Sindoor on May 7 last year, targeting terror infrastructure in Pakistan and Pakistan-occupied Kashmir (PoK) in retaliation for the horrific Pahalgam terror attack that killed 26 innocent civilians. Under the operation, India launched a series of precision missile strikes on nine terror camps in Pakistan and PoK, eliminating at least 100 terrorists. In September last, in a viral video, Pakistan-based Jaish-e-Mohammad (JeM) commander MasoodIlyas Kashmiri admitted that the family of the terror group's chief Masood Azhar was orn into pieces in Indian missile strikes in Bahawalpur, Pakistan. The strikes triggered four days of intense clashes between India and Pakistan, and ended with an understanding to stop the military actions on May 10.

NC invites Mirwaiz, Kashmir's Grand Mufti and all political parties to join Delhi protest

Srinagar, Jul 9: In a first, the ruling National Conference on Thursday said it has invited Kashmir's chief preacher, Mirwaiz Umar Farooq, to join its upcoming protest in New Delhi demanding the restoration of statehood for Jammu and Kashmir. The National Conference said it has invited all political parties, including the BJP, to take part in the protest. The Mirwaiz, who formerly led the moderate faction of the now-defunct Hurriyat Conference, has been extended the invitation in his capacity as the head of the Muthaida Majlis-e-Ulema, an umbrella body representing several prominent religious organisations. Broadening its outreach, the National Conference has also invited the Grand Mufti of Kashmir, Mufti Nasir-ul-Islam, to participate in the demonstration. Apart from the political parties, the National Conference has invited Mirwaiz sahab, who is chief of the Muthaida Majlis-e-Ulema, and Mufti Nasir-ul-Islam, the Grand Mufti of Kashmir, said NC chief spokesperson Tanvir Sadiq. Sadiq said the National Conference has invited all political parties in Jammu and Kashmir, including the BJP, to take part in the protest. Most of the invitations have been sent out, while others are being processed. We have invited the president of Jammu and Kashmir BJP, as well as the heads of other political parties, including Mehbooba Mufti of the Peoples Democratic Party and Altaf Bukhari of the Apni Party, he said. The move marks a significant shift in the region's political landscape, signalling an effort by the ruling party to build a broader coalition -- bridging mainstream political entities and influential religious leadership -- to press the Centre on the statehood issue. The National Conference has announced that it would hold a sit-in protest at Jantar Mantar in Delhi on the first day of the monsoon session of Parliament on July 20, to remind the Centre of its promise to restore statehood to Jammu and Kashmir.

Terrorism, naxalism wiped out under PM Modis leadership: Amit Shah

New Delhi, July 9: Union Home Minister and Minister of Cooperation Amit Shah, today addressed the Land Border Districts Superintendents of Police Conference2026 in New Delhi. Union Ministers of State for Home Affairs Nityanand Rai and Bandi Sanjay Kumar, Union Home Secretary, Director of the Intelligence Bureau (IB), Directors General of Police of the border states, and several senior officials were present on the occasion. On this occasion, Union Home Minister and Minister of Cooperation Amit Shah said that this conference has given an institutional shape to the comprehensive approach towards border security. He added that in the coming times, we will also move forward holistically to ensure coastal border security. He further said that this conference will focus on discussing problems related to border security, addressing concerns regarding their resolution, and formulating appropriate policy measures in this direction. Shah said that Indias border security system, based on the vision of a Smart Border, will become the most modern in the world in the coming years. He said that the Modi government, along with the associated border guarding forces, state and district administrations, relevant stakeholders of the Government of India, and local citizens - through their mutual integration - is constructing a strong quadrangular security grid. Shri Shah emphasized that the a secure border, prosperous border region, and a vigilant society together can make the country secure. Union Home Minister said that under the leadership of Prime Minister Narendra Modi, the country has been freed from Naxalism and terrorism in Jammu & Kashmir and the North-East, which is an indicator of our collective success. He said that in the next three years, we will inflict serious damage on the narcotics menace and achieve victory over it as well. He added that a strong system is being built to make the country completely infiltration-free and to ensure that infiltration does not happen at all. Shri Shah said that earlier, problems were permanent and solutions were temporary. In the Modi government, we are striking at the roots of the problems and making the solutions permanent. Shah said that the Modi Government has increased investment in border infrastructure by 400 percent and has adopted a scientific approach to strengthening border security. He said that under the Vibrant Villages Programme, Prime Minister Narendra Modi has described the country's last village as its first village. Under this initiative, efforts are being made to prevent migration, generate employment, and ensure 100 percent implementation of government welfare schemes.Shri Shah said that Prime Minister Modi has launched the Demography Mission to study demographic changes, identify abnormal factors contributing to demographic growth, and recommend measures to prevent such changes in the future. He said that the Modi Government is committed to curbing abnormal demographic growth caused by unnatural factors through a ruthless approach. Union Home Minister said that the primary cause of demographic changes in border areas is illegal infiltration. Union Home Minister said that to make border security impenetrable, the Modi Government has established a quadrangular, transforming India's approach from reactive to proactive. He said that the Modi Government is moving from an isolated border outpost system towards the creation of an integrated security grid. Union Home Minister also emphasized the importance of ensuring that information on demographic changes caused by abnormal factors in border areas is communicated from the grassroots to the highest level at the earliest possible stage. Shah said that the Modi Government is fencing the 1,610-km-long IndiaMyanmar border at a cost of 31,000 crore. He said that the Government's objectives are to prevent proxy war, illegal infiltration, the spread of radicalization, narcotics trafficking, smuggling, drone-related threats, cybercrime, organized crime, and demographic changes; to make border areas more livable; to prevent migration from these regions; and to ensure their security.

Textile manufacturing unit goes up in flames at Zakura industrial estate

COAS reviews prevailing security dynamics, counter-insurgency grid along LoC in Pir Panjal region

Srinagar, July 9: Chief of Army Staff (COAS), General Dhiraj Seth Thursday visited forward areas along the Line of Control (LoC) in Poonch, Rajouri and Sunderbani to review the prevailing security dynamics and counter-insurgency grid of the Indian Armys White Knight Corps. During his visit, the Chief of Army Staff (COAS) was briefed on the evolving security environment, operational deployments, surveillance architecture, field innovations and integrated operational readiness. He also assessed the ongoing infrastructure development and the formation's sustained efforts to empower the communities of India's first villages through people-centric initiatives. The COAS commended all ranks for their operational excellence and unwavering commitment and exhorted them to remain mission-focused, operationally agile and continue striving for excellence.

NC Has Invited Mirwaiz, BJP, PDP & Congress To Join Delhi Statehood Protest: Tanvir Sadiq

Satish Sharma secures breakthrough on mutton dealers' issues during meetings in Punjab

Chandigarh, July 9: In a significant step towards resolving the long-pending issues faced by the mutton dealers, Minister for Food, Civil Supplies & Consumer Affairs, Information Technology, Youth Services & Sports, and Science & Technology, Satish Sharma, today held a series of meetings with the Punjab Government, resulting in immediate directions for addressing the concerns of the trading community. The Minister held detailed discussions with the Punjab's Animal and Sheep Husbandry Minister, the Chief Secretary of Punjab, the Secretary, Science & Technology and the Secretary, Rural Development & Panchayati Raj. The primary focus of the meetings was to find an immediate and practical resolution to the issues affecting the mutton dealers, which have been causing hardships to the traders and impacting the smooth movement of livestock. During the marathon deliberations, Satish Sharma strongly projected the concerns of the mutton dealers. He emphasized the need for coordinated action between the governments of Jammu and Kashmir and Punjab to facilitate hassle-free movement of livestock while ensuring compliance with all regulatory requirements. Responding positively to the Minister's intervention, the Punjab Government issued on-the-spot instructions to the concerned departments to take immediate steps for resolving the issues. The decisions taken during the meetings are expected to significantly ease the difficulties being faced by the mutton dealers and ensure smoother coordination between Punjab and J&K. Expressing satisfaction over the outcome of the meetings, Satish Sharma said that safeguarding the interests of traders and ensuring uninterrupted supply of essential commodities remains a priority of the Government. He said the positive response from the Punjab Government reflects the spirit of cooperative federalism and inter-state coordination in resolving issues affecting the livelihoods of thousands of people. The meetings also featured extensive discussions on strengthening cooperation in the field of animal husbandry. Both sides explored measures to improve livestock management, disease control, scientific breeding practices and veterinary services through greater collaboration and exchange of best practices. In separate discussions with the senior officials, the Minister also reviewed opportunities for enhanced cooperation in the fields of Science & Technology, innovation, digital governance and research. He stressed the need to leverage technology for improving public service delivery and promoting sustainable development. The growing menace of drug abuse also figured prominently during the discussions. Satish Sharma held detailed deliberations with the senior Punjab officials on the state's comprehensive anti-drug strategy, particularly its community-based model involving Village Defence Committees and a dedicated 24x7 monitoring mechanism. He said these initiatives have shown encouraging results and would be examined for suitable adoption in Jammu and Kashmir to strengthen the fight against drug abuse and protect the youth from the scourge of narcotics. The Minister thanked the Punjab Government for its prompt response and assured the mutton dealers that the Jammu and Kashmir Government would continue to work closely with all the stakeholders to ensure that their genuine concerns are addressed in a time-bound manner.

Amit Shah chairs conference of border district SPs in New Delhi

Army defuses old, unexploded mortar shell in Poonch village

Jammu, July 9: Army officials defused an old, unexploded mortar shell found in an agricultural field in the forward area of Poonch district on Thursday, after villagers noticed the shell while harvesting maize in Kussalian village and subsequently alerted authorities, officials said. We were harvesting maize in our field when we suddenly spotted an old, unexploded bomb. We didn't touch it. Instead, we immediately informed the nearby Army unit. They are on their way now to defuse it as soon as possible, resident Pardeep Kumar said. Officials said police and Army personnel reached the spot soon after receiving the information and secured the area before the bomb disposal squad began safely defusing the mortar shell. No casualties or property damage were reported. Officials said the unexploded shell is believed to be a remnant of past cross-border shelling in the border district.

Srinagar Police attach properties of two notorious drug peddlers under Nasha Mukt J&K Abhiyan

Srinagar, July 9: In a major crackdown on the financial infrastructure of narcotics trafficking under the ongoing Nasha Mukt Jammu & Kashmir Abhiyan, Srinagar Police have attached two immovable properties worth approximately Rs 1.05 crore belonging to two notorious drug peddlers. The action was carried out by Police Station Rainawari under the provisions of the Narcotic Drugs and Psychotropic Substances (NDPS) Act, reaffirming the commitment of Jammu and Kashmir Police to dismantle the drug network by targeting assets acquired through illicit narcotics trade A police spokesperson said that an immovable property comprising a three-storeyed residential house constructed on 05 marlas of land situated at Tujgari Mohalla, Srinagar, with an estimated market value of approximately Rs 65 lakh, belonged to Zahoor Ahmad Sheikh, S/o Late Ghulam Hassan Sheikh, R/o Tujgari Mohalla, Nowhatta, has been attached in connection with FIR No. 59/2019 under Section 8/20 NDPS Act of Police Station Rainawari. He said the accused is also involved in FIR No. 11/2018 under Section 8/20 NDPS Act and FIR No. 41/2021 under Sections 8/20 NDPS Act and 48 Excise Act registered at Police Station Nowhatta. In a separate action, an immovable property comprising 05 marlas of land along with a single-storeyed temporary structure erected thereon at Kand Mohalla, Rainawari, having an estimated value of approximately Rs 40 lakh, belonged to Bilal Ahmad Kand, S/o Ghulam Hyder Kand, R/o Kand Mohalla, Dal, Rainawari, has been attached in connection with FIR No. 36/2022 under Section 8/20 NDPS Act of Police Station Rainawari. Both properties have been attached under the provisions of Section 68-F of the NDPS Act after being identified as illegally acquired assets generated through proceeds of narcotics trafficking and drug peddling. The spokesperson said that by targeting the economic backbone of drug traffickers, Srinagar Police are sending a strong message that crime will not pay and that illegally acquired assets will be traced and confiscated in accordance with the law. Srinagar Police remain steadfast in their resolve to eradicate the menace of drugs from society and appeal to the public to continue supporting the Nasha Mukt Jammu & Kashmir Abhiyan by sharing any information related to drug trafficking or narcotics-related activities. The identity of informants shall be kept strictly confidential, spokesperson added.

CM Omar Abdullah calls for shift from volume-driven to value-based tourism

ACB books former tehsildar, others in illegal land mutation scam in Bijbehara

Srinagar, July 9: Jammu and Kashmir Anti-Corruption Bureau registered a case against the then Tehsildar Bijbehara Ghulam Rasool Bhat, the then Naib Tehsildar Bijbehara Fayaz Ahmad Wani, the concerned Patwari Ghulam Nabi Banday and others for their alleged involvement in the fraudulent attestation of 162 land mutations in Tehsil Bijbehara during the year 2022-2024 for land measuring 1050 Kanals. The spokesperson said the case originated from a source-based complaint alleging that the accused officials, in connivance with others, illegally attested mutations involving about 1,050 kanals of land without execution of registered transfer deeds and without payment of the prescribed registration fee and stamp duty, causing substantial loss to the State exchequer. He said the verification conducted by ACB, supported by reports of the Departmental Vigilance Officer (Revenue), departmental inquiry committees and expert opinion, revealed gross violations of revenue laws and Standing Order 23-A. The verification further disclosed that the purported relinquishment deeds were actually sale transactions disguised to evade registration and stamp duty, while money was allegedly routed through intermediaries and multiple bank accounts to conceal the transactions. On the basis of the material collected, a prima facie case of abuse of official position, criminal conspiracy and criminal misconduct has been established. Accordingly, FIR No. 06/2026 has been registered at Police Station ACB, Anantnag, under Sections 7 and 13 of the Prevention of Corruption Act, 1988 and Section 120-B IPC against the accused officials and others. Immediately upon registration of FIR, simultaneous searches were conducted at the respective residential houses of the accused persons after obtaining search warrants from the Honble Court of the Special Judge, ACB, Anantnag. Further investigation of the case is in progress, spokesperson added.

J&K Bank inks maiden strategic partnership with Directorate of Census Operations JKL for Census 2027 Population Enumeration awareness

Srinagar, July 9: Reinforcing its commitment to nation-building and public service, J&K Bank today signed a strategic Memorandum of Understanding (MoU), first-of-its-kind in the nation, with the Directorate of Census Operations, Jammu & Kashmir and Ladakh to collaborate on media, publicity and public awareness activities for the upcoming Population Enumeration phase of Census 2027 in the UTs of J&K and Ladakh. This historic MoU was inked by Chief General Manager Ashutosh Sareen on behalf of J&K Bank, while Chief Principal Census Officer (CPCO) and Director Census Operations (DCO) Amit Sharma (IAS) put in his signatures on behalf of the Directorate of Census Operations J&K and Ladakh in the presence of Joint Chief Principal Census Officer Arun Kumar, Deputy Chief Principal Census Officer Manmeet Singh Loomba, General Manager (CC&M) Mohammad Muzaffar Wani, DGM Syed Aadil Bashir and other senior officers from both organizations. The landmark partnership will leverage the Bank's extensive branch network, digital signages and trusted customer outreach channels to disseminate official Census-related information and create widespread public awareness about the country's first Census through digital means. The collaboration will involve widespread media, publicity and awareness initiatives. Speaking on the collaboration, Chief Principal Census Officer and Director Census Operations Amit Sharma said, J&K Bank is one of the most trusted public-facing institutions in both the Union Territories with an unmatched presence across urban, rural, border and remote areas. By integrating Census communication with this trusted institutional network, we are taking authentic Census information directly to the people, strengthening public confidence and ensuring that no resident remains unaware of this important national exercise. The Chief Principal Census Officer Amit Sharma further highlighted that the landmark partnership would substantially strengthen the Directorate's ongoing publicity campaign by integrating Census messaging into one of the largest institutional networks. While expressing confidence that the collaboration would significantly improve public awareness and facilitate seamless conduct of the forthcoming Census operations, Amit further said, Besides reaching lakhs of residents through the Bank's physical and digital touchpoints, the initiative would help counter misinformation, reinforce public trust and encourage greater participation during Population Enumeration, particularly in remote, border and underserved areas. Speaking on the occasion, Chief General Manager Ashutosh Sareen said, The Census is one of the most significant national exercises, providing the foundation for informed policymaking, equitable resource allocation and evidence-based planning for the country's future. Its success depends not only on robust execution but also on widespread public awareness and participation. As a trusted financial institution with a deep presence across Jammu & Kashmir and Ladakh, J&K Bank is privileged to support this national endeavour by leveraging its extensive physical and digital outreach to disseminate authentic information, build public confidence and encourage greater participation in Census 2027, he added. Under the MoU, J&K Bank will facilitate the display of Census awareness material, including posters, pamphlets and standees, across its branches, customer service areas, financial literacy centres and other public-facing locations. The Bank will also disseminate Census awareness messages through its digital signages. Both organizations will coordinate the awareness campaign through designated nodal officers. The MoU is non-commercial in nature and entails no financial commitment from either side. It is worthwhile to mention here that this exclusive MoU of J&K Bank with Census Department, MHA, Government of India, will remain in force up to March 31, 2027, providing a structured framework for coordinated awareness initiatives aimed at promoting informed public participation and facilitating the successful conduct of Census 2027 across the Union Territories of Jammu & Kashmir and Ladakh.

Mirwaiz pays tributes to Ayatollah Khamenei at Budgam, calls Muslim unity greatest tribute to him

Budgam, July 9: Mirwaiz-e-Kashmir and Head of Mutahida Majlis-e-Ulema (MMU) Dr. Moulvi Mohammad Umar Farooq, while speaking at a memorial event organised by Anjuman-e-Sharie Shian, headed by Aga Syed Hasan Al-Moosavi Al-Safavi, at Budgam, paid rich tributes to the late Ayatollah Sayyed Ali Khamenei, describing him as a towering religious and political figure whose life reflected faith, courage, steadfastness and concern for the unity and dignity of the Muslim Ummah. Mirwaiz said that Ayatollah Khameneis life carried an important message for Muslims across the world: faith is not confined only to personal worship, but also demands standing for justice, defending human dignity, speaking for the oppressed and resisting injustice with wisdom and courage. He said the greatest tribute to Ayatollah Khamenei would be to uphold the cause of Muslim unity. In a time when the Ummah faces division, conflict and external pressures, his message reminds us that Shia and Sunni, despite differences of school and opinion, are part of one Ummah, with one Quran, one Prophet (pbuh) and one Qibla, Mirwaiz said. Referring to Ayatollah Khameneis principled position on nuclear weapons, Mirwaiz said that despite facing repeated threats and pressure, he opposed the acquisition and use of nuclear weapons, viewing them as contrary to Islamic teachings and against humanity. He said this moral position was significant in an age where destructive power is often mistaken for strength, while true strength lies in justice, restraint and responsibility. Mirwaiz also recalled Ayatollah Khameneis consistent support for the Palestinian people and their right to dignity, justice and freedom. He said that the suffering of Palestine continues to remain a wound on the conscience of the world and a test of the moral responsibility of the Muslim Ummah and the international community. Referring to the situation of people facing prolonged uncertainty and injustice, Mirwaiz said that oppressed peoples everywhere draw strength from unity, patience, moral clarity and collective resolve. He said that dignity cannot be secured through division, and that communities seeking justice must remain united, disciplined and guided by wisdom. Mirwaiz prayed for the departed leader and said that his legacy should inspire Muslims to reject sectarianism, strengthen brotherhood, stand with the oppressed and work for justice, peace and unity.

LG visits Pantha Chowk Yatra Transit Camp, Yatri Niwas in Srinagar; reviews arrangements

Khyber Cement Renews Title Sponsorship of Kashmir Super League for 2026

SRINAGAR: Khyber Cement has renewed its title sponsorship of the Kashmir Super League (KSL) for the 2026 season, reaffirming its support for football development and youth talent in Jammu and Kashmir ahead of the leagues second edition. The sponsorship renewal was formalised during a signing ceremony at the companys corporate office in Hyderpora, Srinagar. The []

Amarnath Yatra-2026:LG Sinha visits yatra transit camp and yatri niwas in Srinagar; reviews arrangements for pilgrims

Srinagar, Jul 09: Lieutenant Governor Manoj Sinha on Thursday visited the Yatra Transit Camp and Yatri Niwas at Pantha Chowk in Srinagar and reviewed the arrangements made for the pilgrims of ongoing Shri Amarnath Ji Yatra. The Lieutenant Governor interacted with the officials and pilgrims and enquired about the facilities. He directed the officials to ensure that every devotee of Lord Shiva receives round-the-clock care. From registration to accommodation and food, no pilgrim should face any inconvenience. It must be our collective responsibility to make their stay in Jammu Kashmir divine and comfortable, the Lieutenant Governor told the officials. The Lieutenant Governor took stock of the arrangements, including accommodation, sanitation, security, healthcare, drinking water, power supply, firefighting measures and other essential services made by different departments aimed at ensuring the comfort and safety of the yatris. The figures from the past week reveal that this years Shri Amarnath Ji Yatra has witnessed a greater number of devotees compared to last year. This surge is not only a blessing for our spiritual heritage but also a positive sign for tourism in Jammu Kashmir, giving fresh momentum to the local economy. I want that the rich handicrafts and handloom products of Jammu Kashmir should travel across the country and this unique heritage find a place in every devotees home. This will honor our artisans and it will also strengthen the spirit of One District One Product campaign, weaving together faith, culture and prosperity, the Lieutenant Governor said. The Lieutenant Governor lauded the coordinated efforts of District Administration, all line departments, Shrine Board, Police, security forces and other stakeholders. He emphasized the need to maintain the close coordination and vigilance in ensuring effective crowd management, hassle-free registration process and dissemination of timely information updates to the pilgrims throughout the pilgrimage. He also directed for strict legal action against those found involved in fraudulent registration practices. The Lieutenant Governor was accompanied by Shri Nalin Prabhat, DGP; Dr. Mandeep K. Bhandari, CEO, Shri Amarnathji Shrine Board; Shri V K Birdi, IGP Kashmir; Shri Anshul Garg, Divisional Commissioner Srinagar; Shri Rajiv Pandey, DIG CKR; Dr. GV Sundeep Chakravarthy, SSP Srinagar; Shri Akshay Labroo; Deputy Commissioner, Srinagar; Shri Faz Lul Haseeb, Municipal Commissioner Srinagar and other senior officers.

MHA orders major reshuffle of AGMUT IAS, IPS officers; several Jammu & Kashmir officers moved

Srinagar, Jul 09: The Ministry of Home Affairs (MHA) on Thursday ordered a major reshuffle of Indian Administrative Service (IAS) and Indian Police Service (IPS) officers belonging to the AGMUT (Arunachal Pradesh-Goa-Mizoram and Union Territories) cadre, transferring several officers into and out of Jammu & Kashmir with immediate effect. According to an order issued by the MHA, IAS officer Saugat Biswas (2006 batch) has been transferred from Arunachal Pradesh to Jammu & Kashmir, while Mamta Yadav (2021 batch) and Ishita Rathi (2022 batch) have also been posted to the Union Territory from Delhi and Puducherry, respectively. On the other hand, Shahid Iqbal Choudhary (2009 batch) has been transferred from Jammu & Kashmir to Arunachal Pradesh, while Swati Sheemar (2023 batch) has been shifted from J&K to Delhi. Among IPS officers, the MHA has transferred Vishnu Kumar (2019 batch) from Delhi to Jammu & Kashmir. Officers Arshi Aadil (2019 batch) from Goa, Tikam Singh Verma (2020 batch) from Goa, K M Priyanka (2021 batch) from Chandigarh, Rajeev Kumar Ambasta, Deepak Yadav, Anand Kumar Mishra, and Satish Kumar from Delhi have also been posted to Jammu & Kashmir. Meanwhile, several IPS officers currently serving in Jammu & Kashmir have been transferred out. Rajesh Kumar Sharma (2014 batch) has been posted to Chandigarh, Tanushree (2017 batch) to Delhi, Deepika (2018 batch) to Puducherry, and Gaurav Sikarwar (2019 batch) to Goa. The transfers have been ordered with immediate effect and will remain in force until further orders, the MHA said.