Opinion

Death toll from Nepal-Tibet flash flood climbs to 469, search ops continue

The death toll from flash floods in central Nepal rose to 469 on Friday, with more bodies recovered as search and rescue operations continued for the third day following the disaster. In a statement, Nepal Police said the bodies were recovered from eight districts of the Himalayan nation. According to the police, 178 dead bodies have been recovered from Chitwan, 110 from Nawalparasi East, 44 from Gorkha, 37 from Nuwakot and 33 from Dhading district. Similarly, 28 bodies have been recovered from Tanahu, 27 from Nawalparasi West and 12 from Rasuwa. So far, 1,545 injured and stranded people have been rescued from various affected regions. Among them, 84 are currently undergoing treatment in various hospitals in Kathmandu. Search and rescue operations continued for the third day of the tragic incident with the mobilisation of 7,451 security personnel, including 2,391 Nepal Army personnel, the statement said. An ice-rock avalanche triggered by a glacial collapse near the Nepal-Tibet b

JKSA writes to HM Shah, seeks immediate intervention in minors rape and death case in Kishtwar

Srinagar, Aug 28: The Jammu and Kashmir Students Association (JKSA) on Thursday wrote to Union Home Minister Amit Shah seeking his immediate intervention in the tragic and deeply disturbing case involving the alleged rape of a 14-year-old schoolgirl from the Gujjar-Bakarwal community in Chatroo, Kishtwar. In a statement, the National Convenor of the Association, Nasir Khuehami said that the minor was allegedly raped repeatedly by a teacher at her school over several months. The accused teacher and his brother have been arrested, while the circumstances surrounding the alleged sexual assault, the pregnancy, the attempted termination and the events leading to the childs death remain under under investigation. The Association urged the Home Minister to ensure an independent, comprehensive and time-bound investigation into the entire matter. It has also sought the constitution of a senior-level Special Investigation Team (SIT) and, if considered necessary to ensure greater independence and public confidence, the transfer of the investigation to the Crime Branch or another specialised agency. JKSA has also called for the immediate securing, preservation and examination of all relevant evidence, including medical and hospital records, post-mortem material, forensic and DNA samples, electronic communications, school records, attendance registers and other documentary or digital evidence.

Scientists Find Clues In Satellite Imagery To the Cause of Catastrophic Floods in Nepal and Tibet

As rescue teams searched Thursday for missing people following catastrophic flooding along the Nepal-China border, Earth scientists reviewed satellite imagery for clues to the cause and assessed the devastation. The flooding killed hundreds of people in Nepal and Tibet on Wednesday.

Worlds 1st AI-assisted brain surgery successfully removes tumour

The worlds first patient to undergo brain surgery with live artificial intelligence assistance has had his tumour successfully removed, the BBC reported. Rhys Hibbert, a 48-year-old father of two from Bedfordshire, underwent the pioneering procedure at University College London Hospital. Surgeons said he could have lost his sight as the tumour was pressing on his optic nerves. The AI system analysed a live video feed during the operation and identified the likely location of crucial blood vessels and nerves, helping surgeons determine the safest areas from which to remove the tumour. Hibbert had an 11mm non-cancerous tumour on his pituitary gland, which sits close to the carotid arteries and optic nerves. His peripheral vision had begun to narrow, while he also suffered from fatigue and dizziness. The operation was performed through the nose using an endoscope. The tumour was partly hidden behind bone and a tough membrane, making it difficult for surgeons to identify the safest route for removal. The experimental AI tool, described as being similar to a surgical ChatGPT, tracked surgical instruments and highlighted important anatomical structures on a second screen in real time. Prof Hani Marcus, one of the surgeons, said the system had been trained using hundreds of videos of pituitary tumour operations and could act as an expert second pair of eyes. However, the surgeons retained full control of the procedure. The research team, funded by the National Institute for Health and Care Research and Google, now plans a larger clinical trial. Hibbert said his vision had improved significantly after the operation. Its given me my life back, he told the BBC.

New Delhi sends second relief consignment to flood-hit Nepal

New Delhi on Thursday sent a second consignment of relief material to flood-hit Nepal, with a military transport aircraft carrying 37.5 tonnes of humanitarian assistance, medicines and food packets. External Affairs Minister S Jaishankar said the latest consignment followed the dispatch of 10 tonnes of Humanitarian Assistance and Disaster Relief (HADR) material to Nepal on Wednesday. A second flight has just taken off, carrying 37.5 tonnes of HADR material, medicines & food packets for Nepal, Jaishankar said in a social media post. India remains in close and continuous touch with the Nepalese authorities. We will continue to strongly support the ongoing relief efforts, he said. India has stepped up assistance following devastating flash floods along Nepals border with Tibet, which have killed at least 270 people and caused widespread destruction. The first consignment sent yesterday evening included temporary shelters, blankets, hygiene kits, solar lamps and medicines. The relief effort was launched after Prime Minister Narendra Modi spoke to Nepalese Prime Minister Balendra Shah and assured him of Indias support. More relief supplies are expected to be sent in the coming days as Nepal continues rescue and relief operations.

Nepal floods: 288 Indians uncontactable, 200 stranded in Tibet seeking evacuation

As rescue operations continued along the Nepal-Tibet border following devastating flash floods and landslides, MEA spokesperson Randhir Jaiswal said on Thursday that 288 Indian nationals remained uncontactable in Nepal and Tibet, while around 200 Indians stranded in Tibet were seeking evacuation. Randhir Jaiswal said, The first group of 73 people who are working on the Trishuli-1 power project. Then, two separate groups of 37 and 49 nationals from Tamil Nadu, who travelled for Kailash Mansarovar Yatra through Samrat and Fly Everest Travels. There is a group of 32 Indian nationals from West Bengal who travelled with the help of Samrat Travels in Timure, which is in Rasuwa district. MEA spokesperson Randhir Jaiswal said the missing Indians included those working on hydropower projects and tourist groups. These are five major groups who comprise, by and large, 288 people that we are talking about, he added. Twenty-one Indians from Tamil Nadu were rescued, he said, and were being brought back. External Affairs Ministry spokesperson said the government was working with local authorities to locate those who could not be contacted. There may be some people who are missing there and we are trying our best to locate them through the local authorities, Jaiswal said at a press briefing. The scale of the disaster continued to grow. Nepal Police said more than 300 bodies had been recovered from areas affected by Wednesdays floods, while Nepals National Disaster Risk Reduction and Management Authority reported that 826 people remained missing. A Nepal police update reported by International media says the death toll has risen to 359, as of 17:00 local time Nepal officials reported that rescuers were searching for survivors after massive flash floods destroyed homes, washed away roads and swept away bridges along the Nepal-Tibet border. Nepal Tourism Board spokesperson Sunil Sharma told the BBC that 644 tourists remained unaccounted for following the Bhotekoshi floods. They included 178 Indians, 127 Nepalis, 53 Ukrainians, 51 Malaysians, 65 Americans, 35 Australians and 33 British nationals. We are coordinating with the relevant authorities for their search and rescue, Sharma said. Nepal Tourist Police Deputy Superintendent Bisworaj Adhikari told the BBC that authorities were continuing to collect information from tour operators about tourists who had travelled to the affected region. The disaster has particularly affected routes used by pilgrims and tourists travelling towards Mount Kailash and Mansarovar in Tibet, as well as trekking areas including Langtang and the religious site of Gosain Kunda. At least 77 people reported missing in Nepal were travelling with the Isha Foundation, founded by spiritual leader Sadhguru. The group had completed its Kailash Mansarovar pilgrimage and was returning to Kathmandu when contact was lost, according to foundation coordinator Maa Gambhiri. She told ANI that a member of the foundation team spoke to group leader Praveen at around 9.05 am local time on Wednesday. When they attempted to contact him about 10 minutes later, there was no response. We couldnt get through to him or anyone else. It seems the incident occurred within those ten minutes, she said. The group includes people from the US, Australia, Britain and several European and Asian countries, with many of Indian origin, she said. In Tibet, China said the number of people missing in the mudslide disaster in Gyirong county had risen to 558, including 260 foreign nationals. Three deaths have been confirmed in the region, according to Chinese state broadcaster CCTV. Chinas Foreign Ministry spokesperson Lin Jian said around 100 Chinese nationals were also reported missing in Nepal. He said Beijing was maintaining close communication with Nepal and supporting joint search-and-rescue operations. The two sides of the border continued to face the threat of further landslides. Basanta Raj Adhikari, director of the Centre for Disaster Studies at Tribhuvan University, told BBC Newsday there was a possibility of second and third waves of flooding or landslides. We dont know yet, he said, adding that experts were in contact with colleagues in China monitoring the situation. There isnt high rainfall, but [a] landslide might happen, Adhikari said, linking the increasing risks in the Himalayas to climate change. We are observing but we didnt know that that would happen on [a] particular day, he said s reported by BBC.

JSW MG Motor India unveils Hector Tomahawk in EV, PHEV variants

JSW MG Motor India has unveiled the Hector Tomahawk, the first vehicle engineered on its Advanced Drive Architecture Platform Technology (ADAPT), which the company describes as Indias first multi-new-energy-vehicle (NEV) platform. The new SUV will be offered in both electric vehicle (EV) and plug-in hybrid electric vehicle (PHEV) versions, expanding the companys NEV portfolio and giving customers a choice based on their driving requirements. Under an introductory Battery-as-a-Service (BaaS) offer available for a limited number of bookings, the Hector Tomahawk EV is priced at Rs 13.99 lakh plus a battery rental of Rs 4.90 per km. The PHEV starts at 21.79 lakh plus Rs 3.20 per km in battery rental. The company said the Hector Tomahawk combines intelligent technology, premium comfort, safety features and electrified performance, while offering the space and connected features expected in a SUV. Parth Jindal, Director, JSW MG Motor India, said the launch marked a milestone in the companys efforts to build a sustainable mobility ecosystem in India. He said the EV and PHEV variants reflected the companys focus on offering mobility solutions while supporting the countrys transition towards cleaner transportation. Anurag Mehrotra, Managing Director, JSW MG Motor India, said the future of mobility would involve multiple technology pathways rather than a single solution. He said the Hector Tomahawk was the first SUV to bring the ADAPT platforms multi-NEV approach to market, combining EV and plug-in hybrid technologies to address consumer needs and driving patterns.

Alkhuddam makes comeback in Hajj 2027 quota list

Alkhuddam Hajj and Umrah Services has been found eligible for registration as a Hajj Group Organiser (HGO) for Hajj 2027, bringing relief to the organisation. The Ministry of Minority Affairs, Government of India, in a notice dated August 22, 2026, published the list of eligible HGOs after scrutinising applications submitted through the HGO portal. The ministry said applications were evaluated against the eligibility conditions prescribed under the HGO Policy for Hajj 2027, including submission of required documents, fulfilment of eligibility conditions, financial eligibility, experience and compliance with the provisions of the policy. The development was welcomed by Sheikh Feroz, Managing Director of Alkhuddam Hajj and Umrah Services, who expressed gratitude to Almighty Allah and the Ministry of Minority Affairs for considering his application for qualification for the Hajj 2027 quota. I express my gratitude. All praise and thanks belong to Almighty Allah, who has blessed us with the restoration of the Hajj quota for Alkhuddam Hajj and Umrah Services, he said. Describing the development as more than a professional achievement, he said it represented hope after a difficult period. This moment is not just a professional achievement for meit is a sign of Allahs mercy, a ray of hope returned, and a response to sincere duas made in hardship and uncertainty, he said. Feroz said he had remained hopeful despite the challenges. When we were going through difficult phases, I never lost faith that Allah would open doors again. Today, that belief is strengthened, he said. He also thanked the Ministry of Minority Affairs for once again placing its trust in Alkhuddam, describing the approval as both an honour and a responsibility. The ministry notice states that eligible HGOs have been classified into Category-I Non-Lead, Category-II Experienced Applicant and Category-II New Applicant categories, while the list of Category-I Lead HGOs had already been published on August 12. Under the HGO policy, selected Lead HGOs are required to constitute Combined HGO Groups (CHGOs) by inviting eligible HGOs from different categories. Each CHGO must include at least one Category-I Lead HGO, one Category-I Non-Lead HGO and one new Category-II HGO, with the total quota preferably kept close to 2,000. Feroz also thanked his patrons, well-wishers, colleagues, friends and family for their support and prayers during the difficult period. He said the renewed opportunity would be approached with full sincerity, dedication and respect for the pilgrims served by Alkhuddam. May Allah accept our intentions, make this responsibility successful, and grant ease, safety, and honour to every pilgrim connected through Alkhuddam, he said.

11 officers transferred in J&K Finance Department reshuffle

The Jammu and Kashmir government on Thursday ordered a major reshuffle in the Finance Department, transferring and posting 11 officers with immediate effect. The changes have been ordered as part of the administrations efforts to streamline financial management and improve administrative efficiency across various departments. The latest order also follows an earlier reshuffle issued by the government on August 4. Rajesh Chander Kotwal, who was serving as Director Accounts and Treasuries, Jammu, has been transferred and posted as Director Finance, School Education Department. He replaces Kulbushan Kumar, who has been shifted to the ARI & Trainings Department and will also hold additional charge of the Tribal Affairs Department. Anil Kumar Dogra has been appointed as Director Accounts and Treasuries, Jammu, replacing Kotwal. Santosh Kumari has been transferred from the Jammu and Kashmir Power Development Corporation to the Labour and Employment Department. Among the officers promoted to the rank of Director Finance, Shahid Majeed Kakroo has been posted as Director Finance, Jal Shakti Department, while Manav Gupta has been appointed Director Finance, Jammu and Kashmir Power Development Corporation. Amit Mahajan has been posted as Director Finance, Cooperative Department, while Premlata Patial has been appointed Director Finance, Jammu and Kashmir Power Corporation Limited (JKPCL). Harjeet Kour, who has also been promoted to the rank of Director Finance, has been directed to await further orders regarding her adjustment within the Directorate General of Accounts and Treasuries. Rashim Deepika, who was holding additional charge of the Cooperative Department, has been relieved of the additional responsibility. She will continue to serve in the Tourism Department. Naila Zahoor has been posted as Director Finance, Youth Services and Sports Department, and Jasvinder Singh has been relieved of the additional charge of the post. The reshuffle affects several key departments, including School Education, ARI & Trainings, Tribal Affairs, Jal Shakti, Labour and Employment, Cooperative, Tourism, Youth Services and Sports, and the power sector. The government order said the transfers and postings would take effect immediately. The move is expected to bring fresh administrative assignments to the financial management wings of several departments and streamline the functioning of the Finance Department and its associated offices.

SKUAST-K trains Ladakh veterinarians in future-ready livestock farming

Sher-e-Kashmir University of Agricultural Sciences and Technology of Kashmir (SKUAST-K) has concluded a two-week capacity-building training programme for veterinary officers from Ladakh, equipping them with next-generation knowledge, skills and technology-driven approaches to livestock farming suited to the regions challenging agro-climatic conditions. The training programme on Future-Ready Livestock Farming was organised by the Division of Livestock Production and Management (LPM) at the Faculty of Veterinary Sciences and Animal Husbandry, SKUAST-Kashmir, Shuhama. The initiative aimed to strengthen the technical and professional capacities of field-level veterinary officers and to familiarize them with emerging technologies and modern approaches to livestock development. Speaking at the valedictory function, Prof. Riaz Ahmad Shah, Dean, Faculty of Veterinary Sciences and Animal Husbandry, SKUAST-Kashmir, who was the chief guest on the occasion, appreciated the efforts of the Division of LPM in organizing the programme and emphasized the importance of continuous capacity building of veterinary professionals working at the field level. Prof. Hilal Musadiq Khan, Head, Division of LPM, said the programme had been designed to provide participants with a holistic understanding of modern livestock production and management practices. Prof. Masood Saleem Mir, Associate Director Extension, highlighted the importance of taking scientific innovations and modern livestock management practices from the University to the field. Prof. M. T. Banday, Senior Professor, Division of LPM and former Dean, Faculty of Veterinary Sciences and Animal Husbandry, emphasized the need to integrate scientific knowledge with locally suitable livestock production practices to address emerging challenges in the sector. Prof. I. U. Sheikh, Professor, Division of LPM, expressed hope that the knowledge and skills acquired during the programme would translate into practical interventions in the field and contribute towards making livestock farming in Ladakh more productive, sustainable and technology-driven. The programme concluded with the distribution of certificates among the participating veterinary officers. Dr. Henna Hamadani, Organizing Secretary, conducted the proceedings of the valedictory function. Other faculty members of the Division, Dr. Raoof Ahmad Pattoo and Dr. Shiekh Adil, were also present on the occasion.

Cooking up success: Women SHGs turn culinary skills into businesses

At around 2 p.m. on Thursday, Sumi Jan, 32, was busy preparing kehwa, carefully mixing almonds, saffron and other ingredients, while her fellow workers served biryani, rice and other dishes at a small food outlet on the premises of the Deputy Commissioners office in south Kashmirs Kulgam district. Jan and four other women came together under the Jammu and Kashmir Rural Livelihoods Mission (JKRLM) to establish the outlet under the brand name Umeed Ka Zaika. The venture, which began around five months ago, has already recorded a monthly turnover of more than 2 lakh, Jan said. I formed a Self-Help Group a few years ago and later started this venture nearly five months ago, she said. The five women jointly operate the outlet, dividing responsibilities among themselves. Their work ranges from preparing traditional dishes and beverages to serving customers and handling the day-to-day management of the business. Jan said the group initially started with a small setup but has gradually built a regular customer base. The members divide the work according to their roles, with some concentrating on cooking while others handle serving customers and other daily operational responsibilities. She said the training and institutional support provided before the outlet was established helped the women understand the basics of running a food business. This included preparing a menu, managing customers and handling the financial aspects of the enterprise. A similar outlet is being run by Sabza Begum at a sub-district hospital in Poonch, where she and other women serve homemade food to patients, their attendants and hospital staff. We started it just a month ago, but the response has been overwhelming, Begum said. She said the income generated through the outlet was sufficient to help the women meet their basic household expenses, providing them with an additional source of livelihood. We were given proper training before starting this venture, she said. The two ventures are part of Umeed, an initiative of JKRLM and Kudumbashree NRO aimed at helping women associated with Self-Help Groups develop food-based enterprises and gradually move from small household-level economic activities towards organised businesses. Under the initiative, women are provided training and support to establish and manage food outlets. The programme seeks to help them convert existing cooking and food-preparation skills into structured, income-generating enterprises. The initiative is also creating opportunities for women who may have limited access to formal employment but possess skills that can be developed into viable businesses. For women such as Jan and Begum, the model provides a collective way of entering the market. Instead of operating individually, several SHG members work together, share responsibilities and participate in the income generated by the enterprise. The food outlets are part of a broader effort by JKRLM to diversify the livelihoods of women associated with Self-Help Groups. While many SHGs continue to remain engaged in activities such as agriculture, livestock rearing and handicrafts, newer livelihood opportunities are emerging in areas including food processing, catering and retail. The approach also seeks to take Self-Help Groups beyond their traditional role in savings and credit by helping members establish enterprises capable of generating sustained income. For Jan, the Kulgam outlet has already developed into an enterprise generating a monthly turnover of more than 2 lakh within five months of its launch. For Begum and her colleagues in Poonch, the hospital outlet is only a month old but has already attracted a strong response from patients, attendants and hospital staff. The experiences of the two groups point to a wider shift in the way women-led Self-Help Groups are approaching livelihood generation. With training, collective effort and institutional support, skills traditionally associated with household work are being taken into the marketplace and developed into organised enterprises. For the women running the two outlets, cooking is therefore no longer confined to the household. It has become a means of earning, contributing to family expenses and building a collective livelihood.

GDCT demands fast track trial, maximum punishment in Chatroo minor girls death

The Gurjar Desh Charitable Trust (GDCT) on Thursday demanded that a dedicated fast-track court be constituted for the expeditious trial of a case related to Chatroo minor girls death, with the proceedings conducted on a day-to-day basis. While expressing profound shock, grief and outrage over the alleged rape and murder of an innocent tribal Gujjar-Bakerwal minor school girl at Gurinallha, Chatroo, Kishtwar, GDCT, in a press conference at its complex in Gujjar Colony, Jammu, also sought that the investigation be completed expeditiously and impartially, preferably within a time-bound period of 15 days. Chairman GDCT, Arshad Ali Choudhary, said that such a barbaric crime against an innocent girl could not be allowed to undermine the sense of safety and dignity of children belonging to marginalized and tribal communities. While addressing the presser, Anwar Choudhary, general secretary, Mohammad Sadiq Azad and Financial Advisor Bashir Ahmed demanded that the investigation be pursued from all possible angles and that no individual involved, directly or indirectly, should escape the process of law. Zulkarnain Chowdhary, who recently led a fact-finding team to the crime spot at Chatroo, apprised the gathering of information emerging from the ground. He stated that the information gathered during the visit warranted a thorough investigation into the possibility of involvement of additional persons or accomplices. He accordingly demanded that the investigating agency widen the scope of investigation, identify and bring every person involved to justice, strictly on the basis of evidence and due process of law, within a time-bound period of 15 days. They demanded that the accused be prosecuted under all applicable provisions of the Bharatiya Nyaya Sanhita (BNS), the Protection of Children from Sexual Offences (POCSO) Act and other relevant laws and senior administrative and police authorities should closely monitor the investigation to ensure transparency, accountability and freedom from any political, social or local interference. All available evidence be preserved and secured, including CCTV footage, forensic material, digital evidence and other relevant material, and the chain of custody of such evidence be maintained in accordance with law. A comprehensive safety audit of schools in remote and tribal areas be undertaken by the concerned authorities, with particular attention to the safety of girl students and vulnerable children, they demanded. They also sought adequate compensation, legal assistance and psychological support be provided to the victims family without delay, in accordance with applicable government schemes and legal provisions. Special measures be undertaken for the protection of tribal girl students residing in or travelling through remote and geographically difficult areas, so that such incidents are prevented in the future, they asserted.

Technical snag during launching operation seemingly caused Samba mishap: NHAI expert team

The expert team deputed by the National Highways Authority of India (NHAI), Jammu has stated that prima facie, the mishap during construction of the elevated corridor under package 15 of the DelhiAmritsarKatra Expressway at village Jakh in Samba on August 25, appears to have occurred due to a technical snag during the launching operation. A day after the mishap, the NHAI expert team on Wednesday (August 26) conducted a detailed technical examination of the incident. As part of the examination, three experts with extensive experience in the field were called to the site. The expert team, as per an official statement of NHAI, inspected all aspects of the techno-mechanical failure involving the highly sophisticated launching gantry and examined the relevant design details and sequence of operations. Prima facie, the incident appeared to have occurred due to a technical snag during the launching operation, the statement added. A detailed examination is continuing to establish the precise cause of the incident and to determine the necessary corrective and preventive measures, NHAI said, adding that the victims family was suitably compensated and the company also provided employment to the Next of Kin. While such assistance cannot compensate for the loss, it has been extended in solidarity with and support for the affected family. NHAI remains firmly committed to ensuring the highest standards of safety during construction activities as well as for highway users. All necessary measures will continue to be undertaken to uphold safety standards across the project, NHAI said. On August 25, two labourers were killed and one was critically injured in two separate mishaps involving under-construction flyover and Tawi bridge, as part of Delhi-Amritsar-Katra Expressway in Samba and Jammu districts. In the first incident, the mishap occurred during the installation of a span at an under-construction flyover near Jakh Morh, Vijaypur in Samba district. During the installation work, the span collapsed and fell down. In the incident, one labourer identified as Gautam Sao, 25, son of Paltan Sao, resident of Ward number 10, Godah, Bihar, died on the spot. Another labourer namely Bisht Sao, son of Naresh Sao, resident of Bihar, sustained critical injuries. In the second incident on the same day, one labourer died when a part of fresh concrete slab of the under-construction Tawi bridge, also a part of Delhi-Amritsar-Katra Expressway, at Sidhra in Jammu outskirts, fell while he was engaged in construction work. The deceased was identified as the labourer Budhi Singh, 45, a resident of Ramban.

Dr Jitendra exhorts youth to see beyond govt jobs, explore alternative means of livelihood

Union Minister of State in PMO Dr Jitendra Singh on Thursday exhorted the youth to explore alternative means of livelihood while moving beyond Sarkari Naukari mindset. One of the greatest contributions of this government is that there has been a conscious effort to change the Sarkari Naukri (government job) mindset and provide alternative means of livelihood. PM Narendra Modi said StartUp India Stand up India from the ramparts of Red Fort, launched StartUp policy when the concept hardly existed and today India ranks globally third with over 2,30,000 registered StartUps, he said. Dr Jitendra was addressing the National Sports Day 2026 celebrations, Khelo India Samvad Khel Ki Baat PM Ke Saath organised at the Indian Institute of Management (IIM) Jammu, bringing together young participants for a dialogue on youth leadership, fitness and nation-building. Dr Jitendra, who is also the Union Minister of State (Independent Charge) for Science & Technology and Earth Sciences besides being MoS PMO, Personnel, Public Grievances, Pensions, Atomic Energy and Space, said, during these twelve years, several youth-centric schemes like Mudra Yojana, SVANidhi Yojana, Vishwakarma Yojana etc were started to help youth earn livelihood without depending on anyone. Prime Minister Narendra Modi addressed the Khelo India Dialogue through video conferencing, connecting with youth participating in the programme from different parts of the country. The nationwide initiative was organised by Mera Yuva Bharat (MY Bharat) under the aegis of the Ministry of Youth Affairs & Sports. Dr Jitendra highlighted the transformative changes witnessed by India over the past decade, particularly in opportunities created for the country's youth. He said, today, Indias youth were making a mark globally. Addressing the gathering, the Union Minister underscored the importance of harmonious development in the student age in shaping a healthy, disciplined and confident generation of young Indians. He highlighted the transformative role of youth in nation-building and called upon young people to actively contribute to the vision of a developed India. Dr Jitendra said that over the last ten years, several youth-centric initiatives of Prime Minister Narendra Modi have contributed to a wholesome development of different dimensions of India's youth potential, including sports, entrepreneurship, innovation and education. He said the Prime Minister changed the country's outlook towards the capabilities and aspirations of its youth. Referring to India's startup ecosystem, the Union Minister said that the concept of startups was once largely alien to the country's development narrative, whereas India today has around 2.40 lakh recognised startups and ranks third globally. He expressed confidence that India would soon move further ahead in the global startup ecosystem. Highlighting India's growing contribution to global research and innovation, he said Indian researchers were increasingly making their presence felt internationally. He noted that around 10 percent of the world's 100 most-cited references were associated with India, underlining the country's growing research footprint. On innovation and intellectual property, Dr Jitendra said that India has emerged as the sixth-largest patent-filing country globally, with around 1.30 lakh patents, of which approximately 55 percent are filed by resident Indians. He said that global relevance was currently closely linked with the ability to contribute to global knowledge, innovation and solutions. To be relevant globally, we have to be relevant globally, he said, emphasising that India's youth already demonstrated their ability to make a mark on the world stage. The Union Minister also highlighted the role of financial inclusion and entrepreneurship initiatives in empowering young Indians and women. Referring to the Pradhan Mantri Mudra Yojana, he said that loans of around Rs 10 lakh are available to aspiring entrepreneurs and nearly Rs 38 lakh Cr has been disbursed under the scheme, with around 60 per cent of the beneficiaries being women. He said that the present period offered exceptional opportunities for India's youth, as several government schemes and initiatives were designed to keep their aspirations and potential in mind. Calling upon the youth to make full use of these opportunities, Dr Jitendra said, Now it is your role to play your part in realising the dream of Viksit Bharat by 2047. Appreciating the efforts of Prime Minister Narendra Modi, he said that the Khelo India initiative emerged as a source of inspiration for the country's youth. Praising the role of IIM Jammu, Dr Jitendra noted that the institution made a distinct mark for itself within a decade of its establishment, reflecting the growing strength of India's institutions and its young talent. Member of Parliament Jammu, Jugal Kishore Sharma appreciated the contribution and achievements of IIM Jammu and lauded the initiative for bringing youth together around the themes of sports and nation-building. He said that sports have a significant role in shaping the personality of young people and in strengthening the spirit of discipline, teamwork and perseverance. Sharma expressed gratitude to the Prime Minister for providing young Indians with platforms to participate in the country's development journey and said that sports would play an important role in realising the youth-led dream of Viksit Bharat.

Census 2027: Amit Sharma reviews preparations for special-charge enumeration in J&K, Ladakh

The Directorate of Census Operations, Jammu & Kashmir and Ladakh, on Thursday convened a strategic coordination meeting with nodal officers of the Defence forces, Central Armed Police Forces (CAPFs) and other organisations to finalise preparations for population enumeration in Special Charges in the snow-bound areas of Jammu & Kashmir and Ladakh. The enumeration is scheduled to be conducted from September 1 to 30, 2026, as part of Phase-II of Census 2027. The meeting was chaired by Amit Sharma, IAS, Chief Principal Census Officer and Director, Census Operations, J&K and Ladakh. The meeting focused on ensuring complete, secure and accurate enumeration of all eligible personnel and members residing in Special Charges, which include Defence and CAPF establishments, training centres, research institutions and other restricted-access locations where civilian Census functionaries may not have access. Representatives of the CISF, ITBP, CRPF, Assam Rifles, Railway Board, Air Force, Border Roads Organisation (BRO), BSF and SSB from Jammu & Kashmir and Ladakh participated in the meeting. Addressing the participants, Sharma said Census 2027 would be Indias first census to be conducted digitally, while the population enumeration exercise in Special Charges had been structured to meet the security and operational requirements of such establishments. He said the Directorates objective was to ensure that every eligible person was counted accurately, irrespective of the nature or location of the establishment, while maintaining the highest standards of confidentiality and security. Sharma explained that Census Charge Officers, Enumerators and Supervisors for Special Charges would be appointed from among officers and personnel of the respective establishments. The nodal officers of individual forces and organisations would coordinate with the Directorate for the appointment of Census functionaries, training, provision of Census material and timely completion of the enumeration. The population enumeration will cover questions relating to basic information, demographic and social characteristics, language, education, economic activity, migration, fertility and other particulars. Certain questions concerning economic activity and migration will follow specific provisions applicable to Defence and CAPF personnel. Detailed training will be provided to Special Charge Officers, Enumerators and Supervisors to ensure a uniform understanding of Census concepts, definitions and procedures. The meeting placed particular emphasis on training and standardisation. Training for nodal officers, Charge Officers, Enumerators and Supervisors deployed in Special Charges in snow-bound areas is scheduled to be conducted shortly. The Directorate will provide the necessary instruction manuals and Census material, while the respective nodal officers and Special Charge Officers will facilitate training and field arrangements in coordination with Census authorities. The participants also reviewed arrangements for supervision, data entry, secure handling and transfer of Census material, appointment of Census functionaries and coordination mechanisms required to complete the exercise within the prescribed timeframe. Sharma said the September enumeration was particularly significant for snow-bound areas of Jammu & Kashmir and the Union Territory of Ladakh, where population enumeration is being undertaken ahead of the main national enumeration schedule due to the regions distinctive climatic and geographical conditions. He stressed that close coordination between the Census Directorate, Defence forces, CAPFs and other specialised organisations would be critical to ensuring complete Census coverage. The Chief Principal Census Officer expressed confidence that the coordination established with the participating organisations would facilitate smooth, secure and comprehensive population enumeration across all Special Charges, contributing to the successful conduct of Phase-II of Census 2027 in Jammu & Kashmir and Ladakh.

Kashmir students have potential, need better platforms: NITI Aayog team

A 10-member NITI Aayog delegation visiting Jammu and Kashmir on Thursday said its field visit was aimed at identifying development bottlenecks, improving coordination among government agencies and extending institutional support to the Union Territory for faster and more inclusive growth. Speaking to reporters on the sidelines of a visit to the Atal Tinkering Laboratory (ATL) at Government Girls Higher Secondary School (GGHSS), Nawakadal, NITI Aayog member Dr M. Srinivas, who is leading the delegation, said such field visits were part of the institutions mandate under the principle of cooperative federalism. We want to know what are the issues, what are the problems, whether there are issues with various government agencies, or inter-ministerial coordination that has to be done, he said. Srinivas said NITI Aayog representatives visit Jammu and Kashmir periodically, sometimes every three months and sometimes every six months, to assess developments on the ground and understand the challenges being faced by the government and various institutions. The delegation arrived in Kashmir on August 26 and called on Lieutenant Governor Manoj Sinha. On Thursday, it held a meeting with J&K Chief Secretary and senior officers of various departments at SKICC. Later, Srinivas called on Chief Minister Omar Abdullah at the Civil Secretariat in Srinagar. According to a post on X by the Chief Ministers Office, the meeting discussed Jammu and Kashmirs developmental priorities and ways to strengthen cooperation with NITI Aayog to accelerate inclusive and sustainable growth. In the second half of the day, the delegation visited GGHSS Nawakadal to inspect projects developed at the ATL and interact with students. Srinivas said the visit was also intended to determine whether the J&K government or individual institutions required hand-holding and support for specific projects. That is why we are here, to know, discuss with them, understand their problems and give a helping hand to them, he said. On the roadmap for a Viksit Jammu & Kashmir, Srinivas said the Union Territorys development would have to progress in sync with the broader vision of Viksit Bharat. He, however, stressed that the process must be undertaken in partnership with the people and institutions of Jammu and Kashmir. During his interaction with students at Nawakadal, Srinivas praised their capabilities and said young people in Kashmir possessed considerable potential but needed appropriate platforms and opportunities to translate their abilities into tangible outcomes. He described the school as an example of what students could achieve when provided with the right environment. The students presented projects developed with the support of the ATL, including practical solutions addressing issues related to households, their surroundings and ecology. It is very heartening to see them. They have wonderful theoretical knowledge as well as skills and practical knowledge, which they have put together to give solutions, Srinivas said. He said he was extremely happy with the performance and capabilities displayed by the students. These girls are far better than what we were at that age, he said. Srinivas stressed the need to provide young people with greater opportunities and platforms to develop their capabilities and convert their ideas into practical solutions. The delegation includes Anurag Goyal, Senior Advisor; Subhash Chandra Meena, Economic Adviser; Dr S.B. Muniraju, Deputy Adviser; Dr Shobit Kumar, OSD (Health); Sumaya Yousuf, Programme Lead, Atal Innovation Mission; Arpana Bhat, Consultant; Vishnuha, Consultant; Dr Janvi Prajapati, Young Professional; and Pratha Srivastava, Young Professional, besides Srinivas. On Friday, the delegation is scheduled to visit the Indian Institute of Integrative Medicine (IIIM) at Sanat Nagar, where it will receive an overview of the incubation centre and interact with faculty members and innovators.

Untreated sewage threatens Sindh Nallah; CPCB flags high coliform levels

The pristine Sindh Nallah, a vital ecological artery of Ganderbal district and an important freshwater source for trout farming, is facing deterioration in water quality due to the discharge of untreated sewage, according to a comprehensive status report submitted by the Central Pollution Control Board (CPCB) before the National Green Tribunal (NGT). The CPCB report has identified elevated contamination levels at three key stretches of the waterwayKangan Akhal Bridge, Shutkadi Bridge downstream of Sonamarg and Sindh Nallah at Sonamarg. The pollution has been attributed to untreated domestic sewage entering the water body through multiple municipal and commercial drains. The report was submitted in compliance with directions of the NGT in proceedings concerning pollution of the Sindh Nallah and its potential impact on the trout habitat in the area. The latest findings are based on water samples collected during an extensive CPCB field inspection conducted on May 4, 2026. The NGT proceedings were initiated against the backdrop of a Greater Kashmir report titled Sindh Nallah Polluted Trout Habitat Threatened in Ganderbal, published on August 19, 2024. The Tribunal has been examining pollution in the Sindh Nallah and its impact on trout fish farming, with the waterway being an important source of freshwater for trout farming in the region. The investigation was ordered to assess environmental risks in Ganderbal district, particularly the potential impact of water contamination on the areas vital trout-farming ecosystem. During its May 4 inspection, the CPCB collected 11 water samples, including seven from different locations along the Sindh Nallah and four from drains discharging into the waterway. According to the CPCB report, all seven river sampling locations complied with the designated best-use criteria for propagation of wildlife and fisheries under Class D. However, three locationsKangan Akhal Bridge, Shutkadi Bridge downstream of Sonamarg and Sindh Nallah at Sonamargfailed to meet the Class B and Class C criteria due to elevated total coliform levels. Other parameters tested at these locations, including pH, dissolved oxygen and biochemical oxygen demand (BOD), were found to be within the prescribed limits. The microbiological analysis of the drains feeding the Sindh Nallah, however, revealed particularly high levels of contamination. The CPCB recorded faecal coliform levels ranging from 210 to 2910 MPN/100 ml in the four identified drains. BOD levels in the drains ranged from 6 mg/l to 118 mg/l. The CPCB said the levels indicated the discharge of untreated sewage into the Sindh Nallah, highlighting the continuing pressure on the waterway from inadequately treated domestic wastewater. The report also flagged operational gaps in sanitation infrastructure at Sonamarg. During the inspection, the proposed 1.2 MLD Sewage Treatment Plant (STP) was found to be incomplete and had not yet become operational. Officials of the Sonamarg Development Authority informed the CPCB team that at least two additional months would be required to make the facility operational. The delay in commissioning the STP assumes significance as untreated sewage continues to enter the Sindh Nallah through drains, with the CPCB findings showing high faecal coliform and BOD levels in the inflows. The CPCB has recommended that the Jammu and Kashmir Pollution Control Committee (J&K PCC) issue immediate directions to ensure zero discharge of untreated sewage into the Sindh Nallah. It has also recommended continuous monitoring of water quality to track contamination and help protect the fragile high-altitude river habitat. The findings have renewed concerns over sewage management in settlements along the Sindh Nallah, particularly in and around Sonamarg and Kangan, where the waterway has ecological importance and supports trout-farming activities. The CPCBs recommendations now place greater emphasis on preventing untreated sewage from entering the nallah and ensuring that sanitation infrastructure, including the proposed STP at Sonamarg, is completed and made operational without further delay.

Divisional Commissioner reviews proposed road projects for Srinagar

Srinagar, Aug 27:Divisional Commissioner Kashmir, Anshul Garg, today chaired a meeting to review various proposed road projects for Srinagar aimed at improving urban mobility, easing traffic congestion and strengthening the citys transportation network. The meeting was attended by the Deputy Commissioner Srinagar, Commissioner SMC, Chief Conservator of Forests, Chief Executive Officer, Cantonment Board, Chief Engineers of I&FC and R&B, and officers from PHE, NHAI, Police, Traffic and KPDCL, among other concerned departments. At the outset, the Superintending Engineer, PWD, presented replies to the observations raised during the previous meeting regarding the proposed ParimporaDalgate Flyover, along with a detailed analytical report on the project. While reviewing the report, the Divisional Commissioner directed the Commissioner SMC to submit the final report of the committee constituted under his chairmanship to assess the projects likely impact on traffic decongestion and improved mobility. He instructed to incorporate assessments, concerns and inputs from all stakeholder departments regarding the flyover. The Divisional Commissioner emphasized that the project should be evaluated through a comprehensive and integrated assessment, taking into account its impact on the overall transportation network rather than examining it in isolation. He stressed the need for detailed technical and stakeholder evaluation before taking the project forward. The meeting also reviewed the proposed Ring Road Part-III, particularly the stretch passing through the city from Lasjan to Pandach. The Divisional Commissioner examined the comparative statement of the three alternative alignments proposed by the National Highways Authority of India (NHAI). He further reviewed the observations made by the I&FC Department and the Cantonment Board regarding the proposed 8-km flyover component from Lasjan to Dalgate. On the occasion, the Divisional Commissioner directed the Chief Engineer, I&FC, to convene a meeting with NHAI to deliberate upon the proposed alignment and associated technical aspects, with particular emphasis on ensuring that the project does not pose any threat to the embankment of River Jhelum. The Divisional Commissioner underscored the importance of coordinated planning among all concerned departments to ensure that major road infrastructure projects in Srinagar are technically sound, environmentally responsible and aligned with the broader objective of improving mobility and reducing congestion in the city.

CASO in Nowshera sector after suspicious movement

Security forces launched a cordon-and-search operation along the Line of Control (LoC) in the Nowshera sector after troops detected suspicious movement on Wednesday evening. According to official sources, troops deployed at a forward location along the LoC observed the suspicious movement, following which an alert was sounded in the area. Amid the heightened alert, multiple gunshots were also heard from the area. It was not immediately clear whether the firing was from one side or both sides, sources said. Security forces have cordoned off the area, while a detailed search operation is expected to be launched early Thursday morning, officials said.

Syed Mohammad Altaf Bukhari visits fire victims at Watal Kadal

Srinagar, Aug 27:Apni Party President Syed Mohammad Altaf Bukhari, along with several party colleagues, on Thursday visited Watal Kadal in Srinagar, where at least seven houses were gutted in a massive fire incident last evening. Bukhari and the accompanying party leaders met the affected families and expressed their sympathy and complete solidarity with them during this hour of immense grief and distress. Speaking on the occasion, Altaf Bukhari urged the administration to provide immediate relief and undertake necessary rehabilitation measures for the affected families. He said the administration must take concrete and prompt steps to rehabilitate the affected families and ensure that they are provided with all necessary assistance to help them rebuild their lives. The prominent party leaders accompanying the Apni Party President during the visit included District President Kupwara Raja Manzoor, Provincial Youth President Kashmir Jibran Dar, Joint Secretary District Srinagar Sumaira and others.

Deputy CM hopeful of Congress joining cabinet soon

Deputy Chief Minister Surinder Choudhary on Thursday hoped that Congress would soon take a decision to join the Chief Minister Omar Abdullah-led J&K government. Right from day one of the government formation in alliance, we always wanted the Congress to join the government. However, it (Congress) was not able to take a call on this account. Now it is in the process to take a call. We all should feel happy once it takes its final decision. The joining of Congress will further strengthen the government and bolster its performance. We will be able to deliver effectively and address the peoples issues, Choudhary said, while responding to media queries about cabinet expansion and the prospects of Congress joining it. They (Congress) are in alliance and it is their right to be part of the government. We will feel happy as and when they decide about it. Nevertheless, the final call on this account, as even National Conference president Dr Farooq Abdullah too has mentioned, is to be taken by the Congress itself, the Deputy Chief Minister remarked. He rubbished the allegations of horse-trading to induce Congress or others to join the cabinet. We are not BJP people who would resort to horse-trading. We (NC) dont believe in such tactics to bring parties or leaders to our fold. It is a relationship where hearts meet. Our alliance is based on mutual understanding and trust, Choudhary said. He asserted that Congress joined the alliance with a clear heart and clear intentions and NC was hopeful it would join the government too soon. Responding to media queries about criticism on power tariff hike, he challenged the political detractors, particularly BJP, to compare hike in electricity tariffs during its previous 12 years with those of the present government. You (media) should ask Sunil Sharma about tariff hikes during the BJP's tenure, how much electricity bills went up and how many times amnesty was given, Choudhary said, adding that the present dispensation gave amnesty to commercial and domestic consumers. Ask the LoP Sunil Sharma about the spiralling prices of onions, sugars, pulses, vegetables and other essentials or for that matter hiked fee in universities and other educational institutions, he dared.

CM Omar Abdullah reviews drainage system of Srinagar city

Srinagar, Aug 27: Chief Minister Omar Abdullah today chaired a high-level meeting to review the drainage sector of Srinagar city, with a focus on addressing waterlogging, strengthening stormwater infrastructure and putting in place both immediate and long-term measures to improve the citys drainage resilience. Commissioner Srinagar Municipal Corporation (SMC) Fazlul Haseeb gave a detailed presentation on the drainage profile of Srinagar and outlined a comprehensive five-year integrated roadmap to address the key infrastructural and environmental challenges affecting stormwater management in the city. The presentation highlighted that Srinagar currently has around 680 km of stormwater deep drainage network, while the city faces a deficit of nearly 2,500 km of drain length in view of future development envisaged under Master Plan 2035. Around 15 per cent of the existing stormwater network is presently not functioning at optimum hydraulic capacity due to inadequate drain dimensions, ageing infrastructure, silt deposition and solid-waste ingress. The review also highlighted the impact of rapid urbanisation on the citys natural drainage system and stressed the need for conservation and restoration of remaining natural drainage corridors. Speaking on the occasion, the Chief Minister said that, to the best extent possible, the drainage system must be strengthened so that the city does not face inundation after few hours of rainfall. He directed SMC to adopt the proposed short-term measures as its Standard Operating Procedure and ensure its timely implementation. He further directed that whenever an alert regarding high precipitation is received, SMC should immediately activate these measures to minimise waterlogging and mitigate its impact. While these measures will help address some of the immediate problems, the major challenge is infrastructure, the Chief Minister said, directing the SMC to proceed with the proposed long-term interventions, engage a competent agency and prepare a Detailed Project Report (DPR). He stressed that the DPR and proposed interventions should form part of the overall drainage plan rather than becoming a standalone emergency measure. He directed SMC to take all concerned departments on board and, once the DPR and financial requirements are finalised, work out the funding mechanism, including resources available with the departments. The Chief Minister also emphasised the need for a sustained citizen awareness campaign, particularly regarding disposal of solid waste, plastic bottles and polythene bags. He observed that polythene bags are a major cause of choking in the drainage system and called for greater public participation in keeping drains free from waste. The proposed immediate measures include cleaning and de-silting of existing drains, clearing blockages, daily lifting of solid waste, prioritising missing links, installation of mechanical screens in large open drains and ensuring backup power for dewatering stations. Long-term interventions include construction of additional dewatering stations, segregation of sewerage and stormwater networks, upgradation of old and natural drains, prevention of encroachments and conservation and rejuvenation of lakes. The proposed integrated programme is to be implemented in two phases over five years, with priority accorded to commercial and densely populated areas followed by low-lying areas. The meeting was attended by Srinagar district MLAs, including MLA Khanyar Ali Mohammad Sagar, MLA Eidgah Mubarak Gul, MLA Habba Kadal Shamim Firdous, MLA Zadibal Tanvir Sadiq, MLA Hazratbal Salman Sagar, MLA Chanapora Mushtaq Guroo and MLA Lal Chowk Sheikh Ahsan Ahmed, who provided their feedback and inputs on the drainage system of Srinagar city. Chief Secretary Atal Dulloo, Additional Chief Secretary Jal Shakti Shaleen Kabra, ACS to the Chief Minister Dheeraj Gupta, ACS PDD Ashwini Kumar, ACS PWD Anil Kumar, ACS Finance Shailendra Kumar, Commissioner Secretary Housing & Urban Development Mandeep Kaur, Divisional Commissioner Kashmir Anshul Garg, Deputy Commissioner Srinagar, heads of various departments, Chief Engineers, senior engineers and other concerned officers also attended the meeting.

MLA Qaiser Lone seeks SDH status for PHC Dudi in Machil

Kupwara, Aug 27: National Conference District President Kupwara and Member Legislative Assembly (MLA) Lolab Qaiser Jamsheed Lone has sought the upgradation of Primary Health Centre (PHC) Dudi in remote Machil sector of the district to the level of a Sub-District Hospital (SDH) so that it will significantly strengthen healthcare services for people living near the Line of Control (LoC). Speaking to Greater Kashmir, Qaiser Lone said that residents of Machil face serious difficulties in accessing healthcare, particularly during the winter months when harsh weather and poor connectivity often make it difficult for patients to reach healthcare facilities outside the area. People in Machil have long been demanding the deployment of a gynaecologist and other specialist doctors at PHC Dudi, however the creation and posting of such specialist positions is not feasible under the existing PHC-level setup, Lone told Greater Kashmir. The upgradation of PHC Dudi to SDH would address this issue by allowing the creation of specialist posts and strengthening the overall medical infrastructure at the facility. I have recently met Chief Minister Omar Abdullah and requested him to upgrade PHC Dudi to the level of a Sub-District Hospital so that the long pending demand of people to have better health care facilities may turn out to be a reality, Lone said. He added , The proposed upgradation would enable the health centre to have specialist doctors and better medical facilities, reducing the need for residents to travel long distances for treatment. He said that strengthening healthcare infrastructure in Machil is really important given its remote and border location. Better medical facilities in Machil will provide greater relief and a sense of security to the local population, especially during the harsh winter months when the area witnesses several feet snowfall, he added. Meanwhile locals have hailed the proposed upgradation of PHC Dudi and hoped that their long pending demand will be fulfilled without further delay.

Dr Syed Rafiq Ahmad Simnani invited to receive Honorary Doctorate in New Delhi

Dr Syed Rafiq Ahmad Simnani of Srinagar has been invited to an award ceremony in New Delhi where, according to a letter issued by the Socrates Social Research University Trust, he is proposed to be conferred an Honorary Doctorate Award. In a letter dated August 19, 2026, the Trust informed Simnani that its evaluation panel had considered his application and recommended him for the award in recognition of his achievement and social dedication in his specific field. The award ceremony is scheduled for September 5, 2026, at the Constitution Club of India, New Delhi. Socrates Social Research University Trust, registered with the Government of the National Capital Territory of Delhi under the Indian Trust Act, 1882, has sent the communique to Dr Simnani.

Speaker A R Rather launches Rs 2.5 crore development works, holds public outreach camp

Budgam, Aug 27: Speaker, Jammu and Kashmir Legislative Assembly, Abdul Rahim Rather, Thursday convened an extensive public outreach programme in the Charari Sharief constituency at Hardu Dalwan to listen to the grievances, issues and developmental demands of the people. During the camp, the local residents and public representatives, as per an official statement, apprised the Speaker of various issues concerning road connectivity, water scarcity, electricity along with basic amenities and other developmental requirements of the area. The Speaker assured them that their genuine demands would be taken up with the concerned departments for redress in a phased and time bound manner. Rather emphasised that regular interaction with the public is essential for ensuring that development priorities remain aligned with the actual needs of the people. He said that concerted efforts would be made to resolve the highlighted issues through the concerned departments. The Speaker urged the people to continue providing constructive feedback regarding developmental works and public services. He said that active public participation and cooperation are vital for achieving balanced and sustainable development across the constituency. During his tour, the Speaker visited the Government Higher Secondary School, Hardu Dalwan and assessed the facilities and requirements of the institution. On the occasion, the students presented a colourful cultural programme, showcasing their talent and enthusiasm. During his interaction with the students, teaching staff and school management, the Speaker took detailed feedback on functioning of the institution. The school management apprised him of the need for adequate desks and benches and provision of smart-class facilities to enhance the learning environment for the students. Responding to the demands, the Speaker assured that the required funds would be made available and the identified requirements, including benches and smart classes, would be fulfilled at the earliest. He emphasised the importance of quality education in empowering the younger generation. He encouraged them to remain focused on their studies and actively contribute towards the development and progress of their communities. Earlier, the Speaker launched development works worth more than Rs 2.5 crore, giving further impetus to road infrastructure in the constituency. The works included macadamisation/blacktopping of a 1.5 kilometre long PMGSY road at Ahangar Mohalla and one-kilometre-long road at Kakawring.

Khelo India Samvad held at GDC Ganderbal

The NSS units of Government Degree College (GDC), Ganderbal, organised Khelo India Samvad Khel Ki Baat, PM Ke Saath on Thursday under the aegis of MYBharat and the NSS, Ministry of Youth Affairs and Sports. The highlight was a virtual interaction with Prime Minister Narendra Modi from 11 a.m. to noon. The programme began with the National Anthem, followed by a welcome address, NSS pledge and introduction of MYBharat volunteers. It also featured a screening of a Viksit Bharat Young Leaders Dialogue (VBYLD) video, MYBharat registration, the VBYLD Idea Box Quiz and an interactive session with the moderator and sports personalities. Around 150 students, NSS volunteers, faculty members and officials participated. Sportsperson Afreen, sports coach Saima Jan, MYBharat Nodal Officer and NSS Programme Officer Dr Jamsheeda Akhter, NSS Programme Officer Dr Mansha Nisar, Sports Director Dr Ravinder Kour and MYBharat team representative Wasil Ayoub were among those present. Senior Professor Dr Rafiq Ahmad addressed the gathering, while Hadika moderated the interactive session. The programme was coordinated by Dr Jamsheeda Akhter and Dr Mansha Nisar. It concluded with addresses by the NSS coordinator and principal, felicitation of participants and a vote of thanks.

Mirwaiz Umar Farooq expresses grief over Poonch road tragedy, Nepal floods

Srinagar, Aug 27:Mirwaiz-e-Kashmir Dr Moulvi Mohammad Umar Farooq has expressed deep grief and anguish over the tragic road accident in Surankote, Poonch, in which six precious lives were lost and three people were injured, including a child stated to be in critical condition. Conveying his heartfelt condolences to the bereaved families, Mirwaiz, as per a statement, prayed to Almighty Allah to grant the deceased Jannat-ul-Firdous, give patience and strength to their families, and grant a complete and speedy recovery to the injured. Mirwaiz also expressed profound shock and concern over the reported rape and subsequent death of a minor tribal girl in Kishtwar. He said the circumstances surrounding the case are deeply disturbing and have understandably caused anguish across society. While noting the arrests and ongoing investigation, he stressed that the matter must be investigated thoroughly, impartially and without delay so that the truth is established and all those found responsible are held accountable under law. He said the protection and dignity of children, particularly those belonging to vulnerable and marginalised communities, is a collective moral and societal responsibility, and such cases demand both justice for the victim and institutional accountability wherever lapses are established. Mirwaiz further expressed deep sorrow over the catastrophic flash floods that have devastated parts of Nepal and the adjoining Himalayan region, causing a massive loss of life and leaving large numbers of people missing and displaced. He extended heartfelt condolences and solidarity to the people of Nepal and all those affected by the disaster, and prayed for the safety and early recovery of those still missing and stranded. Mirwaiz prayed that Almighty Allah protect people from calamities, grant comfort to all bereaved families, healing to the injured, and strength to the rescue personnel and communities engaged in relief efforts.

BSF honours 13 mountaineers who died scaling Saser Kangri in Ladakh

The Border Security Force (BSF) on Thursday held a wreath-laying ceremony at Panamik village in Nubra Valley near Siachen region. The ceremony honoured 13 BSF mountaineers who died in an avalanche on Aug. 27, 1995. They were attempting to scale Mount Saser Kangri in the Karakoram range. Senior BSF officers, civil administration officials, security personnel, villagers and family members attended the ceremony. BSF officers laid wreaths on behalf of the Director General. A contingent observed silence as buglers sounded the Last Post. Representatives of three martyr families also paid homage. The BSF also held a civic action programme. It distributed sports equipment and utility items among local residents and schoolchildren.

Dr Farooq expresses grief over Surankote Poonch road accident

Srinagar, Aug 27:The Jammu and Kashmir National Conference President Dr Farooq Abdullah has expressed deep anguish and sorrow over the tragic road accident in Surankote, Poonch in which six people, including two women, lost their lives and three others were injured. He conveyed his heartfelt condolences to the bereaved families and prayed for eternal peace to those who lost their lives. He also prayed for the speedy recovery of the injured, particularly the critically injured child. As per a statement issued, he urged the administration to ensure the best possible medical treatment for the injured and provide all necessary assistance and support to the affected families in this hour of grief. Dr Farooq said the loss of precious lives in such tragic circumstances is deeply painful and expressed solidarity with the bereaved families.

Ladakh gets first cyber police station

Lieutenant Governor Vinai Kumar Saxena has approved the establishment of Ladakhs first dedicated Cyber Police Station with jurisdiction across the Union Territory amid a sharp rise in cybercrime complaints. The Home Department notification, issued under the Bharatiya Nagarik Suraksha Sanhita, 2023, has come into force with immediate effect. The Cyber Police Station will serve as Ladakhs centralised cybercrime investigation unit and register and investigate offences under the Information Technology Act, 2000, the Bharatiya Nyaya Sanhita, 2023, and other applicable laws. It will function under the administrative and operational control of the Chief Executive Officer of the Ladakh Cyber Crime Coordination Centre (L4C). Necessary arrangements will initially be made from existing resources of the Ladakh Police. The unit will facilitate e-Zero FIRs and coordination with the National Cyber Crime Reporting Portal and 1930 helpline. It will also support the preservation and collection of digital evidence and prompt action to freeze or hold fraudulent financial transactions. It will coordinate with the Indian Cyber Crime Coordination Centre (I4C), banks, financial institutions, telecom service providers and other agencies. The move follows Ministry of Home Affairs directions to strengthen State Cyber Crime Coordination Centres (S4Cs) as nodal mechanisms for coordinated prevention, detection, investigation and prosecution of cybercrime. As our citizens rapidly adopt digital banking, UPI and e-Governance services, protecting them from emerging threats like financial frauds, online scams and digital arrests is paramount, LG Saxena said. He said the dedicated station would strengthen Ladakhs capacity to prevent and investigate cybercrime and build a secure and trusted digital environment. Ladakh recorded 1,077 cybercrime complaints involving about Rs 10 crore between 2021 and 2026. Complaints rose from 43 in 2022 to 366 in 2025, highlighting the need for a dedicated institutional mechanism to tackle cybercrime.

Take decision on KVIB 2016 recruitment process: HC to Govt

The High Court of J&K and Ladakh has directed the government to take decision on the Khadi and Village Industries Boards (KVIB) selection process initiated by the Board in 2016 for various posts, including Accounts Assistant and Junior Auditor and Junior Assistant and Record Keeper. In their plea, Mahboob Ali Mir and eight others had assailed a government order dated June 28, 2019, whereby all selections made in KVIB pursuant to advertisement notice dated October 8, 2016 had been cancelled and the Board was directed to provide opportunity of being heard to all the candidates appointed to different categories of posts pursuant to the advertisement notice before cancelling the appointment of these candidates. A bench of Justice Sanjay Dhar in its decision in response to the aggrieved candidates plea directed the government to take decision on the KVIBs selection process. According to their plea, the petitioners had participated in the written test and were shortlisted for the respective posts. Candidates applying for the post of Junior Assistant/ Record Keeper also appeared in a type test, while all the petitioners subsequently appeared in interviews. While selection lists were issued for several other posts, including Executive Officer, Publicity Officer, Assistant Executive Officer, Field Publicity Officer and Junior Statistical Assistant, no selection lists were issued for the posts of Accounts Assistant, Junior Auditor and Junior Assistant/Record Keeper. The petitioners had earlier approached the court, which directed the authorities to proceed with the selection process. During subsequent contempt proceedings, however, the government cancelled the entire selection process through the impugned order. The court pointed out that the cancellation order of June 28, 2019, had already been quashed in connected litigation and that the decision had attained finality. A division bench had also ordered reinstatement of candidates whose selection process had culminated in appointments, while allowing the authorities to conduct a fresh inquiry in accordance with law. The court noted that the present petitioners stood on a different footing as the selection process for the posts they had applied for had not culminated in the issuance of selection lists or appointment orders. No direction could, therefore, be issued for their selection or appointment, it said. Moreover, with the government order cancelling the selection process having been quashed, the court noted that the authorities were required to proceed with the process as if the cancellation order had never been issued. Disposing of the plea, the court, accordingly, directed for taking decision regarding the fate of the selection process initiated under the 2016 advertisement, either by taking it to its logical conclusion or by taking any other action deemed appropriate after conducting an inquiry into the matter.

J&K Sports Council launches 4-day sports activity calendar

Srinagar, Aug 27: The Jammu and Kashmir Sports Council on Thursday launched a 4-day sports activity calendar as part of National Sports Day celebrations, 3 Months Calander, Major Dhyan Chand Memorial Hockey Event, an exhibition football match, junior girls trials and the unveiling of the Kashmir Super Leagues second-season jersey and trophy highlighting the days programme in Srinagar. The proceedings, as per a statement, were led by Sports Minister Satish Sharma, joined by Commissioner Secretary for Youth Services and Sports Dr Shahid Iqbal Choudhary, and Secretary Sports Council Nuzhat Gull. Together, they unveiled a 4-day activity calendar and 3 Months Activity Calander that will see sporting events roll out across every UT centre, extending National Sports Day's energy well beyond the opening week and in step with celebrations taking place across the country. The action centred around the Synthetic Turf Football Ground at TRC, Srinagar, which played host to many marquee events. An exhibition football match between J&K Heroes and J&K Stars drew spirited support from the stands. International & National Gymnasts also performed during the event, while earlier on the same turf, young footballers from across the Union Territory turned out for the UT-level junior girls' football trials, a platform aimed at identifying the next generation of talent from the grassroots up. The event also carried a distinct league flavour, with the unveiling of the Kashmir Super League (KSL) 2.0 jersey and trophy setting the tone for the upcoming season. Minister Sharma spent time in conversation with KSL franchise owners, underlining that the league exists first and foremost as a talent pipeline, built to scout and nurture young players and prepare them for bigger stages ahead. Looking to tomorrow, the Minister announced that the Dhyan Chand Hockey Cup, fittingly named for the day's honouree, will get underway on August 28 and run over four days, adding another discipline to a week already rich with sporting activity. Beyond the formalities, the day had the feel of a genuine community gathering. Minister Sharma took the time to speak directly with football fans and hockey players present at the ground and used the moment to reinforce the Nasha Mukt Abhiyaan, JKSC's anti-drug campaign, urging young athletes and spectators alike to see sport as a path away from substance abuse and toward discipline and purpose.

DPS Srinagar shine with 13-1 win, SRM Welkins win on penalties

Srinagar, Aug 27: The fourth day of the 5th Canon C.E. Tyndale-Biscoe Invitational Football Tournament witnessed a vibrant mix of high-scoring football, closely fought contests and an exciting penalty shootout, as participating school teams continued their quest for glory. The day, as per a statement, began with a dominant performance in Match 11, where DPS Srinagar registered an emphatic 131 victory over New Bonvivant English School. Qazi was adjudged Man of the Match for his outstanding contribution to the team's commanding win. In Match 12, Tyndale-Biscoe School produced a determined performance to defeat Kashmir Valley School 21. The match remained competitive, with Tyndale-Biscoe converting its opportunities effectively. Baris was named Man of the Match for his impressive performance. The excitement intensified in Match 13, where SRM Welkins Sopore and Foundation World School played out a thrilling 11 draw in regulation time. Mueen put Foundation World School ahead in the 11th minute, while Azaan equalised for SRM Welkins Sopore in the 60th minute. The match eventually went into a penalty shootout, where SRM Welkins Sopore prevailed 43 to secure a hard-fought victory. The final encounter of the day, Match 14, saw Iqbal Memorial Institute edge past JK Public School 10 in a closely contested fixture. Rayaan was declared Man of the Match for his valuable contribution to the team's victory.

Sheetal made J&K, India proud by winning paralympic medal: PM Modi

Jammu, Aug 27: Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Thursday, while lauding the inspiring spirit of para-athletes, asserted that famed archer Sheetal Devi made her home state Jammu and Kashmir and entire India proud by winning a medal in Paralympics. I, myself, have drawn great inspiration from the resilience-induced success of our specially-abled sportspersons. You would have heard all these names. Like in archery, one of our daughters is a wonderful sportsperson. You all know her name she is Sheetal. When in the Paralympics, she won a medal, the entire Jammu and Kashmir the entire India was swollen with pride, PM Modi stated, while participating in the Khelo India Dialogue via video conference. Para-archer Sheetal Devi, who hails from a remote area in Kishtwar district of Jammu and Kashmir, had won bronze medal in the mixed team compound event at 2024 Paris Paralympics, becoming the youngest Indian Paralympics medalist. Born with phocomelia, a rare congenital disorder, armless Sheetal has also won two gold medals in Asian Para Games, 2023; gold in World Para Archery Championships 2025. Honoured with the Arjuna award in January 2024, 19-year-old Sheetal was named Para Archer of the Year-2025. Highlighting the profound societal benefits of sports, the Prime Minister noted that true sportsmanship was essential for fostering a healthy society, strong family structures, and a superior work culture. He emphasised that the athletic arena uniquely teaches individuals not just how to become champions, but how to resiliently face failures and rise again. Sports do not only teach us to become champions, but sports also teach us to become better competitors, he remarked. Praising the incredible transformative power of sports, the Prime Minister singled out the nation's para athletes for their profound ability to alter societal perspectives on life and adversity. He noted that the success of a specially-abled athlete fundamentally would revitalise their entire family, elevate the courage and dreams of parents and siblings who supported their early struggles. Expressing deep personal inspiration, the Prime Minister celebrated the remarkable achievements of para-athletes like archer Sheetal, double Paralympic medalist Avani Lekhara, Sumit Antil, Nitesh Kumar, and Jhandu Kumar. He noted that their victories would always bring immense pride to their home states and the entire nation. When I meet Avani, I feel very proud; every such companion inspires us, PM Modi said. Framing sports as a fundamental guarantee for a better quality of life, the Prime Minister cited the legendary centenarian athlete Fauja Singh as the ultimate example of lifelong fitness and athletic passion. He emphasised that Fauja Singh's life perfectly illustrated the deep interconnection between physical activity and overall well-being. His life is a very big inspiration of how sports and quality of life are interconnected, he noted.

The Luxury of Liberty

Winston Churchill famously quipped that democracy is the worst form of government, except for all the others that have been tried. It is a messy, inefficient, and deeply frustrating system. Yet, history has shown it is the least worst option we have for ensuring peaceful transitions of power, protecting civil liberties, and holding leaders accountable. But there is a glaring blind spot in the Western promotion of this ideal: we treat democracy as a universal, plug-and-play system that simply requires setting up ballot boxes. The philosopher-poet Allama Iqbal famously critiqued this mechanical approach to governance, observing: Jamhooriat ik tarz-e-hukoomat hai ke jis mein Bandon ko gina karte hain, tola nahi karte (Democracy is a certain form of government in which / Men are counted, but they are not weighed.) When we examine the struggles of democracy in the developing nations, the profound truth of Iqbals words emerges. Merely counting heads does not create a functioning state. For a democracy to take root and flourish, it requires a basic threshold of development. A harsh reality persists: democracy cannot feed a starving family. Abstract political rights mean little when basic survival is on the line, paving the way for systemic corruption, compromised elites, and a fractured moral compass. The Developmental Threshold Democracies do not exist in a vacuum. To function, they require an ecosystem of stability. Political scientists have long noted that a functioning democracy usually requires a robust middle class, widespread literacy, and a baseline of economic security. Critics often counter this by pointing to early Western democracies, asking how the United States or the United Kingdom achieved democracy before modern economic development existed. The answer is simple: they didnt. Early Western democracies were highly restricted oligarchies where voting was limited exclusively to wealthy, property-owning men. To be clear, acknowledging this history is not an argument for restricting voting rights in the developing world today. Universal suffrage is a non-negotiable human right. Rather, it exposes a profound double standard. The West artificially created a stable electorate by silencing the poor, and spent centuries building strong states before gradually expanding the vote. Today, developing nations are expected to run flawless, universal mass democracies while their populations are still fighting for basic survival. When a society actually reaches a developmental threshold, citizens have the time, education, and security to engage in the political process. They can afford to vote based on ideology, long-term policy goals, and institutional integrity. But in many developing nations, this foundational infrastructure simply does not exist. The Politics of Survival To understand why democratic institutions frequently collapse or erode in the Global South, we must look at human nature. When a population is deeply insecure, when the next meal is not guaranteed, when physical safety from violence is absent, and when there is no tangible hope for a better future, priorities shift radically. A mother living in extreme poverty cannot afford to cast her vote based on abstract concepts like separation of powers or freedom of the press. She is forced to vote for immediate survival. If a populist strongman or a local political boss offers a bag of rice, a temporary job, or protection from a rival faction in exchange for a vote, she will take the deal. In these environments, elections cease to be a democratic choice about the future of the nation. Instead, they devolve into transactional auctions for basic necessities. The electorate is essentially held hostage by their own vulnerability. The Roots of Endemic Corruption This desperate fight for survival is the direct engine of the higher levels of corruption seen in many developing nations. In the West, corruption is often viewed as a moral failing. In much of the developing world, it is a rational survival mechanism. When the state is too weak, impoverished, or inept to provide a social safety net, people must rely on informal networks. Nepotism and tribalism thrive because trusting your family or ethnic group is safer than trusting a faceless, broken government institution. Politicians exploit this insecurity, looting the state treasury not just to enrich themselves, but to fund the patronage networks that keep them in power. The citizens, in turn, tolerate the grand corruption of their leaders because those leaders are the only ones providing them with a trickle of resources. The Paradox of the Educated Elite This heavy reliance on tribal and family networks helps explain one of the most baffling realities of corruption in developing nations: it is rarely confined to uneducated warlords. Much of the grand corruption is orchestrated by highly educated bureaucrats, technocrats, and politicians, people with degrees from prestigious universities who have sworn formal oaths of office to uphold the constitution. How do these individuals, who understand the devastating macroeconomic impacts of corruption, participate in it so willingly? The answer lies in flawed motivations, systemic capture, and a culture of impunity. First, many of these individuals pursued these high positions not out of a genuine desire to serve society or build the nation, but because of immense societal pressure to achieve status and prestige. Because their ascent was driven by social expectations and personal elevation rather than civic duty, the internal moral barrier against corruption is already inherently weak. Once in office, they enter a deeply corrupt governmental structure where they face a stark choice: participate, or be expelled. In these systems, anti-corruption is not a virtue; it is a threat to the established order. Furthermore, an individual who achieves high office is burdened with immense expectations from their extended family, community, or village.. This kinship tax demands that the official use their power to secure jobs and resources for their community. In this twisted moral framework, an official who refuses to be corrupt is often viewed by their own people not as a hero of integrity, but as a selfish traitor. The formal oath to the state is easily drowned out by ancient obligations to the tribe. Finally, this cycle is sustained by a complete lack of accountability. These officials indulge in grand corruption because they know they will rarely face harsh punishment if challenged. Even on the rare occasions they are caught, they intimately understand the punitive system; they know exactly who to bribe, which political strings to pull, and how to buy their own freedom. The very institutions designed to hold them accountable are simply another transactional layer in the same corrupt ecosystem. Religion Without Civic Ethics This brings us to a final, striking paradox: the high level of religiosity in the Third World. By virtually every metric, developing nations are far more religious than the secularized West. Since every major world religion heavily emphasizes truthfulness, morality, and justice, one would logically expect these societies to be bastions of ethical governance. Instead, we see a glaring disconnect. How can a society pray so fervently yet steal so openly? In highly insecure environments, religion often morphs from a framework of universal ethics into a transactional coping mechanism. When the state provides no safety net, people turn to God for daily survival, protection, and miraculous intervention. Citizens and leaders alike learn to sharply compartmentalize their lives. A bureaucrat might solicit a bribe on Friday morning and sit in the front row of a religious service that afternoon, feeling no cognitive dissonance. Allama Iqbal captured this exact tragedy of hollow piety when he lamented: Reh gayi rasm-e-azaan, rooh-e-Bilali na rahi Falsafa reh gaya, talqeen-e-Ghazali na rahi (Only the ritual of the call to prayer remains, the true spirit of Bilal is gone / Only empty philosophy remains, the moral teachings of Ghazali are lost.) Religion becomes a badge of community belonging and a ritual for personal salvation rather than a compass for civic behaviour. When faith is divorced from civic duty, and only the ritual of the call to prayer remains, you are left with a society that is immensely pious, yet systematically corrupt. A Stained Dawn Democracy remains the best system for human flourishing, but it is a fragile structure. We cannot expect a house to stand if it is built on quicksand. When many developing nations first adopted democratic systems, there was immense hope for a brighter, equitable future. Yet, the reality of poverty and systemic corruption has often crushed those hopes, leaving behind an illusion of freedom. The poet Faiz Ahmad Faiz captured this profound disappointment in his famous poem Subh-e-Azadi (The Dawn of Freedom): Yeh daagh daagh ujala, yeh shab gazeeda sahar Woh intezaar tha jis ka, yeh woh sahar to nahi (This stained, pockmarked light, this night-bitten dawn / This is not the dawn we had been waiting for.) If we want to see genuine democracy thrive and ensure the dawn is no longer stained, the focus cannot solely be on holding elections, writing constitutions, or administering oaths of office. The focus must be on establishing the threshold of human dignity: economic development, physical security, and a reliable social safety net that diminishes the desperate reliance on tribalism. Until a population is free from the daily panic of survival, and until civic ethics outweigh transactional survival tactics, democracy will remain an imported luxury rather than a lived reality. Khalid Bashir Mir is a Postdoctoral Fellow at the Karmanos Cancer Institute in the United States specializing in molecular oncology and high-dimensional data analysis. He writes on science, society, and governance.

Ruhullahs Real Arithmetic

Malik Daniyals column makes one confident claim after another about Agha Ruhullah Mehdi that he owns nothing beyond his own voice, that his Article 370 politics is a lucrative pose, that he has never once threatened to leave his party. Each of these claims sounds sharp on the page. None of them survives contact with the actual record. Lets go through them one at a time. 1. His victory belonged to the party, not to him. Prove it. Daniyal states, as settled fact, that Ruhullahs 2024 Srinagar win was built upon the National Conferences organisational apparatus and was not a personal following assembled independently. He offers no polling data, no booth analysis, nothing. He just asserts it. Heres what the actual numbers say. Ruhullah won Srinagar with 356,866 votes 52.85% beating Waheed Para by 188,416 votes. Compare that to 2019, when NCs Farooq Abdullah arguably the most recognisable name in Kashmiri politics won the same seat with only 106,750 votes, on a turnout of barely 14%. In 2024, turnout rose and Ruhullahs vote count more than tripled Farooqs. You cannot explain that gap by pointing at the party symbol alone. Something about the candidate mattered. Daniyal never engages with this, he simply declares the conclusion he needs and moves on. And Kashmirs own recent history undercuts the voters belong to the institution theory anyway. In 2014, Farooq Abdullah the NCs own patriarch lost Srinagar to PDPs Tariq Hameed Karra. The institution didnt save him that year. Voters in this city have moved between NC, PDP, independents and abstention for two decades. Thats not blind institutional loyalty. Thats an electorate making live judgments, election to election. 2. He has never threatened to leave. He had eight days before this was published. This is the essays most serious factual problem. Daniyals piece appeared on 25 August 2026 built around the idea that Ruhullah talks like a rebel but never risks anything. But on 17 August a full week earlier Ruhullah had already said, in his own words, made up my mind to resign from Parliament within a few months, once he had taken the fight for constitutional restoration to a certain level. He said this knowing exactly what it would cost him. I wont have the Parliament. The lobbying that I can do through the Parliament, the outreach that I can do, I wont have that. That is a man naming the price of his own position and saying hell pay it. Since then, matters have moved further, not less, in the direction that damages Daniyals thesis. Farooq Abdullah himself has publicly challenged Ruhullah to resign and seek a fresh mandate if he believes his 2024 win was personal, saying, we will see how many votes you get. That is the party leadership calling what it believes is a bluff the opposite of an MP quietly enjoying incumbency while talking tough. Whatever you think of how this ends, a man who has never once threatened to leave is simply not an accurate description of where things stood by publication day, and it was demonstrably inaccurate before the essay even ran. 3. Chasing Article 370 is keeping a wound lucrative. No its keeping a promise. Daniyal frames the demand for restoration as either constitutional illiteracy or a cynical grievance industry. He skips the obvious third possibility, that this was a promise the National Conference itself made to get elected and Ruhullah is one of the people who wrote it. The NCs 2024 manifesto, its 12 guarantees explicitly promised to strive to restore Articles 370 and 35A and statehood as prior to August 5, 2019. That document was drafted by senior leader Abdul Rahim Rather and by Ruhullah himself. So when Ruhullah now says the party is walking away from a commitment it sought votes on, he is not inventing a grievance to sell. He is holding his own party to a document he helped write. Calling that keeping an old wound lucrative only makes sense if you also believe the NCs own manifesto was itself a cynical exercise, which is not the argument Daniyal is making but its the argument his logic requires. Difficulty is not the same as dishonesty. Yes the Supreme Court upheld the abrogation in 2023. Yes reversing it needs a parliamentary majority nobody currently has. That is a real obstacle. It is not proof that raising the demand is insincere, by that standard almost every hard political struggle in India from federal autonomy movements to reservation battles would have to be dismissed as fake the moment it wasnt instantly winnable. 4. The essay talks about Ruhullahs motives. It never once asks if hes right. This is the real gap in Rebel Arithmetic. Ruhullah has made specific, checkable complaints, that hes been excluded from internal party deliberations, that the party has stopped striving for the restoration it promised, that it has quietly settled for statehood alone. Daniyal repeats these charges in a line or two and then spends the rest of the essay asking whether Ruhullah is being clever, careerist or performing for a future comeback. He never asks whether Ruhullahs actual complaint, that the party is retreating from its own manifesto is true. That is a very old trick in political commentary, when someones argument is inconvenient, write about their ambition instead of their argument. 5. The historical comparisons dont do the work Daniyal needs them to do and they dont even mean what he thinks. Yes, Ghulam Mohammad Shah, Sajad Lone, Altaf Bukhari, Imran Ansari and Muzaffar Baig all left their parties and none of them became a Valley-wide force. Thats a real pattern and its worth taking seriously. But look at why each of them left. They all left for a chair. Shah broke away with Delhis backing to grab the chief ministers seat. Bukhari left to become a minister under an administration favourable to him. Ansari and Baig moved from party to party chasing position, cabinet berths, proximity to power. Strip away the individual details and the pattern is identical, every single name on Daniyals list left because he wanted office and left toward it. Power was the destination in every case. Ruhullah is the only name on this list moving in the opposite direction threatening to give up the seat he already holds, not manoeuvring for a better one, and doing it on a point of principle his own party leadership doesnt want raised. Comparing a man risking his seat over a manifesto commitment to men who abandoned their parties chasing ministries is not a fair comparison. Its the wrong shelf. Theres also the plain fact that every one of those cases is about a man who left. Ruhullah, as of the point Daniyal was writing, had not left and even now, any resignation he pursues would be a fresh mandate contest from his own sitting seat, not a defection to a new outfit built from scratch, which is a materially different gamble than what Shah or Bukhari attempted. Using the fate of people who exited to predict the fate of a man testing his standing through re-election is comparing two different bets. Even Sajad Lones case, the closest parallel Daniyal offers, cuts against him on closer look. Lone won Handwara in 2024 by only 662 votes and lost Kupwara outright. That shows how hard it is to build a durable, geographically broad organisation from nothing. It does not show that a sitting MP who has just posted an 188,000-vote margin and who is now being dared by his own party president to test that margin directly will suffer the same fate. And there is Srinagars own electoral memory the 2017 bypoll. This cuts even harder against the voters belong to the institution, not the man theory. In the 2017 Srinagar bypoll, Farooq Abdullah won with just 48,555 votes on the lowest turnout the seat has ever recorded, 7.13%, after separatists called for a boycott in the tense aftermath of the 2016 unrest and much of the electorate stayed away from the booths in protest. The seat was effectively decided by whoever could still turn out a vote in that climate and the constituencys concentrated in Budgam and some parts of Srinagar city like Zadibal, Alamgiri Bazar etc, was the bloc that came out. Ruhullah, the most prominent political figure in central Kashmir played a central role in holding that vote for the NC that year. With most voters boycotting, it was his core constituencys turnout that helped deliver Farooqs winning margin. That is not a footnote. It means the partys survival on this very seat has at least once before depended directly on Ruhullahs own standing with a constituency the NC could not otherwise turn out. If the institution, not the individual theory were as absolute as Daniyal claims, that 2017 win shouldnt have needed him at all. The real question, reversed Daniyal asks whether Ruhullah can survive without the National Conference. Thats a fair question for some future date. The more urgent one, given where things stand right now, is this; can the National Conference keep telling voters it stands for restoration of Article 370 while trying to silence the MP who co-wrote that very promise into its manifesto and is refusing to let the party quietly walk away from it? Kashmirs political history does punish men who overestimate their own gravity Daniyal is right about that much. But the honest test of whether Ruhullah is one of them is the fresh mandate his own party president has now dared him to seek. Dont crown him before that test. But dont bury him with an essay built on a threat to leave that had already been made, and a motive-question that avoids the substance of what hes actually saying. Sahil Parray, a Student Activist.

No Junk Food, FDA tells J&K schools

The Food and Drugs Administration (FDA), Jammu and Kashmir, has directed the School Education Department to ensure strict enforcement of food safety rules in all government and private schools. In a communication to the Director School Education, the FDA invoked the Food Safety and Standards (Safe Food and Balanced Diets for Children in School) Regulations, 2020. The order directs school authorities to ensure that no person sells or offers for sale, including free sale, or permits the sale of food products high in saturated fat, trans-fat, added sugar or Sodium (Junk Foods) within the school premises or campus. The restriction also covers the area outside school gates. Under Regulation 5(1), the order says: No person shall advertise market, sell or offer for sale, including free sale, or permit the sale of such food products within the school campus or to schoolchildren in an area within 50 metres from the school gate in any direction. The FDA said the rules are aimed at ensuring safe, hygienic and nutritionally balanced food for schoolchildren. Schools that serve meals or run canteens must ensure food business operators shall be registered/licensed under the Food Safety and Standards Act, 2006. They must also follow prescribed sanitary and hygiene practices, including requirements for food safety display boards and food safety supervisors. The order makes meal timings mandatory, saying designated meal times in schools shall be mandatory to inculcate healthy eating habits among children. It also directs schools to ensure safe drinking water is provided free of cost to all students. The order puts the responsibility on the School Authority, including the principal or headmaster and the institution's management. It requires schools to have a system of regular inspection of food premises to ensure safe, balanced and hygienic food is served. Schools may also appoint a Health and Wellness Ambassador or constitute a Health and Wellness Team to monitor food safety and hygiene. The FDA has asked the School Education Department and school authorities to ensure strict compliance with the regulations across Jammu and Kashmir.

Deeper Epistemic Architecture

In international relations, perceptions are not epiphenomenal; they are constitutive of strategy itself. Nowhere is this more evident than in the enduring Chinese perception of India, which is less a product of contemporary realities than of historically sedimented hierarchies, civilisational imaginaries, and strategic misreadings. The notion of a comprador reflexthe tendency to view another society as derivative, subordinate, or structurally dependentcaptures with striking precision the Chinese cognitive framing of India. The historical phrase Hong Tou Ah San provides a revealing entry point into this deeper epistemic architecture. Originally used in colonial Shanghai to refer to Indian Sikh policemen employed by British authorities, Hong Tou Ah San (literally, red-turbaned third man) was not merely descriptive but profoundly hierarchical. It encoded a layered racial order: Europeans at the apex, Chinese in a contested middle, and Indians relegated to an intermediary, instrumental role. Crucially, Indians were not perceived as autonomous agents but as auxiliaries of Western imperialismfunctionaries of foreign power rather than representatives of a sovereign civilisation. This linguistic artefact, far from being an antiquated curiosity, continues to echo in contemporary Chinese strategic thought. Historical Memory and the Construction of Subordination Chinas view of India is deeply conditioned by selective historical memory, particularly the colonial encounter. Indian soldiers and policemen in treaty-port China were visible symbols of imperial coercion, reinforcing a narrative in which India appeared complicit in Western domination. This historical experience has produced a persistent cognitive bias: India is seen less as an independent pole of power and more as an extensionhistorically of the British Empire, and contemporarily of Western strategic frameworks. Even after Indias independence in 1947, this perception did not substantially shift. Chinese strategic discourse has often questioned the depth of Indias decolonisation, pointing to institutional continuities in governance, law, and elite orientation. In effect, India is frequently positioned within a quasi-comprador frameworkformally sovereign yet substantively embedded within a Western-led order. This reading is reinforced by Chinas own civilisational self-understanding. The Sinocentric worldview, historically articulated through the Middle Kingdom concept, posits a hierarchical international order in which China occupies the normative centre. Within such a schema, recognition of India as an equal civilisational pole becomes structurally difficult. Instead, India is often situated within a graded hierarchy, its rise acknowledged but not fully legitimised. The Comprador Reflex in Contemporary Strategic Thought The comprador reflex manifests most clearly in how China interprets Indias foreign policy choices. Indias engagement with the Quad, its strategic partnerships with the United States and other Western powers, and its participation in Indo-Pacific frameworks are frequently decoded in Beijing not as autonomous balancing strategies but as evidence of alignment or dependency. In other words, Indias actions are read through a pre-existing template that assumes derivative agency. This interpretive framework produces a classic encoding-decoding asymmetry. China encodes its own behaviourwhether in the South China Sea or along the Line of Actual Controlas natural expressions of great-power entitlement. India, however, decodes these actions as revisionist and coercive. Conversely, India encodes its partnerships as instruments of strategic autonomy, while China decodes them as containment. The result is not merely misunderstanding but a structural misrecognition rooted in divergent epistemologies. Between Underestimation and Strategic Anxiety Chinas perception of India oscillates between dismissal and apprehension. On one hand, the persistence of hierarchical thinking leads to a systematic underestimation of Indias capabilitieseconomic, technological, and military. On the other hand, Indias steady rise generates palpable unease within Chinese strategic circles, particularly in relation to its demographic scale, digital economy, and leadership role in the Global South. This dualitysimultaneous dismissal and anxietyexplains the ambivalent nature of Chinas India policy. Beijing seeks neither full confrontation nor genuine accommodation; rather, it pursues a strategy of calibrated management. Border pressures, selective economic engagement, and diplomatic signalling are deployed to constrain Indias rise without precipitating open conflict. Stereotypes, Discourse, and Policy Consequences While overtly racialised language such as Ah San has receded from official discourse, its underlying logic persists in more subtle forms. Contemporary Chinese narratives often portray India as chaotic, inefficient, or internally divided. These stereotypes are not merely cultural artefacts; they have policy consequences. They shape threat assessments, influence strategic calculations, and contribute to recurrent misjudgements about Indias resilience and intent. Such discursive continuities underscore the importance of analysing language as a site of power. Terms like Hong Tou Ah San are not isolated expressions but nodes within a broader discursive formation that structures perception and, by extension, policy. Reframing the Indian Response For India, recognising the existence of this comprador reflex is not an exercise in grievance but a strategic imperative. Effective statecraft requires not only material capabilities but also cognitive clarityan understanding of how one is perceived by others. India must therefore navigate this perceptual asymmetry with a calibrated blend of assertiveness and restraint. This entails, first, resisting the internalisation of hierarchical frames. Indias civilisational and strategic self-conception must remain autonomous, not reactive. Second, it requires a more sophisticated engagement with Chinese discoursedecoding not just actions but the assumptions that underlie them. Finally, India must continue to project itself as an independent pole within an emerging multipolar order, thereby challenging the very premises of the comprador narrative. The trajectory from Hong Tou Ah San to a rising global power encapsulates the paradox of Chinas perception of India: a recognition of transformation coexisting with the persistence of outdated hierarchies. The comprador reflex remains a powerful, if often unacknowledged, element in Beijings cognitive map. Until this reflex is critically interrogatedon both sidesthe IndiaChina relationship will remain constrained not only by material conflicts but by epistemic dissonance. Ultimately, what is at stake is not merely a bilateral relationship but the very terms on which Asias future order will be imagined and negotiated. Dr. Muzammil Ahad Dar, Kumaraguru College of Liberal Arts and Science

Best of BS Opinion: India needs outcome-linked policy measures for jobs

Today's opinions examine India's skilling and employment mismatch, BIS certification reform, outcome-linked training, Colgate's D2C experiment and a new history of the East India Company.

Understanding tariff, and the hike

The recent power tariff hike in Jammu and Kashmir has created quite a fierce debate on the social media and amongst the society. Many statistics were tossed around in news reports about the hike in different categories of consumers, the cost of purchase of energy and the recovery thereof. The standard practice across the country is to determine the tariff every year. In case of J&K it was last done in 2023 and hence was overdue. As a matter of fact, this exercise should have been completed before the start of the financial year i.e., latest by end of March. It is now being done after five months into the current financial year. As per the Electricity Act of 2003, electricity tariff is determined by the appropriate electricity regulatory commission. For state distribution utilities (like JPDCL and KPDCL), the State Electricity Regulatory Commission (SERC) decides retail supply tariffs for consumers within the state. Prior to reorganisation of the State in 2019, Jammu & Kashmir had its State Electricity Regulatory Commission (SERC) which determined the tariff. After the reorganisation SERC was replaced by Joint Electricity Regulatory Commission (JERC). The operating principles of the Commission, however, remain the same i.e., to determine tariff in a transparent way while being guided by the need to ensure efficiency, protect consumer interests, and progressively reduce cross-subsidies while moving toward the actual cost of supply. The tariff policy under the Act also requires a fair, open, and transparent process for all parts of the electricity sector i.e., generation, transmission, and distribution. The Commission determines the tariff through a cost-based approach, where the regulator examines expenses such as power purchase cost, operation and maintenance, capital cost, return on equity, and other approved costs. The process involves submission of a petition by the utility (JPDCL or KPDCL in our case) to JERC in which it submits its accounts as regards the purchase of energy, the losses, the cost of distributing it to consumers. The JERC is expected to check these in detail and satisfy themselves to their correctness. Once found in order the expense is allowed in case the expense is not admissible or it is more than the standard norm the Regulator can allow part, or completely disallow the expense. If the State Government wants to keep consumer tariffs below the level fixed by the Commission, it can provide a subsidy in advance through its budget provision. This means the legal tariff can remain cost-reflective while selected consumer groups receive relief through government support. The case in point is the often discussed 200 units of free power. While the utility will submit its petition and the Regulator will fix the tariff, the government can decide to foot the bill for 200 units of the consumers at the rate determined by JERC. This way there is no adverse impact on the financial health of the utility (JPDCL or KPDCL). The utilities (JPDCL or KPDCL) estimate the cost of purchasing and distributing the energy and these calculations are to be checked and verified by the Regulator who then accordingly determines the tariff to be paid by the consumers. Prior to unbundling of the power sector, which led to creation of the utilities, the Power Development Department worked out the costings and petitioned the Regulator for determination of tariff. The utilities are commercial entities who are mandated to provide energy to the consumers in an efficient and competitive manner. It is worth mentioning here that the electricity tariff in J&K is amongst the lowest in the country. Based on existing tariff structure our average domestic tariff is Rs 3.90 per unit while the two states having tariff lower than us were Himachal Pradesh and Tamil Nadu, both with average domestic tariff marginally lower at Rs 3.80 per unit. States like Maharashtra and West Bengal have an average domestic tariff of Rs 8.20 and Rs 7.40 per unit. Incidentally, J&K had the highest T&D Losses in the country. In the year 2023-24 J&Ks losses stood at 48% followed by Arunachal Pradesh at 34% while the All India average was well below 20%. In the last few years these losses have been now substantially reduced are somewhere between 35 to 40%. This is a huge achievement and with the efforts of the utilities and cooperation of the consumers it should be possible to bring the figure down to the national average of around 15%. With the reduction in the T&D losses the tariff will also stabilise and the subsidy component currently funded by the UT Government will be used towards funding other welfare schemes. Equally, the other big achievement is the installation of pre-paid meters. The pre-paid concept itself is so alien to most of us particularly when it had been ingrained in us that electricity should be supplied free of cost. Though there is still a lot of work to do on that front commendable strides have been made in this important area. Without the cooperation of the consumers neither of these two achievements would have been possible. Frankly, a few years back nobody could have thought that such reduction in the losses and on installation of meters was achievable in such a short duration. Both the initiatives needed a complete change of mindset to be successful. Now looking at the financials projected in the tariff petition for the year 2026-2027 the projected cost of purchase and distribution of electricity for the two utilities i.e., JPDCL and KPDCL, is Rs 10276 crores. Out of this, Rs 7856 crores are expected to be collected leaving a shortfall in revenue collection of Rs 2421 crores. This amount of Rs 2421 crores is being funded by the government and will not be passed on to the consumers. Since an amount of Rs 502 crores is expected to be collected by increasing the tariff it implies that the actual shortfall in revenue collection, without increase in tariff would have been Rs 2923 crores. While a figure of 6.83% increase in tariff has been mentioned, this figure for consumers other than domestic, is much higher. Only in case of the BPL consumers it is unchanged at Rs 1.40 per unit subject to a maximum of 30 units per month. A preliminary review of the 334-page order issued by the JERC throws up a number of questions that demand clarification: i. If both JPDCL and KPDCL in their tariff petitions had asked for only a 5% across-the-board increase why did JERC approve a much higher tariff structure across different categories of consumers? What is the rationale behind this additional increase? ii. As per the Order the current hike will be effective 1 Sep 26 and will be valid till 31 Mar 27. What happens after Mar 2027? iii. Since the cost of purchase and distribution of electricity is for the full financial year (26-27) and the new tariff regime will be implemented only from 1 Sep 26, how will the full amount of Rs 502 crores be collected by billing at revised tariff for only 7 months (Sep 26 to Mar 27) instead of estimated 12 months in the petition? iv. The Order has considered Time of Day tariff. While it will have an impact the billing for domestic consumers during the peak hours because of 10% surcharge, it will positively effect the commercial and industrial consumers during the solar hours. Most of the commercial establishments and industries operate during the day and thus their bills for solar hour consumption will be reduced by 20% because of the rebate on ToD tariff. The impact of the rebate and of surcharge has not been captured in the calculations. v. The Order has not considered the impact of roof top solar units. Because of the generation from these roof top solar installations there will be lesser withdrawal of energy from the system and thence lesser purchase of energy from grid. Even though the installed capacity is small, it is only proper to capture its impact in the Order. For the hearing on KPDCL petition there hasnt been much of a public consultation and participation. Only three stakeholders attended the hearing of KPDCL and as can be seen from the Order they did not engage in any interaction during the hearing nor had they submitted any objections against the KPDCL petition. However, in the hearing held in Jammu for the JPDCL petition there were 32 stakeholders / consumers present in the hearing and a total of 13 objections were submitted against the proposed hike of 5% in the JPDCL petition. Going forward, for utilities to win the confidence of consumers, it is time to invest in transparent public outreach and shift toward a partnership-based approach. Engaging stakeholders is not optional; continuous engagement with stakeholders is critical to ensuring that the public not only understands but also supports the initiatives and programmes launched by the utilities. Iftikhar A Drabu is a Civil Engineer

Setting of stars in the universe

Furthermore I call to witness the setting (positioning) of the Stars. And that is indeed a mighty adjuration (oath) if ye but knew (56: 75, 76) The Holy Verses in Surah Al Waqiah (events) relates to events in Universal Order or Universal Scheme of things. Waqiah is the pleural of Waqu (occurrence) such as the event/occurrence of setting (positioning) of stars. The Holy Verses in the related Surah have a mystical aura besides stating a scientific fact, 1400 years before it was established as an astronomical fact, and established by norms of physics as well, what we may jointly call Astrophysics. The mystical aura relates to the fact that is universally accepted by men of faith, All Light is relative, except the Light of Allah the setting/positioning of stars is a symbol of humility before the power, beauty and goodness of Allah (SwT). On a similar mystical plane, the import of if ye but knew relates to a discerning mind turning deep attention to the mysteries of nature, as enshrined in Holy Quran. The discerning mind takes us to scientific know-how of balance of stars being maintained between the expansions due to nuclear reactions on the one hand and intense gravitation on the other. The billions upon billions of stars in the universe are balanced within an incredibly computerized order. According to one view, nuclear reactions also serve as the seeds to galaxies in the form of quasars. Quasars (White Holes) the stellar location is a store of incredible amounts of energy, while Black Holes signify the location left vacant by the demise of a star. While the mystical aura is the feed of the soul, the astrophysical fact relates to the Hikmat (Wisdom) of Quran-ul-Hakim.

VC JKLCMA takes on-site assessment of cleanliness around SKICC, LalitGhat

Srinagar, Aug 27:The Vice Chairman, Jammu and Kashmir Lake Conservation and Management Authority (JKLCMA), Khurshid Ahmad Shah, on Thursday undertook an extensive on-site assessment of the areas around SKICC and LalitGhat in connection with the forthcoming 1st International Film Festival, scheduled to be held from September 7 to 10, 2026. The Vice Chairman was accompanied by Collector LCMA and other senior officers during the inspection. During the visit, the Vice Chairman reviewed the cleanliness and overall maintenance of the designated areas and directed the concerned field staff to undertake necessary cleaning measures on priority. He stressed the need to ensure that the surroundings of SKICC and LalitGhat remain clean, well-maintained and presentable ahead of the international event. For the special cleanliness drive, four machines, including three harvesters and one Water Master, have been deployed. The machinery will facilitate the removal of aquatic weeds and other floating material, thereby improving the overall appearance and water surface conditions around the designated areas. The Vice Chairman called for timely completion of all cleanliness-related measures and emphasized sustained monitoring of the area to maintain high standards throughout the festival period. The JKLCMA has reiterated its commitment to ensuring clean and well-maintained surroundings at the venues and adjoining areas, in view of the participation of national and international guests in the 1st International Film Festival.

Former SMC Commissioner Ghazanfar Ali passes away

Srinagar, Aug 27:Former senior bureaucrat, politician, and Commissioner of the Srinagar Municipal Corporation (SMC), Ghazanfar Ali, passed away on Thursday night at SMHS Hospital. According to his family, Ghazanfar Ali had suffered a major heart attack on May 18, 2026, following which he was admitted to the Intensive Care Unit (ICU) of SMHS Hospital, Srinagar, where he underwent treatment. He was later discharged from the hospital. However, his condition reportedly deteriorated on Thursday, and he breathed his last at around 10 pm, leaving his family, friends, colleagues and well-wishers in deep shock and grief. His demise has been widely mourned, with condolences pouring in from people who knew and worked with him.

Providing quality health care to citizens is our obligation: CM Omar

Srinagar, Aug 27:Chief Minister Omar Abdullah on Thursday called for a balanced and integrated healthcare strategy that combines the development of advanced quaternary care with strengthening of primary and secondary healthcare services across Jammu and Kashmir. Addressing the valedictory function of the Quaternary Healthcare and Research Summit: 4th J&K Medical Conference-2026 at the Sher-e-Kashmir International Convention Centre (SKICC), CM Omar said that while scaling tertiary healthcare into the fourth tier would enhance the capacity to provide highly specialised treatment, it must be accompanied by focused efforts to strengthen healthcare delivery at the grassroots. The three-day summit, held from August 25 to 27, was organised by the Sher-i-Kashmir Institute of Medical Sciences (SKIMS), Soura, under the aegis of NITI Aayog, Government of India, in strategic collaboration with AIIMS New Delhi and PGIMER Chandigarh, along with AIIMS Jammu and AIIMS Awantipora. The conference was themed 'Scaling Tertiary into Quaternary Healthcare: A National Strategy for Advanced Care.' The CM said providing quality healthcare to citizens was one of the fundamental obligations of the government, adding that the medical profession was characterised by continuous learning, innovation and advancement. Referring to the concept of quaternary healthcare discussed during the summit, CM Omar said the fourth tier could play an important role in decongesting tertiary care institutions. However, he cautioned that merely creating a higher tier would not adequately address the pressures confronting premier healthcare institutions unless the underlying gaps in the primary and secondary healthcare system were addressed. While there are certain aspects of quality care that can certainly be improved by upgrading SKIMS to a quaternary healthcare institution, the fact is that it will not resolve the pressures that SKIMS finds itself under. These pressures are not because of a top-down vacuum; they are because of a weakness at the foundation level, the CM said. He said that institutions such as SKIMS were essentially referral hospitals meant to cater to patients requiring highly specialised treatment. However, gaps at the primary and secondary levels often resulted in premier tertiary institutions having to undertake procedures and treatments that should ideally be available at lower levels of healthcare. CM Omar cited routine surgical procedures such as gallbladder and appendicitis surgeries as examples of the burden being placed on tertiary institutions because of deficiencies in the lower tiers of the healthcare system. This defeats the purpose of the entire three-tier model of tertiary, secondary and primary healthcare, he said, stressing that strengthening the foundation of the healthcare system was essential for the successful functioning of both tertiary and quaternary institutions. The CM welcomed the conference held under the aegis of NITI Aayog and described the participation of leading institutions such as AIIMS New Delhi, PGIMER Chandigarh and J&Ks own institutions as an important opportunity for meaningful collaboration. He expressed hope that the engagement would translate into sustained cooperation, knowledge-sharing and institutional partnerships, particularly as J&K works towards strengthening its advanced healthcare ecosystem in line with the vision of a developed India by 2047. CM Omar said the government would have to remain equally focused on ensuring access to good-quality basic healthcare beyond the two major urban centres of Jammu and Srinagar. We need to ensure good quality healthcare in rural J&K. I am not saying that we can either target or expect to provide SKIMS quality care in rural J&K. That is not the aim. But what we need to be able to ensure is that we can provide good quality basic healthcare beyond the two twin capital cities of J&K, he said. The CM said a combination of strong primary and secondary healthcare services with an advanced level of specialised quaternary care would place Jammu and Kashmir in a stronger position to meet the healthcare needs of its people. He also underlined the importance of ensuring that patients from J&K do not have to travel outside for advanced treatment. CM Omar recalled that SKIMS was established with the fundamental objective of providing the most needy patients with the best possible healthcare within J&K. That is what we hope going ahead as SKIMS transitions from tertiary care to the fourth tier, he said, assuring that the government would make every possible effort, within the financial limitations of J&K, to provide SKIMS with the infrastructure required for its next phase of development. The CM said infrastructure remained one of the principal factors determining the ability of healthcare institutions to retain and attract highly skilled professionals. He expressed confidence in the quality of human resources available in J&K, saying its doctors, nurses and paramedical staff were second to none. Our human resource is second to none. Our nurses, our paramedics and more than anything else our doctors are the best that you will find, CM Omar said. Highlighting the presence of J&K-trained doctors in every continent around the world, particularly in the Gulf and Middle East, he said many professionals were compelled to seek opportunities outside of J&K because of limitations in facilities and infrastructure. The CM called for a concerted effort to create conditions that could facilitate a reverse brain drain, enabling doctors from J&K working outside to return and contribute to the healthcare system in their home state. How do we ensure that we provide the best possible facilities, the best possible infrastructure so that we can create a situation where tomorrow there is a reverse brain drain? Instead of exporting our doctors from J&K, we start welcoming many of them back to our own shores, he said. CM Omar said achieving this objective would strengthen both tertiary and quaternary healthcare in J&K and contribute significantly towards building a self-reliant and advanced healthcare system. He emphasised that the recommendations emerging from the summit should move beyond being a theoretical exercise and be translated into action on ground, practically . I hope that the recommendations are not only a theoretical exercise but are put in a shape where they can be given practical implementation, the CM said. He said the summit had provided a valuable platform for collaboration among premier healthcare institutions, NITI Aayog, policymakers, clinicians and researchers, and expressed hope that the deliberations would result in tangible improvements in healthcare delivery and advanced medical services in J&K. On the occasion, CM Omar released the book Platinum Pearls in General Surgery Super Specialities and the souvenir SKIMS Journey of Transformation. He also presented awards to nine winners of the Quiz Competition, Poster Presentation and Oral Presentation categories. Minister for Health and Medical Education Sakeena Masood Itoo, MLA PamporeRetd Justice HasnainMasoodi, Additional Chief Secretary to the Chief Minister Dheeraj Gupta, Director SKIMS Prof Mohammad Ashraf Ganie, Dean SKIMS Medical College Prof Fazlul Q Parray and Organising Co-Chair Prof Aejaz Ahsan Baba were present on the occasion. Former Directors of SKIMS, faculty members, officers of SKIMS and officers and officials of the Health and Medical Education Department also attended the valedictory ceremony. The summit brought together leading medical institutions, clinicians, researchers, policy makers and healthcare professionals to deliberate on advanced care, research, institutional collaboration and the roadmap for scaling tertiary healthcare into a quaternary healthcare ecosystem.

Recruitment rules of most departments are outdated, obsolete: PSC

Srinagar, Aug 27:The Jammu and Kashmir Public Service Commission (PSC) has called for an overhaul of Recruitment Rules across government departments, observing that rules framed decades ago have become very old, outdated, obsolete and, in several cases, redundant in the face of rapidly changing administrative, technological and professional requirements. The recommendation figures prominently in the commissions annual report for 2025-26 and comes against the backdrop of a recruitment system that handled a massive volume of applications during the year. As reported earlier, JKPSC received 94,546 applications against 1263 posts during 2025-26, eventually making 1152 selections. The commission has now linked the scale and complexity of contemporary government recruitment with the need to fundamentally update the rules governing entry, qualifications, promotion and career progression in government service. Recruitment Rules of most of the State Government Departments framed decades ago are very old, outdated, obsolete and have become redundant and require their revision and updating to keep pace with the fast changing social, economic and technological scenario, the commission states in its report. It says the revision is necessary not merely to update old provisions but also to ensure that the government has the efficiency and expertise required for handling assignments of complex nature in view of the diversification and specialisation taking place in governance and the functioning of government organisations. The commission has specifically identified Education, Medical Sciences, and Computer Sciences as areas where the recruitment framework needs to accommodate and incentivise diversification. It is also necessary to accommodate and incentivise diversification in the field of Education, Medical Sciences and Computer Sciences, the report states. The commission has also made a direct connection between outdated Recruitment Rules and service litigation. It says aligning the rules with the actual functional requirements of government departments would help reduce disputes arising from recruitment and promotion provisions. The updating and revision of Recruitment Rules to the matching requirement of the functioning of the Government Departments will also bring down the incidence of litigation, it observes. The commission has consequently recommended that Recruitment Rules across government departments be revised and updated urgently, including a review of categories of posts falling within the purview of the Departmental Promotion Committees (DPCs) and the Public Service Commission. The report goes beyond recruitment qualifications and calls for restructuring the career hierarchy within government services. While reviewing the recruitment rules, there is a need to build proper pyramids to provide reasonable vertical movement in the ladders, the commission says. It acknowledges that the structure cannot be uniform across all government services but maintains that career progression can be made compatible across different services. The concern is significant because the absence of a properly structured promotional hierarchy can create bottlenecks in career progression, particularly where large numbers of employees compete for a limited number of higher-level posts. The commission has also raised questions over the minimum qualifications prescribed for promotional positions. While amending the Recruitment Rules, the Departments also need to consider the minimum qualification for the posts, it states. The report notes that it has come across cases in which employees holding certain categories of posts are eligible for promotion to the next level despite not possessing the basic minimum qualification prescribed under the existing Recruitment Rules of the concerned department. The commission has therefore called for departments to examine qualification requirements as part of the revision exercise rather than merely modifying recruitment or promotional ratios. Another procedural issue highlighted in the report is the mechanism for obtaining vigilance clearance. Mechanism of Vigilance Clearance needs to be reviewed as the delays in submitting the Vigilance Clearance cause delays in clearance of the proposals, the commission says. The observation points to an administrative bottleneck in the processing of promotion and other service-related cases, with delays in obtaining vigilance clearance affecting the disposal of proposals. The commission has also proposed a different mechanism for handling selection-grade cases. It has recommended that departments constitute screening committees for considering officers for the grant of selection grade instead of placing such proposals before the DPC or PSC. The departments should constitute screening committees for considering officers for the grant of selection grade, and such proposals need not be placed before the DPC and PSC, the report states. It further recommends that necessary amendments be made to recruitment rules wherever required to exempt selection grade from the DPC and PSC process. The commission has also sought greater adherence to its advice and recommendations by the government. The advice and recommendations tendered by the commission need to be followed, it states, adding that where the government delays in acting on its advice, the commission should be kept informed. The recommendations acquire greater significance when viewed against the workload handled by JKPSC during the year. The commission received 94,546 applications for 1263 posts - an average of nearly 75 applications for every post referred to it. Despite the large volume of applications, it made 1152 selections during 2025-26.

Birdi passes the baton, Kumar takes charge

Srinagar, Aug 27:Senior IPS officer Sujit Kumar on Thursday evening took over as Inspector General of Police (IGP), Kashmir Zone, after the Jammu and Kashmir Home Department transferred him from IGP Security, J&K, as part of a 14-officer police reshuffle ordered with immediate effect. Kumar, a 2007-batch officer of the AGMUT cadre, has been posted as IG Kashmir Zone against an available vacancy, succeeding Vidhi Kumar Birdi, who headed the Kashmir police establishment and also held additional charge of IGP Armed Police Kashmir. Birdi, a 2003-batch officer, had earlier been cleared for central deputation as Inspector General in the CRPF; his relieving had been held back during the Amarnath Ji Yatra and is now linked to the vacancy at the Kashmir Zone. The takeover places Kumar at the head of the Valley police force at a time when the security grid remains focused on counter-terror operations, intelligence coordination, protection of vital installations and close working with the Army and Central Armed Police Forces. Kumar assumed the new charge after more than two years as IGP Security J&K, a posting he held from August 2024 following his functional promotion to the IGP rank. In that role he oversaw the security architecture for protected persons and key installations. Earlier this month, Security Headquarters granted in-situ promotion to 1,028 personnel of different ranks under a process chaired by him. His field record in the Union Territory includes DIG North Kashmir, DIG Central Kashmir with additional charge of South Kashmir, DIG CID Kashmir, DIG Udhampur-Reasi Range and DIG Jammu-Kathua-Samba Range. He has also served in Ladakh during his career. In March 2025 the Ministry of Home Affairs approved his deputation as DIG in the CRPF for five years, but he was not relieved and continued in J&K.

Nepal-Tibet flash floods: Toll surges to 392; nearly 1,500 missing as fresh flood threat looms

Kathmandu, Aug 27: The death toll from the massive Nepal-Tibet flash floods rose to 392 on Thursday, as rescuers raced against time to trace hundreds of people still missing, including 290 Indian nationals. Of the 392 victims, 389 died in the flash floods in Nepal, while three were killed in neighbouring Tibet. A Nepal Police statement said 796 people, including 50 foreigners, have so far been rescued from affected areas by helicopters, while another 796 have been evacuated by land. It did not, however, specify the nationalities of the foreigners. The death toll from the floods has risen to 389, the statement said. An ice-rock avalanche triggered by a glacial collapse near the Nepal-Tibet border sent a torrent of water, mud and debris downstream through central Nepal on Wednesday, devastating towns and villages, washing away homes, vehicles, roads and bridges, and damaging hydropower projects. A fresh flood threat persisted downstream after a new barrier lake formed near the source of the Bhote Koshi river system, with authorities warning that a possible breach could trigger another surge in the river and downstream areas. Nepal authorities reported 910 people missing, as rescuers searched river corridors clogged by mud and debris and families crowded hospitals in a desperate hunt for loved ones. The disaster also left 558 people missing in Tibet, officials said, taking the number of people reported missing on the two sides of the border to 1,468. The disaster has also triggered an urgent effort by India to trace its nationals, with the Ministry of External Affairs (MEA) saying 290 Indian nationals remain uncontactable. New Delhi is making urgent efforts to ascertain their whereabouts and coordinate their rescue, the ministry said. The MEA said 84 Indian nationals had been rescued, including 63 workers employed at the under-construction Trishuli-I run-of-river hydroelectric project and 21 from Tamil Nadu. Around 200 Indian nationals on the Tibet side have sought assistance for evacuation, the MEA said. External Affairs Minister S Jaishankar, after a high-level meeting attended virtually by India's envoys in Kathmandu and Beijing, said urgent efforts were underway to ascertain the status and well-being of Indians in the flood-affected areas. He said the ministry was coordinating with the Nepalese side, other ministries, state governments, tour operators and relevant authorities. India has also stepped up relief assistance to Nepal. After sending 10 tonnes of Humanitarian Assistance and Disaster Relief (HADR) material on Wednesday, it sent another 37.5 tonnes of HADR material, medicines and food packets on Thursday in a military transport aircraft, taking the total dispatched to 47.5 tonnes. Chinese authorities estimated that about 2 million cubic metres of water had accumulated in the new barrier lake by Thursday morning, with another 3 million cubic metres potentially flowing into it over the next three days, raising concerns that the natural barrier could breach. The lake has formed near the confluence of the Chhochen Khola and Purepu Tsangpo rivers, which originate in Tibet and flow into Nepal as part of the Bhote Koshi river system. Nepal's Department of Hydrology and Meteorology said it had received information from Chinese authorities about the lake and warned of a continuing risk of flooding in the Bhote Koshi and Trishuli river areas. It urged people to stay away from riverbanks and remain in safe places. Travellers, security personnel and search-and-rescue teams were also advised to remain alert. Chinese authorities are monitoring the lake and carrying out flood simulations and risk assessments. A Chinese rescue team with communications and detection equipment has reached Gyirong to assess the upstream blockage, which officials fear could cause a secondary disaster and complicate ongoing rescue work. Nepalese security personnel have so far evacuated more than 800 people from affected districts, while helicopters, drones and ground teams continue to search isolated settlements, riverbanks and downstream areas. The floods first devastated Rasuwa district, about 160 km from capital city Kathmandu, after the ice-rock avalanche and debris flow near the Nepal-Tibet border. A torrent of water, mud, rocks and debris tore through settlements including Timure and Rasuwagadhi before surging downstream through the Bhote Koshi and Trishuli river system. A preliminary assessment by Nepalese authorities and a revised analysis by the US Geological Survey (USGS) have identified a glacial collapse and debris flow, rather than an earthquake, as the trigger for the disaster. The ice-rock avalanche struck the Lhende River, temporarily blocking its flow before the natural barrier gave way and unleashed a massive surge downstream into the Bhote Koshi and Trishuli river system. Nepal's disaster management authority said a debris-laden flood occurred in the Lhende River following an ice-rock landslide near the Nepal-China border, about 20 km northeast of Rasuwagadhi border city. The same flood subsequently entered the Trishuli river after passing through Timure, it said. The USGS said its analysis of long-period seismic waves showed that the event initially reported as a 4.4-magnitude earthquake was generated by a glacial collapse and debris flow, rather than an earthquake. Authorities are still assessing the full extent of the destruction. Nepal's Prime Minister Balendra Shah visited Bidur Municipality in Nuwakot on Thursday to inspect areas affected by the flash floods. Meanwhile, Chinese Premier Li Qiang visited flood-hit Gyirong Township on Thursday to oversee rescue and relief operations. Chinese state media reported that the People's Liberation Army's Western Theatre Command had also sent a directing group to the affected area to coordinate military rescue operations. Images and videos from the affected areas showed the scale of destruction, with buildings swept away or left standing amid thick deposits of mud and debris, vehicles buried or carried away, roads ripped apart and bridges washed away. Large stretches of riverbank settlements in Rasuwa and Nuwakot districts were covered in mud, rocks and wreckage. The Department of Roads in Nepal said the entire 42-km road section between Betrawati in Nuwakot and Rasuwagadhi was damaged at multiple points, while several concrete bridges were washed away. Nepal's National Disaster Risk Reduction and Management Authority (NDRRMA) said the floods damaged 35 motorable bridges, 45 suspension bridges and about 40 km of black-topped roads, severely disrupting movement across the affected districts. The Trishuli and Devighat hydropower projects, along with other power infrastructure, were also damaged. Efforts were underway to reopen the Galchhi-Baireni road in Dhading, which was blocked after the flash floods in Rasuwa. The route is a key link between Kathmandu and other parts of Nepal and serves as an important transit corridor for heavy and light traffic, including during regional blockades and disaster-response operations. The destruction has severely complicated rescue operations. Security personnel and local authorities have been scouring riverbanks and downstream areas for survivors and recovering bodies carried by the Bhote Koshi and Trishuli rivers. Nepal Foreign Minister Shisir Khanal on Thursday held telephone conversations with top officials in the US, the UK and several other countries. They expressed solidarity with Nepal and committed to helping the government in its search and rescue works, Khanal's office said. Nepal Police said 137 bodies have been recovered from Chitwan, the highest number among the affected districts. Bodies have also been recovered from Rasuwa, Nuwakot, Dhading, Gorkha, Tanahun and Nawalparasi districts. At least 44 Nepali Army personnel, 28 Nepal Police personnel and 13 Armed Police Force personnel are among those whose whereabouts remain unknown, officials said. Around 160 people working at hydropower projects and customs offices have also been reported missing. The search has extended to hospitals, where hundreds of relatives have gathered to look for family members and friends missing since Wednesday. At Tribhuvan University Teaching Hospital in Kathmandu, authorities posted lists of people brought to the facility so families could check whether their relatives had been rescued or were receiving treatment. Photographs of those who died were also displayed, while desks were set up to record details of people whose whereabouts remained unknown. The scenes were similar at Bharatpur Hospital in Chitwan, where families searched for relatives as authorities struggled to cope with the growing number of bodies and the mortuary was reportedly running out of space. Officials rescued 27 foreign tourists stranded in Rasuwa on Thursday, including 11 Indians, four South Koreans, two Italians and two US citizens. The nationalities of the remaining eight had not been confirmed by the Nepal Tourism Board. They were airlifted to Kathmandu by the Nepal Army. Most of the Indian tourists affected were travelling towards Kailash Mansarovar in Tibet or Gosainkunda in Nepal's Bagmati Province. The disaster could rank among Nepal's deadliest in many years, with rescuers still unable to reach some areas because of damaged roads, washed-away bridges, deep deposits of mud and debris and the continuing risk of further flooding.

Nepals deadly flood is a warning no one is listening to

A devastating flash flood struck Nepal's Rasuwa district, causing significant loss of life and missing persons. Hundreds of Indian pilgrims were among those missing after the disaster hit the Kailash Mansarovar route. This flood, originating from Tibet, highlights Nepal's vulnerability and lack of early warning systems. The absence of real-time data sharing with China exacerbates the situation for downstream communities.

Canadas trade war is forcing a rethink of who its friends are

Canada faces a trade war with the United States after imposing significant tariffs. Prime Minister Mark Carney stated Canada was attacked and retaliated accordingly. This conflict highlights Canada's deep economic dependence on its southern neighbor. Diversification efforts are underway, but trusted partners remain limited. Canada must expand its strategic trust beyond familiar cultural spheres.

Furlough should not be a free pass

Gurmeet Ram Rahim Singh received his seventeenth furlough after a 2017 rape conviction. He has spent 435 days outside prison since his sentencing. Haryana's law allows furlough for good conduct and rehabilitation incentives. However, the state law excludes 'hardcore convicted prisoners' from temporary releases. Singh's murder convictions for criminal conspiracy prevent his classification as hardcore.

Retail investors show increased discernment in IPO market, leading to more sober pricing

Retail investors are now more discerning in the IPO market, which is a positive development. Nearly one-third of mainboard IPOs in 2026 saw undersubscribed retail portions. Foreign investors are avoiding issues with high valuations, while domestic institutions seek larger allotments. Companies are also pricing their offerings more realistically, indicating a maturing market. This shift reduces the risk of primary and secondary market valuations decoupling.

The $13 billion Hugging Face deal would crown Nvidia king of AI

The deal would create a strange paradox. Nvidia wants open models to thrive, but for a more self-interested reason: to stop OpenAI and other large AI companies from threatening its chip business.

The Daily Crossword

A daily crossword is portrayed as a quiet ritual that combines wit, wordplay and patience. Its appeal lies not in solving it quickly but in navigating ambiguity, learning humility and gradually seeing answers fit together.

Krishn's bliss

The passage contrasts human suffering in the material world with the eternal bliss of God in Vaikunth. It presents the soul as seeking union with the Supreme and describes Krishna as the Divine who descends to Earth to protect righteousness and defeat evil.

14 police officers transferred in J&K; Sujit Kumar posted IG Kashmir, Tejinder Singh IG Jammu

Srinagar, Aug 27: The Jammu and Kashmir Government on Thursday ordered transfers and postings of 14 police officers with immediate effect. As per Government Order issued by Home Department, Shri M.K. Sinha, IPS (AGMUT:1996), ADG HQ, has been transferred and posted as ADG CID J&K vice Shri Nitish Kumar, IPS. Shri Nitish Kumar, IPS (AGMUT:1999), ADG CID J&K has been transferred and posted as ADG Armed Police J&K, against an available vacancy. Shri Uttam Chand, IPS (AGMUT:2002), IGP (Police Operations & Services) Police Headquarters has been transferred and posted as IGP Railways, J&K vice Shri Vivek Gupta, IPS. The officer shall also continue to hold the additional charge of IGP (Police Operations & Services) Police Headquarters, till further orders. Shri Bhim Sen Tuti, IPS (AGMUT:2004), IG Jammu Zone has been transferred and posted as IG HQ, J&K, against an available vacancy. Shri Sujit Kumar, IPS (AGMUT:2007), IG Security J&K has been transferred and posted as IG Kashmir Zone, against an available vacancy. Shri Vivek Gupta, IPS (AGMUT:2007), IGP Railways, J&K has been transferred and posted as IGP Security J&K vice Shri Sujit Kumar, IPS. Shri Tejinder Singh, IPS (AGMUT:2008), IG CID J&K has been transferred and posted as IG Jammu Zone vice Shri Bhim Sen Tuti, IPS. Shri Shakti Kumar Pathak, IPS (AGMUT:2009) has been designated as Director, Anti-Corruption Bureau. Shri Mubassir Latifi Ameer, IPS (AGMUT:2011) DIG (Personnel) PHQ holding additional charge of DIG Training, PHQ, has been transferred and posted as DIG IR Kashmir, against an available vacancy. Shri Sahil Sarangal, IPS (AGMUT:2017), SSP Handwara has been transferred and posted as SSP Pulwama, against an available vacancy. Shri Sunny Gupta, IPS (AGMUT:2020), Addl SP Anantnag has been transferred and posted as SSP Kishtwar vice Shri Naresh Singh. Shri Tahir Saleem Khan, (JKPS:2001), SO to IG Kashmir Zone has been transferred and posted as SSP Handwara vice Shri Sahil Sarangal, IPS. Shri Muzaffar Ahmad Shah, (JKPS:2004), SSP SCW Kashmir has been transferred and posted as SO to IG Kashmir Zone vice Shri Tahir Saleem Khan. Shri Naresh Singh, (JKPS:2004), SSP Kishtwar has been transferred and posted as SSP Rajouri, against an available vacancy. The order has been issued by order of the Lieutenant Governor. (GNS)

Northern Army commander reviews security in south Kashmir

Srinagar, Aug 27: Northern Army Commander Lt Gen Pratik Sharma on Thursday reviewed security scenario and operational preparedness of the troops in south Kashmir, and directed them to remain proactive and mission-ready to sustain operational dominance. During his interaction with the troops, the Army commander admired them for their professionalism and indomitable spirit. Lt Gen Pratik Sharma, #ArmyCdrNC, visited South #Kashmir to review the security environment and operational preparedness of deployed troops. He was briefed on evolving security dynamics, operational challenges and measures undertaken to strengthen the security grid, the Army's Northern Command said in a post on X. It said deliberations focused on technology integration for enhancing surveillance, intelligence and operational awareness to render a swift and decisive response to emerging threats. In a motivational interaction with the troops, the Army Commander commended them for their professionalism, high morale and indomitable spirit. He exhorted them to remain proactive, adaptive and mission-ready to sustain operational dominance, the Northern Command added.

Congress will not join Cabinet until statehood restored: Tariq Karra

Srinagar, Aug 27: Jammu and Kashmir Pradesh Congress Committee (JKPCC) President Tariq Hameed Karra on Thursday ruled out the party's entry into the Omar Abdullah-led government, asserting that the Congress would not join the Cabinet until statehood was restored to Jammu and Kashmir. In the past two years, our stand has been absolutely clear. We will not become part of the Cabinet until statehood is restored. Supporting the National Conference government does not imply that we will join the Cabinet, Karra told Kashmir News Service (KNS). The JKPCC chief said the Congress had extended support to the National Conference with the sole objective of safeguarding the communal harmony and unity of Jammu and Kashmir. He said the restoration of statehood and protecting the rights of people over land, jobs and natural resources remained the party's foremost demand. Asserting that the Congress would continue to support the government against the BJP and divisive forces, Karra made it clear that the party reserved the right to raise issues concerning the people. Support does not mean silence. The Congress will stand with the people and continue to speak on issues that directly affect them, he said. Reacting sharply to the recent power tariff hike, the JKPCC chief termed the decision unjust and said the Congress had opposed it from the very beginning. He said the tariff increase came at a time when consumers were already grappling with mounting outstanding bills and the threat of disconnection. This power tariff hike is neither fair nor just. Placing an additional burden on consumers in such circumstances is not in the interest of the people. The government must look into the difficulties faced by ordinary consumers and protect their interests, Karra said, adding that supporting the government did not mean remaining silent on public issues. Earlier, a six-member Cabinet headed by Chief Minister Omar Abdullah was sworn in on October 16 last year, which did not include any Congress member. The National Conference, which is part of the INDIA opposition alliance, is opposed to the revocation of Article 370. In the elections held last year, the NC emerged as the single largest party and staked claim to form the government with Congress support. The Congress has since been extending outside support to the government while keeping the party's options open on joining the Cabinet.

Army soldier drowns in Gurez river

Bandipora, Aug 27: An Army soldier drowned in the Kishanganga River near Tarbal village in Gurez area of north Kashmirs Bandipora district on Thursday. The deceased has been identified as Ashiq Hussain Khan. Following the incident, a rescue operation was launched, during which the soldiers body was retrieved from the river. The body was subsequently shifted to Dawar Hospital for medico-legal formalities. Police have registered a case to ascertain the circumstances under which the soldier drowned in the river. [KNT]

Nepal flash floods: MEA sets up round-the-clock control room in Delhi

New Delhi, Aug 27: In view of the flood situation in Nepal, the Ministry of External Affairs has set up a round-the-clock control room here to assist people. As the death toll from Nepal's devastating flash floods surged to 359 on Thursday, rescuers launched a race against time to trace hundreds still missing, including 288 Indian nationals. We have set up a control room in the Ministry of External Affairs here, which will function round-the-clock. Details of the helpline and the control room telephone numbers are being put out on our X handle, and you should be getting them soon. Our embassies, both in Kathmandu and in Beijing, have also set up 24x7 helplines, ministry spokesperson Randhir Jaiswal said at a media briefing here. Later, the MEA shared details of the control room in a statement. The control room can be contacted at +91 11 2308 8718 +91 11 2308 8719. For WhatsApp calls/messages: +91 9968291988. Email: situationroom@mea.gov.in, it said. The emergency contact numbers of the Indian embassy in Kathmandu are (also on WhatsApp): +977 985 131 6807; +977 970 910 7500; and +977 981 032 6117. The massive flash floods originating in Tibet swept through central Nepal on Wednesday, devastating several towns and villages, washing away critical bridges and crippling a dozen hydropower projects, affecting multiple districts. India on Thursday said it stands shoulder-to-shoulder with Nepal to help it deal with the crisis as rescue operations gathered momentum in the Himalayan nation. According to the MEA, Nepali authorities can be contacted at the following helpline numbers: Tourist Police: +977 9851289445; Nepal Army: +977 9851072914 (email: dgmi-foreign@nepalarmy.mil.np); NDRRMA: +977 9851320269 /+977 9849281097; Rasuwa Police: +977 9851254960; Assistant chief district officer, Rasuwa: +977 9851164422; Nuwakot Police: +977 9851282380; Assistant chief district officer, Nuwakot: +977 9851248777; Dhading Police: +977 9851229860; Chief district officer, Dhading: +977 9851247777; Chitwan Police: +977 9855013999; Assistant chief district officer, Chitwan: +977 9855088891.

Gold extends slide, falls Rs 800 to Rs 1.65 lakh/10g ahead of Rakshabandhan

New Delhi, Aug 27: Gold prices fell for the second straight session, declining by Rs 800 to Rs 1,65,700 per 10 grams in the national capital on Thursday, even as local markets geared up for Rakshabandhan celebrations. The yellow metal of 99.9 per cent purity had closed at Rs 1,66,500 per 10 grams on Wednesday. However, silver remained unchanged at Rs 2,50,500 per kilogram (inclusive of all taxes), according to local traders. The decline in gold comes a day before Rakshabandhan, when consumers traditionally step up purchases of gifts and jewellery. The festival, to be celebrated on Friday, is marked by the exchange of gifts between brothers and sisters, with gold and silver jewellery contributing significantly to festive purchases. Analysts said gold prices also fell due to a rebound in the US dollar and Treasury bond yields. Spot gold traded lower on Thursday as a recovery in the US dollar and Treasury yields weighed on the yellow metal following stronger-than-expected US inflation data, Saumil Gandhi, Senior Analyst of Commodities at HDFC Securities, said. Gold declined Rs 1,400 over the last two trading sessions, after touching Rs 1,67,100 per 10 grams on Tuesday. Akshat Siddhant, Lead Quant Analyst at investment platform Mudrex, said silver remained steady after its initial sell-off in the local markets. Market participants are also keeping an eye on the US Federal Reserve Chair Kevin Warsh's Jackson Hole speech on Friday, he said. Analysts said that any signal on the Fed's approach to inflation and interest rates could influence the dollar and Treasury yields, which in turn affect the appeal of assets such as gold. Globally, spot gold slipped marginally to trade at USD 4,585.88 per ounce. Spot gold prices traded lower as the US dollar index firmed up on inflation data, as Fed rate hike probability increased, Praveen Singh, Head of Commodities at Mirae Asset ShareKhan, said. Silver, however, showed greater resilience in the overseas markets, rising 0.31 per cent to USD 68.32 per ounce. Spot silver moved higher in Thursday's session as investors continued to seek safe-haven assets, with the white metal hovering around USD 68 per ounce, Gaurav Garg, Head of Research, Lemonn Markets Desk, said. On the broader commodity market, crude oil prices remained under pressure amid increased possibilities of the Strait of Hormuz reopening, Singh said. Investors will track the July advance trade balance and weekly jobs data from the US for fresh cues on the monetary policy, he added.

NITI Aayog meeting held at SKICC Srinagar

Altaf Bukhari urges maximum relief for fire victims, calls for decongestion in Downtown Srinagar

Panchayati Raj Ministry launches 'DAANVEER' initiative to strengthen rural digital infrastructure

New Delhi, Aug 27: The Ministry of Panchayati Raj invites public participation to become DAANVEERs and contribute towards strengthening digital infrastructure at the grassroots. DAANVEER, a people-led Computer Crowdsourcing Initiative, enables individuals and organizations to donate desktop computers directly to verified Gram Panchayats through a simple, transparent and technology-enabled mechanism. Complementing infrastructure support provided under Government programs, including the Rashtriya Gram Swaraj Abhiyan (RGSA), the initiative seeks to harness voluntary public participation to strengthen digital governance and service delivery at the grassroots. DAANVEER makes donating a computer to a Gram Panchayat as simple and convenient as an online purchase. Through the Meri Panchayat App, citizens can view Gram Panchayats verified by the respective State Governments requiring desktop computers and choose to support their own or any other eligible Gram Panchayat, all from their phone. On clicking Donate Computer, the donor is securely redirected to DigiHaat, an ONDC-enabled digital marketplace, without the need for separate registration. The selected Panchayats delivery address and recipient details are automatically populated, eliminating manual data entry. Donors can choose from standardized computer bundles aligned with prescribed technical specifications, make the payment digitally and track the order from confirmation and dispatch to delivery and acknowledgement. Following acknowledgement by the Gram Panchayat Secretary, the donor receives a digitally generated Certificate of Appreciation. Hence under the initiative, every stage of the donation journey, from order placement to delivery, can be tracked in real time, ensuring complete transparency. A computer donated through DAANVEER can strengthen a Gram Panchayats capacity to effectively use digital governance platforms for planning, financial management, record-keeping and citizen service delivery. The initiative combines this impact with a transparent donation process, enabling public to view the donation status of their Gram Panchayat and donors to digitally track their contribution. It also offers citizens living away from their native villages, including the Indian diaspora, philanthropic organizations and CSR partners, a credible avenue to contribute to grassroots digital infrastructure and reconnect with their villages. With more States onboarding eligible Gram Panchayats, DAANVEER has the potential to evolve into a nationwide movement for stronger and digitally empowered Panchayats. As on 27th August 2026, 75 donations have already been made, marking an enthusiastic response and growing public acceptance of this initiative. On successful completion, donors receive a Certificate of Appreciation, recognizing their contribution to strengthening local governance. DAANVEER represents an innovative model of participatory governance, enabling voluntary public participation to complement Government efforts in strengthening grassroots institutions. Citizens, philanthropists, organizations, CSR partners and members of the Indian diaspora are encouraged to come forward and become a DAANVEER.

India highlights scientific techniques for Snow Leopard Conservation at Moscow roundtable meeting

Srinagar, Aug 27: India participated in the Russian-Indian Roundtable Meeting on Snow Leopard Study and Conservation, held on 26.08.2026, at the A.N. Severtsov Institute of Ecology and Evolution of the Russian Academy of Sciences in Moscow, Russia. The meeting was organised within the framework of the Partnership Agreement between the Interregional Association Irbis and the International Big Cat Alliance (IBCA), signed in December 2025, with the objective of strengthening international cooperation in snow leopard research and conservation. The Ministry of Environment, Forest and Climate Change (MoEFCC), Government of India, delegation highlighted the countrys progress in the snow leopard conservation agenda through evolving science-based initiatives. Officials from the Wildlife Institute of India (WII) elaborated on advances in snow leopard population estimation, radio telemetry and genetic analysis, underscoring the growing role of scientific tools in strengthening conservation efforts. The meeting also brought together representatives of the Ministry of Natural Resources and Environment of the Russian Federation, A.N. Severtsov Institute of Ecology and Evolution of the Russian Academy of Sciences, Moscow Zoo, Rosprirodnadzor and leading experts in the field of snow leopard research and conservation. The Indian delegation participated in the Roundtable and thematic discussions focused on advancing collaborative approaches for conservation and scientific study of the species. The Roundtable provided an important platform for India and international partners to exchange knowledge and experiences and to strengthen cooperation in snow leopard research, monitoring and conservation.

MLAs get salary hike on Omar Abdullahs request, our plea still unaddressed: Sajad Parray

Watal Kadal Srinagar blaze leaves families devastated as at least 8 residential houses damaged

Officials from the Fire and Emergency Services Department said the fire call was received at around 4:47 pm, following which firefighting units from Fire Station Safa Kadal, M R Gunj, Headquarters, Rainawari and Babademb were rushed to the spot. Initially, one house caught fire, but because the houses are closely built and interconnected, the flames spread rapidly to adjoining structures. A total of seven houses were gutted in the incident while 2 other houses received minor damages due to water and heat, an official said, adding that the cause of the fire is under investigation. Witnesses said huge flames and thick plumes of smoke could be seen rising from the attic portions and upper floors of the houses, creating panic in the densely populated locality.

J-K police seizes 3 trucks carrying 49 cattle in Kathua, smugglers escape

Jammu, Aug 27: Police foiled three separate bovine smuggling bids in Jammu and Kashmir's Kathua district, rescuing 49 cattle and seizing three trucks allegedly used for transporting them, officials said on Thursday. In all the incidents, the trucks were heading from Punjab and the alleged smugglers managed to escape. In the first incident, a police team intercepted a truck at the dispatch point in Lakhanpur during a naka and check on Thursday, officials said. During checking, police found 17 cattle loaded in the vehicle in an inhumane manner and rescued them, besides seizing the truck, while its driver escaped from the spot, they said. A case under Section 223 of the Bharatiya Nyaya Sanhita (BNS) and Section 11 of the Prevention of Cruelty to Animals Act was registered at Police Station Lakhanpur, the officials said. In the other two incidents, police on Wednesday intercepted two trucks at Hatli Morh and Sawan Chak areas of Kathua. At Hatli Morh, the driver of the truck stopped the vehicle a few metres before the naka point and fled. During checking, 17 cattle were found loaded in the truck and rescued. The vehicle was seized, and a case was registered at Police Station Kathua, police said. At Sawan Chak, the truck driver also fled after stopping the vehicle a few metres away from the naka point. Fifteen cattle were found loaded in the truck and rescued, while the vehicle was seized. A case was registered at Police Station Kathua, they said. Further investigation is underway.

J&K Deputy CM says Congress likely to join government soon, attacks BJP over discrimination against Jammu

Srinagar, Aug 27: Jammu and Kashmir Deputy Chief Minister Surinder Choudhary said on Thursday that the Congress is expected to join the National Conference-led government soon, describing the move as a natural development given the two parties alliance. Choudhary said the National Conference had wanted Congress to become part of the government since the alliance was formed, but that the final decision had rested with the Congress. As far as Congress is concerned, ever since this government was formed, when we entered into the alliance, it was our desire and we wanted Congress to join, he said. But Congress was unable to take a decision. Now Congress is taking a decision, and I think everyone should be happy because it is an alliance partner. He said Congress joining the government would strengthen the administration and help it deliver for the people. If Congress also comes in, the government will run with greater strength and we will be able to work for the people, Choudhary said. Because it is our alliance partner, they have a right to come into the government. Asked what the National Conference was offering Congress, including the number of ministerial berths, Choudhary rejected the suggestion that the party was negotiating through inducements. We are not BJP people. We are not like the BJP people who do horse-trading, he said. These are relationships of the heart. We are people who connect hearts, and decisions taken from the heart last long and are for the betterment of the people. He added: It does not happen that we will bring someone by giving them greed or temptation. This is the work of the BJP. Deputy CM attacks BJP over Jammu discrimination Choudhary also launched a broadside against the BJP, accusing it of failing to address what he described as discrimination against Jammu. Responding to BJP claims that a cabinet reshuffle could bring down the government, he said the BJP should focus instead on issues affecting the region. He questioned why, according to him, there was no Jammu-based professor serving as vice-chancellor at any of Jammus universities and why no local doctor had become director of AIIMS. Is this not discrimination that professors and doctors from Jammu do not have the right to become vice-chancellors or directors? he asked. Are our professors so incompetent? Are our doctors so incompetent that they cannot become vice-chancellors? Can they not become directors of AIIMS, IIM or IIT? He urged the media in Jammu to question the BJP on these issues rather than focus on the National Conference. Tell them not to talk about things here and there. Tell them why discrimination against Jammu is still not ending, he said. Choudhary also alleged that Jammus business sector was suffering and challenged the BJP to explain how it planned to revive trade and industry in the region. He referred to the 28,000-crore industrial package for Jammu and Kashmir and questioned whether existing industries in Jammu had benefited from it. Go to the Gangyal Industrial Estate, go to Bari Brahmana Industrial Estate, go to Samba, go to Kathua and wherever our industrial estates are, he said. Ask whether the old industries of Jammu and Kashmir have received anything from the package. Nothing has been given. Power tariffs, inflation and cost of living The Deputy Chief Minister also defended the government on electricity tariffs, arguing that the issue should be viewed against the record of the previous BJP-PDP administration. You should compare the last 12 years, he said. Find out how much electricity rates increased during the BJP period and how high electricity bills were. He also pointed to the governments electricity amnesty measures and challenged the BJP to answer questions about the rising prices of basic commodities. Ask the BJP people how much sugar costs. Is it 70 or 75 a kilo? he said. Ask them how much pulses cost. Ask them the price of vegetables and onions. Choudhary said the impact of inflation was particularly severe on ordinary households. For a poor man who has only one bulb, what does he know whether the bill is bigger or smaller? he said. He knows the price of the sugar he needs for his tea. He also accused the BJP of failing to address rising education and healthcare costs. Ask them why fees in universities have increased, he said. Ask them about the fees in hospitals. These are important issues. We will take back Article 370 and statehood On Article 370 and statehood, Choudhary said the National Conference remained committed to restoring Jammu and Kashmirs special status and statehood. We will take back 370. We will take back special status. We will protect our childrens jobs and will not allow our poor peoples land to be taken by outsiders, he said. He argued that the BJP had itself made commitments regarding employment and land during the parliamentary debate following the 2019 changes. This was a promise made by the BJP, Choudhary said. It was said in Parliament that the jobs of Jammu and Kashmir would not be taken by outsiders and the land of the people of Jammu and Kashmir would not be taken by outsiders. He said the BJP therefore had an even greater responsibility to address the issues of special status and statehood. Stop counting the sacrifices of children Choudhary also criticised BJP leader Ashok Kaul over remarks concerning the number of BJP children who had died during militancy. He said the deaths of young people should not be turned into a political calculation. A child may belong to a poor family, a child may be a BJP workers child, a child may be from the National Conference, PDP, Congress or any other party, or even an ordinary persons childif someone is killed in militancy, it is a matter of great sorrow, he said. What kind of counting is this that you have started, Ashok Kaul sahib? he asked. He also questioned BJP leaders over their participation, or that of their children, in the Ram temple movement and said political leaders should stop comparing sacrifices. Stop talking about the sacrifices and martyrdom of children, he said, urging the BJP to instead answer questions about Jammu and Kashmir. BJP challenged over unemployment and vacant posts Choudhary further challenged the BJP to explain its record on unemployment and the regularisation of temporary workers. Ahead of the BJPs proposed September 2 protest at the Civil Secretariat, he asked the party to explain why vacant posts had not been filled over the past 12 years. Ask them why they did not fill them, he said, referring to vacant government posts. He also questioned why various categories of temporary workersincluding SPOs, Home Guards, daily wagers and workers associated with horticulture, agriculture and other departmentshad not been regularised. They talk about unemployment. Ask them, you had promised that you would provide two crore jobs, Choudhary said. Of that two crore, what share did Jammu and Kashmir get? He also invoked the BJPs earlier promise of depositing 15 lakh in peoples bank accounts, saying the party should fulfil that promise before coming to the Civil Secretariat. We are politicians; we move towards the destination On speculation about internal divisions within the National Conference and whether political developments could affect the party, Choudhary said his focus remained on fulfilling the commitments made to the people. We are politicians. We move towards the destination, he said. We do not calculate into plus or minus. We know that the destination is in front of us, and that destination is oneto work for the welfare of the people and fulfil the promises we have made. Choudhary also dismissed suggestions that he was afraid of the BJP, pointing out that he had previously defeated its state president. If I was afraid of the BJP, I would not have left after defeating its state president, he said.

Congress likely to join J&K government soon, says Deputy CM; rejects claims of horse-trading

Ladakh slashes VAT on Natural Gas to 5% in major clean energy push

Srinagar, Aug 27: In a landmark decision aimed at accelerating the transition to clean energy and easing costs for residents, the Union Territory Administration of Ladakh has drastically reduced the Value Added Tax (VAT) on Natural Gascovering both Compressed Natural Gas (CNG) and Piped Natural Gas (PNG)from 21% to just 5%. The policy shift, approved by Lieutenant Governor Ladakh V.K. Saxena following recommendations from the Petroleum and Natural Gas Regulatory Board (PNGRB), marks a pivotal step toward building a sustainable, carbon-neutral ecosystem in the high-altitude region. The PNGRB had previously advised bringing PNG and CNG under a concessional VAT framework of 5% or lower, stressing that initial price affordability is critical to driving adoption among households and local businesses in remote areas. The reduction of VAT on natural gas will support the expansion of PNG and CNG services, strengthen the clean-energy ecosystem, and improve the quality of life of our people. These measures reflect the UT Administration's commitment to building a more connected, competitive, clean, and sustainable Ladakh, stated L-G V.K. Saxena while announcing the approval. Glad to share that the UT of Ladakh has significantly reduced VAT on Natural Gas (CNG & PNG) from 21% to just 5%, a major step towards promoting affordable clean energy and improving the ease of living for the people of Ladakh. This will majorly boost the Centres larger plan of rolling out the City Gas Distribution (CGD) network to provide affordable piped household gas across Ladakh. This would also offset the high energy transportation costs caused by the difficult terrains and extreme climate in the UT, besides encouraging consumers for wider adoption of cleaner fuels Saxena said. This brings Ladakh at par with states like Gujarat, Andhra Pradesh and Karnataka, advancing Honble PM Shri @narendramodi Jis broader vision for a sustainable and carbon-neutral future he added. The UT Administration remains fully committed to building a connected, competitive, clean, and sustainable Ladakh, ensuring essential energy is affordable and accessible for all.

J&K to remain hot, humid through early September; MeT forecasts scattered showers

Srinagar, Aug 27: Jammu and Kashmir is likely to continue experiencing generally hot and humid weather conditions over the coming days, with brief spells of rain and thundershowers expected at scattered places, according to the Meteorological Centre Srinagar forecast issued on Thursday. The MeT forecast said that from August 27 to 30, the weather is expected to remain generally hot and humid, with brief spells of rain or thundershowers at scattered places, particularly during the early morning and afternoon hours. For August 31 and September 1, the forecast predicted generally hot and humid conditions, with one or two spells of light to moderate rain or thundershowers at many places. Brief intense showers are likely during the early morning and afternoon hours, it said. From September 2 to 7, the weather is expected to remain generally dry, although brief spells of rain or thundershowers may occur at scattered places during the early morning and afternoon hours. As per an advisory issued today, the MeT has advised caution, stating thatbrief intense showers at localised places may trigger flash floods, mudslides and landslides during August 31 and September 1. Meanwhile, farmers have been advised that they may continue harvesting and other farm operations.

Ramban school zonation sparks concern; plus-two lecturers seek fresh verification

Banihal, Aug 27: The zonal classification of schools in Ramban district under the newly notified School Education Department Transfer Policy-2026 has come under scrutiny, with members of the J&K Plus Two PSC Lecturers Association seeking a fresh verification of the categories assigned to several institutions. The lecturers have questioned whether the zonation of schools, particularly in the Banihal and Batote areas, has been carried out strictly in accordance with the distance-based criteria laid down in the government order. They have urged the authorities to verify the classification of schools individually and rectify any discrepancies before they affect the ongoing annual transfer process. The School Education Department notified the policy through Government Order No. 335-JK(Edu) of 2026 dated August 20, 2026, introducing a five-zone system for transfers and postings of teachers and other employees. Under the policy, institutions within the municipal limits of a district headquarters fall under Zone-I. Schools outside the municipal limits and up to 20 kilometres are categorised as Zone-II, while those beyond 20 and up to 40 kilometres fall under Zone-III. Institutions beyond 40 kilometres, where a change of residence is required, are placed under Zone-IV, while designated difficult areas constitute Zone-V. It is the application of these distance criteria that the lecturers want the authorities to examine afresh. Representatives of the J&K Plus Two PSC Lecturers Association, Ramban, said several schools in the district, including institutions in and around Banihal and Gool, are situated at considerable distances from Ramban district headquarters. They said questions have consequently arisen among employees over whether the zonal classification has been determined strictly on the basis of the distance criteria prescribed in the government order. The lecturers said they were not seeking any special treatment, but wanted a fair and uniform yardstick to be applied to every institution and every employee. They urged the authorities to verify the actual distance of each institution from the municipal limits of Ramban district headquarters and undertake a school-wise review wherever necessary. If any discrepancy is found, they sought its correction before the transfer process advances further. The timing of the concern is also significant, as the department has already commenced the Online Annual Transfer Drive-2026, with eligible employees allowed to submit applications from August 23 to September 8. Teachers participating in the process, therefore, want the zonation data on which their applications are based to be accurate and transparent. The association has appealed to the School Education Department, Director School Education Jammu, Chief Education Officer Ramban and other concerned authorities to take up the matter on priority and re-examine the zonation of schools across Ramban district strictly in accordance with Government Order No. 335-JK(Edu) of 2026. The lecturers said a transparent review at this stage could prevent confusion and avoid a situation in which employees may later feel that their transfer prospects were affected by an incorrect classification. They stressed that their demand was essentially about clarity, fairness and equal treatment. In a mountainous district where difficult terrain and long travelling distances are part of everyday life for teachers, they said, even a few kilometres can make a meaningful difference to an employee's personal and professional life. The association expressed hope that the authorities would consider the concerns of the teaching community and conduct a transparent, evidence-based review. The policy should be implemented by one rule and one yardstick for all. If there is any mistake in zonation, it should be corrected before it affects someone's transfer, the lecturers maintained. They said a transparent school-wise verification would not only address the present concerns but also strengthen confidence in the new transfer policy and ensure its uniform implementation across Ramban district and the Union Territory.

Pulwama roads riddled with potholes, causing traffic woes, vehicle damage and accident risks

Pulwamas vital roads have developed several potholes, making commuting difficult for people. Drivers say passenger vehicles are getting damaged, while the rough ride through the potholes is also causing body aches. The damaged roads have further increased the risk of accidents. Report: Arjumand Wani

Kashmirs famous aromatic Mushk Budji rice faces sharp price crash, farmers worried

Kashmirs famed Mushk Budji rice is facing a sharp price decline, leaving farmers worried as stocks remain unsold. The premium variety, once selling at around 25,000 per quintal, is now fetching only 6,0008,000 per quintal, farmers said. Mushk Budji, known for its distinctive aroma and taste, is mainly used during marriages and other special occasions. Sagam in Kokernag is considered one of the best natural areas for its cultivation. Talking to GK TV, farmers expressed concern over the falling prices and urged authorities to ensure better market support and remunerative prices to protect this traditional Kashmiri rice variety Report: Nadeem Gulzar

We don't even participate in half of Olympic sports; need to improve: PM Modi

New Delhi, Aug 27: Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Thursday said India's Olympic performance can improve only if the country manages to increase its participation in those events where it has not participated in the past. In a virtual address to hundreds of athletes, students and volunteers who gathered at various locations for the Khelo India Dialogue, the PM said his vision for sports is not merely about winning medals but making it an integral part of the nation-building process. In the Olympics, there are so many different sports... Indian teams don't even participate in half of them, Modi said, calling it a itter truth. In the 2024 Paris Olympics, India participated in 16 of the 32 sports which were a part of the Games roster. ...we don't even compete for a huge chunk of the medal tally. And this has been going on for decades. Other countries of the world win medals in those sports, and we don't even participate in them. To increase our medal tally, we will have to master these sports as well, he added. In his Independence Day speech on August 15, Modi had announced a nationwide talent hunt for children in the age group of 5 to 15 to ensure that India's participation improves at the Olympics. On this 15th August, I have presented India's sports vision for the nation from the ramparts of the Red Fort. When I talk about sports... it is not merely about winning medals. It is a campaign to integrate India's sporting power and youth power together in the construction of a developed India, he said.

No decision yet on joining govt in J&K: AICC General Secretary

Srinagar, Aug 27: AICC General Secretary in-charge for Jammu & Kashmir, Dr. Syed Naseer Hussain, on Thursday said that the party has not taken any decision yet on joining the Council of Ministers in J&K. Dr. Hussain said that no decision has been taken so far on the issue. As per reports, the National Conference (NC) has approached Congress with a fresh offer of a berth in the council of ministers. Sources disclosed that the J&K unit of Congress is not averse to joining the government but is seeking two berths. They added that the party is open to negotiations on the second berth and would like suitable adjustment for one of its legislators if NC is averse to the demand of cabinet berth. The J&K unit of the Congress is also pushing for the formation of a coordination committee of alliance partners to ensure the partys role in the decision-making process. According to sources, the Congress high command has discussed its terms of joining the government with the NC and is awaiting their response. (KNO)

Jhelum: The River In Peril

For generations, the Jhelum has been more than a river flowing through Srinagar. It has been part of the citys memories, livelihoods and everyday life. Older residents remember a time when its waters were clean enough to bathe in, fishermen depended on it for their livelihood, and its banks were spaces of community and tradition. For the younger generation, the river still offers moments of peace even as they witness it changing. Today, parts of the Jhelum are lined with plastic and garbage, while wastewater flows into the river at several points. Official records also point to a persistent gap between sewage generated in Srinagar and the capacity available to treat it. Through the voices of Muhammad Yousuf Tabardar, Gulzar Ahmad, Muhammad Ishaq Bhat and Shahid Bashir, this story looks at the Jhelum they remember and the river they see today. The river is still flowing. But how much of the Jhelum we remember remains? Report/Edit: Murtaza Bilal

J&K Police warn job seekers against fake recruitment, verification scams

Srinagar, Aug 27: Jammu and Kashmir Police have cautioned job seekers against cyber fraudsters allegedly using fake recruitment processes, suspicious verification requests and identity-collection tactics to target candidates. Police said scammers may create seemingly genuine hiring processes and then ask candidates to complete unusual verification procedures or share sensitive personal information under the pretext of recruitment. Job seekers have been advised to verify the credentials of recruiters and companies before sharing any personal information and remain cautious about unusual verification requests during the hiring process. Police also advised candidates to check official company websites, email domains and the presence of the recruiting organisation before responding to job offers. Candidates have further been cautioned against instant selection offers and messages creating pressure or urgency to provide information or complete verification. Police said genuine job opportunities should not pressure candidates into sharing sensitive information without proper verification. [KNT]

Glacial collapse triggered Nepal flash floods, not earthquake: USGS

The Nepal flash floods were triggered by a glacial collapse and not by a 4.4 magnitude earthquake as reported earlier, the US Geological Survey (USGS) said. The USGS said additional analysis of the long-period seismic waves indicated that the tremors were generated by a glacial collapse and debris flow. The flash floods originating in Tibet on Wednesday left a trail of death and destruction in Rasuwa and Dhading districts of Nepal, killing 162 people and leaving 750, including 133 Indian nationals, missing. This event was initially reported as a magnitude 4.4 earthquake. Additional analysis of nearby seismic stations, long period seismic waves, and satellite imagery led to the determination that the seismic event was instead a glacial collapse and debris flow, and that no earthquake had occurred, the USGS said in an update to its note on the event. It also upgraded the magnitude of the seismic event to 5.2 from the 4.4 assessed earlier. The USGS determined that the seismic even

Three more arrested in Chatroo minors death case, total five held: SSP Kishtwar

Ramban, August 27: Jammu and Kashmir Police have arrested three more persons in connection with the suspicious death of a minor girl from the Chatroo area of Kishtwar district, taking the total number of arrests in the case to five. SSP Kishtwar Naresh Singh said Police Station Chatroo received information on August 20 regarding the suspicious death of the minor, following which inquest proceedings were initiated as no formal complaint had initially been received. During the inquest, police said, material indicating the commission of cognizable offences surfaced. The proceedings were subsequently converted into FIR No. 34/2026 at Police Station Chatroo under Sections 4, 6, 8, 10 and 17 of the Protection of Children from Sexual Offences (POCSO) Act and Sections 61(2), 65(1), 90, 91 and 92 of the Bharatiya Nyaya Sanhita (BNS). Sections 3(1)(w)(i), 3(2)(v) and 3(2)(va) of the Scheduled Castes and the Scheduled Tribes (Prevention of Atrocities) Act were also added during the course of investigation. Considering the seriousness and sensitivity of the matter, SSP Kishtwar constituted a Special Investigation Team (SIT) headed by Additional SP Kishtwar Pardeep Singh. The team comprises Dy. SP PC Dachhan Nitish Sharma, SHO Police Station Chatroo Inspector Rishi Kumar and other police officers. According to police, the investigation has so far brought material on record against Khalid Hussain, son of Ghulam Mohd Sheikh, a resident of Gorinal, Tehsil Chatroo, who was posted as a teacher at Government Middle School, Gorinal, where the minor was studying. Police said the investigation has revealed allegations of repeated sexual assault on the minor, allegedly resulting in her pregnancy. It further alleged that Khalid Hussain, in criminal conspiracy with his brother Tariq Hussain, allegedly provided or administered medicines purportedly intended to terminate the pregnancy. Police further stated that during the minors medical treatment, she was initially taken to PHC Chatroo and later shifted to District Hospital Kishtwar by Tariq Hussain and others. During this process, police alleged, Farooq Ahmed, a daily-wage/sweeper employee at District Hospital Kishtwar, was involved in the alleged conspiracy, and the minor underwent medical treatment and an ultrasound examination at the hospital. As the investigation progressed, police arrested Farooq Ahmed, son of Sana Ullah, resident of Sangrambatta, Kishtwar; Mohd. Ishaq, son of Mohd. Khizar; and Riyaz Ahmed, son of Ghulam Mohd Sheikh, both residents of Sheikh Pura, Gorinal, Tehsil Chatroo, in connection with the alleged criminal conspiracy. With the latest arrests, the total number of accused persons arrested in the case has reached five. Police said further arrests would be made wherever warranted by evidence emerging during the investigation. The SIT is examining all aspects of the case, including the circumstances surrounding the minors death, the allegations of sexual offences, the circumstances relating to her pregnancy and subsequent medical treatment, and the alleged criminal conspiracy. SSP Naresh Singh reiterated that the investigation is being conducted in a fair, impartial, professional, scientific and evidence-based manner, assuring that every aspect of the case is being thoroughly examined and that strict legal action will be taken against anyone found involved in the case.

Nearly 160 killed, over 750 missing in Nepal flash floods

Kathmandu, Aug 26: Nearly 160 people were killed and over 750, including 133 Indian nationals, remain missing after a massive flash flood originating in Tibet swept through central Nepal on Wednesday, devastating several towns and villages, washing away critical bridges, and crippling a dozen hydropower projects. Nepal Foreign Minister Shisir Khanal told the parliament that an earthquake hit the Tibet region at 8:37 am (local time) and the flash floods were reported three minutes later, suggesting the tremors may have caused a glacial outburst which triggered the floods. The flood surged through the Bhote Koshi River affecting Rasuwa and Dhading districts bordering Tibet, officials said. The massive flood entered the Trishuli River through the Bhote Koshi in Timure, a border-town in Rasuwa district, due to the rockslide and swelling of the Lhende River situated along the Nepal-Tibet border, the National Disaster Risk Reduction and Management Authority said. It then spread along the river course to other districts like Nuwakot, Chitawan, Gorkha, Tanahu and Nawalparasi East, covering areas ranging from around 70 km to nearly 200 km from capital Kathmandu. The Nepal Police in a social media post said 157 people died in the flash flood that hit the Himalayan nation. The Nepal government said around 500 were missing, while Chinas state-run CGTN news channel said three people were dead and 265 were missing on the Chinese side of the border. Videos from the affected areas showed a powerful surge of muddy water, rocks and debris sweeping through the border region, with people seen fleeing as the torrent moved towards buildings and vehicles. In one clip, a four-storey structure could be seen being swept away by the raging waters, while another showed a car floating in fast-moving floodwaters in Rasuwa. Another video clip showed a long bridge broken into two by the sheer force of water. Other video clips showed bridges being pounded by powerful currents before collapsing and being swept away. In Dhading district, a video showed floodwaters striking a bridge before the structure collapsed and was carried away. Another video showed muddy water rapidly engulfing a bridge and sweeping it away in about 30 seconds. Around 100 people have been rescued from different parts of the affected areas, officials said. Of them, 30 are undergoing treatment at Tribhuvan University Teaching Hospital in Kathmandu. Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi spoke to his Nepalese counterpart Balendra Shah and assured him of all possible humanitarian assistance to deal with the situation. New Delhi has already sent the first tranche of relief supplies to the neighbouring nation. The Indian Embassy in Kathmandu issued emergency numbers for assistance and information related to Indian nationals affected by the flash floods. In a post on X, it said people can contact +977 985 131 6807 or +977 970 910 7500. The Embassy of India has remained engaged with the relevant authorities of the Government of Nepal for early rescue and relief for Indian nationals affected by the flash floods that took place in Nepal, it said in another post on X, adding rescue and relief efforts continue to be strengthened in coordination with the Nepal government. The Nepal Tourism Board also issued similar numbers, including the toll-free emergency number 1234, hotline 1144 and Tourist Police number 9851289445 for help. In Beijing, the Embassy of India also issued a helpline number 0086 185 1428 4905, which can also be contacted through WhatsApp. At least 133 Indians and 37 NRIs are among the nearly 500 persons missing, officials said. At least 50 of the Indians were pilgrims for the Kailash Manasarovar Yatra Isha Foundation, a non-profit organisation based out of India, said 77 of its members who were at an immigration centre were missing. There has been no official information on the whereabouts of any of the people who were at the immigration office, said its founder Sadhguru, adding that 495 people have returned safely. The Nepal government later said the entire staff of that particular immigration centre are out of contact. Thirty-seven missing tourists are from Thanjavur, authorities in Tamil Nadu said. Several other Indian states - including Uttar Pradesh and Kerala - issued helpline numbers as well, fearing their residents could be among the stranded ones in Nepal. Other than the Indians and NRIs, the remaining missing tourists were from more than two dozen countries including the US, Malaysia, the UK, South Africa, Australia and the Netherlands. Over and above that, 80 security personnel, including 44 Nepal Army personnel, have gone missing across various locations, Foreign Minister Shisir Khanal informed the House of Representatives. The flash flood damaged eight operational hydropower projects with a total capacity of 354 MW and five under-construction projects located in Nuwakot and Rasuwa districts, according to a statement by the Independent Power Producers' Association Nepal (IPPAN). The major operational hydropower projects damaged by the floods include Rasuwagadhi Hydropower Project (111 MW), Sanjen Khola Hydropower Project (78 MW) and Upper Trishuli 3A (60 MW). According to the Department of Hydrology and Meteorology, Wednesday's flooding was not caused by rainfall in Rasuwa. Nepal's Flood Forecasting Division said in a post on X in the afternoon: According to information received from the Chinese side, since the lake at the river blockage site has not yet been fully drained, the risk remains in the Bhote Koshi and Trishuli areas and asked people to stay away from the rivers and remain in safe places. Even though the lake has not been fully drained at the site where the river is blocked, the risk persists in the Bhote Koshi and Trishuli areas, and people are urged to stay away from the river and remain in safe locations until the next update is issued, the NDRRMA said in a post on X later in the day. The Kathmandu Post said flooding in the Bhote Koshi River washed away the 42-km road linking Betrawati in Nuwakot with the Rasuwagadhi border crossing in Rasuwa. The government later said 19 motorable bridges were washed away in the flash floods on Wednesday. Nepal Army, Armed Police Force and Nepal Police personnel were mobilised in the affected areas to carry out rescue and relief work after an emergency meeting chaired by Nepal PM Shah to assess the situation. Extending condolences to those who lost life and sympathy to the bereaved family members, Shah wished for speedy recovery of those injured in the tragic incidents, according to a statement released by the government. He directed officials to provide all necessary assistance to those affected. The Nepal Army mobilised 12 helicopters to conduct search and rescue operations after the flash flood. Six people were rescued from Syaphrubesi, two from Mailung and four from Dhunche, all in Rasuwa district, according to a Nepal Army statement. The Nepal Army has also established a treatment centre at the Military Training Centre No 1 in Trishuli, where medical personnel from the army are providing emergency medical treatment to affected people, the statement said. An Army MI-17 helicopter equipped with an Emergency Medical Rescue Team was also mobilised towards the district hospital in Trishuli, it added. Chinese President Xi Jinping on Wednesday ordered all-out efforts to search for and rescue people missing after the devastating flash floods. A total of 145 officers and soldiers from the Xigaze detachment of the People's Armed Police have been sent to the affected border port to assist with emergency response operations. Xi called for efforts to evacuate residents at risk and provide timely medical treatment to the injured to minimise casualties. Xi also stressed the need to strengthen monitoring and early warning, ensure scientific rescue operations and guard against secondary disasters. State-run Global Times reported that the local government had dispatched personnel to the disaster-hit area, where communications had been cut off. Nepalese President Ramchandra Paudel expressed sorrow over the loss of life and property due to the flash flood in Rasuwa and Nuwakot districts. Last year too, two catastrophic floods hit Bhote Koshi, wreaking havoc in Rasuwa and killing at least 10 people. Late in the evening, Prime Minister Shah thanked Prime Minister Modi for his warm words of solidarity and offering all possible humanitarian assistance to the flood-hit country for the rescue and relief operations.

India, China agree on eight measures to improve border management

India and China have agreed on a series of measures to improve border management, maintain peace along the Line of Actual Control (LAC) and advance negotiations for a settlement of the boundary question, following talks between National Security Adviser Ajit Doval and Chinese Foreign Minister Wang Yi in Beijing. The 25th round of talks between the Special Representatives (SRs) of India and China on the boundary question was held on August 25. Doval, Indias Special Representative, and Wang Yi, Chinas Special Representative, held a candid and in-depth exchange of views and reached an eight-point consensus. Both sides reaffirmed their commitment to maintaining peace and tranquillity in the border areas and creating conditions for the stable development of bilateral relations. They also agreed to advance negotiations on a framework for resolving the boundary dispute in line with the 2005 Agreement on Political Parameters and Guiding Principles and subsequent understandings reached during the SR talks. As part of the effort, the Expert Group on Boundary Delimitation and the Working Group on Border Management under the Working Mechanism for Consultation and Coordination (WMCC) will begin discussions on an early and substantial harvest on boundary delimitation and border management. Their first task will be to finalise their respective terms of reference. India and China also agreed that situations arising on the ground would be addressed promptly through existing diplomatic and military channels, including the WMCC and local commander-level meetings, to prevent misunderstandings and miscalculations along the LAC. The two sides agreed to establish two additional meeting points for General-Level Mechanism/Senior Highest Military Commander meetings. They also agreed on two additional channels for military hotlines in the Eastern and Middle Sectors to improve communication between the two militaries. Kailash Mansarovar Yatra, border trade The two sides noted progress in trans-border cooperation. India welcomed Chinas decision to increase the number of batches of Indian pilgrims undertaking the Kailash Mansarovar Yatra in the Tibet Autonomous Region. Both sides also welcomed the reopening of three designated border trading points and agreed to strengthen cooperation in border trade, pilgrimage and other areas. They said the objective was to create an atmosphere of dialogue, peace, consultation and cooperation in the border areas. India and China further agreed to hold the next meeting of the Expert-Level Mechanism on Trans-border Rivers in September and continue discussions on issues including hydrological data sharing and renewal of relevant memorandums of understanding. The two sides also decided that the 26th round of Special Representatives talks will be held in India in 2027.

Nepal flash flood kills 100, leaves hundreds missing; earthquake-avalanche link under probe

At least 100 people have been killed and hundreds remain missing after a devastating flash flood swept through Nepals Rasuwa and Nuwakot districts along the Tibet border on Wednesday, with officials warning that the death toll could rise as rescue teams reach cut-off areas. The Nepal Tourism Board (NTB) said 384 travellers were preliminarily reported missing, including 291 foreign nationals and 93 Nepalis. The figures are still being verified, with authorities cross-checking records with travel agencies, guides, local administrations and security agencies. According to The Himalayan Times, at least 105 Indian nationals and 37 non-resident Indians (NRIs) are among those reported missing. The number of Indian nationals could increase as verification continues. The NTB said 59 of the Indian nationals were travelling through Samrat Tours & Travels and 46 through Leaf Holiday, while the 37 NRIs were listed separately under Himalayan Glacier. The preliminary list also includes foreign travellers from the UK, Malaysia, the US and South Africa. The flood struck the Bhote Koshi River at around 8.30 am, sweeping through parts of Rasuwa before affecting the Trishuli River and settlements in Nuwakot. Nepal Police said 114 people have been rescued from the Bhotekoshi River area in Rasuwa, where flash floods struck on Wednesday, according to local media. The Nepal Army rescued more than 80 people by helicopter, while private helicopter companies rescued another 29, Nepal TV and Radio Nepal reported. Earthquake may have triggered avalanche A possible chain of events behind the disaster has emerged, with Nepals Foreign Minister Shishir Khanal telling Parliament that preliminary information indicated an earthquake at around 8.37 am triggered an avalanche, which in turn caused the flash floods. Khanal stressed that the information was still being verified. He said Chinas Tibet region had also suffered huge damage and that Nepal was coordinating with Chinese authorities. The minister said 26 police personnel, nine armed police personnel and 44 military personnel were missing. Customs and immigration officials were also among those unaccounted for. There has been extensive damage to roads, bridges, communication networks and hydropower infrastructure, with Rasuwa and Nuwakot the worst affected districts, Khanal said. Earlier, Nepals Department of Hydrology and Meteorology had said the flooding was not caused by heavy rainfall. Less than seven millimetres of rain had been recorded in Rasuwa over the previous 24 hours, prompting authorities to examine other possible causes, including a glacial event. Buildings collapse, bridge swept away The scale of the destruction has emerged through verified videos reviewed by the BBC. Footage from the Trishuli Bazaar area of Nuwakot, about 25 km north-west of Kathmandu, showed the river suddenly swelling with huge volumes of fast-moving, sediment-filled water. A bridge was swept away by the force of the floodwaters, followed moments later by the collapse of several multi-storey buildings. Other footage showed the aftermath, with trees and buildings near the riverbank washed away, partially collapsed or covered in thick layers of mud and debris. The flood also reportedly swept away around 60 houses near Trishuli Bazaar and damaged two motorable bridges. District Police Office chief Bipin Regmi said three unidentified bodies were recovered from the Trishuli River bank in Nuwakot two at Simchaur and one at Kolputar. At least 17 people have been rescued so far. The Nepal Army said 12 people were evacuated by helicopter six from Syafrubesi, two from Mailung and four from Dhunche. Four Army and eight private helicopters have been mobilised for search and rescue operations. Security personnel, officials among missing Fourteen employees of the Rasuwa Customs Office in Timure also remain out of contact, including 11 permanent and three contract staff. Twenty-five other employees, including Chief Customs Administrator Rajendra Dhungana, have been accounted for, according to Nepals Finance Ministry. The disaster has disrupted roads and bridges, making access to some affected areas difficult. Five people stranded by the flood were rescued and taken to Chakradev Hospital in Bidur, while access to Trishuli Hospital was disrupted after roads and bridges were washed away. The flood also damaged the Trishuli and Devighat hydropower projects and swept away three blocks and a substation of a 25-MW solar power plant. Travellers remain unaccounted for The large number of missing travellers has added a major international dimension to the disaster. The BBC quoted a Chinese businessman based in Kathmandu, Yee Liang, as saying his logistics company had seven container trucks in the affected area, all staffed by Nepali employees. We have lost contact with all of them. There is no signal, so we cannot reach anyone, he said. Yee said he was not aware of any warning before the flood. There were occasional mudslides and landslides, especially in the rainy season, but this one seems much more serious, he told the BBC. On the Tibetan side, Guan Daoxuan, based in Sichuan province, told the BBC that he had lost contact with his wife, who works for a state-run construction company involved in building roads and bridges in Tibet. Chinese state media have reported major casualties from a mudslide at a trade hub on the Tibetan side of the border. Chinese President Xi Jinping has called for an all-out search for missing people and stronger monitoring and early-warning systems to prevent further disasters. Rescue and relief operations intensified The Nepal government has mobilised the Nepal Police, Armed Police Force, Army and district administrations for search, rescue and relief operations. Prime Minister Balendra Shah has directed government agencies to ensure close coordination, while President Ram Chandra Paudel called on government bodies, political parties, social organisations and citizens to intensify rescue efforts. The World Health Organization is preparing medicines and equipment for around 1,000 people, along with 15 emergency tents. Nepals Health Ministry has reserved 100 emergency beds at Bir Hospital and the Trauma Centre in Kathmandu and deployed medical teams to support the operation. With many areas still inaccessible and hundreds of people unaccounted for, officials are continuing to verify casualty and missing-person figures. The death toll is therefore expected to remain provisional until search teams can reach the worst-hit areas. PM Modi speaks to Nepal counterpart, assures all possible assistance Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Wednesday spoke to his Nepalese counterpart Balendra Shah following the deadly flash floods in parts of Nepal and assured him of Indias all possible humanitarian assistance. PM Modi conveyed his condolences over the loss of lives and said India stood in solidarity with the people of Nepal during the crisis. Spoke to Prime Minister Balendra Shah and conveyed condolences on the loss of lives due to the floods in Nepal. The people of India stand in solidarity with their sisters and brothers in Nepal at this difficult time, Modi said in a post on X. He added that India was coordinating closely on rescue and relief efforts with Nepal.

Kansai Nerolac launches Noor-e-Kashmir series

Kansai Nerolac Paints Limited (KNPL) has launched Noor-e-Kashmir, a digital series showcasing distinctive homes across Kashmir and highlighting their architecture, craftsmanship, design and the people behind them. The series features 12 homes selected in collaboration with a renowned Kashmir-based architect for their individuality and character. It explores how traditional influences, local craftsmanship and contemporary design come together in Kashmiri homes. Pravin Chaudhari, Managing Director, Kansai Nerolac Paints Limited, said Kashmir is an important market for the company, with distinct consumer preferences and an appreciation for colour, design and craftsmanship. Noor-e-Kashmir reflects our understanding of the market and our commitment to strengthening our connect with consumers, our dealer and contractor network in the region, while celebrating the distinctive character of Kashmiri homes, he said. Ramkrishna Naik, Chief Marketing Officer, Kansai Nerolac Paints Limited, said the series celebrates not only distinctive Kashmiri homes but also the people who bring them to life. Through this digital series, we want to bring forward the choices, stories and craftsmanship that give each home its unique character, Naik said. The episodes will be released across Kansai Nerolacs digital platforms, led by YouTube. Contractors involved in the featured projects will be recognised as Noor-e-Kashmir Contractors with badges and certificates. The initiative will culminate in a Noor-e-Kashmir Colour Book featuring the 12 homes, their colours, architectural details and design choices.

KTMF delegation meets top traffic officials, raises traders concerns

A delegation of the Kashmir Traders and Manufacturers Federation (KTMF), led by its president Mohammad Yaseen Khan, met Inspector General of Traffic M. Suleman Choudhary and Deputy Inspector General of Traffic Kashmir Haseeb-ur-Rehman and raised several traffic-related issues affecting traders across Srinagar. The delegation expressed concern over the road divider at Natipora, stating that it has restricted movement and adversely affected commercial activity in the area, resulting in losses for local traders. KTMF also raised concerns over the road stretch from the Biscoe School gate towards M.A. Road, alleging that it has effectively been turned into a parking area. According to the delegation, the arrangement has affected the visibility and accessibility of shops on both sides of the road, thereby impacting business activity. The delegation further highlighted the recent installation of barricades on the Kani Kadal road leading towards Government Medical College (GMC). Traders said the restrictions on turning towards the Chotta Bazar Kani Kadal market have hampered customer movement and affected more than 200 traders in the area. KTMF also sought restoration of the earlier arrangement allowing buses to ply towards the Radio Station via Residency Road, arguing that improved public transport connectivity is essential for sustaining commercial activity in the citys business areas. KTMF president Mohammad Yaseen Khan said that while effective traffic regulation and management are necessary, the commercial interests and livelihoods of traders must also be taken into consideration while planning traffic arrangements. He urged the traffic authorities to assess the issues on the ground and take corrective measures to ensure that traffic management does not inadvertently add to the economic difficulties faced by businesses. The senior traffic police officers gave the delegation a patient hearing and assured them that the concerns raised would be examined. They also assured the traders that the issues would be looked into practically and appropriate measures taken wherever required. The delegation comprised Sheikh Abdul Rashid, General Secretary, Kani Kadal-Chotta Bazar-Karan Nagar Traders Association; Javed Ahmad Bakshi, Senior Vice President of the association; senior members Bilal Ahmad Khan and Mohammad Ismail Wani; Mehrajudin Khan, President, Natipora Traders Association; Ashfaq Ahmad Mahajan, President, M.A. Road Traders Association; and Muzaffar Jan, President, Abi Guzar Traders Association.

NITI Aayog member Dr Srinivas calls on LG; discusses key development priorities for J&K

Dr M. Srinivas, Member, NITI Aayog, along with a team of senior officials from NITI Aayog, called on Lieutenant Governor Manoj Sinha, at Lok Bhavan, Srinagar. The NITI Aayog delegation comprised Anurag Goyal, Senior Adviser; Subhash Chandra Meena, Economic Adviser; Dr. Muniraju S.B., Deputy Adviser; Dr. Shobith, OSD (Health); and Sumaiya Yousuf, Innovation Lead, Atal Innovation Mission, NITI Aayog. During the meeting, Dr M. Srinivas and the NITI Aayog team presented a comprehensive assessment of the development landscape of Jammu Kashmir, highlighting achievements, key sectoral gaps and possible interventions for accelerating the socio-economic development of the Union Territory. The assessment covered major sectors Human Resources Development, Creating Economic Opportunities and Infrastructure Development. The delegation highlighted the need to improve GER and learning outcomes in school education and to Strengthen industryacademia linkages and employment opportunities in higher education. Dr. M. Srinivas, Member NITI Aayog appreciated enhanced opportunities for medical education in the UT while highlighting the concerns regarding rising metabolic and NCD burden in UT. In agriculture and allied sectors, emphasis was placed on reduction of post-harvest losses, enhancing cold-chain and processing infrastructure, livestock services, value-chain development and stronger market linkages. For accelerating economic growth and employment generation, NITI Aayog suggested focusing on industrial clusters, strengthening MSMEs and employment-intensive manufacturing, improvement in logistics and export infrastructure, promotion of green mobility and development of a stronger innovation and start-up ecosystem in the UT. The presentation also highlighted measures for sustainable urban development, including improved water security, sewage treatment and expansion of public transport. The tourism potential of Jammu Kashmir was also discussed, with emphasis on improving last-mile connectivity and visitor amenities, promoting border, eco, rural, homestay, and MICE tourism. NITI Aayog further highlighted the importance of timely completion of connectivity projects, improved water conservation and irrigation infrastructure, and greater utilisation of renewable energy potential, particularly through decentralised solar energy and PM-Surya Ghar Muft Bijli Yojana. The Lieutenant Governor appreciated the comprehensive sectoral assessment and shared the significant development initiatives undertaken in Jammu Kashmir in recent years. He observed that the Government of India and the Government of Jammu Kashmir are working together towards the vision of Viksit Jammu Kashmir, with sustained emphasis on infrastructure creation, improved public service delivery, employment generation, investment and inclusive socio-economic development. The Lieutenant Governor suggested that NITI Aayog may undertake a focused assessment and identify actionable measures for improving the ecological sustainability of the Dal Lake in Srinagar. He also emphasised the need to examine the factors besides land acquisition, that contribute to delays in major development and infrastructure projects in Jammu Kashmir and suggest institutional, administrative and implementation measures for ensuring their timely and effective completion. Dr M. Srinivas assured the Lieutenant Governor that NITI Aayog would continue to work closely with the J&K UT Administration and relevant Ministries of the Government of India to facilitate appropriate policy interventions, promote inter-sectoral convergence and support the UT in addressing any issues identified. The discussions underscored the importance of a coordinated and outcome-oriented approach to fully harness Jammu Kashmirs potential and accelerate its journey towards Viksit Jammu Kashmir and Viksit Bharat @2047.

Delayed cabinet expansion hurting governance in J&K: MP Ruhullah

National Conference MP Aga Syed Ruhullah Mehdi on Wednesday questioned the repeated delays in expansion of the Jammu and Kashmir Council of Ministers, saying governance was suffering as ministers were burdened with multiple portfolios. Ruhullah, as per the KNS, said assurances regarding cabinet expansion had been made several times but had not materialised. The expansion was first talked about before Jantar Mantar, then after Jantar Mantar, then before August 15 and then after August 15, he said, questioning the repeated postponements. The Srinagar MP said ministers were currently handling four to five departments each, which, he claimed, was affecting the functioning of the administration. If a minister leaves the secretariat, five departments come to a halt. People coming for work in different departments end up suffering because of one minister, he said. Ruhullah called for greater decentralisation of responsibilities, saying the distribution of portfolios among more ministers would improve governance and benefit people. Functioning suffers, governance suffers. The more departments are spread out, the better it is for people, he said. He also alleged that the administration had struggled to take even routine decisions. It has been two years, and you can understand that everything is not right, Ruhullah said. His remarks come amid speculation over an expansion or reshuffle of the J&K Council of Ministers and reports of differences within the ruling National Conference. The Omar Abdullah-led government has been functioning with a limited number of ministers since taking office, with several key departments being handled by individual ministers.

Aijaz Hussain meets Dr Jitendra Singh, discusses J&K development, public issues

BJP State Executive Member and Co-Incharge Minorities, UT of J&K, Er. Aijaz Hussain met Union Minister Dr Jitendra Singh in New Delhi and held an extensive discussion on a wide range of issues concerning Jammu & Kashmir, including development, public welfare and matters of importance to the people of the Union Territory. During the meeting, Er. Aijaz Hussain, as per a statement, apprised Dr Jitendra Singh of various developmental and public issues and sought his guidance and support in taking up matters concerning the people of Jammu & Kashmir at the appropriate forums. Er. Aijaz Hussain described Dr Jitendra Singh as a guide, mentor and a constant source of encouragement, particularly for BJP Karyakartas. He said that Dr Singh has always remained accessible to party workers and has consistently stood by them, listened to their concerns and guided them in their political and public life. Dr. Jitendra Singh ji has always been a guide and mentor to me. His accessibility, affection and commitment towards BJP Karyakartas is truly inspiring. He has always encouraged workers to remain connected with the people and work with dedication for the welfare of society. His guidance has been invaluable, and I remain grateful for his continued support, encouragement and blessings, Er. Aijaz Hussain said. The meeting also focused on strengthening ongoing efforts for development and public welfare in Jammu & Kashmir. Er. Aijaz Hussain emphasised the importance of ensuring that the genuine concerns and aspirations of the people reach the Union leadership and are addressed through coordinated and result-oriented efforts. Er. Aijaz Hussain expressed his gratitude to Dr Jitendra Singh for sparing his valuable time and for his continued guidance, encouragement and support. He said that the BJPs strength lies in its dedicated Karyakartas and its leaderships constant engagement with the grassroots. He added that the guidance and mentorship of senior leaders like Dr Jitendra Singh continue to inspire party workers to serve the people with commitment, sincerity and dedication.

7 houses gutted at Watal Kadal

Seven houses were gutted in a fire incident at Watal Kadal area of Safa Kadal in Downtown on Wednesday evening, leaving multiple families homeless and triggering panic among residents. Officials from the Fire and Emergency Services Department said the fire call was received at around 4:47 pm, following which firefighting units from Fire Station Safa Kadal, M R Gunj, Headquarters, Rainawari and Babademb were rushed to the spot. Initially, one house caught fire, but because the houses are closely built and interconnected, the flames spread rapidly to adjoining structures. A total of seven houses were gutted in the incident while 2 other houses received minor damages due to water and heat, an official said, adding that the cause of the fire is under investigation. Witnesses said huge flames and thick plumes of smoke could be seen rising from the attic portions and upper floors of the houses, creating panic in the densely populated locality. There was chaos as people rushed out of their homes. Locals joined the firefighters in evacuating household items and preventing the flames from spreading further. The narrow lanes and congested nature of the locality made the firefighting operation extremely challenging, a resident said. Officials said the blaze was brought under control after an extensive operation involving multiple firefighting units. No injuries had been reported till the filing of this report. Residents, however, said the affected families had lost all their belongings and were left without shelter. These victims have lost everything within minutes. Clothes, documents, household items, nothing could be saved. The administration should immediately come forward and provide relief and all possible assistance to the affected families, said another local resident. The incident has once again highlighted the vulnerability of Srinagar's old city to devastating fires. In recent years, several major fire incidents have been reported from Downtown Srinagar and adjoining areas, where closely packed wooden houses and narrow lanes often hamper firefighting operations and allow flames to spread quickly. Fire and Emergency Services officials have repeatedly urged people to strictly follow the department's safety guidelines, saying many fire incidents are linked to faulty electrical wiring, overloaded circuits and unsafe use of electrical gadgets. Officials said that adherence to prescribed safety protocols, regular inspection of wiring and responsible use of electrical appliances can significantly reduce the risk of such incidents.

GMC Srinagar, CISA, Moul Mouj Foundation to hold JK Obesity Summit

The Department of Endocrinology, GMC Srinagar, in collaboration with the Centre for Interdisciplinary Studies on Ageing (CISA), Moul Mouj Foundation, will hold 2nd Annual International MMFDIACON-2026, to be held at Government Dental College Auditorium, Srinagar, on 31 August 2026. The journey began with MMFDIACON-2025, which focused on diabetes and its complications in the elderly, bringing together clinicians and experts around the growing need for specialised, compassionate and evidence-based care for older persons. A distinctive feature of the inaugural conference was the MMF Signature Lecture on Moul. This year, that tradition continues with the MMF Signature Lecture on Mouj, reflecting the Foundations evolving philosophy and its commitment to exploring the deeper dimensions of ageing, care and human dignity. MMFDIACON-2026 takes this vision forward through the JK Obesity Summit, centred on Decoding Obesity: From Biology to Remedy. Obesity is no longer merely a lifestyle concern or a question of weight. It is a chronic disease with far-reaching consequences, increasing the risk of diabetes, cardiovascular disease, fatty liver disease, sleep disorders, cancers, infertility, musculoskeletal problems and premature death. Its growing prevalence across age groups makes obesity prevention and comprehensive management an urgent healthcare priority. Accredited with 4 CME Credit Hours by the Jammu & Kashmir Medical Council (JKMC), the conference will bring together more than 60 international, national and local faculty, who will speak, chair sessions and engage in multidisciplinary scientific discussions. The participation of international experts, with the requisite clearance from the Ministry of External Affairs, Government of India, duly in place, adds an important global dimension to the scientific programme. The sessions will cover the spectrum of contemporary obesity carefrom public health and prevention to precision medicine, novel therapies, cardiometabolic disease, psychiatry, sleep apnoea, MASLD, bariatric surgery and emerging evidence. Around 400 delegates are expected from GMC Handwara, JLNM Hospital, GMC Udhampur, GMC Kathua, GMC Baramulla, GMC Anantnag, GMC Srinagar, GDC Srinagar, SKIMS, KMC Sempora, and district hospitals, including DNB students from various districts. The conference will also provide a dedicated platform for students and faculty to present free papers and scientific posters, showcasing original research, clinical experiences, innovative ideas and emerging evidence. GK Communications is the Outreach and Media Partner for MMFDIACON-2026, supporting the conferences wider academic outreach, communication and engagement with the medical and public community.