Opinion

US judge dismisses criminal case against Gautam Adani, Sagar Adani

New York, Aug 11: A US court has dismissed with prejudice the criminal charges against Adani Group chairman Gautam Adani and his nephew, bringing to an end nearly two years of proceedings in an alleged fraud and bribery case. The US District Court for the Eastern District of New York granted the Justice Department's Rule 48(a) motion to dismiss the indictment against Gautam Adani, Sagar Adani and former Adani Green CEO Vneet Jaain. The counts covered securities-fraud conspiracy, wire fraud conspiracy, and securities fraud. Judge Nicholas Garaufis allowed the Justice Department's motion after seeking additional explanations from prosecutors over their decision to abandon the case. A dismissal with prejudice permanently closes the criminal proceedings and bars the charges from being refiled, but does not amount to a judicial finding on the underlying allegations. The criminal case originated in November 2024, when US prosecutors alleged that Gautam Adani, Sagar Adani, former AGEL Chief Executive Officer Vneet Jaain and others were involved in a conspiracy to pay USD 250 million in bribes to Indian government officials to secure solar power contracts projected to generate more than USD 2 billion in after-tax profits over two decades. Prosecutors also alleged that investors were misled while the group raised more than USD 3 billion through loans and bond issuances in US markets. The Adani Group consistently denied the criminal allegations, describing them as baseless and maintaining that it had acted in accordance with applicable laws and regulatory requirements. The SEC's separate civil action has also been resolved through the final judgment against Gautam Adani, under which he consented to the order without admitting the allegations. The final judgment also requires Adani to pay a USD 6 million civil penalty to the SEC within 30 days. In its submissions before the court, the Trump administration said continuing the prosecution no longer served the interests of justice, citing significant jurisdictional and evidentiary challenges, the predominantly Indian nature of the alleged conduct, the fact that Indian authorities had examined the matter, the absence of identified investor losses and broader public-interest considerations. The DoJ also stated that the indictment, unsealed in November 2024 during the closing weeks of the previous Biden administration, had little realistic prospect of proceeding to trial and appeared to have been a politically motivated ame and shame exercise orchestrated by the outgoing administration. In dismissing the charges against Adani, Garaufis said he was satisfied that Adani's November 2024 promise to invest USD 10 billion in the United States did not factor into the Justice Department's decision, and acknowledged that judges' role in reviewing federal prosecutors' decisions to drop charges was limited. Adani welcomed the decision with humility and deep respect for the judicial process. Throughout this challenging period, our faith in truth, fairness and the rule of law remained unwavering. My deepest gratitude to those who never lost faith in us, in the system and in India's capacity for justice. We will continue doing what matters: building for our nation, creating value that outlasts us and serving a purpose larger than ourselves. That is our commitment, he said in a post on X. Before approving the request, Judge Nicholas Garaufis directed the DoJ to publicly explain its reasons for seeking dismissal and required the defendants to file sworn declarations confirming there had been no promise, offer, quid pro quo or undisclosed agreement connected with the decision. In his sworn declaration, Gautam Adani categorically denied the existence of any promise, offer, quid pro quo or undisclosed agreement relating to the DoJ's decision. After reviewing the government's submissions and the sworn declarations, the court accepted the motion and permanently dismissed the case. The dismissal means the criminal proceedings concluded before trial. No witnesses were examined, no evidence was tested in court, and no judicial findings were made on the underlying criminal allegations. The proceedings unfolded against the backdrop of heightened global scrutiny of the Adani Group following allegations made by now shuttered short seller Hindenburg Research in January 2023. The report triggered a sharp sell-off in Adani Group stocks, erasing more than USD 150 billion in market value at its lowest point. The group has consistently rejected those allegations and maintained that it complied with all applicable laws and disclosure requirements. The court found that the DOJ had met the legal requirements for dismissal on one ground: its argument that alleged statements about Adani Green's anti-bribery policies and corporate compliance could amount to inactionable puffery - broad statements that investors could not reasonably rely on - creating legal risks for the prosecution. The judge rejected or found insufficient several other reasons advanced by the government. These included the argument that the alleged misconduct occurred almost entirely in India and therefore presented significant US securities-law jurisdictional risks. The court noted that the indictment itself alleged that investors committed funds in the United States and that the transactions involved the US financial system. The court also found that the government's argument concerning the absence of sophisticated-investor deception did not provide sufficient support, while noting it did not need to reach that issue because the puffery rationale was sufficient to dismiss the three counts. The dismissal was with prejudice, meaning the three charges cannot simply be brought again. The court said there was no concern about prosecutorial harassment because the government had requested dismissal with prejudice and the appearing defendants had consented to it.

Magnitude 7.4 quake hits western Colombia, killing at least 111 people

Bogota (Colombia), Aug 10: A powerful 7.4 magnitude earthquake struck western Colombia on Monday, killing at least 111 people, damaging hundreds of buildings and leaving many trapped under debris while their loved ones and rescue workers searched through rubble. Colombia's President Abelardo de la Espriella said at least 87 people were injured and declared an emergency to expedite funding for the quake recovery while saying he would visit the disaster zone. We aren't going to leave people alone. They are in our hearts, and we are going to tend to people with our full determination, he said. The epicentre was in San Jose Del Palmar, a community of about 4,800 people in the Choco region, about 250 miles (400 kilometres) west of Bogota, the US Geological Survey said. The quake was also felt in neighbouring Ecuador and Panama, though minimal damage was reported there. The quake ravaged cities across the west of the country, including Pereira, Quibdo, Cali and Manizales. Residents and search teams picked through the rubble of collapsed buildings amid concerns by authorities of aftershocks. Colombia's interior minister said more than 20 municipalities across the country had been hit. Colombia's Pacific region around the quake's epicentre lies along the Ring of Fire, the line of seismic faults encircling the Pacific Ocean where most of the world's earthquakes occur. The Pacific, particularly the Choco region, is one of the poorest regions in the country. Nestled in the dense jungle, much of Choco is highly rural and only reachable by boat or plane, which may pose a problem for authorities in assessing the wider toll. Most powerful quake in the last decade, authorities say --------------------------------------------------------------- Jorge Moncayo, a 64-year-old taxi driver in Cali, said he saw plumes of dust shoot up across the city as buildings collapsed. Residents and rescue workers were searching the rubble for survivors. My entire house shook. I've never lived through such a powerful earthquake, he said. We're thanking God we're alive. Before the president gave the latest death toll of at least 111 people, local officials had confirmed that at least 40 people were killed in the Risaralda region, where the hard-hit city of Pereira is located, and 27 people in the Valle del Cauca region, where Colombia's third-biggest city, Cali, is located. At least three of those killed in Valle del Cauca were children, the governor said. Authorities also confirmed nine people were killed in Choco, two more in the Caldas region and a 73-year-old in the Antioquia region. Colombia's Geological Service said Monday that it had been the highest magnitude earthquake registered in Colombia in the last decade and that it had been followed by two 2.8 and 4.8 magnitude aftershocks. Authorities also reported that flights were suspended in the airports of Manizales, Quibdo, Armenia, Cartago, Buenaventura and Pereira. The earthquakes left many in the Andean nation unnerved after two back-to-back quakes devastated neighbouring Venezuela in late June, destroyed hundreds of buildings and killed more than 5,000 people. At the same time, the quake brought down buildings in Colombia, and desperate families in Venezuela continued to search the ruins for the bodies of their loved ones. In Pereira, photos and videos published by local media showed pieces of the airport ceiling falling down on travellers taking shelter and screaming, and people running through rubble in a panic. Pereira's mayor, Mauricio Salazar, told a local radio station that at least 18 people had died and that many more were trapped under a massive quantity of collapsed buildings. In nearby Manizales, a city in the coffee-producing mountains of Colombia, one of the towers of the neo-Gothic cathedral collapsed and fell on the nave. Jorge Eduardo Rojas, the mayor of Manizales, asked residents to stay outside in case of aftershocks. Authorities in the rural state of Choco, the epicentre of the quake, reported injured people and damaged buildings in the capital, but provided few details. In Cali, a city of 2 million people, Mayor Alejandro Eder said that residents were trapped in at least 19 buildings that had collapsed. Powerful quakes are rare in Colombia, where smaller quakes are common ----------------------------------------------------------------------------------- Small earthquakes, known as temblores, are common in central and western Colombia, but those above 6.0 magnitude are rare. In 1999, a 6.2 magnitude quake near the city of Armenia killed more than 1,100 people. Colombia's newly inaugurated President Abelardo de la Espriella said Monday that he had personally taken charge of the government's response to the emergency in San Jose del Palmar following the earthquake. You are not alone. The state is present and taking action, he said. Response to the earthquake presents the first major challenge to de la Espriella, a Trump ally who was sworn in as president over the weekend. Messages of support rolled in from leaders across the Americas, including Mexico, Brazil, Ecuador, El Salvador and the United States. The Trump administration is closely monitoring the large earthquake that struck Colombia and stands ready to support the people of Colombia, US Secretary of State Marco Rubio wrote in a post on X. A number of countries offered aid, and the UN deputy spokesman, Farhan Haq, said, We stand ready to help as needed.

At Least 20 Killed as 7.4-Magnitude Earthquake Strikes Western Colombia

At least 20 people have been killed after a powerful 7.4-magnitude earthquake struck western Colombia on Monday, according to local officials, with strong tremors felt across the country and in neighbouring nations, reports BBC. The earthquake struck at 07:34 local time at an estimated depth of 88 km (55 miles), Colombias geological service said. The epicentre was in the San Jos del Palmar area of Choc region. Quoting local officials, the BBC reported that at least 20 people had died in the earthquake, while rescue and emergency teams were assessing the extent of casualties and damage. The shaking was felt across large parts of Colombia, including the capital Bogot, where several buildings were evacuated. Tremors were also reported in neighbouring Venezuela, Ecuador and Panama. Earlier, Choc Governor Nubia Carolina Crdoba said people had been injured and warned of possible aftershocks. Reports and videos from the affected areas showed significant structural damage. In Manizales, footage shared by Colombian newspaper El Tiempo showed a collapsed building, while social media videos showed the spire of a church collapsing. A nearby building was also seen with deep cracks in its faade. Colombias aviation authority reported damage at several regional airports, including those in Pereira, Manizales, Quibd, Armenia, Cartago and Buenaventura. The earthquake has raised concerns about further casualties as emergency services continue search and rescue operations in affected areas. The disaster comes less than two months after twin earthquakes devastated parts of northern Venezuela, killing more than 6,100 people.

Kashmir grape growers get scientific farming lessons from Grape Man of India

Kashmirs grape growers received valuable insights from renowned grape expert and Krishi Ratna Anil G. Meher, popularly known as the Grape Man of India, during a Grape Day organised by Krishi Vigyan Kendra (KVK) Ganderbal at Kralbagh in collaboration with J&K Bank, Shuhama, today. The farmer-centric programme brought together scientists, agricultural experts and a large number of growers to promote scientific grape cultivation, improved orchard management and stronger farmerscientist linkages. Prof. Raihana Habib Kanth, Director Extension, SKUAST-Kashmir, was the Chief Guest, while Shri Anil G. Meher attended as the Guest of Honour. Officers and officials of SKUAST-Kashmir, scientists and farmers participated in the programme. Prof. Raihana Habib Kanth underscored the importance of farmerscientist interaction in addressing field-level challenges and accelerating the adoption of improved agricultural technologies. She encouraged farmers to embrace scientific practices for improving productivity, quality and profitability, while assuring continued technical support from SKUAST-K. Addressing the gathering, Anil G. Meher shared his extensive experience in grape cultivation and encouraged farmers to adopt improved and scientific practices to enhance productivity, quality and returns. He stressed the importance of staying connected with agricultural experts and making effective use of technical guidance available to the farming community. Dr Ajaz Ahmad Malik, Senior Scientist & Head, KVK Ganderbal, highlighted the role of KVKs in providing location-specific technical guidance and facilitating the transfer of scientific knowledge to farmers. He emphasized that regular interaction with growers helps identify field-level challenges and develop practical solutions suited to local conditions. Prof. Aroosa Khalil, Division of Fruit Science, SKUAST-Kashmir, shared technical insights on scientific grape cultivation, orchard management and recommended horticultural practices for improving grape yield and quality. She also interacted with farmers and responded to their queries on various aspects of grape production. Representing J&K Bank, Shuhama, Ifrah Yaqoob, Manager, reiterated the banks commitment to supporting the farming community and assured farmers of necessary financial assistance for their agricultural activities. The programme provided farmers an opportunity to directly interact with the visiting grape expert, university scientists and officers and discuss challenges related to grape cultivation. The experts assured the growers of continued technical guidance and institutional support. The interactive session concluded with an emphasis on strengthening farmerscientistinstitution linkages and promoting scientific, sustainable and profitable grape cultivation in the region.

Nissan Tekton unveiled in Jammu, enters regions SUV market

Nissans latest SUV, the Tekton, was unveiled in Jammu on Monday, marking the vehicles entry into the local market and strengthening the Japanese automakers presence in the region. The launch event brought together business leaders, media representatives, public figures and automobile enthusiasts. The vehicle was showcased as Nissans latest offering in the competitive mid-size SUV segment, with emphasis on its design, technology and performance. Ufair Ajaz, Director of Kitab Mobility, Nissan, was among the prominent personalities present at the launch. His participation highlighted the dealerships role in expanding Nissans presence and customer outreach in Jammu and Kashmir. The event was also attended by Ramban MLA Arjun Singh Raju, journalist and Daily Taskeen Editor-in-Chief Sahil Kazmi, and senior journalist Manoj Ashat Ganie, besides representatives of the automobile and business sectors. The Tekton was launched nationally by Nissan Motor India on July 9, with introductory prices starting at Rs 10.49 lakh for the T160 range. The premium SUV is available with turbo-petrol powertrains, including a 1.0-litre unit and a more powerful 1.3-litre engine. The latter is offered with both manual and dual-clutch automatic transmission options. Nissan has positioned the Tekton as a key model in its renewed India strategy. The SUV features styling inspired by Nissans Patrol and comes with technology including Google built-in connectivity. It is manufactured at Nissans Chennai facility and is intended for both the Indian market and exports. During the Jammu event, guests were given an opportunity to view the vehicle and interact with representatives about its features and specifications. The local launch is expected to give customers in Jammu and the wider region access to Nissans latest SUV offering as the company seeks to expand its footprint in Indias growing SUV market.

Bank frauds in J&K: Cases plunge 78%, money involved soars 306%

Jammu and Kashmir has witnessed a sharp escalation in the value of banking and financial fraud despite a steep decline in the number of reported cases, with frauds involving Rs 322.31 crore recorded across scheduled commercial banks and financial institutions during the three financial years from 2023-24 to 2025-26. The latest data furnished by the Union Ministry of Finance in the Lok Sabha on August 3, compiled from Reserve Bank of India records, show that 868 fraud cases were reported in Jammu and Kashmir during the three years. Against the Rs 322.31 crore involved, only Rs 12.80 crore was recovered. The figures reveal a striking change in the pattern of fraud in the Union Territory. The number of cases declined from 467 in 2023-24 to 298 in 2024-25 and further to 103 in 2025-26. However, the amount involved increased from Rs 47.55 crore to Rs 81.27 crore and then surged to Rs 193.49 crore in 2025-26. In other words, reported cases declined by nearly 78 per cent over the three years, while the amount involved increased by more than four times. The latest year was particularly significant. In 2025-26, just 103 cases accounted for Rs 193.49 crorethe highest annual amount recorded in the three-year period. Banks recovered Rs 6.92 crore from these cases. The recovery figures for the three years were Rs 3.23 crore in 2023-24, Rs 2.65 crore in 2024-25 and Rs 6.92 crore in 2025-26. Cumulatively, this amounts to Rs 12.80 crore, or less than four per cent of the Rs 322.31 crore involved. The data suggest that while the frequency of reported fraud has fallen, the average financial exposure per case has risen sharply. The average amount involved was around 10 lakh per case in 2023-24. It rose to about Rs 27 lakh in 2024-25 and jumped to nearly Rs 1.88 crore per case in 2025-26. The problem assumes a much larger dimension when viewed against the national banking-fraud data. According to the category-wise RBI data submitted to Parliament, scheduled commercial banks and All India Financial Institutions reported frauds involving about Rs 11,677.86 crore in 2023-24, Rs 32,043.21 crore in 2024-25 and RS 47,910.05 crore in 2025-26. This translates into a cumulative Rs 91,631 crore of frauds reported nationally over the three-year period. The corresponding J&K figure of Rs 322.31 crore represents roughly 0.35 per cent of the national amount. The national data also show that the largest financial exposure is linked to advances or lending-related frauds. In 2025-26 alone, 10,678 frauds relating to advances involved 40,739.74 crore, of which Rs 2,787.90 crore was recovered. By contrast, card and internet frauds accounted for 5,997 cases involving 35.85 crore during the same year, with 10.11 crore recovered. The figures demonstrate the distinction between the number of fraud incidents and their monetary value. Importantly, the Rs 193.49 crore figure for Jammu and Kashmir should not be described as fraud involving Jammu and Kashmir Bank alone. The parliamentary data cover frauds reported by scheduled commercial banks, excluding Regional Rural Banks, and All India Financial Institutions operating in the Union Territory. The government has not provided a bank-wise breakup in the document. The Finance Ministry said the RBI does not maintain the requested data on amounts frozen, recovered and refunded to victims in the precise state-wise and category-wise format sought in Parliament. It also said there are no fixed timelines for recovery because fraud cases can involve multiple agencies, institutions, tribunals and courts. Banks are required to immediately report fraud incidents to the relevant law-enforcement agencies, including State and UT police, the Serious Fraud Investigation Office and the Central Bureau of Investigation, depending on the amount involved. For recovery, banks can initiate civil proceedings, approach Debt Recovery Tribunals, invoke provisions of the SARFAESI Act and pursue insolvency proceedings before the National Company Law Tribunal under the Insolvency and Bankruptcy Code. The government has also strengthened mechanisms for dealing with digital financial fraud. The RBIs Central Fraud Registry enables banks to identify and mitigate fraud risks, while its AI-based MuleHunter tool is designed to identify money-mule accounts. The Indian Digital Payment Intelligence Corporation has also been established to analyse and prevent fraud in the digital payments ecosystem using AI, machine learning and big-data technologies. For cyber-enabled financial fraud, complaints lodged through the National Cybercrime Reporting Portal or helpline 1930 feed into the Citizen Financial Cyber Fraud Reporting and Management System, which links police agencies with banks and financial intermediaries. The system can facilitate tracing of funds and immediate lien marking before the money leaves the financial system.

Bad roads at Yemlar, Kupwara; Residents demand repair

The residents of Yemlar in Zachaldara area of north Kashmirs Kupwara district are facing severe hardships due to the poor condition of the road leading to their village. The residents said that the 3 km road of their village which takes off from Zachaldara was dotted with potholes on several spots due to which commuters were suffering badly. The residents said that the condition of the road was severely pathetic yet the concerned department was watching their miseries as mute spectators. Locals said they have repeatedly appealed to the administration to macadamize the road, but their pleas have gone unheard. In winter, the situation becomes even worse and more often we are forced to carry patients on makeshift cots due to the unavailability of transport, Noor Mohammad a local told Greater Kashmir . We have brought this issue into the notice of the concerned department numerous times but every time we are being told that macadamization of our road has been kept in the plan but at the end of the year, a different tale emerges at the hands of concerned officials, a local told Greater Kashmir. The residents have urged MLA Handwara Sajad Gani Lone to take immediate steps for repair and macadamization of the road to prevent further sufferings. They hope that authorities will prioritize this vital infrastructure need and bring much-needed relief to the area.

CBC begins Nasha Mukt Bharat Abhiyaan outreach at Gadakhud, Sumbal

The Central Bureau of Communication (CBC), Ministry of Information and Broadcasting, Government of India, today commenced a two-day Integrated Communication and Outreach Programme (ICOP) on Nasha Mukt Bharat Abhiyaan at Government Higher Secondary School, Gadakhud, Sumbal, Bandipora. The programme was inaugurated by Deputy Commissioner Bandipora, Ms. Indu Kanwal Chib. The inaugural session witnessed enthusiastic participation from students, teachers, parents, officials and members of the local community. Resource persons from the Health, Social Welfare, School Education, Police and District Administration departments sensitised participants about the causes and consequences of substance abuse, as well as measures related to prevention, treatment, counselling and rehabilitation. Welcoming the participants, Shri Naseer Ahmad Rather, Field Publicity Officer, CBC Srinagar, highlighted the role of CBC in disseminating information on flagship programmes and welfare initiatives of the Government of India. He emphasised the importance of timely awareness and community participation in addressing the growing challenge of substance abuse and underlined the role of parents and teachers in identifying early signs of addiction among youth. Addressing the gathering, Deputy Commissioner Bandipora, Ms. Indu Kanwal Chib, reiterated the district administrations commitment to combating drug abuse and trafficking. She urged young people to channelise their energies towards education, sports and other constructive pursuits, while stressing that awareness, prevention, counselling, rehabilitation and collective social responsibility are essential components of the fight against drugs. Shri Shahid Mohammad Lone, Field Publicity Officer, CBC Anantnag, reaffirmed CBCs commitment to taking the message of a drug-free society to schools, villages and communities through sustained outreach activities. He called for a united effort by all stakeholders to address the menace of substance abuse. Chief Education Officer Bandipora, Shri M. Rafiq Mir, highlighted the importance of education and a supportive environment in shaping responsible and informed youth. Station House Officer, Sumbal, Shri Mohammad Saleem Mir, briefed participants on the role of law enforcement in curbing drug trafficking and explained relevant provisions of the Narcotic Drugs and Psychotropic Substances (NDPS) Act. Dr. Reyaz Ahmad, Medical Officer, spoke about the adverse health consequences of substance abuse and highlighted the importance of counselling and timely intervention. He also informed participants about the Government of Indias Tele-MANAS mental health support initiative and helpline 14416. Tehsil Social Welfare Officer, Sumbal, Shri Fayaz Ahmad Lone, elaborated on welfare and support mechanisms available for affected individuals and families. The programme featured a photo exhibition on Nasha Mukt Bharat Abhiyaan, cultural performances by empanelled cultural troupes, and student participation in speech, painting and quiz competitions aimed at promoting awareness about the dangers of drug abuse. The participants also administered a pledge to stay away from drugs, discourage drug trafficking and contribute towards building a Drug-Free Jammu & Kashmir and Drug-Free India.

Govt Assurances panel flags waterlogging, seeks equitable road funding

The Committee on Government Assurances of the Jammu and Kashmir Legislative Assembly today convened a meeting at the Assembly Complex here to review the functioning of the Public Works Department (PWD) and Housing & Urban Development Department (HUDD). The meeting was chaired by Chairman of the Committee, Ali Mohammad Sagar and attended by members including MLA Ghulam Mohi Ud Din Mir, MLA Iftkar Ahmad, MLA Waheed ur Rehman Para and MLA Shabir Ahmad Kullay. Commissioner Secretary, HUDD, Mandeep Kaur; Commissioner SMC, Fazlul Haseeb; Commissioner JMC, Devansh Yadav; VC LCMA, VCs of JDA and SDA besides Secretary, JKLA, Manoj Kumar Pandita and officers of the Assembly Secretariat were also present in the meeting. During the meeting, the Committee held detailed deliberations on the constituency-wise allocation of funds under the Roads Sector for 2026-27. The Committee also reviewed the status of UT Capex Budget, NABARD works and PMGSY projects across J&K. Speaking during the meeting, the Chairman Ali Mohammad Sagar emphasized that development must reach every corner of J&K without any bias and directed the departments to ensure equitable distribution of resources. Taking serious note of water logging in Srinagar, he observed that citizens face immense difficulties during rains. He directed the HUDD to furnish detailed ATRs and submit a time-bound action plan to resolve drainage issues before the onset of the next season. Ali Sagar, while addressing the officers, said that the Committee values the experience and institutional knowledge of officers. He said that J&K has some of the most seasoned engineers and administrators who understand the local terrain, weather challenges and public needs better than anyone else. He stressed that this vast experience must be utilized to ensure quality, durability and transparency in execution of all developmental projects. The Chairman stressed that all members of the Committee have been assigned the responsibility to ensure that development reaches the grassroots and all projects are executed in a transparent and time-bound manner in line with the Viksit Bharat @2047 vision of the Prime Minister. He added that coordination between Legislature and Executive is the key to responsive governance and timely delivery of public services.

JKSA delegation meets Kapil Sibal over J&K recruitment irregularities, seeks Parliament intervention

A delegation of the Jammu & Kashmir Students Association (JKSA) on Sunday met President Supreme Court Bar Association and Rajya Sabha Member of Parliament Kapil Sibal at his residence in New Delhi and held a detailed discussion on a range of issues concerning Jammu & Kashmir, with particular focus on students, unemployed youth, recruitment processes, institutional accountability and the concerns of people from J&K living and working across the country. As per a press release, the delegation was led by National Convenor of Association Nasir Khuehami and accompanied by senior office-bearers of the Associations Delhi unit, including Saqib Naikoo, Mohammad Nazim and Irshad Ahmad. During the meeting, the delegation apprised Sibal of the persistent challenges confronting students, job aspirants and unemployed youth in Jammu & Kashmir, including recurring recruitment scams, paper leaks, examination irregularities, recruitment cancellations, procedural lapses, delays and prolonged uncertainty surrounding government recruitment processes. Khuehami highlighted major recruitment controversies in recent years, including those relating to the Jammu & Kashmir Police Sub-Inspector (JKPSI), Finance Accounts Assistant (FAA), Junior Engineer (Civil), Fire and Emergency Services and other recruitment examinations that have faced allegations of irregularities, paper leaks, manipulation and institutional lapses.

GCC pays tributes to former PCCF Ghulam Hassan Kangoo

The Group of Concerned Citizens, J&K (GCC) has expressed sorrow at the passing away of a GCC stalwart , Ghulam Hassan Kangoo-- former Principal Chief Conservator Forests. Describing GH Kangoo as one of the foremost forest conservation experts of J&K and a highly dedicated social activist, GCC recalled Kangoo's contribution to the working of GCC and his strong commitment to public welfare and public interest. Kangoo sahib will be greatly missed in GCC as in society at large, said a statement issued by the Group. GCC has also lauded the outstanding services rendered by late GH Kangoo over about four decades to the erstwhile state of Jammu & Kashmir as a forest officer from ACF to PCCF and conveyed its heartfelt condolences to the bereaved family.

Dr Farooq, CM Omar condole demise of Ghulam Hassan Kangoo

National Conference President Dr Farooq Abdullah and Vice President and Chief Minister Omar Abdullah have expressed deep sorrow over the demise of former Principal Chief Conservator of Forests (IFS) Ghulam Hassan Kangoo. Dr Farooq visited the residence of Ghulam Hassan Kangoo at Rajbagh to offer his condolences to the bereaved family. Kangoo, a native of Sopore, passed away on Saturday. Dr Farooq Abdullah conveyed his heartfelt sympathies to the family, particularly his sons, Ajaz Ahmed Kangoo and Dr Adil Ahmed Kangoo, and prayed for strength and fortitude for them to bear the irreparable loss. He also offered Fateha Khawani and prayed to Almighty Allah to grant the departed soul eternal peace and the highest place in Jannat-ul-Firdous.

Engaging with youth pivotal for J&Ks growth: Ghulam Hassan Mir

Former Cabinet Minister and Apni Party Senior Vice President Ghulam Hassan Mir on Monday said that the Apni Party is keen to engage with the younger generation, as young people are key stakeholders and the future of society. He said that the youth must be taken on board and actively involved in the process of shaping a better and brighter future for themselves. Mir made these remarks today while addressing a party event at its headquarters in Srinagar. The event was organised to welcome a large number of young people from Srinagars Bemina area. Among the prominent entrants were Mohsin Saqib Wani, Akeed Mushtaq, Danish Mushtaq, Umeed Bazaz, Junaid Muzaffar Bhat, and others. They joined the party along with their respective teams. Addressing the occasion, Ghulam Hassan Mir said, Apni Partys policies and agenda are primarily aimed at striving for a better future for our youth. Our vision is to build a future that offers greater prospects, prosperity, and better livelihood opportunities. However, to achieve this, we must create an environment that enables our youth to realise their potential, pursue their aspirations, and build a secure and prosperous future. We need to create the right conditions for our youth to grow, prosper, and contribute meaningfully to the development of Jammu and Kashmir. He further said, When the Apni Party said that our politics is rooted in truthfulness, our opponents made fun of it. But when we speak of the politics of truthfulness, we mean that we do not want to mislead our younger generation with emotional slogans and unattainable goals. The fact is that the older generation bears much of the responsibility for the miseries our youth are facing today. Traditional political parties failed to create a conducive environment for our young people. Instead, they led them down a path where the choices before them were often either imprisonment or death, Mir added. Ghulam Hassan Mir said that Apni Partys politics is about breaking away from that cycle. We believe our youth deserve a future built on opportunity, dignity, peace, and realistic aspirationsnot empty slogans and promises that can never be fulfilled. He further said that there was a time when our youth were pushed towards violence and a culture of guns. Many years have passed since then, but those who were young at the time are still suffering the consequences. Some remain in jails, while others continue to face difficulties because they are repeatedly summoned to police stations. Taking a dig at the government, Mir said, Unfortunately, our elected government has failed to deliver effective governance. The ruling party sought votes from the people by promising to address their pressing issues and grievances. However, after receiving a massive mandate from the people, they now claim that they do not have the power to address public concerns. The fact is that they lack the will, rather than the ability, to address the issues confronting the people. The people gave them a clear mandate and placed their trust in them, but instead of taking responsibility and working to resolve their problems, they have chosen to make excuses and shift the blame, Mir added. Why is it that this government does not even talk about detainees or do anything to stop the harassment of our youth? Why doesnt it take concrete steps to ensure that young people are able to obtain passports without unnecessary difficulty? And why is it not doing anything substantial to create meaningful job opportunities for our youth? Mir asked. When an elected government fails to care for the future of its youth and does not provide them with the necessary facilities, opportunities, and avenues for growth, it loses its moral right to continue in office. He added. Ghulam Hassan Mir reiterated his demand for the Government of India to engage with the youth of Jammu and Kashmir through a meaningful dialogue aimed at understanding their issues and concerns and addressing them effectively. He said that such a dialogue between the Central Government and the youth of J&K is imperative to rebuild trust and bridge the prevailing trust deficit. Speaking on the occasion, parties Chief Coordinator & District President Kulgam Abdul Majeed Paddar, assured the new entrants that Apni Party would provide them with ample opportunities to contribute towards building a better future and serving the people. He appealed to the younger generation to support Apni Party so that, together, we can strive for a brighter, more prosperous, and secure future for the youth and generations to come. Besides Mir and Paddar, the prominent party leaders who were present on this occasion included State Vice President Mohammad Syed Akhoon, Provincial President Kashmir Mohammad Ashraf Mir, and others.

Traffic jams pester commuters in Srinagar

Massive traffic congestion affected large parts of Srinagar on Monday as the reopening of schools and offices after the weekend triggered heavy vehicular movement across the city. Commuters called for better traffic management and stricter action against roadside parking and encroachments. Long queues of vehicles were witnessed during peak morning and evening hours in several areas, including Nowhatta, Khanyar, Nowpora, Nallahmar Road, City Centre, and adjoining localities. Traffic movement remained slow for hours, leaving commuters stranded and disrupting daily routines. Residents said the situation has become increasingly difficult in downtown areas where narrow roads, roadside parking and heavy pedestrian movement combine to create persistent bottlenecks. There was hardly any movement for several minutes at many places. A journey that normally takes 15 minutes consumed nearly an hour today, said commuter Fayaz Ahmad, who was travelling through the Khanyar and Nowhatta areas. Authorities need to deploy more traffic personnel during peak hours because the present arrangements are clearly inadequate, he added. Another commuter, Shabir Hussain of Hawal, said school buses, public transport, private vehicles and commercial traffic converging at the same time resulted in complete chaos. Traffic diversions and better regulation at major junctions can significantly reduce congestion, he said. The problem was further aggravated by indiscriminate roadside parking in commercial areas such as Rajouri Kadal, Bohri Kadal, Maharaj Gunj and adjoining markets, where the absence of dedicated parking facilities forces motorists to leave their vehicles along road margins, reducing the carriageway. Pedestrians also expressed concern over the increasing encroachment of footpaths by roadside vendors, saying they are often forced to walk on busy roads, exposing themselves to speeding traffic. Footpaths are meant for pedestrians, but many stretches have virtually disappeared because of roadside vending. We have no option but to walk on the road, which is risky, particularly during rush hours, said Nusrat Jan, a pedestrian. Locals pointed to the stretch in front of Eidgah Park and along Ali Masjid and Dr Ali Jan Road, where fruit sellers, vegetable vendors and other roadside traders have occupied significant portions of the footpath and roadside, narrowing the available space for vehicles and contributing to frequent traffic jams. The road itself is narrow and in bad condition, and once vehicles are parked along the roadside while vendors occupy the footpaths, movement comes to a crawl, said local resident Mohammad Yousuf. Earlier, Traffic Police officials acknowledged the heavy rush witnessed on Monday and said personnel had been deployed at major junctions across the city. We are continuously conducting enforcement drives and deploying traffic personnel at important intersections. The influx of school buses during peak hours further adds to congestion, an official said.

Why do you have ego in attending meetings?: MLA Sajad Shafi pulls up officers

Member of Legislative Assembly (MLA) Uri, Dr Sajad Shafi Monday said the failure of officers to attend meetings was hampering efforts to review developmental works and address public grievances. He said while during a joint review meeting convened by MLA Baramulla and MLA Uri in Baramulla outskirts to take stock of developmental projects being executed by different departments. He expressed his displeasure over the absence of officers from meetings convened by elected representatives and questioned their accountability and attitude towards legislators. Officers are not taking meetings seriously. I dont know what work culture they are working in. The attitude shown by officers is surprising, Dr. Sajad Shafi said. He said the constituency was being affected by the absence of officials from review meetings. The constituency has been left at Gods mercy. We call meetings and officers dont take them seriously, he said. The MLA particularly criticised Assistant Executive Engineers (AEEs), saying elected representatives were expected to keep track of works being executed by different departments, while concerned engineers often failed to provide information about their own projects. MLAs remember the works of all departments, but AEEs dont remember their projects. AEEs dont show up to attend the meetings, he added. MLA Uri said officers had an obligation to cooperate with elected representatives saying that MLAs do not ask for personal benefits but raise issues related to public concern. If you have issues in dealing with MLAs, we are not asking for our personal issues. If an MLA has come, why do officers not want to attend? This attitude has shocked me, he added. He said there was an urgent need to streamline the administrative system and fix accountability at every level. There is no accountability. We have to streamline the system and bring accountability, he said. The MLA also called for greater accountability of contractors executing government projects, particularly works under PMGSY, PHE and R&B. Make contractors accountable. They should do justice with the projects and do it judiciously. There are some areas in Uri and Baramulla constituency where works cannot be executed from October onwards, so the work needs to be expedited, he added. During the meeting, MLA Uri referred to a conversation with his father while drawing a comparison between the powers of elected governments before and after the abrogation of Article 370. I remember how officers used to deal with elected representatives during the tenure of my father. But these days why officers have ego in attending the meeting. I do not understand, he asked. Shafi warned that elected representatives would not compromise on the failure of officials to perform their duties. We will not compromise if officers do not work properly. Action will be taken against officials who fail to discharge their responsibilities, he added. MLA Uri however congratulated the sub-divisional administration in Uri constituency for its functioning, while expressing dissatisfaction with some officers in the Baramulla constituency. He said the officers were capable but their ego issues were affecting coordination with elected representatives. We should be able to work with zeal, he added. He appealed to local officers to put in additional efforts for the development of the region. Let me make it clear to officers who are locals here. They are not from the AGMUT cadre. We have to live and die together, he added.

SSP Jammu flags off Tiranga bike rally

Jammu, Aug 10: Senior Superintendent of Police (SSP) Jammu Joginder Singh on Monday flagged off a Tiranga bike rally from District Police Lines (DPL), Jammu, marking the spirit of patriotism, national unity and pride ahead of Independence Day. The rally witnessed enthusiastic participation of Police personnel carrying the tricolour with pride and spreading the message of unity, integrity and devotion to the nation. The rally covered the area of Satwari, Gandhinagar, Channi Himmat and nearby locations to spread the message of Har Ghar Tiranga. The event was attended by SSP Jammu, SP Headquarters, SP City South, DySP DAR, SDPO City East, SDPO City South and all SHOs, along with other police officers and personnel.

Jammu Division railway sets up new benchmark with highest-ever single-day punctuality record

Jammu, Aug 10: Jammu Division Railway on Monday stated to have set a new benchmark for efficiency within Indian Railways with highest-ever single-day punctuality record for Mail and Express trains on July 31. Adding a historic chapter to Indian Railways' operations, Jammu Division has achieved its highest-ever single-day punctuality record for Mail and Express trains. On July 31, 2026, the division recorded an exceptional punctuality rate of 94.12 percent, marking a golden milestone in its operational history. This new record significantly surpasses the division's previous best performance of 92.59 percent, achieved on February 20, 2025, Jammu Railway Division Public Relations Inspector (PRI) said. The official statement mentioned that a remarkable triumph over challenging operational hurdles, the success was particularly noteworthy as it was achieved not under ideal conditions, but amidst complex, large-scale infrastructure modernization work. It stated that Jammu Division maintained this impeccable schedule while successfully executing multiple major traffic and maintenance blocks across the network. Beyond routine maintenance, complex technical tasks were carried out without disrupting passenger travel. The power of precise planning and unparalleled teamwork lies behind this statistical victory; it is a story of human coordination, meticulous planning, and round-the-clock hard work. Railway officials attribute this historic success directly to the flawless synergy between ground staff and core management teams. Notably, the Control Office served as the nerve centre of this entire operation, the official statement mentioned. The PRI asserted that the constant monitoring, careful planning and the ability to make quick decisions, control room staff successfully averted potential delays in a timely manner. The dedication demonstrated by officials, trackmen, engineers, and technicians reflects the Railways' commitment to passenger safety and the value of their time. With this historic achievementsetting new standards for the passenger experiencethe Jammu Division has sent a clear message that infrastructure development and passenger convenience can go hand in hand, it was stated, adding that by proving that major maintenance operations needed not result in train delays, the division set an exemplary precedent for other railway divisions across the country.

Jal Jeevan Mission has become a dead body: Baramulla MLA tears into Jal Shakti Department

Member of Legislative Assembly (MLA) Baramulla Javid Hassan Baig Monday launched a sharp attack on the functioning of the Jal Shakti Department, questioning the implementation of the Jal Jeevan Mission in J&K saying the government must find a way to give the dead body a new life. During a joint review meeting called by MLA Baramulla and MLA Uri Dr Sajad Shafi, Javid Hassan Baig urged Prime Minister Narendra Modi to ascertain what had happened to the scheme in Jammu and Kashmir over the past six years. Has the slogan of Har Ghar Jal reached every house hold,? Baig asked. MLA Baramulla urged the Chief Minister Omar Abdullah to intervene and find a solution to the problems plaguing the implementation of the scheme. If the Prime Minister Narendra Modi comes to know what has happened to JJM in J&K over the last six years, heads will roll here, MLA Baramulla said. Taking a dig at the much-publicised Har Ghar Jal objective, he said the slogan was yet to translate into access to drinking water for every household. He said merely holding meetings and constituting committees would not resolve the issue. We have to find a way to save its life, he said He urged the administration to revive the scheme and ensure that its benefits reach people on the ground. MLA Baramulla also questioned the preparedness of officials attending review meetings, alleging that several officers were unable to provide basic information about ongoing works and projects in their respective areas. What is the fun of holding such a meeting when you dont know anything? he asked the officials. He directed the officials to come prepared for the next review meeting. The MLA said he could identify the status of development works in villages across his constituency and challenged officials to provide details of projects of their respective departments under their jurisdiction. MLA Baramulla Javid Hassan Baig expressed strong displeasure over what he termed as lack of preparedness and said officers should not attend review meetings without having complete information about the works being executed in their areas. He also raised questions over the functioning of the department, promotions and accountability of officials. Incompetent officers are being rewarded while basic issues remained unresolved, he said. The MLA further questioned delays in water-related works, including tenders and execution of projects, and sought greater accountability from officials and contractors. The administration must ensure that contractors entrusted with water supply works actually deliver on the projects for which tenders have been issued, he said.

Dozens of PDP workers join NC in Gool, Banihal

Banihal, Aug 10:Dozens of prominent workers and activists associated with the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) from Gool on Monday joined the Jammu & Kashmir National Conference (NC) in Banihal, reaffirming their faith in the leadership of Chief Minister Omar Abdullah and the people-centric development agenda being pursued by the NC-led government. Welcoming the new entrants into the party fold, senior National Conference leader and MLA Banihal-Gool, Sajjad Shaheen, as per a statement, said that the growing influx of people into the National Conference was a clear endorsement of the partys politics of development, dignity, secularism and protection of the rights of the people of Jammu & Kashmir. Shaheen said the people were increasingly recognising the difference between those who stood with them during difficult times and those who compromised their political positions for short-term power. He said the PDPs 2014 alliance with the BJP had left a deep political and institutional legacy for which the people of Jammu & Kashmir were still paying a heavy price. Those who promised to safeguard the interests and special status of Jammu & Kashmir ultimately joined hands with the BJP. The PDPs politics of opportunism and its alliance with the BJP contributed to the political circumstances in which the special constitutional position of Jammu & Kashmir was subsequently downgraded and eroded. The people have neither forgotten nor forgiven this betrayal, Shaheen said. He accused the PDP leadership of practicing a dual politics, claiming to champion the interests of Jammu & Kashmir while simultaneously enabling forces whose political agenda was contrary to the aspirations and constitutional rights of the people of the erstwhile state. The people of Jammu & Kashmir are today paying the price of the political misjudgments and compromises of those who betrayed the trust reposed in them. History will judge those who chose power over principles, he said. Shaheen asserted that the National Conference, in contrast, has consistently remained a guardian of the political, constitutional and democratic rights of the people of Jammu & Kashmir, irrespective of circumstances. From Sheikh Mohammad Abdullah to Dr Farooq Abdullah and Omar Abdullah, the National Conference has never abandoned the people of Jammu & Kashmir. We have faced difficult periods, stood against injustice and continued to raise our voice for the dignity, identity, rights and democratic aspirations of our people, he said. He said the growing support for the National Conference was also a reflection of the people's appreciation of the development-oriented and people-friendly governance under Chief Minister Omar Abdullah. Shaheen highlighted what he described as a renewed and equitable development push across Jammu & Kashmir, saying that infrastructure, roads, education, health, power, water supply, tourism, sports and other sectors were receiving focused attention. He said the objective was not merely to develop urban centres but to ensure that remote, hilly and historically neglected areas also received their rightful share of development. Under the leadership of Chief Minister Omar Abdullah, development is being pursued on the principle of equity. From the plains to the mountains and from towns to remote villages, every region is being brought into the development process. Banihal-Gool is also witnessing this transformation, he said. Referring specifically to the Banihal-Gool constituency, Shaheen said several major development initiatives had either been sanctioned, approved or taken up during the present tenure. He said the ongoing development process was aimed at creating better connectivity, employment opportunities, educational facilities, healthcare infrastructure and economic avenues for the people, particularly those living in remote mountainous areas. Welcoming the former PDP workers, Shaheen said their decision to join the National Conference demonstrated that political workers were increasingly seeking a platform rooted in principles, public service and inclusive development. The doors of the National Conference remain open to all those who believe in democratic values, secularism, social justice, development and the political and constitutional rights of the people of Jammu & Kashmir, he said. Shaheen said the latest political shift in Gool was not merely an organisational development for the National Conference but a reflection of a larger change in public sentiment, with people choosing performance, accessibility and principled politics over political opportunism. He called upon party workers to strengthen grassroots mobilisation and remain connected with the people, saying that the National Conference would continue to work towards fulfilling the aspirations of the people and building a more equitable, peaceful and prosperous Jammu & Kashmir.

Compensatory plantation eludes Srinagar-Baramulla highway despite large-scale tree felling

The long-awaited four-laning of the Srinagar-Baramulla highway is nearing completion, promising smoother traffic and better connectivity across north Kashmir. But the project has also exacted a significant environmental toll, with large stretches of the once tree-lined highway cleared of vegetation to make way for the expanded road. A substantial portion of the four-lane project has been completed, barring two bypass stretches, Pattan and Baramulla bypass. The expanded highway has considerably eased traffic congestion at several points. However, thousands of trees, including poplar, mulberry and some Chinar trees, were felled to make way for the widening and allied construction works. Though, authorities had earlier assured that the executing agency, the Border Roads Organisation (BRO), would plant twice the number of trees felled during the project. However, their has been no plantation carried out so far, causing concern among the concerned citizens. Residents say the loss of such a large green cover could have long-term environmental consequences, particularly amid rising temperatures and increasingly erratic weather patterns in Kashmir. Environmentalists and residents say trees lining highways serve a far greater purpose than beautification. They absorb carbon dioxide, filter dust and pollutants, provide shade, help regulate surface temperatures and offer vital habitat for local biodiversity. The Srinagar-Baramulla highway once presented a beautiful picture, with trees lining both sides of the road. It provided shade and made the journey pleasant. Today, much of that green cover has disappeared, said Basharat Ahmad, an environmentalist from Baramulla district. He said the loss of trees was particularly concerning at a time when climate change was already altering local weather conditions. When temperatures are rising, cutting thousands of trees without restoring the green cover can only add to the environmental stress, he said. The issue has also been raised over the narrow median constructed at several stretches of the highway which puts a question mark on the development of tree plantation. Locals had hoped the central divider could be developed as a green belt, helping restore some of the lost vegetation. There seems to be no initiative to create green space in the middle of the road. The narrow divider indicates that environmental restoration was not given adequate consideration in the design, said Aijaz Ahmad, another resident from Baramulla town. For residents, the four-laning may improve mobility, but they say development should not come at the cost of the regions already shrinking green cover.

3 teenagers from Doda missing in Jammu, families appeal for public help

Ramban, Aug 10: Three teenagers from Doda district have been missing since August 1 after they were reportedly last seen together in the Jammu area, prompting their families to appeal to the general public for help in tracing them. The missing teenagers have been identified as Aqib Ali Danish (19), son of Mohammad Lateef, resident of Kahara Bitola, Thathri; Sameer Ahmed (17), son of Asif Muneer, resident of Kahara Trankhal, Thathri; and Saib Arfat (16), son of Yasir Arfat, resident of Kahara Trankhal, Thathri. According to the families, the three went missing at around 8 pm on August 1 from the Javed Nagar-Nikki Tawi area of Jammu. Despite efforts by their relatives and police, their whereabouts remain unknown. Family members said Saib Arfat had reportedly visited a barber shop in the Narwal area on August 1, where he used the barber's phone to contact the other two teenagers. The families said the three were subsequently seen together in CCTV footage outside a hotel in Jammu. After the teenagers failed to return home, their families approached the concerned police stations and reported them missing. Separate FIRs were registered on August 4 at Police Station Thathri in Doda district and Police Station Satwari in Jammu district. Following registration of the cases, police teams have initiated investigations and efforts are underway to trace the missing teenagers. Police are examining available CCTV footage and other leads to ascertain their whereabouts. The families have made an emotional appeal to the general public to share any information that could help locate the three teenagers and safely reunite them with their families. They have also urged anyone who may have seen them or possesses any relevant information to immediately inform the nearest police station or the concerned authorities.

ASI allocatesRs 22.72 crore for conservation of protected monuments inJ&K since 2023-24

The Archaeological Survey of India (ASI) has allocated Rs 22.72 crore for the conservation, preservation and environmental development of protected monuments in Jammu and Kashmir over the last three financial years and the current fiscal, with Rs 20.13 crore utilised so far, according to information furnished by the Union Government in the Lok Sabha. The figures were provided by Union Minister for Culture and Tourism Gajendra Singh Shekhawat in a written reply to the Lok Sabha on conservation of national cultural heritage under the Ancient Monuments and Archaeological Sites and Remains Act, 1958, and the National Culture Fund (NCF). According to the reply, ASI undertakes conservation and maintenance of protected monuments annually based on their requirements and the availability of resources. Regular inspections are also carried out by ASI officers to assess the condition of monuments and monitor conservation and renovation works. The data show that J&K received an allocation of Rs 7.17 crore during 2023-24, which was fully utilised. In 2024-25, Rs 4.90 crore was allocated, of which Rs 4.89 crore was spent. The allocation increased to Rs 5.95 crore in 2025-26, with the entire amount utilised. For the current financial year, 2026-27, Rs 4.70 crore has been allocated to Jammu and Kashmir. Of this, Rs 2.12 crore had been utilised up to August 5. Separately, the Ministry has approved an NCF project worth Rs 1.21 crore during 2026-27 for the development of amenities at the Shankaracharya Temple in Srinagar. The project figures among NCF-supported works for conservation, renovation and development at ASI-protected monuments in Jammu and Kashmir. The government clarified that monuments and heritage sites are not protected under the National Culture Fund itself. Instead, the NCF provides financial assistance for conservation, renovation and development works at selected monuments and cultural heritage sites protected by the ASI. The Ministry said ASI also reviews visitor facilities, digital documentation, conservation activities and heritage promotion programmes at monuments under its jurisdiction. It added that ASI field offices organise community-oriented heritage programmes, including heritage walks, talks, drawing and painting competitions, photo exhibitions and consultations with local communities and stakeholders to promote awareness about heritage conservation. (KNO)

Wular Lake squeezed by encroachment, choked by pollution

Bandipora, Aug 10: Once described as Asias largest freshwater lake, Wular is now battling decades of neglect, siltation, sewage inflow, encroachment and pollution. The present condition of the Lake has raised serious concerns over the survival of one of Kashmirs most important natural flood channels. Wular Lake is spread across parts of Bandipora and Baramulla districts plays a critical role in regulating floodwaters in Kashmir. However, unchecked human intervention and the absence of sustained restoration efforts have steadily squeezed the lake and degraded its ecosystem. The lake, according to locals has been turned into a dumping ground at several places, with open waste disposal sites emerging along its shores. Sewage and other pollutants entering the water body have further aggravated the situation. The deterioration has also hit the livelihoods of people dependent on the lake. Chestnut harvesting, once an important economic activity around Wular, has witnessed a decline amid the worsening condition of the freshwater body. Villages located along the lakes periphery have also been bearing the brunt of pollution and environmental degradation. Talking to Greater Kashmir , MLA Bandipora Nizamuddin Bhat, said the lake suffered from years of neglect and lack of focused attention. He said Wular did not receive the attention accorded to other important water bodies, including Dal, Manasbal and Nigeen lakes. During Omar Abdullah-led government in 2008, efforts were made to secure a major financial package for Wulars restoration. Along with then Sonawari MLA Muhammad Akbar Lone, I met the then Union Environment Minister Jairam Ramesh and sought intervention for the lake, he said. Bhat said he and then MLA Sonawari Muhammad Akbar Lone met Jai Ram Ramesh in person. He asked for a proposal and the J&K government subsequently submitted the same to GoI. A project worth Rs 360 crore was approved, of which Rs 120 crore was released initially, he said. Following this, the Wular Development Authority was constituted and the funds were placed at its disposal. Bhat said that before the constitution of the authority, Wular was being looked after by the Forest and Ecology authorities. The lake had subsequently fallen victim to extensive human intervention, including cutting of nursery areas and encroachment of lake land, he added. Despite the constitution of the Wular Development Authority and availability of funds, he said, restoration efforts faced several hurdles and subsequent funding was delayed. The MLA said that during the PDP-BJP government, when he was not an elected representative, WUCMA was established. He however alleged that the lake continued to face pressure from land and sand mafia. Wular faced land and sand mafia. Although the lake is demarcated, large portions has been encroached upon, he added. He said Wular had historically been a naturally functioning freshwater lake but had been severely affected by human fiddling, official apathy, inadequate scientific research and changing circumstances. Even in present times, the left-out part of Wular is not being saved, he added. Bhat also expressed concern over the lack of progress on the proposed circular road around the lake and alleged that there was inadequate control over sand mining activities in and around the Wular basin. We all are taking it up, but when there are no resources, what can bureaucracy do? he asked. MLA Bandipora said as many as seven departments, including Environment, Forest and Ecology, Tourism, Mining and Fisheries, were associated with matters concerning Wular. Despite seven departments looking after it, Wular has become nobodys baby, he said. He said that the absence of a single authority with absolute responsibility for the lake has compounded the problem. Wular falls within the constituencies of three MLAs including Bandipora, Sonawari and Sopore. But the lake continues to face mounting ecological pressures. As already reported by this newspaper, Chief Conservator of Forests Irfan Rasool said that lakefronts, eco-parks and cycling infrastructure were being developed to boost eco-tourism around Asias largest freshwater lake. He said that forest department was reviving restoration efforts that had been delayed for nearly a year and was mobilising dredging machinery to clear silt and waste from the Watlab area.

An example of interfaith harmony

Baramulla has a divine connect with Kashmir. It was here that Rishi Kashyapa, described by Guru Gobind Singh Ji in Dasam Granth as an incarnation of Brahma and remembered for his authority on Vedas, drained the lake Sati Sar by cutting through the mountains near Khadniyar. One gets a majestic look of these mountains whilst entering Baramulla at the point of headquarters 19 Division. Founded in the year 2306 BC by Raja Bhimsina, Baramulla first got its name from Sanskrit words for Boars Molar (Varahamula) tied to Hindu myth of draining the primeval valley Lake. The European traveller William Moorcraft described Baramulla as a strategic placement on the Jhelum valley road. Historically Kashmir province of princely state had two districts, Baramulla and Anantnag. Subsequently districts Bandipore, Kupwara and also a part of Srinagar were derived from Baramulla. In the armed Kabalee Invasion of 1947, Baramulla and adjoining villages witnessed loot, arson, and killings and their properties were plundered. People from all faiths suffered heavily but it was the Sikh community that faced the major brunt. Thousands of Sikhs, including women and children were martyred but unfortunately their supreme sacrifice has been totally neglected by the governments since no memorial has been constructed to honour their martyrdom. With regards to the interfaith harmony and brotherhood, Baramulla exhibits the beseeming example. The district has been visited by many Deities, Sufi Saints and Sikh Gurus. Many Sikh Saints visited this place and preached Guru Nanaks Faith of Sikhism. Muslim Faith Muslims form the majority community in Baramulla and have always believed in peace, harmony and brotherhood. They have harmonious relationship with the people of other faiths. Some of the historical Muslim shrines in Baramulla district being, Ziarat Baba Rishi (Baba Payam-ud-Din Rishi), Shrine Janbaz Wali (Tomb of Sufi Saint Sayyid Muhammad Rufai from Isfahan Iran), Dargah Aaliya Khwaja Sahib (a prominent religious centre that houses holy relic of Prophet Muhammad (peace be upon him). Hindu Faith Hindus mostly Kashmiri Pandits, Khatris and Brahmans lived in Baramulla. Whereas, the Brahmans were settled in Uri sector, the Khatris lived in Baramulla and were mainly involved in trade. Pandits being scholarly elite though scattered in various villages had majority population in Baramulla town. They occupied high offices in the administration and also in the education sector. During the exodus in 1990, approximately 530 Pandit families migrated. Only a handful stayed back. Presently some Pandit families have returned under PM package and are staying in transit camps at Sheree and flood colony Khwaja Bagh. They have been welcomed by the majority community and interactions between different faiths have again started. Further dialogues for dignified return of Pandits are on. Some of the historical Hindu Shrines in Baramulla are, Shankara Gauri Shavara temple in Pattan, Vishnu temple Boniyar, Datta Mandir Uri, Maharani temple Gulmarg, Mata Shailputri temple, Shiva temple Kothi Teerath, Gangnour temple, Ram temple Gosain Teng, Huge Shiv Linga monolithic rock carved at Kanlibagh, Nandkeshwar temple Sopore. Sikh Faith Sikhs in the valley and particularly in Baramulla are linked to the Afghan rule, when Sukhjivanmal got Brahmans and Sikhs from Pakhli, Hazara, Frontier, and Pothohar, and the Sikh rule when many Brahmans embraced Sikh faith. The Sikhs of Baramulla have been a hardworking small community who have lived with dignity and honour. During the time of militancy, the Sikhs chose to stay back instead of migrating. Baramulla has been blessed with the visit of Guru Hargobind Sahib Ji. Mention of Guru Nanak Dev Ji having visited Gulmarg and adjoining areas has also been made in Mahan Kosh, the encyclopaedia of Sikh religion. Some of the historical Sikh Shrines in Baramulla are, Gurdwara Chevin Patshai Baramulla, Gurdwara Chevin Patshai Kalampura also called Thara Sahib, Gurdwara Chevin Patshai Paranpeelan and Dulanja Uri, Gurdwara Tapyana Sahib Shalkot, Gurdwara Sant Baba Natha Singh Didarpura and Gurdwara Shaheed Marg Satarna. Buddhist Faith Buddhism became dominant in Kashmir during the time of emperor Ashoka. Subsequently during the time of king Kanishka, the fourth international Buddhist conference was held near Harwan Srinagar. Buddhism spread to China Central Asia from Kashmir. Buddhist preacher revered Guru Padmasambhava also visited Kashmir. Various Buddhist sites found in Baramulla are at Zehanpora, Ushkur, Parihaspora and Kanispora. Christian Faith Baramulla at present has a minuscule population (53 in number) of Christian community. This community has played a very important role in the education and health sector. St Josephs school established in 1905 with the motto Manners Maketh Man has been the backbone of the education system in the district. Presently headed by father Brito, the school has undergone tremendous transformation with regards to infrastructure, green environment, sports facilities etc. St Josephs Hospital too has given a yeoman service to mankind. The hospital always gave and continues to give the confidence to the people that in case of a medical condition, they could count on this hospital. During the Kabalee raid of 1947, many sisters and nuns were martyred in the hospital. However, undeterred the community continues with this service. Two historical churches St Josephs Church at Baramulla and St Marys Church at Gulmarg are the revered places of Christian faith. In my view, presently Baramulla town is threatened with potholed roads/ ineffective traffic management and encroachment of natural nallas that could be a cause of major disaster during heavy rains/cloud bursts. Commodore DS Sodhi, Former Deputy Assistant Chief of Headquarters Integrated Staff (IT), Author and Social Activist.

A Scientific Roadmap

Kashmir is entering a new phase of tourism development. For decades, destinations such as Gulmarg, Pahalgam, and Sonamarg have attracted visitors from across the country and abroad. Today, many lesser-known valleys, forests, alpine meadows, lakes, and mountain peaks are also being promoted as new tourist destinations. Improved roads, ropeway projects, eco-tourism initiatives, homestays, adventure tourism, and better public facilities are helping visitors explore these untouched areas. The Governments efforts to diversify tourism deserve appreciation, as they reduce pressure on traditional destinations while creating new livelihood opportunities for people living in remote areas. Tourism is one of the strongest pillars of Jammu and Kashmirs economy. It supports hotels, transport services, handicrafts, restaurants, local guides, farmers, pony owners, and thousands of small businesses. Programmes such as the promotion of homestays, rural tourism, eco-tourism, and the development of tourism infrastructure under schemes like Swadesh Darshan have created new opportunities for balanced regional growth. However, while expanding tourism is important, it is equally important to ensure that development does not weaken the natural environment on which tourism itself depends. Most of the newly emerging tourist destinations are not ordinary pieces of land waiting to be developed. They are fragile mountain ecosystems that provide much more than scenic beauty. These landscapes support forests, wildlife, grazing lands, medicinal plants, wetlands, and alpine vegetation. More importantly, they protect Kashmirs water resources, regulate the local climate, and reduce the risk of floods and soil erosion. Nature is the foundation Healthy forests and mountain slopes act as natural water reservoirs. Rainfall and melting snow slowly seep into the ground through forests and meadows, recharging springs, streams, and groundwater aquifers. These water sources supply drinking water to villages, support agriculture, and maintain river flows during dry months. As a hydrogeologist, one lesson repeatedly emerges from field studies: wherever natural recharge areas remain healthy, springs continue to flow and groundwater remains sustainable. But when forests are cleared, hills are cut indiscriminately, or construction spreads without planning, this natural balance begins to change. Rainwater flows rapidly downhill instead of entering the ground. Soil erosion increases, springs gradually lose discharge, and groundwater recharge declines. The effects may not become visible immediately, but over time they become difficult and expensive to reverse. Protecting groundwater recharge zones should therefore become a central part of tourism planning rather than an afterthought. Scientific planning should begin long before construction starts. Every major tourism project should be supported by environmental, geological, hydrogeological, biodiversity, and slope stability studies. Modern tools such as Geographic Information Systems (GIS), remote sensing, drone surveys, and terrain mapping can identify environmentally sensitive areas, groundwater recharge zones, unstable slopes, wetlands, and wildlife habitats. This information helps planners avoid costly mistakes while protecting natural resources. Another important concept is the carrying capacity of a destination. Every mountain ecosystem has a limit to the number of tourists, vehicles, hotels, and commercial activities it can support without suffering environmental damage. Ignoring this limit leads to traffic congestion, water shortages, pollution, waste accumulation, and a decline in the quality of the tourist experience. Development also requires sound engineering practices. Hill cutting should be minimised, and unnecessary blasting should be avoided because it weakens fragile slopes. Proper retaining structures, bio-engineering techniques, slope stabilisation, and scientifically designed drainage systems should be incorporated into every project. Natural drainage channels should never be blocked, as they help safely carry rainwater and reduce the chances of erosion, landslides, and flash floods. Hotels, restaurants, and tourist facilities should also adopt environmentally responsible practices. Rainwater harvesting, sewage treatment plants, wastewater recycling, energy-efficient buildings, and scientific solid waste management should become standard features rather than optional measures. Building tourism that lasts Tourism development should not stop at building roads and hotels. It should also focus on protecting public health, maintaining hygiene, and reducing pollution. Clean surroundings are just as important as beautiful scenery. Visitors expect safe drinking water, clean public toilets, proper waste disposal, and hygienic food facilities. Unfortunately, many tourist destinations struggle with littering, overflowing dustbins, open dumping of waste, and inadequate sanitation during peak tourist seasons. The Government has already taken several positive steps, including promoting eco-tourism, home-stays, rural tourism, and better visitor facilities. National initiatives such as the Swachh Bharat Mission and Mission LiFE (Lifestyle for Environment) also encourage cleanliness, responsible waste management, and environmentally friendly lifestyles. These initiatives can make a significant difference if they are effectively implemented at tourist destinations. Waste management should become an integral part of every tourism project. Separate bins for biodegradable and non-biodegradable waste, recycling facilities, composting of organic waste, and regular waste collection should be mandatory. Plastic bottles, disposable plates, and single-use plastic bags are becoming common sights in many scenic locations. If this trend continues, it will damage the very landscapes that attract visitors. Sewage management deserves equal attention. Hotels, restaurants, and guest houses should have properly designed sewage treatment systems before becoming operational. Untreated wastewater should never be allowed to enter streams, wetlands, or lakes, as it not only pollutes water bodies but also affects aquatic life and public health. Water quality should be monitored regularly, especially in popular tourist destinations where demand increases sharply during the tourist season. The increasing number of private vehicles contributes to air pollution, traffic congestion, and higher carbon emissions. Noise from traffic and tourist activities can disturb wildlife and reduce the peaceful environment that visitors seek. Wherever possible, authorities should encourage electric shuttle buses, cycling, walking trails, and designated parking areas outside environmentally sensitive locations. Such measures have been successfully adopted in several hill stations and can improve both environmental quality and the visitor experience. Learning from experience Other Himalayan states provide valuable lessons. Shimla, Manali, and Mussoorie have witnessed rapid tourism growth, but they also face recurring problems such as water shortages, traffic congestion, and increasing waste during peak seasons. These challenges show that tourism can outgrow the capacity of local infrastructure if planning does not keep pace with development. Similarly, the Kedarnath disaster and land subsidence in Joshimath highlighted the importance of respecting the fragile nature of Himalayan terrain. While these events had multiple causes, they reinforced an important message: development in mountain regions must be guided by scientific investigations and careful engineering. Tourism planning must therefore include climate-resilient infrastructure, improved drainage systems, protection of wetlands, and conservation of forests that naturally regulate water and climate. Way forward The future of tourism in Kashmir depends on finding the right balance between development and conservation. Every emerging tourist destination should have a comprehensive management plan that covers environmental protection, engineering safety, water security, sanitation, waste management, transport, disaster preparedness, and regular environmental monitoring. Local communities should remain at the centre of this process. Their knowledge of forests, springs, grazing lands, and local traditions can help make tourism both sustainable and inclusive. Promoting community-based tourism, homestays, local handicrafts, village tourism, and trained local guides ensures that economic benefits remain with local people while encouraging them to conserve their surroundings. Government departments, engineers, environmental scientists, hydrogeologists, forest officials, tourism planners, local bodies, and community representatives should work together from the planning stage itself. Development decisions based on scientific evidence are always more sustainable than those driven solely by short-term economic considerations. Kashmir has a unique opportunity to become a model for sustainable mountain tourism in India. Its forests, rivers, lakes, wetlands, alpine meadows, springs, and groundwater systems are not merely tourist attractions; they are natural assets that support biodiversity, agriculture, water security, and the livelihoods of thousands of families. The real success of tourism should not be measured only by the number of visitors, hotels, or roads constructed each year. It should be measured by whether future generations continue to enjoy clean rivers, healthy forests, flowing springs, rich biodiversity, and the breathtaking landscapes that have made Kashmir famous across the world. Development and conservation are not competing priorities. They complement each other. With scientific planning, responsible engineering, effective pollution control, better sanitation, active community participation, and strong environmental safeguards, Kashmir can expand its tourism sector without compromising its natural heritage. Protecting nature is not an obstacle to development, it is the foundation on which the future of tourism in Kashmir must be built. Pir Rayees Ahmad, Sr. Scientist (Hydrogeologist), Government of India, Ministry of Jal Shakti, Central Ground Water Board.

Best of BS Opinion: Systems must build safeguards before crises hit

Weak measurement systems distort markets before trust breaks down. Artificial intelligence raises human questions long before the technology becomes impossible to govern

Bridging the Recognition Gap

Higher education stands on three pillars: merit, academic excellence, and equal opportunity. In an era where Indias higher education landscape has expanded significantly with private universities now educating a substantial share of the countrys postgraduate and doctoral students it is time to revisit an important policy question that touches the careers of thousands of young academics in Jammu & Kashmir. This is not an abstract or merely academic question. It shapes who gets shortlisted, how experience weightage is calculated, and ultimately, who is deemed fit to teach the next generation of students in government colleges and universities. The answer, this article argues, should rest on the quality and rigour of the institution and the work performed within it not on whether its ownership is public or private. The Changing Landscape Over the past decade, Indias higher education system has undergone a remarkable transformation. Many private universities are recognized by the University Grants Commission (UGC), accredited by the National Assessment and Accreditation Council (NAAC), and in several cases have earned national and international recognition through reputable ranking frameworks such as the QS World University Rankings and the National Institutional Ranking Framework (NIRF). These are not marginal or unregulated institutions. They operate under statutory Acts passed by state legislatures, are subject to periodic UGC inspection, and must meet minimum faculty qualification norms, student-teacher ratios, infrastructure benchmarks, and research output expectations identical in substance to those applied to public universities. Many maintain structured academic systems, conduct quality-assured research, follow outcome-based education frameworks, and recruit faculty through rigorous, transparent, and often UGC-compliant selection processes. In short, the regulatory scaffolding that governs private universities today is considerably more robust than it was a generation ago, when the public perception of private education in India was shaped largely by unregulated diploma mills. That perception, however outdated, appears to linger in recruitment practice long after the underlying reality has changed. If the degrees awarded by these universities are accepted as valid qualifications for employment and they routinely are, forming the very basis on which candidates qualify for teaching posts it raises a fundamental and somewhat uncomfortable question: why should the teaching experience acquired within those same institutions be viewed differently? The issue is not merely about employment opportunities for a handful of individuals. It is about maintaining logical consistency in public policy. A regulatory framework cannot coherently hold that a university is credible enough to certify a candidates degree, yet not credible enough to certify the professional experience that candidate accumulated while teaching there. When a degree obtained from a recognized private university is considered valid for recruitment, the teaching experience gained while working at that very institution should also receive due consideration provided, of course, that the institution fulfils the prescribed statutory requirements of recognition and accreditation. Put simply: an institutions legitimacy cannot be selectively applied accepted at the point of qualification and quietly withdrawn at the point of experience evaluation. The Departments Own Faculty Another interesting and somewhat revealing aspect deserves attention. A significant number of teachers currently serving in the Higher Education Department, whether on a permanent or contractual basis, have obtained their postgraduate or doctoral degrees from recognized private universities. This is not incidental; it reflects genuine institutional confidence in the academic standards of these universities, expressed through the departments own recruitment decisions. If academic qualifications earned at these institutions are acceptable indeed, are already embedded throughout the departments existing faculty profile then there is a strong and logically consistent argument that professional teaching experience acquired in the same institutions should also be evaluated on merit, rather than filtered out on the basis of the universitys ownership structure. What Should Actually Define Teaching Experience? Teaching is not defined by whether the employer is public or private; it is defined by classroom effectiveness, research productivity, curriculum development, student mentoring, academic innovation, and institutional contribution. A recruitment framework that genuinely wants to measure merit should assess these substantive markers rather than rely on a proxy as blunt as institutional ownership. Consider what a fair, merit-based evaluation of teaching experience would actually look for: Documented classroom teaching hours and subject-level responsibility, verifiable through institutional records. Research output peer-reviewed publications, conference presentations, and funded projects produced during the tenure. Contribution to curriculum design, outcome-based education planning, and academic committees. Supervision of student projects, dissertations, or postgraduate research. Participation in academic administration, accreditation exercises, or quality-assurance processes. None of these markers is intrinsically tied to whether the paycheque came from a state treasury or a private trust. A teacher who has spent five years building a strong publication record and mentoring postgraduate students at a NAAC-accredited private university has, by any reasonable standard, gained more substantive teaching experience than one who has spent an equivalent period in a less rigorous environment regardless of ownership. The Cost of the Status Quo Many young scholars begin their academic careers in private universities simply because permanent government vacancies are limited and recruitment cycles are slow and infrequent. During this formative period, they gain valuable classroom experience, publish research, supervise student projects, and participate in academic administration often under performance pressures that are, if anything, more demanding than those in some government institutions. If such experience is later discounted in government recruitment, the consequences extend well beyond individual disappointment. It discourages talented researchers from remaining in the states academic ecosystem, pushes ambitious young faculty toward institutions or states where their experience is valued more consistently, and creates an uneven playing field that has little to do with actual teaching ability. Over time, this can quietly erode the very merit-based culture that public recruitment policy is meant to protect. Addressing the Contractual Employment Concern There is also a broader issue concerning contractual employment that is often raised in this debate. While contractual faculty in government colleges frequently face legitimate concerns regarding remuneration and service conditions, several established private universities offer structured salary packages and service benefits aligned with prevailing UGC norms and institutional policies. The financial and structural precarity sometimes associated with contractual teaching is not a universal feature of private employment it varies by institution, just as it does within the government sector itself. This distinction matters because it undercuts a common assumption underlying current policy: that private-sector teaching experience is inherently less structured or less rigorous than government service. Where an institution meets statutory salary, benefit, and service-condition benchmarks, that assumption simply does not hold. What Equal Recognition Would Look Like None of this calls for lowering standards or extending blanket recognition to every institution regardless of quality. A workable policy would instead recognize teaching experience from private universities that meet clearly defined, verifiable benchmarks UGC recognition, NAAC or equivalent accreditation, and compliance with statutory faculty and infrastructure norms while continuing to exclude experience from institutions that fall short of these standards. This preserves rigour while removing the blanket disqualification that currently penalizes faculty at genuinely well-regulated institutions. Such a framework would also bring J&K HED recruitment policy in line with practices increasingly adopted elsewhere in the country, where accredited private university experience is weighted alongside government experience in faculty selection and promotion criteria. Conclusion The objective here is not to seek preferential treatment for private university faculty, nor to argue that all private institutions are equal to their government counterparts. It is to advocate for equal recognition of equivalent academic work performed in institutions that meet nationally prescribed quality standards. A policy that already trusts private universities to award valid degrees, and already employs their graduates throughout its own ranks, owes those same institutions and the faculty who built their academic reputation a consistent standard when it comes to recognizing teaching experience as well. Merit, after all, should be judged by what a teacher has actually done in the classroom and beyond it not by the letterhead on their appointment order. Dr. Mir Aaliya, Assistant Professor at CGC University, Mohali. Dr. Muneer Nabi, Assistant Professor at Karnavati University, Gujarat.

Mecca Pact, Implications for India

The security atmosphere and architecture of the new world order are changing fast. New alliances are being worked out, and the latest in the series is the Mecca pact, signed by Turkiye, Pakistan, and Saudi Arabia in Riyadh on August 7. It is the clearest signal that the Gulf States have started realizing that there are limits to the US security umbrella that they had relied on for decades, believing that Washington would help secure them against the eventuality of an attack. They are looking for an alternate umbrella to find a sense of security that is a given. And some analysts in major world capitals have gone to the extent of seeing it as an emergence of Islamic NATO, implying that this is as strong as the North Atlantic Treaty Organization in which the member states were committed to treating an attack on one as an attack on all. Whether or not this pact is the beginning of an Islamic NATO or simply a strategic partnership in intelligence-sharing and other cooperative measures, India will have to weigh its own security concerns, primarily because Pakistan always brings its anti-India agenda to all its security and strategic alliances. These may not necessarily be pure security concerns, but a call to assess the whole spectrum of the pact, its stated contours, and contents in very realistic terms. The rhetoric is one part of the strategy, but the core strategic responses demand an in-depth understanding of the complexities. India cannot shrug off these developments as if they were of no concern, or resort to the standard perception that it is closely watching these emerging trends. There has to be a definitive strategy, and that becomes an imperative when we look at the overall security environment in our immediate and distant neighbourhood, while it is a stark fact that this pact was not signed because of India or its strategic importance. Pakistan, however, is an exception to this rule because of its anti-India DNA, especially in its Army. Pakistan may say it explicitly or prefer strategic silence over its real intentions, but the fact remains that it always views India as an enemy. Following Operation Sindoor of May 2025, which India launched to avenge the Pahalgam massacre of 26 civilians on April 22, 2025, targeting the terror infrastructure across the border and the Line of Control (LoC) that separates Jammu and Kashmir from the Pakistan occupied territories, Islamabad has given a new and dangerous definition to Indias response to acts of terrorism. Pakistan has amplified its rhetoric on Jammu and Kashmir at international forums without ever acknowledging that its cross-border acts of terror were at the root of the crisis in the region. While nursing its wounds in the post four-day, high-intensity war triggered by the launch of Operation Sindoor, every move that Pakistan makes within the strategic and security alliances it fosters is driven by its underlying anti-India intentions. It is trying to gather all its military and. strategic resources to match up to the military power and strategic standing of India in the global affairs. This pact is one more attempt at doing so. Pakistans motivations are clear: it wants to strut on the global stage as an important nation that has the capacity to change situationsthe optics of it playing a role in the MoU between the US and Iran in recent months have served it well, though it is equally crucial that the very understanding has fallen by the wayside. It never ceases to boast that it is the only nuclear power among all the Islamic nations in the world. While this is true, Islamabad uses this power to blackmail nations and presents itself as a key factor in the security of the fellow Muslim countries. In the broader spectrum, India cannot afford to overlook the move and all the objectives involved in it for two reasons: First, India, as an emerging global power, cannot ignore developments that that have an impact on world affairsspecifically, the timing of the pact and the countries involved in it. Second, Pakistans presence in such agreements always has an impact on India. This is a reality that Indians know well. Not only India, but many commentators across the strategic world reflect on it in a similar way, believing that it will have repercussions for India. They express this through the euphemism that India will have to weigh its own defence structure. This signals that they are aware that Pakistans core interests are dominated by considerations of how it can deal with what it calls the Indian threat to the regional peace and stability. That, in fact, is inbuilt in Pakistans 24X7 thinking. Yet, this is not a simple story of Pakistan versus India; it is all about changing strategic thinking in the world in the wake of the US-Iran conflict, which has rattled the world and shaken many countries faith in the omnipresence and omnipotence of the United States of America that dominated the 20th century. This situation clearly reflects despair over the current state of American politics. American moral and political authority is in decay. The days of its successful diplomacy in the world, the defence of democracies, and the promotion of democracy are over. It now serves as a source of high polarization, as was evident in its conflict with Iran and its failure to defend the Gulf States from attacks by Tehran on their energy and defence assets. It has been a deeply frustrating experience for the Gulf States. Yet there is one big issue that should now attract more attention: the internal turmoil within Pakistan, spanning from Baluchistan and Khyber Pakhtunkhwa to the Pakistan-occupied Jammu and Kashmir. Dozens of people have died in these places in recent weeks. Pakistan, as is its habit of putting all the blame for its own failures at Indias doorstep, will get emboldened to do so. Policy makers in Delhi must take cognizance of this fact. Footnote: Pakistan is very keen to save the Muslim brotherly countries from perceived or real attacks, why is it killing Muslims within its own borders, be it Baluchistan, KP, or now in the PoJK?

J&Ks Cultural Emergency

Jammu and Kashmir is passing through a cultural crisis that deserves far greater public and governmental attention. The irony is that the crisis is not caused by a lack of talent. This land continues to produce accomplished singers, musicians, composers, actors, filmmakers, theatre practitioners, writers and traditional artists, many of whom have dedicated their entire lives to preserving and promoting its rich cultural heritage. Yet today, a large number of genuine and deserving artists are struggling for basic opportunities and livelihood. For many, art is not a pastime but their profession, their identity and their only source of income. Unfortunately, the system appears to have little space for many of those who have actually spent decades serving the cultural landscape of J&K. The absence of a meaningful and comprehensive cultural policy has made matters worse. There is no properly structured annual cultural calendar that can provide regular opportunities to local artists, no effective mechanism for identifying and supporting young talent and no sustained programme for the preservation and promotion of our traditional music, folk forms, theatre and performing arts. Cultural activity cannot survive on occasional festivals and ceremonial functions. It requires continuity, planning, investment and, above all, people at the helm who genuinely understand the cultural traditions, history and artistic ecosystem of Jammu and Kashmir. Cultural institutions cannot be treated simply as administrative postings. They need leadership with cultural knowledge, sensitivity and a genuine understanding of the problems confronting artists. The situation of the local film industry is equally disappointing. Jammu and Kashmir has everything required to develop a vibrant regional film industry: extraordinary stories, locations, talented artists and technically capable young people. What is missing is a policy that creates a genuine ecosystem for local filmmakers, producers, actors, writers, musicians and technicians. A film policy that primarily facilitates outside productions but does not provide adequate space and incentives for local filmmakers cannot become the foundation of a sustainable regional industry. Local talent must not remain merely an extra workforce for productions coming from elsewhere; it must be empowered to create, produce and own its own stories. There is also growing concern within the artistic fraternity about government awards and recognitions. Such honours represent the acknowledgement of an artists lifetime of contribution and therefore cannot be based on influence, proximity or questionable recommendations. When deserving artists are ignored and recognition goes elsewhere, it does more than hurt individuals; it undermines public confidence in the entire system of cultural recognition. At the same time, institutions such as Doordarshan and All India Radio, which once played a historic role in nurturing local talent and preserving the regions musical and linguistic heritage, have steadily lost their earlier vitality. Their decline has deprived generations of artists of important platforms and has created a serious vacuum in the cultural ecosystem of J&K. What is most painful is the apparent absence of urgency among those responsible for cultural affairs. Behind every artist struggling for work is a family, a livelihood and years of dedication. Many artists who represented Jammu and Kashmir on national and international platforms are today battling uncertainty while their contribution is remembered only when their presence is required for an event. This cannot be the way a society treats those who preserve its collective memory. Jammu and Kashmir urgently needs a cultural revival based on a clear policy, transparent selection, regular opportunities, proper institutional leadership and sustained financial support. The government must initiate a meaningful dialogue with genuine representatives of the artistic community and formulate a comprehensive cultural policy, a yearly cultural calendar and a practical film policy that places local talent at its centre. Doordarshan and All India Radio must once again become vibrant platforms for J&Ks artists, while government awards must be made transparent and genuinely merit based.

Beyond the Yatra

The Union Territory of Jammu and Kashmir stands at a critical juncture, one where the promise of a new beginning is increasingly overshadowed by the realities of a stalled present. Since the reorganisation of the state in 2019, the narrative has been dominated by high-voltage political symbolism, security narratives, and the eventual promise of restored statehood. However, beneath the surface of these grand political arcs, a quieter, more distressing reality is taking hold. The current administrative arrangement between the Lieutenant Governor and the political leadership is not working in harmony. This dissonance is not merely a bureaucratic friction; it is a governance crisis that is directly impacting the daily lives of the common citizen. The primary casualty of this administrative discord is the delivery of basic amenities. In any functional democracy, the provision of water, electricity, healthcare, and infrastructure is the non-negotiable baseline of governance. Yet, in many parts of J&K, these fundamentals remain elusive. When the administrative machinery is preoccupied with political positioning or ceremonial functions, the gritty, unglamorous work of governance suffers. The people of J&K are not asking for grandiose declarations; they are asking for functional hospitals, reliable power supply, and roads that do not wash away with the first monsoon rain. The current disconnect suggests that the administrative focus has drifted away from these essentials, leaving a vacuum where development should be. This vacuum is being filled by what can only be described as political show-off. There is a palpable sense that the current dispensation is more invested in curating an image of normalcy and progress than in delivering tangible outcomes. While photo opportunities and high-profile inaugurations make for good headlines, they do not fix leaking water pipes or staff understaffed primary health centers. This performative governance creates a facade of activity that masks the stagnation underneath. For the common citizen, the gap between the rhetoric of a New J&K and the reality on the ground is widening, breeding cynicism and eroding trust in public institutions. A particularly troubling aspect of this current arrangement is the apparent marginalization of elected representatives, specifically the BJP MLAs from the Jammu region. In a democracy, MLAs are the vital link between the government and the governed. They are tasked with articulating local grievances, steering development funds, and ensuring accountability. Yet, there is a growing perception that these elected officials have been rendered powerless, confined to the role of spectators rather than actors in the governance drama. The phrase confined to listening to Mann Ki Baat is a poignant, if stinging, critique of this reality. It suggests that the voice of the local electorate is being bypassed in favor of a top-down, centralized narrative. When elected representatives are silenced or sidelined, the democratic fabric of the region weakens, and the specific needs of constituencies go unaddressed. This centralization of power is further exacerbated by the misallocation of administrative energy. There is a legitimate concern that the Man with Authority and Funds is currently preoccupied with arrangements for the Yatra and the Drug-Free J&K campaign. While these are undoubtedly noble and necessary causes, they cannot come at the expense of core administrative duties. The fight against drugs is a critical social battle, but it is fundamentally the work of a politically elected leadership that is accountable to the people, not solely the domain of a nominee administrator. Similarly, while facilitating pilgrimage is important, it should not consume the bandwidth required for systemic governance. When the administrative focus shifts toward symbolic victories and specific social campaigns to the exclusion of broad-based development, the result is a skewed priority list. The budget of a Union Territory is a public trust, allocated for both Capital and Revenue work. It is meant to build infrastructure, pay salaries, maintain law and order, and foster economic growth. This budget should not be held hostage to political maneuvering or the wait for statehood. The argument that development must wait until statehood is restored is a dangerous fallacy. Governance is a continuous process, not an event that begins only after a political milestone is achieved. To hold the basic development of a region ransom to the timeline of statehood is to punish the people for political delays that are beyond their control. The power play currently observed in J&K is detrimental to the regions long-term stability. When authority is concentrated in the hands of an unelected administrator while elected representatives are left on the sidelines, it creates a democratic deficit. This arrangement may offer short-term administrative control, but it fails to build the long-term political consensus necessary for lasting peace and prosperity. The people of Jammu and Kashmir, whether in the Valley or the Jammu region, deserve a government that is both effective and accountable. They deserve a system where the LG and the political leadership work in concert, not in conflict, to deliver results. Furthermore, the fading of good work done by the Government of India is a tragic irony. Significant efforts have been made to integrate J&K more closely with the national mainstream, to root out corruption, and to improve security. Yet, these gains are being eroded by the perception of an unresponsive administration. When the local populace feels that their voices are not heard, and that their MLAs are powerless, the goodwill generated by central initiatives dissipates. Development cannot be imposed from the top down; it must be cultivated through local engagement and democratic participation. It is time for a course correction. The administration must pivot from symbolic politics to substantive governance. This requires empowering elected representatives, ensuring that the BJP MLAs in Jammu and representatives from other regions have a real say in the development of their constituencies. It requires a relentless focus on the basics: water, power, health, and education. The budget must be utilized with precision and urgency for capital and revenue works that directly impact the quality of life. The fight against drugs and the facilitation of pilgrimages should be part of a broader, holistic governance strategy, not substitutes for it. Jammu and Kashmir cannot afford to wait. The people have waited long enough for peace, for normalcy, and for development. Holding their progress hostage to the politics of statehood or the whims of administrative power plays is unjust. The Union Territory status was meant to be a bridge to better governance, not a cul-de-sac of administrative inertia. It is imperative that the Man with Authority remembers that authority is granted to serve, not to showcase. The true measure of success in J&K will not be the scale of the Yatras or the rhetoric of drug-free campaigns alone, but the reliability of the electricity grid, the quality of the schools, and the responsiveness of the government to its people. Let us not allow the promise of a New J&K to fade into the background noise of political posturing. The time for harmony between the LG and the political leadership is now. The time for empowering elected representatives is now. The time for delivering basic amenities is now. J&Ks future depends not on the perfection of its political status, but on the functionality of its governance. It is time to put the people back at the center of the agenda, where they belong. With mutual respect, clearly defined responsibilities and development kept above political differences, the present arrangement can deliver meaningful results. Jammu & Kashmir deserves responsive governance, balanced development and lasting peace. Cooperation today can help build a stronger, more prosperous future for all. Lt Gen R. S. Reen is a former DGQA

Special Court acquits duo in NDPS case

Srinagar, Aug 10: A court here has acquitted two persons in a case registered against them under Narcotic Drugs and Psychotropic Substances (NDPS) Act in Budgam in 2022. The Special Judge (NDPS Cases) Srinagar, Vinod Kumar, acquitted Shahnawaz Qadir Ganie, and Muhammad Ayoub Sofi of Hyderpora after holding that the prosecution failed to prove beyond reasonable doubt that the alleged contraband was recovered from their conscious and exclusive possession. The court acquitted the duo of offences under sections 8/20, 21 and 29 of the NDPS Act. According to the prosecution, the case (FIR No 207/2022) was registered at Police Station Budgam after police recovered 65 grams of charas, 15 bottles containing codeine-based medicinal preparation and Rs 1.39 lakh in cash during a search of a house at Hyderpora. Subsequently, the prosecution relied upon an FSL report which detected charas in the sampled substance and Codeine Phosphate and Chlorpheniramine Maleate in the sampled liquid. In its decision, the court noted the serious discrepancies concerning the alleged recovery and possession of the contraband. The Executive Magistrate who supervised the search had stated during cross-examination the contraband was recovered from the house and not from the accused, and that he could not say why the two persons were booked in the case. This directly contradicted the prosecution version regarding possession, the court said. Moreover, the court observed that the house was occupied by several family members and that one of the accused did not reside there. The alleged contraband, it said, was also found at different locations within the room rather than in the direct possession of the accused, making it difficult to draw an inference of exclusive conscious possession. The court also pointed to discrepancies regarding the weighing of the alleged charas. Witnesses gave different accounts about the place where the substance was weighed, the weighing instrument used and the circumstances of the weighment. These, the court said, were not merely peripheral variations but concerned material aspects of the alleged recovery. Consequently, the court extended the benefit of doubt to both accused and acquitted them of the charges. Advocates Mir Urfi, Waheed Dar, Zia-ul-Rehan, Anil Raina, Aqib Farooq, and Bushra represented the accused.

2 former executive engineers among 10 chargesheeted in Kupwara bridge case

Srinagar, Aug 10: The Anti-Corruption Bureau (ACB), Jammu and Kashmir, on Monday presented a charge-sheet against 10 accused, including nine public servants and a private contractor, in a case involving alleged misappropriation of government store material, fraudulent release of security deposit, forgery and abuse of official position in connection with the construction of the Lastiyal-Kalaroose bridge in Kupwara. The accused include former Executive Engineers Muhammad Sultan Sheikh and Ajit Singh Chopra, besides other officials of the Public Works (Roads and Buildings) Department, Kupwara division, and contractor Ghulam Mohiuddin Lone. According to the ACB, the case originated from an open verification conducted by the erstwhile Vigilance Organisation Kashmir into allegations of loss to the state exchequer allegedly caused by the contractor in connivance with officials of the PWD (R&B) Division, Kupwara. The investigation found that the bridge work was allotted to Lone in September 2010 with a stipulated completion period of three months. The contractor allegedly commenced the work after considerable delay, completed only part of the project and subsequently abandoned it. The ACB said government store material, including cement and steel, remained unaccounted for or unrecovered. The value of the material was assessed at around Rs 5.63 lakh. The investigation also found that the contractors cash deposit receipt (CDR) of Rs 73,000 was allegedly released and encashed fraudulently on the basis of a forged communication purportedly issued by the competent departmental authority. In addition, bill deposits amounting to Rs 81,400 were allegedly released despite outstanding government liabilities, the ACB said. According to the agency, lapses by engineering and accounts officials in safeguarding government material, enforcing contractual conditions and recovering government dues, allegedly in connivance with the contractor, resulted in a total loss of Rs 7,12,150 to the state exchequer. The charge-sheet was filed after obtaining the requisite sanction for prosecution against the serving public servants. The ACB said the case is supported by oral, documentary, scientific, and other evidence collected during the investigation. The accused charge-sheeted are Abdul Majeed Malik, then Helper and Assistant Cashier; Ghulam Rasool Lone, then Cashier and Senior Assistant; Muhammad Sultan Sheikh, then Executive Engineer; Ajit Singh Chopra, then Executive Engineer; Nazir Ahmad Shah, then Assistant Executive Engineer; Abdul Rashid Dar, then Assistant Executive Engineer; Manzoor Ahmad Sumji, then Junior Engineer; Ghulam Qadir Bhat, then Assistant Accounts Officer; Abdul Hamid Dar, then Assistant Accounts Officer; and contractor Ghulam Mohi-ud-din Lone. All 10 accused were produced before the Special Judge, Anti-Corruption, Baramulla, on Monday along with the chargesheet. The court granted them bail upon furnishing bail and surety bonds as directed. The court has fixed November 25, 2026, as the next date of hearing. The charges are allegations at this stage, and the accused are presumed innocent unless proven guilty by a court of law.

J&K forest cover rises by 224 sq km in 4 years: Centre

Srinagar, Aug 10:Jammu and Kashmirs forest cover rose by 224.39 sq km between 2019 and 2023 to 21,346.39 sq km, the Centre told the Lok Sabha on Monday. Forest Survey of India data showed the cover at 21,122 sq km in 2019. It rose to 21,346.39 sq km in the 2023 India State of Forest Report. Minister of State for Environment, Forest and Climate Change Kirti Vardhan Singh gave the figures in response to a question on funds sanctioned and utilised for afforestation. J&K received Rs 10.99 crore under the Green India Mission between 2021-22 and 2025-26. National CAMPA approved Rs 28.54 crore for compensatory afforestation during the same period, the ministry said. It said J&K also received Rs 15.09 crore under the Nagar Van Yojana between 2020-21 and 2025-26. The ministry said it provides financial assistance to states and Union territories under the Green India Mission, CAMPA, MISHTI, and Nagar Van Yojana for afforestation, reforestation, ecological restoration, and forest conservation. It does not maintain a centralised database on the survival rate of saplings planted under forest conservation and tree plantation programmes, it said. Survival depends on factors including species selection, site and climatic conditions, rainfall, soil moisture, protection from biotic interference and post-plantation maintenance, the ministry said. It said implementing agencies and respective forest departments monitor plantations under the guidelines of the concerned schemes. Nationally, forest cover increased by 3,093.14 sq. km between 2019 and 2023, from 7,12,249.47 sq km to 7,15,342.61 sq km. It accounts for 21.76 percent of Indias geographical area. The ministry said 652 Nagar Van Yojana projects were approved nationwide between 2020-21 and 2025-26. They cover 19,348.591 hectares and have an approved cost of Rs 699.33 crore. Rs 564.39 crore has been released. The ministry also highlighted 'Ek Ped Maa Ke Naam' (Plant for Mother) plantation campaign, that was launched on World Environment Day in 2024. It continued this year with participation from government departments and other stakeholders to increase green cover, it said.

CIK arrests 2 suspects for social media propaganda

Srinagar, Aug 10:Counter Intelligence Kashmir (CIK) has arrested two persons in connection with an investigation into the dissemination of radical and anti-national content through social media platforms, two days after the agency conducted searches at five locations across Kashmir. The arrests were made on Sunday, August 9, following searches conducted by CIK on Saturday, August 8, in connection with FIR No 03/2023 registered at Police Station CIK Srinagar. The case has been registered under Sections 505 and 153-A of the Indian Penal Code and Sections 13 and 18 of the Unlawful Activities (Prevention) Act. During the searches, investigators seized six digital devices and seven SIM cards, which have been taken up for detailed examination as part of the ongoing probe. The two arrested persons have been identified as Mehran Qazi, son of Atta Muhammad Qazi of Hiller Shahbad, Dooru, Anantnag, and Babar Hamid Dar, son of Abdul Hamid Dar of Chankan, Sopore. According to officials familiar with the investigation, the case relates to the alleged use of social media platforms for disseminating material carrying radical and anti-national overtones. Investigators have alleged that the two suspects shared content containing radical narratives, besides material involving the glorification and projection of individuals associated with terrorism. The content allegedly also included extremist viewpoints and narratives that could influence or radicalise impressionable minds. The CIK searches at five locations formed part of the ongoing investigation into the case, with the agency examining digital footprints and other material to establish the nature and extent of the alleged online activity. The seizure of multiple digital devices and SIM cards is expected to help investigators examine communications, social media activity and other digital evidence relevant to the case. Officials said the digital material seized during the searches is being subjected to detailed examination in accordance with law. Investigators are also examining whether the alleged dissemination of the content was limited to the two arrested persons or involved a wider network. The latest arrests come amid increased scrutiny by security and intelligence agencies of online platforms being allegedly used for the propagation of extremist narratives and radicalisation in J&K The investigation remains in progress, and further arrests or legal action, if warranted, would depend on the findings emerging from the examination of the seized material.

J&K on alert, unprecedented security grid in place ahead of Aug 15

Srinagar, Aug 10:Unprecedented multi-layered security arrangements have been put in place in the twin capitals of Srinagar and Jammu ahead of the Independence Day celebrations on August 15. The heightened measures have been particularly intensified around the venues of the main Independence Day functions, with security agencies carrying out extensive anti-sabotage checks, area domination exercises, surveillance and frisking operations to prevent any attempt to disrupt the celebrations. In Srinagar, where Chief Minister Omar Abdullah is scheduled to unfurl the national flag at Bakshi Stadium, security forces have substantially strengthened the security grid around the stadium and adjoining areas. The Jammu administration is also undertaking elaborate security arrangements for the main Independence Day function in the winter capital, where the Deputy Chief Minister is scheduled to participate in the celebrations. Officials said the security apparatus has been placed on high alert across all districts following intelligence inputs indicating that terrorists could attempt to target vulnerable locations or disrupt public events around Independence Day. Security forces have increased the deployment of personnel at strategic locations, major roads, entry and exit points, markets, transport hubs and other sensitive installations. Mobile checkpoints, or nakas, have been established at multiple locations, with personnel conducting intensive checking of vehicles and frisking individuals. The security grid has also been strengthened along the Srinagar-Jammu National Highway, particularly at vulnerable stretches and important junctions, besides roads leading towards the twin capitals. In Srinagar, security agencies have undertaken detailed sanitisation and anti-sabotage measures around Bakshi Stadium and other important locations associated with the August 15 celebrations. Security personnel are also maintaining a close watch on movement in areas surrounding the venue. Quick Reaction Teams (QRTs), bomb disposal squads, and anti-sabotage teams have been kept on standby to respond to any emergency. Security agencies are also conducting searches and surveillance in areas considered vulnerable from the security point of view. Aerial surveillance has been enhanced, with drones being deployed to monitor important routes, public spaces and sensitive areas. CCTV surveillance has also been expanded and strengthened at strategic locations, while existing camera networks are being closely monitored. K9 squads have been deployed for explosive detection and sanitisation of venues and other important installations. Security agencies are also conducting repeated checks of public places and areas around the venues to rule out any possible threat. Night patrolling and area domination exercises have been intensified across the Valley and Jammu region by the J&K Police, Army, Central Armed Police Forces, and Border Security Force. The security arrangements come against the backdrop of recent terror incidents in south Kashmir. Officials said special attention was being paid to south Kashmir districts, border areas and suspected infiltration routes along the Line of Control and the International Border. Security forces have increased surveillance in vulnerable areas to prevent any movement of terrorists or their associates. The agencies are simultaneously pursuing terrorists and their support networks linked to recent incidents while maintaining security for the ongoing Amarnath Yatra and preparing for Independence Day events. Security agencies have also increased surveillance of suspicious movements and are maintaining coordination among different forces deployed across J&K. The objective, officials said, is to ensure that there is no security breach during the celebrations and that people can participate in Independence Day functions without fear. The arrangements are expected to remain in force for several days, with security forces maintaining a heightened posture before, during and immediately after the August 15 functions. Authorities have appealed to the public to cooperate with security personnel during checking and frisking and to remain vigilant. People have been advised to immediately inform the police or nearest security post about any suspicious person, vehicle, object, or activity. With the main Independence Day functions scheduled in Srinagar and Jammu, the security establishment has activated a comprehensive security grid involving multiple agencies, surveillance systems, ground deployment, and rapid-response mechanisms. The focus, officials said, is on preventing any attempt by terrorists to exploit the heightened public movement around Independence Day, while ensuring the smooth conduct of celebrations across J&K.

HC seeks updated status on cases against sitting, former legislators in J&K, Ladakh

Srinagar, Aug 10:The High Court of J&K and Ladakh has sought the latest information on the cases pending investigation or trial against sitting and former Members of Parliament (MPs) and Members of Legislative Assemblies (MLAs) in Union Territories of Jammu and Kashmir and Ladakh. A Division Bench comprising Chief Justice (Acting) Sanjeev Kumar and Justice Mohd Yousuf Wani asked the two UTs to file updated status reports while hearing a Public Interest Litigation (PIL) on its own motion. The suo moto PIL has been registered pursuant to directions of the Supreme Court for monitoring criminal cases pending against sitting and former legislators. The court noted that the J&K Home Departments status report dated July 30, 2025, indicated the progress made in the cases. A similar report had been filed by the Home Department of Ladakh on February 17, 2023, it said. Observing that much water has flown since the reports were filed, the Bench said that there must have been further progress in the matters. With these remarks, the court directed the UTs to place updated status reports on record by September 9, the next date of hearing. The PIL was registered by the High Court in 2021 following the Supreme Court's directions on September 16, 2020, to Chief Justices of High Courts to constitute special benches and monitor the progress of criminal cases pending against sitting and former legislators. The Supreme Court had stressed that such cases, including those involving allegations of corruption and money laundering, should not remain pending indefinitely because of interim stays or repeated adjournments. The apex court had also directed that, where required, hearings should proceed on a day-to-day basis and that petitions seeking quashing of criminal trials be decided expeditiously.

Orange alert for Jammu division for 5 days from today

Jammu Aug 10:The weather department has issued an orange alert for isolated heavy rains, thunder storms, lightning and gusty winds for the entire Jammu region, with the possibilities of landslides, shooting stones and flash floods at vulnerable places from August 12 to 16, 2026. As per India Meteorological Department (IMD) Centre, the activity in terms of spatial distribution in the region will be fairly widespread to widespread and light to moderate during this period. The weather activity will gain momentum from August 11 and will surge to the orange alert category from persisting yellow alert. Earlier the weatherman had anticipated the possibility of intense localised downpours and isolated cloudburst events in higher reaches and vulnerable areas of Chenab valley, Jammu, Udhampur, Reasi, Rajouri and Poonch after August 10. The maximum temperature in Jammu is likely to swing between 31 to 35 degrees Celsius, amid hot and humid weather conditions. The divisional and district authorities have reiterated the safety advisories for people in vulnerable stretches to stay alert and away from the water bodies and not to venture in vulnerable spots. Meanwhile, the Police, the NDRF and SDRF continued to search for the two missing youth who were feared to have drowned in Chenab river in Akhnoor area of Jammu district on Sunday. The youth, identified as Gajay Singh, 30, son of Vijay Singh and Rakesh Singh, 35, son of Balwan Singh, both residents of Khour in Akhnoor, had gone to take a bath in the river when the mishap occurred. The Police had recovered their motorcycle, bearing the registration number JK02BP-1567, mobiles and clothes lying on the river banks. In a related development, the Reasi administration has restricted the movement of heavy-axle load vehicles, including dumpers and buses, on the 22-meter span bridge at Nau Devian in Katra for 72 hours in the public interest, under Section 163 of BNSS, 2023 with effect from 6 pm on August 11. The restriction, as per an order issued by ADM Reasi, will be in place till strengthening work of the bridge is completed.

CM Omar rules out J&K cabinet expansion before August 15

Srinagar, Aug 10:Chief Minister Omar Abdullah on Monday confirmed that the much-awaited expansion of his Council of Ministers will take place, but ruled out any exercise before Independence Day, saying the process was already underway. Will do it, but not before August 15. It is a work in progress, CM Omar said when asked about the proposed cabinet expansion. He did not give a specific date for the exercise or indicate who could be inducted into the ministry. When asked about the possibility of an expansion, the CM said: It will happen sometime, don't worry. He explained that an immediate expansion would be inappropriate as some ministers had already been assigned responsibilities for Independence Day and were preparing their speeches. They are preparing their speeches. Let them give their speeches, CM Omar said. The remarks effectively put the cabinet expansion on the agenda for the period after August 15, although the CM did not announce a specific date or disclose the names of legislators who may be inducted. In another response, CM Omar appeared surprised at the repeated questions over the proposed expansion and compared the speculation in J&K with discussions over a possible reshuffle at the Centre. Do you ever ask this question to the Prime Minister Sahib in Delhi? There, for how many months, reshuffle, reshuffle, reshuffle is being talked about, but no one asks there. Here, you are so worried. It will happen sometime, don't worry, he said. The statement comes after months of speculation over a possible expansion and reshuffle of the CM Omar-led ministry, with the issue gaining momentum following an internal meeting of National Conference legislators at Dachigam on June 3. The Dachigam meeting was convened amid concerns within the ruling party over the functioning of the government and the performance and accessibility of some ministers. Reports from the meeting said legislators raised questions over the functioning of various departments, allocation of funds and the accessibility of ministers to party workers and the public. Deputy Chief Minister Surinder Kumar Choudhary and some other ministers reportedly faced criticism. Following the meeting, CM Omar indicated that changes in the Council of Ministers had become necessary. On July 1, he said the cabinet reshuffle and expansion would take place around the National Conference (NC)s proposed Jantar Mantar protest in New Delhi over restoration of J&Ks statehood. That timeline passed without any ministerial changes. The NC subsequently held its statehood protest in Delhi on July 20, with Omar and party president Farooq Abdullah leading the campaign. The protest was aimed at pressing the Centre to restore J&Ks statehood. The latest indication from CM Omar therefore shifts the likely cabinet exercise to the period after August 15. The Council of Ministers currently comprises the Chief Minister, Deputy Chief Minister Surinder Kumar Choudhary and four other ministers - Sakeena Masood Itoo, Javed Ahmed Rana, Javid Ahmad Dar, and Satish Sharma. Under Section 53 of the Jammu and Kashmir Reorganisation Act, 2019, the Council of Ministers cannot exceed 10 percent of the total number of members in the Legislative Assembly. The elected Assembly has 90 members. The present ministry has six members, leaving room for three more ministers under the nine-member ceiling. The possible expansion could therefore take the council to its maximum strength. The exercise could involve both induction of new ministers and redistribution of portfolios among existing members. The latter possibility has gained attention because several ministers currently hold multiple departments. The cabinet issue has also become linked to concerns within the NC over governance. The June Dachigam meeting was seen as an internal stock-taking exercise after the government had been in office for more than a year and a half. Reports said legislators discussed ministerial performance and shortcomings in the delivery of development works. The proposed reshuffle could consequently serve two purposes: bringing additional legislators into the government and reallocating departments to improve the functioning of the administration. It could also have political implications within the NC, where several legislators have remained outside the Council of Ministers since the government was formed. Omar took oath as Chief Minister on October 16, 2024, along with five ministers. Surinder Kumar Choudhary was appointed Deputy Chief Minister, while Sakeena Itoo, Javed Ahmed Rana, Javid Ahmad Dar and independent MLA Satish Sharma joined the ministry. The Congress factor is another important element in the impending expansion. Although Congress and the National Conference contested the 2024 Assembly elections as allies, Congress has so far stayed outside the Council of Ministers. The party has consistently linked its entry into the government to restoration of Jammu and Kashmirs statehood. J&K Congress President Tariq Hamid Karra reiterated this position in July amid speculation over the cabinet expansion. Our issue is statehood. We have made it clear that until statehood is restored, we will not become part of the cabinet, Karra said. He also said Congress would continue to support the NC-led government from outside. That position makes it unlikely that the present expansion will be used to accommodate Congress legislators, unless the party changes its stance on joining the government.

Lazar by Nelio Biedermann

Lajos von Lazar, a translucent child, was first seen by his father on Epiphany evening. Sandor von Lazar watched the dark forest while his wife gave birth. The child's tiny organs were visible beneath its transparent skin. Sandor experienced a sudden fissure and familiar panic course through him. He felt unsettled, unlike his brother and mother.

Top-down patriotism, worth the signalling

India experiences a mandated patriotism each mid-August. Citizens are directed to display national pride through specific actions. This orchestrated patriotism contrasts with spontaneous expressions of national feeling. The nation embraces this scheduled version of nationalistic displays. Citizens collectively navigate these events as a form of bonding.

Should ministers have domain expertise? Gen Z protests revive an old debate

The recent wave of protests from Gen Z has sparked significant government actions, leading to both transfers and resignations among officials. This situation has reignited conversations regarding the qualifications of ministers and their professional backgrounds. A noticeable trend is the absence of relevant expertise among ministers, which often results in heightened dependence on civil servants for policy development.

Universe is evolving

Human life reflects the larger order of the universe, moving through confusion towards balance and growth. By developing self-awareness, regulating the mind, overcoming ego and choosing compassion and wisdom, individuals can consciously participate in their own inner evolution.

CJP founder Dipke announces nationwide campaign to improve govt schools in villages

The Cockroach Janta Party founder announced a nationwide campaign for rural schools. This initiative will begin on August 15, focusing on basic facilities. Parents are urged to conduct social audits of school infrastructure. Village leaders are challenged to improve their local educational institutions. The campaign aims to ensure equitable facilities for all students.

Batten down, ride out shipping storm

Ships are increasingly steering clear of the Suez Canal, resulting in port congestion and longer shipping times than usual. Driven by electronic goods, global trade is booming, yet higher freight expenses and increased insurance premiums pose significant challenges. Meanwhile, Chinas impressive export growth is straining container availability, adversely affecting surrounding Asian economies. Indian exporters are particularly tasked with overcoming logistical hurdles, underscoring a pressing need for government intervention.

When Mecca Comes to Asim: Munir is seeking to build a military supply arc from Turkiye to China

Pakistan Army chief Asim Munirs deeper defence alignment with Saudi Arabia and Turkiye could test Pakistans traditional neutrality in West Asia. The alliance may strengthen Pakistans military capabilities and supply chains, prompting India to reassess its long-term defence preparedness.

Organise a fair organ transplant regime

The National Organ and Tissue Transplant Organisation of India has unveiled a groundbreaking national portal designed to streamline organ allocation and establish a unified waiting list. Although this innovative platform seeks to enhance transparency and fill information gaps, serious disparities remain, particularly concerning gender and geography. To achieve fair access to these critical life-saving procedures, comprehensive policy reform is essential, ensuring decisions are based on medical necessity.

Flags should not be thrown on ground or discarded: MHA asks states to adhere to Flag Code

The Union Home Ministry has directed all states to follow the Flag Code. Awareness programs will be conducted regarding the national flag's display. Paper flags should not be discarded on the ground after events. The national flag must always occupy a position of honor. Damaged flags should not be displayed, and no other flag should be higher.

In Pics | National Handloom Award 2025 Winners Return Home to Kanihama in Kashmir

IGP Kashmir calls for robust security presence, heightened surveillance for Independence Day celebrations

Srinagar, Aug 10: Inspector General of Police (IGP) Kashmir Zone V K Birdi today chaired a security review meeting at PCR Kashmir to assess the overall security scenario and review arrangements for the forthcoming Independence Day celebrations and other events scheduled to be held across all districts of Kashmir Valley. The meeting was attended by IG BSF Ftr. Hqrs (K), IG CRPF KOS, Addl. Commissioner SB Srinagar, IG CRPF Srinagar, DIG SSB Srinagar, DIG CID Kashmir, all range DIsG of Kashmir Zone, DIG Traffic Kashmir, DIG IR/ Armed Kashmir, DIsG of CRPF South/North Srinagar, DIG ITBP Srinagar, DIG RPF Kashmir, SSP PCR Kashmir, all district SSsP of Kashmir Zone, Col GS (IS) 15 Corps, SSsP of Railways Kashmir, Traffic Rural Kashmir, CID SB (K), APCR Srinagar, CID CI (K), Security Kashmir, CO. SDRF 1st Bn Srinagar, Traffic City Srinagar, Asstt. Director SIB Srinagar, SP East City Srinagar, SP Cargo, SP South City Srinagar, and other senior officers. At the outset, IGP Kashmir was briefed by senior officers on the security arrangements put in place to ensure the smooth and peaceful conduct of Independence Day celebrations and other events. The District SSPs also briefed the chair about the preparations and security arrangements being made in their respective districts with regard to Independence Day celebrations. The IGP directed all participating officers to ensure that all necessary preparations are completed well in advance. During the meeting, IGP Kashmir reviewed the security arrangements for the various events planned across the valley including rallies and assigned specific responsibilities to concerned officers. The IGP also reviewed the security arrangements for the main function scheduled to be held at Bakshi Stadium, Srinagar, and directed the officers concerned to further strengthen security measures and ensure comprehensive security arrangements for the event. The IGP directed the participating officers to further strengthen security checkpoints, particularly during night hours, at vulnerable locations and along the entry and exit routes of the city. He also directed officers to intensify area domination and patrolling, particularly in sensitive and vulnerable areas, to maintain a robust security presence and ensure effective surveillance. IGP Kashmir emphasized strict vigilance against elements inimical to peace and security and called for enhanced alertness across all jurisdictions. The meeting concluded with a collective commitment towards heightened vigilance, enhanced inter-agency coordination and effective implementation of security protocols to ensure the peaceful and orderly conduct of Independence Day celebrations and other scheduled events across the Valley.

Kanihamas Kani weavers Honoured With National Award speak to GKTV

Srinagar police attach Rs 4 crore worth property of notorious drug trafficker in Budgam

Srinagar, Aug 10: In continuation of its sustained drive against drug trafficking and narcotic-related activities, Srinagar Police has attached an immovable property in District Budgam, worth approximately Rs 4 crores, belonging to a notorious drug peddler under the provisions of the Narcotic Drugs and Psychotropic Substances (NDPS) Act, 1985. A police spokesperson said that Police Station Khanyar attached the property of Fayaz Ahmad Dar S/o Ghulam Hussain Dar R/o Ichgam, Budgam, in connection with FIR No. 04/2026 under Sections 8/21 of the NDPS Act. The attached property comprises a two-storeyed residential house with an attic structure along with 05 Kanals and 17 Marlas of land, bearing Khasra nos. 415/416, situated at Ichgam, Budgam, with an estimated market value of approximately Rs 4 crores. The property, as per the spokesperson has been attached under Section 68-F of the NDPS Act, 1985, after being identified as an illegally acquired asset, allegedly derived from the proceeds of narcotic drug trafficking. The attachment is part of the ongoing efforts of J&K Police to dismantle the financial networks of drug traffickers and deprive them of assets generated through the illicit drug trade. Such action reflects the commitment of Srinagar Police to target not only the supply of narcotics but also the financial infrastructure that sustains drug trafficking. Srinagar Police reiterated its unwavering commitment to the making the city drug-free and will continue sustained and stringent action against drug traffickers, their associates and illicit assets.

Govt panel on demographic changes reaches Jammu, meets top UT officials

Jammu, Aug 10: A four-member government-constituted committee tasked with studying demographic changes in different parts of the country arrived here on Monday for a three-day visit, officials said. Soon after the team's arrival, which is scheduled to undertake a detailed assessment of various areas during its stay, Chief Secretary Atal Dulloo and Director General of Police (DGP) Nalin Prabhat visited the panel at a hotel for a meeting, the officials said. They said the meeting is part of the panels consultations with senior officials as it gathers inputs for its assessment. In May, the central government constituted a high-level committee headed by retired Justice Prakash Prabhakar Navlekar to study demographic changes arising from illegal immigration and other abnormal reasons, and to suggest measures to these changes. Prime Minister Narendra Modi had announced the High-powered Demography Mission on August 15 last year, which was approved by the Union Cabinet on September 11. In addition to the Census Commissioner, three distinguished experts -- Durga Shankar Mishra (Retired IAS), Balaji Srivastava (Retired IPS), and Shamika Ravi -- are the members of the Committee. The Joint Secretary (Foreigners-I), Ministry of Home Affairs, is the Member Secretary of the Committee. The officials said the four-member panel reached Jammu and a presentation was given on demographic overview and changing trends before the arrival of the chief secretary and the DGP to meet the committee, which will continue its engagements till August 12. The officials said the committee is scheduled to visit several areas of Jammu, including settlements inhabited by Rohingya and Bangladeshi immigrants, as well as areas along the International Border considered sensitive from security and administrative perspectives. The Rohingyas are a Bengali-dialect-speaking Muslim minority in Myanmar. Following persecution in their country, many of them entered India illegally through Bangladesh and took shelter in Jammu and other parts of the country. According to government data, over 13,700 foreigners, including Rohingya Muslims and Bangladeshi nationals, are settled in Jammu and Samba districts of Jammu and Kashmir, where their population has increased by over 6,000 between 2008 and 2016. In March 2021, police found over 270 Rohingyas, including women and children, living illegally in Jammu city during a verification drive and lodged them in a holding centre inside the Kathua Sub-Jail. In the past, several BJP leaders and various right-wing groups have raised concerns over the presence of illegal foreign immigrants in the region, particularly Rohingya and Bangladeshi nationals. They have urged the government to identify and deport those found residing illegally in the region, citing concerns over national security, demographic changes and the possible misuse of local resources.

CM Omar says athletes need proper infrastructure, training and support to win national, intl medals

ACB chargesheets 10 in Rs 7.12 lakh bridge material embezzlement case

Srinagar, Aug 10: The Anti-Corruption Bureau (ACB) on Monday chargesheeted 10 persons, including two former executive engineers and a private contractor, in an alleged Rs 7.12 lakh embezzlement and fraud case linked to the Lastiyal-Kalaroose bridge in Kupwara. In a statement issued, a spokesperson said the Anti-Corruption Bureau (ACB), Jammu & Kashmir, has presented a charge-sheet before the competent court against 10 accused persons, including nine public servants and one private contractor, in a case relating to alleged misappropriation of government store material, fraudulent release of a security deposit, forgery, abuse of official position and criminal conspiracy in connection with the construction of a steel bridge at Lastiyal-Kalaroose, Kupwara. He said the case originated from an Open Verification conducted by the erstwhile Vigilance Organization Kashmir into allegations of loss to the State exchequer by the beneficiary contractor in connivance with officials of PWD(R&B) Division, Kupwara. The spokesperson said investigation revealed that the bridge work was allotted to contractor Ghulam Mohi-ud-din Lone in September 2010, with stipulated completion within three months. The contractor commenced the work after considerable delay, executed only part of the work and subsequently abandoned the project. Departmental store material comprising cement and steel remained unaccounted for/unrecovered, valued at approximately Rs 5.63 lakh. He said investigation further revealed fraudulent release and encashment of the contractors CDR amounting to Rs 73,000 on the basis of a forged communication purportedly issued by the competent departmental authority. The investigation also brought on record alleged irregular release of Bill Deposits amounting to Rs 81,400 despite outstanding government liabilities, besides lapses on the part of engineering and accounts officials in safeguarding government material, enforcing contractual conditions and ensuring recovery of government dues. Thereby a total loss of Rs 7,12,150 to state exchequer was caused by accused public servants in connivance with contractor. The spokesperson said after completion of investigation, requisite sanction for prosecution against the in-service accused public servants was accorded by the competent authority. Accordingly, on the basis of the oral, documentary, scientific and other evidence collected during investigation, the following 10 accused persons have been charge-sheeted: Abdul Majeed Malik then Helper/Assistant Cashier, PWD(R&B) Division, Kupwara; Ghulam Rasool Lone then Cashier/Senior Assistant, PWD(R&B) Division, Kupwara; Mohammad Sultan Sheikh (Retd.) then Executive Engineer, PWD(R&B) Division, Kupwara; Er. Ajit Singh Chopra (Retd.) then Executive Engineer, PWD(R&B) Division, Kupwara; Er. Nazir Ahmad Shah (Retd.) then Assistant Executive Engineer, PWD(R&B) Division, Kupwara; Er. Abdul Rashid Dar (Retd.) then Assistant Executive Engineer, PWD(R&B) Division, Kupwara; Er. Manzoor Ahmad Sumji then Junior Engineer, PWD(R&B) Division, Kupwara; Gh. Qadir Bhat (Retd.) then Assistant Accounts Officer, PWD(R&B) Division, Kupwara; Abdul Hamid Dar then Assistant Accounts Officer, PWD(R&B) Division, Kupwara; and Ghulam Mohi-ud-din Lone private contractor/beneficiary. The spokesperson said all 10 accused persons were presented before the Honble Court of Special Judge, Anti-Corruption, Baramulla, today along with the charge-sheet and were admitted to bail upon furnishing bail and surety bonds as directed by the Court. The Court has fixed November 25, 2026 as the next date of hearing.

Ex-terrorist gets life imprisonment in 2020 Srinagar murder case: Srinagar Police

Srinagar, Aug 10: A court has sentenced Ghulam Mohi-ud-Din Dar, an ex-terrorist, to life imprisonment for the murder of Abdul Gani Dar in a case registered at Police Station Maisuma in 2020, Srinagar Police said on Monday. According to police, Ghulam Mohi-ud-Din Dar, son of Abdul Gani Dar and a resident of Bichwara, Dalgate, Srinagar, was convicted under Section 302 of the Indian Penal Code in FIR No. 03/2020. The court awarded him rigorous imprisonment for life and imposed a fine of 50,000. Police said Dar was among the founding members of Tehreek-ul-Mujahideen (TuM), which, according to the police statement, emerged as a terrorist outfit associated with the Jamiat-e-Ahl-e-Hadith movement in Kashmir. Police further said that during his period of militancy, Dar was allegedly involved in various violent activities, including grenade attacks, attacks on security checkpoints, weapon-snatching incidents and targeted killings of civilians and security personnel. He was also allegedly involved in providing logistical support and facilitating networks with other militant outfits, including Lashkar-e-Taiba (LeT) and Hizb-ul-Mujahideen (HuM), before his arrest. The conviction followed an investigation by Srinagar Police and prosecution proceedings before the court, police said. The case, police added, demonstrates that serious criminal offences are pursued through due process irrespective of the accused's background or past association with militancy.

Div Com Kashmir appeals to people to participate in Independence Day celebrations in large numbers

Omar says Cabinet expansion may not conclude before Aug 15; seeks strict action in Bandipora case

Explained: Ethanol in petrolWhat the science says, why the government backs it and why critics remain sceptical

Srinagar, Aug 10: The debate over ethanol-blended petrol has intensified in India after reports that the Society of Indian Automobile Manufacturers (SIAM) withdrew an industry submission warning about possible damage from contaminated E20 fuel, saying the underlying data required further verification. The Centre has strongly defended its ethanol-blending programme, maintaining that E20 petrol is safe for vehicles designed to use it and that there is no evidence of widespread engine damage. The scientific picture is more nuanced. A 2025 study published in Scientific Reports experimentally examined ethanol-petrol blends from E0 to E30 in a single-cylinder, four-stroke spark-ignition engine. It found that higher ethanol blends could improve some combustion-performance parameters, while also highlighting the effect of ethanol's lower energy content on fuel consumption. But the study does not examine long-term vehicle durability or damage to India's existing vehicle fleet. What is ethanol and why is it added to petrol? Ethanol is a renewable fuel produced from agricultural biomass such as sugarcane and corn. India has progressively increased the proportion of ethanol blended with petrol and has rolled out E20, containing 20% ethanol and 80% petrol. The policy is intended to reduce dependence on imported crude oil, create a market for agricultural feedstocks and reduce emissions associated with conventional fossil fuels. The study describes bioethanol as a renewable alternative to gasoline and notes its potential to reduce dependence on fossil fuels and harmful exhaust emissions. What does the science say about mileage? Ethanol has lower energy content than gasoline. The Scientific Reports study explicitly notes that ethanols lower heat of combustion compared to gasoline can result in higher specific fuel consumption and says this may affect engine power and torque. But the relationship between ethanol percentage and engine performance is not simply a matter of adding more ethanol and getting proportionately worse mileage. The researchers tested E0, E10, E20 and E30 under different engine speeds and measured parameters including brake-specific fuel consumption, combustion efficiency, cylinder pressure and exhaust-gas temperature. Interestingly, the study found that E30 improved combustion efficiency by 12.5% compared with E0 at 1,500 rpm. It also reported a 22% reduction in brake-specific fuel consumption in the 2,0002,500 rpm range. These findings should not, however, be interpreted as proof that motorists using E20 will necessarily get better mileage. The experiment was conducted on a single-cylinder laboratory engine, under specified operating conditions. It demonstrates that ethanol concentration can affect engine performance in different ways; it does not provide a direct estimate of real-world mileage across India's car and two-wheeler fleet. Road Transport and Highways Minister Nitin Gadkari told Parliament: The fuel efficiency of vehicles may be reduced by 2 to 6% depending on the vehicle category and vintage. The tests for engine durability on a dynamometer and vehicle tests on road have not shown any failures due to E20. The actual impact on an individual vehicle will depend on its engine design, calibration, operating conditions and other factors. Why ethanols higher octane matters? One reason ethanol can influence engine performance despite its lower energy content is its higher octane rating. The Scientific Reports paper says ethanol's higher octane rating and oxygen content can promote more complete combustion. It also notes that ethanol's physical and thermal properties make it a viable fuel for spark-ignition engines. The study found measurable changes in combustion efficiency and cylinder pressure as ethanol concentration increased. Maximum cylinder pressure increased with engine speed but remained slightly lower with higher ethanol blends, which the researchers attributed to ethanol's cooling effect. This is why the effect of ethanol cannot be assessed simply by comparing the energy content of ethanol with petrol. Engine operating conditions and calibration also matter. Does the study show lower emissions? The paper says ethanol's oxygen content can support more complete combustion and identifies potential reductions in pollutants including carbon monoxide and hydrocarbons. It also discusses ethanol's potential contribution to reducing greenhouse-gas emissions and dependence on fossil fuels. However, the particular experiment reported in the paper was primarily designed to investigate engine-performance parameters and predictive modelling. It does not establish a percentage reduction in emissions from E20 across India's vehicle fleet. That distinction is important. The study provides evidence that ethanol blends alter combustion behaviour and can improve certain performance parameters under particular conditions. It should not be used to claim that E20 automatically produces a specific reduction in real-world emissions. Governments defence The Centre says E20 was introduced after laboratory testing, field trials and consultations involving organisations including ARAI, SIAM, Indian Oil Corporation, the Indian Institute of Petroleum and automobile manufacturers. The government says testing covered engine durability, drivability, startability, corrosion resistance, material compatibility and emissions, without demonstrating widespread engine failure attributable to E20. Gadkari told Parliament that more than 20 crore two-wheelers and over 3 crore petrol cars have been operating on ethanol blends without verified evidence of widespread engine failure or vehicle breakdown attributable to ethanol blending. He said: Manufacturer service data confirm that there is no abnormal corrosion, wear or reduction in vehicle life due to E20 fuel. The government also points to countries such as Brazil, where high ethanol blends have been used for decades, and argues that ethanol has generated foreign-exchange savings while creating a market for agricultural feedstocks. These are government arguments; they are separate from the findings of the Scientific Reports study, which does not investigate long-term corrosion, component degradation or vehicle life. What about water contamination? Water contamination has been raised as a concern in the wider E20 debate, particularly because ethanol can interact with water and fuel-storage conditions can affect fuel quality. However, the Scientific Reports study does not investigate water contamination, phase separation or fuel-storage problems. Its experimental work focuses on engine performance, including combustion efficiency, brake-specific fuel consumption, cylinder pressure and exhaust-gas temperature. Therefore, the study cannot be cited as scientific evidence either for or against claims about water contamination in E20. What sceptics say? Critics do not necessarily oppose ethanol blending itself. Their main concern is the speed of the transition and its implications for older vehicles. Vehicles designed for lower ethanol blends may have fuel-system components that were not designed for sustained exposure to higher ethanol concentrations. Concerns have also been raised about mileage, maintenance and performance. But the distinction between engine performance and vehicle durability is important. The Scientific Reports study examines the former. It does not test long-term exposure of seals, hoses, gaskets, injectors or other components to E20, nor does it examine whether older vehicles are more vulnerable to damage. Its experiments covered ethanol concentrations from 0% to 30% and engine speeds from 1,500 to 3,500 rpm. The researchers used the resulting data to model parameters such as brake-specific fuel consumption, combustion efficiency and maximum cylinder pressure. So the study provides useful evidence about what ethanol blends can do inside a spark-ignition engine, but it cannot settle the separate question of whether India's older vehicle fleet will experience long-term damage from E20. Rahul Gandhis charge: E20 is stealing from consumers The issue has also become political. On August 7, Leader of Opposition in the Lok Sabha Rahul Gandhi called E20 a very big issue and said the Congress would take it up in a big way. In a video message, Gandhi said: Dont worry, we are going to take up this issue in a massive way because this is destroying peoples cars, destroying peoples scooters, destroying peoples lives and literally stealing directly from them, Gandhi said. He also said: The issue of E-20 is a very big issue. Normally, we say Daal mein kuch kaala hai, but yahaan toh puri Daal hi kaali hai. His claims go beyond the narrower scientific question of engine performance and compatibility, raising questions about who bears the cost of lower mileage, maintenance and the transition to E20. So, is E20 damaging vehicles? The Scientific Reports study does not provide evidence that E20 damages vehicles. But equally, it was not designed to prove that E20 is safe for every vehicle. What it does show is that ethanol blends can significantly alter engine performance. In its laboratory experiment, E30 improved combustion efficiency under one set of conditions and reduced brake-specific fuel consumption in another operating range. At the same time, the researchers note ethanol's lower heat of combustion and its potential to increase specific fuel consumption. That makes the scientific evidence more complicated than either side of the political debate suggests. For vehicles designed and calibrated for E20, the government argues that testing has established safety and durability. For older vehicles, however, the question of long-term compatibility requires evidence that is not provided by this particular study. The larger policy question, therefore, is not simply whether ethanol is good or bad. It is how India balances energy security and agricultural interests with fuel economy, vehicle compatibility, emissions and consumer costsand whether motorists whose vehicles predate the E20 transition bear a disproportionate share of its costs.

DSP, two PSOs injured after tyre of bulletproof vehicle bursts near Awantipora shrine

Awantipora, Aug 10: A Deputy Superintendent of Police (DSP) and two Police Officers (PSOs) sustained minor injuries after a tyre of their bulletproof vehicle burst while they were travelling near Ziyarat Sharief Syed Hassan Mantaqi (RA) in Awantipora on Monday, officials said. According to police, the incident occurred when the tyre of the vehicle burst while it was on the move. Officials said the heavy weight of the bulletproof vehicle may have contributed to the incident. A senior police official confirmed the incident to Greater Kashmir , saying the tyre burst occurred while the bulletproof vehicle was being driven, leaving the DSP and two PSOs injured. The official clarified that the injuries sustained by all three personnel are minor and that none of them is in danger. The injured personnel were provided medical attention, officials said.

Ex-accountant who siphoned Rs 1.96 crore held in J-K after 3 years: Delhi Police

New Delhi: A 32-year-old man, who worked as an accountant at a private company in Delhi, has been apprehended in Jammu and Kashmir for allegedly misappropriating about Rs 1.96 crore from his employer nearly three years ago, police said on Monday. The accused, Triloki Sharma, was arrested from a factory in J and Ks Samba []

Police use water cannons, tear gas, batons as exam protesters try to reach Jharkhand assembly

Ranchi, Aug 10: Police used water cannons, lobbed tear gas shells, and lathi-charged job aspirants as they breached barricades and closed in on Jharkhand Assembly premises, protesting alleged irregularities in recruitment exams. The Assembly was adjourned for the day in the afternoon. Several protesters claimed they were injured in the police action, which took place when they reached the final barricade near Jagannathpur Temple on the road to the assembly. The baton charge was barbaric. We were protesting peacefully, but the government used batons against us. They can only inflict physical injuries, not harm our thoughts, Piyush Kumar Soni, a protester, told PTI. Many female students sustained injuries. Police hit us on our head, arms, face everywhere, he claimed. Vikram Kumar, who came from Hazaribag district, claimed to have sustained a head injury. Whatever the Hemant Soren government is doing to us is not good. We were protesting peacefully; then why is your police baton charging us, he asked. The march, which coincided with the 51st birthday of Chief Minister Hemant Soren, began from outside the old assembly building around 10.30 am as the protest over the recruitment exam irregularities entered the 17th day. The Bharatiya Janata Yuva Morcha's state unit president Shashank Raj said: Today is a black day for democracy as police used batons on peaceful protesters. Many of the agitators have suffered injuries. He urged the chief minister not to be insensitive towards students' demands. JLKM leader Devendra Nath Mahto, who has been on a fast for nine days over the issue, joined the march in an ambulance. He was seen carrying a portrait of former chief minister Shibu Soren. Objecting to the installation of barbed-wire barricades along the route of the assembly march, Mahto said anger was brewing among students over the injustices done to them. The government is hell-bent on suppressing our voice. We will not hold any talks now, he said. Armed with tricolours and placards that read Cancel JSSC-CGL Exams or Conduct a CBI Probe, Why is CID escaping from conducting a raid on JSSC? and Conduct an impartial investigation, bring out the truth, thousands of young men and women breached one barricade after the other amid heavy security deployment. As police used water cannons when the march reached Jagannathpur Temple, the demonstrators broke into dance, waving tricolours. But the situation soon escalated when the protesters attempted to march forward, prompting the police to baton charge. Failing to restrain the gathering, the police fired several rounds of tear gas shells when the protesters were about 200 meters away from the assembly. If we cannot reach the assembly, our voices must reach them. We do not fear the government, which is treating us like traitors. We have been compelled to take to the streets, a protester said. The JPSC-JSSC Reforms Manch, which is spearheading the agitation, said it has deployed around 500 volunteers to prevent anti-social elements from joining the march. JLKM MLA Jairam Mahto, who joined the march a day after holding a fast over the issue, said, The students are protesting peacefully; why is the police trying to restrain them? They are not carrying lathis in their hands. Meanwhile, state minister Sudivya Kumar claimed that the BJP had hijacked the protest for its political ambition. Talking to reporters outside the assembly, he said it was unfortunate that the job aspirants were agitating despite the government fulfilling 95 per cent of their demands. Earlier, replying to a query on the protests in the assembly, Kumar alleged the agitation has shifted from being a students' movement to one dominated by BJP's evil mentality and political designs. Besides imposing prohibitory orders, heavy security was deployed on the entire stretch, around 4 km long, with senior officers keeping a close watch, officials said. More than 1,500 personnel from the Rapid Action Force, Indian Reserve Battalion, district police and QRT have been deployed, they said. The government has held several rounds of talks with the demonstrators, but failed to break the deadlock. The protesters said the government had agreed to cancel only three of the 13 exams they wanted scrapped. The agitators are demanding comprehensive reforms in the Jharkhand Public Service Commission (JPSC) and Jharkhand Staff Selection Commission (JSSC). They are also seeking cancellation of several recruitment tests, including the 14th Jharkhand PSC Civil Services Examination, and an independent probe into the alleged irregularities, either by the CBI or by a panel of retired high court judges from outside the state.

UGC-NET June 2026 provisional answer key to be out this week: NTA

New Delhi, Aug 10: The National Testing Agency (NTA) on Monday said it will publish the provisional answer key for the UGC-NET June 2026 examination on its official website this week. The NTA will also release answer keys for CSIR-NET and ICAR AIEEA (PG) and AICE (PhD) 2026 examinations. The provisional answer keys for the UGC-NET June 2026 examination will be published on the official website this week, along with the provisional answer keys for the CSIR-NET and ICAR AIEEA (PG) & AICE (PhD) 2026 examinations, the NTA said in a public notice. The NTA said candidates will be able to view the provisional answer keys and raise challenges within the notified window. Detailed instructions will be provided at the time of publication, it said. The NTA advised candidates to regularly check its official website and rely only on official communications from the agency. The NTA conducted the UGC NET examinations on six days between June 22-30 and a retest on July 5, 2026. UGC-NET is conducted to determine the eligibility of candidates for the posts of Assistant Professor and admission to PhD programmes. The examination consists of two papers: Paper I, which includes 50 questions on teaching aptitude, reasoning ability, and general awareness, and Paper II, which contains 100 subject-related multiple-choice questions. The Joint CSIR-UGC NET June 2026 examination were held on July 17-18 in computer-based test (CBT) mode to determine the eligibility for the award of Junior Research Fellowship (JRF), appointment as Assistant Professor, and admission to PhD programmes in institutions across India.

J&K Sports Minister Satish Sharma vows world-class infrastructure, training and support for athletes

Sakina Itoo visits students injured in Jammu accident, says government will order a probe

CIK arrests two Kashmir residents over alleged radical propaganda on social media

Srinagar, Aug 10: The Counter Intelligence Kashmir (CIK) has arrested two suspects in connection with a case involving the alleged dissemination of radical and anti-national content through social media platforms, officials said today. The arrests followed searches conducted by the CIK on August 8 at multiple locations across the Kashmir Valley in connection with FIR No. 03/2023 registered at Police Station CIK Srinagar under Sections 505 and 153-A of the IPC and Sections 13 and 18 of the Unlawful Activities (Prevention) Act (UAPA). During the searches, investigators seized six digital devices and seven SIM cards, which have been taken up for detailed examination, officials said. The two suspects arrested on Sunday, August 9, have been identified as Mehran Qazi, son of Atta Mohammad Qazi, a resident of Hiller Shahbad, Dooru, Anantnag, and Babar Hamid Dar, son of Abdul Hamid Dar, a resident of Chankan, Sopore. According to the CIK, the case pertains to the alleged dissemination of radical and anti-national content through social media platforms. During the course of the investigation, the two arrested suspects were allegedly found to have shared content containing what investigators described as radical and anti-national overtones. The material allegedly included radical narratives, glorification and projection of individuals associated with terrorism, propagation of extremist viewpoints and narratives that investigators believe had the potential to influence or radicalise impressionable minds. The CIK said the investigation is currently underway and the seized digital material is being subjected to further examination in accordance with law. Further action will follow based on the findings of the ongoing investigation, officials said.

Countdown begins for BSmart National Ad Film Contest in Bengaluru

The winning team will be awarded a cash prize of 2 lakh, the first runner-up will win 1 lakh and the second-runner up will take home 60,000

CM Omar congratulates two Kashmiri artisans on receiving National Handloom Award from President Murmu

Srinagar, Aug 10: Jammu and Kashmir Chief Minister Omar Abdullah on Monday congratulated the two artisan weavers of Kashmir, Manzoor Ahmad Hajam and Fayaz Ahmad Wani, after they received the prestigious National Handloom Award from President of India Droupadi Murmu. Recognised for their exceptional craftsmanship in weaving the exquisite Chanddar Kani Shawl, their achievement celebrates the timeless legacy and artistic excellence of Jammu and Kashmirs handloom tradition, the Chief Minister said. Omar said the government remains committed to empowering local artisans, preserving traditional heritage, and promoting indigenous crafts on national and global platforms.

Security beefed up in Srinagar ahead of Independence Day celebrations

Govt introduces bill in LS to change Kerala's name to Keralam

New Delhi, Aug 10: The government introduced a bill in the Lok Sabha on Monday to rename 'Kerala' as 'Keralam' after the state assembly adopted a resolution two years ago. The Kerala government had forwarded to the Centre a resolution passed by the state's legislative assembly regarding the name change in June 2024. Subsequently, the President of India referred a bill to the state legislature for expressing its views and later, the state assembly adopted a unanimous resolution agreeing with the bill. On Monday, Minister of State for Home Affairs Nityanand Rai introduced the Kerala (Alteration of Name) Bill, 2026 amid Opposition din over various issues. The Kerala (Alteration of Name) Bill, 2026 provides for such alteration of name of the State of Kerala and contains necessary amendments to the provisions of the Constitution and also consequential provisions, according to the bill's Statement of Objects and Reasons. Amendments will be made in the First Schedule to the Constitution by modifying the name of state of 'Kerala' as 'Keralam' in accordance with article 3 of the Constitution.

Lighter by 17kg and after gruelling sessions in Kashmir, Sarfaraz ready for Sri Lanka challenge

New Delhi, Aug 10: A few days before he was recalled to India's Test squad, Sarfaraz Khan had declared on social media that, I may not fit in, but I'll fight with everything I've got. It was a message of resolve but one that was acutely aware of the probabilities at that point. But as luck would have it, his resolve won. An injury to Sai Sudharsan opened up the window of opportunity which Sarfaraz had been waiting for the past two years. He was included for the two-match away Test series against Sri Lanka beginning on August 15. The recall could not have come at a more opportune time for the Mumbaikar, having done all that he could to fit in, including shedding 17kg in the past year and a half. For someone, who has fought the perception of being a bit more burly for international cricket despite scoring a marathon triple hundred in Ranji Trophy, Sarfaraz now sports a sharper look, something that has certainly elevated his T20 game. Add to it, hours and hours spent at the Sher-e-Kashmir Stadium in Kashmir to sharpen his skills because seasonal rains made it impossible to have regular training in Mumbai. The comeback, therefore, is one to savour as being dropped after four failures against New Zealand, back in 2024, was hard to process. It was a series in which everyone failed but the axe fell only on the 28-year-old. He then went to England and scored 92 for India A in an unofficial Test' against England Lions apart from a century in an intra-squad game (India vs India A) at Beckenham. But the comeback still remained a distant dream until India's meek surrender to South Africa at home set the alarm bells ringing. If sources are to be believed, the team management had, back then, enquired about Sarfaraz ahead of the second Test in Guwahati but the selection committee wasn't ready to take him back into the fold. However, with Sudharsan's right big-toe impact injury still far from healed, the national selection committee had three options -- Ruturaj Gaikwad, who has a first-class career average in mid 40s, greenhorn Shaikh Rasheed who is more of a No. 3. The third and most logical option had to be Sarfaraz, who is probably the best player of spin bowling apart from skipper Shubman Gill and Rishabh Pant in this current set-up. Also with Dhruv Jurel not really coming good against spinners for some time now (at least when he is playing for the senior national team), one can't be sure that the Uttar Pradesh man will play as a pure batter against the island nation when the first Test starts in Galle on August 15. Sarfaraz way better than Jurel Jurel came to Sri Lanka last month as the skipper of the India A team and scored a big hundred and a fifty in the two 'A' Tests but in the practice game that ended on Sunday, he was out cheaply defending against an off-spinner. It is now well documented that Jurel has problems playing off-spinners. South Africa's Simon Harmer got him thrice in four innings during the series against the Proteas. In case of Sarfaraz, he has better range of strokes, including the conventional and reverse sweep, which he can play in-front and behind the square. Red-soil turners at private facilities for training Post IPL, Sarfaraz played the Mumbai T20 league where he produced some blistering knocks for Akash Tigers Western Mumbai Suburbs. But once the monsoons hit Mumbai, he left for Kashmir where he stayed for sometime, training against the net bowlers as well as some of the state team boys. He also did skills training on astro turf wicket at the MCA Indoor facility at BKC and rented private facilities around Kurla where he batted for hours on used and under-prepared red-soil tracks to keep his game top notch against slow bowlers. Now that he has managed to fit in, India would need him to fight the good fight against Prabath Jayasuriya and company this weekend.

Earthquake of magnitude 4.2 felt in Uttarakhand's Uttarkashi

Uttarkashi, Aug 10: An earthquake of magnitude 4.2 was felt in various parts of Uttarakhand's Uttarkashi district early Monday morning, officials said. The officials stated that there have been no reports of any casualty so far. According to a report issued by the District Emergency Operation Centre in Uttarkashi, the earthquake was felt at 1:21 am. According to the report, the earthquake's epicentre was located at a depth of 10 km near the Rajgarhi area of Barkot tehsil. Tremors were felt across several areas of the Yamuna valley, including Uttarkashi, Barkot, Purola, Mori, Chinyalisaur and Dunda, with people rushing out of their buildings Officials said that information has been gathered from tehsildars, police station and outpost in-charges, revenue sub-inspectors and village heads. There have been no reports of casualties or any major damage so far, they added.

Exam protesters set to march to Jharkhand Assembly even as govt says '98 pc demands fulfilled'

Ranchi, Aug 10: Students protesting alleged irregularities in Jharkhand's recruitment examinations refused to call off their stir and are set to march towards the Assembly on Monday, the 17th day of the agitation, even though the government said it has accepted 98 per cent of the demands. Even though the talks failed to make any headway, the Jharkhand Public Service Commission (JPSC), which is at the centre of the turmoil, saw a major shake-up on Sunday. All three JPSC members -- Ajeeta Bhattacharya, the wife of prominent JMM leader Supriyo Bhattacharyya, Anima Hansda and Jamal Ahmad resigned on Sunday. The development came after the Jharkhand CID summoned the three for questioning over allegations of irregularities, including paper leaks. Bhattacharya is scheduled to be questioned on Monday, Ahmad on August 12 and Hansda on August 14. JPSC chairperson L Khiangte resigned on July 22. Various political and non-political outfits have extended support to the students' movement, which is among the biggest such agitations in Jharkhand in recent years. The support came after the sixth round of talks between the government and student representatives failed to break the deadlock on Sunday, with protesters insisting on a CBI probe into the alleged irregularities in recruitment examinations, including the JSSC-CGL exam. Sensing that the agitators' proposed march to the Assembly may spark law-and-order issues and even violence, massive security arrangements have been put in place. Most of the schools in Ranchi remained closed on Monday. Security personnel have been deployed in strength on the way leading to the Assembly, where prohibitory orders have been clamped within a 750-meter radius till August 12. The situation remains fraught as talks failed even though the government said that it has accepted 98 per cent of students' demands. However, the protesters said the government had agreed to cancel only three of the 13 exams they wanted scrapped. We will not compromise till our demand for a CBI probe is fulfilled, JPSC-JSSC Reforms Manch leader Ravindra Paswan said after the talks and appealed to students to join Monday's Assembly march. The student leaders have appealed to political parties and the public to extend moral support to the agitation without giving it a political colour. They maintain that the march will be peaceful and democratic and warned against attempts by anti-social elements to disrupt it. The government has urged students to withdraw the agitation and return to dialogue, maintaining that it has accepted most of their demands. Higher and Technical Education Minister Sudivya Kumar, a member of the government panel entrusted with talking to the students, said it was unfortunate that students were continuing their agitation despite the government agreeing to 98 per cent of their demands. The state has agreed to cancel the 14th JPSC examination, proposed an ED probe into financial irregularities in the JPSC examination and announced a fast-track court that would file charge sheets within 90 days. It has also proposed an expert panel involving representatives from IIT-ISM Dhanbad, IIM Ranchi and XLRI Jamshedpur to suggest examination reforms and a separate panel headed by a retired High Court judge to examine the JSSC-CGL issue. The government has also launched a portal seeking students' suggestions on examination reforms and said it would frame a standard operating procedure to ensure transparency in future recruitment examinations. However, it refused to accept the demand for a CBI probe into the JSSC-CGL examination, stating that the conduct of the exam was monitored by the high court and the Supreme Court. Six protesters are still on their indefinite hunger strike. As the health of Devendra Nath Mahto deteriorated early on Sunday after his blood glucose level dropped, ministers spoke to him through a video call and urged him to end his fast. The talks on Sunday followed several rounds of meetings between the government and different student organisations, including the JPSC-JSSC Reforms Manch, NSUI, Jharkhand Chhatra Morcha and Adivasi Chhatra Sangh, since Friday. The governments outreach has failed to convince the principal student group, which has described the fresh negotiations as political manoeuvring and continued to insist on an independent probe. Nineteen people have so far been arrested in connection with alleged irregularities in JPSC examinations. Chief Minister Hemant Soren assured protesting youths that those responsible for examination irregularities would face strict action and that justice would be delivered transparently. He urged students not to allow the agitation to be politicised and favoured dialogue over confrontation. Governor Gangwar also appealed to the students to resolve the issue through dialogue, saying the governments doors remained open and that the authorities did not want to compromise the future of students.

Indian student arrested in Germany for girlfriends murder in Arizona

Through close coordination between TPD, the FBI Tucson Office and the FBI Legal Attache Office in Berlin, Batchigari was taken into custody upon his arrival in Germany, preventing him from continuing his travel, Tucson Police said in a statement

Israel rejects Trump's Gaza plan, more details emerge on Strait of Hormuz and other Mideast news

Yemen's Iranian-backed Houthi rebels struck a government-held port on the country's Red Sea coast, deepening fears over threats to strategic shipping routes and a potential return to civil war

Op Sindoor sent global message India will go to any extent to protect citizens: Rajnath Singh

Defence Minister Rajnath Singh on Sunday said Operation Sindoor demonstrated the unmatched valour of the Indian armed forces and sent a global message that India would go to any extent to ensure the safety of its citizens. Addressing the Sindoor Maharaktadan Yatra blood donation camp at Base Hospital, Delhi Cantonment, Rajnath Singh said, Operation Sindoor demonstrated the unmatched valour of our defence forces who sent a global message that India will go to any extent to ensure the safety of its citizens while protecting the sindoor worn by our women. He commended the armed forces for eliminating terrorists and their handlers based in Pakistan and ensuring that those who dared to cast an evil eye on India faced dire consequences. Drawing a parallel between Operation Sindoor and the blood donation campaign, Rajnath Singh said while the military operation showcased courage, the mega blood donation camp represented compassion. Around 1,000 wrestlers and athletes from Maharashtra participated in the campaign, demonstrating the spirit of selfless service and solidarity with the Defence Forces. Expressing gratitude to the donors, Rajnath Singh said the blood donated during the camp would serve as a reserve for soldiers and their families in times of need. He described blood donation as Jivandan and Mahadan, stressing that despite advances in science and medicine, no artificial substitute for human blood has yet been developed. Since blood can only be produced by the human body and donated by one person to another, Rajnath Singh said, blood donation remained one of the noblest forms of charity. The Defence Minister said every blood donor and recipient was, in their own way, serving the nation. He urged people, particularly the youth, to make blood donation a culture. When we celebrate 100 years of our independence in 2047, our aim should not be limited to a developed economy; we must also envision a compassionate society where people are healthy and safe, and precious resources like blood are readily available in times of need, he said. Rajnath Singh also called upon the youth to prioritise fitness, saying a healthy and fit individual becomes a greater asset to society and is better equipped to undertake noble causes such as blood donation. He said initiatives such as Khelo India and Fit India, launched under the leadership of Prime Minister Narendra Modi, were encouraging citizens, particularly the youth, to make fitness a way of life. Highlighting Maharashtras tradition of valour and compassion, Rajnath Singh said the legacy of Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj continued to inspire generations. The true purpose of physical strength lies in protecting others and safeguarding the nation, he said, adding that the contribution of athletes and wrestlers from the land of Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj would be remembered as a noble service to the nation. The event was attended by Maharashtra Deputy Chief Minister Eknath Shinde, Minister of State for Ayush Pratap Rao Jadhav, Maharashtra Industries Minister Uday Ravindra Samant, MP Dr Srikant Lata Eknath Shinde, Chief of the Army Staff General Dhiraj Seth, DG Armed Forces Medical Services Surgeon Vice Admiral Arti Sarin, Adjutant General Lt Gen VPS Kaushik and Commandant, Base Hospital, Delhi Cantonment, Maj Gen Vishal Chaudhary, besides senior military and civil officials. For the Armed Forces Medical Services, maintaining adequate blood reserves is particularly important as military hospitals cater not only to routine healthcare needs but also to operational, trauma and emergency contingencies.

Amit Shah presents Presidents Colours to Puducherry Police

Union Home Minister and Minister of Cooperation Amit Shah on Sunday presented the Presidents Colours to the Puducherry Police, recognising the forces bravery, dedication and service. Lieutenant Governor K. Kailashnathan and Chief Minister N. Rangasamy were among those present on the occasion. Addressing the gathering, Amit Shah said Puducherry was a living symbol of the spiritual and cultural consciousness of South India and described the conferment of the Presidents Colours as a recognition of the forces bravery, hard work and dedication. Today, the Puducherry Police has joined the ranks of police forces in the country that have been awarded the Presidents Colours, he said. Amit Shah said receiving the Presidents Colours was one of the most prestigious moments for any police force. The Puducherry Police is entrusted with the responsibility of protecting Puducherry, ensuring its internal security and safeguarding its honour, he said, adding that the force had received the prestigious honour in recognition of its hard work, valour, service and dedication. Referring to Puducherrys history, Amit Shah said that despite having remained under French rule for a long period, the Union Territory has preserved its Indian identity and spiritual vitality. He noted that the post of Director General of Police was created in Puducherry on October 1, 1963, and said that since then, the Puducherry Police had strengthened the internal security of this border region. On criminal justice reforms, Amit Shah said the government under Prime Minister Narendra Modi had replaced the penal codes enacted by the British with three new criminal laws. These new laws are not merely punitive in nature; rather, their objective is to ensure justice for citizens in a technology-enabled and time-bound manner, he said. Amit Shah said the new criminal laws were built on three pillars: Technology, Timeline and Trust. The Home Minister also highlighted steps taken by the Centre to strengthen the Union Territories, saying Prime Minister Modi had taken several steps over the past 12 years to strengthen the Union Territories. He said the Central Government had undertaken several development projects for Puducherry, including the four-laning of National Highway 332-A at a cost of 2,200 crore. The Modi Government has constructed an extended runway here, approximately 3,400 metres long and 45 metres wide, Amit Shah said. He also compared the development assistance provided to Puducherry before and after 2014. From 1950 to 2014, the Government of India had provided only 3,500 crore to Puducherry for developmental works. From 2014 to 2026, the Modi Government has provided 13,762 crore for the development of Puducherry, which is nearly four times the amount provided earlier, he said. Amit Shah said that over the past nine years, the Centre had also facilitated industrial investments worth 39,000 crore in Puducherry. He said people of the Union Territory had benefited from several Central schemes, including Lakhpati Didi, Jal Jeevan Mission, Ayushman Bharat, construction of toilets, the free foodgrain scheme, Ujjwala Yojana, Pradhan Mantri Awas Yojana and Direct Benefit Transfer.

Thousands gather at Sopores Tujar Sharief for Urs of Hazrat Makhdoom Sahib(RA)

Thousands of devotees from different parts of Kashmir gathered at Peth Astaan, Tujar Sharief, in Sopore for the 548th Urs-e-Pak of Mehboob-ul-Aalam Hazrat Makhdoom Sahib (RA). The Urs began on 13 Safar-ul-Muzaffar and will continue till 25 Safar-ul-Muzaffar. Devotees have been visiting the revered Ziyarat Sharief during the 13-day observance to offer prayers, pay obeisance and seek blessings. Several sacred Tabarukaat were displayed before the devotees, including the Holy Quran, Kamar Band Sharief, Qulah-e-Mubarak (Topi), Tasbeeh Dana and Kanga Sharief. The display drew large numbers of devotees who observed the occasion with reverence and devotion. Moulvi Peer Gh. Nabi Shuloora of Kupwara participated in the religious proceedings and appreciated the arrangements made by the authorities and the Awqaaf Committee for devotees. SSP Sopore Iftikhar Talib-JKPS, along with other police officials, visited the Ziyarat Sharief and reviewed arrangements for the congregation. Traffic management, crowd regulation and security arrangements around the shrine were also assessed. Police and civil administration personnel were deployed at key points to regulate traffic and manage the gathering. Volunteers associated with the Awqaaf Committee assisted in facilitating the movement of devotees and maintaining orderly arrangements. Speaking to the media, Peerzada Mohammad Sultan Makhdoomi, chairman of the Awqaaf Committee, Peth Astaan Tujar Sharief, thanked the Sopore Police, civil administration, volunteers and local community for their efforts. He appreciated the coordinated arrangements, saying they helped devotees participate in the religious observances without inconvenience. The congregation concluded peacefully, with coordinated efforts by the police, civil administration, Awqaaf Committee and local volunteers ensuring smooth traffic movement, crowd management and security throughout the event.

JKCAG welcomes home composting directive in Bandipora

The Jammu and Kashmir Climate Action Group (JKCAG) has welcomed the Bandipora district administrations decision to make home composting of biodegradable waste mandatory for households with sufficient space around their homes. JKCAG Chairman Raja Muzaffar Bhat termed the decision a landmark step, saying it would help reduce the load on the waste dumping site at Zalwan. I appreciate the decision taken by DC Bandipora Indu Kanwal by ordering home composting of food waste, kitchen waste and other biodegradable waste in Bandipora town, Bhat said. I hope this practice is followed across the district soon and deputy commissioners in other districts also issue similar orders, he said. Bhat said such measures were mandated under the Municipal Solid Waste Rules, 2016, and would promote segregation and treatment of biodegradable waste at source. He said the J&K Pollution Control Committee in 2021 had imposed a penalty of more than Rs 64 lakh on Municipal Council Bandipora for allegedly violating the Municipal Solid Waste Rules by dumping waste near Zalwan, which falls in the Wular catchment area. Bhat said the Municipal Council Bandipora challenged the JKPCC order before the National Green Tribunal, which upheld the penalty and directed the council to pay the amount. He said the municipal council subsequently approached the Supreme Court, which also upheld the order and criticised the Bandipora municipality over the waste dumping issue. Bhat said effective implementation of home composting, along with proper segregation and waste processing, could help address the districts waste management problems and reduce pressure on dumping sites.

Baramulla-Uri highway closure triggers hours-long traffic jam on Khadniyar road

The ongoing widening of the Baramulla-Uri highway on Sunday triggered fresh traffic woes as a temporary closure of the highway at Danakha Mode left hundreds of commuters stranded for hours on the alternate road from Khadniyar area. The Baramulla-Uri highway was closed near Danakha Mode from 7am to 5pm on Sunday to facilitate hill-cutting work at the site. The district administration Baramulla issued an order to temporary close the Baramulla-Uri highway at Danakha Mode in view of hill-cutting saying that there were apprehension of landslides during the execution of the work and the need to prevent any loss of life or property. An official said the restriction was necessary in view of previous incidents of minor landslides in the area, which had also prompted temporary restrictions on vehicular movement. However, the diversion of traffic through the Khadniyar road created chaos as the road remained heavily congested for several hours. Commuters said the alternate road, carrying traffic from both directions, has developed potholes and has not received adequate repairs. The commuters said the diversion made it difficult for motorists to reach their destinations on time. According to eyewitnesses, the traffic snarl stretched for hours as the vehicles were stuck from both sides of the road. They also complained of alleged inadequate traffic management, adding to the chaos. It was really chaotic as the traffic remained blocked on the road. There was no proper traffic management on the road, a passenger from Srinagar, who had come to attend a condolence meeting in Uri, told Greater Kashmir. The widening of the Baramulla-Uri highway is currently being executed at a brisk pace, with men and machinery deployed from dawn to dusk. While the project is aimed at improving connectivity along the strategic route, the ongoing construction has periodically resulted in traffic bottlenecks, particularly at stretches where heavy machinery occupies road space. Commuters said that whenever traffic is diverted from the main highway, the alternate routes should be kept motorable and adequate traffic regulation should be put in place to prevent prolonged congestion and inconvenience to the public. Deputy Superintendent of Police (DySP) traffic (rural) Mujahid Nazir said traffic police were deployed at several spots to regulate movement. Our men were there at designated spots. We cannot deploy them at each spot. People must develop proper driving sense rather than blaming others, DySP traffic rural told Greater Kashmir. He said that drivers do not follow proper lane driving but are always in a hurry to reach their destination. This was the basic reason for today's traffic congestion, he added.

As Kashmir chokes on its own waste, Baramulla youth refuse to look away

A group of young volunteers in north Kashmir has decided to stop waiting for someone else to clean up the mess as plastic chokes waterways, waste piles up at tourist destinations and open dumping scars neighbourhood. The initiative has been taken by a group of youth as Kashmirs environmental crisis are no longer confined to polluted water bodies or overflowing garbage dumps but has become a crisis of public responsibility. Over 50 youth volunteers of the Youth Welfare Committee (YWC) of Nowpora village in Baramulla district have taken the charge for cleaning garbage from drains, public pathways and vacant plots that had turned into dumping grounds. The waste was segregated and handed over to municipal sanitation workers for disposal. But the exercise was intended to be more than another cleanliness drive. The government has its limitations. We cannot keep blaming authorities while we continue to litter our own surroundings. Every individual must own this responsibility for their own well-being, said Imtiyaz Khanday, a senior functionary of the committee. The intervention comes as J&K is facing a mounting solid-waste challenge. Urban areas generate more than 1,500 metric tonnes of waste every day, putting enormous pressure on collection, segregation and disposal systems. Drains remain clogged with plastic and household waste, vacant spaces have become informal dumping grounds and water bodies continue to bear the brunt of indiscriminate disposal. Destinations such as Gulmarg, Pahalgam and Sonamarg repeatedly face waste-management challenges during periods of heavy tourist footfall. Over the years the issue did not move ahead of the blame game as the residents blame authorities while the officials cite lack of public cooperation and departments point to inadequate infrastructure. In view of this volunteers of Nowpora village have made an attempt to break the pattern. The cleanup received support from local residents as several people have joined the volunteers in removing debris and segregating waste. This is what we need. People must take a lead instead of waiting for the municipality to act. If every locality does it, half our problems will be solved, said Ghulam Nabi, a local shopkeeper. The YWC has decided to make the initiative a regular exercise a sit has announced plans to conduct cleanliness drives every Sunday. The group is also preparing an awareness campaign in local schools with a hope to make waste management and environmental responsibility part of childrens everyday habits. Cleanliness is not a one-day event. It is a continuous process. Our goal is to make Nowpora a model for other localities to follow, said Lone Mehraj, another senior member of the group. Earlier this year, a community-led initiative in south Kashmirs Kulgam district helped restore the polluted Sandran rivulet. The move showed how sustained local participation can revive water bodies that were damaged by years of neglect and waste dumping.

Baramulla commuters hit by train delays, service suspension

Hundreds of commuters, including government employees, healthcare workers and students, are facing inconvenience as the morning train to Baramulla frequently runs late, while an afternoon service to Banihal remains suspended. Commuters said Train No. 74625, scheduled to reach Baramulla at 10:10 am, has been arriving 30 minutes to an hour late in recent weeks, affecting office attendance and daily schedules. The train is primarily used by employees working in government offices, colleges, hospitals and GMC Baramulla. The repeated delays have become a serious concern as many of us struggle to reach our offices on time, said Bilal Ahmad, a college employee from Budgam. Passengers said the delays had become frequent, causing inconvenience to those dependent on the railway for affordable and timely transport. Adding to their concerns is the suspension of Train No. 74632, which used to leave Baramulla for Banihal at 3:45 pm. The suspension of the 3:45 pm train is the biggest issue, especially for employees. Due to its suspension, employees and other commuters face enormous problems, said another commuter from south Kashmir. Commuters said the withdrawal of the service had left them with limited afternoon travel options, forcing many to rely on costly road transport or wait for the next available train. The suspension has created significant inconvenience, especially for office-goers and students returning home after work and classes, another commuter said, appealing to the authorities to restore the service. Public Relations Officer (PRO), Railways, Baramulla, Raghvinder Singh, said the 3:45 pm Baramulla-Banihal train had been temporarily suspended for maintenance work. The service will be resumed soon, Singh said. On complaints regarding the delayed morning train, Singh said the department would look into the matter and take appropriate steps.

In Shopian, a farmer turns his rooftop into a diverse organic garden

In a district better known for its sprawling apple orchards, 55-year-old farmer Haroon Rashid has turned the terrace of his home into a small but unusually diverse farm, growing around 100 varieties of herbs, vegetables and fruit. A resident of Vehil village in south Kashmirs Shopian district, Rashid cultivates both traditional and exotic varieties on the terrace of the second floor of his house. He relies on organic manure rather than chemical fertilisers for his crops. I cultivate both horticulture and agriculture crops, Rashid said. Spread over an area measuring about 40 feet by 42 feet, the terrace garden includes a variety of vegetables and herbs. Rashid also grows oranges, adding another crop to the diverse mix cultivated on his rooftop. He said he earns between Rs 70,000 and Rs 80,000 annually from the terrace garden, despite the limited space. The input cost is less because I use organic manure and grow the crops myself, Rashid said. Rashid said his decision to avoid chemical fertilisers was partly driven by concerns over their increasing use in conventional farming. Shopian is known for apples, but there has been a lot of use of chemical fertilisers. I believe this affects soil and health, he said. His rooftop garden is a small-scale experiment, but it also demonstrates how unused spaces can be converted into productive areas for food cultivation. Instead of relying on a single commercial crop, Rashid has diversified his terrace with vegetables, herbs and fruit. He said he grows around 100 varieties of herbs, along with vegetables and fruit, experimenting with crops that are both familiar to local consumers and less commonly cultivated in the area. Rashids approach reflects the diversity of farming traditionally practised in Kashmir, while adapting it to a space where conventional farming would otherwise be difficult. His terrace allows him to cultivate several crops simultaneously without requiring a large tract of agricultural land. For Rashid, the garden is not merely a source of additional income but also a way of demonstrating that food can be produced with fewer chemical inputs. The earnings, Rashid said, are an added incentive. With relatively low input costs, the terrace garden provides him with an additional annual income. For the 55-year-old farmer, the experiment is proof that farming need not always depend on large orchards or fields. Even a small space can be productive if it is properly utilised, Rashid said.

Parliamentary panel flags J&Ks growing drug menace; seeks tougher crackdown on trafficking

Drug abuse has emerged as a major social, public health and law-and-order challenge in Jammu and Kashmir, with the administration attributing its spread to cross-border trafficking, organised narcotics networks, psychological stress and socio-economic vulnerabilities, according to inputs provided to a Parliamentary panel. The issue came up during the field visit of the Department-related Parliamentary Standing Committee on Home Affairs to Jammu and Kashmir, where the panel sought to ascertain whether drug abuse had emerged as a major challenge in the Union Territory and the factors driving its spread. The scale of the problem is reflected in official data placed before Parliament. The Ministry of Home Affairs has said that 2,232 cases were registered under the Narcotic Drugs and Psychotropic Substances (NDPS) Act in J&K in 2023. Of these, 1,640 cases related to possession for trafficking, while 592 involved possession for personal use or consumption. The administration told the committee that the Union Territorys geographical location and vulnerability to cross-border trafficking had contributed significantly to the availability of narcotics. Drugs entering through international borders and infiltration routes, coupled with organised trafficking networks and local peddlers, have increased the supply of narcotic and synthetic substances. Authorities also highlighted the security dimension of the problem, saying narcotics trafficking was being used as a source of illegal financing by organised criminal and anti-national elements. The nexus between drug trafficking and illicit financing has consequently made the drug menace not only a public health concern but also an internal security challenge. The administration identified stress, trauma, prolonged exposure to conflict, social uncertainty and emotional disturbances among the factors contributing to addiction tendencies, particularly among vulnerable sections of society. Other factors cited included unemployment and economic distress among youth, peer influence, changing social behaviour, exposure to social media, inadequate awareness, weakening family supervision and reluctance within society to identify and address substance abuse at an early stage. The authorities said the increased availability of narcotics had also produced wider social consequences, including deterioration in physical and mental health, criminal activity, family disintegration, social instability and economic distress. The scale of enforcement has also increased sharply this year. During the first month of the Nasha Mukt J&K Abhiyan, launched in April 2026, J&K Police registered 724 NDPS cases and arrested 806 persons. Police also seized 667.5 kg of narcotic substances, including 5.22 kg of heroin, and recovered more than 19,000 units of psychotropic drugs during the period from April 11 to May 12. Twenty-four habitual offenders were also booked under the Prevention of Illicit Traffic in Narcotic Drugs and Psychotropic Substances (PITNDPS) Act. The crackdown was subsequently expanded under the 100-day anti-drug campaign. By its completion in July, authorities had reported 2,581 arrests, seizure of nearly 1,431 kg of narcotics, including 23.29 kg of heroin, and confiscation of assets worth more than Rs 188.89 crore, aimed at disrupting the financial networks supporting the illicit trade. The administration told the Parliamentary committee that tackling the menace required a multi-dimensional strategy combining stringent law enforcement with intelligence-led operations, public awareness, rehabilitation, educational interventions and community participation. The committee expressed concern over the increasing incidence of drug abuse, particularly among youth, and recommended stronger intelligence-led action against cross-border narcotics trafficking and improved coordination among law-enforcement agencies, educational institutions, health departments and community organisations. It also recommended expanding de-addiction and counselling facilities at the district level and intensifying awareness programmes targeting students, parents and vulnerable communities. The panel stressed that equal emphasis should be placed on prevention, early intervention, de-addiction, rehabilitation and the social reintegration of affected persons, rather than relying solely on punitive measures. It further recommended periodic reviews of the anti-drug campaign to assess its effectiveness and ensure a sustained reduction in drug abuse across Jammu and Kashmir.

J&Ks Drug Fight Widens: 1.03 lakh addicts treated, 7,730 traffickers arrested in 3 years

Jammu and Kashmir has intensified its fight against substance abuse, with 1,03,716 drug users treated and rehabilitated over the past three years, while law enforcement agencies arrested 7,730 drug traffickers during 2023-25, according to data furnished by the Union Ministry of Social Justice and Empowerment in the Lok Sabha. The government data, based on interventions under the Nasha Mukt Bharat Abhiyaan (NMBA), shows that the Union Territory has also undertaken an extensive awareness campaign, with more than 1.20 crore people sensitised about the dangers of substance abuse. The figures were provided in response to Lok Sabha Unstarred Question No. 1411 regarding drug de-addiction awareness camps in Jammu and Kashmir. The reply was given by Minister of State for Social Justice and Empowerment B.L. Verma on July 28, 2026. According to the government, 1,03,716 drug users were treated and rehabilitated during 2023-24, 2024-25 and 2025-26. The year-wise figures show that 35,639 drug users were treated and rehabilitated during 2023-24. The number increased to 39,711 in 2024-25 before standing at 28,366 during 2025-26. Over the same three-year period, 31,136 awareness programmes were conducted across Jammu and Kashmir, through which 1,01,27,675 people were sensitised. The year-wise data shows that 18,939 awareness programmes were conducted during 2023-24, reaching 10,02,860 people. In 2024-25, 5,851 programmes were held and 84,99,948 people were sensitised. During 2025-26, another 6,346 programmes were conducted, reaching 6,24,867 people. The broader NMBA outreach figures are even higher. The government said more than 1.20 crore people have been sensitised in Jammu and Kashmir under the campaign, including more than 69.14 lakh youth and 51.20 lakh women. As many as 8,565 Nasha Mukt Mitras have also joined the campaign in J&K, adding a community-based component to the governments anti-drug efforts. Alongside awareness and treatment, the government has reported a substantial enforcement response against drug trafficking. A total of 3,072 drug traffickers were arrested in 2023, followed by 2,158 arrests in 2024 and 2,500 arrests in 2025. Together, the three-year figure stands at 7,730 arrests. The governments response indicates that the anti-drug strategy in J&K is being pursued on multiple fronts, combining enforcement against trafficking with demand-reduction measures, awareness generation, counselling, treatment and rehabilitation. Under the National Action Plan for Drug Demand Reduction (NAPDDR), the Ministry of Social Justice and Empowerment provides financial assistance to State Governments and Union Territory Administrations for preventive education and awareness generation, capacity building and programmes aimed at reducing drug demand. Financial assistance is also provided to NGOs and voluntary organisations for running Integrated Rehabilitation Centres for Addicts (IRCAs), Community based Peer Led Intervention (CPLI) programmes, Outreach and Drop In Centres (ODICs) and District De-Addiction Centres (DDACs). Government hospitals are supported through Addiction Treatment Facilities (ATFs). In Jammu and Kashmir, the government has supported one IRCA, three ODICs, two CPLIs, six DDACs and 21 Addiction Treatment Facilities in government hospitals. The 21 Addiction Treatment Facilities have been established through the National Drug Dependence Treatment Centre (NDDTC), AIIMS, New Delhi. The government has provided a district-wise list of these 21 treatment facilities. They include Government Medical College, Anantnag; Government District Hospital, Bandipora; Government Medical College, Baramulla; District Hospital Budgam; Government Medical College and Hospital Doda; District Hospital Ganderbal; Government Medical College Jammu; Government Medical College Kathua; District Hospital Kishtwar; District Hospital Kulgam; District Hospital Kupwara; District Hospital Poonch; District Hospital Pulwama; District Hospital Ramban; Government Medical College and Hospital Rajouri; District Hospital Samba; District Hospital Shopian; the Institute of Mental Health and Neuro-Sciences, Government Medical College Srinagar; SKIMS Srinagar; GMC&H Udhampur; and District Hospital Reasi. The NGO-supported network extends across several districts. The government has also highlighted the availability of a national de-addiction helpline, 14446, maintained by the Ministry of Social Justice and Empowerment. The helpline provides primary counselling and immediate referral services to people seeking assistance for substance-use problems. More than 4.6 lakh calls have been received through the helpline so far, including more than 11,000 calls from Jammu and Kashmir. The Nasha Mukt Bharat Abhiyaan was initially launched on August 15, 2020, covering 272 districts identified as vulnerable on the basis of inputs from the Narcotics Control Bureau and findings of the first National Survey. The campaign was subsequently extended to all districts of the country from August 2023. The campaign focuses on spreading awareness about substance use, with particular emphasis on higher educational institutions, universities, campuses and schools. Nationally, the campaign has reportedly sensitised more than 29.05 crore people, including over 11.05 crore youth and 7.81 crore women. More than 1.17 lakh Nasha Mukt Mitras have joined the campaign across the country. The government said implementation of the campaign is regularly reviewed with States and Union Territories through monthly review meetings, Chintan Shivirs and National-Level Conferences. States and UTs are followed up to establish State-, District- and Block-level NMBA committees and hold their meetings regularly.

J&K has over 4.1 lakh pending cases in Courts; 26,873 pending for more than 10 years

Jammu and Kashmir has more than 4.1 lakh cases pending before its courts, with a significant number of cases having remained unresolved for more than five and 10 years, according to the latest data furnished by the Union Ministry of Law and Justice in the Lok Sabha. The figures, based on data available on the National Judicial Data Grid (NJDG) as on July 30, 2026, were provided in response to Lok Sabha Unstarred Question No. 3371 on Cases Pendency and e-Courts Project. According to the data, 3,65,645 cases were pending before Jammu and Kashmirs District and Subordinate Courts as on July 30. Of these, 20,767 cases had been pending for more than 10 years, while 63,876 cases had been pending for more than five years. At the High Court level, the government has reported 44,557 pending cases before the High Court of Jammu and Kashmir and Ladakh. The data shows that 6,106 of these cases had been pending for more than 10 years, while 7,328 had remained pending for more than five years. Taken together, the figures amount to 4,10,202 pending cases, or more than 4.1 lakh cases. However, the government has clubbed Jammu and Kashmir and Ladakh in the High Court data, and therefore the 44,557 High Court cases cannot be separated into J&K and Ladakh on the basis of the parliamentary reply. For reporting purposes, the overall figure of over 4.1 lakh represents the combined figure obtained by adding the J&K District and Subordinate Courts pendency to the jointly reported High Court pendency. The long-pending cases constitute a substantial portion of the backlog. The District and Subordinate Courts in J&K alone have 20,767 cases pending for more than a decade and 63,876 pending for more than five years. At the High Court of J&K and Ladakh, 6,106 cases have crossed the 10-year mark and 7,328 have crossed the five-year mark. The figures show that the bulk of the pending cases are concentrated in the District and Subordinate Courts. Their 3,65,645 cases account for nearly 89 per cent of the 4,10,202 cases represented by the combined figures. The government has separately provided data for Ladakhs District and Subordinate Courts. These courts had 1,745 pending cases as on July 30, 2026, including 12 cases pending for more than 10 years and 98 cases pending for more than five years. The Centre has been pursuing digitisation and technology-based interventions as part of its efforts to address judicial pendency. The Government has approved Phase III of the e-Courts Project for 2023-27 with a budget outlay of Rs 7,210 crore. The third phase aims to transform courts into digital and paperless institutions, expand video-conferencing facilities to all courts, jails and hospitals, and integrate various stakeholders of the criminal justice system. It also envisages universal saturation of eSewa Kendras and creation of a cloud-based repository for storing digitised court records and applications. The project further provides for deployment of emerging technologies, including Artificial Intelligence and Optical Character Recognition, for case analysis and forecasting. According to the government, more than 753 crore pages of court records have been digitised nationally so far, while 2,584 eSewa Kendras have been established. Courts across the country have conducted more than 4.18 crore hearings through video-conferencing facilities, while approximately 1.25 crore cases have been filed electronically through the eFiling platform. A Digital Courts platform has also been developed to provide judges with a paperless court ecosystem. The government has also disclosed the financial progress under Phase III of the e-Courts Project. During 2023-24, the budget allocation was Rs 825 crore, against which expenditure stood at Rs 768.25 crore. In 2024-25, Rs 1,200 crore was allocated and Rs 1,029.11 crore spent. For 2025-26, the allocation was Rs 1,200 crore, against expenditure of Rs 717.45 crore. For 2026-27, Rs 1,200 crore has been allocated, while expenditure reported in the reply stands at Rs 29 crore. The total allocation for the four years was Rs 3,225 crore, against cumulative expenditure of Rs 2,543.81 crore. The allocations for 2023-24 and 2024-25 were revised estimates. On judicial infrastructure, the Centre said the primary responsibility for developing infrastructure facilities for District and Subordinate Courts rests with State Governments and Union Territories. To supplement their resources, the Central Government has been implementing a Centrally Sponsored Scheme for Development of Infrastructure Facilities for Judiciary in the District and Subordinate Courts since 1993-94. The scheme covers five componentscourt halls, residential units for judicial officers, lawyers halls, toilet complexes and digital computer rooms. Since the inception of the scheme, Rs 12,858.25 crore has been provided to States and Union Territories up to June 30, 2026. As of June 30, 2026, the sanctioned strength of judicial officers nationally stood at 30,825 against a working strength of 21,411. The country had 22,639 court halls and 21,495 residential units for judicial officers, according to the government.

Former J&K DGP M.N Sabharwal passes away; tributes pour in

Former Jammu and Kashmir Director General of Police M.N. Sabharwal, a 1964-batch IPS officer of the J&K cadre who played a pivotal role in building the states specialised counter-terrorism capability during the peak of terrorism, passed away on Friday night. He was one of the key figures in the history of the police response to terrorism in J&K. Sabharwal served as DGP from 1993 to 1997, among the most challenging years of the insurgency. In 1994, under his leadership, the J&K Police raised its first dedicated counter-terrorism formation the Special Task Force (STF) which later evolved into the Special Operations Group (SOG). Farooq Khan served as its initial operational head. The force became a crucial component of the counter-insurgency architecture and helped rebuild the capacity of the local police to confront militancy head-on. The creation of the STF/SOG marked an important institutional shift: from heavy reliance on conventional policing and central forces towards a specialised, intelligence-driven counter-terrorism capability developed within the J&K Police itself. Officers who served during that period have long described it as a landmark step that gave the force a local face in anti-terror operations at a time when state institutions were under severe strain. After his tenure in J&K, Sabharwal held several senior positions at the Centre, including Special Director in the Intelligence Bureau, Director General of the CRPF and Secretary (Security). His first-hand account of those turbulent years, co-authored with his son Manish Sabharwal and published as Kashmir Under 370: A Personal History, offers a rare insider perspective on the intersection of policing, politics and security in the state. The book draws on his long service in the Valley, including earlier postings as district police chief in Anantnag and Srinagar, and covers critical episodes such as the handling of the Hazratbal sieges. Current Director General of Police Nalin Prabhat expressed deep grief over the demise of the former DGP, described as the seventh DGP of J&K, and prayed for peace to the departed soul and strength to the bereaved family. The official J&K Police statement was widely shared, with tributes also coming from other former DGPs, IGPs and officers who had worked under him. The CRPF, recalling his tenure as its Director General, paid homage and presented a ceremonial Guard of Honour during the last rites in Kanpur. Veteran Kashmir journalists and colleagues remembered Sabharwal as an unassuming officer who maintained close contact with the people and the media even during the most dangerous phase of the militancy. He had served through critical periods under Governors G.C. Saxena and Gen. K.V. Krishna Rao, witnessing the transition from Presidents Rule to elected government in the mid-1990s.

Cheap, Colourful and Untraceable: Suspicious snacks flood rural Kashmir

Small, brightly coloured plastic bottles of drinks, loose candies sold from large jars, unbranded chips, chocolates and savoury snacks packed in flimsy plastic pouches are a common sight in vends and shops across Kashmir's towns and villages, and many parts of the city as well. These products carry little or no information about who manufactured them, where they were made and what ingredients they contain, putting a question mark over the health risks these pose. These products are priced cheap, and are especially popular among children. The widespread sale of colored, flavored water in fancy packs, sprays and terta-packs has raised concerns among public. The consumers, stakeholders believe, are being lured ito consuming products that appears suspicious even on the cursory examination. In addition, the lack of adequate label details, or false details on labels denies consumers the information needed to make informed choices. Under the Food Safety and Standards (Packaging and Labelling) Regulations, packaged food is required to display name and address of the manufacturer or packer, ingredient list, net quantity, batch or lot number, date of manufacture or packing, best-before or expiry date. In addition, these must also have accurate nutritional information. However, the flood of low-cost snacks and confectionery products sold in peripheral markets make it impossible for consumers to verify their origin or shelf life. Children are among the biggest consumers of these products. These are displayed on vending carts and small shacks outside schools, targeting children on their way to and from schools. Parents find it difficult to prevent their children from getting attracted to the colourful packaging, while they remain uncertain about their quality. Public health experts warn that absence of proper labelling does not automatically mean a product is unsafe. However, the packaging in non-foodgrade packs and plastics is a definite risk. In addition, it prevents consumers and regulators from knowing what exactly is being consumed. Sans the ingredient lists, people with food allergies cannot get cautioned about potential allergens. The missing manufacturing details also make it hard for food safety regulators to trace products in case of contamination. During Kashmir's warm summer months, the poor-quality packaging can also expose food to moisture, dust and contamination. Food safety officials underlined the legal requirement for all food business operators, irrespective of size, are required to comply with food safety standards. Assistant Commissioner Food Safety Srinagar, Yameen ul Nabi said that selling packaged food without mandatory labelling can attract regulatory action under food safety laws. He said market surveillance was on and many such cases have been found and legal action taken. He said inspections in rural and semi-urban areas and greater public awareness are needed to address the issue better. Consumers must avoid purchasing packaged foods that do not carry essential labelling information, especially when intended for children, he said.

EXPLAINER: MSME Development (Amendment) Bill 2026: What It Means for Small Businesses

The Micro, Small and Medium Enterprises (Development) Amendment Bill, 2026 seeks to strengthen the regulatory and institutional framework for Indias MSME sector, with a particular focus on delayed payments, faster dispute resolution, improved recovery of dues and greater flexibility for States. The amendments are significant for MSMEs because delayed payments from buyers can disrupt cash flows, affect working capital and make it difficult for smaller enterprises to maintain production and employment. Here are the key provisions and what they mean: 1. MSME classification gets a clearer statutory basis The amendments incorporate investment in plant and machinery and turnover as the two criteria for determining the classification of MSMEs. The Bill also provides for Udyam Registration as a digital, free and voluntary registration platform for enterprises. The move is aimed at simplifying the registration process and creating a more accessible formal framework for MSMEs. 2. Faster resolution of delayed-payment disputes Delayed payments are among the major challenges faced by small businesses. The amendments seek to provide MSMEs with quicker avenues for resolving disputes over unpaid dues. An Online Dispute Resolution mechanism has been provided to facilitate faster and cost-effective settlement of disputes. This could reduce the dependence on lengthy conventional proceedings and help enterprises recover money that is tied up in disputes. 3. Time-bound mediation and arbitration The amendments introduce specific timelines for adjudicating delayed-payment disputes through mediation and arbitration. The objective is to prevent cases involving relatively straightforward payment claims from remaining unresolved for prolonged periods. Faster settlement can help MSMEs restore their working capital and continue business operations without prolonged financial uncertainty. 4. Stronger mechanism to recover outstanding dues The amendments also strengthen the enforcement of settlements and awards. A mediated settlement agreement or arbitration award can be recovered as an arrear of land revenue through the District Collector, Deputy Commissioner or another notified authority in the jurisdiction where the buyers assets are located. This provision is intended to give greater enforceability to decisions in favour of MSMEs and improve the chances of recovering money from defaulting buyers. 5. Push for faster invoice payments through TReDS The Bill seeks to promote the use of the Trade Receivables Discounting System (TReDS) for MSME transactions. Central Public Sector Enterprises will be required to route the settlement of invoices through TReDS for goods and services procured from MSMEs. States are also empowered to encourage their public-sector enterprises to use the platform. TReDS allows eligible invoices raised by MSMEs to be discounted, enabling businesses to receive funds earlier instead of waiting for the buyers payment cycle to end. 6. More MSME Facilitation Councils The amendments provide States with greater flexibility to establish multiple Micro and Small Enterprises Facilitation Councils (MSEFCs). The move is aimed at improving the capacity of the dispute-resolution system. Instead of concentrating payment-related disputes in a limited number of forums, States can establish additional councils to facilitate faster disposal. The amendment also empowers State Governments to make rules for the functioning of these councils. Why the changes matter For a small enterprise, an unpaid invoice can have consequences far beyond a single transaction. Delayed payments can affect salaries, raw-material purchases, loan repayments and the ability to accept new orders. The amendments therefore focus on the payment cycle as an important part of the MSME ecosystem. Faster dispute resolution, stronger recovery mechanisms and wider use of digital platforms such as TReDS could help reduce the financial pressure caused by delayed payments. The changes also seek to make the MSME institutional framework more flexible by allowing States to establish multiple facilitation councils according to their requirements. With MSMEs playing a major role in employment, manufacturing, services and supply chains, the broader objective of the amendments is to create a more efficient business environment for smaller enterprises, improve their access to timely payments and strengthen their ability to grow.

Lithium exploration activities underway in Reasi for field season 2026-27

Mineral exploration activities for Lithium bearing laterite in north-west and south-east of the Salal-Haimna blocks are underway in Jangalgali and Panasa areas of Reasi district for the field season 2026-2027. Explored by Geological Survey of India (GSI), Salal-Haimna and Kotla mineral blocks of J&K will be among critical and strategic mineral blocks for which the Ministry of Mines of Government of India will launch the 8th tranche of the auction in financial year 2026-27. Salal-Haimna Lithium, Titanium and Aluminous Laterite block, spread in 4.18 sq km area, is proposed for Mining Lease (ML) while Kotla Lithium, Gallium, Titanium and Aluminous laterite block, spread in 1.5 sq km area, is proposed for Composite License (CL). J&K Mining Department revealed that the Geological Survey of India (GSI), after reconnaissance survey of 5 Sq km undertook only 3 Sq km area during field seasons 2020-2022 and carried out exploration at G3 level in Salal-Haimna area and estimated 5.9 million tonnes of inferred resource of lithium bearing aluminous laterite resources. The auction was conducted by the Ministry of Mines with poor response. Only two bidders qualified in 2024 when bids were opened and qualified, preferred bidders were announced. The department, in an information furnished to J&K Legislative Assembly Committee on Environment, chaired by CPI-M MLA M Y Tarigami, during its meeting on August 6, 2026, stated that G-2 stage of exploration was carried out in same Salal-Haimna block, during field season 2025-26 over 4.18 sq km mapped area, estimating 3.29 million tonnes of lithium bearing aluminous laterite resources. The report was handed over to the J&K government. The follow up action is being taken by the Department. In addition, the associated resources of aluminium and titanium have also been assessed in the laterite, it has been revealed. In this connection, the department has submitted the requisite information to the Ministry of Government of India. During its meeting on August 6, the Committee on Environment J&K Legislative Assembly had assessed the functioning of the Geology and Mining Department. Calling for zero tolerance against illegal mining across Jammu and Kashmir, the chairperson of the panel said that natural resources belonged to the people and their indiscriminate exploitation would not be allowed. He stressed that the department must move from paper monitoring to ground and satellite monitoring to ensure scientific and transparent extraction of minerals. Technology, especially satellite surveillance, GPS tracking and digital monitoring has to become our first line of defence against illegal mining, he asserted. The panel also asked the officers to ensure strict enforcement of mining laws, curb illegal extraction, expedite technology-based monitoring including GPS tracking, e-permits, e-challans and the Unified Mining Portal. They stressed that inter-departmental coordination with Revenue, Police, Forest and district administrations must be strengthened to safeguard the environment and maximise revenue for the UT.

LIC Q1 profit rises 22.8% to Rs 13,492 Crore

Life Insurance Corporation of India (LIC) reported a 22.81 per cent year-on-year increase in profit after tax (PAT) to ` 13,492 crore for the quarter ended June 30, 2026, compared with ` 10,986 crore in the corresponding quarter of the previous year. The company's Value of New Business (VNB) recorded a sharper growth of 61.32 per cent, rising to ` 3,136 crore from ` 1,944 crore a year earlier. The net VNB margin also expanded by 750 basis points to 22.9 per cent from 15.4 per cent in Q1 FY26. The LIC Board of Directors approved and adopted the standalone and consolidated financial results for the quarter ended June 30, 2026. LIC said it continued to maintain its leadership in the Indian life insurance market, with an overall market share of 60.10 per cent based on First Year Premium Income (FYPI), according to IRDAI data. Its market share stood at 38.89 per cent in the individual business and 70.90 per cent in the group business during the quarter. Total premium income increased 6.75 per cent to ` 1,27,250 crore in Q1 FY27 from ` 1,19,200 crore in the same period of the previous year. Individual business premium income rose 5.52 per cent to ` 75,416 crore from ` 71,474 crore, while total group business premium income increased 8.61 per cent to ` 51,834 crore from ` 47,726 crore. LIC sold 31,02,281 policies in the individual segment during the quarter, compared with 30,39,709 policies in Q1 FY26, registering a growth of 2.06 per cent. On an Annualized Premium Equivalent (APE) basis, total premium stood at 13,692 crore, an increase of 8.22 per cent over 12,652 crore in the corresponding quarter last year. Individual business accounted for 55.01 per cent of total APE at 7,532 crore, while group business contributed 44.99 per cent at 6,160 crore. Individual business APE increased 6.67 per cent from 7,061 crore, while group business APE rose 10.20 per cent from 5,590 crore. Within the individual business, the share of participating products stood at 67.51 per cent, or 5,085 crore, while non-participating products accounted for 32.49 per cent, or 2,447 crore. Non-par APE increased 14.24 per cent from 2,142 crore in Q1 FY26 to 2,447 crore in Q1 FY27. Consequently, the share of non-par products within individual business increased to 32.49 per cent from 30.34 per cent a year earlier. LIC's solvency ratio improved to 2.42 as on June 30, 2026, from 2.17 as on June 30, 2025. The company's Assets Under Management (AUM) increased 4.10 per cent year-on-year to 59,39,384 crore as on June 30, 2026, compared with 57,05,341 crore a year earlier. However, the overall expense ratio increased marginally to 10.63 per cent from 10.47 per cent, an increase of 16 basis points. The yield on investments on policyholders' funds, excluding unrealised gains, stood at 8.28 per cent during the quarter, compared with 8.45 per cent in the corresponding period of the previous year. LIC's persistency ratios showed a mixed trend. On a premium basis, the 13th-month and 61st-month persistency ratios stood at 75.33 per cent and 61.12 per cent, respectively, compared with 75.63 per cent and 63.85 per cent a year earlier. On a number-of-policies basis, the 13th-month persistency ratio improved to 66.45 per cent from 64.35 per cent, while the 61st-month ratio declined to 48.74 per cent from 51.12 per cent. LIC CEO and Managing Director R Doraiswamy said the corporation had maintained its leadership in both individual and group business despite increasing competition in the life insurance industry. We are happy to maintain our leadership in both Individual and Group Business during the first quarter of this financial year, despite increasing competitive intensity in the life insurance industry, Doraiswamy said. He said LIC's overall market share based on First Year Premium Income stood at 60.10 per cent during the first quarter of FY2026-27, adding that the growth in VNB and expansion in VNB margin reflected the company's product diversification and distribution strategy. He welcomed the new shareholders and thanked existing shareholders who participated in the OFS for their continued confidence in LIC.