Opinion

Rajwar water project approved in 2012 finally set for commissioning after Chowdry Ramzan's intervention, Sajad Lone failed to complete it: NC

Kupwara, Aug 5: Member of Parliament Chowdry Mohammad Ramzan on Wednesday said that the long-pending Lower Rajwar Raw Water Main project, which is set to be commissioned after nearly a decade, was originally approved during his tenure as MLA Handwara in 2012 and accused MLA Handwara Sajad Lone of failing to complete the scheme despite remaining in office for years. In a statement, Ramzan said the project was sanctioned in 2012 to address the long-standing drinking water crisis in Lower Rajwar. However, after the 2014 Assembly elections, when Sajad Lone was elected as MLA Handwara, the scheme remained in limbo. I waited until the sitting MLA came into power for the second time in 2024, hoping that along with this project he would also complete the other unfinished works. After waiting for two years and seeing no progress, I took the initiative to ensure the completion of the projects which I had initiated but the sitting MLA failed to complete, Ramzan said. He said that after repeated representations from the residents of Lower Rajwar regarding the pending scheme, he personally took up the matter with the concerned Minister. Following my intervention, Superintending Engineer Shakeel-ul-Rehman and Executive Engineer Aijaz Ahmad were directed to expedite the work, while the required funds were also allocated to ensure completion of the project, he said. Ramzan claimed that the present Executive Engineer was purposefully posted to Handwara to ensure the completion of the Lower Rajwar Water Supply Project. He said the scheme was initially scheduled to be inaugurated by Jal Shakti Minister Javid Ahmad Rana, but the Superintending Engineer and Executive Engineer sought an additional two months to complete the remaining work before commissioning. Ramzan further alleged that Sajad Lone had inaugurated the scheme in the Mawer area nearly four months ago despite the project being far from completion. The scheme was not even ten per cent complete at that time. I fail to understand the logic behind inaugurating an incomplete project, he said. Ramzan said the successful testing of the project marked a significant milestone and expressed hope that its commissioning would ensure a reliable drinking water supply to nearly 25,000 residents across 13 villages, including Dudipora, Bakiakher, Baderher, Budkot, Machipora, Khirman, Nabedzab, Nagranar, Baderkali, Bahadarpora, Goriakher, Wadipora and Lachipora. Launching a sharp attack on Sajad Lone, Ramzan alleged that several important developmental projects in Handwara had remained incomplete due to his failure to pursue them. If he could not even ensure the macadamization of the New Bus Stand Handwara, I was compelled to bring Deputy Chief Minister Surinder Kumar Choudhary to Handwara, following which more than 2 crore was sanctioned for the macadamization work, he said. He further alleged that the inaction of certain officials in the Jal Shakti Division Handwara and Ramhall had caused immense hardship to people across the Handwara constituency. People have suffered because of the inaction of some officials in the Jal Shakti divisions of Handwara and Ramhall. Those responsible will be held accountable, Ramzan said. He said the People's Conference should stop taking credit for projects completed through his efforts and instead acknowledge its failure to effectively represent the people of Handwara. Ramzan also expressed gratitude to Superintending Engineer Shakeel-ul-Rehman, Executive Engineer Aijaz Ahmad and contractor Iqbal Ahmad Tantary & others for their coordinated efforts in completing the long-pending project. He said their commitment and dedication had ensured that the scheme had finally reached the commissioning stage. Appealing to the people, Ramzan urged the public to assess why several developmental projects remained incomplete for years and hold those responsible accountable.

Inside Beijing's mind: How China really sees India

The relationship between India and China is strained by misinterpretations rooted in a tangled history and differing strategic aims. China sees India merely as a regional actor, while India views Chinese maneuvers through a historical prism of distrust and encirclement. References like 'Ah San' illustrate colonial prejudices. To reduce frictions, both countries need to confront their preconceived beliefs and enhance dialogue.

How India is rewriting the enterprise software playbook

India's enterprise software sector now competes globally on product quality and innovation. Experienced founders and engineers are actively investing in and mentoring new ventures. This environment fosters deeper technical products and unique operating models for success. Indian teams excel at forward-deployed engineering, solving complex customer integration problems. The focus is now on defining new categories rather than replicating existing ones.

FTAs must drive manufacturing, GVC integration and high-tech investment

A new committee will monitor India's free trade agreements and export barriers. It must also address import efficiency for competitive global value chain participation. The committee should examine tariffs and regulatory alignment for tech-intensive production.

UGC identifies 32 fake universities; Centre asks States, UTs to take legal action against them

New Delhi, Aug 05: The University Grants Commission (UGC) has identified 32 fake universities across the country as per its list published in February 2026, and the central government has asked states and union territories to take legal action against such institutions, the Rajya Sabha was informed on Wednesday. This information was given by Minister of State for Education, Sukanta Majumdar, in a written reply in the Rajya Sabha. According to the Ministry of Education, the list of fake universities is available on the website of UGC at: https://www.ugc.gov.in/universitydetails/Fakeuniversity . The minister said that education is in the concurrent list and both the Central Government and the State Governments work together for development of education in India. University Grants Commission (UGC) periodically publishes a list of fake Universities in India. As per the latest list published in February, 2026, 32 institutions have been identified as fake Universities. He said the following actions have been undertaken by UGC with regard to self-styled or fake Universities: Issued clarifications/compliance letters/show-cause/warning notices to the fake institutions. Issued Public Notices on the UGC website to caution Students and Public at Large against such self-styled institutions. The minister said the letters have been issued to the Chief Secretaries, Education Secretaries and Principal Secretaries of the concerned States/UTs, requesting them to take suitable action against such self-styled fake universities/institutions and to register FIR against these self-styled educational institutions which are operating in violation of the UGC Act, 1956. Further, the Central Government has requested the Chief Secretaries of all State Governments and UT Administrations to take legal action for the closure of these institutions, and to take appropriate action against those involved in defrauding and cheating students by misrepresenting themselves as Universities, awarding degrees, and using the word University with their name. They were also requested to inform the Central Government/UGC of any other fake universities functioning in their States/UTs that are not included in the UGC's list of fake universities.

Govt committed to ensure internet remains free from unlawful, obscene content: Centre

New Delhi, Aug 05: The policies of the Government are aimed at ensuring an open, safe, trusted and accountable internet for its users, including women and children. The Government is committed to ensure that the Internet in India is free from any form of unlawful content or information, particularly vulgar and obscene content. Information Technology Act, 2000 (IT Act) and the Information Technology (Intermediary Guidelines and Digital Media Ethics Code) Rules, 2021 (IT Rules) together provide a comprehensive framework to deal with unlawful and harmful content in the digital space and impose clear obligations on intermediaries to ensure accountability. The IT Rules, 2021 casts due-diligence obligations on intermediaries, including social media intermediaries to make reasonable efforts to ensure that users of their computer resources do not host, display, upload, modify, publish, transmit, store, update or share any information that is obscene, pornographic, pedophilic, harmful to child, invasive of privacy, insulting or harassing on the basis of gender or violates any law for the time being in force. In case of failure of the intermediaries to observe the legal obligations as provided in the IT Rules, 2021, they lose their exemption from third party information provided under section 79 of the IT Act. They are liable for consequential action or prosecution as provided under any extant law. On 10th February 2026, the Government strengthened the regulatory framework by amending the IT Rules to address harms arising from synthetically generated information (SGI), including deepfakes and AI-generated content. As per the amendments, intermediaries and large social media platforms are required to deploy reasonable technical measures to prevent the creation and dissemination of unlawful AI-generated content, including content that is obscene, misleading, impersonating individuals, or harmful to children. Platforms are also obligated to report to appropriate authorities about the related offences under laws that mandates reporting such as Bharatiya Nagarik Suraksha Sanhita, 2023, or the Protection of Children from Sexual Offences Act, 2012. The National Cyber Crime Reporting Portal (NCRP) (https://cybercrime.gov.in) has been launched, as a part of the Indian Cyber Crime Coordination Centre (I4C), to enable public to report incidents pertaining to all types of cybercrimes. NCRP includes provisions for reporting certain categories of cyber offences against women and children in an anonymous manner. Under the Report Women/Child Related Crime module, complainants may choose the Report Anonymously option, which allows submission of complaints without disclosure of personal identity details. NCRP has introduced a module titled as Report and Check Suspect to enable citizens to report suspicious website URLs, WhatsApp numbers/telegram handles, phone numbers, e-mail ids, SMS headers/numbers, deep fakes and social media URLs. The Government has released financial assistance to the tune of Rs. 132.93 crores under the Cyber Crime Prevention against Women and Children (CCPWC) Scheme, to the States/UTs for their capacity building such as setting up of cyber forensic-cum-training laboratories, hiring of junior cyber consultants and training of LEAs personnel, public prosecutors and judicial officers. Cyber forensic-cum-training laboratories have been commissioned in 33 States/UTs and more than 24,600 LEA personnel, judicial officers and prosecutors have been provided training on cyber crime awareness, investigation, forensics etc. Indian Cybercrime Coordination Centre (I4C), Ministry of Home Affairs imparted Cyber Hygiene training to more than 2 lakh NCC, NSS & NYKS Students across the country. I4C has released Handbook for Adolescents/Students aimed at educating the students on the prevention of cybercrime and Cyber Security Handbook for Mahila Suraksha to promote awareness among women. The Government is implementing a project on Information Security Education and Awareness (ISEA) for generating human resources in Information Security and creating general awareness on various aspects of cyber hygiene & cyber security among the masses. The information was provided by the Minister of State for Information and Broadcasting and Parliamentary Affairs, Dr. L. Murugan, in a written reply to a question asked by Prabhakar Reddy Vemireddy in the Lok Sabha today.

Massive surge in water in Namlan, other streams after cloudburst in Nandimarg Kulgam

In Pictures: First-ever calligraphy art-based 40 Shikaras narrate valleys stories on Dal Lake

Srinagar, Aug 05: In a first-of-its-kind public art initiative, Asian Paints, in collaboration with St+art Foundation and XXL Collective, unveiled Aks-e-Kashmir, transforming the iconic wooden boats into floating works of art. (Photography by Mubashir Khan, for Greater Kashmir)

J&K govt amends pension rules for former legislators

Jammu, Aug 5: The Jammu and Kashmir Government has amended the Jammu and Kashmir State Legislature Members' Pension Rules, 1985, authorising the Speaker of the Legislative Assembly to sanction pension and family pension for sitting and former Members of the Legislative Assembly as well as former Members of the erstwhile Legislative Council. The amendment, issued through a notification by the Department of Law, Justice and Parliamentary Affairs under the Jammu and Kashmir State Legislature Members' Pension Act, 1984, substitutes the definition of Presiding Officer in the rules. See Notificatioin Click Here:

NC MP Chowdry Ramzan raises statehood issue in Rajya Sabha

Crime Branch files chargesheet in 17-year-old RTO Jammu revenue fraud case

Jammu, Aug 5: Completing the investigation into a 17-year-old case, the Crime Branch Jammu on Wednesday filed a chargesheet in the alleged RTO Jammu revenue fraud through manipulation of one-time token tax records and the use of fake Public Service Vehicle (PSV) driving certificates, an official said. The chargesheet was filed in the court of Additional Sessions Judge (Anti-Corruption) Jammu in a case registered in 2009 under various sections of Ranbir Penal Code and Prevention of Corruption Act, a spokesman of the Crime Branch said. He said the case was registered on the basis of reliable information regarding large-scale irregularities in the functioning of the Regional Transport Office (RTO) Jammu, resulting loss to the government exchequer worth lakhs of rupees. During investigation, it was found that one-time token tax collected from vehicle owners was fraudulently recorded less amount in cash books, leading to the alleged misappropriation of over Rs 12.97 lakhs, the spokesman said. He said the investigation also unearthed the use of fake driving institute certificates, fabricated documents and forged attestations for obtaining Public Service Vehicles (PSV) driving licence endorsements. The investigation, supported by seized records, witness statements and the forensic opinion of FSL Jammu, established that fake PSV driving certificates were allegedly prepared in conspired manner by Kulbhushan Sharma, Managing Director of Shivam Institute of Driving and Maintenance, and Raj Kumar, the spokesman said. He said the beneficiaries stated that they had never undergone the mandatory training at the institute, despite certificates having been issued in their names. Investigation also revealed that records of the institute had been destroyed to conceal the fraudulent activities, the spokesman said.

Rahul, Kharge join JKNC MPs in parliament protest demanding J&K statehood

'Statehood promise remains unfulfilled': Omar Abdullah on seven years since Article 370 abrogation

'Our wounds have not healed': Omar Abdullah says Article 370 scars remain as J&K marks 7 years since abrogation

Srinagar, Aug. 5: Jammu and Kashmir Chief Minister Omar Abdullah on Wednesday said the wounds caused by the abrogation of Article 370 had not healed even after seven years, while asserting that his government remained committed to correcting the injustices suffered by the people of the Union Territory. Speaking to reporters during his visit to cloudburst-affected areas in Poonch, Abdullah also outlined the government's relief and rehabilitation plans for affected families, saying assistance, reconstruction and restoration of damaged infrastructure would now be the administration's priority. Referring to August 5, 2019, when Article 370 was revoked, Abdullah said, The wounds of the abrogation are still there. Our wounds have not healed. Instead, we had hoped that at least some balm would be applied to those wounds and that the promise of restoring statehood would be fulfilled. Today, as you yourself said, it is the seventh year. Everything happened on August 5, 2019. Today is August 5, 2026. Seven years have passed. Even the promise made to us remains unfulfilled. Other issues are a different matter, he said. Recalling the resolution passed by the Jammu and Kashmir Assembly, Abdullah added, As we said while passing the resolution in the Assembly, we remain firm in our position. The injustices done to us will be corrected. Relief, rehabilitation for cloudburst-hit The Chief Minister's remarks came as he toured areas affected by recent cloudbursts that caused loss of lives, damage to homes and destruction of public infrastructure in parts of Poonch and Rajouri districts. He said the government's immediate priority had been rescue operations. Our immediate effort was to carry out rescue operations and trace those who are still missing. After that, we focused on recovery. Now comes the stage of rehabilitation and reconstruction, Abdullah said. He said the administration was assessing how to rebuild destroyed houses and assist families whose homes had suffered extensive damage. We have to see how people whose houses have been destroyed can be resettled, and how we can help those whose homes are still standing but have suffered heavy damage, he said. Abdullah said roads, schools, hospitals and flood protection infrastructure had also sustained significant damage. A great deal of government infrastructure has also been damaged. We will meet the officers in Poonch and do whatever we can to help people through this difficult period, he said. Asked whether the government would consider providing free ration in the worst-hit areas, Abdullah said it was open to the proposal if recommended by the district administration. If a proposal comes from the district administration that free ration should be arranged in the areas where the damage and crop losses have been the highest, we are ready to do that, he said. Recalling the 2014 floods, he added, We are the people who, during the 2014 floods, made ration free across the whole of Jammu and Kashmir for six months, even though there were many areas that had not been affected by the floods. On demands for a special relief package, Abdullah said the government would first complete damage assessment in both Poonch and Rajouri before taking a decision. The visit has just begun. The damage is not limited to Poonch alone; Rajouri has also suffered. I cannot announce a separate package for Poonch while standing here. Today I am visiting Poonch, tomorrow I will visit Rajouri. After that, we will sit in Srinagar and decide what needs to be done. If a special package is required, we will certainly arrange it, he said. However, he declined to announce any package immediately, saying such decisions followed official procedures. Announcements of packages are not made before the media. There is a proper process. Let the preparations be completed. After that, whatever needs to be done will be done, he said. The Chief Minister also said financial assistance to affected families would be released as soon as officials completed the required documentation. The money is ready. As soon as we receive their bank account details and the remaining formalities are completed, the funds will be released, he said. Responding to a question on an alleged incident involving the Indian national flag by a former chief minister, Abdullah said he believed it was an inadvertent mistake rather than a deliberate act. You will have to ask that question to him. As far as I understand, it must have been a mistake. I am not prepared to believe that someone who has been the Chief Minister of a state would deliberately display the national flag upside down. If it happened by mistake, let us accept it as a mistake. I do not think it was done intentionally, he said.

Punjab Police busts two ISI-backed 2 modules in Amritsar, arrests 9 including 4 juveniles

Punjab Police has busted two Pakistan-based ISI-backed cross-border terror modules operating in Amritsar and arrested nine persons, including four juveniles, in a major operation aimed at dismantling terror networks in the border state. Director General of Police (DGP) Gaurav Yadav said the operation was carried out by the Amritsar Commissionerate Police, leading to the recovery of three illegal pistols, four petrol bottle bombs and nine live cartridges. In a post on X, the DGP said preliminary investigations revealed that the accused were working at the behest of foreign-based handlers linked to Pakistans Inter-Services Intelligence (ISI). According to Yadav, the handlers were attempting to recruit local youth to carry out terror-related activities, conduct surveillance of security installations, procure illegal weapons and create disturbances to public peace in Punjab. The investigation has also uncovered the installation of surveillance cameras near railway tracks, with the footage allegedly being shared with foreign handlers, the DGP said. Police have registered separate FIRs at Mohkampura, Airport and C-Division police stations in Amritsar. Further investigations are underway to identify other members of the ISI-backed network, establish its forward and backward linkages, trace the financial trail and ascertain whether those arrested were involved in any other terror-related activities. Reaffirming the forces commitment to tackling terrorism, DGP Yadav said Punjab Police remains steadfast in dismantling terror networks and safeguarding the peace, security and sovereignty of the state. Meanwhile, the Punjab Police has also launched an Anti-Gangster Helpline, seeking public cooperation in its ongoing crackdown against organised crime. In another post on X, the DGP appealed to citizens to share credible information about wanted gangsters, criminals and their associates directly with the police. He said information received through the helpline would help security agencies trace and apprehend fugitives more effectively. Assuring complete confidentiality, Yadav urged people to actively participate in the campaign, saying public support was crucial in strengthening law enforcement efforts against organised crime and anti-national elements in the state.

Syed Hamidpora residents decry defunct drainage system

Residents of Syed Hamidpora area of Nawab Bazar have expressed concern over frequent waterlogging in the area due to a defunct drainage system. A delegation from the area said that the drainage system was constructed under the Smart City Project. Since construction of the drainage system, our area witnesses waterlogging after rains. The drain water enters our houses every time it rains. Our lives have become miserable, the residents rued. The residents said that the tiles on the road were laid in only one some portion. The leftover stretch of the road has caved in at many places causing several accidents on the dilapidated road from the last few days, they said. It is ironic that despite spending so much money on drainage construction, our area witnesses waterlogging after rains. Drain water has damaged the walls, doors and flooring of our houses. Who will compensate for our losses? Authorities must restore the drainage system at the earliest so that we can live a normal life, they added

Dilapidated Bagwanpora road battered with potholes

Residents of Bagwanpora area in Barbar Shah have voiced concern over deteriorating condition of the area's main road, saying deep potholes, a worn-out surface and persistent waterlogging have turned the stretch into a daily ordeal for commuters and pedestrians. The road has deteriorated to such an extent that much of its macadamised surface has worn away, leaving behind large crater-like potholes. The situation has worsened following weeks of intermittent rainfall, with ankle-deep water accumulating across several portions of the road and remaining stagnant for days. Residents said the waterlogged potholes are difficult to detect, making travel risky, particularly during rainfall and after sunset when visibility is poor. They said school-going children, elderly residents and motorists are among the worst affected. It has become extremely difficult to walk on this road. Children on their way to school and elderly people have to move cautiously to avoid slipping or stepping into hidden potholes. During rains, the entire stretch resembles a pool of water, said Amir Ahmad, a resident. An elderly resident said the condition has steadily worsened over the past several months without any visible repairs. Crossing the road has become a challenge for senior citizens. Even a short walk is risky because you never know how deep the potholes are beneath the stagnant water. During power outages in the evening, the road becomes even more dangerous, he said. Commuters said navigating the stretch has become increasingly difficult as vehicles frequently encounter deep potholes concealed beneath accumulated rainwater. As a two-wheeler rider, I have had several close calls. Many riders have narrowly escaped accidents because they cannot judge the depth of potholes hidden under the water. The condition is equally bad for cars, and continuous movement on such roads is damaging our vehicles, said Mushtaq Ahmad, a commuter. Residents also expressed concern that stagnant water remaining on the road for days could become a breeding ground for diseases. They added that water often seeps towards the roadside and adjoining residential areas, causing inconvenience and damaging the road's edges. The residents urged the authorities to take up immediate repairs and macadamise the stretch before the damage worsens further. Greater Kashmir has consistently highlighted deteriorating road infrastructure and other civic issues across Downtown Srinagar and its adjoining areas. An official from the SMC said, Macadamisation works are in the pipeline in different parts of Srinagar. In a phased manner, more road stretches will be taken up based on priority.

NIT Srinagar alumni join ED-I Basant Bagh as Assistant Executive Engineers

A new chapter in the power distribution sector of Kashmir commenced Tuesday as three young and dynamic engineersEr Farhan Manzoor Shah, Er Mubashir Inam, and Er Sufi Umarassumed charge as Assistant Executive Engineers (AEEs) in the important Electric Division-I (ED-I), Basant Bagh, the oldest electricity division in Kashmir. The officers have been posted as AEE, Electric Sub Division (ESD) Dalgate, AEE, ESD Sheikh Bagh, and AEE, ESD Street Lights, respectively. They were warmly received by the Executive Engineer, Er Syed Abrar Hussain, who welcomed them to the division and expressed confidence that their technical expertise and dedication would further strengthen power distribution and consumer service delivery in Srinagar, said a press release. Notably, all three officers are graduates of the prestigious National Institute of Technology (NIT) Srinagar and were inducted into the Power Development Department as Assistant Engineers through the Jammu & Kashmir Public Service Commission (JKPSC) in 2018. Their elevation as Assistant Executive Engineers marks a significant milestone in their professional journey and reflects their commitment to public service. Their joining is expected to infuse fresh energy into ED-I Basant Bagh and contribute towards strengthening the distribution network, improving service reliability, and advancing the ongoing power sector reforms across Jammu & Kashmir.

Ashok Koul welcomes Bilal Gani Lone's political entry, questions NC over statehood remarks

Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) General Secretary Ashok Koul Tuesday welcomed former Hurriyat leader Bilal Gani Lone's reported decision to enter electoral politics and termed it as a positive development for democracy. He said that BJP welcomes the move and noted that Bilal's younger brother, Sajad Lone has already been part of mainstream politics. Koul was talking to the media on the sidelines of a Party convention at Langate Public Park in north Kashmir's Kupwara district. BJP General Secretary criticised the Omar Abdullah-led government for linking recent terrorist incidents in Anantnag and Kulgam with the demand for restoration of statehood. While the Lieutenant Governor's administration is dealing with security and terrorism-related matters, the Omar Abdullah government should focus on improving roads, hospitals and other public services. Why is the Omar Abdullah government linking the recent terrorist incidents to statehood? What is stopping the National Conference government from repairing roads, improving hospitals and solving the problems of common people? he asked. While referring to the constitutional changes of August 5, 2019, Koul said that the abrogation of Articles 370 and 35A marked the beginning of a new dawn in Jammu and Kashmir. The incidents of stone-pelting has ended, educational institutions are functioning normally and the overall situation has improved since the abrogation of Article 370, Koul added. Terming August 5 a historic day, Koul urged people to celebrate the anniversary of the constitutional changes, saying that the black laws imposed by previous governments have been removed. People across Kashmir now proudly carry the Indian Tricolour, contrary to the claims of some mainstream leaders who had said that if Article 370 and 35 A were abrogated, no one in Kashmir would hold the Indian flag, he added. Referring to the human rights violations and ongoing atrocities in Pakistan-occupied Kashmir (PoK), Koul said that the people living there have decided now to be part of India for their better future. The Union Home Minister has already announced that PoK would eventually become part of India, he added.

Whole lotta energy in this room: UAE eyes deeper energy, industrial ties with India

Bilateral trade between UAE and India has accelerated past one hundred billion dollars. The UAE-India Comprehensive Economic Partnership Agreement has significantly boosted this economic collaboration. India's growing energy demand presents opportunities for UAE's energy sector expansion. Both nations are strengthening energy commodity supply chains and industrial partnerships. Future collaboration will focus on energy systems, including renewables and advanced technologies.

To IPO, or to IPOstpone? : What Zeptos IPO pullback tells a bigger story about business and timing

.The speed with which Zepto has ramped its national footprint is mindboggling. But with mounting losses, half-baked business plans, the speed at which it was trying to IPO would have upended all its gains. There are many tech companies both in India and abroad which are perfectly fine being privately owned. Staying private for longer will not delay Zepto value creation but maximise it instead.

Mehbooba calls eve of August 5 a 'dark night', seeks Article 370 restoration, stays at party HQ fearing detention

Srinagar, Aug 4: Describing the eve of August 5 as a dark night in Jammu and Kashmir's history, PDP president Mehbooba Mufti on Tuesday announced that she would stay the night at the party headquarters, fearing house arrest or detention ahead of Wednesday's protests marking the anniversary of the abrogation of Article 370. She said the people of Jammu and Kashmir would continue their struggle until Articles 370 and 35A were restored and the Kashmir issue found a peaceful resolution. Tonight is a dark night for Jammu and Kashmir. We have come out to protest because it was on this night that a conspiracy was carried out and the special position that the Constitution of this country had given to Jammu and Kashmirnot China, not Pakistanwas taken away, Mufti said. Mufti said the PDP would continue its agitation until the constitutional provisions were restored and the Kashmir issue was resolved peacefully. We will not remain silent until there is a peaceful resolution of the Jammu and Kashmir issue and the restoration of Articles 370 and 35A. This is about our identity, she said. Taking aim at political discourse centred on statehood, she said, Many people keep talking only about statehood so that people forget everything else. She also alleged that ordinary people continued to bear the brunt of security measures following militant attacks. When a constable is martyred, why are thousands of people jailed? Yesterday, two labourers from Chhattisgarh were killed. After that, thousands were again detained. Militants have fled their homes, but their family homes are demolished and employees are dismissed from their jobs. Thousands of our people are in jail. Nobody talks about it, she said. Questioning the government's claims of normalcy, Mufti asked: If they claim the situation has improved, then why don't they send the Army back to the barracks? Why can't civilians live freely? Why is there so much oppression? She maintained that the abrogation of Article 370 remained unacceptable to the people of Kashmir. The people are silent, frightened and intimidated. But no Kashmiri can accept the end of Article 370 because it protects our identity, our land and our jobs. We will fight for it till our last breath, she said. During the protest, Mufti also criticised the alleged handling of demonstrators by the police, claiming a woman officer had manhandled her daughter, Iltija Mufti. If she herself is a woman and laid hands on Iltija's clothes, then she has made a very serious mistake. We were protesting peacefully, she said. Explaining the display of both the Indian tricolour and the erstwhile Jammu and Kashmir state flag, Mufti said: Both these flags are ours. Both were given to us by the Constitution of this country. One flag was kept and the other was snatched away. Until it is restored, and until there is a peaceful resolution of the Jammu and Kashmir issue, our struggle will continue. Mufti, however, said the restoration of Article 370 alone would not resolve the conflict. I do not speak only about Article 370. We had Article 370 before as well, yet thousands of people were killed and enormous property was destroyed. Jammu and Kashmir is a political issue. India and Pakistan should talk to their people, address their grievances, restore what was taken from us, and allow Jammu and Kashmir to live with dignity, she said. Mufti said she would remain at the PDP headquarters overnight and protest there on Wednesday amid apprehensions that she could be placed under house arrest or detained ahead of the August 5 anniversary of the abrogation of Jammu and Kashmir's special status.

India condemns attack on Indian-flagged vessel in Red Sea; all 13 Indian crew members rescued

New Delhi, Aug 4: India on Tuesday condemned the attack on the Indian-flagged commercial vessel MSV Faize Noore Oliya, which sank in the Red Sea off the coast of Yemen on August 4, and said all 13 Indian nationals on board had been rescued. In a statement, the Ministry of External Affairs (MEA) said, We condemn the attack on the Indian flagged commercial vessel, MSV Faize Noore Oliya that sank in the Red Sea, off the coast of Yemen on August 4, 2026. All 13 Indian nationals have been rescued. Our Embassy in Riyadh is closely monitoring the situation and proactively coordinating with the Yemeni authorities for the safety and security of the crew. We thank the Yemeni authorities for their support. Expressing concern over the security situation in the region, the MEA said the repeated attacks on commercial vessels were a matter of serious concern. The continuing incidents of attacks on commercial shipping in the region are deeply worrisome. The targeting of commercial shipping in the region must end, and free and unimpeded navigation and commerce through the international waterways in the region, in keeping with international law, must be restored at the earliest, the ministry said. The statement comes amid continuing security concerns in the Red Sea, where attacks on commercial shipping have disrupted one of the world's busiest maritime trade routes.

Article 370 abrogation: NC to observe August 5 as 'black day'; Cong, PDP plan protests in Jammu

Jammu, Aug 4: National Conference provincial president Rattan Lal Gupta on Tuesday said his party would observe August 5 as lack day to mark the unconstitutional and unilateral abrogation of Jammu and Kashmir's constitutional guarantees in 2019, and to register a strong protest against the Centre's efusal to restore statehood. The Congress and the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) also announced separate protest demonstrations outside their party headquarters in Jammu to mark the seventh anniversary of the August 5, 2019 developments, when the Centre abrogated J&K's special status under Article 370 and bifurcated the erstwhile state into the Union Territories of Jammu and Kashmir and Ladakh. In a statement issued by the NC headquarters here, Gupta said August 5 remains one of the darkest days in the constitutional and democratic history of Jammu and Kashmir. The decisions taken on that day stripped the people of their constitutional safeguards and were imposed without their consent, undermining the principles of democracy, federalism and constitutional propriety. The people of Jammu and Kashmir continue to bear the political, constitutional and emotional consequences of those decisions, he said. Gupta said while the BJP has repeatedly claimed that the downgrading of the erstwhile state was temporary, its continued reluctance to restore statehood has exposed the hollowness of its promises. The people were assured that statehood would be restored at the earliest, yet years have passed without any concrete action. Instead of fulfilling its solemn commitment, the Centre has chosen to prolong uncertainty and deny the people their legitimate democratic rights, he said. The NC provincial president said the prolonged delay in restoring statehood has deprived Jammu and Kashmir of the constitutional authority and administrative autonomy that every full-fledged state enjoys. He said governance under a UT framework cannot be a substitute for an elected government vested with full constitutional powers and accountability. A democratically elected government cannot function effectively when crucial powers remain outside its domain. This continued arrangement weakens democratic institutions and erodes the spirit of representative governance, he said. Gupta said the overwhelming participation of the people in democratic processes in 2024 assembly elections has once again demonstrated their unwavering faith in democracy, leaving the Centre with no moral or political justification to continue withholding statehood. He urged the Union government to respect the people's mandate, honour its repeated commitments made before the nation and the highest constitutional institutions, and immediately initiate the process for restoring Jammu and Kashmir's full statehood. Reiterating the NC's unwavering stand, Gupta said the party will continue its peaceful and democratic struggle for the restoration of statehood and the constitutional rights and dignity of the people. He said the observance of August 5 as lack day is a reminder that the aspirations of the people cannot be suppressed indefinitely and that the demand for justice, democracy and constitutional restoration will continue to resonate until fulfilled. Chief Media Coordinator, J&K Pradesh Congress Committee, Neeraj Gupta said his party is organizing a protest demonstration outside party headquarters at Shaheedi Chowk in Jammu on Wednesday and press for restoration of statehood along with constitutional guarantees for land, jobs and natural resources. He said the party is also observing August 5 as lack day. PDP additional spokesperson Rajat Randhawa said the activists of the party will hold a peaceful protest demonstration outside Gandhi Nagar party office to mark August 5 as lack day and press for restoration of Article 370.

Security beefed up as Congress, PDP, NC to observe Aug 5 as 'Black Day'

Jammu, Aug 4: Security has been intensified across the Jammu region, particularly along the Jammu-Srinagar and Jammu-Pathankot national highways, as the National Conference (NC), the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) and the Congress have announced separate protests to observe August 5 as Black Day. August 5 marks the seventh anniversary of the Centre's decision to abrogate the special status of the erstwhile Jammu and Kashmir state under Article 370 and reorganise it into the Union Territories of Jammu and Kashmir, and Ladakh. Police, the Army and the CRPF have stepped up security arrangements by increasing vehicle checking, frisking and surveillance at sensitive locations across the region, officials said. Special checkpoints have been placed on high alert along the Jammu-Srinagar and Jammu-Pathankot highways, with security personnel conducting searches of vehicles and verifying the identity of commuters, they said. Security has also been strengthened in border areas, where patrolling and area domination exercises have been intensified as a precautionary measure, the officials said, adding that additional deployments have been made at vulnerable locations. The National Conference leadership will assemble outside the party headquarters in Jammu and stage a protest on Wednesday, party leaders said. The Congress will hold a demonstration outside its Shaheedi Chowk headquarters, demanding restoration of statehood to Jammu and Kashmir, along with constitutional safeguards for land, jobs and natural resources, party leaders said. The PDP will also hold a protest at its Gandhi Nagar headquarters to mark the occasion, its leaders said.

Article 370 abrogation ensured equality, justice, one Constitution in J&K: BJP

Jammu, Aug 4: Jammu and Kashmir unit of the BJP on Tuesday said the abrogation of Article 370 by the Centre on August 5, 2019 was a historic step which laid a firm foundation for peace, transparent governance, investment and inclusive development in the Union Territory. On the eve of the seventh anniversary of the abrogation of Article 370, the BJP said the development has also ensured constitutional equality, social justice and complete integration of J-K with the rest of India. BJP spokespersons Purnima Sharma and Rajni Sethi credited Prime Minister Narendra Modi and Union Home Minister Amit Shah for demonstrating decisive leadership and political courage in taking the landmark decision on August 5, 2019. Both leaders asserted that the decision strengthened the vision of Ek Bharat, Shreshtha Bharat and laid a firm foundation for peace, transparent governance, investment and inclusive development in J-K. Prime Minister Modi fulfilled the commitment of one nation, one Constitution and one flag, while Amit Shah played a pivotal role in translating this vision into constitutional reality, Sharma said. She said the Constitution of India became fully applicable to J-K, giving its citizens the same fundamental rights and constitutional safeguards available across the country. Sharma, a former deputy mayor of Jammu, said several progressive central laws relating to education, women's safety, child protection, social justice, disability rights, transparency and accountability were extended or adapted to J-K. She said the three-tier panchayati raj system strengthened grassroots democracy by providing greater participation to local representatives in planning, financial decision-making and development. Referring to the Supreme Court's December 2023 judgment, Sharma said the Constitution bench upheld the presidential measures that rendered Article 370 inoperative, confirming their constitutional validity. Sethi described August 5 as a turning point for women, children and marginalised communities. The Modi government removed constitutional barriers and ensured equal access to progressive national laws. This achievement reflects Modi's determination and Amit Shah's strategic leadership, Sethi said.

TRAI conducts tests to assess mobile network quality across Kashmir valley

Srinagar, Aug 4: The Telecom Regulatory Authority of India has assessed real-time quality of mobile network services provided by telecom service providers, officials said on Tuesday. The TRAI released findings of Independent Drive Tests (IDT) conducted across Srinagar city, Gulmarg, Anantnag, Pahalgam, Srinagar to Pahalgam Highway, and Srinagar to Gulmarg Highway route under J&K LSA, during the month of June 2026, for information of general telecom consumers, officials said. The officials said these IDTs have been designed to capture on ground mobile network performance of all TSPs across diverse usages environment like cities, hotspots, public transport hubs, etc. In this type of drive testing, live data and voice sessions are established using SIM cards from all TSPs over 2G, 3G, 4G and 5G networks. The officials said the findings of the IDT report have been shared with respective TSPs for taking further necessary action at their end.

Mehbooba Mufti calls August 5 a dark night, seeks restoration of Articles 370 & 35A

Mehbooba Mufti leads candlelight vigil on eve of Article 370 abrogation anniversary

Railway officers torchbearers of New Indias pace, capability and resolve: LG Sinha

Srinagar, Aug 04: The Lieutenant Governor Manoj Sinha today addressed and congratulated the officer trainees of the Indian Railways Institute of Transport Management, Lucknow, who are on the field visit to Jammu Kashmir. The Lieutenant Governor highlighted their important role in shaping the future of the Indian Railway Management Service (IRMS) and expressed immense pleasure in interacting with the 69 officer trainees selected through the Civil Services Examination in 2022, 2023, and 2024 batch. You are the torchbearers of New Indias pace, capability, and resolve. The diversity of backgrounds among the trainees, spanning engineering, medicine, law, science, and the arts, and representing states/UTs across the country including Uttar Pradesh, Rajasthan, Delhi, West Bengal, Gujarat, Maharashtra, Karnataka, Uttarakhand, Haryana, Bihar, Madhya Pradesh, Kerala, Odisha, and Chandigarh, reflects the soul of India. This diversity transforms into a shared national purpose during training, making the Institute a true laboratory of national unity, the Lieutenant Governor said. The Lieutenant Governor emphasized the key role of Indian Railways in Indias transformation. He highlighted the progress achieved over the past 12 years under the leadership of the Prime Minister Narendra Modi. Electrification at record levels, the expansion of the dedicated Freight Corridor, the realization of the dream of connecting Kashmir to Kanyakumari, the launch of world-class Vande Bharat trains, and modernization of stations under the Amrit Bharat Station Scheme are hallmarks of this new era. It must be noted by the officer trainees that Indian Railways is no longer just a passenger transport system but the driving force of economic development, logistics efficiency, and national unity, he said. The Lieutenant Governor urged the officer trainees to embrace their responsibilities as tough administrators and also as nation-builders. He also stressed the importance of efficiency in freight and passenger transportation. Every minute saved reduces logistics costs, strengthens industry competitiveness, and enhances Indias global standing. Officers of IRMS, IRPFS, and Accounts must balance administrative discipline with human sensitivity, ensuring safety, financial prudence, and public service, he said. The Lieutenant Governor outlined three guiding principles for the trainees including continuous innovation through digital technology, artificial intelligence, and data-driven systems, citizen-first service with respect, accessibility, and sensitivity for all passengers and freight customers and integrity and transparency as custodians of unprecedented national investments in Indian Railways. India is moving forward with confidence towards becoming a developed nation by 2047. Your decisions, strategies, and leadership will directly shape the future of millions of Indians. I hope you will remain dedicated to the selfless service of Mother India, lighting the path to a bright and prosperous future, the Lieutenant Governor said. Rahul, Course Director and Professor (Traffic Planning & Costing), officials and faculty members of Indian Railways Institute of Transport Management were also present.

Pak drone activity triggers searches in Kathua; suspected terrorist movement reported in Poonch

Jammu, Aug 4: Security forces on Tuesday launched a search operation after spotting a Pakistani drone hovering over forward villages along the International Border in Jammu and Kashmir's Kathua district, officials said. Police, assisted by the Rashtriya Rifles, also carried out extensive searches across dozens of remote villages in Poonch district following inputs about the suspected movement of two groups of terrorists, the officials said. A Pakistani drone intruded into Indian territory and was seen hovering over the forward villages of Shukhmal, Devindera and Tapan in the Bobiyan area of Kathua's Hiranagar sector around 2 pm, they said. Alert Border Security Force (BSF) personnel initiated countermeasures to bring down the drone, but the flying object, which was at a high altitude, managed to return across the border, the officials said. The BSF, along with the police, later conducted a thorough search of the area to ensure that the drone had not carried out any airdropping, they said, adding the operation was continuing when last reports were received. In border district of Poonch, the officials said personnel of the Special Operations Group (SOG) of the Jammu and Kashmir Police, assisted by troops of the Rashtriya Rifles, launched a cordon-and-search operation in dozens of villages including Dhara Sangla, Gujjar Naar and Kherowali Dhok in Surankote tehsil. The operation was initiated following reports suggesting the movement of two separate groups of suspected terrorists in the densely forested region, they said. No contact had been established with the suspected terrorists so far, the officials said, adding the operation was continuing, with security personnel carrying out systematic searches to trace the suspects. The officials said the police and Rashtriya Rifles also conducted searches at Kalaban and adjoining areas in Mendhar tehsil on Tuesday but no one was taken into custody. In another development, an old rusted mortar shell was recovered from the courtyard of a house near the International Border in the Hiranagar sector of Kathua district on Tuesday morning, the officials said. The unexploded shell came to light when labourers engaged in excavation work at the residence of Subash Chander in Kattal-Brahmana village noticed the suspicious object and immediately alerted the authorities, they said. According to the officials, a police team, accompanied by the Bomb Disposal Squad (BDS), rushed to the spot, secured the area and safely removed the mortar shell for disposal.

Amit Sharma hails public participation in Census 2027 awareness marathon in Leh

Leh, Aug 04: Hundreds of participants took part in the Census 2027 Awareness Marathon organised by the Directorate of Census Operations, Jammu & Kashmir and Ladakh in Leh today to promote public awareness and participation in the upcoming Census 2027 which was hailed by Amit Sharma, Chief Principal Census Officer (CPCO) and Director Census Operations (DCO), Jammu & Kashmir and Ladakh UTs, Ministry of Home Affairs, Government of India. The Census 2027 Marathon was jointly flagged off from Martyrs Chowk, Leh at 6:30 am by Director General of Police, Ladakh, Anand Jain, IPS, Chief Principal Census Officer (CPCO) and Director of Census Operations (DCO), Jammu & Kashmir and Ladakh, Amit Sharma, IAS, and Vice Chancellor, University of Ladakh, Prof. Saket Kushwaha in the presence of a large gathering. Participants showed lot of enthusiasm while competing in the 11-km Mini Marathon and the 3-km Fun Run. The 11-km route passed through LehKeylong Road, SpitukChoglamsar Road, Choglamsar Village, Jawahar Navodaya Vidyalaya and HP Petrol Pump before culminating at NDS Memorial Stadium at Leh. Among others who were present in this early morning event held at Leh included Additional Superintendent of Police, Leh, Rishabh Shukla, IPS, Tsewang Gyalson, Director Economics & Statistics/Joint Director, Planning, Development and Monitoring Department; Chief Planning Officer, Leh, KonchokGyalson, Tehsildar Leh, Executive Officer, Municipal Committee Leh, besides Deputy Director Census Amit Bhargav, AD Vijay Kumar, AD Balbir Singh, AD Rohini Pokhrel and other officers and officials associated with Census Operations. Welcoming the august gathering, CPCO Amit Sharma, IAS, highlighted the significance of Census 2027 as one of the country's most important statistical exercises, stating that reliable census data forms the foundation for evidence-based planning, policy formulation and effective governance. He informed that the first phase of House Listing Operations has been completed successfully in the month of June, while the second phase of Population Enumeration will be conducted from September 1 to September 30, 2027. CPCO Amit Sharma said the Census 2027 Marathon has been organised to spread awareness about the forthcoming Population Enumeration (PE) and urged participants to become ambassadors of the Census by encouraging every household to participate and sharing the accurate data with Enumerators and Supervisors who shall soon visit their homes for it. Sharma also shared that Ladakh would emerge as the first State/UT amongst all states in the nation to complete the Census by September 30, contributing to India's first comprehensive indigenous paperless census database in the ongoing Census 2027 exercise. He further exhorted upon the huge number of youth especially student community present in the event in huge numbers to support the vision of Nasha Mukt Bharat and become messengers for a Drug-Free India, which is the need of the hour. Addressing the gathering, DGP Ladakh Anand Jain, IPS, stressed the importance of accurate and complete census data, noting that quality data is essential for informed governance and public welfare. He also urged the youth to actively support the Nasha Mukt Bharat campaign and spread awareness for building a drug-free society. Vice Chancellor, University of Ladakh, Prof. Saket Kushwaha, underscored the importance of the Census and the critical role of accurate data collection in policy making and effective implementation of government welfare schemes. He also invited students and the public to participate in the Census 2027 Quiz Competition to be held at the University of Ladakh on August 05. A prize distribution ceremony was held after the Census 2027 Marathon in which Tsering Namgyal, Jaffer Ali and Javed Ahmad secured 1st, 2nd and 3rd positions respectively in 11-km Mini Marathon (Male) category, Stanzin Dolkar, Diskit Dolma and StanzinYangdol secured 1st, 2nd and 3rd positions respectively in 11-km Mini Marathon (Female) category and Stanzin Thardok, UrgainDorjay and Dechen Chorol secured 1st, 2nd and 3rd positions respectively in 3-km Fun Run category for which they were felicitated with prizes and certificates by the Directorate of Census Operations. Before culmination of this memorable historical event, CPCO Amit Sharma expressed deep gratitude to all the participants, especially DGP Ladakh Police, Vice Chancellor, University of Ladakh and the district administration, Ladakh Police, volunteers and supporting departments who played a vital role towards ensuring the successful conduct of Census 2027 Marathon in Ladakh.

India urges Pakistan to dismantle terror infrastructure, dismisses PoK polls as complete farce

New Delhi, Aug 4: India on Tuesday renewed its call on Pakistan to take decisive action against cross-border terrorism and rejected the second phase of local elections in Pakistan-occupied Kashmir (PoK), describing the exercise as a complete farce. Responding to a question during the Ministry of External Affairs' (MEA) bi-weekly media briefing on a video circulated by a militant group blaming India for the killing of some of its commanders, MEA spokesperson Randhir Jaiswal reiterated India's position on terrorism. Cross-border terrorism, we continue to call upon countries to take strong action against cross-border terrorism and those promoting cross-border terrorism. We call upon Pakistan to take strong action against cross-border terrorism and the terrorist infrastructure that they have on their soil that needs to be dismantled, Jaiswal said. Replying to another question on the second phase of local elections in Pakistan-occupied Kashmir, the spokesperson said the electoral exercise could not conceal the ground reality in the region. This so-called local elections in PoK is a complete farce. The real happening is that of public protest and wanton killings by Pakistani forces. Such hollow exercises cannot hide realities. Since June this year, at least 90 civilians have lost their lives in the continuing crackdown, many more have been injured, Jaiswal said. He alleged that he Pakistan establishment has answered public discontent with bullets, blackouts, intimidation and repression, and now seeks to manufacture legitimacy through a hollow electoral exercise. It must be held accountable, and the world should see through the veneer of Pakistan's hypocritical lecturing on human rights, the MEA spokesperson added.

Air India Phuket-Delhi Flight Suddenly Loses 300 ft Altitude in Mid-air Turbulence; 15 Injured

The narrow-body A320 aircraft, operating the flight AI2379 from Phuket, landed safely at the Delhi airport at around 11.30 am. There were 134 passengers and 8 crew members on board

Policeman dismissed for involvement in narcotics smuggling in J-K's Kathua

Jammu, Aug 4: A policeman was dismissed from service for his alleged involvement in narcotic smuggling in Jammu and Kashmir's Kathua, police said on Tuesday. In a strict action reinforcing its zero-tolerance policy against drugs, Senior Superintendent of Police (SSP) Kathua Mohita Sharma dismissed Selection Grade constable Aftab Ahmed, a resident of Reasi district from service for his involvement in the narcotics case, a police spokesperson said. He said the dismissal follows a departmental enquiry linked to an FIR registered under various sections of Narcotic Drugs and Psychotropic Substances (NDPS) Act at Billawar police station earlier this year. The policeman was apprehended along with heroin during checking by a police party and was subsequently placed under suspension for grave misconduct and indiscipline with immediate effect on April 8, the spokesperson said. He said a departmental inquiry was also initiated and entrusted to Superintendent of Police, operations who furnished his report on July 27, confirming the charges against the accused and recommending his dismissal from service. Acting under Rule 335 of the J&K Police Rules, the SSP Kathua ordered his immediate dismissal in order to enforce strict institutional discipline and to serve as an exemplary deterrent to all ranks against any involvement in narcotics-related offences, the spokesperson said.

Pakistan needs to act on cross-border terror: MEA

Two-way traffic restored on Abshar Park bridge in Batkote, Pahalgam

Prof. Syeda Afshana Bhat given additional charge of EMMRC Director at Kashmir University

Srinagar, August 4: Kashmir University has assigned Prof. Syeda Afshana Bhat, faculty member at the Media Education Research Centre (MERC), the additional charge of In-Charge Director of the Educational Multimedia Research Centre (EMMRC) until further orders. According to an official order issued by the University's Administration (Teaching Section), Prof. Syed Afshana Bhat will discharge the responsibilities of In-Charge Director, EMMRC, in addition to her existing duties at MERC. The order has been made effective retrospectively from August 1, 2026. The appointment was notified through an administrative order issued on August 4 by the University of Kashmir and has been circulated to all concerned university authorities, academic departments, research centres and other offices for compliance and information. The Educational Multimedia Research Centre functions as the University's media production and educational content centre, supporting audio-visual and digital learning initiatives. [KNT]

Pulwama gives hero's welcome to MMA Star Owais Yaqoob after BRAVE CF 107 victory

PDP to hold protests across J&K to mark anniversary of Article 370 abrogation

Srinagar, Aug 4: PDP president Mehbooba Mufti on Tuesday directed all party office bearers to ensure participation in district-level protests to be held by it across Jammu and Kashmir to mark the seventh anniversary of abrogation of Article 370. The protests will be held on August 5, demanding the restoration of Article 370 and release of political prisoners, the party said. The decision was taken at a PDP meeting chaired by Mehbooba on Tuesday As decided by the PDP president Mehbooba Mufti during today's meeting with senior party leaders, MLAs, district presidents of parent, women and youth wings .... all party functionaries are hereby directed to ensure active participation in the district level protests across Jammu and Kashmir on August 5 in support of restoration of Article 370, the party said in a release. Article 370, which granted special status to Jammu and Kashmir, was abrogated in 2019.

Two Punjab residents chargesheeted in fake MES recruitment fraud case in J&K

Jammu, Aug 4: The Crime Branch of the Jammu and Kashmir Police has filed a chargesheet against two Punjab residents for their alleged involvement in a fake recruitment scam in the Military Engineering Services (MES), an official said on Tuesday. The scam came to light in 2023 after the accused allegedly duped two residents of J-K's Samba district of Rs 14 lakh by promising them jobs in the MES, a Jammu Crime Branch spokesperson said. He said the Special Crime Wing (SCW) of the Crime Branch Jammu filed the chargesheet against the accused -- Bakshish Singh of Amritsar and Amandeep Singh of Jalandhar -- in the court of the Additional Special Mobile Magistrate, Samba on Monday. The case under relevant sections of the Indian Penal Code was registered in 2023 on the complaint of two residents of Samba who alleged that the accused induced them to pay Rs 14 lakhs on the false promise of securing MES jobs. While Bakshish was arrested from Amritsar after sustained efforts, the co-accused Amandeep remains absconding despite extensive raids and a lookout notice. Proceedings have been initiated for declaring him a proclaimed offender, the spokesman added. He mentioned that the victims were provided forged appointment letters and repeatedly sent to different locations, including Ranchi and Meerut, under the pretext of medical examinations, document verification and joining formalities. Subsequent verification from MES authorities confirmed that the appointment letters were fake and had never been issued by the department, the spokesman said. During the investigation, he said the SCW collected documentary, digital and financial evidence, including bank transaction records and forensic examination of questioned documents, which corroborated the allegations. The crime branch has advised the public to remain vigilant against fraudulent job rackets and to verify the authenticity of recruitment offers through official government channels before making any payment.

Flash floods cut off Pahalgam as both connecting roads suffer damage

Modi Govt brought back 274 fugitives from 36 countries between 2019 and 2026: MHA

New Delhi, Aug 04: The Ministry of Home Affairs (MHA) on Tuesday said that 274 fugitive criminals were brought back to India from 36 countries between 2019 and 2026 under the leadership of Prime Minister Narendra Modi and the guidance of Union Home Minister Amit Shah. According to a PIB release, the government said that the extradition of fugitives was made a ational priority, in contrast to previous governments, which it claimed lacked the political will to pursue such cases effectively. The MHA said India has developed an integrated, intelligence-driven and technology-enabled framework to trace and repatriate fugitives. The strategy, it said, rests on three pillarsglobal operations, stronger inter-agency coordination and smart diplomacy. The ministry stated that the issue of fugitive criminals is linked to the country's sovereignty, economic stability, law and order, and national security. It added that the process of bringing fugitives back to India has been pursued in mission mode under Amit Shah's guidance, backed by legal and institutional reforms. According to the release, the government enacted the NIA (Amendment) Act and the UAPA (Amendment) Act in 2019 and later introduced three new criminal laws in 2024. For the first time, Sections 355 and 356 of the Bharatiya Nagarik Suraksha Sanhita (BNSS) provide for trial in absentia, enabling legal proceedings against accused persons who remain outside India. The MHA also highlighted the launch of BHARATPOL in January 2025, describing it as a platform connecting over 1,400 units of central and state agencies with INTERPOL to facilitate faster information sharing. It said the response time for sharing information has been reduced to 310 days in some cases. The government further said that 401 Red Corner Notices have been issued against fugitives over the last three years. It added that Operation Trishul has been used to trace fugitives hiding abroad through satellite technology, surveillance and digital footprint analysis, even in cases where identities had allegedly been changed. The ministry also said that strict enforcement of the Prevention of Money Laundering Act (PMLA) led to the attachment of 17,874 crore worth of assets belonging to fugitives between 2019 and 2026, while 18,762 crore was recovered through restitution during the same period, including money linked to economic offenders who had fled the country. As per the year-wise data released by the MHA, 274 fugitives were brought back between 2019 and July 2026. These included accused wanted in cases related to murder, organised crime, sexual offences, terrorism, narcotics, financial fraud, human trafficking, cybercrime and other serious offences. The ministry said India's success in repatriating fugitives has been driven by improved legal preparedness, sustained diplomatic engagement and close coordination among agencies including the IB, CBI, R&AW, NIA, ED, MEA, NCB, DGGI and state police forces. It described the approach as a Whole of Government model aimed at ensuring timely justice and strengthening national security.

NC will continue peaceful protests until J&K statehood is restored: Sakina Itoo

LPG tanker tyre catches fire on NH-44; major tragedy averted near Chanderkoot

Ramban, Aug 04: A major tragedy was averted on the Jammu-Srinagar National Highway (NH-44) near Chanderkoot in Ramban district on Tuesday after the tyre of a liquefied petroleum gas (LPG) tanker suddenly caught fire while it was on its way from Jammu to Srinagar. According to officials and eyewitnesses, flames erupted from one of the tanker's tyres, triggering panic among commuters on the busy highway. Locals immediately rushed to the spot and alerted the authorities. Personnel of the CRPF and the Fire and Emergency Services swiftly responded to the incident and launched a firefighting operation. The blaze was brought under control before it could spread to the gas-filled tanker, averting what could have been a major disaster. Traffic on the highway was briefly affected during the operation, but normal movement was restored after the fire was completely extinguished. Officials said the timely response of local residents, CRPF personnel, and firefighters prevented any loss of life or property. The exact cause of the fire is being investigated, though it is suspected to have originated from overheating of the tyre. ...........................................................

964 pilgrims depart Jammu for Baltal; over 2,000 return in fresh Amarnath Yatra convoys

Banihal, Aug 04: A fresh batch of 964 Amarnath Yatra pilgrims left the Bhagwati Nagar Yatri Niwas in Jammu for the Baltal base camp in the early hours of Tuesday under tight security arrangements. According to the Zonal Police Control Room, Jammu, the 27th batch departed at 3:05 a.m. in a convoy of 39 vehicles, comprising 21 buses, 8 medium motor vehicles (MMVs) and 10 light motor vehicles (LMVs). The batch included 744 men, 177 women, one child, 32 sadhus and 10 sadhvis. With this departure, the total number of pilgrims who have left the Bagwati Nagar base camp Jammu during the ongoing Yatra has reached 1,41,712. Meanwhile, the 25th down convoy carrying returning pilgrims also left the Baltal base camp for Jammu on Tuesday. Officials said 2,073 pilgrims, including 1,552 men, 461 women, 11 children, 41 sadhus and eight sadhvis, returned in a convoy of 63 vehicles, comprising 42 heavy motor vehicles (HMVs), six MMVs, 14 LMVs and one truck. The Shri Amarnath Yatra is continuing smoothly under multi-layer security arrangements, with both upward and downward convoys moving as per schedule.

Automatic for the people: Rising incomes reshape India's car market

As incomes rise and family earnings change, India's automotive market is poised for a notable shift. In the coming decade, middle-income households are expected to be the primary drivers of new car demand, while affluent consumers will foster trends in premium vehicles and multi-car ownership. The uptake of electric vehicles will hinge on income growth, necessitating that manufacturers adapt to this revamped, income-focused automotive landscape.

India's education crisis: Overqualified yet underqualified

India's education system is leaving graduates both overqualified and underqualified, failing to meet the needs of a changing labour market. While employers struggle to fill skilled jobs, millions remain unemployed or stuck in informal work. The article argues for a three-track education model that prepares youth for formal employment, entrepreneurship and the demands of an ageing society.

Population Census in Ladakh, J&K, HP, Uttarakhand to begin on Sep 1: Govt

New Delhi, Aug 3: The Centre on Monday notified that the second phase of the ongoing Census -- population enumeration -- for Ladakh and snow-bound non-synchronous areas of Jammu and Kashmir, Himachal Pradesh and Uttarakhand shall take place from September 1 to 30. In a gazette notification on Monday, Registrar General of India and Census Commissioner Mrityunjay Kumar Narayan said that conduct of Census of the population shall be undertaken in these regions from September 1 to 30 this year, with a revisional round from October 1 to 5. For the conduct of the above Census, there shall be an option for self-enumeration from August 17 to 31 just before the start of house-to-house population enumeration, it said. The notification said the reference date for the Census in Ladakh and snow-bound non-synchronous areas of Jammu and Kashmir, Himachal Pradesh and Uttarakhand shall be 00.00 hours of October 1, 2026. The second phase population enumeration for the rest of the country is likely to begin next year. The Census, the eighth since Independence, is being conducted in two phases, the first stage, known as house listing and housing census (HLO), and the second stage, the population census. For the first time, caste details will also be collected during the population enumeration phase of the Census. The decision to include caste enumeration in the upcoming census was taken by the Cabinet Committee on Political Affairs, chaired by Prime Minister Narendra Modi, on April 30 last year. The first phase -- house listing and housing census (HLO) -- is going on till September 30. Field visits for the housing listing and housing census began on April 16 in several states and union territories. Enumerators will list all structures, houses and households across the country to create a foundation for population enumeration. During the housing listing operations, enumerators physically visit each house and building and ask 33 questions regarding basic facilities in homes, details of the head of the household such as name and sex, ownership status and other information. The decadal exercise, scheduled for 2021, was postponed due to the COVID-19 outbreak. The Union Cabinet has approved Rs 11,718 crore for conducting the Census, which will be the biggest headcount exercise.

Ladakh administration flags 'irregularities' in registration of looms of women cooperative society, seeks MHA action

Leh, Aug 3: The Ladakh administration has brought to the notice of the Ministry of Home Affairs (MHA) alleged irregularities in the functioning and registration of looms of Ladakh Women Cooperative Society Ltd, citing findings that emerged during an examination of official records, officials said. Citing a letter dated July 30 addressed to the MHA additional secretary, the officials said the General Administration Department, Ladakh stated that the women cooperative society was registered when IAS officer Prasanna Ramaswamy was serving as Registrar of Cooperative Societies (RCS). The records indicate that Ramaswamy and his spouse, Abhilasha Bahuguna, were listed as co-founder members, the officials said, adding since the society's Articles of Association designated the deputy commissioner, Leh, as its ex-officio chairman, Ramaswamy also became its chairman while serving as DC of Leh (2015-2017). The administration noted that departmental records do not indicate prior approval from the competent authority for such an association, the officials said. Ramaswamy is currently serving as Commissioner and Secretary (Tribal Affairs), Jammu and Kashmir. The officials said the letter highlighted that the women cooperative society subsequently received grants, contributions and institutional support from government and non-government sources, including assistance from NABARD and funding under Corporate Social Responsibility (CSR) initiatives. The administration also raised concerns over the society's application for registration of 'Ladakh Pashmina Textiles' as a Geographical Indication (GI). The officials said departmental records do not show that the competent authority had approved the application, despite a representation claiming approval from the director of industries. The letter also referred to an examination report issued by the GI Registry on September 11, 2025, which recommended a broader institutional framework and identified deficiencies requiring rectification before further processing, the officials said. Stating that these findings had emerged from the available records, the officials said the matter has been placed before the MHA for consideration and appropriate action.

MP Chowdry Ramzan attends INDIA bloc meeting, invites leaders to join August 5 protest

New Delhi, Aug 03: National Conference senior leader and Member of Parliament Chowdry Mohammad Ramzan attended a meeting of INDIA Bloc leaders held in the Chamber of Congress President and Leader of Opposition in the Rajya Sabha, Mallikarjun Kharge, in New Delhi today. Leader of Opposition in the Lok Sabha, Rahul Gandhi, was also present during the meeting, where leaders deliberated on key parliamentary and national issues and discussed the joint strategy of the INDIA Bloc for the ongoing session of Parliament. During the meeting, MP Chowdry Mohammad Ramzan extended a cordial invitation to the leaders of the INDIA Bloc to join a peaceful protest at Makar Dwar on 5th August against the unilateral decisions taken by the Central Government concerning Jammu and Kashmir. He urged the alliance partners to stand in solidarity with the people of Jammu and Kashmir and support the demand for the restoration of its full statehood. He reminded the leaders that the Government of India has repeatedly assured, on the floor of Parliament, that statehood to Jammu and Kashmir would be restored, a commitment that remains unfulfilled. The leaders of the INDIA Bloc including Congress, Samajwadi Party, DMK, TMC, CPI, AAP and others expressed their solidarity with the people of Jammu and Kashmir, appreciated the concerns raised by MP Chowdry Mohammad Ramzan, and conveyed their willingness to participate in the peaceful protest on 5th August in front of the Parliament. They reaffirmed their commitment to safeguarding constitutional values, democratic rights and supporting the legitimate demand for the restoration of full statehood to Jammu and Kashmir.

Prashant Kishors victory can be a gamechanger for Bihar, impacts BJP and RJD

Prashant Kishor has transitioned from strategist to lawmaker after winning Bihar's Bankipur by-election. He defeated the BJP in their traditional stronghold, which had been loyal for decades. This victory marks a significant upset, similar to past by-election results in other states. Kishor is expected to challenge the current Bihar government and the RJD opposition. His win could impact the BJP's upper caste vote bank in urban areas.

IGP Kashmir reviews security; directs officers to thwart attempts aimed at disturbing peace, targeting civilians

Srinagar, Aug 03: Inspector General of Police (IGP) Kashmir Zone V. K. Birdi chaired a security review meeting at the Conference Hall of PCR Kashmir in view of forthcoming events and to assess the prevailing security scenario & strengthen the overall security framework across the Valley. The meeting was attended by IG BSF Ftr. Hqrs, IG CRPF KOS, IG CRPF Srinagar, Addl. Commissioner SB Srinagar, DIG SSB Srinagar, DIG CID Kashmir, all range DIsG of Kashmir Zone, DIG Traffic Kashmir, DIG IR/ Armed Kashmir, DIG ITBP Srinagar, DIG RPF Kashmir, DIsG of CRPF South/North Srinagar, SSP PCR Kashmir, all district SSsP of Kashmir Zone, SSsP of Railways Kashmir, Traffic Rural Kashmir, CID SB (K), APCR Srinagar, CID CI (K), Security Kashmir, Asstt. Director SIB Srinagar, SP Cargo, GSO (I) 15 Corps and other senior officers. At the outset, the participating officers briefed the IGP Kashmir on the prevailing security situation in their respective jurisdictions. A detailed review of the recent security developments, emerging challenges and the measures adopted to effectively counter them was carried out during the meeting. Emphasizing the need for sustained preparedness, IGP Kashmir V K Birdi directed all officers to continuously review and strengthen existing security arrangements and devise robust counter-insurgency strategies. He stressed the importance of seamless coordination among all security agencies for maintaining a proactive and effective security grid. He also reviewed the security measures in place for the protection of National Highways, railway tracks and railway stations across the Valley. He directed officers to further strengthen security deployments and checkpoints by way of placing dynamic nakas and enhanced foot patrolling, particularly during night hours, at vulnerable locations and along inter-district boundaries. IGP Kashmir laid special emphasis on ensuring the safety and security of critical infrastructure and other vulnerable sections, directing officers to take all necessary preventive measures, intensify area domination, and maintain close surveillance in sensitive areas to thwart any attempt aimed at disturbing peace or targeting civilians. He further instructed district heads to maintain strict vigilance against anti-national and anti-social elements, enhance intelligence-based operations, and closely monitor social media platforms to prevent the spread of misinformation, rumours and malicious content that could adversely impact public peace, safety and communal harmony. The meeting concluded with the resolve to ensure heightened vigilance, improved coordination and effective implementation of security measures to maintain peace and safety across the valley.

Aqib Nabi's India test selection sparks celebrations in Baramulla

Rajya Sabha passes MSME Bill aims to address delayed payments and simplify dispute resolution

New Delhi, Aug 03: Rajya Sabha has passed the Micro, Small and Medium Enterprises Development (Amendment) Bill 2026. The Bill aims to further amend the Micro, Small and Medium Enterprises Development Act, 2006. It aims to address payment delays and simplify dispute resolution. The Bill provides that every central public sector enterprise must settle all invoices for procurement of goods or services from MSMEs on the Trade Receivables Discounting System. As per the bill, if mediation fails in case of dispute, then, the reference for arbitration must be made within 30 days from the date of termination of mediation. It also adds that an award must be made within 90 days from the date of completion of pleadings. The Bill provides that if a case has been pending for more than six months, at least 50 per cent of the awarded amount must be paid to the supplier. When the House met after the first adjournment at 2:00 PM, Minister of Micro, Small and Medium Enterprises Jitan Ram Manjhi moved the bill. Replying to the debate on the Bill, Mr Manjhi said, the outstanding credit extended to the MSME sector has witnessed a significant increase in recent years. He informed that the credit, which stood at around 10 lakh crore rupees in 2014-15, has now risen to over 38 lakh crore rupees. The Minister said, this reflects that credit flow to MSME sector is continuously increasing. Highlighting the role of the Credit Guarantee Fund Trust for Micro and Small Enterprises, the Minister said that the total credit guarantee extended to MSMEs between 2000 and 2022 was about three lakh 14 thousand crore rupees. However, in the last four years, from 2022-23 to 2025-26, this amount has surged to more than 10 lakh 47 thousand crore rupees. Mr Manjhi added that the government is committed to strengthening the MSME sector, enhancing its growth potential, and promoting business expansion. Sumitra Balmik of BJP said that Prime Minister Narendra Modi has worked for the welfare and empowerment of the women, Scheduled Castes, Scheduled Tribes and the last person standing in the queue. She stated that prior to 2014, development largely remained confined to paperwork but under the leadership of Prime Minister Modi, the country has witnessed significant transformation. She added that the governments focus is on bringing real change in society, promoting self-reliance, and empowering citizens. Ms Balmik said that this Bill has been brought with the objective of uplifting the poor and ensuring their meaningful integration into the nations growth and development. Dola Sen of TMC said, MSMEs are the backbone of the countrys economy. She said the manufacturing sector alone contributes to 17 per cent of the nations GDP and MSMEs can address the countrys unemployment issue. Ms Sen alleged that the Government is not taking initiative to protect the MSME sector. Santrupt Misra of BJD said the MSME sector contributes to 36 per cent of GDP and it is giving employment to around 30 crore people. He expressed concern that funds of around 8 to 10 lakh crore rupees of the MSME sector are stuck in the pipeline. Mr Misra stressed for concrete reforms rather than cosmetic solutions. Golla Baburao of YSRCP, M Thambidurai of AIADMK, Rajendra Jain of NCP, Masthan Rao Yadav Beedha of TDP, Ravi Chandra Vaddiraju of BRS, Pramod Boro of UPPL, and Ramji of BSP participated in the discussion among others. After passing the Bill, the Rajya Sabha was adjourned for the day to meet again at 11:00 AM tomorrow.

Dr Jitendra Singh appreciates CVCs sustained reforms in strengthening vigilance ecosystem

New Delhi, Aug 03: Union Minister of State (Independent Charge) for Science & Technology and Earth Sciences, and Minister of State in the Prime Minister's Office, Personnel, Public Grievances & Pensions, Atomic Energy and Space, Dr. Jitendra Singh today said that sustained institutional reforms, technology-driven governance and continuous monitoring have significantly strengthened the country's vigilance framework, leading to a sharp reduction in the pendency of disciplinary cases from more than 4,000 to nearly 700 in about three to four years. Dr. Jitendra Singh made these remarks when the outgoing Central Vigilance Commissioner Praveen Kumar Srivastava called on him on the completion of his tenure and briefed him on the major initiatives undertaken by the Central Vigilance Commission (CVC) in recent years to modernise vigilance administration through technology, process reforms and capacity building. The Minister said that transparent and time-bound vigilance mechanisms are essential for good governance and inspire greater public confidence in institutions. He said the significant reduction in pending disciplinary cases demonstrates the impact of sustained administrative reforms and closer coordination among Ministries, Departments and vigilance authorities. During the meeting, Srivastava apprised the Minister of the Commission's efforts to simplify and modernise vigilance administration by reviewing more than 600 vigilance-related circulars and instructions, resulting in the issuance of nine Master Circulars, two Public Notices and an updated Vigilance Manual to provide a consolidated and user-friendly framework for vigilance officials and organisations. The Minister was also briefed on the launch of the Vigilance Status Portal (VSP), which enables end-to-end digital processing of vigilance clearance proposals and is expected to substantially reduce the turnaround time for granting vigilance clearances. He was informed that the revamped Vigilance Case Management System (VCMS) has introduced end-to-end digital processing of vigilance cases while facilitating real-time monitoring and data-driven decision-making. Discussions also covered the Commission's initiatives to strengthen public procurement through updated Procurement Manuals prepared in collaboration with the Department of Expenditure, bringing various procurement guidelines under a unified framework to promote greater consistency, transparency and ease of implementation across government organisations. The meeting reviewed the Commission's increasing emphasis on technology-enabled vigilance through initiatives relating to digital governance, fraud prevention in banking and financial institutions, cyber security and ethical use of Artificial Intelligence. Dr. Jitendra Singh said that emerging technologies have the potential to make vigilance administration more preventive, predictive and efficient, while ensuring greater transparency and accountability in public institutions. Srivastava also shared details of the Commission's online Complaint Management System, which has streamlined the receipt, processing and tracking of complaints, besides expanding training programmes for vigilance officers through specialised courses, digital learning modules and collaboration with Mission Karmayogi to strengthen institutional capacity. The Minister was informed that the Commission has continued to deepen public engagement through Vigilance Awareness Week by promoting integrity and ethical governance across educational institutions, Gram Sabhas and public organisations, while encouraging citizen participation in the fight against corruption through nationwide outreach programmes. The discussions further covered the Commission's future roadmap, including wider adoption of the Probity Portal for monitoring disciplinary cases, undertaking Time and Motion Studies to streamline vigilance processes, and leveraging Artificial Intelligence and other emerging technologies to further strengthen predictive vigilance and improve the efficiency of vigilance administration. Dr. Jitendra Singh said that the Government remains committed to building a governance ecosystem driven by transparency, accountability, technology and simplified procedures. He conveyed his appreciation to Praveen Kumar Srivastava for his contribution towards strengthening the country's vigilance framework and extended his best wishes for his future endeavours.

Third consecutive cloudburst in three days hits Shopian, flash flooding inundates Badrhama village

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Lieutenant Governor calls for nature-based solutions for building climate resilience in Himalayas

Srinagar, Aug 03: The Lieutenant Governor Manoj Sinha today attended Islamic University of Science & Technology (IUST) conference on Strengthening Climate Resilience and Livelihoods in the Himalayan Region through Nature-based Solutions. He also inaugurated Civil and Mechanical Engineering Block at the main campus, IUSTs Larmoo Campus and the Law School. The Lieutenant Governor congratulated the IUST for their initiatives and lauded the University's policy brief on the Drug-Free Jammu Kashmir campaign. The Lieutenant Governor highlighted the alarming pace of climate change in the Himalayan region. He noted that between January and August last year, the Himalayas witnessed a natural disaster almost every day. In Jammu Kashmir alone, flash floods and cloudbursts have damaged public infrastructure, disrupting roads, water supply schemes, and power feeders. The Lieutenant Governor observed that there is no dichotomy between development and conservation and the nature itself is infrastructure. For example, constructing a watershed is also an effective flood-control system. It is infrastructure that also serves as a water purification system and forms the basis of an irrigation system. Similarly, a wetland is natures vast reservoir because it absorbs excess water during the monsoon and then slowly gives life to surrounding areas during the dry months. A dense forested mountain slope is in fact like a strong wall that protects the entire mountain from collapsing onto the villages below. Therefore, I believe that when we destroy these natural systems, we are playing with the future. But when we conserve and restore these natural systems, we are investing in a bright future, the Lieutenant Governor said. The Lieutenant Governor urged the scientists and domain experts to bring Nature-based Solutions out of the margins of development planning and place them at its centre. He also placed six major recommendations before policymakers, scientists, and engineers. Use modern technologies like remote sensing, geospatial mapping, and AI to track glacier retreat, spring flow, soil health, and forest cover. This data should inform every development project in the region. Nature-based Solutions must be embedded into project budgeting, appraisal, and monitoring. Farmers, shepherds, orchard owners, and tribal communities must be equal stakeholders. Their generational knowledge of rivers, mountains, and forests is invaluable. Annual budget reviews should include whether forests and ecosystems have grown richer or weaker, ensuring accountability for environmental wealth. Establish platforms for long-term cooperation among scientists, policymakers, and communities. Move beyond concrete embankments to restore floodplains and wetlands, combining built structures with natural systems, the Lieutenant Governor said. The Lieutenant Governor urged universities to elevate Nature-based Solutions into a multidisciplinary subject, spanning ecology, hydrology, engineering, economics, disaster management, and traditional knowledge. He stressed that future professionals must understand the interconnectedness of ecosystems, economies, technologies, and societies. Recalling the Green Jammu Kashmir Drive launched in 2020, which raised forest cover to nearly 55 percent, the Lieutenant Governor reiterated the importance of sustainable living. He envisioned a Himalaya where watersheds are healthier, wetlands thrive, and rivers flow naturally, sustaining biodiversity and culture. By placing nature at the centre of development, integrating modern technology with traditional wisdom, and involving communities as equal partners, the Himalayan region can build resilience against climate change. We must remember that Himalayas are not merely a geographical entity but a living heritage that demands foresight, patience, and responsibility, the Lieutenant Governor said. On the occasion, the Lieutenant Governor released the special edition of IUST's monthly magazine 'Times Echo' on 100-Day Anti-Drug campaign and Policy Brief on Nasha Mukt Jammu Kashmir Abhiyan, prepared by various experts of J&K. Certificates were also handed over to the PMKVY trainees. Justice Sanjeev Kumar, Chief Justice (Acting), High Court of Jammu Kashmir and Ladakh; Prof. Shakil A. Romshoo, Vice Chancellor, IUST; Prof. Shamim Ahmad Shah, Registrar, IUST; Prof. Javed Hussain Mir, Convener of the Conference; eminent scientists, experts, senior officials, faculty and students attended the conference.

Six J&K cricketers named in North Zone squad; Kanhaiya Wadhawan to lead team

Jammu, Aug 3: In what is being hailed as one of the biggest milestones in Jammu and Kashmir cricket, six cricketers from the Union Territory have been selected for the North Zone squad, with wicketkeeper-batter Kanhaiya Wadhawan being named captain. The development marks a watershed moment for J&K cricket, which until a few seasons ago celebrated the selection of just one or two players in the prestigious inter-zonal team. This time, however, J&K has emerged as the joint-highest contributor alongside Delhi, underlining the Union Territory's rapid rise in domestic cricket. According to highly placed sources, the six J&K players selected are Kanhaiya Wadhawan (captain), Qamran Iqbal, Abdul Samad, Abid Mushtaq, Sunil Kumar and Yudhvir Singh. The 15-member squad also includes Sanat Sangwan, Yash Dhull, Ayush Doseja and vice-captain Ayush Badoni from Delhi; Nishant Sindhu, Anshul Kamboj and Nikhil Kashyap from Haryana; Arshdeep Singh from Punjab; and Arjun Sharma from Services. Wadhawan's appointment as captain makes the achievement even more significant, reflecting the confidence of the North Zone selectors in the J&K wicketkeeper-batter's leadership abilities and consistent performances. J&K's unprecedented representation is widely seen as a testament to the Union Territory's growing stature in Indian domestic cricket after a string of impressive performances over the past few seasons. The Jammu and Kashmir Cricket Association (JKCA) has evolved from being an occasional contributor to one of the strongest talent pools in the North Zone. With six players in the squad and the captaincy entrusted to a J&K cricketer, the announcement marks one of the most significant moments in the history of J&K cricket. Adding to the achievement, J&K senior team coach Ajay Sharma has also been appointed head coach of the North Zone team.

Kashmiri MMA fighter Owais Yaqoob stuns undefeated Delyan Georgiev with first-round TKO in Bulgaria

Military-civil integration key to robust defence ecosystem to tackle emerging challenges: Rajnath Singh

Defence Minister Rajnath Singh emphasized integrating military and civil ministry components. He highlighted the need for synergy to address evolving security challenges. Civilian officers' expertise in cyber tools could benefit defence forces significantly. Singh stressed cross-exposure and joint training for better decision-making. The minister urged the cadre to focus on research and innovative ideas.

IUST Kashmir brings global experts together to discuss nature-based climate solutions

NC to continue agitation until J&K statehood is restored: Sogami

Sakina Itoo calls for wider awareness of social welfare schemes across J&K

Army, police launch relief operations after flashfloods in Kargil

Kargil, Aug 03: Flash floods triggered by heavy rainfall and cloudburst hit parts of the Kargil region, damaging infrastructure, disrupting road connectivity and prompting rescue operations by the Army, police and civil administration, officials said on Monday. Heavy rain triggered flash floods in Hardass and Tumail villages of Kargil district on Sunday evening, inundating habitations and damaging roads and other public infrastructure, officials said. The Army said troops of the Forever in Operations division launched immediate rescue and relief operations after a cloudburst struck Gund in Hardass, with flash floods snapping road connectivity and leaving residents stranded. In another area, the Army, in coordination with the civil administration, assisted in clearing debris and restoring roads, water supply and electricity to facilitate relief operations in affected villages.

Bill to increase Supreme Court judges passed by Lok Sabha without debate; House adjourned for day

The Lok Sabha passed a bill to increase Supreme Court judges without debate. Opposition members raised slogans against NEET paper leaks and temple donation theft. A statutory resolution denouncing the ordinance was rejected by a voice vote. After brief remarks, the bill was put to vote and subsequently cleared. The House was adjourned for the day after the bill's passage.

Electrical engineers flag safety risks in J&K's 11 kV Self-Certification Policy

States can close or withdraw FIRs against students who participated in NEET protests: SC

New Delhi, Aug 03: The Supreme Court on Monday clarified that the governments of Delhi and other states can close or withdraw FIRs against students who participated in protests against the NEET paper leak, provided they do not have antecedents involving grave and heinous offences. A bench comprising Chief Justice Surya Kant and Justices Joymalya Bagchi and V Mohana also made it clear that the expression criminal antecedents referred only to grave and heinous offences. At the outset, Solicitor General Tushar Mehta told the top court that the Union government was serious in its commitment not to pursue FIRs against protesting students except those with criminal antecedents. Mehta said that FIRs against over 2,700 people with antecedents involving grave and heinous offences would not be withdrawn. During the hearing, senior advocate Gopal Sankaranarayanan submitted that even lawyers' children were beaten during the protests. The videos are very shocking. We have given 300 videos to the court. Since directions have come from the top, the commissioner of police must look at all this. Ideally, we have identified un-uniformed individuals committing such police excess. A direction has to go to the Commissioner of police and the RAF director as to why police used pellet guns etc, he said. The matter is now listed for hearing on August 18. The apex court had earlier said police excesses or a 'lathi charge' cannot be justified merely because there is an agitation and underlined that the right to peaceful protest was absolutely guaranteed. The CJP-led march on July 20 in Delhi saw clashes between protesters and security personnel, who used lathis and teargas shells to disperse crowds attempting to move towards Parliament.

Soldier killed in accidental weapon discharge in Jammu

Jammu, Aug 3: An Army personnel lost his life after his service rifle accidentally discharged while he was on duty at a post in Akhnoor sector of Jammu, officials said on Monday. The incident occurred during operational duty at forward Jogwan area of Khour on Sunday, the officials said. They said preliminary information suggests that the weapon of the soldier went off accidentally, causing critical injuries to him. He was immediately provided medical assistance but succumbed to injuries, the officials said. They said the body of the slain soldier was shifted to military hospital Akhnoor for postmortem and would be handed over to his next of kin after completion of legal formalities.

Delhi HC seeks NIA stand on appeals by Aasiya Andrabi, 2 others against conviction in UAPA case

New Delhi, Aug 3: The Delhi High Court on Monday sought the stand of the NIA on appeals by hardline separatist Aasiya Andrabi and her two associates challenging their conviction for conspiring to wage war against India and being members of a terrorist organisation under stringent anti-terror law UAPA. Andrabi (62), the founder of the all-women separatist group Dukhtaran-e-Millat (DeM) in 1987, and her close aides -- Nahida Nasreen (58), and Sofi Fehmeeda (48)-- were convicted by the special NIA court on January 14, which said the trio had orchestrated a systematic campaign to destabilise J-K. On March 24, the trial court awarded life imprisonment to Andrabi, while Fehmeeda and Nasreen received a 30-year prison sentence. On Monday, a bench of Justices Prathiba M Singh and Vikas Mahajan condoned the delay in filing the appeals against the trial court decision and said it would issue notice to the investigating agency in the matter. The bench also gave time till September 15 to the National Investigation Agency (NIA) to reply to their pleas seeking suspension of sentence and listed the matter for hearing on October 6. Andrabi and her two associates were formally charged with multiple offences under the stringent UAPA and the IPC in February 2021. It was alleged that they plotted to wage war against the country, besides conspiring to carry out terror-related activities. The trial court found them guilty of offences under UAPA sections 18 (punishment for conspiracy) and 38 (offence relating to membership of a terrorist organisation). It also convicted the three under IPC sections 153 A (promoting enmity between different groups), 153B (imputations, assertions prejudicial to national-integration), 121-A (conspiracy to wage war against Government of India), 120B (criminal conspiracy) and 505 (statements conducing to public mischief). While sentencing the convicts, the trial judge said o remorse has been shown by any of the convicts in respect of their acts; rather it is submitted that they are proud of what they were doing and also that they will continue to do the same work. Showing any leniency will amount to infusing a fresh lease of life and vigour in the spirit of convicts which aims at secession of an integral part of India, the trial judge had stated. In April 2018, on directions of the Union Home Ministry, the NIA registered a case against them as well as the DeM. According to the FIR, the central government has received information that Aasiya Andrabi and her associates namely Sofi Fehmeeda and Nahida Nasreen are actively running a terrorist organisation named as 'Dukhtaran-E-Millat' (DeM) which is proscribed under the First Schedule to the UAPA. They are using various media platforms to spread insurrectionary imputations and hateful speeches that endanger the integrity, security and sovereignty of India. The DEM through Andrabi openly advocates secession of Jammu and Kashmir from the Union of India and has also called for Jihad and use of violence against India, the FIR alleged. The agency also said that Andrabi and her associates had spoken, written and also published visible representations that bring into hatred and contempt apart from exciting disaffection towards the Government of India. The organisation, it added, is promoting enmity, hatred and ill-will between different communities on the grounds of religion and is doing acts prejudicial to maintenance of harmony. Andrabi has solicited help from proscribed terrorist organisations and along with her associates, has entered into a criminal conspiracy to wage war against the Government of India, the FIR alleged. Andrabi was arrested by the Jammu and Kashmir police in Anantnag in April 2018 for allegedly planning to organise a large-scale demonstration and stone-pelting in the area. She was subsequently sent to jail.

Auqib Nabi's father hails son's maiden India Test call-up: 'Our dream has come true'

Emotions ran high at the residence of Jammu and Kashmir pacer Auqib Nabi after he was named in India's Test squad for the upcoming series against Sri Lanka, with his father describing the selection as the fulfilment of a long-cherished dream. Calling it a moment beyond words, Auqib Nabi's father while speaking to Greater Kashmir said the family's years of hard work, patience and prayers had finally borne fruit with the Jammu and Kashmir fast bowler earning his maiden call-up to the Indian Test team. It is difficult to explain my feelings today. This was our dream, and it is fulfilled today, he said shortly after the Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI) announced Nabi's inclusion in the national squad. Auqib, who replaces injured pace spearhead Jasprit Bumrah for the Test series against Sri Lanka, had earlier broken into the IPL and India A setup. His father said seeing his son now reach the Indian Test team was a moment of immense pride for the entire family. He said the family had always believed that Auqib would eventually earn his place in the national side despite facing disappointments when his name did not figure in earlier selections. We always had faith. We trusted the selection committee and believed that if he continued performing, his opportunity would come. Today, he has rewarded for that patience, he said. Auqib's selection comes on the back of outstanding domestic performances, including a starring role in Jammu and Kashmir's historic maiden Ranji Trophy triumph last season.

Centre Must Ensure Every Road Has Encroachment-free Space for Walking: SC

The bench gave him two weeks to instruct the authorities while emphasising that pedestrians should have confidence that the space is meant for them and they can walk freely without any threat of moving vehicles

Two rusted mortar shells found in J-K's Poonch, destroyed safely

Mendhar/Jammu, Aug 3: Two rusted mortar shells were recovered from two forward villages in Jammu and Kashmir's Poonch district on Monday and safely destroyed by the Army's Bomb Disposal Squad, officials said. In the first case, villagers spotted an unexploded mortar shell in an open field near Chajjla bridge in Mankote area and immediately alerted the police and security forces, who rushed to the spot and secured the area, the officials said. They said the Army Bomb Disposal Squad was subsequently called in to examine the explosive, which was later destroyed in a controlled explosion following all standard safety procedures. Another unexploded mortar shell was found in agricultural fields in Adhaki village near Mendhar Nallah, the officials said, adding the explosive was safely neutralised by the experts. The unexploded ordnance is believed to be a remnant of past cross-border shelling along the Line of Control (LoC), the officials said.

J&K's Ranji hero Auqib Nabi earns maiden India Test call-up, replaces Bumrah

Jammu and Kashmir fast bowler Auqib Nabi has earned his maiden call-up to the Indian senior men's cricket team after being named as a replacement for the injured Jasprit Bumrah in the Test squad for the upcoming series against Sri Lanka. Bumrah was ruled out after failing to recover fully from a left knee injury sustained during the ODI series against England, while Nabi's selection follows an outstanding domestic run in which he claimed over 100 wickets over the last two Ranji Trophy seasons and played a key role in J&K's historic maiden Ranji Trophy title. As per the BCCI, the Men's Selection Committee has named Auqib Nabi as Bumrah's replacement. The Jammu and Kashmir fast bowler earns his maiden call-up to the senior national team. Nabi claimed 104 wickets across the last two Ranji Trophy seasons, including 60 wickets in the 2025-26 campaign, playing a pivotal role in Jammu and Kashmir's maiden Ranji Trophy triumph. He was also part of the India A squad that toured Sri Lanka recently, where he claimed six wickets in two first-class matches. India's updated squad for the Test series against Sri Lanka: Shubman Gill (Captain), KL Rahul (Vice-Captain), Yashasvi Jaiswal, Rishabh Pant (WK), Sai Sudharsan*, Dhruv Jurel (WK), Ravindra Jadeja, Kuldeep Yadav, Manav Suthar, Mohammed Siraj, Prasidh Krishna, Gurnoor Brar, Devdutt Padikkal, Saransh Jain, Auqib Nabi.

Rescuers intensify search as operation to trace drowned Sopore teen enters second day

Sopore, Aug 3: The search for a 13-year-old boy who drowned in Nallah Pohru at Wadoora in Sopore entered its second day on Monday, with rescue teams intensifying efforts to trace his body. The victim has been identified as Fuqan Rafeeq Hajam, son of Mohammad Rafeeq Hajam, a resident of Wadoora Payeen. According to officials, the teenager accidentally slipped into the nallah on Sunday evening while near its bank and was swept away by the strong current. A joint rescue operation involving the Civil Defence, State Disaster Response Force (SDRF), and Jammu and Kashmir Police was launched immediately after the incident. Despite hours of searching on Sunday, the boy could not be traced, prompting authorities to resume the operation early Monday. Local volunteers and residents have also joined the search, assisting rescue personnel in combing different stretches of the nallah. Officials said the operation will continue until the missing boy is traced. They also urged people to stay away from the banks of fast-flowing streams and nallahs during the monsoon season, warning that swollen water bodies pose a serious risk.

Fresh batch of 1056 Amarnath pilgrims leaves Jammu for Baltal in Kashmir

BANIHAL, Aug 3: A fresh batch of 1,056 Shri Amarnath Yatra pilgrims left the Bhagwati Nagar Yatri Niwas in Jammu for the Baltal base camp in the early hours of Monday under tight security arrangements. According to the Joint Police Control Room, the 26th batch departed at 2:49 am and comprised 832 male pilgrims, 205 women, two children, 15 sadhus and two sadhvis. No convoy was dispatched for the Pahalgam axis. The pilgrims travelled in a convoy of 46 vehicles, including 24 buses, seven medium motor vehicles (MMVs) and 15 light motor vehicles (LMVs), escorted by security personnel. With the departure of the latest batch, the total number of pilgrims who have left Jammu for the ongoing Amarnath Yatra this year has reached 1,40,748, officials said. The convoy was escorted by personnel of the CRPF and Jammu and Kashmir Police to ensure the safe movement of pilgrims along the Jammu-Srinagar National Highway to the Baltal base camp.

Trump says Gulf leaders' input weighed heavily in decision to hold off on ordering new Iran strikes

Washington, Aug 3: US President Donald Trump said on Sunday he decided to hold off on ordering American forces to carry out new strikes against Iran at the urging of Gulf allies Qatar, Saudi Arabia and the United Arab Emirates. The president added that a plan was in place for US forces to carry out he biggest attack since World War II on Sunday. But he decided to scrap the plan and give diplomacy more time to play out after hearing from key Gulf leaders -- including Saudi Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman -- as well as at the request of unnamed Iranian officials. I said to the crown prince, 'What would you rather do? Would you rather us do this or not?' Trump told reporters on Air Force One as he flew back to Washington after spending the weekend at his golf club in Bedminster, New Jersey. They said we would much prefer a deal as opposed to an attack, because you don't know where these attacks lead. Trump and the crown prince spoke on Saturday before the US president announced in a social media post that Mideast allies had reached the perimeters of a deal to end the five-month-old war. It was another turnabout for Trump, who a day earlier said he is losing faith in negotiations with Iran and offered the ominous warning that the US military will be hitting them very hard. Trump on Sunday reiterated that the emerging deal would include a reopening of the Strait of Hormuz, the critical waterway where about a fifth of the world's energy flowed before the start of the war, and would resolve US concerns about Iran's nuclear programme. Iran has repeatedly attacked vessels attempting to transit through the Strait of Hormuz without its authorisation as part of its conflict with the US. And Iran's Foreign Ministry spokesperson Esmail Baghaei said on Sunday that the Strait of Hormuz will in no way return to the status it was before February 28, the day the war started. On a call with Iranian state TV, he added that Iran is discussing shipping through the strait with Oman, on the other side of Hormuz, but that there is no current talk about reopening the crucial waterway. Trump has announced halts to strikes on Iran on several occasions since the US and Israel attacked Iran on February 28, only for things to unravel and fighting to resume again. Iran's defence minister said on X that the country was either surprised nor passive following Trump's announcement and said Iran remains alert in the face of concrete threats from the US. While Iran's leaders appear united in a war strategy signalling strength and endurance, a struggle for control seems to be brewing within the theocracy's leadership between those who oppose all negotiations with the US and others who count on military pressure to win at the negotiating table. The latest proposal would bring sides back to negotiations Trump on Sunday said he expected negotiations to resume omorrow afternoon but did not detail who would be involved in such talks. A regional official said the proposal announced by Trump over the weekend calls for the US and Iran to return to negotiations and continue working out many of the issues that have stymied prior progress on the deal. The official, who is involved in the mediation efforts, said the proposal calls for reopening of the Strait of Hormuz and halting attacks across the region, including by Iranian-backed militias in Iraq on the Arab Gulf countries and Jordan. The US, in exchange, will end its naval blockade on Iran and allow Tehran to export its oil as stated in the tentative ceasefire deal, he said. No deal has been reached yet, but mediation efforts are underway, said the official, who spoke on condition of anonymity because he was not authorised to talk to the media. Trump said that Israel is joining his commitment to end the war by implementing the ceasefire deal reached in June. Israel did not publicly comment on the announcement. Saudis are concerned about Iran's retaliation Prince Mohammed, the kingdom's de-facto leader, raised concerns about the US potentially escalating the conflict when he spoke with Trump by phone on Saturday. The call was candid and constructive, according to a person briefed on the call who was not authorised to comment publicly and requested anonymity. The crown prince conveyed that an escalation in fighting could have a severe impact on the global economy if Tehran responded to a new US bombardment by targeting some of the United States' Gulf allies. The call happened before Trump's social media announcement, the person said. The crown prince sought clarity from Trump on what potential new action he was weighing to take against Iran. Saudi officials, the person added, have underscored in their engagements with the Trump administration that the kingdom -- as well as fellow Persian Gulf energy titans the United Arab Emirates and Qatar -- are in a good position to defend against further potential Iranian attacks, but that Kuwait could be more vulnerable to attacks by Iranian-backed militias in Iraq. Trump suggested that his conversation with the Saudi crown prince weighed heavily in his decision to halt his plans to carry out strikes on Iran. It would have been disastrous for them. And they didn't want us to do it, Trump said. And frankly, Saudi Arabia didn't want it either. They thought that a deal is imminent. (AP)

SKIMS, KMC Pampore faculty collaborate on landmark superspeciality surgery textbook

In a landmark development for the medical fraternity of Jammu and Kashmir,and at at National Level , a team of distinguished medical visionaries from the Sher-i-Kashmir Institute of Medical Sciences (SKIMS) Soura and faculty from KMC Pampore have coordinated for a highly anticipated, superspeciality book designed to revolutionize modern surgical education and postgraduate training. This authoritative publication represents a highly successful, multi-institutional academic collaboration meticulously engineered to address a long-standing scarcity of highly structured, high-yield learning materials for competitive medical examinations across India. The textbook is authored by an elite panel of medical professionals, including the internationally acclaimed medical educationist Dr. (Prof.) Ashfaq (Head of Anatomy, SKIMS), Dr. (Prof.) Zubaida (Professor of Pathology, SKIMS) an Emerging Talent in The Field of Pathology Particularly GI & Liver Pathology , Dr. Irshad Teli (Associate Professor, KMC Pampore), Dr. Zahida Akhter (Associate Professor of Surgery and Minimal Access Surgery, SKIMS), and Dr. Ayaz Rehman (Associate Professor and ENT Surgeon, SKIMS). The authorial and editorial teams have expressed their profound gratitude to Prof. (Dr.) M. Ashraf Ganie, Director of SKIMS Soura & EOSG, whose relentless dedication to institutional research and tertiary care excellence provided the bedrock for this project, alongside Dr. Fazlul Qadir Parray, Principal of SKIMS Medical College, Bemina, for his unwavering academic backing.Furthermore, the final quality and clinical depth of the book were heavily enhanced by the mentorship, rigorous review, and expert insights of veteran medical luminaries, most notably Prof. Nisar Chaudhary (Former Head of Surgery, SKIMS Soura), Prof. Saleem Wani (Former Head of Urology and Renal Transplant, SKIMS Soura), Prof. Iqbal Saleem (Professor of Surgery, SMHS), and Dr. Omar Baba (Additional Professor of Plastic and Reconstructive Surgery, SKIMS Soura), with additional specialized diagnostic and clinical inputs contributed by Dr. Obaid (Radiodiagnosis, SMHS ), Dr. Zahida Rasool (Medical Consultant, IUST), and Dr. Zubair (MCh CVTS). Acting as an all-encompassing, single-point reference for modern surgical practices, the comprehensive volume systematically spans every critical superspeciality discipline, including Neurosurgery, Urology, Surgical Oncology, Gynaecological Oncology, Surgical Gastroenterology, Hepato-Pancreato-Biliary (HPB) Surgery, Plastic and Reconstructive Surgery, Cardiothoracic and Vascular Surgery (CTVS), Paediatric Surgery, Endocrine Surgery, and Head and Neck Surgery. To guarantee maximum knowledge retention and exam readiness for ambitious superspeciality aspirants, the text is uniquely structured to feature precisely crafted, high-scoring systematic answers, a thorough integration of past national and institutional Previous Year Questions (PYQs), targeted Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs) covering complex clinical scenarios and recurring viva concepts, curated high-yield point summaries for rapid last-minute revision, and advanced image-based integration to align with modern, visually-driven medical board examination formats.

Drang Khag residents appeal for preservation of water canal

Residents of Drang in Khag tehsil of Budgam district have appealed Deputy Commissioner Budgam to direct Tehsildar Khag to remove a sheep shed from where animal excreta pours into potable water canal at Ganie Mohalla of Drang area. 'Despite constant reminders and numerous appeals, the local administration in Khag tehsil has failed to save this potable water canal from being polluted due to pouring the excreta from sheep shed into the kul which is main source of drinking water for many mohallas, said a delegation from the area. The Mohalla Committee has many times reminded the Municipal body and Tehsildar to intervene but no action has been taken so far. The issue is not sheep shed but the outlet of animal excreta into the Kul, which forces us to complain as a lot of locals have fallen sick due to usage of the water, he said in his representation.

Muslims join final rites of 90-year-old Kashmiri Pandit in Kupwara village

Hundreds of people, including members of the Muslim community gathered in Khanoo, Babagund village of Langate to pay their last respects to 90-year-old Kashmiri Pandit Mohan Lal who passed away at his ancestral home after a brief illness. Mohan Lal was among the few Kashmiri Pandits who has been living in his native village in Langate after displacement of many Pandit families in 1990. Mohan Lal was known for his simplicity, humility, and warm relations with people across communities. His final rites were performed in accordance with Hindu traditions in the presence of family members, relatives. Local Muslims joined the final rites in large number, offered condolences to the bereaved family and stood in solidarity with them. Mohan Lal was an elder of our village and we all respected him throughout his life. Our bond with him was built on trust, affection, and mutual respect. His decision to remain in his ancestral village during difficult times strengthened the bond between communities, said Mushtaq Ahmad, a local. Mohan Lal lived among us with dignity and love for decades. I believe attending his final rites was our duty and a way of honouring a man who was respected by everyone in the area. Lately he didn't kept well but he was an intellectual who would always care for others, said former BDC Chairman Langate Showkat Pandit. The overwhelming participation in the final rites of Mohan Lal reflects the enduring tradition of communal harmony and peaceful coexistence of Kashmir, he added.

NFHS-6 shows only 1 in 2 infants in J&K exclusively breastfed

Every year, the first week of August is observed as World Breastfeeding Week. This is an occasion that renews the global commitment to ensuring every child receives the best possible nutritional start in life. However, National Family Health Survey shows a dropping percentage of infants are exclusively breastfed for first six months of life. Although breastfeeding is a natural and widely accepted practice, in real world, many mothers continue to face social, institutional and workplace barriers preventing them from exclusively breastfeeding their infants for the recommended six months. Medical science has made it amply evident that breastfeeding is one of the most effective interventions for improving child survival and long-term health. The World Health Organization (WHO) and UNICEF recommend initiating breastfeeding within the first hour after birth. This must be followed by exclusive breastfeeding for the first six months of life. Early, the first hour preferably, skin-to-skin contact immediately after delivery helps regulate a newborn's body temperature. It also stabilizes blood sugar levels and encourages successful initiation of breastfeeding. This also feeds the newborn colostrums, the first milk rich in antibodies and nutrients. Colostrum provides crucial protection against infections during the earliest days of life, and ensures better infant survival. However, inspite of the awareness campaigns, achieving these recommendations remains a challenge in J&K. According to the National Family Health Survey-6 (202324), only 59.2 per cent of infants below six months in J&K are exclusively breastfed. This is lower than the 62 per cent in NFHS-5. The survey also found that just 52.8 per cent of newborns are breastfed within the first hour of birth. This low despite clear evidence that early initiation significantly improves infant health and survival. The introduction of supplementary feeding before six months is often perceived as a matter of parental choice, or infant readiness. Doctors insist that the decision is frequently shaped by circumstances beyond a mother's control. It is influenced by mothers need to work shortly after childbirth and inadequate maternity support. The lack of breastfeeding-friendly workplaces also contributes greatly to early discontinuation of exclusive breastfeeding. Mothers are too often held solely responsible for shortfalls in breastfeeding practices. This approach overlooks the broader ecosystem that determines whether breastfeeding can be sustained. Any successful breastfeeding depends not only on the mother's willingness but also on the support she receives from her family. The employers and policymakers have an equally important responsibility towards ensuring continuity of breastfeeding among working mothers. The hospitals where the baby is delivered play a critical role during the first few hours after birth. Delays in initiating breastfeeding and unnecessary separation of mothers and newborns after delivery compromises on early initiation of breastfeeding. In addition, inadequate assistance from trained healthcare staff can discourage successful breastfeeding. There are very few hospitals in J&K, especially in private sector, that follow evidence-based newborn care practices. In public hospitals, the space and overcrowding issues make it difficult for new mothers to breastfeed at ease, and without the feeling of breach of privacy. Doctors also emphasize the importance of counselling expectant mothers before childbirth by a well trained counselor, who must be available at Pre-natal Clinics. A significant number of women encounter practical difficulties in positioning, latching or maintaining milk supply during the first few days after delivery. Timely guidance could help them overcome these challenges, and reduce the number of families that introduce formula feeding unnecessarily. In addition, workplace support remains another major challenge. An increasing numbers of women in J&K are employed in offices, educational institutions, healthcare facilities, businesses, service industries and the informal sector. Balancing employment with infant feeding becomes a difficult task, in absence of uniform laws governing paid maternity leave. Women face the challenge of losing their jobs if they are unable to join back to their work within a couple of months of giving birth. Even the Government sector has ambiguity over maternity benefits. Government employees generally benefit from maternity leave provisions. These allow mothers to remain with their infants during the crucial early months. However, many women employed in the private and unorganised sectors continue to face inconsistent implementation. They have limited paid leave, while others are compelled to return to work soon after childbirth. The Maternity Benefit Act, as amended in 2017, expanded paid maternity leave for eligible women in covered establishments to 26 weeks for the first two children. The legislation also introduced provisions relating to crche facilities in establishments employing a specified number of workers. These legal protections represent important progress but implementation remains poor. Almost no workplace in J&K has a dedicated breastfeeding room or lactation facilities or functional crches. These could enable mothers to continue breastfeeding during working hours. The long distance from home to workplace and rigid work schedules leave mothers with little option but to introduce bottle feeding earlier than recommended. J&K, pediatricians and neotal experts believe, needs to create breastfeeding-friendly workplaces . This must not be viewed merely as an employee welfare measure but an investment in public health. A number of studies have demonstrated that breastfed children have lower rates of diarrhoeal diseases, respiratory infections and several other childhood illnesses. Breastfeeding has also been found to be associated with improved cognitive development. As the child grows, it also reduces risk of obesity and certain chronic diseases. Mothers also experience faster postpartum recovery and lower risks of certain cancers. NFHS data indicates that a substantial proportion of children in JJ&K continue to experience stunting, wasting or underweight, while a higher number is obese or overweight. This reflects multiple nutritional and socioeconomic challenges, the reduction of which could be aided with exclusive breastfeeding in infants. Public health experts have repeatedly stress that promoting breastfeeding requires families, including fathers and grandparents to must understand that breastfeeding is not solely the mother's responsibility. Emotional encouragement and household support greatly influence whether mothers are able to breastfeed exclusively for the first six months.

NCC organises Cyclothon 2026 to mark 79th Independence anniversary

The National Cadet Corps (NCC) on Sunday organised Cyclothon 2026 in New Delhi to commemorate 79 years of India's Independence, promoting fitness, environmental responsibility and patriotism among the youth. The event was flagged off by Union Youth Affairs and Sports Minister Mansukh Mandaviya in the presence of Minister of State for Defence Sanjay Seth, Defence Secretary Rajesh Kumar Singh, boxing legend M C Mary Kom, tennis star Leander Paes and Director General NCC Lieutenant General Virendra Vats. A group of 79 NCC cadets undertook a symbolic 79-km ride, starting and ending at the Major Dhyan Chand National Stadium after passing through prominent landmarks of the national capital. Held under the theme Clean India, Green India, Fit India, the cyclothon reinforced NCC's commitment to national initiatives such as TB Mukt Bharat, Swachh Bharat, Ek Ped Maa Ke Naam and Har Ghar Tiranga. It also encouraged the use of cycling as an eco-friendly mode of transport while spreading awareness about physical fitness, road safety, environmental conservation and responsible citizenship.

2 firefighting helicopters collide as Greece battles devastating Wildfires

Two firefighting helicopters crashed while battling wildfires west of Athens on Sunday, triggering a major search and rescue operation as Greece continued to battle multiple blazes fuelled by extreme heat and strong winds, the international media and BBC reported. According to the Greek Fire Service, the collision occurred in the wider Psatha area of Attica, west of Athens. The two Bell helicopters, leased by the fire department, had taken off from the Elefsina military airport and each was carrying a crew of two. Authorities said a search and rescue operation was under way but had not disclosed the condition or identities of the four crew members. The cause of the mid-air collision was also not immediately known. The helicopter crash came as Greece faced one of its most severe wildfire emergencies in recent years. Prime Minister Kyriakos Mitsotakis warned that the country was experiencing extreme weather conditions and that extremely difficult days lay ahead. In a Facebook post, Mitsotakis said winds had reached 100 kmph, making aerial firefighting operations highly dangerous. There are moments when nature and the intensity of weather phenomena surpass any human planning and any operational capability, he said. The Prime Minister also paid tribute to three firefighters who lost their lives earlier this week while battling the blazes and praised the efforts of firefighters, volunteers and military personnel working to contain the fires. The wildfires have forced the evacuation of thousands of people across Greece, including residents and tourists. On the island of Crete, fires have scorched thousands of hectares of land and led to the temporary evacuation of around 8,000 people. About 500 people, most of them tourists, were evacuated from central Greece on Friday, while fresh fires have also broken out on the islands of Paros, Andros and Kalymnos. The wildfires in Greece are part of a broader wave of extreme fires sweeping southern Europe following successive heatwaves and prolonged dry conditions. France, Spain, Portugal, Italy and parts of the Balkans have all battled major wildfires in recent weeks, forcing thousands of evacuations, destroying forests and homes, and stretching firefighting resources. Authorities across the region have warned that soaring temperatures, strong winds and drought are creating increasingly dangerous conditions, with climate experts saying extreme weather is making wildfire seasons longer and more intense. According to the BBC, several European countries remain on high alert as fresh outbreaks continue to threaten communities and tourist destinations.

Executive body of SSI unit holders bonafide group formed

A general body meeting of the SSI Bonafide Group of Unit Holders was held in Srinagar. Various industrialists attended the meeting, SSI unit holders from across Jammu and Kashmir. After detailed deliberations. The General Body unanimously approved the constitution of the Executive Body through a voice vote. The following officers were elected: Chief Coordinator Shabir Abdullah, Vice Chief Coordinator Shoaib Hakak, Central Coordinator Sheikh Showkat, Organiser Manzoor Ahmad Khan, Convener Syed Ayaullah Rizvi, and Treasurer Imran Qureshi. The general body congratulated the newly elected office bearers and expressed full confidence in their leadership to present and safeguard the interests of SSI unit holders. SSI Bonafide Group is registered with the Directorate of Industries and Commerce, J&K.

Top-10 most-valued firms add Rs 2.51 Lakh Crore in market value

India's 10 most-valued listed companies witnessed a sharp increase in investor wealth last week, with the combined market capitalisation of nine firms rising by Rs 2.51 lakh crore, driven by a strong rally in domestic equities. Bajaj Finance emerged as the biggest gainer following its robust June quarter earnings. The surge in valuations came as benchmark indices posted their strongest weekly gains in months. The BSE Sensex climbed 2,034.87 points, or 2.67 per cent, during the week, while the NSE Nifty advanced 616.15 points, or 2.59 per cent, reflecting broad-based buying across sectors. Among the top-10 companies by market capitalisation, only Hindustan Unilever Ltd (HUL) ended the week with a decline in valuation, while the remaining nine companies registered gains. Bajaj Finance recorded the highest increase in market value, adding Rs 80,345.97 crore to take its market capitalisation to Rs 7,10,817.51 crore. The stock rallied more than 8 per cent on Friday after the non-banking financial company reported a 28 per cent year-on-year rise in consolidated profit after tax for the April-June quarter of FY27. Telecom major Bharti Airtel added Rs 44,959.50 crore to its market value, taking its overall valuation to Rs 12,30,005.63 crore. Tata Consultancy Services (TCS) saw its market capitalisation increase by Rs 40,414.03 crore to Rs 8,55,894.78 crore, while Reliance Industries, India's most valuable listed company, added Rs 39,447.35 crore, pushing its valuation to Rs 17,69,108.79 crore. Engineering and infrastructure major Larsen & Toubro gained Rs 21,096.80 crore in market capitalisation to reach Rs 5,41,844.69 crore. State Bank of India (SBI) added Rs 10,845.97 crore, taking its valuation to Rs 9,47,799.81 crore, while HDFC Bank's market capitalisation rose by Rs 8,164.73 crore to Rs 11,52,150.63 crore. Life Insurance Corporation of India (LIC) gained Rs 4,427.49 crore to end the week with a market value of Rs 5,37,435.05 crore. ICICI Bank registered a comparatively modest increase of Rs 1,660.37 crore, taking its valuation to Rs 10,29,878.30 crore. In contrast, Hindustan Unilever was the only company among the top-10 to witness an erosion in investor wealth. Its market capitalisation declined by Rs 10,326.46 crore to Rs 4,93,602.13 crore during the week. At the close of trading, Reliance Industries retained its position as India's most valuable listed company, followed by Bharti Airtel, HDFC Bank, ICICI Bank, SBI, TCS, Bajaj Finance, Larsen & Toubro, LIC and Hindustan Unilever. The gains underscore renewed investor confidence in the equity markets, supported by strong corporate earnings, sustained domestic inflows and positive sentiment across key sectors.

Jammu Railway Division rationalises freight rates for essential food grains

Jammu Railway Division of the Northern Railway, with the objective of providing relief to the general public from inflation and ensuring affordable supply of essential commodities, has rationalised the freight rates for rail transportation of essential food items such as wheat, rice and flour. Under this rationalisation, according to Raghvender Singh, Public Relations Inspector, Jammu Railway Division, the freight rates have now been fixed on the basis of distance in a descending scale. Accordingly, for distances up to 1000 km the rate will be Rs 1.55 per tonne per kilometer. For distances between 1001 to 3000 km, the rate has been reduced from Rs 1.55 to Rs 1.15 per tonne per kilometer. For distances beyond 3001 km, the rate will be Rs 1.15 per tonne per kilometer. This will make transportation of foodgrains over long distances even more economical, Singh stated. Senior Divisional Commercial Manager (DCM), Jammu Railway Division Uchit Singhal, said, This rationalisation is part of the Railway's people-centric policy. Our goal is to ensure transportation of essential commodities in an economical, safe and timely manner. We appeal to J&K farmers and traders to make maximum use of rail services for transportation of foodgrains and avail the benefits of this scheme. He asserted that transporting foodgrains by rail, compared to road, would provide several direct benefits to farmers, traders and common consumers. Due to lower rail freight, transportation costs will reduce significantly, which will help in stabilizing the prices of wheat, rice and flour in the markets. Additionally, it will also provide relief from the frequent closure of National Highways due to heavy rains, snowfall and landslides, as rail services operate without interruption in all weather conditions. This will ensure timely and uninterrupted supply of essential commodities, Singhal stated. Since transportation by rail is done in bulk, the chances of damage and breakage of goods are also minimal. Further, with fewer trucks on the roads, traffic congestion, pollution and fuel consumption will reduce, which is an important step towards environmental conservation, he added.

South Korea's margin trading shock holds lessons for India's retail investors

The sharp correction in South Korea's stock market in July has reignited concerns over one of the biggest risks in equity investingexcessive leverage. While the immediate trigger for the sell-off was profit booking and weakening sentiment in technology stocks, analysts say the severity of the decline was amplified by record borrowing by retail investors through Margin Trading Facility (MTF). For India, where margin funding has expanded rapidly alongside the retail investing boom, the Korean experience serves as a reminder that leverage can magnify both profits and losses, often turning an ordinary market correction into a much deeper decline. When optimism fuels borrowing South Korea witnessed one of its strongest equity rallies in recent years, driven largely by the global enthusiasm surrounding artificial intelligence. Semiconductor giants such as Samsung Electronics and SK Hynix became the biggest beneficiaries as investors bet that AI demand would lead to a prolonged earnings boom. The rally encouraged retail investors to increase exposure using borrowed money instead of relying solely on their own capital. Margin financing outstanding reportedly climbed to a historic KRW 38.6 trillion by June 2026almost double the level seen a year earlier. As long as markets continued rising, leverage worked in investors' favour. Small investments generated disproportionately large returns because borrowed funds increased purchasing power. The problem emerged when the rally lost momentum. How leverage accelerates a fall Unlike conventional investing, margin trading requires investors to maintain a minimum level of equity in their trading accounts. When share prices decline, the value of the investor's collateral also falls. Once this equity drops below the required maintenance margin, brokers issue a margin call, asking investors to deposit additional money or securities. If the investor fails to comply within the stipulated period, brokers have the right to sell shares pledged under the margin account without seeking further consent. In South Korea, thousands of investors reportedly faced this situation simultaneously. The compulsory liquidation of leveraged positions flooded the market with additional selling at a time when investor confidence was already weakening. As prices declined further, more investors breached margin requirements, resulting in another round of forced selling. This chain reaction transformed what could have remained a routine correction into a far steeper decline. Why the Korean experience matters to India Although India's market structure differs from South Korea's, the rapid growth of Margin Trading Facility has raised similar concerns. Margin funding has become increasingly popular among retail investors seeking to maximise gains during the ongoing bull market. Industry data shows that the outstanding MTF book in India has crossed Rs 1.25 lakh crore, registering robust growth over the past year. The facility allows investors to purchase shares by paying only a portion of the transaction value while the remaining amount is financed by the broker against approved securities. For example, an investor with Rs 5 lakh can potentially take exposure worth Rs 10 lakh or more, depending on the broker's margin requirements. While this increases profit potential, it equally magnifies losses. A 10 per cent fall in a leveraged portfolio can wipe out a substantial portion of the investor's capital, making additional funding necessary to avoid liquidation. The hidden risks beyond price decline Many retail investors focus only on whether a stock will rise or fall, overlooking several other costs associated with margin funding. Interest is charged daily on borrowed funds irrespective of market performance. Holding leveraged positions for extended periods increases financing costs, reducing overall returns. During volatile markets, investors may also be forced to sell quality stocks simply because margin requirements have increased, even if they remain confident about the company's long-term prospects. Liquidity poses another challenge. If heavily leveraged positions are concentrated in small-cap or mid-cap stocks, sudden selling pressure may trigger lower circuits where trading becomes difficult. In such cases, investors may find themselves unable to exit positions before losses escalate. Psychology often drives excessive leverage One of the biggest lessons from South Korea is behavioural rather than financial. Bull markets tend to reduce investors' perception of risk. When portfolios appreciate consistently, confidence rises and investors begin assuming that temporary corrections will always be followed by recoveries. Rising portfolio values also increase borrowing capacity, encouraging even greater leverage. This creates a self-reinforcing cycle. Higher prices lead to higher borrowing, which generates more buying, pushing prices even higher. However, the cycle reverses just as quickly. Falling prices reduce collateral values, resulting in margin calls, forced selling and additional downward pressure. History has shown that markets experiencing excessive leverage often witness sharper corrections than markets driven primarily by cash investments. India's regulatory safeguards India's regulatory framework provides stronger safeguards compared with several overseas markets. The Securities and Exchange Board of India (SEBI) has prescribed margin norms, risk management systems and capital adequacy requirements for brokers. MTF is permitted only in approved securities, and brokers are required to monitor client positions continuously. These safeguards reduce systemic risks but cannot eliminate market risk for individual investors. If stock prices decline sharply, margin calls remain unavoidable regardless of the regulatory framework. Experts advise disciplined use Market participants increasingly advise investors to treat margin funding as a tactical tool rather than a long-term investment strategy. Leverage may be suitable for experienced investors with strict risk management, diversified portfolios and sufficient liquidity to meet unexpected margin calls. For first-time or inexperienced investors, excessive dependence on borrowed money can expose them to disproportionate losses during periods of heightened volatility. Maintaining adequate cash reserves, avoiding concentrated leveraged positions and limiting borrowing during euphoric market phases remain among the most effective ways to manage risk. The broader takeaway The South Korean experience underlines a simple but often ignored reality: leverage does not create risk; it amplifies existing risk. When markets rise, borrowed money enhances returns and creates the impression that investing has become easier. But when sentiment changes, the same leverage can rapidly erode capital and force investors to sell at the worst possible time.

J&K Govt asks banks to raise credit-deposit ratio to 81%

The Jammu and Kashmir government has directed banks operating in the Union Territory to prepare a comprehensive roadmap to raise the Credit-Deposit (CD) Ratio from the existing 61 per cent to around 81 per cent, bringing it on par with the national average. The direction was issued during the 19th meeting of the Union Territory Level Bankers' Committee (UTLBC) held at SKICC here on Friday. According to sources, the issue of the low CD ratio figured prominently during the meeting, with Chief Secretary Atal Dulloo expressing concern that despite healthy deposit mobilisation and record credit disbursement, the banking sector continues to lag in recycling local savings into productive investments within Jammu and Kashmir. Sources said the Chief Secretary asked all banks to draw up a clear, time-bound strategy with measurable interventions to progressively improve the CD ratio, observing that the current level of 61 per cent remains significantly below the national average of around 81 per cent. The government, sources said, maintained that while banks have performed well in meeting credit targets, greater emphasis must now be placed on ensuring that money deposited by people in Jammu and Kashmir is invested back into the local economy through higher lending to productive sectors. The issue assumes significance as banks operating in Jammu and Kashmir recorded their highest-ever annual credit deployment during the financial year 2025-26. According to official figures reviewed during the meeting, banks collectively disbursed loans worth Rs 84,384 crore to nearly 19.37 lakh beneficiaries, achieving 108 per cent of the Annual Credit Plan (ACP) target. Of the total credit disbursed, Rs 44,228.30 crore was extended under the priority sector, accounting for more than half of the overall lending. J&K Bank alone contributed 63.41 per cent of the total priority sector advances, underlining its dominant role in financing agriculture, MSMEs and other priority segments in the Union Territory. While appreciating the banking sector for surpassing the annual lending target and achieving a historic milestone in priority sector financing, the government made it clear that improvement in the CD ratio would remain a key focus area in the coming financial year. According to sources, the Chief Secretary observed that increasing the CD ratio is critical for accelerating economic activity, encouraging entrepreneurship and ensuring that local financial resources contribute to employment generation and business expansion within the Union Territory. The meeting also reviewed the performance of banks across different sectors and expressed concern over the weak showing of several public sector banks in priority sector lending. Banks were urged to adopt a more proactive lending approach, particularly towards agriculture, which the government believes offers substantial business opportunities besides supporting rural livelihoods. The government also flagged the relatively poor flow of institutional credit to the education and housing sectors. Banks were directed to examine the factors restricting lending in these segments and introduce more competitive loan products and pricing to improve credit offtake. To strengthen financial inclusion, banks were instructed to prepare a one-year roadmap for expanding their brick-and-mortar branch network, particularly in rural and far-flung areas where access to formal banking services remains limited. The expansion is expected to improve financial access and reduce dependence on distant banking facilities. The meeting further reviewed the implementation of central government social security schemes and noted that enrolment in the Pradhan Mantri Suraksha Bima Yojana (PMSBY), Pradhan Mantri Jeevan Jyoti Bima Yojana (PMJJBY) and Atal Pension Yojana (APY) continues to remain below the national average in Jammu and Kashmir. Banks were asked to intensify enrolment drives to widen coverage among eligible beneficiaries. In another direction aimed at improving credit delivery, banks were asked to proactively engage with eligible farmers, women Self-Help Groups (SHGs), Udyam-registered micro, small and medium enterprises (MSMEs) and artisans for onboarding onto the Unified Lending Interface (ULI), enabling faster and seamless access to institutional loans.

Aryans LL.B. students bring laurels in exams conducted under PUP

LLB Students of Aryans College of Law, Rajpura, near Chandigarh, brought laurels to the institution by securing outstanding results in the examinations conducted by Punjabi University, Patiala. In the LL.B. First Semester examinations, Richa Agarwal and Taranjit Singh jointly secured the first position with a CGPA of 8.40. Sheetal Mahajan secured the second position with a CGPA of 8.20, while Gurjot Kaur and Haq Nawaz Chaudhary jointly secured the third position with a CGPA of 8.00. Congratulating the achievers, Dr Anshu Kataria, Chairman, Aryans Group of Colleges, appreciated the dedicated efforts of the students and faculty members.Aryans students have consistently demonstrated excellence not only in academics but also in sports, innovation and cultural activities. Such remarkable results enhance the reputation of the institution and inspire other students to aim higher, said Dr. Kataria. Recently, Aryans College of Law was honoured with the title of Best Private Law College of the Chandigarh Region at the Iconic Brands of North 2026 Awards held in Chandigarh. The award was presented by Bollywood actor Neil Nitin Mukesh and received by Dr. Anshu Kataria. Aryans College of Law has also achieved several significant milestones in legal education. The college was associated with the Common Law Admission Test (CLAT) during the years 2019, 2020 and 2021. The institution was also selected as an examination centre for the Law School Admission Test (LSAT) conducted through Pearson VUE on behalf of the Law School Admission Council. LSAT scores are recognised by several internationally renowned law schools and universities in the United States and Canada.

Bilal Gani Lone hints contesting Assembly elections from home constituency Trehgam

Former Hurriyat leader Bilal Gani Lone Sunday hinted to contest the next Assembly election from his home constituency of Trehgam. Calling for public support for politics based on truth, honesty and accountability, Lone said his political journey will remain centred on public service and transparent leadership. Addressing a public convention at his native village Dard Harai in Kralpora area of north Kashmirs Kupwara district, Bilal said that the changing political landscape requires leaders to uphold integrity and public service. Recalling the advice of his late father Abdul Gani Lone, he said that politics should always be treated as a form of service and devotion. I have learnt from my late father that politics is a form of service and devotion. Therefore, one should always practice truthful politics, Lone said. He urged people not to form opinions without fully understanding issues and appealed them to carefully assess every matter before reaching conclusions. I stand alone. I have nothing to offer except a request for your support. My mission is to promote politics founded on truth, integrity and commitment to public welfare, he added. Talking about new generation politics, the former Hurriyat leader said that he intends to introduce a new generation of politics that differs from the style adopted by traditional political parties. People have repeatedly been misled in the name of politics and I want to build public trust through honesty and accountability. I have neither decided to join any political party nor to float a new one. Instead I have launched an independent political initiative and hope people from Kupwara district and across Kashmir will join me, he said. I owe a lot to the people of Kupwara. If they accept me, well and good. If they don't, I will accept that. I need nothing for myself as I am well established but I want to work for the underprivileged who have been deprived of everything over the years, Bilal said.