Opinion

Iran fully closes Strait of Hormuz over US blockade, fires on ships

Cairo, Apr 19: The standoff over the Strait of Hormuz escalated again Saturday as Iran reversed its reopening of the crucial waterway and fired on ships attempting to pass, in retaliation after the United States pressed ahead with its blockade of Iranian ports. The strait is closed until the US blockade is lifted, Iran's Revolutionary Guard navy said Saturday night, warning that o vessel should make any movement from its anchorage in the Persian Gulf and the Sea of Oman, and approaching the Strait of Hormuz will be considered as cooperation with the enemy and be targeted. New attacks on the strait, through which roughly one-fifth of the world's oil normally passes, threatened to deepen the global energy crisis and push the countries into renewed conflict as the war entered its eighth week. A fragile ceasefire is due to run out by Wednesday. Iran said it had received new proposals from the United States, and Pakistani mediators were working to arrange another round of direct negotiations. Iran's joint military command earlier said control of the Strait of Hormuz has returned to its previous state ... under strict management and control of the armed forces. Revolutionary Guard gunboats opened fire on a tanker and an unknown projectile hit a container vessel, damaging some containers, the British military's United Kingdom Maritime Trade Operations centre said. India's foreign ministry said it summoned Iran's ambassador over the serious incident of firing on two India-flagged merchant ships, especially after Iran earlier let several India-bound ships through. For Iran, the strait's closure -- imposed after the US and Israel launched the war on February 28 during talks over Tehran's nuclear programme -- is perhaps its most powerful weapon, threatening the world economy and inflicting political pain on President Donald Trump. For the United States, the blockade keeps up pressure and could strangle Iran's already weakened economy. Iran's new supreme leader, Ayatollah Mojtaba Khamenei, issued defiant remarks on Saturday, saying the navy stands eady to inflict bitter defeats on its enemies. He has not been seen in public since being elevated to the post following his father's death in Israel's opening barrage. A turnaround a day after Iran said the strait was open On Friday, Iran announced the strait's reopening to commercial vessels after a 10-day truce was announced between Israel and the Iranian-backed Hezbollah militant group in Lebanon. The reopening caused oil prices to fall. Trump, however, said the US blockade of Iran's ports will remain in full force until Tehran reaches a deal with the United States. Trump had imposed the blockade after a round of historic face-to-face talks in Pakistan between the countries ended without an agreement. US forces have sent 23 ships back to Iran since the blockade began on Monday, US Central Command said Saturday. Trump's comments triggered an outcry. Americans are risking the international community, risking the global economy through these, I can say, miscalculations, Iranian Deputy Foreign Minister Saeed Khatibzadeh told The Associated Press, adding that the US is isking the whole ceasefire package. Iran's Supreme National Security Council issued a statement calling the blockade a violation of the ceasefire and said Iran would prevent any conditional and limited reopening of the strait. The council has recently acted as Iran's de facto top decision-making body. Since most supplies to US military bases in the Gulf region come through the strait, Iran is determined to maintain oversight and control over traffic through the strait until the war fully ends, the council said. That means Iran-designated routes, payment of fees and issuance of transit certificates. The Revolutionary Guard navy statement later indicated that no vessel should attempt a transit at all. Pakistan pushes for progress toward a new deal The renewed standoff over the strait came hours after Pakistani Foreign Minister Ishaq Dar said his country was working to ridge differences between the US and Iran. Pakistan is expected to host a second round of negotiations early next week. Iran's Supreme National Security Council said ew proposals from the US had been put forward during a visit to Iran by Pakistan's army chief and were being reviewed. But Khatibzadeh said the Iranians were not ready for a new round of face-to-face talks because the Americans have not abandoned their maximalist position. He also said Iran will not hand over its stock of 970 pounds (440 kilograms) of enriched uranium to the United States, calling the idea a non-starter. Khatibzadeh did not address other proposals for the enriched uranium, saying only that we are ready to address any concerns. Trump said Saturday that Iran got a little cute but that very good conversations were happening, and more information would come by day's end. They can't blackmail us, he added. On Friday, Trump said the US will go into Iran and get all the nuclear dust, referring to the enriched uranium, which is believed to be buried under nuclear sites badly damaged by US military strikes last year. French peacekeeper is killed in Lebanon French President Emmanuel Macron said a French soldier was killed and three others were wounded Saturday during an attack on UN peacekeepers in southern Lebanon. Everything suggests that responsibility for this attack lies with Hezbollah, Macron wrote on social media. The UNIFIL peacekeeping force also blamed Hezbollah. Hezbollah denied involvement. Pakistan's foreign minister said fighting between Israel and Hezbollah had been a key sticking point in US-Iran talks, and the declaration of a ceasefire in Lebanon was seen as a boost to efforts for an Iran agreement. It was unclear to what extent Hezbollah would abide by a truce it did not play a role in negotiating, especially with Israeli troops still occupying a stretch of southern Lebanon. In Beirut, displaced families began moving toward southern Lebanon and the capital's southern suburbs despite warnings by officials not to return home until it was clear whether the ceasefire would hold. The Iran war has killed at least 3,000 people in Iran, more than 2,290 in Lebanon, 23 in Israel and more than a dozen in Gulf Arab states. Thirteen US service members have been killed.

AIP Working Committee appeals for Er Rashids release on humanitarian grounds

The Awami Itihaad Party (AIP) held a meeting of its Working Committee in Srinagar, presided over by Vice President Adv. GN Shaheen and was attended by General Secretary Prince Parveez Shah, Chief Spokesperson Inam Un Nabi, State Secretary Sheikh Ashiq, and others. As per a press release, the meeting expressed deep concern over what it termed as a growing disregard for humanitarian values within the democratic framework. The participants noted that despite Engineer Rashid raising the critical condition of his ailing father on the floor of Parliament, there has been no compassionate response, reflecting a troubling erosion of basic human sensitivity. The Working Committee members emphasized that democracy is not merely about institutions but also about empathy and humane conduct, particularly in situations involving grave personal distress. At the same time, the party expressed profound gratitude to several religious and political leaders cutting across party lines for standing in solidarity with the family during this difficult time. The leaders acknowledged include Mirwaiz Umar Farooq, Syed Mohammad Altaf Bukhari, Bilal Gani Lone, Sharief Ud Din Shariq, Javed Ahmad Mir, Aga Muntazir, Munner Khan, and Shameem Thakur. The party particularly appreciated the visits made by these leaders to inquire about the health of Haji Khazir Mohammad Sheikh, terming it a commendable humanitarian gesture. The AIP noted that such acts of compassion across political divides have provided a sense of belonging and emotional support to the family of Er Rashid during a time of distress. The meeting concluded with an appeal for immediate and unconditional release of MP Er Rashid and reiterated of AIPs commitment to uphold democratic principles rooted in humanity, dignity and justice.

NC remembers party stalwart Sadiq Ali on his 15th death anniversary

National Conference Saturday observed the 15th death anniversary of party stalwart leader, former treasurer and legislator Sadiq Ali, with solemn tributes and renewed commitment to his political legacy. The Chief Spokesperson and MLA Zadibal Tanvir Sadiq led party functionaries in offering floral tributes and Fatiha at a commemorative function organised by Block Zadibal at the Khawaja Habibullah Nowsheri Community Hall, Nowshahr. The event witnessed participation from a wide cross-section of society including party leaders, Islamic scholars, civil society members, and political activists. The gathering also featured Quran Khawani and Naat Khawani, reflecting the solemnity of the occasion. Speakers paid rich tributes to Sadiq Ali, recalling his sharp political acumen, statesmanship, and unwavering commitment to people-centric politics. His contribution towards strengthening the organisational structure of the party and his visionary leadership were highlighted as enduring pillars of inspiration for the cadre. Among those present were YNC Provincial President Mir Mushtaq, YNC District President Srinagar Irshad Ahmad Anchari along with several senior leaders and dignitaries. In a separate commemorative meeting held at the party headquarters, Nawa-e-Subha, Party General Secretary Haji Ali Muhammad Sagar chaired the proceedings and led the functionaries in offering Fatiha and tributes. He fondly remembered Sadiq Ali as a multifaceted personality and a dedicated leader who played a key role in shaping the partys ideological and organisational strength. The speakers collectively reaffirmed their resolve to uphold Sadiq Alis political ideals and continue working for the empowerment of people and strengthening democratic values in Jammu and Kashmir.

Ramban missing youth case: Search continues on day 7 in Nallah Bishleri, no breakthrough yet

The search operation for Tanveer Ahmad Chopan, a youth who allegedly jumped into Nallah Bishleri in Ramban district, continued for the seventh consecutive day on Saturday without any success. Tanveer Ahmad Chopan reportedly went missing last Sunday after allegedly being chased by miscreants near Digdool along the JammuSrinagar National Highway. He is believed to have jumped into Nallah Bishleri between Pantiyal and the Makarkoot bridge and tunnel area. Since then, rescue teams have been conducting extensive searches in the fast-flowing Bishleri stream. Authorities said that advanced equipment, including cameras and drones, has been deployed to scan beneath large boulders and inaccessible spots where the body could be trapped. On Saturday, over 100 volunteers along with teams from the National Disaster Response Force (NDRF), State Disaster Response Force (SDRF), police, army, and several local volunteer groups actively participated in the operation. Organizations such as Himalayan QRT Ramsoo, Banihal Volunteers, Civil QRT Ramban, QRT Khari, Umeed, Red Cross Banihal, and Hamdard also extended their support. The search operation is being carried out across a wide stretchfrom the confluence of Nallah Bishleri with the Chenab River at Battery Chashma up to Digdool and the Makarkoot incident site. The operation is being supervised by Additional SP Ramban, Mujeeb-ur-Rehman Bhat, and SDM Ramsoo, Syed Mazahir Hussain Shah, along with other officials. Meanwhile, expert diver Mohammad Hamza Bhai from Doda-based volunteer group Ababeel rejoined the rescue efforts at Makarkoot on Saturday. Despite intensified efforts, no trace of the missing youth was found until fresh rainfall in the Saturday afternoon forced teams to scale down operations temporarily.

Kabuls skies reclaim joy as kite festival revives tradition and togetherness

The sky above Kabul, once marked by long stretches of silence broken only by gunfire and drifting smoke, or natural disasters and occasion roaring of helicopter or flying jet has transformed into a dotted canvas of colour and motion. Today, bright flying kites glide like a flying ribbon, and dart across a clear blue backdrop, carrying with them a sense of calm, shared joy looks. Beneath them, families gather, children laugh, and communities reconnect in a festival that feels as symbolic as it is celebratory. For many, especially the younger generation, the festival offers something increasingly rare: time outdoors. In a world where screens often dominate attention, the sight of hundreds of eyes lifted toward the sky feels significant. Children who might otherwise be absorbed in phones are instead running across open deserted fields, chasing loose kites and cheering each other on. The simple act of looking up, of being present in a shared space, becomes part of the celebration and delight itself. According to Tolo News, the three-day festival has drawn large crowds from across Kabul and the surroundings, turning the event into a lively gathering centred on tradition and togetherness. Kite flying, long regarded as one of the countrys most cherished pastimes, provides both competition and connection. Participants describe it not just as a game, but as an expression of cultural identity and collective memory. Tolo News quoted one participant as saying, Kite flying is one of Afghanistans traditional games that has long been popular among the people of Kabul. In the past, people used to coat the string with glass to make the string stronger, and overall, it is a very enjoyable game. Others, as reported by local media, echoed the sentiment, emphasising the festivals role in bringing families together. We came to the kite festival for recreation, to spend some happy time with our family members, another attendee shared. The energy of the competition builds with every kite launched. When strings cross, and one is cut, the crowd erupts. A freed kite drifts unpredictably, and instantly, young people sprint across the open areas or congested lanes, eager to capture it. Laughter follows as multiple voices claim victory, each insisting they were the one who made the decisive cut. In the end, one competitor may be declared the winner, but the excitement belongs to everyone. Beyond the competition, the festival carries a deeper purpose. Organizers say the event is designed to promote unity, encourage social interaction, and celebrate the arrival of spring, a season often associated with renewal and hope. Thousands of kites and reels have been distributed free by doners and game lovers, ensuring that all class of people, regardless of means, can participate. The gathering has also grown into a broader showcase of activity and talent. Regional media reported that alongside the kite flying, freestyle performers and athletes draw crowds with dynamic displays, adding another layer of entertainment and drawing even more people into the festive atmosphere. For older generations, the scenes take them back into their memory lanes, the powerful childhood memories. One elderly participant recalled flying kites as a child with his father, describing the tradition as a cultural inheritance passed down through generations. For him and many others, the festival is not just about the present moment, it is a bridge between past and future. Kite flying in Kabul has long been tied to both winter and spring, seasons when communities come together to mark change and continuity. After years when conflict limited such gatherings, the return of large-scale celebrations carries added meaning. The kites themselves, light, colourful, fragile, yet resilient, seem to mirror the spirit of the people below. As one attendee said, kite flying conveys a message of peace. It creates space for connection, for joy, and for the kind of shared experience that strengthens communities. Kabuls kite flying festival becomes more than an event, it becomes a reminder of what it means to come together.

Govt says El Nino threat to agri sector manageable due to better irrigation, reserves

The government on Saturday said it expects any damage to agriculture from a potential El Nino weather pattern this year to be limited, citing improved irrigation infrastructure, higher reservoir levels and better-prepared farmers than during previous such episodes. The assurance came as Agriculture Minister Shivraj Singh Chouhan chaired a preparatory meeting for the Kharif crop season, which begins with the onset of the southwest monsoon in June and accounts for a substantial share of the countrys annual farm output. The India Meteorological Department (IMD), has forecast below-normal monsoon rainfall this year at around 92 per cent of the long-period average, and has flagged a risk of El Nino conditions developing during the season. A final forecast is due in late May. Farmers need not have any concerns, Chouhan told the meeting, according to a ministry statement, adding that the government was moving ahead with complete preparedness. Despite the potential El Nino impact, its effect on the agriculture sector is likely to remain relatively limited compared to previous instances, the statement added. A critical factor behind the governments confidence is the current state of water reserves. Reservoir storage across the country stands at 127 per cent of the normal level for this time of year, the officials said in the meeting, providing a significant buffer for irrigation needs through the growing season. Seed stocks for both the Kharif and subsequent Rabi seasons have been secured above requirements, with emergency reserves set aside should adverse weather force farmers to replant or switch crops. Officials at the meeting contrasted current conditions with El Nino episodes between 2000 and 2016, when crop losses were more severe because farmers relied more heavily on rainfall and had fewer tools to cope with climate shocks. Since then, India has expanded micro-irrigation networks, introduced climate-resilient seed varieties and strengthened early-warning systems - changes the government said have materially reduced the sectors vulnerability. Paddy, the main Kharif crop grown across large swathes of the country, was specifically cited as showing greater stability, while contingency plans are being drawn up for crops considered more exposed to a rainfall shortfall. Chouhan directed state governments to activate contingency plans down to the district level, and asked officials to promote drought-tolerant varieties and delayed sowing strategies as practical options for farmers if conditions worsen. A crop-weather monitoring mechanism is already operational, the ministry said, with the Centre and states coordinating regularly to enable quick responses. El Nino, a periodic warming of surface waters in the central and eastern Pacific Ocean, typically disrupts monsoon patterns over South Asia and has historically been associated with weaker-than-normal rainfall in India, raising the risk of drought in rain-fed farming regions. India is the worlds second-largest producer of rice and wheat, and farm output directly affects the livelihoods of hundreds of millions of people.

Zahoor Bhat elected president of New Fruit Traders Association Sopore

In a significant development for the horticulture sector, fruit traders at the Sopore fruit mandioften regarded as Asias second-largeston Saturday formed a new representative body under the banner of The Kashmir Fruit Traders Association at Fruit Mandi Apple Town Sopore. The decision was taken at a well-attended meeting of traders and stakeholders, reflecting a collective push to strengthen unity, improve coordination, and address long-standing challenges confronting the fruit trade in the region. During the meeting, Zahoor Ahmad Bhat was unanimously elected as President of the newly formed association, signalling broad consensus and confidence among members. Addressing the gathering, Bhat thanked the trading community for reposing trust in his leadership and pledged to work with dedication, transparency, and accountability. *I will strive to safeguard the interests of traders and take up key issues with the authorities to ensure better infrastructure and facilities at the mandi,* he said. He emphasised that collective efforts are crucial to improving the efficiency and functioning of the mandi, while ensuring better amenities for both growers and traders. He also underlined the importance of strengthening Kashmirs fruit industry, a sector that supports thousands of livelihoods across the Valley. Members of the association congratulated the newly elected president and expressed confidence that the body would work with renewed commitment to resolve pressing issues and streamline operations within the mandi. The formation of the association is being widely seen as a constructive step towards empowering traders and ensuring a more organised approach to addressing challenges in Sopores key fruit trade hub.

Fruit growers press for crop insurance, MIS revival

The Kashmir Valley Fruit Growers-cum-Dealers Union (KVFGDU) on Saturday strongly pressed for urgent policy interventions to safeguard the horticulture sector, placing a comprehensive charter of demands before the government during a high-level meeting. The delegation, led by its Chairman Bashir Ahmad Basheer and comprising presidents of fruit growers associations from across the Valley, highlighted a range of long-pending issues affecting growers and traders during a meeting with the Agriculture and Horticulture Minister, Javid Ahmad Dar. Prominent among the demands was the implementation of a Crop Insurance Scheme for the horticulture sector on the analogy of the agriculture sector, which growers said is critical to protect them from recurring losses due to weather uncertainties and market fluctuations. The Union also sought the immediate reintroduction of the Market Intervention Scheme (MIS) to stabilise prices and prevent distress sales. The delegation further demanded issuance of licenses in fruit and vegetable markets across J&K, regulation of controlled atmosphere (CA) cold storage units to curb what they described as unilateral practices, and execution as well as transfer of lease deeds for shop sites, along with allotment of shops and auction sheds in mandis. In addition, the growers called for the constitution of a dedicated Horticulture Marketing Board and the establishment of a separate horticulture estate on the pattern of industrial estates in the Union Territory. They also stressed the need for the comprehensive development of fruit mandis across the Valley. Speaking after the meeting, Chairman Bashir Ahmad Basheer said, *The horticulture sector is the backbone of Kashmirs economy, and it is imperative that growers are provided institutional safeguards like crop insurance and market support mechanisms. We have urged the government to take immediate steps to address these pressing issues so that growers do not continue to suffer losses year after year.* He added that regulating cold storage operations and ensuring proper infrastructure in mandis are equally crucial for streamlining the supply chain and ensuring fair returns to growers. Responding to the concerns, Minister Javid Ahmad Dar, who chaired the meeting, assured the delegation that all issues would be examined and addressed in a phased and time-bound manner. The Minister informed that the Crop Insurance Scheme is currently under active consideration of the government and is likely to be implemented within one to one-and-a-half months. During the interaction, representatives from various districts also raised mandi-specific issues related to infrastructure gaps and developmental needs. The Minister assured that all such concerns would be looked into on priority. The meeting concluded with a vote of thanks, with growers expressing cautious optimism that the assurances would translate into concrete action on the ground.

Rupee slide, external pressures push India to 6th largest economy

Indias economy is showing signs of moderation, with growth momentum easing amid structural challenges and rising external headwinds. The countrys slip to sixth place in global economic rankings is largely attributed to persistent depreciation of the rupee, volatility in international crude oil prices, and broader macroeconomic pressures. As a major energy importer, India remains particularly vulnerable to oil price fluctuations, which strain the fiscal balance and widen the current account deficit. While India continues to rank among the fastest-growing major economies, recent indicators point to a transition from rapid expansion to a more cautious and uneven growth phase. Elevated inflation and rising input costs are expected to weigh on overall growth. High crude prices have also triggered outflows by foreign portfolio investors (FPIs), adding further pressure on the rupee. Economists note that the decline in global ranking is driven primarily by currency depreciationspecifically the weakening of the rupee against a strong US dollarrather than a sharp slowdown in real economic activity, as global GDP comparisons are calculated in dollar terms. Global trade uncertainties have further complicated the outlook. Trade tensions and policy ambiguity in the United States have prompted India to diversify its trade partnerships, including increased engagement with European markets. Earlier in 2026, IndiaU.S. trade talks aimed at doubling bilateral trade stalled over unresolved issues in the agriculture and dairy sectors, resulting in continued tariff barriers and heightened uncertainty. India has now fallen behind the United Kingdom, becoming the worlds sixth-largest economy, with an estimated GDP of $4.15 trillion compared to the UKs $4.26 trillion for FY202627. According to the International Monetary Fund (IMF), Indias real GDP growth is projected at 6.5 percent for FY27. In 2025, Indias GDP stood at $3.92 trillion, slightly trailing the UKs $4 trillion. Consequently, earlier projections of India overtaking Japan to become the fourth-largest economy have been deferred. Revised government data released in February also lowered nominal GDP estimates from 357 lakh crore to 345.5 lakh crore under a new series. Senior economists highlight that goods exports declined by over 7 percent in March 2026, with notable drops in shipments to key markets such as the US and UAE. Rising war-risk insurance premiums and freight costs have further disrupted shipping through the Strait of Hormuz. Meanwhile, higher import costs for energy and fertilisers are widening the fiscal deficit, potentially forcing the government to expand subsidy support in the coming months.

Kashmir transporters call for strike on Monday over Smart City bus expansion

Transporters across the Kashmir division have called for a complete chakka jam on Monday in protest against the proposed expansion of Smart City bus services to various districts, expressing concern over its impact on the local transport sector. Representatives of the transport community said the move could jeopardize the livelihood of thousands of families dependent on private transport operations across the Valley. Transporters representative Shabir Matta expressed strong resentment, stating that the decision threatens an already struggling sector. Private operators are already grappling with multiple challenges, and the extension of Smart City buses to district routes has further deepened uncertainty, he said. The transport body maintained that while modernisation of public transport is important, it should not come at the cost of existing stakeholders. They urged the administration to review the decision and hold consultations with transporters to arrive at a mutually acceptable solution. Announcing the protest, transporters said services will remain suspended across the Valley on Monday as part of the shutdown. They appealed to the public for cooperation while urging authorities to step in to prevent inconvenience to commuters. Meanwhile, the Kashmir Trade Alliance on Saturday urged the J&K government to urgently address the grievances of transporters ahead of the strike call. In a statement, KTA President Aijaz Shahdhar appealed to the authorities to initiate dialogue with the protesting transporters and resolve the issues amicably to avoid disruption to trade and daily life. The government should listen to their issues and amicably resolve the matter, Shahdhar said, stressing that prolonged uncertainty could adversely impact business activities across the Valley. He warned that any strike by the transport sector would have a cascading effect on the supply chain, affecting movement of essential goods and inconveniencing the general public. The KTA president further urged both the government and transporters to engage in constructive discussions and arrive at a mutually acceptable solution at the earliest.

J&K healthcare needs major overhaul

New Delhi, Apr 18:Healthcare delivery in J&K needs a major overhaul in order to cater to changing healthcare needs of the population and in view of the deficiencies that lack definitive contours. In an exclusive talk on the sidelines of five year commemoration of Gauri Kaul Foundation, Khurshid Ahmed Ganai, Retired IAS Officer and former Advisor to Governor, J&K, told Greater Kashmir a thorough assessment of J&K Health was mandatory in order to address pressing issues. Ganai called for audit of healthcare infrastructure and human resource to improve facilities in outlay areas of J&K. He said gap assessment of manpower in health facilities, measured against the population needs of the area, would help the incumbent Government get a realistic estimate of the deficiencies that need to be filled. There may be a lot of deficiencies, and not everything can be fixed at the same time. However, gap analysis would definitely help in a realistic and cascaded approach to addressing the issues of recruitment, he said. In addition, the equipment and infrastructure audit was also necessary and mandated to assess the deficiency as per the IPHS norms. This approach will also elucidate where the problem lies and provide factual and data-powered budget demands from the health sector. This will make a lasting impact on the improvement of healthcare delivery in the outlying areas, he said. In the second stage, Government could address the burning issue of upgradation based on health facilities. Certain facilities could be augmented and some more areas could be covered, depending on the needs of the population, and subject to availability of resources, he said. Ganai said that Directorate of Health Services and Jammu have their facilities spanning in rural, semi-urban, sub-urban, rural and outlay areas. These Directorates, he said, Could be given the mandate of healthcare services only in rural and outlay areas. This, he said, would consolidate the towns and district headquarters to have their healthcare facilities catered by new medical colleges and medical education department, while cities like Jammu and Srinagar are already saturated with facilities. It is only the rural, peripheral areas and populations that are suffering due to shortage of human resource in health facilities, as many people, recruited for these facilities manage to get easier, central postings in Directorate, he said. He said the people who are appointed and recruited for rural service will have no other choice but to work in rural hospitals. In 2014, new CD blocks were created, but these blocks are not coterminous with medical blocks. There is a haitus between CD blocks and health blocks. The medical block is serving a different set of villages, while the CD block is a different area. The medical blocks at the current time are much less than the number of CD blocks, he said. There would be better planning and allocation of resources at Panchayat level and district level if these blocks are coterminous. Referring to the private sector healthcare penetration in rural areas, he said, that private investment and facilities must be encouraged. The public-private partnerships must be encouraged so that there are improved facilities for people across the geographies in J&K. However, there needs to be more vigil on the private sector to ensure ethical practices and standards, he said.

Govt determined to liberate society of drug addiction: LG Sinha

Rajouri, Apr 18:Lieutenant Governor Manoj Sinha on Saturday said that the government is determined to liberate the society of drug addiction. Joining Padyatra and addressing a public rally in Rajouri under drug-free J&K campaign, LG Sinha said that border district Rajouri is sensitive and prone to cross-border drug smuggling. But we are determined to crush these challenges, dismantle the drug trade and liberate society from addiction. From April 11, J&K Police had launched a relentless crackdown in Jammu Division. More than 45 FIRs were filed, 63 smugglers nabbed and massive drug hauls seized between the 11th and 15th. Regular Checks are now covering schools, pharmacies, drug agencies and this drive will continue relentlessly, he said. In his address, the LG emphasised that not all wars rage on borders. He said some battles brew unseen and for years and countless Jammu Kashmir families have fought addiction within their walls and many lost loved ones to it. On April 11, from the hallowed grounds of Jammu's MA Stadium, we sounded the clarion call to total war by launching a resolute 100-day crusade against drug addiction. I believe addiction is no mere personal failing but it's a gaping wound in our society's fabric. Our terrorist neighbour deploys it as an insidious weapon, nurturing terror through drug smuggling and eroding our nation's strength from within. We shall prevail in this battle by uniting as one and every citizen rising with unyielding resolve, LG Sinha said. He said that cases registered before April 11 had witnessed a three times increase in last 7 days. In 100 days, we must completely break the back of drug networks. When the power of society and the might of the administration come together, neither smugglers nor criminals will be spared, the LG said. He also highlighted that prevention anchors drug-free J&K campaign and he considers that prevention is mightier than any cure in such cases. We must reach our children before drugs do, igniting awareness and self-respect in every school, college, playground, and community hub, LG Sinha said. He also called upon J&K Police and other enforcement agencies to ensure exemplary punishment for drug smugglers. Make sure no culprit escapes. We should unleash exemplary crackdowns on traffickers poisoning our youth. Those ruining generations won't slip away, the LG said, adding that administration has crafted an SoP to obliterate drug smugglers networks and ensuring swift justice. He said that from detection and counseling to detox, rehab, and aftercare, our pledge is total rehabilitation. LG Sinha asked the officials to audit weekly activities including list of rehabbed lives, list of arrested smugglers while ensuring that fake centers are shuttered. We will restore people's dignity, reconnect them to our shared society, and unleash their potential to build Rajouri's brighter future. This mission demands more than government efforts. I call upon every social organization and NGOs to join us in this noble endeavor, he said. The LG also administered the anti-drug pledge and also launched Rajouri Premier League and Rajouri Football Club under the Nasha Mukt Jammu Kashmir Abhiyaan. On the occasion, artists through musical opera spread awareness on the devastating impacts of substance abuse.

Cabinet clears 2% DA, DR hike for central staff, pensioners from January 2026

New Delhi, Apr 18: The Union Cabinet, chaired by Prime Minister Narendra Modi, on Saturday approved an additional instalment of Dearness Allowance (DA) for central government employees and Dearness Relief (DR) for pensioners, effective January 1, 2026. The hike of 2 percentage points raises DA and DR from the existing 58% to 60% of basic pay and pension, aimed at offsetting the impact of inflation. According to an official statement, the decision will have an annual financial implication of approximately 6,791.24 crore on the exchequer. The increase is expected to benefit around 50.46 lakh central government employees and 68.27 lakh pensioners. The revision follows the standard formula linked to price rise, based on the recommendations of the 7th Central Pay Commission, which guides periodic adjustments in DA and DR. Dearness Allowance and Dearness Relief are revised periodically to help employees and pensioners cope with rising living costs, with changes typically aligned to movements in inflation indices.

India summons Iran envoy over Hormuz firing

New Delhi, Apr 18:India on Saturday expressed deep concern over a firing incident involving merchant vessels in the Strait of Hormuz, summoning the Iranian ambassador and urging Tehran to ensure the safety of Indian shipping in the strategically vital waterway. In an official statement, Ministry of External Affairs spokesperson Randhir Jaiswal confirmed that the envoy of Iran was called in following reports that two Indian-flagged vessels were forced to reverse course after gunfire was reported in the region. The Ambassador of the Islamic Republic of Iran in New Delhi was called in by the Ministry of External Affairs for a meeting with Foreign Secretary this evening. During the meeting, Foreign Secretary conveyed Indias deep concern at the shooting incident earlier today involving two Indian-flagged ships in the Strait of Hormuz. He noted the importance that India attached to the safety of merchant shipping and mariners and recalled that Iran had earlier facilitated the safe passage of several ships bound for India. Reiterating his concern at this serious incident of firing on merchant ships, Foreign Secretary urged the Ambassador to convey Indias views to the authorities in Iran and resume at the earliest the process of facilitating India-bound ships across the Strait. The Ambassador of Iran undertook to convey these views to the Iranian authorities, Jaiswal said. The development comes amid rising tensions in the region, with two Indian vessels reportedly turning back after gunfire was detected. According to the UK Maritime Trade Operations (UKMTO), a tanker transiting the strait also reported being hit by an unidentified projectile, causing limited damage to some containers. Authorities are currently investigating the incident. Vessel-tracking platform TankerTrackers.com, cited by the Associated Press, said the ships included an Indian-flagged supertanker carrying around 2 million barrels of Iraqi oil. The incident reportedly occurred about 20 nautical miles north-east of Oman. While the tanker and its crew are said to be safe, with no immediate reports of casualties or major damage. The episode highlights the risk and the deteriorating security environment in the Strait of Hormuz, a critical artery for global energy supplies. Officials indicated that India has stressed the need for immediate steps to restore safe passage for commercial shipping, even as diplomatic channels remain engaged with Tehran.

From Kashmir to the Kaaba, pilgrims begin the journey of a lifetime

Srinagar, Apr 18:It was not yet fully morning when the tears began. Outside Hajj House Bemina, families had been gathering since the early hours, some arriving before the call to Fajr had even faded from the cool Srinagar air. They came carrying nothing but prayers and the particular heaviness of a farewell that is also a celebration. Their sons, daughters, mothers, and fathers were leaving for Mecca, and no one quite knew how to stand still. Ghulam Mohammad, an elderly pilgrim from Srinagar, stopped just short of the gate and turned around one last time. His eyes were wet. His hands were folded. It feels like Allah has invited us to His house, he said. We waited many years for this moment. The scenes at Hajj House were the kind that resist easy description. Children waved at departing grandparents. Women wiped their eyes with the ends of their dupattas. Old men clutched prayer beads and travel documents with equal care, already reciting quietly to themselves, already halfway to Mecca in their hearts. Some families embraced in total silence, as if words would only get in the way of what needed to be felt. A woman who had come to see off her parents stood near the gate and steadied herself before she could speak. There are tears because they are leaving us behind, she said finally, but there is happiness because they are going for Hajj. This is a blessing for our whole family. Nearby, a young man named Shoaib Ahmad stood watching the crowd inch slowly through the gate. He looked around at the gathered faces, each carrying its own private weight of emotion, and said softly, Every family here carries emotion today. We only pray that all pilgrims complete Hajj in good health and return safely. Three flights, 431 souls, and the quiet machinery of a journey that begins with a lifetime of longing Three flights were scheduled for Saturday, the very first of twenty-eight that will operate between April 18 and May 5 to carry a total of 4701 pilgrims from Jammu and Kashmir to Saudi Arabia this season. The first batch comprised 230 men and 201 women, divided across the three flights departing Srinagar International Airport through the course of the morning. Shujaat Ahmad Qureshi, Executive Officer of the J&K Hajj Committee, said every arrangement had been put in place well before the first pilgrim arrived at the premises. We have made all necessary arrangements for the comfort and convenience of pilgrims, he said. The process has remained smooth since morning. Transportation, baggage handling, medical screening and documentation were all in order, built to keep the departures dignified and unhurried. Pilgrims were asked to report at Hajj House as per their allotted timings. The first flight, QP-7521, had passengers reporting between 6 and 6.30 in the morning, the second, QP-7520, between 8:15 and 8:45, and the third, QP-7519, between 9 and 9:30. Each pilgrim was advised to carry their passport, visa copy, vaccination card and standard baggage only. At Srinagar International Airport, Chief Minister Omar Abdullah arrived to personally bid farewell to the first batch, formally marking the commencement of Hajj operations 2026 from Jammu and Kashmir. He did not stand at a distance. He moved among the pilgrims, stopped to speak with them, shook hands, offered warm words and wished each of them a safe, peaceful and spiritually fulfilling journey to the holiest sites in Islam. He prayed for the successful completion of Hajj and expressed hope that the pilgrimage would deepen in every returning pilgrim the values of compassion, unity and brotherhood. He sought divine blessings for lasting peace, harmony and prosperity in Jammu and Kashmir and for the well-being of all its people. Advisor to the Chief Minister Nasir Aslam Wani, Divisional Commissioner Kashmir, Deputy Commissioner Budgam, Director Airport Srinagar, senior civil and police officials, members of the J&K Hajj Committee and Airport Authority representatives were all present on the occasion. When the last flight rose above the mountains, the courtyard fell silent and Kashmir was left with only prayers and the long wait for their return. By the time the last of the three flights lifted off the Srinagar tarmac and disappeared into the pale morning sky, the courtyard at Haj House had grown quiet. The families had begun to leave, carrying home that particular mixture of longing and pride that comes only from sending someone you love toward something sacred.

Cong anti-reform party: PM

New Delhi, Apr 18:The Congress is an anti-reform party and deploys its full force to thwart any work that strengthens the country, Prime Minister Narendra Modi said, as he launched a blistering attack on the opposition party on Saturday, a day after the governments Constitution amendment bill was defeated in the Lok Sabha. In his address to the nation, Modi said the Congress has the same pattern: Whatever reforms come -- lie and mislead people. His remarks came a day after the Constitution (131st Amendment) Bill to increase the number of Lok Sabha seats to 816 and implement 33 per cent reservation for women in legislatures in 2029 was defeated in the Lower House. Modi said he believes that the Congress lost the opportunity to stand with the women of the country. The Congress has lost its footing in several parts of the country and is keeping itself alive by piggybacking on regional parties like a parasite, Modi said. He said the Congress does not want the strength of regional parties to grow and therefore carried out the political conspiracy of pushing many regional parties futures into darkness by making them oppose the bill. By opposing womens reservation, Congress has once again shown that it is an anti-reform party. For 21st-century India, whatever reforms are necessary, the decisions the country is taking, Congress opposes all of them, rejects them, and puts obstacles in their way. This is the history of Congress, and this is its negative politics, Modi said. This is the same Congress which opposed the Jan Dhan, Aadhaar, Mobile trishakti, the prime minister said. Modi said the Congress opposed digital payments, GST, reservation to the general category poor, triple talaq law, removal of Article 370, and also opposed the uniform civil code. As soon as it (Congress) hears reform, it runs with its placard of opposing it. The Congress deploys its full force to put obstacles in the way of any work through which the country is strengthened, Modi said. Congress opposes one nation, one election; it also opposes removing infiltrators, purification of electoral lists through SIR, reform in waqf boards and protection to refugees through CAA, he said, adding that the party also put obstacles in efforts to end Maoist and Naxal violence. History is witness that Congress has always chosen this negative path, the prime minister declaimed. Whatever work is important for the country, the Congress brushes it under the carpet. Due to this approach of the Congress, India has not been able to attain the heights of development that it deserves, Modi said. At the time of Indias Independence, several countries got freedom, but most of those countries moved ahead of us, and the reason was that the Congress stalled all reforms, he said. Modi said the Congress kept stalling the resolution of border disputes with neighbouring countries, including the water disputes with Pakistan. It stalled the decision on OBC reservation for 40 years. It stalled One Rank One Pension for 40 years. This approach of the Congress has always harmed the country in a big way, Modi said. The country and its generations had to pay because of the opposition of the Congress and its deception, he said. All big challenges that are there before the country are due to this approach of the Congress, the prime minister said. I have no doubt in my mind that all the sisters and mothers of the country will give a befitting reply to this mindset of the Congress, he asserted. On Friday in the Lok Sabha, while 298 members voted in support of the bill, 230 MPs voted against it. Out of 528 members who voted, the bill required 352 votes for a two-thirds majority. The bill proposed to increase the number of Lok Sabha seats to 816 from the current 543 to operationalise the womens reservation law before the 2029 parliamentary polls, following a delimitation exercise based on the 2011 Census. Seats were also to be increased in state and UT assemblies to accommodate 33 per cent reservation for women. The three-day special sitting was convened from April 16 to 18 to secure Parliaments approval for the bill.

Congress, allies committed sin of foeticide by killing quota bill: PM Modi

New Delhi, Apr 18:Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Saturday warned the Congress and its allies that the women of India will severely punish them for the sin of foeticide after they killed a bill on womens reservation in Parliament and state assemblies. In an address to the nation, Modi apologised to the women, and said the government may have lost the vote but it will never give up its efforts to empower women. We may not have got the necessary 66 per cent votes for the passage of the bill yesterday, but we have got 100 per cent blessings of Nari Shakti, Modi said in an address to the nation, a day after a bill to implement 33 per cent womens reservation in legislatures in 2029 was defeated in the Lok Sabha. He said the opposition parties have mercilessly crushed the dream of women by not allowing the bill to pass in Parliament despite the governments best efforts. I seek forgiveness from all women of the country, he said, while asserting that his government will remove all obstacles in the way of implementing womens reservation and for their empowerment. Modi, in his 30-minute speech, alleged that the self-serving politics of parties like the Congress, DMK, TMC and the Samajwadi Party has come at the expense of the nations women. The prime minister said the opposition parties, which have opposed the Nari Shakti Vandan Amendment in Parliament, are taking women power for granted. Today, every citizen of India is witnessing how the march of Indias women has been halted. The dreams of the countrys women have been mercilessly crushed, and despite our utmost efforts, we could not succeed, he said. Modi said Indias women saw how parties like Congress, TMC and DMK celebrated their selfish politics against the countrys women power.They have been unmasked, he claimed. The Congress and its allies have committed foeticide of the honest effort in front of the entire country in the House. Parties like the Congress, DMK, TMC and the SP are guilty of this foeticide. They are criminals against the countrys Constitution, criminals against the countrys feminine power. The Congress hates the issue of womens reservation itself, he alleged. The Prime Minister said the Congress has often fuelled divisive narratives in the country and has spread the claim that delimitation would harm certain states. However, he said, the government made it clear from the very beginning that no states share would be reduced and that the seats would increase proportionately. Even then, Congress, along with the DMK, TMC and the SP, refused to accept this, he said. Modi said the Congress has always spread falsehoods about necessary reforms and delayed every such decision while it ruled. Every single challenge our country faces today is due to the negative approach of the Congress party over the years. Women of our country will give a befitting reply to Congress and its allies, he said. The Prime Minister said a key reason behind the opposition to the Nari Shakti Vandan Adhinyam is the fear among dynasty-driven parties that if women are truly empowered, their leadership structures could be challenged. He said they do not want women outside their own families to rise and lead. Modi said the DMK had the opportunity to enable more people from Tamil Nadu to become Members of Parliament and strengthen the states voice, but it let that opportunity slip. He said the TMC too had the chance to empower more people from West Bengal and elevate their representation, but it also failed to seize it. The Nari Shakti Vandan Amendment is the need of the hour. It was an effort to ensure balanced empowerment across all regions, including north, south, east and west. It aimed to strengthen the voice of every state in Parliament, whether big or small, by increasing representation proportionately. But this sincere effort was crushed by Congress and its allies, he said. The Prime Minister said the opposition parties are forgetting that the women of the 21st century are keeping an eye on every event in the country, they are sensing the intentions of the opposition and are fully aware of the truth as well. Therefore, he said, the sin that the opposition has committed by opposing womens reservation will surely earn them punishment. A woman forgets everything, but she never forgets her insult. Therefore, the bitterness of the behaviour of Congress and its allies in Parliament will always remain in the heart of every woman. Those parties that opposed the Nari Shakti Vandan Adhiniyam in Parliament are taking women power for granted, he said. Modi said the family-based parties like the Congress, DMK, TMC, and the SP were clapping gleefully and were thumping their desks after snatching away womens rights. What they did was not just a thump on the table; it was a blow to the dignity of women, to her self-respect, he said. The Prime Minister said the Congress has lost its base in most parts of the country and is surviving by riding on the support of regional parties, yet it does not want these regional forces to grow stronger. By opposing this amendment, the Congress has attempted to push the future of many regional parties into uncertainty through political manoeuvring, he said, adding, I want to tell all parties who oppose this bill in clear terms that they are taking womens power for granted. Modi said this amendment, pending for 40 years, was about giving them that right starting from the 2029 Lok Sabha elections. The bill was a grand yajna to provide new opportunities to the women of 21st-century India, to give her new wings, and to remove the obstacles in her path. It was a sacred festival performed with pure intent and honesty to grant rights to the countrys 50 per cent-- that is, half the population, he said. The Prime Minister said by opposing this bill, the Congress has shown itself to be an anti-reform party. This is the same Congress that opposed Pradhan Mantri Jan Dhan Yojana, Aadhaar, and digital payments as well as the Goods and Services Tax, he said. The Congress opposed reservation for economically weaker sections, the abrogation of Article 370, and the abolition of Triple Talaq. It continues to oppose the Uniform Civil Code, he said. Modi said this is not just a fight over one law, but a larger battle against the Congresss anti-reform mindset, driven by negativity. I have no doubt that the daughters of this country will give a strong answer to this thinking. I said in Parliament, give half the population their rightful share, and I would credit the opposition for it. Yet those who view women through a regressive lens remained stuck in their position and refused to move beyond it, he said. The Prime Minister said he knows that the mothers, sisters, daughters of the country are grieving today. I too am grieving with you. But our effort will not stop, our effort will not falter, our inner strength is invincible. More opportunities will come our way. We must fulfil this resolve for the dreams of half of the population, for the future of the country, he said.

Elected Government, old system: File Raj concerns return

Srinagar, Apr 18:At a time when governance across the country is steadily moving towards trust-based systems, decentralisation, and minimal interference in business decisions, a recent communication from the office of the Deputy Chief Minister, who also holds charge of Industries and Commerce, has brought into focus a deeply disquieting shift. For years, entrepreneurs across Jammu and Kashmir have consistently flagged official callousness, delayed decision-making, and an Ease of Doing Business framework that, in their experience, existed far more on paper than on the ground. The return of an elected government had rekindled hope - almost relief - that this phase of bureaucratic rigidity would give way to a more responsive and facilitative regime. It is against this backdrop that the present development assumes significance. The communication addressed to the Commissioner Secretary, Industries and Commerce, from OSD to In-charge Minister, states: It has been brought to the notice of the Deputy Chief Minister (Minister, In-charge Industries and Commerce Department) that certain General Managers of the District Industries Centres (DICs) are granting permission for change in line of activity to warehousing (provisional/permanent) without obtaining the prior consent of the competent authority. In view of the above, the undersigned is directed to invite the kind attention of the Commissioner/Secretary to the Government, Industries and Commerce Department to this matter and to request that strict instructions be issued to all District Industries Centres (DICs) to ensure that no permission for the change in line of activity to Warehousing (Provisional/Permanent) is granted under any circumstances until the specific directions are issued by the competent authority in this regard. Besides this, it is also requested that the permission granted so far in this regard be kept in abeyance till further orders. Further, it is conveyed that, if any new request for change in the line of activity to Warehousing (Provisional or Permanent) is received, the prior consent of the Honble Minister Incharge (Industries and Commerce Department) shall be obtained before taking any action, as desired by the Chief Minister. This effectively withdraws decision-making powers from District Industries Centres and centralises them at the ministerial level - even for routine operational changes. Yet, a change in line of activity is not an exception - it is intrinsic to the enterprise. Businesses evolve with markets, technology, and demand. The ability to diversify or pivot is not a concession from the system; it is the very basis of entrepreneurship. So long as the intended activity does not fall within restricted or prohibited sectors - such as those barred under notified frameworks relating to items like tobacco, alcoholic beverages, or arms and ammunition - entrepreneurs are ordinarily free to take such decisions. They carry the investment risk, manage operations, and remain accountable for outcomes. To restrict this flexibility is to constrain enterprise at its core. In this context, warehousing - the activity in question - deserves clarity. Under the National Industrial Classification (NIC) (NIC-2008), warehousing is a well-defined and legally permissible economic activity falling under Division 52 (Warehousing and Support Activities for Transportation), specifically Group 521 (Warehousing and Storage). It includes the operation of facilities for storage and safekeeping of goods - agricultural produce, raw materials, and finished products - through warehouses. It is a non-transformative, service-oriented activity-focused on storage, preservation, and inventory management, without any manufacturing or alteration of goods. Crucially, it is neither a restricted nor a sensitive sector. It is a legitimate, infrastructure-support activity integral to supply chains and economic functioning. Enterprises are therefore fully within their rights to undertake or transition into warehousing as part of their normal business evolution. Against this backdrop, requiring prior ministerial consent for such routine transitions is not regulatory caution - it is administrative regression. What was earlier a decentralised, time-bound process has now been drawn into a centralised approval chain, weakening institutional efficiency at the district level. The consequences are predictable: longer timelines, increased dependencies, and higher transaction costs for MSMEs already operating under strain. This does not align with minimum government, maximum governance - it contradicts it. More critically, it unsettles the fragile confidence that had begun to return with the restoration of elected governance. After years of bureaucratic dominance, entrepreneurs expected a decisive shift towards trust and facilitation. Instead, such measures risk signaling a return to the very system they had hoped was behind them - only now more structured and more restrictive. The issue, therefore, goes beyond warehousing or a single directive. It raises a fundamental question: is governance moving towards enabling enterprise, or reverting to controlling it? Ease of Doing Business cannot remain a stated intent while operational flexibility is curtailed in practice. It must reflect in how seamlessly enterprises are allowed to adapt, decide, and grow. If processes continue to move in the opposite direction, the concern is no longer about delay - it is about direction. And that, more than anything else, will determine whether confidence sustains or erodes.

Environmental awareness must become part of everyday learning

Srinagar, Apr 18: Bilaliya Education Institute, Lal Bazar set an example of action based environmental education by hosting a focused programme under the theme One Admission One Tree. The initiative linked every new admission with a clear responsibility, to plant a tree and nurture it. The programme drew attention for its practical approach. Each student became a stakeholder in environmental protection from day one. Parents stood at the center of the effort, reinforcing the idea that change begins at home. The concept, originally introduced on March 8, 2025 by Dr. G. N. Itoo during his tenure as Director School Education, was formally implemented at the institution with visible commitment and participation. Dr. Itoo, who attended as Chief Guest, stressed the need to build environmental responsibility early in life. Chief Education Officer Srinagar, Ghulam Mohiudin, spoke about responsibility and accountability. Chairman BEI, NLCO and MEERC (PSAJK), Manzoor Ahmad Wangnoo, emphasised that academic success alone is not enough. He stated that environmental awareness must become part of everyday learning. Parents of newly admitted students were given saplings and encouraged to plant them at home with their children. They were asked to share geo tagged photographs to help the institution track growth and ensure accountability. The event maintained a clear message, small actions at scale create real impact. Each admission now adds a tree. Each tree strengthens the environment, Wangnoo added.

CME on Modern Therapies for Common Issues in Our Population held by Gauri Kaul Foundation

Srinagar, Apr 18:The Spring CME organised by Prof Upendra Kaul for the medical fraternity of the valley was attended by around 80 doctors. The eminent faculty included Prof A H Zargar, Hilal Rather, Bashir Naikoo, Khurshid Iqbal , Nisar Tramboo,Muzzafar Ali, Iqbal Dar and Upendra Kaul. The CME was focussed on lipidology, Hypertension, Cardiovascular Kidney Metabolic Syndrome (CKM) and atrial fibrillation. While intensive therapiesincluding high-dose Statins, Ezetimibe, and Bempedoic acidare effective in marked lowering of LDL-C, many patients continue to experience vascular events as a part of their residual risk. The CME identified Lipoprotein (a) [Lp(a)] as the primary focus for addressing this. DR Kaul said the Molecule: Lp(a) is highly atherogenic and pro-thrombotic. Unlike LDL, its levels are largely determined by genetics and are relatively resistant to traditional lifestyle changes or standard statin therapy.Discussions centered on Angiopoietin-like protein 3 (ANGPTL3) inhibitors. These represent a new frontier in therapeutics, showing significant promise in reducing levels of multiple atherogenic lipoproteins. While these inhibitors successfully lower the numerical levels of these molecules, the medical community is awaiting data from rigorous clinical trials to confirm a reduction in actual clinical events (heart attacks/strokes). Results are anticipated by mid-2027.In the meantime everybody should have LP (a) measured at least once in lifetime, He said Hypertension which affects nearly one third of our population needs to be looked at along with other risk factors and then compute with PREVENT risk Equation. We need to compute the risk of serious events as per the recent thinking for the long term up to 30 years. Drug therapy and compliance is of utmost importance. Innovative methods to ensure that prescriptions are being complied with is the need of the hour. On the new therapies front Renal denervation a catheter-based procedure for difficult to treat resistant hypertension is a method which has come back and in fact has been approved by US FDA in 2025, Dr Kaul said. We need to have trials regarding this modality in our population and get an approval from the regulatory authorities to have this modality for a section of our population if the results are duplicated. It can potentially reduce and in some cases eliminate the need of drugs. Obesity which is so prevalent is the basic pathology of the Cardiovascular Kidney Metabolic Syndrome (CKM). The fat around the tummy is our enemy and the root cause. It gets you CKM if it is not handled properly in due course. The therapies like SGLT2 (Dapagliflozin)and GLP1 agonists (semaglutide) which are widely available in India and have become generic also is the answer. Both need to be used to prevent the late stages of CKM in the early stages and often in combination. The therapeutic inertia should be shed away. He said finally atrial fibrillation (AF) a very common arrhythmia, a harbinger of strokes has been at the forefront of research and guidelines from Europe as well as USA all suggest pathways like AF-CARE and the like to be preferred. An ablation, early cardioversion use of anticoagulants, lifestyle management, effective treatment of hypertension, obesity and exercise programs is the way to go. This CME was sponsored by an unrestricted educational grant from Mankind Pharma, India and was held in Radisson Riverfront, Srinagar.

CM Omar Abdullah reviews progress of work on LD Hospital Extension Block

Srinagar, Apr 18: Chief Minister Omar Abdullah today inspected the ongoing construction of the Extension Block at Government Lalla Ded Hospital and conducted a comprehensive review of the projects progress, execution strategy and infrastructure development. The upcoming facility, being developed at the premier maternity care hospital, is designed as a dedicated Infertility and Gynaecological Oncology Centre and will significantly strengthen specialised maternal and neonatal healthcare services in Jammu and Kashmir. During the visit, the Chief Minister assessed the pace and quality of construction, reviewed augmentation of critical facilities and emphasised adherence to timelines. He directed the concerned authorities to ensure expeditious completion of the project while maintaining the highest standards of quality. He was accompanied by his Advisor Nasir Aslam Wani, Principal and Dean Government Medical College Srinagar Dr. (Prof) Iffat Hassan, Administrator GMC Srinagar Mohammad Ashraf Hakak, Medical Superintendent LD Hospital, and senior officers from PWD (R&B), J&KERA Kashmir, among others. The Chief Minister was briefed on the project, which is being executed under the World Bank-funded Jhelum Tawi Flood Recovery Project (JTFRP) by the PWD (R&B) Department at an estimated cost of 118.22 crore. The facility is being constructed as a G+5+attic structure with a total built-up area of about 11,640 square metres and will house around 117 specialised beds (65 adults and 52 infants) for advanced care. Officials informed that the centre will feature state-of-the-art infrastructure including modular operation theatres, ICU, HDU, NICU, Labour, Delivery and Recovery (LDR) suites, IVF laboratories and advanced fetal intervention facilities, in line with modern hospital standards followed at national and international levels. Highlighting the projects structural resilience, it was given put that the building is being developed using advanced base isolation technology with 43 friction pendulum isolators, ensuring high seismic safety in Zone-V. The design and engineering components have been vetted by premier technical institutions to ensure quality and safety. Reviewing the progress, the Chief Minister was informed that the foundation works and ground floor structural framework are fully in place. Installation of base isolators is at an advanced stage, while pre-engineered building (PEB) structural works are underway across multiple zones. Procurement of major medical equipment, as well as mechanical and electrical systems, has also been initiated. The Chief Minister stressed the need for close coordination among all stakeholder departments, particularly the Health Department, to ensure uninterrupted fund flow, timely approvals and clearances, and smooth operationalisation of the facility upon completion. Emphasising the importance of the project, he said that the new facility will mark a major milestone in upgrading healthcare infrastructure and providing specialised, accessible and high-quality care to women and newborns across Jammu and Kashmir.

GDC Qazigund organises Kabaddi match

Srinagar, Apr 18:As a part of the 100-day Nasha Mukta Bharat Abhiyan (NMBA), the College Well-Being & Anti-Substance Abuse Cell of Government Degree College (GDC) Qazigund organised a friendly Kabaddi match to raise awareness among the students to curb the menace of drug abuse. The activity, as per an official statement, witnessed an enthusiastic and active participation of the sports persons of the college. Anti-drug slogans were also displayed by the students to support the event. A pledge was also administered to all the staff and students in this connection. College Principal Prof. Sudhir Singh, in his address, expressed concerns over the involvement of youth in drugs network, as is being unleashed during the NMBA campaign. Sports can play a surprisingly strong role in preventing substance useespecially among young peoplebecause they shape daily habits, identity, and social circles in such ways that make risky behaviours less appealing or harder to sustain. Positive peer influence can reduce the likelihood of experimenting with harmful substances, he added. Those who were prominently present on the occasion include. Prof. Aufaq Zargar, Prof. Talib Ahmad, Prof. Irshad Ahmed and Prof. Rameez Ahmed.

RKFC eye strong finish in last home game

Srinagar, Apr 18:Real Kashmir Football Club (RKFC) will aim to continue their winning momentum when they take on Sreenidi Deccan FC in an Indian Football League (IFL) clash at TRC Ground Srinagar on Sunday (April 19). Coming off a dominant 6-2 victory over Gokulam Kerala FC, the home side enters the contest with renewed confidence. The match is significant as it is likely to be RKFCs final home fixture of the season in the IFL, formerly known as the I-League, before they head out for remaining away games. The encounter, as per RKFC statement, scheduled under floodlights, will kick off at 6:30 pm and is expected to draw strong local support. Addressing a pre-match press conference, RKFC head coach Ishfaq Ahmad said the team has regained confidence after bouncing back strongly in their previous match. We had no option but to respond, and the players delivered well, he said. However, Ishfaq acknowledged the challenge posed by Sreenidi Deccan FC, highlighting their quality squad and attacking strength. They have a good coach and players and strong strikers. We also have a balanced side. If we execute our plans well, we are hopeful of a positive result, he added. RKFC player Furqan Ahmad echoed similar sentiments, saying the morale in the team is high. We are confident and want to end our last home match on a good note, he said.

In the rain, on a mat, they played on

Srinagar, Apr 18: On a drenched patch of land in central Kashmirs Dabipora area in district Budgam, where every step risked a fall and every stroke came with uncertainty, a group of young cricketers chose not to walk away. With rain pouring, the outfield turning into slush, and a thin mat serving as their pitch, they played on, turning an ordinary local match into an extraordinary story that has now gone viral. What appeared on social media as a daring, almost unbelievable cricket match played under heavy rain had a story far deeper than just visuals. The match, involving two local village teams, was initially expected to follow routine play. However, persistent rain disrupted proceedings, forcing organisers to consider ending it through the Duckworth-Lewis method. But the game refused to end on paper. According to Ashfaq Ahmad, the local organiser of the match, who recorded and uploaded the video, one of the captains stood firm against the decision. After hours of waiting, the match was supposed to be decided through the DL method, but the captain of one team refused to accept it, he said. He said they would continue playing, even in the rain. What followed was a remarkable display of determination. The players continued on a slippery, uneven surface, with no grass cover and a mat laid over wet soil. Every movement was cautious, yet committed. Ashfaq while speaking to Greater Kashmir said that the decision to play wasnt just about competition, but compulsion. The teams had come from far-off places, some from around six kilometres away. They knew there might not be another chance to play if the match was stopped, he said. The incident also sheds light on a larger issue, the lack of proper sports infrastructure in the area. There is no proper ground in this sub-district, Ashfaq said. The boys here prepare this ground themselves. They spend money from their own pockets, remove water manually, and even arrange pipes to drain it out. He added that even access to land remains a challenge. On both sides of the ground, landowners dont always allow us to play. Sometimes, the players have to pay from their own pockets just to use that space, he said. Despite these odds, cricket continues to thrive, driven purely by passion. Ashfaq, who has previously uploaded similar videos, said he expected attention but not the scale of response it received this time. I had uploaded a video from this same ground two years ago, and that also went viral. But this time, people are reacting more strongly, he said. When asked what message he intended to convey through the video, his answer was clear. It shows both, the passion of the boys and the lack of proper grounds here, he said. In the end, the match was completed, and a result was achieved. But beyond the scoreline, what remains is a powerful image of young cricketers choosing resilience over retreat, and a reminder that in places like Budgam, the game survives not because of facilities, but in spite of their absence.

Commissioner SMC, Principal Census Officer-Urban Srinagar assess preparedness for forthcoming Census 2027

Srinagar, Apr 18:Srinagar Municipal Corporation (SMC), Commissioner, Faz Lul Haseeb, and Principal Census Officer (Urban) Srinagar, today chaired a high-level review meeting to assess preparedness for the forthcoming Census 2027 at Municipal Central Office, Karan Nagar, Srinagar. All district officers participated in the meeting, wherein a comprehensive review of preparedness was undertaken. The discussions primarily focused on strengthening inter-departmental coordination and ensuring timely deployment of employees for Census operations, said a press release. During the meeting, the Commissioner highlighted the significance of the Census as a vital national exercise that provides critical demographic data essential for evidence-based policymaking, effective governance, and developmental planning. He urged all concerned departments to extend full cooperation and nominate competent, dedicated, and responsible officials to ensure the smooth and efficient conduct of the enumeration process. The Census Charge Officers were specifically directed to ensure timely completion of all preparatory activities within their respective jurisdictions, including verification of staff deployment, coordination with line departments, and readiness for subsequent phases of Census operations.

DC Srinagar assesses progress of I&FC projects to strengthen flood management mitigation measures

Srinagar, Apr 18: Deputy Commissioner Srinagar, Akshay Labroo on Saturday chaired a comprehensive review meeting here at Meeting Hall of the DC Office complex to assess the progress of ongoing flood management projects and embankment strengthening works being undertaken to enhance the overall flood resilience of the River Jhelum and reinforce the districts preparedness. The meeting was attended by SSP SDRF, Masroor Ahmad Mir, Additional Deputy Commissioner, Mir Imtiyaz Ul Aziz, Additional Deputy Commissioner, Aadil Fareed, Chief Planning Officer Srinagar, Fayaz Ahmad Dar, Superintending Engineer Hydraulic, Er. Ambreen Anjum, Joint Commissioner SMC, Suhal Ul Islam, SDM, West, Irfan Bahadur, SDM East, Zubair Ahmad, Executive Engineer I&FC, Shuja Showkat, senior officers of SDRF & other concerned. At the outset, the Deputy Commissioner who is also the chairman District Disaster Management Authority was given a detailed overview about the flood mitigation measures undertaken by the Irrigation & Flood Control (I&FC) Department, along with preparedness of the National Disaster Response Force (NDRF) and State Disaster Response Force (SDRF) and District Disaster Management Authority (DDMA) Srinagar. On the occasion, the DC emphasized the importance of proactive planning and completion of all ongoing projects with strict adherence to timelines and ensuring quality execution of all works, particularly those related to embankment strengthening. He underscored that all preventive measures must be put in place well ahead of the flood season to minimize any possible risks

Moul Mouj Foundation, GK Labs organise breast cancer detection workshop

Srinagar, Apr 18:In continuation of its efforts to address the rising incidence of breast cancer in the region, under the Moul Mouj Cancer Care Project, the Centre for Interdisciplinary Studies on Ageing (CISA), under the aegis of the Moul Mouj Foundation in collaboration with GK Labs, conducted a hands-on training workshop on early detection and screening of breast cancer at the Kashmir Clinics Conference Hall, Srinagar. The workshop brought together paramedics, doctors, and frontline healthcare providers, who are being trained to identify early warning signs of breast cancer and guide patients towards timely screening and intervention. Participants received practical training in breast self-examination techniques, risk assessment, and identification of individuals requiring screening, including appropriate age groups. Expert-led sessions focused on the critical role of early detection and regular screening in improving patient outcomes. Hands-on modules enabled participants to recognise high-risk cases and ensure timely referral for further diagnostic evaluation. Speaking on the occasion, Dr. Zubair Saleem, Chairman CISA, expressed concern over the increasing burden of breast cancer in Jammu and Kashmir. He highlighted the development of a simple screening questionnaire, designed by the organisation, which can be effectively used even by non-technical personnel to identify key red flags and facilitate early referral. Dr Saleem emphasised awareness of important warning signs such as breast or armpit lumps, changes in size or shape, skin dimpling, nipple discharge, and persistent pain, urging individuals not to ignore these symptoms and to seek timely medical consultation. Key Public Advisory: Women aged 40 years and above, or earlier in high-risk cases, should undergo regular screening. Monthly self-breast examination is recommended. Any unusual change should prompt immediate medical consultation. Early diagnosis significantly improves treatment outcomes. The workshop reflects a sustained effort to strengthen cancer awareness and early detection practices in Jammu and Kashmir, with a focus on empowering both healthcare providers and the community.

Sakeena Itoo lays foundation stone for key development projects in Kulgam

Srinagar, Apr 18:Minister for Health and Medical Education, Social Welfare and Education, Sakeena Itoo today laid foundation stones for several key developmental projects in Kulgam district and also dedicated vital infrastructure to the public. MLA, Kulgam, MY Tarigami; Mission Director ICDS, Director AYUSH, ADC Kulgam, senior officers of district administration, other sectoral officers and large number of locals were also present on the occasion. In line with the Governments sustained push for inclusive and equitable development across Jammu & Kashmir, the Minister laid foundation stone for Viksit Village at Yarikah-A, D.H Pora. Speaking on the occasion, Sakeena Itoo said that under this flagship initiative, rural infrastructure will be improved, besides basic amenities will be significantly enhanced to transform this village into a self-reliant and sustainable place. Government is prioritizing rural transformation through targeted investments in infrastructure, education, healthcare, and social welfare, she stated. She added that this initiative reflects the Governments approach towards grassroots-focused development strategy, as per an official press release. Afterwards, the Minister also laid the foundation stone for the construction and upgradation of the ChiriporaTrengabal road under the Public Works (R&B) department at an approximate cost of Rs. 2 crores. Addressing the locals after foundation laying ceremony, the Minister said that this project is expected to significantly improve accessibility, reduce travel time and open new avenues for economic growth and service delivery in these areas. Highlighting various achievements of Omar Abdullah led Government, Sakeena Itoo maintained that the Government is committed to equitable development of Jammu and Kashmir, with particular focus on rural and peripheral areas. She outlined that the Government has accelerated rollout of rural road connectivity projects, expansion of educational infrastructure, strengthening healthcare facilities, and enhanced social security coverage to ensure that development benefits reach every section of society. She further underscored that special focus is being laid on bridging developmental gaps in remote and underserved areas. Later, the Minister also inaugurated a 100-bedded Girls Hostel (KGBV Type IV) at Kulgam, aimed at promoting access to education for girls from far-flung and disadvantaged areas. Speaking on the occasion, the Minister said that the hostel represents a significant step towards empowering girl students by reducing dropout rates and encouraging higher enrolment in secondary and higher secondary education. She reiterated that the Government is committed to further expanding such facilities across Jammu and Kashmir to ensure equitable access to education for all. The Minister also directed the concerned authorities to ensure the provision of modern amenities, quality services, and safe environment for girl students, to ensure it becomes safe, secure, and quality residential accommodation. Meanwhile, Sakeena Itoo also inaugurated Ayush Dispensary at Wovri Khull as well as building for Higher Secondary School at Khull D.H Pora. Speaking on the occasion, the Minister reaffirmed the Governments long-term vision, stating that sustained efforts are underway to build robust infrastructure, promote gender equity in education, and create livelihood opportunities, thereby ensuring comprehensive and inclusive growth across Jammu & Kashmir. She emphasized that these initiatives are part of the governments broader vision to ensure equitable growth, improved public services, and enhanced quality of life for people in rural and underserved areas. She reiterated that the administration remains steadfast in its commitment to fast-tracking development works while ensuring transparency and accountability at every level. Later, the Minister also visited Ardpora Khull, and witnessed the final match of Shaheed Wali Mohammad Itoo Memorial Cricket Tournament. Interacting with the players on the occasion, Sakeena Itoo underscored the importance of sports in fostering discipline, teamwork, and a healthy lifestyle among young people. She assured participants continued government support for the promotion of sports infrastructure and youth engagement activities across the district. She also distributed trophies among the Champion and runner up teams, as well as medallions among other top performers of the tournament.

Even in the chaos of war, keep your handbag handy

During times of unpredictability, women equip themselves by carefully filling their handbags with vital items. This array ranges from essential documents like travel tickets and water bottles to personal favorites like flavored lip balm and a trusted novel. Traditionally, gold acts as a safeguard for many Indian women, making it a staple.

Land slippage endangers critical public spaces in north Kashmirs Sultanpora Kandi

Baramulla, Apr 18:A health building constructed at Sultanpora Kandi in North Kashmir's Baramulla district, at an estimated cost of over Rs 40 lakh is facing a looming threat due to active land slippage behind the structure, exposing glaring lapses in planning and execution. A nearby graveyard, along with an adjacent school, is also facing an imminent threat due to ongoing land erosion in the area. Local residents said the issue arose after the health building was constructed on a sloping patch of land by the Roads and Buildings (R&B) Department. They alleged that the executing agency carried out deep earth cutting during construction without simultaneously putting in place adequate protective measures to stabilise the slope. As a result, recent rains have triggered land erosion, leading to soil slippage behind the building. This has not only endangered the structure but also damaged the nearby school building and put the graveyard at risk. The area is prone to landslides, said Ayaz Ahmad. The concerned executing agency should have taken all precautionary measures before constructing the building. Expressing anger over the situation, residents said a proper protection wall should have been constructed alongside the cutting work to prevent soil erosion and landslides. From the beginning, the cutting was too deep, and no safeguards were installed. Now the land behind the building is sliding, and the structure itself is at risk, said another resident, Muhammad Shafi. Residents further claimed that although a crate bund wall was constructed later, it has already developed bulges, indicating structural weakness and increasing the risk instead of mitigating it. The situation has raised serious concerns among locals, who questioned whether the technical team involved in the project had adequately assessed the landslide risks before construction. They argued that proper due diligence and planning could have helped adapt the design to suit the terrain. The authorities should have anticipated this. Proper planning could have saved both the building and public money, another resident said. The deteriorating condition of the site now threatens to render the health facility unsafe, undermining its intended purpose and highlighting how inadequate planning can derail development efforts. The executive engineer, R&B division Baramulla, Muhammad Younis Shah said that he will dispatch a team of officials to the spot to assess the situation. The concerned JE and other officials will visit the spot soon to assess the situation. If there is any issue, we will address it, he said.

Amit Sharma concludes Master Trainers Programme for Census 2027

Srinagar, Apr 18:In a significant step towards strengthening field-level preparedness for Census 2027, the Directorate of Census Operations, Jammu & Kashmir and Ladakh organised a comprehensive training programme for Master Trainers at Institute of Management Public Administration and Rural Development. The programme aimed at building a robust training ecosystem for the countrys first fully digital and paperless Census. Addressing the participants, Amit Sharma, Chief Principal Census Officer (CPCO) and Director Census Operations, J&K and Ladakh, underscored the critical role of Master Trainers in ensuring accuracy, uniformity and quality in data collection. He said Census 2027 will require a technologically equipped and well-trained workforce at every level. He appreciated the training modules, which focused extensively on digital tools to be used during the exercise, including the HLO Mobile Application, Supervisor App and the Census Management and Monitoring System (CMMS) portal. Participants were trained in installation processes, data entry protocols, validation mechanisms and troubleshooting to ensure seamless field operations. The four-day residential programme covered a wide range of topics, including Census concepts and definitions, training methodologies for enumerators and supervisors, and a detailed understanding of House Listing Operations. Emphasis was also laid on practical aspects such as ground-truthing of House Listing Block boundaries, preparation of layout maps and effective engagement with respondents. Sharma also reviewed feedback on sessions related to data ethics, privacy and security, which sensitised trainees on safeguarding confidential information. He highlighted modules on self-enumeration, noting that Master Trainers will play a key role in facilitating citizen participation in the digital Census framework. Role-play exercises and field visits were conducted to provide hands-on experience in household enumeration and handling sensitive situations. He termed the initiative a significant milestone in the preparatory phase of Census 2027, with a focus on cascading training to enumerators and supervisors across the Union Territory. He reiterated the administrations commitment to ensuring high standards of training, data accuracy and operational efficiency. Arun Kumar, Joint Chief Principal Census Officer and National Trainer, along with Manmeet Singh Loomba, Deputy Chief Principal Census Officer and National Trainer, played key roles in conducting sessions and guiding participants through structured modules. The programme combined theoretical inputs with practical demonstrations and interactive exercises, including quizzes, group activities and real-time training delivery by Master Trainers, aimed at strengthening their capacity to train field-level functionaries.

Adil Shah died saving tourists in Pahalgam, now his family gets a new home

Hapatnar (Aishmuqam), Apr 18:The family of Syed Adil Shah, the pony operator who was killed while trying to rescue tourists during last years attack in Pahalgam, is set to move into a newly constructed house in the remote Haptanar village of south Kashmirs Anantnag district. Maharashtra Deputy Chief Minister Eknath Shinde funded the house, and the family said they will shift after his expected visit around the anniversary of the April 22 attack. We are thankful to Eknath Shinde for his support. He ensured that we get a new house, said Adils elder brother, Naushad Shah. Shinde is expected to visit us, and after that, we will move into the new house. Adil, 28, was among those killed in the attack at Baisran meadows that left at least 22 tourists dead and several others injured. Family members said he ran towards the site to help injured tourists and was shot. There were hundreds of people there. He, too, could have saved himself by fleeing, but he chose to help the injured, said his father, Haider Shah. Recalling the day, Haider said his other son, Naushad Hussain, who works as a driver in Pahalgam, called around 4 p.m. to ask if Adil had gone to work. When Adil did not return home and did not answer his phone, the family grew anxious. Later, his nephew told us he had been injured. By around 9:45 p.m., we were told he was no more, he said. Adil earned around Rs 300 a day working with horses in Pahalgam. He lived with his parents and two brothers, both married. Adil had married Gulnaz Akhtar, from the same village, about a year and a half before the incident. The couple had a baby girl who later died of illness. My son earned a modest Rs 300-500 per day and we were happy with it. He sacrificed his life for humanity. Tourists trusted us when they visited Pahalgam and he tried to save them, Haider said. Following the attack, assistance came from several quarters, including the government and other organisations. Lieutenant Governor Manoj Sinha provided Adils widow, Gulnaz Akhtar, with a job in the fisheries department, while Waqf Board head Darakshan Andrabi engaged his brother, Nazakat, as a daily wager at the Aishmuqam shrine. Several other organisations and the government chipped in with financial assistance. Naushad, who earlier drove others vehicles, has since purchased a cab and now works in Pahalgam to support the family. Shinde had earlier sent the family financial assistance of Rs 5 lakh and spoke to them via video call, praising Adils bravery. We dont have a dearth of money, but he is no more with us. That haunts us. At the same time, I am proud of his bravery, Haider said. The family said people from across the country continue to visit them, remembering Adils valour.

SrinagarLeh highway shut for 2nd day after fresh snowfall

Ganderbal, Apr 18:The SrinagarLeh highway remained closed for the second consecutive day on Saturday following fresh snowfall and avalanche activity at multiple locations near the Zojila Pass. The 434-km strategic highway, which serves as the only surface link between the Kashmir Valley and Ladakh, has been rendered unsafe due to snow accumulation and frequent slides, officials said. Traffic has been halted at Sonamarg on the Kashmir side and Minamarg on the Ladakh side as a precautionary measure. Hundreds of vehicles, including heavy trucks and passenger vehicles, are stranded on both sides of the pass. Officials said snowfall in Gumri and Zojila triggered avalanches at several vulnerable points, forcing authorities to suspend vehicular movement. *Avalanches have occurred at multiple locations in Zojila following fresh snowfall. In view of unfavourable weather conditions, no vehicles will be allowed to ply on the highway,* officials said. The Border Roads Organisation (BRO) has deployed men and machinery to clear snow and debris. However, restoration of traffic will depend on weather improvement and assessment of avalanche risks, they added. Authorities have advised commuters to avoid travel on the route until an official clearance is issued. Meanwhile, the Meteorological Department has forecast an improvement in weather conditions across the Kashmir Valley from April 19, raising hopes for the gradual reopening of the highway.

Problem with going to Japan - you return and expect things to be still civilised

A recent trip to Japan left a lasting impression. The country's remarkable civility, efficient systems, and rich culture were observed. From the peaceful city of Hiroshima to the bustling streets of Tokyo, a sense of order and pride prevailed. The author found the experience so profound that returning home has led to a stark contrast in expectations for everyday interactions.

HC denies bail to Delhi resident in narcotics case

Srinagar, Apr 18:The High Court of J&K and Ladakh has declined to grant bail to a man from Delhi arrested in January last year in a case registered at Police Station Ganderbal, for allegedly conspiring with the co-accused in procuring and supplying narcotic substances. A bench of Justice Sanjay Parihar dismissed the bail plea of MD Monish who was arrested in case (FIR No 276/2024) under Sections 8/21 and 29 of the NDPS. Monishs primary contention was that no contraband had been recovered from his conscious possession and that his implication was based solely on disclosure statements and alleged monetary transactions lacking evidentiary value. The Court, while relying on a Supreme Courts decision, noted that conspiracy is generally hatched in secrecy and direct evidence is seldom available. The conspiracy, the court said, can be inferred from surrounding circumstances, conduct of parties and chain of events. Section 29 of the NDPS Act makes conspiracy itself a substantive offence, and once there is material indicating meeting of minds, the rigours of Section 37 would equally apply. The Court observed that the case involves recovery of 141 bottles of codeine-based manufactured drugs, amounting to commercial quantity, thereby attracting the stringent bar under Section 37 of the NDPS Act. It noted that the investigation revealed consistent telephonic contact between MD Monish and co-accused, along with monetary transfers made shortly before the recovery. These transactions establish a live and proximate link between the accused and the seized contraband, the Court said. In response to the contention that absence of recovery weakens the prosecution case, the Court noted that conspiracy under Section 29 of the NDPS Act is a substantive offence and can be inferred from circumstantial evidence including conduct and financial dealings. Monish was arrested on 13 January 2025 from Delhi on the allegation that he conspired with co-accused, Muhammad Rafiq Shah in procuring and supplying narcotic substances, which were subsequently recovered in substantial quantity from the possession of the co-accused. The Court reiterated that in cases involving commercial quantity, bail can only be granted if there are reasonable grounds to believe the accused is not guilty, a threshold the petitioner failed to meet. Moreover, the Court observed that charges have already been framed, making it difficult to arrive at such a satisfaction at this stage. With observation that the allegations are grave and have wider societal implications, the Court dismissed the bail plea.

273 JeI, FAT-affiliated schools taken over by J&K Govt in 8 months

Srinagar, Apr 18: The Jammu and Kashmir government has taken over the management committees of 273 schools affiliated with the proscribed Jamaat-e-Islami (JeI) and its affiliate Falah-e-Aam Trust (FAT) in the last eight months. As per the official document, the action has been taken y the orders of the Jammu and Kashmir government. Out of the 273 such schools, the order for taking over management committees of 58 schools, affiliated with the proscribed Jamaat-e-Islami (JeI) and its affiliate Falah-e-Aam Trust (FAT), was issued by the Commissioner Secretary School Education Department (SED) on April 17 of 2026. Earlier, on August 22 of 2025, the J&K government took over management of 215 schools affiliated with the proscribed Jamaat-e-Islami (JeI) and its affiliate Falah-e-Aam Trust (FAT). The orders in this regard have been issued with reference to the notification issued by the Ministry of Home Affairs, Government of India. The MHA notifications were issued vide SO 1069 (E) dated February 28, 2019, and further vide Notification SO 924(E) dated February 27, 2024, issued under sub-section (1) of section (3) of the Unlawful Activities (Prevention) Act, 1967 (37 of 1967) wherein Jamaat-e-Islami (JeI), Jammu and Kashmir was declared as an unlawful association. The intelligence agencies have further identified 58 such functional schools which were found to be directly or indirectly affiliated with proscribed organisation Jamat-e-Islami (JeI)/Falah-e-Aam Trust (FAT), reads the fresh government order issued on April 17 of 2026. The validity of the managing committee of these 58 such schools has expired or has been reported adversely upon by the Intelligence Agencies, the order reads. In the wake of this, the government has ordered that the managing committees of these 58 schools shall be taken over by the Deputy Commissioner concerned who shall propose a fresh managing committee in due course for the concerned schools after getting these duly verified. The decision has been taken in order to safeguard the academic future of the students enrolled in these schools, in exercise of the powers conferred by the Government of Jammu and Kashmir through the Jammu and Kashmir School Education Rules 2010 notified vide SRO 123 of 2010 read with SRO 292 of 2018 and SO 177 of 2022. The concerned Deputy Commissioners, on taking over these schools, shall take appropriate steps in consultation and in coordination with the School Education Department (SED) to ensure that academic of the students enrolled in these schools is not affected in any manner, the SED order reads. DC shall also take all necessary measures to ensure quality education as per NEP norms in these schools, the order reads. A top official told Greater Kashmir that the government teams including officials from the School Education Department (SED) were deputed to these schools for further necessary action. Like previous year, these schools will be now under the control of the headmaster of nearby government high schools or principals of the higher secondary schools, the official told Greater Kashmir. Out of the new 58 schools, Peerkhan Wali Memorial Public School, Hanjishart, which has been taken over by the government and the charge has been given to the Headmaster of Government Boys High School, Renan Kralgund in the presence of Naib Tehsildar Langate Bashir Ahmad Magray. Also, the charge of Evershine Public School, Kultoora Handwara, was given to Headmaster BHS Guloora in the presence of Naib Tehsildar Qalamabad Showket Ahmad Rather. Officials of Handwara Police were present at both locations, a communication reads. Another school, Bashir Memorial Public School, Hampora (up to 8th grade), was taken over in pursuance of government order No.CEO 149-JK(Edu) of 2026 dated 17 April 2026, as directed by the Deputy Commissioner Kupwara. The management of the institution has been formally handed over to Headmaster BHS Soporenaghama. The takeover process was conducted in the presence of Naib Tehsildar Kralgund Murtaza Maqdoomi with assistance from the SHO Police Station Kralgund, it reads. Also, the management committee of 29 schools of Baramulla district was also handed over to headmasters and principals of the nearby government high and higher secondary schools. Last year, the management of 53 FAT, JEI-affiliated schools was taken over by the government, an official said.

Arsenal title fears: How to handle slow-burn anxiety & failure

An ardent Arsenal supporter is grappling with intense nerves as the Premier League title race heats up. With recent defeats casting a shadow of doubt, this fan is haunted by the specter of past disappointments.

Seat politics, not womens rights

The governments failure to secure a two-thirds majority for its Constitution amendment bill in the Lok Sabha is being projected, rather conveniently, as a setback to womens reservation. That framing is misleading. The law granting 33 per cent reservation for women in Parliament and state assemblies was enacted in 2023 with broad, near-unanimous support. That issue, as several leaders have rightly said, is settled. What was placed before Parliament in the recent special session was something quite different. It was an attempt to expand the size of the Lok Sabha and trigger a fresh round of delimitation the redrawing of electoral constituencies. The linkage with womens reservation was political packaging. The core proposal was structural: to increase seats and reconstitute constituencies, ostensibly to facilitate implementation. The timing and method raise legitimate questions. The session was convened in the midst of state assembly elections, with limited prior consultation and compressed scrutiny. Constitutional amendments that alter the architecture of representation demand the highest standards of transparency and consensus. That bar was not met. At one level, the governments case appears practical. It argues that reserving one-third of seats for women without increasing the total would displace sitting MPs. Expansion, therefore, is presented as a solution. But the 2023 law itself laid down a clear sequence: a fresh Census, followed by delimitation, and then implementation. The sudden pivot to rely on the 2011 Census, abandoning the earlier commitment to a post-2027 exercise, is a significant departure. It raises doubts about consistency and intent. Using outdated demographic data to redraw constituencies is not a technical quibble. It goes to the heart of representative democracy. Indias population, migration patterns and urbanisation have changed markedly since 2011. Delimitation based on such data risks misrepresenting present realities and embedding distortions for years to come. The scale of the proposed change is equally consequential. Expanding the Lok Sabha from 543 to around 816 seats is not incremental. It reshapes the balance of political power. Reports suggested that northern states would see a sharper increase in seats than southern states. On paper, both regions gain. In effect, the proportional shift tilts towards the Hindi heartland. This is where federal concerns come into sharp focus. Since the 1970s, India has consciously moderated population-based redistribution to avoid penalising states that invested in education and population control. That political compact helped preserve national cohesion. A move that appears to reward higher population growth while disadvantaging better-performing states risks unsettling that balance. Southern leaders have voiced precisely this apprehension. They argue that their development gains are being converted into political losses. Whether one agrees with the intensity of that claim or not, it cannot be dismissed. Federalism in India rests as much on perception of fairness as on constitutional text. There is also the question of institutional balance within Parliament. No parallel proposal was offered to increase the strength of the Rajya Sabha. In a bicameral system, the Upper House tempers the population-driven dominance of the Lok Sabha. Leaving it unchanged while significantly enlarging the Lower House would tilt that balance. In joint sittings, the numerical advantage of the Lok Sabha would be overwhelming. The ripple effects would extend to the electoral college for the President and Vice President. Beyond federal arithmetic lies the issue of social justice. Delimitation determines not just the number of seats, but their composition. Critics have argued that proceeding without updated caste data risks freezing existing inequities. While reservations for Scheduled Castes and Scheduled Tribes are constitutionally mandated, the absence of a clear framework for Other Backward Classes especially women within these groups remains a gap. The demand for a caste census is therefore not peripheral. It is central to any meaningful exercise in redrawing constituencies. Without reliable, contemporary data, decisions on reservation and representation become speculative at best and exclusionary at worst. Concerns have been raised that relying on older data could sidestep the question of proportional representation for OBCs, particularly women. Equally significant is the question of trust. Delimitation is a technical exercise, but it is also deeply political. It requires faith in the neutrality of institutions. Recent experiences have not inspired confidence among sections of the opposition and regional parties. The delimitation exercises in Jammu and Kashmir and Assam have been cited as examples where the process was perceived to favour particular political outcomes. Whether those perceptions are entirely justified is less important than the fact that they exist and are widespread. In constitutional matters, perception can be as consequential as reality. If stakeholders believe that the rules of the game are being altered to produce predetermined outcomes, the legitimacy of the process suffers. That is a risk India cannot afford. Politically, the setback reflects a more competitive landscape. The 2024 general election showed that the ruling partys dominance, especially in southern India, has limits. The resistance to the current proposal must be seen in that context. It is not merely obstruction. It is a pushback rooted in regional, social and institutional concerns. It is also worth noting that the oppositions position has been consistent on one point: it is willing to support the implementation of the 2023 womens reservation law, even within the existing 543-seat framework, if necessary. That offer undercuts the claim that the recent vote represents hostility to womens representation. The disagreement is about the route, not the objective. Where does this leave the reform process? First, the government would do well to return to the original roadmap: conduct a fresh Census, ensure timely publication of data, and then proceed to delimitation. Second, it must engage seriously with the demand for comprehensive caste data to ensure that representation reflects social realities. Third, any expansion of the Lok Sabha should be accompanied by a corresponding review of the Rajya Sabha to preserve institutional balance. Most importantly, the process must be consultative. Federal reforms cannot be driven unilaterally. They require dialogue with states, political parties and civil society. Consensus may be difficult, but it is indispensable. The Lok Sabha vote is not a rejection of womens reservation. It is a signal that structural changes to Indias representative system cannot be rushed or repackaged. They must be reasoned, transparent and fair. In the end, delimitation is about more than drawing lines on a map. It is about defining how Indias diversity is represented in its highest law-making body. That task demands not just numbers, but judgment. The recent setback offers an opportunity to exercise both. Author is a senior advocate at the Supreme Court of India and a constitutional expert.

Cracks in the Kalai

I was moving through Kalia-Ander , the old fortification that once guarded the Srinagar fort. The kalai is broken in places. Time has chipped away at its edges. Stones have fallen. Cracks have deepened. And yet, it stood lofty. There is some dignity in those ruins. A rigid refusal to fade. I paused and ran my hand along the coarse surface. This wall had once meant something. It was not just a stone. It was intent. It was fear. It was a strategy. It was survival. It had been built to keep enemies out. To slow them down. To make them think twice before attempting to conquer what lay inside. Every curve, every height, every gap had a purpose. Someone had planned it. Someone had trusted it. And for a long time, it must have actually worked. I tried to imagine the past. Guards watching from above. Eyes scanning the horizon. The tension before an attack. The belief that these walls would hold. But walls do not last forever. Not in their original form. The kalai now stands as a memory of defiance. Not perfect. Not untouched. But still present. Still speaking, in its own silent way. It made me think how warfare has changed. Not just in tools, but in meaning. There was a time when battles were visible. You could see the enemy. You could measure distance. You could build something solid and believe it would protect you. Defense had shape. It had weight. Presently, things are less assured. Todays wars dont always arrive with marching footsteps. They do not always stand at the gate and announce themselves. They slip through cracks. Sometimes they do not even need cracks! The idea of a wall feels almost naive. Almost innocent. Because what do you build when the threat has no clear direction? When it does not come from one side, but from everywhere? When it does not always break your walls, but enters your space? The kalai , in its broken strength, suddenly feels like a lesson. Not about failure. But about limits. It reminds us that every system of protection reflects the fears of its time. Those who built it werent foolish. They responded to what they knew. They prepared for the wars they understood. And that is where the danger lies. We are always preparing for the last war. We build new kinds of walls now. Invisible ones. Complex ones. Some made of information. Some made of perception. Some made of silence. We trust them the same way those old builders trusted stone. We believe they will hold. But will they? The broken edges of kalai suggest otherwise. Not in a cynical way. In an honest way. Nothing is permanent. No defense is complete. What stands strong today may stand incomplete tomorrow. And yet, we keep building. That is the human instinct. To protect. To prepare. To believe that we can stay one step ahead. There is something admirable in that. Something deeply human. But there is also a warning. The kalai did not fall in a single moment. It wore down over time. Small changes. Small pressures. Small neglects. Until what once felt impassable became vulnerable. Modern wars follow a similar path. Not always loud. Not always dramatic. But gradually. Patient. And perhaps the real lesson is not just about building stronger defenses. Perhaps its about understanding the nature of what we are defending against. Because if we misunderstand the threat, even the strongest wall becomes irrelevant. I stood there a little longer before leaving. The fortification stretched on, uneven but enduring. It did not feel defeated. It felt like a reminder. Those who built it are long gone. Their fears are gone. Their wars are gone. But their walls remain. Mute. Weathered. Waiting to be understood. Around it, life has crept in. Closer than it should. Parts of the kalai are no longer just ruins. They are encroached. Claimed. Slowly taken over. Even the graveyard nearby does not rest in peace. It too has been encroached upon. As if memory itself can be pushed aside. It made the silence heavier. That strength is not just in what we build. But in how do we adapt? How do we learn?. How do we question our own sense of security? Kalai still stands. Not as a barrier anymore. But as a lesson left behind by those who are no longer here to explain it. And maybe that is its final purpose. Not to stop an enemy. But to make us think.

Hormuz relief, but risks still remain

The immediate panic around the Strait of Hormuz has eased, but the economic impact on Asia is far from over. In a significant development, Irans foreign minister has said the Strait is completely open for commercial shipping during the ceasefire, leading to a sharp fall in global oil prices. However, within minutes, Donald Trump posted THANK YOU! on Truth Social, and soon clarified that the United States naval blockade on Iranian ports will continue until a wider peace agreement is reached. These mixed signals show the fragile situation; while the worlds most important energy sea route may be open for now, it is still not fully stable. Many observers and analysts believe that this reopening may not change as much as it appears at first glance. On paper, Irans move should calm markets. Nearly a fifth of global oil flows through the Strait of Hormuz, making any disruption an immediate global concern. The reopening has already softened crude prices and eased fears of a prolonged supply shock. Yet the situation on the water remains murky. Shipping companies, still cautious after recent attacks that killed at least ten seafarers, are unlikely to rush back. Their priority remains crew safety, and many will wait for a sustained period without hostilities before fully resuming operations. The experience of the past Red Sea crisis, where traffic took years to partially normalise after Houthi attacks, still looms large. But Hormuz is different in two crucial ways: there is no viable alternative route, and the sheer volume of oil and gas passing through it makes a prolonged diversion economically untenable. These realities create strong incentives for a faster return, but still, not an immediate one. Key operational questions also remain unresolved. Will Iran insist on its role in ensuring that vessels use the newly designated routes? Will the Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps continue demanding inspections of passing ships? And crucially, will US naval forces accept any restrictions, given that the Fifth Fleet is headquartered inside the Gulf? Several of the top analysts working for the international media houses have more questions than answers and suggest that, until these uncertainties are resolved and are transparent, the Strait is open in principle, but constrained in practice. The continued US naval blockade is complicating the situation. a full war. By limiting Irans oil exports, it is trying to push Tehran to agree to its terms in negotiations. But now there is a confusing situation. The Strait of Hormuz is reopening under a ceasefire, while the blockade continues. This means the oil supply may start again, but not fully. Risks may be reduced, but they have not gone away. This kind of partial normal situation may calm markets for some time, but it is not enough to build full confidence. For global shipping and energy markets, clear and stable conditions matter more than just announcements. Asia-Pacific exposure remains high, poverty may increase The human cost of the crisis is unfolding more quietly. Higher fuel prices have already fed into transport and food costs across developing economies. For millions of households, particularly in the Global South, South Asia and Southeast Asia, this means reduced purchasing power and increased vulnerability. Even if oil prices are coming down, the impact on Asia-Pacific economies may already be done. According to the United Nations Development Programme, the region could face losses between $97 billion and $299 billion, which is up to 0.8% of its GDP. Around 8.8 million people in Asia alone may fall into poverty, out of a global estimate of 32 million. The main reason is Asias heavy dependence on energy from West Asia. The region produces more than half of the worlds goods, but it depends a lot on imported oil and gas to keep industries running. Even short disruptions have increased costs, create supply uncertainty, and push up inflation. So, while the reopening of Hormuz may prevent the worst-case scenario, it does not remove the damage already caused to energy markets, supply chains, and investor confidence. The Food and Agriculture Organisation has warned that disruptions to natural gas supplies could still affect fertiliser production, raising the risk of food inflation in the months ahead. Even a temporary supply shock can have lasting agricultural consequences if it coincides with planting cycles. In other words, even if oil stabilises, food prices may not. Global financial institutions are increasingly worried and are now revising their expectations downward. The International Monetary Fund is expected to cut its global growth forecasts, as it takes into account the combined impact of unstable energy prices, supply chain disruptions and weak investor confidence. These factors have already started affecting business sentiment and slowing down economic activity in many parts of the world. Its Managing Director, Kristalina Georgieva, has warned that even in the best-case scenario, the global economy will not bounce back quickly to pre-crisis levels. According to her, the recovery is likely to be slow and uneven, with many countries continuing to face pressure in the coming months. On similar lines, the Asian Development Bank has also lowered its growth projections for the region. Its Chief Economist, Albert Park, has pointed out to the media that a prolonged conflict in West Asia remains the biggest risk for Asias economic stability. While the reopening of the Strait of Hormuz may help in preventing the situation from becoming worse, it is not enough to bring back the growth momentum that has already been lost. Behind the volatility, diplomacy continues to flicker. Backchannel communications reportedly involving intermediaries such as Pakistan, Oman and Turkey, suggest that both Washington and Tehran are exploring ways to extend the ceasefire and perhaps give peace once more a chance. Depends on the outcome of the second round of direct talks. Yet the core disagreements remain unresolved, including Irans nuclear programme, while Iran after the 40-day of active war has understood the leverage of its geographic advantage and resilience under pressure. The Strait of Hormuz, in this sense, is not just a shipping lane, but in future, it will always remain for Iran as a bargaining chip. Even if the situation becomes stable, this 40-day war gives an important lesson. The global economy is still heavily dependent on a few key chokepoints, which is risky. The Strait of Hormuz, just like the Suez Canal or the South China Sea, is a critical route where any disruption can have a worldwide impact. For Asia, the crisis highlighted the urgency of looking into alternative energy sources, strategic reserves, and more resilient supply chains. But such transitions are slow, capital-intensive and politically complex. The reopening of Hormuz has bought the world time, but not certainty. Oil prices may have dipped, and shipping may gradually resume, but the structural risks remain embedded in geopolitics, military posturing, and unresolved diplomatic tensions. A single miscalculation could yet reverse the fragile gains. For the cost of this crisis is still being inbillions of dollars, in slower growth, and in millions of lives pushed closerto poverty. the strait may be open. the shock, however, is still working itsway through the system. Surinder Singh Oberoi, inbillions of dollars, in slower growth, and in millions of lives pushed closerto poverty. the strait may be open. the shock, however, is still working itsway through the system.

A life of simplicity, and timeless guidance

The shrine of Hazrat Baba Hyder Reshi (RA), popularly known as Hardi Reshi or Reshi Moul, stands as one of the most revered spiritual sites in Anantnag. Even today, it draws countless visitors from across Kashmir, reflecting a living legacy of faith, simplicity, and devotion. Within its sacred boundaries lie not only the mortal remains of the saint but also those of his 21 devoted disciples, a reminder of a spiritual tradition that continues to illuminate hearts across generations. Hazrat Baba Reshi (RA) was born in 1504 CE (909 Hijri) in the village of Dantar in Anantnag. He belonged to a humble family; his father, Sheikh Abdullah, was a blacksmith. From such modest beginnings, he rose to become one of the most respected saints of Kashmir, known for his humility, piety, and unwavering trust in Allah. His life was not built on wealth or status, but on sincerity, effort, and deep spiritual conviction. This trust in Allah is beautifully illustrated in the well-known incident of the eagle. One afternoon, when a guest arrived at his home, his mother prepared fish for the occasion. Suddenly, an eagle swooped down, seized the fish, and flew away. For a brief moment, the situation appeared troubling, as the only available food for the guest was gone. Yet Hazrat Baba Reshi (RA) remained calm and simply said, It is the will of Allah. There was no anxiety in his words, only certainty. Soon after, the same eagle returned and gently placed the fish back where it had taken it from. This incident reflects the Quranic teaching: And whoever relies upon Allah then He is sufficient for him (Surah At-Talaq 65:3). It also echoes the spirit of hospitality shown by Prophet Ibrahim (AS), who honored his guests with complete trust in Allah (Surah Adh-Dhariyat 51:2427). Through this simple event, Baba Reshi (RA) demonstrated a profound truth: what is meant for a person cannot be taken away, and provision ultimately comes from Allah alone. This deep reliance on Allah was not limited to isolated moments; it was reflected in his entire way of life. Hazrat Baba Reshi (RA) chose a path of simplicity and restraint. It is recorded that he ate meat only once in his entire life, and that too on the instruction of his spiritual guide Sheikh Hamza Makhdoom (RA), so that he would not go against the teachings of Islam and would remain in complete obedience to the Shariah. Otherwise, he lived on a simple diet, avoiding excess and indulgence. In an age where comfort and consumption often define success, his life offers a powerful counter-message: simplicity is not weakness but strength, a sign of control over ones desires. He earned his livelihood through farming, emphasizing the dignity of labor and the importance of halal income. His life reflects the Quranic principle in Surah An-Najm 53:39 which states, and that each person will only have what they endeavored towards highlighting that individuals are responsible for their own actions and will be rewarded based on their personal efforts, emphasizing that no one bears the burden of another and success is tied to active striving. At the same time, it resonates with the deeper reality expressed in Quran Indeed, We have created man into struggle (Surah Al-Balad 90:4). Rather than avoiding hardship, he embraced it with patience and sincerity, showing that effort and struggle are essential parts of human existence and pathways to spiritual growth. Alongside his simple lifestyle, Hazrat Baba Reshi (RA) was deeply devoted to worship and remembrance of Allah. His influence spread widely, drawing the attention of rulers like Ali Shah Chak and Yousuf Shah Chak, as well as scholars such as Baba Dawood Khaki (RA). According to Baba Dawood Khaki (RA), he was regular in reciting Awrad-e-Fathiya. He never neglected the five daily prayers in congregation, and devoted himself to additional prayers day and night. His entire life was immersed in the remembrance of Allah as a continuous state of the heart. At the core of his teachings was Tawheedthe absolute Oneness of Allah. He firmly rejected all forms of shirk ( ascribing partners to Allah) and emphasized direct reliance on Allah without intermediaries. His frequent recitation, Hasbunallahu wa nimal wakeel (Allah is sufficient for us, and He is the best disposer of affairs), was not merely a phrase but a reflection of his lived reality. This aligns with the Quranic command: Indeed, we have sent down the Book to you O Prophet in truth, so worship Allah alone, being sincerely devoted to Him (Surah Az-Zumar 39:2). His life stands as a call to purify belief and return to a direct, sincere relationship with the Creator. Among the many accounts associated with his life is the moving story of Abdur Rahim Badal, an elderly and wealthy man who had reached nearly eighty years of age without being blessed with a child. Having lost all hope, he came to Baba Reshi (RA) with a heavy heart and shared his sorrow. The saint listened with compassion, gave him an apple, and prayed to Allah for him. Months passed, and by the will of Allah, a son was born in his house. The joy, however, was touched with sorrow, as the childs mother passed away soon after birth. The infant refused to take milk from anyone. In desperation, the family brought the child to Baba Reshi (RA). With gentle care, he placed his finger in the childs mouth, and the baby began to suck it peacefully, as if comforted beyond worldly means. As the child grew, he attained spiritual understanding and eventually became one of the disciples of the saint. This incident recalls the story of Prophet Zakariya (AS), who was granted a son, Prophet Yahya (AS), in old age through Allahs mercy (Surah Aal-e-Imran 3:3839), reminding us that nothing is impossible for Allah. Even today, the love and respect for Baba Reshi (RA) are visible in the traditions observed by the people. During Reshi Moul Saeben Douh, families prepare with devotion and care. One touching account recalled by my father in law Late Ghulam Mohammad Khuroo that there was an elderly woman in the vicinity who would thoroughly clean her home, wash utensils, and apply fresh mud plaster in her kitchen as a mark of respect before the Urs. While such acts reflect sincerity and love, his life also reminds us that true devotion lies not merely in outward practices but in correct belief and intention. Ultimately, the life of Hazrat Baba Reshi (RA) is not meant only to be remembered but to be lived. His message flows naturally from his example: to live simply, to work hard and earn honestly, to exercise discipline and self-control, to remain constantly connected with Allah, and above all, to uphold pure Tawheed. In a time when cultural practices can sometimes overshadow the essence of faith, his life calls us back to clarity and sincerityto ask only Allah, to depend only on Him, and to trust Him completely. As the Quran reminds us, And your Lord says, Call upon Me; I will respond to you (Surah Ghafir 40:60). The shrine of Hazrat Baba Reshi (RA), therefore, should not be seen merely as a place of visitation, but as a centre of reflection and transformation. His life teaches that true spirituality lies not in outward display, but in sincerity, effort, simplicity, and unwavering faith. If we truly wish to honor such a saint, we must go beyond visiting his shrinewe must strive to embody his message in our own lives. Endnote: I dedicate this article to my Physical Training teacher of my school , the late Sanaullah Shah. In the final years of his life, Shah Sir would often sit quietly by a window at Dalgate, watching people pass by. With a gentle voice and a heart full of devotion, he would say to anyone traveling towards Reshi Moul Sahib: If you happen to go there, please convey my salam.

When trust collapses inside the classroom

The bell had rung, but no one moved. Chairs remained aligned, notebooks open, eyes directed - at least outwardly - towards the front. The choreography of the classroom held its shape, as it always does. There is a peculiar discipline to such spaces, one that does not require constant enforcement because it has already been internalised. Students learn early how to sit, when to speak, when to fall silent. They learn that attention is not just a cognitive act but a performance- something that must be displayed, measured, and, at times, feigned. In the second row, a girl sat with her pen resting lightly against the page. The ink had not moved for several minutes, though the lecture continued uninterrupted. Her stillness was not distraction; it was deliberation. A quiet calculation, the kind that leaves no visible trace but consumes the mind entirely. What does one do when the space that demands attention begins to produce unease? When the very figure who embodies authority becomes difficult to look at, not out of defiance, but out of a discomfort that resists easy naming? Nothing in the architecture of the classroom acknowledges this possibility. The classroom, as it is imagined, does not accommodate ambiguity of this kind. It is supposed to be a space of clarity- of questions and answers, of right and wrong, of instruction and understanding. It has no language for discomfort that is neither dramatic nor easily demonstrable. And so, when such discomfort arises, it does not find expression in the formal structures of the institution. It retreats inward. It becomes hesitation, avoidance, a slight adjustment of posture, a preference for the back bench, a decision to remain unnoticed. The girl has learned these adjustments well. Not because she was taught them explicitly, but because they form part of a larger, unspoken curriculum- one that precedes the classroom and extends beyond it. She has learned that visibility can be a risk, that speaking can invite scrutiny, that questioning authority is not a neutral act. She has learned, in ways both subtle and direct, that safety often lies in minimising oneself- taking up less space, drawing less attention, offering less resistance. And institutions, despite their claims of neutrality, quietly depend on this minimisation. It is what allows order to appear natural. It is what keeps disruption at bay. It is what ensures that authority does not have to constantly justify itself. The classroom, in this sense, is not merely a site of learning; it is a site of regulation. It produces not only knowledge, but a particular kind of subject- disciplined, compliant, and, when necessary, silent. But silence is not absence. It is a presence in another form. It holds within it the things that cannot be said without consequence. It carries the weight of moments that do not quite become incidents, of interactions that are unsettling but not easily provable, of gestures that linger in memory without leaving evidence. Silence is often mistaken for consent, or at least for comfort. But more often, it is a strategy- a way of navigating a space where the cost of articulation is uncertain and potentially high. The girl in the second row understands this, even if she cannot yet put it into words. She understands that to speak is not simply to describe an experience; it is to enter into a structure that will evaluate that experience on terms not of her choosing. Her words will not stand alone. They will be accompanied by questions- about her intent, her perception, her credibility. They will be measured against the authority of the one she names, an authority that arrives pre-validated, insulated by position and by the presumption of legitimacy. This is the asymmetry that defines the classroom, though it is rarely acknowledged as such. The teacher does not merely occupy a role; he embodies a structure of power. He grades, he disciplines, he recommends, he reports. He shapes trajectories. His presence carries consequences that extend beyond the immediate moment. For the student, especially a girl, this makes the act of confrontation not just difficult, but risky in ways that are not always visible. To challenge authority is to step into uncertainty- to risk not only disbelief but reprisal, subtle or otherwise. And so, the classroom continues. The lecture proceeds, notes are taken, questions are asked- though not all questions. The routine remains intact, even as something within it has begun to fray. This is how institutions endure. Not by eliminating tension, but by absorbing it. By allowing discomfort to exist without allowing it to disrupt the visible order. By relying on the assumption that what is not spoken will not need to be addressed. But what happens when that assumption fails? What happens when silence no longer contains what it is meant to contain? When hesitation turns into refusal, when unease seeks language, when the private begins to press against the public? The story that emerged from the Government Girls Higher Secondary School in Sopore, in Baramulla, must be read from within this tension. It did not begin with the filing of a complaint, nor with the eruption of protest. It began in moments like this one - ordinary, unremarkable, easily overlooked. It began in the quiet adjustments, the small calculations, the internal negotiations that precede any act of articulation. By the time it became visible, it had already lived. And when it did become visible- when students stepped out of the classroom and into the open, when they refused the discipline of silence- the institutional response followed its familiar script. Action was taken, procedures initiated, assurances given. These responses are not insignificant. They signal recognition, at least at the level of form. But they also reveal the limits of how institutions understand themselves. For what is being addressed is the event, not the condition. The focus remains on what happened, not on what made it possible. The assumption is that once the immediate issue is resolved, the system can return to equilibrium. But equilibrium, in such cases, is not neutrality; it is the restoration of a structure that has already shown its fault lines. The protests by the students disrupted this restoration. They refuse to allow the moment to be contained within procedure. They insist, whether explicitly or not, that the problem exceeds the individual. That what is at stake is not merely the conduct of one teacher, but the credibility of the institution itself. They transform what could have been a closed matter into an open question. What kind of space is a classroom, if those within it cannot rely on it for their safety? This question cannot be answered through inquiry reports alone. It requires a different kind of engagement- one that is willing to examine how authority is structured, how accountability is enforced, and how vulnerability is experienced. It requires acknowledging that the classroom is not insulated from the social world, but deeply entangled with it. That the hierarchies of gender, credibility, and power do not disappear at the school gate; they are reproduced, often subtly, within it. A feminist reading does not treat this as an unfortunate deviation. It treats it as a revelation. It asks how it is that a girl must calculate the risks of speaking within a space that claims to educate her. It asks why her discomfort must reach a threshold of visibility before it is taken seriously. It asks why the burden of proof rests so heavily on those who have the least power to bear it. And it asks what it would mean to reorganise the institution in a way that does not depend on silence for its stability. To begin with the girl in the second row is to begin with a perspective that institutions rarely centre. It is to see the classroom not from the vantage point of authority, where order appears intact, but from the position of vulnerability, where that order can feel conditional, even fragile. It is to recognise that what is at stake is not only the resolution of a case, but the redefinition of trust. Trust, once unsettled, does not return automatically. It cannot be restored by declaration. It must be rebuilt through practices that are visible, credible, and consistent. It must be earned, not assumed. And this is where the argument must sharpen. If what happened in Sopore is treated as an isolated incident, it will be resolved. Files will close, routines will resume, and the institution will regain its outward composure. But if it is recognised as a moment of exposure- a point at which the underlying structure becomes briefly visible- then it demands something more difficult. It demands that the institution confront not only what occurred, but how it was able to occur without immediate interruption. The girl in the second row has not moved. The page before her remains unfinished. But the moment is no longer suspended. It has begun to unfold, to extend beyond the classroom, to take on a life that exceeds the boundaries of that room. And in that unfolding lies a choice. To return to silence, or to finally begin to listen.

Noble effort 'derailed': PM Modi on women's reservation bill

Coimbatore (Tamil Nadu), Apr 18: Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Saturday said his government's women's reservation bill was a noble effort that got 'derailed' due to the DMK and Congress which made it a arget of hatred and petty politics. Especially targeting the ruling DMK in Tamil Nadu and the Congress over the amendment bill being defeated in the Lok Sabha on Friday, the PM asked, Why does it trouble DMK, Congress to see ordinary women rise. He said he had personally appealed to the opposition parties to support the bill and even offered to give them credit as I only wanted sisters from ordinary families to come to parliament, assemblies in good numbers. But unfortunately, this noble effort was derailed. DMK, Congress and their allies made it a target of hatred and petty politics, he charged. Had this bill been passed, many Tamil women from ordinary families would have become MPs and MLAs. Based on 2011 census, Tamil Nadu was going to get so many more seats in Lok Sabha, ut clearly the DMK didn't want this to happen, he said, addressing a poll rally here. Anyhow, the DMK's actions are now very clearly exposed. By wearing black clothes, DMK cannot cover up their wrong intention. I want to tell the DMK, that people know your black deeds, you cannot escape your black deeds any longer. I assure you all that this is not the end of our fight. This is just the beginning. The BJP-NDA will continue to work for you. Why does it trouble DMK, Congress to see ordinary women rise? These one family parties want power to be confined in their own family, he alleged, in an apparent reference to the Congress and DMK. He appealed to women of Tamil Nadu to ask DMK why they opposed the bill meant to ensure their representation, why they denied Tamil women this golden opportunity. On April 23 give them a clear, powerful message, he said about polling day. The PM alleged that DMK had no achievement to showcase and no real issues to raise. He said: That is why they resorted to spreading fears about reduction in Tamil Nadu's seats (in Parliament). DMK had said earlier that current proportional representation must be maintained and we proposed only that, but they made a U-turn. Modi claimed that in Tamil Nadu, women and even young girls are not safe from criminals. He alleged that the DMK harms women in the state by enabling violence and crime. They do not stand with women in Parliament either. But the DMK will get its reply for its anti-women mindset/stand, he claimed.

Defence Minister-led IGoM takes stock of West Asia situation, Indias preparedness

New Delhi, Apr 18: The Informal Group of Ministers (IGoM), headed by Defence Minister Rajnath Singh, reviewed the current situation in West Asia and discussed Indias preparedness as well as the future course of action during its fourth meeting at Kartavya Bhawan-2, New Delhi on April 18, 2026. Minister of External Affairs Dr S Jaishankar; Minister of Chemicals & Fertilizers Jagat Prakash Nadda; Minister of Petroleum and Natural Gas Hardeep Singh Puri; Minister of Consumer Affairs, Food and Public Distribution Prahlad Joshi; Minister of Civil Aviation Kinjarapu Rammohan Naidu; Minister of Ports, Shipping and Waterways Sarbananda Sonowal; Minister of Power Manohar Lal; Minister of Labour and Employment, Youth Affairs & Sports Dr Mansukh Mandaviya; and Minister of State (Independent Charge) of the Ministry of Science & Technology Dr Jitendra Singh attended the meeting. Defence Minister termed the ground situation of the conflict as uncertain & volatile, and emphasised on the need for India to remain prepared not only for de-escalation but also for any renewed escalation. In a post on X, he stated that the Government under the leadership of Prime Minister Narendra Modi continues to take swift and effective action to mitigate any potential risks or problems arising due to the conflict. Defence Minister made special mention of the Union Cabinets approval of a proposal for the creation of Bharat Maritime Insurance Pool with a sovereign guarantee of Rs 12,980 crore to facilitate continuous maritime insurance coverages. This domestic insurance pool ensures that Indian trade continues to have access to affordable insurance for vessels carrying cargo from any international origin to Indian ports and vice-versa, even when transiting volatile maritime corridors. This important decision will ensure affordable and continuous insurance coverage for Indias maritime trade, strengthening the security and stability of Indias import-export operations. This is a major step towards a stronger, safer and more resilient trade ecosystem for India, he said. The IGoM was informed that despite a significant global supply shock, India has maintained adequate fuel stock position, with active efforts to ensure uninterrupted supply. Currently, India has inventories of crude oil, petrol, diesel, and ATF sufficient for over 60 days of consumption. While LNG stocks sufficient for approximately 50 days and LPG stocks sufficient for approximately 40 days respectively are maintained supported by domestic production. To mitigate risks arising from heavy dependence on the Strait of Hormuz, the Government has actively diversified import sources, securing crude, LNG, and LPG supplies from regions including the United States, Australia, and Latin America. Import requirements for April and May 2026 are largely secured, ensuring continuity of supply. Piped Natural Gas (PNG) is being actively promoted wherever feasible to reduce LPG dependence. Since March 2026, more than 4.76 Lakh PNG connections have been gasified. Further, more than 5.33 Lakh customers have been registered for new connections. Till 17.04.2026, more than 37,500 PNG consumers have surrendered their LPG connections via MYPNGD.in website with a daily growth rate of 15%, indicating a significant shift towards PNG. An inter-ministerial Joint Working Group (JWG) has been set-up to ensure availability of petrochemical feedstock supply for the domestic market. Subsequently, Govt. of India vide order dated 01.04.2026 has permitted Oil Refinery companies including Petrochemical Complexes to make certain minimum quantities of C3 & C4 streams available for critical sectors as determined by Centre for High Technology (CHT). Based on the requests received from the Department of Pharmaceuticals, Department of Chemicals & Petrochemicals (DCPC), Dept. for Promotion of Industry and internal trade (DPIIT), the provision for 1000 MT/day, from LPG pool, has been made for Pharma and Chemical sector companies. Since 9th April 2026, around 3200 MT of propylene has been sold. The Ministers were informed that the Wholesale Price Index as well as Retail prices of all food commodities are stable and range bound. Additional allocation of 25 LMT wheat has been recommended by IMC for export. Consumer grievances with respect to LPG are showing declining trend on national consumer helpline 1915. The supply of Propylene has been tied up with BPCL Kochi & Mumbai refineries; and Methanol with Assam Petrochemicals and GNFC. There is no material shortage for Propylene and Methanol. The IGoM was informed that India has adequate fertiliser stocks of Urea, DAP, NPK, SSP and MOP. From March 01, 2026 to April 16, 2026, a total of 47.50 lakh tons of fertilisers - 28.22 lakh tons of Urea, 10.17 lakh tons of NPK and 3.34 lakh tons of DAP, along with 5.77 lakh tons of SSP - have further boosted the stocks. The special arrangement in the Department of Fertilisers for procuring LNG for production of Urea has been successful in coordination with the Ministry of Petroleum and Natural Gas. The Phosphoric Acid issue has been resolved and a substantial amount of ammonium sulphate is being tied up for import, as an alternative fertiliser. The meeting was informed that several Indian missions abroad are coordinating for different kinds of fertilisers and input for use in India. A number of effective steps are being taken against diversion, hoarding, black marketing and excessive sales in pockets. Two meetings with Secretaries, Agriculture of States have already been held to sensitise the field officers for effective and appropriate steps for balanced use of fertilisers. In addition, 459 district level task-forces are functional. In April alone, 8,330 raids were conducted by States, 171 licenses suspended/cancelled, and 32 FIRs lodged. More than 1.85 lakh Nigrani Samitis have been formed to carry out awareness campaigns on judicious use of fertilisers. Describing the well-being and welfare of the Indian diaspora as the Governments top priority, Shri Rajnath Singh underlined the need to maintain constant communication with them as well as the concerned nations in the Gulf region to provide all possible assistance. Within the country, he stressed that the measures being taken to mitigate the impact of the situation need to be consistent for a uniformly impactful effect across States/Union Territories. To ensure the effective management of the situation, the best practices adopted by the States/UTs must be identified and systematically documented so that they can be shared widely & replicated in other states as well, he said. Defence Minister added that due cognizance needs to be taken of the mitigation measures being undertaken by different countries to tackle the challenge. The policy steps, and best practices should be documented so that, as and when required, lessons may be drawn from them to further strengthen our response framework, he said.

India Summons Iran Envoy Over Incident Of Firing At Ships In Strait Of Hormuz

NEW DELHI, Apr 18: India on Saturday summoned Iranian envoy Mohammad Fathali after two Indian vessels had to reverse course in the Strait of Hormuz following an incident of firing by Irans Revolutionary Guards, authoritative sources said. A strong protest was lodged with the ambassador over the incident, they said. There is no official word yet on summoning Fathali to the external affairs ministry. Several commercial vessels tried to cross the Strait of Hormuz after Iran on Friday announced that [] The post India Summons Iran Envoy Over Incident Of Firing At Ships In Strait Of Hormuz appeared first on Daily Excelsior .

Tanker comes under fire from Iranian gunboats in Strait of Hormuz

New Delhi, Apr 18: A tanker transiting the Strait of Hormuz has reported coming under fire from two gunboats operated by Irans Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps (IRGC), the UK Maritime Trade Operations (UKMTO) said, reports BBC. According to the advisory, the incident occurred around 20 nautical miles north-east of Oman. The tanker and its crew are reported to be safe, with no immediate reports of casualties or major damage. In a separate development, at least two other merchant vessels have also reported being struck by gunfire while attempting to pass through the strait, according to three sources cited by Reuters as reported by the BBC. The incidents underscore rising security risks in the strategically crucial waterway, a key route for global oil shipments, amid heightened tensions in the region.

Shopian Police arrest two in separate drug cases, recover charas-like substance

Srinagar, Apr 18: Police in south Kashmirs Shopian district have arrested two alleged drug peddlers in separate operations and seized a substantial quantity of a charas-like substance, officials said on Friday. In the first incident, a police team from Wachi post intercepted a suspect during a routine checkpoint on the ZainaporaBijbehara road near Naghad. The individual, identified as Mohd Rafiq Bhat, a resident of Reshipora in Zainapora, was found carrying a significant quantity of the substance. A case has been registered under the Narcotic Drugs and Psychotropic Substances (NDPS) Act at Zainapora police station. In a separate operation, police from Imamsahib station stopped a load carrier vehicle near Bismillah Automobiles during a checkpoint. A search of the vehicle led to the recovery of a similar substance from the driver, identified as Mohd Ashraf Reshi, also a resident of Reshipora, Zainapora. A case has been registered at Imamsahib police station. Police said investigations are ongoing to trace supply chains and identify other individuals involved in the network. Authorities reiterated their commitment to tackling drug trafficking and urged the public to share information related to narcotics, assuring confidentiality for informants.

It is a paperless census, data is safe and secure: Amit Sharma, chief principal census officer

Govt Approves Bharat Maritime Insurance Pool With Sovereign Guarantee Of Rs 12,980 Cr

New Delhi, Apr 18: The government on Saturday approved a proposal to create a domestic insurance pool, Bharat Maritime Insurance Pool (BMI pool), with a sovereign guarantee of Rs 12,980 crore to facilitate continuous maritime insurance coverage. The pool ensures that Indian trade continues to have access to affordable insurance for vessels carrying cargo from any international origin to Indian ports and vice versa, even when transiting volatile maritime corridors. This was informed by Information and Broadcasting Minister Ashwini Vaishnaw [] The post Govt Approves Bharat Maritime Insurance Pool With Sovereign Guarantee Of Rs 12,980 Cr appeared first on Daily Excelsior .

Cops get comprehensive training in VIP security in J-K's Doda

Jammu, Apr 18: Police personnel in Jammu and Kashmir's Doda district underwent specialised training in VIP security to enhance their professional capabilities and preparedness in handling sensitive security assignments, officials said. A felicitation ceremony was organised at the district police lines in Doda on Saturday to mark the successful completion of a two-day training programme on VIP security. The training was conducted as per modules devised by the Security Headquarters, J&K, with the objective of strengthening the skills and readiness of personnel deployed for VIP security duties, they said. During the programme, participants received comprehensive training on key aspects of VIP security, including threat assessment, advanced security liaison, convoy management, access control, emergency response, and standard operating procedures to ensure foolproof security arrangements, they added. The session witnessed participation from gazetted officers, supervisory officers, SHOs, in-charge police posts, police security officers, and other personnel of the district, reflecting a collective focus on professional upgradation. Senior Superintendent of Police (SSP) Doda, Kartik Shrotriya (IPS), who presided over the felicitation ceremony, lauded the dedication and discipline of the trainees. He also distributed appreciation certificates and mementoes to the guest faculty for their contribution. Speaking on the occasion, the SSP emphasised the importance of continuous training and capacity building to effectively tackle evolving security challenges and ensure the safety of protected persons. Senior officers reiterated that such specialised programmes are vital for maintaining high standards of professionalism, accountability, and efficiency within the force. Police, they said, remain committed to strengthening operational efficiency through regular training initiatives and capacity enhancement programmes.

Soldier Injured In Landmine Blast Near LoC In Poonch; Rusted Shell Defused

MENDHAR/JAMMU, Apr 18: An army soldier was injured in a landmine explosion, while a rusted shell was safely defused in a forward village near the Line of Control (LoC) in Poonch district of Jammu and Kashmir on Saturday, officials said. The explosion occurred during an area domination patrol by an army column in the Balakot area, leaving an Agniveer injured, they said. The soldier was shifted to a hospital and his condition is stated to be stable, officials said. As [] The post Soldier Injured In Landmine Blast Near LoC In Poonch; Rusted Shell Defused appeared first on Daily Excelsior .

First batch of 431 Haj pilgrims leaves from J-K; CM sees them off at airport

Srinagar, Apr 18: The first batch of 431 Haj pilgrims from Jammu and Kashmir left for Saudi Arabia on Saturday. Chief Minister Omar Abdullah saw them off at the airport here, officials said. The pilgrims, including 230 males and 201 females, left in three flights, they said. Officials said all required arrangements for transportation, baggage handling and documentation have been put in place at the Haj House in Bemina here to ensure a smooth departure process. Hundreds of family members of pilgrims gathered outside the Haj House to bid them farewell. A total of 4,764 pilgrims from Jammu and Kashmir will embark on the pilgrimage this year. The chief minister saw off the first batch of Haj-2026 pilgrims at Sheikh ul-Alam International Airport, here, his office said in a post on X. He extended his best wishes to the pilgrims for a safe and spiritually fulfilling journey and requested them to pray for peace, progress, and prosperity of Jammu & Kashmir, the CM's office said. It said the chief minister also directed officials to ensure smooth facilitation and adequate arrangements for all pilgrims, focusing on seamless coordination, passenger convenience, and timely assistance at every stage of the journey.

Transporters call for chakka jam in Kashmir on Monday to protest introduction of Smart City buses

NIA Arrests Shabir Shah In 1996 Case, 3-Day Transit Remand Granted By Delhi Court

Srinagar, Apr 18: National Investigation Agency has arrested Kashmiri separatist leader Shabir Ahmad Shah in connection with a 1996 case registered in Jammu and Kashmir. Sources said that Shah was produced before the Patiala House Court in the evening on Friday, which granted the agency three days of transit remand. Officials said he will be taken to Jammu and Kashmir and produced before a court on Monday for further proceedings. The case relates to an FIR lodged at Shergarhi Police [] The post NIA Arrests Shabir Shah In 1996 Case, 3-Day Transit Remand Granted By Delhi Court appeared first on Daily Excelsior .

J-K LG leads padyatra in Rajouri, says 63 drug smuggler arrested in 5 days long crackdown

Jammu, Apr 18: Lieutenant Governor Manoj Sinha on Friday continued his campaign for a drug-free Jammu and Kashmir by leading a padyatra in Rajouri. He said that 63 smugglers have been arrested with 45 FIRs registered during the past five days of a relentless crackdown. Sinha launched a 100-day intensive campaign under the Nasha Mukt Jammu Kashmir Abhiyaan on April 11 from Jammu, followed by programmes on April 13 in Kathua and on April 15 in Ramban district. Sinha, who led the padyatra in Rajouri town, said in a post on X, I joined the padyatra in Rajouri and addressed a public rally under the drug-free J&K campaign. He said the border district of Rajouri is sensitive and prone to cross-border drug smuggling. But we are determined to crush these challenges, dismantle the drug trade and liberate society from addiction, he said. Sinha added that from April 11, the Jammu and Kashmir Police launched a relentless crackdown in the Jammu division. More than 45 FIRs were filed, 63 smugglers were nabbed, and massive drug hauls were seized between April 11 and 15, he said. Sinha added that regular checks are now covering schools, pharmacies and drug agencies, and the drive will continue relentlessly.

JK: Fire breaks out in commercial building near Lal Chowk

Srinagar, Apr 18: A fire broke out in a five-storey commercial building near the Lal Chowk city centre here on Saturday, but was doused before it could spread in the congested business hub, officials said. They said firefighters recovered 19 gas cylinders during the operation and there were no casualties in the incident. Assistant Director, Fire and Emergency Services, Aqib Mir, said, The fire originated from the attic portion of the building, which houses the kitchen of a restaurant. The cause of the fire is being ascertained. The attic was severely damaged. There were no casualties, he said. The firefighters managed to contain the damage by swiftly dousing the blaze using a hydraulic platform, Mir said. During the firefighting operation, 19 gas cylinders were recovered from the spot, he said. We have informed the concerned police station, he added. Mir appealed to people not to store combustible substances at home or commercial places.

Early morning blaze damages restaurant in Lal Chowk Srinagar

Iran announces partial reopening of its airspace

The Civil Aviation Organisation said air routes over eastern Iran were reopened at 7 am (0330 GMT), according to the state-owned IRAN newspaper

Srinagar Police tighten noose on misuse of prescription drugs, inspect chemist shops

Srinagar, April 17: Intensifying its crackdown on the misuse of prescription drugs, Srinagar Police on Friday conducted a series of inspections at chemist shops located in the vicinity of major hospitals across the city. The drive is part of the ongoing 100-day Nasha Mukt Jammu & Kashmir Abhiyaan, a comprehensive campaign aimed at curbing drug abuse and dismantling supply networks. Srinagar Police inspects chemist shops near hospitals to check misuse of prescription drugs. Strict action against violators under NDPS Act assured. #NashaMuktJKAbhiyaan @diprjk @SrinagarPolice @KashmirPolice @JmuKmrPolice @MSJEGOI @AmitShahOffice @PMOIndia, Nasha Mukt Abiyaan Jammu and Kashmir said in a post on X. Officials said multiple teams comprising police personnel and drug control authorities carried out surprise checks to verify compliance with regulations governing the sale of scheduled medicines. Particular focus was placed on ensuring that potentially addictive drugs are not dispensed without valid prescriptions and that proper sale records are maintained. A senior police officer said here that the initiative is not only enforcement-driven but also preventive in nature. The misuse of prescription drugs has emerged as a serious concern, especially among youth. Through these inspections, we aim to ensure that chemists adhere strictly to the law and do not become inadvertent contributors to substance abuse, the officer said. During the inspections, several shops were scrutinized for irregularities such as absence of proper documentation, failure to maintain registers for controlled substances, and suspected over-the-counter sale of prescription-only medicines. Authorities have indicated that notices will be issued in cases where discrepancies were found, and repeat violations will invite stricter penalties. Another official said that the drive is being conducted in coordination with the Drug Control Department to ensure a multi-pronged approach. This is a joint effort. While police focus on enforcement and intelligence gathering, drug inspectors are examining licensing conditions and compliance under pharmaceutical regulations, he said. Reiterating the administrations zero-tolerance stance, Srinagar Police warned that any chemist found violating norms will face strict legal action under the Narcotic Drugs and Psychotropic Substances (NDPS) Act. We are committed to dismantling every link in the chain of drug abuse. Whether it is peddlers or those enabling access to controlled substances unlawfully, no one will be spared, the officer asserted. The 100-day Nasha Mukt Abhiyaan has seen a significant escalation in anti-drug operations across Jammu and Kashmir, including arrests of peddlers, awareness campaigns in educational institutions, and community outreach programs. Police officials said public cooperation remains crucial in making the campaign successful. Citizens have been urged to report any suspicious activity related to drug abuse or illegal sale of medicines. A drug-free society is a shared responsibility. We appeal to the public, especially parents and educators, to remain vigilant and support this mission, the official added.

Earthquake hits Afghanistan, tremors felt in J&K

Srinagar, April 18: An earthquake measuring 5 on the Richter Scale struck Afghanistan on Saturday morning at 8:24 am, jolting parts of Jammu and Kashmir. However, there have been no immediate reports of any kind of damage. According to European-Mediterranean Seismological Centre (EMSC), the quake occurred at a depth of 190 kilometres in the Zaybak area of the Badakhshan region of Afghanistan. An EMSC spokesperson said the epicentre of the quake was recorded at 36.5536N / 70.9259E. The spokesperson said the energy released by the earthquake was 2 10^12 joules. To put that into perspective, it is equivalent to 554 megawatt-hours or 477 tons of TNT.

Two flights cancelled at Srinagar Airport due to operational reasons

Srinagar, Apr 18: Two flights from Srinagar Airport were cancelled on Saturday due to operational reasons, officials said. An airport official said that Air India flight AI 1799/1810 (Delhi-Srinagar-Delhi) and SpiceJet flight SG-161 (Srinagar-Jammu-Delhi) have been cancelled for the day. Passengers have been advised to contact the respective airlines for rebooking, refunds, and further assistance before heading to the airport, the official added. The inconvenience caused to flyers is regretted, the official said.(KNS)

Sports, awareness campaigns gain momentum in Baramulla

District Youth Services and Sports Baramulla continues to energise the district with a powerful blend of sports excellence and social awareness under the ongoing Inter-School Zonal Level Competitions and the Nasha Mukt J&K 100 Days Campaign. In an inspiring display of commitment towards a drug-free society, as per an official statement, multiple zones across Baramulla actively participated in both sporting events and awareness initiatives, engaging hundreds of students in meaningful and transformative activities. Zone Chandanwari successfully conducted Inter-School Zonal Level Competitions under the banner of Nasha Mukt Abhiyan, featuring Chess and Carrom for Under-14 boys, with an enthusiastic participation of 30 students, showcasing both skill and discipline. Meanwhile, Zone Wagoora, on the 3rd day of its ongoing competitions, organized Under-14 boys events at HSS Kreeri, where 54 students participated with great zeal and competitive spirit, reflecting the growing enthusiasm for sports at the grassroots level. Extending the campaign beyond playgrounds, Zone Dangiwacha organized a massive rally under the Nasha Mukt Abhiyan, witnessing participation from around 250 students, spreading a strong message against drug abuse across the locality. Similarly, Zone Rohama conducted a series of impactful awareness activities including rallies, speeches, poster-making competitions, and interactive sessions. Both students and teachers participated actively, reinforcing the message of a healthy and drug-free lifestyle. Adding to the momentum, Zone Uri also organized a grand rally under the Nasha Mukt Abhiyan, where hundreds of students took part, demonstrating unity and collective resolve to eradicate drug abuse from society. The dual initiative of promoting sports alongside spreading awareness is proving to be a powerful tool in channelizing the energy of youth towards constructive and nation-building activities.

Hajj 2026: First batch of pilgrims set to depart from Srinagar today

Reliance Digital rolls out discount days offers

Ahead of Akshaya Tritiya, Reliance Digital has announced its Digital Discount Days campaign, offering deals across a wide range of consumer electronics. Under the campaign, customers can avail up to Rs 26,000 instant discount on leading bank cards or opt for cashback of up to Rs 30,000 on paper finance. The retailer is also offering a flat 50% discount on a second product, encouraging bundled purchases across categories such as audio devices, wearables, mobile and laptop accessories, home entertainment, and small appliances. Popular brands including Marshall, JBL, boAt, and OnePlus are part of the campaign. As part of the offers, Bluetooth speakers, neckbands and wireless headphones are available at nearly half price under the second-item benefit. Entry-level speakers priced around Rs 1,699 are being offered close to Rs 850, while premium headphones in the Rs 9,999 segment are available at nearly Rs 5,000. Accessories such as wireless mouse, power banks and small kitchen appliances are also included, with prices ranging between Rs 300 and Rs 750.

TAFI J&K hosts meet, AI session, felicitates industry veterans

The J&K chapter of Travel Agents Federation of India (TAFI) held its third bi-monthly meeting at Hotel Palm Spring, Srinagar, drawing a full-house attendance of members and stakeholders from the travel and tourism sector. The meeting featured knowledge sessions and presentations, including an AI Masterclass by expert Aman Kaushik, alongside inputs from Asego Global Insurance and GRN Connect. The session focused on the growing role of artificial intelligence in the travel industry and was widely appreciated by participants. A felicitation ceremony honoured former chairmen, including founder chairman Manzoor Pakhtoon and former chairman Shamim Shah, for their leadership and contribution to the organisation. Senior members Mohd Akram Siah and Zahoor Ahmad Qari were presented with Torch Bearer Awards for their long-standing association with TAFI. Veteran tourism professional Nasir Shah was recognised for his 48 years of service to the industry. Faiz A. Bakshi was honoured as Green Ambassador of Kashmir for environmental efforts, while Abroo Ratta was felicitated as a leading woman entrepreneur in the tourism sector. Airlines, including IndiGo and Air India, along with knowledge partners, were also acknowledged. The event concluded with a vote of thanks and a networking session.

SASCI reforms aim at capital growth and fiscal efficiency: Chief Secretary

Chief Secretary, Atal Dulloo convened a high-level meeting of the Finance Department, attended by the Administrative Secretaries, to review the progress of departmental work plans and the status of reforms under the Scheme for Special Assistance to States for Capital Investment (SASCI). During the meeting, the Chief Secretary assessed expenditure trends and underscored the importance of timely and efficient utilisation of allocated resources. He emphasised the need to prioritise capital expenditure (Capex) from the very beginning of the financial year, cautioning against the tendency of last-minute spending rushes that often compromise efficiency and outcomes. Highlighting the importance of proactive planning, the Chief Secretary directed departments to ensure prompt uploading of works on the BEAMS portal to facilitate timely tendering and execution. He further stressed the need for equitable distribution of projects across districts, aligned with on-ground requirements to ensure balanced development across all regions. Reiterating the strategic importance of SASCI reforms, the Chief Secretary urged Administrative Secretaries to accord them top priority, noting their potential to bring substantial economic benefits to the Union Territory through incentive-based funding amounting to hundreds of crores. He called for their strict implementation in both letter and spirit to ensure tangible outcomes. Additional Chief Secretary, Finance, Shailendra Kumar, emphasised accountability and adherence to timelines, urging all departments to finalise and upload their action plans on the BEAMS portal by April 21, 2026. He noted that while 100 percent budget allocation has been made, further financial releases, including the second installment of Capex funds will be contingent upon fulfilment of key reform conditions and demonstrable progress. The meeting also highlighted key reforms mandated under SASCI guidelines, including the adoption of end-to-end digital tendering and contract management systems under Component II. Departments such as the Power Development Department (PDD), Jal Shakti, Housing & Urban Development Department (H&UDD), and Youth Services & Sports (YSS) were directed to onboard the PWD-OMAS platform at the earliest to enhance transparency, monitoring, and accountability. Progress in critical sectoral reforms was also reviewed, including mining sector reforms, operationalisation of the Right of Way (RoW) Rules 2024, rollout of AgriStack in the Agriculture Department, and livestock sector reforms. It was emphasised that significant advancements in these areas are crucial for unlocking subsequent funding tranches. To streamline financial management, all departments were directed to establish separate Single Nodal Agency (SNA) accounts for efficient release and monitoring of SASCI funds. A detailed presentation outlined the proposed financial outlay under SASCI for the financial year 202627, totaling Rs 4023.5 Cr. This includes Rs 1406 Cr under Part I and Part II untied components, along with a substantial 2617.5 Cr available under incentive-based components linked to capital expenditure performance and reform milestones across sectors such as public finance IT infrastructure, mining, AgriStack, livestock, financial management efficiency, and compressed biogas initiatives. The meeting also reviewed allocations under the Public Health Infrastructure component, with 330 Cr earmarked to improve key health indicators, including reduction in Infant Mortality Rate (IMR), Maternal Mortality Ratio (MMR), attainment of NQAS certification, and reduction in TB mortality.

India joins Global Leaders Paris meet on Hormuz

India participated in a high-level international meeting in Paris on reopening the Strait of Hormuz, even as the United States remained absent from the summit, highlighting parallel diplomatic efforts to stabilise the region. Confirming Indias participation, Randhir Jaiswal said in a media briefing that New Delhi had been invited to the meeting, which brought together around 40 countries to address maritime security and energy disruptions. The conference, led by French President Emmanuel Macron and British Prime Minister Keir Starmer, was underway when Iran announced that the key shipping route would be reopened during the ongoing ceasefire. According to BBC, Iranian Foreign Minister Abbas Araghchi said the strait had been declared completely open for commercial vessels for the remainder of the truce. Despite being central to the conflict, the US was not part of the Paris discussions or the proposed maritime initiative. Opening the summit, Macron warned of the very severe consequences the closure of the strait had for the whole of the planet and the global economy, while welcoming recent developments and calling for the full immediate and unconditional reopening of the waterway. Starmer said leaders welcomed Irans move but stressed durability, stating the reopening must be a long lasting and workable solution. He added that France and the UK would lead a strictly peaceful and defensive international mission to safeguard navigation, with a planning conference scheduled in London next week. German Chancellor Friedrich Merz said it was in the immediate interests of all parties to push for peace and backed a quick diplomatic agreement between the US and Iran. While welcoming the good news on Hormuz, he stressed the need for a lasting, secure and toll free arrangement. Italian Prime Minister Giorgia Meloni described the reopening as a fundamental principle of international law, adding that ceasefires in Iran and Lebanon must be integrated into broader negotiations. She termed the proposed mission purely defensive, focused on ensuring safe passage and maritime security. The Paris meeting reflects efforts by non-belligerent countries, including India, to mitigate the global economic fallout of the crisis and restore stability to a route that carries nearly a fifth of the worlds energy supplies. While Irans announcement and Trumps reaction injected momentum, leaders emphasised that a sustained, unconditional reopening of the Strait of Hormuz. free of restrictions, remains essential for global economic stability and regional peace.

Kashmir Imams lead charge against drug menace in Friday sermons

In Kashmirs masjids on Friday, the message was clear, urgent, and unified: drugs are destroying the Valleys youth, and the community must act now. As part of the governments Nasha Mukt J&K Abhiyaan, a large-scale campaign to curb rising substance abuse, religious leaders across the region used the powerful platform of Jumuah (Friday prayers) to confront the growing crisis. From Jamia Masjid to smaller mosques in Anantnag, Bandipora, Kupwara, Baramulla and Shopian, imams devoted significant portions of their sermons to warning against addiction and urging collective responsibility. The coordinated outreach followed meetings earlier in the week between district administrations and religious scholars, where clerics were encouraged to address the issue directly with congregations. The response was immediate and widespread. Standing before packed rows of worshippers, imams spoke with urgency, grounding their message in Islamic teachings. They emphasised that all forms of intoxication are strictly prohibited and described drug abuse as a threat not only to individual health but to families, society, and faith itself. Addiction is not just a personal failingit is a social and moral crisis, one cleric told his congregation. Our duty is to guide people away from harm and remind them of their responsibility toward their bodies and their community. Across the Valley, sermons echoed similar themes: the sanctity of life, the dangers of substance abuse, and the need for early intervention. Religious leaders urged parents to remain vigilant, encouraged youth to resist peer pressure, and called on communities to support those seeking recovery rather than stigmatising them. The initiative reflects a strategic shiftleveraging mosques as centres of social influence to counter a crisis that has escalated sharply in recent years. With thousands affected, particularly among young people, authorities see faith-based messaging as a critical tool in changing attitudes and behaviours. Beyond sermons, the broader campaign includes outreach in schools and colleges, awareness drives, and rehabilitation support. But Fridays unified voice from the pulpits marked a significant momentbringing the fight against drugs into the heart of community life. In Kashmir, pertinently, a silent epidemic has taken root. Drug addiction, once a distant whisper, now grips thousands of young lives. Official surveys paint a grim picture: thousands of people in the Kashmir Valley alone are opioid-dependent, with nearly 95% hooked on heroin. This crisis has not gone unanswered. Under the banner of Nasha Mukt J&K Abhiyaanthe governments 100-day mass movement for a drug-free Jammu and Kashmirauthorities have turned to the most powerful platform in every Kashmiri village and town.

70 per cent population must get 70 per cent jobs:Altaf Bukhari on Reservation Policy

Jammu and Kashmir Apni Party President, Altaf Bukhari on Friday said reservation and job allocation in Jammu and Kashmir must be strictly aligned with population, asserting that the present system is unjust and deprives the majority of their rightful share, while launching a sweeping attack on parties like the National Conference (NC) and PDP over their decades of unfulfilled promises. Addressing a mediamen in Srinagar, Bukhari made the reservation issue the central theme of his remarks, stating that the principle of proportional representation must be followed in employment. It should be as per the population. Seventy percent population cannot get 30 percent jobs. Seventy percent population must get 70 percent jobs. What is this? he said. He questioned the logic behind the existing reservation structure and warned that such an imbalance would create further resentment. The people who live here should have jobs. We are very clear that it should be based on population or division-wise, he added, asserting that locals must not lose out within their own system. Bukhari further argued that opportunities in Jammu and Kashmir must remain with its residents and not be diluted. Why should jobs meant for the people of J&K be taken away from them? he asked, emphasising that fairness in distribution is essential for stability and trust. Highlighting his partys political journey, Bukhari said that when Apni Party was formed in 2019, it had three core agendasrestoration of statehood, protection of land, and safeguarding jobs. He claimed that his party worked towards securing protections for land and employment and raised issues such as verification of youth, amnesty, and passport clearances. He said that despite these efforts, his party could not effectively communicate its work to the public, while rivals shaped a negative narrative against it. We could not explain to people what we did and what we can do during Assembly elections, he admitted, adding that Apni Party leaders were branded unfairly during elections. Launching a sharp attack on traditional political parties, Bukhari said the people of Jammu and Kashmir have repeatedly given mandates to the same parties over the past 75 years without seeing meaningful results. People gave them a massive mandate, but none of the promises have been fulfilled, he said. He questioned their credibility on core political issues, including Article 370, Article 35A, and restoration of statehood. Where is Article 370? Where is Article 35A? Where is the statehood? he asked, demanding accountability from those who had made commitments on these fronts. Bukhari also criticised post-2019 political developments, including alliances, alleging that they misled the people and failed to achieve tangible outcomes. He hinted at hidden deals behind political arrangements and said the truth should be brought before the public. He further accused rival parties of remaining disconnected from the ground and not engaging with people during difficult times, contrasting it with his partys outreach since 2019. He said when Apni Party began engaging with people at that time, others were unwilling to step out. Referring to governance and political engagement, Bukhari questioned the sudden outreach of leaders towards authorities, saying people are aware of changing political positions and must demand answers. On the humanitarian front, Bukhari strongly called for the release of detainees, saying prolonged detentions have caused suffering across families. All those who are in jailour youth, women, eldersshould be released. A prisoner is a prisoner, whether man or woman, he said. He reiterated the need for a one-time amnesty, stating that it was part of his partys manifesto and essential for reconciliation and healing in Jammu and Kashmir. He also spoke about issues faced by youth, including verification and passport-related concerns, and said these require urgent attention. Bukhari also appealed for parole to jailed MP Engineer Rashid on humanitarian grounds, urging authorities to allow him to visit his ailing father. He should at least be released on parole so that he can spend time with his father during this difficult period, he said. Addressing the youth directly, Bukhari cautioned against emotional decision-making and urged them to think pragmatically about their future. Do not get emotional. Think about how to live with dignity and respect, he said, adding that peace and stability should be the priority. He also referred to the broader political reality, saying that Jammu and Kashmirs future lies in ensuring dignity and rights within the existing democratic framework, and urged people to choose leadership that can deliver practical results rather than rhetoric.

Light rain, snow in higher reaches bring dip in temperatures across J&K

Kashmir witnessed light rainfall on Friday, while higher reaches received fresh snowfall, leading to a drop in temperatures across Jammu and Kashmir, officials said. According to the Meteorological Department, Srinagar recorded 2.6 mm of rainfall in the past 24 hours, while Qazigund received 4.4 mm, Kupwara 6 mm, Gulmarg 7 mm and Pahalgam 5.4 mm. Higher-altitude areas experienced snowfall, with Razdan Passconnecting Bandipora with Gurezwitnessing moderate snowfall, forcing closure of the road for traffic. Snowfall was also reported at Zojila Pass, which links Ladakh with Sonamarg. Other higher reaches, including Pir Ki Gali, Sinthan Top, Margan Top and Machil in Kupwara, as well as the Sonamarg-Minamarg axis, also received light snowfall. Parts of the Jammu division also recorded rainfall, with Banihal receiving 4.7 mm, while Bhaderwah and Batote recorded 0.9 mm each. Day temperatures dropped significantly across the Union Territory, remaining below normal at most places. Srinagar recorded a maximum of 15.9C, five degrees below normal, while Pahalgam registered 13.2C, Gulmarg 6.2C and Kupwara 13C. In the Jammu region, Jammu city recorded 28.8C, while Banihal and Batote recorded 16.2C. The MET has forecast partly to generally cloudy skies with intermittent light rain or thundershowers at many places till April 19, mainly during morning and evening hours. Gusty winds (4050 kmph) and isolated hailstorms are also likely. Weather conditions are expected to improve from April 20, with generally dry weather likely to prevail till April 24. A brief dry spell may continue through April 2526, although isolated light rain or thundershowers with gusty winds cannot be ruled out.

Hajj 2026: Special flights to carry pilgrims from India to Saudi Arabia amid tightened entry rules

The Hajj operations will begin on Saturday, with pilgrims from India and Pakistan departing on special flights for the holy city of Makkah to perform one of the most important rituals of Islam. Over 4700 Hajj pilgrims from Jammu and Kashmir (including Ladakh) are scheduled to depart for Saudi Arabia, starting Saturday in special Hajj flights. More than 1.75 lakh pilgrims from India are set to embark on the pilgrimage. The authorities have ensured regional accessibility and efficient logistics for the pilgrims to minimise inconvenience and facilitate a smooth journey. Makkah entry restrictions for non-pilgrims and holders of special permits came into full effect on April 13. Expatriates and residents without official permits will be barred from entering Makkah from Monday, April 13, under new Hajj-season regulations announced by Saudi authorities. The Hajj arrangements and procedures requiring residents to obtain entry permits came into effect on April 13. It said residents without valid permits will be barred from entering Makkah. Authorities have set April 18 (Dhul Qada 1) as the final deadline for foreign pilgrims arriving on Umrah visas to depart the Kingdom. The issuance of Umrah permits via the Nusk platform will be suspended for all categories including citizens, expatriates and GCC nationals from April 18 to May 31, according to Saudi Gazette. From April 18, entry to Makkah will also be prohibited for all visa holders except those with valid Hajj visas. Meanwhile, Parliamentary and Minority Affairs Minister Kiren Rijiju extended his best wishes to all Hajj pilgrims and reaffirmed the government's commitment to ensuring smooth, safe, and comfortable Hajj. More than 200 administrative staff and 350 medical and paramedical personnel will be deployed to support Indian pilgrims in Saudi Arabia. For the first time, a shorter Hajj package of 20-25 days has also been introduced, with more than 10,500 pilgrims opting for it. Five airlines Air India Express, Akasa Air, Saudi Airlines, Flynas, and Flyadeal will operate Hajj flights between India and Saudi Arabia. Indonesia consistently sends the highest number of Hajj pilgrims globally, with a 2026 quota of 2,21,000, confirming its position as the world's largest Muslim-majority nation.

From heritage to imitation, Kashmirs artisan economy at crossroads

The handicrafts sector in Kashmir, once a thriving pillar of the regions economy and identity, is facing a deep and gradual decline amid rising imitation, weak policy enforcement, and changing market dynamics. The issue has come into renewed focus following the inauguration of the 'Know Your Artisan' exhibition by Chief Minister Omar Abdullah at Kashmir Haat, where narratives of survival and revival were highlighted. However, experts and stakeholders argue that what is being showcased today as heritage was once a robust, self-sustaining economic ecosystem. Historically, the handicraft sector was second only to agriculture in employing in the Valley. Large sections of the population, particularly in downtown Srinagar, were engaged in crafts such as carpet weaving, shawl making, embroidery, papier-mch, and wood carving. These crafts were not merely occupations but a way of life, passed down through generations. There was a time when the handicrafts sector stood next only to agriculture as the largest source of employment in the region. In downtown Srinagar alone - within a radius of a few kilometers - the majority of the population was engaged in traditional crafts. Carpet weaving, shawl weaving and embroidery, papier-mch, wood carving, namdah, wagoo, khatamband, chain stitch - these were not niche occupations but the very fabric of economic life. This ecosystem was not built overnight, nor was it sustained by accident. It was anchored in skill, patience, and authenticity - qualities that gave Kashmiri crafts their unmatched identity in global markets. Families functioned as institutions of learning, where craft was not merely taught but absorbed as culture. That continuum, however, has been steadily eroded. The decline did not come abruptly; it crept in through years of policy indifference and a gradual disconnect between planners and the ground reality of artisans. As economic priorities shifted, the artisan was left to compete in an increasingly unregulated and distorted marketplace - without institutional protection, and without a policy framework that could preserve authenticity while enabling growth. In recent years, there has been a visible attempt to revive the sector through schemes, exhibitions, and policy announcements. Yet, a fundamental question remains: is this revival addressing the core of the problem, or merely curating its remnants? Today, crafts that once defined Kashmirs identity are increasingly being replicated through machines. Pashmina and raffal shawls, once hand-woven, are now mass-produced, blurring the line between pure and blended fibers. Kani shawls are mechanically imitated, wood carving is reduced to CNC precision, and sozni and ari embroidery are machine-stitched. Even papier-mch is now replicated through screen-printed designs on MDF - visually similar, but devoid of the crafts soul. There is, of course, no denying the place of mechanisation in a modern economy. Markets demand scale, affordability, and speed. Machine-made products have their own space, their own consumers, and their own commercial logic. The issue is not their existence - it is the absence of distinction. However, when machine-made products are passed off as handmade by unscrupulous dealers, the damage is twofold: the artisan loses his market, and the consumer is deceived - turning authenticity, once the hallmark of Kashmiri crafts, into its greatest casualty. Despite GI tagging, there is no effective market mechanism - weak enforcement, low awareness, and no reliable way for buyers to distinguish genuine from machine-made, allowing imitation to outpace authenticity. It is more troubling that the Government departments and allied agencies - meant to safeguard authenticity - are procuring and showcasing machine-made products as genuine handicrafts. Displayed in tourist infrastructure, reception centres, and even shrines and khanqahs, these imitations not only legitimise duplication but directly undermine the very artisans they are meant to support. Equally concerning is the breakdown of the traditional transmission of skills. The generational transfer of craftsmanship - once the backbone of this sector - has nearly collapsed. Younger generations, witnessing declining returns and uncertain futures, have largely moved away from traditional crafts. What took centuries to build is now at risk of disappearing within a generation. The policies governing the sector have struggled to keep pace with these realities. There is little by way of a robust framework to clearly define, protect, and promote genuine handicrafts while simultaneously regulating and categorizing machine-made products. The absence of such differentiation has created a blurred ecosystem where authenticity carries no premium and imitation falsely projected as genuine bears no penalty. Ease of Doing Business in this context cannot be reduced to procedural simplifications or digital interfaces. For the handicraft sector, it must mean creating an ecosystem where artisans are able to practice their craft with dignity, access markets that value authenticity, and operate in a system that protects rather than dilutes their identity. A credible system of authentication should have been institutionalised - one that goes beyond tagging and certification on paper, and translates into verifiable, technology-backed assurance for consumers. Each handcrafted product could have carried a traceable identity - linking it to the artisan, the craft, and the process. Such a system would not only have restored trust but also position genuine handicrafts as premium, niche products in high-value markets where quality outweighs price. Simultaneously, machine-made products must be clearly classified, labeled, and marketed - and promoted separately through export-focused incentives - allowed to grow, but not to blur into the domain of genuine handicrafts. The current trajectory, if left unchecked, risks reducing Kashmirs handicraft sector to a symbolic relic, celebrated in exhibitions, but absent in reality. The stories of survival being told today may soon become stories of extinction. The question is not whether the artisan can survive - the question is whether the system is willing to let him. Until that is answered with clarity and conviction, the narrative of 'Ease of Doing Business' will remain incomplete - because no economy can claim ease when it allows its most skilled hands to fall idle.

Collegium recommends 11 names to fill High Court vacancies

In what is being described as a significant and landmark step, the High Court of Jammu and Kashmir and Ladakh Collegium has recommended 10 names from the Bar quota and one name from the Bench quota for elevation to the High Court, marking the first time such a large number of appointments have been processed in a single exercise. According to sources, the High Court is presently functioning with 13 Judges against a sanctioned strength of 25, leaving 12 vacancies, including 10 from the Bar quota. The present recommendations are aimed at substantially addressing this shortfall. Sources indicate that the exercise followed an extensive consultative process. It is learnt that merit, integrity, competence, and standing at the Bar remained the primary considerations throughout the process. At the same time, the Collegium is understood to have taken into account the need for balanced regional and social representation, in line with constitutional values and institutional requirements. The recommendations are learnt to include Vishal Sharma, Namgyal Wangchuk, Jahangir Iqbal Ganai, Pawan Kumar Kundal, Tahir Majid Shamsi, Tabasum Zafar, Anupam Raina, Vikram Kumar Sharma, Amit Gupta, and Pranav Kohli for elevation from the Bar. Sources said that particular emphasis has been laid on ensuring adequate representation from the Kashmir Bar, which has remained relatively underrepresented in the Bar quota. At the same time, inclusion from the Union Territory of Ladakh is also understood to be part of the broader effort to ensure regional balance, with representation of the Buddhist community from the region also finding place in the recommendations. It is further learnt that the recommendations also take into account representation of the Kashmiri Pandit community, thereby reflecting an attempt to accommodate diverse social segments within the Bar. The overall exercise is said to reflect attention to social diversity, including representation of Scheduled Tribe and Scheduled Caste communities, as well as different sections of society. It is further learnt that the senior-most judicial officer, Yash Paul Bourney, has also been recommended for elevation, taking into account his experience, service record, and overall suitability. In a notable development, one of the recommended candidates Tabasum Zafar is a woman advocate from Kashmir. Sources said that, if the recommendations are accepted, this would mark the first instance of a Kashmiri woman adorning the Bench of the High Court of Jammu and Kashmir and Ladakh. The recommendations, finalised through what sources describe as a carefully calibrated and comprehensive exercise, have been forwarded to the competent authorities for further consideration. Legal observers said that this move reflects a serious institutional effort to address vacancies at scale, while ensuring that the Bench reflects both professional excellence and the diversity of the region it serves.

2023 Act comes into force yet women reservation only after delimitation

As anticipated earlier, the Constitution (131st Amendment) Bill, 2026 to implement 33 percent women reservation in legislatures in 2029 elections failed to clear two-third majority test in the Lok Sabha on Friday. However, the Women's Reservation Act 2023 Constitution (106th Amendment) Act, 2023- passed by the Parliament (in 2023) already came into force a day earlier (on April 16) through a notification of Union Law Ministry. In case of Jammu and Kashmir and other Union Territories, the Ministry of Home Affairs (MHA) issued similar notifications yet in their cases, the relevant Act would come into force from April 17, 2026. Despite the Constitution (106th Amendment) Act, 2023 coming into force, the reservation for women will come into effect only after an exercise of delimitation is undertaken following the conduct of the next census (2027). After the defeat of the Constitution (131st Amendment) Bill in voting, the government did not take up - two other related bills viz., The Delimitation Bill, 2026 and The Union Territories Laws (Amendment) Bill, 2026, which aimed at amending the Jammu and Kashmir Reorganisation Act, 2019, the Government of Union Territories Act, 1963, the Government of National Capital Territory of Delhi Act, 1991 to align the provisions relating to (33 percent) reservation for women with the constitutional framework under Article 334A and the delimitation law. Dealing with the Union Territory of J&K, The Jammu and Kashmir Reorganisation (Second Amendment) Act, 2023 (coming into force from April 17, 2026) too provided for as nearly as may be, one-third of total seats in the Legislative Assembly of the Union Territory of Jammu and Kashmir to be reserved for women. The objective spelt out was to enable greater representation and participation of women as public representatives in law making processes of the Legislative Assembly of the Union Territory of Jammu and Kashmir. As nearly as may be, one-third of the seats reserved under sub-section (7) of section 14 shall be reserved for women belonging to the Scheduled Castes or the Scheduled Tribes in the Legislative Assembly of the Union Territory of Jammu and Kashmir. As nearly as may be, one-third of the total number of seats to be filled by direct election to the Legislative Assembly of the Union Territory of Jammu and Kashmir (including the number of seats reserved for women belonging to the Scheduled Castes and the Scheduled Tribes) shall be reserved for women in such manner as Parliament may by law determine, the 2023 Act provided. As per the 2023 Act, the provisions relating to reservation of seats for women in the Legislative Assembly of the Union Territory of Jammu and Kashmir will come into effect after an exercise of delimitation is undertaken for this purpose after the relevant figures for the first census taken after the commencement of the Jammu and Kashmir Reorganisation (Second Amendment) Act, 2023 have been published and will cease to have effect on the expiration of a period of fifteen years from such commencement. Subject to the provisions of section 14A, seats reserved for women in the Legislative Assembly of the Union Territory of Jammu and Kashmir shall continue till such date as Parliament may by law determine, it added. It specified that rotation of seats reserved for women in the Legislative Assembly of the Union Territory of Jammu and Kashmir will take effect after such subsequent exercise of delimitation as Parliament may by law determine.

Hajj 2026: Amid faith, tears and hope Kashmirs first batch of pilgrims leaves for holy sojourn

Srinagar, Apr 18: Tears, prayers, and heartfelt hopes filled the air at Hajj House Bemina here on Saturday morning as Kashmirs first batch of pilgrims prepared to depart for Saudi Arabia. The departure marked the beginning of the Valleys annual spiritual journey to Islams holiest sites, with families bidding an emotional farewell to their loved ones embarking on the sacred pilgrimage. According to the details available with the news agencyKashmir News Observer (KNO), from the early hours, hundreds of family members gathered at the busiest Haj House premises in Srinagar to bid farewell to their kith and kin and friends chosen this year for the pilgrimage. Some embraced in silence, others raised their hands in prayer, while many struggled to contain emotion as departure time drew near. The atmosphere was charged with devotion and longing, with children waved at departing elders, women wiped tears from their eyes and elderly pilgrims quietly recited verses while clutching prayer beads and travel documents. It feels like Allah has invited us to His house. We waited many years for this moment, said Ali Mohammad Mir, an elderly pilgrim from Srinagar with moments before entering the Haj house gate. A woman who had come to see off her parents said, There are tears because they are leaving us behind, but there is happiness because they are going for Hajj. This is a blessing for our whole family. Another relative, Sameer said, Every family here carries emotion today. We only pray that all pilgrims complete Hajj in good health and return safely. Executive Officer of the Haj Committee, Dr Shujaat Ahmad Qureshi told KNO, three flights carrying a total of 431 pilgrims are scheduled to leave from Srinagar on the first day of departures. The batch includes 230 men and 201 women. The first flight carries 79 men and 66 women, the second 78 men and 65 women, while the third has 73 men and 70 women, taking the total to 431 pilgrims, including 230 men and 201 women, he said. He added, arrangements for transportation, baggage handling, medical screening and documentation were already put in place to ensure a smooth and orderly departure process. We have made all necessary arrangements for the comfort and convenience of pilgrims. The process has remained smooth since morning, he said. For todays first flight schedule, pilgrims have been asked to report at Haj House, Bemina, Srinagar as per their allotted timings. QP-7521 (first flight) passengers should report between 06:0006:30 AM, QP-7520 (second flight) between 08:1508:45 AM, and QP-7519 (third flight) between 09:0009:30 AM. Pilgrims have been advised to strictly follow the schedule and carry their passport, visa copy, vaccination card and standard baggage only, while avoiding any banned items(KNO)

Amit Shah tears into Congress, its allies over Constitution Amendment Bill

Slamming the Congress and its allies for the defeat of a Constitution amendment bill to implement 33 percent womens quota in legislative bodies before the 2029 Parliamentary polls, Union Home Minister Amit Shah on Friday said their mindset is neither in the interest of women, nor the country. The Congress and its allies did not allow the passage of the essential bill, which would have given 33 percent reservation to women in Lok Sabha and state/UT assemblies, he said. Rejecting the bill that would grant 33 percent reservation to women, celebrating it, and raising victory cries over it was truly reprehensible and beyond imagination, Shah said in a message on X after the Constitution (131st Amendment) Bill failed to secure two-third majority during voting in the Lok Sabha on Friday night. Today, a very strange scene unfolded in the Lok Sabha as the Congress, TMC, DMK, and the Samajwadi Party did not allow the passage of the essential Constitution amendment bill, the Nari Shakti Vandan Adhiniyam. Now, the women of the country will not get 33 percent reservation in the Lok Sabha and state assemblies, which was their right. The Congress and its allies have done this, not for the first time but repeatedly. Their mindset is neither in the interest of women, nor the country, Shah said in the message in Hindi. The home minister also warned the Congress and other parties which opposed the bill that this insult to Nari Shakti will travel far and wide. The opposition will have to face the wrath of women, not only in the 2029 Lok Sabha elections but at every level, in every election, and at every place, Shah said. When put to vote in the Lower House, 298 members voted in support of the bill, while 230 voted against it. Out of the 528 members who voted, the bill required 352 votes to secure a two-third majority required for the passage of a Constitution amendment bill in the Lok Sabha. According to the bill, Lok Sabha seats were to be increased to a maximum of 850 from the current 543 to operationalise the women's reservation law before the 2029 parliamentary polls, following a delimitation exercise based on the 2011 Census. Seats were also to be increased in states and UT assemblies to accommodate 33 percent reservation for women.

Opposition derails womens reservation framework

In a major setback to the government, a Constitution Amendment Bill to implement 33 per cent reservation for women in legislatures in 2029 and increase the number of Lok Sabha seats to 816 was defeated on Friday, with the ruling dispensation asserting that the struggle to give the rights to women will continue. While 298 members voted in support of the bill in Lok Sabha, 230 MPs voted against it. Out of 528 members who voted, the bill required 352 votes for a two-third majority. According to the Constitution (131st Amendment) Bill, Lok Sabha seats were to be increased to 816 from the current 543 to operationalise the women's reservation law before the 2029 parliamentary polls, following a delimitation exercise based on the 2011 Census. Seats were also to be increased in state and Union territory assemblies to accommodate 33 percent reservation for women. Prime Minister Narendra Modi, senior ministers Rajnath Singh and Amit Shah, Leader of Opposition Rahul Gandhi were among those present during the voting. This was for the first time a bill under the Modi government was defeated in Parliament. After the legislation was defeated during the voting, Lok Sabha Speaker Om Birla adjourned the House for the day and announced that it would meet again on Saturday. The three-day special sitting was convened from April 16 to 18 for getting the Parliament's approval to the bill. When the Constitution Amendment Bill was defeated, Parliamentary Affairs Minister Kiren Rijiju conveyed to the Speaker that the government has no intention to move ahead with the two other bills -- the Delimitation Bill and the Union Territories Laws (Amendment) Bill -- as both the legislations were interlinked with the Constitution Amendment Bill. Rijiju said the Opposition lost a historic opportunity to honour the country's women but the Modi government's struggle to give rights to women will continue. We will not take rest till we ensure that the country's women get reservation in legislatures, he said. Later, Rijiju told reporters that Congress is an anti-women party and the country's women will never forgive them. The Congress celebrated after the bill was defeated which clearly shows that it is an anti-women party, he said. After the bill was defeated, Union Home Minister Amit Shah blamed Congress, TMC, DMK, and Samajwadi Party for not allowing its passage. He said after the bill was defeated, the opposition parties were celebrating and raising victory cries which is beyond imagination and condemnable. Now, the women of the country will not get the 33 percent reservation in the Lok Sabha and state assemblies, which was their right. The Congress and its allies have done this not for the first time, but repeatedly. Their mindset is neither in the interest of women nor of the country, he said in a post on X in Hindi. Shah said this insult to the women of the country will not stop here but will travel far and wide. The opposition will have to face the wrath of women not only in the 2029 Lok Sabha elections, but at every level, in every election, and at every place, he said. Earlier, in a bid to get the bill passed, while replying to the two-day long debate, Shah assured the opposition of an official amendment within an hour mentioning a 50 percent increase in Lok Sabha seats in all states and union territories if the opposition parties support the women's reservation bill. However, the opposition did not budge. The women's reservation amendment bill will fall flat if the opposition does not vote in its favour. But women of the country are watching who the obstacle is, he said. The home minister alleged that the opposition parties are against women's reservation in Lok Sabha and state assemblies as well as an increase in the number of SC, ST seats. If anyone hears this discussion carefully, one will realise that nobody opposed the constitutional amendment for women's reservation. Everyone said 'we welcome this move'. But all the members of the INDIA group clearly opposed women's reservation, Shah said. The home minister said the Constitution provides for periodic delimitation and that includes provisions for increasing the SC and ST seats in proportion to their growing population. In a way, those opposing delimitation are also opposing the increase in SC and ST seats, he said in a strong rebuttal to opposition's charges of a hidden agenda behind the government's proposal of delimitation of constituencies. The home minister also said that there are 127 seats where there are more than 20 lakh voters and it goes against the spirit of the principle of 'one person, one vote and one value'. At some places, 45 lakh voters have one representative, and at some places, six lakh voters have one representative. As a result, the value of each vote is not equal across constituencies, he said, adding therefore there was a need for rationalisation of voters in every constituency. Shah also dismissed the claim that the Constitution amendment bill brought for providing women reservation in legislatures was aimed at delaying caste enumeration during census. A meeting of the Union Cabinet in 2025 decided to carry out caste enumeration along with the census exercise and the process has already started, he said. Earlier, in social media posts, Modi urged all Lok Sabha MPs to vote in favour of the bill and said the time has come to ensure that half of the nation's population receives its rightful due in decision-making. Shortly before the voting on the Constitution Amendment Bill, he urged all members not to do anything that may hurt the sentiments of women across India. I would like to appeal to all members of Parliament... Please reflect upon your conscience, remembering the women in your own families. Please do not deprive our 'nari shakti' of new opportunities, he said. While participating in the debate, Gandhi said the Constitution amendment bill has nothing to do with women's reservation and is instead an attempt to change the country's electoral map to retain power -- a shameful act. The Congress leader said the proposal does not address women's empowerment. This (bill) is an attempt to change the country's electoral map, using and hiding behind India's women, he said. Shah also said that a false narrative has been created that the southern states would be discriminated against during the delimitation exercise. I want to say that the southern states have as much right over this House as the northern states do. This country should not be divided by a North-South narrative. When we take the oath, we take it with our heart. Those who have taken the oath with the Constitution in hand are trying to create a divide between north and south. We will not allow this, he said. Shah said some members have spread the misconception that Muslim women should get reservations but he would like to clarify that the Constitution does not accept reservations based on religion. After the bill was defeated, Rahul Gandhi said if the prime minister is serious in providing women reservation in Parliament, he should bring the 2023 law and the opposition would extend its support outrightly. As I have said, it was an attack on the Constitution and we defeated that. We clearly said that this was not a women's bill, but an attempt to change India's electoral structure which we have stopped, he said.

Reasi, Kishtwar, Ramban impose curbs on inflammatory social media content

Ramban Apr 17: In a coordinated move to safeguard public order and communal harmony, district administrations in Reasi, Kishtwar, and Ramban have issued separate orders imposing strict restrictions on the misuse of social media platforms. The directives, issued under Section 163 of the Bharatiya Nagarik Suraksha Sanhita (BNSS), 2023, will remain in force for 60 days unless modified or withdrawn earlier. Officials across the three districts cited growing concerns over the spread of provocative, misleading, and communally sensitive content on platforms such as WhatsApp, Facebook, X (formerly Twitter), Instagram, YouTube, and Telegram. Reasi cracks down on online misuse In Reasi, District Magistrate Kumar Abhishek announced a comprehensive ban on the circulation of inflammatory digital content. The administration has prohibited sharing material that promotes communal hatred, spreads misinformation, or incites violence. The order also bars the circulation of morphed or misleading images and videos, online mobilization of unlawful assemblies, and content that hurts religious sentiments or disturbs public peace. Authorities warned that violations could invite strict legal action under provisions of the Bharatiya Nyaya Sanhita (BNS), 2023, and the Information Technology Act, 2000, with penalties ranging from imprisonment to fines depending on the severity of the offence. Kishtwar emphasises monitoring and accountability In Kishtwar, District Magistrate Pankaj Kumar Sharma issued similar restrictions, stressing the need to maintain harmony in the districts diverse social fabric. The order highlights the misuse of social media for spreading false narratives and inflammatory content as a serious threat to peace. Residents have been directed to refrain from sharing unverified information and to report objectionable content to authorities. Social media group administrators have been made jointly responsible for monitoring and preventing the spread of prohibited material. The administration has also invoked provisions under Article 19(2) of the Constitution, emphasizing that reasonable restrictions on free speech are permissible in the interest of public order and national integrity. District Magistrate Ramban issues preventive measures In Ramban, District Magistrate Mohammad Alyas Khan issued a parallel order prohibiting the dissemination of fake news, hate content, and provocative material online. The directive bans the sharing of content that incites communal tensions or organizes unlawful gatherings. Authorities have cautioned that offenders may face stringent punishment, including imprisonment under relevant legal provisions. Social media intermediaries have also been directed to comply with takedown requests under Section 69A of the IT Act, failing which legal action may follow. Strict enforcement across districts In all three districts, Senior Superintendents of Police have been tasked with enforcing the orders and ensuring prompt action against violators. Dedicated cyber monitoring units will operate round the clock to track and curb the spread of objectionable content, while magistrates at the sub-divisional level will oversee implementation. Citizens have been advised to verify information from official sources before sharing it online and to report any suspicious or inflammatory content to law enforcement agencies. Preventive step for peace. Officials described the measures as preventive, aimed at maintaining peace and stability in the region, which is known for its cultural and religious diversity. The administrations have urged residents to act responsibly on digital platforms and cooperate in preserving communal harmony. The synchronized action across Reasi, Kishtwar, and Ramban underscores heightened vigilance by authorities to counter misinformation and ensure public tranquility in sensitive areas.

Under PM Modis leadership, border areas no longer nations edge but first village: LG Sinha

Rajouri, Apr 17:Lieutenant Governor Manoj Sinha on Friday emphasized that a nation is defined by its remotest village where our borders begin and our identity shines before the world. Under the visionary leadership of Prime Minister Shri Narendra Modi Ji, India advances with renewed resolve. Border areas are no longer the nation's edge but its first village and foremost opportunity. New commitment thrives and connection with mainstream has taken root, the Lieutenant Governor said. The Lieutenant Governor, as per an official statement, was speaking at a public gathering during his visit to vibrant village Sariah in Rajouri, where he inaugurated the Common Service Centre and initiated several development projects. These projects include Water Conservation Works under JSJB 2.0 and development of playgrounds in vibrant villages Sariah, Pukharni, Bhawani, Chapardhara and Namban. He also paid tributes to Brig. Mohammad Usman. The Lieutenant Governor said that through the Border Area Development Programme under Vibrant Villages Programme, we are ensuring infrastructure and welfare schemes reach every border village. No map fully captures the true essence of our border villages, which reveal only lines. Within those lines, I see a vibrant society and steadfast families advancing the nation's progress, he said. The Lieutenant Governor said that national security flows from soldiers at the borders and border village residents who dwell there. A road reaching a border village builds not just passage but unshakeable confidence in our defense. Electricity lighting a border village home offers not mere illumination but fresh hope. Employment for a border village youth transforms not only one life but the trajectory of an entire community. My vision is clear that border village development is integral to national security, and every border village must rank among our nation's most prosperous, the Lieutenant Governor said. The Lieutenant Governor said that since assuming responsibility for Jammu Kashmir in August 2020, he had prioritized border villages' aspirations. In border villages where women rise each dawn dreaming of brighter futures for their children amid challenges, where farmers toiling in their soil through hardships, and where communities stand as sentinels without uniforms, we have ignited a new dawn of progress, the Lieutenant Governor said. The Lieutenant Governor also called upon officers to achieve 100% saturation of HADP, Mission Youth, Mudra Yojana, and all welfare schemes, leaving no eligible citizen behind. Our commitment has transformed lives, and I affirm with confidence that change is tangible in Jammu Kashmir's border villages where roads now weave networks, healthcare is thriving, digital connectivity is transforming the education sector and residents now feel integrated to India's rapid growth, the Lieutenant Governor said. The Lieutenant Governor said true development means equal opportunity, dignity, and instilled confidence and the Vibrant Villages Programme embodies this, advancing employment, education, infrastructure, and digital empowerment holistically. It is our moral duty to secure every citizen's brighter future. Sariah's border village residents have guarded our borders alongside soldiers; we owe them comprehensive progress, leaving none behind. Border village residents have endured much for this nation; now, they must stand at prosperity's core. A developed India demands a strong rural heartland, incomplete without its first villages. I call upon Sariah's residents to unite in realizing the Vibrant Village resolve. All officials will ensure 100% saturation of every central scheme and welfare program, the Lieutenant Governor said. On the occasion, the Lieutenant Governor visited the exhibition on Gyan Bharatam and inspected the stalls installed by various departments and stakeholders. He launched the Vibrant Village Anthem and handed over sanction letters and appointment letters to various beneficiaries under Mission Yuva, HADP, PM Mudra, PMAY-G and other different schemes. The Lieutenant Governor also distributed TV Sets with DTH, and felicitated TB Cured Warrior, Nasha Mukt Abhiyaan volunteers, and citizens from diverse backgrounds for their valuable contribution to society. Atal Dulloo, Chief Secretary; Nalin Prabhat, DGP J&K; Shaleen Kabra, Additional Chief Secretary, Jal Shakti Department; Ashwani Kumar, Additional Chief Secretary, Power Development Department; Alice Vaz, Commissioner Secretary to Government, Planning and Information; Ramesh Kumar, Divisional Commissioner Jammu; Bhim Sen Tuti, IGP Jammu; Amitava Chatterjee, MD & CEO, J&K Bank; Abhishek Sharma, Deputy Commissioner Rajouri; senior officials of army, police and civil administration, political leaders, prominent citizens and people in large number were present.

Hajj training programme organised by Anjuman Nusrat-ul-Islam, Auqaf Jamia Masjid

Srinagar, Apr 17: A Hajj training programme was organised jointly by Anjuman Nusrat-ul-Islam and Anjuman Auqaf Jamia Masjid Srinagar at the Central Hall Auditorium of Islamia Higher Secondary School. The programme was attended by male and female pilgrims scheduled to undertake the sacred journey of Hajj this year, said a press release. It is noteworthy that, as in previous years, thousands of pilgrims from Kashmir will depart for the holy lands to perform Hajj and visit the Haramain Sharifain. The training session was conducted by noted Islamic scholar Mufti Nazir Ahmad Qasmi, Sheikh-ul-Hadith of Darul Uloom Rahimiya Bandipora. In his detailed address, he elaborated on the virtues of Hajj and Umrah, the rituals of Hajj, and related issues, while also responding to various queries raised by the pilgrims. On the occasion, a booklet titled Ahkam-e-Hajj wa Umrah was also distributed among the participants as a gift from the Mirwaiz Foundation. In his concluding remarks, Mufti Sahib congratulated the pilgrims on embarking upon this blessed journey and conveyed greetings and best wishes on behalf of Mirwaiz Umar Farooq. The programme was attended by several scholars and muftis, along with the General Secretary of the Anjuman, Khurshid Ahmad; Mufti Ghulam Rasool Samoon of Anjuman Auqaf; and the editor of Nusrat-ul-Islam, Maulana M.S. Rehman Shams.

Srinagar city people want to reshape their political course: Altaf Bukhari

Srinagar, Apr 17:A large number of political leaders and workers from Hazratbal, Srinagar, joined the Apni Party today. In a statement, JKAP spokesperson said the new entrants were mostly from the PDP. According to the press note, the vision that the Apni Party has for the infrastructural development of Srinagar city is attracting people towards it. Today, a large number of political leaders and senior workers from the Hazratbal constituency joined the Apni Party. They have responded positively to the pro-people agenda and policies of the party and formally joined it. Since Apni Party has voiced the basic problems of Srinagar city, such as the lack of infrastructural development, employment avenues, and housing issues, these concerns continue to trouble the people of the city. As a result, people are coming forward to join hands with the Apni Party to reshape their political future. This trend began recently in Maisuma Srinagar, where the Apni Party held a public convention that attracted a large number of local residents, JKAP President Syed Mohammad Altaf Bukhari said in his address. Pertinently, there is a buzz across Srinagar city, wherein people are saying that they need to reshape their political course, and thus they are joining the Apni Party. They strongly believe that a better future, in terms of development and progress of Srinagar city, is aligned with the Apni Party. Todays joining was organised as a grand event held at the Apni Partys headquarters in Srinagar. The prominent among the new entrants included former Zonal President of PDP and Chairman DUF Mohammad Sidiq, Ex. Corporator NC and VC Democratic United Forum Mohammad Saleem Lone, Zonal President, Vice Senior President PDP & General Secretary DUF Yousuf Abdullah, Former Zonal President PDP and Treasure DUF Abdul Hamid Dar, Ex Secretary PDP & Secretary DUF, Prominent leader PDP & Publicity Secretary DUF Bilal Ahmad Bhat, District Member PDP Farooq Ahmad Magray, Mohammad Rafiq Baba, Yousuf Abdullah, Abdul Hamid Dar, Mohammad Hussain, Bilal Ahmad Bhat, Farooq Ahmad Magray, Feroz Ahmad Bhat, Muneer Ahmad, Ghulam Mohammad Mir, Farooq Ahmad, Zahoor Ahmad Sidiqi and others. Besides Syed Mohammad Altaf Bukhari, the prominent party leaders who were present on the occasion and greeted the new entrants into the party fold included the Chairman of the partys Parliamentary Affairs Committee (PAC) Mohammad Dilawar Mir, Vice President Javaid Mustafa Mir, General Secretary Rafi Ahmad Mir, Provincial President Kashmir Mohammad Ashraf Mir, Chief Spokesperson & State Secretary Muntazir Mohiudin, Media Advisor Farooq Andrabi, State Youth President & Spokesperson Yawar Dilawar Mir, District President Srinagar Mohammad Shafi Mir, District President Budgam Advocate Owais Ashraf Shah, District President Ganderbal Javaid Mir, Provincial Coordinator Kashmir Constituency In-charge Hazratbal & Former DDC Shabir Ahmad Reshi, Provincial Secretary Kashmir & Constituency In-charge Chanapora Mohammad Ashraf Dar, Publicity Secretary Muzaffar Reshi, Provincial Joint Secretary Kashmir Aamir Ashraf Bhat, Senior Vice President Srinagar & Constituency In-charge Habba Kadal Jeelani Hamid Kumar, Vice President Srinagar & Constituency In-charge Central Shaltang Zaffar Habib, Secretary District Srinagar Peer Wajahat, Coordinator District Srinagar Sheikh Nissar, Organizer District Srinagar Shoaib Dar, Constituency In-charge Zadibal Tehseen Farooq, Jibran Dar, and others.

Kashmir's Tulip Garden draws half the crowd this year

Srinagar, Apr 17: Asia's largest tulip garden, the Indira Gandhi Memorial Tulip Garden here, saw its visitor numbers plunge by more than half this season, marking a dramatic reversal from the record-breaking turnout it had achieved just a year ago and raising fresh questions about the fragility of Kashmir's tourism ecosystem. The garden, which drew an unprecedented 8.55 lakh visitors during the 2025 season the highest in its history could manage only 3.90 lakh visitors this year. Of these, 1,222 were foreign nationals and 2.89 lakh were domestic tourists, with approximately 1.60 lakh local residents accounting for the remainder. A senior official of the floriculture department said the drop, while significant on paper, needed to be read in the right context. Last year's numbers were exceptional and, to a degree, anomalous. This year, despite the decline in footfall, the garden performed creditably given the broader circumstances. We had significantly increased bulb density, introduced newer varieties and worked to make the visual experience richer than ever before, the official said. More than 70 varieties of tulips were on display this season, and the aesthetic quality of the bloom was among the finest we have seen. We remain committed to making this garden a world-class destination. Nestled at the foothills of the Zabarwan range overlooking the famous Dal Lake, the garden opened its gates to the public on March 16, 2026, featuring over 1.8 million bulbs across more than 70 varieties. Jammu and Kashmir Chief Minister Omar Abdullah inaugurated the season a full week ahead of schedule, as an unseasonably warm spell accelerated the bloom and compressed the window available for visitors. The garden welcomed visitors daily from 9 AM to 7 PM throughout the season before closing around mid-April this week. The steep year-on-year decline, however, is not without explanation. Last year's tally of 8.55 lakh a figure that stunned even seasoned tourism observers was recorded under a unique set of circumstances. The garden closed just two days after the Pahalgam terror attack, an event that sent shockwaves through the tourism industry and forced thousands of travellers to either abandon their trips midway or cancel bookings altogether. The surge in numbers before that point had been remarkable, and the final tally reflected weeks of exceptionally high footfall before the crisis struck. Placed in a longer historical frame, this year's 3.90 lakh visitors remain comfortably above the garden's performance in most previous years. Official records show 8.55 lakh visitors in 2025, 4.45 lakh in 2024, 3.75 lakh in 2023, 3.62 lakh in 2022 and 2.25 lakh in 2021. The garden remained closed through the entirety of 2020 owing to the COVID-19 pandemic. Going further back, it recorded 2.59 lakh visitors in 2019, 1.90 lakh in 2018, 1.50 lakh in 2017 and 1.75 lakh in 2016 figures that underscore how far the garden has come as a tourist destination over the past decade. The Indira Gandhi Memorial Tulip Garden was first opened to the public in 2008 on the initiative of then Chief Minister Ghulam Nabi Azad, with the explicit aim of drawing visitors to Kashmir during the lean spring months before the peak summer season sets in. What began as a modest horticultural initiative has since evolved into one of the most visited and photographed attractions in the valley, routinely drawing visitors from across the country and beyond each spring.

Awareness drives held across Kupwara to create anti-drug awareness

Srinagar, Apr 17:In a significant step towards strengthening the ongoing Nasha Mukt J&K Abhiyan, the District Administration Kupwara organized mega Pad Yatras across the district to create mass awareness against drug abuse and promote a healthy, drug-free society. A Mega Pad Yatra was held in Kupwara which was attended by MLA Kupwara, Mir Mohammad Fayaz, Deputy Commissioner Kupwara, Shrikant Suse, SSP Kupwara, Syed Al Tahir Gilani and witnessed overwhelming participation from officers, government employees, members of civil society, youth, and a large number of students. Demonstrating strong public support, the rally drew an estimated participation of around 10,000 participants. The Yatra commenced from Boys Higher Secondary School (BHSS) Kupwara and passed through key streets and markets of Kupwara town, drawing attention from the general public and spreading the message of drug de-addiction. On the occasion, Nasha Mukt pledge was also taken by the participants for fighting against the drug menace. The rally culminated at Regipora Sumo Stand, where participants reiterated their commitment to combating the menace of drug abuse. Participants carried placards and raised slogans highlighting the harmful effects of drug addiction and the importance of collective action to eliminate the threat from society. The initiative aimed not only to sensitize the public, particularly the youth, but also to encourage community involvement in prevention and rehabilitation efforts. Similar Pad Yatras were simultaneously organized across all tehsils and blocks of the district including border areas of Karnah, Machill and Keran under the Nasha Mukt JK Abhiyan. These events saw active participation from local administrations, educational institutions, and community groups, further amplifying the message at the grassroots level. The District Administration reiterated its commitment to continue such awareness drives and appealed to all stakeholders, including parents, educators, and community leaders, to play an active role in safeguarding society from the dangers of drug abuse.

JD Vance's dodgy H-1B sleight of hand

US policies are impacting foreign-trained doctors. Claims of widespread H-1B visa fraud are not fully supported by government data. Recent actions have frozen work authorisations and visa processing for nationals of many countries. This is creating physician shortages in rural areas. Millions of Americans rely on these doctors for care. The situation risks patient well-being.

Targeting supply chain, creating awareness key strategy against drugs: SSP Sopore

Sopore, Apr 17:Senior Superintendent of Police Sopore, Iftikhar Talib, on Friday said that police have intensified their crackdown against drug-related activities, registering 34 FIRs and arresting 40 individuals so far as part of an ongoing anti-drug campaign in the region. Addressing the media, SSP Talib emphasised that tackling drug abuse is not the responsibility of law enforcement alone but a collective fight involving the public and all sections of society He described drug addiction as a growing pandemic that requires a united and sustained response. He highlighted that the ongoing Nasha Mukt Jammu & Kashmir campaign, launched under the leadership of Lieutenant Governor Manoj Sinha, aims to eliminate drug abuse through a comprehensive and multi-pronged strategy. This initiative demands a whole-of-society approach, where not just the police but all government departments and citizens must work together to uproot this menace, he said. SSP Talib further elaborated on the dual strategy adopted by Sopore Police. On one hand, we are aggressively targeting drug peddlers to dismantle the supply chain. On the other, we are focusing on preventive measures by conducting awareness campaigns in schools, colleges, and villages, he added. He stressed that awareness and education are crucial in preventing youth from falling prey to substance abuse, while strict enforcement actions will continue against those involved in drug trafficking. Reiterating his appeal to the public, SSP Sopore urged citizens to cooperate with law enforcement agencies by sharing information and supporting initiatives aimed at creating a drug-free society.

Ganderbal police hold Nasha Mukt drives across district

Ganderbal, Apr 17:As part of the ongoing Nasha Mukt campaign, Ganderbal Police organised a series of awareness programmes across the district on friday to highlight the dangers of drug abuse. The events were held in Ganderbal town, Gund, Kangan, Safapora, and Sonamarg, with participation from students, traders, transporters, and civil society members. Police officials spoke about the health, social, and legal consequences of substance abuse and urged youth to channel their energy into sports and skill development. In Kangan, Police on Friday initiated a strict enforcement drive against the sale and use of tobacco products in the area under the Cigarettes and Other Tobacco Products Act (COTPA). The drive was conducted under the supervision of SDPO Rajeev Raina, SHO Kangan Younis Khan, along with the Food Safety Officer Fayaz Ahmad. Authorities carried out intensive checking of distribution points, particularly in and around hospitals and schools. Several shopkeepers and distributors were fined for violating COTPA norms, including illegal sale and improper display of tobacco products. Officials stressed that special focus was laid on safeguarding public places, especially sensitive zones like educational institutions and healthcare facilities. The initiative was carried out under the banner of the Nasha Mukt Bharat Abhiyan, aiming to curb tobacco consumption and promote a healthier, drug-free society in the region. In Gund, under the Nasha Mukt campaign, Gund Police, led by SHO Rayees Ahmad, organized awareness programmes across various areas to educate the public about the dangers of drug abuse. He warned of strict action against drug trafficking and urged the public to cooperate with the authorities. Similar drives were carried out in Safapora, Sonamarg and other areas of the district.

Unsafe drinking water in Shopian prompts public health fears

Shopian, Apr 17:Residents in several parts of south Kashmirs Shopian town have been consuming turbid water for the past several weeks, raising concerns about a possible outbreak of water-borne diseases. People in Gagren, Bonabazar, Nakhasi Mohalla and other localities complained that the water supplied to their homes is muddy and unfit for consumption, particularly during the ongoing rainy spell. The water supplied to us is not fit even for doing laundry, let alone for drinking, said a group of residents from Gagren village, adding that the problem has persisted for weeks without any relief from the authorities. Many households have been forced to purchase bottled water for cooking and drinking, putting additional financial strain on families already grappling with rising costs. Abaid Hussain, a resident of Bonabazar, said that taps frequently gush out visibly contaminated water. The problem becomes worse during the rainy season. The water turns muddy and unusable, he said, expressing fears about potential health risks. Residents said they were particularly worried about the spread of water-borne diseases such as jaundice, diarrhoea and gastroenteritis, which are often linked to contaminated water supplies. Officials from the Jal Shakti Department acknowledged the issue, attributing it to high turbidity levels in water sources during rainfall. During the rainy season, turbidity increases significantly and we record high NTU levels, a senior official said. NTU, or Nephelometric Turbidity Unit, is a standard measure used to assess the clarity of water, with higher values indicating greater levels of suspended particles. The official said that ongoing construction work on the Mughal Road has contributed to the problem. During rainfall, landslides from the mountains wash silt and debris into the water sources, leading to increased turbidity, he said. He added that efforts were underway to address the issue. Work on a filtration plant is in progress, and an additional water supply line from the Padpawn area is being laid to improve the quality and reliability of water supply. Authorities did not specify a timeline for completion of the projects. Meanwhile, the official advised residents to take precautionary measures before using the water for drinking purposes. He urged people to boil water thoroughly and filter it through clean cloth or household filtration systems to reduce the risk of contamination. Until the turbidity levels come down and proper filtration systems are in place, people should ensure water is treated at home before consumption, he said, adding that such measures can help minimise the chances of water-borne infections. Residents, however, urged the administration to take immediate steps to restore safe drinking water, warning that prolonged exposure to contaminated supply could trigger a public health crisis in the area.

JKCA announces packed AprilJune schedule

Srinagar, Apr 17: The Jammu & Kashmir Cricket Association (JKCA) has released a comprehensive schedule of camps, trials and selection matches across age groups for the AprilJune period, with activities split between Jammu and Kashmir divisions. According to the schedule issued by JKCA, the season will begin with the U-19 womens physical fitness and fielding camp from April 20 to 26 at Hostel Ground, Jammu. This will be followed by U-23 mens deep selection matches from April 27 to May 3 in Jammu, with the second phase scheduled from May 12 to 14 at the Sher-i-Kashmir Cricket Stadium in Srinagar. The association has lined up multiple camps for women cricketers as well, including a fitness and fielding camp for U-23 and senior women (Kashmir) from April 30 to May 6 in Srinagar, and a similar camp for Jammu-based players from May 25 to 31. In the junior categories, deep selection matches for U-15 girls will be held from April 28 to May 4 at Vijaypur, while U-19 womens matches are scheduled from May 6 to 12 at Barotia Cricket Ground. Talent hunt and selection matches for U-16 boys and U-19 men will take place from May 9 to 17 and May 16 to 25 respectively at SK Stadium. The association has also announced T20 trials for senior men in Jammu from May 5 to 7, followed by Srinagar trials from May 9 to 11. These will be followed by senior mens T20 trial matches from May 15 to 20 in Jammu. For younger age groups, U-14 boys talent hunt trials and matches (Kashmir) are slated from May 19 to 24 in Srinagar, while the Jammu leg will be conducted either from May 27 to June 2 or in two phases from June 14 to 24. In June, the focus will shift to advanced camps and final selection processes. Deep selection matches for U-23 and senior women are scheduled from June 3 to 8 in Jammu, followed by physical fitness and fielding camps for U-23 men and senior men from June 9 to 15 in Jammu and Srinagar respectively. The U-19 boys fitness and fielding camp will conclude the schedule from June 20 to 26 at MA Stadium, Jammu. Meanwhile, JKCA has also clarified that trial matches for U-19 and U-16 boys have been rescheduled. While trials will be conducted as per the original plan, the trial matches will now be held on revised dates.

Once an institution of warmth and wit, parties are now an embodiment of symbol over experience

A recent party at Gwalior's Jai Vilas Palace offered a glimpse of genuine connection, a stark contrast to years of superficial gatherings. The author recalls parties hosted by Parmeshwar Godrej, Raj Salgaocar, and Roohi Jaikishan, where guests connected through shared interests and the host's charisma.

Climate crisis is a gender issue, women face higher risks, less representation

Climate change disproportionately impacts women, who are often excluded from decision-making despite their crucial roles in crisis response. Addressing this gendered issue requires empowering women with access to resources, finance, and leadership opportunities. India's initiatives, like training Climate Champions and implementing heat insurance, demonstrate a path towards equitable climate resilience.