Opinion

Rajya Sabha takes up discussion on bill to make insult to 'Vande Mataram' criminal offence

New Delhi, Jul 29: Rajya Sabha on Wednesday took up a discussion on a bill to make insult to the national song Vande Mataram a criminal offence, notwithstanding noisy protests by opposition parties who later staged a walkout from the House. As soon as the House convened in the post-lunch session, Deputy Chairman Harivansh urged protesting members to maintain discipline and decorum. When the Chair took up the discussion over the Prevention of Insults to National Honour (Amendment) Bill, 2026 -- which was listed for consideration and passing in the list of business, the opposition parties started protesting and sloganeering seeking a response from Union Home Minister Amit Shah over alleged police force against NEET paper leak demonstrators in the national capital. They also raised slogans demanding his presence in the House. Amid protests by the opposition, the Deputy Chairman continued the House proceedings and called members, whose names were received for speaking in the discussion. Meanwhile, the opposition parties continued to raise their demand and later staged a walkout from the House when Union Minister of State for Social Justice and Empowerment Ramdas Athawale was speaking on the proposed legislation. The bill seeks to make desecration of or disrespect towards the country's national symbols, including the national flag, the Constitution, and the national anthem, a criminal offence, with a provision of up to three years' imprisonment.

IFFJK receives overwhelming global response; 875 film entries received from around 50 countries

Srinagar, Jul 29: The first International Film Festival of Jammu and Kashmir (IFFJK) 2026 has evoked an enthusiastic response from filmmakers across the globe, with 875 film submissions received from around 50 countries so far, reflecting the growing international interest in the J&K Governments flagship cinematic initiative. The film submission window for the festival will remain open till tomorrow i.e; July 30, 2026, providing filmmakers with the final opportunity to register their entries for participation in the inaugural edition of the festival. The IFFJK, organised by the Department of Information and Public Relations (DIPR) in collaboration with National Film Development Corporation (NFDC), is scheduled to be held from September 7 to 10, 2026. The festival aims to establish Jammu & Kashmir as a vibrant destination for cinema, creativity and cultural exchange while providing a prestigious platform for filmmakers from across the world to showcase their work. The encouraging response from both national and international filmmakers underscores the growing confidence in Jammu & Kashmir as an emerging hub for film production, cinematic excellence and creative collaboration. The diversity of submissions received from around 50 countries is expected to enrich the festival with a wide spectrum of storytelling traditions, artistic perspectives and innovative filmmaking. The four-day festival will feature screenings of selected films, interactive sessions, masterclasses, panel discussions and cultural engagements, offering opportunities for filmmakers, industry experts, students and cinema lovers to exchange ideas and explore new avenues of collaboration. The IFFJK is envisioned as a significant step towards promoting artistic excellence, strengthening cultural dialogue and showcasing the rich heritage, scenic grandeur and creative potential of Jammu & Kashmir before a global audience. The festival also aims to promote the culture of Jammu & Kashmir through Cinema, promote artistic excellence, cultural exchange, and cinematic innovation by exhibiting and recognising outstanding films from around the world. It also envisions to contribute to the understanding and appreciation of film cultures of different nations within the context of their social and cultural ethos, besides promote friendship and cooperation among the people of the world through the medium of cinema. Pertinent to mention, the curtain raiser ceremony of the festival was held on July 17, 2026, with Chief Minister Omar Abdullah formally launching the first-ever international film festival of Jammu & Kashmir and inviting filmmakers, artists, producers and cinema enthusiasts from around the world to participate in the landmark event.

Omar Abdullah declares lowest assets among India's 31 Chief Ministers: ADR

Srinagar, Jul 29: Jammu and Kashmir Chief Minister Omar Abdullah has declared the lowest assets among all 31 Chief Ministers in the country, with total assets worth 55 lakh, according to an analysis of election affidavits released by the Association for Democratic Reforms (ADR). The report, based on the self-sworn affidavits filed by the Chief Ministers during their most recent Assembly elections, found that Omar Abdullah is one of only two Chief Ministers with declared assets of less than 1 crore. West Bengal Chief Minister Suvendu Adhikari has declared assets worth 85 lakh, while Rajasthan Chief Minister Bhajan Lal Sharma's assets stand at around 1 crore. The ADR analysis also noted that Omar Abdullah has not declared any immovable property in his election affidavit. In contrast, the average assets of the country's 31 Chief Ministers stand at 118.07 crore, with their combined declared wealth amounting to nearly 3,660 crore. Karnataka Deputy Chief Minister D K Shivakumar emerged as the wealthiest Chief Minister, with declared assets worth 1,413 crore. He was followed by Andhra Pradesh Chief Minister N. Chandrababu Naidu (931 crore), Tamil Nadu Chief Minister C. Joseph Vijay (648 crore) and Arunachal Pradesh Chief Minister Pema Khandu (332 crore). These four are the only Chief Ministers with declared assets exceeding 100 crore. According to the report, 15 Chief Ministers have declared assets between 11 crore and 49 crore, while only Omar Abdullah and Suvendu Adhikari have assets below 1 crore. On liabilities, 11 Chief Ministers have declared dues exceeding 1 crore. D K Shivakumar tops the list with liabilities of 265 crore, followed by Pema Khandu with 180 crore and Assam Chief Minister Himanta Biswa Sarma with 16 crore. Among the neighbouring states, Himachal Pradesh Chief Minister Sukhvinder Singh Sukhu has declared assets worth 7.81 crore and liabilities of 22.42 lakh. Haryana Chief Minister Nayab Singh Saini has assets of 5.80 crore and liabilities of 74.82 lakh, while Delhi Chief Minister Rekha Gupta has declared assets worth 5.31 crore and liabilities of 1.20 crore. Punjab Chief Minister Bhagwant Mann has declared assets of 1.97 crore and liabilities of 30.35 lakh. The ADR report analyses the financial, criminal and educational backgrounds of all serving Chief Ministers using information disclosed in their election affidavits.

August 5 a black day, Apni Party will fight until Article 370, statehood are restored: Altaf Bukhari

Amarnath Yatra: 'Chhari Mubarak' taken to Pahalgam for annual rituals

Srinagar, Jul 29: Rituals for 'Chhari Mubarak', age-old traditions associated with the annual Amarnath Yatra, formally began on Wednesday, Mahant Deependra Giri said. 'Chhari Mubarak', the saffron-robed silver mace of Lord Shiva, was taken from its abode at Dashnami Akshara here to Pahalgam in Anantnag district for the bhoomi pujan ritual. Chanting Vedic hymns, a group of sadhus led by Giri, custodian of the holy mace, left for Gauri Shankar Temple, Pahalgam, where the bhoomi pujan of the holy mace will be held, Girri said. He said the holy mace will stop at Martand temple in Mattan area for a holy bath on its return journey to the abode here later in the day. Giri expressed satisfaction that more than 4.25 lakh pilgrims have performed the Yatra this year. The Amarnath yatra, which began on July 3, will end on August 28 coinciding with Raksha Bandhan.

Schools in Doda closed today due to heavy rain; online classes to continue

Doda, Jul 29: Authorities have ordered the closure of all government and private schools across Doda district on Wednesday as a precautionary measure in view of the prevailing adverse weather conditions caused by continuous rainfall. Authorities have ordered the closure of all government and private schools across Doda district on Wednesday as a precautionary measure in view of the prevailing adverse weather conditions caused by continuous rainfall. The order, however, said that online classes will continue as per the prescribed schedule in all schools across the district. Officials advised students and parents to follow the instructions issued by the district administration and school authorities.

US military says American and Saudi forces struck sites used by Iran-backed militias in Iraq

Washington, Jul 29: American and Saudi forces struck sites used by Iran-backed militias in Iraq to carry out attacks in recent days, the US military said Tuesday. US and Saudi fighter aircraft struck multiple terrorist logistics and weapons sites across eastern Iraq in a strong response to over 30 IRGC-directed aerial drone attacks in the last 72 hours, US Central Command said in a statement, using an acronym for Iran's paramilitary Revolutionary Guard. It said the Revolutionary Guard and its terrorist proxies must cease these attacks to avoid further US military response. Saudi Arabia said earlier Tuesday that it for a second day shot down drones fired by Iran-backed militias in Iraq, which had attempted to target petroleum facilities in the nation's eastern region. Iraqi Prime Minister Ali al-Zaidi ordered security agencies to investigate after the Saudis alleged a similar attack on Monday.

Death toll rises to 13 as rescuers search for the missing after Japan earthquake

Yame, Jul 29: Japanese Prime Minister Sanae Takaichi said 13 people have been found dead after a powerful quake shook part of southwestern Japan and rescue work was continuing Wednesday morning for the missing. A magnitude 7.1 earthquake struck the Kumamoto area on the southern main island of Kyushu late Tuesday afternoon. There are people who are still waiting to be rescued, and it's a race against time, Takaichi said. We will go all out to find and rescue as many people as we can. Takaichi offered her condolences to the victims and sympathy to their relatives, while urging those affected by the quake to take care of themselves under the hot weather. Japan's Self Defence Forces joined rescue workers in the search and rescue operations at a badly damaged shopping mall and were delivering water, food and other necessities to the hard-hit areas, she said. The quake collapsed the second floor of the Aeon Mall in Kashima Town, trapping people, according to the fire department in the prefectural capital of Kumamoto. A chimney collapsed at the Nippon Paper Industries Co.'s Yatsushiro factory, trapping people under the debris, the Kumamoto emergency team said. The affected area is about 900 kilometres (540 miles) southwest of Tokyo. The Fire and Disaster Management Agency said major public facilities or infrastructure were not damaged, and the Nuclear Regulation Authority said no abnormalities were found at three nearby nuclear power plants. Kyodo News said a hospital in the city of Yatsushiro took in about 40 people with injuries and about 50 others were taken to a hospital in Kumamoto city. Many major manufacturers in Kyushu suspended operations Tuesday but found no major damage and planned to resume work Wednesday. The runway at Aso Kumamoto Airport was closed, with no immediate word on when it would resume operations. A train derailed and fell on its side at Yatsushiro station, and stone walls were damaged at Kumamoto Castle, a main tourist destination that was badly damaged in the 2016 quake and is still being repaired, Kyodo said. The shaking reminded me of the Kumamoto quake (10 years ago) and I was frightened, said Hiroki Shimoda, an official at Mifune town hall, who saw roof tiles of nearby homes crash to the ground. Kumamoto was hit with a deadly quake in 2016 that killed at least 50 people. Shinji Kiyomoto with the Japan Meteorological Agency urged residents to be cautious over the next two to three days due to potential aftershocks.

Creation of separate ministry infused new energy in India's cooperative movement: Amit Shah

Jamnagar, Jul 29: The country's cooperative movement received new vigour and momentum after the Narendra Modi-led government established a separate ministry for the sector, Union Home and Cooperation Minister Amit Shah has said. He was speaking after virtually inaugurating 'Sahakar Bhavan', the newly constructed headquarters of Jamnagar District Cooperative Bank here on Tuesday. Gujarat Chief Minister Bhupendra Patel was present on the occasion. Modernisation is essential for strengthening the cooperative system, and this process begins with modernising the headquarters and functioning of the cooperative institutions, Shah noted. Under the leadership of Prime Minister Narendra Modi, the Government of India established a separate Ministry of Cooperation and infused new energy and momentum into the country's cooperative movement, he said. The Centre set up a separate Ministry of Cooperation in 2021. The ministry provides a separate administrative, legal and policy framework to strengthen the cooperative movement in the country. Shah emphasised that initiatives, such as establishing more than two lakh new primary agricultural credit societies (PACS) and dairy cooperative societies, adding more than 20 new business activities to PACS, taking the audit system of cooperative institutions online and connecting different cooperative institutions, will play an important role in ensuring the prosperity of farmers and strengthening the rural economy in the coming years. The Jamnagar District Cooperative Bank, which began in 1969 with a modest capital of only Rs 2.5 lakh, has a business of more than Rs 215 crore today, he said. As service cooperative societies and dairy cooperative societies expand their areas of operation, the bank will play an increasingly important role as a major institution meeting the financial requirements of the cooperative sector across the district, the minister said. The modern headquarters, constructed at a cost of approximately Rs 25 crore, has been built on 25,000 square feet of land, and offers nearly 47,000 square feet of functional space. The building has been designed keeping in view the bank's projected requirements for the next 15 years, he said. The new headquarters of Jamnagar District Cooperative Bank has been constructed in conformity with all the standards prescribed by the Reserve Bank of India (RBI) and NABARD, and is equipped with state-of-the-art technology, the Union minister added.

2,051 pilgrims leave Jammu in 22nd batch for Amarnath Yatra

Banihal, Jul 29: A fresh batch of 2,051 pilgrims left the Bhagwati Nagar Yatri Niwas in Jammu early Wednesday for the Baltal base camp to undertake the annual Shri Amarnath Yatra under tight security arrangements, officials said. According to the Joint Police Control Room, the 22nd batch departed at 2:45 a.m. in a convoy of 82 vehicles, comprising 48 buses, eight medium motor vehicles (MMVs), 25 light motor vehicles (LMVs), and one two-wheeler. The batch included 1,570 male pilgrims, 369 females, two children, 58 sadhus, 21 sadhvis, one sadhu child, and 30 foreign nationals (14 males and 16 females). All the pilgrims are travelling via the Baltal axis, while no convoy was scheduled for the Pahalgam route. With the departure of the latest batch, the total number of pilgrims who have left the Jammu base camp for the holy cave shrine during this year's Yatra has reached 1,32,406, officials added.

SC order reaffirms rule of law, constitutional rights: Ashok Bhan

Senior Advocate Ashok Bhan on Tuesday welcomed the Supreme Courts order on the recent nationwide student protests, saying it reaffirmed the judiciarys commitment to upholding the rule of law, constitutional values and the protection of civil liberties. In a statement, Advocate Bhan said the Bench headed by the Chief Justice of India had recognised the need for a fair, impartial and independent investigation into allegations of injuries suffered by both students and police personnel during the protests. He said the Courts indication that it may constitute a Special Investigation Team (SIT) under the leadership of a former Supreme Court judge, along with directions to preserve CCTV footage, drone recordings, body-camera footage and police communication records, reflected the seriousness with which it viewed the matter and would help ensure a transparent investigation. Senior advocate Bhan also welcomed the interim directions protecting the privacy of student protesters, preventing disclosure of their personal data, directing the release of students without criminal antecedents and restraining coercive action against peaceful protesters. He said these safeguards were rooted in the constitutional guarantees of dignity, liberty, privacy and freedom of expression. Calling the order a powerful reminder of the Supreme Courts role as the guardian of fundamental rights, advocate Bhan said it would strengthen public faith in the judiciary and reaffirm that constitutional remedies remain available to every citizen.

YourStory Founder Shradha Sharma inspires JK Startups during interactive session at JKEDI

The Jammu & Kashmir Entrepreneurship Development Institute (JKEDI) organised an inspiring interaction session with Shradha Sharma, Founder and CEO of YourStory, here at its Sempora campus on Tuesday. The session witnessed enthusiastic participation from innovators, entrepreneurs and startup founders from across the region. The programme was held in the presence of Mohammad Younis Malik, Director JKEDI, who in his welcome address, emphasised that the entrepreneurial ecosystem in Jammu & Kashmir has been steadily evolving and urged the startup community to move beyond the survival mode and embrace a mindset focused on growth and long-term sustainability. Highlighting the transformative role of entrepreneurship, Director JKEDI observed that several startups from the region have successfully broken conventional stereotypes by emerging as job creators rather than job seekers. He remarked that building a vibrant startup ecosystem is a continuous process and meaningful interactions with accomplished entrepreneurs and industry leaders play a vital role in motivating young innovators, broadening their perspectives and equipping them for future challenges. Addressing the gathering, Shradha Sharma described it as nothing short of a miracle to be interacting with the vibrant startup community of Jammu & Kashmir. She appreciated the resilience, determination and innovative spirit displayed by entrepreneurs from the region and expressed her admiration for the remarkable entrepreneurial journeys emerging from Jammu & Kashmir. Laying special emphasis on women-led enterprises, Sharma said that the stories of women entrepreneurs from the region deserve to be showcased on national and global platforms. She observed that for women entrepreneurs, stepping forward with innovative ideas and successfully scaling them into sustainable businesses is a significant achievement. She assured the participants that YourStory would be keen to highlight and amplify such inspiring entrepreneurial journeys, enabling them to reach wider audiences and inspire many others. Sharma further stressed that interaction sessions of this nature are instrumental in strengthening the confidence of startups, helping them understand the value of storytelling, visibility and perseverance in building successful ventures. The programme concluded with an engaging one-to-one interaction between Shradha Sharma and the participating startups, during which entrepreneurs shared their business ideas, challenges, growth aspirations and success stories. The interactive session provided valuable insights on entrepreneurship, brand building, scaling businesses and effectively communicating startup journeys, leaving participants motivated and better equipped to navigate their entrepreneurial path.

Competent Kashmir Automobiles launches New Brezza

Competent Kashmir Automobiles on Tuesday launched the new Brezza Turbo Boosterjet at its Parimpora showroom, introducing Maruti Suzukis latest compact SUV with enhanced performance, advanced safety features and next-generation technology. The vehicle was unveiled by Regional Transport Officer (RTO) Kashmir, Qazi Irfan, in the presence of the Station House Officer (SHO), Parimpora, and customers. Speaking on the occasion, Irshad Peerzada, Chief Operating Officer of Competent Kashmir Automobiles, said the new Brezza has been designed to meet the aspirations of modern customers by combining sporty styling, improved performance and advanced technology. He said the Turbo Boosterjet variant has been conceptualised around the theme of Spontaneous Play to appeal to young buyers seeking an exciting driving experience, while the K15C Dual Jet Dual VVT engine with Progressive Smart Hybrid Technology continues to cater to customers looking for refinement and fuel efficiency. Powered by the Turbo Boosterjet engine, the SUV develops 81 kW of power and 170 Nm of torque, paired with a six-speed manual transmission. The company claims a fuel efficiency of 20.47 km per litre. The K15C Smart Hybrid variant is available with both six-speed manual and automatic transmissions, including steering-mounted paddle shifters, with a claimed mileage of 21.09 km per litre. The new Brezza has been engineered for a five-star Bharat NCAP safety rating and features Blind Spot Warning, Lane Change Alert, Rear Cross Traffic Alert, Tyre Pressure Monitoring System, Emergency Stop Signal, Exit Support Warning, a 360-degree camera and front and rear parking sensors. The SUV also comes equipped with a 10.1-inch SmartPlay Pro X touchscreen infotainment system, built-in internet connectivity, wireless Android Auto and Apple CarPlay, Alexa voice assistant, premium speakers, Arkamys Surround Sense audio and a 64-colour ambient lighting system, offering customers a connected and premium driving experience.

SKUAST-K scientist Mudasir Andrabi bags JC Bose Fellowship

Sher-e-Kashmir University of Agricultural Sciences and Technology of Kashmir (SKUAST-K) has earned national recognition after its senior scientist, Prof Syed Mudasir Andrabi, was awarded the prestigious JC Bose Fellowship, one of Indias highest scientific honours, for his pioneering contributions to biotechnology, innovation and translational research. Prof Andrabi, Professor and Head of the Division of Animal Biotechnology, Faculty of Veterinary Sciences and Animal Husbandry, has been selected for the fellowship in recognition of his sustained excellence in research, technological innovation and scientific leadership. The fellowship is awarded to outstanding scientists whose work has made significant contributions to advancing science and technology in the country. An internationally acclaimed researcher, Prof Andrabi has built an extensive body of work spanning animal biotechnology, molecular diagnostics, vaccine development, regenerative medicine, bioengineering and translational biomedical research. His research has focused on developing technologies that address critical challenges in human and animal health while supporting agricultural development and public welfare. Currently, he leads several major research projects funded by premier national agencies, including the Anusandhan National Research Foundation (ANRF), Department of Biotechnology (DBT), Department of Science and Technology (DST), Indian Council of Medical Research (ICMR) and Indian Council of Agricultural Research (ICAR). His ongoing work covers antimicrobial resistance, gene editing, regenerative medicine, vaccine development and the One Health approach. Prof Andrabis research has resulted in several notable innovations, including SalOvac, a recombinant Lactobacillus-based vaccine against poultry salmonellosis, the RealTick Multiplex Real-Time PCR Diagnostic Kit for human rickettsial infections. LungHealth-MDx, a digital PCR-based epigenetic diagnostic platform, advanced burn recovery bandages and regenerative biomaterials. He holds 13 granted patents, including two US patents, besides several international patent applications and licensed technologies with commercial potential. Over the years, he has received several national and international honours, including the Technology Transfer Impact Award (2026), Linghard Memorial Award (2024), Mid-Career Scientist Award (2023), the Young Scientist Award and the DBT-CREST Overseas Fellowship. He also serves on expert committees of the ANRF, DBT, DST, the Agricultural Scientists Recruitment Board (ASRB) and other scientific advisory bodies. A prolific academic, Prof. Andrabi has published nearly 175 research papers in leading international journals, contributed to several books, and mentored numerous doctoral, postgraduate, and postdoctoral researchers, thereby strengthening research capacity in biotechnology and allied sciences. Congratulating Prof. Andrabi, Vice-Chancellor Prof. Nazir Ahmad Ganai said the honour reflects the growing stature of SKUAST-K in frontier scientific research and innovation. He said the recognition would further inspire the universitys research community to pursue high-impact science and accelerate the development of technologies that benefit agriculture, livestock and society. The university described the fellowship as a landmark achievement for both SKUAST-K and Jammu & Kashmir, noting that it reinforces the institutions emergence as a national hub for translational research, innovation and technology development.

SWD Srinagar organise Business Women Interaction with young girls

Social Welfare Department (SWD), SANKALP-HEW Srinagar, organized an interactive session on Business Women Interaction with Young Girls from Minority Communities at Check-i-Sangri, Khonmoh, Srinagar in collaboration with the National Rural Livelihoods Mission (NRLM) on Tuesday. The programme, organized under Beti Bachao Beti Padhao (BBBP) initiative, aimed to motivate and empower young girls from minority communities by exposing them to inspiring entrepreneurial journeys and creating awareness about opportunities for self-employment, skill development, and economic empowerment. The session featured a successful women business entrepreneur, who shared her experiences, highlighting the importance of determination, innovation, and perseverance in establishing a successful enterprise. The resource person from the Women Development Corporation provided valuable insights into various government schemes, financial assistance, entrepreneurship development programmes, and support mechanisms available for aspiring women entrepreneurs. The interaction was highly engaging, with participants actively discussing career aspirations, entrepreneurship, financial literacy, and the role of women in contributing to economic growth. The resource persons encouraged the young girls to develop confidence, acquire relevant skills, and make use of government initiatives designed for their socio-economic upliftment. Officials of SANKALP-HEW Srinagar emphasized the departments commitment to promoting womens empowerment and creating platforms that inspire young girls to become financially independent and active contributors to society. The participants expressed gratitude to the Department of Social Welfare and NRLM for conducting the informative and motivational session, describing it as an enriching experience that broadened their understanding of entrepreneurship and available livelihood opportunities.

TTIG hails Mushtaq Chayas contribution to J&K tourism sector

The Tourist Trade Interest Guild (TTIG) on Tuesday lauded the contribution of prominent hotelier and tourism entrepreneur Mushtaq Ahmad Chaya to the growth of Jammu and Kashmirs tourism sector, while asserting that recent remarks by Lieutenant Governor Manoj Sinha had been misinterpreted. In a statement, TTIG Chairman Zahoor Ahmad Karnai said he was personally present during the interaction in which the Lieutenant Governor made his remarks. He said an initial media report had misunderstood the context of the Lieutenant Governors comments regarding hotels constructed over the past six years, but the same media person later corrected the report after realizing the actual context. Karnai maintained that the Lieutenant Governor had, in fact, praised Mushtaq Ahmad Chaya for his role in promoting peace and reviving confidence in Jammu and Kashmirs tourism industry. According to the TTIG chairman, the Lieutenant Governor acknowledged Chaya as a Peace Ambassador and appreciated his efforts in attracting investment by the Radisson Hotel Group, generating employment opportunities for local youth, and strengthening the Union Territorys hospitality sector. Describing Chaya as a visionary entrepreneur and an inspiring leader, Karnai said his leadership and commitment to ethical business practices had motivated countless stakeholders associated with the tourism and hospitality industry. As Chairman of TTIG, I believe individuals who dedicate themselves to promoting tourism, creating employment and showcasing Jammu and Kashmir on the global stage deserve recognition and appreciation, Karnai said. He added that Mushtaq Ahmad Chayas sustained efforts had made a significant contribution to the development of the tourism industry and that the trade fraternity remained grateful for his continued guidance and leadership.

KREPL solar reaches 5 MW rooftop solar milestone in J&K

Kashmir Renewable Energy Private Limited (KREPL Solar), one of Jammu & Kashmirs leading renewable energy companies, has become the first vendor from the Union Territory to successfully complete 5 MW of cumulative rooftop solar installations under the Government of Indias flagship PM Surya Ghar Muft Bijli Yojana (PM-SGMBY), marking a major milestone in the regions clean energy journey. The achievement establishes KREPL Solar as the leading implementation partner under the PM Surya Ghar Muft Bijli Yojana in J&K and reflects the companys more than 15 years of commitment to clean energy, engineering excellence and customer satisfaction. Today, KREPL Solar serves more than 5,000 consumers across Jammu & Kashmir, delivering rooftop solar solutions for residential, commercial, industrial and institutional sectors. The company is certified under ISO 9001:2015 and ISO 14001:2015, demonstrating its adherence to internationally recognised standards of quality management, environmental responsibility and professional service delivery. According to the company, the 5 MW rooftop solar portfolio is expected to generate over 75 lakh units (7.5 million kWh) of clean electricity annually. The installations are projected to help 1,500 to 1,700 households significantly reduce or nearly eliminate their electricity bills while delivering annual savings of approximately 56 crore to consumers. The company said the project will also prevent nearly 6,000 tonnes of carbon dioxide (CO ) emissions every yearan environmental benefit equivalent to planting nearly three lakh mature trees. The milestone is expected to strengthen Jammu and Kashmirs transition towards clean, reliable and sustainable energy while reducing dependence on conventional fossil-fuel-based electricity. KREPL Solar said the achievement also reflects the growing acceptance of rooftop solar technology in the Union Territory and contributes to Indias broader vision of energy security, environmental sustainability and the national goal of achieving Net Zero emissions. Over the years, KREPL Solar has received several prestigious national and state-level awards for its contribution to renewable energy and sustainable development. Among its recent recognitions is the PM Surya Ghar Implementation Excellence Award, presented on July 8, 2026, by the Commissioner/Secretary, Science and Technology Department, Government of Jammu & Kashmir, during a function held at Radisson Blu, Jammu. The company has also received the Highest Achiever Award under the 20 MW Grid-Connected Rooftop Solar Programme from the Jammu and Kashmir Energy Development Agency (JAKEDA). Other honours include the India 5000 Best MSME Award for excellence in business performance and sustainable growth, the Best MSME Enterprise (Energy) Award at the India Business Awards 2024, the Pride of Bharat Award 2024 for excellence in renewable energy and entrepreneurship, and the MSME Ratna Award Green & Sustainability, presented on September 1, 2025, recognising its outstanding contribution towards environmental sustainability and renewable energy. Speaking on the occasion, Mustafa Ali, Managing Director of Kashmir Renewable Energy Private Limited, said the achievement represents a milestone not only for the company but for the entire Union Territory. Achieving the historic 5 MW milestone is not merely a company accomplishmentit is a proud achievement for the entire Union Territory of Jammu & Kashmir. It reflects the trust of thousands of consumers, the dedication of our team, and the collective commitment of our stakeholders towards building a cleaner and more sustainable future. Every solar installation represents lower electricity bills, reduced carbon emissions and a stronger, greener tomorrow. We remain committed to making renewable energy affordable, accessible and reliable for every household, institution and business, he said. Building on the milestone, KREPL Solar said it plans to accelerate rooftop solar adoption across Jammu and Kashmir by expanding its engineering capabilities, strengthening after-sales services, creating green employment opportunities and supporting the Government of Indias renewable energy mission through innovative, customer-centric solar solutions. Established in 2010, Kashmir Renewable Energy Private Limited (KREPL Solar) is one of Jammu & Kashmirs leading renewable energy Engineering, Procurement and Construction (EPC) companies. It specialises in the design, engineering, procurement, installation, commissioning and maintenance of rooftop solar power systems for residential, commercial, industrial and government sectors. With 15 years of industry experience, ISO 9001:2015 and ISO 14001:2015 certifications, more than 5,000 satisfied consumers, multiple national and state awards, and the distinction of becoming the first vendor from Jammu & Kashmir to achieve 5 MW under the PM Surya Ghar Muft Bijli Yojana, the company continues to play a leading role in advancing clean energy across the Union Territory under its vision of Roshan Bharat, Roshan Kashmir. For more information, consumers can contact Kashmir Renewable Energy Private Limited (KREPL Solar) at Plot No. 117, Post Office Building, Natipora, Srinagar-190015, Jammu & Kashmir. The company can be reached through its toll-free helpline 1800 572 6461, office number 0194-3147629, or by email at [info@krepl.co.in](mailto:info@krepl.co.in). Additional information on rooftop solar solutions, PM Surya Ghar Muft Bijli Yojana benefits and other renewable energy services is available on the companys official website, [www.kreplsolar.com](http://www.kreplsolar.com).

KMCH Sempora observes World Hepatitis Day

Kashmir Medical College and Hospital (KMCH), Sempora, on Tuesday observed World Hepatitis Day with an awareness programme highlighting the importance of hepatitis prevention, early detection, timely treatment, and public awareness to eliminate the disease. The programme, organised by the Department of Microbiology, brought together senior faculty members and health professionals who emphasised the need to strengthen public awareness, promote routine screening, and encourage preventive measures to reduce burden of viral hepatitis. The event was attended by Executive Director KMCH Insha Qazi, Principal Prof. (Dr.) Nazir Ahmad Khan, Head of the Department of Microbiology Prof. (Dr.) Syed Khursheed, Medical Superintendent Dr. Syed Mubashir, Heads of various departments, faculty members, and doctors. Addressing the gathering, Executive Director Insha Qazi underlined the importance of regular screening and timely medical intervention in preventing complications associated with viral hepatitis. She said awareness, early diagnosis, vaccination, and access to appropriate treatment are essential to achieving the global goal of eliminating hepatitis as a public health threat. Speaking on the occasion, Principal Prof. (Dr.) Nazir Ahmad Khan described hepatitis as a dangerous disease that spreads silently and gradually damages the liver. He said creating awareness about hepatitis is a shared responsibility of healthcare institutions and doctors. He urged doctors to make hepatitis screening a part of routine clinical practice to ensure early diagnosis and timely treatment. Doctors have to become the first line of defence in protecting liver health and preventing liver diseases. It is our duty to promote awareness, encourage regular screening, and work towards eliminating hepatitis, he said. Head of the Department of Microbiology, Prof. (Dr.) Syed Khursheed, said many people infected with hepatitis remain unaware of their condition, making routine screening crucial to prevent the spread of the infection. At KMCH, we strongly advocate routine screening for Hepatitis B and Hepatitis C. These tests are already available at our hospital, and we will soon introduce molecular diagnostics along with other advanced conventional testing methods to further strengthen our diagnostic services, he said. Describing hepatitis as a silent killer, he said the disease can be effectively controlled through early detection, vaccination, timely treatment, and sustained public awareness. Programmes like these are vital to sensitise people and convey the message that awareness, regular screening, and early treatment are essential to eliminating hepatitis, he added. Medical Superintendent Dr. Syed Mubashir congratulated the Department of Microbiology for organising the World Hepatitis Day programme and appreciated its efforts in spreading awareness about the disease. At KMCH, we are providing free vaccines under the Universal Immunisation Programme. In addition, vaccines for both children and adults are available free of cost. We are also offering hepatitis screening at highly subsidised rates compared to the market, making early detection and prevention more accessible to the public, he said. The programme concluded with a renewed commitment by KMCH to continue organising awareness initiatives, expand community outreach programmes, and strengthen preventive healthcare efforts to promote liver health and encourage timely healthcare-seeking behaviour.

JKCEGA holds seminar on sustainable construction

The Jammu and Kashmir Civil Engineering Graduates Association (JKCEGA), in collaboration with UltraTech Cement Limited, organised a technical seminar on 'Building a Sustainable Jammu & Kashmir Blended Cement for Durable Construction' at Tagore Hall here on Tuesday. The seminar brought together civil engineers, academicians, government officials, consultants, contractors, students and representatives of the construction industry to deliberate on sustainable construction practices, modern technologies and the use of blended cement for durable and environment-friendly infrastructure. Chief Engineer, Public Works (R&B) Department, J&K Government, Er. Narinder Kumar, was the chief guest on the occasion. Chief Engineer PMGSY Kashmir Ashwani Kumar, Chief Engineer R&B South Kashmir Noor Ali, Chief Engineer R&B North Kashmir Sushil Kumar, Chief Town Planner Kashmir Iftiqar Hakim and Chief Engineer UEED Samiullah Beigh were the guests of honour. Former Chief Engineer PWD Rafiq A Rafiq, former president and chief patron JKCEGA Nasir Amin and Chairman, Institution of Engineers (India), J&K State Centre, Firdous Ahmad, were also present. Welcoming the participants, the General Secretary of JKCEGA highlighted the associations efforts towards professional development, knowledge sharing and capacity building among engineers. He stressed the need for sustainable construction materials and adoption of modern engineering practices in Jammu and Kashmir. Technical presentations were delivered by A K Singh, Bashir Ahmad Dar, Gurdeep Singh, Manamohan R Kalgal, Majid Farooq and Ramachandra V. The experts discussed blended cement technology, green building practices, concrete durability and carbon credit perspectives. Addressing the gathering, the chief guest appreciated JKCEGA for organising the seminar on a subject of contemporary relevance. He stressed the importance of continuous learning, modern construction technologies and adherence to quality standards for developing safe, durable and sustainable infrastructure in J&K. The programme concluded with an interactive discussion and valedictory session, during which the chief guest felicitated the speakers and representatives of UltraTech Cement Limited. JKCEGA reiterated its commitment to organising similar technical programmes to promote engineering excellence, professional capacity building and sustainable infrastructure development in Jammu and Kashmir.

CUK organises POSH awareness programme on gender sensitisation

The Central University of Kashmir (CUK) Tuesday organised an awareness programme on the Sexual Harassment of Women at Workplace (Prevention, Prohibition and Redressal) Act, 2013 (POSH Act) and gender sensitisation. The session was coordinated by CUs Internal Committee and was presided over by Prof. (Dr.) Sandhya Tiwari, Presiding Officer, Internal Committee (IC), CU Kashmir, and featured Prof. (Dr.) Savita Nayyar, Professor, Department of Law and Director, Centre for Womens Studies, University of Jammu, as the keynote speaker. Chairperson of the Internal Committee, Prof. (Dr.) Sandhya Tiwari, welcomed the resource person, Prof. (Dr.) Savita Nayyar, and thanked Vice-Chancellor Prof. A. Ravinder Nath for his continued support in organising such awareness programmes. Delivering the session, Prof. Nayyar highlighted that sexual harassment is a serious violation of dignity, equality and fundamental rights. She discussed the importance of gender sensitisation, constitutional safeguards, the Vishaka Guidelines and the key provisions of the POSH Act, including complaint procedures, the role of Internal Committees, employer responsibilities, confidentiality, and the need for institutional policies to ensure a safe, inclusive and respectful workplace. The programme concluded with Prof. Sandhya Tiwari expressing gratitude to the speaker and participants. She also briefed the gathering on the role and functioning of the University's Internal Committee and reaffirmed CUK's commitment to fostering a safe, inclusive and harassment-free environment for all members of the University community.

Civil Society Forum Kashmir (Health) commends Stay Fit Stay Healthy team

The Civil Society Forum Kashmir (Health), an NGO, Tuesday extended gratitude to its Stay Fit Stay Healthy Team for their efforts in promoting preventive healthcare, physical fitness, healthy lifestyles and public health awareness across Jammu & Kashmir. According to the press note issued, CSFK said that the Teams health awareness programmes, expert interactions, sports-based activities and community outreach are encouraging youth to adopt healthier lifestyles while promoting sports and fitness as positive alternatives to substance abuse. The Forum acknowledged the valuable contributions of Dr. Mir Ishfaq Hussain, Prof. Naveed Nazir Shah, Prof. Shariq R. Masoodi, Azhar Hajini, Er. Farhan Manzoor Shah, and Mr. Ajaz Bhat (IPS), stating that their multidisciplinary collaboration is setting a commendable example of community participation for public welfare, reads the press note.

300 school leaders deliberate on future of education at J&K conclave

More than 300 school leaders and principals from across Jammu and Kashmir gathered at the J&K Educational Conclave 2026 here to deliberate on the changing education landscape and discuss ways to prepare students for a future shaped by Artificial Intelligence, technology, and evolving social realities. The conclave was organised by Infonet Technologies in association with the Private Schools Association of Jammu and Kashmir and Education World at Hotel Golden Leaf, Hyderpora, under the theme 'Lets Shape the Future of Education Together.' The event was inaugurated by MLA Farooq Ahmed Shah in the presence of Director School Education Kashmir Naseer Ahmed, CEO Infonet Technologies Kaiser Bhat and President, Private Schools Association of J&K, Baba Nazrul Islam. Addressing the gathering, Shah stressed the need to create stronger platforms for quality education in Kashmir and called for greater focus on establishing good boarding schools in the region. He emphasised the need for sustained efforts to expand quality educational opportunities and develop institutions capable of preparing students for the challenges of the future. Director School Education, Kashmir, Naseer Ahmad acknowledged the role of private schools in the broader education ecosystem and highlighted the ongoing transformation of government schools. He said government schools were being progressively upgraded, with teachers receiving regular training and institutions being supported through continuous capacity-building and quality-enhancement programmes. The conclave featured sessions by education thought leaders, including Ameeta Mulla Wattal, Manjula Pooja Shroff, Rouble Nagi, Gireesh Kannan, and Shrayaan Dagga. The discussions focused on the impact of artificial intelligence on classrooms and schools, the future of education, the changing needs of Generation Z, and the importance of mental health and happiness in the learning process. The speakers stressed that technology should not be viewed merely as a replacement for traditional education systems or educators. They called for preparing students with adaptability, creativity, emotional resilience, critical thinking and human values to help them navigate a rapidly changing world. The conclave also focused on strengthening collaboration between schools and industry. Participating partners were encouraged to explore meaningful engagements with educational institutions to improve learning experiences and create greater opportunities for students. Asian Paints and Sharp announced initiatives aimed at supporting school engagement and student development, while Axis Bank presented solutions for schools. Participating schools were also presented Certificates of Appreciation in recognition of their contribution to the dialogue on the future of education in Jammu and Kashmir. Speaking on the occasion, Kaiser Bhat, CEO, Infonet Technologies, said the conclave was envisioned as a continuing initiative rather than a one-day event. He said the organisation would hold more conferences and international workshops to provide school leaders opportunities to engage with global developments and emerging practices in education. In his vote of thanks, Baba Nazrul Islam assured the school community of continued efforts towards organising training programmes and school quality initiatives aimed at supporting the professional development of schools and educators. The conclave brought together government representatives, education experts, school principals, education leaders, technology partners and industry stakeholders to deliberate on the future of education in Jammu and Kashmir. The participants emphasised the need for greater collaboration, continuous learning and innovation to build an education system capable of meeting the changing needs of students and society.

Mughal-era halting station Sukh Sarai set for renovation, restoration

The Mughal-era halting station Sukh Sarai, located along the historic Mughal Road in south Kashmirs Shopian district, is set to be renovated and restored, in a move aimed at preserving the regions architectural heritage and boosting tourism. The government has approved Rs 4.84 crore under the Capex Budget 2026-27 for the renovation and restoration of the historic halting station, officials said. Shopian MLA Shabir Ahmad Kullay told Greater Kashmir that the project was the result of his sustained efforts to ensure the restoration and revival of the heritage structure. Kullay said other historic halting stations located along the Mughal Road would also be taken up for restoration. These sites held significant heritage value and could emerge as major attractions for tourists and travellers visiting the region said the legislator. Kullay said that restoration of Sukh Sarai and other such historic structures is likely to provide visitors with an opportunity to explore the regions rich history while supporting efforts to promote tourism beyond the Valleys traditional destinations Located at an altitude of around 2,700 metres and about a 40-minute drive from Shopian town, Sukh Sarai is regarded as a notable remnant of the Mughal-era travel network in the region. The structure occupies an area of nearly 9,600 square feet and stands amid a serene meadow, offering a glimpse into the architectural and historical legacy associated with the historic Mughal Road. Built using mud, brick and stone, the centuries-old structure has, however, suffered considerable neglect over the years and is currently in a run-down condition. Its entrance walls have been completely damaged, while other portions of the structure also require urgent conservation and repair. The restoration project is expected to help preserve the historic character of Sukh Sarai while improving its accessibility and appeal for visitors. The revival of the halting station could also add a new dimension to heritage tourism along the Mughal Road, which connects the Kashmir with the Jammu region.

Heavy rains, poor drianage system cause flash flooding in Bandipora's Aloosa

A sudden intense rainstorm on Tuesday triggered flash floods in Aloosa Tehsil of north Kashmir's Bandipora district. The heavy rains caused panic as streams and irrigation canals witnessed heavy flow. Locals blamed the poor driange system for causing the flood like situation, with water at various places in the town inaundating main road and some other links. Some of the murky waters also entered paddy fields, house lawns, and kitchen gardens. This was not a cloudburst, one official from the Tehsil office informed Greater Kashmir. The official suggested that the heavy rains caused waterlogging in Aloosa, where most of the people are associated with agriculture and horticulture. However, locals said before the rains began, there was intense lightning and thunder, soon after intense showers began. Tehsildar Firdous Ahmad told this newspaper that the heavy rains have not caused any significant damage and that teams were on the ground to assess the situation. It was a short but heavy spell of rain which caused streams and canals to overflow and spill over roads and nearby fields, the officials said. Our drainage system in the town needs to be developed, todays floods like situation was all due to the poor drainage, Sajad Ahmad Bhat, a local resident said. He said had drainage system failed as it was overwhelmed by the heavy water flow caused by heavy rains. Locals appealed the local administration to address the drianage system at rhe earliest to prevent any bigger tragedy from happening in the future as the area remains vulnerbal for it hilly terrian, and close proximity with the forest area, which witnesses frequent cloudbursts and heavy rain spells. Notably, the weather in the district has remained dry from Monday, with overnight rains lashing parts of the district. On Wednesday afternoon, the weather turned cooler after showers lashed parts of the district, with some places reporting heavy rains.

Mobile phone recording leads Police to 2 accused in Baramulla gang rape case

Baramulla Police on Tuesday said they had solved a gang rape case by arresting two men accused of sexually assaulting a 21-year-old woman, recording the crime on a mobile phone and later threatening the survivor. Addressing a press conference, Senior Superintendent of Police (SSP) Baramulla, Gurinderpal Singh, said the survivor approached Police Station Baramulla on July 25 and lodged a complaint alleging that she had been sexually assaulted by two men at Jalsheeri Drangbal in Baramulla on July 3. According to the SSP, the complainant told police that she had visited the area with a friend when they were confronted by two unidentified men who began harassing them and recording videos on their mobile phones. The accused allegedly chased away her companion before sexually assaulting her one after another while filming the act, the SSP said. He said the survivor also informed investigators that during the assault, the accused addressed each other as Shakir and Ashraf, a crucial clue that helped police identify the suspects. Following the complaint, police registered FIR No. 112/2026 under Sections 70(1) and 351(2) of the Bharatiya Nyaya Sanhita (BNS) at Police Station Baramulla and constituted a Special Investigation Team (SIT) headed by PSI Menakshi under the supervision of the Deputy Superintendent of Police (Headquarters) and the Station House Officer, Baramulla. The SSP said the investigation relied on sustained searches, human intelligence inputs and scientific investigative techniques, leading to the arrest of Shakir Ahmad Lone (22), son of Abdul Gani Lone, and Mohammad Ashraf Dar (27), son of Abdul Hamid Dar, both residents of Jalsheeri, Baramulla. Police said both accused are in custody and the mobile phone allegedly used to record the assault has been seized as evidence. Further investigation is underway.

CM Omar directs departments to ensure timely utilsation of funds

Chief Minister Omar Abdullah today chaired a high-level review meeting on Capital Expenditure (CAPEX) at the Civil Secretariat here and directed all departments to significantly accelerate the pace of expenditure, emphasizingthat timely utilization of available funds is critical for infrastructure development, public service delivery and sustained economic growth. The Chief Minister underscored the need for focused attention on departments lagging in expenditure and cautioned against the practice of delaying spending until the closing months of the financial year. To have money and not spend it is incompetence. This is very difficult to justify. Not having money is easier to explain, but it is impossible to explain when funds are available and remain unutilized, the Chief Minister said while addressing the meeting. He said the review was intentionally convened at the beginning of the financial cycle rather than towards the end of the year so that corrective measures could be taken in time and departments could utilize the remaining working season effectively. There is still ample working season available in both the Kashmir Valley and the Jammu plains. There should be no reason why funds already released are not spent appropriately. Every department must give this focused attention, he said. The meeting was attended by Ministers Sakina Itoo, Javed Ahmed Rana, Javid Ahmed Dar and Satish Sharma. Chief Secretary Atal Dulloo, Additional Chief Secretary, Power Development Department, Additional Chief Secretary to the Chief Minister, Additional Chief Secretary, Tourism, Additional Chief Secretary, Public Works Department, Additional Chief Secretary, Finance, all Administrative Secretaries, Director General Budget, Director General Codes, Heads of Departments and other senior officers attended the meeting. Outstation officers participated through video conferencing. Reviewing the implementation of the Special Assistance to States for Capital Investment (SASCI), the Chief Minister directed departments to ensure full utilization of allocations under the scheme, warning that any unspent amount during the current financial year would reduce Jammu and Kashmirs allocation in the next fiscal. He stressed that every rupee available under SASCI Part-I must be utilized and instructed departments to identify eligible projects without delay. He also directed ministers to personally review reform-linked targets under the scheme on a fortnightly basis so that Jammu and Kashmir could qualify for additional financial assistance under the reform component of SASCI. The earlier we implement the specified reforms, the sooner we receive additional funds and the more time we will have to utilize them productively, he observed. The Chief Minister asked departments to immediately begin work on projects where administrative approvals and tendering had already been completed, stating that such projects could initially be funded through the CAPEX budget and later shifted to the reform-linked component of SASCI once additional funds become available. He further directed departments to prepare a robust pipeline of projects for the next financial year instead of waiting for funding before identifying development works. Expressing concern over the inability of some departments to identify projects despite the availability of financial resources, the Chief Minister remarked that the governments challenge had shifted from shortage of funds to inadequate project preparedness. He advised departments to revisit the development priorities submitted by Members of the Legislative Assembly during the Budget consultations and utilize proposals, particularly projects exceeding the Rs 2 crore threshold, for inclusion under future SASCI funding. The Chief Minister also instructed departments to initiate administrative approvals and other statutory formalities well in advance so that projects for the 2027-28 financial year remain implementation-ready as soon as funds are sanctioned. Highlighting the need to improve expenditure under Centrally Sponsored Schemes, the Chief Minister directed departments to closely monitor utilization levels and ensure that funds released under all development programmes are spent efficiently and within stipulated timelines. He also took note of suggestions made by ministers regarding simplification and streamlining of the tendering process and directed the concerned departments to evolve an appropriate mechanism to make procurement procedures more efficient while maintaining transparency and accountability. Expressing confidence that departments would respond with urgency, the Chief Minister said the next review would assess tangible improvements in expenditure performance across sectors. Earlier, Additional Chief Secretary, Finance, Shailendra Kumar, gave a detailed presentation on the Capital Expenditure position for the financial year 2026-27, covering expenditure under UT sector, District CAPEX and Centrally Sponsored Schemes. He also highlighted departments where expenditure remained below expected levels and outlined the factors contributing to slow utilization of funds.

Mehbooba expressed regret, not an apology: Omar Abdullah

Chief Minister Omar Abdullah on Tuesday said Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) president Mehbooba Mufti had not apologised for her controversial remarks at Jantar Mantar, asserting that expressing regret was not the same as offering an apology. Responding to questions from reporters in Srinagar, Abdullah said Mehbooba's statement earlier in the day stopped short of a clear apology over remarks that were widely perceived as justifying the use of force against Kashmiris. Did she apologise? Did she use the word apology? There is a difference between regret and an apology. Was the word 'apology' used? No, right? Then where is the apology? Abdullah asked. The Chief Minister said there was a significant distinction between saying one regretted an incident and unconditionally apologising for it. You all are sensible people. There is a difference between regret and an apology. I express regret versus I seek an apologythere is a world of difference between the two. She has perhaps stated that 'if my statement caused pain to anyone...' When you add an 'if,' it means you aren't really apologising at all, he said. Mehbooba, while addressing a press conference on the PDP's foundation day, had said she regretted any hurt caused by her remarks at Jantar Mantar and maintained that her comments had been misunderstood. She clarified that she had intended to say that security forces often use militancy as an excuse to employ force in Kashmir and not that such force was justified. The controversy erupted after a video of Mehbooba's remarks at a students' protest in New Delhi on July 23 went viral. While criticising police action against student protesters in the national capital, she appeared to contrast the sitwuation with Kashmir, where she said security forces cite militancy while dealing with protests. Her comments triggered criticism from political parties, particularly the ruling National Conference, which accused her of legitimising the use of force against Kashmiris. Abdullah also targeted PDP legislator Waheed Ur Rehman Para over his earlier claim that the viral video of Mehbooba was AI-generated, demanding that the MLA apologise after the PDP chief herself confirmed the authenticity of the footage. What should we do about those who tried to suppress this for five days? Those who spread lies? And whose lies were exposed today by Mehbooba herself in front of everyone? One of them is a responsible MLA. Now, should he remain an MLA? His lie was exposed by his own party president, Abdullah said. For five days, he kept repeating that this was AI. Today, Mehbooba herself said there is no AI involved and that she herself made those remarks, he added. The Chief Minister said while Mehbooba had at least expressed regret, Para had misled the public by questioning the authenticity of the video. Even if he doesn't apologise, he could at least express regret, because these PDP people only speak of regret, no one speaks of an apology, Abdullah remarked. Reacting to Mehbooba's allegation that the National Conference had exaggerated the controversy and portrayed her remarks as if she had signed the death warrants of Parliament attack convict Afzal Guru and JKLF founder Maqbool Bhat, Abdullah dismissed the comparison. As far as certificates (death warrants) are concerned, no one signed them here, he said.

LG did not make any remarks on Mushtaq Chayas Hotel at conclave

A clarification has been issued dismissing as false a viral claim circulating on social media and certain media platforms alleging that Lieutenant Governor Manoj Sinha had stated that businessman Mushtaq Chayas hotel was also constructed illegally. According to the clarification, the report is completely baseless and misleading. A person who was present during the conclave stated that the Lieutenant Governor did not make any such remarks regarding Mushtaq Chaya or his hotel at any stage of the event. The clarification strongly appealed to media organisations, digital news platforms, and social media users to refrain from publishing or sharing unverified and misleading information. It emphasised that responsible journalism requires verification of facts from authentic and credible sources before publication. The statement further warned that the spread of false and misleading reports creates unnecessary confusion among the public and undermines the credibility of the media, urging all stakeholders to ensure accuracy and factual reporting.

Lack of traffic lights at Sanat Nagar flyover junction poses risk of accidents

Lack of traffic lights at the junction beneath the Sanat Nagar flyover continues to disrupt vehicular movement and poses risk of accidents. Despite the passage of nearly 8 months since the flyover was inaugurated, authorities have failed to install traffic lights at the intersection leading to frequent traffic bottlenecks, particularly during peak hours. Commuters said vehicles approaching the junction from the Bypass, Sanat Nagar, and several connecting service roads often converge simultaneously, forcing drivers to negotiate the crossing without a traffic signal. This is ironic that the busy junction is without traffic lights. Vehicles from different directions to move at the same time, and without traffic signals. There is a high risk of accidents. In case of any accident at the junction, concerned officials must be held accountable for serious lapse. Government need to fix, said Muzaffar Ahmad, a daily commuter. Another commuter, Asif Ali, said the absence of traffic signals has become an even bigger concern at a time when traffic volume in the area has increased significantly. Schools have reopened and hundreds of school buses, vans and private vehicles are back on the roads. Managing this junction without traffic lights is becoming increasingly difficult, especially during rush hours, he said. Commuters also pointed to a series of recent road accidents along the Bypass and adjoining uptown areas, some of which proved fatal, saying better traffic regulation has become the need of the hour. Several accidents have taken place on the bypass in recent months. At such a time, authorities should strengthen traffic management measures. Installing traffic signals at this junction can improve safety for motorists as well as pedestrians, said another commuter. Meanwhile, residents of the adjoining Al-Farooq Colony said temporary dividers that earlier guided vehicles entering and exiting the colony had helped regulate traffic movement and minimise confusion at the intersection. Those barricades created separate lanes for vehicles coming from the colony and those travelling on the main road. Ever since they were removed, the junction has become more disorderly. The dividers should be restored as soon as possible, said a group of residents. Senior Superintendent of Police (Traffic City) Srinagar Ajaz Ahmad said the department has already taken up the matter with the concerned authorities. The issue has already been taken up. We are hopeful that the tendering process will be completed soon following which traffic signals will be installed without any further delay. The signals will help streamline vehicular movement and improve traffic management at the junction. The issue of temporary dividers will be also addressed accordingly, SSP Traffic said.

Tributes paid to Tak Zainagiri on his 29th death anniversary

Srinagar, Jul 28:Rich tributes were paid to renowned poet, eminent writer, scholar, social reformer, philanthropist, and humanitarian Late Abdul Khaliq Tak, popularly known as Tak Zainagiri, on the occasion of his 29th death anniversary. A dignified literary function was organised at the Government Higher Secondary School, Chadoora, by the Kashmir Concern Foundation in collaboration with the Jammu & Kashmir Academy of Art, Culture and Languages and the Islamic Relief and Research Trust. Speakers highlighted the literary, scholarly, social, and humanitarian contributions of the late Tak Zainagiri, describing him as not only an accomplished poet, writer, and intellectual but also a visionary social reformer who dedicated his entire life to the welfare of society. The speakers recalled that in 1972, Tak Zainagiri founded the Jammu & Kashmir Yateem Trust, which continues to provide selfless service to orphans, widows, the underprivileged, and economically weaker sections of society. On the occasion, the second edition of his acclaimed research work, Kashiri Hund Alaqa Waad Phera, was also formally released and received wide appreciation from the audience. The event was attended by Dr Syed Iftikhar, representing the J&K Academy of Art, Culture and Languages. The presidium included Dr. Farooq Ahmad Peer, Mushtaq Ahmad Principal of Government Higher Secondary School Chadoora, and Mohammad Amin Bhat, President of Adabi Markaz Kamraz. During the function, noted writer, translator, and poet Shamshad Kralwari was honoured with this year's Tak Zainagiri Award, while renowned poet, writer, and Sheikh-ul-Alam scholar Ghulam Qadir Bedar received the prestigious Sheikh-ul-Alam Award. Research papers on the literary, scholarly, and social legacy of Tak Zainagiri were presented by Dr. Rauf Adil and Dr. Waheed Raza, which were highly appreciated by the audience. In his welcome address, Advocate Abdul Rashid Hanjura, Chairman of the Kashmir Concern Foundation, paid glowing tributes to the late Tak Zainagiri and said that the most meaningful way to honour his memory was to carry forward his mission of serving the poor and the underprivileged. He stressed the need to introduce the younger generation, particularly students, to their rich historical and cultural heritage so that they could preserve and carry forward his legacy. Paying homage to the late scholar, Dr. Farooq Ahmad Peer and Mohammad Amin Bhat said that Tak Zainagiri had left behind an inspiring legacy through his outstanding contributions to literature, research, social service, and humanitarian work, which would continue to guide future generations. They also emphasised the importance of promoting physical, moral, and spiritual values among children to nurture a strong sense of social responsibility and compassion. They further underlined the vital role of the younger generation in preserving Kashmir's cultural heritage and civilisational identity. The programme commenced with a captivating Mehfil-e-Samaa (musical recital) led by noted singer Feroz Ahmad Shah. The second session featured a grand Mushaira (poetic symposium) in which twelve poets recited their poetry and received enthusiastic appreciation from the audience. The literary and cultural event was attended by a large gathering of distinguished writers, poets, intellectuals, teachers, students, and social activists, including Muneeb-ur-Rehman, Farooq Fida, noted Naat poet Ghulam Hassan Ghamgeen, senior Taameel-e-Irshad correspondent Nazim Nazir, media consultant Mushtaq Shah Mehram, writer Bashir Badrani, Inayat Gul, and many others. The vote of thanks was presented by noted social activist and journalist Sarwar Maqbool, who expressed his heartfelt gratitude to all the distinguished guests, participants, and organisers for making the event a grand success.

Sagar distributes Rs 8.40 lakh relief among Chandpora Jamia Masjid fire victims

Srinagar, Jul 28: The Jammu and Kashmir National Conference General Secretary and MLA Khanyar, Haji Ali Mohammad Sagar, distributed financial assistance among families affected by the fire incident at Chandpora Jamia Masjid in the Khanyar constituency. On the occasion, relief of Rs 60,000 each was provided to 14 fire-affected families from the Constituency Development Fund (CDF) of the MLA Khanyar, amounting to a total of Rs 8.40 lakh. Addressing the gathering, Sagar said it is the foremost responsibility of public representatives to stand shoulder to shoulder with people in times of hardship and distress. He said the National Conference has always remained committed to public service and welfare, considering it its duty to extend every possible support to affected families during difficult times. He assured the affected families that sustained efforts would continue to resolve their problems and provide them every possible assistance. He added that serving the people, sharing their grief, and ensuring timely relief have always been among the core traditions of the National Conference. The beneficiaries and local residents appreciated Sagar's people-centric approach and thanked him for extending timely financial assistance. They said the relief not only eased their hardships but also reflected genuine concern for the welfare of the people. Earlier this month, Sagar had also distributed Rs 14.20 lakh in relief among 17 fire-affected families in Syedpora Nowhatta and six affected families in Nowpora. On the occasion, Sagar appealed to Chief Minister Omar Abdullah to introduce special initiatives for the youth of downtown Srinagar, including self-employment schemes, skill development programmes, and enhanced employment opportunities. He said that after 2016, particularly following August 5, 2019, the youth had been pushed to the margins and deprived of opportunities. He stressed that empowering young people through dignified employment and livelihood opportunities is the need of the hour. He urged the government to launch focused self-employment schemes, vocational training, and other welfare measures to ensure the social and economic advancement of the youth in the old city.

Sat Sharma, Gulam Ali Khatana meet JP Nadda

Jammu, Jul 28:Jammu and Kashmir Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) president and Rajya Sabha MP Sat Sharma, accompanied by Rajya Sabha MP Gulam Ali Khatana, called on Union Minister for Health & Family Welfare and Chemicals & Fertilizers J P Nadda in New Delhi and held detailed discussions on strengthening healthcare infrastructure and streamlining fertiliser supply in the Union Territory. Sat Sharma thanked the Union Minister for the National Medical Commission's approval of 50 additional MBBS seats for Government Medical College, Jammu, besides a similar increase for Government Medical College, Srinagar. He said the decision reflected the Modi government's unwavering commitment to expanding quality medical education and healthcare facilities in Jammu and Kashmir. Sat Sharma said that under Prime Minister Narendra Modi's leadership, the health sector in J&K witnessed unprecedented transformation through the establishment of AIIMS Jammu, AIIMS Kashmir, new medical colleges, increased MBBS seats, upgraded hospitals and improved healthcare infrastructure. However, he asserted that the aspirations of the people demanded that this momentum be accelerated. The people of Jammu and Kashmir, particularly those living in remote and border areas, should never be compelled to travel outside the Union Territory for quality treatment. Healthcare is not a privilege but a fundamental necessity and I will continue to raise every issue concerning the health of our people at every appropriate forum, Sat Sharma said. The J&K BJP president appreciated the excellent services being provided by AIIMS Jammu, stating that it rapidly emerged as a premier institution delivering advanced healthcare to thousands of patients from Jammu and Kashmir and neighbouring regions. He urged J P Nadda to expedite the complete operationalisation of AIIMS Kashmir while further strengthening AIIMS Jammu with additional super-specialty facilities, advanced diagnostic services, specialist doctors and research infrastructure so that both institutions could evolve into centres of medical excellence. Rajya Sabha MP Gulam Ali Khatana raised concerns regarding fertiliser transportation and distribution in Jammu and Kashmir. He pointed out that while freight trains reached Pampore and Anantnag, fertilisers were still unloaded at Udhampur, resulting in higher transportation costs and frequent supply disruptions due to highway closures. He urged that fertilisers should be transported directly to Kashmir by rail. Khatana also sought an end to monopolistic practices in fertiliser distribution, alleging that companies such as NFL, IFFCO, IPL and Chambal Fertilizers often compelled farmers to purchase tagged agricultural products along with essential fertilisers like Urea, DAP and MOP. He requested wider participation of agencies such as CRIFCO and HRUL to promote fair competition and ensure affordable fertiliser availability for farmers. Responding positively, Union Minister J P Nadda appreciated both Members of Parliament for consistently highlighting public issues concerning Jammu and Kashmir. He assured them that the Government of India was committed to further strengthening healthcare infrastructure and improving public welfare in the Union Territory, adding that the issues relating to AIIMS Kashmir, healthcare expansion and fertiliser transportation and distribution would be examined on priority.

MHA clears Ad-Hoc promotions to Group B gazetted posts In Ladakh

Kargil, Jul 28:The Ministry of Home Affairs (MHA) has approved the filling of vacant Group 'B' Gazetted Administrative Service posts in Ladakh through ad-hoc promotions as an interim measure, providing relief to departments grappling with a shortage of gazetted officers and officials awaiting promotion. The decision follows the intervention of Lieutenant Governor Vinai Kumar Saxena, who had taken up the matter with the Union Home Ministry, highlighting the acute shortage of Group 'B' Gazetted Administrative Service officers in Ladakh. Glad to share that the Ministry of Home Affairs has accepted our recommendations for ad-hoc promotions for eligible officers under the Group 'B' Gazetted Administrative Service in Ladakh, as an interim measure. While the MHA is in the process of devising a regular promotion mechanism, this decision will significantly help address the officers shortage in Ladakh Lieutenant Governor Ladakh VK Saxena posted on X. Welcoming the MHA's decision, Lt Governor Saxena said the approval would not only address the genuine aspirations of officers awaiting promotion but also enhance administrative efficiency in Ladakh. LG while welcoming the nod , thanked Union Home Minister for the support. My sincere thanks to Honble Home Minister Shri @AmitShah ji for his constant support to strengthen the administrative framework in Ladakh that is significantly improving governance and public service delivery in the UT. I have directed the Chief Secretary to start the promotion process immediately. The UT Administration remains committed to empowering its employees and optimizing administrative efficiency in Ladakh LG said.

Divya Bharti honoured for outstanding achievement in National singing reality show in Batote

Banihal, Jul 28: A warm and enthusiastic welcome was accorded to young folk singer Divya Bharti on her arrival in her hometown of Batote after she secured a place among the Top 10 finalists of the popular Punjabi singing reality show 'Surtaj of Punjab', bringing laurels to Jammu and Kashmir. The 23-year-old singer, a resident of Champa village in Ramban district, is the only contestant from Jammu and Kashmir to qualify for the Top 10 of the prestigious competition. Her achievement has earned widespread appreciation for showcasing the region's rich folk music and cultural heritage on a national platform. Hundreds of local residents, social and political activists, police and civil administration officials, as well as music lovers, gathered on Tuesday at the hill station of Batote on the old highway to receive her and congratulate her on her remarkable achievement. Coming from a lower middle-class family, Divya's success is a story of perseverance, hard work and determination. She holds a Master of Arts in Music from Punjabi University, Patiala, and a Bachelor of Arts in Music from the Institute of Music & Fine Arts (IMFA). She is an approved Folk Artist of All India Radio (AIR) and Doordarshan and has won several prestigious music competitions, including the 'Choona Hai Aasmaan' State-Level Musical Talent Hunt and the Jammu and Kashmir Talent Hunt. She was also a finalist in Singing Star of Jammu and Kashmir. Divya has performed alongside renowned singers, including Sadhna Sargam, Jyotica Tangri, Alap Sikander and Bir Singh, and is currently associated as a featured artist with the Jammu and Kashmir Academy of Art, Culture and Languages (JKAACL) and the Jammu and Kashmir Tourism Department. Speaking on the occasion, Divya said her passion for singing began in childhood. She credited her parents, her brother Gopal, and social activist Rashid Malik of Batote for their unwavering support throughout her musical journey. My parents allowed me to choose music as my career, while my brother Gopal sacrificed his job to support my education and accompany me during performances and competitions. My school, local satsangs and Batote itself were my first platforms, where I learned and gained confidence, she said. Divya's parents, sisters, relatives and friends expressed immense happiness over her achievement, describing it as a proud moment for the family and the entire Ramban district. Locals said Divya's success has brought honour to Batote and Jammu and Kashmir and expressed hope that she would continue to scale greater heights while inspiring young artists across the region.

Army conducts search for missing person at Bharot in Rajouri

Rajouri, Jul 28:Following reports that Abdul Ghani was missing after a flash flood at Bharot village in Rajouri district, the Indian Army promptly deployed a specialised search team, supported by a trained tracker dog, to assist in locating him. The team, as per a statement, carried out a systematic and extensive search of the flood-affected area, carefully examining debris, rubble and difficult stretches of terrain. The tracker dog was employed to identify possible traces and support the search effort in areas where access was limited due to mud, stones and accumulated wreckage. The operation was conducted under challenging terrain and weather-related conditions, with troops maintaining close coordination with local authorities and other agencies involved in the search. Every accessible location in the affected area was checked meticulously to improve the chances of locating the missing person. The statement added that the Indian Army remains committed to supporting the civil administration and local population during natural disasters and emergencies. Search efforts will continue in coordination with the concerned authorities, with all possible assistance being extended to the affected family and residents of Bharot village alike.

No trace of missing people yet, searches continue

Rajouri, Jul 28: Despite massive efforts through searches, there is no trace of 7 people missing in floods of Rajouri and Poonch with authorities gearing up in view of rainfall predictions in next couple of days. One government employee from Rajouri and 6 people from Poonch are still missing in devastating floods that hit these twin districts on July 19 claiming around two dozen lives. Different teams from NDRF, SDRF, J&K Police, Civil Administration and Indian Army continued the search operation of these missing people but there is no trace of any of them so far. The operation was conducted under challenging terrain and weather-related conditions, with troops maintaining close coordination with local authorities and other agencies involved in the search, said army. Meanwhile, the government authorities in these twin districts have geared up to deal with the situation in view of heavy to very heavy rainfall in next couple of days with people being advised to maintain utmost caution.

Inter-Zonal District Level Tournaments organised in Pulwama

Pulwama, Jul 28:Department of Youth Services and Sports (YSS), Pulwama on Tuesday organised Inter-Zonal District Level Tournaments at the Sports Stadium, Pulwama and Indoor Stadium, Tral under the Nasha Mukt Jammu and Kashmir Abhiyan. The tournaments, as per an official statement, were conducted in various disciplines including volleyball, kabaddi, kho-kho, basketball and karate, witnessing enthusiastic participation of athletes from different zones of the district. The event aims to finalise district-level teams in various sports disciplines for participation in upcoming Union Territory and national-level competitions, while simultaneously promoting sports as a positive avenue for youth engagement and a healthy, drug-free lifestyle. Officials of the Department of Youth Services and Sports were present on the occasion and encouraged the participants to actively pursue sports and contribute towards building a fit, disciplined and drug-free society. On the occasion, the participants also took part in the Nasha Mukt pledge, to mark their support to the Nasha Mukt Jammu & Kashmir Abhiyan and to stay away from drugs and spread awareness against substance abuse in their communities.

JK Police XI register 71 victory over Galaxy FC

Srinagar, Jul 28: JK Police XI produced a dominant performance to defeat Galaxy FC 71 in the second match of the Srinagar Premier League 2026, showcasing their attacking prowess and making a strong statement early in the competition. From the opening whistle, JK Police XI, as per a DFA statement issued on Tuesday, controlled possession and dictated the tempo of the game with disciplined defending and clinical finishing. Their relentless attacking football saw them establish a comfortable lead before eventually sealing an emphatic 71 victory over Galaxy FC. Despite Galaxy FCs efforts to respond, JK Police XI remained in complete control throughout the contest, displaying excellent teamwork and composure in front of goal. The convincing win earns JK Police XI three valuable points and strengthens their position in the league standings. The Srinagar Premier League 2026 continues to attract football enthusiasts from across the Valley, with teams battling for supremacy in one of Jammu and Kashmirs premier football competitions. Fans can look forward to more exciting fixtures as the tournament progresses.

Sarvesh Kushare wins Silver in Mens High Jump, PM Modi Congratulates

New Delhi, Jul 28:The Prime Minister, Narendra Modi, has congratulated Sarvesh Kushare on winning the Silver medal in the Mens High Jump event at the Glasgow Commonwealth Games 2026. The Prime Minister, as per a PIB statement, lauded Sarvesh Kushares determination and consistency and described the achievement as outstanding. PM Modi said that India is proud of him and wished him many more successes in the future. The Prime Minister wrote on X; A spectacular Silver for Sarvesh Kushare in Mens High Jump at #CWG2026! His determination and consistency have been noteworthy. Congratulations to him on this outstanding achievement. India is proud of him. Wishing him many more successes ahead.

PM Modi congratulates Shilpa Kanchugarakoppalu Shyla on winning Bronze in Womens Shot Put F57

New Delhi, Jul 28:The Prime Minister, Narendra Modi, has congratulated Shilpa Kanchugarakoppalu Shyla on winning the Bronze medal in the Womens Shot Put F57 Final at the Glasgow Commonwealth Games 2026. The Prime Minister, as per a PIB statement, said that Shilpas personal best throw made the achievement even more remarkable. PM Modi congratulated her on the accomplishment. The Prime Minister wrote on X; A brilliant performance by Shilpa Kanchugarakoppalu Shyla at the Commonwealth Games 2026! Congratulations to Shilpa for having won the Bronze Medal in the Women's Shot Put F57 Final and that too with a personal best throw. This is indeed a remarkable accomplishment.

Ask the Doctor

Q: Does eating sugar cause diabetes? A: Sugar alone does not directly cause diabetes. Type 2 diabetes develops due to several factors, including genetics, excess body weight, inactivity and an unhealthy diet. However, regularly consuming too much sugar should be avoided as it can contribute to weight gain and increase diabetes risk. Q: Can a person with diabetes never eat sweets? A: Not necessarily. Diabetes does not mean a lifetime ban on sweets. Small portions can occasionally be included within an appropriate diet, but blood sugar control and overall carbohydrate intake matter. Q: Does high blood pressure always cause headache? A: No. Most people with high blood pressure have no symptoms at all. You may feel perfectly well while your blood pressure is high. The only reliable way to know is to measure it. Q: If my blood pressure becomes normal, can I stop my medicine? A: Not on your own. It may be normal precisely because the medicine is working. Stopping treatment suddenly can cause blood pressure to rise again. Any reduction or withdrawal should be discussed with your doctor. Q: Is brown sugar healthier than white sugar? A: Not significantly. Brown sugar and white sugar contain similar amounts of sugar and calories. Brown sugar should not be considered a healthy substitute, particularly for people trying to control weight or blood glucose. Q: Is honey safe for people with diabetes because it is natural? A: Honey is natural, but it still contains sugars and raises blood glucose if taken in large amount. Natural does not automatically mean suitable for diabetes. Q: Does eating rice at night make you fat? A: Rice does not suddenly become fattening after sunset. Weight gain depends mainly on your total calorie intake, portion sizes, physical activity and overall diet. Large portions and frequent overeating matter more than the clock. Q: Is skipping breakfast bad for everyone? A: No single meal pattern suits everybody. Some people function well without breakfast, while others feel better eating it. What you eat over the whole day is generally more important than following a rigid rule about breakfast. Q: Are fruit juices as healthy as whole fruits? A: No. Whole fruit provides fibre and is generally more filling. Juice can deliver a large amount of natural sugar quickly, especially when several fruits are used in one glass. Whole fruit is usually the better choice. Q: Can I take antibiotics whenever I have fever, cough or sore throat? A: No. Many common infections are caused by viruses, against which antibiotics do not work. Unnecessary antibiotic use can cause side effects and contribute to antibiotic resistance. Q: Does yellow or green mucus mean I definitely need antibiotics? A: No. The colour of mucus alone cannot tell whether an infection is bacterial. Viral infections can also produce yellow or green mucus. Q: Should medicines always be taken after food? A: No. Some medicines should be taken with food, some on an empty stomach and others regardless of meals. Follow the instructions for the particular medicine rather than applying one rule to everything. Q: Are herbal and Ayurvedic products always safe because they are natural? A: No. Natural products can also cause side effects, interact with medicines or affect the liver and kidneys. Natural does not mean risk-free. Q: Does cracking your knuckles cause arthritis? A: There is no good evidence that ordinary knuckle cracking causes arthritis. However, forceful or painful manipulation of joints should be avoided. Q: Does reading in dim light permanently damage the eyes? A: Usually no. It may cause temporary eye strain, headache or discomfort, but it does not normally cause permanent damage to healthy eyes. Q: Can sitting too close to the television damage your eyesight? A: Sitting close to a television does not usually damage the eyes. However, a child who repeatedly sits unusually close may already have a vision problem and should have an eye examination. Q: Is every chest pain due to gas? A: No. Acidity and gas can cause chest discomfort, but heart disease can produce similar symptoms. New, severe or persistent chest painparticularly with sweating, breathlessness, nausea or pain spreading to the arm, back or jawneeds urgent medical assessment. Q: If my ECG is normal, does that mean my heart is completely healthy? A: No. An ECG provides important information but cannot rule out every heart problem. A normal ECG does not automatically exclude coronary artery disease or all causes of chest pain. Q: Does walking alone remove belly fat? A: Walking is excellent exercise, but the body cannot be instructed to burn fat only from the abdomen. Reducing abdominal fat generally requires regular physical activity together with appropriate diet and overall weight management. Q: Is pain always a sign that something is seriously damaged? A: No. Pain can occur from muscle strain, inflammation, nerve irritation and many other causes. Its severity does not always indicate the seriousness of the underlying condition. Persistent, unexplained or severe pain should nevertheless be evaluated. Public Advisory: Many health beliefs are passed from one person to another until they begin to sound like medical facts. Natural, sugar-free, normal ECG, no symptoms and I feel fine do not necessarily mean safe or healthy. When in doubt, ask the doctor rather than relying on hearsay or social-media advice. NOTE: These responses are for general awareness, not a substitute for medical advice. Ask your questions at: WhatsApp: 6005463346, Email: ask@moulmoujfoundation.org

Hidden Health Cost of Infinite Scroll

In todays world, mobile phones have become an inseparable part of daily life. From morning to night, most people, especially young people and students, remain glued to their screens. One of the most common habits is endlessly scrolling through social media. A person opens the phone for a short break, but without realizing it, minutes turn into hours. This habit, known as infinite scrolling, may seem harmless, but it is slowly becoming a serious health concern. Infinite scrolling is designed with no natural stopping point. There is always more content to see, keeping users engaged for long periods. Unlike reading a book or watching a television programme, there is no clear end. Gradually, scrolling becomes an automatic habit rather than a conscious choice. This constant stream of information affects the brain. Within seconds, a person moves from happy to sad, funny to disturbing content. Such rapid shifts create mental overload, leaving many people feeling tired and restless despite doing no physical work. It is a sign that the mind is under stress even when the body is at rest. Social media also affects emotions. People usually post only the best moments of their lives. Repeated exposure to these carefully selected highlights encourages unhealthy comparisons, leading to dissatisfaction, lower self-esteem and reduced peace of mind, particularly among young people. According to the World Health Organization (WHO), mental health is one of the biggest public health challenges today. Excessive screen time and unhealthy digital habits contribute to stress, anxiety, poor sleep and emotional problems. Sleep is another casualty. Many people scroll late into the night, and the screens light keeps the brain alert, delaying sleep. Even after putting the phone away, the mind continues processing what it has seen. Poor sleep eventually affects concentration, productivity and overall health. As a medical student, I believe this is one of the most overlooked health issues of our time. Many dismiss it as a harmless habit, but it affects mental health, sleep, attention span and emotional well-being. The most worrying part is that many people do not realize how much time they lose each day. Young people are especially vulnerable. Long hours on mobile phones reduce study time, shorten attention spans and make it difficult to focus on reading or deep thinking. At the same time, real-life interactions decline, with family conversations giving way to screen time. Another harmful habit is doomscrollingrepeatedly consuming negative news and disturbing content. Instead of feeling informed, people become anxious, fearful and mentally exhausted. Digital well-being is now as important as healthy eating and regular exercise. The solution is not to reject technology but to use it wisely. Simple steps such as limiting screen time, avoiding phones before bedtime, and spending more time reading, walking, studying and talking with family can make a significant difference. Infinite scrolling may appear to be just another digital feature, but its impact on health is real. It quietly steals our time, attention and peace of mind. Technology should remain a tool that serves us, not a habit that controls us. The real strength lies not in endless scrolling, but in knowing when to stop and return to real life. Mohammad Arfat Wani is a writer and nursing student from Kuchmulla, Tral

My Medical Experience in Kashmir and Delhi

In 2022, I traveled to Delhi for a medical examination required for my Qatar visa application. During the examination, the doctors informed me that I had high blood pressure and advised me to take medication before undergoing a re-examination. Following their advice, I consulted a doctor in Delhi who was recommended by the Qatar Visa Center. He prescribed medication for my condition. However, after returning home to Kashmir, I discussed the matter with my family and our family doctors. They advised me to undergo a complete medical evaluation at a reputed laboratory before starting any long-term treatment. Within a few days, I underwent a series of medical tests. The reports revealed significant protein loss in my urine and other abnormalities. Seeing those results was shocking and deeply upsetting, but I did not lose faith in Allah. My family was equally concerned and immediately consulted several doctors, who recommended that I seek urgent treatment from one of the doctors, a nephrologist. The following Sunday morning, I visited him. After reviewing my test reports, he advised me to undergo a kidney biopsy in Srinagar, the very next day. The biopsy was performed successfully, and I was kept under observation in the hospital for a day. I was accompanied by my father, my wife, and a close friend who took great care of me during my stay. Later that day, I was discharged and advised to take certain medications and monitor my blood pressure regularly until the biopsy report became available. After approximately three weeks, the biopsy results confirmed that I was suffering from Glomerulonephritis. During my follow-up appointment, he reviewed the reports and prescribed additional medications, advising me to return for regular follow-up visits. At one of my subsequent appointments, he recommended six injections to be administered over six weeks, with each injection costing approximately 30,000. Hearing this left me deeply worried, and I returned home to discuss the matter with my family. Our family doctors advised me to seek advanced treatment in Delhi before proceeding further. Before I left for Delhi, I received a phone call from a person in Srinagar who identified himself as a medical representative. He asked me to pay half the cost of the first injection in advance so that it could be delivered to my home, with the remaining amount payable later. I found this proposal questionable, rejected it outright, and proceeded with my plans to seek treatment in Delhi. In Delhi, my cousin, who works at AIIMS New Delhi, arranged an appointment with one of Indias senior nephrologists. During our consultation, the doctor carefully reviewed my medical history and advised me to undergo genetic testing before any treatment plan could be finalized. This was something that had never been suggested during my consultations in Kashmir. The genetic test results revealed that I carry a PTPRO gene variant, a rare condition for which limited medical research is currently available. During my next consultation, the doctor listened patiently to my concerns and assured me that he would provide the best possible treatment. When I informed him that I had previously been advised to take six expensive injections, he appeared surprised and remarked that throughout his professional career he had never routinely recommended such injections for a patient in my condition. He questioned the basis on which they had been prescribed. Since 2023, I have been under the care of this doctor. By the grace of Allah, along with proper medical care, regular testing, and prescribed medications, my health has improved significantly, and I continue to follow his treatment plan. This experience greatly influenced my perception of healthcare. While I understand that many doctors work sincerely and ethically, my personal experience led me to lose confidence in the medical treatment I initially received in Kashmir. Although many people have since advised me to consult other local doctors, I have continued my treatment in Delhi because I trust the medical guidance and care I have received there. This is the real and Brief story of my experience with doctors in Kashmir and Delhi Saleem Iqbal Qadri, Sopore, Media Professional with a Background in Journalism

Helping TB Patients in Their Healing

To eliminate a disease is a missionone that has been achieved for only a few diseases so far. It requires sound policy, a committed team, a clear vision, and unwavering determination. Tuberculosis (TB) is one such disease that the Government of India has committed to eliminate. The National Tuberculosis Elimination Programme (NTEP) provides the roadmap, while the TB Mukt Bharat Abhiyan has further accelerated these efforts. Under this campaign, extensive screening of high-risk populations and their close contacts is being undertaken to detect more TB cases early and ensure timely treatment for both patients and their contacts. The medical aspects of TB management are well defined and provided free of cost, including diagnostics and treatment. However, several additional initiatives have significantly strengthened the campaign. Most TB patients belong to lower socioeconomic groups and often suffer from weight loss and weakness. Good nutrition improves immunity, supports faster recovery, enhances treatment adherence, and reduces the risk of treatment interruption. Under the Nikshay Poshan Yojana (NPY), every patient with TB receives 1,000 per month through Direct Benefit Transfer for nutritional support. While this assistance is valuable, it may not always be sufficient. To bridge this gap, another initiative was launched to meet the nutritional needs of TB patients and their families. The Honble President of India launched the Nikshay Mitra Initiative (NMI) on 9 September 2022 with the aim of providing nutritional and psychosocial support to TB patients and their families through community participation. Individuals, corporate organisations under CSR, public sector undertakings (PSUs), NGOs, philanthropic organisations, elected representatives, and community groups can become Nikshay Mitras (NMs)literally, friends of TB patients. For those who are unable to support patients directly, a dedicated fund under the District Health Society (DHS), known as the TB Mukt Bharat Kosh (TBMBK), has been created under the NMI. This fund mobilises financial contributions from individuals, corporates, CSR partners, philanthropists, and institutions, ensuring that support reaches TB patients even when donors cannot do so personally. A dedicated TB Mukt Bharat Abhiyan mobile app is also available through which anyone can register as a Nikshay Mitra. A Nikshay Mitra can support a TB patient individually or along with the patients family by providing nutritional supplements, including cereals, pulses, edible oil, eggs, groundnuts, milk powder, jaggery, and other regionally appropriate, high-calorie, high-protein food items, for a minimum period of six months. An individual nutrition basket costs approximately 600700 per month, while a family basket costs around 1,8002,000 per month. Transparent tracking through enhanced integration with the Nikshay digital platform has strengthened the initiative. Youth organisations such as MY Bharat, NSS, NYKS, NCC, and various community groups are actively supporting awareness generation, treatment adherence, psychosocial care, and last-mile delivery of services. Frontline workers and volunteers also provide structured training to ASHAs, ANMs, CHOs, and other volunteers in nutrition counselling, psychosocial support, donor coordination, and the use of digital tools. Many distinguished personalities from Jammu & Kashmir, including our Honble Lieutenant Governor, bureaucrats, government officials, businesspersons, entrepreneurs, and even young children, have voluntarily become Nikshay Mitras. Recognising Nikshay Mitras during public events, health camps, and community gatherings enhances their visibility, strengthens social credibility, and motivates others to join this noble initiative. If we continue to appreciate and encourage them, many more people will come forward. Being at the helm of the TB control and elimination programme, I felt it was important to become a Nikshay Mitra myself before encouraging others to do so. Nothing is more satisfying than helping a poor and deserving patient during illness by providing the basic need of nutritious food, while also giving them the reassurance that they are cared for by the community, rather than being confined to the traditional patient-hospital relationship. A simple review of my daily expenses made it easy for me to become a Nikshay Mitra. By cutting down on discretionary spending such as beauty products, toiletries, fuel consumption, and eating out, I was able to redirect those savings towards nutrition baskets for TB patients. This small change has brought me immense satisfaction and a deep sense of fulfilment. With the encouragement and support of my family, I hope to continue as a Nikshay Mitra and contribute in every possible way to help as many TB patients as I can. Nikshay Mitras are already strengthening this programme, and in the coming years, statistical evidence will undoubtedly demonstrate their impact. With several thousand TB patients detected annually in Kashmir, we need many more Nikshay Mitras to achieve the programmes objectives. A sustained campaign to encourage greater community participation is therefore the need of the hour. TB affects not only the patient but the entire household, both economically and nutritionally. Family members, especially children and older adults, may already be malnourished and vulnerable. By supporting the family as a whole, this initiative reduces household vulnerability, lowers the risk of further TB transmission, strengthens resilience, and helps break the vicious cycle of illness and poverty. Dr Basra Mir, State TB Officer (STO) Kashmir Division, Jammu & Kashmir

Fragile Ecology of the Chenab Basin

The Chenab is often celebrated as one of the great Himalayan rivers. Emerging from the confluence of the Chandra and Bhaga rivers in Himachal Pradesh, it enters Jammu and Kashmir through the steep mountains of Kishtwar before flowing across Doda and Ramban, carving deep valleys that define the landscape of the Chenab region. Beyond its immense hydropower potential, the river sustains forests, agriculture, springs, fisheries and the livelihoods of thousands of people. Yet the ecological future of this basin is increasingly being questioned as riverbed mining, quarrying, stone crushing and unplanned infrastructure development expand across one of Indias most fragile mountain systems. The Himalayas are among the youngest fold mountains in the world. Their rocks are fractured, slopes are unstable and rivers constantly reshape their channels. Scientists have long argued that development in such landscapes must respect ecological limits because even small disturbances can trigger long-term consequences. The Chenab Basin illustrates this challenge. Construction activity has increased the demand for sand, gravel and boulders, transforming many river stretches into sources of construction material. While regulated mining is legally permitted, environmental experts caution that extraction beyond scientifically determined replenishment levels can permanently alter river systems. Unlike the plains, Himalayan rivers depend upon sediment for survival. Gravel and boulders stabilise channels, reduce erosion, recharge groundwater and create habitat for aquatic organisms. When these materials are removed excessively, rivers respond by cutting deeper into their beds, eroding banks and changing their natural course. Such changes may not be immediately visible but gradually weaken the resilience of the entire watershed. These concerns have now entered the judicial domain. In Original Application No. 1362 of 2024, filed before the National Green Tribunal by environmental activist Raja MuzaffarBhat, allegations were raised regarding illegal stone crushers, unauthorised mining and dumping of excavated material into the Chenab River in Doda district. The Tribunal directed the Jammu and Kashmir Pollution Control Committee (JKPCC), the Department of Geology and Mining and the district administration to inspect the sites and submit factual reports. The report filed by the JKPCC before the Tribunal identified 20 stone crusher units in Doda district. According to the report, six units possessed valid Consent to Operate, three had renewal applications under process, four had been issued closure directions and seven were found non-operational during inspection. The Tribunal also sought verification of the source of raw material used by these units and compliance with environmental and mining regulations. These proceedings remain pending before the NGT, but they have brought unprecedented attention to mining practices in the Chenab Valley. The issue extends far beyond administrative compliance. Environmental scientists increasingly advocate cumulative impact assessments rather than examining individual mining sites in isolation. A single quarry or stone crusher may appear insignificant, but the combined effect of dozens of extraction points, road-cutting projects and muck dumping sites can fundamentally alter an entire river basin. The geological setting of the Chenab Valley makes these concerns even more significant. Much of Doda district lies in Seismic Zone IV, while adjoining Himalayan regions approach Zone V, placing the area among Indias earthquake-prone regions. The landscape is characterised by steep slopes, active tectonics and highly weathered rock formations. During the monsoon, these conditions frequently result in landslides and slope failures. The recurring land subsidence reported from Sinoo and Thathri has become a reminder of this geological vulnerability. Houses have developed cracks, roads have been damaged and families have been relocated following ground movement. Government investigations have linked these incidents primarily to fragile geology, prolonged rainfall, groundwater seepage and slope instability. At the same time, geologists have consistently advised that indiscriminate hill cutting, quarrying and poorly managed excavation should be carefully regulated because they may aggravate instability in sensitive mountain terrain. The Chenab Basin is also confronting the realities of climate change. Extreme rainfall events, cloudbursts and flash floods have become more frequent across the western Himalaya. Rivers whose channels have been modified through excessive extraction often lose part of their natural capacity to distribute floodwaters and transport sediment safely. Environmental degradation therefore interacts with climatic extremes, increasing risks for downstream settlements, bridges and public infrastructure. Riverbed mining affects more than river channels. It influences groundwater recharge, drinking water sources and aquatic biodiversity. Several tributaries of the Chenab support native fish species and provide water for agriculture and domestic use. Excessive sediment removal increases turbidity, damages spawning grounds and alters stream flow. These ecological losses are rarely reflected in project costs but are borne by local communities over decades. The legal framework governing mining is comprehensive. The Environment (Protection) Act, 1986, the Water (Prevention and Control of Pollution) Act, 1974, the Air (Prevention and Control of Pollution) Act, 1981, the Sustainable Sand Mining Management Guidelines and the Enforcement and Monitoring Guidelines for Sand Mining require scientific planning, environmental monitoring and regulatory oversight. The challenge lies in translating these legal provisions into effective enforcement on the ground. Technology now offers tools that were unavailable a decade ago. Satellite imagery can detect changes in river morphology, drones can monitor excavation sites in real time, GPS tracking can verify mineral transportation and geographic information systems can map cumulative impacts across watersheds. Making such information publicly accessible would strengthen accountability and improve public confidence in environmental governance. The Chenab Basin is entering a decisive period. Hydropower projects, highways and expanding urban infrastructure will continue to increase demand for construction material. The question is not whether development should occur, but whether it can proceed without compromising the ecological systems upon which that development ultimately depends. The proceedings before the National Green Tribunal provide an opportunity to strengthen environmental regulation through scientific evidence, transparent monitoring and institutional accountability. They also remind us that protecting Himalayan rivers requires more than responding to individual violations. It demands a basin-wide approach that considers geology, hydrology, biodiversity and disaster risk together. The Chenab has shaped the history, culture and economy of the region for centuries. Its future will depend on decisions made today whether the river is treated merely as a source of minerals or recognised as a living ecosystem whose health determines the resilience of the entire mountain landscape. In the fragile Himalayas, ecological security is not an obstacle to development; it is the foundation upon which sustainable development must stand. The author is founder Director Centre for Environment, education indigenous languages and Developmental Studies (CEEDS)

When survival becomes a habit

There are people who wake up exhausted before the day has even begun. Their shoulders are tense, their mind is racing, their heart beats a little faster than it should, and even the smallest inconvenience feels overwhelming. From the outside, they seem anxious. But beneath the anxiety lies something much deeper a nervous system that has forgotten what safety feels like. Before we talk about nervous system regulation, we first need to understand what the nervous system actually is. Think of it as the bodys communication network. Every second of every day, it scans the world around you, asking one question: Am I safe? Based on the answer, it decides how your body should respond. It does this through two primary states. The first is the sympathetic nervous system, commonly known as the fight-or-flight response. It prepares you to survive danger by increasing your heart rate, sharpening your senses, and flooding your body with stress hormones. The second is the parasympathetic nervous system, often called the rest-and-digest state. This is where healing happens. Digestion improves, hormones regulate, sleep becomes restorative, and the body begins to repair itself. The problem begins when the nervous system becomes trapped in survival mode. When your body remains in fight-or-flight for weeks, months, or even years, it starts sensing danger even when none exists. This chronic state of alertness can manifest as anxiety, hormonal imbalances, digestive issues, poor sleep, muscle tension, and emotional exhaustion. The truth is, your nervous system is often not responding to reality it is responding to perceived danger. It reacts less to what is happening and more to what it believes might happen. That is why many people are constantly preparing for rejection, conflict, failure, or loss long before any of these things occur. So why does the body learn to anticipate danger? A dysregulated nervous system is not a flaw. It is a survival adaptation. For someone who grew up in an unpredictable or emotionally unsafe environment, being constantly alert may once have been necessary. A child who never knew when conflict would erupt, criticism would arrive, or love would disappear learns to stay prepared. Over time, that vigilance becomes the brains normal operating system. What once protected you can eventually begin to imprison you. At the heart of nervous system dysregulation lies one painful reality: broken trust. Not just trust in others, but trust in yourself, trust in life, and trust in uncertainty. A dysregulated nervous system does not believe that you can handle whatever comes your way. Instead, it convinces you that every unknown outcome is a potential threat. The encouraging part is that the nervous system can learn safety again. Healing begins by identifying the beliefs that your nervous system has mistaken for facts. Perhaps you believe that saying no will make people reject you. Perhaps you think conflict automatically means a relationship is over. These beliefs often operate quietly beneath the surface, yet they shape how your body reacts every day. The next step is not simply to think differently but to experience something different. Beliefs rarely change through logic alone. They change through lived experience. If your nervous system fears that setting boundaries will make people abandon you, start with one small boundary. If it believes conflict always destroys relationships, allow yourself to experience healthy disagreement. Every small moment of safety teaches the brain that the old story is no longer true. Healing is built through tiny, consistent experiences not dramatic breakthroughs. And finally, be gentle with yourself. Changing lifelong survival patterns is uncomfortable. Your nervous system may resist because discomfort often feels unfamiliar, even when it is leading you toward healing. Instead of judging yourself for feeling anxious, sit with the discomfort compassionately. Let your body learn, little by little, that safety is no longer something it has to fight for. The goal is not to eliminate fear. The goal is to teach your nervous system that peace is possible. Because true healing begins the moment your body stops asking, How do I survive this? and starts believing, I am safe enough to live. Saniyari Magray, alumna GK School of Communications

Some lingering questions

Last week when rains lashed the valley and a flood threat reared its head once again, some enduring questions about city planning surfaced up again. These questions attained stridency in a particular context; this context is layered. It has a layer one can call as administrative failure. Those who executed a plan under Smart City Mission must face the strident questions that were raised and will continue to be asked on how they played with the natural scheme of things that gives a city its particular personality. It also has a layer related to city planning. Under the Smart City Mission Srinagar has been treated as any other city in India. That is something questionable. Any cityanywhere in the world has its peculiarities. These are cultural, climatic, geographic, hydrological, and cultural. None of these ingredients of a citys personalities can be ignored when a comprehensive planning is done. Unfortunately what we are witnessing now, after the projects under Smart City Mission have been executed, is a near total disregard of cities drainage landscape. This city was once blessed by waterbodies that acted as a natural drainage system, and unless we have a drainage system that takes into account natural drainage system, things are bound to go wrong. Another layer of questions is related to who were the minds involved in this Smart City Mission. Srinagar has a cultural depth, it has a geographical scheme, it has an inbuilt aesthetics, it has also a history of mega projects; now all this should make a seamless whole. That all seems to have gone to dogs. Hence we have one questions after another being asked about what has been done to this city in recent years. The all important question is this: who is going to audit the developmental works in this city. If the projects have been wrongly conceived, and if the projects have been wrongly executed who is going to take responsibility for that. After all if it puts an entire population to grave discomfort, and puts to risk the routine of life with just a shower for an hour or two, someone must be held culpable. The recent rains and the consequent chaos in this city leave a trail of questions that is in search of answers.

Court overturns suo moto criminal proceedings against SSP Srinagar

Srinagar, Jul 28:A Sessions court here has set aside criminal proceedings initiated by a Magistrate Court on its own motion against Senior Superintendent of Police (SSP) Srinagar, G V Sundeep Chakravarthy, even as the court laid down a detailed framework to ensure timely execution of judicial processes across the district. In a criminal revision plea, the SSP Srinagar had challenged the order of the City Judge/Judicial Magistrate First Class, Srinagar on suo moto proceedings against him. Court of 2nd Additional Sessions Judge Srinagar, presided over by Naushad Ahmad Khan, while allowing the criminal revision petition overturned the order of City Judge Srinagar. The Magistrate had initiated proceedings under Sections 210(1)(c) and 223 of the Bharatiya Nagarik Suraksha Sanhita (BNSS), citing repeated non-execution of judicial warrants and notices by the police in a pending complaint. The court had also sought an explanation from the SSP and a report from senior police authorities, observing possible violations of provisions of the Jammu and Kashmir Police Act. In its decision the revisional court pointed out that the Magistrate was justified in expressing concern over delays in execution of judicial warrants, saying that every criminal court has adequate authority to ensure compliance with its lawful directions. The timely execution of warrants is vital for the effective functioning of the criminal justice system, it said. However, the court observed that certain observations made in the Magistrates order indicating the allegations that the SSP had wilfully failed to execute warrants, was an accomplice or the biggest impediment to justice and the same amounted to conclusive findings before providing the statutory opportunity of hearing under Section 223 BNSS. Such remarks had the effect of creating an impression of prejudgment and undermined the fairness of the proceedings, the court said. Underscoring that the judicial concern over non-compliance is legitimate, the court noted that observations must remain measured and limited to what is necessary for adjudication. The court termed the judiciary and police as complementary pillars of the criminal justice system. While courts issue directions through judicial orders, the police ensure their implementation through effective execution, it said. The court observed that public confidence in the justice delivery system depends on mutual respect, constitutional discipline and cooperation between the two institutions. While the court overturned the criminal proceedings against the SSP Srinagar, it issued certain administrative directions for Judicial Magistrates and the Srinagar Police to streamline execution of judicial processes. The court directed that summons, bailable warrants, non-bailable warrants and other judicial processes meant for execution within Srinagar should ordinarily be forwarded directly to the Station House Officer (SHO) concerned, or, in exceptional cases, to the Additional Superintendent of Police (Headquarters), instead of routing all such matters through the office of the SSP. It directed the concerned SHOs to personally ensure timely execution of judicial processes and submit compliance reports within the prescribed timelines. In cases where execution is not possible, detailed reasons must be communicated to the concerned court without delay. While the court directed SSP Srinagar to issue standing instructions to subordinate police officers and establish an effective monitoring mechanism to ensure that no warrant or summons remains unattended without valid justification, it advised the Judicial Magistrates to route judicial processes through officers having immediate territorial jurisdiction to avoid unnecessary administrative delays. The court set aside the Magistrates order dated July 6 and expunged all adverse observations the order indicated against the SSP Srinagar that included alleged deliberate misconduct, obstruction of justice, habitual disobedience and failure of the police machinery. However, the court clarified that the Magistrates concern regarding timely execution of judicial processes was bona fide and arose from the duty to uphold the authority of courts.

India's Ahimsa indices mark beginning of a new era in ethical investing

Indian stock exchanges have launched new ethically-anchored indices. These indices align with indigenous values like ahimsa and saatvik principles. They offer investors a rules-based approach to ethical portfolio alignment. Companies gain credibility and attract ethically motivated capital through inclusion. This innovation reflects a growing global trend in values-based investing.

CBI files charge sheet in NEET UG 2026 paper leak case

New Delhi, Jul 28: The CBI on Tuesday filed a charge sheet against 13 accused in the NEET UG 2026 paper leak case, including three paper experts, two associated with coaching centres, middlemen and a number of beneficiary candidates, officials said on Tuesday. In its charge sheet filed before a special court, the CBI invoked charges of criminal conspiracy, cheating, criminal breach of trust, destruction of evidence and others under the BNS for the alleged offence of criminal misconduct under the Prevention of Corruption Act and for offences under the Public Examination (Prevention of Unfair Means) Act, 2024. The CBI cited 360 witnesses, 422 documents and 43 material objects in this charge sheet. All 13 chargesheeted persons are in judicial custody as on date, the agency's spokesperson said in a statement on Tuesday. The agency attached digital forensic analysis reports, handwriting expert opinions and academic experts' opinions regarding leaked questions in its charge sheet. These reports confirmed the role of the accused in circulation of leaked questions prior to the date of examination, the spokesperson said. The CBI was handed over the probe on May 12 regarding irregularities and allegations of paper leak in the NEET-UG 2026 Examinaton held on May 3. The examination was cancelled and later a re-examination was held on June 21. The NEET paper leak issue snowballed into a major political issue. A group of 'Gen Z' led by the Cockroach Janta Party launched a massive protest at Jantar Mantar, which led to the resignation of then education minister Dharmendra Pradhan. After registering the FIR, the CBI swung into action, raiding 92 locations in Maharashtra, Rajasthan, Haryana, Delhi and other states. During its two-month-long probe, it unearthed the conspiracy from the source of the leak to the beneficiary candidates, leading to the identification of the chain. The CBI has named three arrested National Testing Agency subject experts -- PV Kulkarni (chemistry), Manisha Gurunath Mandhare (biology) and Manisha Sanjay Havaldar (physics) as accused in the case. Manoj Shirure, a Latur-based doctor, Tejas Harshadkumar Shah, a physics faculty at Dr Abhang Prabhu Medical Academy (APMA), a Pune-based coaching centre and Shivraj Raghunath Motegaonkar of a Latur-based coaching centre were also arrested and named in the charge sheet, officials said. Several middlemen who have sourced and distributed these leaked questions have also been identified and arrested. Two individuals associated with coaching institutes have also been arrested for obtaining these leaked question papers from the above experts, the CBI spokesperson said. The agency said the money trail analysis was done and several bank accounts, bank lockers and a demat account of the accused have been frozen.

Banking on gear shift for pickup: After cleaning up bad loans, banks now need a new reform push

India's banking sector requires reforms for sustained growth and improved credit access. Banks must grow significantly to meet microenterprise and retail credit demands. Regulatory recalibrations and revised lending frameworks are essential for this expansion. Wider adoption of digital tools will help close the MSME credit gap. These actions will boost economic growth and investor confidence.

DC tunes into desi protest music

US officials remain silent on Indian local issues, focusing on internal political challenges. In India, meanwhile, protesters demonstrated peacefully, forcing government concessions after extensive efforts. Analysts have found parallels between Indian and American protest tactics and government responses.

CPI(M) condemns killings in PaK, shares grief with its people

Srinagar, July 28: CPI(M) has strongly condemned the bloodshed in Pakistan-administered Kashmir (PaK) and said the party shares the grief of its people. CPI(M) leader and MLA Kulgam, M.Y. Tarigami, said no words can justify the violence. We share the grief of the people of PaK at this moment of loss and repression. Security forces opened fire on the Joint Awami Action Committee's (JAAC) long march towards Muzaffarabad near Rawalakot on Monday, killing at least three people and injuring scores, amid an internet blackout, power cuts and restricted hospital access. Rights groups say the wider protest movement has claimed dozens of lives since June. Tarigami demanded an immediate end to the use of force against unarmed protesters, the release of all detainees, unhindered access to food and medical care, and an independent inquiry into the killings. He appealed to democratic and human rights forces across the region and internationally to stand in solidarity with the people of PaK.

PM Modi chairs second high-level meeting with Secretaries, reviews agenda for Viksit Bharat

Prime Minister Narendra Modi chaired a high-level meeting reviewing future action agendas. Discussions focused on finance, commerce, and technology sectors for Viksit Bharat goals. The Prime Minister urged stronger coordination among government departments and ministries. Officers were encouraged to work with a shared purpose for integrated outcomes. This meeting reviewed key initiatives and implementation challenges across these vital areas.

Bilal Lone blames 'diversionary politics' for Mehbooba row

Srinagar, July 28: Reacting to former Jammu and Kashmir Chief Minister Mehbooba Mufti's recent remarks on the use of force in Kashmir, senior politician Bilal Gani Lone on MondayReacting to former Jammu and Kashmir Chief Minister Mehbooba Mufti's recent remarks on the use of force in Kashmir, senior politician Bilal Gani Lone on Monday described the controversy surrounding her statement as an unnecessary distraction, alleging it was being used to divert attention from issues of accountability, governance and growing public concerns. described the controversy surrounding her statement as an unnecessary distraction, alleging it was being used to divert attention from issues of accountability, governance and growing public concerns. It was merely a slip of the tonguean innocent human error that anyone can make. It certainly doesn't warrant making a mountain out of a molehill, Lone said. He said it had become a worrying trend in Kashmir's political landscape for leaders to attack and undermine one another at a time when the region was passing through a critical phase. It is deeply unfortunate that our political discourse has descended into mudslinging, rabble-rousing and cheap rhetoric. This is certainly not the way to find meaningful solutions to the pressing challenges we face, he said. Lone said everyone has a past and has made mistakes, whether big or small, but those should not become grounds for perpetual vilification. We cannot keep dwelling on each other's past without first reflecting on our own. We are all sailing in the same boat, he said. Referring to the aftermath of the Anantnag terror attack, Lone said that instead of pressing the Union government to review the reported arrest and detention of hundreds of youths, the elected government and its BJP allies in Jammu and Kashmir had chosen to turn a on-issue into the centrepiece of political debate. He also welcomed Mufti's clarification, saying it was encouraging that she had acknowledged her mistake and that the matter should now be laid to rest. (KNS)

Two army soldiers injured in mine blast near LoC in Uri

Srinagar, Jul 28: Two Indian Army soldiers were injured on Tuesday in a mine blast near the Line of Control in the Uri sector of Jammu and Kashmir, officials said here. The soldiers were injured in the blast at a forward post at Kamalkote in the Uri sector of Baramulla district, they added. The injured soldiers were given first aid locally and later airlifted to 92 Base Hospital of the Army here. The cause of the explosion is being ascertained, officials mentioned.

Those who called Mehbooba Mufti's video AI-generated should express regret: CM Omar

Srinagar, July 28: Chief Minister Omar Abdullah on Tuesday said those who claimed for five days that PDP president Mehbooba Mufti's controversial video was AI-generated should also express regret, saying she herself had now clarified that the remarks were made by her. Speaking to reporters on the sidelines of a function in Srinagar, Omar, per news agencyKashmir News Observer (KNO), said there was a clear difference between expressing regret and apologising and Mehbooba had not sought an apology. He said the bigger question was about those who spent the last five days claiming the controversial video was AI-generated. What about those who tried to suppress the issue for five days by spreading lies? Today, Mehbooba Ji herself has exposed those claims by saying the video was not AI, he said. The Chief Minister also questioned the stand taken by a PDP MLA who had repeatedly termed the video AI-generated. Her own party president has exposed that claim. He kept saying for five days that it was AI-generated, but today Mehbooba Ji herself has said it was not AI. Those people should also express regret. Even if they don't apologise, they should at least express regret, Omar said. Responding to PDP's proposed protest and demand for restoration of Article 370, Omar said his government would announce its next course of action at an appropriate time. The Chief Minister also said the party was responsible for the present situation in Jammu and Kashmir because of its alliance with the BJP. We have reached this situation because of them. Had they not brought the BJP into government, we would not be here today. If they have realised their mistake and want to correct it, that is a good thing, he said.

'There's a world of difference between regret and apology': Omar on Mehbooba row

Gold drops Rs 2,640 per 10 g, silver slides Rs 5,200 on firm rupee, weak global cues

New Delhi, Jul 28: Gold prices retreated by Rs 2,640 to Rs 1.47 lakh per 10 grams in the national capital on Tuesday, and silver dropped Rs 5,200 per kg, tracking weak global trends and a firm rupee. The yellow metal of 99.9 per cent purity depreciated by Rs 2,640 to Rs 1,47,000 per 10 grams (inclusive of all taxes) from Monday's closing level of Rs 1,49,640 per 10 grams, according to the All India Sarafa Association. Silver also witnessed selling and tumbled Rs 5,200 to Rs 2,24,800 per kilogram (inclusive of all taxes). The white metal had settled at Rs 2,30,000 per kg in the previous session. Traders said a stronger rupee reduced the landed cost of imported bullion in the domestic market, while weak global trends and caution ahead of the US Federal Reserve's policy decision kept investors' sentiment subdued. Gold edged lower on Tuesday, retreating from the previous session's gains as investors turned cautious ahead of the US Federal Reserve's policy decision, said Saumil Gandhi, Senior Analyst - Commodities at HDFC Securities. Praveen Singh, Head of Commodities at Mirae Asset ShareKhan, the precious metals traded lower despite crude oil prices extending the decline to the third day on hopes of Iran and the US resuming their peace talks over other critical matters. The two nations extended their pause in hostilities for the fourth day, while Oman and Iran continue their discussions over the Strait of Hormuz issue. According to reports, Oman cited some progress, and may announce a positive development leading to a possible breakthrough, though nothing is certain. In the global markets, spot gold fell USD 53.30, or 1.31 per cent, to USD 4,023.50 per ounce and silver dropped 2 per cent to USD 57.24 per ounce. Spot gold and silver saw renewed declines in the international market, slipping to USD 4,030 and USD 57 per ounce respectively, as the dollar surged to a fresh one-month high of 101.57 ahead of Wednesday's Federal Reserve decision, said Kaynat Chainwala, AVP Commodity Research, Kotak Securities. She added that lingering uncertainty around the durability of the US-Iran de-escalation added a layer of caution, with President Donald Trump saying the talks with Iran were progressing but warned that strikes would resume if negotiations failed to deliver.

CM Omar expresses concern over Ganderbal road crash, directs best medical care to injured Amarnath pilgrims

Srinagar, July 28: Chief Minister Omar Abdullah today expressed deep concern over the road accident at Gund, Kangan in Ganderbal district, in which several Shri Amarnath Ji Yatra pilgrims returning to Srinagar after paying obeisance at the holy cave shrine sustained injuries. The Chief Minister directed the Health & Medical Education Department to ensure the best possible medical care for all the injured pilgrims and deputed Minister for Health & Medical Education, Sakina Itoo, to Sher-i-Kashmir Institute of Medical Sciences (SKIMS), Soura to personally oversee their treatment. Acting on the directions of the Chief Minister, the Health Minister visited SKIMS, where she met the injured pilgrims and enquired about their well-being. She also interacted with the attending doctors and hospital authorities to assess the nature of injuries and the treatment being provided. The Minister directed the hospital administration to ensure the best possible medical care for all the injured pilgrims and instructed that no effort be spared in their treatment and recovery. The Chief Minister wished the injured pilgrims a speedy recovery and reaffirmed the Governments commitment to extending every possible assistance to them and their families during this difficult time. Earlier this morning, a bus carrying Shri Amarnath Ji Yatra pilgrims returning from the holy cave shrine skidded off the road near the Ganiwan/Hariganiwan stretch in the Gund area of Kangan, Ganderbal district, after the driver reportedly lost control while negotiating a curve. Thirty-nine pilgrims sustained injuries in the accident. A swift rescue operation was soon launched, shifting the injured initially to Sub-District Hospital, Kangan, before they were referred to SKIMS, Soura for specialised treatment.

Stalemate ends, Lok Sabha takes up debate on anti-paper leak Bill

New Delhi, Jul 28: Ending a week-long logjam, the Lok Sabha on Tuesday began a discussion on the anti-paper leak Bill, with Union minister Jitendra Singh describing it as a reaffirmation of the government's commitment to safeguard the welfare of students and the youth. Speaking on the Public Examination (Prevention of Unfair Means) Amendment Bill, 2026, the minister of state in the PMO said the Modi government finished an unaccomplished task to bring a law to prevent examination malpractices in 2024. Incidents of paper leaks have taken place in various states ruled by different parties... The anti-paper leak Bill is a reaffirmation of the government's commitment to safeguard the welfare of students and youth. The amendment... (is being) brought to make the law more stringent, Singh said. RSP MP N K Premchandran moved that the Bill should be circulated for stakeholder consultations till December 1, so that it can be made more fruitful. The government introduced the Bill in the Lok Sabha on Monday, days after student protests over the NEET fiasco led to Dharmendra Pradhan's resignation as education minister, to provide for stricter punishment of up to 10 years in jail and a heftier fine of Rs 50 lakh for paper leaks. The Bill was introduced by Singh amid sloganeering by the opposition demanding a response from the government over the police crackdown on students during the Cockroach Janta Party (CJP)-led July 20 protest march to Parliament. However, no discussion could take place on the Bill amid the din on Monday. The opposition has been raking up the NEET paper leak issue since the Monsoon session began on July 20. As a result, no legislative business could be taken up until Monday, except for the introduction of two Bills.

JK: 11 security forces personnel injured in separate road accidents in Shopian, Anantnag

Srinagar, July 28: At least 11 security forces personnel, including an officer, were injured in separate road accidents in Shopian and Anantnag districts of Jammu and Kashmir, officials said on Tuesday. A bunker vehicle carrying CRPF and police personnel skidded off the main road at Wachi in Shopian district late on Monday night, the officials said. Seven CRPF personnel, including an inspector, sustained injuries in the accident, they said, adding that a policeman was also among the injured. In another accident, three ITBP personnel were injured when a civilian pick-up van rammed into their temporary bunker in Pahalgam in Anantnag district after losing control, the officials said, adding the driver was also injured. Authorities have ruled out any foul play.

JK: Woman raped in Baramulla; 2 arrested

Srinagar, Jul 28: Two men have been arrested for allegedly raping a woman in Baramulla district of Jammu and Kashmir, police said on Tuesday. According to the woman's complaint, she, along with a male friend, had gone for an outing to Jalsheeri Drangbal in Baramulla on July 25 when the two accused accosted them. A police official said the accused sexually assaulted the girl and also recorded a video of the assault. The officer said the survivor knew the accused only by their first names. However, using technical evidence and human intelligence, police identified the suspects -- Shakir Ahmed Lone and Mohammed Ashraf, both residents of Jalsheeri and working as drivers -- and arrested them on Monday.

Elderly man seriously injured after hit by vehicle on NH 44 near Toll Plaza Banihal

Banihal, Jul 28: A 65-year-old man sustained serious injuries after being hit by a vehicle near the Lamber Toll Plaza along the Jammu-Srinagar National Highway in Banihal on Tuesday, officials said. The injured has been identified as Abdul Rashid, son of Gh. Nabi Wani, a resident of Asher, Banihal. Officials said the accident occurred when an Innova vehicle bearing registration number JK-03M/3693 allegedly struck the pedestrian. He was immediately shifted to the Sub-District Hospital (SDH) Banihal. They said doctors at SDH Banihal found that the victim had suffered a severe head injury and a fracture in his left leg. He was provided emergency treatment and stabilised as per standard medical protocol. Considering the seriousness of his condition and the need for specialised care, doctors referred him to Government Medical College, Anantnag, for advanced treatment and further management. Meanwhile, police have taken cognizance of the incident.

J&K youth architects of India's future, skills, not just degrees, will shape tomorrow: LG Sinha

PoK on edge a day after voting; JAAC vows to continue agitation

Srinagar, Jul 29: Pakistan-occupied Kashmir (PoK) remained on edge a day after voting in the Legislative Assembly elections, with the Jammu Kashmir Joint Awami Action Committee (JAAC) reiterating that its protest movement would continue despite weeks of deadly clashes with security forces and heightened security across the region. Polling was held under heavy security after months of unrest triggered by the controversy over 12 reserved Assembly seats for refugees from Jammu and Kashmir who reside elsewhere in Pakistan. The JAAC has demanded that the seats be abolished, arguing that only permanent residents of Pakistan-administered Kashmir should elect representatives to the legislature. The region's Supreme Court recently upheld the constitutional status of the reserved seats, further intensifying the dispute. Rawalakot, the epicentre of the movement, has witnessed repeated confrontations between protesters and security forces in recent weeks. According to Pakistani authorities, security personnel came under attack during earlier clashes and responded in self-defence. Protest leaders, however, have accused the authorities of using excessive force against demonstrators and rejecting demands for dialogue. As per Al Jazeera, at least 28 people have been killed since the protests began in June, while internet restrictions and a heavy deployment of police and paramilitary personnel remain in place in several parts of the region. JAAC leaders have vowed to continue peaceful demonstrations, insisting their campaign is aimed at securing greater democratic representation and constitutional rights. While social media accounts and activist groups alleged fresh violence in Rawalakot following Monday's polling, these claims could not be independently verified as of Wednesday.

Dream big, focus on new discoveries: LG Sinha addresses 77th State-Level Mega Job Fair in Srinagar

Srinagar, Jul 28: The Lieutenant Governor, Manoj Sinha today addressed aspiring youth and representatives from leading industries at the 77th State-Level Mega Job Fair, held at Amar Singh College, Srinagar. Organised by Desh Bhagat University, Punjab & Cluster University, Srinagar in collaboration with NIELIT, Nations Development Association (NDA) and MY Bharat, the Mega Job Fair aims to directly connect youth with industries. The fair brought together more than 50 reputed companies across diverse sectors including information technology, healthcare, banking, financial services, manufacturing, retail, hospitality, education, logistics, and engineering. In his keynote address, the Lieutenant Governor described the job fair as a powerful means of connecting the aspirations of the youth with opportunities, and as an important step toward building the nations bright future. This is a platform where dreams meet direction, where education meets industry, and where the foundation of a new Jammu Kashmir is being strengthened, he said. Highlighting the participation of thousands of registered students, the Lieutenant Governor emphasized that the greatest value of such initiatives lies in the confidence they instill in young people. You are not merely job-seekers. You are the makers of Indias future. In your hands rests your career as well as the direction of the nations development. You are the strength of Skill India, the face of Digital India, and the true bearers of Aatmanirbhar Bharat, the Lieutenant Governor told the aspirants. The Lieutenant Governor also outlined six key objectives of the Mega Job Fair. He said the fair will ensure meaningful employment for youth to become self-reliant and contribute to society. It will also pave the way for Industry-academia partnerships to bridge the gap between degrees and workplace skills. The Lieutenant Governor said that the Job Fair will ensure that skill development programmes are aligned with digital literacy and technical capabilities and a roadmap will be created for simplified recruitment through on-the-spot interviews and direct hiring. He said the Job fair will also ensure entrepreneurship promotion to encourage job creators alongside job seekers and it will prepare a future-ready workforce to strengthen Indias development journey. The Lieutenant Governor urged students to embrace three guiding principles- never make dreams small, never stop learning, and always embrace innovation. Dream big and focus on new discoveries. The future belongs to those who seek new solutions, develop new thinking, and lead change. Success is meaningful only when achieved with ethics and responsibility, he said. The Lieutenant Governor stressed that colleges and universities must evolve into institutions that prepare students for life beyond examinations. Education should not be confined to classrooms. It must prepare every student to begin lifes journey with confidence, skills, and practical understanding, he said. The Lieutenant Governor also called upon industry representatives to act as recruiters, mentors and partners in shaping the future workforce. If industry and education work together, we can create an environment where knowledge and experience strengthen each other, and innovation and employment advance together, he said. The Lieutenant Governor underscored the growing interest of youth in entrepreneurship, citing that since 2020, lakhs of youth became entrepreneurs. He recalled that the UnionTerritory led the country in PMEGP in 202122, and expressed confidence that the UT will carve a new identity in innovation, startups, and modern industries. He further emphasized that unemployment cannot be solved through government jobs alone, as government vacancies are limited. Instead, he outlined three priorities- aligning skills with industry needs, promoting private sector job creation through MSMEs and SMEs, and bridging the transition from college to workplace through internships, mentorships, and career guidance. Let us resolve that this 77th Mega Job Fair will mark the beginning of a new chapter in the employment history of Jammu Kashmir, the Lieutenant Governor said. Shri Ram Niwas Sharma, Commissioner/Secretary, Higher Education Department; Prof. Mohammad Mobin, Vice Chancellor, Cluster University of Srinagar; Prof. K.S. Chandrasekar, Vice Chancellor, Cluster University of Jammu; Prof. Shakil Ahmad Romshoo, Vice Chancellor, IUST; Dr. Sandeep Singh, President of Desh Bhagat University; Prof. Tehmina Yousuf, Principal, Amar Singh College, senior officials, representatives of leading industries, heads of educational institutes, and youth in large number were present.

'Mehbooba's apology came with excuses, not regret': Tanvir Sadiq

Two Arrested for alleged gang rape, filming assault in Baramulla: Police

32 Amarnath pilgrims injured after bus skids off road in J-K's Kangan

Ex-IPS officer, two victims move SC for decommissioning of pellet guns

New Delhi, Jul 27: A petition was filed in Supreme Court on Monday by a former IPS officer and two persons, who claimed to have been injured by pellet guns fired during the recent Cockroach Janta Party-led Parliament march to protest against NEET paper leak. The petition filed by Yashovardhan Azad, Prashant Kumar and Sheikh Irshad Mansoori through advocate Vrinda Grover, sought direction for decommissioning or banning the use of wholly or partly metallic kinetic projectiles or pellets, fired from pump action rifles or Projectile Action Guns (PAG) for dispersal of civilian assemblies by law enforcement agencies. Kumar (25), an artist, said he was present at the Sansad Chalo march on July 20 as a peaceful protester and claimed that he received pellet injuries from firing by Rapid Action Force (RAF) personnel without provocation or aggression from his end. Mansoori (26), on the other hand, said he was at Delhi's Connaught Place after attending to passport and visa-related work and had received pellet injuries from RAF firing despite there being no provocation or aggression from his end. The plea said, On July 20, 2026, during the 'Sansad Chalo' march organised by the Cockroach Janata Party as part of a protest regarding rampant paper leaks wreaking the credibility of higher education in India, the Delhi Police used the assistance of the CRPF's Rapid Action Force for crowd management. Petitioner Nos 2 and 3 personally witnessed that around 4-4.30 pm on that day, the police and RAF personnel incessantly fired tear gas shells and resorted to lathi charge and pushed the protestors towards the inner circle of Connaught Place, New Delhi. It further said pertinently, no water cannons were used, and no announcements were made about the impending use of force. While the protesters were fleeing, with many raising their arms up as if in surrender mode, despite no provocation, RAF personnel suddenly fired pump action gun(s), releasing a wide spray of splinter-like pellets, which penetrated the bodies of Petitioner Nos 2 and 3, causing immediate pain and bleeding. The petitioners said the Right to Freedom of Assembly is a constitutionally guaranteed fundamental right, amenable to be curbed only through reasonable restrictions imposed pursuant to Article 19(3) of the Constitution of India. They added that the restrictions imposed under Article 19(3), to pass the test of being a easonable restriction, must be demonstrably compliant with the doctrines of necessity and proportionality as laid down in various judgments of the Supreme Court. projectile action guns are per se unfit for dispersal of peaceful assemblies, and the petitioners contend that use of such weapons should be banned or decommissioned in deployment of security personnel when dealing with civilian assemblies, the petitioners said. They said the sporadic and unpredictable nature of the trajectory of pellets once fired makes pellet guns an unreasonable, arbitrary and dangerous tool unfit for deployment to disperse civilian assemblies. The very mechanism of the pellets disqualifies them from being a legally valid option for crowd control, as it cannot be qualitatively stated to fall within the 'least amount of necessary force' at any given point of time, in view of its erratic kinetic projectile movement, the petition said. Besides seeking decommissioning or banning the use of pellet guns wholly or partly, the petitioners sought exemplary compensation to all victims of pellet injuries caused by the State action on July 20 in New Delhi, as well as to ensure their complete medical treatment, care and rehabilitation.

3029 pilgrims leave Jammu for Amarnath Yatra in Kashmir

Banihal, July 28 : A fresh batch of 3,029 pilgrims left the Bhagwati Nagar Yatri Niwas in Jammu early Tuesday for the Baltal base camp in Kashmir under tight security arrangements, officials said. According to the Joint Police Control Room, the 21st batch departed at 2:45 a.m. in a convoy of 151 vehicles, including 57 buses, 30 medium motor vehicles (MMVs), 58 light motor vehicles (LMVs), and six two-wheelers. The batch comprises 2,310 male pilgrims, 590 women, 14 children, 45 sadhus, 40 sadhvis, and 30 foreign male pilgrims. No convoy was scheduled for the Pahalgam axis. Officials said the convoy is proceeding towards the Baltal base camp under multi-layer security and is expected to cross the Jammu-Srinagar National Highway subject to traffic and weather conditions. With the departure of the latest batch, the total number of pilgrims who have left the Jammu base camp for the annual Shri Amarnath Yatra this year has reached 1,30,355, the officials added.

Kapil Sibal donates Rs 1 crore to CJP legal aid fund for student protesters

Senior advocate Kapil Sibal has contributed Rs 1 crore to a legal aid fund set up by the Cockroach Janta Party (CJP) to support students and protesters facing criminal cases following last weeks Jantar Mantar demonstrations over the exam paper leak issue, LiveLaw reported. The announcement came after CJP spokesperson Saurav Das expressed concern at a press conference that, despite assurances from the Centre, there were credible reports that criminal cases could be filed against students in several states. According to LiveLaw, Das said the CJP had approached Sibal to help create a legal support mechanism for those booked in connection with the protests. Responding to the request, Sibal said he had agreed to provide legal assistance and announced that the CJP would launch a website to document cases registered against affected students and protesters. The portal will also enable lawyers willing to offer legal services, either pro bono or otherwise, to join the initiative. As far as peaceful protests are concerned, wherever students or protesters have been targeted, we have decided to create a mechanism to track the legal cases lodged by governments so that our lawyers can provide legal aid, Sibal said, according to LiveLaw. He added that the demand remained that no FIRs should be filed against peaceful protesters and that any cases already registered should be withdrawn. Sibal also appealed to lawyers across the country to contribute to the fund. From my side, I have contributed Rs 1 crore and I urge the advocates throughout India to extend their help in contributing to this fund so that we can help those affected. Our lawyers are standing up for those who have been affected by the misuse of law, he said, as quoted by LiveLaw.

Toyota Kirloskar Motor strengthens healthcare infrastructure at CHC Bidkin

Toyota Kirloskar Motor (TKM) has strengthened healthcare infrastructure at the Community Health Centre (CHC) in Bidkin, Paithan Block of Maharashtras Chhatrapati Sambhajinagar district by supplying and installing essential medical equipment under its Corporate Social Responsibility (CSR) initiative focused on health and hygiene. The initiative is expected to directly benefit more than 70,000 people while supporting healthcare services for the wider population of approximately 3.8 lakh across Paithan Block, where government health facilities cater to growing demand for maternal, child and emergency healthcare. The equipment provided includes a dental X-ray system with RVG, hematology analyser, surgical instrument sets, medical termination of pregnancy (MTP) set, hysterectomy set, tubal ligation (Minilap) set, obstetric labour table, shadowless operation lamp, diathermy machine, defibrillator, suction machine, multipara monitor, wheelchair, stretcher trolley, battery-operated otoscope and a hydraulic operation theatre table. According to the company, the equipment has been selected to enhance diagnostic capabilities, strengthen maternal and surgical healthcare, and improve emergency response services at the health centre. The initiative is also expected to improve healthcare accessibility and treatment outcomes for residents in the region. The equipment was formally handed over to the CHC authorities during a ceremony held on July 24. The handover was carried out by A. Ramesh Rao, Vice President, and Roshan R, General Manager, Toyota Kirloskar Motor. Expressing gratitude for the support, Dr. Shaheen, Medical Officer at CHC Bidkin, said the new equipment would significantly improve the hospitals diagnostic and treatment capabilities, particularly in maternal and emergency care. We deeply appreciate Toyota Kirloskar Motors commitment to strengthening healthcare infrastructure in our region. The medical equipment supplied will significantly enhance our diagnostic and treatment capabilities, particularly in maternal and emergency care. This support strengthens our ability to serve the 3.8 lakh population across Paithan Block and deliver quality healthcare services to our community, Dr. Shaheen said.

Jamkash Vehicleades launches all-new Maruti Suzuki Brezza

Jamkash Vehicleades (KMR) Pvt. Ltd., an authorised dealer of Maruti Suzuki India Limited, on Monday launched the All-New Maruti Suzuki Brezza at its ARENA showroom in Hyderpora, Srinagar. The vehicle was unveiled at a function attended by customers, bankers, business associates, automobile enthusiasts and other dignitaries. The All-New Brezza was formally unveiled by Sheikh Mohammad Muzaffar, Zonal Head, J&K Bank, Srinagar, in the presence of Dr. Nahid Ali, Executive Director, Dr. Amber Ahmad, Chief Operating Officer, A.R. Bhat, Chief General Manager, senior banking officials, customers and members of the Jamkash management. Speaking on the occasion, Dr Amber Ahmad described the launch as a significant milestone in the compact SUV segment. The All-New Brezza combines bold styling, advanced technology, enhanced safety features and strong performance, making it an ideal choice for todays customers. We are confident it will further strengthen Maruti Suzukis presence in the SUV segment across Jammu and Kashmir, she said. She said the company remains committed to its Customer First philosophy by focusing on transparency, trust and quality ownership experience. Our endeavour is not just to sell vehicles but to build long-term relationships with customers. Being recognised as North Indias No. 1 Maruti Suzuki dealer reflects the confidence customers have reposed in us, and we remain committed to exceeding their expectations, she added. According to the company, the All-New Brezza is available with multiple powertrain options, including the Turbo Boosterjet petrol engine, K15C Smart Hybrid petrol and S-CNG variants, offering customers a range of choices. The SUV is available in two new colour optionsVivacious Orange and Lustrous Beigealong with Pearl Bluish Black, Magma Grey, Sizzling Red, Splendid Silver and Pearl Arctic White. Dual-tone variants with a Bluish Black roof are also being offered. The company said the launch reflects its commitment to bringing the latest automotive products to customers in J&K while providing a premium sales and ownership experience.

Javid Dar chairs 45th AGM of JKHPMC; reviews Corporations performance, future roadmap

Minister for Agriculture Production, Rural Development and Panchayati Raj, Cooperatives and Election Department, Javid Ahmad Dar, today chaired the 45th Annual General Meeting (AGM) of the Jammu and Kashmir Horticultural Produce, Marketing and Processing Corporation (JKHPMC) at the Civil Secretariat, here. The Annual General Meeting unanimously adopted the audited accounts of the Corporation for the financial years 2019-20 to 2023-24. Addressing the meeting, the Minister underscored the pivotal role of JKHPMC in strengthening the horticulture value chain and creating better marketing opportunities for the growers. He directed the Managing Director to institutionalise biannual review meetings to regularly assess the Corporations performance, monitor implementation of decisions and formulate a forward-looking strategy for sustainable growth. Javid Dar stressed the need to identify new areas of expansion and innovation in agricultural and horticultural marketing, processing and value addition so that the farmers receive better returns for their produce. He called upon the Corporation to adopt a result-oriented approach and align its activities with the evolving needs of the farming community. The Minister directed the officers to undertake a comprehensive assessment of all Corporation assets and ensure their proper maintenance, effective monitoring and optimum utilisation. He said that efficient asset management and timely execution of development projects would significantly enhance the Corporations operational capacity and financial sustainability. Reaffirming the governments commitment to the holistic development of the agriculture and horticulture sectors, the Minister said that JKHPMC has a vital role in promoting post-harvest management, value addition, market linkages and processing infrastructure. This would immensely contribute towards higher farm incomes and sustainable rural economic growth in Jammu and Kashmir, he added. The meeting was attended by Additional Chief Secretary, Agriculture Production Department, Dr. Ashish Chandra Verma; Managing Director, JKHPMC, Mohammad Farooq Dar; Shareholders of the Corporation; members of the Board of Directors and senior officers of JKHPMC. Earlier, the Managing Director made a detailed presentation highlighting the Corporations performance, achievements, financial position and key initiatives undertaken during the review meeting. He also apprised the meeting of the status of statutory audits, progress made in clearing the backlog of audited accounts and the roadmap for completing the remaining audit process within the stipulated timeline. The meeting held comprehensive deliberations on a wide range of issues, including the Corporations financial management, operational performance, implementation of projects under CAPEX and NABARD, infrastructure development, marketing initiatives and strategies to strengthen the Corporations role in supporting the horticulture sector across J&K.

SKUAST-K, IIM Calcutta Innovation Park host Spark Social to ignite social entrepreneurship in J&K

Sher-e-Kashmir University of Agricultural Sciences and Technology of Kashmir, through its Innovation, Incubation and Entrepreneurship Centre (SKIIE), joined hands with the IIM Calcutta Innovation Park (IIMCIP) to organise Spark Social, a high-impact outreach seminar under the 14th Tata Social Enterprise Challenge (TSEC) 2026. The event, held at the SKUAST-K Shalimar campus, aimed to inspire and guide students, researchers, and early-stage innovators towards building scalable, impact-driven social enterprises. Vice Chancellor, SKUAST-K, Prof Nazir Ahmad Ganai, who was the chief guest at the occasion, emphasised that innovation and entrepreneurship are now essential pillars of higher education. He called on young innovators to leverage their creative potential to address real-world societal problems while driving socio-economic growth across Jammu & Kashmir. He reaffirmed the universitys dedication to supporting startups through robust incubation, expert mentorship, and strategic industry linkages. During the event, Soujit Das, Assistant Vice President of Incubation at IIMCIP, delivered a detailed overview of the Tata Social Enterprise ChallengeIndias premier platform for social impact ventures. He walked participants through the application process, detailing available incubation support, mentorship, investor connections, and funding channels. The seminar also featured insightful technical sessions, including a presentation on sustainable, impact-led business models by Dr Shuvendu Prasad Roy, Social Entrepreneur and CEO of Pietbillo Solutions Pvt Ltd. Earlier, CEO, SKIIE, Naveed Hamid, while delivering the welcome address, underscored SKUAST-Ks vision of nurturing an innovation-driven ecosystem to transform young minds from job seekers into job creators. The event capped off with an interactive Pitching Session, where aspiring entrepreneurs presented their business ideas directly to an expert panel from IIMCIP and SKIIE, receiving hands-on feedback and mentorship to refine their business concepts. The enthusiastic participation from students, faculty, and local founders reaffirmed SKUAST-Ks growing status as a powerhouse for youth-led social innovation.

Govt working to ensure steady willow supply for Kashmir bat industry: CM Omar Abdullah

Chief Minister Omar Abdullah on Monday said the government was working to ensure a steady supply of willow wood for Kashmirs cricket bat industry, describing uninterrupted access to raw material as critical for the sector. Abdullah made the remarks after meeting members of the Bat Manufacturers Association at Sangam. He said the association had met him in Srinagar three weeks ago and raised several issues, with willow availability emerging as its primary concern. The Bat Manufacturers Association met me in Srinagar three weeks ago. They had a few important demands. Their biggest concern was that the supply of raw material should continue. Since the court has directed that no new willow trees be planted around Wular, trees are being cut but not replaced. We have taken some decisions on that, he said. The High Court and Environmental authorities have restricted willow plantations around Wular Lake as part of efforts to restore the wetland. More than 135,000 willow trees have been removed to improve the lakes water-holding and flood-absorbing capacity. Abdullah said the government was also considering the industrys demand for uninterrupted power supply and a dispensary for workers. These demands are also under consideration, he said. He said workers injured in factory accidents currently have to travel to the Sub-District Hospital in Bijbehara for treatment. During accidents or injuries, labourers have to go to the SDH at Bijbehara. A dispensary here would ensure immediate treatment, he said. The Chief Minister also said the Common Facilitation Centre (CFC), established in 2003-04 for the industry, was not functioning as intended. The manufacturers will discuss the issue with the Industries Department and suggest whether the CFC can be made functional or if an alternative is required, he said. Deputy Chief Minister and Industries and Labour Minister Surinder Choudhary, Forest and Environment Minister Javed Ahmad Dar and Bijbehara MLA Bashir Ahmad Shah Veeri accompanied Abdullah during the visit.

Food Safety Department probes complaints of substandard flour at Ganderbal government outlets

The Food Safety Department on Monday launched an inquiry into complaints of allegedly substandard wheat flour being distributed through government sale centres in central Kashmir's Ganderbal district, collecting samples for laboratory testing and seizing the available stock pending the results. A team of Food Safety officials inspected several government sale centres across the district and lifted legal samples of wheat flour to assess whether the stock complies with the quality and safety standards prescribed under the Food Safety and Standards Act. The action followed complaints from consumers, particularly in Lar and adjoining areas, who alleged that the wheat flour supplied through the public distribution system was of poor quality, unhygienic and unfit for consumption. Residents demanded an immediate inquiry into the quality of the flour and sought strict action against the supplying flour mill, including its blacklisting if any irregularities are established. We rely heavily on government sale centres for our basic food supplies. The recent batch of flour was of such inferior quality that it raised health concerns. Authorities must ensure proper quality checks before distributing food to the public, said Abdul Rashid, a resident of Wakura. Residents said food grains supplied through government outlets should be thoroughly examined to ensure they meet prescribed standards and do not pose a risk to public health. They urged the authorities to expedite the inquiry and ensure that only safe and standard-quality wheat flour and other food grains are distributed through government sale centres. Responding to the complaints, officials from the Food Safety Department, accompanied by personnel from the Food, Civil Supplies and Consumer Affairs (FCS&CA) Department, inspected several sale outlets across the district. Legal samples were collected as per standard operating procedures and sent to an accredited food testing laboratory for detailed analysis. Food Safety Officer Ganderbal Sheikh Abbas said inspections were conducted at all outlets from where complaints had been received and samples had been collected for testing. Further action will be taken after the laboratory reports are received, Abbas said. He said the department has also seized the flour stock available at the inspected outlets until the test reports are received.

Workshop on national security journalism begins at MHA's RRU Gujarat

Rashtriya Raksha University (RRU), the National Defence University of Gujarat Monday kickstarted an 11-day residential workshop on National Security Journalism. The workshop has been designed to help journalists understand the changing dimensions of national security and their role in ensuring accurate, ethical and fact-based reporting. As many as 42 participants including journalists, research scholars and academicians are part of the programme organised under the aegis of Ministry of Home Affairs (MHA), Government of India (GoI). The journalists from Kashmir who are part of the programme include Muneeb ul Haq, Sheikh Saleem Bin Ahmad, Syed Rizwan Geelani, Suhail Khan and Waris Fayaz. The workshop is being organised by the School of International Cooperation, Security and Strategic Languages (SICSSL) to strengthen reporting on national security and strategic affairs. The programme aims to enhance the professional capacity of journalists by equipping them with a deeper understanding of national security, ethical reporting, and the evolving information landscape. Addressing the inaugural session, the Pro Vice-Chancellor RRU Prof. (Dr) Kalpesh H. Wandra said the national security today extends far beyond the protection of territorial borders and encompasses information warfare, digital technologies, strategic communication, fact verification, and responsible journalism. The initiative seeks to build stronger engagement between the media and the national security ecosystem while promoting responsible dissemination of information in the public interest, Prof. Wandra said. He said the sessions will focus on contemporary security challenges, strategic communication, information integrity, and the responsibilities of journalists in reporting on national security-related issues. The programme is expected to strengthen journalists' professional capabilities and foster informed, balanced and responsible coverage of national security matters, he added. The National Security Journalism Programme is an 11-day residential capacity-building initiative designed for a select group of journalists representing national, state and regional media organisations. The workshop combines expert-led sessions, interactions with practitioners, case-based learning, practical reporting tools and structured field exposure to strengthen journalists' understanding of security-related issues. The training will focus on reporting related to defence, internal security, terrorism, border management, coastal security, cyber incidents, public order, disasters, critical infrastructure and other national security concerns. The participants will also visit key national security institutions to gain first-hand operational exposure. National security reporting has become increasingly significant in the digital age, where media plays a crucial role in shaping public perception during security events, Pro VC RRU said. He further said that the rapid growth of digital platforms has accelerated the spread of misinformation and hostile narratives, making responsible journalism more essential than ever. The programme seeks to equip journalists with the domain knowledge, contextual understanding and verification skills required to report security issues accurately, responsibly and in a manner that strengthens democratic discourse.

IUST signs MoU with Germany's Paderborn University to boost academic collaboration

The Islamic University of Science and Technology (IUST) on Monday signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) with Germany's Paderborn University to strengthen international academic collaboration and promote joint research and academic exchanges. The agreement was signed between the Department of Philosophy at IUST and the Centre for the History of Women Philosophers and Scientists at Paderborn University. The collaboration will be coordinated by Dr. Muzaffar Ali Malla, head of the Department of Philosophy at IUST, and Prof. Ruth Hagengruber, director of the Centre for the History of Women Philosophers and Scientists at Paderborn University. The MoU signing ceremony was presided over by IUST Registrar Prof. Shamim Ahmad Shah, who described the agreement as a significant step in the university's efforts to expand its international academic engagement. He said the partnership would promote high-quality research, academic exchange and innovative scholarly initiatives while creating opportunities for students, researchers and faculty members of both institutions. Shah said such collaborations reflect IUST's commitment to academic excellence, innovation and knowledge creation, while strengthening its presence in the global academic community. Dean of the School of Humanities and Social Sciences, Prof. Afroz Ahmad Bisati, welcomed the initiative and said the partnership would enhance international academic cooperation, interdisciplinary research and the university's global outreach. The ceremony was attended by Finance Officer Samir Wazir, Dean Research Dr. Aabid Hussain Shalla, Dean Outreach Dr. Ruheela Hassan, and In-charge International Affairs and Dean Students Dr. Monisa Qadiri. Representing Paderborn University, President Prof. Dr. Matthias Bauer and Prof. Ruth Hagengruber welcomed the collaboration and expressed confidence that it would lead to sustained academic cooperation, joint research projects, faculty and student exchanges, and long-term intellectual engagement between the two institutions.

CUK, NIEPA launch NEP-2020 orientation programme for faculty

The Central University of Kashmir (CUK), in collaboration with the UGC-Malaviya Mission Teacher Training Centre (MMTTC), National Institute of Educational Planning and Administration (NIEPA), New Delhi, on Monday launched an eight-day online NEP Orientation and Sensitization Programme to strengthen faculty capacity for implementing the National Education Policy (NEP)-2020. Speaking at the inaugural session, CUK Vice-Chancellor Prof. A. Ravinder Nath said, NEP-2020 marks a shift from information-centric to learner-centric education. He said the policy is designed to meet the aspirations of the emerging generation. He called on higher educational institutions to adopt inclusive academic models that integrate research, skill development and community engagement. The institutions should nurture students according to their abilities, backgrounds and interests while providing opportunities for research internships, industry exposure and community-based learning, Prof Nath said. He said the approach would encourage innovation, intellectual property creation and entrepreneurship. It would also reduce dependence on conventional employment avenues. NIEPA Vice-Chancellor Prof. Shashikala Wanjari said orientation is important, but sensitization is the key to effective implementation of NEP-2020. She said teachers have a greater responsibility to nurture values alongside academic excellence. Education should not be limited to classroom instruction but should equip students to identify societal challenges, develop solutions and contribute to national development with a sense of patriotism and collective responsibility, Prof Wanjara said. Director, MMTTC-NIEPA, Prof. Amit Gautam, said the programme reflects the shared commitment of NIEPA and the Central University of Kashmir to expanding access to quality faculty development. He described NEP-2020 as a generational shift towards a flexible, multidisciplinary and learner-centric education system. The teachers are the key architects of this transformation and urged participants to actively engage in discussions, exchange best practices and deliberate on institutional challenges, Prof. Gautam said. Prof. Aarti Srivastava, Programme Batch Director, welcomed the participants and introduced the dignitaries. Dr. V. Sucharita, Programme Batch Coordinator, conducted the proceedings. Dr. P. Shankar explained the programme modalities, while Dr. Haribhau R. Bhapkar, Programme Batch Local Coordinator and Head of the Department of Mathematics, proposed the vote of thanks.

Baltal camp has adequate capacity to handle pilgrim rush: Div Com

The Baltal base camp has adequate capacity to accommodate the current rush of pilgrims undertaking the annual Shri Amarnathji Yatra, while the administration is taking a day-to-day call on the movement of pilgrims after assessing weather and track conditions, Divisional Commissioner Kashmir Anshul Garg said on Monday. Speaking to reporters, Garg said the pilgrimage was being regulated strictly under the prescribed Standard Operating Procedure (SOP), with weather advisories issued by the India Meteorological Department (IMD) and the condition of the tracks reviewed before permitting the movement of pilgrims. The Yatra had been temporarily suspended in recent days due to adverse weather conditions, following which repair work was required along the traditional Pahalgam axis. The restoration work is currently being undertaken by the Border Roads Organisation (BRO), while the Baltal route remains open, he said. Garg said fresh pilgrims arriving from Jammu, including those who reached by train over the past two days, were being directed straight to the Baltal Base Camp to prevent inconvenience. He said the holding capacity of the Baltal Base Camp had earlier been increased to accommodate 40,000 to 45,000 pilgrims, while the current daily inflow stood at around 15,000 to 20,000. The camp is therefore operating at nearly half its capacity and is presently adequately equipped to manage the pilgrim rush, he said, adding that additional arrangements would be made if required based on the number of pilgrims arriving in the coming days. Garg said teams from the district administration, health department, sanitaation services, camp commanders, Mountain Rescue Teams (MRTs) and other agencies were maintaining continuous monitoring to ensure the safety and convenience of pilgrims. He said the latest IMD advisory had forecast adverse weather, including heavy rainfall, from July 28 to July 31. Evening review meetings are being held with all stakeholders, including officials of the Shri Amarnath Ji Shrine Board, and the decision on the following day's pilgrimage is taken after assessing the weather forecast and track conditions, he added. Garg said more than 4.22 lakh pilgrims had paid obeisance at the holy cave shrine by 1 p.m. on Monday. The figure has surpassed the total of 4.14 lakh devotees who undertook the pilgrimage during the entire 2025 Yatra, despite this year's Yatra witnessing a six-day suspension due to heavy monsoon rainfall and landslides that damaged sections of the Jammu-Srinagar National Highway and the traditional Pahalgam route.

Govt apathy leaves tourist cafeteria, gazebo at Kupwaras Zachaldara in disrepair

A tourist cafeteria and a gazebo at Galganzar in Zachaldara, in the foothills of Bangus Valley, have been lying abandoned for years, with locals accusing the authorities of neglect and demanding their immediate renovation. Residents told Greater Kashmir that the cafeteria was built nearly a decade ago but has never been handed over to the Tourism Department. The building was completed, but it was never made functional. We don't know why it has been left to decay, said Farooq Bhat, a resident. He said the government had spent a huge amount on the project, but the building was now deteriorating due to official neglect. The windowpanes and glass have been damaged by miscreants. Had the building not been left unattended, it would still be in good condition, Bhat said. Residents said the cafeteria, located along the Handwara-Rajwar-Bangus road, could serve as a halt for tourists visiting Bangus Valley and help promote tourism in the area. It can also generate employment for local youth, who can set up stalls and sell their products, a local youth said. Former District Development Council (DDC) member from Rajwar, Sulaiman Mir, said the Zachaldara cafeteria was not the only abandoned tourism asset in the area. Tourist huts at Wader Balla and Wader Payeen have also been left unattended, causing inconvenience to tourists visiting Bangus Valley, he said. Mir also raised the issue of watch and ward employees posted at these facilities. He said the workers, engaged on a temporary basis, had not received salaries for several months. They are already poorly paid and salaries are often delayed. They have now gone without wages for months, Mir said, urging the government to release their pending dues. MLA Handwara Sajad Gani Lone said several tourism-related structures across Kupwara district had been abandoned. I will take up the issue with the concerned department, he said.

NLCO concerned over road construction in eco-fragile Miskeen Bagh

Nigeen Lake Conservation Organisation (NLCO) has expressed concern over construction of road in eco-fragile Miskeen Bagh area. In a statement, NLCO Chairman Manzoor Wangnoo said, What we are witnessing near Miskeen Bagh today is deeply disturbing. In what appears to be a serious lapse of oversight by J&K Lake Conservation and Management Authority road-related work has reportedly been carried out by Srinagar Municipal Corporation raising grave concerns over filling and encroachment of the waterbody. The question is simple: How can development be allowed at the cost of the very lake we are duty-bound to protect. If any portion of Dal has been filled to facilitate road construction or macadamisation, the matter deserves immediate verification, accountability, and, if necessary, intervention by the National Green Tribunal (NGT). Dal Lake cannot become a casualty of departmental lapses, unchecked development, or political interests. The filling must stop, Wangnoo added.

Sat Sharma urges Nitin Gadkari for major road infra push in J&K

J&K Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) president and Rajya Sabha MP Sat Sharma on Monday called on Union Minister for Road Transport and Highways Nitin Gadkari in New Delhi and highlighted the disruption of highways due to landslides and adverse weather especially in the rainy season. Seeking additional measures to address the landslides issues in the rainy season, Sat Sharma requested the Union Minister to encourage the use of advanced engineering solutions and modern technologies to make roads more resilient. He stressed the need for scientific slope stabilisation, modern monitoring systems and other innovative interventions to minimise road closures and ensure safer travel. During the meeting, Sat Sharma raised several important issues concerning J&Ks road network with the objective of securing faster infrastructure development and addressing critical connectivity challenges faced by the people. He apprised the Union Minister of the need to further strengthen road infrastructure across Jammu and Kashmir in view of its strategic importance, difficult terrain, growing tourism potential and the aspirations of the people. He stressed that improved connectivity was the backbone of economic growth, tourism, trade, healthcare, education and national security and urged the Ministry to continue prioritising infrastructure development in the Union Territory. While thanking the Minister for the major road infrastructure push in J&K, ensuring 12-month all-weather connectivity between the major regions of Jammu and Kashmir and with the Union Territory of Ladakh, Sharma particularly emphasised the need to take additional measures to address the landslides issues in the rainy season. Sharma said uninterrupted road access would greatly benefit people living in remote and border areas while facilitating smoother movement of goods, tourists and essential services throughout the year. The BJP leader also sought the time-bound completion of ongoing National Highway projects, tunnels, elevated road corridors and flyovers at crucial locations to improve traffic flow, reduce travel time, and enhance commuter safety. He said timely completion of these projects would further accelerate economic activity and open new avenues for investment, employment, and tourism across Jammu and Kashmir. Sat Sharma said that under the leadership of Prime Minister Narendra Modi, Jammu and Kashmir witnessed unprecedented progress in road connectivity, with several long-pending highway, bridge and tunnel projects being executed at a record pace. He added that this transformative vision had its roots in the developmental approach of former Prime Minister Bharat Ratna Atal Bihari Vajpayee, which was now being carried forward with renewed commitment. The Union Minister gave a patient hearing to the issues raised by Sat Sharma and assured him that the Ministry would continue to extend all possible support for strengthening road infrastructure and connectivity in Jammu and Kashmir.

Handwara Tragedy: 10-year-old boy drowns in pond

A 10-year-old boy drowned in a pond at Sarband in the Magam area of Handwara in north Kashmirs Kupwara district on Monday. His body was later retrieved after a joint rescue operation involving the State Disaster Response Force (SDRF), the Army, police, and local residents. The deceased was identified as Ayan Ahmad, son of Abdul Qayoom Tantary, a resident of Bumdoogar, Magam. Officials said that the boy reportedly drowned while bathing in the pond. On receiving information about the incident, rescue teams from the SDRF, Army and police, assisted by local volunteers, rushed to the spot and launched a search operation. After sustained efforts, the body was recovered from the pond and handed over to the family for last rites. Police have taken cognisance of the incident, while further proceedings have been initiated. GNS

J&K government sanctions Rs 6.05 crore for restoration of historic Shopian Jamia Masjid

The Jammu and Kashmir Government has sanctioned a Rs 6.05 crore project for the restoration and revival of the historic Jamia Masjid Sharief in south Kashmirs Shopian district, with the work to be carried out in keeping with the mosques heritage architecture. Announcing the decision on X, Chief Minister Omar Abdullah said the project aims to preserve the mosques unique architectural identity and cultural significance. The Government of Jammu & Kashmir has approved a 6.05 crore project for the revival and restoration of the historic Jamia Masjid Sharief in Shopian on heritage lines. The project will preserve its distinctive architectural character and rich cultural legacy, the Chief Minister posted. The announcement was welcomed by local residents and civil society members, who described it as a significant step towards preserving one of Kashmirs prominent historical landmarks. We thank the Chief Minister and the local MLAs for approving the restoration project. It is a welcome step, and we hope the funds will be utilised judiciously, said civil society member Mitha Gatoo. Gatoo stressed that local residents, civil society representatives and conservation experts should be actively involved in the restoration process to ensure that the mosques historic character and architectural integrity are preserved. Spread over nearly nine kanals, the Jamia Masjid Shopian is regarded as the second-largest mosque in Kashmir after the historic Jamia Masjid in Srinagar. Built with contributions from local residents, the mosque is renowned for its traditional wooden architecture, featuring deodar wood turrets, intricately designed geometric windows and dozens of carved wooden columns that define its interior. According to local accounts, camels were used to transport boulders from the nearby Rambiara stream during the mosques construction, reflecting the scale of the effort undertaken to build the centuries-old structure. Residents said the restoration project presents an opportunity not only to repair the mosque but also to preserve its architectural and cultural legacy for future generations. They urged the authorities to undertake the conservation work with utmost care and in consultation with heritage experts so that the mosques original design and traditional features remain intact.

Kashmir schools reopen; academic activities resume after extended summer break

Schools across Kashmir reopened on Monday after remaining closed for 20 days due to an unprecedented heatwave followed by prolonged heavy rainfall that triggered flood-like conditions in several parts of the Valley. The reopening marked the return of normal academic activity as thousands of students, dressed in school uniforms and carrying backpacks, were seen heading to educational institutions early Monday morning. Morning assemblies resumed in most schools, while teachers welcomed students back after an unusually long mid-summer disruption. The School Education Department had initially ordered the closure of all government and private schools from July 6 for 13 days in view of an intense heatwave that gripped Kashmir, with temperatures soaring well above normal. Authorities had cited concerns over the health and safety of students, particularly younger children, amid the unusually high daytime temperatures. However, before schools could reopen, weather conditions changed dramatically as widespread rainfall lashed the Valley around July 18. Continuous rain over several days led to waterlogging in urban areas, overflowing streams and rivers, landslides, and flood-like situations in parts of Kashmir, prompting the government to extend the summer vacation until July 26. With weather conditions improving over the past few days and the flood threat receding, the administration decided to resume classes from Monday. At several schools in Srinagar and other districts, students expressed happiness at returning to classrooms and reconnecting with their classmates after the prolonged break. I was missing my friends and teachers. It feels good to be back in school, said Aira , a class 10th student. Another student said the extended closure had disrupted studies despite online learning resources. We tried to study at home, but classroom learning is always better. We are happy that schools have reopened, she said. Teachers also welcomed the resumption of regular classes but acknowledged that the extended closure had affected the academic calendar. Our immediate priority is to assess the learning levels of students and revise the academic schedule wherever necessary. We will make every effort to complete the syllabus without compromising the quality of teaching, a senior teacher at a higher secondary school in Srinagar said. School authorities said they would focus on academic recovery in the coming weeks while ensuring students settle back into their routines. Parents accompanying children to schools also expressed relief over the reopening. The last few weeks were challenging because children remained indoors due to both the heat and the heavy rains. We hope the weather remains stable so that academic activities continue without further interruptions, said Abdul Rashid, a parent waiting outside a private school. Officials said schools had been advised to remain vigilant regarding local weather conditions and to ensure the safety of students, particularly in areas that had witnessed waterlogging or infrastructure damage during the recent spell of rain. The 20-day closure reflected the Valleys rapidly changing weather conditions this month. Kashmir first experienced one of its hottest summers in recent years, prompting authorities to suspend classroom teaching. The subsequent shift to persistent rainfall brought relief from the heat but created fresh challenges, with heavy downpours disrupting normal life and forcing educational institutions to remain shut longer than initially planned. With classes resuming on Monday, education officials expressed hope that regular academic activities would continue uninterrupted and that schools would be able to recover the teaching time lost during the extended closure.

Dismantle ecosystem supporting narcotics trafficking

Deputy Commissioner (DC) Srinagar, Akshay Labroo on Monday chaired a comprehensive meeting of the District-Level NCORD Committee here at Meeting Hall of the DC Office to review the progress of the intensified anti-drug enforcement drive launched under the 100-Day Jammu & Kashmir Nasha Mukt Bharat Abhiyan in the District. Senior Superintendent of Police (SSP) Srinagar, Dr. Sundeep Chakravarthy, also attended the meeting, which assessed the impact of coordinated enforcement measures against drug trafficking and substance abuse. The meeting was attended by Regional Transport Officer Kashmir, Qazi Irfan, Additional Deputy Commissioner, Aadil Fareed, SP Headquarter, Umar Shah, Joint Commissioner SMC, Nuzhat Khurshid, IAS Probationer, Alfred Thomas, SDM West, Irfan Bahadur, SDM East Zubair Ahmad, Chief Education Officer, Ghulam Mohi-Din, DSWO, Mohammad Yousuf and Officers from Excise, Drug Control Organisation, DYS&S, heads of ATFs and Officers of other concerned departments. At the outset, the meeting undertook a comprehensive assessment of the Districts anti-drug strategy, focusing on enforcement measures, preventive interventions, rehabilitation measures and the outcomes of the recently concluded 100-day Jammu and Kashmir Nasha Mukt Abhiyan. During the meeting, it was informed that the intensified enforcement operations, coupled with coordinated efforts by the Police, Civil Administration, and other stakeholder departments, have yielded significant outcomes across Srinagar district. The multi-pronged action has focused on dismantling drug trafficking networks, disrupting the financial ecosystem supporting illicit activities, and ensuring strict legal action against those involved in the illegal trade of narcotics. The NCORD Committee was informed that the ongoing crackdown has resulted in the registration of 169 FIRs and the arrest of 238 alleged drug peddlers. In addition, illegal movable and immovable properties worth about Rs 103 crore linked to drug traffickers have been attached, while 89 bank accounts have been frozen as part of financial investigations. The Committee was further informed that 101 driving licences, 59 vehicle registration certificates (RCs) and 70 chemist licences have been suspended for violations related to narcotics. The enforcement agencies also reviewed action taken to dismantle drug supply networks through coordinated legal, financial and administrative measures Further more, authorities have recommended suspension of passport and Aadhaar numbers of various accused under relevant laws. Reviewing the progress of the campaign, the Deputy Commissioner and SSP appreciated the coordinated efforts of the Civil Administration, Police and allied Departments and stressed the need for sustained, intelligence-driven enforcement to eliminate the drug menace and ensure lasting outcomes under the ongoing campaign. On the occasion, the DC directed all concerned departments to further strengthen inter-departmental coordination and intensify action against drug peddlers and trafficking networks to ensure a drug-free and safer environment in the District. He emphasized renewed focus and coordinated efforts to curb drug abuse and dismantle the ecosystem supporting narcotics trafficking in Srinagar District. The DC further stressed the importance of a multi-pronged strategy combining strict law enforcement with awareness generation, counselling and rehabilitation measures to effectively tackle the menace of drug abuse, particularly among youth. The SSP reiterated the commitment of the Police in collaboration with civil authorities towards sustained action against narcotics-related activities and called for active support from the public in identifying and reporting drug-related offences.