11 of 14 development projects worth Rs 24.62 Cr unfinished in Baramulla

Baramulla, Oct 10:Eleven of the 14 development projects taken up in Baramulla town under the Capex Budget remain incomplete, with land-transfer issues, local opposition, security constraints, and a court-related dispute delaying key infrastructure work, the Jammu and Kashmir government has informed the Legislative Assembly. In a written reply to a starred question raised by MLA Javid Hassan Baig during the recently concluded Assembly session, the Housing and Urban Development Department said the 14 projects, with a combined estimated cost of Rs 24.62 crore, were at different stages of implementation. Only three projects have been completed so far. The department reported cumulative expenditure of Rs 4.45 crore on the projects up to March 2026. During the current financial year, the department spent Rs 25 lakh of the Rs 1.30 crore released for the works. Among the key projects facing delays is the proposed multi-level car parking facility near the Roads and Buildings (R&B) office. Although the project received administrative approval on October 10, 2025, work has not started because the land owned by the Public Works Department (PWD) is yet to be transferred to the Municipal Council Baramulla. The site also requires the valuation and removal of poplar trees and the disposal of an existing old building before construction can begin. The three proposed gateway structures have also encountered implementation hurdles since receiving approval in September 2025. Work at Janbazpora and Khowjabagh was held up following objections from local residents, while the proposed gateway at Khanpora faced opposition from the Border Roads Organisation (BRO). The government said alternative sites were being identified for the affected locations, while work at Khowjabagh was progressing at a new site. Meanwhile, construction of the Municipal Council Baramullas double-storey office building, approved in December 2021, was halted until March 2026 due to a court-related land dispute and security restrictions. Work resumed after the council submitted an affidavit undertaking compliance with military security conditions, the government said. The structural framework of the building was completed in November 2024. Truss work has since been completed, while brickwork has reached around 80 per cent, according to the department. The government attributed the delays to site-specific, statutory, judicial, security-related and inter-departmental issues, stating that these were largely beyond the immediate control of the executing agencies.

Sting operation row: Union Min Kumaraswamy questions CM Shivakumar, demands probe

Sting operation row: Union Min Kumaraswamy questions CM Shivakumar, demands probe Hassan: Union Minister for Heavy Industries and Steel H.D. Kumaraswamy on Saturday demanded a probe into the ongoing sting operation controversy in Karnataka. He also asked as to who conducted the operation targeting former Chief Minister Siddaramaiah, who leaked the video and who was [] The post Sting operation row: Union Min Kumaraswamy questions CM Shivakumar, demands probe appeared first on Mangalorean.com .

India tops Commonwealth Cue Sports Championships with 13 medals

Digital Desk | Ahmedabad, Oct 10 (IANS) India finished on top with 13 medals, comprising three gold, five silver and five bronze, at the Commonwealth Cue Sports Championships 2026, which concluded at the Veer Savarkar Sports Complex in Ahmedabad on Saturday. Hosted by the Billiards & Snooker Federation of India (BSFI), the Championships were held under the endorsement of the World Confederation of Billiards Sports (WCBS) and Commonwealth Sport. The medal ceremony was graced by Indian Olympic Association (IOA) President Dr PT Usha, who attended the occasion as the Chief Guest. Indias campaign was headlined by Aditya Snehal Mehta, who won gold in Mens Snooker after defeating fellow Indian Dhvaj Haria 3-0 in an all-Indian final. Anupama Ramachandran also clinched gold in Womens English Billiards, overcoming compatriot Revanna Umadevi 1-0 to claim the title. Rayaan Razmi added another gold for India in Mens English Billiards, defeating Siddharth Sailesh Parikh in the all-Indian final. In Mens Snooker, Haria finished with the silver medal, while Laxman Singh Rawat claimed bronze alongside Sri Lankas Mohamed Thaha Irshath. Indias womens snooker contingent also enjoyed a strong showing, with Keerthana Pandian winning silver after losing 0-3 to Great Britains Rebecca Kenna in the final. Ishika Shah and Shruthi Lakshminarayanan secured bronze medals to add to Indias tally. In Womens English Billiards, Umadevi took silver following her final against Ramachandran, while Great Britains Mhairi Roberta Mackay and Australias Julie Watson claimed bronze medals. India also secured a silver and bronze in Mens Heyball, with Paras Gupta finishing runner-up after a closely contested 5-6 defeat to South Africas Jason Theron. Uzair Khan claimed bronze alongside Malaysias Mohd Hassan. In Mens 10-Ball Pool, Great Britains Mark Foster claimed the title with a 6-3 victory over compatriot Sheridan Burmester. Indias Divya Sharma secured bronze alongside Great Britains Paddy McLoughlin. In Womens 10-Ball Pool, Australias Meng-Hsia Hung won gold after edging South Africas Elzette Joen 5-4 in the final, while Singapores Neo Yue Xuan and Canadas Nathalle Chabot claimed bronze medals. Great Britain also celebrated titles in Womens Snooker and Mens Blackball, with Kenna defeating Pandian 3-0 and Lee Shepherd overcoming South Africas Shaun Martheze 7-3. Rwandas Frederic Ngaboyisonga and Namibias Curtis Izaaks secured bronze in Mens Blackball. In Womens Blackball, Ugandas Naiga Rukia defeated South Africas Prudence Nkosi 5-3 to win gold, while Australias Kolbe Poole and Great Britains Emma Cunningham claimed bronze. In Womens Heyball, Great Britains Kelly Fisher claimed the title after defeating Ugandas Rashidah Mutesi in the final. South Africas Marina Jacobs and Great Britains Mary Talbot secured the bronze medals. The Commonwealth Cue Sports Championships brought together 144 players from more than 40 nations for four days of competition across English Billiards, Snooker, Heyball, 10-Ball Pool and Blackball. The event marked the first time the multi-discipline Championships were staged in India and formed a centrepiece of the Billiards & Snooker Federation of Indias centenary celebrations. Indias 13-medal haul, including three gold, five silver and five bronze, underlined the countrys strength across multiple cue sports disciplines, with Indian players reaching finals and securing podium finishes on home soil. The Championships concluded with a celebration of international talent and Indias growing presence on the global cue sports stage.

Stanford University Rankings 2026: 20 KU scientists feature among worlds top researchers

Srinagar, Oct 9: In a significant achievement reflecting its growing research excellence, 20 scientists from the University of Kashmir (KU) have featured in the prestigious Stanford University Rankings 2026, marking a notable milestone for the University. KUs representation is among the highest and the largest among universities in the J&K UT underscoring its growing contribution to global research. The list also features women faculty members and researchers highlighting the Universitys expanding research participation. The KU scientists featuring in the 2026 list are Dr Manzoor Ahmad Mir, Dr Adil Gani, Prof Imtiaz Ahmad, Dr. Idrees Ahmad Wani, Prof. Farooq Ahmad Masoodi, Dr Faheem Arjamend Sheikh, Dr. Mudasir Ahmad, Dr Shabir Ahmad Parah, Dr Abdul Mueed Hafiz, Prof. Ghulam Jeelani, Dr. Basharat Ahmad Bhat, Prof Aijaz Ahmad, Dr Firdous Ahmad Shah, Dr. Arshid Bashir, Dr. Reyaz Hassan Mir, Dr. Farooq Ahmad Khanday, Dr. Akhtar Alam, Dr. Aaliya Qureashi, Dr. Shazia Shafi Sofi and Dr. Nusrat Jan. The Universitys representation has grown from 14 researchers in 2024 and 14 in 2025 to 20 in 2026. The increase reflects the expanding impact of research at the University across disciplines. The continued presence of KU researchers in the list over successive years also reflects the steadiness and consistency of their scholarly contributions and their growing visibility in the global research community. Congratulating the researchers, Vice-Chancellor, KU, Prof. Nilofer Khan, said the recognition was a matter of pride for the University and reflected the dedication of its faculty towards impactful research. This recognition reflects our researchers commitment to advancing knowledge and contributing to the global scientific community. The inclusion of our scientists, particularly women faculty members, is encouraging and will inspire young researchers to pursue excellence and innovation, she said. Dean Academic Affairs, KU, Prof. Shariefuddin Pirzada, said the achievement reflected the quality of scholarship at the University and would motivate students and early-career researchers to pursue meaningful, internationally recognised research. Dean Research, KU, Prof. Bashir Ganaie, said the Universitys representation in the global list shows its sustained research activity across disciplines and the importance of strengthening a vibrant research culture. Registrar, KU, Prof. Naseer Iqbal, described the recognition as both an honour and a responsibility, noting that the continued presence of KU scientists in global rankings reaffirmed the Universitys standing as a centre of academic and research excellence in the region. The rankings draw on standardised citation indicators, including citations, h-index, co-authorship and other measures of research impact, to assess scientists contributions. KUs representation across diverse research areas reflects its continued efforts to strengthen research, foster collaboration and encourage scholarly contributions with global relevance.

Hassan DC directs smooth arrangements for Hasanamba temple festival

KFTA Delegation Calls on Sajjad Lone, Raises Concerns of J&Ks Film Fraternity

Srinagar : A delegation of the Kashmir Film & Television Association (KFTA) on Thursday called on Jammu and Kashmir Peoples Conference president Sajjad Lone and apprised him of the concerns and grievances of the indigenous film fraternity in Jammu and Kashmir. The delegation, led by KFTA chairman and Kashmir World Film Festival (KWFF) founder and director Mushtaaque Ali Ahmad Khan, included Zameer Ashai, Hussein Khan, Aarif Zeeshan, Manzoor Mir, Hassan Javaid, Afnan Ashai and other members of the valleys film fraternity. During the meeting, the artists and filmmakers expressed concern over what they described as the exclusion of local filmmakers, artists and technicians from the recently held International film festival in J&K. The filmmakers urged Lone to take up their concerns at the appropriate forums, stressing that future international film festivals in J&K should involve experienced local film professionals in their planning and execution. They also sought greater institutional support for established indigenous platforms, particularly the KWFF, which, according to the delegation, has played a sustained role in promoting cinema and film culture in Kashmir. The delegation said the contribution of earlier local film initiatives should be acknowledged in the official cultural history of Jammu and Kashmir.

Show empathy, allow poor to pay in instalments: G H Mir

Srinagar, Oct 7:Former Cabinet Minister and Apni Party Senior Vice President Ghulam Hassan Mir on Wednesday came down heavily on the government over its aggressive approach towards weaker sections of society, particularly its policy of disconnecting power supply at the source and refusing to restore it until the entire outstanding amount is paid in one go. In his statement, Ghulam Hassan Mir said: Recovering electricity dues is absolutely justified and necessary, but that does not mean pushing poor and economically vulnerable people to the wall, making their lives miserable by abruptly disconnecting their power supply and refusing to restore it until they pay the entire outstanding amount in one go. He went on to say, Such a policy reflects the governments hard-capitalist approach towards the people. The irony is that the government is displaying such cruel behaviour towards the very people who elected it with their votes, hoping that it would work for their welfare and ease their hardships. Mir, as per a statement, further said, The government must realise that electricity is an essential service, not a luxury that can be denied to struggling families as a means of forcing them into immediate payment of their bills. Abrupt disconnections of power supply can have serious consequences. Students preparing for examinations are adversely affected, while some families have patients who depend on electricity-powered oxygen concentrators. One can only imagine the distress and hardship such families must endure when their power supply is suddenly disconnected, he added. Ghulam Hassan Mir said that those who can afford to pay their electricity bills but deliberately evade payment should certainly be dealt with in accordance with the law. However, consumers who are genuinely unable to clear their dues in one go should be given the option of paying their dues in instalments. The government must show empathy and sensitivity towards people facing genuine financial difficulties. After all, this is a welfare state, and the government is elected to work for the welfare and well-being of its people, not to adopt a harsh or purely commercial approach towards those who are struggling to make ends meet, he added.

Show empathy towards poor: Apni Party on power disconnections

Srinagar, Oct 07: Former Cabinet Minister and Apni Party Senior Vice President Ghulam Hassan Mir has criticised the government over abrupt power disconnections against consumers with outstanding electricity bills, particularly those from economically weaker sections. Mir in a statement, said recovery of electricity dues was justified and necessary, but argued that financially vulnerable consumers should not be pushed into hardship by disconnecting their power supply and insisting on payment of the entire outstanding amount at once. He described the approach as a hard-capitalist policy and urged the government to adopt a more humane approach towards people facing genuine financial difficulties. Mir said electricity was an essential service and warned that sudden disconnections could adversely affect students preparing for examinations as well as families having patients dependent on electricity-powered medical equipment such as oxygen concentrators. He maintained that consumers who can afford to pay but deliberately evade their bills should be dealt with according to law. However, those genuinely unable to clear their dues in one go should be provided an option to pay in installments. Mir urged the government to show empathy and sensitivity towards financially distressed consumers, saying a welfare government should focus on the well-being of people rather than adopting a purely commercial approach.

JD(S) workers stage protest against Hassan DC

5 terrorist associates held, arms cache recovered in Kulgam

Kulgam, Oct 07 : Police in Kulgam, in a joint operation with the Rashtriya Rifles and CRPF, arrested five terrorist associates and recovered arms and ammunition from their possession at Khrewan Chadder in Kulgam, officials said on Wednesday. An official told the news agencyKashmir News Observer (KNO) that the operation was launched on the basis of credible inputs, leading to the arrest of five persons. He said the recoveries included two pistols, three magazines, 40 rounds of 9mm ammunition and three grenades. The official identified the arrested persons as Tajamul Hussain Mir, son of Manzoor Ahmed Mir, resident of Gufbal; Rehmat Ali Naikoo, son of Gh Hassan Naikoo, resident of Khrewan; Tehrim Ahmed Bhat, son of Mushtaq Ahmed Bhat, resident of Khrewan; Manzoor Ahmed Bhat, son of Gh Hassan Bhat, resident of Khrewan Chadder; and Kifiyat Ahmed Dar, son of Ab Rasheed Dar, resident of Maltalhama, Kulgam. He said a case under relevant sections of law has been registered, while further investigation is underway.(KNO)

Israeli Flag Removed In European Parliament; Chaos Over Gaza War As MEP Blasts 'Hypocrisy'

French MEP Rima Hassan has sparked a major political controversy inside the European Parliament after removing an Israeli flag during an unofficial event in Strasbourg. Hassan says the gesture was a protest against the ongoing war in Gaza, alleged violations of international law and what she calls Europes double standard toward Israel.The incident escalated after Israeli artist Yaron Bob reportedly told Hassan: Palestine does not exist. It is a chimera, like unicorns... there are no Palestinian refugees, nor Palestinians.

Body Of Missing Woman Found In Canal; Murder Suspected

The body of a 67-year-old woman, Lakshmamma, was discovered stuffed in a plastic bag and dumped in the Hemavathi canal in Hassan, Karnataka. Police have registered a murder case and are investigating potential motives, including robbery or the involvement of an acquaintance, after she went missing on October 3.

Power disconnections pushing poor families to wall: G H Mir

Srinagar, Oct 07: Apni Party Senior Vice President Ghulam Hassan Mir on Wednesday criticised the government over abrupt power disconnections, saying the move was putting financially weaker families under pressure and forcing them to clear outstanding dues in one go. Mir said recovery of pending electricity bills was necessary, but argued that the government should adopt a more considerate approach towards families unable to pay their dues at once. Recovery is necessary, but dont push people to the wall. Students and patients are suffering, Mir said in a post on X. He said weaker sections of society should be given an option to clear their outstanding electricity bills through instalments instead of facing abrupt disconnections. Show empathy, allow weaker families pay their power bills in instalments, he said. Mir described the disconnections as an aggression by the government against poor families and urged the authorities to balance revenue recovery with the difficulties being faced by households with limited financial resources.

Old womans body recovered from canal in Hassan

Hassan: A missing-person case took a grim turn in Arkalgud taluk after the body of a 67-year-old woman was recovered from a canal near Bettadahalli village. The body had allegedly been packed in a plastic bag and thrown into the water. The deceased was identified as Lakshmamma from Hirehallikoppalu village. She had been living with Get the latest updates in Hyderabad City News , Technology , Entertainment , Sports , Politics and Top Stories on WhatsApp & Telegram by subscribing to our channels. You can also download our app for Android and iOS .

DC Serves Notice On SP Over Permission For Ganesh Idol Immersion At Sacred Pond

Hassan DC K.S. Lathakumari served a notice to SP Shubhanwita over permission for Ganesh idol immersion at Devi Kere despite a ban order.

Maha CM slams Rahul Gandhis Delhi protest, accuses Congress of propagating anti-Constitutional agenda

Digital Desk | Mumbai, Oct 6 (IANS) Maharashtra Chief Minister Devendra Fadnavis on Tuesday launched a sharp attack on the Opposition and Leader of the Opposition (LoP) in Lok Sabha Rahul Gandhi over the ongoing protests in New Delhi, alleging that a deliberate narrative was being created to undermine public faith in Indias constitutional institutions. Speaking to reporters after chairing the weekly Cabinet meeting, Fadnavis claimed that the Congress and the INDIA Bloc were attempting to spread chaos across the country and foster negativity towards constitutional institutions. He alleged that their objective was to repeatedly discredit constitutional bodies so that people would lose confidence in them, ultimately paving the way for the rejection of the Constitution itself. According to the Chief Minister, the narrative being promoted was that constitutional institutions were collapsing and incapable of delivering justice. Commenting on the Maharashtra Public Service Commission (MPSC) students agitation, Fadnavis said the state government had acted proactively and had accepted the demands raised by tribal students. However, he alleged that certain political elements were using students as instruments to further their own leadership ambitions. Addressing demands for the removal of the current MPSC Chairman, Fadnavis clarified that under Article 317 of the Constitution, the state government does not have the authority to directly remove the Chairman. He explained that such removal requires a recommendation to the President following an inquiry by the Supreme Court. The Chief Minister noted that the current Chairman was not in office when the alleged examination paper leak occurred. Nevertheless, he said the government had requested the Governor to initiate an inquiry into both serving and former chairpersons of the commission in order to instil confidence among aspirants. Fadnavis criticised opposition leaders and protest organisers for continuing the agitation even after the government had addressed the principal demands raised by students. He described the ongoing protests as being driven by political ego rather than genuine concern for student welfare. Despite constitutional limitations, he said, the government had requested the Governor to order a comprehensive inquiry into both current and former MPSC chairpersons and into the functioning of the commission during the period when the paper leak allegedly occurred. The Chief Minister assured students that the government had no intention of protecting anyone. He said that if the inquiry establishes wrongdoing or procedural lapses warranting action under Article 317, the state government would immediately recommend appropriate constitutional action to the President. Questioning demands for the Chairmans removal without an inquiry, Fadnavis said it would be unfair to seek the dismissal of an official who was not even in office when the alleged paper leak took place. At the same time, he reiterated that the government was prepared to investigate both current and former commission members and would not hesitate to act if any wrongdoing was established. Commenting on drought-relief measures, Fadnavis said the state had completed a review of drought conditions covering more than 23,000 surveyed villages. He added that ensuring drinking water availability remained the top priority. The Chief Minister said a Central government team is scheduled to visit Maharashtra on October 11 to assess the situation and facilitate financial assistance. On the Gokul Dairy elections, Fadnavis clarified the position of the ruling alliance and confirmed that the Mahayuti alliance would contest the Kolhapur Gokul Milk Union elections jointly under the leadership of Hassan Mushrif.

AMMA crisis: Executive panel revamp widens internal rift

Ansiba Hassan questions legality of new appointments, stating that such decisions are being made by a panel that had announced its decision to step down at general body meeting

Sreenath Bhasis time-travel thriller 'Orijinal' to hit screens on October 23

Digital Desk | Chennai, Oct 6 (IANS) The makers of director Ramees's eagerly awaited time-travel thriller 'Orijinal', featuring actor Sreenath Bhasi in the lead, have now announced that their film will hit screens worldwide on October 23 this year. Actor Sreenath Bhasi shared the release date announcement poster put out by the makers, who, in their post, had said, Finally, the TIME has come.#orijinal hits the BIG screen on Oct 23rd. The film has triggered huge interest in fans ever since the makers released a teaser. The teaser that the was released took audiences deeper into the films unusual world of time travel, fantasy, humour, thrills and emotions. The teaser was unveiled through Think Musics official YouTube channel. The teaser offered a glimpse into the time-bending world of Orijinal, with Sreenath Bhasi appearing in two distinct looks, immediately raising questions about the connection between the characters and the films central premise. His dialogue, Ini nammade samayaa, was among the teasers standout moments, while the visuals hinted at unexpected events triggered by shifts in time. Having already generated curiosity with its unconventional title and the question of whether it is Original or Orijinal, the film continues to build intrigue around its premise. Sources close to the unit say that the title itself offers a clue to the films exploration of time, reality and the boundaries between them. Blending time travel with fantasy, humour, thriller elements and emotional moments, Orijinal, sources claim, will look to deliver a distinctive cinematic experience to audiences. Produced under the banners of MAZ Media and Ziku Films, the film has been written and directed by Ramees, with Harshad serving as co-producer. The film features an ensemble cast led by Sreenath Bhasi, alongside Abhiram Radhakrishnan, Rajesh Madhavan, Saaf Boi, Binu Pappu, Femina George, Sreekanth Vettiyar, Gokulan, Aneesh G, Salim Hassan, Dinesh Prabhakar, Rajesh Paravoor, Shameer (Chooral), Subin Tarzan, Arun Pradeep, Lala Malappuram, Stini Francis, Haris Saleem and Viru Vivek in pivotal roles. On the technical front, the film has music by Electronic Kili and editing by Shafique Mohamed Ali. Cinematography for the film is by Fahad Fatli and art direction is by Arshad Nakkoth and Rejeesh K. Surya. Visual effects is by Mindstein Studios and Ashra Mohammed has served as the film's Executive Producer. The film has sound design by Sachin Sudhakaran and Hariharan M of Sync Cinema.

Mandeep Kour chairs stakeholders consultation meeting for GIS Based Master Plans under AMRUT 2.0

Baramulla, Oct 5: Commissioner Secretary, Housing and Urban Development Department (HUDD), Mandeep Kour, today chaired a comprehensive stakeholders consultation meeting to deliberate upon the draft GIS-based Master Plans for Baramulla, Sopore and Pattan being prepared under AMRUT 2.0, at Dak Bungalow, Baramulla. The meeting was attended by Member of Legislative Assembly Baramulla Javid Hassan Beigh; MLA Sopore Irshad Rasool Kar; MLA Pattan Javaid Reyaz Bedar; MLA Wagoora-Kreeri Irfan Hafeez Lone; Deputy Commissioner Baramulla S.F. Hamid, ADDC Baramulla, ADC Baramulla, ADC Sopore, senior officers from the HUDD and other line departments, public representatives, stakeholders, representatives of various organisations and members of civil society. The meeting had a comprehensive presentation on the draft Master Plans highlighting the major provisions, proposed planning interventions, land-use considerations, infrastructure requirements, development priorities and other components envisaged for the systematic and sustainable development of the three towns. The Commissioner Secretary held detailed discussions with the participants on various provisions of the draft plans and sought their suggestions and observations. The elected representatives and other stakeholders also put forward their views and suggestions concerning urban development, infrastructure, connectivity, public amenities, institutional requirements and other local priorities. MLA Baramulla Javid Hassan Beigh highlighted the limited availability of state land within Baramulla town as a major challenge. He suggested that the Master Plan should identify suitable peripheral areas where the government offices and projects that do not require daily public access could be shifted. MLA Sopore Irshad Rasool Kar stressed the need to address the scattered location of government offices and suggested provision for a Mini Secretariat in Sopore in the Master Plan. MLA Wagoora-Kreeri Irfan Hafeez Lone emphasised that development envisaged under the Master Plan should be sustainable and balanced with adequate safeguards to protect the regions agricultural and horticultural land and livelihood interests. Meanwhile, Reyaz Bedar highlighted the need for widening of road in Pattan town, provision of a truck terminal, and effective utilisation of available state land for various developmental projects. Various other stakeholders and representatives from civil society also raised issues. They offered suggestions concerning land utilisation, infrastructure, connectivity, public amenities, traffic management, institutional requirements and future development of the three towns. Responding to the inputs, Mandeep Kour emphasised that the Master Plan is an important long-term planning document that will shape the future growth, infrastructure development and urban management of Baramulla, Sopore and Pattan and therefore requires extensive consultation with all concerned stakeholders. The Commissioner Secretary urged all stakeholders to go through the draft Master Plans in detail and submit their representations, suggestions and observations within the prescribed timeline assuring that all representations would be examined carefully before the Master Plans are finalised and notified. DC Baramulla urged all stakeholders, public representatives, departments and members of civil society to carefully examine the draft Master Plan and submit their representations, suggestions and observations within 21 days, so that the inputs can be duly examined and incorporated in the Master Plan. Later, Mandeep Kaur, accompanied by DC Baramulla, conducted an inspection of various sites in Baramulla, including Baramulla Jetty, Janbazpora and other locations, to review the ongoing and proposed development works.

As quarry dispute drags on, Baramulla families struggle to keep afloat

Baramulla, Oct 5:For Shafiq Ahmad, stone carving is more than a profession. It is a family inheritance that has sustained three generations and provided his household with a modest but dependable livelihood. That stability has now disappeared. Restrictions affecting stone quarrying in Baramulla have brought work to a standstill for families dependent on the trade, leaving artisans, quarry workers, tipper operators and labourers struggling to make ends meet. I am unable to pay the school fees of my children. The school authorities have now told me either to clear the dues or take my children back, Shafiq said. His predicament is shared by scores of families whose livelihoods are directly or indirectly linked to the quarrying industry. For tipper owners and drivers, the halt in operations has turned income-generating vehicles into idle assets while loan repayments continue to accumulate. Muhammad Maqbool, who owns and drives a tipper, said the financial pressure had become overwhelming. What is left for us now? he asked. When a person is unable to feed his family and faces unending pressure from banks to repay loans, a man is left with no option but to think of extreme steps. The disruption is also being felt beyond those directly involved in quarrying. The shortage of sand, bajri and gravel has begun affecting contractors and government development works across the district. With construction material becoming difficult to procure, the Baramulla Contractors Association has announced a boycott of the tendering process until adequate supplies are restored. Association chairman Bashir Ahmad Sheikh said contractors were facing the crisis at a critical time, with only around a month left in the working season to complete several projects. Without material, how is it possible to start work on projects? Tomorrow, if something goes wrong with the work, we will be blacklisted, he said, adding that contractors could not participate in tenders without assurance of material availability. The dispute stems from a continuing standoff between authorities and quarry and tipper owners over royalty payments on minor minerals. While authorities have tightened enforcement against illegal extraction and transportation, operators maintain that the unresolved royalty issue has paralysed legitimate quarrying and transportation activity as well. Baramulla MLA Javed Hassan Baig has also questioned how development projects can progress when quarry owners are unable to operate and transporters have no material to carry. For now, the impact is being felt far beyond government offices and tender roomsin households where school fees remain unpaid, loan instalments continue to pile up and daily-wage workers wait for work. Behind the stalled quarries lies an economic chain that has supported thousands of families, directly and indirectly. With that chain disrupted, many families across Baramulla are struggling to keep their livelihoods afloat.

Hassan DC issues notice to SP over idol immersion despite ban

Hassan Ganesh immersion row sparks confrontation between DCP, SP

Bengaluru: A dispute over the immersion of the historic Pendal Ganesh idol at Devigere in Hassan has triggered a confrontation between the district administration and police department, with Deputy Commissioner KS Latha Kumari issuing a notice to Superintendent of Police Subhanvita. The dispute concerns the immersion of the Gauri-Ganesha idol associated with the Pendal Ganapati Get the latest updates in Hyderabad City News , Technology , Entertainment , Sports , Politics and Top Stories on WhatsApp & Telegram by subscribing to our channels. You can also download our app for Android and iOS .

Egypt, Sudan, Eritrea, Somalia issue declaration on Red Sea governance, state sovereignty, water rights

Digital Desk | Cairo, Oct 5 (IANS) The leaders of Egypt, Sudan, Eritrea and Somalia have issued a joint declaration on state sovereignty, Red Sea governance, and water rights, stressing the necessity of adhering to international law as the foundation for regional stability and cooperation. In the El Alamein Joint Declaration issued following the quadrilateral consultative summit in Egypt's New Alamein on Sunday (local time), the leaders rejected interference in the internal affairs of the region's states under any pretext. The summit was attended by Egyptian President Abdel Fattah El-Sisi, Eritrean President Isaias Afwerki, Somali President Hassan Sheikh Mohamud, and Abdel Fattah Al-Burhan, chairman of Sudan's Transitional Sovereign Council, reports Xinhua news agency. The leaders discussed regional and international developments and ways to strengthen political, economic, trade and cultural cooperation among the four countries, and addressed a number of regional issues. On Sudan, the leaders support the unity, sovereignty, territorial integrity, and national institutions of the Republic of Sudan, rejecting the establishment of any parallel entities. They reject any recognition of or support for the so-called Somaliland and affirm that the governance of the Red Sea is the exclusive responsibility of the littoral states. The declaration also stressed the importance of respecting international law regarding transboundary rivers, including the Nile River, particularly the principle of o harm and the obligation to cooperate through prior notification, consultation, and consensus. They categorically reject any unilateral measures that harm the existing water uses of the two downstream Nile states. The summit came amid growing Egyptian efforts to strengthen coordination with countries in the Horn of Africa and the Red Sea region over regional security and stability.

Bengaluru man stages kidnapping with friends, demands Rs 90 lakh from father; police trace him to Hassan, find him sitting comfortably with alleged accomplices

A 40-year-old man named Manish Patel staged a kidnapping plot to extort money from his father. He informed his father about a trip to Gadag and later claimed he was abducted. The father received ransom demands totaling Rs 90 lakh, prompting him to contact the police. Authorities traced the calls to Hassan, where they found Manish safe with two accomplices.

GMC Srinagar pays tribute to Prof. Mohammad Yousuf Bhat

Srinagar, Oct 3: The Postgraduate Department of Medicine, Government Medical College (GMC) Srinagar organized a condolence meeting in Department Seminar Room to pay rich tributes to Prof. (Dr.) Mohammad Yousuf Bhat former Professor and Head Department of Medicine GMC Srinagar. His demise has left a profound sense of loss among colleagues, students and the medical fraternity. Prof Bhat had a long association with GMC Srinagar, he joined GMC Srinagar in 1960 as undergraduate medical student and took retirement as Prof and Head of internal medicine. The meeting was attended by Prof. (Dr.) Iffat Hassan, Principal/ Dean GMC Srinagar, Prof. (Dr.) Mohammad Ismail, Head of the Department of Medicine, Heads of Departments, senior faculty members, Senior Residents, postgraduate students and other staff of the Department of Medicine. Prof. (Dr.) Iffat Hassan expressed deep sorrow over the passing of one of the institution's most respected academicians and clinicians. She said that Prof Bhats distinguished contributions to Medicine, unwavering commitment to teaching and patient care will remain an enduring part of the intuitional legacy at Government Medical College Srinagar. Speaking on the occasion, Head of the Department of Medicine, described Prof. Bhat as an astute physician, accomplished academician, dedicated teacher, and compassionate human being. He said that Prof. Bhat possessed a remarkable ability to simplify complex clinical concepts and inspire students to develop sound clinical reasoning and ethical medical practice. His disciplined and rational approach to patient care set a benchmark for generations of medical professionals. He further highlighted Prof. Bhat's invaluable contributions to the Department of Medicine and to medical education, particularly in the fields of Emergency Medicine and Hypertension, which will continue to inspire future generations of doctors. Heads of Departments and faculty members, including Prof. (Dr.) Iqbal Saleem, Prof. (Dr.) Rakesh Kumar Koul, Prof. (Dr.) Ishrat Hussain Dar, Prof. (Dr.) Omar Farooq, Prof. (Dr.) Muzaffar Maqbool Rather, Prof. (Dr.) Arshad Hussain, Prof. (Dr.) Asifa Nazir, Prof. (Dr.) Lateef Ahmad Wani, Prof. (Dr.) Mehnaaz Sultan Khuroo, Prof. (Dr.) Salma Bhat, Prof. (Dr.) Arsalan F. Rashid, Prof. (Dr.) Bashir Ahmad Shah, Dr. Irfan Ali, Dr. Sobia Nisar, Dr. Javaid Ahmad Chachoo, Dr. Nazir Ahmad Pala, Dr. Aadil Hassan Sidiquee, and other faculty members fondly recalled Prof. Bhat's exceptional clinical expertise, humility, integrity and unwavering dedication to his students and patients. They observed that his legacy would continue to live on through the countless doctors he mentored and the values he instilled during his distinguished career. The Department of Medicine expressed its heartfelt condolences to the bereaved family and prayed to Almighty Allah to grant the departed soul the highest place in Jannat-ul-Firdous. The Department also prayed for strength, patience and fortitude for the family to bear this irreparable loss.

Central team visits drought-hit farms in Hassan

Hassan Congress chiefs installation disrupted by Shreyas Patel supporters

ILT20 Season 5: Fazalhaq, Livingstone, Gurbaz, Du Plessis headline big money moves in Player Auction

Digital Desk | Dubai, Oct 1 (IANS) Big bucks and blockbuster bids lit up the ILT20 Season 5 Player Auction, with Fazalhaq Farooqi, Liam Livingstone, Rahmanullah Gurbaz and Faf du Plessis among those shattering the record of USD 260,000 set by Andre Fletcher and MI Emirates in Season 4. Farooqi led the way as MI Emirates splashed USD 380,000 on the Afghanistan star, followed by Englands Livingstone at USD 350,000 with Gulf Giants. Gurbaz fetched USD 310,000 through the Giants Right-to-Match option, while Faf du Plessis joined Dubai Capitals for USD 300,000. Adding to the star-studded atmosphere, ILT20 Season 5 ambassador Brett Lee was joined at the auction by cricketing greats AB de Villiers, Allan Donald, Shoaib Malik and Usman Khawaja. Babar Azam, Naseem Shah, Shadab Khan and Fakhar Zaman made their way to the Desert Vipers, with all four Pakistan stars secured at their USD 80,000 base price. Babar will make his DP World ILT20 debut in Season 5, while Naseem and Fakhar return to the defending champions for another campaign. The six franchises showed immense faith in UAE players, led by Muhammad Waseem, who became the highest-priced UAE player in DP World ILT20 history after MI Emirates used their Right-to-Match option to secure him for USD 210,000. Alishan Sharafu followed at USD 110,000 with Abu Dhabi Knight Riders. Muhammad Rohid and Aayan Khan both commanded USD 95,000 deals with the Knight Riders and Dubai Capitals, respectively. Khuzaima Bin Tanveer was secured by Desert Vipers for USD 75,000 through RTM, with Vriitya Aravind joining the Vipers for USD 70,000. Talent from Associate Member Nations also made a statement. USAs Amshi De Silva joined Abu Dhabi Knight Riders for USD 100,000, while fellow USA all-rounder Hassan Khan was secured by Dubai Capitals for USD 90,000. Scotlands Brandon McMullen was picked up by Sharjah Warriorz for USD 80,000, while Namibias David Wiese joined Gulf Giants for USD 70,000. Abu Dhabi Knight Riders further splashed out on English all-rounder Moeen Ali, securing the southpaw for USD 80,000. Afghanistan's Gulbadin Naib (USD 75,000) and Arab Gul (USD 80,000) lead the Afghanistan contingent, while West Indies' Andre Fletcher and New Zealand's Colin Munro were both signed for USD 40,000. Saudi Arabias Abdul Mannan Ali also joined the Knight Riders, while Kuwaits Ravija Sandaruwan was bought at his base price of USD 10,000. Desert Vipers prioritised retaining their winning combination, exercising their Right-to-Match option for David Payne at USD 150,000. They also secured Englands Aneurin Donald and wicketkeeper-batter Joe Clarke for USD 40,000 each. Saudi Arabias Ishtiaq Ahmed was secured for USD 12,000, while Bilal Tahir of Kuwait was retained at USD 10,000. The Dubai Capitals used their Right to Match option on all-rounder Dasun Shanaka at USD 100,000. They further bolstered their batting stocks with Max Holden at USD 100,000 and the dangerous English opener Phil Salt at his base price of USD 80,000. Meanwhile, Afghanistan's Sediqullah Atal and Karim Janat were roped in at USD 70,000 and USD 40,000 respectively. Kuwaits Anudeep Chenthamara and Saudi Arabias Usman Najeeb were both secured for USD 10,000. After making their intent clear with Livingstone and Gurbaz, the Giants continued to invest heavily, bringing in West Indies pacers Alzarri Joseph for USD 230,000 and Shamar Joseph for USD 80,000. Afghanistan's Ibrahim Zadran also joined for USD 65,000, while Ireland all-rounder Curtis Campher was secured for USD 22,000. Saudi Arabias Imtiaz Khan joined for USD 10,000, while the Giants deployed a Right-to-Match option on Kuwaits Meet Bhavsar at the same price. MI Emirates made moves in the accelerated rounds, going for Chris Jordan at USD 170,000 and South Africas Lizaad Williams at USD 110,000. The Season 4 finalists also retained Afghanistans Allah Ghazanfar through their Right-to-Match option for USD 150,000. They also secured England's James Coles for USD 100,000 and Sri Lankas Kusal Perera for USD 40,000. Saudi Arabias Zain Ul Abidin and Kuwaits Mohammad Shafeeq were both signed for USD 10,000 The Warriorz strengthened their squad with a strong English core, securing Richard Gleeson for USD 180,000, Paul Walter for USD 110,000, and Tom Banton, Craig Overton and Adil Rashid at their USD 80,000 base price. Afghanistan all-rounder Mohammad Nabi was acquired for USD 140,000, while South Africas George Linde and UAE all-rounder Ali Naseer joined for USD 40,000 each. Saudi Arabias Mohammad Saqib and Kuwaits Arunraj Selvaraj completed the haul at USD 10,000 apiece. Complete squad list: Abu Dhabi Knight Riders Total Spent: USD 1,549,000 Auction Signings: Alishan Sharafu (USD 110,000), Amshi De Silva (USD 100,000), Muhammad Rohid (USD 95,000), Moeen Ali (USD 80,000), Arab Gul (USD 80,000), Usman Tariq (USD 80,000), Gulbadin Naib (USD 75,000), Ibrar Ahmed (USD 46,000), Andre Fletcher (USD 40,000), Ajay Kumar (USD 40,000), Colin Munro (USD 40,000), Michael Pepper (USD 40,000), Qais Ahmad (USD 38,000), Jakeem Pollard (USD 10,000), Abdul Mannan Ali (USD 10,000), Ravija Sandaruwan (USD 10,000), Abdullah Tarakhail (USD 10,000), Lorcan Tucker (USD 10,000) Retentions + Direct Signings: Finn Allen, Jason Holder, Matthew Tromp, Sunil Narine Desert Vipers Total Spent: USD 1,544,000 Auction Signings: David Payne (USD 150,000), Fakhar Zaman (USD 80,000), Naseem Shah (USD 80,000), Babar Azam (USD 80,000), Shadab Khan (USD 80,000), Khuzaima Bin Tanveer (USD 75,000), Vriitya Aravind (USD 70,000), Aneurin Donald (USD 40,000), Abdullah Ahmadzai (USD 40,000), Joe Clarke (USD 40,000), Nangeyalia Kharote (USD 28,000), Sanjay Pahal (USD 22,000), Harry Tector (USD 12,000), Ishtiaq Ahmed (USD 12,000), Nilansh Keswani (USD 10,000), Saleem Safi (USD 10,000), Bilal Tahir (USD 10,000), Wali Muhammad (USD 10,000) Retentions + Direct Signings: Andries Gous, Dan Lawrence, Mujeeb-ur-Rahman, Shimron Hetmyer Dubai Capitals Total Spent: USD 1,834,000 Auction Signings: Faf du Plessis (USD 300,000), Max Holden (USD 100,000), Dasun Shanaka (USD 100,000), Aayan Khan (USD 95,000), Hassan Khan (USD 90,000), Phil Salt (USD 80,000), Sediqullah Atal (USD 70,000), Mark Adair (USD 55,000), Karim Janat (USD 40,000), Luke Wood (USD 40,000), Tom Moores (USD 40,000), Haider Ali (USD 38,000), Zuhaib Zubair (USD 26,000), Darwish Rasooli (USD 10,000), Muhammad Arfan (USD 10,000), Matt Potts (USD 10,000), Usman Najeeb (USD 10,000), Anudeep Chenthamara (USD 10,000), Masood Ul Rahman Gurbaz (USD 10,000) Retentions + Direct Signings: Marcus Stoinis, Mustafizur Rahman, Noor Ahmad, Rovman Powell Gulf Giants Total Spent: USD 1,972,000 Auction Signings: Liam Livingstone (USD 350,000), Rahmanullah Gurbaz (USD 310,000), Alzarri Joseph (USD 230,000), Shamar Joseph (USD 80,000), David Wiese (USD 70,000), Ibrahim Zadran (USD 65,000), Tabraiz Shamsi (USD 40,000), Curtis Campher (USD 22,000), Dhruv Parashar (USD 10,000), Matiullah Khan (USD 10,000), Haider Razzaq (USD 10,000), Imran Mir (USD 10,000), Imtiaz Khan (USD 10,000), Meet Bhavsar (USD 10,000), Shubham Ranjane (USD 10,000), Wahidullah Zadran (USD 10,000), Awais Ahmed (USD 10,000), Sagar Kalyan (USD 10,000), Alick Athanaze (USD 10,000) Retentions + Direct Signings: Azmatullah Omarzai, Blessing Muzarabani, David Miller, Heinrich Klaasen MI Emirates Total Spent: USD 2,000,000 Auction Signings: Fazalhaq Farooqi (USD 380,000), Muhammad Waseem (USD 210,000), Chris Jordan (USD 170,000), Allah Ghazanfar (USD 150,000), Lizaad Williams (USD 110,000), James Coles (USD 100,000), Jonny Bairstow (USD 80,000), Kusal Perera (USD 40,000), Jordan Thompson (USD 40,000), Zahoor Khan (USD 30,000), Wasim Akram (USD 10,000), Zain Ul Abidin (USD 10,000), Muhammad Shafeeq (USD 10,000), Asa Tribe (USD 10,000), Raizal Nadir Nather Shah (USD 10,000), Sanjay Krishnamurthi (USD 10,000), Faridoon Dawoodzai(USD 10,000), Ross Adair (USD 10,000) Retentions + Direct Signings: Nicholas Pooran, Rashid Khan, Romario Shepherd, Sherfane Rutherford Sharjah Warriorz Total Spent: USD 1,792,000 Auction Signings: Richard Gleeson (USD 180,000), Mohammad Nabi (USD 140,000), Paul Walter (USD 110,000), Adil Rashid (USD 80,000), Brandon McMullen (USD 80,000), Tom Banton (USD 80,000), Craig Overton (USD 80,000), George Linde (USD 40,000), Ali Aamer Naseer (USD 40,000), Fareed Malik (USD 40,000), Sharafuddin Ashraf (USD 40,000), Logan van Beek (USD 40,000), Junaid Siddique (USD 10,000), Tanish Suri (USD 10,000), Nabeel Aziz (USD 10,000), George Dockrell (USD 10,000), Mohammad Saqib (USD 10,000), Arunraj Selvaraj (USD 10,000), James Rew (USD 10,000)

Ktaka: Bengaluru-Goa Vande Bharat extension boosts coastal connectivity

Digital Desk | Bengaluru, Oct 1 (IANS) Rail connectivity between Bengaluru, coastal Karnataka and Goa has received a major boost with the extension of the existing MadgaonMangaluru Vande Bharat Express up to Bengaluru via Hassan, Udupi and Karwar, Union Minister for Heavy Industries and Steel H.D. Kumaraswamy said on Thursday. The development follows a proposal by Kumaraswamy to Union Railway Minister Ashwini Vaishnaw seeking Vande Bharat connectivity between Bengaluru and Madgaon via Hassan, Mangaluru, Udupi and Karwar, in view of growing passenger demand along the corridor. Kumaraswamy said he had highlighted the route's importance for tourism, pilgrimage, education and commerce, as well as the need for stronger connectivity between Bengaluru and the major commercial, port and tourism centres of coastal Karnataka and Goa. Thanking Vaishnaw for his prompt and positive response, Kumaraswamy said the existing Madgaon-Mangaluru Vande Bharat Express had now been extended to Bengaluru. The service will operate as Train No. 26655/26656 YesvantpurMangaluruMadgaon Vande Bharat Express with revised timings. The extension will connect Bengaluru with key destinations in coastal Karnataka and further link the region with Madgaon in Goa. Kumaraswamy said his original proposal aimed to address growing demand for passenger services along the Bengaluru-coastal Karnataka-Goa corridor. In his communication to the Railway Minister, he had pointed out that the route caters to a diverse passenger base, including tourists, pilgrims, students and professionals. He had also urged the authorities to examine the feasibility of the service and initiate the necessary administrative process. Vaishnaw, in his communication dated September 28, 2026, referred to Kumaraswamys letter of December 23, 2025, and informed him that the MadgaonMangaluru Vande Bharat Express had been extended up to Bengaluru via Hassan, Udupi and Karwar. Kumaraswamy said the enhanced connectivity would benefit passengers travelling between Bengaluru, Hassan, Mangaluru, Udupi, Karwar and Madgaon. He said the service would also support tourism, regional economic activity and inter-state connectivity by strengthening rail links between Bengaluru, coastal Karnataka and Goa. Under the leadership of Prime Minister Narendra Modi, this is another step towards strengthening modern rail connectivity and bringing Bengaluru, coastal Karnataka and Goa closer, Kumaraswamy said. He added that the extension would further strengthen the integrated and modern rail network connecting Karnatakas interior and coastal regions with Goa.

Court admits actor Ansiba Hassans contempt plea against SHO

Judicial First Class Magistrate Court, Ernakulam, issues notice to Keralam government

23 JKAP IR holds civic action programme at Lethpora

Srinagar, Sep 29: The 23 JKAP IR organised a Civic Action Programme at Lethpora under the supervision of Commanding Officer Gh. Hassan, JKPS, on the directions of ADGP Armed Nitish Kumar. The programme focused on Indias freedom struggle, with special emphasis on the role of Sardar Vallabhbhai Patel in the freedom movement and the integration of the country. A cultural show and National Anthem singing competition were organised as part of the programme, with participation from schools and colleges in Pulwama, Tral, Awantipora, Lethpora, Budgam, Kishtwar and other areas. Around 120 students from 10 educational institutions participated in the stage performances, while seven members of the general public also took part in the competition. The performances were evaluated by a three-member panel on the basis of presentation, devotion and patriotic expression. Mir Ashraf of Chadoora, Budgam, secured first position, followed by Charanjeet Kaur of Chadoora in second place. Birla Open Minds International School, Pampore, secured third position. The programme aimed to familiarise youth with the history of Indias freedom struggle and promote civic responsibility, discipline, harmony and national integration. All participants were awarded certificates, while participating institutions received mementos.

Belagavi woman allegedly killed by husband after seeking divorce

Digital Desk | Belagavi (Karnataka), Sep 29 (IANS) A 31-year-old woman was allegedly killed on Tuesday by her husband after she sought a divorce, in Amaturu village of Bailahongala taluk in Belagavi district. The deceased has been identified as Lakshmi Madamageri, a resident of Gollara Oni in Bailahingala town. Her husband, Raju Madamageri, allegedly attacked her with a stone, killing her on the spot, and fled from the scene. He is currently absconding. According to police, Raju and Lakshmi had fallen in love and got married around five years ago. However, the couple had developed differences over the past few years, following which Lakshmi had reportedly sought a divorce from Raju. Police said Raju allegedly took Lakshmi from her work place near Amaturu on the pretext of dropping her home. He then allegedly attacked her with a stone and bludgeoned her to death before fleeing the spot. Following the incident, Bailahongala police launched a search for Raju and are making efforts to trace and arrest him. A case has been registered and further investigation is underway. It can be recalled that in December 2025, in Bengaluru, Bhuvaneshwari, a 39-year-old bank assistant manager, was shot dead on a road in west Bengaluru by her estranged husband, Balamurugan, a week after she sent him a divorce notice. The accused surrendered at the Magadi Road police station. The victim, Bhuvaneshwari, 39, was an assistant manager at the Basaveshwaranagar branch of Union Bank of India and lived in Rajajinagar with her two children. She was shot at close range by her husband, Balamurugan, 40, on 1st Main Road in the Rajajinagar Industrial Area around 6.30 p.m. Police said the accused fired four rounds at close range as she was returning home from work. He used to work at Capgemini, a multinational IT company. In January 2026, a divorced woman named Ranjita was stabbed to death in Yellapur after she allegedly refused a marriage proposal from a man named Rafiq. The accused later died by suicide, and the incident led to local protests. In August 2022, a 24-year-old woman, Chaitra, was hacked to death by her estranged husband, Shivakumar, inside the Holenarsipur court premises in Hassan district immediately following a divorce mediation session.

4th IACAM National Mid-Term CME Concludes in Srinagar, Focuses on Ethics, Law and Child Mental Healthcare

Srinagar: The 4th National Mid-Term CME of the Indian Association for Child and Adolescent Mental Health (IACAM) concluded in Srinagar on Sunday after three days of discussions on the ethical, legal and clinical dimensions of child and adolescent mental healthcare. Held from September 25 to 27, the CME was organised by IACAM in collaboration with the Jammu & Kashmir Psychiatric Society (JKPS). The programme, themed Children, Ethics and Laws, brought together psychiatrists, psychologists, paediatricians, legal professionals, researchers and other mental-health practitioners from across the country. The conference was Inaugurated by Chief Guest Dr Iffat Hassan Shah, Principal/ Dean Government Medical College, Srinagar. Addressing the gathering, Dr Shah highlighted the expansion of mental-health services in Kashmir and acknowledged the sustained efforts of professionals working in the field. Dr Savita Malhotra, Life President of IACAM, stressed the need to train and deploy more mental-health professionals to meet the growing psychological and developmental needs of children and adolescents. Dr Vivek Agarwal, President, IACAM, and Dr Rachana Bhargava, General Secretary, IACAM, underlined the importance of integrating ethical and legal considerations into child and adolescent mental-health practice. They emphasised that such an approach is essential for ensuring responsible, rights-based and child-centred care. The scientific programme examined the relationship between mental healthcare, child rights and the legal framework governing children and young people. Sessions addressed ethical dilemmas in clinical practice, legal issues involving children, mental-health assessments, child protection, developmental concerns and the responsibilities of professionals working with young people. The CME featured lectures, interactive workshops, panel discussions and academic exchanges. Across the sessions, speakers emphasised that children should be recognised not only as recipients of care but also as individuals with rights, voices, vulnerabilities and evolving capacities. The programme included contributions from several distinguished experts and academicians, including Dr Shekhar Seshadri, whose work in child and adolescent mental health, ethics and child rights has influenced professional practice and training in the field. Clinicians, academicians and experts from diverse disciplines also participated in the scientific deliberations. During a Panel Discussion on From chalkboards to chat bots the speakers reteriated that AI is evolution and it is here to stay there is no debate on usefulness of AI and Chatbots but their is no denying the fact that they are adversaries to human brain too much useful and intelligent for the very existence of ordinary brain and hence challenge to very existence of humans in the form we know of them. While chat bots will replace the classroom and will make education equitable and individualised but their is a danger that it will create chat bots of knowledge and not creative critical wild thinkers of Socratic learning and Aristotelian academia . He said that AI is the evolutionary step in human history and it will have the impact larger than any other great invention it is here to stay we cannot shy away from it we have to take assistance from it and the changes in human race will be for posterity to see . The way we communicate socialise and express emotions is already changing and rest will follow -the humans, mutants, hybrids and slave robots will coexist or wage war . The organisers called for evidence-based, ethical, compassionate and rights-based mental healthcare for children and adolescents. They noted that addressing child and adolescent mental health as a public-health priority would require sustained cooperation among professionals, families, schools, healthcare institutions, policymakers and legal authorities. The conference also highlighted Jammu & Kashmirs growing role in academic and professional engagement in mental health and strengthened links between practitioners in the region and colleagues from across India. Dr Rayees Ahmad Wani ( Organising Chairperson) and Dr Syed Karrar Hussain ( Organising Secretary ) thanked the faculty, delegates, students, organising teams and collaborating institutions for their contributions to the CME. The gathering concluded with a renewed commitment to developing accessible, ethical and child-centred mental-health systems that place the dignity, voice and best interests of every child at the centre of clinical practice, policy and law.

IACAM National Mid-Term CME concludes in Srinagar

Srinagar, Sep 28: The 4th National Mid-Term CME of the Indian Association for Child and Adolescent Mental Health (IACAM) concluded in Srinagar on Sunday after three days of discussions on the ethical, legal and clinical dimensions of child and adolescent mental healthcare. Held from September 25 to 27, the CME was organised by IACAM in collaboration with the Jammu & Kashmir Psychiatric Society (JKPS). The programme, themed Children, Ethics and Laws, brought together psychiatrists, psychologists, paediatricians, legal professionals, researchers and other mental-health practitioners from across the country. The conference was inaugurated by Chief Guest Dr Iffat Hassan Shah, Principal/ Dean Government Medical College, Srinagar. Addressing the gathering, Dr Shah highlighted the expansion of mental-health services in Kashmir and acknowledged the sustained efforts of professionals working in the field. Dr Savita Malhotra, Life President of IACAM, stressed the need to train and deploy more mental-health professionals to meet the growing psychological and developmental needs of children and adolescents. Dr Vivek Agarwal, President, IACAM, and Dr Rachana Bhargava, General Secretary, IACAM, underlined the importance of integrating ethical and legal considerations into child and adolescent mental-health practice. They emphasised that such an approach is essential for ensuring responsible, rights-based and child-centred care. The scientific programme examined the relationship between mental healthcare, child rights and the legal framework governing children and young people. Sessions addressed ethical dilemmas in clinical practice, legal issues involving children, mental-health assessments, child protection, developmental concerns and the responsibilities of professionals working with young people. The CME featured lectures, interactive workshops, panel discussions and academic exchanges. Across the sessions, speakers emphasised that children should be recognised not only as recipients of care but also as individuals with rights, voices, vulnerabilities and evolving capacities. The programme included contributions from several distinguished experts and academicians, including Dr Shekhar Seshadri, whose work in child and adolescent mental health, ethics and child rights has influenced professional practice and training in the field. Clinicians, academicians and experts from diverse disciplines also participated in the scientific deliberations. During a Panel Discussion on From chalkboards to chat bots the speakers reteriated that AI is evolution and it is here to stay there is no debate on usefulness of AI and Chatbots but their is no denying the fact that they are adversaries to human brain too much useful and intelligent for the very existence of ordinary brain and hence challenge to very existence of humans in the form we know of them. While chat bots will replace the classroom and will make education equitable and individualised but their is a danger that it will create chat bots of knowledge and not creative critical wild thinkers of Socratic learning and Aristotelian academia. He said that AI is the evolutionary step in human history and it will have the impact larger than any other great invention it is here to stay we cannot shy away from it we have to take assistance from it and the changes in human race will be for posterity to see The way we communicate socialise and express emotions is already changing and rest will follow -the humans, mutants, hybrids and slave robots will coexist or wage war. The organisers called for evidence-based, ethical, compassionate and rights-based mental healthcare for children and adolescents. They noted that addressing child and adolescent mental health as a public-health priority would require sustained cooperation among professionals, families, schools, healthcare institutions, policymakers and legal authorities. The conference also highlighted Jammu & Kashmirs growing role in academic and professional engagement in mental health and strengthened links between practitioners in the region and colleagues from across India. Dr Rayees Ahmad Wani ( Organising Chairperson) and Dr Syed Karrar Hussain ( Organising Secretary ) thanked the faculty, delegates, students, organising teams and collaborating institutions for their contributions to the CME. The gathering concluded with a renewed commitment to developing accessible, ethical and child-centred mental-health systems that place the dignity, voice and best interests of every child at the centre of clinical practice, policy and law.

Man Dies After Falling From Walnut Tree In Central Kashmir

SRINAGAR: A 60-year-old man died after falling from a walnut tree at his residence in the Kralapathri area of Khansahib in Budgam district on Monday, officials said. The deceased, identified as Ghulam Hassan Chopan, son of Ghulam Rasool Chopan, sustained multiple injuries after falling from the tree, officials said. An official said Chopan was initially []

Ben-Gvir enters Palestinian prisoner

Israeli National Security Minister Itamar Ben-Gvir has published a video showing himself inside the prison cell of Palestinian prisoner Hassan Salameh, whom he threatens to kill and execute. I want to kill you. I want to execute you, Ben-Gvir tells Salameh in the footage posted on Sunday, September 27. Salameh is shown handcuffed and surrounded Get the latest updates in Hyderabad City News , Technology , Entertainment , Sports , Politics and Top Stories on WhatsApp & Telegram by subscribing to our channels. You can also download our app for Android and iOS .

As Trump rejects Iran's peace overture, Mojtaba Khamenei says ready to bring 'disgrace' to enemies

Tehran [Iran], September 28 : With Washington rejecting Tehran's proposal linked to reopening the Strait of Hormuz, Iran's Supreme Leader Mojtaba Hosseini Khamenei on Monday stressed the widespread armed readiness across the Islamic Republic and said Iranians remained united in preserving the strategically important waterway. In a message issued on the occasion of Iran's Sacred Defense Week and the anniversary of the death of Hezbollah leader Sayyid Hassan Nasrallah, Khamenei said Iran's armed forces and different sections of society were prepared to confront the country's adversaries. Presently, throughout Islamic Iranadorned by the presence of diverse ethnicitiesvarious declarations of readiness, particularly armed readiness, exist to construct an arena that will bring renown to them and disgrace to their enemy, Khamenei said. He also highlighted what he described as the Iranian forces' role in defending the Strait of Hormuz, saying enemy forces had suffered painful blows from Iranian fighters and guardians of the waterway. The two southern seas of Iran were the roaming grounds of enemy forces. Today, however, due to the painful blows they have received from the brave warriors and guardians of the Strait of Hormuz, they do not advance past the Arabian Sea. Whenever they have braved this danger, they have brought harm upon themselvesand soon, the Arabian Sea too will be cleared of them, he said. Khamenei further said that different sections of Iranian society, despite their apparent differences, were standing together to preserve what he called their ightful positions, including the Strait of Hormuz. There were days when the enemy constantly tried to weaken the social backbone of the system, but nowadays, various strata of society, despite their apparent differences, stand firm on maintaining their rightful positions, including the preservation of the blessed Strait of Hormuz, he said. His remarks come amid heightened tensions between Tehran and Washington over the Strait of Hormuz and Iran's nuclear programme, after US President Donald Trump rejected an Iranian proposal linked to reopening the key waterway. Last week on the sidelines of the 81st United Nations General Assembly, Iranian Foreign Minister Abbas Araghchi outlined a seven-day proposal under which Iran would reopen the Strait of Hormuz if certain conditions were met by Washington. Iran said the proposal was conveyed through intermediaries and linked the reopening of the waterway to steps including an easing of US military pressure and other measures. On Sunday, US Ambassador to the United Nations Mike Waltz said Trump rejected the proposal because Tehran had sought sanctions relief and access to illions in frozen assets before entering negotiations on its nuclear programme. Waltz said the US would ultimately need to reach some type of agreement with Iran but that US President Donald Trump would keep all options on the table. Araghchi disputed Waltz's account of the proposal, saying the US ambassador had not seen the plan. He also said Iran remained ready for diplomacy while being prepared for renewed hostilities. We are fully prepared for the war to be resumed. We stand firm in the face of any new aggression, even if it comes to a doomsday war. We dont care about U.S. midterm elections. We care about our national interests. At the same time, we stand ready for diplomacy. It is up to President Trump to choose, Araghchi said in an interview with NBC's Meet the Press. The Strait of Hormuz has remained a central point of contention in the confrontation, with Iran saying it is prepared to reopen the waterway as part of an agreement, while the US has rejected Tehran's latest proposal. Khamenei's remarks also invoked Iran's past confrontation with foreign powers, particularly the US, contrasting what he described as earlier attempts to weaken the country's social and political foundations with what he characterised as broader public mobilisation today. There were days when the hegemonists, through psychological operations and creating an atmosphere of intimidation, emptied the streets of the capital and launched a coup against this nation's quest for independence, subsequently plundering the wealth of this country for 25 years, he said. He added that Iranians had since demonstrated what he described as a strong willingness to support the country's defence efforts, saying, Yet, for the past seven months, our compatriots across the nation have adorned the squares and streets with their responsible and enthusiastic presence to warm the hearts of the warriors of Islam and cast terror into the enemy's heart. The Supreme Leader also said the participation of women as acts of courage had expanded, while reiterating that the circumstances of Iran's past were not returning. This comparison between the past days and the present days can be expanded further, but in short, as a servant of the dear people of Iran, I declare that those former dayswhich our enemy dreams of returning toare gone and will never recur, Khamenei said. Khamenei's remarks were issued on the occasion of Iran's Sacred Defense Week and the anniversary of the death of Hezbollah leader Sayyid Hassan Nasrallah. Nasrallah was killed in an Israeli airstrike on Hezbollah's main headquarters in Beirut's southern suburbs on September 28, 2024. The Israel Defence Forces confirmed his death at the time, saying, Hassan Nasrallah will no longer be able to terrorize the world. (ANI)

Kashmir Film Industry Delegation Calls on Former CM Mehbooba Mufti

Srinagar, September 28 : A delegation of leading members of the Kashmir Film Industry today called on the Honble former Chief Minister of Jammu & Kashmir and President, J&K Peoples Democratic Party, Mehbooba Mufti , at the party headquarters in Srinagar. The delegation was led by Mushtaaque Ali Ahmad Khan, Founder & Director, Kashmir World Film Festival (KWFF). The members included Zameer Ashai, G. M. Wani, Hussein Khan, Hassan Javaid, Aarif Zeeshan and others. The delegation apprised the former Chief Minister of the serious challenges being faced by the local film fraternity, including lack of support and non-cooperation from the present administration. The members expressed deep anguish that Kashmiri artists and professionals were completely ignored in the recently held government-sponsored film festival. It was pointed out that not a single film professional from Kashmir was involved in its planning and execution, despite huge expenditure of public money. The delegation sought her intervention to ensure justice for the local film community and submitted a detailed memorandum. The key points of the memorandum are as under: 1. Government Claim is Factually Incorrect: The recently held government festival is not the first-ever international film festival of J&K. 2. KWFF is the Actual First (2017): The first international film festival of this scale in Kashmir was the Kashmir World Film Festival (KWFF), conceived and executed by Mr. Mushtaaque Ali Ahmad Khan in 2017, at a time when no cinema hall was functional in the Valley. 3. Concern: Instead of strengthening a 9-year-old credible private platform built through personal sacrifice and commitment, the government spent public exchequer on a parallel festival without relevant experience and without engaging local talent. 4. Prayer: a) A clarification be sought on the expenditure incurred on the recent government festival; b) The Government should support and institutionalize existing credible initiatives like KWFF; and c) Future film festivals in J&K be entrusted to professionals with local talent at the centre. After listening to the grievances of the delegation in detail, Mehbooba Mufti assured them of her unconditional support and committed to raising their genuine concerns at all appropriate platforms.

Bgam farmers begin exposure visit to Ludhiana

Budgam, Sep 27: A group of 30 progressive farmers from District Budgam was flagged off on Sunday by Additional District Development Commissioner (ADDC) Budgam, Viek Agarwal, for an inter-State exposure visit to Punjab Agricultural University (PAU), Ludhiana, Punjab. The exposure visit, commencing from September 27, 2026, is being organised under HADP P-14 with the objective of providing farmers practical exposure to the latest technologies, innovations and modern scientific practices in floriculture and allied agricultural activities. The farmers were flagged off in the presence of Chief Agriculture Officer, Budgam, Farzana Tabassum, and District Agriculture Officer (Extension), Gh. Hassan Gorsi. Interacting with the participating farmers, the Chief Agriculture Officer urged them to make the most of the exposure visit and acquire maximum knowledge about modern agricultural technologies and scientific practices. She stressed upon the farmers to adopt suitable technologies and practices in their fields for enhancing productivity and improving farm incomes. The ADDC emphasised the importance of translating the knowledge and skills acquired during the exposure visit into practical interventions at farmers fields. He encouraged the farming community to adopt modern technologies and innovative agricultural practices suited to local conditions. He also appreciated the Department of Agriculture for facilitating such exposure visits and capacity-building initiatives aimed at strengthening the knowledge base of farmers and promoting modern and sustainable agricultural practices in the district. The exposure visit is expected to provide the participating farmers an opportunity to interact with experts, gain first-hand knowledge of advanced agricultural practices and acquaint themselves with innovations in floriculture and allied sectors.

Bukhari seeks clarity on land purchases in J&K

Srinagar, Sep 27: Apni Party president Syed Mohammad Altaf Bukhari on Sunday said the National Conference-led government should be held accountable if any demographic change takes place in Jammu and Kashmir. Addressing a public meeting at Natipora in Srinagars Chanapora constituency, Bukhari questioned the government over alleged land purchases by outsiders, asking who had allowed a Mumbai-based individual to purchase land for a hotel at Syedpora and a Delhi-based company to acquire 150 kanals at Chatterhama, Hazratbal. He claimed such transactions were not permissible under the existing domicile laws of J&K and said it was the governments responsibility to prevent any attempt at demographic change. Bukhari also urged Prime Minister Narendra Modi to initiate direct dialogue with the people of Jammu and Kashmir, particularly youth, to address what he described as a prevailing trust deficit. He cited issues including police verification for passports and jobs, prolonged detention of some youth and repeated police summons, saying these concerns needed to be addressed through meaningful engagement. Taking aim at the NC government, Bukhari alleged that it had failed to fulfil promises made during the 2024 Assembly elections. He cited commitments relating to restoration of Articles 370 and 35A, statehood, 200 units of free electricity and free gas cylinders. He also criticised disruptions in the J&K Assembly, saying people had expected the elected government to use the House to address issues such as unemployment, detainees and livelihood concerns. On Srinagars downtown areas, Bukhari highlighted what he described as shortages of housing, basic infrastructure, employment opportunities and drinking water. He also raised concerns over the condition of public infrastructure in Chanapora, including a marriage hall, stadium, Chanapora Hospital and Budshah Nagar dispensary. Senior Apni Party leaders Ghulam Hassan Mir, Mohammad Syed Akhoon, Rafi Ahmad Mir and Mohammad Ashraf Mir also criticised the NC government over its performance and alleged failure to fulfil election promises. Ghulam Hassan Mir questioned the government over commitments on free electricity, gas cylinders, additional ration and restoration of Articles 370 and 35A. Akhoon said he had cautioned the NC leadership before the 2024 elections against making promises he believed could not be fulfilled, while Rafi Ahmad Mir urged people to reconsider their dependence on traditional political parties. Mohammad Ashraf Mir alleged that the elected government had failed to address pressing public issues.

Centre drops proposed Baramulla-Uri rail line

Srinagar, Sept 27: The proposed 40-km Baramulla-Uri railway line, which was planned to extend rail connectivity from Baramulla towards Uri, the last major town close to the Line of Control (LoC), has been withdrawn from consideration, with concerns over the fragile terrain, possible displacement and environmental impact emerging around the project. The Railway Board has informed the General Manager, Northern Railway, that the Baramulla-Uri new line, along with the proposed Qazigund-Srinagar-Budgam doubling project, has been returned by the Cabinet Secretariat and is no longer under consideration. The development has been welcomed by Baramulla MLA Javid Hassan Baig, who said the decision followed consultations with elected representatives and other stakeholders in Baramulla district. Baig on Sunday said he was not opposed to development or better connectivity but argued that the environmental and social consequences of constructing a major railway infrastructure through the Baramulla area needed to be considered. I am not against the development of the district. But when they talk about Rs 500 crore, it will be earned by the contractors. I cant allow them to cut the heart of Baramulla and compromise its future development, he said. The MLA also raised concerns over the geological condition of the area, saying parts of the region were vulnerable to land sinking and sliding. You have to see the nature of this area as it is fragile, as it is a sliding and sinking area. If you build such huge infrastructure on it and there is continuous vibration, the consequences could be bad, Baig said, adding that he had studied the issue. He also questioned the likely impact on residential areas and land, asking where families displaced by the project would be rehabilitated and what the local population would gain in return. Baig thanked the Union government for withdrawing the proposal, saying the decision had prevented what he described as a potential disaster for the town. Meanwhile, Uri MLA Dr Sajjad Shafi said he had learnt that the project had not received clearance from key central institutions, including NITI Aayog and the Ministry of Finance. MLA Baramulla has also raised the issue of sinking of land in Baramulla as it is an issue of fragile environment. If realignment can be done, the centre should think over it, Shafi said. The Railway Boards communication makes clear that the withdrawal relates to the projects consideration at the central level. It said the two projects had been returned by the Cabinet Secretariat following its August 27, 2026 Office Memorandum and were no longer under consideration. Besides passenger connectivity, the proposed line was expected to facilitate movement of goods and strengthen connectivity to the border region. The withdrawal came only months after the Railways had prepared Detailed Project Reports (DPRs) for the two proposals. In February, the Ministry of Railways had stated that the Baramulla-Uri new line and the Qazigund-Srinagar-Budgam doubling project had been proposed to strengthen rail connectivity in the region. The second project involved doubling the existing railway line between Qazigund, Srinagar and Budgam, over a length of 74 km, aimed at increasing capacity on the existing valley railway network.

Actor Lakshmipriya booked for allegedly defaming Ansiba Hassan

Asian Games: Full-strength India open gold medal defence against second-string Afghanistan (Preview)

Digital Desk | Nisshin, Sep 27 (IANS) A near-full-strength Indian team will be facing a wounded second-string Afghanistan side in the second quarterfinal of the cricket event at the ongoing Asian Games 2026 on Monday at the Korogi Sports Park. With the gold medal defence on the line, India have opted to send their first-choice T20I team for the continental showpiece, meaning some ODI regulars will miss the simultaneous ODI series against the West Indies at home, which begins on Sunday. Not only as the defending gold medallists, but India also come into this showpiece as reigning double T20 World champions, something which wasn't the case when they sent a second-string side under Ruturaj Gaikwad for the Hangzhou Games in 2023. During this time, they have set batting benchmarks which are hard to replicate for even the best of the sides. And now they have a teenage sensation in Vaibhav Sooryavanshi making an impact in his initial days. On the other side is a second-string Afghanistan side playing under 33 T20I-capped Darwish Rasooli, with mostly new faces. They came into the quarterfinal on the back of a win against Japan and a loss against Nepal in the group stage and did not qualify as Group A toppers; rather, they were the second-placed side in the league stage. They were hammered by Nepal in their second game and now will face a much stronger Indian side, which on paper is no match for this Afghanistan side. However, things haven't been very simple for India in Japan. They were recently given a major scare in the rain-hit one-off T20I against Japan when they managed to put 32/4 in five overs and scraped through with a two-run win. The Men in Blue would have to adapt to the conditions as soon as possible, as they were left embarrassed when they failed to do it earlier in Ireland and England, where they lost all six completed T20Is. Eyes will also be on the playing combinations as it seems that Sanju Samson will continue opening with Abhishek Sharma after two half-centuries against Afghanistan, which means Sooryavanshi might have to wait for his hit in Japan. It would also be interesting to see if and when Jasprit Bumrah takes the field after being benched for the Japan T20I. When: Monday, Sep 28, 10 AM IST Where: Korogi Sports Park, Nisshin Where to watch: The match will be shown live on the Sony Sports Network, while the live streaming will be available on the Sony LIV app and website. Squads: India: Shreyas Iyer (c), Abhishek Sharma, Sanju Samson, Ishan Kishan, Shivam Dube, Tilak Varma, Vipraj Nigam, Axar Patel, Washington Sundar, Ravi Bishnoi, Jasprit Bumrah, Harshit Rana, Arshdeep Singh, Vaibhav Sooryavanshi Afghanistan: Darwish Rasooli (c), Abdullah Ahmadzai, Mohammad Akram, Ismat Alam, Faridoon Dawoodzai, Hassan Eisakhil, Mohammad Ishaq, Karim Janat, Faisal Khan, Nangyal Kharoti, Imran Mir, Arab Gul Momand, Farmanullah Safi, Khalid Taniwal, Najibullah Zadran

Left parties stage protest against CEC in Hassan, demand his removal

Gowhar Hassan Wani re-elected President District Bar Association Shopian

Shopian, Sep 25: Advocate Gowhar Hassan Wani has been re-elected as President of the District Bar Association Shopian, defeating his rival Advocate Mubashir Ahmed Gatoo by a margin of 28 votes in the elections held on September 22. Wani secured the confidence of the Bar in a closely watched contest, with 170 of the 175 eligible members casting their votes, recording a turnout of 97.14 per cent. The re-election of Gowhar Hassan Wani marks his continuation at the helm of the Shopian Bar. He is a practising advocate before the J&K and Ladakh High Court and subordinate courts and is regarded within the local legal fraternity for his professional engagement and leadership of the Bar. Wanis re-election comes amid a period of significant institutional and legal developments concerning the District Bar Association Shopian.

Darakshan Bhat represents India at UN Human Rights Council session

Srinagar, Sep 25: Darakshan Hassan Bhat, President of Kashmir Womens Organization, represented India at the 63rd Session of the United Nations Human Rights Council in Geneva, where she highlighted the theme Billions Connected, Millions Empowered: Indias Digital Transformation. She highlighted Indias expanding digital transformation and its role in advancing financial inclusion, public-service delivery, and opportunities for women and rural communities. Addressing the Council, Bhat said Indias digital journey could be understood through the extraordinary scale of its digital public infrastructure and the growing reach of technology among ordinary citizens. She noted that India had moved from around 25.15 crore internet subscribers and users in 2014 to more than 109 crore internet users today, reflecting the rapid expansion of digital connectivity across the country. Highlighting financial inclusion, Ms Bhat said that more than 55 crore Jan Dhan accounts have expanded access to formal banking, with women accounting for 55.7 per cent of account holders. She also pointed to the scale of Direct Benefit Transfer (DBT), through which more than 53 lakh crore has been transferred directly to beneficiaries, strengthening transparency and efficiency in welfare delivery. Indias digital payments ecosystem was another key focus of her address. Bhat noted that the country now processes more than 20 billion UPI transactions every month, while over 5.6 lakh Common Service Centres are helping extend digital and public services to rural and underserved communities. She placed particular emphasis on womens participation in Indias digital and financial transformation. According to the figures highlighted in her address, more than 10 crore rural women are connected through Self-Help Groups, creating a vast grassroots platform for financial inclusion, livelihoods and women-led economic empowerment. Bhat also highlighted the scale of Indias digital public infrastructure, including more than 1.44 billion Aadhaar enrolments and over 724.3 million DigiLocker users, while stressing the importance of privacy, consent, cybersecurity and data protection as digital systems continue to expand. Digital progress becomes meaningful when technology reaches those who have traditionally remained furthest from opportunity, Bhat said. She emphasised that the true measure of digital transformation should not be technology alone, but whether it expands access, opportunity and dignity for people at the last mile. In her concluding remarks, Bhat called for greater cooperation among governments, international institutions, civil society and technology partners to build a digital future that is inclusive, secure, accessible and people-centred. She urged the international community to ensure that women, rural communities, and vulnerable populations are not left behind as digital transformation accelerates worldwide. While presenting key facts and figures, she highlighted that Indias internet users/subscribers have increased from 25.15 crore to more than 109 crore; more than 55 crore Jan Dhan accounts have been opened, with women accounting for 55.7% of account holders; over 53 lakh crore has been transferred through Direct Benefit Transfer (DBT); more than 20 billion UPI transactions are processed every month; over 5.6 lakh Common Service Centres are providing digital services; more than 10 crore rural women are connected through Self-Help Groups; Aadhaar enrolments have crossed 1.44 billion; and DigiLocker has surpassed 724.3 million users. The figures presented at the Council underscored the scale at which Indias digital public infrastructure is expanding access to connectivity, banking, digital payments and public services. The president Kashmir Womens Organization Darakshan also said that the larger objective should remain ensuring that the benefits of digital transformation reach communities and individuals at the last mile, particularly women, rural populations and vulnerable groups.

NIA court sends 4 to life term in 2016 Hindu Munnani spokesperson murder

Digital Desk | Chennai, Sep 25 (IANS) The Special Court for NIA cases, Poonamallee, Chennai, on Thursday convicted and sentenced four active cadres of the banned outfit Popular Front of India (PFI) to life imprisonment in connection with the murder of C. Sasikumar, spokesperson of Hindu Munnani, Coimbatore. The convicted individuals Sadam Hussain, Subair, Mubarak and Mohammad Rafiqul Hassan have each been sentenced to life imprisonment along with a fine of Rs 30,000, the NIA said in a statement. This verdict marks NIA's first conviction involving PFI operatives since the Government of India officially banned the organisation. On September 22, 2016, Sasikumar was hacked to death in Coimbatore. The targeted killing was executed with the clear intent to strike terror among a section of society and incite communal disruption across the region, it said. The incident sparked widespread violence across 6 districts, including Coimbatore City and Coimbatore Rural, prompting state authorities to register over 300 FIRs. The case was initially registered at Thudiyalur Police Station, Coimbatore, and was later investigated by CB-CID, Tamil Nadu. On the orders of the Central government, the case was entrusted to NIA and re-registered as RC-03/2018/NIA/DLI on January 22, 2018. Investigation established that the accused, being active members of PFI, entered into a criminal conspiracy and executed the targeted killing. After meticulous investigation, NIA filed a charge sheet and 2 supplementary charge sheets against 5 accused persons. The trial commenced in 2019, during which 75 prosecution witnesses and 2 defence witnesses were examined. The trial has now culminated in the conviction of 4 accused for offences under sections 302, 120-B and 153-A of the IPC, and sections 16, 18 and 20 of the Unlawful Activities (Prevention) Act. The Special Court acquitted one co-accused, identified as Abu alias Syed Abuthagir. NIA is currently reviewing the judgment and exploring all available legal avenues to challenge the acquittal in the appellate court.

Former Jerusalem Deputy Mayor Critiques UNs Credibility Amid Gaza Conflict

Flur Hassan Nahoum discusses the UNs credibility issues regarding the Gaza war and Israels diplomatic pressure. Former Jerusalem Deputy Mayor Critiques UNs Credibility Amid Gaza Conflict

Hassan district wing of JD(S) gets new office-bearers

DGP Alok Kumar visits Hassan Prison

Asian Games: Afghanistan men outclass Japan in men's cricket opener

Digital Desk | Nisshin, Sep 24 (IANS) Afghanistan trounced an impressive Japanese side in the mens cricket opener at the Asian Games 2026 as they beat the hosts in a Group A clash by 48 runs at the Korogi Sports Park on Thursday. The second-string Afghanistan team, led by Darwish Rasooli, defended a modest 129 after a decent start from Japan, with spinners doing the work to bowl the hosts out for 81 in 19.3 overs. Debutant leg-spinner Arab Gul Momand picked up four wickets, while left-arm finger spinner Nangeyalia Kharoti, pacer Abdullah Ahmadzai, and Najibullah Zadran shared the other six wickets. After being asked to bat first, Afghanistan managed to put 129/6 on the board. Debutant opener Mohammad Akram scored 34 from 29 balls, while Hassan Eisakhil laboured to three from 10 deliveries. Afghanistan were reeling at 79/4 in 15.1 overs. Captain Darwish Rasooli and wicketkeeper Mohammad Ishaq put a strong 44-run stand in 25 balls to give the much-needed impetus in the final overs after they were kept at under six an over. While Rasooli made 29 from 27 balls, it was Ishaqs 17-ball 25 which took Afghanistan to 129/6 in their 20 overs. For Japan, off-spinner Ibrahim Takahashi was the pick of the bowlers for his 2-19, while Shoma Sugaya-Slater scalped 2-18. Japan lost opener Lachlan Yamamoto-Lake in the first over to Abdullah Ahmadzai for a duck, but Japan were not out of the chase as Reo Sakurano-Thomas (23), Kendel Kadowaki-Fleming (14) and Benjamin Ito-Davis (17) kept ticking the scoreboard as Japan were 53/1 in 7.3 overs and needed 77 in 75 balls however, left-arm spinner Nangeyalia Kharoti and Najibullah, playing his first international outing over two years, picked one wicket each before the debutant leg-spinner Gul wrecked havoc with four wickets. At 60/3, Japan lost their three wickets without scoring and were 63/8 as they completely lost their way, with Gul bowling two double-wicket maiden overs to bring the game in Afghanistans favour. The little fight ended soon when pacer Ahmadzai and spinner Kharoti took the final two wickets as Japan were bowled out for 81. Afghanistan have now started the tournament with a win. Both the teams will be playing the third side in the group, Nepal, later. The top two teams from the group will make it to the quarterfinals. Brief Scores: Afghanistan 129/6 in 20 overs (Mohammad Akram (34 from 29 balls, Darwish Rasooli 29 from 27 balls; Ibrahim Takahashi 2-19, Shoma Sugaya-Slater 2-18) beat Japan (Reo Sakurano-Thomas 23 from 24 balls, Benjamin Ito-Davis 17 from 8 balls; Arab Gul Momand 4-8, Nangeyalia Kharoti 3-19) by 48 runs

Irans Bold Retaliation: IRGC Seizes U.S. Ships In Naval Action; Tehran Plans Auction For Victims

Iran says confiscated U.S. and Israeli vessels and cargo are now up for sale, with Iranian judicial official Hassan Abdolianpour saying proceeds could be directed to families of those killed in the war. At the same time, Irans Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps is warning that any new U.S. or Israeli attack could change the geography of the war by opening new fronts.

Houthi Leaders Warn Of Strikes Deep Inside Saudi Arabia, Threaten Energy Infrastructure

Houthi-appointed military leaders have issued a fresh warning to Saudi Arabia, saying their forces could target locations deep inside the kingdom if what they describe as continued Saudi attacks and the blockade of Yemen persist. In a joint message marking the anniversary of Yemens September 21 Revolution, Mohammed Nasser al-Atifi and Youssef Hassan al-Madani claimed that Houthi ballistic missiles and combat drones can reach Saudi territory and potentially threaten economic and energy infrastructure. The statement comes amid renewed tensions around Yemens western coastline and the Bab al-Mandab Strait. Houthi-affiliated outlets have also reported territorial and maritime developments, although those claims have not been independently verified. The latest warning signals a potential escalation in tensions between the Houthis and Saudi Arabia.

Ktaka Dy CM urges council to take objective stand on Kasturirangan report

Digital Desk | Bengaluru, Sep 21 (IANS) Deputy Chief Minister and Revenue Minister G. Parameshwara on Monday urged the Karnataka Legislative Council to take an objective stand on the Kasturirangan report after discussing its advantages and disadvantages, stressing the need to protect both the environment and the livelihoods of people living in the Western Ghats. Participating in the discussion, Parameshwara said Karnataka had repeatedly rejected the report, but the Centre kept issuing draft notifications. We have to protect the environment while also protecting the interests of people living in the Western Ghats and future generations. The survival of mountain ranges such as the Western Ghats, Eastern Ghats, Aravallis, Vindhyas and the Himalayas is linked to our own survival. At the same time, we must protect the lives and livelihoods of people who have been living there for generations, he said. He recalled that the Western Ghats Ecology Expert Panel headed by Madhav Gadgil was constituted by the Union Ministry of Environment and Forests in 2010 under the Environment Protection Act, 1986. The panel submitted its report on August 30, 2011, identifying 1,29,037 sq km of the Western Ghats and classifying the area into three ecological sensitivity zones. Following opposition from state governments, local people and elected representatives, the Centre constituted an 11-member High Level Working Group headed by K. Kasturirangan in August 2012 to review the Gadgil committee report. The group submitted its report on April 15, 2013, recommending around 59,940 sq km across six states as Ecologically Sensitive Areas. In Karnataka, the Kasturirangan report identified 20,668 sq km as an Ecologically Sensitive Area covering 1,576 villages across 10 districts and 33 taluks, including Belagavi, Uttara Kannada, Shivamogga, Udupi, Chikkamagaluru, Dakshina Kannada, Hassan, Kodagu, Mysuru and Chamarajanagar. Parameshwara said the recommendations included a ban on new mining, quarrying and sand mining activities, while existing mining leases were to be phased out within five years. Restrictions were also proposed on new thermal power projects and expansion of certain red industries. The report also proposed restrictions on new large construction projects, townships and area development projects, while permitting new hydropower projects subject to conditions, including a minimum distance of three kilometres between projects. He said Karnataka had been opposing the report since 2014 because of concerns over its impact on the lives and development of people in the Western Ghats. A Cabinet sub-committee was constituted in 2014 and visited Western Ghats districts during January and February 2015. It held public meetings, collected peoples views, and submitted a report, which the state government accepted and communicated to the Centre. Parameshwara said the state had subsequently written to the Centre on several occasions opposing the Kasturirangan recommendations and successive draft notifications. He noted that the Centre constituted another committee headed by Sanjay Kumar on April 18, 2022. The committee visited Karnataka in May that year and was informed of the states objections. It is carrying out satellite-based surveys as well as physical verification of residential areas, plantations and agricultural land located amid forests. According to Parameshwara, the Kasturirangan report had identified 20,668 sq km in Karnataka. After correcting technical errors, the area would come down to 19,252.16 sq km. Of this, 16,114.08 sq km is already covered under national parks, wildlife sanctuaries, reserve forests and other protected categories, leaving 3,108.08 sq km for further consideration. He said village-wise verification and survey-number-wise mapping should be undertaken to establish the actual ground situation and submit the findings to the Centre. We have to protect the Western Ghats as well as the lives of the people who have lived there for thousands of years. If the environment is protected, the lives of the people living there can also be protected, Parameshwara said, urging the Council to discuss the issue and offer suggestions to help the government take further decisions.

J&K Assembly breaks tradition, conducts business after paying homage to former lawmakers

Srinagar, Sep 21: In a departure from longstanding tradition, the Jammu & Kashmir Legislative Assembly on Monday carried out Government business immediately after Speaker Abdul Rahim Rather read out obituary references. Breaking precedent, the Speaker proceeded with legislative work following tributes to former Members of the Legislative Assembly Sheikh Mustafa Kamal, Dharam Paul and Ghulam Hassan. During the obituary reference, the Speaker read out the names of the deceased lawmakers, with no other member participating in paying homage. Later, members observed a twominute silence to honour the departed legislators. In the past, lawmakers from different parties would join in the obituary proceedings. Traditionally, the House would adjourn for the day after paying obituary references, refraining from transacting any business. In the last autumn session, Chief Minister Omar Abdullah had proposed revising the Assemblys obituary reference procedure. When I was in Parliament, the obituary references used to involve long speeches after the Speakers reading, taking up an entire day. Later, it was decided that the Speaker alone would read the references, and members would stand in silence for a minute. I think we should follow that system here too, Omar had said(KNO)

Public questions minister over remark on giving money to officials

Hassan: A comment by Minister K.M. Shivalinge Gowda during a Praja Seva programme at Sakleshpur sparked a confrontation with a member of the audience after the latter questioned the need for citizens to pay or honour government officials for getting their work done. Addressing the gathering at the Sakleshpur tahsildars office on Saturday Shivalinge Gowda Get the latest updates in Hyderabad City News , Technology , Entertainment , Sports , Politics and Top Stories on WhatsApp & Telegram by subscribing to our channels. You can also download our app for Android and iOS .

J&K Assembly admits resolution seeking review of Baramulla-Uri rail alignment

Srinagar, Sep 19: J&K Legislative Assembly Secretariat has admitted a private members resolution moved by MLA Javid Hassan Baig, seeking to put the proposed BaramullaUri railway line alignment from Kanispora towards Khanpora/Sheeri in abeyance pending an independent geological, geotechnical and seismic assessment of the corridor, officials said on Saturday. The officals said the resolution calls for a comprehensive evaluation of slope stability, soil bearing capacity, seismic vulnerability, drainage and landslide susceptibility before finalising the alignment. This House expresses serious concern over the proposed alignment of the Baramulla-Uri Railway Line from Kanispora towards Khanpora/Sheeri and resolves to urge the Government of India that its finalisation on the said stretch be kept in abeyance pending a comprehensive and independent geological, geotechnical and seismic assessment of the proposed corridor, According to a communication issued by the Assembly Secretariat. In view of the concerns highlighted by the resolution, the Secretariat said that the House urged the Government of India to undertake forthwith a comprehensive and independent geological, geotechnical and seismic investigation of the proposed corridor. Secretariat further urged the govewrnment to conduct detailed assessment of slope stability, soil bearing capacity, liquefaction potential, seismic vulnerability, drainage conditions and landslide susceptibility along the proposed alignment and finalize the alignment only after the competent technical authorities establish and certify the geological and structural suitability and long-term safety of the proposed corridor.

J&K Police in Shopian attaches property acquired through proceeds of drug trade

Digital Desk | Srinagar, Sept 18 (IANS) The police in Jammu and Kashmir's Shopian district said on Friday that it has attached a residential house acquired through proceeds of drug trade. A statement said that as part of its continued crackdown on narcotics-related activities, Shopian Police have attached a residential house constructed on land measuring 1,065 square feet, bearing Khasra/Survey No. 1327, situated at Melhura village valued at Rs 16,56,385, belonging to Farooq Ahmad Shah, the adopted son of Ghulam Hassan Shah and a resident of Melhura village. In addition, cash amounting to Rs 4,73,500 has also been frozen/seized. The residential property and cash were identified as having been acquired through proceeds generated from the illegal trade of drugs and narcotics. Accordingly, the residential house and cash have been attached/frozen under Section 68-F(1) of the NDPS Act in connection with an FIR lodged in Zainapora Police Station. The attachment/freezing proceedings were carried out in the presence of a duly constituted police team, Executive Magistrate, Lambardar and Chowkidar ensuring compliance with the prescribed legal procedures and maintaining transparency throughout the proceedings. Shopian Police reiterates its firm commitment to eradicating the menace of drugs by targeting not only those involved in illicit drug-related activities, but also the financial assets and properties linked to such activities. The general public is urged to come forward and share any information regarding drug trafficking or related activities with the police. In addition to punitive actions prescribed for drug smuggling and peddling, authorities are using other coercive actions to deal with the menace. Cancellation of passport, driving license, Aadhaar card and attachment of properties acquired through drug trade are other preventive steps taken by the authorities. So far, thousands of drug peddlers and key syndicate operators have been apprehended in ongoing operations by the Jammu and Kashmir Police and Anti-Narcotics Task Force (ANTF). Authorities have cancelled hundreds of driving licenses and vehicle registrations linked to narcotics transport, alongside suspending numerous non-compliant pharmaceutical and drug store licenses.

Police in J&Ks Rajouri arrest 3 for harbouring terrorists involved in 2023 Chassana encounter

Digital Desk | Jammu, Sep 18 (IANS) Police in Jammu and Kashmirs Rajouri district said on Friday that their team busted a Lashkar-e-Taiba logistics module by arresting three persons involved in harbouring terrorists involved in the 2023 Chassana encounter. Officials said on Friday that in a major breakthrough, police have busted a logistic support module linked to Lashkar-e-Taiba in Rajouri and arrested three persons for allegedly harbouring and facilitating the movement of terrorists. During further investigation in case FIR No. 95/2026 of Police Station Dharamsal, Rajouri, it has emerged that three accused persons, all residents of Kot Charwal, were allegedly part of the module linked to the proscribed terrorist outfit Lashkar-e-Taiba. The accused have been identified as Mohd Azam son of Ali Bahadur, Zakir Hussain son of Ghulam Hussain and Mohd Mushtaq son of Mohd Iqbal. According to the investigation, the accused harboured and facilitated the movement of terrorists associated with the proscribed outfit. Their role in assisting, harbouring and facilitating the movement of terrorists who were subsequently killed in an encounter at Chassana, had come to the fore. The Chassana encounter took place on September 4, 2023, in the Gali Sohab area of Upper Tulli, Chassana, in the Reasi district of Jammu and Kashmir. The encounter took place in Saab Gali/Gali Sohab near the Kalaban area, Upper Tulli Chassana. The joint operation was carried out by the Reasi Police and the Indian Army's 33 Rashtriya Rifles (33RR). In that encounter, one policeman and one Army personnel were injured during the initial exchange. One unidentified terrorist was found dead at the site the following morning after an overnight firefight. Investigation further revealed that the accused had allegedly provided shelter and logistical assistance to multiple terrorist groups and facilitated their movement across Rajouri-Reasi districts and through the Pir Panjal region up to Shopian. During the course of investigation, one pistol along with a magazine and ammunition, besides two Chinese grenades, were also recovered on the disclosure of the accused. Further investigation into the case is going on.

Three OGWs linked to Lashkar facilitated terrorists movement across Rajouri-Reasi-Shopian: J-K Police

Jammu, Sep 18: Three arrested overground workers linked to the proscribed Pakistan-based Lashkar-e-Taiba outfit remained active for several years and allegedly facilitated the movement of multiple terror groups from Rajouri-Reasi in Jammu region to south Kashmir's Shopian district, police said on Friday. Mohd Azam, Zakir Hussain and Mohd Mushtaq, all residents of Kot Charwal village in Rajouri, were arrested on September 14 following the unearthing of an overground worker (OGW) network allegedly operating as a logistical support module linked to the Lashkar-e-Taiba (LeT). A police spokesman said the investigation in the case found that the accused were active for the past several years and had allegedly provided shelter and logistical assistance to multiple terrorist groups and facilitated their movement across the Rajouri-Reasi districts and through the Pir Panjal region up to Shopian. Their alleged role in assisting, harbouring and facilitating the movement of terrorists, who were subsequently killed in an encounter at Chassana in Reasi district in 2023, has also emerged, he said. While a powerful Improvised Explosive Device (IED) was recovered at their disclosure from a forest adjoining their village immediately after their arrest, a pistol along with a magazine and ammunition, besides two Chinese grenades, were also recovered at their behest from their hideout on Thursday, the spokesman said. The spokesman said the accused besides working as guides to facilitate the movement of the terrorists are also suspected to have provided ground support to terrorists linked with multiple high-profile attacks in Rajouri district in the recent past. The arms and explosives had been handed over to the accused for safe custody and their possible use in future attacks, the spokesman said. He said the investigation was going on to expose the complete network, identify additional associates and ascertain the full extent of the accused persons involvement.

Pakistani forces kill three civilians in Balochistan amid rising atrocities

Digital Desk | Quetta, Sep 17 (IANS) Another three civilians were extrajudicially killed by Pakistani forces in Balochistan, a leading human rights organisation alleged on Thursday. This latest incident comes against the backdrop of a growing wave of extrajudicial killings and enforced disappearances across the province. Paank, the human rights department of the Baloch National Movement (BNM), revealed that three dead bodies were found dumped in the Kuldan area of Dannuk in Gwadar district. The deceased, identified as Hassan Rafiq, Ehsan Hassan and Nadil Baloch, had previously been forcibly disappeared by Pakistani security forces. Paank accused the Pakistani security forces of carrying out their enforced disappearance, unlawful detention, and subsequent killing. According to the rights body, Hassan Rafiq was released on bail from Turbat Jail on August 24. However, immediately after his release, he was taken away from outside the jail by Pakistani security forces. He remained forcibly disappeared until his body was recovered in Dannuk. Additionally, Ehsan Hassan, son of political figure Muhammad Hassan Baloch, was forcibly disappeared along with his brother Balach Hassan during a late-night raid on their family home in the Jiwani region of Gwadar on January 22. Separately, Nadil Baloch, a 20-year-old student from the Panwan area in Gwadar, was forcibly disappeared from his home on April 19, during a security raid. Paank said that Nadils disappearance, together with that of several other residents of Panwan, was documented by human-rights monitors, who identified Pakistans Frontier Corps and military-intelligence personnel as responsible for taking them from their homes. The bodies of Hassan, Ehsan and Nadil were subsequently found together in Kuldan, Dannuk. A piece of paper bearing each victim's name had reportedly been placed inside the pocket of each body, indicating that those who disposed of the bodies knew their identities, the rights body noted. Describing the sequencefrom enforced disappearance and secret detention to the recovery of their bodies, Paank said that the development constitutes an extremely grave human-rights violation requiring urgent international scrutiny. The rights body called for an immediate, independent, impartial and transparent investigation into the enforced disappearance, detention, torture and killing of Hassan Rafiq, Ehsan Hassan and Nadil Baloch in line with international human-rights standards. All forensic evidence and detention records must be preserved, those responsible must be identified and prosecuted through fair proceedings before civilian courts, and the families must be provided with truth, justice and full reparations, it added. Condemning the incident, Paank further said, Enforced disappearance cannot be followed by execution and the dumping of bodies with impunity. It also urged the United Nations and other international human-rights mechanisms to intervene urgently, press Pakistan to end enforced disappearances and extrajudicial killings in Balochistan, and ensure accountability for those responsible.

Bingo - Official Trailer

Watch the trailer of Kannada movie 'Bingo' starring RK Chandan, Ragini Dwivedi and Raksha Nimbargi. Directed by Shankar Konamanahalli, the film is produced by RK Studios and Mutharaa Ventures. The movie also features Rajesh Nataranga, Shravan Kumar, Pavan Kumar, Apoorva, Murali Poorvik and Mithun Tejaswi in pivotal roles. Music for the film is composed by Hithan Hassan. To know more about 'Bingo', watch the trailer video.

No question of backing down from exposing illegalities in Karnataka, claims Kumaraswamy

Digital Desk | Hassan (Karnataka), Sep 15 (IANS) Union Minister for Heavy Industries and Steel, H.D. Kumaraswamy, on Tuesday said he would not back down from exposing alleged scams and illegalities in Karnataka. Speaking at Mavinakere village in Hassan district, Kumaraswamy said he had sought the blessings of Lord Ranganathaswamy before beginning what he described as a fight against injustice. I am committed to my statement of exposing something that will shake the entire state and the country. There is no question of stepping back from exposing and bringing before the people scams and illegalities, he said. Kumaraswamy said he would place documents relating to alleged illegalities before the people and questioned who would take the issues forward and bring them to their logical conclusion. I am an individual. I cannot give a logical end to everything. God has to give a logical end to this fight against injustice. The question is who will take these issues forward and bring them to their logical conclusion, he said. He said nobody could remain silent about alleged illegalities and cited the controversy surrounding recruitment through the Karnataka Public Service Commission (KPSC) as an example. Kumaraswamy claimed that he had raised the issue of alleged irregularities in the appointment of Assistant Executive Engineers (AEE) even before he travelled to the United States. He alleged that the irregularities had taken place during the tenure of the present government and right under the nose of its ministers. Referring to the investigation into the recruitment of veterinary doctors, he said the Special Investigation Team (SIT) had been constituted and money had been seized during the investigation. Whose money is it? It belongs to poor youth who dream of securing government jobs. Their emotions have been played with and they have been extorted. Should I remain quiet? Kumaraswamy asked. He also alleged irregularities in the recruitment of 24 AEE candidates and claimed that documents supported the charges. He criticised Home Minister and IT and BT Minister Priyank Kharge, alleging that he had not answered the questions raised over the recruitment issue. My objective is to expose illegal scams before the people. They will decide. I am not imposing anything on anyone, Kumaraswamy said. He said he was making the statements in the presence of God and denied having any personal grudge or acting out of jealousy against anyone. Kumaraswamy also addressed claims that he was opposing Chief Minister D.K. Shivakumar out of jealousy because a person from his own community had become Chief Minister. Without naming Shivakumar directly, Kumaraswamy said he had no objection to the Chief Minister continuing in power. Many people tell me that a person from our own community should not be tortured. I want to make it clear that I am not exposing these issues to torture anyone. I am doing it in the interest of the people, he said. He said he would cooperate with the government if it ruled efficiently and without scams. If they rule efficiently and without scams, I will cooperate. But I will not hesitate to question the misuse of power in the state. There is no question of jealousy, Kumaraswamy said. He also said the sentiments and concerns of the people of Karnataka should not be diverted from the issues being raised.

Ekta Kapoor poses with TV OG villains Urvashi Dholakia, Anita Hassanandani at Ganpati celebrations

Digital Desk | Mumbai, Sep 15 (IANS) Television czarina and producer Ekta Kapoor brought together some of the most familiar faces from the Hindi TV industry as she hosted friends and colleagues for Ganpati celebrations at her residence on Monday. Actress Anita Hassanandani who attended the Ganesh poojan at Kapoor's place, shared a series of pictures from the gathering, featuring Ekta Kapoor along with many other popular names from the television fraternity. The pictures captured the group posing together and celebrating the festival in an intimate setting. Among those seen in the pictures shared by Anita were Urvashi Dholakia, Krystle D'Souza, Mushtaq Sheikh, Tanishaa Das Gupta, Vishal Singh and Ruchika Kapoor, apart from Anita and Ekta. The gathering also brought together two of television's much-loved former onscreen antagonists, Urvashi, who became synonymous with the iconic character Komolika in Kasautii Zindagii Kay, and Anita, who was loved for her character portrayal as Shagun in Yeh Hai Mohabbatein. For the uninitiated, Urvashi's association with Ekta goes back more than two decades, with their professional relationship beginning with Kasautii Zindagii Kay. Anita's pictures also featured Vishal Singh, best known for playing Jigar Modi in the show Saath Nibhaana Saathiya. Anita, who has been closely associated with Ekta, has been a part her television universe through shows such as Kkavyanjali, Kyunki Saas Bhi Kabhi Bahu Thi, Kahaani Ghar Ghar Kii, Yeh Hai Mohabbatein and Naagin, shared the pictures on her social media account. Ekta later reshared Anita's post on her own social media account. On Tuesday morning, Ekta was seen visiting Mumbai's iconic Lalbaugcha Raja pandal with actor Sidharth Malhotra to seek the blessings of Lord Ganesha. Sidharth and Ekta are all set to collaborate for their upcoming movie, Vvan which also stars actress Tamannaah Bhatia.

Amazon expands operations network across India ahead of festive season

E-commerce major Amazon on Monday announced an expansion of its operations network across India ahead of the upcoming festive season, launching 20 fulfilment centres, 6 sort centres, and 150 last-mile delivery stations. The expansion is part of the company's announced investment of over Rs 2,800 crore to bolster its pan-India operations and infrastructure, Amazon said in a statement. The expansion will increase Amazon's total storage capacity in India by 50 per cent to 64 million cubic feet. The facilities will be operated and managed by third-party logistics service providers. All 6 new sort centres situated in Chikkaballapur, Hassan, Meerut, Ramanagar, Raipur and Varanasi, as well as seven of the 20 new fulfilment centres are coming up in non-metro cities. To handle the anticipated surge in consumer demand during the festive period, the e-commerce firm had earlier announced the creation of over 1.6 lakh seasonal work opportunities across 400 cities, spanning both metropolitan are

BRICS Summit will help India emerge as a new global force by bringing countries together: Maulana Yasoob Abbas

Digital Desk | Lucknow, Sep 12 (IANS) All India Shia Personal Law Board General Secretary Maulana Yasoob Abbas said that the BRICS Summit being held in New Delhi will help India emerge as a new force by bringing several countries together. Speaking to IANS, Maulana Abbas said the meeting between Prime Minister Narendra Modi and Iranian President Masoud Pezeshkian sent a significant message about the growing importance of India-Iran ties. The picture of Iranian President Masoud Pezeshkian and Prime Minister Modi meeting will send the message that the BRICS will not end, but the domination and bullying of America and Israel will end. India will emerge as a new force by bringing several countries together, Abbas said. He expressed hope that India and Iran would further strengthen their relations, adding that people in Iran had great affection for Indians. I have been travelling to Iran since childhood. The special thing is that no Indian has ever felt any difficulty there, he said. Abbas said he regularly visited various Iranian cities, including Tehran, Mashhad, Isfahan, Nishapur and Kermanshah, and had crossed the Khosravi and Qasr-e Shirin border areas several times. He reiterated that the people of Iran had a deep affection for Indians. On the demolition of a mosque in Saharanpur, Abbas expressed concern over the incident and said it was unfortunate that the mosque located alongside the district collectorate wall had been demolished. He said the mosque was believed to date back to around the 18th century and that a well had also been found inside it. He noted that wells were traditionally found inside mosques when modern water facilities such as handpumps were not available. Abbas urged the Congress and Rahul Gandhi to speak openly on the Saharanpur issue. At the same time, he said religious places, whether temples or mosques, should not become subjects of political exploitation. Politics should not be done over centres of faith. But those doing politics are looking for vote banks even in such matters, he said. Meanwhile, Shia cleric from Kashmir Aga Syed Hassan Mosavi said scholars, intellectuals, members of the business community, and prominent personalities from different faiths in India had participated in discussions with the Iranian President. He said participants had unanimously condemned what they described as injustice and brutality by the United States against Iran and expressed grief over children killed in the conflict and the death of Irans Supreme Leader. Mosavi said India and Iran shared longstanding ties and expressed hope that the relationship between the two countries would continue to strengthen.

Who is Zahra Pezeshkian? All about Iranian President Masoud Pezeshkian's daughter visiting India

Zahra Pezeshkian, daughter of Iranian President Masoud Pezeshkian, is in New Delhi during her father's India visit for the BRICS Summit. Along with her husband Hassan Majidi, she visited the Pradhanmantri Sangrahalaya in New Delhi,...

680 bags of subsidised fertiliser seized in Karnataka, Kerala diversion suspected

Digital Desk | Bengaluru, Sep 12 (IANS)Karnataka's Agriculture Department has seized 680 bags of subsidised fertiliser worth around Rs 18 lakh near Siruguppa in Ballari district, with preliminary investigations indicating that the stock was being diverted to Kerala, officials said on Saturday. The department's vigilance squad conducted a late-night raid on Thursday, following directions from Agriculture Minister P.M. Narendra Swamy to intensify action against the illegal trade and diversion of agricultural inputs. According to the department, officials intercepted a lorry near Siruguppa and seized 680 bags of fertiliser suspected of being transported illegally outside Karnataka. Preliminary findings suggest that the subsidised fertiliser had been procured from a distributor and was being moved to industrial units in Kerala. A police complaint has been lodged in connection with the case. The department said the crackdown forms part of a wider drive to curb the sale of substandard seeds and pesticides, as well as the illegal stocking and black-market sale of fertilisers. According to the department, agricultural inputs worth a total of Rs 2.88 crore, including seeds, fertilisers and pesticides, were seized during the past month. A total of 49 cases have been registered in connection with the violations. The department said 113.05 quintals of seeds valued at Rs 50.22 lakh were seized during the period. Of these, seeds worth Rs 50.13 lakh were found to have been sold without valid licences. Paddy and maize seeds were seized in Chikkaballapur, Hassan and K.R. Pet in Mandya district. The department also seized 487.8 metric tonnes of fertilisers valued at Rs 1.89 crore. Among the major seizures was 86.2 metric tonnes of subsidised urea worth Rs 51.52 lakh, which had allegedly been stocked for transportation for non-agricultural purposes. The urea was seized in Kalaburagi and Ballari districts. In another case, 139.02 metric tonnes of mixed fertilisers valued at Rs 86.49 lakh were seized for being stocked without a valid licence. A case has been filed before a court in Davanagere district in connection with the seizure. The department also seized 2,640 litres of bio-products valued at Rs 9.12 lakh and 662.9 litres and 2,492 kg of pesticides worth Rs 49.46 lakh. Officials also seized pesticides worth Rs 32.24 lakh, comprising 375 litres and 1,982 kg, in Koppal, Raichur and Vijayapura districts. The pesticides were allegedly being sold without being included in the relevant licence and included expired products. The Agriculture Department said vigilance and enforcement operations would continue across the state to prevent the illegal diversion and sale of agricultural inputs and ensure that farmers receive quality seeds, fertilisers and pesticides.

Gauhati High Court says talaq-e-hassan is a valid form of divorce

The court has directed the petitioner to register his divorce under the Assam Compulsory Registration of Muslim Marriages and Divorce Act, 2024

Women's Asia Cup: Harshita, Dilhari power Sri Lanka into final

Digital Desk | Dubai, Sep 11 (IANS) Harshita Samarawickrama and Kavisha Dilhari produced a crucial 67-run partnership to steady Sri Lanka after a shaky start and guide the defending champions to a four-wicket win over Pakistan, booking their place in the final of the Womens Asia Cup 2026 against India on Sunday at the Dubai International Stadium in Dubai. Sri Lanka were in trouble early in the chase of 131 after Fatima Sana dismissed Chamari Athapaththu (5) and Sanjana Kavindi (0) within the second over. Sadia Iqbal then got rid of Hasini Perera (3), and Sri Lanka were 31 for 3 at the end of the Power-play. Imesha Dulani offered some resistance with a 22 in the seventh over, but Harshita and Dilhari took the chase by the scruff of the neck with a composed partnership. The duo kept the scoreboard ticking and ensured Pakistan could not add to the pressure. Harshita made 36 and Dilhari 33 as the pair put on 67 runs before being sent back by Fatima in the 17th over. Sri Lanka still needed runs, and Kaushani Nuthyangana came out to join Nilakshi de Silva at the crease. Pakistan crumbled under the pressure, losing their composure as the pair held their nerve to take the contest to the wire. Sri Lanka reached 131 in 18.4 overs with four wickets in hand, Nilakshi not out on 18 and Nuthyangana on 10. Fatima bowled with plenty of heart for Pakistan and finished with figures of 4-38, but her efforts were not enough to defend the total. Earlier, Sri Lanka elected to bowl and Sugandika Kumari gave them an early breakthrough by getting Muneeba Ali out for a couple of runs. Shawaal Zulfiqar got off to a positive start, scoring a quickfire 24 off 16 balls before departing in the fifth over. Ayesha Zafar (7) and Sadaf Shamas (8) also couldn't get going as Pakistan slumped to 52/4 in the 10th over. Gull Feroza (21) and captain Fatima Sana then revived the innings with a 40-run stand before Feroza got out in the 16th over. Fatima took control at the back end of the innings, hitting some lusty blows to be unbeaten on 47 off 36. Tuba Hassan joined her and remained unbeaten on 12 as the pair took Pakistan to 130/5. Skipper Chamari Athapaththu (2-24) and Chamudi Praboda (2-25) snapped a couple of wickets each for Sri Lanka, while Sugandika Kumari (1-20) bowled a good spell and grabbed a scalp. Sri Lankas batters then held their nerves under pressure to complete the chase and seal their place in the final, where they will face India on Sunday. Brief scores: Pakistan Women 130/5 in 20 overs (Fatima Sana 47 not out, Shawaal Zulfiqar 24; Chamari Athapaththu 2-24, Chamudi Praboda 2-25) lost to Sri Lanka Women 134/6 in 20 overs (Harshitha Samarawickrama 36, Kavisha Dilhari 33; Fatima Sana 4-38) by four wickets.

Hassan murder: Two arrested

Farmers take out protest in Hassan opposing ring road project for Holehonnur

'Talaq-e-hassan' valid form of divorce, rules Gauhati HC

The Gauhati High Court has affirmed the validity of 'Talaq-E-Hassan' as a form of divorce in India, directing a petitioner to register his divorce under the new Assam Compulsory Registration of Muslim Marriages and Divorce Act, 2024.

Gauhati HC Holds Talaq-E-Hassan Valid, Directs Registration Under 2024 Assam Law

Court Says Form Of Divorce Is Not Prohibited, Asks Petitioner To Approach Jurisdictional Registrar

'Talaq-E-Hassan' valid form of divorce, to be registered under new Act: Gauhati HC

The Gauhati High Court affirmed Talaq-E-Hassan as a valid divorce method in India. A petitioner was directed to register his divorce under the new Assam law. The court noted the divorce was pronounced according to Talaq-E-Hassan requirements. Previous registration authorities under an old law were abolished.

Properties worth over Rs 6.22 crore of drug smugglers/peddlers attached in Srinagar

Digital Desk | Srinagar, Sep 10 (IANS) Properties of drug smugglers/peddlers, worth over Rs 6.22 crore, have been attached in Srinagar, police said on Thursday. A police statement said that the measure came as Srinagar police intensified the crackdown on drug-linked properties. Continuing its sustained and resolute crackdown against drug trafficking and the financial networks of narcotics offenders, Srinagar Police has intensified action against properties acquired from the proceeds of illicit narcotics activities, attaching/freezing immovable assets worth over Rs 6.22 crore in six separate NDPS cases, it said. The latest actions, carried out by Police Stations Nigeen and Zakura along with earlier property attachment/freezing proceedings by Police Stations Shalteng, Ahmad Nagar, and Lal Bazar, reaffirm Srinagar polices commitment to dismantling not only the operational networks of drug traffickers but also the financial infrastructure that sustains the illicit narcotics trade. In the latest action, Police Station Nigeen attached an immovable property comprising a double-storeyed residential house along with land, valued at approximately Rs 1.10 crore, situated at Danihama, Hazratbal. The property, belonging to Mubashir Ashiq Teeli, son of Ashiq Hussain Teeli and resident of Saderbal, Hazratbal, presently at Danihama, was attached under Section 68-F(1) of the NDPS Act, 1985, in connection with FIR No. 24/2026 under Sections 8/21 of the NDPS Act, registered at the police station. Meanwhile, Police Station Zakura attached an immovable property comprising a residential house and land, valued at approximately Rs 1.14 crore, situated at Mulphaq Abu Baker Colony, Hazratbal. The property belongs to Zubair Ahmad Rather, son of Mohd Shaban Rather, resident of Lariyal, Tral, presently Abu Baker Colony, Mulphaq, and the action came in connection with FIR No. 44/2026 under Sections 8/20 NDPS Act, registered at the police station. Earlier, Police Station Shalteng froze an immovable property valued at approximately Rs 1 crore, belonging to accused Mohd. Altaf Dar, son of Ghulam Ahmad Dar, resident of Dilawar Colony, Mujgund, during the investigation of FIR No. 76/2025 under Sections 8/20 NDPS Act. The property comprises a single-storey residential house along with 11.5 marlas of land. In another major action, Police Station Ahmad Nagar attached an immovable property valued at approximately Rs 2.2 crore, belonging to accused Owais Ahmad Mir, son of Ghulam Hassan Mir, resident of Baghaat Shoora, Srinagar, in connection with FIR No. 09/2025 under Sections 8/21/27-A/29 NDPS Act. The property comprises a double-storey residential house, including a hall on the second floor, along with approximately 10 marlas of land at Baghaat Shoora. Police Station Lal Bazar also attached a drug-linked immovable property comprising a double-storey residential house along with 3.5 marlas of land, having an estimated market value of more than Rs 35 lakh. The property belongs to Waseem Ahmad Langoo, son of Farooq Ahmad Langoo, resident of Sheikh Colony, Lal Bazar, in connection with FIR No. 52/2023 under Sections 8/20 of the NDPS Act. During the investigation of FIR No. 87/2025 under Section 8/20 of the NDPS Act, registered at Police Station Shalteng, immovable property belonging to accused Riyaz Ahmad Bhat, son of Ghulam Mohammad Bhat, resident of Panzinara, Srinagar, and comprising a single-storey residential house along with 6 marlas of land, valued at approximately Rs 43 lakh, was attached.

Congress appoints G.B. Shashidhara of Arasikere as Hassan DCC president

Hassan panel records Ramya Haridas statement in the late-night affray controversy in Keralam

I gave the M.M. Hassan Commission an honest account of what transpired and the circumstances that precipitated the incident. I hope and believe the commission will reach a just conclusion, MLA tells reporters

Iran Strikes US Base In Jordan: Injured American Troops Reportedly Airlifted To Germany

Iranian ballistic missiles have struck U.S. military bases in Jordan, with a Jordanian source reportedly claiming that a large number of injured American soldiers are being flown to Ramstein Air Base in Germany, some with life-threatening injuries. The U.S. says all American troops in Jordan are accounted for, while Jordan says 18 of 20 missiles aimed at Al Azraq were intercepted. At least four missiles reportedly hit Muwaffaq Salti, with no interceptors fired.#Iran #US #Jordan #IranMissileStrike #USTroops #AlAzraq #MuwaffaqSalti #PrinceHassan #Ramstein #IRGC #BallisticMissiles #BreakingNews #MiddleEast #USMilitary #IranUSConflict

Union Ministry of Road Transport and Highways clear the revised estimate for Hassan-Belur road

DK Shivakumar hears farmers

Bengaluru: Chief Minister D.K. Shivakumar made a surprise visit to the Yeshwanthpur APMC market on Tuesday, September 8, and interacted with farmers, traders and workers to understand the issues faced by them. During his inspection, Shivakumar visited the potato market and sat on sacks of potatoes brought from Hassan and Agra. He personally cut open Get the latest updates in Hyderabad City News , Technology , Entertainment , Sports , Politics and Top Stories on WhatsApp & Telegram by subscribing to our channels. You can also download our app for Android and iOS .

Global Leaders Mourn Passing of Tanzanias First Gentleman

World leaders express condolences following the death of Hafidh Amir Hassan, husband of Tanzanias President Samia Suluhu Hassan. Global Leaders Mourn Passing of Tanzanias First Gentleman

Global Leaders Mourn the Passing of Tanzanias First Gentleman, Hafidh Amir Hassan

World leaders express condolences following the death of Hafidh Amir Hassan, husband of Tanzanias President Samia Suluhu Hassan. Global Leaders Mourn the Passing of Tanzanias First Gentleman, Hafidh Amir Hassan

World leaders express grief over passing of Tanzania's First Gentleman

Digital Desk | Dar es Salaam, Sep 7 (IANS) World leaders expressed grief on Monday over the passing of Hafidh Ameir Hassan, Tanzania's First Gentleman and husband of President Samia Suluhu Hassan, who died at a hospital in Zanzibar while being treated for a heart ailment. Vice President Deogratius Ndejembi announced the death, saying Hafidh died at about 8 a.m. He was to be buried the same day at Kizimkazi in Zanzibar. I have received with deep sorrow the news of the passing of Hafidh Ameir Hassan, husband of Her Excellency Dr Samia Suluhu Hassan, President of the United Republic of Tanzania, Kenyan President William Ruto said in a post on X. On behalf of the Government and people of Kenya, the First Lady, my family and on my own behalf, I convey our heartfelt condolences to President Samia, her family and the people of Tanzania. President Samia has lost a lifelong companion, her children a beloved father, and Tanzania a distinguished son. Kenya stands with our Tanzanian brothers and sisters in this moment of grief. May Almighty God comfort President Samia and her family, give them strength through this difficult time, and grant Hafidh Ameir Hassan eternal rest. My sincere condolences to my sister, President Samia Suluhu Hassan, her family, and the people of Tanzania on the passing of H.E. Hafidh Ameir Hassan, Rwandan President Paul Kagame said. The Government and people of Rwanda stand in solidarity with President Samia Suluhu Hassan and our brothers and sisters in Tanzania as they honour the life and legacy of H.E. Hafidh Ameir Hassan. We convey our deepest condolences to Her Excellency President Samia Suluhu Hassan on the passing of her husband, Hafidh Ameir Hassan, Zambian President Hakainde Hichilema said. We stand side by side with the first family, and all citizens of the United Republic of Tanzania during this difficult time. I extend my deepest condolences to Her Excellency Dr Samia Suluhu Hassan, President of the United Republic of Tanzania, on the passing of her husband, Hafidh Ameir Hassan. Somalia stands with her family and the people of Tanzania in this time of grief. May Allah grant him Jannatul Firdaws, Somali President Hassan Sheikh Mohamud said. Hafidh, an agricultural expert who kept a low public profile, married Samia in 1978. The couple had four children.

One found murdered in Hassan

Karnataka: Residential School Shifted Against Wishes Of Students/Parents Temporarily In Hassan

Once the consent from parents was received, officials shifted the students in 3 buses to a new location in Halli Mysore: Reports

Hassan district administration receives 1,076 applications during Praja Seva Abhiyana meeting

Of the applications received, officers resolved 62 on the spot. The Minister directed officials to resolve the remaining applications within a period ranging from 15 days to two months.

SP MP Iqra Hassan claims house arrest on Saharanpur visit bid

Lucknow: Samajwadi Party MP Iqra Hasan has said that she was placed under house arrest at her Kairana residence before she could travel to Saharanpur to register her protest and speak to officials, raising her concern over the demolition of a mosque there. The Kairana MP said that a police force was deployed outside her Get the latest updates in Hyderabad City News , Technology , Entertainment , Sports , Politics and Top Stories on WhatsApp & Telegram by subscribing to our channels. You can also download our app for Android and iOS .

KPCC poised to take tough line on discipline, without closing door on reconciliation between opposing parties, in fracas involving MLA Haridas

KPCC enquiry commission head M M Hassan promises full representation for the conflicting party workers as the hearing begins at the KPCC office. The episode had also brought to the fore larger questions regarding the conduct and responsibilities of MLAs that come with parliamentary privilege.

Womens Asia Cup: Charani, Prema star as India register fifth straight win over Pakistan (ld)

Dubai, Sep 5 (IANS) On a scorching 40-degree evening in Dubai, the anticipation of a fierce India-Pakistan game quickly evaporated into another familiar, stark mismatch. History had offered little comfort to Pakistan coming into Saturdays clash in the 2026 Womens Asia Cup, having dropped four consecutive fixtures to their neighbours across formats. Yet, as twenty-two players lined up under oppressive, humid conditions to square off on a fresh pitch offering grip and sharp turn, it seemed set for a battle of attrition. Instead, Indias lethal spin quartet of N. Sree Charani, Prema Rawat, Shafali Verma and Deepti Sharma dished out a tactical bowling masterclass to bundle out Pakistan for a paltry 55 and set the base of a seven-wicket victory to sign off from the league stage. The quarter proved to be unplayable, as the relentless spin quarter consistently deceived the Pakistani batters with flight and forced them to perish by playing loose, off-side strokes outside their reach. For Pakistan, barring openers Shawaal Zulfiqar and Muneeba Ali, none of the batters reached double figures, as they went from 27/0 to 55/6, and that insipid batting made the contest a one-sided affair yet again, as India got their fifth consecutive T20I win over the archrivals. After Pakistan chose to bat first, a decision which surprised many, they were scratchy from the outset before showing some intent. Kranti Gauds opening delivery seamed away to beat Muneeba's outside edge, before Shawaal struck consecutive boundaries off her and Nandni Sharma. Muneeba survived two early dropped chances, both off Pratika Rawal, before off-spinner Shafali provided the breakthrough by castling her for 13. The wicket triggered a collapse as top-ranked T20I bowler Charani struck twice in the final powerplay over, removing Gull Feroza for a duck and trapping Shawaal lbw for 14. Charani then picked up her third scalp by having Ayesha Zafar caught at mid-on by captain Harmanpreet Kaur, playing her 150th game as Indias captain. Prema then joined the wicket-takers party by castling Sadaf Shamas, before Deepti Sharma trapped Pakistan skipper Fatima Sana lbw for a duck. Eyman Fatima provided brief resistance by hitting the innings' final boundary off Prema, but a tragic mix-up with Umm-e-Hani saw her run out for five. Prema came back to dismiss Umm-e-Hani with a top-edged sweep to short fine leg, before catching Nashra Sandhu off her own bowling to finish with figures of 3-9. Charani picked 3-7 from her four overs, thus maintaining her rich vein of form. By extracting sharp turn, consistent drift, and maintaining impeccable control of length, Charani was at the peak of her power, as Pakistans attempts to attack her ended in abject failure, with lobbed catches to the infield. Deepti wrapped up the innings in the 19th over by deceiving Tuba Hassan in flight, as wicketkeeper Richa Ghosh completed a sharp stumping in a solid day of wicketkeeping, as Pakistan completely unravelled against Indias disciplined spinners. Shafali Verma set an explosive tone for the paltry chase by launching the very first delivery from Sadia Iqbal over long-off for a six. Shafali also became the youngest batter to reach 3,000 runs in womens T20Is at 22 years and 220 days, as well as the fastest in terms of balls faced (2,182). Pakistan captain Fatima Sana mounted a spirited fightback when she removed Shafali (12) by extracting a soft leading edge, completed via a caught-and-bowled dismissal, before getting Pratika Rawal (4) caught behind. Fatima struck again in her second over by trapping Smriti Mandhana lbw after the opener hit her for a boundary, leaving India at 29/3 in the fourth over. The three-wicket burst made Fatima just the fourth bowler from a full-member nation to take three wickets in the powerplay overs of a womens T20I twice in her career. However, captain Harmanpreet and Deepti Sharma steadied the chase without further alarms. The duo took their time before Deepti released the pressure in the seventh over by stepping out to loft left-arm spinner Nashra Sandhu over mid-wicket for four. Harmanpreet and Deepti carefully made the remaining runs by using soft hands and quick running to keep the scoreboard ticking. Harmanpreet then capped off the win in style in the ninth over - after surviving a chance that just evaded an outstretched Fatima at mid-on for four, she stepped down the pitch to loft Nashra Sandhu cleanly over long-on for a six, as India signed off by dominating Pakistan yet again. Brief scores: Pakistan 55 all out in 18.1 overs (Shawaal Zulfiqar 14, Muneeba Ali 13; N Sree Charani 3-7, Prema Rawat 3-9) lost to India 57/3 in 8.4 overs (Harmanpreet Kaur 18 not out, Shafali Verma 12; Fatima Sana 3-17) by seven wickets