The One To Watch Out For: Fans React To Vidya Balan's Powerful Kantha Look In Jailer 2

Vidya Balan makes a commanding entrance in the newly released glimpse

Antigua & Barbuda Falcons Crowned Cpl 2026 Champions After Eight-Wicket Final Victory

The Antigua & Barbuda Falcons were crowned Caribbean Premier League (CPL) champions for the first time after defeating the Jamaica Kingsmen by eight wickets at the Kensington Oval. An unbeaten 89-run partnership between Amir Jangoo and Hasan Nawaz completed the Falcons historic triumph after another sensational spell from Sufyan Moqim, who claimed 4 for 14 to set up the chase. Maaz Sadaqats second century of the season ultimately counted for little as the Kingsmen fell short despite posting 170 for 9. Sent in to bat, the Kingsmen immediately signalled their intent in the Power Play, with Sadaqat launching Jayden Seales into the stands from the first ball. Seales, however, struck back at the end of the over when Kirk McKenzie was sharply caught by Rahkeem Cornwall in the slips. Keacy Carty joined Sadaqat at the crease, with the pair having already played starring roles in the play-offs. They looked to make the most of the Power Play and appeared to be building another formidable partnership, but Carty soon punched one straight to Shadab Khan at cover, with the Falcons all-rounder taking a sharp catch. Cornwall came close to adding another wicket when Saim Ayub was initially given out lbw, but a faint glove edge overturned the decision on review to give the Kingsmen opener a reprieve. The Kingsmen ended the Power Play on 59 for 2, just one run short of the landmark ten runs an over. Sadaqat continued his sensational play-off form, racing to his half-century from just 27 balls. But the Falcons had displayed impressive bowling depth throughout the tournament, and they unleashed their in-form spinner Moqim to turn the game on its head. The left-arm spinner struck immediately, removing Ayub and Rovman Powell in his first over. Shadab then joined the party by dismissing Romaine Morris, before Moqim claimed his third wicket by removing Hassan Khan. The Kingsmen suddenly found themselves in deep trouble, losing four wickets for just three runs in the space of 12 deliveries. Moqim and Shadab were ripping through the middle order, just as they had done against the Guyana Amazon Warriors earlier in the play-offs. But the Kingsmen refused to surrender, and with Sadaqat still at the crease, their innings remained alive. The right-hander once again took centre stage, powering towards a second century of the season with a sensational display of 360-degree hitting. He reached the first century in a CPL final from just 49 balls, adding another 14 runs before falling on the penultimate delivery of the innings. His magnificent knock propelled the Kingsmen to 170 for 9 from their 20 overs. The Falcons reply got off to a flying start, with Rahkeem Cornwall smashing 20 runs from the first over before being bowled by the final delivery. Cornwalls explosive start allowed Evin Lewis and Amir Jangoo to balance aggression with caution during the Power Play. Lewis survived a second chance when Andre Russell overstepped, and he responded by shifting through the gears. The final over of the Power Play produced 17 runs as the Falcons raced to 76 for 1 after six overs. The Kingsmen soon found a breakthrough when Lewis chopped on to his stumps off Vitel Lawes, but the wicket only seemed to inspire Jangoo. Joined by Hasan Nawaz, Jangoo built a composed and increasingly dominant partnership that kept the Falcons comfortably ahead of the required rate, which sat just above a run a ball. Jangoo brought up his half-century with the partnership already past 50, leaving the Falcons firmly in control heading into the final five overs. With the target within touching distance, Nawaz put the finishing touch on a commanding team performance, launching the winning runs over the boundary for six and sending his teammates sprinting onto the field in celebration. Also Read: Special Cricket Stories The Falcons reached 173 for 2 with 20 balls to spare, completing a memorable eight-wicket victory and securing the first CPL title in the history of the Antigua & Barbuda franchise.

Indian Mens Kabaddi Team Dominates Japan in Opening Match of 2026 Asian Games

The Indian mens kabaddi team secured a commanding 49-23 victory over Japan in their first match at the 2026 Asian Games. Indian Mens Kabaddi Team Dominates Japan in Opening Match of 2026 Asian Games

Psychology explains how US Navy SEAL training builds resilience - even when motivation runs out

US Navy SEAL training reveals resilience is not innate but can develop. Psychological traits like hardiness and grit adapt during demanding conditions. Viewing stress as enhancing improves performance and perseverance among candidates. Goal-setting and emotional control become vital when motivation wanes. True resilience involves adaptation and regulating reactions, not just persistence.

Suspected Drug Peddler Arrested in South Kashmir; Contraband Recovered

SRINAGAR: Police in Anantnag district arrested a suspected drug peddler and recovered charas and ganja from his possession in the Ashajipora area on Monday, officials said. The accused was identified as Muzaffar Ahmad Sheikh, son of Gh. Hassan Sheikh, a resident of Nazuk Mohalla, Ganjiwara. Police said a team from Police Post Janglatmandi intercepted him []

Indian Agriculture Minister Suspends Official Over Bribery Allegations

Agriculture Minister Shivraj Singh Chouhan suspends an official for demanding bribes during inspections in Sehore district. Indian Agriculture Minister Suspends Official Over Bribery Allegations

Shiv Sena-UBT Criticizes Maharashtra Government Over Farmer Crisis Amid Drought

Shiv Sena-UBT accuses Maharashtra government of neglecting farmers suffering from drought, demanding urgent action and relief measures. Shiv Sena-UBT Criticizes Maharashtra Government Over Farmer Crisis Amid Drought

India Dominates Pakistan 3-0 in Table Tennis at 2026 Asian Games

The Indian table tennis team secured a commanding 3-0 victory over Pakistan, advancing to the quarter-finals at the 2026 Asian Games. India Dominates Pakistan 3-0 in Table Tennis at 2026 Asian Games

JMC Commissioner initiates redevelopment work at Parade Vegetable Market

Jammu, Sep 20: Commissioner, Jammu Municipal Corporation (JMC) and CEO, Jammu Smart City, Dr. Devansh Yadav on Sunday visited the Old Vegetable Market at Parade and initiated the redevelopment work, marking the beginning of a major infrastructure upgrade aimed at transforming the historic market into a cleaner, more organised and modern trading space. During his visit, the Vegetable Market Association welcomed the Commissioner and expressed its support for the redevelopment initiative. Interacting with traders and members of the association, Dr. Yadav assured those present that the work had commenced and would be completed as soon as possible. He said the redevelopment would provide improved facilities for vendors and visitors, enhance hygiene standards and create a more efficient and customer-friendly market environment. The redevelopment project, with an estimated DPR cost of 5.88 crore, aims to transform the existing mandi through modern infrastructure, upgraded civic amenities and a well-planned layout. The project is expected to improve market functionality, accessibility, sanitation and the overall shopping experience. As part of the redevelopment, a spacious Mild Steel (MS) covered shed will be constructed to provide weather-protected vending space for traders. The facility will accommodate 117 vendor platforms, each measuring 1.8 metres 2.1 metres, ensuring systematic and orderly market operations. The shed area will be developed with Kota stone flooring, while the vendor platforms will feature granite cladding and granite tops to ensure durability, hygiene and ease of maintenance. The project also envisages the construction of 44 permanent commercial shop blocks, each measuring 2.4 metres 2.7 metres, to support vegetable vendors and allied businesses in a structured retail setting. To improve sanitation and cleanliness, the existing drainage network will be strengthened and rehabilitated to minimise waterlogging and ensure efficient disposal of wastewater within the mandi premises. The redevelopment plan further includes a redesigned main entry gate with sandstone cladding, enhancing the visual appeal and identity of the market. Modern public amenities, including separate toilet blocks for men and women and drinking water cooler units, will also be installed for the convenience of traders and visitors. The internal movement and circulation areas will be developed using Pavement Quality Concrete (PQC) to withstand regular pedestrian movement and light vehicular traffic, ensuring long-term durability and reduced maintenance requirements. Dr. Yadav said the redevelopment had been conceived to improve market functionality through an organised layout, better accessibility, enhanced safety and efficient civic infrastructure. He added that the upgraded facilities would significantly improve hygiene standards and provide a cleaner, safer and more convenient environment for the handling and sale of fresh produce. The initiation of work at the Parade Vegetable Market marks an important step towards the planned modernisation of one of Jammus oldest and busiest markets, with the JMC committed to completing the redevelopment at the earliest possible time.

J&K Police seize nine vehicles in Shopian, Sopore

Srinagar, Sep 20: Continuing it sustained drive against illegal mining and transportation of minerals, Police have seized nine vehicles including two dumpers and seven tractors involved in illegal extraction and transportation of minerals in Shopian and Sopore. The vehicles were found involved in the extraction and transportation of mining material, without valid authorization and in violation of the prescribed norms. Meanwhile in Sopore, Sopore Police seized two vehicles involved in illegal extraction and transportation of minerals in the jurisdiction of PS Panzalla and PP Fruit Mandi. Accordingly, the vehicles were seized on the spot and multiple FIRs under relevant provisions of law stand registered at the concerned police stations. Further investigation in the matter has been initiated. J&K Police reiterated its firm commitment to protecting the districts natural resources and taking strict legal action against individuals involved in illegal mining activities. The general public has been urged to cooperate with the police and report any such unlawful activities.

CBI arrests SDAO, 2 others in bribery case

The Central Bureau of Investigation (CBI) has arrested three persons, including a Sub-Divisional Agriculture Officer (SDAO) of the J&K Agriculture Department, an Agricultural Extension Assistant (AEA) and a private individual, in connection with an alleged bribery racket involving the release of subsidy under the Holistic Agriculture Development Programme (HADP). The arrested accused, according to the CBI, have been identified as Rajan Sharma, Sub-Divisional Agriculture Officer (SDAO), Agriculture Department, Government of J&K; Abhilashi Sharma, Agricultural Extension Assistant (AEA), Agriculture Department and Ashok Kumar, a private person. According to the CBI, the case was registered on September 19, 2026, following allegations that SDAO Rajan Sharma had demanded a Rs 35,000 bribe from a complainant for releasing his subsidy under the HADP scheme. The CBI maintained that the SDAO directed the complainant to hand over the demanded bribe either to the Agricultural Extension Assistant or to the private person. Acting on the complaint, the CBI laid a trap and caught AEA Abhilashi Sharma and private person Ashok Kumar red-handed while allegedly demanding and accepting Rs 15,000 from the complainant. The agency subsequently arrested SDAO Rajan Sharma from his residence in connection with the case. The arrests have brought under scrutiny the alleged demand for illegal gratification in connection with the disbursement of government agricultural subsidy, with the CBI continuing its investigation to establish the full sequence of events and the role of the accused, the investigative agency said, adding that further investigation was continuing.

Lt Gen P K Mishra relinquishing command of White Knight Corps on Oct 1

General Officer Commanding (GOC), Lieutenant General P K Mishra is relinquishing the command of Nagrota-based White Knight (16) Corps of the Indian Army on October 1, 2026. Lieutenant General Mohit Seth, presently serving as Commandant, Indian Military Training Team (IMTRAT), Indian Armys training establishment in Bhutan, will succeed him as the GOC XVI Corps. On April 1, 2025, Lt Gen Mishra had taken over the command of 16 Corps strategically one of the very crucial Corps of the Indian Army. He was recently conferred the prestigious Uttam Yudh Seva Medal (UYSM) by the President Droupadi Murmu at the Defence Investiture Ceremony 2026 (phase II). Lt Gen Mishra, also a recipient of Ati Vishisht Seva Medal (AVSM), Yudh Seva Medal (YSM) and Seva Medal (SM), had succeeded Lieutenant General Navin Sachdeva. Prior to taking over as GOC 16 Corps, Lt Gen Mishra was heading IMTRAT in Bhutan. There also, he was relieved of the charge by Lt Gen Mohit Seth as new Commandant, IMTRAT. Lt Gen Seth, an alumnus of the National Defence Academy (NDA) and the National Defence college (NDC), was commissioned into the 3 Madras Regiment in 1991. Previously, he also served as General Officer Commanding of the Kilo Force of Army in J&K. In his distinguished military career spanning over three decades, he held various prestigious staff and command appointments in J&K, North East and at Army Headquarter. He has also served as Indian Army Liaison Officer, High Commission of India, United Kingdom.

Shivraj Singh Chouhan to join BJPs Nasha Mukt Punjab Yatra in Punjab today

Digital Desk | New Delhi, Sep 21 (IANS) Union Agriculture and Rural Development Minister Shivraj Singh Chouhan will visit Punjab on Monday for a one-day trip, where he will participate in the BJPs Nasha Mukt Punjab Yatra (Drug-Free Punjab Campaign). During his visit, Chouhan will pay obeisance at Takht Sri Damdama Sahib in Talwandi Sabo before joining the BJPs campaign against drug abuse. At 10:00 a.m., he is scheduled to inaugurate and participate in the Nasha Mukt Punjab Yatra at Dana Mandi, located at Ravidasia Chowk in Talwandi Sabo. The Union minister will also address a public meeting in Maisarkhana and hold a direct dialogue with farmers and women associated with self-help groups in Bathinda. His participation comes as the four-day campaign enters its final leg, with the yatra scheduled to reach Bathinda and conclude the BJPs state-wide outreach programme. The BJP launched the mega Nasha Mukt Punjab Yatra on September 18, with the campaign covering different parts of Punjab. BJP national President Nitin Nabin flagged off the first march from Ekta Sthal at Madhopur in Pathankot district earlier on Friday. The second yatra was on September 19 from Fatehgarh Sahib and was flagged off by Delhi Chief Minister Rekha Gupta. The third yatra was held on September 20 from the Sadiki border in Fazilka, near the Asafwala 1971 War Memorial, and was flagged off by Law Minister Arjun Ram Meghwal. The four-day yatra began in Pathankot and is scheduled to conclude in Bathinda, covering key districts across the state. The campaign is centred on the issue of drug abuse, which has remained a significant concern and a prominent subject of political discourse in Punjab. Through the yatra, the BJP is seeking to raise awareness about the adverse impact of drugs and highlight its vision and proposed approach for creating a drug-free Punjab. The participation of senior BJP leaders, including Chouhan, is expected to add political momentum to the campaign while strengthening the partys organisational network and public outreach across the state.

2 years on, no work on Anantnags 249-bed maternity, child hospital

Srinagar, Sep 20:Nearly two years after the proposed 249-bed Maternal and Child Care Hospital was announced for Anantnag, construction has yet to begin, as the revised project report awaits approval and funding. In November 2024, the Health and Medical Education Department (H&ME) directed the Public Works Department (PWD) to prepare a Detailed Project Report (DPR) for the hospital at Government Medical College, MAMB Janglatmandi, and fast-track the project. The initial DPR, estimated at Rs 86.5 crore, was submitted to the Finance Department under the NABARD Rural Infrastructure Development Fund (RIDF-XXXI). It was returned for clarification on the funding source and inclusion of furniture and furnishings. PWD later revised the project cost to Rs 94.44 crore. The revised project cost is Rs 94.44 crore, Superintending Engineer (SE) Syed Ishfaq Ahmad said. He said the revised DPR was forwarded to the Principal of GMC Anantnag on April 1. A GMC official said the proposal was in turn forwarded to the Health Secretary in April, with copies sent to the Finance Secretary and Director of Health Services. Officials said NABARD remains the proposed funding source, while administrative approval and fund release are pending. About 4.5 Kanals of land was initially demarcated within the Mirza Mohammad Afzal Beg Memorial (MAMB) Hospital premises at Janglatmandi, with the proposed facility to be connected to Block A. The idea was to bring maternity and child care services under one roof at GMC Janglatmandi, an official said. Other sites considered include the GMC main campus at Dialgam, the existing Sherbagh site after dismantling the dilapidated MCCH structures, and Rehmat-e-Alam Hospital at Sarnal, KP road. A senior doctor said the MAMB campus at Janglatmandi already has limited space, with a nursing home, oxygen plants and several centrally funded projects behind the main A, B and C blocks. The critical care unit is also under construction. A proposed oncology block and a sewage treatment plant are also planned there. There is hardly any room for expansion, the doctor said. The new hospital must be planned for the next hundred years, not just the next few, he said. The government told the Assembly during the February budget session that Rs 5 crore had been earmarked for the project under the 2025-26 CAPEX budget. It said the project could also be taken up under the Special Assistance to States for Capital Investment (SASCI) scheme in 2026-27. Health and Medical Education Minister Sakina Itoo recently said construction would begin once the land was finalised. Chief Minister Omar Abdullah has already sanctioned and allocated funds under NABARD for the new maternity and child care hospital, she said, adding that the land had to be within the GMC-MAMB Janglatmandi premises. I have directed officials to identify the land at the earliest. Officials, however, said no funds had been released. Sherbagh hospital remains overcrowded The existing maternity hospital at Sherbagh continues to operate despite being declared unsafe by the PWD and Fire and Emergency Services in 2014. The hospital handles more than 40,000 outpatient visits and about 7,000 admissions each month. Built for 40 beds, it now operates far beyond capacity, with two labour rooms, four surgical wards and one operation theatre. In many cases, two to three patients share a single bed, a doctor said. The paediatric section was shifted to MAMB GMC Anantnag last year after repeated fires in the Neonatal Intensive Care Unit (NICU) caused electrical faults. A 2015 blaze damaged the outpatient department (OPD), including the gynaecology, obstetrics and paediatric sections. In March 2022, a gas leak triggered a fire that injured 12 people, including two children. The building is not safe to run the maternity hospital at all, Itoo said. Rehmat-e-Alam relocation plan shelved A proposal to shift maternity services to Rehmat-e-Alam Hospital on KP Road at Sarnal was shelved after structural assessments by IIT Jammu and NIT Srinagar found the building unsuitable under post-2005 earthquake safety standards. The building was originally constructed by a local trust and later expanded by the Housing Department, JKPCC and R&B at a cost of about Rs 13 crore. IIT Jammu and NIT Srinagar recommended retrofitting the two lower floors and strengthening key structural elements at an estimated Rs 8 crore, besides about Rs 25 crore for interior work. The Design Inspection Quality Control (DIQC) department also recommended reinforcing underground structures. Using the building for offices or other non-clinical health services was also suggested, but the relocation proposal was eventually dropped. The site has about 30 kanals of land that could potentially be used for new construction. With the new hospital still awaiting approval, the Sherbagh facility continues to function under severe space constraints. Like the childrens section, the maternity hospital should also be shifted temporarily until the new facility comes up, said Ishrat Ahmad, a local resident.

COUNT THE DAYS FIRST :The paradox behind J&Ks five-day week debate

Srinagar, Sep 20: The school bell in Jammu and Kashmir may ring as late as 4:30 pm, but the school year itself is considerably shorter than in several other parts of the country. That contrast sits at the centre of a debate now reaching the J&K Legislative Assembly: if children are already under academic pressure, should they spend one less day a week in school? National Conference (NC) MLA Hasnain Masoodi has proposed a five-day working week for schools, with Saturdays and Sundays as holidays, saying students are burdened by studies and need time for rest and recreation. Education Minister Sakina Itoo has said the proposal will be examined by the concerned education authorities. A report titled Working Hours Parity Report: An Objective Audit of the Jammu & Kashmir Academic Calendar, records 181 working days for J&K. Its comparison gives Delhi 243 working days, the South India category 236 and West Bengal 217. In other words, the difference between J&K and the three comparison regions is not measured in a handful of days. It is 36 days against West Bengal, 55 against the South India comparison and 62 against Delhi. The report points to one conspicuous reason: the winter break. It records a 76-day winter vacation in J&K, against 13 days in each of the three comparison regions. Overall, it records 184 holiday days in J&K, including 17 national holidays and 26 state holidays, leaving 181 working days. And yet, on a day-to-day basis, J&K can appear to have a demanding school schedule. The report notes the extension of the school day to 4:30 pm and calls the resulting perception the 4:30 PM illusion, the sense that a late closing bell necessarily means a longer academic year. The report puts annual working hours for J&K at 1,086, against 1,458 in Delhi, 1,463.2 in the South India comparison and 1,519 in West Bengal. It calculates the gap between 25.5 per cent and 28.5 per cent, averaging 26.6 per cent across the three comparisons. There is a qualification that matters: these are working-hour figures for teaching staff and the academic calendar, not a direct measure of the hours individual students spend learning. The report therefore cannot establish that a J&K student receives only 1,086 hours of classroom instruction in a year. But it does establish something relevant to the present debate: J&Ks formal school calendar has fewer working days than the three regions against which the report compares it. The report offers another way of looking at the issue. It applies a common 7.5-hour working day to J&K and West Bengal, removing the difference in daily schedules from the calculation. J&K would still have 1,357.5 annual hours against West Bengals 1,627.5, a 270-hour difference, because the number of working days is different. The comparison becomes even more striking against private-school benchmarks cited in the report. It puts annual hours at 1,498 for private schools in Delhi, 1,536 in West Bengal and 1,711 in its South India comparison, against 1,086 for J&K, with reported gaps ranging from 27.5 per cent to 36.5 per cent. None of these figures, however, answers Masoodis central contention that children are burnt out by academic pressure. That is a different proposition, and it requires different evidence. Nor does the report establish that J&K should have more working days. Its purpose is comparative: to show how the distribution of the academic year differs across the regions examined. Its own figures show that the 76-day winter closure is doing much of the work in producing the annual gap. The calendar data also needs to be read against J&Ks existing academic schedule. The JKBOSE 2024-25 academic calendar separately provided roughly 185 working days for the Kashmir division and winter-zone Jammu. That figure comes from a different academic year and calendar dataset from the 181 working days cited in the institutional audit. J&Ks academic calendar has also changed over time. An earlier DSEK academic planner for 2017-18 prescribed 200 instructional days and 800 effective school hours for primary classes, while upper-primary classes were prescribed 220 instructional days and 1,000 effective school hours. The report also examines the effect of the daily timetable across seasons. It puts peak daylight at roughly 13-14 hours between April and July, when the school day may run to 4:30 pm. For September and October, it puts daylight at about 11-12 hours, while during November and December the school day ends at 3 pm. The report describes these as approximate seasonal daylight figures. Itoo has said the proposal will be taken up with the Directorate of School Education Kashmir, Directorate of School Education Jammu and the Director of Colleges for examination.

Bukhari cautions against settling outsiders in J

Slams neglect of Srinagar, demands probe into citys Master Plan Srinagar, Sep 20: Apni Party President Syed Mohammad Altaf Bukhari on Sunday cautioned against any attempt to settle outsiders in Jammu and Kashmir under the garb of development, demanding a probe into allegations that land is being purchased in the name of certain locals to []

CBI arrests agriculture officer, two others in bribery case

Srinagar, Sep 20: The Central Bureau of Investigation (CBI) has arrested three people, including a Sub-Divisional Agriculture Officer (SDAO) and an Agricultural Extension Assistant (AEA) of the Jammu and Kashmir Agriculture Department, in a bribery case linked to the release of a subsidy under the Holistic Agriculture Development Programme (HADP). The third accused is a private individual, the CBI said. The case was registered on September 19 following a complaint alleging that the SDAO had demanded 35,000 from the complainant for releasing the subsidy. According to the CBI, the officer directed the complainant to hand over the bribe to either the AEA or the private individual. The agency subsequently laid a trap and allegedly caught the AEA and the private individual red-handed while demanding and accepting 15,000 from the complainant. The SDAO was later arrested from his residence, the CBI said. Further investigation in the case is underway.

Who Will Answer for Sidra?

The death of seven-year-old Sidra after she was struck by a vehicle in Barbar Shah on Sunday is not merely another tragic entry in Srinagars accident register. It is a devastating reminder that the citys roads, lanes and crossings remain hostile to the most vulnerable: children, pedestrians, elderly people and those who have no protection except the promise that public spaces will be governed responsibly. Sidra was critically injured and rushed to SMHS Hospital, where doctors declared her brought dead. Behind these brief official details lies a family shattered in an instant. A child who should have been returning home, walking beside a parent or playing in a neighbourhood, became the victim of a collision whose circumstances must be established without delay. The police investigation is necessary, but it cannot be the end of the public response. Every such death raises questions that go beyond the individual driver. Was the road adequately lit? Was traffic moving at a dangerous speed? Were pedestrians forced into the carriageway because footpaths were absent, encroached upon or unusable? Were warning signs, speed controls and enforcement visible? In crowded parts of Srinagar, these are not abstract questions. They are matters of life and death. Urban roads are often designed around the convenience and speed of vehicles, while pedestrians are expected to negotiate whatever space remains. This imbalance is especially dangerous in old and densely populated areas, where narrow streets, informal parking, commercial activity and constant vehicle movement create a permanent hazard. Children cannot be expected to calculate braking distances or anticipate reckless driving. The responsibility lies with drivers, enforcement agencies and urban planners to make streets safe before tragedy occurs. Authorities must therefore treat Sidras death as a warning demanding action, not as an isolated incident to be forgotten after the investigation report. The stretch where the accident occurred should be audited immediately. Speed limits must be enforced, illegal parking removed, crossings marked, and lighting improved. Traffic police presence should be strengthened at vulnerable points, particularly around residential areas, schools, markets and hospitals. CCTV footage and eyewitness accounts must be examined transparently, and accountability must follow if negligence is established. But enforcement alone will not solve Srinagars pedestrian safety crisis. The city needs a clear road-safety policy that places human life above traffic speed. Footpaths must be protected from encroachment, crossings made usable and road design aligned with the realities of a dense urban population. Public awareness campaigns are useful, but they cannot substitute for engineering, regulation and sustained enforcement. Sidras family will carry this loss long after public attention moves elsewhere. The least the city can do is ensure that her death does not become another statistic. A child was killed on a Srinagar street. The question now is whether the authorities will merely investigate the incident or confront the unsafe system that made such a tragedy possible.

Police file case against TVK member, five others for demanding protection money from gas agency

BJP seeks Rahul Gandhi's apology over comedian's mimicry of PM Modi at Indore event; Congress says it was just mimicry

The BJP has strongly criticized Rahul Gandhi for a comedy act. This performance allegedly insulted Prime Minister Narendra Modi's mother and included falsehoods. Party leaders are demanding a public apology from Gandhi for these remarks. The Congress defended the act as simple mimicry and nothing more. This incident has sparked a significant political controversy and debate.

MERZ FAILED GERMANY!: Berlin Voters Lash Out As AfD STORMS NATO Nation | Watch

Berlin voters delivered a blistering assessment of German Chancellor Friedrich Merz as the capitals state election got underway. One resident criticised the CDUs response to rising prices, arguing that demanding longer working hours and restricting part-time employment was not credible social policy. She said the partys failure to connect with its traditional voters had helped strengthen the AfD and declared that Merz was definitely not my chancellor. Another voter accused Merz of making racist and misogynistic remarks and predicted that he would remain in office until the end of his termnot because voters supported him, but because his ego is a bit too big for him to resign.

'Hey Bibi, How Much More Blood?': Israelis Take To Streets, Big Demand Before October Election

Demonstrators gathered in Tel Aviv to protest Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahus government, with several protesters calling for political change ahead of Israels October election. Footage shows participants carrying Israeli flags and placards, including messages asking, How much more blood will be spilt? and demanding a state commission of inquiry. An installation titled Responsibility featured white fabric marked with fake blood. Protesters also raised concerns over the ongoing war, government accountability and Israels political direction. Rally participants said replacing Netanyahu alone would not address what they described as broader policy and governance issues. The demonstration comes ahead of the October 27 Knesset election, while calls for an official inquiry into the October 7 attacks remain a prominent issue among protesters.

Gujarat: New Gambhira bridge opens a year after tragedy

Digital Desk | Vadodara, Sep 20 (IANS) The new Gambhira-Mujpur bridge over the Mahi River was inaugurated in Vadodara district on Sunday, a little over a year after the collapse of the old structure claimed 22 lives, as Chief Minister Bhupendra Patel inaugurated and laid the foundation stones for development projects worth Rs 1,297 crore in the district. The new 868.75-metre bridge connects Padra taluka in Vadodara with Anklav in Anand district and has 23 spans and 21 piers. According to the Roads and Buildings Department, construction began on August 14, 2025, and was completed on August 13, making it the fastest river bridge in Gujarat. The earlier bridge, built in 1985, collapsed on July 9 last year when a section between two piers gave way during morning traffic, sending several vehicles into the Mahi River. The final death toll was 22. The bridge was a major route between central Gujarat and Saurashtra and carried around one lakh vehicles a day, including heavy vehicles. Its collapse forced commuters to take detours of up to 45 km. The new structure uses epoxy-coated steel to improve durability and reduce corrosion. Around 300 workers were deployed round the clock during construction, with fluctuating water levels and flow in the Mahi River posing challenges. Safety testing was also carried out before the bridge was opened. Addressing a programme at Trimandir in Varnama, Patel said the Rs 1,297-crore package included the Gambhira bridge, the Bharat Ratna Dr Babasaheb Ambedkar Sankalp Bhoomi Memorial at Kalyannagar and works related to housing, roads, drainage and water supply. The Ambedkar memorial, built at a cost of around Rs 29 crore, features a 12-foot statue of Dr Ambedkar, along with a museum, digital show, library, and auditorium. Patel said the memorial would inspire future generations toward social equality, unity, and harmony. Social harmony had been established in the country under Prime Minister Narendra Modis leadership and that the spirit of Vasudhaiva Kutumbakam had received continuous encouragement under his leadership, he added. He said PM Modi had adopted an approach of considering every citizen as part of his family and ensuring that the benefits of development reached the person at the bottom of the social and economic ladder. The Chief Minister said the 'Seva Sankalp Abhiyan' is being organised to advance further PM Modis 25-year journey of public and national service. Benefits of schemes including the Pradhan Mantri Awas Yojana, Pradhan Mantri Ujjwala Yojana, Har Ghar Jal and Ayushman Bharat had made peoples lives easier, and citizens must ensure that those who remained deprived received their rightful benefits, he said. He stressed the need for a saturation approach so that government schemes reached the maximum number of beneficiaries and urged people to contribute to public service through activities such as tree plantation, cleanliness drives, water conservation, electricity conservation and rainwater harvesting. The government is working to bring every village, family and citizen into the development process, he noted. He said 593 houses were among the works being undertaken under the Pradhan Mantri Awas Yojana. He stressed the importance of public participation in building a developed Gujarat and achieving the vision of Viksit Bharat by 2047. Social Justice and Empowerment Minister Pradyuman Vaja said Vadodara had received development works worth Rs 1,273 crore, including around Rs 75 crore in projects under his department. Vaja also thanked the Chief Minister for making a budgetary provision of Rs 231 crore in Gujarat to mark the 650th birth anniversary of Sant Shiromani Ravidas. Minister of State Manisha Vakil said Patel had given priority to reconstructing the Gambhira bridge and ensured the work was completed on time. The new bridge would make trade and commercial movement between Vadodara and Saurashtra easier. The Bharat Ratna Dr Babasaheb Ambedkar Memorial would continue to inspire people, she added.

Doctors and Nurses Strike After Violent Incident at East Burdwan Hospital

Following a violent incident at Manakar Rural Hospital, doctors and nurses have gone on strike, demanding better security measures. Doctors and Nurses Strike After Violent Incident at East Burdwan Hospital

Manipur tense after security forces detain 7 Kukis

Violent protests erupted in Manipur's Kangpokpi district after seven Kuki villagers were allegedly detained by security forces. Protesters blocked roads and clashed with forces, leading to injuries. The villagers were later released, but a Meitei women's organisation subsequently staged a sit-in demanding the release of Meitei village volunteers.

Bengal: Doctors, nurses strike after attack at East Burdwan hospital

Digital Desk | Kolkata, Sep 20 (IANS) Relatives of a deceased patient vandalised Mankar Rural Hospital in the Budbud police station area of East Burdwan district on Sunday, alleging that improper treatment led to the death. They also allegedly assaulted nurses and health workers, triggering tension across the hospital premises. Doctors, nurses, and health workers have since launched a strike demanding security. According to reports, Budhan Bauri, a resident of Mankar, fell ill on Saturday night and was taken to the hospital. After initial treatment, he was kept under observation. Doctors later advised his family to take him home as his condition appeared better. However, Budhan reportedly fell ill again on the way home and died. His relatives then stormed the hospital, vandalising equipment and furniture in the emergency department. Eyewitnesses said the crowd broke into a room where nurses and health workers had taken shelter and assaulted them, including female staff. Police from Budbud station rushed to the spot, brought the situation under control, and recovered Budhans body, which was sent for autopsy on Sunday morning. Authorities said efforts are underway to identify those involved in the violence. Following the incident, hospital staff expressed concern for their safety. They have been protesting outside the main gate since Sunday morning, demanding written assurances and specific security measures. If our lives are in danger at work, how will we provide services? Until the administration gives us written assurances and security, our protest will continue, a doctor said. Except for the emergency department, all other hospital services have been suspended.

Trump warns he has entered deciding mode on Iran, says ig things are in store

Washington, DC [US], September 20 : US President Donald Trump cautioned on Sunday that he has reached a decisive juncture regarding the conflict involving Iran, warning that significant consequences will follow if Tehran refuses to alter its behaviour. In remarks shared during an interview with the US network Fox News regarding his strategy in the ongoing war, Trump stated, My question is, if and when do I blow the entire nation up? They had better behave. Outlining his available courses of action, the US President noted that he could annihilate the country, permit it to economically deteriorate, or pursue a diplomatic settlement, while forecasting that very big things are going to be happening in the not-so-distant future. Addressing upcoming international engagements ahead of the UN General Assembly high-level week commencing Monday, Trump indicated a readiness for diplomatic talks, mentioning that he would probably be open to holding discussions with Iranian President Masoud Pezeshkian. Regarding broader conflicts across the region, Trump remarked that Washington maintains ongoing contact with Yemen's Houthis in the wake of their recent ballistic missile strikes directed at Saudi Arabia, maintaining that the faction has consented to refrain from attacking American personnel. However, indications suggest a new front is opening across the restive Middle East as the American administration studies potential military steps against the Houthis following their missile attack targeting the Saudi capital, Riyadh, which Saudi forces successfully intercepted. Amid these escalating regional tensions, President Trump cut short an overnight stay at Camp David and returned to the White House early. CNN National Security Analyst Alex Plitsas reported on X that discussions at the presidential retreat centred on deliberating and reviewing strike options concerning Yemen. Following these high-level deliberations, US embassies across the Middle East issued security warnings to American citizens regarding potential retaliatory targets. The security climate has grown increasingly complex, with ongoing regional friction involving Iran, Yemen, and Western interests. Saudi Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman previously addressed the gravity of the Houthi threat, asserting that military intervention could have swiftly concluded the conflict had it not been for concerns over innocent Yemeni civilians. Concurrently, US diplomatic missions have advised citizens to monitor consular alerts closely due to persistent threats of drone and missile strikes linked to Iran and its regional allies. Adding to the diplomatic dimensions, Irans security chief Mohsen Rezaei stated in an interview with Al Jazeera that Tehran has communicated its terms for ending hostilities through Qatari mediation, demanding an end to the war on all fronts, the unfreezing of national funds, and the cessation of the naval blockade. While the Trump administration weighs these conditions alongside military preparations, world leaders prepare to convene in New York for the United Nations General Assembly, where the unfolding crisis in West Asia is anticipated to dominate international discussions. (ANI)

Hundreds protest in Tunisia for release of jailed Gaza flotilla activists

Hundreds of Tunisians have protested in Tunis, demanding the release of four Global Sumud Flotilla activists. Hundreds protest in Tunisia for release of jailed Gaza flotilla activists

Sub-divisional agriculture officer among 3 arrested by CBI in bribery case in J&K

Srinagar, Sep 20: The Central Bureau of Investigation (CBI) on Saturday arrested a sub-divisional agriculture officer (SDAO) and two others in connection with a bribery case in Jammu and Kashmir, officials said. It is alleged that SDAO Rajan Sharma had demanded a bribe of Rs 35,000 from the complainant for releasing his subsidy under Holistic Agriculture Development Programme (HADP) scheme. Rajan Sharma allegedly directed the subsidy-seeker to handover the bribe either to AEA (Agricultural Extension Assistant) Abhilashi Sharma or to a private person, Ashok Kumar. The CBI laid a trap and caught the accused Agricultural Extension Assistant (AEA) and the private person red-handed while demanding and accepting bribe of Rs. 15,000 from the complainant, a CBI spokesperson said in a statement. SDAO Rajan Sharma was later arrested from his residence, the spokesperson said.

CBI Arrests Agricultural Officials in Bribery Case in Jammu and Kashmir

The CBI has arrested three agricultural officials in Jammu and Kashmir for demanding bribes related to subsidy disbursement. CBI Arrests Agricultural Officials in Bribery Case in Jammu and Kashmir

J and K Bribery: CBI Arrests Agriculture Officer

The Central Bureau of Investigation (CBI) has arrested a Sub-Divisional Agriculture Officer (SDAO) and two others in Jammu and Kashmir for allegedly demanding and accepting a bribe to release a subsidy under the Holistic Agriculture Development Programme (HADP) scheme.

Protesters demanding rollback of UGC regulations block Yamuna Expressway in Agra

Protesters demanding rollback of UGC regulations blocked the Yamuna Expressway in Agra on Sunday. Dozens of tractors were used to halt traffic, leading to a scuffle with police. The demonstrators alleged that some provisions could be misused against general-category students. Police managed to persuade the protesters to clear the road after some time.

Under-construction warehouse collapses in Delhi's Narela, 2 injured

Digital Desk | New Delhi, Sep 20 (IANS) A portion of an under-construction warehouse collapsed in the Narela area of north Delhi on Sunday, injuring two labourers, officials said. The incident took place at around 11 am, at Plot No. 248, on Farm House Road, Jain Mandir, in Narela's Budhpur. Two labourers were reportedly trapped under the debris. However, they were pulled out and rushed to the hospital before the arrival of the Delhi Fire Service (DFS) unit. Upon receiving information, the fire services immediately sent two Water Tenders (WTs), a Bowser Fire Tender (BFT), and a Water Bowser (WB), along with Station Officer Naveen Thakran and Sub Officer Pardeep. The injured labourers have been identified as Sunil, 20, and Naresh Pajwan, 28. A similar incident of building collapse was reported from the Alipur area of north Delhi earlier on Sunday. No casualties were reported in the incident. The Alipur police station received a call regarding the collapse at around 11 a.m., following which police teams were immediately dispatched to the site. Four ambulances, a fire tender, and a disaster management vehicle were also sent to the location, officials said. According to the preliminary inquiry, lintel work was underway at the under-construction building when the supporting shuttering, locally referred to as 'balli', apparently gave way. The failure of the temporary support caused the structure to collapse, officials said. Several labourers were present and working at the construction site when the incident occurred, officials said. Police said that all the workers were accounted for and were found to be safe. No person was trapped beneath the debris, they added. Police teams and other emergency personnel carried out checks at the site to ascertain the circumstances surrounding the collapse and ensure that no one was missing or trapped. Further verification regarding the incident and the safety of the workers is currently underway, police said.

India, Italy entering more demanding phase of bilateral ties: Report

Digital Desk | Rome, Sep 20 (IANS) As Brussels moves the trade agreement between India and the European Union (EU) towards signature, India and Italy are entering a more demanding phase of their ties, with John Cabot University recently launching the first Track 1.5 dialogue to analyse how the ties between the two nations have changed over the years, according to a report. While the EU is accelerating engagement with India, the bilateral ties between Rome and New Delhi have been changing rapidly in recent years, according to a report in Decode39. India and Italy established a Strategic Partnership in 2023, adopted a Joint Strategic Action Plan for 20252029 in 2024 and elevated ties to a Special Strategic Partnership during Prime Minister Narendra Modi's visit to Italy in May. Under the new framework, the Foreign Ministers-led mechanism will monitor implementation of the Action Plan and provide strategic guidance to the relationship. Recently, the first ItalyIndia Track 1.5 Dialogue was organised by the Guarini Institute for Public Affairs at John Cabot University (JCU) in Rome. India's Ambassador to Italy, Vani Rao, attended the event's public programme. The discussion was held under the Chatham House Rule and analysed how the ties between India and Italy have changed over the years as the two countries are set to mark the 80th anniversary of diplomatic ties in 2027. The event highlighted an economic relationship between India and Italy, whose potential is more than the infrastructure that backs it. Financial institutions can play a greater role in facilitating commerce between India and Italy, while non-tariff barriers and regulatory divergence continue to obstruct deeper integration between the two nations, according to the Decode39 report. A similar transition between India and Italy is taking place in the defence sector. Defence cooperation between India and Italy now encompasses personnel exchanges, procurement, research and development and industrial partnerships. The two nations also engage in naval visits and training activities. Italy and India are on opposite sides of a maritime system linking the Indo-Pacific, the Middle East and Europe and protecting the routes running through this space is an economic and security interest. IndiaMiddle EastEurope Economic Corridor (IMEC) becomes relevant in this framework. The IMEC for Italy provides a geographic link between its growing engagement in the Indo-Pacific and its traditional Mediterranean projection, while it offers India another way to strengthen ties with European markets through the Gulf and the Mediterranean. The 80th anniversary of diplomatic relations and the year dedicated to cultural tourism, both in 2027, will offer an opportunity to broaden these foundations further. The Guarini Institute intends to build on the first Track 1.5 dialogue with a larger initiative at John Cabot University next year, Emanuele Rossi wrote in the Decode39 report. The point, however, extends beyond commemoration: with a Special Strategic Partnership, an Action Plan running through 2029, a 20 billion trade target, growing defence cooperation, the European FTA and IMEC in the background, the challenge is now to turn this architecture into results. Eighty years after diplomatic relations began, Rome and New Delhi no longer need simply to reaffirm their desire for closer friendship: they need to define what, in practice, a Special Strategic Partnership can deliver, the author added. On September 17, Italian Prime Minister Giorgia Meloni wished PM Modi on his 76th birthday, saying that both nations continue to strengthen their deep bond of friendship and build together a future of cooperation and prosperity. In response, PM Modi thanked PM Meloni for her warm wishes and noted that he looks forward to close cooperation between India and Italy. Earlier this month, PM Modi congratulated Meloni on becoming the longest-serving Prime Minister in Italy's postwar history and wished her continued success in the years ahead. He appreciated her efforts in strengthening the Special Strategic Partnership between the two nations. Meloni, thanking PM Modi, said that the ties between the two nations are right now stronger than ever before, while the Special Strategic Partnership that we launched during our last meeting is the recognition of the importance of this bond and of the will to unite the expertise of our Nations to create new opportunities for growth, seizing the extraordinary opportunities for collaboration that we have before us.

CPI(M) warns TVK govt. not to take unilateral decisions

Addressing a demonstration on Saturday in Chennai, demanding that the government drop its proposal to construct a new Secretariat at Pattinapakkam, Mr. Shanmugam said the TVK government had been elected with the support of 34% of the voters and not 100% of the people of Tamil Nadu.

Facing Career Crossroads, Richardson Sets Sight On Reviving Test Chances Via India A Clash

West Coast Eagles: As he turns 30 on Sunday, Australia pacer Jhye Richardson said he has set his sights on reviving his Test cricket career through the upcoming red-ball series against India A, starting in Puducherry on September 22. It (turning 30) is quite scary knowing careers can end abruptly. But I still feel strong in myself and I'm enjoying the game and playing for my country. Senior bowler, junior - whatever it is - doesn't bother me too much as long as I'm enjoying my cricket. That's always the plan - to play Test cricket. I'd love to play Test cricket. Again, I've played a few games now, had a taste of Test cricket, but with shoulder issues and other issues, I haven't played as much as I would have liked. That (Border-Gavaskar Trophy) is always in the background. My mentality this year is just to be where my feet are. That's in Chennai right now and then in Puducherry for two four-day games against India A. Hopefully get through those two games and ultimately if I perform well, I can play Test cricket again, Richardson was quoted as saying by Cricinfo on Sunday. To prepare for the demanding red-ball stretch ahead, Richardson completed his maiden county stint with Yorkshire, where he shared a dressing room with current England Test captain Joe Root. Joe is amazing off the field. He's one of the best players in the world. But you know, some of the conversations that we have off the field don't regard cricket whatsoever. He's very intelligent and he thinks a lot about what he says. So it was a lot of fun with Joe and I'd love to go back next year. It was a great experience, obviously playing against him in the Ashes and then getting to know him a bit more off the field, he added. Reflecting on his workload management so far, Richardson said, The last couple of years with injury...I haven't had a long string of games together. So the idea was to finish the season strong, and then pretty much head straight into playing some county cricket, get some games there, and then prepare for GSL, which luckily I've gotten through so far. And then coming back with some new staff members coming into the WA set-up - new head coach (Beau Casson), new S&C [Strength and Conditioning] coach as well, who's brought a nice spin on things. He comes from an AFL background, was at the West Coast Eagles for 12 years. He's come in and pushed us really hard. Reflecting on his workload management so far, Richardson said, The last couple of years with injury...I haven't had a long string of games together. So the idea was to finish the season strong, and then pretty much head straight into playing some county cricket, get some games there, and then prepare for GSL, which luckily I've gotten through so far. Also Read: Special Cricket Stories We all know how much India loves its cricket. The stadiums are always packed out and super loud, so hopefully we can recreate something with that here. We might have to put in a good word around Chennai to try and get them on the Scorchers' side. Article Source: IANS

Jennifer Winget and William Ishmael host Goa wedding; Mandira Bedi officiates, Harleen Sethi wins bouquet toss

TV and OTT actor Jennifer Winget and William Ishmael hosted a wedding celebration in Goa on Friday, bringing together some of their closest friends from the television and film industry. The gathering came two months after the couple's intimate wedding ceremony in the UK and was filled with music, dancing and familiar faces. Mandira Bedi officiated the Goa celebrations, while Harleen Sethi caught the bouquet during the festivities.

Asian Games Badminton: PV Sindhu Stars as India Crush Kazakhstan to Reach Quarters

Indias womens badminton team made a commanding start to their Asian Games campaign, defeating Kazakhstan 30 in the Round of 16. PV Sindhu set the tone in the opening singles rubber, brushing aside Kamila Smagulova 217, 219 in just 20 minutes. Rising star Unnati Hooda followed with another dominant performance, beating Alissa Kuleshova 217, 2110. [] The post Asian Games Badminton: PV Sindhu Stars as India Crush Kazakhstan to Reach Quarters appeared first on Pragativadi I Latest Odisha News in English I Breaking News .

Police probe assault of Class 12 Scheduled Caste student in Kallakurichi

Following the incident, parents and local residents staged a protest in front of the school, demanding the immediate arrest of eight students involved in the attack and action against teachers who, they claimed, failed to intervene

Police probe assault of Class 12 Scheduled Caste student in Kallakurichi

Following the incident, parents and local residents staged a protest in front of the school, demanding the immediate arrest of eight students involved in the attack and action against teachers who, they claimed, failed to intervene

6 booked for claims HC

Shamli: Uttar Pradesh Police have booked three Muslim journalists, a lawyer, and two social media users for posting misleading and factless posts about the Allahabad High Court reprimanding Shamli Police during the Ayush Malik case proceedings. The High Court on September 16 held that Malik converted by his own choice to Islam and married a 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 .

CoU students block Dhaka-Ctg highway demanding justice for Opratim

Students demand arrests, 60-day trial and action against police officials over teenager

Asian Games: India begin men's hockey title defence with 13-1 rout of Indonesia

Digital Desk | Nagoya, Sep 20 (IANS) India launched their Asian Games mens hockey title defence in emphatic fashion, decimating Indonesia 13-1 in their opening Pool A encounter on Sunday. Eight different goal-scorers were on target for the Indian team, headlined by Dilpreet Singh's four-goal haul, as India put on a clinical display from the first whistle to the last. With a comprehensive win to start their campaign, India will next take on Sri Lanka in their second Pool A fixture on September 22. India got off to a fast start with Shilanand Lakra converting a rebound off Harmanpreet Singh's saved drag-flick in the 6th minute, before Abhishek doubled the advantage in the 12th minute, turning home a rebound after the initial effort was parried by Indonesia custodian Alam Fajar. Despite Fajar producing a couple of early saves to deny Mandeep Singh, India carried the momentum into the break, closing the first quarter with a 2-0 lead. The second quarter saw the Men in Blue run riot. Dilpreet Singh struck twice inside two minutes (18th, 19th) to open his account for the tournament, followed by a well-worked finish from Rajinder Singh in the 19th minute and a first goal of the campaign for Mandeep Singh (21st). Harmanpreet Singh added a penalty corner strike in the 28th minute, though he had earlier seen a penalty stroke saved by Fajar diving to his right. India went into the half-time break with a commanding 7-0 lead, having found the target from open play, penalty corners, and a variety of combinations across the pitch. Indonesia found their first goal of the match early in the third quarter when captain Aulia Al Ardh converted a penalty corner in the 33rd minute, reducing the deficit to 7-1 after a video referral confirmed the decision in Indonesia's favour. India responded swiftly to the setback, with Shilanand Lakra netting his second of the match (35th) and Dilpreet Singh completing his hat-trick (37th), before Sukhjeet Singh joined the scoring column in the 38th minute to push the lead out to 10-1 by the end of the third quarter. India continued their relentless attacking play in the final quarter. Jugraj Singh converted from India's second penalty corner attempt in the 47th minute after his first effort was blocked by the first rusher, before Sukhjeet Singh added his second of the match (48th) from a well-worked move, finishing off a driving run down the right flank. Dilpreet Singh rounded off a personal tally of four goals in the 49th minute, deflecting home after an initial touch from Abhishek, to take the score to a commanding 13-1 as the remaining minutes wound down with Indonesia retaining possession in the circle.

Meghalaya: Garo residents protest mandatory Khasi Language Test for DSC recruitment

Guwahati: More than 2,000 members of the Garo community from across the Khasi Hills gathered at Mallangkona in West Khasi Hills on Saturday, opposing the compulsory Khasi language qualifying test for District Selection Committee (DSC) recruitment and demanding that Garo be included as an alternative. The gathering was held at the Sildubi Mini Playground and [] The post Meghalaya: Garo residents protest mandatory Khasi Language Test for DSC recruitment appeared first on NorthEast Now .

Osho-Inspired

SRINAGAR: A proposed four-day Tantra in Silence A Journey Within retreat in Kashmirs Gurez Valley has sparked political and religious controversy, with former chief minister Mehbooba Mufti, Kashmirs chief cleric Mirwaiz Umar Farooq, and Grand Mufti Nasir-ul-Islam demanding intervention. The Jammu and Kashmir Tourism Department and Bandipora district administration, however, have clarified that they []

Asian Games 2026: India thrash Indonesia 13-1 in hockey opener

The Indian men's hockey team began its Asian Games 2026 campaign with a commanding 13-1 victory over Indonesia. This dominant performance sets a strong tone for their Pool A matches in Japan. Earlier, the Indian women's hockey team also achieved a significant 19-0 win against Uzbekistan.

SP Workers Rally in Delhi Demanding Release of Azam Khan Amid Allegations of Political Vendetta

SP workers protested in Delhi, seeking the release of Azam Khan and alleging political motives behind 350 criminal cases against him. SP Workers Rally in Delhi Demanding Release of Azam Khan Amid Allegations of Political Vendetta

Political Fallout Grows Over MCD Worker

The suicide of an MCD sanitation worker has sparked political tensions, with BJP demanding action against an AAP councillor. Political Fallout Grows Over MCD Workers Suicide, BJP Protests Outside AAP Office

Asian Games: Athapaththu's Unbeaten 83 Helps SL Women Beat Pakistan To Storm Into Final

Sri Lanka Women: Chamari Athapaththu produced a captains knock as Sri Lanka Women chased down Pakistans 177/4 with eight wickets in hand to reach the Asian Games final on Sunday. Set 178 for victory at Korogi Sports Park, Sri Lanka needed just 17.5 overs to complete a commanding chase, with Athapaththu remaining unbeaten on 83 from 50 deliveries. Her innings featured seven fours and six sixes as she dismantled Pakistans bowling attack and ensured Sri Lanka never lost control of the pursuit. The chase began at a brisk pace, with Imesha Dulani striking 26 from 21 balls before Pakistan captain Fatima Sana provided her side with an important breakthrough. That, however, proved to be little more than a brief interruption. Athapaththu took over after Dulanis dismissal and built the innings around a crucial partnership with Hasini Perera. The pair added 95 for the second wicket, steadily turning Sri Lankas advantage into a near certainty. Athapaththu contributed heavily to the stand, accelerating as Pakistan struggled to contain her strokeplay. Perera eventually fell with Sri Lanka within touching distance, but there was no late drama. Harshitha Samarawickrama, unbeaten on 17, joined Athapaththu and helped complete the job as Sri Lanka reached 178/2 with 13 deliveries unused. Earlier, Pakistan had recovered impressively from a disastrous beginning. Gull Feroza was dismissed on the first ball, immediately putting Pakistan under pressure after Sri Lanka opted to bowl following a delayed start due to a wet outfield. Ayesha Zafar and Shawaal Zulfiqar then transformed the innings. Zafar attacked from the outset, smashing 71 off 40 balls with nine fours and two sixes, while Zulfiqar contributed 54 from 50. Their substantial partnership carried Pakistan beyond 100 and gave the team a competitive platform before they finished on 177/4. Sri Lankas emphatic chase, however, meant Pakistans strong recovery was ultimately overshadowed. Sri Lanka will now contest the gold-medal match, while Pakistan will play the bronze-medal playoff against the loser of the second semifinal between India and Bangladesh, which currently underway, on Tuesday. Sri Lankas emphatic chase, however, meant Pakistans strong recovery was ultimately overshadowed. Also Read: Special Cricket Stories Pakistan 177/4 in 20 overs (Ayesha Zafar 71, Shawaal Zulfiqar 54; Kawya Kavindi 1-13, Chamari Athapaththu 1-30) lost to Sri Lanka 178/2 in 17.5 overs (Chamari Athapaththu 83*, Hasini Perera 42; Fatima Sana 1-24, Nashra Sandhu 1-38) by eight wickets Article Source: IANS

Deepika Sehrawat Scores Record Eight As India Crush Uzbekistan 19-0 In Asian Games Opener

Deepika Sehrawat produced a record-breaking performance as the India womens hockey team began their 2026 Asian Games campaign with a commanding 19-0 victory over Uzbekistan. Deepika scored eight goals, setting a new record for the most goals by a womens hockey player in a single match at the Asian Games. She was particularly effective from [] The post Deepika Sehrawat Scores Record Eight As India Crush Uzbekistan 19-0 In Asian Games Opener appeared first on Pragativadi I Latest Odisha News in English I Breaking News .

Asian Games: India Women win the toss and elect to bat first against Bangladesh

India Women won the toss and elected to bat first in the semi-final against Bangladesh Women. The Women in Blue will start as the favourites after their commanding win against Japan.

Salim Merchant gets trolled over Kamakhya Mandir visit

Music composer and singer Salim Merchant faced criticism from a section of social media users after he shared pictures from his visit to the Kamakhya Temple in Guwahati, Assam. The composer shared pictures with a friend, with both seen standing in front of the temple with folded hands after seeking blessings. In the pictures, Salim []

Agriculture Deptt conducts 1st batch of Karmayogi Kartavya Karyakram

The Department of Agriculture & Farmers Welfare, Kashmir, conducted the first batch of the Karmayogi Kartavya Karyakram (KKK) at the Meeting Hall of the Directorate of Agriculture, Lal Mandi, Srinagar, under the chairmanship of Director Agriculture Kashmir and Farmers Welfare Sartaj Ahmad Shah. The one-day capacity-building programme was conducted by Dr. Qazi Showkat Ashraf, State Master Trainer and Deputy Director (Central). It focused on strengthening behavioural competencies, professional conduct, public service orientation and citizen centric approaches among government officials. The programme is being implemented under Mission Karmayogi, the National Programme for Civil Services Capacity Building (NPCSCB), which aims to promote a professional, responsive and citizen centric civil service through continuous learning and competency-based capacity building.

Measures underway to contain leaf miner disease, cold store for Handwara under consideration: Javid Dar

Handwara, Sep 19: Agriculture Production Minister Javid Ahmad Dar Saturday said the Horticulture Department and SKUAST-Kashmir scientists were working on measures to control leaf miner disease affecting horticultural crops. Dar said the department became aware of the disease about two months ago and had since been taking remedial measures. The department became aware of the disease around two months ago and has since been working on remedial measures. Basically, it is an insect from outside and we are trying to control it, Dar told reporters on the sidelines of a function at Fruit MandiHandwara. He said the disease could not be completely eliminated but timely measures, including the use of pesticides, could help control it. On a proposal to establish a cold storage facility in Handwara, Dar said the government would consider it if suitable land was available in Handwara or its outskirts. He also urged people, particularly youth, to take advantage of various schemes implemented by the Horticulture Department to generate livelihoods. Dar earlier interacted with fruit growers, traders and representatives of the horticulture sector. A delegation led by Fruit MandiHandwara president Mohammad Amin raised issues related to infrastructure and facilities for growers and traders. The minister assured the stakeholders that their demands would be examined, with some issues taken up during the current year and others considered next year. Dar was accompanied by Rajya Sabha MP Choudhary Mohammad Ramzan and Langate MLA Sheikh Khursheed. Senior officers from the Agriculture and Horticulture departments were also present.

Ladakh leaders call off padyatra to mark Sep 24 Leh incident

One year after tragic violence resulting in the death of four civilians during protests, the Himalayan region of Ladakh is preparing to mark the anniversary with a series of solemn memorial observances. The Leh Apex Body (LAB) and the Kargil Democratic Alliance (KDA)the joint coalition spearheading the agitation for statehood and Constitutional safeguards under the Sixth Schedulehave scheduled a symbolic march and tribute ceremonies for September 23 and 24. The events will honour the four young civilians who lost their lives on September 24, 2025, during clashes with security forces in Leh. Organisers had originally planned a week-long foot march (Padyatra) spanning across the rugged terrain between Kargil and Leh. However, citing harsh weather, plummeting nocturnal temperatures, and delicate political considerations, political leaders modified the schedule. Climate activist and member Apex Body Leh, Sonam Wangchuk, said that calling off the protests was due to the prevailing weather conditions and some warmth in politics. Due to prevailing weather conditions with cold nights, we're making it into a symbolic 20 Km march on 23rd September. followed by martyrs day event on 24th. Inconvenience regretted, look forward to joining you and marching together, Sonam Wangchuk said in a post on X. The upcoming observances mark one of the darkest chapters in the recent history of the Union Territory. On September 24 last year, a long-standing peaceful movement demanding statehood, land rights and constitutional safeguards, turned violent. Protesters gathered in Leh, leading to clashes with security personnel, stone-pelting, and arson resulting in the deaths of four youths and injuring nearly 90 others in the alleged security forces action. In the aftermath, prominent climate activist Sonam Wangchuk was detained under the National Security Act (NSA), and the region was plunged into months of political tension. On September 23, activist Sonam Wangchuk, joined by Apex body and community leaders, will lead a condensed 20-kilometer symbolic march through the Leh valley. A similar peaceful march will be held in Kargil under the banner of KDA. On September 24, a dedicated Martyrs day event will be held in Leh and replicated across major towns in Kargil. The tribute programs on September 24 will include interfaith prayers, candlelit vigils, a moment of silence across major town centres, and wreath-laying ceremonies to honour the four deceased men. Beyond the memorial services, local leaders are framing the day as a rally for justice. While the Lieutenant Governor of Ladakh recently announced financial assistance packages for affected families, representative bodies in both districts have criticized the compensation as inadequate. Speaking ahead of the anniversary, political representatives from both the LAB and KDA reiterated their key demands including Judicial Inquiry - a formal, independent judicial probe into the circumstances that led to security forces opening fire on protesters. They also demanded the complete withdrawal of all criminal cases registered against local youth arrested during the 2025 unrest. Restitution ranging from Rs 1 Cr to Rs 1.5 Cr for families of the deceased, alongside enhanced support for the severely injured is another key demand. Meanwhile, arrangements are being put in place across both Leh and Kargil districts to maintain order during the gatherings. Civil society organisations have issued appeals for calm, emphasising that the September 24 observances should reflect peace, dignity, and unity across the cold-desert region.

From Lal Ded to Article 370: CM Sainis Kashmir pitch to Pandits in Haryana

From the legacy of Kashmirs mystic poet Lal Ded to the political changes following the abrogation of Article 370, Haryana Chief Minister Nayab Singh Saini on Saturday framed his governments outreach to Kashmiri Pandits around culture, welfare and the communitys post-migration concerns. Addressing a gathering in Gurugram to mark the 705th birth anniversary of Mata Lalleshwari, popularly known as Lal Ded, Saini highlighted what he described as measures taken by the Haryana government for Kashmiri Pandit families, including 10 per cent reservation in education for their children. The Haryana government has provided 10 per cent reservation in education for the children of Kashmiri Pandits in Haryana, Saini said. The Chief Minister said a sizeable Kashmiri Pandit population lives across Haryana, particularly in Gurugram, Faridabad and Panchkula, besides Ambala, Karnal, Panipat and Bahadurgarh. Saini also referred to the allocation of plots in Bahadurgarh to Kashmiri Pandit families who had purchased land decades ago. The allotment followed a long-running dispute involving land acquired by displaced families in the early 1990s. Beyond education and land, Saini said his government was working towards creating housing and employment opportunities for Kashmiri Pandits living in Haryana. The Chief Minister also linked his governments approach towards the community to the broader political changes in Jammu and Kashmir. Referring to the abrogation of Articles 370 and 35A, he credited Prime Minister Narendra Modis government with strengthening what he described as the unity and integration of the country. The event was organised by the Kashmiri Hindu Prakosth and Bani Mandir. A delegation of the Kashmiri Hindu Prakosth had met Saini earlier this month and invited him to the programme, raising issues concerning the Kashmiri community and seeking government intervention. According to the organisers, the choice of Lal Deds birth anniversary provided a cultural backdrop to an address that largely focused on the contemporary concerns of Kashmiri Pandits living outside the Valley. These sorts of functions give us an opportunity to connect to our community and the roots, Pankaj Dhar, an organiser said. Lal Ded, also known as Lalleshwari, occupies a central place in Kashmirs medieval literary and spiritual tradition. Her Kashmiri vaakhs remain an important part of the regions cultural heritage and are associated with the broader Shaivite and Sufi traditions of Kashmir.

PDP alleges merit apartheid in J&K

Srinagar, Sep 19:The Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) on Saturday stepped up its attack on the Jammu and Kashmir government over the reservation policy, alleging merit apartheid and demanding immediate disclosure of the report prepared by the Cabinet Sub-Committee on rationalisation of the reservation framework. The protest was held outside the PDP headquarters after police stopped party workers from marching towards Residency Road. Party sources said workers led by Iltija Mufti had assembled at the party office for the march, but police personnel blocked the main gate. Mufti and several party leaders and workers climbed over the gate in an attempt to proceed, but the march could not take place. The protesters subsequently staged a demonstration outside the party office and demanded that the government make the findings of the reservation panel public. The reservation dispute intensified after amendments to Jammu and Kashmirs reservation rules in 2024 expanded the reservation framework, including the addition of new Scheduled Tribe and Scheduled Caste beneficiaries. The changes triggered protests by open-merit aspirants, who sought a review of the revised structure and argued that the share available to candidates competing in the open category had been substantially reduced. Against this backdrop, the Omar Abdullah-led government constituted a Cabinet Sub-Committee in December 2024 to examine the concerns and recommend rationalisation of the reservation policy. The committee subsequently submitted its recommendations, but the full report has not been made public, with the issue continuing to generate political and public debate. Addressing reporters during Saturdays protest, Mufti said the government had assured protesting open-merit students that the issue would be examined and the committees report would be presented within six months. We had promised open-merit students that when the NC government comes, they will do rationalisation of reservation. When we protested outside their house, it was said that the sub-committee report will be presented in six months, she said. Two years have passed since then, and we still don't know what is in this sub-committee report, Mufti said. She said the delay had left students and job aspirants uncertain about the future of the reservation structure. We have a very simple demand. You promised these children that you will send the sub-committee report to Delhi. Leave that. You tell us now, what are the findings of this report? she said. Mufti also attacked the government over employment opportunities, alleging that young people were being denied opportunities and that the reservation structure had created what she described as merit apartheid. You are punishing our children because they are capable, and this is wrong, she said. She questioned the government over the difficulties faced by families investing heavily in the education of their children. Where will the Kashmiri youth go, whose parents are labourers, keep their land mortgaged, teach them day and night so that they can move forward? she asked. Mufti also alleged that the government had failed to deliver on its employment promises and criticised what she described as the outsourcing of jobs. Her allegations regarding recruitment and the sale of jobs were political claims made during the protest and were not independently established. The PDP leader further alleged that the prolonged delay was particularly consequential for young people preparing for competitive examinations and government recruitment. We are here to fight for every youngster from Jammu and Kashmir. We are here to remind the NC government, especially the Honourable Chief Minister, about his broken promises, she said. The reservation issue has remained politically sensitive in J&K, with open-merit groups demanding greater transparency and a review of the existing distribution, while reserved-category groups have maintained that constitutional and legally mandated protections must be preserved. The governments proposed rationalisation has therefore involved balancing competing demands over representation, merit and affirmative action. Mufti said the government should stop delaying the disclosure of the committees findings and give young aspirants clarity on the proposed changes. How many months, how many years will the youth of Jammu and Kashmir wait for you to give them justice? she asked. The PDP has demanded that the Cabinet Sub-Committees recommendations be placed in the public domain and that the government clearly spell out the status of its proposed changes to the reservation framework.

Scientists work to contain orchard pest in Kashmir

Handwara, Sep 19: Scientists from SKUAST and the Horticulture Department are working together to control an invasive pest strain linked to leaf disease and premature leaf fall in fruit orchards across Kashmir. Horticulture Minister Javid Ahmad Dar said the department had taken up the issue and scientific teams were working on measures to contain its spread. He said the disease was present across several horticulture hubs and could not be completely eradicated. However, Dar said timely and properly scheduled pesticide sprays could help control the disease and prevent its further spread. Dar made the remarks while speaking at Fruit Mandi Handwara, where he met representatives of the local fruit growers association and heard their demands. The minister said the government would examine the possibility of establishing a cold storage facility at Handwara if suitable J&K HPMC land with proper connectivity was available. He also said the demand for auction sheds and platforms at the mandi had been discussed with the concerned department. Budget provisions for the work would be considered in the coming financial year. On crop insurance, Dar said funds had been allocated for the Weather Based Crop Insurance Scheme under the 2026-27 budget. He said revised national insurance guidelines were expected by the end of September. According to Dar, an advisory committee constituted by the Union Ministry of Agriculture and Farmers Welfare had submitted its report on the revised insurance framework. Once the new guidelines are issued, the J&K government will initiate the tendering and implementation process. Dar also urged farmers to use online portals to access horticulture schemes and apply directly. On complaints regarding revenue documents, he said revenue officials had been engaged in digital and land survey work. He assured farmers that specific grievances would be taken up with the concerned authorities. Regarding Kisan Khidmat Kendras, Dar said the centres across the region were operational and equipped. He said gaps at some locations could be linked to resignations by Krishi Udyamis and would be examined individually. In the upcoming Assembly session, Dar said legislators would have an opportunity to raise public issues and seek answers from the government.

Look Up Before You Walk: When the Phone in Our Hands Becomes a Hazard

A man walking while intensely focused on his mobile phone recently fell into a construction area after apparently failing to notice the danger directly in front of him. The incident, although startling, is not merely another viral accident caught on camera. It offers a simple but increasingly important lesson: when we stop paying attention to where we are walking, even an ordinary journey can suddenly become dangerous. The incident is particularly relevant in an age when the smartphone has become almost inseparable from everyday life. We walk while texting, scroll through social media while crossing roads, answer calls while navigating crowded streets and sometimes even watch videos while moving through public spaces. What appears to be a harmless habit can, within seconds, turn into a serious safety risk. We often associate distracted driving with accidents. Governments, traffic authorities and road-safety organisations have repeatedly warned motorists about the dangers of using mobile phones behind the wheel. But there is another form of distracted behaviour that receives considerably less attention: distracted walking. The human brain is remarkably capable, but it cannot give full attention to multiple demanding tasks simultaneously. Walking may appear automatic, yet navigating an unfamiliar or crowded environment requires continuous awareness. A pedestrian needs to notice uneven surfaces, open drains, vehicles, bicycles, construction barriers, steps, other pedestrians and sudden changes in the path ahead. When attention is absorbed by a phone screen, these environmental cues can easily be missed. A notification may seem insignificant. A message may take only a few seconds to read. A social-media video may last less than a minute. But a pedestrian can cover a considerable distance in those few seconds. During that time, the person may be moving towards a pothole, an uncovered drain, a staircase, a roadside excavation or a moving vehicle without properly processing the danger. This is what makes distracted walking particularly deceptive. The danger is not always in the phone itself; it is in what the phone takes our attention away from. Construction zones are an obvious example. Roads and footpaths are frequently altered because of development, repairs, drainage work, utility installation and other infrastructure projects. Temporary diversions may not always be familiar to pedestrians. Barricades, excavated portions of roads, construction materials and uneven surfaces can create hazards even for an attentive person. For someone looking down at a screen, the risk increases substantially. There is also a psychological dimension to smartphone distraction. Modern phones are designed to demand attention. Notifications, messages, short videos, social-media feeds and constant updates create an environment in which people feel compelled to check the screen repeatedly. The habit can become so automatic that some people reach for their phones without consciously deciding to do so. The result is a peculiar contradiction: we may be physically moving through the real world while mentally occupying a digital one. This behaviour is becoming increasingly visible in public spaces. People walk through railway stations while typing messages, move across hospital corridors while watching videos, navigate shopping areas while scrolling through social-media feeds and cross streets while talking on their phones. Not every such incident ends in injury. That does not make the behaviour safe. Sometimes the consequence is simply bumping into another person. At other times, it may mean falling down stairs or stepping into traffic. In more serious situations, a moment of distraction can result in fractures, head injuries or even loss of life. There is another important concern: pedestrians are often considered the most vulnerable road users. Unlike motorists, they have no vehicle body protecting them. A small mistake can therefore have disproportionately serious consequences. This is why awareness about distracted walking should become part of the broader road-safety conversation. The responsibility, however, does not rest entirely with individuals. Urban planning and public infrastructure also play an important role. Construction sites should be properly barricaded and clearly marked. Pedestrian pathways should be maintained wherever possible. Excavated areas should have visible warning signs, adequate lighting and physical protection. Temporary diversions should be intuitive and safe. A person using a phone irresponsibly should certainly be accountable for their attention, but a dangerous construction site should never be left inadequately protected on the assumption that everyone will notice it. The same principle applies to footpaths and public spaces. Broken pavements, open manholes, poorly marked steps and unprotected roadside excavations can be dangerous even without mobile-phone distraction. Cities therefore need to develop infrastructure that anticipates human behaviour rather than assuming perfect attention from every pedestrian. At the same time, individuals can adopt some very simple habits. The first is perhaps the easiest: look up while walking. If a message requires concentration, stop at a safe place and read it. If a phone call is unavoidable, move away from traffic and other hazards before answering. Avoid watching videos while walking. Do not type messages while crossing a road. And when approaching a construction zone, railway crossing, intersection or crowded area, keep the phone away and pay attention to the surroundings. Parents can teach these habits to children early. Schools and colleges can incorporate pedestrian safety into awareness programmes. Employers can remind staff about safe phone use during commuting. Public-awareness campaigns can expand the concept of distracted driving to include distracted walking. The message does not need to be complicated. A notification can wait. A message can wait. A video can wait. Your safety cannot. There is also a broader social lesson here. Smartphones have made communication faster, but they have also changed the way we experience our surroundings. We increasingly document places instead of observing them, scroll instead of looking around and respond to virtual conversations while physically present somewhere else. The challenge is not to reject technology. Smartphones are indispensable tools for communication, education, navigation, work and emergency assistance. The goal is to use them responsibly. Technology should remain a tool that serves us, not an object that constantly captures our attention. Perhaps the most useful habit is to create simple phone-free moments during movement. When walking on a road, crossing a street, entering a construction area or navigating an unfamiliar place, the phone should take second place to environmental awareness. The viral construction-site incident is therefore worth viewing as more than an unusual accident. It is a reminder of a modern behavioural problem that can affect almost anyone. Most accidents do not announce themselves in advance. There is rarely a warning saying that the next step is the dangerous one. Safety often depends on noticing the small details around us before it is too late. A few seconds of looking down at a screen may not seem important. But in those few seconds, the world continues moving around us. A vehicle approaches. A cyclist passes. A pavement ends. A staircase begins. A drain remains uncovered. A construction barrier stands ahead. And if we are looking at our phones, we may not see any of it. Perhaps the simplest road-safety rule for the smartphone age should therefore be one we teach as routinely as looking both ways before crossing a road: Before you look at your screen, look where you are going. Because sometimes, the most important notification is the one our surroundings are already giving us: danger ahead. (The Author works at a premier medical college in Jammu & Kashmir)

Endowments Takeover of Varahi Matha Mandir Turns Controversial

The temple had been built by a devotee at her own cost after her wish had been fulfilled.

Amid strike threat, Fin Secy Sanjay Lohia calls bank chiefs' meet to ensure services

Financial services secretary Sanjay Lohia has called a meeting with public sector bank, RRB and NABARD heads on Monday to ensure uninterrupted banking services during a proposed three-day strike from September 28. AIBEA is demanding a five-day banking week and has warned of an indefinite strike from October 26 if its demand remains unresolved.

ICDS Supervisor and JRA Caught Taking Rs 30K Bribe from Anganwadi Worker in Ganjam

Two CDPO officials in Hinjilikatu, Ganjam, were arrested by Odisha Vigilance for demanding a Rs 30,000 bribe to release an Anganwadi Centre's pending house rent. The post ICDS Supervisor and JRA Caught Taking Rs 30K Bribe from Anganwadi Worker in Ganjams Hinjilikatu appeared first on Pragativadi I Latest Odisha News in English I Breaking News .

Manipur Civil Society Organisations intensify agitation for NRC updation before Census

Digital Desk | Imphal, Sep 19 (IANS) Influential Meira Paibis (women torchbearers) and representatives of around 20 villages and students on Saturday joined protests in Manipur demanding updation of the National Register of Citizens (NRC) before the Census, with 1951 fixed as the base year. The protests were organised by the North Imphal Meira and Clubs Co-ordinating Committee (NIMAC) at Khonghampat Awang Leikai and by the Campaign for Just and Fair Delimitation (JFD) Students' Wing at Keishamthong in Imphal West. Addressing a public meeting at Khonghampat, JFD Convenor Jeetendra Ningombam said the organisation would intensify its agitation if the state government failed to issue a formal order by the end of September confirming that 1951 would be used as the base year for NRC updation. He said the JFDs three key demands were that the NRC be updated before the Census, internally displaced persons (IDPs) be resettled in their respective homes before the Census, and 1951 be adopted as the base year for NRC updation. The JFD leader also urged the state government to make public any assurance or commitment received from the Centre regarding the NRC and Census. Ningombam said the government should communicate its decision through a formal order instead of relying on verbal assurances. He also claimed that failure to update the NRC could have implications for the state's future demographic composition and urged people to remain united on issues concerning the indigenous population. The protesters carried placards with messages including Truth, Transparency, Justice, Our Land, Our People, Our Future and Our Land, Our Right, Our Responsibility. They also raised slogans against the Suspension of Operations (SoO) agreement and demanded that innocent villagers not be arrested. Separately, students of Ramlal Paul Higher Secondary School joined the JFD-led agitation at Keishamthong, demanding that the NRC be updated before the Census with 1951 as the base year. Student Mangalsana Sapam said people in Manipur had been demanding NRC updation before the Census for a long time and expressed solidarity with the JFD movement. JFD Students' Wing volunteer Md. Shahaj Khan, who organised the school protest, said the state government had stated during the monsoon that the Census would be deferred and the NRC updated using 1951 as the base year. He, however, said no formal document had been issued to substantiate the reported assurance and urged the government to begin the NRC updation process without further delay. The CJFD and various other CSOs have been holding massive agitations in the Imphal Valley region since August 17, demanding the updation of the NRC before the Census-2027 exercise is undertaken. A day before its pre-scheduled start, the Central government on August 31 announced to defer the Census-2027 exercise in Manipur amid continuing protests and demands by various CSOs for the updation of the NRC before the conduct of the Census-2027 in the state. The recently held session of the Manipur Legislative Assembly reaffirmed its earlier resolution to update the NRC before the Census-2027, and Chief Minister Yumnam Khemchand Singh has conveyed the same to the Central government. Meanwhile, Manipur Assembly's latest move on September 2 came amid massive agitations by various CSOs, mainly in the five districts of the Imphal Valley region -- Imphal East, Imphal West, Thoubal, Bishnupur and Kakching -- demanding the updation of the NRC before the conduct of Census-2027.

Pension Bribe Charges: Two Handloom Officials Suspended

District officer Ramana Reddy and assistant district officer Seena Naik were accused of demanding money: Reports

Murder sparks protests demanding closure of Tasmac outlet in Krishnagiri

Lawyers Protest Police Misconduct by Blocking Road Near Gaya Civil Court

Lawyers in Gaya blocked a road in protest against police misconduct during construction of their chambers, demanding action against the officers involved. Lawyers Protest Police Misconduct by Blocking Road Near Gaya Civil Court

Left air hostess training to drive a 16-tonne truck: Meet 25-year-old Neha Thakur, Himachal Pradeshs first woman truck driver who now travels across India

Neha Thakur, widely recognised as Himachal Pradesh's first woman truck driver, draws inspiration from her father's profession. After training for a career in aviation, she returned to trucking and obtained her Heavy Motor Vehicle licence. She now drives a 16-tonne truck and shares her experiences online. Her vlogs offer a glimpse into the demanding life of a truck driver, while she encourages others to pursue their dreams regardless of their background.

Suicide at IITB: UoH students express solidarity with peers

Hyderabad: University of Hyderabad students on Saturday, September 19, extended solidarity to their IIT Bombay counterparts protesting the death of a Dalit BTech student, demanding accountability from the administration and the resignation of IITB Director Shireesh Kedare. Hailing from Maharashtras Yavatmal district, 19-year-old Sahil Wakode was allegedly caught using his phone during the midterm exam 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 .

Tourists climb holy cross in Keralams Munnar, sparking outrage

Church authorities file complaint with Munnar police demanding strict action after four youths climb a holy cross and take photographs at Pallivasal near Munnar in Idukki

Tourists climb holy cross in Keralams Munnar, sparking outrage

Church authorities file complaint with Munnar police demanding strict action after four youths climb a holy cross and take photographs at Pallivasal near Munnar in Idukki

Unseen moments from Jennifer Winget-William Ishmael's grand Goa wedding - watch

Jennifer and William, who tied the knot in a Christian church ceremony in UK in July, hosted a series of wedding festivities in Goa. Several celebrities, including Riteish Deshmukh, Genelia Deshmukh, Karan Wahi, Mandira Bedi and Shabir Ahluwalia, attended the celebrations.

NCB secures conviction of three in interstate Charas trafficking case

Digital Desk | Chandigarh, Sep 19 (IANS) The Narcotics Control Bureau (NCB) has secured the conviction of three persons in an interstate Charas trafficking case involving the seizure of 16.5 kg of the contraband near the Himachal Pradesh-Chandigarh border, officials said on Saturday. The case dates back to December 18, 2018, when a team of the NCB's Chandigarh Zonal Unit intercepted a Hyundai Verna near Khuda Lahora Bridge in Chandigarh and recovered 16.5 kg of Charas in connection with NCB Crime No. 49/2018. Two accused, Joginder Singh, a resident of Kullu district in Himachal Pradesh, and Anil Kumar, a resident of Mandi district, were arrested from the spot. During the investigation, the role of a third accused, Raj Kumar alias Raju, also from Kullu district, came to light. According to the NCB, investigations revealed that Raj Kumar, acting in concert with the other accused, was part of a network supplying Charas to major cities including Mumbai, Goa, Bengaluru and Chennai. The seized consignment was allegedly destined for Mumbai for further distribution to other locations. Raj Kumar was arrested on December 20, 2018. During searches at his residence in Bhuntar, Himachal Pradesh, NCB officials recovered an additional 80 grams of Charas. The NCB filed a complaint under the Narcotic Drugs and Psychotropic Substances (NDPS) Act, 1985, before the Special Judge, NDPS Court, Chandigarh, on June 12, 2019. Upon conclusion of the trial, the court, in its judgment dated September 15, convicted all three accused. Joginder Singh and Anil Kumar were sentenced to 12 years of rigorous imprisonment and fined Rs 1 lakh each, while Raj Kumar alias Raju was awarded one year's rigorous imprisonment along with a fine of Rs 10,000. The NCB said the conviction reflects its continued efforts to combat drug trafficking through sustained investigation and prosecution. The agency reiterated its commitment to curbing narcotics smuggling and advancing the government's vision of a drug-free India. The Bureau also appealed to the public to report narcotics-related activities through the MANAS National Helpline (1933), assuring strict confidentiality of informants' identities.

Farmers suspend agitation demanding full crop loan waiver

Farmers suspend agitation demanding full crop loan waiver

Success Lesson of the Day by Dr. Seuss, 'Today was good. Today was fun. Tomorrow is another one' offers powerful wisdom on happiness, positivity, acceptance, inner peace

Quote of the day by Dr. Seuss teaches us to appreciate life without demanding perfection from it. Dr. Seuss turns the passage of time into something approachable: enjoy the day you have, remember the moments that made it special and then allow yourself to move forward. The quote encourages gratitude without complacency, optimism without unrealistic promises and enjoyment without guilt.

If everything needs statehood, why are we in government?: Sunil Sharma

Srinagar, Sep 19: Leader of Opposition in the Jammu and Kashmir Assembly Sunil Sharma on Saturday questioned the Omar Abdullah-led government over what he described as its repeated use of statehood as a response to basic public grievances, asking why the government was in office if it lacked the authority to address routine issues. Addressing a public interaction programme in Srinagar, Sharma said people were approaching the government with problems related to water, electricity, roads, schools, hospitals and jobs but were repeatedly being told that the administration lacked the required powers. For every issue, whether small or big, the only answer that comes from the government and government machinery is that we have no powers, Sharma said. He said the elected government had completed two years but people were still facing frustration and confusion. The popular government has completed two years, and throughout these two years, we have brought the poor people to a position of frustration and confusion, he said. Sharma said the Opposition had a responsibility to engage with people when the government failed to address their concerns. He said his party's legislative group would take up issues raised by people in the upcoming Assembly session and also pursue matters requiring intervention from the Centre. He, however, questioned the government's explanation that several problems could not be addressed because Jammu and Kashmir had not yet regained statehood. Where pipes had to be connected, where poles and wires were required, where schools needed staff, where hospitals needed doctors and paramedics, where potholes on roads had to be filled, for every issue the same answer was received statehood is not there, he said. Sharma then questioned the purpose of the elected government and the Assembly if statehood was being cited as the answer to basic administrative problems. If at the end of two years we say that we need statehood even to install poles, wires and pipes, and we need statehood even to provide staff, then why are we in government? Why are we in the Assembly? he asked. He went further and said the government should consider dissolving the present arrangement rather than continue for the full five-year term if it believed it could not function without statehood. If after two years we still have the same answer, I feel that after five years the same answer will be repeated, Sharma said. He said unemployment, particularly among young people, would be among the major issues for the Opposition during the upcoming Assembly session. Referring to data presented during the interaction, he said people aged between 19 and 29 accounted for more than 32% of Jammu and Kashmir's population. This section is the largest in Jammu and Kashmir's population and is currently under stress and depression, Sharma said, arguing that many young people had no income to support their parents, pay for siblings' education or meet family responsibilities. He also criticised the government's approach to recruitment and outsourcing, claiming that 25,000 jobs had already been occupied through outsourcing. You have occupied 25,000 jobs. I say this with a guarantee that these 25,000 will not be advertised again, he said. Sharma said outsourced employees could themselves begin demanding regularisation in the future, adding that workers from different government schemes and departments were already seeking regularisation. He also accused the government of trying to play the role of the Opposition while retaining the privileges of being in power. The unfortunate thing is that the people sitting in government also want to do the work of the Opposition, Sharma said. The government also wants to remain in the Opposition, but wants to enjoy all the power. On the upcoming Assembly session, Sharma said there were numerous issues to be raised but questioned the limited number of sitting days. He also contrasted the government's claim that Jammu and Kashmir had more Assembly sittings, on average, than some other states, with the region's specific problems. Jammu and Kashmir's issues are different. There are so many issues here on a single platform. So a response like this makes a person ask: where should we go, whom should we speak to? he said. Sharma also defended the Opposition's public outreach programme, saying it was intended to hear people's grievances and take them to the appropriate forums. On statehood, he said the issue should not be used as a blanket explanation for administrative shortcomings. I am raising the slogan of statehood only to strengthen my vote bank, he said, while adding that statehood was not preventing the government from dealing with most of the issues being raised by people. Sharma's remarks came ahead of the upcoming Assembly session, with the BJP seeking to focus attention on unemployment, recruitment, public services and what it describes as the government's failure to address people's day-to-day grievances.

Abhijeet Dipke Calls UPI MDR Charges Outright Robbery

Cockroach Janta Party founder Abhijeet Dipke criticised MDR charges on UPI transactions, calling them outright robbery and demanding that the decision be rolled back. He said the move amounts to charging people after they adopted a cashless economy.

Rachin Ravindra doubtful for India series

New Zealand all-rounder Rachin Ravindra is a doubtful starter for the upcoming T20 series against India due to a dislocated shoulder sustained during a promotional shoot. While initial medical assessments show no major structural damage, his return depends on rehabilitation. New Zealand Cricket and coach Rob Walter have indicated they will not rush his recovery, especially with a demanding schedule ahead.

Agriculture Minister Javid Dar visits fruit Mandi Handwara, interacts with growers

Rohit Sharma reveals why test matches kept him awake at night and the comfort food his mother made for him

During intense Test matches, Rohit Sharma often faced sleepless nights due to nervousness, which was a common struggle with the format's unique pressures. To cope, he turned to his mother's homemade banana wafers, finding comfort in their familiar taste. This snack became a cherished anchor for him as he navigated the demanding landscape of Test cricket.

Rachin Ravindra Injures Shoulder in Ad Shoot; Doubtful For India T20Is

New Zealand head coach Rob Walter also said the team would not rush Ravindra back given its demanding schedule

IIT Bombay says circumstances surrounding student's death being looked into

IIT Bombay says circumstances surrounding a second-year students death by suicide are being investigated, while students staged a late-night protest demanding accountability and transparency from the administration

Iltija Mufti Slams NC Govt Over Job Discrimination in J&K

Srinagar, Sep 19 : PDP leader Iltija Mufti on Saturday hit out at the National Conference government in Jammu and Kashmir over unemployment and alleged discrimination in government jobs, accusing it of carrying out institutional apartheid and demanding that a sub-committee report promised by former chief minister Omar Abdullah be made public. Addressing reporters here, Iltija Mufti as per news agency Kashmir News Service (KNS) said joblessness remains a serious concern in the Union Territory. We know how unemployed people are in Jammu and Kashmir. The youth of this country are not getting any jobs, she said. She recalled a protest held outside Omar Abdullah's residence on December 24, during which, she claimed, the NC leader had assured open merit students that a sub-committee would be set up within six months and its report presented within the same period. It's been two years and there is no sign of the report, Iltija said, asking the government to disclose the panel's findings. Alleging that Kashmiris were being punished and merit apartheidised, she said, Our Kashmiri community is being punished. An institutional weeding is being carried out. Merit is being apartheidized in Jammu and Kashmir. Jammu and Kashmir is the only state where merit is being punished. She said the protest was aimed at reminding the NC government of its commitment. Please tell us the findings of the sub-committee report that you will present in six months. What are the findings of the sub-committee report that you have presented? Because it's been two years since then. And in those two years, all the vacancies are going to one particular person, she alleged. The rest of the people are being deprived of opportunities. Merit should not be an exception. Merit should be the rule, Iltija said. Accusing the administration of systematically targeting Kashmiris in exams and jobs, she said, The government here is systematically punishing the Kashmiris. You are dismissing them from exams and jobs. Yesterday, 10 years later, God forbid, there is not a single day that our Kashmiri brothers and sisters are not included in the bureaucracy of Jammu and Kashmir. So an institutional government-promoted apartheid is being carried out, because of which our youth, especially from Kashmir, are suffering. So we came here to protest and we wanted to remind the NC government to present the sub-committee report that you had promised,she added. (KNS)

Two years, no report: Iltija Mufti questions Omar govt over reservation sub-committee

Srinagar, Sep 19: PDP leader Iltija Mufti on Saturday led a protest demanding the submission of a sub-committee report on reservation in Jammu and Kashmir, alleging that open merit students, particularly from Kashmir, were being denied opportunities. The protesters raised slogans demanding that the government present the report and provide justice to open merit students. Addressing the protesters, Mufti said the government had promised to submit the sub-committees report within six months, but two years had passed without any findings being made public. We appeal to Omar Sahib that what you had said that you will present the sub-committee report within six months tell us its findings. What are the findings of the sub-committee that you had constituted? she said. Mufti said vacancies were continuing to be filled while open merit candidates were being deprived of opportunities. Because since then, two years have passed, and in those two years, whatever vacancies are coming out, they are going to a particular group, while the rest of the people are being deprived of opportunities, she said. Merit should not be an exception, merit should be the rule, Mufti added. She alleged that the government was systematically penalising Kashmiris and pushing them out of the system. And the government here is systematically punishing Kashmiris, removing them from the system. You are excluding them from examinations, excluding them from jobs, she said. Mufti also warned against a situation where Kashmiri candidates could become under-represented in the bureaucracy. Tomorrow, 10 years from now, God forbid, a day should not come when there are no Kashmiri brothers and sisters in the bureaucracy of Jammu and Kashmir, she said. Referring to the National Conference government's manifesto, Mufti said it had promised to rationalise reservations and constitute a sub-committee. You look at your manifesto. In the manifesto, you had said that you would rationalise reservation, she said. You would constitute a sub-committee. What happened to that sub-committee even after two years? Mufti recalled that the PDP had staged a protest outside Chief Minister Omar Abdullah's residence in December 2024, following which, she said, the Chief Minister had promised that the report would be submitted within six months. Two years have passed, but even after two years, that report has not been presented, she said. She said the PDP wanted to remind the government of its commitments and alleged that young people preparing for competitive examinations were being disadvantaged because they belonged to the open merit category. That youngster who works day and night, gives his blood and sweat, sits for the exam, sits again and again four times, five times and after that, even if he gets good marks, he is told that you will not get this job because you are from the open merit category, Mufti said. Because you are Kashmiri, she added. Mufti said the PDP would seek to reverse what she described as discriminatory policies if it returned to power. Three years from now, Inshallah, when the PDP government comes, what you are doing wrong today, we will correct, she said. The protest also saw demonstrators chanting, Jab jab NC darti hai, police ko aage karti hai (Whenever the NC is afraid, it brings the police forward), alongside slogans demanding the sub-committee report and justice for open merit students.

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Asian Games: Manu Bhaker cherishes flag-bearer honour, urges Indian athletes to embrace experience

Digital Desk | Nagoya, Sep 19 (IANS) Manu Bhakers journey from a 16-year-old making her Asian Games debut to becoming one of Indias flag-bearers has given her a moment to reflect on how far she has come in sport. The double Olympic medallist, who will lead the Indian contingent alongside kabaddi star Pawan Sehrawat at the Asian Games opening ceremony here on Saturday, said the honour brought back memories of her early days in shooting. Honestly, when I got to know yesterday, I had all these flashback memories of my earlier days. And, you know, when I started, I never thought that this is where I could reach one day in my sport. So, it is definitely a very heartwarming feeling. I feel really proud, honoured, and happy to be chosen as the flag bearer of my homeland. I just want to say thank you to God and thank you to everyone for all the love and support, Manu said in an IOA video. Bhaker is competing at her third Asian Games, having first represented India at the 2018 edition in Jakarta and Palembang. Her recollection of her early Games experience also highlighted how demanding the schedule can be for shooters, with competitions often beginning soon after the opening ceremony. I remember I was 16 years old at my first Asian Games, and this is my third. My first one was in Jakarta, though we were in Palembang, which was really far from the main village, so we were not able to go there. The first ceremony I ever attended was at the Commonwealth Games. My coach Jaspal Sir was like, If you are the flag bearer, I will allow you to attend the ceremonies; otherwise, no, because we usually have our matches starting from Day 1 or 2, so it gets very hectic for us in shooting. Usually, our competitions start right the day after the opening ceremony. So after that, it turned out that every time I attended an opening ceremony, I was either holding the flag or watching it on TV. It feels very nostalgic because I never imagined I would be here one day. Sports is just amazing! That is all I have to say right now, she said. With the Indian contingent preparing for competition, Bhaker also called on her fellow athletes to focus their energy on making the most of their opportunity rather than dwelling on issues surrounding the Games. To all the athletes participating from India in the Asian Games in Japan, my message is that yes, we will have some issues. I saw a couple of issues circulating on social media, and people telling me about this or that. Regardless, this is a once-in-a-lifetime opportunity and experience. We have to make sure that we enjoy this time rather than complaining, and have the best time of our lives, she said. She urged the athletes to concentrate on preparation and performance, regardless of the eventual medal tally. We should prepare as best as we can and try to perform at our best. We have all worked so hard to be here, and we cant waste our energy complaining about whats right or wrong. Instead, the best we can do is give our best. Winning a medal or not is a different story, but what is in our hands is to give our best. I really hope a lot of Indians will be cheering for us. Thank you so much, all the best to everyone, and God bless us all, she concluded.

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Asian Games: India to face potential Japan threat in QF as badminton draws revealed

Digital Desk | Nagoya, Sep 19 (IANS) Indias badminton teams have been handed contrasting but demanding routes at the Asian Games 2026, with the men facing Bangladesh and the women taking on Kazakhstan in their respective Round of 16 ties before potential quarterfinal clashes against Japan. The team events, which follow a knockout format, begin on Sunday and the Indian women will be the first in action against Kazakhstan, with the five-match tie offering a route into a last-eight meeting with hosts Japan, who have received a bye into the Round of 16. A Japanese challenge could bring some heavyweight singles contests, with PV Sindhu potentially facing Akane Yamaguchi and Unnati Hooda up against Tomoka Miyazaki. In doubles, Treesa Jolly and Gayatri Gopichand could be tested by Japans leading combinations, including Yuki Fukushima-Mayu Matsumoto and Kie Nakanishi-Suzu Iwana. China, the top seed, have been placed in the opposite half of the womens draw, ruling out a meeting with India before the final. A semifinal against South Korea could await India, with world champion An Se-young and the womens doubles combination of Baek Ha-na and Lee So-hee among the potential hurdles. Indias women have won just one Asian Games team medal, a bronze at the 2014 Incheon Games. That side, featuring Saina Nehwal, Sindhu and the Ashwini Ponnappa-Sikki Reddy combination, defeated Thailand 3-2 before losing 1-3 to South Korea in the semifinals. The Indian men, meanwhile, will begin their campaign against Bangladesh on Monday. The reigning silver medallists could then face Japan in the quarterfinals, setting up a possible singles battle between Lakshya Sen and Kodai Naraoka, while Ayush Shetty could meet Yushi Tanaka. Satwiksairaj Rankireddy and Chirag Shetty could face the Japanese pairing of Hiroki Okamura and Takuro Hoki, depending on the tie-ups. China or South Korea could await India in the semifinals, with all four teams drawn in the same half. Indonesia, Malaysia, Hong Kong and Chinese Taipei occupy the other side of the mens bracket, with Indonesia the top seed. India had claimed silver in the mens team event at Hangzhou, losing 2-3 to China in the final. The country also enjoyed a landmark individual campaign there, with Satwik and Chirag winning Indias first Asian Games badminton gold, while HS Prannoy secured bronze in mens singles. A 20-member Indian badminton contingent will compete across seven disciplines at Aichi-Nagoya 2026.