Police file case against TVK member, five others for demanding protection money from gas agency
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.
Delhi BJP Protests Demand Expulsion of AAP Councillor Following Sanitation Worker
Delhi BJP protests outside AAP office, demanding the expulsion of councillor linked to sanitation workers suicide. Delhi BJP Protests Demand Expulsion of AAP Councillor Following Sanitation Workers Suicide
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.
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
CBI Arrests Agricultural Officials in Jammu-Kashmir Bribery Case
The CBI has arrested three individuals, including agricultural officials, for demanding bribes in Jammu-Kashmir. CBI Arrests Agricultural Officials in Jammu-Kashmir Bribery Case
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.
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
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 .
CBI Arrests SDAO, Two Others Over Rs 35,000 Subsidy Demand
Jammu, September 20: The CBI Anti-Corruption Branch (ACB), Jammu, has arrested a Sub-Divisional Agriculture Officer (SDAO), an Agricultural Extension Assistant and a private person for allegedly demanding Rs 35,000 from a complainant for facilitating the release of subsidy under the High-Density Agriculture Development Programme (HADP). The accused have been identified as Rajan Sharma, SDAO, Akhnoor; [] The post CBI Arrests SDAO, Two Others Over Rs 35,000 Subsidy Demand appeared first on Northlines .
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
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 .
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.
PMK asks TN government scrap Cuddalore SIPCOT, NLC land acquisition
Digital Desk | Chennai, Sep 20 (IANS) PMK leader Anbumani Ramadoss has urged the Tamil Nadu government to abandon its plans to acquire additional land for a new SIPCOT industrial complex and the expansion of NLC mines in Cuddalore district, warning of a major protest if the proposals are pursued. In a statement, Ramadoss said the government had issued a fresh notification to acquire 164.20 acres in Thiagavalli and Kayalpattu villages, in addition to 1,097 acres already notified for the proposed SIPCOT complex, even as area residents had been continuously protesting against the earlier acquisition order. Much of the land had previously been purchased from farmers at low prices by two large private companies, and local people were demanding its return, he said, adding that the governments attempt to acquire it now was unacceptable. According to Ramadoss, the new industrial complex would cover 1,283 acres. When added to the existing 2,625-acre SIPCOT estate in Cuddalore, the district would have industrial estates spread across 3,908 acres. Such large-scale industrialisation would not represent development but would expose the district to further environmental damage, he said. He also opposed the proposed acquisition of residential plots for the expansion of NLCs Mine-I. The government had announced plans to acquire 68 plots covering 12.60 acres in Gangaikondan village and 77 plots covering 3.21 acres in Vanathirayapuram. More than 100 families could be rendered homeless if the acquisition proceeded, the PMK chief claimed. He also alleged that untreated waste discharged by chemical industries in the existing SIPCOT complex had already polluted Cuddalores soil, groundwater and air. He claimed that hazardous substances, including carcinogenic dioxins, had been detected in the region and that NLCs mining activities were affecting people across the district. He said the agricultural lands proposed for acquisition were fertile and could generate annual income of up to Rs 10 lakh. However, the guideline value in some areas had been fixed at only Rs 3.31 lakh an acre. Even the enhanced compensation offered by the government would be far below the prevailing market value, he alleged. Questioning why the government had abandoned the Parandur airport project but continued acquiring land in Cuddalore, Anbumani demanded the withdrawal of notifications covering 1,277 acres for SIPCOT and NLC projects. The PMK would mobilise affected residents and launch a major agitation if the government failed to act, he warned.
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
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.
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.
The fading sound of the hammer: Kashmirs copper artisans fight for survival
In the heritage markets of Srinagar, the sound of a hammer hitting copper has been part of the citys character for generations. In Zaina Kadal, Aali Kadal, Khanyar and other parts of Shehr-e-Khaas, craftsmen still sit in small workshops, shaping copper sheets into samovars, trays, bowls, deghs and other utensils. But the trade is no longer what it used to be. Traditional copperware is facing growing competition from machine-made products, and those working in the industry say the impact is being felt most by the people who depend on their hands and tools to make a living. Jan Mohammad, Chairman of the Copper Association Kashmir, said the issue should not be viewed only through production or market figures. Copperware is facing an onslaught from machine-made copperware. Beyond statistics, there is a story of copper workers whose earnings and jobs have reduced, he said. According to Jan Mohammad, a copper worker earns around Rs 500 to Rs 600 a day. For many artisans, however, even this modest income is becoming increasingly difficult to sustain as demand for handmade products comes under pressure from cheaper and faster machine-made alternatives. The problem is particularly serious because copperwork is not a single occupation. It supports a chain of specialised craftsmen. There is the Khar, who shapes and works the metal, the Naqash, who does the engraving, the Zarcod, who works on gilding, the Roshangar, who polishes the finished article, and the Charakgar, who carries out finishing work. For generations, these skills have been passed from one family member to another. Nazir Ahmad, a fourth-generation coppersmith from Srinagar, is among those who learnt the craft in this traditional way. He says his first lessons came from watching his father and grandfather at work. I learned by watching my father and grandfather work, he says. For craftsmen like Shabir, copperwork is not simply a job. It is a skill acquired over years, often beginning with small tasks in the workshop before an apprentice gradually learns to handle the tools and master the craft. The tools themselves are part of that tradition. Hammers, stakes and anvils, along with chisels, punches, files and other implements, are used to shape and finish the copper. The work is slow and requires considerable manual effort. That is also where handmade copperware finds itself at a disadvantage. A machine can produce articles faster and in larger numbers. A craftsman, by contrast, needs time to shape, smooth, engrave and finish every piece. For an artisan whose income depends on daily production, the difference can directly affect earnings. Jan Mohammad said consumers also need to be able to distinguish between handmade and machine-made products. He referred to QR-based labelling for handmade products as one possible way of helping buyers identify genuine handcrafted copperware. He also pointed to the legal and policy measures taken against machine-made copperware, saying the J&K Assembly Act has banned machine-made copperware. The industry, however, believes enforcement and proper identification of products are crucial if such measures are to translate into benefits for traditional artisans. There is also a difference in the way the two products are perceived by craftsmen. Asked about handmade and machine-made copperware, Jan Mohammad said handmade products are considered more durable, while machine-made copperware is comparatively soft and more prone to breaking. The claim reflects the trades longstanding argument that the value of handmade copperware lies not only in its appearance but also in the workmanship that goes into it. For Kashmir, copperware has always had a place beyond the marketplace. The samovar remains closely associated with Kashmiri hospitality. Copper trays, bowls and other utensils are used during weddings, religious occasions and family gatherings. Decorative pieces, meanwhile, continue to be valued for their engraving and traditional designs. Household copper utensils are also traditionally subjected to Kalai, the process of coating them with tin, which gives them a distinctive appearance and finish. Yet cultural demand has not necessarily translated into secure livelihoods for the artisans. The trade is also struggling to attract young workers. The work is physically demanding, workshops can be hot and dusty, and the earnings are not always enough to persuade younger people to choose copperwork over other occupations. As a result, an important part of the traditional skill base is slowly becoming thinner. The concern, therefore, is not simply that fewer copper articles are being sold. It is that fewer people may remain who know how to make them. In Khanyar, where families have traditionally been associated with the craft, this change is particularly significant. What was once a common family occupation is increasingly becoming a specialised trade practised by a shrinking number of craftsmen. The copper industrys struggle is consequently about two things at once: the survival of a traditional Kashmiri craft and the survival of the livelihoods attached to it. The Department of Handicrafts and Handloom, Jammu and Kashmir, has introduced QR-based labels for traditional copperware to help consumers verify the authenticity of handmade products and distinguish them from machine-made copies. The initiative is aimed at protecting Kashmirs traditional copper craft, improving traceability and ensuring that genuine artisans receive recognition for their workmanship. The QR labels can also help buyers identify products that meet the departments prescribed standards, strengthening confidence in authentic Kashmiri handicrafts.
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.
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 .
Ahead Of Smog Season, Bhagwant Mann Defends Punjab Farmers, Takes Dig At Pakistan
Paddy growers have been demanding a Rs 3,000 cash incentive per acre for managing paddy stubble, a demand that the Punjab chief minister backed in principle.
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.
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
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
Aaditya Thackeray, a leader of Shiv Sena (UBT), has received a legal notice demanding a public apology along with Rs 500 crore in damages. Advocate Nilesh Ojha indicated that the notice also addresses threats directed toward them. Satish Salian, Disha Salian's father, intends to visit Thackeray's residence concerning the circumstances of his daughter's death, as Thackeray previously disclaimed any connection and termed allegations baseless.
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.
Farmers suspend agitation demanding full crop loan waiver
Farmers suspend agitation demanding full crop loan waiver
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.
Delhi High Court Takes Firm Stance on DU Elections Amid Violence and Rule Violations
The Delhi High Court addresses violence and rule breaches in the DU elections, demanding accountability from political student organizations. Delhi High Court Takes Firm Stance on DU Elections Amid Violence and Rule Violations
Agriculture Minister Javid Dar visits fruit Mandi Handwara, interacts with growers
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.
DTC strike enters day 5 as Delhi Metro hits record 82.4 lakh boardings
Delhi Metro saw record passenger boardings as a DTC bus drivers' strike entered its fifth day. Many commuters turned to the Metro, facing longer travel times and increased expenses. The drivers are demanding a wage revision and better social security benefits. DMRC increased services to manage the surge in passenger numbers. The strike continues to pressure the city's alternative public transport systems.
Assured career wouldnt be affected: What IIT-Bombay said on students suicide
An IIT-Bombay student died by suicide after using a mobile phone during an examination. He had uploaded the question paper to an AI platform seeking answers. The instructor and department head counselled him, assuring no academic impact. Students protested, demanding focus on mental health concerns on campus. This incident follows a similar student suicide two months prior.
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.
Best Gaming Phones Under Rs 75,000 in India: iQOO 15, OnePlus 15R and More
Several smartphones under Rs. 75,000 offer hardware suited to demanding mobile games, including high-end processors, fast displays and large batteries. The iQOO 15 and OnePlus 15R feature displays with refresh rates of up to 144Hz and 165Hz, respectively, while the Motorola Edge 70 Max adds 360Hz touch sampling. The Poco X8 Pro Max stands out with its 9,000mAh battery and dedicated cooling system. The Vivo X200T rounds out the list with the Dimensity 9400+ chipset and a 120Hz AMOLED display.
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.
Salim Merchant gets trolled for visiting Kamakhya Mandir, gets questioned on religious beliefs
Digital Desk | Mumbai, Sep 19 (IANS) 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 opted for a white T-shirt and dark trousers, with a red religious stole draped around his shoulders and a garland around his neck. Sharing the pictures on his social media account, Salim wrote in Hindi: Shakti ke charanon mein, Om Aim Hreem Kleem Kamakhye Namah. While many users responded with hearts, folded-hands emoticons and messages seeking Maa Kamakhya's blessings, some questioned Salim's visit and his expression of devotion. Among the comments were, Astaghfirullah from all muslims side (Seeking forgiveness from Allah on behalf of all Muslims.) One user wrote, Our shirk kia jiski maafi ni Quran me Hy btao saleem (Tell me, Salim, what about the shirk for which there is no forgiveness in the Quran.) Another user wrote, Ali Ali na kia kr na ahlbait ka zikar kia kr (Don't keep saying Ali Ali or mention the Ahl al-Bayt.) This is not the first time Salim's expressions of devotion towards Hindu deities have prompted discussion online. In March 2026, he spoke about his practice of offering prayers to Lord Shiva on Mondays while also observing Jummah prayers on Fridays. He said he respects both religions and described his connection with God and music as something difficult to put into words. On the professional front, Salim is one half of the composer duo Salim-Sulaiman, alongside his elder brother Sulaiman Merchant. The brothers have worked together for more than three decades and have composed music and background scores for numerous Hindi films. Their credits include films such as Chak De! India, Fashion, Rab Ne Bana Di Jodi and Band Baaja Baaraat and many more.
Parents win $40 million award in Uber passenger death case
Carol Normandin and Ken Parker said on September 18 that they hope the amount will put a spotlight on the 2023 death of their daughter, Emily Normandin-Parker
IIT-Bombay student dies by suicide after being caught using AI during exam
A second-year IIT-Bombay student died by suicide on Friday evening. He had used an AI platform to seek answers during an examination. Students gathered demanding a probe into mental health concerns and institutional actions. The institute stated no disciplinary action was initiated against the student. This incident follows another student suicide at the same hostel on July 28.
North Korea rejects UN nuclear watchdog call to halt atomic activities
North Korea rejected a UN atomic watchdog resolution demanding nuclear activity halts. Pyongyang stated the resolution has no effect as it is not an IAEA member. A foreign ministry statement accused hostile forces of targeting its nuclear program. The country's nuclear weapons status is legally enshrined and irreversible. North Korea plans to enhance its self-defensive deterrent capabilities further.
Khyber Cement Kashmir Super League 2026 |Athwas India XI crowned league winners
Athwas India XI emerged as the league winners of the Khyber Cement Kashmir Super League 2026, powered by Athwas Retail and Athwas Hyundai, following the conclusion of the league stage on Friday. The final league-stage match, as per a statement, was played between Swift Strikers Rainawari FC and Sanctorum North United FC, with Swift Strikers registering a commanding 60 victory to secure their place in the play-offs. The match was attended by Satish Sharma, Minister for Youth Services and Sports, Jammu & Kashmir, as the Chief Guest. With this emphatic win, Swift Strikers Rainawari FC became the fourth team to qualify for the play-offs, completing the league-stage line-up and setting the stage for an exciting knockout phase. The league has witnessed tremendous enthusiasm, competitive football and remarkable participation from local players, further strengthening the sporting culture in Jammu & Kashmir. The Khyber Cement Kashmir Super League 2026 continues to provide a prominent platform for local football talent, bringing together teams, players and supporters while contributing to the growth of football in the region. With Athwas India XI crowned league winners, attention now shifts to the play-offs, where the qualified teams will compete for the coveted league title.
Aross the length and breadth of the country, and particularly in J&K, there is an undeniable surge in civil construction. Earth movers dot the landscape, roads are being widened, drains are being dug, and public buildings are rising from the ground. To the untrained eye, this flurry of activity paints a picture of a region on the march, a testament to developmental focus and economic momentum. However, a closer, more discerning inspection reveals a deeply unsettling reality. The civil works, ubiquitous as they are, suffer from a chronic, systemic affliction: they are overwhelmingly of a shockingly low grade. We are building at an unprecedented pace, but we are building poorly. It is a facade of progress, masking an impending infrastructural disaster that will cost the exchequer and the taxpayer dearly in the years to come. To understand why newly laid roads wash away with the first monsoon showers, or why freshly plastered walls develop cracks before a project is even officially inaugurated, one must look at the genesis of the problem: the tendering process. The root cause of this infrastructural malaise lies in the prevailing culture of contractors quoting at the absolute minimum rate. Driven by a flawed procurement ecosystem that blindly worships the L1 (lowest bidder) metric, contractors engage in a race to the bottom. In their desperation to secure tenders and outbid competitors, they quote prices that are fundamentally detached from the economic realities of sound construction. Let us be brutally clear about the arithmetic of construction: quality comes at a price. When a contractor wins a bid at a rate that barely covers the base cost of standard operations, the profit marginand indeed, the survival marginmust be extracted from elsewhere. It is an open secret in the construction industry that an impossibly low bid is not a sign of incredible efficiency; it is a preamble to compromised quality. The government, by accepting these rock-bottom quotes without rigorously questioning their feasibility, becomes a willing accomplice in the degradation of its own infrastructure. We celebrate the financial savings on paper, completely ignoring the massive recurring costs of maintenance, repair, and premature replacement that will inevitably follow. When contractors are squeezed by the very minimum rates they themselves quoted, the immediate casualty is the material used. It is entirely obvious and utterly predictable. To make the math work, high-grade cement is routinely replaced with inferior alternatives, or the cement-to-sand ratio is cynically manipulated on site. The steel rebars, meant to provide the tensile backbone to our structures, are often of substandard gauge and quality. Bitumen on our roads is spread perilously thin, mixed with improper aggregates, and laid at incorrect temperatures to save on fuel and time. These are not victimless compromises. The use of low-quality materials directly translates to compromised structural integrity and public peril. A retaining wall built with adulterated concrete is a tragedy waiting to happen during the next heavy downpour. A road laid with insufficient bitumen becomes a series of hazardous potholes within months, endangering lives and slowing down economic activity. The contractor walks away with his profit margin intact, having fulfilled the bare minimum requirements on paper, while the public is left to navigate the crumbling remnants of so-called development. Yet, the minimum rate quotes and the resulting substandard materials are only symptoms of a much larger, more insidious disease. The most critical failure, the enabler of this entire charade is the glaring lack of supervision by the concerned departments. Contractors will naturally attempt to maximize their margins; it is the nature of business. But it is the sworn duty of the government departments, specifically the engineers, junior engineers, and site supervisors, to ensure that the work adheres strictly to the mandated specifications. Tragically, this supervisory mechanism has all but collapsed. Whether due to a crippling shortage of staff, institutional apathy, or a deeply entrenched nexus between the executors and the monitors, the oversight is practically non-existent. Bills are passed, and completion certificates are issued for work that barely passes a visual test, let alone rigorous quality control checks. The site supervisor is the first line of defense against substandard construction. When that defense is absent or compromised, the contractor is given a free pass to plunder the public purse through poor workmanship. The lack of on-site vigilance means that the engineering specifications detailed in the tender documents remain entirely fictional, existing only in files rather than on the ground. This brings us to the pressing situation in Jammu and Kashmir. The region is currently undergoing a massive infrastructural overhaul. From smart city projects in Srinagar and Jammu to rural road connectivity under various national schemes, hundreds of crores are being pumped into the UT. However, the whispers of discontent regarding the quality of these works are growing into a crescendo. Citizens are witnessing firsthand the slapdash manner in which drains are being constructed, roads are being patched, and public buildings are being erected. The harsh weather conditions of J&K, extreme winters, heavy snowfall, and torrential rains demand infrastructure of the highest resilience. Instead, we are getting fragile, low-grade constructions that will not survive a single harsh season. To improve the standard and quality of public work underway and infrastructure projects to follow latest standards in respective fields, we need a complete overhaul of our technical protocols. And similarly adopt Quality Standards for Audit criteria, ensuring that every assessment is measured against established national and international benchmarks rather than subjective observations. Another important aspect is training of Engineers in Government departments especially in J&K. There is hardly any training from the day a young engineer joins till his retirement. All he learns is by field experience. Upgradation of knowledge, adoption of new technologies is relevant in every engineering department else we will keep following old practices. In infrastructure development lot has changed in last 20 years. Trained engineers and upgradation in knowledge helps in better supervision of projects. State Government can use training establishments with various ministries and departments across the country. The economic ramifications of this infrastructural negligence in Jammu and Kashmir are profound. Our region relies heavily on two primary engines: tourism and agriculture. Both demand robust, reliable connectivity. When a vital arterial road connecting a tourist hotspot degrades rapidly due to low-grade bitumen and poor sub-base preparation, it is not just an inconvenience; it actively deters visitors, harming the local hospitality economy. Similarly, for the apple growers of Shopian or the saffron farmers of Pampore, every pothole on the route to the mandi translates to damaged produce and lost income. We are building infrastructure to supposedly boost these sectors, yet by allowing contractors to cut corners and by failing to supervise their work, we are actively sabotaging the very economic lifelines we aim to strengthen. The narrative of a new era cannot be built on foundations that crumble to dust at the slightest pressure. Some of the civil work currently happening in Jammu and Kashmir is, without a doubt, worth an audit. In fact, it desperately demands one. We cannot afford to squander this historic opportunity for infrastructural development on ephemeral, low-quality construction. A comprehensive, independent technical audit of all major civil works executed in the last few years is an absolute necessity. This audit must not merely look at the financial ledgers but must involve core sampling of concrete, thickness testing of roads, and a rigorous review of the materials used against the tender specifications. Accountability must be fixed not just on the contractors who executed the poor work, but equally on the officials who signed off on it. But audits take time, and the damage is being done today. Therefore, there is an immediate, actionable step that must be taken. It is high time that the senior officials of the Roads & Buildings (R&B) Department, and indeed the concerned Minister or the highest administrative authorities in the UT, step out of their secretariats. We need less boardroom planning and more on-ground inspection. A few unannounced, surprise visits to active construction sites by the top brass will send a shockwave through the system. When the highest levels of leadership demonstrate that they are invested in the quality of the work, and not just the completion of it, the entire bureaucratic machinery falls in line. The people of Jammu and Kashmir deserve infrastructure that stands the test of time, not infrastructure that requires rebuilding every two years. We must dismantle the unholy trinity of lowest-bidder obsession, substandard materials, and absent supervision. Development is not measured by the number of projects inaugurated, but by the durability and utility of the assets created. It is time to demand quality, enforce accountability, and ensure that every rupee of public money translates into solid, lasting public assets. The current state of civil works is not just a failure of engineering; it is a breach of public trust. An audit is not just warranted; it is an urgent moral imperative. Lt Gen R. S. Reen is a former DGQA
Protesters form human chain at Kennedy Center after Trump threatens demolition
Hundreds of activists gathered at the Kennedy Center Friday night in opposition to President Donald Trump's attempted takeover of the presidential memorial and threats that he will close and demolish it. Activists linked hands and formed a human chain outside the Washington venue, demanding Trump be removed as its chairman for failing to protect and manage it. Trump installed himself as chairman of the Kennedy Center last year after removing its previous leadership and replacing board members with his own appointees. Tom Brenner/Getty Images - PHOTO: Rally Held In Support Of The Kennedy Center In Washington, D.C. The demonstration opposes the recent sudden closure of the facility, the installation of security fencing, and political efforts to alter or demolish portions of the presidential memorial, the group said on its website. The Hands Off the Arts organization behind the rally and protest said they expect hundreds of people to gather on the center's steps for musical performances, testimonials and speeches before forming a human chain around the building. The group has held various protests outside the performing arts venue this year. The Kennedy Center can't be renamed for anyone else. It's a memorial to John F. Kennedy. It's like silly to suggest otherwise. And it's not just silly -- it's insulting and it's degrading and it's un-American, Miller told ABC News. J. Scott Applewhite/AP Photo - PHOTO: Trump Kennedy Center Miller, who was a former assistant manager of dance programming at the Kennedy Center, lost her job in 2025 as part of mass layoffs as the administration restructured the Kennedy Center. Trump says Kennedy Center could be 'ripped down' if he doesn't get 'recognition' Artists are the risk takers in our society, Miller said ... We are the people who create the world that comes next, and that is what the Kennedy Center means to all of us. This is a building that belongs to the American people, not one person and it's our Kennedy Center. We are the Kennedy Center. The activist coalition, which says it formed after leadership changes at the Kennedy Center in recent months, said its goal is to reclaim the Kennedy Center from authoritarian overreach and protect other arts and cultural institutions from similar fates, according to the group's website. Earlier this week, Trump said the Kennedy Center could be ripped down if his administration doesn't receive recognition on the performing artscenter as tensions over his name being removed from the venue mount. I think that the Trump administration should certainly have recognition. Because frankly, if we don't do that, it's going to close. It'll end up being ripped down, the president told reporters. Brendan Smialowski/AFP via Getty Images - PHOTO: President Donald Trump is seen aboard Air Force One looking at a large printout of the Kennedy Center after landing at Joint Base Andrews, Maryland on September 16, 2026. A federal judge on Thursday ordered the Kennedy Center to provide 30 days' notice before making any major physical changes to the building, including demolishing it as Trump has threatened. U.S. District Judge Christopher Cooper issued the order after lawyers for Democratic Rep. Joyce Beatty, an ex officio member of the board, cited Trumps warning that the center could be ripped down and submitted photographs appearing to show the Trump examining a placard labeled Kennedy Center DEMOLISHED on Wednesday night. The photos were taken Wednesday night through a cabin window on Air Force One. President Donald Trump is seen aboard Air Force One looking at a large printout of the Kennedy Center after landing at Joint Base Andrews, Maryland on September 16, 2026. Trump says Kennedy Center could be 'ripped down' if he doesn't get 'recognition' The venue cannot install memorials for President Trump or anyone or anything else at the Kennedy Center without Congresss blessing, Cooper ruled. The judge earlier this week ruled that Trump's name could not be added to the center's exterior without congressional approval. The board previously placed his name on the facade, and removed it in June after an earlier ruling. Trump has argued that the center is in poor condition and requires substantial government support to remain open. It's in very, very bad shape, very dangerous shape, Trump said Wednesday. You see steel falling down. You see plaster falling off ceilings. You see a lot of dangers. ABC News' Sarah Beth Hensley contributed to this report. This article originally appeared on ABC News at https://abcnews.com/Politics/protesters-plan-form-human-chain-kennedy-center-amid/story?id=136558872
Uri-NH to remain closed on Sep 20 for hill-cutting work
Srinagar, Sep 18: The Uri national highway will remain temporarily closed to vehicular traffic on September 20 to facilitate hill-cutting work, authorities said on Friday. According to an order issued by Sub-Divisional Magistrate (SDM) Uri Prince Kumar, the closure has been permitted following a request from the Officer Commanding, 53 RCC (GREF), for carrying out the hill-cutting work along the highway. The closure will remain in force during the execution of the work, with the authorities advising commuters, the general public and transport operators to use the alternative route via Bandi-Paranpillan-Dachi. The executing agency has been directed to reopen the highway for vehicular movement immediately after completion of the hill-cutting work, subject to necessary safety clearance of the site and ensuring the safety of commuters. The order was issued by the SDM Uri on the request of 53 RCC (GREF).
Kashmiri Pandits hail Gangbal Yatra, thank admin for support
Ganderbal, Sep 18: Kashmiri Pandit devotees participating in the annual Harmukh-Gangbal Yatra on Friday described the pilgrimage as an age-old tradition and an important part of Kashmirs cultural heritage, while expressing gratitude to the administration for facilitating the event. The 18th Harmukh-Gangbal Yatra commenced from Naranag in the Kangan area of central Kashmirs Ganderbal district, with devotees heading towards the high-altitude Gangbal Lake. Speaking to Rising Kashmir, a Kashmiri Pandit devotee said the pilgrimage has been associated with the communitys traditions for generations and is observed annually to preserve the practice. He said devotees perform snan (ritual bathing), pooja and other religious rituals at Gangbal Lake before returning from the high-altitude site. According to him, the main religious observance is held on the eighth day of the Shukla Paksha. The devotee said people from the Kashmiri Pandit community as well as members of other communities participate in the yatra and visit the sacred site. He also thanked the civil administration, police and security agencies for making arrangements for the pilgrimage. He said the presence of Lieutenant Governor Manoj Sinha at Naranag to flag off the yatra had added significance to the occasion for the devotees. Every year the administration comes forward to address our concerns and facilitate the yatra. We are thankful to them, he said. Referring to the historical significance of the pilgrimage, he said the Gangbal Yatra has a long cultural and religious history and is mentioned in traditional Kashmiri texts, including the Nilamata Purana and writings associated with Kalhana. Another devotee said the annual pilgrimage had resumed in 2009 after remaining suspended for a period due to disturbances. He said devotees were particularly enthusiastic about undertaking the journey this year. He credited the local administration, police, Army, CRPF and other agencies for working in coordination to facilitate the pilgrimage. The devotees also appealed to people to participate in the yatra in the coming years, describing it as an occasion that promotes peace and communal harmony. The Harmukh-Gangbal Yatra is held annually from Naranag to Gangbal Lake, located at the foothills of Mount Harmukh. The pilgrimage involves a demanding trek through the high-altitude terrain before devotees reach the lake for religious observances.
Protest Over GHMC Garbage Collection Privatisation
Women engaged in garbage collection also joined the protest, demanding that the task not be assigned to private firms.
White Knight Corps GOC visits encounter site
Jammu Tawi, Sept 18 : A day after security forces killed two Pakistani terrorists belonging to the proscribed outfit Jaish-e-Mohammad, the General Officer Commanding (GOC) of Jammu-based White Knight Corps, Lt Gen P K Mishra, on Friday visited the encounter scene in Udhampur district to review the ongoing counter terrorism operation, the Army said. Lt [] The post White Knight Corps GOC visits encounter site appeared first on Northlines .
Tejas & Htt-40 Trainers, Dhruv Choppers Take Flight: Hal's Big Push To Build India's Aerospace Power
Hindustan Aeronautics Limited handed over Tejas twin-seater trainers and HTT-40 basic trainer aircraft to the Indian Air Force, along with Dhruv NG helicopters to Pawan Hans, at a Bengaluru ceremony marking a key self-reliance milestone. The HTT-40, with 56% indigenous content and 70 units ordered for Rs 6,800 crore, replaces the Pilatus PC-7 at the basic flying stage, while Tejas trainers support advanced fighter conversion, together strengthening India's homegrown pilot training pipeline. The HTT-40 delivery is running a year late and still relies on an American Honeywell engine. This comes even as the broader Tejas Mk1A fighter programme faces serious delays, with only 10 of a needed engine supply delivered by GE Aerospace against 27 airframes built. Looking ahead, the IAF is also drafting demanding requirements for its next advanced trainer, featuring fly-by-wire controls, NavIC-based navigation and simulator-linked training systems, signalling a broader push to build a genuinely indigenous training ecosystem for India's fighter pilots.#HAL #HindustanAeronauticsLimited #Tejas #TejasTrainer #TejasMk1A #HTT40 #DhruvNG #IndianAirForce
In a bold move in 1971, a man known as Dan Cooper commandeered a Northwest Orient Airlines flight, demanding cash and parachutes. After receiving his ransom, he leapt from the aircraft into the unknown. The FBI launched a thorough investigation over the years, uncovering some of the money later, yet Coopers ultimate fate remains a captivating mystery that continues to spark the imagination of many.
Tamil Nadu Delta farmers continue sit-in protest near Tiruchirappalli demanding full loan waiver
The News Mill
HAL hands twin-seater Tejas fighter jet trainers, HTT-40 basic trainers to IAF
Digital Desk | Bengaluru, Sep 18 (IANS) Government-owned aerospace giant Hindustan Aeronautics Limited (HAL) handed over two Light Combat Aircraft (LCA) Tejas final operational clearance twin-seater trainers and three HTT-40 basic trainer aircraft to the Indian Air Force (IAF), along with four Dhruv next-generation helicopters to Pawan Hans Limited, on Friday. The platforms were displayed, and a pooja was performed in the presence of Defence Minister Rajnath Singh and Minister of Civil Aviation K. Rammohan Naidu at the handing-over ceremony. Singh also sat inside the Dhruv next-generation (NG) chopper, which was displayed at the venue. The helicopter is a HAL-designed and manufactured 5.5-tonne, light twin-engine, multi-role helicopter. The handover marks an important milestone in the countrys self-reliance journey, as the event highlighted the role HAL and its industry partners play in strengthening the domestic aerospace ecosystem. The Defence Minister said combat effectiveness can be ensured only through a combination of well-trained personnel, advanced technology, integrated systems, and rapid decision-making. He said the LCA trainer will play a crucial role in preparing pilots for this demanding operational environment. He added that while the Dhruv-NG exemplifies indigenous civil aerospace prowess, the LCA trainer stands as a symbol of indigenous military aerospace capability and the maturity of its fighter aircraft ecosystem. Singh said India had relied for years on imported aircraft to meet its basic training requirements, but HAL is now manufacturing the HTT-40 indigenously to meet the IAF's needs. Highlighting the aircrafts export potential, he said the HTT-40 would find demand in international markets and fulfil its intended role in strengthening Indias aerospace capabilities. The Defence Minister highlighted HALs expertise across aircraft manufacturing, helicopter development, overhaul, repair, maintenance, and aerospace engineering, calling it a pillar in Indias endeavour to build indigenous aerospace capabilities. He exhorted HAL to further expand its capabilities across the entire aerospace value chain, including design, development, manufacturing, certification, lifecycle support, and global marketing. Singh called for realistic project timelines to address delays in ongoing technical projects. He noted that delays can create gaps in meeting critical defence requirements, lead to cost escalations, and increase the risk of technology obsolescence. Terming R&D a crucial priority area, the Defence Minister urged young scientists, engineers, designers, test pilots, and technicians to take it as a challenge to create technologies that do not exist today. He urged them to develop capabilities that secure India's leading position in the global aerospace technology landscape over the coming decade.
Court rejects BRS leaders remand after dramatic arrest over social media post
Digital Desk | Hyderabad, Sep 18 (IANS) A city court on Friday rejected the remand of BRS leader Manne Krishank, hours after his dramatic arrest by police, who broke open the locked door of his residence. Nampally court refused to send Bharat Rashtra Samithi (BRS) social media convenor Krishank to judicial custody after his arrest over a social media post. On a remand petition filed by the police, the court said it was rejecting the remand request in view of the guidelines laid down by the Supreme Court. Earlier, police arrested Krishank from his residence after high drama. A large number of policemen had surrounded his residence since early morning. As the BRS leader had locked himself in, the police officers made repeated requests to him to come out. As Krishank did not come out, police broke open the lock of the iron grill to enter the house and arrested him. Krishank was booked for a social media post about an incident in which BRS Working President K. T. Rama Raos personal assistant and public relations officers were allegedly attacked in Saifabad Police Station on September 14. Why did they need to come with 100 policemen just because I tweeted asking who entered the Saifabad police station wearing masks? Am I some criminal? Am I trying to escape anywhere? asked Krishank. He said police came to his house at 5 a.m., broke the locks on the gate, and even tried to break the door. He said his 7-year-old child had an exam but couldn't go because of the police raid. He said the child sat at home, terrified by the police brutality. Is all this happening just because I questioned Congress corruption, atrocities, and failures and spoke about Revanth Reddy's brother's shell company? They've already filed numerous illegal cases against me and put me in jail twice. No matter how many illegal cases they file or how much they threaten me, I have no intention to stop questioning them, he said. K. T. Rama Rao condemned the manner in which police arrested Krishank. He questioned Congress leader Rahul Gandhi if criticising the government is a sin. Rahul Gandhi, you carry a copy of the Constitution and preach sermons. You claim your politics is about Mohabbat Ki Dukaan. You talk about free speech. But your government in Telangana is acting in exactly the opposite manner. Telangana police broke open the doors and barged into the home of our party leader Krishank, arrested him over a mere social media post criticising the government. Krishanks daughter was left crying inconsolably as police personnel created chaos, Rama Rao said in a post on X. Despite clear orders from the Honble Supreme Court and High Court against making arrests over social media posts, your Revanth government in Telangana is murdering democracy and flouting all democratic principles. Is questioning the Congress government a sin? Is criticising the ruling dispensation a crime? Is this the way to arrest an opposition party leader by terrifying his family members? Telangana is demanding answers, Mr Rahul Gandhi, he added.
Farmers walkout from grievance redress meeting demanding complete waiver of crop loans
NHM employees defer strike after written assurance from J&K Health Minister
Srinagar, Sep 18: National Health Mission (NHM) employees on Friday deferred their strike after the association got written assurance from Health Minister of Jammu and Kashmir Sakeena Itoo. The breakthrough came after a meeting between the striking employees and the government, where the minister gave assurance in writing that the legitimate demands of protesting NHM employees will be examined and necessary steps will be taken. The representatives of NHM employees while addressing media said that after getting written assurance from Health Minister Sakeena Itoo, the employees have decided to defer their strike. They said the assurance from the health minister depicts the government is also concerned over the demands put forth by the NHM protesting employees. The representative said the strike has been deferred for a month and it is hoped the government will take serious steps in resolving of our long pending demands. Notably the protesting NHM employees have been demanding settlement of their long-pending issues pertaining to job security, regularization and other service matters. The employee leaders expressed gratitude to the minister for giving a written assurance and hoped their legitimate and genuine demands will be addressed with sincerity.
Best Apple Watch 2026: Series 12 vs Ultra 4 vs SE 3
Macworld Choosing the right Apple Watch depends on your budget, lifestyle and which features matter most to you. As of September 2026, Apples lineup consists of the Apple Watch Series 12, Apple Watch Ultra 4 and Apple Watch SE 3, although the various combinations of case size, material, color and band can make choosing one seem like a bit of a minefield. The Apple Watch Series 12 is the best choice for most people, combining a tougher display and more advanced heart-rate sensing with an S11 chip and 24-hour battery life. The larger and more rugged Apple Watch Ultra 4 is designed for endurance sports and outdoor adventures, offering precision GPS, diving features and up to 50 hours of battery life. The Apple Watch SE 3 remains the best-value option for buyers who want the core Apple Watch experience and can live without features such as ECG and the latest health sensors. Apple updated the Series and Ultra models in September 2026, but the SE was unchanged. However, the SE 3 only arrived in 2025 and includes significant improvements over its predecessor, including an always-on display, temperature sensing and the same S10 chip found in the Series 11. You may also find older models at a discount, but check that the saving is worthwhile and bear in mind that watchOS 27 no longer supports every older Apple Watch. See our roundup of the best Apple Watch deals for the latest prices. In this guide, well explain the differences between the current models and help you decide whether you need to spend more on the Series 12 or Ultra 4 or whether the SE 3 offers everything you need. Well compare their features, specifications and prices, as well as explain the choices of sizes, case materials, colors and bands, so you can buy the Apple Watch that best suits your needs. Best Apple Watch: At a glance recommendations Buy the Apple Watch Ultra 4 if Buy the Apple Watch Series 12 if Buy the Apple Watch SE 3 if Charging You regularly spend 2+ days away from a charger. You charge your watch daily without issue. You dont mind charging your watch daily. Activity You are a runner, hiker, cyclist, or diver. You are a general fitness user or casual athlete. You want everyday fitness and activity tracking. Display You need the brightest display (3,000 nits) for outdoor visibility. You prefer a lighter, less bulky watch. You want an always-on display at the lowest price. Health & Safety You want satellite communication for safety. You want the best value for the core health features. You dont need ECG or advanced health sensing. Need You need the toughest, most durable build (titanium, sapphire crystal). You want a choice of sizes (42mm or 46mm) and materials (aluminum, ceramic). You want an affordable watch for a child or older relative. Apple Watch Series 12 Best Apple Watch for most people Pros Advanced heart-rate sensing Tougher Ceramic Shield display Powerful Audio Intelligence features Cons Battery life same as previous generation No satellite connectivity Price When Reviewed: $399 Best Prices Today: Retailer Price $389.99 View Deal Price comparison from over 24,000 stores worldwide The Apple Watch Series 12 is Apples mainstream premium smartwatch and the best choice for most people. Its S11 chip powers a redesigned heart-rate sensor system that measures your heart rate every five seconds throughout the day. It also enables Audio Intelligence features including Sound Recognition, Live Rewind and Siri Recap. The design remains familiar, but Apple has introduced new finishes: Light Gold and Dark Bronze replace Silver and Rose Gold on aluminum models, while Radiant Gold replaces Gold on titanium versions. Ceramic cases also return in Night Blue and Pearl White. Prices still start at $399, although some configurations cost more than their Series 11 equivalents. Key advantages and limitations Aluminum models now use Ceramic Shield 2, which Apple claims is 60 percent more durable than the Ion-X glass used on the aluminum Series 11. Battery life remains at 24 hours, but outdoor workout tracking increases to 10 hours and the watch can charge to 80 percent in around 30 minutes. Live Rewind can display a transcript of the previous 15 seconds of a conversation when you double-press the Digital Crown. However, assigning that gesture to Live Rewind means the traditional App Switcher is no longer available, making multitasking less convenient. The Series 12 also lacks the Ultra 4s satellite connectivity, 50-hour battery life and brighter, more rugged display. Who should buy the Apple Watch Series 12? The Series 12 is the best option for anyone who wants Apples latest health and smart features without the size or price of the Ultra 4. Its advanced heart-rate sensing, Readiness score, tougher display and relatively compact design make it particularly attractive to health-conscious users and anyone upgrading from a Series 9 or older. Who shouldnt buy one? Series 10 and 11 owners probably wont gain enough to justify upgrading, especially because the quoted 24-hour battery life is unchanged. Outdoor adventurers who need satellite connectivity, extended workout tracking or maximum battery life should consider the Ultra 4 instead. Should I buy an older version of the Apple Watch Series? A discounted Series 10 or 11 could offer better value if you dont need the new health sensing or Audio Intelligence features. The Series 9 is also still compatible with watchOS 27. Avoid the Series 8 and older models unless they are exceptionally cheap, because they cannot run watchOS 27 and will miss out on future feature updates. Apple Watch Ultra 4 Best Apple Watch for adventurers and endurance athletes Pros Exceptional 50-hour battery Advanced outdoor capabilities More frequent health measurements Cons Large and heavy Expensive for everyday users Price When Reviewed: $799 Best Prices Today: Retailer Price $799 View Deal Price comparison from over 24,000 stores worldwide The Apple Watch Ultra 4 is Apples most rugged and capable smartwatch, designed for endurance athletes and outdoor adventurers. It retains the Ultra 3s 49mm titanium case, 3,000-nit display, Action button, dual-frequency GPS, satellite connectivity, 100-meter water resistance and recreational diving support. Inside, the new S11 processor powers the redesigned heart-rate sensing system also found in the Series 12. It measures heart rate every five seconds throughout the day and enables Audio Intelligence features including Sound Recognition, Live Rewind and Siri Recap. Key advantages and limitations Battery life is the Ultra 4s biggest improvement, increasing from 42 to 50 hours under normal use. Extended Workout mode provides up to 25 hours with full GPS and heart-rate measurements, while Max Extended Workout mode can track outdoor runs and walks for up to 45 hours. Charging is faster too, with a 15-minute charge providing up to 18 hours of use. Satellite connectivity, precision dual-frequency GPS, diving support and the bright display make it particularly well suited to demanding environments. However, its 49mm case is large and heavy, while charging to 80 percent takes around 45 minutes, compared with approximately 30 minutes for the Series 12. The external design is also largely unchanged. Pricing remains at $799, twice the Series 12s starting price. Who should buy the Apple Watch Ultra 4? Choose the Ultra 4 if you need the longest Apple Watch battery life, highly accurate GPS, satellite connectivity, diving support or extended workout tracking. It is particularly suited to runners, hikers, cyclists, divers and anyone who regularly spends more than a day away from a charger. Its extended battery life could also appeal to travelers and people working long shifts, even if they dont participate in extreme sports. Who shouldnt buy one? Most people will be better served by the smaller and less expensive Series 12. It provides the same S11 processor, redesigned heart-rate sensing and principal Audio Intelligence features without the Ultras bulk or $799 price. If you dont need satellite communication, precision GPS, diving support or exceptionally long workout tracking, you are unlikely to benefit from the additional expense. Should I buy an older Apple Watch Ultra? The Ultra 3 remains a strong alternative if substantially discounted, although its battery lasts up to 42 rather than 50 hours. The Ultra 2 is the oldest model compatible with watchOS 27 and may also be worth considering at the right price, but it lacks some newer connectivity and battery improvements. Avoid the original Ultra unless it is exceptionally inexpensive, because it cannot run watchOS 27. Apple Watch SE 3 Best budget Apple Watch Pros Excellent value for money Useful always-on display Fast, capable S10 chip Cons Missing advanced health sensors Shorter 18-hour battery life Price When Reviewed: $249 Best Prices Today: Retailer Price $249 View Deal $249 View Deal $249.99 View Deal Price comparison from over 24,000 stores worldwide The Apple Watch SE 3 is Apples most affordable smartwatch and the best-value model in the current lineup. Introduced in September 2025, it brought substantial improvements over the SE 2, including an always-on display, the S10 processor used by the Series 11, temperature sensing, fast charging and 64GB of storage. It also supports Double Tap and Wrist Flick gestures, on-device Siri and media playback through its speaker. The aluminum case comes in Midnight or Starlight, but there is no longer a Silver option. Prices start at $249/219, although it can fall as low as $199 during sales. Key advantages and limitations The SE 3 provides the essential Apple Watch experience, including fitness and sleep tracking, Sleep Score, heart-rate alerts, temperature-based cycle tracking, Fall Detection and Crash Detection. Its Ion-X display glass is four times more crack-resistant than that of the SE 2, while cellular versions add 5G connectivity. Battery life remains limited to 18 hours, although Low Power Mode extends this to 32 hours. Fast charging reaches approximately 80 percent in 45 minutes, and a 15-minute charge provides around eight hours of use. The SE 3 lacks ECG, Blood Oxygen monitoring, hypertension notifications and the redesigned Health Sensing System found on the Series 12. Its 1,000-nit display, thicker bezels and limited material choices also make it feel less premium. Who should buy the Apple Watch SE 3? The SE 3 is ideal for first-time Apple Watch buyers and anyone who wants fitness tracking, notifications and safety features without paying for advanced health sensors. It is also a strong option for children when using the cellular model with Family Setup, and for older users who could benefit from Fall Detection, Emergency SOS and heart-rate monitoring. Who shouldnt buy one? Choose the Series 12 instead if you want ECG, Blood Oxygen monitoring, hypertension notifications, more advanced heart-rate sensing or a brighter, more premium display. Buyers who need multi-day battery life, satellite connectivity or specialist outdoor features should consider the Ultra 4. Should I buy an older Apple Watch SE? No. The SE 2 cannot run watchOS 27 and lacks the SE 3s always-on display, temperature sensing, faster charging, newer gestures and additional storage. Even at a substantial discount, its reduced software lifespan makes it difficult to recommend in 2026. Read our full Apple Watch SE 3 (40mm) review watchOS 27 features: Whats new and what requires Series 12 or Ultra 4 Apple released a new version of the software that runs on the Apple Watch watchOS 27 on September 14, 2026, but not every new feature is available on every supported watch. Some improvements are software-led and work across compatible models, while others depend on the S11 chip and redesigned sensors in the Apple Watch Series 12 and Ultra 4. The hardware-dependent health features unique to the 2026 Watches include background heart-rate measurements every five seconds and HRV (heart rate variability) measurements every five minutes . The Series 12 and Ultra 4 also gain the Readiness app , which analyzes recent activity, training load, sleep and health data to produce a daily recovery score. Other exclusives include daytime resting heart-rate and HRV data in Vitals, a real-time chart in the Heart Rate app, more accurate all-day step counting and a Steps complication that updates on the watch face. The S11 chip also enables Apples Audio Intelligence features . Automatic Music Recognition uses Shazam to identify nearby songs and display them in the Smart Stack, while Sound Recognition can detect doorbells, alarms, sirens and crying babies without relying on the iPhone. Live Rewind displays a transcript of the previous 15 seconds of conversation after a double-press of the Digital Crown; it does not save an audio recording. Siri Recap produces high-level summaries of conversations. Live Rewind and Siri Recap are expected to arrive in beta later in 2026 and require a compatible Apple Intelligence iPhone and Siri AI. Other watchOS 27 features are more widely available. These include the Dynamic App Grid , redesigned Find My app , menopause and perimenopause tracking, Call Context and Workout Buddy improvements. Apple has also introduced the Longevity section and Health Age . Compatibility is considerably more restricted than it was with watchOS 26. Series 9 and Ultra 2 are now the oldest supported models, while the SE 3 is the only compatible SE. The Series 6, Series 7, Series 8, SE 2 and original Ultra cannot install watchOS 27. Anyone considering a discounted older Apple Watch should therefore choose a Series 9, Series 10, Series 11, Ultra 2 or Ultra 3 if receiving current feature updates is important. See: These Apple Watches are now obsolete. Apple Watch comparison chart: Apple Watches specs compared Apple Watch SE 3 Apple Watch Series 12 Apple Watch Ultra 4 Price from $249/219 $399/369 $799/749 Screen size 40mm or 44mm 42mm or 46mm 49mm Display Always-on, up to 1,000 nits Always-on LTPO3, up to 2,000 nits Always-on LTPO3, up to 3,000 nits Weight from 40mm: 26.3g; 44mm: 32.9g 42mm: 32.2g; 46mm: 39.5g 63g Materials Aluminum Aluminum, titanium or ceramic Grade 5 titanium Colors Midnight, Starlight Aluminum: Dark Bronze, Light Gold, Black, Space Gray; Titanium: Radiant Gold, Natural; Ceramic: Pearl White, Night Blue Natural, Black Processor S10 S11 S11 Battery life Up to 18 hours; 32 hours in Low Power Mode; 080% in about 45 minutes Up to 24 hours; 38 hours in Low Power Mode; 080% in about 30 minutes Up to 50 hours; 84 hours in Low Power Mode; 080% in about 45 minutes Extra features Double Tap and Wrist Flick; on-device Siri; speaker media playback; 64GB storage Single Tap, Double Tap and Wrist Flick; Siri AI; Audio Intelligence; Readiness; Precision Finding; depth gauge; water-temperature sensor; media playback Series 12 features plus Action button, precision dual-frequency GPS, satellite communication, Siren, dual speakers, three-microphone array and extended workout modes Health features Heart-rate monitoring; high, low and irregular rhythm notifications; temperature sensing; Cycle Tracking with ovulation estimates; sleep stages; Sleep Score; sleep apnea notifications Health Sensing System; high-frequency heart-rate and HRV tracking; ECG; Blood Oxygen; hypertension notifications; Readiness; daytime Vitals; advanced Cycle Tracking; Sleep Score; sleep apnea notifications Same advanced health features as Series 12 Safety features Emergency SOS, international emergency calling, Fall Detection and Crash Detection Emergency SOS, international emergency calling, Fall Detection, Crash Detection, Check In and Backtrack Series 12 safety features plus Emergency SOS, Messages and Find My via satellite, and Siren Water features Water resistant to 50 meters; suitable for swimming Water resistant to 50 meters; depth gauge to 6 meters; water-temperature sensor; suitable for swimming and snorkeling Water resistant to 100 meters; depth gauge and recreational diving to 40 meters; water-temperature sensor; suitable for swimming, snorkeling, scuba diving and high-speed water sports Connectivity Precision L1 GPS; optional 5G/LTE cellular Precision L1 GPS; optional 5G/LTE cellular; second-generation Ultra Wideband Precision dual-frequency GPS; 5G/LTE cellular; second-generation Ultra Wideband; satellite connectivity Which size Apple Watch should you choose? Choosing the right Apple Watch size depends on your wrist, how much display space you want and which model you prefer. Apples current lineup ranges from the compact 40mm Apple Watch SE 3 to the rugged 49mm Ultra 4. Model Available sizes Case dimensions Best for Apple Watch SE 3 40mm or 44mm 40mm: 40 34 10.7mm; 44mm: 44 38 10.7mm Smaller wrists, lighter watches and budget-conscious buyers. The 40mm version is the smallest current Apple Watch. Apple Watch Series 12 42mm or 46mm 42mm: 42 37 9.7mm; 46mm: 46 40 9.7mm The best balance of display size and wearability for most people. Apple Watch Ultra 4 49mm 49 44 12mm Athletes and adventurers who want the largest display, most durable construction and longest battery life. The Series 12 ceramic cases are slightly larger: approximately 43mm and 47mm rather than 42mm and 46mm. Apple Watch Series 12 (46mm) Price When Reviewed: $549 Best Prices Today: $549 at Amazon Foundry Consider your wrist size and comfort The watch should feel secure without dominating your wrist or restricting movement. The 40mm SE 3 is the best option for particularly small wrists, while the 42mm Series 12 provides a larger display in a case that remains manageable for most people. If possible, try both sizes in an Apple Store before buying. Consider display size and readability A larger screen makes text, notifications and onscreen controls easier to see and use. The 49mm Ultra 4 has the largest display, but its 63g titanium case is substantially heavier than the aluminum Series 12 or SE 3. The 46mm Series 12 offers a spacious display without the Ultras additional bulk. Consider whether you need the Ultra Dont choose the Ultra 4 solely because it has the largest screen. Its size makes most sense if you also need its rugged titanium construction, satellite connectivity, precision dual-frequency GPS, diving support or 50-hour battery life. For everyday use, the Series 12 will generally be more comfortable. Check band compatibility Apple Watch bands arent universally interchangeable. Bands designed for smaller cases generally fit the 38mm, 40mm, 41mm and newer 42mm watches, while larger bands work with 44mm, 45mm, 46mm and 49mm models. However, the older 42mm case belongs to the larger band family, so check the compatibility information before reusing or ordering a band. Aluminum, titanium or ceramic: Which Apple Watch material is best? Foundry Another consideration when buying an Apple Watch is its case material, which affects its durability, weight, appearance and price. Apple currently offers aluminum, titanium and ceramic cases, although the available materials depend on the model. Aluminum: Best for most people Aluminum is the lightest and most affordable choice. It is the only material available for the Apple Watch SE 3 and the entry-level option for the Series 12, helping to keep their starting prices at $249 and $399 respectively. It is a good choice for everyday wear, fitness and sleep tracking because it feels lighter on the wrist than the premium alternatives. The SE 3 uses Ion-X display glass, which Apple says is four times more crack-resistant than that of the SE 2. The aluminum Series 12 has the tougher Ceramic Shield 2 display, which Apple claims is 60 percent more durable than the Ion-X glass used by the aluminum Series 11. Titanium: Best for premium durability Titanium is available with the Series 12 and is the only case material offered with the Ultra 4. It provides a more premium finish and is paired with highly scratch-resistant sapphire crystal rather than the glass used on aluminum models. The Series 12 titanium case is available in Natural or Radiant Gold. It is a good option for anyone who wants a more luxurious and durable everyday watch without moving up to the much larger Ultra. The Ultra 4 uses a rugged Grade 5 titanium case in Natural or Black. It is designed for outdoor adventures, endurance sports and diving, with a 49mm case, 100-meter water resistance and recreational diving support. However, its size and 63g weight make it less comfortable for smaller wrists and sleep tracking. Ceramic: Best for distinctive styling Ceramic returns as a premium Series 12 option in Pearl White and Night Blue. It has a glossy, distinctive finish and uses a sapphire crystal display, but it is heavier and considerably more expensive than the aluminum version. The ceramic cases are also slightly larger than the other Series 12 configurations. Which material is best for Apple Watch? For most buyers, aluminum offers the best balance of price, durability and comfort. Choose titanium if you want a more premium finish, sapphire crystal or the Ultra 4s specialized outdoor capabilities. Ceramic is primarily a style-led luxury choice for buyers who want the most distinctive Series 12 and are prepared to pay more for it. Which Apple Watch strap should you choose? Eugen Wegmann The right Apple Watch strap depends on how you intend to use your watch. Apple offers options for everyday wear, sleep tracking, exercise, water sports and formal occasions, while third-party manufacturers provide an even wider range of styles and prices. Strap Best for Key characteristics Sport Band Everyday wear, workouts and swimming Durable rubber with a secure pin-and-tuck closure. Water and sweat resistant, but less breathable than fabric. Sport Loop Sleep tracking and all-day comfort Soft, lightweight and breathable nylon with an adjustable hook-and-loop fastener. Nike Sport Band Running and intense workouts Similar to the Sport Band but perforated for improved ventilation. Nike Sport Loop Running and everyday wear A breathable fabric alternative to the Nike Sport Band. Solo Loop Everyday wear and sleep Stretchable silicone with no clasp or buckle. Comfortable, but choosing the correct size is essential. Braided Solo Loop Comfort with a smarter finish A stretchable woven band that feels more premium than the standard Solo Loop. Alpine Loop Hiking and outdoor adventures Durable double-layer textile with a secure titanium G-hook. Designed for the Apple Watch Ultra. Trail Loop Running, hiking and all-day wear Apples lightest Ultra strap, with a pull tab for quick adjustments. Ocean Band Swimming, diving and water sports Water-resistant elastomer with a corrosion-resistant titanium buckle. Milanese Loop Work and formal occasions Metal mesh with a magnetic closure, offering a smart appearance and precise adjustment. Link Bracelet Formal and premium wear Apples premium metal bracelet, with removable links for adjusting the fit. Modern Buckle or Magnetic Link Smart everyday wear More formal alternatives to the sport-focused straps, available for selected case sizes. Herms straps Luxury and fashion Premium woven, rubber and metal designs made in collaboration with Herms. For most people, the Sport Loop is the best all-round choice because it is light, breathable and easy to adjust. Its softness also makes it particularly comfortable for sleep tracking. For workouts and swimming, choose a Sport Band or Nike Sport Band . The perforated Nike version provides better ventilation during intense exercise. Divers and regular swimmers should consider the Ocean Band , while runners and hikers may prefer the lighter Trail Loop or more rugged Alpine Loop . For work or formal occasions, the Milanese Loop , Link Bracelet , Modern Buckle and Magnetic Link provide a smarter appearance. Apples Herms collection offers the most luxuriousand most expensiveoptions. Before buying, check that the strap supports your Apple Watch case size and wrist measurement. Solo Loop and Braided Solo Loop straps require particularly careful sizing because they cannot be adjusted with a clasp. Third-party straps can offer excellent value, but quality, fit and fastening security vary considerably. Do I need a cellular Apple Watch? Whether you need a cellular Apple Watch depends mainly on how often you plan to leave your iPhone behind. For most buyers, the answer is no: a GPS-only Apple Watch offers better value and can already do a great deal without an active connection to an iPhone. Away from your iPhone, a GPS Apple Watch can still track workouts, monitor health, record location data, use Apple Pay and play music or podcasts downloaded to the watch. When connected to a known Wi-Fi network, it can also send and receive messages, make calls and use many online services. See our guide to Everything an Apple Watch can do without an iPhone . Cellular becomes useful when you regularly leave your iPhone at home but still want calls, messages, music streaming, navigation and notifications. This makes it particularly valuable for runners, cyclists, swimmers and gym users who dont want to carry a phone. It can also provide reassurance when you are walking alone or exercising away from Wi-Fi, because the watch can contact emergency services after a fall or crash using its own mobile connection. A cellular model is also the right choice when setting up an Apple Watch for a child or older relative who doesnt have an iPhone. Apple Watch For Your Kids, previously called Family Setup, allows a family members watch to be configured from another persons iPhone. A cellular plan enables calls, messages and location sharing when the watch is away from the managing iPhone. The drawbacks are cost and redundancy. A cellular Series or SE generally costs more than its GPS equivalent, and you must also pay your network provider a monthly fee. If your iPhone is nearly always in your pocket or bag, the watch will normally use its connection instead, leaving you paying for cellular service that you rarely need. See: I switched to a cellular Apple Watch to prove I didnt need one . Our recommendation : The Ultra 4 includes cellular as standard, so there is no GPS-only version. For the Series 12 and SE 3 , choose cellular only if you expect to leave your iPhone behind regularly or need Family Setup. Otherwise, save your money and buy the GPS model. For a more detailed comparison, see The pros and cons of a cellular Apple Watch . Can you use an Apple Watch without an iPhone? Yes, but with important caveats. An Apple Watch can do a surprising amount without an iPhone nearby, but an iPhone is required for the initial setup and to manage some settings. You cannot set up an Apple Watch using a Mac, iPad or Android phone. The exception is Apple Watch For Your Kids, previously called Family Setup. This allows a parent or guardian to use their iPhone to configure a cellular Apple Watch for a child or another family member who doesnt have an iPhone of their own. Once it has been set up, an Apple Watch can perform many tasks without its paired iPhone nearby and some dont require an internet connection at all. These include: Tracking workouts and activity: Record runs, walks and other exercises, close Activity rings and collect GPS data. The results sync with the iPhone when it reconnects. Monitoring health: Measure heart rate, track sleep, log medications and use other health features supported by the particular watch. Playing downloaded media: Listen to music, podcasts and audiobooks stored on the watch using Bluetooth headphones. Using Apple Pay: Make contactless payments without an iPhone or internet connection once Apple Pay has been configured. Using offline tools: Set alarms and timers, use the stopwatch and compass, and view photos that have been synced to the watch. Other features require either Wi-Fi or a cellular connection when the iPhone isnt nearby. With an internet connection, the watch can make and receive calls, send messages, check email, stream music and podcasts, use Maps and access online apps and services. Fall Detection and Crash Detection can still recognize an incident without the iPhone, but the watch requires Wi-Fi or its own cellular connection to contact emergency services. This is an important consideration if you are buying an Apple Watch for an older relative or someone who may regularly be away from their phone. An Apple Watch therefore cannot completely replace an iPhone, but it doesnt need to remain beside it throughout the day. For a complete breakdown, read all the things an Apple Watch can do without an iPhone . How we choose the best Apple Watch Macworlds Apple Watch recommendations draw on more than a decade of hands-on experience. Our writers have tested and reviewed every generation since the original Apple Watch, comparing each new model with both its current rivals and previous generations before deciding whether it deserves a recommendation. Our assessment focuses on the factors that make a meaningful difference in everyday use: Real-world testing: We assess comfort, build quality, display visibility, performance, battery life, charging, health sensors, fitness tracking and software features. We also consider how well the watch performs during everyday activities, workouts and sleep trackingnot simply how its specifications compare on paper. Value and upgrade potential: A newer or more expensive Apple Watch is not automatically the best choice. We consider whether its improvements justify the price, whether owners of recent models would benefit from upgrading and whether a discounted previous-generation watch offers better value. Honest recommendations: We clearly identify compromises such as limited battery life, missing health sensors, a bulky design or features that most people are unlikely to use. We dont recommend a product simply because it has the most impressive specifications. Advice for different buyers: There is no single Apple Watch that suits everyone. We recommend the Series 12 for most buyers, the SE 3 for those seeking the best value, and the Ultra 4 for endurance athletes and outdoor adventurers who need its longer battery life, rugged construction and specialist capabilities. Our final recommendations therefore combine extensive testing, expert judgment, price analysis and practical buying advice. The aim is not merely to identify the Apple Watch with the longest feature list, but to help you find the model that provides the right balance of features, comfort and value for the way you will actually use it. FAQ 1. Is now a good time to buy an Apple Watch Yes. Now is a great time to buy an Apple Watch because the brand-new Apple Watch Series 12 and Ultra 4 went on sale on September 18, 2026 and none of the line up is likely to be updated until September 2027. See: Should I buy an Apple Watch now or wait? 2. What is the difference between the Series 12 and SE 3? The Apple Watch Series 12 offers a brighter, tougher display, premium aluminum, titanium and ceramic cases, and the newer S11 chip. It also includes advanced health features such as ECG, Blood Oxygen monitoring, high-frequency heart-rate sensing and the Readiness app, plus exclusive Audio Intelligence features. Battery life is rated at 24 hours. The $249/219 SE 3 uses the S10 chip, lasts 18 hours and provides essential fitness, sleep and safety features, but lacks the Series 12s advanced sensors and premium materials. 3. Can you swim while wearing an Apple Watch? Yes, you can swim while wearing an Apple Watch, but the level of water resistance varies significantly depending on the model. The Apple Watch Ultra models are the most water-capable in the lineup. They are water-resistant to 100 meters and are suitable for swimming, snorkeling, scuba diving (up to 40 meters), and high-speed water sports. The Ultra models also include a depth gauge (up to 40 meters) and a water temperature sensor, making them a genuine companion for divers and endurance swimmers. The standard Apple Watch Series 11 and Series 10 are water-resistant to 50 meters and are described as swimproof. They are perfectly safe for swimming in a pool or the ocean, as well as for snorkeling and casual diving down to about 6 meters. The Apple Watch SE 3 is also water-resistant to 50 meters and is considered swimproof. To prepare your Watch before swimming by swiping up to open Control Center and tapping the water drop icon to enable Water Lock mode to prevent accidental screen taps. After your swim, turn the Digital Crown to eject any water from the speaker.
