Scientists found evolutionary highways in animal genomes dating back 600 million years
FCIK moves JERC against disproportionate industrial tariff hike
Srinagar, Aug 26:The Federation of Chambers of Industries Kashmir (FCIK), Valleys apex industrial chamber, has filed a comprehensive review petition before the Joint Electricity Regulatory Commission (JERC) against Order No 06 of 2026 dated August 20, seeking reconsideration of the enhanced power tariff imposed on existing industrial consumers and interim protection pending disposal of the petition. In a 17-page detailed petition, FCIK has challenged what it described as the central anomaly in the tariff determination. It pointed out that while KPDCL and JPDCL had proposed a 5 percent across-the-board increase before the commission and stakeholders, JERC ultimately raised the principal energy charge for LT Industry from Rs 4.20 to Rs 4.60 per kVAh, an increase of 9.52 percent, and for HT Industry at 11 kV from Rs 4.10 to Rs 4.50 per kVAh, an increase of 9.76 percent, besides enhancing fixed and demand charges. FCIK said the widely publicised 6.83 percent hike is merely the overall increase in tariff revenue and masks the actual near-10 percent increase imposed on industry. The federation has questioned the basis for imposing a near-10 percent increase when the order itself acknowledges that category-wise and voltage-wise cost of supply data are presently unavailable with the DISCOMs, despite earlier directions of the commission. FCIK said that without such data, there is no transparent category-specific cost determination explaining why industry should face almost twice the increase originally proposed. FCIK has further challenged the passing of system-wide inefficiencies onto an essentially fully-metered industry, pointing to distribution-loss assumptions of around 19 percent for KPDCL and 15 percent for JPDCL, projected collection efficiency of only 93 percent, and over Rs 102 crore provided towards bad debts. It reminded the commission of its own regulatory principle that distribution loss is controllable and that inefficiencies cannot be passed on to the consumers. The petition also highlights the DISCOMs' own business plans, which project stagnation or only marginal industrial growth over the next three years. FCIK said it was paradoxical to acknowledge such a weak industrial outlook while simultaneously making electricity - a basic manufacturing input - substantially more expensive. FCIK has also raised serious concerns over the stakeholder consultation process in Kashmir. It said only three persons attended the KPDCL public hearing in Srinagar, while no written objection appears to have been filed by any organisation or consumer from the region. FCIK's Head of Advisory Committee, Shahid Kamili, attended only after being contacted by a JERC official when the hearing had already commenced, leaving no opportunity to study the petition, consult members or prepare written objections. The federation said such attendance could hardly be treated as meaningful institutional consultation. More importantly, FCIK said, stakeholders were invited to respond to a 5 percent across-the-board proposal - not to a near-10 percent industrial hike eventually imposed. Even a fully prepared stakeholder could therefore not have objected to the specific basis for the substantially higher industrial increase ultimately determined. The federation has asked JERC to restore the pre-order tariff for existing industry until reliable category-wise and voltage-wise cost of supply is determined. It has also sought disclosure and scrutiny of category-wise losses, collection efficiency, arrears, bad debts and the methodology used to justify the differential industrial increase. Pending disposal of the review petition, FCIK has sought immediate abeyance of the enhanced industrial tariff and continuation of billing at pre-order rates, subject to final adjustment. Industry is not asking to escape the legitimate cost of electricity it consumes. The question before JERC is simple: when the utilities sought 5 percent, what category-specific cost or efficiency finding justified imposing nearly 10 percent on industry when the data required establishing industry's actual cost-to-serve are admittedly unavailable? FCIK said.
J&K plans to map, monetise underused Govt urban assets
Srinagar, Aug 26:The Jammu and Kashmir government is considering a new framework to identify government-owned land and buildings in urban areas, assess their utilisation and explore ways to generate revenue from unused or underused properties. The proposal is contained in the draft Urban Asset Mapping and Monetisation Policy prepared by the Housing and Urban Development Department (HUDD). The government has invited suggestions and feedback before finalising the policy. Under the proposed framework, the government would create a comprehensive digital record of its urban properties, including their location, geographical coordinates, land and built-up area, land use, circle rate, title documents, existing use, annual income and any legal claims or encumbrances. The draft proposes the 'Creation of Online Asset Register using IT & GIS technology and regular updation of assets.' The exercise would cover properties under Urban Local Bodies, Development Authorities, the Housing Board and other organisations under HUDD. The proposed State Urban Asset Management Cell (SUAMC) would maintain the database, with the inventory reviewed and updated monthly. The policy distinguishes between core and non-core assets. Core assets include infrastructure required for public services, such as roads, water supply systems, sewerage, solid-waste management, public transport, sanitation and stormwater networks. Non-core assets include government-owned land and buildings used for social infrastructure and other purposes. The proposed monetisation would primarily focus on non-core assets through an asset recycling approach. The draft does not envisage only outright sale of properties. Options include leasing government land or buildings, redevelopment, and allowing private entities to operate assets for specified periods under contractual arrangements. The draft says monetisation structures could range from simple agreements with private entities to more complex financing models. Lease arrangements, Real Estate Investment Trusts, transferable development rights, and land pooling are among the mechanisms mentioned. Properties would not automatically be selected for commercial use. SUAMC would assess potential assets in consultation with the concerned government organisations, examining factors such as revenue potential, priority, technical feasibility and financial viability. The Housing and Urban Development Department Committee would then consider the recommendations and approve assets for monetisation or redevelopment. The draft proposes a transparent and competitive bidding process for private-sector participation. It calls for rigorous analysis, stakeholder consultation, comprehensive data and accurate price discovery, with allotments typically going to the highest bidder. Technical, legal, financial and valuation advisers may also be engaged. Projects valued at Rs 250 crore or more would require approval from an Apex Committee headed by the Chief Secretary, with senior officials from departments including Finance, Revenue, Public Works, Forest and Environment and HUDD. Projects below Rs 250 crore would be handled by the HUDD Committee headed by the Principal Secretary. The draft proposes that monetisation proceeds be shared between SUAMC and the concerned HUDD organisation according to an agreed arrangement. The money would be used specifically for creating new public assets or refurbishing existing ones rather than simply being treated as unrestricted revenue. SUAMC would also maintain an online dashboard containing information on assets, including ownership, tenure, lease agreements, allotment criteria and legal disputes. It would oversee asset identification, approvals, tendering and monitoring after assets are transferred to private operators. The proposed process involves three broad stages: identification and preliminary assessment of assets; detailed mapping, valuation, geotagging and legal, technical and financial studies; and final approval of monetisation plans, agreements and revenue-sharing arrangements. The policy remains at the draft stage and can be modified following public feedback. The document also leaves certain matters, including the source of funds for SUAMC and its proposed location, to be determined through subsequent orders.
94,546 applicants for 960 posts in 2025-26
Srinagar, Aug 26:Jammu and Kashmirs growing competition for government employment is reflected in the latest recruitment figures of the Jammu and Kashmir Public Service Commission (JKPSC), which received 94,546 applications against 960 posts advertised during 2025-26. The figures mean that, on a simple application-to-post calculation, the Commission received an average of 98.5 applications for every post advertised during the year, or nearly 99 applications for one post. The scale of competition becomes clearer when the figures are viewed over the five financial years from 2021-22 to 2025-26. During this period, JKPSC received a combined 3,11,031 applications for recruitment. The annual figures were 41,932 applications in 2021-22, 37,880 in 2022-23, 74,465 in 2023-24, 62,208 in 2024-25 and 94,546 in 2025-26. The five-year total is calculated by adding the applications received in each of the five financial years. The latest year accounted for around 30 percent of all applications received by the Commission during the five-year period. It also marked a sharp increase over 2024-25, when the Commission received 62,208 applications. Applications increased by 32,338 in 2025-26 compared with the previous year, representing a rise of about 52 percent. The latest figure was also 20,081 higher than the previous peak of 74,465 applications recorded in 2023-24. The application figures provide an indication of the intense competition for government employment in J&K, although they cannot be treated as a direct measure of unemployment. An application does not necessarily represent a unique individual, as candidates may apply for more than one post or recruitment process. Similarly, the 960 posts advertised by JKPSC represent vacancies advertised through the Commission and not the total employment opportunities available across J&K. The 2025-26 report shows that most applications were for recruitment involving a written examination followed by an interview. A total of 88,185 applications were received under this category, while 6361 applications were received for recruitment based exclusively on written examination. The large application pool also resulted in a higher recruitment workload for the Commission. JKPSC interviewed 1847 candidates during 2025-26, compared with 1128 in 2024-25, an increase of nearly 64 percent. The commission recommended 1152 candidates for appointment during 2025-26, compared with 721 in the previous year. Of these, 529 candidates were recommended through recruitment involving written examination and interview, while 623 were recommended through recruitment based exclusively on written examination. The number of recommendations has varied over recent years. It stood at 763 in 2022-23, rose to 958 in 2023-24, declined to 721 in 2024-25 and increased to 1152 in 2025-26. The commission advertised 960 posts of various departments for recruitment during 2025-26. It also received eight requisitions involving 889 posts from different departments during the year. The gap between the number of applications and advertised posts is therefore significant. While 94,546 applications were received, only 960 posts were advertised, producing an average of 98.5 applications for each post. The ratio should not be read as meaning that exactly 99 unemployed people competed for each vacancy. Candidates can submit multiple applications, and applicants may include those already employed or seeking a change of employment. However, the figures demonstrate the scale of demand for the limited government posts advertised through JKPSC.
Advanced care must become a right, not a privilege: LG Sinha
Srinagar, Aug 26:Lieutenant Governor Manoj Sinha on Wednesday said advanced care must become a right, not a privilege. Addressing the Quaternary Healthcare and Research Summit in Srinagar, LG Sinha emphasised that the summit marks a turning point in Jammu and Kashmir and Indias healthcare journey, where J&K and the nation must move beyond tertiary care and embrace quaternary-level treatment and research to ensure equal access for all citizens. Recalling his visit to Akhnoor during the 'Back to Village' programme in 2020, he shared a poignant interaction with doctors who discussed diagnosis for rare diseases and need for modern equipment. The LG said this moment revealed the greatest distance confronting us in J&K is the gap between healthcare available in small district hospitals and the healthcare actually required. He stressed that bridging this gap is a national priority. LG Sinha highlighted Indias remarkable progress under the leadership of the Prime Minister, Narendra Modi. He said free treatment for more than 56 crore citizens surpassed the combined population of the US, France, Italy, and the UK. The LG said annual vaccination campaigns in the country covering 7 crore children, equal to the population of the UK. He said even e-Sanjeevani telemedicine providing care to 37 crore people annually, exceeding the population of the US. Expansion of infrastructure with 23 AIIMS, 2,045 medical colleges, and in Jammu Kashmir, 2 AIIMS, 10 medical colleges, 2 State Cancer Institutes, a Bone and Joint Hospital, a Paediatric Hospital, 52 nursing colleges, 23 paramedical colleges, and 5 pharmacy colleges are providing robust support to healthcare ecosystem. These figures show that India has succeeded in elevating primary, secondary, and tertiary care. But the time has come to scale up tertiary hospitals into quaternary centres, LG Sinha said. He also stressed that the advanced care must no longer remain a luxury confined to metropolitan cities. Quaternary care should not be a privilege reserved for the economically rich section of society. It must become a right of citizenship and a guarantee of the nation. For a very long time, quaternary care has been viewed as a luxury available only in metropolitan cities and accessible only to those who can afford it. I wish to state clearly from this platform that this era must now come to an end. The cooperation of all the stakeholders, private hospitals and research centres is essential for fulfilling this resolve, the LG said. He called upon hospitals to transform themselves into research institutions capable of organ transplantation, robotic and precision surgery, advanced genomics, cellular therapies, and AI-supported diagnostics. LG Sinha urged hospitals to allocate annual budgets for specialised infrastructure such as modern operating theatres and proton-beam therapy facilities. We must always remember that a quaternary centre should be capable of offering every diagnosis and treatment permitted by science. Therefore, hospitals will also have to make budgetary provisions to access expensive and modern technologies such as robotic surgery, gene therapy, proton-beam therapy and artificial-intelligence-based advanced diagnostics. While preparing the annual budget, hospitals should allocate funds each year for specialised infrastructure. This will enable them to gradually develop facilities such as modern operating theatres for delicate and complex procedures, he said. The LG also suggested building of a new corridor to connect district hospitals and tertiary centres directly with quaternary-care institutions, accelerating diagnostics, imaging, and specialist consultations. He said telemedicine and AI-enabled diagnostic tools should be integrated into standard healthcare infrastructure. He appealed for expanded fellowship and training opportunities in organ transplantation, oncology, genomics, and critical care. Advanced care is impossible without advanced specialists, LG Sinha said. He also suggested a mission uniting Himalayan states, J&K, universities, hospitals, private institutions, and innovators to jointly advance biomedical research and overcome funding challenges. We must develop new inventions ourselves instead of importing innovation from abroad, the LG said. He urged that hospitals be regarded as strategic national assets just like highways and ports, ensuring their preservation and development with equal dedication. We must create a robust quaternary-care framework that guarantees equal access to the son of a farmer and to a millionaire living in a city. This task will not be easy, but it must be undertaken as a matter of national dedication and service. Let us work together at this summit to prepare a strategy that will be remembered for the precise and effective implementation of these goals, LG Sinha said. On the occasion, he released Summit Souvenir and several publications. M Srinivas, Member, NITI Aayog; Atal Dulloo, Chief Secretary; Dr Digambar Behera, President, National Academy of Medical Sciences; Dr Kameshwar Prasad; M Raju, Commissioner Secretary, Health and Medical Education Department; Prof M Ashraf Ganie, Director SKIMS; heads of various institutions, researchers, scientists, and senior officials were also present on the occasion.
Repeated closures undermine Mughal Roads promise as Kashmirs alternate highway
Shopian, Aug 26:The Mughal Road, touted as an alternative link between Kashmir and the Jammu region, has faced repeated disruptions this summer due to cloudbursts and landslides, raising questions over its reliability as an all-weather route. On August 5, Chief Minister Omar Abdullah travelled to Rajouri and Poonch through the historic road and later described its condition as worse than the Jammu-Srinagar National Highway, which had itself been battered by torrential rain and landslides. The Mughal Road connects south Kashmirs Shopian district with Poonch in the Jammu region, cutting across the Pir Panjal range. The road was thrown open to vehicular traffic in 2009 and was projected as an alternative link to the Jammu-Srinagar National Highway. However, repeated weather-related disruptions have limited its potential as a dependable alternative route. Since June, the road has witnessed several cloudbursts and landslides. Official records show that a cloudburst occurred at Zaznar Point on June 29, while another hit the Sukh Sarai area on June 14. A landslide was subsequently reported in the Lal Ghulam area on July 14, followed by another in the Sukh Sarai area on August 3, disrupting traffic along the route. Despite the repeated incidents, authorities have been working to restore connectivity at the earliest. An official from the Border Roads Organisation (BRO) said the 52 RCC under Project Beacon has been clearing the road immediately after blockages. Our teams respond immediately whenever the road is blocked. The priority is to clear debris and restore traffic at the earliest, the official said. The roads vulnerability, however, is not limited to the summer months. Mughal Road remains closed for more than four months during winter because of heavy snowfall around Peer Ki Gali, located at an elevation of around 11,500 feet. The seasonal closure limits its usefulness as a reliable alternative to the national highway, particularly during periods when the main Jammu-Srinagar route is disrupted. For residents and traders in Shopian, Rajouri and Poonch, the road is an important connectivity link, providing a shorter route between the two regions. The road is important for people on both sides of the Pir Panjal, but frequent closures make it difficult to depend on it for regular travel and transportation, said Mohammad Ashraf, a local resident. The route also has economic significance for south Kashmirs horticulture sector, as it provides access to markets in the Jammu region. The repeated disruptions have assumed greater significance as the Jammu-Srinagar National Highway itself remains vulnerable to landslides, shooting stones and extreme weather. Mughal Road could provide an important alternative during such disruptions, particularly for traffic between south Kashmir and the Pir Panjal districts. But its own exposure to cloudbursts, landslides and heavy snowfall limits the extent to which it can perform that role. However, officials said that a proposed 9-km tunnel between Chatta Pani in Poonch and Zaznar in Shopian could eventually address the Mughal Roads biggest weakness of its prolonged winter closures and vulnerability to extreme weather. The Centre approved the Pir Ki Gali tunnel project in June 2025 at an estimated cost of around Rs 3830 crore, with the tunnel envisaged as an all-weather link between the Kashmir Valley and the Pir Panjal region. Once completed, it would bypass the high-altitude Pir Ki Gali stretch, where heavy snowfall regularly disrupts traffic for several months, said the officials.
In 2007, only 6 Galpagos snapdragons were known to survive on remote lava fields; after...
Apple sets its iPhone 18 event for September: A new foldable and CEO could steal the show
Is a foldable iPhone finally in our future? We'll be on the ground on Sept. 9 to find out.
An invasive beetle wiped out black ash trees across parts of North America
Massive fire guts 7 houses in Srinagar
Srinagar, Aug 26: Several houses were damaged in a massive fire incident in the Watal Kadal area of the summer capital on Wednesday, officials said. The blaze engulfed at least seven houses in the congested locality, they said. Fire tenders were rushed to the spot and the blaze was brought under control. Seven houses were directly involved in the fire and suffered damage, while two houses received minor damage due to heat, smoke and water. The cause of the fire is being ascertained, the officials said.
NITI Aayog delegation stresses need to improve educational outcomes, infrastructure in J&K
Srinagar, Aug 26: A NITI Aayog delegation led by its member M Srinivas on Wednesday stressed the need to improve educational outcomes and infrastructure in Jammu and Kashmir. The delegation made the observation during a meeting with J-K Lieutenant Governor Manoj Sinha here. The delegation highlighted the need to further improve educational outcomes and infrastructure, strengthen industry-academia linkages and employment opportunities, address human-resource and infrastructure gaps in the health sector, and improve primary healthcare delivery, an official spokesman said after the meeting. In agriculture and allied sectors, emphasis was placed on irrigation, modernisation of horticulture, reduction of post-harvest losses, cold-chain and processing infrastructure, livestock services, value-chain development and stronger market linkages, he said. For accelerating economic growth and employment generation, NITI Aayog suggested promotion of sector-specific industrial clusters, strengthening of MSMEs and employment-intensive manufacturing, improvement in logistics and export infrastructure, promotion of green mobility and development of a stronger innovation and startup ecosystem in the Union territory, the spokesman said. The presentation of the delegation also highlighted measures for sustainable urban development, including improved water security, sewage treatment, river rejuvenation, faster implementation of AMRUT 2.0 and PMAY-U, improved urban roads and expansion of public transport. The tourism potential of Jammu and Kashmir was also discussed, with emphasis on improving last-mile connectivity and visitor amenities, promoting homestays, and leveraging the UT's infrastructure for MICE (meetings, incentives, conferences and exhibitions) and event tourism, he added. The spokesman said the NITI Aayog delegation also highlighted the importance of timely completion of connectivity projects, improved water conservation and irrigation infrastructure, and greater utilisation of renewable energy potential, particularly through decentralised solar energy and PM-Surya Ghar. During the meeting, the Srinivas-led team presented a comprehensive assessment of the development landscape of Jammu and Kashmir, highlighting the achievements, key sectoral gaps and possible interventions for accelerating the socio-economic development of the UT. The assessment covered major sectors, including education, skill development and employment, health and nutrition, agriculture and horticulture, industry and MSMEs, urbanisation, tourism, infrastructure connectivity, water resources, and renewable energy and power. Sinha appreciated the comprehensive sectoral assessment and shared the significant development initiatives undertaken in Jammu and Kashmir in recent years. He said the government of India and the J-K administration are working together towards the vision of Viksit Jammu Kashmir, with sustained emphasis on infrastructure creation, improved public service delivery, employment generation, investment and inclusive socio-economic development. Sinha suggested that NITI Aayog may undertake a focused assessment and identify actionable measures for making the Dal Lake cleaner and ensuring its long-term ecological sustainability.
AI can augment reasoning but cannot substitute judicial conscience: CJI Surya Kant
New Delhi, Aug 26: Chief Justice of India Surya Kant on Wednesday said the judiciarys governing principle is that artificial intelligence may augment judicial reasoning, but it cannot substitute judicial conscience, and that a permanent apex body has been proposed to supervise the adoption and accountability of the new technology. Speaking at a bilateral meeting with Ulrich Herrmann, the presiding judge of the Federal Court of Justice at Karlsruhe in Germany, CJI Kant said that artificial intelligence (AI) is being used in certain defined support functions such as legal research, judgement translation into 16 languages and as a conversational interface for citizens to look for case status and procedures. He said that while these tools are designed to reduce repetitive work, they do not determine judicial outcomes. Artificial intelligence may augment judicial reasoning, but it cannot substitute judicial conscience. Draft regulations from the Supreme Court's AI Committee permit administrative uses such as scheduling, transcription and translation, while barring AI from assessing witness credibility, flight risk, recidivism or bail eligibility; a permanent apex body has been proposed to supervise the adoption and accountability of AI, he said. Our two judiciaries share the same underlying responsibility: to preserve judicial independence and public confidence while adapting our institutions to new forms of litigation and new expectations of access. Technology and administrative reform can support this responsibility, but neither can replace careful adjudication, human judgment and fidelity to law, he said. The CJI said that institutional mediation centres, Lok Adalats and digital Lok Adalats, including the Supreme Court's recent special Lok Adalat, Samadhan Samaroh, have brought settlement within reach of parties well beyond major cities, supported by trained professionals, case managers and secure digital systems. As two major trading partners, our judiciaries and mediation institutions stand to gain from exchanging experience on cross-border commercial mediation, the recognition and enforcement of mediated settlements, and joint training for mediators handling India-Germany commercial disputes, he said. At the outset, the CJI said that both the countries have developed different judicial structures and legal traditions, as India follows a common-law tradition with one integrated judicial hierarchy, while Germany has a civil-law system with separate branches of federal jurisdiction. These differences make the exchange particularly useful. They allow us to compare how our institutions deal with the same practical concerns, including appellate workload, consistency of case law, timely disposal, judicial administration and access to justice, he said. The CJI said he is approaching the meeting with three themes that speak directly to the challenges the two judiciaries share, such as harnessing technology and AI in the administration of justice, strengthening cross-border mediation and other dispute resolution mechanisms, and deepening institutional cooperation through an MoU. I also see considerable value in identifying areas in which our courts, judges, registries and judicial academies can continue this engagement through a structured and reciprocal programme, he said. The CJI said he sees value in anchoring any MoU in the themes already discussed: technology and AI in court administration, and cross-border mediation and dispute resolution, alongside the commercial and business law focus and the digitalisation of judicial processes that the Hanseatic court's concept note already identifies as priorities. I propose that each side identify one institutional point of contact so that today's discussion can be converted into a workable programme, with the MoU or another suitable arrangement to follow once the appropriate authorities on both sides have considered its scope, frequency, participants, confidentiality requirements and working language, he said. Giving an overview of the Indian judiciary, the CJI said that unlike Germany, India has no separate constitutional court. The Supreme Court is simultaneously the final appellate court in civil and criminal matters and the country's highest constitutional court, with original jurisdiction under Article 32 to enforce fundamental rights, he said. The CJI also said that Indias approach has been to make courts not merely more technological, but more accessible, transparent and responsive for every stakeholder in the justice delivery system. On the shared institutional challenge, CJI Kant said Germany's electronic case files, the e-Justice council, the Bund-Laender Commission and the proposed Federal Justice Cloud reflect a similar commitment to a secure digital foundation for justice delivery. Both our judiciaries agree that judicial decisions must remain with judges and legally authorised judicial officers, whatever the degree of digital transformation, he said. Promoting mediation as another mode of dispute resolution has always been at the top of the priority list of the Chief Justice of India, right from day one, CJI Kant said. The CJI is on a four-day visit to Germany and the UK during which he will address several programmes.
This Cafe In Georgia Has Your Portrait Drawn On A Coffee Mug
In the video, the creator can be seen showing her personalised portrait cup to the camera while talking about the unique experience.
'World's Best Little Chef': Internet Reacts To Little Girl's Dal Dhokli Recipe Video
The video of a little girl preparing Dal Dhokli and relishing it has gone viral.
Meet Aashritha Penumudi, the 17-year-old Virginia student who created stalled ribosomes in the lab
Meet Alyssa Yu, the 17-year-old Maryland student who built a mathematical model for what...
FSSAI notice to 5-star hotels JW Marriott, Andaz over hygiene issues, cockroaches on premises
New Delhi, Aug 26: Food regulator FSSAI on Wednesday said it has issued notices to five-star hotels JW Marriott and Andaz at Aerocity here for serious violations of laws related to hygiene, including presence of cockroaches near freezers. In a social media post, the regulator informed that it has issued a notice to JW Marriott hotel, which is a unit of Aria Hotels and Consultancy Services Pvt Ltd. The notice has been issued over serious food safety violations and non-compliance with FSSAI requirements. In another post, Food Safety and Standards Authority of India (FSSAI) informed that it has issued notice to Juniper Hotels Pvt Ltd (Andaz, Aerocity, Delhi) following inspections that uncovered serious food safety violations. The regulator has collected samples from both the hotels and further action would be taken based on lab reports. During the inspection, FSSAI officials found serious deficiencies related to hygiene and sanitation. In the case of JW Marriott, the officials observed inadequate pest control, presence of cockroaches and fruit flies, and poor maintenance of food premises. In the case of Andaz hotel, the FSSAI inspection revealed active cockroaches near freezers, houseflies, mosquitoes in the grinding room, spider webs, and the discovery of a 'gutka' packet inside the bottling plant area. Comments from both the hotels could not be immediately obtained. During the inspection at JW Marriott, FSSAI officials found serious hygiene and sanitation deficiencies, including unclean utensils and food-contact surfaces, visible particulate matter in drinking water, inadequate pest control, cockroaches and fruit flies, and poor maintenance of food premises. The regulator found spoiled/fungal-affected food in the hotel. It also observed improper food storage and cross-contamination risks. These included fungal growth on apples, rotten tomatoes, uncovered food, damaged storage containers, inadequate vegetarian/non-vegetarian segregation, improperly stored cut vegetables and food products not maintained as per prescribed storage conditions, FSSAI said. Moreover, FSSAI pointed out that various kitchens and food preparation areas, including the Chinese, Indian, Italian and bakery kitchens, showed deficiencies such as pest infestation, non-operational exhaust systems, poor sanitation, inadequate allergen segregation, defective storage containers, improper food identification and inappropriate storage of food products. Deficiencies were also observed in the water bottling area, dry store, coffee shop and vegetable preparation area, including rusting of the drinking-water storage tank, deficiencies in imported-food labelling, poor sanitation and fruit-fly infestation. The overall inspection revealed deficiencies relating to licensing/KOB compliance, labelling, food storage, temperature control, sanitation, pest control, personal hygiene, cross-contamination prevention, allergen management, traceability, maintenance and potable-water, the regulator said. Elaborating on the violation, the regulator said that certain food products /materials, including paneer, khoya, chana masala and chilli, were found without the requisite licence/appropriate endorsement available for verification. That apart, the hotel company was found carrying out retail and re-labeller activities without the requisite endorsement in its FSSAI licence, including retailing food products under the JW Marriott brand name. Labelling deficiencies were observed in pre-packaged food products, including misprinted FSSAI licence numbers and non-declaration of the complete manufacturer's address, the regulator said. The FSSAI licence was also not displayed at a prominent place on the premise. During inspection at Andaz hotel, FSSAI said several serious food safety and hygiene deficiencies were observed, including improper segregation of vegetarian and non-vegetarian food, pest activity, poor sanitation, inadequate food handler hygiene and improper food storage practices. The officials found expired food products, including about 87 kg of expired sweets, an expired cake base and bread packets. Other deficiencies included inadequate temperature monitoring, improper allergen segregation, poor waste management, structural and maintenance issues, and inadequate supplier verification and receiving practices. The FSSAI's inspection team collected regulatory and surveillance samples including cow ghee, veg mayonnaise, creamy coconut milk powder, honey twigs, yellow masoor dal, tomato sauce, orange marmalade and coconut cookies for analysis. Elaborating further, FSSAI said that inspection revealed active cockroaches near freezers, houseflies, mosquitoes in the grinding room, spider webs, and the discovery of a 'gutka' packet inside the bottling plant area. The FSSAI officials also observed duplicate date-marking applied over expired bread packaging, alongside severe unpleasant odours and chillers situated directly between two bathrooms with exhaust venting into the chiller section. The regulator has asked the hotel company to take immediate corrective actions with respect to the non-compliances observed and submit a compliance report at the earliest along with supporting evidence. In the past few months, FSSAI has cracked down against food business operators as well as e-commerce platforms for misleading claims, labelling and advertisements.
Woman lands on tree after alleged jump from 10th floor, rescued by Mumbai fire brigade
Mumbai, Aug 26: A 26-year-old woman was dramatically rescued by the Mumbai Fire Brigade after she allegedly jumped from the 10th floor of a building in suburban Bhandup on Wednesday morning, only to get caught in a tree. The woman, identified as Pratiksha Hiwrale, landed in an adjacent tree after she allegedly plunged from the window of a flat in Sunshine Building on Lake Road. She was found hanging about 20-25 feet above the ground. The fire brigade was alerted at around 9.32 am. Fire brigade personnel rushed to the spot and used a hook ladder to bring Hiwrale to safety. She was then taken to a private hospital in a private ambulance. Doctors said she suffered an injury to her left leg. She was later shifted to Sion Hospital for surgery, a civic official said.
LG, CM mourn loss of lives in Poonch road accident
Srinagar, Aug 26: Lieutenant Governor Manoj Sinha and chief minister Omar Abdullah have expressed pain over the loss of lives in tragic road accident in Poonch district of Jammu and Kashmir. The duo expressed sympathies with the bereaved families and prayed for the speedy recovery of the injured. They also directed district administration to provide immediate assistance to those affected. Pained by the loss of lives in a tragic road accident in Poonch. My thoughts are with the bereaved families. Praying for the speedy recovery of the injured. Have directed the District Administration to ensure immediate assistance is provided to those affected, Office of LG J&K said on X. Pained by the loss of lives in a tragic road accident in Poonch. My thoughts are with the bereaved families. Praying for the speedy recovery of the injured. Have directed the District Administration to ensure immediate assistance is provided to those affected. Office of LG J&K (@OfficeOfLGJandK) August 26, 2026 Chief Minister Omar Abdullah also expressed deep grief over the loss of lives. Office of Chief Minister, J&K in a post on X said: Chief Minister has expressed deep grief over the tragic road accident in Surankote, Poonch, which claimed six lives and left several others injured. He conveyed his heartfelt condolences to the bereaved families and directed the authorities to ensure the best possible medical care for the injured. The Chief Ministers Office is in constant touch with the concerned authorities to extend all possible assistance. Chief Minister has expressed deep grief over the tragic road accident in Surankote, Poonch, which claimed six lives and left several others injured. He conveyed his heartfelt condolences to the bereaved families and directed the authorities to ensure the best possible medical Office of Chief Minister, J&K (@CM_JnK) August 26, 2026
From 800 to 3,000: Onam Sadyas get pricier in Bengaluru
Onam is more popular than ever in Bengaluru, but it comes with a price tag.
As H1N1 Cases Rise, Experts Reveal How Your Diet Can Help You Prevent It
H1N1 prevention starts at home. Here are some foods and daily eating habits that can support your immune system.
The bullfrogs Arizona introduced in 1920 are now a threat to native snakes
Nasas lunar space airport 240,000 miles away will see spacecraft queue for weeks
'Above All, The Payasam,' Anand Mahindra Recalls Childhood Onam Feasts In Ooty
Anand Mahindra recalls Onam memories from boarding school, highlighting sadya and Vallam Kali traditions.
Stethoscope is a medical device that is used to listen to internal sounds of the body. Today, we will share the fascinating story of an incident that led to its discovery.
Lord's Mark Industries Limited is making a strategic move into the Caribbean by forming a partnership that will set up pathology laboratories and promote the commercialization of medical devices. Supported entirely by ARKALL Holdings Limited, this expansion will begin in Trinidad & Tobago, followed by other regions. The companies expect this initiative to yield substantial export revenue in the coming ten years.
Gold snaps 4-day rally, falls Rs 600 to Rs 1.66 lakh/10g amid profit booking
New Delhi, Aug 26: Gold prices declined by Rs 600 to Rs 1,66,500 per 10 grams in the national capital on Wednesday, snapping a four-day gaining streak amid weak trends in the international markets. The yellow metal of 99.9 per cent purity had closed at Rs 1,67,100 per 10 grams in the preceding session. However, silver rebounded modestly, rising Rs 500 to Rs 2,50,500 per kilogram (inclusive of all taxes) from Tuesday's closing level of Rs 2.5 lakh per kg, according to the All India Sarafa Association. Gold has eased in the domestic markets as traders booked profits after a strong multi-week rally, said Akshat Siddhant, Lead Quant Analyst at investment platform Mudrex. He attributed the decline in precious metal prices to a strengthening US dollar ahead of the US Personal Consumption Expenditures (PCE) inflation report. Gold has repeatedly reached fresh multi-month highs this year, supported by the US Treasury's expanding debt-buyback program, lower bond yields and steady buying from China's central bank, Siddhant said. In global markets, spot gold fell USD 39.66, or nearly 1 per cent, to USD 4,619.21 per ounce, while silver dropped marginally to USD 68.50 per ounce. Spot gold traded with a loss of nearly 1 per cent around USD 4,621 per ounce as it consolidated after five consecutive days of gains, Praveen Singh, Head of Commodities at Mirae Asset ShareKhan, said. Crude oil has extended its decline on reduced supply concerns as Iran and Oman continue to push for a temporary opening of the Strait of Hormuz, he added. Meanwhile, holdings in yellow metal-backed exchange-traded funds have surged in the last few weeks, Singh said. On the outlook, Saumil Gandhi, Senior Analyst - Commodities at HDFC Securities, said any indication of the US Federal Reserve's broader approach to inflation and monetary policy could influence the US dollar, Treasury bond yields and precious metals. Investors will also await the US Fed Chair Kevin Warsh's speech at the Jackson Hole Symposium on Friday, Gandhi added.
-1787749479302.webp)
5 Coffee Recipes That May Help You Lose Weight
Coffee for weight loss isn't a myth, as caffeine boosts metabolism and curbs appetite. Discover 5 easy, low-calorie coffee recipes to add to your weight-loss routine.
Infertility vs Recurrent Miscarriage: Why Treating Them the Same Way Doesnt Work
Getting pregnant is only the first part of the journey. When pregnancy does not happen, the medical questions are different from those that arise when pregnancy happens but repeatedly ends in miscarriage.
Massive fire breaks out in Watal Kadal Srinagar, sparks panic among residents
5 Protein Sources That Are Easiest to Digest When You Are Down With Fever
Struggling to eat while sick? Explore 5 light, easy-to-digest protein sources perfect for fever recovery. Nourish your body without overloading digestion.
Medicover India expects to turn profitable in 12-18 months after KKR buyout
Nineteen of Medicovers 25 hospitals are already profitable, while the remaining facilities are in various stages of ramp-up, P Hari Krishna, executive director, Medicover Hospitals India, told ET. He said newer hospitals typically take 12-18 months to fully break even.
This simple antivirus tool is the easiest way to scan your Linux PC for threats - for free
Worried about Linux vulnerabilities or sharing files with Windows users? This ClamAV GUI makes it easy to ensure they're clean.
I built my own secure network in the cloud to access my home PCs remotely - for free
Do you need easy, secure remote access to your home or small business network? Before you pay big bucks for a VPN or remote-access plan, try Tailscale. Did I mention it's free?
10 Everyday Signs Thyroid May Not Be Working Properly
From unexplained weight changes to constant tiredness, these common symptoms could point to a thyroid problem.
PM Modi condoles loss of lives in Nepal flashfloods, offers all possible help
Srinagar, Aug 26: Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Wednesday spoke to his Nepali counterpart Balendra Shah and conveyed his condolences on the loss of lives in flashfloods. Taking to micro-blogging site X, PM Modi said: Spoke to Prime Minister Balendra Shah and conveyed condolences on the loss of lives due to the floods in Nepal. The people of India stand in solidarity with their sisters and brothers in Nepal at this difficult time. India is ready to provide all possible humanitarian assistance to Nepal. Our teams are coordinating closely on rescue and relief efforts. Spoke to Prime Minister Balendra Shah and conveyed condolences on the loss of lives due to the floods in Nepal. The people of India stand in solidarity with their sisters and brothers in Nepal at this difficult time. India is ready to provide all possible humanitarian Narendra Modi (@narendramodi) August 26, 2026 At least 105 Indians are among the nearly 400 people missing after the devastating flash floods hit Nepals Rasuwa district bordering Tibet on Wednesday. A sudden, massive flood swept through two central Nepal districts bordering Tibet killing dozens of people, causing extensive damage at settlements along the river and damaging at least a dozen hydropower projects.
-1787744565801.webp)
Stop Taking Antibiotics on Your Own for Flu: IMA Issues Warning as H1N1 Cases Rise
H1N1 is a viral infection that antibiotics cannot kill. Indian Medical Association (IMA) cautions against self-medication options for this flu that can help amid rising cases in India.
UGC-NET results for 84 subjects to be announced this week: NTA
New Delhi, Aug 26: The results for 84 subjects of UGC-NET will be announced this week, the National Testing Agency (NTA) said on Wednesday. The final answer keys and results for UGC-NET (84 Subjects), CSIR-NET and ICAR AIEEA (PG) and AICE (PhD) 2026 will be published on NTA's website, this week. Candidates are advised to rely only on official communications from NTA, the agency said in a post on X. The NTA had ordered fresh examinations for candidates who appeared for the English, Commerce and Sociology papers in June this year after an expert committee found factual, typographical, translation and language-related errors in the question papers. The NTA released the UGC-NET answer key on August 16, nearly two months after the examination, while issuing a special notice concerning the Sociology, Commerce and English papers. Later, on the same day, it announced that the three examinations would be conducted afresh in September, citing the errors. The re-examinations are scheduled for September 9 and 10, and candidates will not be required to pay an additional examination fee. The National Eligibility Test (NET) is conducted by NTA to determine the eligibility of Indian nationals for the role of assistant professor and for the junior research fellowship (JRF) in Indian universities and colleges.
Processions mark Eid-e-Milad (SAW) in Kashmir
Can Almond Oil Actually Reduce Dark Circles? Dermatologist Explains
Almond oil contains vitamin E, fatty acids and antioxidant compounds. It is often believed to be a cure for dark circles. Is this a myth or reality? Read ahead to know.
Medicover India hospitals to be profitable in 18 months, eyes 20-25% margins
Medicover India anticipates all its hospitals becoming profitable within eighteen months. Rising occupancy and demand for specialized care are driving this positive financial outlook. Global investment firm KKR is set to acquire Medicover's India business for 1.2 billion. Funds from this deal will support scaling existing facilities and increasing bed capacity. This acquisition highlights growing private equity interest in India's healthcare sector.
Nearly 400 people, including 105 Indians, missing after Nepal floods near Tibet border
Kathmandu, Aug 26: At least 105 Indians are among the nearly 400 persons missing after the devastating flash floods in Nepal's Rasuwa district bordering Tibet on Wednesday. A sudden, massive flood swept through two central Nepal districts bordering Tibet killing four people, causing extensive devastation at settlements along the river and damaging at least a dozen hydropower projects early Wednesday. The flood surged through the Bhote Koshi River at around 9 am (local time) coming from the Tibet side affecting Rasuwa and Dhading districts bordering Tibet and Nuwakot district, southwest of Kathmandu, officials said. According to a statement by Nepal Tourism Board (NTB), a total of 384 travellers, 291 foreigners and 93 Nepalese nationals, have gone missing due to the Rasuwa floods. These travellers include 105 Indian tourists, 37 NRIs and remaining tourists from USA, Malaysia, UK, South Africa, Australia and Netherlands. The Nepal Tourism Board also issued a toll free emergency number 1234 or hotline 1144 or tourist police 9851289445 for help.
Video: This Temple In Kerala Offers The Most Unique Prasad: Chocolates
Viral Video: A content creator offers a glimpse into a unique temple tradition in Kerala, where a Munch chocolate is offered as prasad.
Two arrested as police crack multiple gold theft cases; stolen earrings recovered
Srinagar, Aug 26: Police have achieved a major breakthrough in a series of gold ornament theft and snatching cases reported in and around Sopore town, arresting two persons, including an alleged receiver of stolen property, and recovering seven pairs of gold earrings, officials said on Wednesday. In a press statement, an official spokesperson said that during investigation of case FIR No. 192/2026 under Section 309(4) BNS, registered at Police Station Sopore after a woman from Seelo reported that an unknown person had taken her towards Amargarh, threatened her with a knife and forcibly taken away her gold earrings. During investigation, a detailed investigation involving CCTV analysis, technical inputs, field verification and examination of suspects led to the identification and arrest of Ishfaq Ahmad Bhat son of Abdul Majeed Bhat resident of Haripora, Langate, Handwara. The stolen earrings in the case were subsequently recovered at his instance, the spokesperson said. Further investigation and detailed examination of the accused generated leads regarding his alleged involvement in similar incidents, including FIR No. 207/2025 under Section 304(2) BNS and FIR No. 55/2026 under Sections 304(2)/351(2) BNS of Police Station Sopore, the statement said. The spokesperson said that the investigation revealed a recurring modus operandi wherein the accused allegedly targeted elderly and vulnerable women on the pretext of helping them obtain benefits under government welfare schemes. After gaining their confidence, he would persuade them to remove and hand over their gold ornaments and thereafter flee with the jewellery. In some cases, force or intimidation was also allegedly used. During further recovery proceedings, seven pairs of gold earrings were recovered. Some have been linked to the registered cases, while the remaining ornaments have been seized under relevant legal provisions for identification and verification. The investigation also led to the arrest of Sayed Ahmed Khan son of Munna Khan A/P Sangrama, a goldsmith, for his alleged role as a receiver of stolen property. His role and possible linkages with other similar incidents are being investigated. Further investigation is underway to ascertain the involvement of the accused in other cases and to identify the rightful owners of the remaining recovered property, he said. Police reiterated its commitment to professional, evidence-based investigation and prompt action against crimes affecting the life and property of citizens. The public, particularly senior citizens, is advised to remain cautious of unknown persons offering unsolicited assistance and to immediately report any suspicious activity to the nearest police establishment.
Eight dead, several others missing after flash flood hits Nepal
J&K Police attach two-storey house in Budgam under NDPS Act
Srinagar, Aug 26: Police on Wednesday attached a two-storey residential house in Budgam district of Jammu and Kashmir under the provisions of the Narcotic Drugs and Psychotropic Substances (NDPS) Act. The action was taken against Noor Mohd Dar, son of Mohammad Ismail Dar and a resident of Hapatnar in Charar-i-Shareif, under Section 68-F(1) of the NDPS Act, a police spokesperson said. The attachment is linked to a case registered under Section 8/15 of the NDPS Act at Charar-i-Shareif Police Station. The case pertains to offences relating to the illegal possession, transportation and trafficking of narcotic substances, he said. Continuing its sustained campaign against the menace of drugs and the financial networks supporting narcotics-related activities, Police in Budgam have attached a two-storey residential house, the spokesperson said. As per the provisions of law, the owner of the attached property is prohibited from selling, transferring, leasing, mortgaging or otherwise creating any third-party interest in the attached property without the permission of the competent authority, he added.
India sets its sights on becoming a frontrunner in innovation within the life sciences arena. The Bharat Life Sciences Award 2026 aims to honor exceptional scientific achievements while promoting teamwork. With leaders gathering to enhance manufacturing and drug discovery capabilities, discussions will delve into topics like AI-driven discovery and cutting-edge vaccine technologies, ultimately aiming to define the future of India's life sciences landscape.
Two under-trials who escaped from Srinagar central jail arrested after three days
Srinagar, Aug 26: Two persons accused in separate POCSO cases, who had escaped from Srinagars Central Jail, were arrested by police after three days, officials said on Wednesday. A senior police official told the news agencyKashmir News Observer (KNO) that the accused had escaped from the jail on August 23, with police soon launching an operation to arrest them. The accused have been identified as Mukhtar Ahmad Gujjar, son of Mohammad Rafiq Gujjar, a resident of Sanglan Chittergul, Anantnag, and Farman Khan, son of Abdul Gani Khan, a resident of Sadanpora Ragistan. Mukhtar is accused in FIR No. 20/2026 registered at Police Station Soura under Sections 137(2) and 65(1) of the BNS and Sections 3/4 of the POCSO Act and Farman Khan is wanted in FIR No. 19/2026 registered at Police Station Lar under Sections 137(2) and 87 of the BNS and Sections 3/4 of the POCSO Act. The official said further investigation into the circumstances of their escape is underway
Does Overcooking Chicken Kill Its Nutritional Value? Dietitian Answers
Find out if overcooked chicken loses its protein and essential vitamins. A dietitian shares the truth about heat, cooking methods, and meat nutrition.
NCB busts cross-border heroin cartel in Jammu; mastermind among 3 arrested with 5.16 kg heroin
The NCB team traced him to Leh district of Ladakh where he was arrested on Monday (August 24), within two days of the seizure
Partaplankeshwar Ras Ingredients, Preparation, Ayurvedic Properties, Indications & Dosages Reference Rasa Ratna Samucchaya Virsarpajidrasa Chapter 20 Verse-21 Abstract ... Read more The post Partaplankeshwar Ras appeared first on Planet Ayurveda .
Kenyan mother dies after bleeding for hours after childbirth
The white sand beaches of one of Kenya's most popular tourist areas line a region with one of the country's highest rates of deaths around childbirth
-1787726217190.webp)
Does High Testosterone Cause Hair Loss? Dermatologists Explain What's Actually Happening
High testosterone doesn't automatically mean hair loss. Dermatologists explain the real science behind DHT, genetics, and male pattern baldness.
US halts all visa appointments globally amid Trump's immigration crackdown: report
Washington, Aug 26: The Trump administration has paused all immigrant visa applications across the world as the State Department aims to tighten restrictions and limit access to applicants who may become dependent on US public benefits reserved for qualified Americans, according to a report. According to a Financial Times report, the US is training consular officers to evaluate such requests comprehensively and consistently. The training of consular officers is focused on screening individuals who may become dependent on subsistence assistance or come under the definition of public charge, the newspaper reported, quoting US State Department officials. A public charge is a label used by US immigration officials for a person who is likely to become primarily dependent on the government for financial support. Immigrant visa applicants with scheduled interviews at US embassies and consulates have received emails stating their appointments were rescheduled, and that they would receive future notice of a new date and time, the report said. The State Department officials claim this will ensure visa applicants will not end up relying on US public benefits. A more prosperous America means ensuring that visa applicants are not likely to become a public charge, as defined under US law and regulation, and not likely to become dependent on US public benefits reserved for qualified Americans in need, a State Department spokesperson told the FT. The spokesperson said the department launched a global training initiative in August to ensure all consular officers are fully equipped to evaluate every visa applicant comprehensively and consistently. The pause comes as the US has launched a crackdown against illegal immigration and also tightened rules governing the issuance of green cards. This decision to cancel all US visa appointments comes a day after the Trump administration proposed a new USD 103,265 application fee for H-1B visa. The H-1B visa is a non-immigrant visa that allows US companies to employ foreign workers in specialty occupations that require theoretical or technical expertise. The technology companies depend on it to hire tens of thousands of employees each year from countries like India and China. Since assuming office in 2025, US President Donald Trump have pursued an aggressive crackdown on immigrants in the country. The pause follows an attempt by President Trump to block applications on a similar public charge basis, which included a block on applications from 75 countries, including Brazil, Colombia and Russia, selected by the administration. In January, the State Department paused the issuance of immigrant visas from almost 40 per cent of the worlds nations, in a move that it said would prevent the entry of people who would take welfare and public benefits. Under the law, an immigrant can only be turned away as a likely public charge (someone expected to depend on government support) after a consular officer weighs that persons own finances, age, health, skills and family situation. However, this was struck down by a federal judge on Friday, who ruled it was contrary to law and outside the statutory authority of Secretary of State Marco Rubio, CNN reported.
1,500-year-old child burial unearthed in Peru with whistles, rattle and vessel
11-year-old finds 48-million-year-old turtle fossil in Wyoming
15 infants killed in fire at Pakistan hospital
Islamabad, Aug 26: At least 15 infants were killed on Wednesday after a fire broke out in a gynaecology ward of a major hospital in Pakistan's capital Islamabad. The fire incident occurred at the Pakistan Institute of Medical Sciences (PIMS), the largest and well-equipped public hospital in the capital. Geo News reported that 15 babies died in the inferno. However, there was no official confirmation of the casualties. PIMS Spokesperson Dr Aneeza Jalil told the Dawn newspaper that 15 babies were in the ward where the fire occurred. Some of the babies may have been discharged during the night so the exact number [of casualties] cannot be shared right now, she said. Asked about the cause of the incident, she said the fire appeared to have erupted due to a short circuit, adding that the fire erupted at around 7 am. She said that the flames had been extinguished but the cooling process would take some time.
Bournvita Manufacturer, Amway, Other Food Brands Withdraw 'Misleading' Health Claims
FSSAI has repeatedly stressed that food labels and advertisements should not exaggerate benefits or create a misleading impression about a product's nutritional value or health effects.
Eid-e-Milad (SAW): Thousands gather at Dargah Hazratbal for morning prayers
CM Omar, LG Sinha extend greetings on occasion of Eid-e-Milad-un-Nabi (SAW)
Srinagar, Aug 27: Jammu and Kashmir Chief Minister Omar Abdullah and J&K Leutanant Governor Manoj Sinha today extended warm and heartfelt greetings on the sacred occasion of Eid-e-Milad-un-Nabi (SAW), both praying for peace, harmony and brotherhood among the people of the Union Territory. On the sacred occasion of Eid-e-Milad-un-Nabi (SAW), the Chief Minister extended warm greetings to the people of Jammu & Kashmir, Office of Chief Minister, J&K, said. Emphasising the Prophet Muhammad's (SAW) timeless message of peace, compassion, and brotherhood, the Chief Minister prayed for lasting peace, prosperity, and communal harmony in Jammu & Kashmir. Extending his greeting on the occasion, LG Sinha wrote on X, Heartfelt greetings and best wishes to everyone on the auspicious occasion of Milad-un-Nabi. He said the life and teachings of Prophet Muhammad (SAW) remain an eternal beacon of peace, equality, and compassion for all humankind. On this sacred day, let us pledge to live by his values of love, kindness, and universal brotherhood and work together to foster a more harmonious, inclusive and united society. Eid Mubarak! Sinha said.
Indulge in the unique flavours of Portugal this weekend in Mumbai
From the familiar batatas fritas to the traditional Caldo Verde, tastes of Portugal will get an inspired spin at a one-night-only pop-up
International community must work collectively to safeguard critical sea lanes: India tells UNSC
United Nations, Aug 26: India has called on the international community to work collectively to safeguard critical sea lanes, emphasising that secure and predictable maritime trade routes are indispensable for uninterrupted movement of food, fertilisers and fuel. Food insecurity remains one of the gravest humanitarian consequences of armed conflict. Todays conflicts increasingly generate ripple effects far beyond the immediate theatre of hostilities, Indias Permanent Representative to the UN Ambassador Harish Parvathaneni said. Addressing the UN Security Council High-Level Open Debate titled Food Under Fire: The Security Council's Role in Mitigating Global and Local Food Crises on Tuesday, Parvathaneni said disruptions to energy markets, fertiliser supplies, maritime transport, humanitarian logistics and agricultural trade have demonstrated how regional conflicts can threaten food security across the world, with the greatest burden falling on developing countries that are highly import-dependent. India emphasised that the immediate priority of the UN Security Council should be to mitigate the humanitarian consequences of conflict. This requires facilitating safe, rapid and unimpeded humanitarian access, supporting de-confliction arrangements where appropriate, and ensuring that the Council's own measures, including sanctions regimes, do not inadvertently impede humanitarian assistance or legitimate food and agricultural trade. Underscoring the need to preserve the safety and freedom of navigation for commercial shipping in accordance with international law, Parvathaneni said, Secure and predictable maritime trade routes are indispensable for the uninterrupted movement of food, fertilisers, fuel and other essential commodities. Disruptions to commercial shipping during conflicts can have cascading effects far beyond the immediate region, disproportionately affecting food-importing developing countries and humanitarian operations, he said. The international community must therefore work collectively to safeguard critical sea lanes and maritime infrastructure, while ensuring that legitimate commercial trade and humanitarian shipments are able to proceed without undue impediment, he said. Addressing the debate, UN Secretary-General Antonio Guterres noted that the year 2025 saw not only the highest number of armed conflicts since World War II, but also among the highest levels of global acute hunger on record, with at least 266 million people facing acute food insecurity. The year 2025 also marked the first time this century that two famines were confirmed simultaneously, in Sudan and Gaza, which Guterres described as a shameful milestone. He added that the UNs latest Hunger Hotspots report shows that conflict and violence are the primary drivers in 12 out of 13 hunger hotspots of greatest concern. As the US-Israel war against Iran continues, Guterres said the Strait of Hormuz carries around a fifth of global oil supplies, and a third of global fertiliser trade. Restrictions and closures have driven up commodity prices, and made availability plummet. And attacks on commercial vessels in the Red Sea are further threatening supply chains for food and other commodities, the UN Chief said. India told the Council that food insecurity is fundamentally a consequence of conflict, political instability and underdevelopment, not their root cause. Parvathaneni called for timely assessments of disruptions to critical supply chains, including food, fertiliser, fuel and humanitarian logistics, drawing upon the technical expertise of the Food and Agriculture Organisation, the World Food Programme, and other relevant agencies. Such assessments must remain objective, evidence-based and free from politicisation, he said. India further said that member States, international financial institutions, regional organisations and development partners must work together to strengthen domestic agricultural production, diversify supply chains, improve storage and logistics infrastructure, and promote climate-resilient agriculture. Predictable and affordable access to fertilisers, quality seeds, technology and concessional finance remains indispensable, particularly for developing countries. Open, transparent and rules-based trade in food and agricultural inputs also remains critical to global food security, he said. Parvathaneni also cautioned against over-reliance on any single model of production, saying this would be counter-productive as they are vulnerable to geopolitical disruptions, economic coercion and weaponisation. We must encourage small and marginal farmers to enhance their productivity and contribute to ensuring food security in developing countries of the Global South. We must also encourage climate-resilient crops such as millets rather than limit conceptions of food security to the biggest staple, grain crops such as rice, wheat and corn, he said.
Spandan League concludes in Udhampur
Srinagar, Aug 25: The three-day Spandan League, organised by STC BSF Udhampur under the theme Sports for Peace and Development Across Nation, concluded at Subhash Stadium on Tuesday, witnessing the participation of around 550 young boys and girls in badminton, kabaddi and volleyball. As per a statement, the league was held for boys and girls of District Udhampur on August 22, 24 and 25. The Chief Guest at the concluding ceremony was Sandeep Channan, IG, STC BSF Udhampur. The Guests of Honour included Suraj Bhan Singh, Chief Judo Coach and In-charge Manager, Subhash Stadium, Udhampur; Dinesh Sharma, International Judo Player; Tarsim Singh, DSO, DYSS Udhampur; S.S. Gill, retired SP, BSF; and Tajinder Singh, retired DSP, BSF. A total of 550 players participated across the three sporting disciplines. The league witnessed participation from 18 schools, with 18 teams in badminton, 24 teams in kabaddi and 16 teams in volleyball, taking the total number of participating teams to 58. The event also saw the participation of around 90 officials and was witnessed by approximately 650 spectators.
Bandipora clinches U-14 Girls Kabaddi title
Bandipora, Aug 25: The Inter-District Provincial-Level U-14 Girls Kabaddi Competition, organised by the Department of Youth Services and Sports (YSS), Bandipora, concluded on Tuesday at Higher Secondary School Nadihal, with District Bandipora emerging as champions and District Anantnag finishing runners-up. The competition, as per an official statement, witnessed enthusiastic participation from young athletes representing different districts, providing them a platform to showcase their sporting talent, teamwork, discipline and competitive spirit. In a keenly contested final, District Bandipora put up an impressive performance to secure the championship title, while District Anantnag finished as runners-up. The concluding ceremony was attended by District Youth Services and Sports Officer (DYSSO) Bandipora, Ab Majeed Rather, besides officials and field staff of the department. On the occasion, the DYSSO congratulated the winning team for their commendable performance and lauded District Anantnag for putting up a strong fight to finish runners-up. He encouraged all participating teams, particularly those that could not make it to the final, to remain focused, continue training with dedication and treat the experience gained from the championship as a stepping stone towards greater achievements. He emphasised that every match played, every challenge faced and every effort made on the field contributes to the growth and development of a young sportsperson. The DYSSO also expressed gratitude to the District Administration, District Information Officer Bandipora, Chief Medical Officer Bandipora, Principal HSS Nadihal, and officials, field staff and other supporting personnel for their cooperation and contribution towards the smooth conduct of the championship. The Department of Youth Services and Sports congratulated the winning team, runners-up and all participating athletes, and appreciated their commitment to sports.
District sports championships held across Kulgam, Anantnag, Srinagar
Srinagar, Aug 25: District-level badminton and Yogasana championships were held across Kulgam, Anantnag and Srinagar, witnessing the participation of around 1,000 players and officials across the three sporting events. As per a statement, the 8th District Kulgam Badminton Championship commenced at the Indoor Sports Hall, Qaimoh, on Tuesday. The three-day championship was inaugurated in the presence of Nisar Ahmad Khan, Deputy Superintendent of Police, Kulgam. Around 150 players and 10 officials are participating in the event, which is being witnessed by approximately 100 spectators. Meanwhile, the 7th District Anantnag Yogasana Sports Championship concluded at the Indoor Sports Hall, Nilandrushu, Bijbehara, after witnessing the participation of 250 players and 30 officials. The closing ceremony was attended by Sheikh Mudassir, SDPO Anantnag, as the Chief Guest. The 7th District Srinagar Yogasana Sports Championship also concluded at SKISC, Srinagar. The two-day championship, held from August 24 to 25, witnessed the participation of around 600 players and 40 officials and was attended by approximately 100 spectators. The closing ceremony was graced by Mohammed Iqbal, Manager, SKISC, as the Chief Guest.
U-17 Girls Cricket Tournament inaugurated in Anantnag
Anantnag, Aug 25: Deputy Commissioner (DC) Anantnag, Dr Bilal Mohiuddin Bhat, on Tuesday inaugurated the Inter-District Provincial Level (IDPL) Under-17 Girls Cricket Tournament at Government Higher Secondary School, Bijbehara. The inaugural ceremony, as per an official statement, was attended by SE R&B Syed Ishfaq Ahmad, ACR Tariq Ahmad Malik and DYSSO Zahoor Ahmad Wani, besides sports officials, players and accompanying staff. The tournament is being organised by the Department of Youth Services & Sports (YSS), J&K, in collaboration with the District Administration, Anantnag, with the objective of providing young girl cricketers a competitive platform and identifying promising sporting talent from across the districts. Speaking on the occasion, the DC appreciated the YSS Department for organising the tournament and providing young girls with opportunities to excel in sports. He interacted with the participants and encouraged them to play with passion, discipline and dedication and make the most of the platform. Emphasising the importance of sports and games, Dr Bilal said such activities play an important role in youth empowerment by inculcating discipline, leadership and other positive values. He said sports activities are also instrumental in keeping youth away from drugs and other negative influences while promoting a healthy society. As many as 20 district teams are participating in the tournament. The host district has made arrangements for players and accompanying officials of visiting teams to ensure the event is conducted smoothly. The tournament is being held at multiple well-maintained venues, with matches being played on a league basis, giving each team adequate opportunities to showcase their talent and compete at the provincial level. A dedicated selection process involving experienced selectors and officials has also been planned following the conclusion of the tournament. The tournament is expected to contribute to the promotion of womens cricket and grassroots sports, while helping identify promising talent and providing young athletes with opportunities to compete and progress in their sporting careers.
5th Canon C.E. Tyndale Biscoe Football Tournament: DPS Srinagar, 3 others win on Day 3
Srinagar, Aug 25: Day 3 of the tournament witnessed intense action, with four matches decided through a combination of dominant attacking displays and nail-biting penalty shootouts. As per a statement, DPS Srinagar delivered a dominant performance, securing a resounding 6-1 victory. Shahriyar was the standout player, scoring an incredible five goals, including one from the penalty spot. Qazi and Amaan added one goal each, while GD Goenka scored a consolation goal. DPS Srinagar showcased superior ball control and clinical finishing throughout the match. New Bonvivant 1-1 Bomis Srinagar New Bonvivant won 6-5 on penalties In a fiercely contested encounter, New Bonvivant English School (NBS) and Bomis Srinagar (BOM) were level 1-1 at full time, forcing the match into a penalty shootout. New Bonvivant held its nerve to edge past Bomis Srinagar 6-5 on penalties. Arsalan was named Man of the Match for his crucial performance. Iqbal Memorial Institute 1-0 International Islamic School Iqbal Memorial Institute (IMI) secured a narrow 1-0 victory over International Islamic School (IIS). The only goal of the match came in the 59th minute, when Mueen converted a penalty. He was subsequently named Man of the Match for his match-winning contribution. Foundation World School 0-0 Minto Circle School Foundation World School won 4-3 on penalties A tactical and tightly contested encounter between Foundation World School (FWS) and Minto Circle School (MCS) ended goalless after regulation time. The match was eventually decided by a penalty shootout, with Foundation World School emerging victorious 4-3 on penalties. Ali Ahmed of Foundation World School was named Man of the Match. The day produced a mix of high-scoring action and tense penalty shootouts, setting the stage for an exciting continuation of the tournament.
J&K Police hold PCPG meetings across Handwara
J&K Police conducted Police Community Partnership Group (PCPG) meetings across police stations and posts in Handwara ahead of Eid Milad-un-Nabi to discuss security, traffic management and law and order arrangements. The meetings, held under the supervision of senior officers, were attended by Lumberdars, Auqaf Committee members, traders and other community representatives. Police urged participants to ensure that religious gatherings, processions and programmes are held peacefully and in accordance with prescribed rules. Auqaf representatives were asked to coordinate with police on programmes at mosques and other religious places and ensure proper crowd management. Lumberdars were directed to remain vigilant and promptly report any suspicious activity or developments that could affect public order. Participants assured police of their cooperation in maintaining peace, communal harmony and public order. Local issues and suggestions raised during the meetings were also discussed, with directions issued for their resolution. Police appealed to people to celebrate Eid Milad-un-Nabi peacefully and uphold brotherhood, harmony and tranquillity across the police district.
3 injured in separate bear attacks in Ganderbal, Kulgam
Three people were injured in separate bear attacks in Ganderbal and Kulgam districts on Tuesday. In Ganderbal, a 50-year-old man was injured in a bear attack in Watalbagh village of the Lar area, officials said. The injured was identified as Mohd Maqbool Bhat, son of Ghulam Mohammad Bhat of Watalbagh. Officials said the attack took place around 11 a.m. Bhat sustained injuries. He was shifted to District Hospital Ganderbal for treatment. The attack triggered concern among residents of Watalbagh and adjoining areas. Residents said wild animals were moving close to residential areas. They urged the Wildlife Department to intensify surveillance. They also sought preventive measures in vulnerable areas. Residents called for timely intervention and better safety measures. In Kulgam, two people were injured after a wild bear attacked a group working in an orchard in Ahmadabad village. The injured were identified as Abdul Salam Teeli of Ahmadabad and Bilal Ahmad Kholi of Danipora, DH Pora. Both were shifted to Sub-District Hospital Damhal Hanjipora. Officials said their condition was stable. Wildlife Control Room in-charge DH Pora, Syed Irshad, said a cage was installed in Ahmadabad village to trap the bear. There has also been a spurt in bear attacks across Kashmir. The ongoing apple harvest is drawing bears toward orchards and nearby villages. This has increased the chances of human-wildlife encounters. The attacks have raised concern among residents, who have sought stronger surveillance to prevent further attacks.
Free eye check-up camp held at Degree College Budgam
Government Sheikh Ul Alam Memorial Degree College Budgam organised a free eye check-up camp under its Road Safety Awareness Programme on Tuesday. The camp was organised by the colleges Road Safety Club, Transport Committee, Health Care Committee and NSS Unit in collaboration with ASYM District Hospital, Budgam. A medical team comprising ophthalmologist Dr. Shabnum Nabi and ophthalmic technician Nazir Ahmad conducted vision screening and eye examinations of students and staff. The camp aimed to raise awareness about the importance of good vision for road safety and overall health. Participants were provided medical consultation and necessary advice. The programme was coordinated by Dr. Syed Mohmad Javad, Dr. Aijaz Rashid, Dr. Saima Gazanfer and NSS Programme Officer-II Mahvish Altaf. Principal Prof. (Dr.) Shareif Ud Din Khan supervised the programme.
Minister Rana proposes model tribal tourism village in Pulwamas Sangerwani
Minister for Jal Shakti, Forest, Ecology & Environment and Tribal Affairs Javed Ahmed Rana on Tuesday said Sangerwani in Pulwama would be developed as a model tribal tourism village, with efforts to showcase its natural beauty, tribal heritage and traditional way of life. Rana was addressing a tribal convention on the Forest Rights Act (FRA), 2006, at Sangerwani in Rajpora, where he also interacted with residents and heard their grievances. MLA Rajpora Ghulam Mohi-ud-din Mir, MLA Pampore Hasnain Masoodi, former legislator Mohammad Khalil Bandh and district administration officers were present. The convention focused on awareness about the FRA, including rights and entitlements of forest-dwelling tribal communities, the process of filing and verification of claims and the role of Gram Sabhas. Residents raised demands related to drinking water, healthcare, education and road connectivity. Responding to water concerns, Rana directed authorities to revamp 14 water filtration plants in Rajpora constituency and announced Rs 2.75 crore for the work. He also directed the Soil Conservation Department to prepare a Detailed Project Report worth around Rs 1 crore for soil conservation and related development works in Sangerwani. Rana said Sangerwani would be developed as a forest village under the FRA, and efforts would be made to bring it onto the tourism map as a model tribal destination. He stressed that effective implementation of the FRA was essential for empowering forest-dwelling tribal communities, protecting their legitimate rights and creating sustainable livelihood opportunities. Awareness is the first step towards empowerment, Rana said, stressing the need to ensure every eligible tribal family knows its rights and has the support to exercise them. He called for regular awareness programmes and community consultations, saying recognition of forest rights should be complemented by government schemes for livelihood generation, infrastructure, skill development and basic services.
Handwara children park without basic amenities, safety measures
The Childrens Park in Handwara continues to lack basic facilities despite attracting families from across the subdistrict, residents said. The park is frequently visited by children and their families, but the absence of drinking water, adequate dustbins and proper lighting has caused inconvenience to visitors. Since there is no other park in the main town, people bring their children here. But the lack of facilities causes inconvenience. The absence of drinking water adds to their woes, said Showkat Hassan, a local. Residents have also raised concerns over an uncovered drain passing through the park, saying it poses a safety risk to children. Parents remain apprehensive about their children because of the uncovered drain. Some toddlers have fallen into it in the past and suffered injuries, but no concrete step has been taken to cover it, said Mohammad Rustam, another resident. The residents said more than 6 crore had been spent on construction of the park, but basic amenities were still lacking. They urged the authorities to provide essential facilities and address the safety concerns. Tehsildar Handwara Zeeshan Khan told Greater Kashmir that he would take up the matter with the concerned department and hoped concrete steps would be taken soon.
Saqib Sultan, Musadiq Mehraj get new roles in DCC Srinagar
The Jammu & Kashmir Pradesh Congress Committee (JKPCC) has appointed Saqib Sultan as General Secretary and Musadiq Mehraj as Spokesperson of the District Congress Committee (DCC) Srinagar. The appointments, as per a statement, have been welcomed by Congress leaders and workers across Srinagar, who expressed confidence that both leaders will play a vital role in strengthening the partys grassroots organisation and effectively raising public issues. The District Congress Committee Srinagar congratulated Saqib Sultan and Musadiq Mehraj, wishing them success in their new responsibilities and reaffirming its commitment to serving the people of Srinagar with unity and dedication.
Glacier melt to farmland: Ladakh plans 36 check dams for irrigation
Kargil, Aug 25:The Ladakh administration has submitted a proposal worth more than Rs 56 crore to the Union Ministry of Jal Shakti for the construction of 36 check dams aimed at conserving snow and glacier meltwater and expanding assured irrigation across the Union Territory. The proposal, prepared under the Pradhan MantriKrishiSinchayeeYojana (PMKSY) on the directions of Lieutenant Governor Vinai Kumar Saxena, envisages seven Himalayan rock check dams along the Indus River in Leh district and 29 reinforced cement concrete (RCC) check dams and weirs along the Suru River in Kargil district. According to the administration, the proposed structures are expected to bring more than 18,600 acres of agricultural land under irrigation while helping capture a larger share of Ladakhs seasonal snow and glacial meltwater. Despite its extensive glaciers and heavy winter snowfall, Ladakh currently utilises less than one per cent of its annual snow and glacial meltwater, with much of the water flowing downstream during the summer months. The administration has identified this as a major challenge for farmers who face water shortages during critical sowing and growing periods. Ladakh cannot afford to let its precious glacier and snowmelt water flow away unused while our farmers face water shortages during the agricultural season, Lieutenant Governor Vinai Kumar Saxena said. We must harness every possible water resource and create a water-secure, agriculturally prosperous, and climate-resilient Ladakh, he added. Kargil accounts for the larger share of the proposed infrastructure, with 29 check dams planned along the Suru River. The administration said the focus follows representations from villagers and farmers who raised the issue of acute irrigation shortages during the Lieutenant Governors recent visit to the district. Saxena said the proposed projects would help address the regions agricultural water requirements while improving long-term water and agricultural security. The UT Administration has taken a monumental step to ensure a water-secure, agriculturally prosperous, and climate-resilient Ladakh, he said, adding that the 36 projects would help impound a significant volume of currently untapped snow and glacier meltwater. The proposal builds on the administrations experience with five pilot rock check dams, which, according to officials, can store up to 30 million litres of water while withstanding high seasonal river pressure. The pilot structures have also helped increase cultivable command areas by up to 30 per cent. The administration expects the proposed check dams to improve water availability for agriculture, reduce seasonal shortages and strengthen the resilience of farming communities in the high-altitude region. Saxena said the initiative was aligned with Prime Minister Narendra Modis emphasis on water conservation and stressed the need to maximise the use of glacier meltwater while protecting Ladakhs fragile environment. Guided by PM Narendra Modi Jis visionary principle of conserving water for our future security, the Administration is committed to conserving and harnessing every drop of our precious glacier meltwater, he said. He added that the proposed interventions were intended to be eco-friendly and cost-effective and expressed confidence that they would help address persistent water shortages faced by farmers across Ladakh.
Strengthen booths, intensify public outreach: Ashok Koul tells BJPs Rajpora cadre
Kangan (Pulwama), Aug 25: BJP General Secretary (Organisation), J&K, Ashok Koul, chaired a Constituency Review Meeting of Rajpora Constituency at Kangan, District Pulwama, with the constituency team, Booth Presidents and Shakti Kendra teams, stressing that a strong booth-level organisation is the foundation of BJPs political strength and public outreach. Ashok Koul, as per a statement, while addressing the meeting, said that the BJP must further intensify its grassroots activities in Rajpora and ensure that every booth becomes an active centre of organisational work and public connect. He called upon party workers to move beyond routine organisational activities and work with greater commitment, discipline and coordination to establish a strong and vibrant BJP presence across the constituency. Koul said that the strength of the BJP is its dedicated cadre and its direct connect with the people, and every worker must remain continuously accessible to the public. He emphasised that Booth Presidents and Shakti Kendra teams have a crucial responsibility in understanding local issues, communicating the partys policies and achievements, and strengthening public confidence in the BJP. Ashok Koul took detailed feedback from the constituency functionaries regarding the functioning of booths and Shakti Kendras and directed the teams to maintain close coordination, regular communication and a result-oriented approach. He stressed that organisational gaps must be identified and addressed promptly, while grassroots engagement should be made more consistent and effective. Koul asked the workers to work as one coordinated team and said that the BJPs organizational expansion in Kashmir will be driven by dedicated workers, disciplined teamwork and sustained engagement with the people. He called for renewed efforts to strengthen the party at every booth and constituency level. J&K BJP General Secretary Kisan Morcha Arshad Bhat, Rajpora Constituency President Junaid Ahmad, and other senior leaders and party functionaries were present. Later, Ashok Koul distributed certificates and awards to talented Paper Machie artisans at Town Hall, Pulwama, organised by Noora Foundation Trust, recognising their exceptional craftsmanship and contribution towards preserving the regions rich traditional art and cultural heritage. Arshad Bhat and other senior leaders were also present. Koul appreciated the artisans for keeping the traditional Paper Machie craft alive and emphasised the need to encourage such indigenous skills, which represent the rich cultural identity and heritage of Kashmir.
70 lakh land parcels go digital as J&K prepares land database for AgriStack
Srinagar, Aug 25:In a major step towards modernising land administration and creating a more transparent, citizen-centric system of Revenue and Agricultural services, Jammu and Kashmir has accelerated the digitisation and updation of land records while simultaneously preparing the verified land database for integration with the AgriStack framework of the Government of India under its Digital India Land Records ModernisationProgramme (DILRMP). The exercise, being undertaken by the Revenue Department in collaboration with BISAG-N, covers nearly 70 lakh land parcels, with more than 2,500 Revenue field functionaries having been provided role-based access for data entry, verification and approval. The initiative has been designed not as a mere exercise in scanning or data entry, but as a comprehensive process of digitisation, updation, verification, public scrutiny and authentication of land records. FROM LEGACY RECORDS TO A TRUSTED DIGITAL DATABASE Land records form the foundation of a wide range of public services, including ownership verification, mutations, agricultural benefits, credit, insurance, compensation and land-related transactions. Recognising the importance of an accurate and accessible Record of Rights, the Revenue Department has adopted a departmental, field-driven model for the present exercise. A dedicated software platform has been developed in collaboration with BISAG-N, providing for village-wise management of land-record data through a structured relational database. Unlike a simple scanned copy of a physical register, the digital record captures individual particulars in defined data fields, enabling systematic searching, comparison, validation, monitoring and authorised updating. THREE-TIER INSTITUTIONAL VERIFICATION A key feature of the exercise is the MakerCheckerApprover mechanism, designed to ensure that a record is not accepted merely on the basis of data entry. Under the system, the Patwari acts as the Maker, entering the record; the Girdawar/Naib-Tehsildar acts as the Checker, verifying it against the source Revenue record; and the Tehsildar acts as the Approver, providing final approval. This segregation of responsibilities creates successive checks against transcription errors, omissions, incorrect shares, spelling discrepancies and other inconsistencies. Every stage is electronically recorded, thereby creating an audit trail and fixing responsibility for the information entered and approved. The Department has supplemented this institutional workflow with additional layers of supervision. Regular reviews have been undertaken at the highest administrative levels, while District-level Mentors and Prabhari Officers have been deployed to monitor both progress and quality. District committees have also undertaken cross-Tehsil verification to provide an additional layer of independent scrutiny. PUBLIC VERIFICATION MADE INTEGRAL TO DIGITISATION The Government has also placed the landholder at the centre of the verification process.More than 6,800 village-level camps have been organised for public reading of Jamabandis, enabling landholders to examine the records and report discrepancies relating to names, shares, mutations and other particulars. This public verification mechanism has been complemented by making digitised land records available for public viewing through the JK ZameenSudhaar portal. Over 13 lakh rectifications have already been completed on the basis of discrepancies detected during verification and grievances received from the public. UPDATION OF RECORDS ALONGSIDE DIGITISATION The Government has simultaneously addressed the critical issue of pending mutations so that digitisation does not result in merely reproducing an outdated physical record in electronic form. Approximately 7 lakh backlog mutations have been incorporated into the digitised Record of Rights and subjected to the prescribed verification and approval process. LAND RECORDS BEING TRANSFORMED FOR AGRISTACK The verified digital land database is now being transformed to support the AgriStack framework under the Digital Agriculture Mission of the Government of India. AgriStack envisages an integrated digital architecture comprising the Farmers Registry, geo-referenced village maps and Crop Sown Registry. At its foundation is the ability to reliably associate a farmer with the landholding recorded in the official land records. Traditional Jamabandis may contain several co-owners in a single khasra and may reflect shares at the holding or khata level. The AgriStack architecture requires the precise extent attributable to each recorded owner to be available in machine-readable form. Through the transformation exercise, 31.26 lakh khasra records have so far been converted into the required owner-extent format. For the farmer the process significantly simplifies the experience of viewing and claiming multiple land parcels associated with his or her name. FARMER VALIDATION ADDS ANOTHER LAYER OF TRUST A significant feature of the AgriStack implementation is that the process does not end with government-side verification alone. The farmer or landholder authenticates through e-KYC and is able to view the relevant landholding particulars on the registration interface. After examining the information, the landholder can claim the appropriate landholding group and provide voluntary electronic consent.A Farmer ID is generated only after the prescribed verification and approval process is completed. DIRECT BENEFITS FOR CITIZENS AND FARMERS The digitisation of land records is expected to substantially improve the everyday experience of citizens dealing with Revenue and agricultural services. With land records available digitally, citizens will have easier access to their Record of Rights and will increasingly be able to obtain Revenue services without repeated visits to Patwari or Tehsil offices. Updated records, electronic audit trails and defined responsibility are expected to enhance transparency and reduce avoidable delays and disputes. For farmers, AgriStack and the Farmer ID framework will provide the foundation for a more integrated delivery of agricultural services. A farmers verified identity and landholding information can facilitate more efficient targeting and delivery of eligible schemes, subsidies, procurement-related services, agricultural inputs, credit, insurance and disaster-relief measures. TOWARDS CITIZEN-CENTRIC REVENUE AND AGRICULTURE SERVICES The ultimate objective is to make land records more accurate, accessible, transparent and useful, while placing the citizen and farmer at the centre of the digital transformation. The ongoing exercise thus marks a transition from simply maintaining land records in digital form to creating a trusted, verified and farmer-validated digital land information ecosystem, capable of supporting transparent Revenue administration and more efficient delivery of agricultural services across the districts for the long-term welfare of farmers and citizens of the UT.
Syed Mohammad Altaf Bukhari pays obeisance at Asar-e-Sharif Hazratbal
On the occasion of Eid Milad-un-Nabi (SAW), Apni Party President Syed Mohammad Altaf Bukhari, along with senior party colleagues on Tuesday paid obeisance at Asar-e-Sharif Hazratbal in Srinagar, where Shab-e-Milad is being observed tonight. The Apni Party leaders offered Asr and Maghrib prayers at the revered shrine, praying for peace, prosperity, and stability in Jammu and Kashmir. Meanwhile, in his message on the auspicious occasion, Syed Mohammad Altaf Bukhari, as per a party statement, said, Eid Milad-un-Nabi (SAW), the blessed occasion marking the birth of our beloved Prophet Muhammad (PBUH), is one of the most revered occasions for Muslims across the world. It reminds us of Allahs infinite mercy and His guidance to humanity through the Prophet (SAW), who showed us the path of peace, compassion, kindness, and harmony for all creation. He added, On this auspicious occasion, I extend my warm greetings to everyone, particularly to the Muslim community. May Eid-e-Milad-un-Nabi (SAW) bring peace, harmony, and prosperity into our lives, and may the blessings and mercy of Allah fill our hearts and guide us towards the path of righteousness and compassion. During his obeisance at Asar-e-Sharif Apni Party President was accompanied by the party's Vice President Mohammed Syed Akhoon, General Secretary Rafi Ahmed Mir, Chief Spokesperson and State Secretary Muntazir Mohiuddin, Media Advisor Farooq Andrabi, Party leaders including Provincial Secretary Mohammad Saleem Lone, Mohammad Yousuf Abdullah, Constituency In-charge Hazratbal Mohammad Sidiq Mir, Provincial Coordinator Shabir Ahmad Reshi, Constituency In-charge Khanyar Aamir Bhat, Senior Worker Sohail Ahmad, Sameer Iqbal Bhat, Zonal President Farooq Ahmad Magray, Abdul Hamid Dar, Er.Rayees Rafiq, Dr.Oveas Ahmad, Mohammad Lateef Hajaam, Hilal Ahmed Gojree, Mohammad Imran Mir, Ashiq Ahmed Bhat, Danish Ahmad, and others.
J&K Cabinet Ministers extend Eid-e-Milad-un-Nabi (SAW) greetings
J&K Cabinet Ministers Surinder Choudhary, Sakeena Itoo, Satish Sharma and Javid Ahmad Dar on Tuesday extended warm greetings to the people of Jammu and Kashmir on the auspicious occasion of Eid-e-Milad-un-Nabi (SAW), calling for upholding the teachings of Prophet Muhammad (SAW) and strengthening the values of peace, harmony, brotherhood and service to humanity. As per official statements issued, Deputy Chief Minister, Surinder Choudhary, extended warm greetings to the people of Jammu and Kashmir on the auspicious occasion of Eid-e-Milad-un-Nabi (SAW). In his message, Deputy Chief Minister said that the sacred occasion is a reminder of the noble teachings of the Holy Prophet (SAW), who showed humanity the path of truth, compassion, and service to mankind. He expressed hope that the blessed day will inspire people to uphold the values of peace, harmony, mutual respect, and brotherhood, thereby fostering unity and collective progress in society. Deputy Chief Minister added that the true way of celebrating this day is by practicing patience, spreading goodwill, and extending support to those in need. Surinder Choudhary also prayed for peace, prosperity, and well-being of all citizens, especially the people of Jammu and Kashmir. Minister for Health and Medical Education, Social Welfare and Education, Sakeena Itoo also extended her heartfelt greetings to the people of Jammu and Kashmir on the auspicious occasion of Eid-e-Milad-un-Nabi (SAW), marking the birth anniversary of Prophet Muhammad (SAW). In her greeting message, the Minister said that this sacred day reminds us of the timeless values of compassion, kindness, and service to humanity, which form the essence of the life and teachings of the Holy Prophet (SAW). She expressed hope that this pious occasion will inspire people to strengthen bonds of brotherhood, promote peace and harmony, and work collectively for the welfare of society. On this revered occasion, let us pledge to walk on the path of truth, compassion, and selfless service shown to us by the Prophet Muhammad (SAW), she said. The Minister also highlighted that true way of celebrating this blessed and sacred day is to uphold the values of empathy, patience, and mutual respect in our daily lives. Sakeena Itoo also prayed for the peace, prosperity, and well-being of all citizens, particularly the people of Jammu and Kashmir. Minister for Food, Civil Supplies & Consumer Affairs, Information Technology, Youth Services & Sports, Science & Technology and ARI & Trainings, Satish Sharma, has extended his heartfelt greetings to the people of Jammu and Kashmir on the auspicious occasion of Eid-e-Milad-un-Nabi (SAW), marking the blessed birth anniversary of Prophet Muhammad (SAW). In his message, the Minister said that Eid-e-Milad-un-Nabi (SAW) is a sacred occasion that reminds humanity of the timeless message and noble teachings of the Holy Prophet (SAW), centred on compassion, peace, justice, kindness, brotherhood and selfless service to humanity. Satish Sharma said that the life and teachings of Prophet Muhammad (SAW) provide enduring guidance for building a society founded on mutual respect, harmony, tolerance and concern for the welfare of others. He expressed hope that the occasion would inspire people to strengthen the bonds of brotherhood and work collectively for peace, prosperity and the well-being of society. On this blessed occasion, let us reaffirm our commitment to the noble values of compassion, truth, patience, forgiveness and service to humanity taught by the Holy Prophet Muhammad (SAW), and strive to incorporate these values in our everyday lives, the Minister said. He emphasised that the true spirit of Eid-e-Milad-un-Nabi (SAW) lies in extending kindness to others, helping the needy and underprivileged, promoting social harmony and working for the welfare of all sections of society. The Minister also prayed for peace, progress, prosperity and well-being of all citizens, and particularly prayed for continued peace, development and happiness in Jammu and Kashmir. He expressed hope that the sacred occasion would strengthen the spirit of unity, brotherhood and mutual understanding among the people and inspire everyone to contribute towards building a peaceful, compassionate and prosperous society. Minister for Agriculture Production, Rural Development and Panchayati Raj, Cooperatives and Election Department, Javid Ahmad Dar has extended his warm greetings and best wishes to the people of Jammu and Kashmir on the auspicious occasion of Eid-i-Milad-ul-Nabi (SAW). In his message, the Minister, as per an official statement, said that the blessed occasion offers an opportunity to reflect upon the exemplary life and timeless teachings of Prophet Muhammad (SAW), which continue to inspire humanity towards peace, compassion, brotherhood, tolerance, justice, humility and service to mankind. Javid Dar said the teachings of the Prophet Muhammad (SAW) emphasise respect for human dignity, care for the vulnerable, forgiveness and peaceful coexistence. He called upon people to imbibe these values in their daily lives and work collectively towards strengthening the bonds of social harmony, mutual respect and communal amity in society. The Minister expressed hope that the auspicious occasion would usher in peace, prosperity, happiness and well-being for the people of Jammu and Kashmir and further strengthen the spirit of unity and brotherhood across the Union Territory.
8 terror associates arrested in 3 operations in south Kashmir
Srinagar, Aug 25:Security forces have arrested eight suspected overground workers and terrorist associates in three separate operations in Shopian and Pulwama districts of south Kashmir, officials said on Tuesday, recovering grenades, weapons, ammunition and other incriminating material from their possession. In the first operation, police and Army personnel launched a joint search operation in an orchard at Imamsahib in Shopian following specific intelligence inputs about the presence of suspected terror associates. During the search, the security forces recovered one hand grenade, two AK-47 magazines, four mobile phones and posters linked to a banned terrorist outfit, officials said. Three suspected overground workers were apprehended during the operation and identified as Ashiq Hussain Kumar, Arif Kumar and Harris Manzoor. Officials said the arrests were part of intensified efforts to identify and dismantle support networks providing logistical assistance to terrorists operating in the region. In a separate operation in Shopian late Monday night, security forces arrested three more suspected overground workers after intercepting three motorcycle-borne individuals. A search of the suspects led to the recovery of two hand grenades and other incriminating material allegedly linked to the HizbulMujahideen terror outfit, officials said. The arrested persons have been identified as Junaid Ahmad Dar, Amir Yousuf and Junaid Muzaffar. Meanwhile, in another coordinated operation in Pulwama district, police, Army and CRPF personnel apprehended two suspected terrorist associates in the Yarwan forest area of CB Nath in Rajpora. Acting on specific security inputs, the joint forces launched a Cordon and Search Operation (CASO) in the general Yarwan forest area to prevent the movement of suspected terrorists and their associates. During the operation, the security teams noticed two individuals emerging from the forest towards CB Nath village in a suspicious manner. The alert personnel swiftly moved in and apprehended both of them, officials said. The two suspects were identified as Latif Ahmad Deedad and Aejaz Ahmad Bajad. A search of their possession resulted in the recovery of one pistol, 12 rounds of pistol ammunition and one hand grenade, officials said. The arrested individuals have been taken into custody and a case has been registered under relevant sections of the Arms Act and the Unlawful Activities (Prevention) Act.
JKEDI Pulwama conducts Startup Idea Challenge 2.0
The Jammu and Kashmir Entrepreneurship Development Institute (JKEDI), in collaboration with Government Degree College for Women, Pulwama, today successfully organised the Startup Idea Challenge 2.0. The programme forms part of JKEDIs broader efforts under the J&K Startup Policy 202427 to foster innovation, entrepreneurship, and youth-led startups across the Union Territory. Professor (Dr.) Sami Jan, Principal, Government Degree College for Women, Pulwama, attended event as the Chief Guest. The event was attended by distinguished experts and faculty members from various domains, including Nafia Nazir, Range Officer (South Kashmir), JKEDI; Raiyees Manzoor, District Nodal Officer, JKEDI Pulwama; Dr Tariq H. Ganai, Associate Professor and Former Head, Department of Food Technology, Islamic University of Science and Technology (IUST); Dr Nisar Ahmad Wani, Head, Department of Economics, GDC Women, Pulwama; Dr Tanveer Bilal, Head, Department of Bio-resources, Government Degree College for Women, Pulwama; Professor Surya Shafi, Department of Commerce, GDC Women, Pulwama; Professor Iftikhar, Department of Sociology, GDC Women, Pulwama and M. Ayoub, Senior Bank Official, Cluster office, J&K Bank Pulwama. The programme witnessed enthusiastic participation from students, who presented a diverse range of innovative ideas before the selection committee. Out of the ideas pitched, seven were shortlisted to represent District Pulwama at the state-level competition. Professor (Dr) Sami Jan congratulated the selected candidates and encouraged them to put in their best efforts to excel in the final round. Raiyees Manzoor, District Nodal Officer, JKEDI also appreciated the innovative concepts presented and congratulated the participants for taking their first step towards innovation and emerging as the startups of tomorrow. The Startup Idea Challenge 2.0 provides selected innovators with opportunities for mentorship, incubation support, and pathways to seed funding and co-working facilities at JKEDI hubs, helping transform promising ideas into viable entrepreneurial ventures.
CII delegation calls on Lieutenant Governor Manoj Sinha
A delegation of Confederation of Indian Industry (CII) J&K UT Council, led by its Chairman, Iqram Ali Shafiee, called on Lieutenant Governor Manoj Sinha, and briefed him on the upcoming 3rd Edition of the CII J&K Health Conclave, scheduled to be held on 29 August 2026 in Srinagar.
Excise Commissioner J&K launches quarterly Newsletter
The Excise Department, Jammu and Kashmir, has launched (unveiled) the inaugural issue of its Quarterly Newsletter, an initiative aimed at strengthening institutional communication, facilitating dissemination of information and systematically documenting the Departments key achievements, initiatives and operational activities. The Newsletter was formally released by the Excise Commissioner, J&K Vaibhav Kohli, in presence of the Principal, Excise & Taxation Training Institute (ETTI), Deputy Excise Commissioner (Executive), Deputy Excise Commissioner (Distillery), Excise & Taxation Officers and other officers and officials of the Department. Speaking on the occasion, the Excise Commissioner expressed satisfaction over the launch of the Departments first-ever Quarterly Newsletter and emphasised its importance as an effective instrument for institutional communication, knowledge sharing and organisational excellence. He observed that the publication would provide a consolidated account of the Departments performance, achievements and major initiatives undertaken during each quarter. Earlier, Principal, Excise & Taxation Training Institute (ETTI) Priyanka Bhat highlighted the objectives and significance of the publication and gave a comprehensive overview of its various sections and contents. The inaugural issue, inter alia, highlights the Departments revenue performance during the first quarter of FY 202627, comparative trends in revenue collection, enforcement activities, awareness initiatives undertaken under the Nasha Mukt Bharat Abhiyaan and various capacity-building programmes organised by ETTI. The Newsletter is also envisaged as a platform for showcasing best practices, strengthening institutional memory and promoting greater awareness of the Departments multifaceted activities.
DLIC approves 180 sheep husbandry cases in Budgam
A meeting of the District Level Implementation Committee (DLIC) was held today under the chairmanship of the Deputy Commissioner, Budgam, Athar Aamir Khan, to consider and approve cases under various development schemes being implemented in the district. During the meeting, a total of 180 cases pertaining to the Sheep Husbandry Department, Budgam, were approved under the Holistic Agriculture Development Programme (HADP), Integrated Sheep Development Scheme (ISDS), and J&K Competitiveness Improvement in Agriculture and Allied Sectors Project (JKCIP). The approved cases comprise 100 cases under ISDS, 65 cases under HADP, and 15 cases under JKCIP. Speaking at the outset, the Deputy Commissioner said that the approval of these cases reflects the District Administrations commitment to strengthening the livestock sector and extending the benefits of government schemes to farmers and aspiring entrepreneurs in a timely and transparent manner. He said that sheep husbandry has immense potential for employment generation and sustainable livelihood creation, particularly in rural and far-flung areas of the district. The DC stressed upon the concerned department to ensure effective implementation and close monitoring of the approved cases so that the intended benefits reach the beneficiaries on the ground. He further urged the beneficiaries to make optimum use of the assistance provided under the schemes and develop their enterprises on scientific and sustainable lines, thereby contributing to increased production, productivity and the overall growth of the rural economy.
Children must feel safe: Sakina Itoos message to teachers after Kishtwar incident
Srinagar, Aug 25:Minister for Education, Sakina Itoo, on Tuesday said that teachers carry a huge responsibility as parents entrust their children to them with the belief that they will understand, protect, and care for them. In her address during a day-long educational conference organised by the Jammu and Kashmir Teachers Forum (JKTF) at SKICC here, Sakina Itoo expressed deep anguish over the recent incident in Kishtwar, saying that the incident brought shame to the entire society. Children and daughters must feel safe in educational institutions. Parents trust a teacher a lot. When they send their children from home to school, they think that if there is someone who understands them more than their parents and takes care of them, that is their teacher, she said. Referring to the Kishtwar incident, the minister said, All of us bow our heads in shame. She said while the alleged wrongdoing of an individual teacher cannot be generalised to the entire teaching community, such an incident was a matter of collective concern. If our children and daughters are not safe and secure in todays environment, then I feel that it is a huge concern for us, Itoo said. She urged the teachers to treat students with the same care and dignity as they would extend to their own daughters and sisters. She said the government would take the strictest possible action if the inquiry establishes the person concerned as guilty. Sakina Itoo said that Chief Minister Omar Abdullah had already convened a meeting on the issue and directed that strict action be taken against the accused if found guilty after due inquiry. I want to assure the sisters and mothers of Jammu and Kashmir that when the inquiry is completed, the Chief Minister has given the direction to take strict action and it will definitely be implemented, she said. The minister also assured teachers that their concerns over the Teacher Eligibility Test (TET) requirement would be addressed, saying the Chief Minister had intervened after an order was issued in the matter. Referring to her conversation with Chief Minister, She said that CM Omar Abdullah told her that teachers were the honour and pride of the government and directed that the order, issued by the department, be withdrawn. Itoo said the government had also approached the Supreme Court in connection with the matter and assured teachers that their dignity would not be compromised. On the challenges facing school education, the minister said declining enrolment and closure of schools was a concern and efforts were given by the present government to reverse the trend. The government alone cannot increase enrolment. Teachers have an important role to ensure that no child remains deprived of education. Teachers can contribute to increasing enrolment, she added.
SSI Bonafide unit holders urge Govt to launch marketing assistance
SSI Bonafide Group of Unit Holders have urged the government to launch marketing assistance through SICOP for promotion of their units. The SSI Bonafide Group is registered with the Directorate of Industries and Commerce, Jammu and Kashmir. The unit holders said marketing assistance for providing boost to their units. In this regard, a delegation of SSI Unit Holders recently took up the matter with Director Industries Anil Banka and discussed various issues confronting them. During the meeting, the unit holders discussed various issues and gave suggestions for development of SSI Units, including launching marketing assistance. We appreciate the positive attitude of Director Industries Kashmir towards working for the welfare of SSI Unit holders. We assure him full cooperation for development of the SSI sector in the valley, they said. The delegation also met MD SICOP, Shahid Saleem regarding marketing assistance for SSI Sector and Pan-India price preference of 25 per cent for the local MSME SSI Sector. MD SICOP assured to redress the marketing assistance and other demands at the earliest, the unit holders said. The unit holders delegation comprised Chief Coordinator Shabir Abdullah, Vice Chief Coordinator Shoaib Hakak, Central Coordinator Sheikh Showkat, Convener Syed Ayaullah Rizvi, Treasurer Imran Qureshi and other members.
Stop burdening teachers with duties beyond teaching: CM Omar Abdullah
Srinagar, Aug 25:Jammu and Kashmir Chief Minister Omar Abdullah on Tuesday said teachers in Jammu and Kashmir were being burdened with responsibilities far beyond teaching, while the government must do more to address their grievances and provide support needed to perform their duties effectively. Addressing a day-long educational conference organised by the Jammu and Kashmir Teachers Forum (JKTF) at SKICC here, Omar said the future of Jammu and Kashmir rested on its children, but placing the entire responsibility for shaping that future on teachers would be unjust. If we put all our responsibility on you and say that our teachers will decide what Jammu and Kashmir will be like in the future, then I think there will be a lot of injustice with you, and we will put more pressure on you, he said. Referring to former President APJ Abdul Kalams emphasis on the role of parents and teachers in shaping children, Omar said the teaching profession had become considerably more challenging compared to the past. He recalled a time when students and parents rarely questioned teachers authority, saying that in his own childhood he could not remember complaining about a teacher to his parents. Omar cited an anecdote involving his father Dr Farooq Abdullah and his grandfather Sheikh Abdullah to underline the change in attitudes towards teachers. He said when his father was beaten by a teacher during school days and complained to Sheikh Abdullah, the latter instead appreciated the teacher for disciplining his son. Today, if something happens to the children, parents immediately go to the police station to file an FIR and file a case in the court, he said. He said that such situations have made it increasingly difficult for teachers to perform their duties. The Chief Minister said teachers were now competing with smartphones, social media, television channels and a host of other distractions to keep students focused. The new challenge is Artificial Intelligence. How difficult it must be for a teacher to decide whether the childs assignment is his own creation or the help of artificial intelligence, he said. Omar also criticised the practice of assigning teachers a wide range of duties not related to classroom teaching. He said teachers were routinely called upon to prepare students for Independence Day and Republic Day functions, International Yoga Day programmes, anti-drug addiction campaigns, besides being deployed for election duties, often at remote polling stations. When it comes to your problems, unfortunately, your files dont move forward as fast as the files that we have to put you somewhere else, he said. CM Omar Abdullah said the government has a responsibility to address teachers concerns with the same urgency with which it assigns them official duties. If you have problems with transfers, DPCs, or vacancies in schools and other things, then we have to solve those problems with the same intensity, he said. Omar assured the teachers that he and the minister for education, Sakina Itoo, would work to resolve the teachers issues. He further highlighted the difficulties faced by teachers posted in remote rural schools, saying that those without influence often remain in village schools while those with connections (influence) manage to secure postings in urban institutions only. He however, expressed concern over dummy admission in government schools, saying that students enrol themselves in government higher secondary schools largely for examination purposes but spend their time at private tuition centres. There are schools where children take admission only to enter the name and to sit for the board exam. They never come to class. They sit in the tuition centre and spend the whole day there. But we cannot blame teachers for this, he added. CM Omar Abdullah also acknowledged infrastructure gaps in schools while talking about rented school buildings and unsafe structures being used for students. It is the responsibility of the government to fix it. We talk about smart classes, but how far have we been able to take smart classes in schools? Smart classes are far away. In some places, we are not able to provide the right structure for schools, he added. He said that plugging infrastructure gaps was not the responsibility of the teachers but his as the chief minister of J&K. Filling the vacancies is not your responsibility; it is my job. It is my responsibility to strengthen your hands so that you can do your work properly, he added. He, however, urged teachers to prepare students to meet the rapidly changing demands of the future and contribute positively to Jammu and Kashmirs development. Omar also spoke about the Teacher Eligibility Test (TET), saying the issue was linked to laws applicable across the country. A deadline has been set for this till August 2028, and the government has repeatedly raised its concerns. We will continue to put up the case before the Supreme Court and hope that the issue could be resolved in the interests of teachers and students, he added. CM Omar Abdullah said that improving the education system required a collective effort and cannot be left to teachers alone. If we can improve your situation and school infrastructure, then only you will be able to improve the future of your children. But if we fail to deliver and ask you to fix everything, that will not solve the problem, he added.
Dont pass AT&C losses on to consumers: PHDCCI to JERC
The PHD Chamber of Commerce and Industry (PHDCCI) has urged the Jammu and Kashmir Electricity Regulatory Commission (JKERC) to review recent power tariff revisions and ensure that consumers are not burdened with costs arising from systemic distribution losses. In a representation to the regulator, PHDCCI Kashmir Chairman Vicky Shaw said the near-completion of smart metering across Jammu and Kashmir has enabled more accurate billing based on actual electricity consumption. He argued that consumers should not be made to bear the financial burden of aggregate technical and commercial (AT&C) losses arising from ageing transformers, outdated conductors and transmission and distribution inefficiencies. These losses are not a consequence of consumer behaviour but reflect infrastructure deficits that fall under the Power Development Departments operational ambit, Shaw said, adding that the regulator and the department should work together to address these structural shortcomings without placing additional pressure on households and businesses. PHDCCI proposed a series of measures to improve the efficiency and reliability of the power distribution system, including completing 100 per cent metering across all consumer categories, modernising ageing infrastructure and strengthening the distribution network. The Chamber called for the timely implementation of the Revamped Distribution Sector Scheme (RDSS), along with the replacement and upgradation of old transformers, feeders and distribution lines to reduce technical losses and improve network reliability. It also recommended stronger measures to curb technical faults and unauthorised electricity usage, arguing that reducing the gap between energy supplied and revenue realised should be achieved through system improvements rather than repeated tariff increases. The Chamber expressed concern that additional financial pressure on industries and domestic consumers could constrain commercial activity and affect household budgets amid prevailing economic pressures. PHDCCI said the Power Development Department should focus on improving governance, technological upgradation, administrative oversight and the targeted completion of RDSS and IPDS schemes. Strengthening the grid and plugging loopholes is the sustainable path forward, the representation stated, arguing that consumers should not be made to compensate for losses rooted in deficiencies within the power distribution system. The Chamber said a coordinated approach, in which the department improves infrastructure and consumers are billed transparently for their actual consumption, would help create a more efficient and equitable power system in Jammu and Kashmir.
CM Omar Abdullah lays foundation stone for Fruit & Vegetable Mandi at Tangmarg
Chief Minister Omar Abdullah today laid the foundation stone of a modern Fruit & Vegetable Mandi at Wussan Bangil, Karhama, Tangmarg, marking the beginning of a long-pending demand of the area and a significant step towards strengthening the horticulture marketing infrastructure in the Tangmarg-Gulmarg belt. The proposed mandi will be developed on 50 kanals of land, with direct access to the Tangmarg-Gulmarg Road. Envisaged as a modern and organised marketing facility, the mandi will cater to the major horticulture belt of Tangmarg and adjoining areas and is expected to benefit around nine lakh people across 19 blocks in Baramulla and Budgam districts. The facility will provide growers with an organised platform for the handling, grading, sorting, packaging and marketing of fruit and vegetable produce, besides strengthening market linkages and logistics in the region. It is expected to bring buyers closer to producers, improve price realisation for farmers and reduce post-harvest losses through better handling, storage and supply-chain facilities. Addressing a large public gathering after laying the foundation stone, the Chief Minister said the project represented the fulfilment of a major and long-standing demand of the people of the area and underlined the need to look beyond tourism while assessing the economic potential of Kashmir. Often, when we speak to people outside J&K, they feel that there is nothing but tourism in Kashmir and that our entire economy revolves around tourism. But when I explain to them that agriculture, horticulture, fruits, dairy and other sectors contribute much more, they are surprised, he said. The Chief Minister said the establishment of the mandi was particularly important for Tangmarg because the area is a major horticulture-producing belt. Your fruits and vegetables were being grown here, but to take them to the market you had to travel to far-off markets. You did not always get buyers. Now, through this market, the buyers will come here and, through the buyers, you will get a better rate, he said. He said the modern infrastructure would also help ensure better quality of produce and facilitate its access to wider markets. The project, he added, would create a new source of income for the area and give a major boost to the rural economy. Emphasising that the success of the mandi would also depend on connectivity, Omar Abdullah directed that the road leading to the facility be improved and widened. Along with this fruit market and vegetable market, we will have to fix this road as well. Even if it is a 1.5 to 2 km stretch, we will have to widen it and improve its condition so that people do not face any difficulty, he said. The Chief Minister said the government had initiated development works across sectors in the constituency, including drinking water, healthcare, education, roads and horticulture infrastructure. He said the focus was on taking development works to the ground and addressing the demands of people through concrete projects. The Chief Minister, however, assured the people that the government would make every effort to avoid any further increase during its present term. I assure you that I will try my best not to increase the electricity tariff during this government, he said. Chief Minister Omar Abdullah reiterated the governments commitment to fulfilling the promises made to the people and said the next three and a half years would witness accelerated development across J&K. God willing, in the next three and a half years, we will fulfil all the promises we have made to the people and present ourselves before you. I say with confidence that after three and a half years, if you look at all the Assembly constituencies, among the most developed, if not the most developed, will be the Gulmarg-Tangmarg constituency, because here not only has work started, it is progressing rapidly, he said. The Chief Minister also announced that the Mini Secretariat at Tangmarg, whose work had been initiated during his earlier government but could not be completed, would be completed and handed over to the people during the current year. He congratulated the people of Tangmarg, particularly the residents of Wussan, on the foundation stone laying of the Fruit and Vegetable Mandi and said the project would create a stronger and more organised horticulture marketing ecosystem in the area. Earlier, the Chief Minister visited the Kisan Mela showcasing key government initiatives and innovations in agriculture and horticulture. Minister for Agriculture Javid Ahmed Dar and Advisor to the Chief Minister Nasir Aslam Wani spoke on the occasion and highlighted the achievements and initiatives undertaken by the government in agriculture and allied sectors. MLA Gulmarg-Tangmarg Pirzada Farooq Ahmed Shah said that since assuming office, Chief Minister Omar Abdullah had left no stone unturned in accelerating development across Jammu and Kashmir, with particular focus on the Gulmarg-Tangmarg constituency. He said the pace of development under the present government was evident on the ground and alleged that the opposition was unable to accept the reality of ongoing development process. Member of Parliament (Rajya Sabha) Gurwinder Singh Oberoi, MLA Beerwah Dr Shafi Ahmed Wani, MLA Baramulla Javed Hassan Beigh, MLA Pattan Javed Reyaz Bedar, MLA Uri Dr Sajjad Shafi and MLA Kreeri-Wagoora Irfan Hafiz Lone were present on the occasion. Director, Horticulture, Planning and Marketing, J&K, Ghulam Jeelani Zargar, Director Agriculture Kashmir Sartaj Ahmed Shah, Director Horticulture Kashmir Vikas Anand, besides senior officers of the Agriculture and allied departments, were also present.
When the sweltering summer heat settles over the Kashmir Valley and Srinagar pulses with urban hustle, the urge to find sanctuary becomes irresistible. For our group of twentya retreat team comprising doctors and healthcare professionals from Gauri Heart Centre and Prasad Joo Khan Heart Centrethat relief was found in the serene, untouched highlands of Khag Tehsil in Badgam district. Located approximately 4550 km from Srinagar. The route passes through Magam and Khag towns via well-connected roads suitable for cars and light buses. Nestled amidst towering conifers, verdant meadows, and whispering mountain streams lies Kastoorwan , an extraordinary haven where nature's beauty seamlessly intersects with spiritual heritage and peaceful tranquillity. All of us had packed comfortable walking shoes, light woolens for the cooler evenings, and a reusable water bottle to taste the local spring water. The place is located in the heart of Badgam district, the village of Nowroz Baba in Khag Tehsil feels like a world frozen in time. The area takes its name from the revered Sufi saint, Hazrat Nowroz Baba (RA), whose spiritual legacy permeates the entire landscape. Local folklore and historical memory credit Nowroz Baba with performing remarkable miraclesmost notably bringing clean, perennial water streams to the arid patches of the region through his spiritual devotion. Today, his mausoleum stands as a beacon of faith, drawing visitors seeking solace, healing, and reflection. The ambient energy around the Asthaan sets a contemplative tone, reminding one of the deep mystical traditions that define Kashmirs rich culture. The best time to visit this place is between May to September, this period offers ideal weather, vibrant green meadows, and a perfect escape from Srinagars summer warmth. Though peak of winter is also recommended by some because of the white firs and everything white if you have adequate heating systems in your cottage but reaching from Srinagar can be a challenge. Our home base for this picnic was the Kastoorwan Cottage, a charmingly comfortable lodge positioned opposite the Kastoorwan forests and just a stones throw from Nowroz Babas mausoleum. It had been booked well in advance because the place is in a good demand during this season. Tucked beneath a canopy of dense pine and fir trees, the cottage offered our group a perfect blend of modern comfort and rustic wilderness living. Sitting on its verandas, surrounded by endless stretches of emerald meadows, a late evening barbeque in an atmosphere with a nip of chill around a bonfire. The daily pressures of clinical work of all of us quickly dissolved into the cool mountain air with a group of artists singing choicest Kashmiri songs with pleasant music. An out-door dinner with several delicacies was followed by a very comfortable sleep in the cottages. No fans needed in fact a blanket was welcome. Next day started as a lazy morning. A few of us like me with my bosom friend from medical college days Dr Shabbir Ahmad went out for a walk along the zig zag road. It had pine forests on both the sides interspersed with small houses a middle school and some villagers cutting grass to feed the cattle. They were all very pleasant and greeted us with smiles. After coming back and getting ready for the day we assembled for a sumptuous north Indian breakfast and boiled eggs. Took a few pictures and as the leader of the group I settled the bills which were very reasonable. It was time to leave now and the group decided to go to a few neighbouring touristic spots. While Kastoorwan itself provides an idyllic setting for rest, Khag Tehsil is a treasure chest of unexplored natural wonders. Ranging from 25 to 40 kilometers from our base, several hidden gems offer breathtaking landscapes that rival Kashmirs most famous tourist destinationsyet remain blissfully uncrowded. Tosamaidan: Once a restricted area, this massive, sprawling meadow is encircled by dense forests and high mountain passes. Its vast rolling pasturelands offer unobstructed views of the Pir Panjal range, making it a paradise for trekkers, campers, and nature enthusiasts. Basmal Gali: A scenic high-altitude mountain pass on the trail deeper into the mountains, offering dramatic vantage points overlooking the entire forest belt of Badgam. Sukhnag Waterfalls & River Streams: Known locally as the cascade of health, the roaring Sukhnag River flows through the region, fed by glacier meltwater. Its cascading waterfalls create natural cooling spots ideal for mid-day gatherings. Naranag and Pushkar Nag: High-altitude Mountain springs famed for their crystal-clear waters and sacred local history, surrounded by ancient birch and alpine flora. Sita Haran (Sitharan): Beyond its natural charm, this village holds immense historical and mythological significance. According to local lore, Lord Rama, Mata Sita, and Lakshmana spent part of their exile (Vanvas) in these peaceful forests, leaving behind a legacy that connects the valley to timeless epic narratives. Doodhpathri (The Valley of Milk): Located just across the regional border, Doodhpathri is famous for its fast-flowing, frothy white river streams and smooth, sloping meadows that stretch as far as the eye can see. As our journey through the untouched highlands of Khag Tehsil came to an end, the return to our demanding routines felt far less daunting. For healthcare professionals who spend their lives guarding the hearts of others, Kastoorwan offered a rare opportunity to mend and refresh our own. Beyond the crisp mountain air, the tranquil pine forests, and the timeless spiritual legacy of Hazrat Nowroz Baba (RA), this hidden corner of Badgam reminded us of the profound healing power found only in nature. As we left behind the serene meadows, clear streams, and warm local hospitality, we carried back to Srinagar more than just pleasant memorieswe returned with restored spirits, strengthened bonds, and a renewed capacity to care. Kastoorwan is not merely a scenic getaway from the summer heat; it is a sanctuary for the soul, waiting quietly to restore anyone seeking solace. Prof Upendra Kaul, Founder Director- Gauri Kaul foundation
Ladakh eyes bigger Sea Buckthorn economy with proposed National Research Centre
The Union Ministry of Agriculture and Farmers Welfare has initiated an assessment of a proposal to establish a dedicated National Sanjeevani Research Centre for Sea Buckthorn in Ladakhs Nubra Valley, in a move aimed at turning the high-altitude crops medicinal, nutritional and commercial potential into a larger source of scientific research and rural livelihoods. The proposal was submitted by Ladakh Lieutenant Governor Vinai Kumar Saxena to Union Agriculture and Farmers Welfare Minister Shivraj Singh Chouhan on August 14. Following the request, the Indian Council of Agricultural Research (ICAR) constituted a high-level committee on August 21 to examine the feasibility of the proposed centre and recommend an appropriate institutional framework. The committee is headed by Dr V.B. Patel, Additional Director General, ICAR, and includes Maheshwar Singh, Dean (Agriculture), University of Ladakh; Tsering Stobdan, Scientist-F, DRDO, Leh; and Tsewang Punchok, Director of Horticulture in the Ladakh administration. The panel conducted its first field visit to Ladakh on August 24. It has been tasked with assessing the regions Sea Buckthorn genetic resources, natural distribution, cultivation, production, utilisation and ongoing research. The committee has also been asked to prepare a comprehensive feasibility report and a five-year action plan within 45 days, covering the proposed centres institutional structure, infrastructure, research priorities and mechanisms for value addition and commercialisation. Nubra Valley, recognised as Ladakhs largest Sea Buckthorn-producing region, has emerged as the proposed location for the centre. The initiative seeks to shift the sector from dependence on wild collection towards scientific cultivation, improved processing, value addition and organised market development. Known locally as a Wonder Plant and popularly described as Sanjeevani, Sea Buckthorn is a naturally occurring Himalayan plant with applications in food, cosmetics, nutraceuticals and other products. Its berries are known for their nutritional content and antioxidant properties. Prime Minister Narendra Modi has previously highlighted the plants potential during his Mann Ki Baat programme, referring to its importance for Ladakh and its medicinal and nutritional value. Welcoming the development, Lieutenant Governor Vinai Kumar Saxena said the proposed centre could provide a national platform for research, development, value addition and commercialisation of Sea Buckthorn. Glad to share that on our request, the Union Agriculture Ministry has constituted a High-Level Committee to examine setting up of a dedicated National Sanjeevani Research Centre at Nubra in Ladakh, for research, development, value addition and commercialisation of the high-value organic and medicinal Himalayan crop, Sea Buckthorn, Saxena said. He expressed gratitude to Prime Minister Narendra Modi for recognising the medicinal and nutritional potential of Ladakhs Sea Buckthorn and thanked Agriculture Minister Shivraj Singh Chouhan for acting on his request and directing the constitution of the committee within a week. Saxena said Sea Buckthorn is rich in nutrients, including vitamins A, C and E, and contains Omega-3, Omega-6, Omega-9 and Omega-7 fatty acids. He said the crop has significant agricultural and commercial potential. If approved, the proposed centre could help develop improved cultivation techniques, strengthen processing and storage infrastructure, promote research into medicinal and nutritional applications and create stronger value chains connecting local producers with national and international markets. Officials, however, have emphasised that commercial development would need to be balanced with ecological conservation. Given Ladakhs fragile high-altitude environment, scientific cultivation and sustainable harvesting will be critical to ensuring that increased demand does not put additional pressure on naturally occurring Sea Buckthorn resources. The proposed research centre is therefore being viewed not only as a scientific institution but also as a potential catalyst for rural employment, local enterprise and sustainable economic development in Ladakh.
