J&K DGP Nalin Prabhat reviews security preparedness ahead of Independence Day
Srinagar, Aug 14: Jammu and Kashmir Director General of Police (DGP) Nalin Prabhat reviewed security preparedness across Srinagar to ensure the smooth conduct of Independence Day celebrations on August 15, officials said on Friday. The officials said DGP J&K Nalin Prabhat accompanied by IGP Kashmir Shri V.K. Birdi, SSP Srinagar Dr G.V.Sundeep Chakravarthy and other jurisdictional officers, conducted a late-night ground review of security arrangements across Srinagar ahead of Independence Day. The DGP personally inspected naka points, deployments and security arrangements at Bakshi Stadium, interacted with personnel on ground and assessed the overall preparedness. He briefed the deployed personnel and issued necessary directions for heightened alertness, effective coordination and robust security measures.
PM Modi recalls courage of all those who were impacted by Partition
New Delhi, Aug 14: Prime Minister Narendra Modi remembered the victims of the 1947 Partition on Friday, the eve of Independence Day. The Modi government has been observing August 14 as the 'Partition Horrors Remembrance Day' since 2021 in remembrance of those who lost their lives in riots after the country's division and the ensuing exodus. Today we mark #PartitionHorrorsRemembranceDay. We recall the courage of all those who were impacted by Partition. It was a moment in history that tore apart several lives families were uprooted, loved ones were lost and immense suffering was endured, Modi said on X. The prime minister said that despite the turmoil, people rebuilt their lives from nothing, turned adversity into achievement and contributed to the nation's progress. Their lives remind everyone of the strength of the human spirit, he said. May this day deepen our resolve to preserve harmony and brotherhood in our nation and collectively work towards building a 'Viksit Bharat', Modi said. Let us further strengthen the national spirit of goodwill and unity, he said. India will be celebrating its Independence Day on Saturday.
6 dead, 14 injured as water, debris enter tunnel in Uttarakhand's Chamoli
Dehradun, Aug 14: Six people died and 14 sustained injuries on Thursday after water and debris entered a tunnel under construction at a hydroelectric project site in Chamoli district of Uttarakhand, officials said. According to preliminary information shared by the officials, 22 workers were trapped inside the tunnel. Twenty people have been brought out of the tunnel. Of them, six were declared dead, while 14 others have sustained injuries and are undergoing treatment at a nearby hospital. Information about the remaining two workers was not immediately available. The incident occurred at the Tehri Hydro Development Corporation (THDC) Limited's project site in the Pipalkoti area. The construction work is being carried out by the Hindustan Construction Company (HCC), the officials said. Uttarakhand Chief Secretary Anand Vardhan told PTI earlier that according to reports, several workers were trapped after water and debris entered the tunnel of the Pipalkoti hydroelectric project. Police, State Disaster Response Force (SDRF), Central Industrial Security Force (CISF) and other agencies rushed to the spot. A National Disaster Response Force (NDRF) team from Rudraprayag was on the way to Pipalkoti to join the rescue operation. Indo-Tibetan Border Police and Army teams were also deployed. District Magistrate (DM) Gaurav Kumar reached the spot and was overseeing the entire operation, officials said. In a post on X, Chief Minister Dhami expressed concern over the incident and directed all agencies to conduct relief and rescue operations on a war footing. Vinod Kumar Suman, Secretary of Disaster Management and Rehabilitation Department, said the situation is being continuously monitored from emergency operation centres and additional teams will be deployed if needed.
The company said that the partnership will combine Shraddha Diagnostics' regional presence, clinician relationships and expertise in routine diagnostics with LifeCell's scientific capabilities, specialised diagnostic portfolio and technology-enabled laboratory infrastructure.
Gland Pharma appoints Dr Reddys senior executive Deepak Sapra as CEO
Gland Pharma has appointed Deepak Sapra as its new chief executive officer, with his tenure set to begin on November 16, 2026, subject to his acceptance of the offer. Sapra brings 27 years of executive experience, including over 23 years in pharmaceuticals, and currently leads API and Services at Dr Reddys Laboratories.
Iran says Strait of Hormuz will remain closed until US meets conditions
Irans new security chief Mohsen Rezaei has said the Strait of Hormuz will remain closed until the United States ends its war and blockade against Iran and agrees to a broader regional ceasefire, Al Jazeera reported. In a social media post after meeting Chinas ambassador to Tehran, Rezaei said Irans conditions also included the release of frozen Iranian assets and a ceasefire covering Lebanon and Gaza. Until all conditions are met, the Strait will remain closed, said Rezaei, a former wartime commander-in-chief of the Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps. His remarks came as military activity continued around the Strait, the Red Sea and the Bab al-Mandeb Strait, further dimming hopes of an early reopening of the vital shipping route. Rezaei also said any potential agreement with Oman over the Strait was separate from Washington, while Iran continued to press for closer ties with China.
J&K Govt approves Chief Ministers Digital Internship Programme 2026
The J&K Government has accorded approval to the Chief Ministers Digital Internship Programme 2026 (Batch-I), a six-month paid internship initiative aimed at providing talented local youth with hands-on experience in emerging areas of technology and digital governance. Executed by the J&K e-Governance Agency, the programme will offer eligible students pursuing BE/B.Tech, M.Tech, MCA and M.Sc. in Computer Science/Information Technology an opportunity to gain practical exposure through their engagement in real-world GovTech projects. The initiative will provide interns with hands-on learning opportunities in areas including GovTech, cybersecurity and digital services, enabling them to understand and contribute to technology-driven solutions for governance challenges. The programme will also provide structured mentorship from leading experts, helping interns strengthen their technical capabilities and gain valuable professional experience. To recognise excellence and encourage innovation, interns will receive certificates signed by the Chief Minister, while the best-performing projects will be considered for the Best Intern Initiative Award. As part of the programme, selected interns will receive a monthly stipend of 10,000, providing financial support while they gain practical experience in the field of digital governance. The Chief Ministers Digital Internship Programme reflects the Governments steadfast commitment to empowering youth, recognising merit and creating meaningful opportunities for local talent to contribute to J&Ks digital transformation. By connecting young technology professionals with real-world governance requirements, the initiative seeks to nurture innovation and channel their skills towards developing practical solutions to contemporary public service challenges.
V-Marts Mahabachat Ka Double Offer gets strong response
V-Mart Retail Ltd. (V-Mart), Indias leading value-fashion retailer, has received an encouraging response to its latest campaign, Mahabachat Ka Double Offer, from customers across the country. The limited-period campaign offers customers a Buy 1 Get 1 FREE deal along with **free shopping worth Rs 2,000 on purchases of Rs 2,000. The offer covers more than 20,000 bestsellers of the season, giving shoppers a wide range of fashion choices for the entire family. The shopping festival is aimed at providing customers greater value while allowing them to refresh their wardrobes at attractive prices. However, the offer is available only until August 16, leaving shoppers with just a few days to avail themselves of the benefits. V-Mart has urged customers to make the most of the limited-time offer before it ends.
EPFO starts local PF claim settlement in Leh, major relief for Ladakh subscribers
In a significant step towards strengthening social security services in the Union Territory of Ladakh, the Employees Provident Fund Organisation (EPFO) has, for the first time, commenced settlement of provident fund claims pertaining to Regional Office Ladakh from Leh itself. As part of the landmark initiative, 42 claims have been processed locally at Leh, involving an amount of Rs 14,32,574. Until now, since the establishment of EPFO offices in the Union Territories of Jammu and Kashmir and Ladakh, account-related work pertaining to Ladakh was being handled by the Regional Office in Jammu. Consequently, subscribers residing in Ladakh were required to have their claims processed through Jammu, located more than 650 kilometres away. The commencement of claim settlement from Leh marks a significant shift towards decentralised, accessible and efficient delivery of EPFO services to subscribers in Ladakh. The initiative is expected to reduce dependence on the Regional Office in Jammu and facilitate timely delivery of services closer to the place of residence of EPFO members. The move assumes particular significance given the geographical and logistical challenges faced by subscribers in Ladakh. With claim settlement now being undertaken locally at Leh, members will have greater access to EPFO services closer to their homes, reducing the need to travel to Jammu and facilitating faster resolution of claims. Ajay K Mehra, Additional Central Provident Fund Commissioner, Delhi, Uttarakhand, Jammu & Kashmir and Ladakh, appreciated the initiative and said that commencement of claim settlement from Leh would enhance efficiency and substantially improve accessibility to EPFO services for members and subscribers in the region. He said the initiative would contribute to ease of living and ease of doing business for more than 7,800 subscribers and 2,700 establishments registered with EPFO in Ladakh. According to Mehra, the initiative would also expand the footprint of EPFO in the Union Territory and provide impetus to the Pradhan Mantri Viksit Bharat Rozgar Yojana, Vishwas Scheme and Employees Enrolment Campaign 2026 in the region. The ongoing implementation of CITES 2.0 is expected to further streamline the claim settlement process. With auto-mode processing, the system will progressively reduce the requirement for physical intervention at the Regional Office level, enabling faster, technology-driven and more seamless delivery of services. Mehra said EPFO was also undertaking the systematic and phased upgradation of the Regional Office Ladakh. Steps are being taken for acquisition of a new office building to provide comprehensive EPFO services to subscribers in the region. The proposed infrastructure will include member-centric facilities, including an environment-controlled waiting area, aimed at providing a comfortable and accessible service environment for subscribers. Mehra also appreciated the efforts of Sumeet Singh, Regional Provident Fund Commissioner-I, Regional Office Jammu, along with the officers and staff of J&K and Ladakh, for taking the initiative forward and establishing the necessary infrastructure and operational arrangements for local claim settlement.
Rahul Sahai seeks early rollout of new industrial incentive policy for J&K
Chairman, Indian Chamber of Commerce (ICC), Jammu chapter Rahul Sahai on Thursday stressed the need for an early rollout of a new industrial incentive policy for Jammu and Kashmir, stating that policy uncertainty was affecting fresh investments, industrial expansion and credit growth. He made this assertion while welcoming Prabhakar Jha, the new Regional Director of the Reserve Bank of India for Jammu, Kashmir and Ladakh, during RBIs 71st Empowered Committee meeting held in Jammu here. Sahai congratulated Jha on his new responsibility and expressed confidence that under his leadership, RBIs engagement with industry and MSMEs in J&K and Ladakh would be further strengthened. He also appreciated Chander Shekhar Azad, Vibha and the RBI team for their prompt and encouraging response to ICCs earlier representations. During the meeting, Sahai submitted a detailed representation highlighting key economic and sectoral concerns of MSMEs, particularly in view of the volatile geo-political situation in West Asia and the consequent increase and fluctuations in prices of essential raw materials. ICC Jammu sought stronger implementation of TReDS, including onboarding of eligible corporates, government departments and PSUs, to ensure timely payments and improve MSME liquidity. It also advocated easier and concessional financing for rooftop solar and renewable-energy projects, along with greater awareness and counselling for MSMEs on CIBIL scores, financial discipline and creditworthiness. ICC further recommended dedicated financial products for natural farming, organic agriculture, FPOs and agri-processing enterprises, besides faster MSME loan processing, flexible working-capital assessment, timely restructuring of viable stressed units, stronger grievance redressal and greater branch-level empowerment. A responsive banking ecosystem, adequate liquidity and policy certainty are essential for MSMEs to withstand the present economic and geopolitical uncertainties. RBIs continued engagement with industry will play an important role in strengthening investment, employment and economic growth in Jammu & Kashmir, Sahai said. ICC Jammu reiterated its commitment to working closely with RBI, government agencies and financial institutions for strengthening the MSME, trade and industrial ecosystem across the region.
New Labour Codes to transform workers welfare in J&K: Chief Secretary
Chief Secretary, Atal Dulloo, chaired a meeting to review the employee-centric financial and social security benefits emerging from the implementation of the Four New Labour Codes for the workforce in the private sector in Jammu and Kashmir. The meeting was attended by the Additional Chief Secretary, Finance; Commissioner Secretary, Law, Justice & Parliamentary Affairs; Secretary, Labour & Employment; Director General, Codes; Labour Commissioner and other concerned senior officers. The meeting reviewed how the new labour law framework would strengthen wage protection, social security, retirement benefits, and financial entitlements for employees, and simplify compliance for employers. The Labour & Employment Department made a comprehensive presentation on the Code on Wages, 2019; Industrial Relations Code, 2020; Code on Social Security, 2020; and Occupational Safety, Health & Working Conditions Code, 2020, which together consolidate 29 erstwhile labour laws into a unified framework. The Chief Secretary stressed that the new framework should be viewed not merely as a compliance exercise but as an important step towards creating a more equitable, transparent and financially secure employment ecosystem for workers in J&K. He observed that such provisions would provide greater financial security to employees working under fixed-term arrangements and strengthen the principle of parity in statutory benefits. He directed the Labour & Employment Department and other concerned departments to ensure that the implementation framework adequately communicates the financial and social security benefits available to employees, while creating necessary awareness among employers and workers. The Chief Secretary emphasised the importance of ensuring that the evolving nature of employment is adequately reflected in the implementation framework so that workers outside traditional permanent employment arrangements are not left outside the ambit of social security. On this occasion, the Secretary, Labour & Employment, Kumar Rajeev Ranjan apprised the meeting that one of the significant reforms under the new framework is the move towards universal wage protection, with minimum wage provisions extended across employments, replacing the earlier scheduled-employment approach. The Codes also provide for a National Floor Wage framework, ensuring that minimum wages fixed by States/UTs cannot fall below the applicable national floor wage. The presentation highlighted the employers EPF contribution at 12 per cent of wages, subject to the applicable statutory wage ceiling, thereby strengthening the employees accumulated retirement savings. The ESI framework provides for an employer contribution of 3.25 per cent of gross wages for eligible employees within the prescribed wage ceiling, in addition to the employee contribution prescribed under law. Under the framework presented by the Department, fixed-term employees become entitled to pro-rata gratuity after one year of continuous service, calculated at the applicable rate of 15 days wages for every completed year of service, subject to the statutory provisions and prescribed ceiling. It was highlighted that the new framework provides, for the first time, dedicated provisions for social security for gig and platform workers, alongside a broader institutional architecture for unorganised workers and building workers. Moreover, the fixed-term employees are going to receive greater protection under this new laws. The law now recognises fixed-term employees as a formal category. Under this framework, fixed-term employees are to receive statutory benefits at par with permanent employees for the period of their employment, including the applicable gratuity benefit after one year as prescribed. This is expected to bring greater financial certainty and formalisation to employment arrangements in the private sector while providing employees with clearer statutory rights and benefits. The Four Labour Codes also envisage a simplified and technology-driven compliance ecosystem, including single registration, single licence and unified annual returns, along with mandatory appointment letters for employees. The meeting was informed that the reforms have implications across a wide spectrum of employment arrangements, including contractual and fixed-term employment, unorganised workers and emerging categories such as gig and platform workers. The meeting concluded with emphasis on ensuring that the Four Labour Codes translate into a stronger social security net, better wage protection, enhanced financial security and greater formalisation of employment for workers in the private sector across Jammu and Kashmir, while maintaining a simplified and transparent compliance environment for employers.
Rabi-ul-Awwal to begin on August 15: Grand Mufti
The crescent moon of Rabi-ul-Awwal was not sighted on Thursday, August 13, corresponding to 29 Safar 1448 AH, and therefore the first day of Rabi-ul-Awwal will be observed on Saturday, August 15, the Grand Mufti of Jammu and Kashmir Mufti Nasir-ul-Islam, said. In a statement, Mufti Nasir-ul-Islam said Rabi-ul-Awwal is the month in which Prophet Muhammad (SAW), the Imam-ul-Anbiya, was born. He extended greetings to Muslims, particularly the people of Jammu and Kashmir, on the arrival of the blessed month. Rabi-ul-Awwal holds special religious significance across the Muslim world, including Kashmir, where the month is observed with religious fervour. Special gatherings, sermons and congregational prayers are held at mosques, shrines and religious centres across the Valley. Roads and markets in several areas also take on a festive look, with devotees and local communities putting up banners and displays expressing their love and reverence for Prophet Muhammad (SAW). Rabi-ul-Awwal is a very righteous and blessed month for Muslims. The Prophet Muhammad (SAW) was born in this month and came as a blessing for the entire world. People here look forward to observing the month with devotion and love, said Farooq Bhat, a Hazratbal resident. The biggest gatherings during the month are witnessed at Dargah Hazratbal, where devotees from different parts of Kashmir throng the shrine, particularly during the first 12 days of Rabi-ul-Awwal. Congregational prayers and religious programmes are held during the period, while surrounding markets and roads witness increased activity. We especially look forward to the first 12 days of Rabi-ul-Awwal. A large number of people visit Hazratbal during this period, and there is a different kind of hustle and bustle in the area. For vendors, too, these days are important as the footfall increases considerably, said a vendor near Hazratbal shrine. Meanwhile, officials said special arrangements were being put in place at Hazratbal and other major mosques and shrines expected to witness large gatherings during the month. Officials from the police, transport, health, Public Health Engineering (PHE) and Srinagar Municipal Corporation (SMC), among other departments, are expected to remain on alert to ensure smooth movement of devotees and adequate civic and emergency services. Necessary arrangements are being coordinated among the concerned departments, particularly at places where large gatherings are expected. The focus will be on traffic management, sanitation, drinking water, healthcare and maintaining law and order so that devotees can observe the month without inconvenience, an official said.
24 mining alerts in J&K in 5 years, just one confirmed illegal: Centre
Jammu and Kashmir recorded 24 alerts under the Mining Surveillance System (MSS) over five years, but only one was confirmed as unauthorised mining after field verification, the Lok Sabha was told Wednesday. The data, presented by the Ministry of Mines, covers 2021-22 to 2025-26. Pulwama accounted for the lone confirmed case in J&K as detected by the UT government. J&K recorded four MSS triggers in 2021-22, none in 2022-23, seven in 2023-24 and 13 in 2024-25. No trigger was recorded in 2025-26. The figures show that 23 of the 24 alerts did not result in a confirmed case after field verification. Across India, the MSS generated 679 triggers during the five-year period. State governments confirmed 42 cases of unauthorised mining after verification. Goa recorded the highest number of confirmed cases at 17, followed by Gujarat with seven and Madhya Pradesh with six. Andhra Pradesh recorded four, Tamil Nadu three and Karnataka two. Maharashtra and Rajasthan recorded one each. The Ministry described the MSS as a supplementary mechanism for detecting suspected unauthorised mining. Alerts are sent to concerned state governments for field verification by district-level officials. Under Section 23C of the Mines and Minerals (Development and Regulation) Act, 1957, state governments are empowered to frame rules to prevent illegal mining, transportation and storage of minerals and take enforcement action. The Centre said details of penalties imposed, minerals recovered and compensation realised in cases arising from MSS triggers are maintained by respective state governments. It, therefore, did not provide consolidated state-wise figures on penalties or recoveries. The Ministry also said enforcement against illegal mining falls within the purview of State Governments, which are responsible for taking action after unauthorised mining is established through field verification.
CHINAR, IMHANS hold mental health awareness sessions
CHINAR International, in collaboration with the Institute of Mental Health and Neurosciences (IMHANS) Kashmir, conducted mental health awareness sessions across three districts, reaching 206 community members. The sessions were held at Sedow in Shopian, Sheikhpora in Anantnag, and Arampora in Baramulla, with participation from women, men, youth, adults, and the elderly. The initiative aimed to strengthen awareness, promote early identification of mental health concerns, reduce stigma, and encourage timely professional support. Resource persons from IMHANS Kashmir led interactive sessions on mental health and psychological well-being, covering stress, anxiety, depression, emotional well-being, and common mental health concerns. Participants were also encouraged to maintain healthy routines, practise self-care, support those experiencing emotional difficulties, and seek professional guidance when needed. The sessions included practical examples, activities, and question-and-answer interactions, giving participants an opportunity to openly share their concerns and experiences. Speaking about the initiative, Aksa Altaf, Coordinator and Resource Person at IMHANS, said, Awareness programs like these are important for the early identification of mental health concerns and neurodevelopmental delays among children. We observed that many parents approached us after the sessions with questions and concerns about their children and were actively seeking guidance and support. This shows the importance of taking mental health awareness to the community level, where early concerns can be identified and addressed in a timely manner. She emphasized the importance of collaboration between mental health institutions and grassroots organizations. If we want to achieve the best results, we need to work in collaboration with civil society, especially organizations that work at the grassroots level and have strong community mobilization and outreach. Such partnerships can help communities access appropriate tertiary care from institutions like IMHANS, while civil society organizations continue to play an important role in primary-level awareness, support, and outreach, she added. Kulsoom Ashraf, Program Associate at CHINAR International, said the sessions received an encouraging response. We received a very positive response from the community during these sessions. Although the program was initially designed with a focus on the mental well-being of children, we saw participation from people across different age groups, including youth, adults, women, and the elderly. This demonstrated that mental health awareness is a concern and need shared across the community. She added, CHINAR International has collaborated with IMHANS on awareness initiatives in the past, but this was the first time we conducted such sessions under our Community Development Program. The response has encouraged us to take this collaboration forward, and we look forward to organizing more such community-based mental health awareness sessions in the future.
Tricolour spirit in Wular echoes through massive Tiranga rally
A grand Tiranga rally was organised along the picturesque Wular Lake at Watlab in Sopore on Thursday, drawing a massive participation of local residents, government officials, security personnel and students. The event, organised as part of the ongoing Har Ghar Tiranga campaign ahead of Independence Day, turned the scenic lakeside into a vibrant display of patriotism and national unity. Participants carried the Tricolour with pride and raised patriotic slogans as the rally proceeded along the banks and waters of the lake. The rally was led by Additional Deputy Commissioner (ADC) Sopore, S.A. Raina, who also participated in the flag-hoisting and various activities organised during the event. The sight of the National Flag against the backdrop of Wular Lake added a unique and symbolic character to the celebrations. Speaking on the occasion, ADC Sopore S.A. Raina said the programme was aimed at strengthening the spirit of unity, patriotism and national belonging among citizens, particularly the younger generation. He said the enthusiastic participation of people from different sections of society reflected their commitment to the unity, integrity and sovereignty of the nation. Government employees, security personnel, students and residents joined the rally in large numbers, making it one of the prominent Har Ghar Tiranga events organised in the Sopore area ahead of August 15. Students and youth actively participated in the programme, carrying Tricolours and raising slogans in support of national unity. Officials said such programmes provide an opportunity to connect citizens with the national spirit while encouraging the younger generation to understand the importance and values associated with the National Flag. The programme concluded with a collective pledge to uphold the sovereignty, unity and territorial integrity of the country. Officials said the overwhelming public participation at the Wular Lake rally demonstrated the strong spirit of national pride and community participation in the region.
JKEEGA holds north region convention in Sopore
The Jammu & Kashmir Electrical Engineering Graduates Association (JKEEGA), led by its General Secretary Er. Pirzada Hidayatullah, today held a convention at the North Circle Office, Sopore, KPDCL, which witnessed enthusiastic participation of engineers from across the North Region. The convention was attended by engineers representing the entire spectrum of the department, including Chief Engineers, Superintending Engineers, Executive Engineers, Assistant Executive Engineers, Assistant Engineers and Junior Engineers down the line. The strong and diverse participation reflected the continued unity and institutional strength of JKEEGA across the engineering fraternity. Addressing the gathering, General Secretary Er. Pirzada Hidayatullah presented a detailed report card of the first two months of the newly constituted JKEEGA Executive Council for the 202628 term. He apprised the members of the initiatives undertaken by the Association during this brief period and highlighted the tangible progress achieved on several long-pending issues concerning the engineering cadre. A significant part of his address focused on the promotions achieved during the initial two months of the new term, which, he said, were the result of sustained engagement with the concerned authorities and persistent efforts by the Association to safeguard the legitimate career interests of engineers.The utilisation of direct recruitment posts for the promotion of in-service Junior Engineers was also discussed at length. It was unanimously resolved to pursue this objective with full seriousness, commitment and determination, so as to ensure that the legitimate career progression of in-service Junior Engineers is duly facilitated. Er. Hidayatullah also gave a detailed overview of the efforts being undertaken by JKEEGA on the regularisation issue, which continues to remain one of the foremost priorities of the Association. He apprised the members of the progress made so far, the interventions undertaken at various levels and the roadmap being pursued for securing a fair and expeditious resolution of the matter. He reiterated that the present Executive Council remains firmly committed to addressing the genuine professional, promotional and service-related concerns of engineers and would continue to pursue these issues through sustained institutional dialogue, engagement with the administration and all other legitimate forums. The General Secretary emphasised that JKEEGAs strength lies in the unity, trust and collective support of its members, adding that the Association would continue to function with transparency, accountability and a result-oriented approach. He further assured the gathering that every effort would be made to ensure that the issues of the engineering fraternity receive due attention at the appropriate level. The participating engineers expressed deep satisfaction over the functioning of the present JKEEGA leadership during the initial two months of its new term. Members appreciated the progress made on promotions and the focused efforts being undertaken on regularisation and other long-pending service matters. The gathering unanimously extended its full support, confidence and best wishes to General Secretary Er. Pirzada Hidayatullah and the entire Executive Council, which was present during the convention. The members expressed hope that the present leadership would continue its proactive approach and carry forward the agenda of strengthening the engineering cadre and securing its legitimate professional interests. The convention concluded on a positive and united note, with the participating engineers reaffirming their collective commitment to the cause of the engineering fraternity and strengthening JKEEGA as a unified platform for the legitimate rights and aspirations of its members.
VC KU reviews development works at Kupwara Campus
Vice-Chancellor, University of Kashmir (KU), Prof. Nilofer Khan, visited the Universitys Kupwara Campus and held a detailed interaction with students, faculty members, civil society representatives, educationists and officers from the district administration to review the developmental needs, academic expansion and infrastructure requirements of the campus. The meeting was attended by senior University officers and academicians, including Dean Academic Affairs Prof. Shariefuddin Pirzada, Registrar Prof. Naseer Iqbal, Prof. Pervez Ahmed, Dean, School of Earth & Environmental Sciences, Prof. Mubashir Masoodi, Director Kupwara Campus, Prof. G. M. Rather, Head, Department of Geography & Disaster Management, Chief Proctor Prof Imtiaz A Khan, Dr. Ashfaq Zarri, Special Secretary to VC and Joint Registrar Budget, Mr. Altaf Ahmad, Joint Registrar Estates, and Dr. Tanveer Ahmad, Joint Registrar Development, officials from University's construction division besides representatives of the District Administration, including Mr. Peerzada Mumtaz, Assistant Commissioner Revenue, Mr. Faisal Farooq, DFO Kehmil, AEE R&B Kupwara, JE, PDD Kupwara and other officials from the district administration. Representatives of civil society and district administration assured full cooperation for the planned development of the Campus. Later in the evening, Prof. Nilofer Khan also held a meeting with Deputy Commissioner, Kupwara, Shri Shrikant Balasaheb Suse, IAS, to deliberate on the developmental requirements of the Universitys Kupwara Campus. Key issues discussed included demarcation and fencing of the University land, road connectivity, student amenities, transportation, hostel facilities, academic expansion and introduction of market-driven skill-based programmes. Regarding road connectivity, two feasible options for providing dedicated access to the Campus were explored with the officers deputed by the district administration. An on-the-spot GPS survey of the Campus land was also conducted by the Universitys Department of Geography & Disaster Management in collaboration with the concerned forest division to facilitate accurate demarcation and future development planning. The Vice-Chancellor stressed on the strategic importance of the Kupwara Campus and directed that its development be pursued on priority. She also issued on-the-spot directions for establishing a high-standard canteen at the Campus to improve student facilities and approved the procurement of two Winger-type vehicles to strengthen transportation and logistical support for the Campus. The development of hostel facilities for girls was also discussed as an important requirement. On the academic front, Prof. Khan directed the introduction of market-driven and industry-oriented skill courses to enhance employability and create better career opportunities for the youth of the region. She assured that the University would take forward the process for starting B.Sc. Nursing and Paramedical programmes at the Campus. The University will also explore additional skill-oriented and employment-focused programmes, including emerging disciplines such as Fashion Technology and other professional courses, in response to the educational and career aspirations of local youth. Addressing the stakeholders, Prof. Nilofer Khan said, The University is committed to developing the Kupwara Campus as a vibrant centre of quality education, skill development and academic excellence, while ensuring that its growth remains aligned with the educational aspirations and developmental needs of the region. She stressed on the importance of coordinated efforts between the University and district administration for the planned, coordinated and time-bound resolution of infrastructural and developmental issues. She further emphasised that the introduction of skill-oriented and industry-linked programmes would create greater educational and career opportunities for students and youth of the region. Prof. Khan also interacted with students and faculty members, taking feedback on academic and campus-related issues and resolved some grievances on the spot. She also met members of the civil society to seek their suggestions for further strengthening the institutions engagement with the local community.
GoI plans 5 university townships near industrial corridors
In a significant development, the Ministry of Education (MoE), Government of India (GoI) has launched a nationwide consultation to seek public views on its ambitious plan to establish five University Townships near major industrial and logistics corridors. In wake of this, the University Grants Commission (UGC) has issued an official communication to all the Higher Education Institutions (HEIs) directing them to ensure wide participation in the exercise. The initiative, announced in Para 62 of the Union Budget 2026-27, envisages supporting State governments through a challenge-based route to create five integrated University Townships. As per the official document, these academic hubs are proposed to bring together multiple universities, colleges, research institutions, skill development centres and residential complexes within designated zones. In its communication to higher education institutions, the UGC said the Ministry of Education has initiated a nationwide public consultation on the University Townships Initiative through a survey hosted on the MyGov platform. The consultation is aimed at gathering views and suggestions from a wide cross-section of stakeholders before the scheme is formulated. Students, parents, faculty members, researchers, administrators, alumni, industry representatives and citizens have been invited to share their perspectives, aspirations and ideas on the proposed townships. The UGC has asked HEIs to disseminate details of the survey widely and facilitate active participation from stakeholders associated with their institutions. Besides students and teaching faculty, the commission has specifically urged participation from researchers, officers and staff, alumni networks, incubation centres, innovation hubs and industry partners. According to officials, the proposed townships are being conceived as integrated academic and innovation ecosystems located in the vicinity of major industrial and logistics corridors. The government is expected to use the consultation exercise to gather inputs on the design, objectives and functioning of the proposed academic zones. The initiative seeks to bring higher education, research, skill development and industry closer together by creating large academic clusters where educational institutions and supporting residential infrastructure can function in an integrated ecosystem. The move signals an attempt to incorporate stakeholder perspectives before finalising the framework for the ambitious initiative. The MoE has asked people to participate in the consultation, saying, Your voice matters. Make it count. The University townships initiative aims to create collaborative ecosystems where universities, industries, research institutions, and skill development centres can work together. Notably, the public consultation began on July 10 and will remain open until August 20 of 2026. The nationwide survey, being conducted by the MoE in collaboration with MyGov, seeks views, ideas, and suggestions from stakeholders on the proposed University Townships.
Prescribed qualification cannot be relaxed: HC
The High Court of Jammu and Kashmir and Ladakh has held that once a qualification for a post is statutorily prescribed, the employer or the selection agency cannot tamper with it or relax it. Allowing a plea by the government through its Commissioner Secretary Health and Medical Education Department, J&K Services Selection Board (JKSSB) and Commissioner, Food Safety Organization, a division bench comprising Acting Chief Justice Sanjeev Kumar and Justice Muhammad Yousuf Wani, set aside a Central Administrative Tribunals order directing JKSSB to recommend candidates for appointment as Food Inspectors despite their not possessing the mandatory three-month training in food inspection and sampling work. Underscoring that it is not open for the authorities to tamper with the qualification, the court set aside the Tribunals decision dated July 25, 2025. The court noted that relaxation of an essential qualification by the Government or the selection body is ordinarily not permissible unless such relaxation is backed by the statute prescribing the qualification. The case related to the selection process initiated by the JKSSB in terms of an advertisement notification dated December 24, December, 2020 for the posts of Food Inspectors. The respondents(candidates) had participated in the selection process and figured in the select list, but the SSB withheld their recommendations after finding that they did not possess the prescribed three-month training in food inspection and sampling. The aggrieved candidates contention before the Tribunal was that the training requirement was a condition subsequent and could be acquired after appointment. In response to the argument which the tribunal accepted, the JKSSB was directed to forward the recommendations of the candidates to the Government for their appointment. In its decision, the High court, however, held that the three-month training was a statutory qualification and a condition precedent to appointment under Rule 8 of the Prevention of Food Adulteration Rules, 1955. The training requirement, it said, had been specifically mentioned in the recruitment advertisement and that the candidates participated in the selection process despite not possessing the mandatory qualification. The Court also rejected the Tribunal's reliance on the Food Safety and Standards Rules, 2011, noting that the selection process had commenced in 2010 and was therefore governed by the Prevention of Food Adulteration Act, 1954 and the Rules framed thereunder.
Shahnawaz Choudhary meets Kharge, Venugopal in New Delhi, discusses J&K affairs
District Congress Committee President Poonch and senior Congress leader Shahnawaz Choudhary met AICC President Mallikarjun Kharge at his residence and AICC General Secretary (Organisation) K. C. Venugopal Ji at Indira Bhawan, New Delhi. During the meetings, Shahnawaz Choudhary discussed the prevailing social, political and organisational affairs of Congress party in Jammu and Kashmir, along with various issues concerning the people of the Union Territory. He also apprised the Congress leadership of the tragic cloudburst in the Pir Panjal region, which has claimed 27 lives, and briefed them about the situation following the tragedy. Shahnawaz Choudhary also exchanged views with the senior leadership on matters of political and organisational importance in Jammu and Kashmir. The meetings were meant to deliberate on the challenges facing the people of the region and the need to continue raising their concerns on appropriate platforms.
Sat Sharma seeks stronger support for J&K artists, cultural tourism
J&K BJP president and Rajya Sabha MP Sat Sharma on Thursday highlighted the need to preserve, promote and financially support the rich musical heritage of Jammu and Kashmir in the Rajya Sabha. He focused on safeguarding traditional art forms, strengthening support for veteran artists and young learners and using the region's cultural heritage to boost tourism and employment. Seeking details from the Union Ministry of Culture, Sat Sharma questioned the steps taken by the Sangeet Natak Akademi to preserve and catalogue renowned Kashmiri musical traditions such as Sufiana Mousiqi, Chakri, Wanvun and Rouf under the National Inventory of Intangible Cultural Heritage. He also sought information on the financial assistance and monthly stipends being provided to veteran masters and youth disciples under the Guru-Shishya Parampara Scheme, besides asking about measures to integrate Jammu & Kashmir's folk and classical music into major national cultural festivals for promoting heritage-based tourism. Union Minister Gajendra Singh Shekhawat, on behalf of the Ministry, informed the House that the Sangeet Natak Akademi had undertaken several initiatives to preserve and promote the musical and performing traditions of Jammu and Kashmir through documentation, cultural festivals, fellowships, awards and other programmes under the National Inventory of Intangible Cultural Heritage. As per the reply, Rouf and Kud Folk Dance training programmes have been started under the Kala Deeksha (Guru-Shishya Parampara) initiative from 2024-25, under which Gurus receive a monthly fee of Rs 8,000, Sahayak Gurus Rs 6,000 as honorarium and Shishyas Rs 2,500 as stipend. The Government also informed that financial assistance under the Guru-Shishya Parampara Scheme in Jammu and Kashmir amounted to Rs 3.37 lakh in 2023-24, Rs 3.87 lakh in 2024-25 and Rs 2.74 lakh in 2025-26, reflecting continued support for traditional artists and emerging talent. The artists from Jammu and Kashmir have been receiving national platforms through prestigious festivals such as Desaj, Lok Jan Pratha Utsav, Lok Sangam, Lok Pratibha, Rashtriya Sanskriti Mahotsav, Chandigarh National Crafts Mela and International Gita Mahotsav, besides special events organized in Jammu and Kashmir featuring local folk music and dance. These initiatives help preserve centuries-old traditions while expanding cultural tourism and creating greater livelihood opportunities for artists, Shekhawat said, in his reply. Sat Sharma said that Jammu and Kashmir's cultural heritage was one of its greatest strengths and preserving its unique musical traditions was essential for protecting the region's identity while creating opportunities for artists, youth and the tourism sector. He emphasised that sustained promotion of traditional music on national platforms would not only safeguard priceless cultural heritage but would also contribute to employment generation, cultural exchange and economic growth by attracting visitors interested in the region's rich artistic legacy.
Independence Day Celebration | Full dress rehearsal held across Jammu
The district and local administrations across the Jammu Division on Thursday organised full-dress Rehearsal setting the tone for a memorable celebration of the 80th Independence Day. AT DODA: The rehearsal was conducted at local Sports Stadium with active participation from students, security personnel, officers, officials and the general public. The programme, as per an official statement, commenced with the hoisting of the National Flag, followed by the National Anthem. The National Song Vande Mataram was also recited as part of the commemoration of its 150 glorious years. Additional Deputy Commissioner Anil Kumar Thakur inspected the parade and took the salute at an impressive march-past consisting of contingents from the CRPF, SSB, Jammu and Kashmir Armed Police, Jammu and Kashmir Police, Police Protection Force (PPF), NCC cadets and students from the Government and private educational institutions. At Bhaderwah: The full dress rehearsal for the Independence Day celebrations was conducted at the New Bus Stand. Tehsildar Kamal Preet Singh hoisted the tricolour and took the salute at the march past presented by contingents from Jammu and Kashmir Armed Police, NCC Senior Division Government Degree College (GDC), NCC Junior Division Boys and Girls from Higher Secondary Schools and tiny platoons from various government and private schools. At Rajouri: The District Administration Rajouri conducted the full dress rehearsal at the District Police Lines (DPL). Additional Deputy Commissioner, Ravi Kumar Sihag reviewed the proceedings and arrangements in detail. Parade contingents drawn from the Jammu and Kashmir Police, CRPF, Forest Protection Force (FPF), NCC and students from the educational institutions participated in the march past, displaying impressive coordination, discipline and dedication. At Reasi: The full dress rehearsal was held at General Zorawar Singh Sports Stadium amid enthusiastic participation from contingents of CRPF, J&K Police, NCC cadets and school students. Additional Deputy Commissioner Rakesh Kumar hoisted the National Flag, inspected the parade and took the salute of the impressive March Past presented by contingents of CRPF, J&K Police and NCC cadets. At Kathua: The full-dress rehearsal for 80th Independence Day was held here at Sports Stadium where contingents from Police, CRPF, Army, NCC cadets presented the march past. The rehearsal started with hoisting of National Flag by Deputy Commissioner, Rajesh Sharma followed by inspection of the parade. At Ramban: The Full-dress Rehearsal for the 80th Independence Day celebrations was held with great patriotic fervour at the District Police Lines, here. Additional Deputy Commissioner Varunjeet Singh Charak hoisted the National Flag and took the salute from the parade contingents. The ADC inspected the parade and observed the march-past, which featured contingents of J&K Police, CRPF, CISF, IRP, FPF and Home Guards, NCC and students from various schools. AT KISHTWAR: The full dress rehearsal was held here at Chowgan Grounds where all necessary arrangements were made for the smooth conduct of the event. Additional Deputy Commissioner (ADC) Pawan Kotwal hoisted the National Flag and took the salute from the participating parade contingents after inspecting the parade. He was accompanied by Additional Superintendent of Police Pardeep Singh. The parade was commanded by Dy. SP Ms. Divya Kesar. At Udhampur: Additional Deputy Commissioner Prem Singh took the salute at an impressive march-past during the full dress rehearsal for the 80th Independence Day celebrations here at Government PG Degree College Boys. The full dress rehearsal commenced with the hoisting of the National Flag by the ADC at 9:00 AM, followed by the singing of the National Anthem. Addressing the gathering, the ADC extended warm greetings to the participants and the public ahead of Independence Day. AT POONCH: The full-dress rehearsal for the forthcoming Independence Day celebrations was held here at the Sports Stadium. Additional Deputy Commissioner Tahir Mustafa Malik attended the rehearsal as the chief guest and took the salute during the ceremonial parade. The rehearsal provided an opportunity to review the overall arrangements including the parade sequence, cultural programmes, seating arrangements, security measures, traffic management and other logistical aspects connected with the main Independence Day function.
1991 Jammu Railway Station Bomb Blast Case |GRP Jammu arrests absconding terrorist after 35 years
The Government Railway Police (GRP), Jammu, on Thursday stated to have arrested an absconding terrorist booked under the Terrorist and Disruptive Activities (Prevention) Act in the 1991 Jammu Railway Station bomb blast case after a long chase of 35 years. Police said that Altaf Hussain Sheikh, son of Nazir Ahmed Sheikh, resident of Marhama-Bijbehara, Anantnag, initially went underground. Since then, he had been living with a concealed identity for several decades. However, long-pursuit of the Police brought results and the accused responsible for the death of innocent persons was arrested and produced before the TADA court on August 13, 2026 for further legal proceedings. Altaf, along with other accomplices was involved in a case of bomb blast on April 2, 1991 at platform number 1, railway station Jammu killing three persons including two from paramilitary and injuring 18 civilians. An FIR number 07/1991 U/S 307, 302, 120(B) RPC, 3/4 TADA, 4/5 ESA was registered at Police Station GRP Jammu, Police said. During the investigation one accused Aman Ullah Khan was arrested, while three other accused persons escaped and could not be arrested at that time and were declared absconders by the concerned court. In the last two years GRP Jammu launched an intensive manhunt and identified the accused Altaf Hussain Sheikh, verified his identity by minutely going into details of his identity and residential particulars and discovered him living under a concealed identity who had established himself as a successful businessman in the Bijbehara area, Police stated.
NIT Srinagar begins UG admissions
Srinagar, Aug 13: The National Institute of Technology (NIT) Srinagar on Thursday commenced admissions to its undergraduate programme, with around 90 candidates completing the admission process on the first day. The admissions will continue over the next few days. The first phase of admissions began for the Civil Engineering programme, with 90 students completing their admission formalities on Thursday. Dean Academic Affairs, Prof. B.A. Mir, said the Institute has put in place comprehensive arrangements to ensure a smooth and hassle-free admission process for students and their parents. Our teams are working tirelessly from 8: 30 AM to 6:30 PM to ensure a hassle-free experience for students and parents. The process has been streamlined so that all necessary facilities and services are available under one roof, he said. Prof. Mir further said that Director NIT Srinagar, Prof. Binod Kumar Kanaujia, is in constant touch with him and closely monitoring the admission process. He said the Director has been providing guidance and necessary support to ensure that the entire process remains smooth and hassle-free for students and their parents. Prof. Mir also appreciated the efforts of the Associate Dean Examination, Associate Dean PG, Associate Dean Academic Affairs, Associate Dean ERP and Assistant Registrar Academics Affairs, ERP officials, staff members and other teams involved in the admission process for ensuring efficient coordination and timely completion of formalities. He also acknowledged the support extended by the Dean Students Welfare, administration and essential service units, including the Health Centre, sanitation and security teams, which collectively facilitated the smooth conduct of the admissions. Meanwhile, Registrar Prof Atikur Rehman and In-charge Director Prof. Roohie Naaz also personally inspected the admission arrangements and interacted with the teams and students during the process, providing further encouragement to the officials engaged in the admissions. Earlier this week, the Institute also completed the postgraduate admission process, with 194 candidates selected for admission under various PG programmes. Several parents appreciated the arrangements made by the Institute for the students on the campus. Rajesh Kumar from Punjab, whose son secured admission to NIT Srinagar, said the process was systematic and convenient. From verification of documents to the final admission formalities, everything was handled efficiently. The staff members were helpful and guided us at every stage, he said. Gomti Aggarwal, a parent from Hyderabad, whose son was admitted to Civil Engineering, also appreciated the arrangements. We were guided properly throughout the process. Having different facilities available at one place made the admission process much easier for students and parents, she said. Another parent, Ram Seni from Rajasthan, said the Institute had made adequate arrangements to manage the rush of students and parents. The arrangements were very good, and the staff was cooperative. We completed the formalities without any unnecessary delay, he said.
Srinagar Admin felicitates meritorious Civil, Police officials
Srinagar, Aug 13:The District Administration Srinagar today organised a felicitation-cum-award ceremony to recognise and honour officers and officials of the District Administration, Srinagar Municipal Corporation (SMC) and District Police for their distinguished, dedicated and meritorious services with the District Administration Srinagars Excellence in Public Services Award in the run up to Independence Day Celebrations. The ceremony was presided over by Deputy Commissioner Srinagar Akshay Labroo, Commissioner SMC Faz Lul Haseeb and Senior Superintendent of Police Srinagar Sandeep Chakraborty, who presented Commendation Certificates and Mementos to the awardees in appreciation of their exemplary contribution and commitment to public service. The event was attended by Additional District Development Commissioner Srinagar Rifat Aftab Qureshi, Additional Deputy Commissioner Mir Imtiyaz Ul Aziz, Additional Deputy Commissioner Aadil Fareed, IAS Probationer Alfred Thomas, Chief Planning Officer Fayaz Ahmad Dar, SDM West Irfan Bahadur, SDM East Zubair Ahmad, besides senior officers of the District Administration, district and sectoral officers and other concerned officials. Addressing the gathering, the Deputy Commissioner congratulated all the awardees and appreciated their commitment, professionalism and dedication towards their respective duties. The DC observed that sincerity, hard work and dedication are the foundations of professional excellence and play a vital role in building an efficient and responsive public service delivery system. He lauded the awardees and all officials whose sustained efforts have contributed towards ensuring effective, prompt and citizen-centric administration in the district. Emphasising the importance of institutional coordination, the Deputy Commissioner highlighted the need for close synergy among the District Administration, SMC and Police for ensuring seamless execution of public duties and effective delivery of services to citizens. He added that the ceremony served as a recognition of the collective efforts of Officers and Officials across various Departments and reaffirmed the District Administration Srinagars commitment to promoting a culture of excellence, teamwork, accountability and citizen-centric governance. The Commissioner SMC, in his address, appreciated the coordinated efforts of various departments and emphasised that teamwork and mutual cooperation are essential for creating a positive and result-oriented work environment. He stated that felicitation also provided an opportunity to acknowledge the important role played by frontline Officials and Departmental teams in ensuring the smooth and successful conduct of major public events and in strengthening public service delivery across the district. SSP Srinagar, while addressing the gathering, commended the awardees for their dedication, discipline and outstanding contribution to public service. The Officers and Officials honoured during the ceremony included Nodal Principal, Kashmir Division Colleges, Prof. (Dr.) Seema Naz, Joint Commissioner SMC (Admin) Nuzhat Qurashi, Executive Engineer, KPDCL, Er. Nisar Ahmad, Executive Engineer, R&B, Er. Fareed Ahmad Khan, Executive Engineer SMC, Er. Akhter Hussain Raina, Executive Engineer SMC, Er. Asif Nazir Bhat, Assistant Labour Commissioner Adnan Tariq, DIO, NIC, Shahnaz and District Tuberculosis Officer Dr. Abdul Rouf. The Hospitality and Protocol Team, comprising Joint Director Fayaz Ahmad Parray, Deputy Director Saddat Iqbal and Assistant Director Showkat Ahmad was also felicitated for its dedicated contribution. Similarly, Assistant Engineer R&B Er. Kamraan Zahoor, Statistical Officer (RTO), Mudasir Ahmad Shah, SO, Planning Bilal Ahmad Ganaie, Statistical Assistant, DSEO, Wasim Raja, Media Incharge, District Administration Srinagar, Rouf Ahmad Sofi, Junior Statistical Assistant Planning, Junaid Ahmad Bhat, JE R&B Er. Babar Ashraf Bhat, Lines Officer(Traffic Police), Mohammad Yasin Lone and Radio Operator with DC Srinagar, Suheel Rashid were also felicitated for their meritorious and dedicated services. Officials from the DC Office, including Sajad Ahmad Sheikh, Sajid Ahmad, Kanchan, Mudasir Rashid, Mohammad Hussain and Anil Raina were also honoured for their excellent public services. The Team Protocol of District Administration Srinagar, comprising Naib Tehsildar Mohsin Khan, JSA Junaid Basheer and Sofi Waseem, along with the Team School Abhinandan, represented by Principal Mudasir Ahmad, was also honoured for its contribution. From the District Police, Inspector Ab. Rashid, Sub-Inspector Mushtaq Ahmad, Probationary Sub-Inspector Ruchi Sharma, Head Constable Munshi Mutwali and Sgt. Constable Operator Shamin Ahmad Kooli were felicitated for their dedicated and exemplary services.
Auqib Nabi: Always believed India call-up was coming
Galle, Aug 13: Amid a prolonged wait for his maiden India Test call-up, Jammu and Kashmir pacer Auqib Nabi never lost faith, continuing to perform with the belief that his chance to represent the country would eventually arrive. That opportunity finally came when Nabi was drafted into the Indian squad as a replacement for injured pace spearhead Jasprit Bumrah for the two-Test series against Sri Lanka, beginning here on Saturday. Nabi, who played a key role in Jammu and Kashmir's historic maiden Ranji Trophy title triumph last season, said he always believed that consistently putting in strong performances would eventually earn him a national call-up. Yes, I had expectations. But the mindset of a cricket player should be of performing and that the other people are watching, Nabi told fellow uncapped player Saransh Jain in a video shared by the BCCI. I knew that I would get the call-up today or tomorrow because when you are doing well for so many years, you are meant to get the returns from the hard work. So I would bowl with the mindset that my job is to take wickets and perform and the rest is up to the one above. I felt great when my name came up. My family is very happy and I don't think there can be anything greater than this, Nabi added. Saransh, who was a member of the Ranji Trophy-winning Madhya Pradesh team in 2021-2022 which beat the mighty Mumbai in the final, said he too kept the belief that his chance would come. You have to have patience in Test cricket and if you want to play Test cricket for India, you have to have patience in that too, the 33-year-old Saransh said. I made my debut at Ranji Trophy in 2014-15. It's been a long journey. There was a lot of hard work and sacrifices. But I had the belief that one day, I will definitely play for India and for this achievement my family has a big role to play in it. My dad, who is a Ranji Trophy player, told me the same thing. You just have to have patience, things will automatically come to you, he added. Both Nabi and Saransh also recalled the moments they learnt about their India call-ups.
Srinagar Premier League 2026 | City Gate FC secures 52 victory over North Hall United FC
City Gate FC produced an impressive attacking display to secure a 52 victory over North Hall United FC in an action-packed encounter that featured seven goals and a crucial first-half red card. The match, as per a DFA statement, began at a high tempo, with both City Gate FC and North Hall United FC showing attacking intent from the opening whistle. The intensity of the contest was evident as both sides looked to create opportunities and take control of the game. A major turning point came in the 19th minute, when North Hall United FCs jersey number 4 was shown a red card, leaving the team with ten players for the remainder of the match. The dismissal forced North Hall United FC to reorganise and adapt tactically while City Gate FC looked to take advantage of the numerical advantage.
ALLENs NEET repeater batches set to begin, admissions gain momentum
Srinagar, Aug 13: Following the NEET-UG results, the counselling process has begun. After choice filling, allotments are now set to begin. Along with this, a large number of NEET repeater students once again started returning to Kota to prepare for NEET-UG 2027. As per a press release, ALLEN Kota President Vinod Kumawat said that ALLEN Career Institute has announced Leader, Achiever and Alpha Achiever batches for NEET-UG preparation. A good response is being seen for the batches starting on different dates. The upcoming Leader batch will commence on August 17, Achiever batches on August 18 and 25, and Alpha Achiever batches on August 19 and September 2. Special fee concessions are being offered for admission to these batches based on NEET-UG scores. Students who are missing out on admission to government medical colleges by a few marks are now coming to Kota for admission to these batches. Abhishek Agarwal from Tinsukia, Assam, or Altaf Ansari from Nawabganj, Uttar Pradesh, both have achieved success in NEET 2026 after studying in repeater batches in Kota. Apart from them, a large number of repeaters have also been included, who have succeeded in securing admission to government medical colleges by improving their scores every year. In the results, 5 out of the Top 10 and 47 out of the Top 100 students are from ALLEN, which is the highest among any institute in the country. The NTA has released a list of the Top 138 students scoring 690 and above, of which 67 students are from ALLEN.
Leh's first 24x7 ice hockey rink opens, set to boost winter sports
In a major boost to winter sports infrastructure in Ladakh, Lt Governor Vinai Kumar Saxena on Thursday inaugurated the Union Territory's first international-level artificial ice hockey rink at NDS Stadium here, describing the facility as a major investment in the future of Ladakhs young sportspersons. Built at a cost of approximately Rs 42 crore, the state-of-the-art rink is equipped with a 24x7 chilling facility, enabling ice hockey players to train throughout the year, irrespective of the natural weather conditions.
Mirwaiz visits bereaved families, offers condolences
Srinagar, Aug 13:Mirwaiz-e-Kashmir Dr Moulvi Mohammad Umar Farooq visited Chinar Colony, Baghat Barzulla, to offer condolences on the demise of the wife of prominent businessman Mohammad Sadiq Beigh Mirwaiz met Mohammad Sadiq Beigh and Altaf Hussain Beigh and other members of the Beigh family and conveyed his sympathies to the bereaved family. He prayed for the departed souls Maghfirah, a place in Jannat-ul-Firdous, and Sabr-e-Jameel for the family, said a statement. Mirwaiz also expressed deep sorrow over the demise of the elderly mother of Ghyas-ud-Din Naqash of Umar Colony-B, Lal Bazar, a long-time well-wisher of the Mirwaiz family, and conveyed condolences to the bereaved family. He further condoled the passing of long-time well-wisher Mohammad Aalam Hakkak of Rajbagh, who passed away in Tehran, Iran, and prayed for his Maghfirah and patience for the bereaved family.
GBHSS Rawalpora clinches inter-school Karate Championship
The Department of Youth Services and Sports, District Srinagar, successfully organised the Inter-School District-Level Karate Championship for boys and girls in all age groups at the Indoor Hall, Government Higher Secondary School (GHSS), Rawalpora, Srinagar. The championship, as per an official statement, witnessed enthusiastic participation from students representing various schools across the district. The young athletes displayed remarkable talent, discipline, sportsmanship and competitive spirit throughout the event. Government Boys Higher Secondary School (GBHSS), Rawalpora emerged as the Overall Champion, securing an impressive 24 Gold Medals in the championship. The outstanding performance of the students brought pride and honour to the institution.
Mehbooba Mufti offers condolences, pays tribute to Anwar Ashai
Srinagar, Aug 13:PDP President Mehbooba Mufti on Thursday visited Rajbagh to offer condolences to the bereaved family of Mohammad Anwar Ashai, who passed away recently. During her visit, Mehbooba Mufti expressed deep sorrow over the demise and conveyed her solidarity with the bereaved family at this difficult hour, said a statement. She prayed for the Maghfirah of the departed soul and for Almighty Allah to grant the family strength, patience and fortitude to bear the irreparable loss. The Party President was accompanied by PDP General Secretary Mohammad Khursheed Aalam, senior Spokesperson Mohammad Iqbal Trumboo, Arif Laigroo, Syed Tajamul, Abdul Qayoom Bhat, Dr Ali Mohammad, Abdul Hameed , Bashir Baig, Mohammad Shafi Kundangar, Bilal Ahmad Sofi, Sheikh Saba, Ali Mohammad Baba, Abdul Hamid and other party leaders and functionaries. The PDP leaders joined the bereaved family in mourning the loss and offered prayers for eternal peace and salvation of the departed soul. They also conveyed their sincere condolences and support to the family, assuring them of their solidarity during this period of grief.
Lack of unity among Muslim countries damaging for poor: Dr Farooq
Srinagar, Aug 13:The Jammu and Kashmir National Conference President Dr Farooq Abdullah Thursday expressed concern over the continuing wars, violence, oppression, human rights violations and excessive use of force in Palestine, Lebanon, Iran and other parts of the world. Addressing a gathering in Srinagar, Dr Farooq said the continued killing and targeting of innocent children, women and elderly people was deeply tragic and a grave concern for humanity. He expressed alarm over the destruction of hospitals, schools, universities, power stations and other essential infrastructure, saying that human values, democratic principles and international law were being undermined with impunity, said a party statement. Dr Farooq said the killing of civilians and violation of fundamental human rights anywhere in the world could not be justified or accepted. He called upon global powers to uphold universal principles and refrain from applying double standards when responding to conflicts and humanitarian crises. Over the lack of unity and coordination among Muslim countries, Dr. Farooq said the absence of collective action within the Muslim world was ultimately being borne by poor and ordinary people. He appealed to Muslim countries to rise above their differences, strengthen mutual cooperation and solidarity, and speak collectively for the protection of oppressed communities as well as every innocent human being facing violence and persecution.Muslim countries must learn from the difficult circumstances confronting the world today and strengthen unity, cooperation and coordination among themselves. The price of disunity is ultimately being paid by the poor and ordinary people, he said. Expressing deep concern over the growing menace of drug abuse in Jammu and Kashmir, Dr. Farooq said the rapidly spreading drug epidemic posed a serious threat to the future of the younger generation. He said the manner in which the menace had spread across society since 2019 was particularly alarming. He called for a united and sustained campaign against drug abuse, urging parents, teachers, religious and social leaders, political workers and civil society organisations to shoulder their responsibility in confronting the challenge. On the issue of restoration of statehood, Dr. Farooq Abdullah described it as one of the most urgent necessities before Jammu and Kashmir. He said restoration of statehood was an indispensable first step towards rebuilding democratic institutions and restoring the constitutional and democratic rights of the people. Meanwhile, Dr Farooq Abdullah visited the residence of the late Sheikh Abdul Latif, son of late Sheikh Ghulam Mohammad, at Upper Soura to offer condolences to the bereaved family. He expressed solidarity with the family in their hour of grief and prayed for peace and forgiveness for the departed soul. Fatiha was also offered on the occasion.
On the 5th anniversary of his passing, people in Jammu and Kashmir and beyond, remember Mian Bashir Ahmad Larvi (popularly known as Baba Sahib)one of the regions most revered Sufi saints, authors, and statesmen. Passing away on August 14, 2021, at the age of 98, Mian Sahib left behind an indelible legacy that transcended political boundaries and cultural divides. His life was a rare blend of spiritual devotion, social reform, literary contribution, and public service. Spiritual Roots and the Wangath Shrine Born in November 1923 in Pehalnar Wangath, located in Kangan area of Central Kashmirs Ganderbal district, Mian Bashir hailed from a distinguished lineage of spiritual guides. He was the grandson of Hazrat Baba Jee Sahib Larvi (RA) and the son of Hazrat Mian Nizam-ud-Din Larvi (RA). As the Sajjada Nasheen (hereditary custodian) of the Darbar Baba Jee Sahib Larvi Wangath, Mian Sahib served as a Caliph of the Naqshbandi Sufi order. For over half a century, the shrine at Baba Nagri Wangath served as a refuge for thousands seeking spiritual solace, ethical guidance, and peace regardless of religion, caste, or background. Champion of the Gujjar-Bakarwal Community While widely revered across Jammu and Kashmir as a Sufi saint, Mian Sahib was also the indisputable leader of the Gujjar and Bakarwal tribal communities. He spent decades campaigning for the social, economic, and educational advancement of marginalized nomadic and tribal populations. His persistent efforts were instrumental in the Government of India granting Scheduled Tribe (ST) status to the Gujjar and Bakarwal communities in 1991. A passionate patron of regional literature, Mian Sahib played a pivotal role in establishing Gojri programming on Radio Kashmir/Jammu and creating the Gojri section within the J&K Academy of Art, Culture and Languages. He authored and edited several notable literary works, including Israr-e-Kabari, Ashar-e-Nizami, and the multi-volume compilation Neer Sumandar. In recognition of his distinguished public service and contribution to society, the Government of India conferred upon him the Padma Bhushanthe country's third-highest civilian awardin 2008. He also penned his personal daily dairies which are a great source of information on the life Mian Sahib and the events of Kashmir. He has pinned down all day-to-day happenings of his life, family, society and politics of Jammu and Kashmir. With regard to his hobbies, Mian Bashir was an ace horse rider with a collection of highly bred horses. He was also very fond of modern sophisticated cars. Mian Bashir Ahmad was the most influential Gujjar leader of Jammu and Kashmir. He will be remembered in the history of the sub-continent as, a religious and social leader and leader of masses irrespective of caste colour and creed. A Political Career Built on Unbroken Trust Mian Bashirs political career was unique in Jammu and Kashmirs history. Elected to the J&K State Legislative Assembly four times (1967, 1972, and 1977 from Kangan in Kashmir, and 1983 from Darhal in Rajouri), he holds the rare distinction of having won every election he contested across both provinces of the state. He served as a Cabinet Minister in various state governments, collaborating closely with prominent leaders such as Sheikh Mohammad Abdullah, Bakshi Ghulam Mohammad, and Mir Qasim. Beyond domestic policy, Mian Sahib represented India on international platforms, including the United Nations, where he advocated for peace, communal harmony, and cross-border understanding. Enduring Legacy Mian Bashir Ahmad Larvi was buried on August 15, 2021, at the shrine in Baba Nagri Wangath alongside his forefathers. Today, his son, Mian Altaf Ahmad (Member of Parliament), carries forward the familys spiritual and social responsibilities as the Sajjada Nasheen. On his death anniversary, thousands gather at Baba Nagri to offer Fateha, reflecting on his message of unity, prayer, education, and social reform. His life stands as a testament to how spiritual authority, when coupled with selfless public advocacy, can uplift entire communities and foster lasting peace. The role of the renowned religious personality and a great social reformer Mian Bashir Ahmed Larvi Sahab will always be remembered with great respect. May Allah grant him the highest place in Jannah. Aameen.
On Sunday at 8:58 AM, after a brief illness, my dear friend, my elder brother, and the green conscience of Jammu & Kashmir, G.H. Kango breathed his last. A voice that spoke for the forests has fallen silent. A pair of hands that planted lakhs of saplings has gone still. He taught us a new language. In an era of yield and extraction, he spoke of ecology, biodiversity, and watershed. He told us, _If the forest dies, the river will cry. If the river cries, the farmer will weep. And if the farmer weeps, the nation will go hungry. He walked where no senior officer would. From the icy slopes of Gurez to the saffron fields of Pampore, from the dense woods of Bhaderwah to the wetlands of Wular he went not in a convoy, but with a foresters heart. He would bend down, touch a sapling, and ask the guard, Beta, is it drinking water? Is it growing? For him, every Chinar was a poem. Every pine was a prayer. Every deodar was a witness to 100 years of our history. I have known many officers in my life. But few had the quiet dignity of Kango Sahib. He never shouted. He never took credit. He never compromised. His voice was soft, but his principles were made of stone. In meetings he would listen more than he spoke. And when he did speak, everyone would fall silent, because they knew this man speaks for the trees. He believed that the forest departments real office was not in Srinagar or Jammu. It was in the village, under a tree, with the shepherd and the farmer. He built trust where there was suspicion. He taught us that a guard and a grazier can be friends. That conservation cannot happen with lathis, it happens with love. Retirement did not mean rest for him. It meant a new kind of service. As a founder member of the Central Government Pensioners Association, Kashmir, he became the father-figure for thousands of retired colleagues. He knew the pain of a pensioner waiting for a file. He knew the loneliness of old age. So he opened his home. He opened his heart. He sat for hours, listening to grievances, writing letters, making phone calls. He would say, Masoodi sahib, these are the people who built this state. We cannot forget them. My Friend, My Teacher I will miss him in a thousand small ways. I will miss our evening conversations on my veranda, where he would talk about the vanishing wetlands with tears in his eyes. I will miss how his face would light up when he spoke of a successful plantation. I will miss his gentle rebuke: Rafeeq, we are borrowing this land from our children. We must return it greener. He was never bitter. Even when he saw trees being felled illegally, even when he saw apathy, he never lost hope. He would simply plant two more saplings the next day. That was Kango Sahib. A man who answered destruction with creation. What He Leaves Behind How do we measure a man like him? Not in awards. Not in promotions. We measure him in the forests of Rajouri that are green today because of his drives. We measure him in the springs of Kokernag that still flow because he protected their catchments. We measure him in the young foresters who still walk the beat with his words in their ears: You are not guarding trees. You are guarding life. We measure him in the CGPA office, where a pensioner still gets a cup of tea and a patient hearing. He taught J&K that ecology is not a luxury. It is our survival. In these days of climate change, melting glaciers, and shrinking wetlands, his vision shines brighter than ever. A Final Goodbye Let us honor him the only way he would have wanted: by planting a tree. By saving a forest. By loving this land.
When an unwritten archive falls silent
The passing of Er. Mohammad Anwar Ashai closes another living chapter of Kashmirs contemporary history. He belonged to a generation that did not merely read about the great political transformations through which Kashmir passed; it witnessed them, participated in them, suffered their consequences and preserved their memory. An engineer by profession, a student activist in his youth, a civil-society voice in later life and, above all, a man deeply conscious of Kashmirs history, Anwar Sahib represented a type of public intellectual that is becoming increasingly rare. His importance lay not in the offices he occupied or titles he accumulated, but in what he remembered, understood and was willing to say. His death on 11 August 2026 therefore represents more than the passing of an individual; it is the disappearance of another repository of Kashmirs institutional and political memory. I knew Anwar Sahib well before my association with the Kashmir Centre for Social and Development Studies (KCSDS). We would often meet at marriage ceremonies, funerals and gatherings of common relations or friends, particularly at the residence of late Mohammad Shafi Pandit Sahib, whose wife Nighat Shafi is Anwar Sahibs niece. He would also frequently visit his brother-in-law, Ghulam Nabi Drabu Sahib, who lived in the adjoining house. Anwar Sahib knew my late father well. Whenever we met, his first enquiry would invariably be about his welfare, and while parting he would ask me to convey his salaam and regards to him. This remained a norm until my father departed from this world. Perhaps their mutual regard also had a spiritual dimension, as both followed the Naqshbandiyya order of Sufi path. My acquaintance with Anwar Sahib, however, acquired an entirely different depth after I associated with KCSDS. There I discovered not merely the family acquaintance I had known but a remarkable reservoir of institutional memory. He rarely missed a programme, seminar or conference organised by the group and would often arrive earlier than most of us, ensuring that arrangements were properly in place. It was a small habit, but it revealed much about him: seniority, for him, never meant exemption from responsibility. There is a fundamental difference between information and memory. Information tells us that an event occurred on a particular date. Memory tells us what the atmosphere was like when it happenedwho disagreed with whom, what people feared, what alternatives were being discussed, and how decisions subsequently presented as inevitable did not necessarily appear inevitable to those living through them. Anwar Sahib possessed that second kind of knowledge. He would often take us back to the condition of Kashmiri Muslims under Dogra ruletheir poverty, educational backwardness and inadequate representation in administration. Much of this had come to him through the living memory of his father, Khwaja Ghulam Ahmad Ashai, who had the distinction of being among the earliest postgraduates from the Kashmiri Muslim community and was closely associated with its educational and political awakening. Through Anwar Sahib we heard accounts of the Reading Room initiatives; the struggle for Muslim education and fair representation in government services; the memoranda presented before the authorities highlighting the communitys grievances; the circumstances leading to the appointment of the Glancy Commission; and the political awakening that followed. He would narrate the atmosphere surrounding the events of 1931, including Khanqah-e-Moula and Srinagar Central Jail, the subsequent establishment of the Muslim Conference, its transformation into the National Conference and the developments culminating in the Quit Kashmir movement. We had, of course, read about these events. But hearing them from Anwar Sahib was different. The dates and names we encountered in books suddenly acquired human context. He could tell us about personalities, relationships, disagreements and circumstances that formal histories cannot always capture. He possessed another valuable qualityintellectual independence. Although his family had been closely connected with important personalities in Kashmirs political history, those relationships did not compel him into unquestioning reverence. Even attractive offers that came his way could not persuade him to compromise his convictions. He could remember friendships or relationships while disagreeing with political choices, respect individuals while questioning their decisions, and distinguish personal relationships from historical judgment. Political societies often reduce historical personalities to rigid categorieshero or villain, patriot or traitor, nationalist or separatist. Anwar Sahib knew that history was more complicated because he knew, directly or through his father, many of its participants. When his narration reached the 1960s, inherited memory gave way to personal experience. Anwar Sahib was now himself a participant in history. He would recount his student activism and the political atmosphere of those years, recalling his association with Abdul Rashid Kabuli, Bashir Ahmad Kitchloo, Hamid Anwar Dhar, Makhmoor H. Badakshi, M. Ashraf, Zaffar-ul-Islam Kotay and many others. His accounts of student mobilisation, political debates, arrests and the difficult choices confronting young Kashmiris gave us insights that books alone could never provide. Perhaps there was something of the engineer even in his intellectual temperament. He examined events structurallyasking not merely what happened, but why it happened, what forces shaped it, what alternatives existed and what consequences followed. I must acknowledge a personal intellectual debt here. His narrations, together with the first-hand accounts of other senior colleagues, enriched my reading with lived experience and helped me better understand the complexities within which successive generations and their leadership made their choices. Anwar Sahib, like the rest of us, had not joined KCSDS for political activity. We naturally held our individual views on Kashmir and State-Centre relations, but KCSDS was essentially a vibrant civil-society platform addressing social, economic, educational, environmental, health and developmental concerns. It was this wider purpose that engaged him deeply. Whenever environmental issues arose, another dimension of his knowledge emerged. As a hydraulic engineer, he possessed intimate professional understanding of Kashmirs rivers and tributaries, lakes, wetlands, forests, glaciers and water systems. He remembered their earlier condition, the interventions undertaken over decades and the processes through which many had deteriorated. This knowledge became particularly valuable during KCSDSs sustained campaign concerning Kashmirs water resources and hydroelectric power. His memory stretched from the pioneering Mohra power project to Salal and later projects. He could place contemporary concerns over the utilisation of our water resources by a central public-sector undertakings within their engineering and institutional history. Official reports gave us the figures; Anwar Sahib often gave us the history behind them. His concern for Kashmir extended equally to its social fabric. Sectarian discord genuinely distressed him, and he consistently advocated unity within the Muslim Ummah, mutual respect among different schools of thought and harmony among Kashmirs various faith communities. He also contributed enthusiastically to initiatives against social evils and programmes concerning education, health and youth empowerment. His Kashmir was not confined to a political question; it consisted of its peopletheir dignity, education, environment, resources, opportunities and social cohesion. Those who knew Anwar Sahib will also remember the dignity of an older generation of educated Kashmirismeasured in conversation, informed by reading, conscious of history and uninterested in theatrical self-promotion. His knowledge did not need advertisement. He remained firm in his convictions without allowing disagreement to become personal bitterness. That combination of conviction and civility earned him respect even among those who did not always share his conclusions. The near cessation of KCSDS activities after 2019 troubled him, and he remained eager to see at least some of its social and intellectual engagement revived. Unfortunately, by then his health had begun to deteriorate. About three months before his passing, I was among a group of friends who called on him. Despite his failing health, we had a long conversation. Such meetings acquire a significance one rarely appreciates while they are taking place. We assume there will always be another visit, another conversation, another opportunity to ask, Anwar Sahib, what actually happened then? Now there will not be one. His departure is particularly painful because Kashmir is rapidly losing a generation endowed with extraordinary institutional memory. Libraries preserve documents, archives preserve official records and newspapers preserve reports, but none can fully preserve the memory contained within a human being. Anwar Sahib could often explain what lay behind a documentthe arguments that preceded it, the circumstances that shaped it, what the official record left unsaid and how those who actually lived through an event understood it. When such a person dies, we lose an unwritten archive. Anwar Sahib carried several such archives within him: the inherited memory of his fathers generation and Kashmirs early political awakening; his own experience of the student movements of the 1960s; his professional knowledge of Kashmirs water resources, hydropower and environmental transformation; and his later engagement with the social and developmental concerns of Kashmiri society. He lived through periods when political positions changed, alliances shifted and historical narratives were repeatedly rewritten, yet his abiding concern for Kashmir and its people remained unchanged. The books will remain. The documents and photographs will remain. But the voice that connected them, explained what lay between their lines and sometimes corrected our understanding has fallen silent. Er. Mohammad Anwar Ashai was not merely someone who knew Kashmirs history. He carried a part of that history within himself. With his departure, another living chapter of Kashmirs history stands closed - forever. Shakeel Qalander, prominent business leader and a civil society animator
The people of picturesque Kangan are literally craving for justice! We need to know the immense importance of the Kangan to unveil the discrimination against its people. Kangan Sub-Division, nestled in the majestic lap of the Himalayas, is among the most beautiful yet remote regions of Kashmir. Home to numerous valleys, dense forests, breathtaking landscapes, streams and fresh springs, it is further enriched by the Nallah Sindh, which originates from the high glaciers of Sonamarg and flows through the entire hinterland. This natural splendour continues to attract tourists from across the world. Strategically located in the countryside of Ganderbal District, Kangan serves as the only gateway connecting the rest of the country with the Union Territory of Ladakh and provides the shortest route to the famous Amarnath cave. Its mountainous terrain shares boundaries with Bandipora, Srinagar and Anantnag districts. At Zero Point near Zojila, it separates the Union Territories of Jammu and Kashmir and Ladakh. Internationally known destinations such as Sonamarg and Naranag, with their green meadows, alpine forests and lakes including Visan Sar and Kishan Sar, have earned the region a special place in Kashmirs tourism map. The sub-division is inhabited by multiple communitiesKashmiris, Gujjars, Pahadis, Dard-Sinas, Baltis, Pakhtoons, Kohistanis, and a small number of Kashmiri Pandit and Sikh familieswho live together in harmony. Despite its rich cultural heritage and natural resources, Kangan remains economically and educationally backward. A large section of the population, particularly among the Gujjar, Pahadi and other tribal communities, continues to live below the poverty line. Owing to its extensive forest cover, Kangan also serves as a seasonal home for the nomadic Bakerwal community, who migrate every year from the Jammu region with their flocks to the high-altitude pastures. Recognising these hardships, the erstwhile government had declared Kangan a backward area with the object of improving its economic, educational and infrastructural condition. Before the creation of Ganderbal District, residents of Sarbal, Nilgrar and Sonamarg had to travel nearly 250 kilometres to and fro to reach government offices and courts, often in hostile weather and under constant threat from wild animals. Administratively, the sub-division comprises around eighty villages spread over a vast mountainous area. It has two tehsil headquarters at Kangan and Gund, three police stations at Kangan, Gund and Sonamarg, one Sub-Divisional Magistrate and one Sub-Divisional Police Officer. Its territorial jurisdiction extends from the Police Training School at Manigam to Zero Point near Ladakh and is home to nearly eighty thousand people. Remoteness has left the region with serious infrastructural gaps. Several far-flung villages such as Kachpati, Hilpati, Kasana Patti and Badi Patti still lack proper road connectivity and electricity. Residents are often compelled to walk five to six kilometres through difficult terrain merely to reach a road. Heavy snowfall in winter further aggravates their hardships. Despite these difficulties, the people remain hardworking and resilient, most of them engaged in agriculture, livestock rearing, labour, small trade and tourism-related activities. Coming back to the point of discrimination, the most pressing concern today among people of Kangan is the inadequate judicial infrastructure. Litigations from the area has increased manifold. Rapid development, rising land prices and expanding tourism, particularly in Sonamarg, Ganganagar and Naranag, have led to a sharp rise in civil disputes relating to land, property and commercial transactions. Criminal cases have also increased. Forest offences, including timber smuggling, are frequently reported. Road accidents on the widening SrinagarLeh Highway have gone up, and a significant number of NDPS and POCSO cases originate from the sub-division. Yet only one court of Munsiff/Judicial Magistrate functions in the entire sub-division. The result is heavy pendency and denial of timely justice. Litigants from remote areas such as Sarbal, Nilgrar, Naranag and Hilpati are forced to travel nearly 80 kilometres to and fro to attend proceedings at Ganderbal. In harsh winters, these journeys become not only financially burdensome and physically hazardous but also life-threatening. Several residents have reportedly lost their lives in animal attacks. Poor litigants, senior citizens, women and daily-wage earners suffer the most due to repeated adjournments and long, risky travel. The maxim Justice delayed is justice denied accurately reflects their predicament. It has been observed that in some cases, matters which ought to be filed before the local Munsiff Court are deliberately valued beyond its pecuniary jurisdiction so that they are taken to the district courts at Ganderbal. This practice, often resulting from lack of awareness among litigants, further denies accessible justice and increases both cost and hardship. The principle Actus curiae neminem gravabit reminds us that an act of the court should prejudice no one, and that courts have a duty to ensure equitable justice to rich and poor alike. The demand for an Additional Sessions Court at Kangan is therefore not merely administrative but a constitutional necessity. A large number of cases pending at Ganderbal arise from this sub-division. The Honble High Court had recently sought detailed information from the Principal District and Sessions Judge, Ganderbal, regarding the volume of cases from Kangan and the existing judicial infrastructure. The required details were submitted, reinforcing the long-standing demand of the people. The Bar Association has repeatedly represented the matter before the Law Minister, the Member of Parliament from SrinagarGanderbal, the local MLA and the Law Secretary, yet no tangible progress has been made. The residents of Kangan, together with the local Bar, continue to press for the creation of an Additional Sessions Judge Court. Their demand is genuine and rooted in the principle of equal access to justice. Such a court would reduce pendency, expedite disposal of cases and strengthen public confidence in the justice delivery system. The doctrine Ubi jus ibi remediumwhere there is a right, there is a remedyforms the foundation of our legal system. Access to courts cannot remain confined to urban centres while remote mountain communities struggle for basic judicial facilities. The people of Kangan have waited for decades for equitable institutional support. Their aspirations are neither excessive nor unreasonable. They seek only dignity, accessibility, equality and justicethe minimum that a democratic society owes its citizens. The time has come for the administration and policymakers to move beyond assurances and take concrete action. Recently, an Additional District Judge Court was established at Sumbal in Bandipora District, which is smaller both in area and population. That step was widely welcomed. Kangan, however, continues to wait for similar judicial empowerment for reasons that remain unexplained. Hope the injustice being faced by people of Kangan on legal front will end sooner the better! Author is a lawyer by profession.
The creation of formless matter of earth and gradual evolution of form of earth is referred to in two Holy Verses: Say: Is it that ye deny Him Who created earth in two days? And do ye join equals with Him? He is the Lord of (all) the Worlds (41:9) The two days referred in the Holy Verse may be taken as metaphorical; a day in the sight of Allah (SwT) may vary from thousand to thousands of years in our reckoning, as laid down in another Holy Verse: The angels and the Spirit ascend unto Him in a day, the measure whereof is (as) fifty thousand years (70:4) While the Holy Verse (41:9) refers to formless matter of earth, the gradual evolution of the form of earth is referred in the Holy Verse following the one noted above: He set on the (earth) mountains standing firm, high above it, and bestowed blessings on the earth, and measured therein all things to give them nourishment in due proportion, in four Days, in accordance with (the needs of) those who seek (Sustenance) [41:10] The formless matter assumed form gradually in a measured manner so as provide sustenance on all forms of life of earth. The measured manner had to have precision, thus the mountains were set as high as 29,000 feet above sea level, and then from such heights, it had to be measured to the lowest depthsthe very bottom of the oceans, which are 31,600 below sea level. The vertical difference between the highest and lowest points on the solid crust of the earth measures to 11.5 miles. The earth was thus endowed with all that it needed to sustain life, maily water, taken to be elixir of life, on which depends the survival of vegetable and animal life.
Formalities should not override equity: CAT
Srinagar, Aug 13: Observing that apart from formalities, there is concept of equity in law, the Central Administrative Tribunal (CAT) in Srinagar has asked the Sher-i-Kashmir University of Agricultural Sciences & Technology, Kashmir (SKUAST-K) to permit a candidate to participate in the interview for the post of Associate Professor-cum-Senior Scientist (Genetics and Plant Breeding). A division bench comprising Judicial Member, M S Latif, and Administrative Member, Prasant Kumar observed that employment is a national wealth which must be shared equally among citizens as adherence to equality in public employment remains a basic feature of the constitution. Law is no more res integra and there is no doubt that employment is a national wealth that must be shared by all citizens and adherence to the rule of equality in public employment is a basic feature of our Constitution and the rule of law is the core of our constitution, it said. The tribunal observed that the controversy herein falls squarely within the domain of SKUAST-K, saying however, in addition to conforming to the rules and regulations, there is a concept of equity in law, as transparency, equal opportunity, and merit-based selection is the hallmark and bedrock of the constitution. The aggrieved candidate had challenged the SKUAST-K order dated August 11, 2026, whereby her candidature was rejected for allegedly failing to comply with the requirement of submitting a printout of the online application along with self-attested copies of supporting documents, certificates and testimonials. The issue to decide for the tribunal was whether a candidate could be deprived of consideration merely for not submitting hard copies of documents that had already been furnished online, and whether such a stand could be sustained in law. The varsity argued that the candidate had missed the prescribed deadline and that allowing her to submit the documents after the cut-off date would amount to granting her an unfair relaxation, potentially discriminating against other candidates who may also have missed the deadline. The bench agreed with the university's proposition but noted that the candidate had subsequently submitted a representation along with all the required hard copies before the interview. It observed that she could, therefore, have been considered for participation in the interview, particularly as mere participation would not confer any right of selection or appointment. The tribunal said the varsity could consider the candidate's case in view of the principles of transparency, equal opportunity and merit-based selection, observing that the concept of equity must also be kept in mind alongside procedural requirements. In addition to conforming to the rules and regulations, there is a concept of equity in law, the bench observed, stressing that transparency, equal opportunity and merit-based selection constitute the hallmark of the constitutional scheme. The tribunal also took note of submissions regarding the candidate's age, PhD qualification, research credentials and academic experience. It observed that, having reached such a stage in her academic career, she must have worked hard and dreamt, at least, to have been considered for her participation in the interview. The tribunal said the university was well within its rights to allow her to participate in the interview, at her own risk and responsibility, if it found her case deserving of consideration. It further requested the Vice Chancellor SKUAST-K to make every endeavour to decide the matter in accordance with its directions and within the required timeframe. The bench emphasised that its order was passed in the peculiar facts and circumstances of the case so that the candidate was not deprived, at least, of her right to be considered for participation in the interview. The ultimate object of judicial proceedings is to discern the truth and do justice, the tribunal observed while disposing of the plea.
1064 candidates score above 500, 28 women in top 100
Srinagar, Aug 13:The provisional merit list for NEET-UG 2026 released by the J&K Board of Professional Entrance Examinations (BOPEE) points to intense competition for medical seats in J&K, with 1064 candidates scoring more than 500 marks.The merit list was issued through Notification No. 145-BOPEE of 2026 on August 12. It covers candidates from J&K and Ladakh who registered with BOPEE for the counselling process.The list ranks candidates on the basis of their NEET-UG 2026 scores and includes details like gender, category, and NEET rank.A total of 1064 candidates scored more than 500 marks out of 720. The candidate at rank 1064 in the J&K merit list scored 501, while the score at rank 1065 was 500.In all, 1087 candidates scored 500 or more. The 500-mark figure is simply a measure of performance in the J&K/Ladakh merit pool. It does not mean that 500 marks is the minimum required for an MBBS seat.With the reservation structure remaining unchanged from last year, the likely 2026 cut-off will vary significantly by category. For Open Merit candidates, the government MBBS closing score is expected to remain in the low-to-mid 500s, while the most sought-after colleges could close around 540550 marks. Reserved-category cut-offs are expected to be lower and will depend on the number of seats available in each category and candidates choices during counselling.The competition is particularly significant as 1675 MBBS seats have been approved for J&K for the 2026-27 academic session. The reported seat matrix comprises 1525 government and 150 private seats. The exact pool and category-wise seat matrix is yet to be updated by J&K BOPEE.Twenty-eight of the top 100 candidates in the provisional J&K merit list are female. The first 100 candidates have scored 602 marks or higher. The top-ranked candidate from J&K is also a female, with an All India Rank of 99.The national NEET qualifying threshold is considerably lower than the expected admission cut-off. The actual admission cut-off varies according to category, college, seat type and counselling round. The eventual closing marks for MBBS seats in J&K can only be established after counselling and seat allotment.The BOPEE list is provisional, and candidates have been allowed to submit objections to their merit position or deficiencies by August 14. The board has retained the right to make corrections or modifications after verification. BOPEE has also clarified that some candidates have been included provisionally despite deficiencies in documents.For students who do not secure an MBBS seat, NEET-UG also provides entry into several medical and allied-health options. Candidates can consider BDS (dental), AYUSH courses such as BAMS, BHMS and BUMS, as well as veterinary, nursing, and other allied-health programmes.
J&K gets Rs 11.08 lakh forest fire aid after 4 years without funds
Srinagar, Aug 13:Jammu and Kashmir received Rs 11.08 lakh in central assistance for forest fire prevention and management in 2025-26, the only funding released to the Union Territory under the scheme in the past five years, according to data tabled in the Rajya Sabha on Thursday. The Ministry of Environment, Forest, and Climate Change (MoEFCC) said the assistance was released under the Centrally Sponsored Scheme on Forest Fire Prevention and Management (FFPM). No funds were released to J&K under the scheme in 2021-22, 2022-23, 2023-24, or 2024-25, it said. The Centre also said J&K and Ladakh are not covered under the Mitigation Scheme for Forest Fire Risk Management (MSFFRM), a separate forest fire mitigation programme funded through the National Disaster Mitigation Fund. The MSFFRM covers 144 high-priority forest fire-prone districts across 19 states and has an approved outlay of Rs 818.92 crore. The figures were disclosed in response to an unstarred question on the implementation of the National Action Plan on Forest Fire (NAPFF), 2018. The Centre said the NAPFF provides comprehensive measures for forest fire prevention and management and improving forest resilience against fire hazards. It advised states and Union Territories to prepare their own action plans in line with the national framework. Across the country, the ministry released Rs 164.90 crore under the FFPM scheme from 2021-22 to 2025-26. The annual releases were Rs 34.26 crore in 2021-22, Rs 28.25 crore in 2022-23, Rs 39.18 crore in 2023-24, Rs 30.76 crore in 2024-25, and Rs 31.68 crore in 2025-26. For early detection, the Forest Survey of India operates the Forest Fire Alert System (FAST 3.0). The satellite-based system provides one-week advance pre-fire alerts, near-real-time alerts and large forest fire alerts to registered subscribers and State Forest Department officials. The FSI also provides the Van Agni Geo-portal, forest fire danger ratings, risk-zonation and fire-prone area mapping, besides Web Map Services, the ministry said. Standard Operating Procedures for forest fire prevention, mitigation and response have been circulated for different forest types, it said. The ministry said a Forest Fire Preparedness Index has been developed and firefighting equipment standardised through the Indian Council of Forestry Research and Education. A 24x7 Disaster Management Control Room monitors forest fire incidents and coordinates with the Ministry of Home Affairs, National Disaster Management Authority, National Disaster Response Force and State Forest Departments. Meanwhile, Himachal Pradesh sought Rs 1349.31 lakh under its Annual Plan of Operations for 2026-27. The Centre sanctioned Rs 49.60 lakh to the state under the FFPM scheme in accordance with applicable guidelines.
MHA should look into threats to PM package employees: Farooq Abdullah
Srinagar, Aug 13:National Conference (NC) President and former chief minister Farooq Abdullah on Thursday expressed surprise over reports of threats being issued to employees recruited under the Prime Ministers package for Kashmiri Pandits, saying there appeared to be something fishy about the matter and calling for an investigation by the Ministry of Home Affairs. Speaking to reporters, the three-time chief minister questioned why PM package employees were being specifically threatened when other members of the Kashmiri Pandit community, including government officers, as well as political leaders from different parties, had not reportedly received similar threats. I am surprised. Why have they received threats? Where from have the threats come? Abdullah said. It is not just Kashmiri Pandits, there are others too -- government officers who are Hindus and leaders from every party. Why did they not receive threats? Why did these (PM package employees) receive threats? he said. Abdullah said the matter should be examined by the Union Home Ministry, arguing that security arrangements in Jammu and Kashmir are not solely under the elected government but involve the Lieutenant Governor-led administration. Who are these people doing this, using social media, etc.? Who are they? They should pay attention to this. I understand there is something fishy in this, and it should be looked into, he said. At the same time, the NC president acknowledged that Kashmiri Pandits continue to face difficulties and said the Centre had failed to fulfil several promises made to the community. What happened to the promises made to them? For years, they (BJP) have been running the government; what did they do? Abdullah said. He said the PM package employment initiative dates back to the tenure of former Prime Minister Manmohan Singh and his own tenure as chief minister, when efforts were made to bring Kashmiri Pandits back to the Valley, provide them employment and facilitate their settlement. This (PM's package employment) is from the time of (former PM) Manmohan Singh and Omar's time; when they were here, they were brought back, settled here and given jobs. We hoped that their families and others would come and settle here, he said. Abdullah, however, opposed the continued practice of keeping returning Kashmiri Pandit employees in transit accommodation, saying they should eventually be able to live among the wider population. Settling Kashmiri Pandits in transit camps is not right. They need to live among the people, he said. Kashmiri Muslims were never against them; and we didn't do it, everyone knows who did it, Abdullah said. On the reported attack on Shiromani Akali Dal (SAD) president Sukhbir Singh Badal, Abdullah condemned the incident and expressed concern over the security of political figures who, he said, remain vulnerable to attacks. It is a very unfortunate thing. He has been attacked several times, and I understand that there is some weakness in the security. People and the government must remember that these are very vulnerable figures, he said. Abdullah said Badal had been targeted previously as well and cautioned that another attempt could not be ruled out. He was attacked before too, and we cannot say it won't happen again, he said. While expressing relief that the latest attack was foiled, Abdullah urged the Government of India to take the matter seriously and strengthen security arrangements. Thank God that this time they were not successful and it was averted. However, all of us, especially the Government of India, need to take notice of this and be careful so that it does not happen again, he said. Abdullah said both he and his son, Chief Minister Omar Abdullah, condemned the attack and prayed for Badal's recovery. We condemn what has happened, and we pray to God, because it is a very blessed place where they went -- Nanded, where Guru Gobind Singh Ji's final rites were performed. For such a thing to happen, I understand, is a very dangerous matter, he said. We hope that God grants him good health and he recovers quickly and works for the country, Abdullah said. About the Cockroach Janta Party's reported threat to launch protests, Abdullah said the organisation had drawn attention to what he described as wider concerns over governance, constitutional values and the functioning of institutions. He said the protests had woken the nation up to issues including alleged atrocities, tragedies faced by people, the functioning of the judiciary and government, and questions surrounding adherence to the Constitution. I hope that the government will wake up and realise that the Constitution is the highest thing for every citizen of India, regardless of religion, language or the area they come from, he said. The former union minister also stressed the importance of strengthening states within India's federal structure, arguing that excessive concentration of authority at the Centre would weaken the country. India has unity in diversity and it is the states that make this nation, Abdullah said. Therefore, if you rob the states of their authorities and concentrate power in one place, that is not going to work, and it is not going to make this country strong. If India has to be strong and has to grow, then the states must be made strong, he said. According to Abdullah, the concerns of states need greater attention because that is where people live and where governance directly affects their everyday lives. On the just-concluded Parliament session, Abdullah criticised the functioning of Parliament, saying the institution had been weakened and that members were raising issues without receiving adequate responses from the government. The whole country and the world saw how the Parliament functioned. The Parliament has been rendered completely weak; members raise questions, but answers are not given, he said. Abdullah said Parliament was intended to provide a platform for elected representatives to raise public concerns and hold the government accountable. I have also been an MP and have seen it very closely. People go to Parliament, express their difficulties, talk about the country's problems and speak about what is happening, he said. He warned that if the government did not respond adequately to concerns raised in Parliament, public dissatisfaction would continue to grow. If you have practically put Parliament in a dustbin, what else will come out of it? Abdullah said.
No AQIS link to Red Fort blast has come to our notice: IGP Kashmir
Srinagar, Aug 13:Inspector General of Police (IGP) Kashmir, V K Birdi, on Thursday said that the United Nations Security Councils attribution of the November 10, 2025, vehicle-borne suicide blast near Delhis Red Fort to Al-Qaeda in the Indian Subcontinent (AQIS) has not come to the notice of Kashmir Police so far. Responding to queries during Independence Day security reviews, Birdi said, No such thing has come to our notice so far. He underlined that robust, multi-layered security protocols are fully active across the Valley to ensure safe celebrations. The IGPs remarks came against the backdrop of the latest UNSC Analytical Support and Sanctions Monitoring Team report, which has officially linked the high-intensity blast to AQIS. The attack, which occurred at a busy traffic signal near the Red Fort, killed between 11 and 15 people and injured dozens. The suicide bomber was identified as Dr Umer Un Nabi, a medical professional and assistant professor from Kashmir who was working at Al-Falah University in Faridabad. The National Investigation Agency (NIA) later uncovered a highly educated white-collar terror cell operating out of Faridabad, Haryana. The module comprised multiple doctors and medical professionals who manufactured volatile TriacetoneTriperoxide (TATP) explosives. According to the UNSC report, AQIS is evolving into a more regional entity that relies on small, decentralised, urban-embedded cells rather than large logistics networks, enabling it to bypass traditional border security. The NIA has filed a voluminous 7500-page chargesheet against the accused, linking them to AnsarGhazwat-ul-Hind (AGuH), a known AQIS offshoot. The trial is underway. While the international findings have drawn attention, Birdi made it clear that Kashmir Police have not received any such specific attribution so far. He reiterated that comprehensive security arrangements, including multi-layered grids, remain in place across the Valley to safeguard Independence Day festivities.
Parliament's Monsoon Session adjourned sine die
New Delhi, Aug 13:The Monsoon Session of Parliament which commenced on July 20 was adjourned sine die on Thursday.The session provided 19 sittings spread over a period of 25 days.During the session, 11 Bills were introduced in Lok Sabha and two Bills were introduced in Rajya Sabha. Twelve Bills were passed by Lok Sabha and 12 Bills were passed by Rajya Sabha.The total number of Bills passed by both Houses of Parliament during the session was 12. Two Bills replacing and encompassing the provisions of the Ordinances, The Supreme Court (Number of Judges) Amendment Ordinance, 2026, and the Income-Tax (Amendment) Ordinance, 2026, which were promulgated by the President before Monsoon Session, were considered and passed by both the Houses. Demands for Excess Grants for the year 2022-23 were taken up and the related Appropriation Bill was introduced, considered and passed by Lok Sabha on August 4 and returned by the Rajya Sabha on August 6. The Foreign Contribution (Regulation) Amendment Bill, 2026, was referred to the Joint Committee of the Houses for examination and report. In order to address, with immediacy, the concerns of students relating to public examinations, the Public Examinations (Prevention of Unfair Means) Amendment Bill, 2026, was introduced to amend the parent act of 2024 as a major initiative to strengthen the integrity and credibility of the public examination system. The Bill seeks to ensure speedy investigation and time-bound trial of offences under the Act; empower state governments and union territory administrations to designate Special Fast Track Courts and appoint Special Public Prosecutors; mandate completion of investigations within two months and trials within three months; enable the Central Government to constitute Special Task Forces for investigation, wherever necessary; enhance penalties for offences; and provide for a time-bound appellate mechanism before a Division Bench of the High Court. The bill was passed by both Houses of Parliament and has been assented to by the President. Some other major Bills passed by both Houses during the Session are as under: The Prevention of Insults to National Honour (Amendment) Bill, 2026, seeks to amend the Act of 1971 to bring VandeMataram, honoured as the National Song, within the ambit of Section 3 of The Prevention of Insults to National Honour Act, 1971 and proposes to make it an offence to intentionally prevent the singing of VandeMataram or cause disturbance to any assembly engaged in its singing, thereby extending legal protection to the National Song and making such acts punishable under the act. The Registration of Births and Deaths (Amendment) Bill, 2026 seeks to amend the parent Act of 1969 to make provisions for delayed registration of births and deaths more stringent by prescribing a streamlined verification mechanism. The Bill provides for registration after one year and up to two years only with the approval of the competent Executive Magistrate, and after two years only with the approval of a Judicial Magistrate of the First Class. The Micro, Small and Medium Enterprises Development (Amendment) Bill, 2026, seeks to amend the Act of 2006 to provide for a national digital platform for free and voluntary registration of MSMEs and strengthen the MSME sector by improving access to finance, ensuring faster adjudication of delayed payment disputes of micro and small enterprises, promoting ease of doing business, and decriminalising offences regarding contravention of certain provisions, replacing conviction-based fines with graded penalties by including warning at the first instance. The Bankers Books Evidence Bill, 2026, seeks to expand the scope of the definition of bankers books to include all forms of records maintained by banks, whether in physical, electronic, digital, virtual, cloud-based or in any other form, thereby providing a comprehensive, technology-neutral and future-ready legal framework. It standardises certificates and recognises manual, digital and electronic authentication, while enabling electronic records to be produced physically or electronically. It further empowers the central government to extend coverage across the financial sector and defines special cause for judicial production. The Kerala (Alteration of Name) Bill, 2026, seeks to amend the First Schedule to the Constitution by altering the name of State of Kerala as Keralam in accordance with article 3 of the Constitution. The National Co-operative Development Corporation (Amendment) Bill, 2026, seeks to amend the National Co-operative Development Corporation Act, 1962, to expand the definition of foodstuffs to include any other food items as may be notified by the central government, remove the geographical restriction applicable to industrial goods, strengthen the cooperative sector by updating statutory references, removing obsolete provisions, and empowering the corporation with necessary incidental powers. These measures will facilitate the collection and sharing of credit and other relevant information with authorised institutions, while providing greater flexibility, legal clarity, and operational efficiency and enable timely, direct and responsive financial assistance for co-operative development. The Tribunals Reforms Bill, 2026, seeks to improve the efficiency, ensure independence, transparency, and uniformity in the qualifications, appointment, terms and conditions of service of chairpersons and members of various tribunals, the administration and functioning of the tribunals, to establish a National Tribunals Commission and to make consequential amendments in related enactments and for matters connected therewith or incidental thereto. The Mines and Minerals (Development and Regulation) Amendment Bill, 2026 seeks to amend the Mines and Minerals (Development and Regulation) Act, 1957, to provide certainty, stability and predictability in the fiscal regime in the mineral sector, thereby giving impetus to national economic growth which would facilitate the aims of Atmanirbhar Bharat and ultimately attaining the vision of Viksit Bharat 2047. The productivity of Lok Sabha was approximately 19 percent and that of Rajya Sabha was approximately 39 percent.
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Amit Shah hoists tricolour at home, says PM Modis Har Ghar Tiranga campaign strengthening patriotism
New Delhi, Aug 13: Union Home Minister and Minister of Cooperation Amit Shah hoisted the Tricolour at his residence in New Delhi today as part of the Har Ghar Tiranga campaign. The Home Minister appealed to every citizen to unite with millions of others in this movement and celebrate patriotism by hoisting the Tiranga at their homes and uploading a selfie on http://harghartiranga.com . In a post on X, Union Home Minister said, Today, at my residence in New Delhi, I hoisted the Tricolour under the #HarGharTiranga campaign. This campaign, launched under the leadership of Modi ji, is today further strengthening the sentiment of patriotism and pride in the heart of every Indian. Today, crores of countrymen are connecting with the Tricolour and empowering the spirit of Ek Bharat, Shreshtha Bharat. The Home Minister said in another post on X, The Tiranga stands for the sacred pride we take in our nation and the might of our unity. Joined the #HarGharTiranga movement by hoisting our national flag. I urge every citizen to unite with millions of others in this movement and celebrate patriotism by hoisting the Tiranga at your homes and uploading a selfie on http://harghartiranga.com.
SC slams FSSAI over delay in introducing warning labels on packaged foods
New Delhi, Aug 13: The Supreme Court on Thursday slammed the Food Safety and Standards Authority of India (FSSAI) over a delay in introducing warning labels on packaged foods and asked if the government does not want its people to be healthy. The top court was hearing a PIL of public charitable trust 3S and Our Health Society seeking directions to the Centre, states and Union territories to implement mandatory front-of-package warning labels (FOPL) on packaged foods. A bench comprising Justices J B Pardiwala and K Vinod Chandran said FOPL labels are necessary to create awareness, especially among growing children who are becoming addicted to junk food. Are you taking the court for a toss? Justice Pardiwala questioned Additional Solicitor General Brijender Chahar. The top court noted that there was no progress on its order regarding the issue of labelling. We are doing this in public interest. Keep it in mind. We are not doing it for ourselves. Why are you not abiding by our order? We know the pressure on you. Will you do it on your own or should we pass an order? Justice Pardiwala observed. The plea referred to India's growing burden of non-communicable diseases and claimed FOPL would highlight the presence of high levels of sugar, salt and saturated fats -- key contributors to serious health issues such as diabetes, obesity, cardiovascular diseases and certain cancers. It highlighted the alarming surge in lifestyle diseases across the country and said non-communicable diseases were now responsible for over 6 million deaths annually in the country, with diabetes emerging as a silent epidemic affecting nearly one in four Indians.
1991 Jammu railway station blast accused arrested after 35 years
A terrorist responsible for a 1991 bomb blast was arrested in Anantnag. Altaf Hussain Sheikh evaded police for thirty-five years while living as a businessman. He was apprehended by Jammu Railway Police after an intensive manhunt. The accused was presented before the TADA Court for further legal proceedings. This arrest concludes a long pursuit by law enforcement officials.
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ISRO taking steps to tackle space debris, rising satellite congestion: Dr Jitendra Singh
New Delhi, Aug 13: The Indian Space Research Organisation (ISRO) is seized of the issue of proliferation of a large number of Low Earth Orbit (LEO) satellite constellations or Satellite Internet constellations causing accumulation of Space debris and is taking all possible steps for its mitigation and prevention, Minister of State for Personnel, Public Grievances & Pensions and Prime Ministers Office, Dr. Jitendra Singh, said in a reply in the Rajya Sabha today. ISRO's 'Debris Free Space Mission' will play a key role in safeguarding space assets and limiting further generation of debris through Active Debris Removal (ADR) and other means, the Minister added. Dr. Jitendra Singh stated that satellite constellations for internet connectivity typically consist of a few thousand satellites, significantly increasing collision risks in orbital regions around their respective orbital shells. While many large constellations have autonomous collision avoidance capabilities, some satellites may fail on-orbit and may not be capable of manoeuvring to avoid collisions. The Minister further noted that small-sized untrackable debris poses an additional risk, as such debris cannot be avoided through collision avoidance or adequately shielded against. An impact can cause mission-ending damage, rendering a satellite non-functional and generating further debris. Given the large number of satellites involved, the aggregate risk of debris creation is significant. He also pointed out that any fragmentation event, whether caused by a collision or accidental break-up near a populated orbital shell, could further escalate these risks. Highlighting Indias institutional engagement on space debris monitoring and mitigation, Dr. Jitendra Singh informed that the Inter-Agency Space Debris Coordination Committee (IADC), formed in 1993, is considered the most recognised body dealing with space debris monitoring and mitigation matters. ISRO under the Department of Space has been a member of IADC since 1996. He also stated that the United Nations Committee on the Peaceful Uses of Outer Space (UN-COPUOS) addresses space debris mitigation and long-term sustainability matters, including the safety of space operations. India is represented in international fora dealing with space debris, including the IADC, UN Scientific and Technical Subcommittee (UN-STSC) Working Group on Long-Term Sustainability and Expert Group on Space Situational Awareness (SSA). Dr. Jitendra Singh stated that IADC members regularly deliberate on space debris-related matters and revise space debris mitigation guidelines in response to the evolving space debris environment. Space debris monitoring and spaceflight safety aspects are also discussed in the Long-Term Sustainability and Space Situational Awareness working groups. He further informed that other international platforms, including the IAA Space Debris Working Group and ISO Working Group 7, provide avenues for coordination between the Department of Space and international agencies on space debris monitoring and mitigation. On end-of-life disposal of satellites, Dr. Jitendra Singh said the Indian Space Policy mandates adoption of internationally recognised guidelines on space debris mitigation, including measures relating to end-of-life disposal, in the Indian space programme. The Debris Free Space Mission initiative, spearheaded by ISRO, is a proactive step towards implementing guidelines on end-of-life disposal of satellites. The Minister also stated that the Norms, Guidelines and Procedures released by IN-SPACe in 2024 encourage all Indian space actors to adopt adequate post-mission disposal measures or ensure that their space assets have very limited orbital life through natural orbital decay. Dr. Jitendra Singh identified Space Situational Awareness (SSA) as one of the most crucial enablers of long-term space sustainability. He said other important requirements include operators fulfilling technical requirements such as manoeuvrability and trackability, meeting basic obligations including registration and sharing of points of contact, and ensuring a robust regulatory framework. The Minister further stated that wider implementation of internationally recognised space debris mitigation measures and better compliance with the requirements of the Debris Free Space Mission will play a key role in safeguarding space assets and limiting further generation of debris. He also highlighted the importance of Active Debris Removal (ADR) in curtailing the growth of space debris. Activities serving as precursors to ADR have already been initiated through on-orbit demonstrations and are expected to mature over time. Emphasising the importance of both international cooperation and indigenous capabilities, Dr. Jitendra Singh said international collaboration and data sharing are essential for comprehensive Space Situational Awareness and long-term sustainability. At the same time, self-reliance through indigenous capacity building for space object monitoring will be pursued along with innovative measures and R&D to address emerging challenges. He also stressed the importance of raising awareness among space actors about the fragility of utilisable regions of the space environment to ensure long-term sustainability.
Mudslide hits Srinagar-Leh highway near Sonamarg
Ganderbal, Aug 13: A massive mudslide due to a possible cloudburst hit Ranga Mode area of Sonamarg along the Srinagar-Leh highway on Thursday. It also caused a significant rise in water levels in the river. The mudslide resulted in blocking the Srinagar-Leh Road and affecting the Sarbal road. Officials said that the traffic has been suspended at both TCPs as a precaution, however the situation is under control and normal. People have been advised to avoid going near riverbanks and stay away from water channels.
Two killed, 2 injured after lightning strike in remote Anantnag village
Anantnag, Aug 13: Two persons were killed and two others injured after lightning struck Gawran Nard in Kokernag area of south Kashmir's Anantnag district on Thursday. An official said that Faizan Ahmad (18), son of Mohd Yaqoob Chard of Gawran, and Bilal Ahmad Battana (16), son of Nazir Ahmad of Redwani Gawran, were killed in the strike. He said Sajad Ahmad Battana (15), son of Sai Battana, and Shareef Ahmad Battana, son of Jumma, both from Redwani Gawran, were also injured in the incident. The injured were shifted to PHC Larnoo for treatment, official added.
New Delhi, Aug 13: Prime Minister Narendra Modi will lead the 80th Independence Day Celebrations from the Red Fort in Delhi on August 15, 2026. The grand event is set to commemorate 150 years of the enduring legacy of the National Song Vande Mataram and celebrate the energy, aspirations and pivotal contribution of Yuva Shakti in driving Indias journey towards Viksit Bharat by 2047. For the first time, Vande Mataram will be rendered during the celebrations at Red Fort. The Ceremony Upon his arrival at the Red Fort, the Prime Minister will be received by Raksha Mantri Rajnath Singh, Raksha Rajya Mantri Sanjay Seth and Defence Secretary Rajesh Kumar Singh. The Defence Secretary will introduce the General Officer Commanding (GoC), Delhi Area Lieutenant General Rajesh Sethi to the Prime Minister. The GoC, Delhi Area will then conduct the Prime Minister to the Saluting Base where a combined Inter-Services and Delhi Police Guard will present general salute to Shri Narendra Modi. Thereafter, the Prime Minister will inspect the Guard of Honour. The Guard of Honour contingent for the Prime Minister will consist of one officer & 24 personnel each from the Army, Navy, Air Force & Delhi Police. The Indian Army is the coordinating service for the Independence Day Celebrations this year. The Guard of Honour will be commanded by Lieutenant Colonel Arjun Singh. The Army contingent in the Prime Ministers Guard will be commanded by Major Aditya Sharma, the Naval contingent by Lieutenant Commander Neelam Rana and the Air Force contingent by Squadron Leader Vipin Kumar. The Delhi Police contingent will be commanded by Additional DCP Shri Vineet Kumar. After inspecting the Guard of Honour, the Prime Minister will proceed to the ramparts of the Red Fort where he will be greeted by Raksha Mantri Shri Rajnath Singh, Raksha Rajya Mantri Sanjay Seth, Chief of Defence Staff General NS Raja Subramani, Chief of the Air Staff Air Chief Marshal AP Singh, Chief of the Naval Staff Admiral Krishna Swaminathan and Chief of the Army Staff General Dhiraj Seth. The GoC, Delhi area will conduct the Prime Minister to the dais on the ramparts to hoist the National Flag. Captain Sonia Singh Chauhan will assist the Prime Minister in hoisting the National Flag. It will be synchronised with the 21-Gun Salute by the valiant gunners of the 1721 Field Battery (Ceremonial). The ceremonial battery, utilising the indigenous 105mm Light Field Guns, will be commanded by Major Pawan Singh Shekhawat and the Gun Position Officer will be Naib Subedar (Assistant Instructor in Gunnery) Anuthosh Sarkar. The National Flag Guard, comprising one officer and 32 Other Ranks each from the Army, Navy & Air Force and Delhi Police, will present the Rashtriya Salute at the time of hoisting of the National Flag by the Prime Minister. Major Lokendra Singh Shekhawat will be in command of this Inter-Services Guard and Police Guard. The Army Contingent in the National Flag Guard will be commanded by Major Vikas Yadav, the Naval contingent by Lieutenant Commander Abhilash and the Air Force Contingent by Squadron Leader Umesh G. The Delhi Police contingent will be commanded by Additional DCP Shri Vikas Meena. After being hoisted, the Tricolour will receive a Rashtriya Salute. The Army band, consisting of one JCO and 25 Other Ranks, will play the tune of Vande Mataram and the national song will be sung by everyone present at Red Fort. It will be followed by the recitation of the National Anthem. The Band will be conducted by Subedar Ishwar Singh. As soon as the National Flag is hoisted by the Prime Minister, flower petals will be showered at the venue by two Mi-17 helicopters of the Indian Air Force - one trooping the national flag and the other trooping a flag depicting Vande Mataram. The captains of the helicopters will be Wing Commander Rajat and Squadron Leader Ankit Varshney. After the showering of flower petals, the Prime Minister will address the Nation. At the conclusion of his speech, the cadets of National Cadet Corps (NCC) and My Bharat volunteers will sing the National Song Vande Mataram followed by the National Anthem. A total of 2,500 boy & girl cadets (Army, Navy and Air Force) and My Bharat volunteers will participate in the celebrations. These cadets & My Bharat volunteers will be seated on Gyanpath, opposite the Rampart. They will be forming . View cutters depicting the theme Viksit Bharat @2047 will be installed at Gyanpath. Special Guests Approx. 5,000 Special Guests, from different walks of life, have been invited to witness the celebrations at Red Fort this year. These include: International Yoga Day Volunteers; Women Entrepreneurs under PM Mudra Yojana; Beneficiaries under NAMASTE, PM AJAY, SEED; Best performing MY Bharat Volunteers; Best performing beneficiaries of PMAY(U); Street vendors under PM SVANidhi; Urban sanitation workers under Swachh Bharat Mission; Best performing Delhi Metro workers; Best performing workers of Kartavya Path/Central Vista; Youth innovators under National Innovation Programmes; Best Innovators/Scientists in different fields; Sarthi/Cab Driver/Taxi Drivers of Bharat Taxi in Delhi; Best interns under Prime Minister Internship Scheme; Best performing start-ups supported under various schemes; Best performing Youth trained under PM Kaushal Vikas Yojana; Best performing start-ups supported under Start-up India Seed Fund; Nursing Orderlies (Ward Attendants) and other staff of Government Hospitals in Delhi; PM Surya Ghar Muft Bijli Yojana beneficiaries; Artisans under PM Vishwakarma scheme; Best performing beneficiaries under Pradhan Mantri Shram Yogi Maandhan (PM-SYM) Yojana; Best performing farmers under Pradhan Mantri Matsya Kisan Samridhi Sah-Yojana (PM-MKSSY); and Best performing students of various quizzes, competitions etc of Delhi government schools Over 1,500 people from various States/Union Territories dressed in traditional attire have also been invited to witness the grand ceremony. Public Convenience Provision of cloak room: The availability of cloak rooms was applauded by visitors during Republic Day Celebrations. For the ease of users, 25 cloak rooms at six locations have been installed for the forthcoming Independence Day Celebrations. Volunteers at helpdesk: 200 volunteers - 100 from NCC & 100 from MY Bharat - will assist visitors along with police personnel in reaching the enclosures. The volunteers can be identified on the way to the Red Fort. Provision of Wheelchairs: NCC cadets will be present at metro stations and parking areas for all the visitors who need assistance with wheelchairs. Metro Services: Metro will be operational from 4 AM on 15th August for people to reach the venue. The Metro Services will be provided free of cost to all invitees. Metro QR codes are being provided with e-invitation. Parking facility at Parade Ground: Parking facility will be available for visitors with valid parking/labels. Ramp facility for pedestrians: To facilitate smooth movement of pedestrians from upper Subhash Marg to lower Subhash Marg, more robust ramps and stairs have been installed. Use of Google & Mappls Maps: On the day of the main event, traffic restrictions will be available on Google & Mappls Maps to facilitate the citizens. Invitation Card: This year, the invitation card depicts the Seva Teerth & Dharam Chakra. Rain Ponchos: Owing to the unpredictable weather conditions on the day of the main ceremony, rain ponchos will be provided to all invitees in Madhav Das Park and August 15 Park in addition to the dignitaries at the Rampart. Names of Enclosures To end VIP culture and underscore the importance of water conservation, the seating enclosures were named after rivers in Republic Day 2026. For the Independence Day Celebrations, the names of the seating enclosures have been named after major lakes of India. These include Badkhal, Bhimtal, Chandratal, Chilika, Dalpat Sagar, Dimna, Dudhsagar, Haflong, Harike, Hussain Sagar, Kanwar, Kankaria, Kolleru, Loktak, Lonar, Pangong Tso, Pulicat, Pushkar, Rabindra Sarobar, Ramgarh Tal, Rudrasagar, Sakhya Sagar, Shanti Sagar, Vembanad and Wular. Swachhata Campaign This year, a post-event Swachhata Campaign is being organised at Red Fort involving NCC cadets and MY Bharat Volunteer. The objective of the campaign is to ensure systematic plogging and prompt removal of garbage after dispersal of spectators right after the ceremony at Red Fort. Drainage Management In view of potential rainfall during the Independence Day Ceremony, several measures have been taken to prevent water overflow. Drainage and sewage systems in-and-around the Red Fort and nearby premises are being thoroughly cleaned. Competitions In the run up to Independence Day, quizzes and competitions were conducted by Ministry of Defence in collaboration with My Gov. The details of the competitions are as follows: Essay Competition on Role of AI in building a Viksit Bharat by 2047 Painting Competition on India 1947 vs India 2047 Online quiz contests on Constitution of India Fundamental rights, duties, key articles and makers; Women in Indias Freedom Movement From Rani Lakshmibai to Sarojini Naidu and beyond; Major milestones of Modern India : Technological progresses and achievement in Space Technology; and India's success story in Nuclear Technology Around 600 winners of the competitions will also be part of the celebrations. Other Ministries/Department, Govt. of NCT of Delhi and Delhi Police also organised the following online quizzes and activities: Education Department, Govt. of NCT of Delhi: My Bharat Collage Competition; Salute the Heroes Wall Display Activity; Cultural Fusion Performances/Competitions; Quiz Relay; Recycled Tricolor Art Activity; Tiranga Cyclothon; Tiranga Run; Tiranga Walkathon; Har Ghar Tiranga Delhi Police: Debate competition on True Patriotism; Patriotic song singing competition; Essay writing and quiz competition on freedom Fighters; Slogan writing and creative writing competition on National Integrity; Poster making and painting competition on Aatmanirbhar Bharat; Street play on National Unity; Awareness programmes against drug abuse; Women's safety and self-defence programme; Cyber awareness and cyber security programme; and 'Unity in Diversity' cultural programme. Band Performances To promote patriotic fervor among citizens and celebrate Independence Day, a number of band performances are being held at 343 prominent locations across the country. The performances are being carried out by the bands of Army, Navy, Air Force, Indian Coast Guard, NCC, Central Reserve Police Force (CRPF), Indo-Tibetan Border Police (ITBP), Central Industrial Security Force (CISF), Sashastra Seema Bal (SSB), Border Security Force (BSF), Integrated Defence Staff (IDS), Railway Protection Force (RPF) and Assam Rifles. Entry to these band performance venues is open to the public. Flag Hoisting on islands Flag hoisting will be carried out by the Indian Navy and local administration in Andaman & Nicobar Island and Lakshadweep.
Srinagar to get designated Street Food Zones
Srinagar, Aug 13: Srinagar Municipal Corporation (SMC) has issued Operational Guidelines for establishment of designated Street Food Cart Zones across Srinagar, marking a significant step towards bringing street food vending under a structured, transparent and sustainable framework. The initiative, being implemented under the leadership of SMC Commissioner, Fazlul Haseeb, seeks to create organised spaces for street food vendors while ensuring food safety, sanitation, pedestrian convenience, traffic management and responsible use of public spaces. In the first phase, locations identified for designated food cart zones include Opposite JKTDC Water Sports, Dalgate Bund, Badamwari, JVC Bemina, Magarmal Bagh and Rajbagh, besides an identified location along the right side of River Jhelum. Each designated zone will have a regulated holding capacity determined on the basis of available space, pedestrian movement, accessibility, traffic conditions and fire-safety considerations. The objective is not merely to regulate street food vending, but to create organised, clean and dignified spaces where vendors can pursue their livelihoods while ensuring that public convenience, sanitation, pedestrian movement and the character of Srinagars public spaces are fully protected, said Commissioner, SMC. The guidelines recognise street vending as an important source of employment, entrepreneurship and affordable food services, while addressing challenges associated with unregulated concentration of food carts, including traffic congestion, obstruction of pedestrian movement, inadequate sanitation and improper disposal of waste. Under the framework, food carts will be required to conform to standardised designs and specifications and comply with prescribed requirements relating to food hygiene, potable water, waste segregation, waste water management and fire safety. Licensed carts will also be required to prominently display applicable municipal and FSSAI permissions, along with menu and price lists. The framework provides for different categories of non-motorised and motorised food carts, based on their size and nature of operation. Motorised food vending vehicles will require applicable clearance from the Motor Vehicles Department before municipal permission is granted. A structured mechanism has also been prescribed for scrutiny of applications and allotment of spaces, with emphasis on transparency, fairness and adherence to the carrying capacity of individual designated zones. The guidelines have been formulated in consonance with the Street Vendors (Protection of Livelihood and Regulation of Street Vending) Act, 2014, the Jammu and Kashmir Street Vendors Rules, 2020, and the Model Scheme notified in 2021. With Srinagar witnessing substantial pedestrian, vehicular and tourist movement, the Corporation envisages the designated zones as organised and well-managed spaces where street food businesses can operate without compromising public convenience, cleanliness, traffic movement or the distinctive character of the city. Srinagar has a vibrant street-food culture, and our approach is to organise and strengthen this sector rather than displace it. The designated zones will provide greater predictability for vendors while enabling the Corporation to maintain cleaner, safer and more accessible public spaces, Fazlul Haseeb added. The initiative is expected to provide a more predictable and dignified operating environment for street food vendors while strengthening the Corporations ability to manage public spaces through a transparent, accountable and sustainable regulatory framework.
Air India faces challenges; group plans to induct over 100 planes in 2 years: CEO Campbell Wilson
New Delhi, Aug 13: Air India is facing challenges due to external volatility but remains focused on the profitability path and plans to induct over 100 new planes over the next two years, its CEO Campbell Wilson said on Thursday. The loss-making airline has been facing multiple headwinds, and a leadership transition is happening, with former Ethiopian Airlines Group chief Tewolde Gebremariam set to take over as the CEO and MD from Wilson. During a townhall with staff, Wilson, who is likely to leave the airline next month, said the annual salary increments will come into effect from October 1. The recently revised pay structure for pilots will also be effective on the same date, according to sources. Earlier this year, the increment cycle was deferred by one quarter amid the West Asia turmoil significantly impacting flight operations and costs. Talking about the future trajectory, Wilson said the group expects to induct over 100 new planes in the next two years and that 16 Boeing 787-8 aircraft are to be retrofitted in 2027, according to the sources. He told the employees that the airline continues to make steady progress on its transformation journey despite a challenging operating environment marked by geopolitical uncertainty, airspace disruptions, fuel price volatility and macroeconomic pressures. Currently, Air India Group, comprising Air India and Air India Express, has nearly 300 planes. Air India has more than 185 aircraft, including the wide-body fleet of 35 Boeing 787s, 19 Boeing 777-300 ERs and 6 A350-900s. Out of these wide-bodies, 26 Boeing 787-8s are legacy ones, and 3 are brand new and were inducted this year. In 2026, the airline is to induct 2 new Airbus A350-1000 aircraft. Over the past six months, Wilson said airlines worldwide have faced significant headwinds, including a surge in jet fuel prices during the March-May period, and the Pakistan airspace closure increased flight times for Indian airlines by up to three hours on various Europe and North America routes. Disruptions arising from the Iran conflict have further increased operational complexity and fuel costs. In addition, the depreciation of the rupee and softer demand on the India-US corridor due to visa restrictions and trade-related uncertainties have added to industry-wide pressures, he told the staff. According to Wilson, during temporary network curtailments resulting from airspace restrictions, fleet improvement initiatives were carried out. The townhall, which happens every quarter, took place at a time when the airline is facing regulatory heat over the Phuket-Delhi flight incident on August 4, wherein the aircraft suddenly lost 300 feet in altitude, and the pilot-in-command has tested positive for a psychoactive substance. The Aircraft Accident Investigation Bureau (AAIB) is probing the incident. It could not be immediately ascertained whether Wilson talked about the flight incident at the townhall.
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Srinagar to Get Designated Street Food Zones : SMC Commissioner
Srinagar, August 13: The Srinagar Municipal Corporation (SMC) has issued operational guidelines for establishing designated street food cart zones across Srinagar, aiming to regulate street vending while balancing vendors livelihoods with food safety, sanitation, pedestrian convenience and orderly use of public spaces. The initiative, being implemented under SMC Commissioner Fazlul Haseeb, will initially cover identified locations including Opposite JKTDC Water Sports, Dalgate Bund, Badamwari, JVC Bemina, Magarmal Bagh and Rajbagh, besides a designated site along the right side of the River Jhelum. Each zone will have a regulated holding capacity based on available space, pedestrian movement, accessibility, traffic conditions and fire-safety requirements. The objective is not merely to regulate street food vending, but to create organised, clean and dignified spaces where vendors can pursue their livelihoods while ensuring that public convenience, sanitation, pedestrian movement and the character of Srinagars public spaces are fully protected, Haseeb said. Under the new framework, food carts will have to follow standardised designs and comply with requirements related to food hygiene, potable water, waste segregation, wastewater management and fire safety. Licensed vendors will also be required to prominently display applicable municipal and FSSAI permissions, along with menu and price lists. The guidelines provide for different categories of motorised and non-motorised food carts. Motorised food vending vehicles will require the applicable clearance from the Motor Vehicles Department before receiving municipal permission. The SMC has also prescribed a structured mechanism for scrutinising applications and allotting spaces, with emphasis on transparency, fairness and adherence to the carrying capacity of individual zones. The guidelines have been framed in accordance with the Street Vendors (Protection of Livelihood and Regulation of Street Vending) Act, 2014, the Jammu and Kashmir Street Vendors Rules, 2020, and the Model Scheme notified in 2021. The Corporation said the move is intended to address problems associated with unregulated street food vending, including traffic congestion, obstruction of pedestrian movement, inadequate sanitation and improper waste disposal, while preserving Srinagars vibrant street-food culture. Srinagar has a vibrant street-food culture, and our approach is to organise and strengthen this sector rather than displace it, Haseeb said, adding that the designated zones would provide greater predictability for vendors while enabling the Corporation to maintain cleaner, safer and more accessible public spaces. The initiative is expected to provide street food vendors with a more predictable and dignified operating environment and strengthen the SMCs management of public spaces through a transparent and sustainable regulatory framework.
CE-led Committee to look into suspension issues, withheld salaries released: MD JPDCL
Jammu, Aug 13: Managing Director (MD) Jammu Power Distribution Corporation Limited (JPDCL) G P Singh has asserted that suspension of PDD employees, including engineers, will be revoked immediately if the four-member committee, after examination of all available records, finds them not guilty in power theft cases. He also requested the striking power employees and engineers, who proceeded on indefinite strike from today, to come for talks with him to deliberate on their remaining issues, in a reasonable manner. Singh, while speaking to media, stated that he had formed a committee on August 12 evening to re-look into the suspension issue, following a call given by power employees to proceed on strike from August 13, 2026 seeking revocation of (suspension) orders. In all, according to Singh, six employees were suspended and they included two linemen, two meter-readers, one Junior Engineer (JE) and one Assistant Engineer (AE), who is presently promoted to the rank of Assistant Executive Engineer (AEE). Suspensions were made under an established procedure for specific reasons, well known to all. Still keeping in view their (PDD employees) strike call, yesterday I constituted a three-member committee to re-examine the entire issue (suspension). A Chief Engineer is heading this panel while three Executive Engineers are its members. If the committee, after examining entire record, documents or inspecting site, recommends that the suspended power employees (including engineers) are not responsible in any manner for power theft in the particular areas and theyve taken all possible actions as per the procedure, under the Act, to stop it, their suspension will be revoked immediately, Singh said. The committee has been given seven-day time to submit its report. Seven-day is the outer limit. The committee, comprising the engineers and members of the same Association (which is spearheading strike), may submit the same in seven hours or in a day. If it (committee) establishes that the entire fault is that of consumers and the power employees have done everything possible to check theft, suspension will be immediately revoked, MD JPDCL said. With regard to the allegation of PDD employees that suspensions were made without hearing those who were held guilty, G P Singh pointed out that suspension was a temporary immediate measure to ensure that records were not tampered and it (suspension) was never meant to be permanent. They (employees) are given ample opportunity by the Investigating Officer to present their side during departmental inquiries initiated after suspension as per set procedures, he said. MD-JPDCL asserted that suspensions were made on the basis of inspection reports of special enforcement teams following receipts of several complaints of power theft in certain areas. Reports received in batches pointed out that the meters were bypassed. Obviously, accountability had to be fixed. But if this committee establishes that our employees are not culpable, suspension will be revoked, he reiterated. With regard to registration of FIRs, Singh stated, After my action, Ive come to know that some attempts have been made to register FIRs. But prior to that Im not in receipt of any such records showing that attempts were made to get FIRs registered (in case of power thefts). The committee constituted will also look into it and give its report. MD JPDCL said the few employees salaries, which were withheld in June or July, in wake of comparative poor performance in achieving targets given by the Centre in PM Surya Ghar scheme in Jammu region, were also released on August 12 evening, after reviewing their genuine constraints and noticing improvement in their performance. He pointed out that Jammu, unfortunately, was lagging behind in achieving the targets under the scheme. With regard to efforts to break ice with the striking employees, he said that his doors were open for further talks on their new charter of demands as well. After the constitution of the committee and release of salaries, there remains no issue for observing strike. However, this morning I received a fresh charter of demands seeking Standard Operating Procedure (SOP) vis--vis damaged meters. To frame SOP is a technical issue and it takes time as it should be in conformity with already existing Acts, including Electricity Act, guidelines of Central Electricity Authority, G P Singh said. Reference was to the demand of the protesting PDD employees for an SOP for the instructions on billing of such consumers who continue to run the power through damaged meters bypassing the meters, due to non-replacement within three months of such damage. Anyhow, Im considering issuing an order for the constitution of the committee, with the approval of competent authority, for framing an SOP for JPDCL but I need help from the same engineers who are striking. They should act in a reasonable manner and come forward for deliberations, MD JPDCL reiterated. Meanwhile, the PDD employees, on the call of Jammu and Kashmir Power Employees and Engineers Coordination Committee (JKPEECC), went on indefinite strike on Thursday, August 13, 2026 in support of their demands.
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Monsoon Session of Parliament adjourns sine die; 12 Bills passed
New Delhi, Aug 13: The Monsoon Session, 2026 of Parliament which commenced on Monday, the 20th of July, 2026 has been adjourned sine die on Thursday the 13th of August, 2026. The Session provided 19 sittings spread over a period of 25 days. During the Session 11 Bills were introduced in Lok Sabha and 2 Bills were introduced in Rajya Sabha. 12 Bills were passed by Lok Sabha and 12 Bills were passed by Rajya Sabha. Total number of Bills passed by both Houses of Parliament during the Session is 12. Two Bills replacing and encompassing the provisions of the Ordinances, namely, The Supreme Court (Number of Judges) Amendment Ordinance, 2026 and the Income-Tax (Amendment) Ordinance, 2026 which were promulgated by the President before Monsoon Session, were considered and passed by both the Houses. Demands for Excess Grants for the year 2022-23 were taken up and the related Appropriation Bill was introduced, considered and passed by Lok Sabha on 04.08.2026 and returned by the Rajya Sabha on 06.08.2026. The Foreign Contribution (Regulation) Amendment Bill, 2026 was referred to the Joint Committee of the Houses for examination and report. In order to address, with immediacy, the concerns of students relating to public examinations, the Public Examinations (Prevention of Unfair Means) Amendment Bill, 2026 was introduced to amend the parent Act of 2024 as a major initiative to strengthen the integrity and credibility of the public examination system. The Bill seeks to ensure speedy investigation and time-bound trial of offences under the Act; empower State Governments and Union Territory Administrations to designate Special Fast Track Courts and appoint Special Public Prosecutors; mandate completion of investigations within two months and trials within three months; enable the Central Government to constitute Special Task Forces for investigation, wherever necessary; enhance penalties for offences; and provide for a time-bound appellate mechanism before a Division Bench of the High Court. The Bill was passed by both Houses of Parliament and has been assented to by the President. Some other major Bills passed by both Houses during the Session are as under: The Prevention of Insults to National Honour (Amendment) Bill, 2026 seeks to amend the Act of 1971 to bring Vande Mataram, honoured as the National Song, within the ambit of Section 3 of The Prevention of Insults to National Honour Act, 1971 and proposes to make it an offence to intentionally prevent the singing of Vande Mataram or cause disturbance to any assembly engaged in its singing, thereby extending legal protection to the National Song and making such acts punishable under the Act. The Registration of Births and Deaths (Amendment) Bill, 2026 seeks to amend the parent Act of 1969 to make provisions for delayed registration of births and deaths more stringent by prescribing a streamlined verification mechanism. The Bill provides for registration after one year and up to two years only with the approval of the competent Executive Magistrate, and after two years only with the approval of a Judicial Magistrate of the First Class. The Micro, Small and Medium Enterprises Development (Amendment) Bill, 2026 seeks to amend the Act of 2006 to provide for a national digital platform for free and voluntary registration of MSMEs and strengthen the MSME sector by improving access to finance, ensuring faster adjudication of delayed payment disputes of micro and small enterprises, promoting ease of doing business, and decriminalizing offences regarding contravention of certain provisions, replacing conviction-based fines with graded penalties by including warning at the first instance. The Bankers Books Evidence Bill, 2026 seeks to expand the scope of the definition of bankers books to include all forms of records maintained by banks, whether in physical, electronic, digital, virtual, cloud-based or in any other form, thereby providing a comprehensive, technology-neutral and future-ready legal framework. It standardises certificates and recognises manual, digital and electronic authentication, while enabling electronic records to be produced physically or electronically. It further empowers the Central Government to extend coverage across the financial sector and defines special cause for judicial production. The Kerala (Alteration of Name) Bill, 2026 seeks to amend the First Schedule to the Constitution by altering the name of State of Kerala as Keralam in accordance with article 3 of the Constitution. The National Co-operative Development Corporation (Amendment) Bill, 2026 seeks to amend the National Co-operative Development Corporation Act, 1962 to expand the definition of foodstuffs to include any other food items as may be notified by the Central Government, remove the geographical restriction applicable to industrial goods, strengthen the co-operative sector by updating statutory references, removing obsolete provisions, and empowering the Corporation with necessary incidental powers. These measures will facilitate the collection and sharing of credit and other relevant information with authorized institutions, while providing greater flexibility, legal clarity and operational efficiency and enable timely, direct and responsive financial assistance for co-operative development. The Tribunals Reforms Bill, 2026 seeks to improve the efficiency, ensure independence, transparency, and uniformity in the qualifications, appointment, terms and conditions of service of Chairpersons and Members of various Tribunals, the administration and functioning of the Tribunals, to establish a National Tribunals Commission and to make consequential amendments in related enactments and for matters connected therewith or incidental thereto. The Mines and Minerals (Development and Regulation) Amendment Bill, 2026 seeks to amend the Mines and Minerals (Development and Regulation) Act, 1957 to provide certainty, stability and predictability in the fiscal regime in the mineral sector, thereby giving impetus to national economic growth which would facilitate the aims of Atmanirbhar Bharat and ultimately attaining the vision of Viksit Bharat 2047. Lists of Bills introduced in Lok Sabha, Bill referred to the Joint Committee, Bills passed by Lok Sabha, Bills introduced in Rajya Sabha, Bills passed by Rajya Sabha and Bills passed by both the Houses are attached in Annex. The productivity of Lok Sabha was approximately 19% and that of Rajya Sabha was approximately 39%. Annex LEGISLATIVE BUSINESS TRANSACTED DURING THE 8th SESSION OF 18th LOK SABHA AND 271st SESSION OF RAJYA SABHA BILLS INTRODUCED IN LOK SABHA The Supreme Court (Number of Judges) Amendment Bill, 2026 The Public Examinations (Prevention of Unfair Means) Amendment Bill, 2026 The Registration of Births and Deaths (Amendment) Bill, 2026 The Indian Statistical Institute Bill, 2026 The Bankers Books Evidence Bill, 2026 The Taxation and Other Laws (Amendment) Bill, 2026 The Appropriation (No.3) Bill,2026 The Tribunals Reforms Bill, 2026 The Mines and Minerals (Development and Regulation) Amendment Bill, 2026 The Kerala (Alteration of Name) Bill, 2026 The National Co-operative Development Corporation (Amendment) Bill, 2026 BILL INTRODUCED IN RAJYA SABHA The Prevention of Insults to National Honour (Amendment) Bill, 2026 The Micro, Small and Medium Enterprises Development (Amendment) Bill, 2026 BILL REFERRED TO THE JOINT COMMITTEE OF BOTH THE HOUSES The Foreign Contribution (Regulation) Amendment Bill, 2026 BILLS PASSED BY LOK SABHA The Public Examinations (Prevention of Unfair Means) Amendment Bill, 2026 The Prevention of Insults to National Honour (Amendment) Bill, 2026 The Registration of Births and Deaths (Amendment) Bill, 2026 The Supreme Court (Number of Judges) Amendment Bill, 2026 The Appropriation (No.3) Bill,2026 The Bankers Books Evidence Bill, 2026 The Taxation and Other Laws (Amendment) Bill, 2026 The Micro, Small and Medium Enterprises Development (Amendment) Bill, 2026 The Tribunals Reforms Bill, 2026 The Kerala (Alteration of Name) Bill, 2026 The National Co-operative Development Corporation (Amendment) Bill, 2026 The Mines and Minerals (Development and Regulation) Amendment Bill, 2026 BILLS PASSED BY RAJYA SABHA The Prevention of Insults to National Honour (Amendment) Bill, 2026 The Public Examinations (Prevention of Unfair Means) Amendment Bill, 2026 The Micro, Small and Medium Enterprises Development (Amendment) Bill, 2026 The Registration of Births and Deaths (Amendment) Bill, 2026 The Supreme Court (Number of Judges) Amendment Bill, 2026 The Appropriation (No.3) Bill,2026 The Bankers Books Evidence Bill, 2026 The Taxation and Other Laws (Amendment) Bill, 2026 The Kerala (Alteration of Name) Bill, 2026 The National Co-operative Development Corporation (Amendment) Bill, 2026 The Tribunals Reforms Bill, 2026 The Mines and Minerals (Development and Regulation) Amendment Bill, 2026 BILLS PASSED BY BOTH THE HOUSES OF PARLIAMENT The Prevention of Insults to National Honour (Amendment) Bill, 2026 The Public Examinations (Prevention of Unfair Means) Amendment Bill, 2026 The Registration of Births and Deaths (Amendment) Bill, 2026 The Supreme Court (Number of Judges) Amendment Bill, 2026 The Appropriation (No.3) Bill,2026 The Micro, Small and Medium Enterprises Development (Amendment) Bill, 2026 The Bankers Books Evidence Bill, 2026 The Taxation and Other Laws (Amendment) Bill, 2026 The Kerala (Alteration of Name) Bill, 2026 The National Co-operative Development Corporation (Amendment) Bill, 2026 The Tribunals Reforms Bill, 2026 The Mines and Minerals (Development and Regulation) Amendment Bill, 2026.
Narayana Health, NDB sign pact to share smart hospital expertise
Narayana Health and the New Development Bank have signed a knowledge-sharing agreement. This partnership aims to strengthen smart hospital capabilities and patient-centric healthcare services. The collaboration will focus on digital health and technology transfer for emerging economies. NDB president Dilma Rousseff and Narayana Health chairman Dr Devi Shetty signed the memorandum. This initiative supports NDB's mission to finance development projects in emerging markets.
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DGP reviews security preparedness, arrangements ahead of Independence Day celebrations across J&K
Srinagar, Aug 13: Director General of Police (DGP) J&K Nalin Prabhat today chaired a security review meeting at PCR Kashmir to assess security preparedness and arrangements ahead of the Independence Day celebrations across the Union Territory of J&K. The meeting was attended by Spl DGP Coordination J&K, ADGP CID J&K, IG BSF Ftr HQ Kashmir/Jammu, IG CRPF SOS/KOS/Jammu, IGP Kashmir Zone, IGP Jammu Zone, IGP Security J&K, IGP Railways J&K, IGP Traffic J&K, DIG SSB Kashmir/Jammu, all Range DIsG of J&K, DIG Armed/IRP Kashmir/Jammu, all District SSPs/PDs of J&K, SSP PCR Kashmir, SO to ADGP Armed, SO to IGP Kashmir, SSP APCR Kashmir, SP Cargo Srinagar, and other senior officers. During the meeting, DGP Nalin Prabhat reviewed the operational preparedness and stressed heightened alertness, intelligence-based operations, and prompt response to maintain a robust security grid. He also emphasised effective deployment of manpower, enhanced area domination, and close coordination with other security agencies to further strengthen the overall security apparatus. Reviewing arrangements at major venues, particularly Bakhshi Stadium, Srinagar, the DGP emphasised effective traffic regulation and parking management in and around the venue. He directed the concerned officers to ensure seamless coordination so that people attending the ceremony face minimal inconvenience and have adequate access to facilities. Detailed discussions were held on security preparedness, deployment of personnel, intelligence inputs, traffic management, and other arrangements. DGP Nalin Prabhat directed officers to intensify night patrolling and naka checking, particularly at vulnerable locations and along inter-district borders. He also stressed the need for close surveillance and effective area domination to prevent any untoward incident. The DGP further reviewed access control, anti-sabotage measures, frisking, route security, deployment, and surveillance arrangements at venues across J&K. He directed all security and law-enforcement agencies to maintain close coordination and ensure strict adherence to Standard Operating Procedures (SOPs). The meeting concluded with a firm resolve to ensure foolproof security, effective inter-agency coordination, and the smooth and peaceful conduct of Independence Day celebrations across Jammu & Kashmir.
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Sukhbir Singh Badal injured in kirpan attack in Nanded; one held
Nanded, Aug 13: Shiromani Akali Dal chief and former Punjab deputy chief minister Sukhbir Singh Badal was injured in a knife attack inside a gurdwara in Maharashtra's Nanded on Thursday, police said. A Nihang (member of a martial order of Sikhs) attacked Badal with a kirpan (curved dagger) inside the gurdwara, Nanded SP Neelabh Rohan told PTI. The assailant has been taken into custody, the IPS officer said. Badal has been admitted to a hospital, he added. A local official said Badal received two to three stitches on his hand. Badal was attacked inside the Gurdwara Mata Sahib Devan Ji Mugat around 1.45 pm. Maharashtra Chief Minister Devendra Fadnavis has ordered a probe into the attack on Badal, an official said. Fadnavis called up Badal and enquired about his health, he added. Fadnavis sought information about the incident from the Nanded Superintendent of Police and directed the police to investigate the motive behind the attack, sources said. Senior BJP leader R P Singh strongly condemned the attack on Badal and said such an act of violence is completely unacceptable. He appealed to Fadnavis to ensure that this incident is thoroughly and impartially investigated. I strongly condemn the attack on Sukhbir Singh Badal Ji in Nanded. Such an act of violence is completely unacceptable and has no place whatsoever in a democratic society. Political differences and disagreements are a natural part of democracy, but resorting to violence can never be justified, Singh said in a post on X. In December 2024, Badal survived an assassination attempt while he was performing 'sewadar duty at the Golden Temple in Amritsar after the Akal Takht pronounced the 'tankhah' (religious punishment) for mistakes committed during the party's rule in Punjab from 2007 to 2017.
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Wildlife Dept sets up control rooms across J&K amid rising animal attacks
Srinagar, Aug 13: The Jammu and Kashmir Department of Wildlife Protection has set up several control rooms across its wildlife divisions and issued a public advisory amid growing encounters between people and wild animals. The move comes amid an increase in bear and leopard attacks across the region. The department said the control rooms will strengthen response during wildlife emergencies. Several control rooms have been established in the wildlife divisions of South, North and Central Kashmir, Wetlands, Jammu, Rajouri-Poonch and Chenab Division Kishtwar. The department has urged people not to move alone in forest areas. Children and women are more vulnerable to leopard and bear attacks, it said, advising people to move in groups and ensure children are accompanied by adults. It said, people should use regular forest paths and avoid shortcuts. Forest visits for collecting firewood and other household material should be avoided in the early morning and evening, when leopard activity is higher. People should not approach or chase a wild animal if sighted. It is advisable not to make noise when a leopard is sighted, the advisory said. It said that residents living near forests should complete outdoor activities during daylight. These include fetching water, grazing livestock and collecting household material. The department has also advised people against using bushes and forest fringes for open defecation at night. It urged communities to create household or community toilet facilities. Livestock taken to forests or pastures near crop fields should be accompanied by three to four people. Bells or other sound-producing devices may be placed around the necks of some cattle, it said. Residents have been asked to keep areas around homes well-lit and clear bushes and shrubs to improve visibility. The department also warned against dumping kitchen waste around homes. This invites stray dogs to the spot which in turn invite leopard movement, it said. Cattle sheds should be made leopard proof using wooden or concrete structures, the advisory said. The control rooms have been equipped with bear and leopard cages, capture nets, tranquilising guns, thermal cameras, binoculars, searchlights, GPS devices, protective gear and communication equipment. Rescue vans and motorcycles are also available, the department said. In an emergency, people have been asked to contact the concerned wildlife control room. Where wildlife staff are unavailable, the nearest territorial forest, police or revenue officials may be contacted for assistance.
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J&K sports quota row: Ranjodh Singhs hunger strike enters day 7, protesters seek CBI probe
Jammu, Aug 13 : The sportspersons protest led by Ranjodh Singh continued as their indefinite hunger strike entered 7th day in Jammu on Thursday against the alleged irregularities in the final selection list for appointments in government departments under the sports quota. These sportspersons, protesting near the Maharaja Hari Singh statue, are demanding a CBI probe into the irregularities, fixing responsibility on every official and individual involved in allegedly manipulating the selection process. Objecting to the existing SO-12 list, they are questioning the fairness of the selection process. To substantiate their point, they wondered how four out of five gazetted appointments were made from a single category-B non-Olympic discipline and how 72 beneficiaries belonged to one assembly constituency. These irregularities pointed towards favouritism, denying deserving sportspersons their rightful opportunities. Deserving athletes who won medals in the Olympics, Commonwealth Games,Paralympicsand other recognised international events have been deliberately ignored or denied gazetted appointments, they allege, adding that instead, preference was allegedly given to individuals from sporting disciplines that were not recognised in these premier international competitions. Ranjodh, a judo player, as per his social media profile, is vice president Pradesh Youth Congress (PYC) and chairman Sports Cell PYC, J&K. While speaking to media persons, he stated that he would continue his hunger strike until their demands were met. Even if Im hospitalised, the hunger strike and protest will be continued by other protesting sportspersons. It is unfortunate that so far no one from the government has approached us, Singh said. Several political leaders, including those from Congress and BJP have extended their support to protesting sportspersons. The protests among the sportspersons erupted after the issuance of Jammu and Kashmir government's selection list dated June 10, 2026 for appointment ofoutstanding sports personsunder S O 12 of 2022. The protesting sports persons are seeking examination of all amendments to the Rules and the methodology adopted for awarding points; investigation into alleged procedural irregularity or manipulation and a transparent, merit-based sports recruitment policy protecting the interests ofathletesacross all recognised disciplines.
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A year after Chasoti cloudburst, SSB jawan recounts last video call with family, loss that followed
Jammu, Aug 13: A year after the devastating cloudburst and flash floods at Chasoti in the foothills of Machail Mata shrine in Jammu and Kashmir's Kishtwar district, Sashastra Seema Bal Head Constable Hussan Dass is left with an irreparable loss of his close relatives -- his wife, two children, mother, sister, two nephews and sister-in-law. For 38-year-old Dass, the tragedy is not merely a statistic but a daily struggle to rebuild a life shattered within hours, leaving his home in Benagarh village of RS Pura sector in Jammu deserted and mostly locked, a haunting reminder of the family he lost. The last time Dass, who was posted in Bihar at the time, saw his children was on August 14, 2005, on a video call when the family was returning from the Machail Mata shrine after paying obeisance. He had no way of knowing that the brief video call would become his last glimpse of them. I had a video call with my children on the morning of that fateful day. They were returning after paying obeisance at the shrine, Dass told PTI, his voice heavy with emotion as he struggled to hold back tears, reflecting the stoicism forged through years of tough training. A few hours later, at around 12.25 pm, Chasoti -- the last motorable village on the route to the Machail Mata temple -- was hit by a sudden cloudburst, triggering flash floods and landslides. The sudden water current gushed through the settlement, destroying a makeshift market, a langar serving pilgrims, and a security outpost, leaving behind a trail of death and destruction. After the video call, Dass said he left for duty at around 9 am. And more than three hours later, he heard about the tragedy. I desperately tried to contact my family, but their phones were switched off, he said, adding that the silence that followed became the defining sound of the past year. Dass's family had travelled to Machail Mata on August 12. Among them were his wife Mumta Rani (35), daughter Anansi Mehra (8), son Arshil (5), and mother Jeeto Devi (72). His sister Jinny Devi (42), her son Ritik Mehra (10) and daughter Pehu (15) of Bishnah, and sister-in-law Rahi Mehra (32) of Resham Garh were also with them. They were my family. Only my wife's body could be recovered, while the whereabouts of the others remain unknown, he said. The Sashastra Seema Bal, Dass said, did not stand aside. My unit moved and joined the search for the missing, but they could not be found, he said. Search teams combed through the affected area for more than one month, but there was no final farewell for the missing members. An RTI application filed by Jammu-based activist Raman Kumar Sharma with the Kishtwar district administration has provided an official snapshot of the disaster. According to the reply shared by Sharma with PTI, the district administration confirmed the death of 63 persons, 127 injured and 30 others missing following the tragedy. The RTI reply also stated that Rs 2.52 crore was sanctioned under the State Disaster Response Fund for the deceased, calculated at Rs 4 lakh per deceased person. Dass said he received compensation only for his wife because her death alone could be established through documentary proof. No relief was given for the rest. The RTI application had specifically sought details of compensation and ex-gratia released to the families of the deceased and injured, as well as details of the steps taken to recover missing persons. The response, however, does not provide all the documentary details the applicant sought. For Dass, the issue is not just about money. No compensation can bring them back, he says. What remains is the struggle to live without them. After the tragedy, Dass said, he is left with his father Mangal Dass, aged 80. The family that once included his children, parents, siblings and spouse has now been reduced to a much smaller circle, leaving him with responsibilities he never had to bear alone before August 14 last year. He said he must continue his service, care for his ageing father and somehow carry the immense emotional burden of losing almost his entire family. For a man in uniform, duty does not stop because life outside work has fallen apart, he said, adding that he still has to fulfil his responsibilities even when the pain of his personal loss follows him. Dass said he remains grateful to his organisation for posting him close to home, allowing him to stay with his ailing father, and shoulder his responsibilities at a difficult time. The SSB jawan's brother-in-law Sonu Kumar, who lost his wife, son and daughter, said he had a deep foreboding when his family left for the pilgrimage. His wife had said that she had already visited the temple twice and that this would be her hird and final visit -- words that turned prophetic and therefore, haunting. Kumar said he has received the death certificates of his family members though their bodies remain untraced, but has not received any compensation so far. Initially, we held on to the agonising hope that they might still be found alive, but as the days passed, that hope slowly faded, leaving us struggling to come to terms with the unbearable loss, he said. Senior BJP leader and Leader of Opposition in the Jammu and Kashmir Legislative Assembly Sunil Sharma said the tragedy remains an unforgettable and deeply painful memory, regretting that the families of those missing are yet to receive compensation due to the six-year rule, despite repeated demands for relaxation. Sharma, who had camped in the affected area throughout the rescue and relief operations since it falls within his Assembly constituency, said the rehabilitation, reconstruction, restoration and safety works were underway with the National Hydroelectric Power Corporation and a non-governmental organisation coming forward with assistance. He urged the government to immediately extend financial assistance and other benefits to the families of those still missing, noting that after a year, the chances of recovering their bodies from the Chenab river had become virtually impossible.
Full dress rehearsal for Independence Day held in Srinagar
Srinagar, Aug 13: A full dress rehearsal for the main Independence Day function in Jammu and Kashmir was held here on Thursday. Kashmir Divisional Commissioner Anshul Garg inspected the parade and took the salute at Bakshi Stadium, venue for the main Independence Day function. Contingents of various security forces participated in the march past. Various senior civil administration and police officers were present on the occasion, which saw cultural programmes presented by school students and Army choppers shower flower petals. Full dress rehearsals were also held at the district headquarters across the Valley. Speaking to reporters, the divisional commissioner invited the people of Kashmir to participate in the celebrations at the main event or at respective district headquarters. Inspector General of Police V K Birdi said robust security arrangements were in place for the Independence Day celebrations on August 15. Full dress rehearsals were held across various districts in the Valley. Alongside this, a full dress rehearsal of the security arrangements was also conducted so that we can smoothly conduct our main programme on August 15, Birdi told reporters. Asked whether any additional security measures have been taken in view of the recent attacks in south Kashmir, Birdi said robust security arrangements have been put in place by the police in the respective districts. To a question about media reports claiming that al-Qaeda was behind the Red Fort blast in Delhi on November 25 last year, Birdi said o such thing has come to our notice so far. He also appealed to the public to participate in large numbers in the August 15 functions taking place across districts to make the event a success.
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Robust security setup in place across Kashmir ahead of August 15 events: IGP Birdi
Srinagar, Aug 13: Security agencies across Kashmir on Thursday conducted full dress rehearsals for Independence Day celebrations, with Inspector General of Police Kashmir Vidhi Kumar Birdi saying that a robust security setup has been put in place across the Valley. Speaking to reporters, Birdi said full dress rehearsals were held in different districts along with rehearsals of security arrangements ahead of the main August 15 programmes. As you all know, today a full dress rehearsal for the August 15 functions is being held across Kashmir, Birdi said. Full dress rehearsals have been conducted in different districts of the Valley, along with rehearsals of the security arrangements, so that we can conduct the main programme on August 15 smoothly. Asked about a recent security report claiming that Al-Qaeda was behind the November 25 Red Fort blast in which Dr Umar was killed, Birdi declined to comment on the report, saying the issue was not appropriate to discuss on the occasion. I think this is not appropriate to discuss on this occasion, he said, adding that any information, if available, would be conveyed separately. But, as you have said, such a thing is not in our knowledge so far, which you are bringing to light. On security measures following recent attacks, the IGP said investigations were continuing in the areas where the incidents had occurred, while district-level security arrangements were being strengthened. Investigations are underway, Birdi said. Apart from that, all the robust security arrangements are being organised by the respective districts. There is quite a robust security setup. Birdi also appealed to people to participate in large numbers in Independence Day programmes being organised across Kashmir. August 15 is a national event, he said. We appeal to the people to come in large numbers and participate in the August 15 events being held in the districts, different administrative units and at the UT capital, and make them successful. Asked about a threat circulating on social media, Birdi said the focus at present remained on security arrangements for Independence Day. I think, for now, we should limit ourselves to August 15 and its security, he said.
Full dress rehearsal held across Kashmir ahead of August 15, security arrangements reviewed: IGP
Full dress rehearsal held at Bakshi Stadium ahead of Independence Day
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UN report links AQIS to November 2025 Red Fort blast
New Delhi, August 13: A United Nations Security Council monitoring report has officially attributed the November 2025 blast near Delhis Red Fort to Al-Qaeda in the Indian Subcontinent (AQIS), The Indian Express reported. The blast on November 10, 2025, killed 11 people and injured several others. The UN assessment comes as the National Investigation Agency continues its probe into the attack. The biannual report, made public this week, said: The attack in November 2025 on the Red Fort in Delhi was officially attributed to AQIS. There was some concern about AQIS trying to exploit Bangladesh to establish cells there. The NIA has alleged that those chargesheeted in the case were linked to Ansar Ghazwat-ul-Hind (AGuH), which the agency describes as an offshoot of AQIS. In May, the agency filed a 7,500-page chargesheet against 10 accused, including the deceased alleged main perpetrator, Dr Umer Un Nabi. However, the charges against the accused are yet to be judicially tested, with the court yet to take cognisance of the NIA chargesheet.
Come, celebrate Independence Day with enthusiasm: Div Com Kashmir invites people to Bakshi Stadium
Srinagar, Aug 13: Divisional Commissioner Kashmir Anshul Garg on Thursday invited people from across Kashmir to attend the Union Territory-level Independence Day celebrations at Bakshi Stadium, Srinagar and celebrate the occasion with a lot of enthusiasm. Speaking to reporters in Srinagar Garg said all arrangements for the August 15 event had been finalised, with parade contingents, schoolchildren and various departments participating in the rehearsal. I would like to congratulate all the people of Kashmir and the citizens of Srinagar on the occasion of Independence Day in advance. I would also like to invite everyone to come to Bakshi Stadium on August 15 and be a part of this national event, he said, as per the news agencyKashmir News Observer (KNO). He said people could attend Independence Day celebrations at their respective district or regional headquarters, while those wishing to participate in the UT-level function at Bakshi Stadium were welcome to do so. My appeal to all of you is that on August 15, we will celebrate this with a lot of enthusiasm, Garg said. On entry arrangements, the Divisional Commissioner said there would be free entry for the public at Bakshi Stadium, as in previous years. He added that detailed arrangements had been made to facilitate visitors and ensure basic amenities, including drinking water, toilet facilities and refreshments, at the venue. Garg said security arrangements had also been put in place in coordination with various security agencies, with regular reviews being conducted ahead of the national event. Coordination meetings have been held with the security agencies and at the level of IG, the reviews are constantly going on, he said. Meanwhile, the full dress rehearsal was held at Bakshi Stadium to give a final run-through of preparations for the main Independence Day programme. The rehearsal involved various departments, parade contingents and schoolchildren who will participate in the August 15 celebrations.(KNO)
All arrangements in place for August 15 celebrations: Div Com Kashmir
