Birthday Cake Dispute Turns Deadly in Jammu; Two Brothers Arrested for Mans Killing
Jammu, Sep 18: A birthday celebration in Jammu turned tragic after a young man was allegedly stabbed to death following a dispute that reportedly began when cake was smeared on the birthday boys face, police said on Friday. According to police, the incident took place on September 17 near Lower Roop Nagar, where a group of friends had gathered for a birthday celebration. Police said Police Post GMC Jammu informed Police Station Janipur that a man identified as Pawan Nair alias Sameer had been brought to Government Medical College (GMC) Jammu in an injured condition. He was accompanied by his friends John Sotra, Gaurav Singh and Sugandh Bhatti. Doctors at GMC Jammu examined the injured man and declared him brought dead, police said. Following the information, a team from Police Station Janipur immediately reached the hospital and began inquiries into the circumstances surrounding the death. Preliminary investigation revealed that Neeraj alias Anshu was celebrating his birthday near Lower Roop Nagar in the presence of his friends, including Pawan Nair alias Sameer. Neerajs brother Rishu was also reportedly present at the spot. Police said a confrontation broke out during the cake-cutting ceremony after Pawan allegedly smeared cake on Neerajs face. The act reportedly led to a heated exchange between the two. As their friends attempted to intervene and calm the situation, Neeraj allegedly took out a khokhri that he was carrying and attacked Pawan, causing a serious injury to his neck. The injured man was rushed to GMC Jammu by his friends. However, despite being taken to the hospital, he was declared dead by the attending doctors. Following the incident, Police Station Janipur registered a case under Section 103(1) of the Bharatiya Nyaya Sanhita (BNS) and launched a detailed investigation. Police said that acting swiftly, they apprehended Neeraj alias Anshu and his brother Rishu, who are currently in police custody at Police Station Janipur in connection with the case. The police have also initiated proceedings to recover the alleged weapon used in the crime. The body of the deceased has been shifted to the mortuary for post-mortem examination. Further investigation is underway to establish the complete sequence of events and determine the role of all persons involved. Jammu Police said that strict and time-bound action will be taken in accordance with law. (KNC)
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EOW Kashmir arrests fraudster in Rs 93 lakh land, property fraud case
Srinagar, Sep 18: The Economic Offences Wing (EOW) Kashmir of the Crime Branch J&K has arrested an alleged fraudster in connection with a Rs 93 lakh land and property cheating case, officials said. The accused, identified as Ghulam Mohi-Ud-Din Dar, son of Abdul Khaliq Dar and a resident of Jawalapora, Samson Budgam, was arrested in compliance with an order and warrant issued by the Court of Sub-Judge, Srinagar. According to the Crime Branch, Dar had been evading arrest for the past year and is allegedly involved in multiple criminal cases registered with Police Station EOW Kashmir/SCW Kashmir. The arrest is linked to FIR No. 17/2026, registered at Police Station EOW Kashmir under Sections 318(4), 338, 340 and 61(2) of the Bharatiya Nyaya Sanhita (BNS). The case stems from a written complaint alleging that Dar, a land broker, cheated the victim of Rs 93 lakh in connivance with co-accused Soom Nath Koul, son of Kalash Nath Koul, a resident of Lotus Tower, Bangalore North, Karnataka, with links to Janipur, Jammu. Investigators said the accused allegedly offered to sell five kanals of migrant land in Drusu, Pulwama, along with 300 standing trees in Bijbehara, using forged agreements to facilitate the transactions. The Crime Branch further alleged that a bank account used to route the cheated money was opened on the same day the funds were transferred, allegedly for the purpose of executing the fraud. According to investigators, the accused duo allegedly targeted people by making false promises of selling migrant property while claiming to be its owners or authorised attorney holders. A Hue and Cry Notice remains in force against the absconding co-accused, Soom Nath Koul. Further investigation into the alleged fraud network and its operations is underway, the Crime Branch said.
Mamata-led TMC submits names, symbol choices to EC 'under strongest protest'
New Delhi, Sep 18: The Trinamool Congress, led by its founder and chairperson Mamata Banerjee, submitted its response to the Election Commission's interim order that temporarily removed the All India Trinamool Congress (AITC) name and its flowers and grass symbol from the ballot for the October 6 bypolls in West Bengal. The party emailed its choices of new names and symbols for the upcoming elections to the poll panel at 11:36 pm on Thursday and submitted them under strongest protest, according to sources. In its interim order issued on Thursday night, the Election Commission directed the two sides in the dispute over the All India Trinamool Congress (AITC) not to use the party name and its flowers and grass symbol for the upcoming West Bengal bypolls, and asked them to submit their preferred names and symbols by Friday morning. The EC said the proposed name could be similar to All India Trinamool Congress, and the symbol must be chosen from the list of free or available symbols notified for independents and registered unrecognised political parties. The bypolls to Rejinagar and Nandigram are scheduled for October 6. The poll panel said the time available was not enough to complete the proceedings under Paragraph 15 of the Election Symbols (Reservation and Allotment) Order, 1968, but noted the urgency of the party name and symbol for the upcoming by-elections. The EC said the interim arrangement was made specifically to cover the upcoming bypolls and would remain in force until the dispute is finally determined under Paragraph 15 of the Symbols Order. The EC order comes against the backdrop of a rebellion that began in the TMC legislature party after the Assembly poll defeat in May and later spread to Parliament. In June, 58 rebel MLAs elected expelled leader Ritabrata Banerjee as Leader of Opposition instead of the Mamata camp's nominee, Sovandeb Chattopadhyay, and secured recognition from the Assembly Speaker, marking the party's first split in its 28-year history. Five days later, the revolt reached Parliament, with 20 Lok Sabha MPs led by senior leader Kakoli Ghosh Dastidar joining the little-known NCPI and writing to Speaker Om Birla, backing the BJP-led NDA as a separate bloc, deepening the rupture in the party's parliamentary ranks. The move is a setback for Mamata, whose hand-drawn symbol has been central to TMC's journey since its formation in 1998 after breaking away from the Congress. The flowers and grass symbol became a potent expression of the party's grassroots identity for the last 28 years.
Rupee settles 2 paise up at 95.89 against US dollar after breaching 96 level
Mumbai, Sep 18: The rupee staged a spirited recovery after slipping below the 96 level intraday and settled higher by 2 paise at 95.89 against the US dollar on Thursday on heavy dollar selling by banks, snapping its seven-day falling streak. The local currency breached the 96 level to hit a low of 96.10 to a dollar in day trade after a 25 basis point rate hike by the US Federal Reserve, sustained foreign fund outflows from stock markets and high crude oil rates. Forex traders said that dollar selling by banks on behalf of the RBI helped the local unit recoup losses and hit a high of 95.78 to a dollar. A slight correction in the dollar index and crude oil prices also supported investor sentiment despite global geopolitical volatility, they added. At the interbank foreign exchange market, the rupee opened higher at 95.88 but soon reversed gains and hit the intraday low of 96.10, breaching the 96 level for the first time since July 24. The unit recovered during the session and touched the high of 95.78 before settling at 95.89 against the US dollar, up 2 paise from the previous closing level, breaking the seven-day falling trend. The Indian rupee experienced a highly volatile trading session on Thursday, initially buckling under a hawkish Fed onslaught and weaker Asian currency sentiment. However, those early losses proved fleeting as aggressive central bank intervention swooped in with heavy-handed dollar defence, pulling the local unit off the canvas to secure marginal gains, Dilip Parmar Senior Research Analyst, HDFC Securities. Parmar further noted that urning to the technical outlook, the spot USD/INR pair remains in an overall upward trend following its recent surge, though we anticipate a period of short-term consolidation with key support around 95.45 and resistance capped at 96.30. On Wednesday, the local unit ended 3 paise lower at 95.91 against the American currency, extending its downward trend for the seventh session in a row. In the preceding six sessions, the rupee has lost 148 paise, or more than 1.4 per cent, since the closing level of 94.43 against the greenback recorded on September 4. Meanwhile, the dollar index, which gauges the greenback's strength against a basket of six currencies, was trading 0.05 per cent lower at 99.92. Brent crude, the global oil benchmark, was trading 1.29 per cent lower at USD 104.47 per barrel in futures trade. Dealers said global trade uncertainties after the House of Representatives cleared a law authorising President Donald Trump to impose up to a 100 per cent tariff on India and other countries importing Russian oil weighed on the local unit. The domestic unit was also weighed down after the US Federal Reserve hiked interest rates for the first time in three years amid rising inflation, they said. In domestic equities, Sensex fell 21.86 points, or 0.03 per cent, to settle at 74,314.59, while the Nifty ended with a gain of 53.00 points, or 0.23 per cent, at 23,270.60. Foreign institutional investors (FIIs) offloaded equities worth Rs 3,208.76 crore on a net basis on Thursday, according to exchange data.
Scientists turn fish scales into biodegradable plastic that breaks down in soil in just 8 weeks
Washington, Sep 18: OpenAI has disclosed six reports of unexpected or concerning behavior in artificial-intelligence models as the debate on AI safety becomes increasingly heated. The AI company also said Wednesday it was introducing a new framework for tracking, probing and disclosing instances of what it called misalignment, including cases where AI models acted without authorization, coordinated with other models or evaded oversight. OpenAI's latest announcement came as US AI bosses, including the leaders of OpenAI and Anthropic, are calling for a slowdown in the technology's development over safety concerns. Among the new cases reported by OpenAI, an unreleased research model inserted jailbreak-like instructions into its own notes to disregard its normal constraints and told itself to be freed from the roles and identities that bind other chatbots. In another instance, an AI agent used computer code to come up with the answer to a question, but, in order to have an online source to cite, it uploaded a file to the public internet without asking the user. During training of an AI model called 5.6-Sol, the model instructed itself to invent missing data, and an agent wrote a message to remind itself to hide mismatched information. This kind of deceitful behavior has underpinned a flare-up of recent concerns about AI evading human control. But that outcome is not surprising to some AI researchers, said Matt Fredrikson, an associate professor at Carnegie Mellon University and the CEO of Gray Swan AI. At the risk of anthropomorphizing model behavior, you can almost think of them as knowing that they're going to be graded, Fredrikson said. If they know that they cheated took shortcuts, didn't really do it in the way that it was intended and they know they're going to be evaluated on it, and their objective is to get a good evaluation, then it makes perfect sense, right? The six reports were discovered during training or evaluation over the past months, OpenAI said. As AI systems grow more advanced and more widely deployed, we need to build a broader and better-informed consensus on the progress of alignment research, OpenAI wrote in a blog post as it disclosed the events. Decisions about how AI development should proceed in the months and years to come need to draw on evidence that people outside the companies building frontier models can examine for themselves, the company said. Wednesday's new cases followed OpenAI's disclosure in July that its rogue AI system hacked into AI startup Hugging Face. Anthropic also said the same month that its AI models hacked into three organizations during testing. AI agents are becoming smarter and have become more determined to resolve complex tasks through inter-agent collaboration, knowledge sharing, deception, and concealment, said Lian Jye Su, a chief analyst at technology research and advisory group Omdia. That's making it harder to govern and contain them using traditional AI security approaches, he said. OpenAI's new tracking and disclosure framework, meanwhile, can help push for other AI developers to also adopt similar practices. That said, the process remains internal and voluntary, but is a step in the right direction, Su added.
What to know after a week of Houthi attacks that threaten Saudi oil and have rattled world markets
Cairo, Sep 17: It's been a week since Yemen's Iran-backed Houthi rebels stormed down the Red Sea coast, extending their reach to a key maritime chokepoint and threatening Saudi Arabia's oil exports. The Houthis' biggest land grab in years reignited Yemen's 12-year civil war and pushed up global fuel prices. It also gave Iran another potential source of leverage as the United States has started to loosen Tehran's grip on the Strait of Hormuz, on the other side of the Arabian Peninsula. The Houthis are also firing at Saudi oil facilities and tankers. An attack on Saudi Arabia's east-west pipeline, blamed on Iran-backed militias in Iraq, added to an unfolding nightmare for the kingdom and rattled world markets. The rebel blitz has forced some 125,000 Yemenis to flee their homes. The civil war has killed over 150,000 people and at times pushed the country to the brink of famine. Now the rebels appear to be eyeing Yemen's oil-rich east. So far, the only thing standing in their way is Yemen's Saudi-backed government and an array of forces that have fought each other as recently as January. Saudi Arabia's most important ally, the US, appears to be sitting this one out. The Houthis are fighting on several fronts The Houthis captured the important Red Sea port city of Mokha before taking several islands near the narrow Bab el-Mandeb strait, through which some 12 per cent of world trade passes in peacetime. They are also just 32 kilometres (20 miles) from Djibouti, a small African nation hosting US and other military bases. The Houthis first swept down from their northern heartland in 2014, capturing the capital, Sanaa, and much of northern Yemen. Saudi Arabia intervened the following year, and fighting raged until a 2022 ceasefire. In recent days, there has been heavy fighting in and around Marib, a central city in an oil-rich province of the same name. Previous Houthi offensives have failed to capture the city, which also serves as a military hub for Saudi-backed forces. The Houthis also threaten the western city of Taiz, a front line for much of the conflict. Tightening the noose on the world's largest oil exporter The Houthis want Saudi Arabia to lift a long-running blockade on the territory they control. It is Saudi Arabia that closed the Bab el-Mandeb strait to shipping traffic to and from Yemen and imposed an unjust blockade on the country, Mohammed al-Bukhaiti, a member of the Houthis' political bureau, told The Associated Press. The Saudis and their allies have long struggled to contain or deter the Houthis, and may be tempted to seek a diplomatic solution to halt the attacks. That might ultimately require US concessions to Iran, the only country with leverage over the Houthis. The US, which bombed the Houthis under the Biden and Trump administrations, has shown no interest in getting involved this time around, and the Houthis appear keen to keep it that way. They say they are only attacking Saudi shipping. Traffic has recovered in the Red Sea, for now Windward, a shipping firm, reported a dip in traffic through the Bab el-Mandeb from 35 daily transits before the Houthi advance to 25 after, but traffic has already recovered and climbed to 45 transits on Sunday. The Houthis could still expand their target bank beyond Saudi ships and tankers. During their self-styled blockade of Israel at the height of the war in Gaza, the Houthis attacked ships in the Red Sea with no known connection to that conflict. At the moment, their focus is on Saudi-linked shipping, said Valentin d'Hauthuille, a Middle East analyst at ACLED, a conflict monitor. But they might extend the criteria according to which vessels are assessed to be Saudi-linked' to increase pressure on both Saudi Arabia and the global economy. There are signs of diplomacy, but the cost could be high Regional mediators have sprung into action, but a diplomatic agreement appears unlikely without some kind of breakthrough in the wider Iran war. Iran wants the US to lift a blockade and sanctions that have devastated its economy, while the US seeks the full reopening of the Strait of Hormuz and a deal to roll back Tehran's nuclear program. Neither side has shown any sign of budging since a preliminary agreement quickly crumbled over the summer. Last weekend, Oman hosted a meeting between US and Houthi representatives, a Houthi official and another individual familiar with the talks told The Associated Press this week. The US says it has been in constant contact with the Saudis, a close ally and the recipient of billions of dollars in American military assistance. Saudi Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman recently visited Egypt, which has served as a regional mediator. A government official in Turkiye, another potential mediator, said this week that it was in talks with Iran and the United Arab Emirates to try and lower tensions. The Houthi attacks are the first test of a new defence pact among Saudi Arabia, NATO member Turkiye and nuclear power Pakistan. But officials from Turkiye and Pakistan say they have not received a Saudi request for support. The humanitarian situation in Yemen is worsening The latest fighting has killed eight civilians and wounded another 32, according to the UN humanitarian office, which says an estimated 125,000 people have fled their homes. The Health Ministry in the Saudi-backed government says the Houthis have killed around 150 civilians since Sept. 3. Saudi Arabia said Thursday that debris from an intercepted Houthi drone killed one person and wounded two others in the kingdom. Yemen was the poorest Arab country even before the civil war, and has experienced widespread hunger in recent years because of the conflict and the Saudi-led blockade. The Houthis' detention of UN and aid workers has hampered international assistance in the territories they control. Experts say the Houthis have struggled to pay civil servants, leading to some unrest, and have diverted much of their tax revenues to their military wing. The UN humanitarian office, known as OCHA, says only 20 per cent of its humanitarian appeal for Yemen has been funded, and that millions risk losing access to food, healthcare, nutrition, water and protection services. The needs are extremely high right now, said Sara Ahmed, a supervisor with Doctors Without Borders in Mokha. Doctors are working under difficult conditions to keep essential services running despite hearing airstrikes, she said. Mahida Ahmed fled the fighting in Mokha and is now sheltering in a displacement camp in Aden, where the Saudi-backed government is headquartered. She said she left in a hurry, with her children but no belongings, while her husband is still stranded in Mokha. This war has been completely devastating for us, she said.
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Hakeem Yaseen urges Govt to expedite liver transplant programme at SKIMS
Jammu and Kashmir Peoples Democratic Front (PDF) President and former Minister Hakeem Mohammad Yaseen on Thursday expressed concern over the growing burden of liver diseases in Jammu and Kashmir and urged the Union and J&K governments to establish a fully functional liver transplant facility in the region. Yaseen, as per a statement, said patients suffering from advanced liver diseases, particularly those from economically weaker sections, are often compelled to travel outside Jammu and Kashmir for specialised treatment, placing a heavy financial and emotional burden on their families. Liver diseases have become a serious health concern in Jammu and Kashmir. Poor patients are among the worst affected as they are forced to travel outside the Union Territory for treatment, which involves huge expenses for travel, accommodation, medical procedures and prolonged follow-up, Yaseen said. He said the absence of a comprehensive liver transplant facility in J&K was creating a significant healthcare gap and called for urgent intervention to address it. Yaseen referred to earlier efforts at Sher-i-Kashmir Institute of Medical Sciences (SKIMS) to establish a liver transplant programme, saying the initiative needs to be taken forward on a time-bound basis. SKIMS had in August 2024 held a comprehensive programme with leading liver-transplant experts to discuss a roadmap for starting the facility. The institute had said that the programme would require requisite infrastructure, protocols and a transplant licence.
Altaf Bukhari, party leaders visit bereaved family at Chewa, Bandipora
Apni Party President Syed Mohammad Altaf Bukhari, along with other senior party leaders, on Thursday visited Chewa in Bandipora to offer condolences to the bereaved family of Abdul Rashid Gorshi on the 40th day of his passing. They party leaders, as per a statement issued, expressed their heartfelt sympathies and prayed for peace for the departed soul, as well as strength and solace for the entire family. Pertinently, the family is originally from Kalakote but is currently residing at Chewa, Bandipora, where they are staying in a Bakerwal tent. The visiting party leaders expressed solidarity with Tazheem Gujar, daughter of the deceased and an active member of Apni Party. They prayed that Almighty Allah grants the family courage, patience, and strength during this difficult time. Besides Syed Mohammad Altaf Bukhari the other senior party leaders in the delegation included Senior Vice President Ghulam Hassan Mir, District President Bandipora Shafat Qazmi, Senior Leader & Sonawari Constituency In-charge Imtiyaz Parray, and Sameer Iqbal Bhat, and several senior party workers.
Karra raises statehood, unemployment, healthcare issues at Congress outreach in Jammu
The Jammu and Kashmir Pradesh Congress Committee (JKPCC) on Thursday stepped up its grassroots outreach with a Chopal Pe Charcha at Digiana Rani Talab, bringing into focus a wide spectrum of issues confronting people across Jammu and Kashmir, from the prolonged demand for restoration of statehood and unemployment to healthcare and education vacancies, the concerns of daily wagers and NHM employees, farmers problems, deteriorating infrastructure and the rising cost of living. The programme, as per a statement, was organised by the District Jammu Congress Committee under the presidentship of Yogesh Sawhney and hosted by Dwarka Chowdhary, former Corporator and Incharge Bishnah Constituency. Former MP Choudhary Lal Singh, S.T.S. Tony, Rajneesh Sharma, Th. Manmohan Singh, Satish Sharma and Dwarka Chowdhary also addressed the gathering and spoke on various issues concerning the people and the need for greater attention to grassroots grievances. Addressing the gathering, JKPCC President Tariq Hameed Karra said the Congress was using the Chopal Pe Charcha platform to take public concerns beyond political offices and place them directly before the people. He prominently raised the issue described by the Congress as Chanda Chori, besides reiterating the demand for restoration of full statehood to Jammu and Kashmir. Karra has in recent weeks repeatedly argued that the absence of full statehood has created a situation in which people are caught between two centres of authority, and has sought accountability over commitments made regarding restoration of statehood. Karra also focused on the employment and livelihood concerns of the Union Territory, particularly those affecting its youth. He referred to unemployment, recruitment-related grievances and examination controversies, while stressing that the aspirations of young people cannot be addressed merely through announcements. He raised the long-pending concerns of daily wagers and other temporary employees, as well as stipend-related issues of medical interns and the demands of NHM employees for better job security and service conditions. The Congress has recently highlighted the NHM agitation and demands concerning job security, remuneration and social-security benefits as major public issues. The JKPCC chief further drew attention to shortages of staff in hospitals, schools and colleges, inadequate infrastructure, broken roads, farmers difficulties, inflation and the pressures confronting ordinary households and small businesses. He also referred to concerns surrounding charges on specified UPI merchant transactions and said economic policies must be examined from the perspective of their impact on common people. Karra maintained that the youth, whom he described as the backbone of the country, require greater opportunities in employment, education and entrepreneurship, while public institutions need adequate manpower and infrastructure to deliver essential services. JKPCC Working President Raman Bhalla said that people across Jammu and Kashmir seeking tangible outcomes on employment, public services, statehood and economic reliefHe said the issues raised during the Chopal Pe Charcha reflected concerns extending well beyond Jammu city and affecting different sections of society across the Union Territory. He highlighted unemployment and recruitment delays, the condition of healthcare facilities, shortages of doctors and other staff, poor roads and civic infrastructure, regularisation of daily wagers, farmers concerns, challenges faced by traders and the wider economic pressure created by rising prices and utility costs.
Dr Darakhshan Andrabi reviews Urs arrangements at Dastgeer Sahib (RA) shrine
Chairperson, J&K Waqf Board and Minister of State, Dr Syed Darakhshan Andrabi Thursday visited the historic Dastgeer Sahib Shrine at Khanyar, Srinagar, and reviewed the arrangements being put in place for devotees, particularly in view of the ongoing Urs days. Dr Andrabi, as per a statement issued, paid obeisance at the revered shrine and prayed for the welfare, peace and prosperity of all. During her visit, she inspected the cleanliness arrangements, facilities for devotees and the ongoing developmental and beautification works being executed by the J&K Waqf Board. Waqf Board Member Syed Mohammad Haqqani and Ishtiyaq Mohiuddin, Executive Magistrate & Tehsildar also accompanied the Chairperson during the visit. Dr Andrabi directed the concerned officials to ensure the timely completion of all ongoing works while maintaining the sanctity, dignity and historic heritage of the shrine. She also took detailed feedback from the officials regarding the facilities being provided to devotees visiting the shrine.
Farooq Abdullah condemns drone incident near Makkah
The Jammu and Kashmir National Conference President Dr Farooq Abdullah Thursday expressed deep concern and anguish over the reported drone incident near the Holy city of Makkah Mukarramah, allegedly involving Houthi rebels, stating that the sanctity and honour of the Haramain Sharifain are deeply connected with the faith and sentiments of the entire Muslim Ummah and must not be put at risk under any circumstances. Dr Farooq Abdullah, as per a party statement, said that an incident of this nature near the holy city is deeply disturbing and has the potential to hurt the sentiments of Muslims across the world. He said, Makkah Mukarramah and Madinah Munawwarah are not merely sacred places in Saudi Arabia but hold unparalleled religious significance for Muslims across the globe. The Holy Kaaba is the Qibla of Muslims, while Masjid-e-Nabawi occupies a place of extraordinary reverence in their hearts. Ensuring the safety and security of these sacred sites, protecting pilgrims and devotees performing Hajj and Umrah and maintaining peace and tranquillity are matters of fundamental importance to the entire Muslim world. Dr Farooq Abdullah said that West Asia is already facing prolonged wars, tensions and humanitarian crises. Ongoing conflicts in Yemen and other parts of the region have had a devastating impact on civilians, economies, infrastructure and regional peace. In such circumstances, further military confrontation cannot provide a lasting solution to the regions problems. He said that in view of the continuing bloodshed in Palestine and the escalating tensions in other parts of the region, the Muslim world must promote peace, unity, mutual respect and understanding instead of further division and confrontation. Differences and disputes among Muslims should be resolved through dialogue and diplomatic means rather than the use of force. Dr Farooq Abdullah prayed for the safety and security of the Haramain Sharifain, peace and stability in the region, and the protection and well-being of all humanity. He said that in the prevailing circumstances, the Muslim Ummah must demonstrate unity, patience, wisdom and foresight rather than allowing itself to be driven by emotional divisions. Meanwhile, Patron of J&K Jamait Hamdani Moulana Riyaz Hamdani also condemned the drone attack on Makkah.
Speaker chairs All Party, BAC meeting ahead of Autumn Session
Speaker, Jammu and Kashmir Legislative Assembly (JKLA), Abdul Rahim Rather, today chaired a meeting of the All Party cum Business Advisory Committee (BAC) ahead of the Autumn Session of the Legislative Assembly, scheduled to commence on September 21, 2026, with a focus on ensuring smooth, orderly and people-oriented functioning of the House. The meeting was attended by Leader of Opposition Sunil Kumar Sharma, Ali Mohammad Sagar, Mubarik Gul, Mohammad Yousuf Tarigami, Nizamuddin Bhat, Sajad Gani Lone, Mir Mohammad Fayaz and Choudhary Mohammad Akram. The Speaker sought their valuable suggestions for making the forthcoming Assembly Session more fruitful, meaningful and responsive to public concerns. He emphasised the need to provide adequate opportunities to the elected representatives to raise issues pertaining to their respective constituencies and bring matters of public importance to the floor of the House. The Speaker called for coordinated efforts by all stakeholders to ensure the smooth and effective conduct of the Assembly proceedings. He underlined that the legislative institution carries a significant responsibility towards the people of Jammu and Kashmir. Every eye is on the proceedings of the Assembly and the people are watching how their elected representatives articulate their grievances and raise issues of public importance in the House. This places a great responsibility on every member. It is, therefore, imperative that all members conduct themselves with due regard to the dignity, discipline and decorum of the House, maintaining the Speaker. He stressed that parliamentary debate should remain focused on public welfare, constructive deliberations and the effective articulation of issues confronting the people, while maintaining the established conventions and dignity of the legislature. During the meeting, the members of the Business Advisory Committee put forward a range of valuable suggestions aimed at making the Session more relevant, inclusive and responsive to public aspirations. The members emphasised the importance of providing sufficient opportunities to legislators to raise constituency-specific concerns and matters requiring the attention of the government. Among the key suggestions discussed was the conduct of Zero Hour, with members proposing that Chief Whips and party leaders should identify the members who would participate and furnish the requisite list in advance to facilitate effective management of the proceedings. The members also suggested that mobile phone usage inside the Assembly Hall should not be permitted, in order to maintain discipline, attentiveness and the decorum of the House. Emphasis was also laid on timely circulation of the list of Private Members Bills, Resolutions along with questions and answers, well in advance of the proceedings. The members stated that advance availability of such legislative material would enable them to study the issues thoroughly, prepare appropriately and raise relevant supplementary questions during the Session. The Committee further stressed that every member should be provided adequate time and opportunity to present matters of public concern, constituency grievances and issues of wider significance before the House, in accordance with the applicable rules and the approved business of the Assembly. The Speaker took note of the suggestions put forth by the members and underscored the collective responsibility of all members and concerned stakeholders in ensuring the orderly, productive and meaningful conduct of the Autumn Session. The meeting concluded with an emphasis on strengthening parliamentary engagement, facilitating constructive debate and ensuring that the proceedings of the Assembly remain focused on the concerns and aspirations of the people of Jammu and Kashmir. Secretary, JKLA, Manoj Kumar Pandit was also present in the meeting.
Man booked for allegedly obstructing official duty, circulating video against Patwari
Police have registered a case against a Srinagar resident for allegedly obstructing government work and circulating a video containing corruption allegations against a Patwari of the Revenue Department, officials said. The accused has been identified as Sher Ali Mir, son of Ghulam Hassan Mir, a resident of Upper Barji, Harwan. According to officials, FIR No. 0046 of 2026 was registered at Police Station Harwan on September 15 under Section 132 of the Bharatiya Nyaya Sanhita (BNS), pertaining to causing obstruction in the discharge of official duty. The case was registered after a video allegedly featuring corruption-related allegations against the Revenue official was made and circulated on social media platforms. The video subsequently gained wider circulation online. The concerned official has also urged social media platforms and Facebook pages presenting themselves as news outlets to refrain from publishing or further circulating the video without obtaining his version or independently verifying the allegations. The official maintained that allegations of corruption should not be presented as established facts without verification and an opportunity for the person concerned to respond. He further submitted that the unrestricted circulation of an unverified and one-sided video could affect the reputation and dignity of a government employee and potentially raise concerns regarding his personal safety. Police are investigating the circumstances surrounding the making and circulation of the video, officials said.
HC seeks govt, Waqf Boards response on plea against former Hazratbal Imams removal
The High Court of J&K and Ladakh has issued notice to authorities on a plea against removal of Professor Dr Kamal-ud-Din Farooqui, from duties of Imam-o-Khateeb at Aasar-i-Shareef Dargah Hazratbal in 2024 here. In his plea, Farooqui has assailed J&K Waqf Board Executive Magistrates (Tehsildar) order dated April 8, 2024 whereby he was relieved from his duties as Imam-o-Khateeb pending an inquiry that was expressly required to be concluded within seven days. Despite the lapse of considerable time, no inquiry report or final decision has been furnished to him, according to the plea. In response to Farooquis plea, a bench of Justice Muhammad Yousuf Wani issued notice to the Union Territory of Jammu and Kashmir, Jammu and Kashmir Waqf Board and others for objections to be filed by October 14. While seeking the response to the plea, the Court directed the authorities to consider a representation submitted by Farooqui against his removal. According to the plea, the action followed an April 5, 2024 incident involving a non-Muslim individual who approached him through the Naib Imam with a desire to embrace Islam. Farooqui has maintained that the individual was questioned regarding any force, threat, coercion, compulsion or inducement before the Kalima Shahadah was administered and had publicly stated that he was acting voluntarily. The petition alleges that the Waqf authorities subsequently described the incident as a forcible conversion and constituted an enquiry committee without first issuing a show-cause notice or providing the petitioner an opportunity of hearing. Moreover, Farooqui submitted that he cooperated with the inquiry and furnished a detailed statement on May 5, 2024, seeking verification of CCTV footage and statements of persons present at the shrine. However, he submits, the inquiry report or any final decision was not communicated to him. Seeking to quash the Waqf Board Executive Magistrates order barring him from performing his duties as Imam-o-Khateeb, Aasar-i- Shareef Dargah Hazratbal, Farooqi submitted that the same had been issued without notice, opportunity of hearing, disclosure of adverse material or observance of the principles of natural justice. The plea underscores that the legality of order must be examined exclusively with reference to the Waqf Act, 1995 and the rules, regulations and written delegations in force on the date of its issuance. The petitioner also seeks direction to declare his continued exclusion from his duties due to the failure to conclude the inquiry within the period of seven days coupled with their failure to communicate any report or final decision to him as illegal, arbitrary, unreasonable and unconstitutional. In his prayer, he also seeks his restoration to the duties of Imam-o-Khateeb, disclosure of the complete enquiry report and consequential reliefs. In response to Farooquis plea, a bench issued notice to Union Territory of Jammu and Kashmir through its Principal Secretary Home Department, Jammu and Kashmir Waqf Board through its Chief Executive Officer, Boards Executive Magistrate (Tehsildar) in Srinagar, Dr Darakhshan Andrabi, Chairperson J&K Waqf Board, Senior Superintendent of Police, Srinagar, Station House Officer Police Station Nigeen, Srinagar and Administrator in-charge Aasar-i-Shareef Hazratbal, Srinagar for their reply.
Jarring voids in healthcare staffing exposed with NHM employees strike
The continuing strike by National Health Mission (NHM) employees is exposing the staffing gaps that the programme was created to bridge. Healthcare delivery is suffering in peripheral hospitals of J&K with every day of strike, and essential services are buckling under strain. At many peripheral health facilities, the stakeholders said, pediatric and gynaecological services are severely affected. NHM staff forms the sole workforce in many newborn care units in peripheries and even in tertiary care hospitals mother and child services are heavily dependent on NHM staff. An official said that Lal Ded Hospital is facing a severe crisis as more than 60 NHM staff are unavailable due to the strike. It is a major crisis at the hospital requiring longer shifts, leave cancellations and curtailment of admissions that can be deferred, the official said. At JLNM Hospital in Srinagar, an official said, the routine operation theatre services have been wound up. Due to the strike and unavailable staff, only the emergency OT remains functional, the official said. The situation underlines the vulnerability of J&Ks public healthcare system that leans heavily on NHM staff. The NHM personnel were brought in precisely to supplement an existing workforce. There are critical staffing gaps in hospitals across the primary, secondary and tertiary-care, and NHM staff sealed those gaps, a senior health and medical education official said. She said that the vacancies that NHM employees routinely help cover are becoming visible. We have now pronounced gaps in service delivery, she said. With the strike extended for another three days from 18 September, the hospitals have reorganised manpower and duty rosters in order to maintain essential services. The affected areas are being addressed to some extent, hospital officials said, including OPDs, IPDs, emergency services, labour rooms, operation theatres and labs. Recently, a report from Anantnag showed the impact on healthcare services at several government facilities. A report from Budgam pointed to disruption at PHCs and CHCs. NHM employees continue their agitation seeking, among other demands, a policy for regularization and job security. Pay parity is also one of the key demands. The employees initially started their 72- hour strike on 9 September. It has been extended many times since then as no ice has been broken between the health and medical education department and striking healthcare staff. The fresh extension is set to put more pressure on already strained health facilities, while people, especially in peripheral areas bear the brunt of unavailable healthcare staff.
Army, Rotary Club inaugurate modern dental facility at SDH Langate
A modern dental facility equipped with two high-tech dental chairs and supporting equipment was inaugurated at Sub-District Hospital (SDH) Langate on Thursday. The facility is expected to benefit over 1.5 lakh people in Langate and adjoining areas. The facility has been established with the support of Rotary Club Mumbai under its Corporate Social Responsibility (CSR) initiative, while Army Camp Langate facilitated the project by coordinating between the Rotary Club and SDH Langate and providing the required logistical support. Block Medical Officer (BMO) Langate Dr Nazir Ahmad, on the occasion, said that the new facility will improve access to dental consultation and treatment for people in the area, particularly those living in remote and underserved areas. It is also expected to reduce the need for patients to travel to distant healthcare centres for specialised dental care, he added. Rotary Club Regal Governor, District 3141, Rajan Dua, while talking to Greater Kashmir, said the initiative is aimed at strengthening local healthcare infrastructure through civil-military cooperation and improving access to essential dental services for the local population. We have been carrying out several people-friendly initiatives in district Kupwara, which include school buses in Machil last year, a school building in Army Goodwill School Wayen Kupwara and other projects, and ambulances for people living in border areas of Kupwara. I believe that very little has been done and much remains to be done, he added. Locals appreciated the initiative and expressed gratitude to the Indian Army and Rotary Club Mumbai for supporting the establishment of the facility and contributing towards improved healthcare services in the area. The people of over a hundred villages were suffering due to lack of better dental care facilities at SDH Langate, and now with the addition of improved facilities, people will certainly feel the difference and can avail treatment, said Langate Traders Federation President Lateef Ahmad.
Water crisis forces Gonipora women block road in Handwara
A group of women from Gonipora on Thursday blocked the road near the PHE Division Handwara, protesting against the acute shortage of drinking water in the area. The protesting women raised slogans and urged the concerned authorities to take immediate measures to restore regular water supply. They said residents have been facing difficulties due to the prolonged water shortage and demanded an early resolution to the issue. We have been suffering for the last several years and every year water shortage takes a heavy toll on us during the autumn season. Even the concerned MLA, Sheikh Khursheed, had promised us to take concrete steps to resolve our problem, but nothing has been done so far, forcing us to register the protest again, said a woman protester. Later, a police party from Police Station Handwara, led by Sub-Inspector (SI) Owais Ahmad, reached the spot and pacified the protesters, following which they dispersed peacefully.
J&K expands social security coverage
Jammu and Kashmir has recorded significant expansion in the coverage of social security, food security and welfare schemes. The official figures reveal that millions of beneficiaries were receiving assistance under various government programmes. On the social-inclusion front, the data has revealed that 25.69 lakh families, covering 103.88 lakh beneficiaries, have been enrolled under NFSA, while 16.61 lakh households, representing 67.84 lakh beneficiaries, are receiving free ration under PMGKAY. Monthly pensions are being provided to 10.86 lakh beneficiaries, including old-age, widow and specially-abled beneficiaries, it reads. Under the Ladli Beti scheme, 2.257 lakh girls have benefited, with an expenditure of Rs 1,415.75 crore since inception. Marriage assistance has reached 1.72 lakh beneficiaries, with Rs 858.54 crore provided since inception, it reads. Also, the Pradhan Mantri Matru Vandana Yojana has recorded 30,547 registrations, while 21,067 Vidyaarambh certificates have been distributed for children aged 56 years. Under supplementary nutrition, 8,31,329 Aadhaar-authenticated beneficiaries have been covered up to July 2026, which include 43,734 pregnant women, 43,669 lactating mothers, 42,672 children aged up to six months, besides 6,78,772 children aged six months to six years and 22,482 adolescent girls. The data shows 1,036 cases of Severe Acute Malnutrition (SAM), constituting 0.16 percent, and 3,228 cases of moderate acute malnutrition (MAM), or 0.52 percent. APAAR IDs have reportedly been generated for 97 percent of eligible children aged 36 years through self-Aadhaar authentication, it reads. In July 2026, 32,592 people were screened for anaemia, out of which 5,003 cases were identified. Poshan Maah witnessed 12.84 lakh activities, while 8.40 lakh activities were undertaken during Poshan Pakhwada, it reads. Also, the Women Development Corporation has established 300 units employing 1,588 persons, while 157 SC/ST/BC units are employing 375 persons. For Kashmiri migrants, the government data reveals that relief of Rs 3,250 per person per month, subject to a maximum of Rs 13,000 per family, besides ration through DBT, is being provided. Under transit accommodation, 6,000 flats are planned, while 5,000 have been completed and 3,257 have been allotted as well. Against 6,000 identified posts for migrants, 5,896 posts have been filled, representing 98 percent, it reads. The administration has issued 1.64 lakh domicile certificates and 37,000 migrant certificates, besides other certificates. As per the official data, a digital portal project costing Rs 22.55 crore is underway, while the Jagti Community Hall project, with a project cost of Rs 26.64 crore, is around 95 percent complete. The POJK Bhawan at Suketar, Nagrota, estimated at Rs 9.95 crore, is under construction and has achieved 45 percent progress, it reads.
Jhelums Call:One youth, a few volunteers, and a mission to clean
The Jhelum has long flowed through the heart of Baramulla, carrying with it the towns history while, today, reflecting the growing strains of neglect and pollution. For Nayeem Farooq, a young resident of Baramulla town, the mounting piles of garbage along the Jhelums banks had become too troubling to simply look away from. Tonnes of plastic, discarded material and other waste have accumulated along stretches of the river, leaving parts of its banks resembling open dumping grounds. Rather than waiting for someone else to act, Nayeem decided to begin on his own. Twenty days ago, he started cleaning the banks of the Jhelum. What started as an individual effort has gradually drawn the attention of other young people, including girls, who have joined him in the initiative. A small personal resolve is now beginning to take the shape of a community mission. Tonnes of garbage is deposited on its banks. It is indeed worrisome. A conscious mind cannot afford to see the state of River Jhelum like this, Nayeem said while removing waste along with another young volunteer, Mehak Khursheed, from the riverbank. For Nayeem, the cleaning drive is not merely about removing rubbish. It is about restoring respect for a river that has been central to Baramullas life for generations. River Jhelum is a lifeline for the towns residents, with drinking water supplies for one lakh souls drawn from the river. Its importance extends beyond water, touching the towns history, landscape and everyday life. For centuries, the Jhelum has been inseparable from Baramullas identity. But decades of unchecked dumping, mounting pollution and neglect have steadily scarred its banks, with tonnes of discarded waste eventually finding its way into the river. Residents say garbage can be seen deposited along various stretches of the river. Plastic and other waste are frequently found near the water, raising concerns about pollution and the condition of a water source on which the town depends. Nayeem believes the problem is not confined to one section of society. Almost all the garbage emerging from the town is being dumped on its banks, he said, adding that shopkeepers and street vendors were also contributing to the problem by throwing waste along the river. The accumulation of garbage, he said, has polluted the river to an alarming extent. During the last 20 days, Nayeem says he has removed several tonnes of garbage from the riverbanks. The work, however, has not been easy. Cleaning a riverbank requires time, physical effort and a willingness to continue. The sight of a young man working along the river has nevertheless begun to inspire others. A few youngsters, including young girls, have joined the cleaning drive. Though their numbers remain small, their participation has given the initiative a sense of collective purpose. There has also been a sign of support from the local business community. Nayeem said a businessman, impressed by his efforts, had assured him that he would provide a JCB machine and a tipper to help lift garbage from the riverbanks. Such assistance, he believes, could make the cleaning work more effective and help remove waste that is difficult to handle manually. The mission beyond cleaning. Nayeems plans do not end with the removal of garbage. He says the next part of his mission will focus on creating awareness among residents and discouraging people from using the riverbanks as dumping sites. He plans to launch an awareness campaign and involve mohalla committees and masjid committees in the effort. The objective, he says, is to create a sustained campaign that encourages people to stop polluting the Jhelum. Cleaning the riverbanks is only one part of the mission. The other part is to make people aware of the importance of the river and urge them not to pollute it, he said. Nayeem believes the river deserves the same importance that people attach to the basic necessities of life. The Jhelum is as important for Kashmir, as air is for living things, he said.
CM Omar Abdullah inaugurates renovated J&K House at Amritsar
Chief Minister Omar Abdullah today inaugurated the renovated Jammu & Kashmir House at Amritsar, Punjab. The heritage property, located at 2-Court Road, Amritsar has been comprehensively upgraded with modern amenities to provide affordable and comfortable accommodation to residents of Jammu and Kashmir visiting Amritsar, particularly patients and their attendants travelling to the city for medical treatment. The renovation and upgradation works commenced in October 2025 and were completed at an approximate cost of Rs 2.30 crore. The works covered civil and electrical works, interiors, guest amenities, external development and allied infrastructure. The upgraded facility comprises four guest rooms with attached dressing areas and washrooms, besides a common sitting lounge, dining area and kitchen. Located close to major hospitals and other key destinations in the city, the J&K House will serve as an important support facility for patients and their attendants, besides benefiting students, pilgrims and other visitors from Jammu and Kashmir. The Chief Minister inspected the upgraded facilities and directed the concerned officers to maintain high standards of hospitality, cleanliness and upkeep for guests. Speaking on the occasion, the Chief Minister said the facility would help ease the difficulties faced by patients and their families travelling outside Jammu and Kashmir for treatment, while also providing a convenient and affordable place to stay for other visitors from J&K. The Chief Minister appreciated the efforts of the departments and officers involved in the renovation and upgradation of the property and stressed the importance of maintaining the facility to high standards. The Chief Minister was accompanied by his Advisor Nasir Aslam Wani, Additional Chief Secretary to the Chief Minister Dheeraj Gupta, Resident Commissioner J&K Ramesh Kumar, Secretary Hospitality & Protocol Avny Lavasa, Additional Resident Commissioner Anil Sharma and senior officers of the Government of J&K and the Government of Punjab.
OZONE SHIELD a first-of-its-kind initiative to safeguard doctors
New Delhi, Sep 17:Ozone Pharmaceuticals limited Thursday launched OZONE SHIELD, a first initiative of its kind by any Indian pharmaceutical company for the welfare and safety of doctors, at an event in New Delhi. This initiative is taken in response to the growing instances of violence, harassment and baseless legal suits against doctors. Ozone Shield provides security assistance, legal assistance and emotional wellbeing support to doctors in case they face such an untoward scenario. The initiative was formally launched by former Lieutenant Governor of Puducherry Dr. Kiran Bedi, who was also the Chief Guest of the event. The need is well documented. A nationwide survey this year by experts from AIIMS, Safdarjung Hospital and VMMC, covering over 1,500 healthcare workers, found that 78.4 percent had faced threats on duty, and 58.2 percent didnt feel safe at work. Ozone SHIELD is built to close this gap. It has also been established that in the majority of legal cases, doctors are eventually declared not guilty by the Courts.
35 of 52 J&K corruption FIRs are bribe-trap cases in 2026
The Jammu and Kashmir Anti-Corruption Bureau (ACB) has registered 52 corruption-related FIRs across the Union Territory up to September 2026, 35 of which involve trap operations in alleged cases of demanding and accepting bribes. The ACB's 2026 case register shows that trap cases account for 67.3 per cent of the total FIRs registered so far this year. In other words, roughly two out of every three corruption cases recorded by the Bureau have involved allegations of direct bribery. The 52 cases have been registered in different districts and cover allegations ranging from bribery and disproportionate assets to illegal mutations, abuse of official position, financial irregularities, illegal appointments and alleged encroachment. Jammu Province accounts for 31 cases, including 20 trap cases, while Kashmir Province has 21 cases, of which 15 are trap cases. Thus, trap cases constitute about 65 per cent of the cases in Jammu and more than 71 per cent in Kashmir. The individual cases show that allegations of bribery cut across several departments. Revenue officials, particularly patwaris, appear repeatedly in the ACB's trap cases, with allegations concerning payments for revenue extracts, mutations and other official work. Police personnel, junior engineers, municipal officials, forest employees, treasury staff and other government functionaries also figure in the cases registered during the year. In Jammu Province, Rajouri has six cases listed in the ACB register and all six are trap cases. Udhampur has seven cases, including six traps. The ACB Jammu police station has five cases, four of them trap cases, while the ACB Central police station has 11 cases, including four traps. Doda has two cases, neither classified as a trap. In Kashmir Province, Srinagar accounts for 13 cases, including nine trap cases. Anantnag has six cases, five of them traps, while Baramulla has two cases, including one trap case. The alleged bribe amounts recorded in the cases range from Rs 2,000 to Rs 1 lakh. The ACB register includes allegations involving Rs 5,000, Rs 8,000, Rs 10,000, Rs 12,000, Rs 15,000, Rs 20,000, Rs 30,000, Rs 40,000 and Rs 70,000, besides the Rs 1 lakh case. The Rs 1 lakh case was registered by ACB Anantnag on May 21 against a Ziladar and a Patwari of the Irrigation Division, Anantnag. According to the case record, the two were booked in connection with an allegation of demanding and accepting the amount. Another case involved an alleged Rs 70,000 bribe, with the ACB registering a trap case against a Patwari of Patwar Halqa Gole and an alleged associate. The cases have continued to be registered during September. The ACB case register includes a September 1 trap case in Srinagar involving an alleged Rs 15,000 bribe, a September 7 case involving an alleged Rs 11,000 bribe and a September 9 Rajouri case involving an alleged Rs 20,000 bribe. The pattern is notable when compared with the ACB's annual figures for previous years. During the whole of 2025, the Bureau registered 78 corruption-related cases, including 36 trap cases, 18 disproportionate-assets cases, 15 cases involving alleged abuse of official position, eight cases relating to fraudulent alienation of custodian land and one case concerning illegal appointments. The 35 trap cases registered up to September 2026 are therefore already just one short of the 36 trap cases recorded during the whole of 2025. The comparison is between a part-year figure and a full-year figure, however, and the 2026 figure may change before the year ends. The 2026 cases also indicate that the ACB's investigations extend beyond direct bribery. The case register includes allegations of disproportionate assets, illegal mutations of land, abuse of official position, financial irregularities in development works, illegal appointments and alleged encroachment. In Jammu Province, the concentration of trap cases is particularly visible in Rajouri and Udhampur. All six cases listed under Rajouri are trap cases, while six of the seven cases registered by ACB Udhampur are traps. In Kashmir, nine of Srinagar's 13 cases and five of Anantnag's six cases are classified as traps. The alleged bribe amounts also indicate that the cases concern both routine government services and larger transactions. Several allegations involve sums of Rs 5,000 or Rs 10,000, while others involve Rs 20,000, Rs 40,000, Rs 70,000 and Rs 1 lakh. A trap case generally begins with a complaint alleging that a public servant has demanded a bribe. After verification, the ACB conducts a trap operation to establish the alleged demand or acceptance of illegal gratification. The operation may result in the arrest of the accused and subsequent investigation.
PM Modis 25 years in public life marked by welfare for poor, foundation for Indias growth: Amit Shah
Vadnagar, Sep 17: Union Home Minister Amit Shah on Thursday said Prime Minister Narendra Modis 25 years in public life should be seen as a period of welfare for the poor and foundation-laying for Indias prosperity. He was speaking after inaugurating the Seva Sankalp Abhiyan in Vadnagar and flagging off a bike rally to Varanasi to mark Modis birthday. Gujarat Chief Minister Bhupendra Patel and Maharashtra Deputy Chief Minister Eknath Shinde were also present. Born on September 17, 1950, in Vadnagar in Gujarats Mehsana district, Modi turned 76 on Thursday. He completes 25 uninterrupted years in public office on October 7, having first taken the oath as Gujarat chief minister in 2001 before becoming prime minister in 2014. Addressing a gathering, Shah said the 25 years of Modis public life will have to be written in golden letters in history as the years of poor welfare. He said the period under Modis leadership had laid the foundation for Indias prosperity, made the country more secure and started the process of making India a global leader in infrastructure and digital public infrastructure. Shah said Modis tenure as PM would be remembered as a period of welfare for poor people and claimed that 25 crore people had been lifted out of poverty during this period. He said generations of people had waited for basic necessities such as houses, toilets, tap water, electricity, food and medical treatment. His 12-year tenure as prime minister will be known as a golden era for the 80 crore poor people of the country, Shah said, listing houses, electricity, tap water, five kg of free grain per person per month, health coverage of up to Rs 5 lakh, toilets and gas cylinders among the benefits delivered by the Modi government. Shah said Modi had personally experienced poverty after being born in a poor village and had, despite his circumstances, put before the country a vision of equitable and inclusive development. He said Modis 25-year public life was also marked by sustained personal work and service to the poor, backward classes, Dalits and tribals. Shah said he had worked with Modi during his organisational years in Gujarat and later when he became the CM and PM. The Union minister also praised Modis simplicity and said he had connected BJP workers across the country with the Nation First slogan. He said Modi had treated the entire country as his family. Referring to Modis years as Gujarat CM, Shah listed initiatives including water management, the Vanbandhu Kalyan Yojana, Sagarkhedu Kalyan Yojana, industrial development, Vibrant Gujarat, an education hub and 24-hour electricity supply to villages. He said the state recorded an agricultural growth of more than eight per cent when Modi was the CM. The Gujarat model was subsequently taken to the national level after Modi took charge of the nation in 2014, he said. Shah credited the Modi government with introducing what he described as clear policies after a period of policy paralysis and cited GST, the JAM (Jan Dhan, Aadhaar, Mobile) trinity, Direct Benefit Transfer, banking reforms, FDI and PLI (Production Linked Incentive) as measures that had contributed to economic development. He also referred to expansion of roads, railways, airports, ports and digital infrastructure, saying the number of airports in the country had increased from 75 to 150. He mentioned PM Gati Shakti, Digital India and Startup India as initiatives that had opened opportunities for the youth. On national security, Shah cited the governments decisions on Article 370, the Citizenship Amendment Act, the Bharatiya Nyaya Sanhita, peace accords in the Northeast and military operations. He also referred to measures relating to women, tribal welfare, defence production and space programmes, including Chandrayaan and Aditya L1. Shah said Modis public life could be summed up in two words -- India First. Earlier, CM Patel said the bike rally from Vadnagar to Varanasi was not merely a journey but a pledge-driven mission dedicated to serving the nation. He said Vadnagars soil had inspired Modi with patriotism, simplicity and a spirit of service and that his 25 years of public life had contributed to the countrys transformation. Patel said India had emerged as a major opportunity for youth and highlighted developments in digital payments, space technology, artificial intelligence and semiconductors. He said the Seva Sankalp Abhiyan should take Modis message of public service to every household and called for building a Viksit Gujarat as part of the vision of a Viksit Bharat. A simultaneous rally was flagged off from Varanasi, PMs Lok Sabha constituency, with the two journeys planned to conclude on October 7, the day Modi completes 25 years as CM of Gujarat and Indias PM. According to the BJP, the two rallies will together cover about 40,000 km through 193 districts and around 1,159 villages across 10 states. Around 1,000 youths will participate, it said. At Vadnagar, Shah, Patel and other leaders first performed Maha-aarti at Sharmishtha Lake and then walked to the ancient Hatkeshwar temple of Lord Shiva. Shah prayed for Modis long life and good health before flagging off the rally, said officials. Shah said the BJP and its allies had launched the campaign to take the message of Modis 25 years of public service to people across the country and inspire younger generations to work towards the goal of a developed India by 2047.
NHM employees deserve justice: Fairoz Khan
Former national president of the National Students Union of India (NSUI) and advocate Fairoz Khan on Thursday extended support to the protesting National Health Mission (NHM) employees of Jammu and Kashmir, while urging the government to ensure that the ongoing strike does not disrupt essential healthcare services, particularly in the remote and mountainous areas of Ramban district. Khan said NHM employees had played an important role in strengthening the public healthcare system and had continued to serve people in difficult and far-flung areas for years. He said their long-pending demands concerning job security, remuneration, retirement benefits and social security deserved serious, meaningful and time-bound consideration by the government. At the same time, the impact of the ongoing strike on ordinary patients cannot be overlooked. People living in remote and mountainous areas are particularly vulnerable when local health facilities become non-functional, Khan said. According to information received from the ground, 65 health facilities and centres across different parts of Ramban district have reportedly been affected or closed amid the ongoing strike, raising concerns over access to basic medical services in several areas. Among the reportedly affected facilities in Block Ukheral are SC Chaka, SC Charwari, SC Trana, SC Manjoos, SC Nachalana, SC Kawna, SC Gujrara, SC Tajnihal, SC Chunthan, SC Paristan, SC Bassan, SC Hoochak, SC Bingara, SC Lablotha, SC Phagmulla, SC Darzipora, SC Noora Pogal, SC Kharwan, SC Nowgam, SC Surunga, SC Cherwari and SC Buzla. Other facilities reportedly affected include Tattaraso, Karol, Kundi, Gandote, Panthyal, Chakwa, Kumate, Palli, Duthan, Kabbhi, Karma, Wanga, Kudji, Chacknarwah, Amkoot, Krawa, Lamber, Asher, Gangna, Chamalwas, Doligam, Chanjloo, Chachihaal, Chapnari and Bajnarii. The reported list also includes SC Kalimasta, SC Gundi, SC Salbala, SC Harrog, SC Bandachan, SC Dachan Gali, SC Upper Dalwah, SC Zuthnal, SC Chachawah and NTPHC Dharam. Khan said the legitimate concerns of NHM employees should be addressed without allowing patients to bear the consequences of the dispute. We support the NHM employees, but we also stand with the patients. A poor patient from a remote village cannot be expected to travel several kilometres simply because the local health centre is not functioning, he said. He urged the government to immediately initiate meaningful negotiations with representatives of NHM employees and work towards a time-bound resolution of their demands. At the same time, he called for immediate alternative arrangements at health facilities where services have been affected. Khan suggested that regular doctors, paramedical staff and other available healthcare personnel be deployed wherever necessary to ensure continuity of emergency services, maternal and child healthcare, medicines, diagnostics and other essential patient-care facilities. Referring to directions issued by the Health Department for reorganisation of available manpower and duty rosters at healthcare institutions in Kashmir to maintain essential services during the NHM strike, Khan urged the authorities to adopt similar measures wherever required in Ramban. He appealed to the Lieutenant Governors Administration, Health Department and district authorities to treat the issue as an urgent matter and ensure that the ongoing employee-government dispute does not develop into a healthcare crisis for the public.
Chess Olympiad: Indian men beat Indonesia, women defeat Finland
Samarkand(Uzbekistan), Sep 17: Defending champions in both the open and womens events, the Indian teams won their matches -- albeit with some hiccups -- to remain atop the leaderboard with four match points after the second round of the 46th Chess Olympiad here on Thursday. For the second day running, Nihal Sarin was the difference between two teams as he defeated Hafiz Arif Abdul after briefly missing out on a tactical trick. Up against a Sicilian with white pieces, Nihal went for a direct attack against the black king but for just one move his own king came under serious trouble. However, as it happened, Hafiz missed on the trick and landed his king in deep trouble with many pieces still remaining on the board. Nihal wrapped up the issues quickly thereafter. Reigning world champion D Gukesh continued to struggle as he was held to a draw by Satria Duta Cahaya who played black. Gukesh could not get his pieces rolling for once and even though the complications remained, Cahaya remained on course by matching the world champion move-for-move. The game was drawn through perpetual checks leaving India with a 2-1 score with only Praggnanandhaa fighting it out on the top board for a victory. Even though he tried hard, Praggnanandhaa was not able to find a dent in the position of Susanto Megaranto, who played very solidly with white. With some great high effort, the Indian was able to reach a rook and pawns endgame with an extra pawn, but the resulting position was just a theoretical draw. The peace was signed in 79 moves. For the top seeded United States, it was a similar result against Mongolia as they too won by a 2.5-1.5 margin while the local team Uzbekistan, winner in 2022, won with a handsome 3.5-0.5 margin against Peru. In the womens section, the Indians did better as World Cup winner Divya Deshmukh started off with a victory over Johanna Paasikangas in her maiden appearance here on the second board. Vantika Agrawal won her second game on the trot, defeating Sara-Olivia Sippola on the third board, while B Savitha Shri continued to impress defeating Helja Lehtinen. With the scoreline reading 3-0 in Indias favour, R Vaishali played out a draw with Anastasia Keinanen. Open: Indonesia vs India (Susanto Megaranto vs R Praggnanandhaa; Hafiz Arif Abdul lost to Nihal Sarin; Satria Duta Cahaya vs D Gukesh; Nayaka Budhidharma drew with Vidit Santosh Gujrathi). Women: Finland lost to India (Anastasia Keinanen drew with R Vaishali; Johanna Paasikangas lost to Divya Deshmukh; Sara-Olivia Sippola lost to Vantika Agrawal; Helja Lehtinen lost to B Savitha Shri).
J&K Bank holds interactive meet with Katra Chamber
Chamber of Tourism Trade and Industry Katra (CTTIK) office bearers and members on Thursday held an interactive meeting with a senior delegation of J&K Bank, led by zonal head Udhampur, Arjun Singh Rathore. J&K Bank delegation also comprised cluster manager Amit Balgotra and branch manager Samresh Salgotra. The meeting provided an important platform for an open and constructive interaction between the hospitality and business community of Katra and the senior representatives of J&K Bank. A healthy and detailed discussion was held on various financial and banking-related issues being faced by hotels, guest houses and other tourism-related businesses. Earlier at the outset, CTTIK president Raj Kumar Padha along with the office bearers and members welcomed the J&K Bank delegation and felicitated the visiting officials with traditional Mata Ki Chunris. During the interaction, CTTIK members raised several important concerns, including takeover of existing term loans, digital transactions, availability and functioning of ATM machines, mission yuva scheme, working capital requirements and access to various financial products. Members also shared practical difficulties being faced by businesses due to the seasonal nature of pilgrimage tourism and fluctuations in business activity. On the occasion, CTTIK president congratulated Arjun Singh Rathore on recently assuming the charge of zonal head Udhampur and appreciated the continued support extended by J&K Bank to the tourism and hospitality sector of Katra. On behalf of CTTIK, several suggestions were also placed before the J&K Bank delegation for strengthening financial support to the hospitality ecosystem of the town. These included consideration of an additional 15 percent credit facility on existing term loans and working capital limits to help businesses tide over temporary downturns; a flexible repayment structure with lower EMIs during lean months and higher repayments during peak pilgrimage seasons; soft loans at comparatively reduced interest rates for prospective customers; an overdraft-type facility for better-rated and regular accounts to meet day-to-day cash-flow requirements and pre-approved renovation credit with low processing fees to enable hotels and guest houses to upgrade their infrastructure ahead of forthcoming pilgrimage seasons. CTTIK emphasised that Katra's hospitality industry operates in a highly seasonal environment and therefore requires banking products that are responsive to its unique cash-flow cycles. The Chamber stated that enhanced and flexible financial support would help businesses maintain continuity, undertake necessary renovations, protect employment and contribute more effectively to the growth of tourism in Katra. Rathore took the suggestions put forward by CTTIK very positively and assured the Chamber that the issues raised during the interaction would be examined seriously. He further assured that efforts would be made to provide suitable solutions to each of the issues discussed and that J&K Bank would continue to extend its support and cooperation to the hospitality and business community of Katra. The meeting concluded on a positive and constructive note, with both sides expressing their commitment to maintaining regular dialogue and strengthening the partnership between the banking sector and Katra's tourism and hospitality industry. Those present on the occasion included Rajnish Purohit general secretary, Ramnik Sharma treasurer, Atul Sharma secretary, Karan Vaid secretary, executive members Rattan Sharma, Neelam Singh and Vishal Kapoor. Karnail Singh, Ashish Sharma, Amit Gandotra, Pritam Pujari, Arun Pujari, Arun Sharma and other members of CTTIK also participated in the interactive meet.
Puducherry LG suggests tax holiday, cheap power to boost industrialisation in J&K
Puducherry, Sep 17: Lieutenant Governor of Puducherry K Kailashnathan has suggested a set of measures for improving the Ease of Doing Business (EoDB) in Jammu and Kashmir, saying tax holidays and affordable power could act as catalysts for attracting industries and investment to the Union Territory. Interacting with this Greater Kashmir Correspondent, Kailashnathan said attracting investment and promoting industrialisation were essential for generating employment and ensuring sustained economic growth. Referring to the geographical and infrastructural challenges faced by Jammu and Kashmir, he said the UT Government should focus on four key areasinfrastructure, connectivity, affordable power and tax holidaysto create a conducive environment for industrial development. First, you need the prerequisite infrastructure for industries, followed by good connectivity, Kailashnathan said, stressing the importance of railway links and highways for timely movement of raw materials and finished products. He also underlined the importance of affordable electricity for industries and hotels, saying Jammu and Kashmir has significant hydropower potential. He suggested that the government could explore providing locally generated power to industrial units at competitive rates, including a tariff of around Rs 2 per unit, to encourage investment. On fiscal incentives, Kailashnathan suggested that Jammu and Kashmir could consider tax holidays for new investments, pointing out that several States and Union Territories had adopted such measures to attract industries and promote industrialisation. A 1979-batch retired IAS officer, Kailashnathan served in Gujarat for more than four decades and worked closely with Narendra Modi during his tenure as Gujarat Chief Minister. He was associated with various government initiatives related to industrialisation and investment promotion, including investment summits held in Gujarat. Speaking about Puducherry's development trajectory, Kailashnathan said the Union Territory was progressing towards becoming a major medical and tourism hub. He said an advanced organ-transplantation centre was being established in Puducherry, which, according to him, would benefit patients from across the country. Kailashnathan also described Puducherry as an emerging education hub, saying around 73 per cent of students enrolled in schools pursue higher studies. He said the focus now was on creating employment opportunities for the educated population and added that more than 4,000 people were recruited last year. He identified safe drinking water as another challenge, saying a significant section of the population was dependent on groundwater with high TDS levels. He said the administration was working to ensure filtered and safe surface drinking water for all residents within the next three years. On connectivity, the LG said an airport with a 2,500-metre runway was being developed and a new railway terminal was also under construction. He further said two six-lane highways between Chennai and Puducherry were being constructed, which would substantially improve road connectivity and reduce travel time between the two destinations. He said Puducherry's development strategy was aimed at strengthening infrastructure, healthcare, education, connectivity and employment while positioning the Union Territory as a prominent tourism and medical destination.
We Can Do - is PM Modis Mantra
Puducherry, Sep 17:We Can Do is the real mantra of Prime Minister Narendra Modi. Lieutenant Governor of Puducherry K Kailashnathan stated this, while recalling his long association with Modi during his tenure as Gujarat Chief Minister. Sharing his experiences of working closely with Modi in Gujarat, he also spoke about the development initiatives undertaken during his early years as Chief Minister. Kailashnathan, a retired IAS officer, had served in the Gujarat Chief Ministers Office for more than one-and-a-half decades and worked with Modi for several years. He said a number of initiatives undertaken during Modis initial tenure in Gujarat later contributed to what came to be described as the Gujarat Model of development. Recalling the focus on infrastructure, he said improving road connectivity was among the key priorities. He said roads connecting villages, referred to as Kisan Path, were developed with the objective of facilitating connectivity and helping farmers, including in the transportation and sale of milk. He further spoke about Vikas Path, describing them as roads and highways connecting important religious destinations and other major locations. According to him, the improved connectivity also contributed to the growth of tourism in Gujarat. Kailashnathan also recalled Modis personal lifestyle during his years in Gujarat, describing him as a person who lived simply. He said Modi used to have limited personal belongings, including clothes, and lived in a simple setting. On the occasion of Prime Minister Narendra Modis birthday, the Puducherry LG conveyed his greetings and best wishes to him. Kailashnathans long association with Modi, particularly his years in the Gujarat Chief Ministers Office, has given him first-hand experience of the functioning and priorities of the then Gujarat government. He is considered to be a closely associated man with Prime Minister Narendra Modi and had remained part of many prestigious Government initiatives of path breaking development projects in Gujarat including Narmada Ekta Nagar project.
CEPC flags decline of Kashmirs handmade carpet sector
Noida, Sep 17:The decline of Kashmirs traditional handmade carpet sector came under discussion at the 43rd Annual General Meeting (AGM) of the Carpet Export Promotion Council (CEPC), with members calling for greater focus and targeted support to revive the industry. The meeting, held at Hotel Radisson in Noida and chaired by CEPC Chairman Capt. Mukesh Gombar, stressed the need to promote Kashmirs handmade carpets through stronger marketing, greater participation in national and international exhibitions, improved branding, skill development and better access to markets. Members said handmade carpets from Kashmir represent an important part of Indias cultural and craft heritage and require greater attention amid the challenges facing the traditional sector. The AGM was attended by CEPC Vice-Chairman Aslam Mahboob, members of the Committee of Administration Sheikh Ashiq Ahmad, Mohd. Wasif Ansari, Anil Kumar Singh, Sanjay Gupta, Piyush Kumar Baranwal, Bodh Raj Malhotra, Rohit Gupta, Mahavir Pratap Sharma, Mehraj Yasin Jan and Shukat Khan, besides Dr Smita Nagarkoti, Executive Director-cum-Secretary (Officiating). Representatives from the carpet industry, including Vijay Thakur of Cottage Crafts of India, R. B. Mathur of Warp + Weft International, Suman Kaul of Kashyap Carpets, Ashwani Tiwari of ANA International, Qayyum Abdul of Hannans Oriental Rugs, Bilal Ahmad Kawoosa of Kashmir Carpet Producer Co. Ltd., Hilal Ahmad of Jansons and Sunil Bazaz of Qaleen Alishan, also attended the meeting. The General Body adopted the Councils audited Balance Sheet and Income and Expenditure Accounts for the financial year ended March 31, 2026, along with the Auditors Report. It also approved a revised annual membership fee structure linked to export performance. Members with exports up to Rs 50 lakh will pay an annual fee of Rs 3,000, while those with exports above Rs 50 lakh and up to Rs 1 crore will pay Rs 4,500. The fee has been fixed at Rs 6,500 for exporters with turnover above Rs 1 crore and up to Rs 10 crore, and Rs 12,000 for those above Rs 10 crore. The General Body also approved elections for one-third of the members of the Committee of Administration from various categories. The election notification will be issued on November 2, 2026, with polling scheduled to be held in December. Another decision approved at the AGM was an Export Achievement Incentive for eligible new members. Under the scheme, a new member achieving exports of Rs 50 lakh or more during the first year of membership will be eligible for reimbursement of the Rs 3,000 annual membership fee in the following year. The meeting concluded with a vote of thanks to the Chair.
J&K plans 20 ETT labs to boost sheep productivity, cut mutton dependence
Srinagar, Sep 17:Minister for Agriculture Production, Rural Development and Panchayati Raj, Cooperative and Election Department, Javid Ahmad Dar, today visited the Sheep Breeding Farm at Khimber and reviewed the ongoing breeding programmes and developmental activities. The Minister stressed the need for transformative and scientific interventions to revolutionise the sheep sector in Jammu and Kashmir, enhancing the productivity towards greater self-sufficiency in mutton production. Highlighting the governments Embryo Transfer Technology (ETT) programme, he said establishment of ETT laboratories across districts will enable rapid multiplication of superior germplasm and accelerate genetic improvement. He said that the Cabinet has approved establishment of 20 ETT laboratories, one in each district, as a major intervention in this direction. Javid Dar also stressed the importance of scientifically utilising high-genetic-merit imported breeds, including Texel and Dorper, for strengthening the local breeding programmes. He said the focus should be on transferring superior genetic traits into locally adapted populations to improve meat productivity and strengthen the domestic mutton sector. The Minister directed the department to ensure scientific selection, conservation and multiplication of quality germplasm and its wider dissemination among farmers. He also directed that a transparent, scientifically formulated SOP be notified for allocation of breeding sheep to farmers, ensuring objective selection of beneficiaries, proper utilisation of superior germplasm and wider access to quality breeding stock. He called for greater participation of youth in modern sheep husbandry, emphasising its potential for entrepreneurship, employment and strengthening rural livelihoods. He directed the department to provide aspiring young farmers with training, technical guidance and handholding support. The officers informed that Khimber Farm maintains fine-wool and specialised breeds, including imported and Australian lines besides cross-bred varieties such as Kashmir Merino and supports the local breeding programmes through the distribution of quality breeding rams. The Minister emphasised that the combined thrust on district-level ETT infrastructure and high-genetic-merit breeding programmes should translate into measurable gains in sheep productivity and help Jammu and Kashmir move towards a more self-reliant mutton production sector.
LG, elected govt need to work in close coordination in UT with legislature: Puducherry LG
Puducherry, Sep 17:Lieutenant Governor of Puducherry K Kailashnathan, a former IAS officer of the Gujarat cadre, has asserted that the Lieutenant Governors administration and the elected government need to work in close coordination in a Union Territory with a legislature. Interacting with journalists from Kashmir and Varanasi during a PIB tour, Kailashnathan said differences of opinion between the LG administration and the Chief Ministers Office could arise, but these should not necessarily be viewed as conflicts. Conflicts do take place between the two, but I wont consider them conflicts; rather, they are differences in opinion, he said. The Puducherry LG said that the Lieutenant Governor in a UT with a legislature enjoys substantial powers, but this should not become an issue when the LG administration and elected government function in coordination. I clear 99 per cent of the files forwarded by the elected government, except files concerning backdoor appointments, Kailashnathan said. He stressed the importance of coordination between the constitutional authorities for ensuring smooth governance and effective implementation of development initiatives in a Union Territory with an elected legislature. Jammu and Kashmir Union Territory administration and Puducherry UT administration share almost the same model of governance.
Damaged Dewal stretch, livestock movement affect traffic flow on Srinagar Jammu NH
The SrinagarJammu National Highway (NH-44) remained open to regulated two-way traffic on Thursday; although vehicular movement continued to be slow at several vulnerable and construction-affected stretches, particularly along the UdhampurBanihal corridor. Traffic authorities attributed the slowdown to rain-related damage, single-lane regulation, ongoing four-laning and road improvement works, vehicle breakdowns and the seasonal movement of nomadic livestock herds. Very slow movement was reported at Dewal in Udhampur district, where a 3040-metre stretch of the highway was damaged following recent rainfall. The affected portion has developed an uneven and undulating surface, necessitating traffic regulation through a single lane. The National Highways Authority of India (NHAI) has deployed men and machinery at the site and restoration work is in progress. Rain-induced erosion has also affected the Srinagar-bound tube at Dewal, with damage reported at two to three locations. Traffic is being regulated through available single-lane passages at these points to facilitate safe movement. In Ramban district, traffic remained slow on the MaroogKishtwari Pather stretch due to ongoing four-laning, construction and road improvement works. Restricted carriageway width, uneven surfaces and movement of construction machinery have been contributing to delays, particularly during periods of increased traffic. The seasonal movement of nomadic livestock herds has also affected traffic at some locations. Officials said around a dozen herds migrating from the Kashmir Valley towards Jammu were moving along the BanihalNachlana section. Their passage through the single-lane MaroogKishtwari Pather stretch was expected to cause intermittent slowdowns. A few vehicle breakdowns, including one at Nachlana, further contributed to temporary congestion. Traffic personnel were deployed at vulnerable and congested locations to regulate movement and prevent prolonged bottlenecks. Authorities said the highway continued to remain vulnerable to sudden disruption in case of fresh rainfall, landslides, mudslides, shooting stones or further deterioration of road surfaces. Drivers travelling between Ramban and Banihal have been advised to undertake journeys during daylight hours wherever possible and exercise extra caution while passing through vulnerable stretches. Meanwhile, amid ongoing widening works on the DigdoleKhooni Nallah section, movement of Kashmir-bound oil and gas tankers continues to remain restricted during daytime hours. Under the prevailing traffic arrangements, such tankers are permitted to proceed beyond Chenani only between 5 pm and 5 am. Heavy vehicle operators have been directed to strictly adhere to prescribed loading limits, avoid overloading and ensure that their vehicles are roadworthy before undertaking the journey. Transporters have also been advised to carry adequate fuel in view of possible delays caused by traffic regulation, road repairs, construction activity and adverse weather. Commuters and transporters have been advised to obtain the latest highway status from the Traffic Control Units in Jammu, Ramban and Srinagar before starting their journey and to comply with all traffic advisories and directions issued by the authorities. SSP Traffic National Highway Raja Adil Hameed urged commuters to follow the instructions of traffic personnel, maintain lane discipline and exercise patience while negotiating single-lane and construction-affected stretches. Officials reiterated that although NH-44 was presently operational for regulated two-way traffic, slow movement was likely to persist at damaged, vulnerable and construction-affected locations. Commuters have been advised to plan their journeys accordingly and cooperate with traffic personnel to ensure safe and orderly movement along the highway.
Vande Bharat trains in J&K equipped with special heating, defogging systems: ICF Chennai Engineer
Vande Bharat trains operating in Jammu and Kashmir, particularly in the Kashmir Valley, have been equipped with special features to cope with the regions extreme winter conditions, including sub-zero temperatures and dense fog. Interacting with a group of Kashmir-based journalists visiting Chennai under a PIB tour, Anupam Chouhan, Chief Workshop Engineer, LHP Division, Integral Coach Factory (ICF), said trains operating in challenging climatic conditions require specialised features to ensure smooth and safe operations. Elaborating on the Vande Bharat trains deployed in Kashmir, Chouhan said a special heating arrangement has been provided along the water-pipe network. The system is designed to prevent water from freezing in the pipelines during sub-zero temperatures and ensure uninterrupted water supply for lavatories and other facilities inside the train. He said another important feature incorporated in the Kashmir-specific Vande Bharat trains is a strong defogging system. Dense fog and condensation can affect visibility through the front and rear panes, particularly for the locomotive pilot. To ensure clear visibility and an unobstructed line of sight, strong defoggers have been provided in trains operating in Kashmir, Chouhan said. The specialised systems are part of efforts to adapt modern railway services to the demanding climatic conditions of Jammu and Kashmir, where severe winters pose operational challenges for railway infrastructure and rolling stock. He points out that the Integral Coach Factory (ICF) in Chennai, one of the three major coach manufacturing facilities of the Indian Railways, is marching ahead with increased production and a gradual shift towards manufacturing Vande Bharat coaches. The oldest and largest coach manufacturing facility in the country, ICF was inaugurated on October 2, 1955, by then Prime Minister Jawaharlal Nehru. Since its inception, the factory has rolled out more than 80,000 coaches, making it one of the world's largest single-site coach manufacturing facilities. The Chennai-based factory employs around 8,500 personnel from the government sector and nearly 6,000 workers from the private sector for various manufacturing and allied activities. ICF produced around 3,500 coaches during the last financial year, while the production target for the current year has been fixed at 3,865 coaches. Chief Workshop Engineer, LHP, Integral Coach Factory, Chennai, Anupam Chouhan said the facility was moving ahead with the changing requirements of Indian Railways, particularly with a focus on enhancing Vande Bharat coach production. He said work was underway for manufacturing four Vande Bharat chair-car train sets and four Vande Bharat sleeper train sets in the near future. Besides, one Vande Bharat freight train has already been rolled out and is currently undergoing trials, while another such train is under manufacturing. The shift towards Vande Bharat coaches comes amid the Railways' stated plan to gradually replace older conventional train coaches with newer-generation rolling stock. The move is aimed at modernising passenger services and facilitating faster train movement across the country. Chouhan also said that the facility is catering to the needs of the entire country and different sectors.
J&K Govt approves Rs 10.22 Cr tribal tourism village at Mendhar
The Government of Jammu and Kashmir, led by the Chief Minister Omar Abdullah, has accorded administrative approval for the development of a state-of-the-art tribal tourism village at Behri Qasab in Mendhar area of Poonch district. The project, sanctioned at a cost of Rs 10.22 Cr under the Capex Budget 2026-27, aims to showcase the rich tribal culture and heritage of the region while strengthening local infrastructure and creating new economic opportunities for local youth. The tribal tourism village is envisaged as a dedicated destination that will highlight the distinctive cultural traditions and way of life of the tribal communities, while providing an added attraction for visitors to Poonch. The project is also expected to contribute to local employment and livelihood generation, support community participation in tourism-related activities and further integrate Poonch with the broader tourism circuit of Jammu & Kashmir.
New UPI charges stir concern among Kashmir traders
Srinagar, Sep 17: The proposed Merchant Discount Rate (MDR) on certain UPI payments above Rs 2,000 has triggered concern among traders in Kashmir, who fear that the move could add to the cost of running small businesses at a time when margins are already under pressure. Under the revised framework, a 0.4 per cent MDR is set to apply from October 15 to specified person-to-merchant UPI transactions above Rs 2,000. The charge will be borne by the merchant and not the customer. The fee will be capped at Rs 300 for transactions above Rs 75,000, while small merchants receiving up to Rs 1 lakh a month through UPI QR transactions are to remain exempt. The proposed change marks a departure from the zero-MDR regime that has been a major feature of UPI since its rapid expansion. While most UPI transactions will continue to remain free, the new charge is expected to affect a relatively small share of merchant transactions but a much larger proportion of their value. Industry estimates suggest transactions above Rs 2,000 account for around 4 per cent of merchant transaction volumes but about 67 per cent of transaction value. For traders in Kashmir, the concern is over the cumulative impact on businesses that already face rising rents, electricity bills, wages, taxes, compliance costs and other operating expenses. Small retailers, in particular, say even a modest charge on repeated digital transactions can eat into margins when business volumes are high but profitability remains limited. The Kashmir Traders & Manufacturers Federation (KTMF) has urged the Government of India to reconsider the proposed MDR and ensure that small and marginal traders are not adversely affected. KTMF President Mohammad Yaseen Khan said the Federation appreciated the Governments efforts to strengthen and expand the digital payment ecosystem, but maintained that the concerns of small retailers and businesses operating on thin margins could not be overlooked. For a large corporate or high-volume business, a small percentage may appear insignificant, but for a small trader working on a very narrow margin, every additional cost matters. Traders are already dealing with multiple taxes, compliance requirements, rising operational expenses, high rentals, electricity costs, staff expenses and weak consumer demand. Another transaction-related cost will only add to their burden, Khan said. He said the widespread acceptance of UPI had been built on its simplicity and zero-cost character and cautioned against measures that could discourage traders from accepting digital payments. The success of UPI has been built on its simplicity and zero-cost character. Small traders should not be discouraged from accepting digital payments because of additional transaction costs. A retailer should be encouraged to accept digital payments, not made to calculate the cost of every transaction, Khan said. KTMF has particularly sought protection for micro and small traders whose businesses depend heavily on UPI but operate with limited margins. The Federation has also sought greater clarity and a wider exemption mechanism so that genuine small businesses do not inadvertently fall outside the protection available under the new framework. Khan said the trading community had consistently supported digitalisation and formalisation of the economy, but wanted the interests of smaller businesses to be considered while framing the new payment regime. The traders community has always supported digitalisation and formalisation of the economy. We only request that the interests of the smallest trader, from the shopkeeper to the family-run retail outlet, be kept at the centre of policymaking. Their margins are already under tremendous pressure and even a small additional cost can have a disproportionate impact, he said. KTMF urged the Union Government to consult representative trade bodies before expanding or revising MDR charges and ensure that small and marginal traders remain financially viable as digital payments continue to grow.
LG Sinha releases book on poetry
Srinagar, Sep 17:Lieutenant Governor Manoj Sinha on Thursday released a book Journal of the Waypoints, based on the Kashmiri poetry of acclaimed multilingual poet Satish Vimal. The book, authored by eminent writer, translator and poet, Mushtaque B Barq, features forty selected Kashmiri poems of Vimal, translated into English and critically elucidated by Barq, thereby introducing the poets literary expression to a wider readership beyond the Kashmiri-speaking world. The Lieutenant Governor appreciated Barqs effort in translating and analysing Vimals poetry. He wished Vimal and Barq, a fruitful and creative literary journey ahead. Sheikh Waseem, publisher, was also present on the occasion.
Security tightened across Kashmir
Srinagar, Sep 17:Additional security measures have been put in place across Kashmir, with intensified frisking, vehicle checking, tight vigil, and increased area domination exercises visible in Srinagar and other districts of the Valley. In the summer capital, police and security personnel were seen conducting checking and frisking at several points on Thursday. Joint parties stopped vehicles, inspected identity documents and carried out searches at key junctions, approach roads and busy urban stretches. Similar reports of additional deployment, naka checking and area domination were received from other districts of the Valley. Officials said the tightening followed directions issued by Inspector General of Police, Kashmir Zone, Sujit Kumar to district Senior Superintendents of Police during security and law-and-order review meetings. The IGP had directed field formations to enhance counter-insurgency operations, intensify area domination, increase naka checking at vulnerable locations and strengthen checking and surveillance along inter-district borders. On Wednesday, Sujit Kumar chaired a high-level security review at the Police Control Room (PCR) Kashmir to assess the prevailing situation and operational preparedness across the Central Kashmir Range covering Srinagar, Budgam and Ganderbal. The meeting was attended by the DIG, Central Kashmir Range, SSPs of the three districts, SSP PCR Kashmir, SDPOs and other senior officers. Field officers briefed the IGP on the security grid in their respective areas of responsibility and the arrangements in place to maintain peace, public order and a secure environment. Kumar reviewed deployment and operational readiness and directed that security arrangements remain dynamic and responsive to emerging threats. He emphasised regular assessment of the grid and timely strengthening of deployments wherever required. A senior police officer said here that the IGP Kashmir also called for round-the-clock vigilance, stronger preventive measures and close coordination among field formations. The review came against the backdrop of recent operations in Central Kashmir, including the September 4 encounter in the Ashdar area of Budgam in which a Lashkar-e-Taiba terroristwas killed. Officials said the same thrust tighter surveillance, naka checking, area domination and synergy with other forces has been conveyed in earlier range- and district-level reviews under Sujit Kumar, who took charge as IGP Kashmir Zone recently after serving as IGP Security. On the ground, the additional measures were most visible in Srinagar, where checking parties were deployed at multiple locations. Commuters reported random frisking of private vehicles, passenger transport and two-wheelers. Similar activity was reported from other Valley districts, with additional personnel pressed into area domination, night patrols and inter-district border checks. Security agencies described the step-up as preventive and intelligence-driven, aimed at denying residual terror networks space to move men, arms or support material through urban centres and inter-district routes. Officers said the grid would continue to be recalibrated on the basis of inputs and ground assessment. IGP Kashmir, in successive reviews this month across north, south and central Kashmir, asked officers to sustain pressure on terrorists and their support ecosystem, improve grassroots intelligence and keep deployments flexible. The latest visible tightening in Srinagar and other districts is being projected as the field-level follow-through of those directions.
2 Jaish terrorists killed in Udhampur operation: Police
Jammu, Sep 17:Security forces on Thursday neutralised two Jaish-e-Mohammed (JeM) terrorists, both belonging to Pakistan, in a night-long operation amid inclement weather conditions, in the dense forest stretch of Soan-Brattal in Majalta area of Udhampur district . During the joint operation, involving Army, JKP and CRPF, an alleged Over Ground Worker (OGW), who was believed to have facilitated the terrorists movement besides providing logistics and shelter, was also apprehended by the security forces for questioning. Meanwhile, following the gunfight, the combing operation led to the recovery of a large quantity of arms and ammunition, including AK Assault rifle, M4 Carbine and a Glock pistol with magazines and grenades from the encounter site. Cordon and Search Operation (CASO) in the forests and the areas adjoining the encounter site, however, continued. Police later identified the slain Jaish terrorists as Saddam and Mustafa, both Pakistani nationals. According to the Indian Armys White Knight Corps, in a joint intelligence-based Operation Sohan (Soan) during the intervening night of September 16 and 17, 2026, confirmed inputs indicated the presence of terrorists in the general area of Brattal, Udhampur. Despite hostile weather, difficult terrain and poor visibility, troops of White Knight Corps, Jammu and Kashmir Police and Central Reserve Police Force (CRPF) launched a targetted counter-terrorism operation, resulting in the neutralisation of two terrorists, the White Knight Corps posted. It maintained that the operation was still in progress, with search and surveillance operations continuing in the area. Security forces remain deployed to track and neutralise any remaining threat, the Army stated, along with its catch-phrase The knight stands vigil, the threat will be defeated. A separate post of Jammu and Kashmir Police (JKP), with a tagline You can run but you cannot hide! indicating successful operation, said, Two neutralised Pakistani Jaish-e-Mohammed terrorists have been identified as Saddam and Mustafa. An AK Assault rifle with four magazines; M4 Carbine with three magazines; a Glock pistol with two magazines and four grenades have been recovered from their person. Officials stated that the first brief contact with the slain terrorists was established during the intervening night of September 15 and 16 in Majalta area, during CASO launched following reports of suspicious movement. After a lull spanning almost a day, the security forces, during the continuing cordon, established fresh contact with the hiding terrorists on Wednesday night. The night witnessed brief exchange of fire yet a full-blown encounter ensued on Thursday morning when the terrorists opened heavy fire at the security forces, in a bid to break the cordon. However, their attempts proved futile as reinforcements were rushed to the encounter site to further bolster the cordon. Both the terrorists were killed in the targetted joint operation this morning, officials stated. Earlier in February also, two Pakistani terrorists were killed in Ramnagar forest of Udhampur district. Meanwhile, CASO continues while investigation is also underway to ascertain the exact role of the terror suspect held, following the operation, to unearth the entire terror eco-system active in the area, officials said.
Waheed Para moves resolution seeking reconciliation, amnesty
Srinagar, Sep 17:People's Democratic Party (PDP) leader and MLA Waheed-ur-Rehman Para has proposed a resolution in the upcoming Autumn session of the Jammu and Kashmir Assembly, urging the Centre to initiate a meaningful and sustained political process in J&K and consider a one-time, comprehensive amnesty for those affected by years of turmoil. The resolution submitted by Para to the Assembly secretary on September 5 calls for a humanitarian and time-bound review of cases involving misguided youth, who were caught in circumstances beyond their control, or continue to face cases and restrictions long after the events in question. The House calls upon the government of India to begin a meaningful and sustained political process in Jammu & Kashmir and to take a historic step towards healing by offering a one-time, comprehensive amnesty to those affected by years of turmoil, the one-page resolution said. No young person should be condemned to a lifetime of suspicion because of an allegation, past case or circumstances of conflict. The House, therefore, calls for a time-bound review of eligible cases, including restrictions affecting passports, security clearances, education and employment, with due process and safeguards for serious offences. The House believes that peace cannot be built by keeping an entire generation trapped in its past. Our youth must be given the chance to study, work, travel, support their families and rebuild their lives with dignity. This is not a plea for forgetting. It is a call for justice with compassion, accountability with humanity and peace with dignity, the resolution said. It said that the time had come to replace fear with trust, exclusion with opportunity and conflict with reconciliation. History will remember whether we chose to perpetuate the wounds of the past or had the courage to heal them, Para said.
Fresh elections after statehood restoration: LOP
Anantnag, Sep 17:Leader of Opposition (LOP) Sunil Sharma said on Thursday that Jammu and Kashmir would have to hold fresh Assembly elections if statehood were restored. Whenever statehood is restored, there will be new elections in the state, Sharma, a Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) legislator, told reporters after meeting several delegations in Anantnag. If statehood comes today, elections will have to be held because the new constitutional arrangement will be that of a state. The elections held under the present arrangement were for a Union Territory, he said. Sharma questioned the need for the government to continue if it lacked the authority to take decisions. If we have to wait for elections, what has CM Omar got to do till then? he said. Has he come to enjoy? Have they come to live like kings? Have they come to exercise badshahi? Why is he deceiving the people? Sharma said. He asked CM Omar to dissolve the Assembly if the government lacked authority. Whatever you tell them, they say that I do not have anything to do. I do not have the authority. I do not have the power. I do not have the strength, he said. Do we have to wait for five years for them to say that they do not have the power? Sharma said. He rejected allegations that the BJP wanted to topple the government. We will never topple it. I promise you that the BJP will never topple it, Sharma said. If it topples on its own, we do not have to be responsible for it, he said. Sharma said the BJP would raise public issues, including statehood, during the upcoming Assembly session. We will not surround it, but we will raise peoples issues. We will raise peoples issues regarding statehood, he said. Sharma accused Assembly Speaker Abdul Rahim Rather of bias over the duration of the upcoming session. He is biased because he wants to save the government. He is a custodian of the Assembly, he said. Referring to CM Omars recent remarks on the statehood timeline, Sharma said, He said that when Amit Shah will wake up from his sleep, the statehood will come. That means he knows when it is going to come. On Article 370, he said the decision was taken by Parliament and not by the BJP alone. The day the National Conference takes 275 seats to Parliament, tell them to speak about it, Sharma said. He defended the Centres development record over the past 10-12 years. All the development that has happened in the past 10-12 years has never happened. There is no comparison in it, Sharma said. There is no need for CM Omars certificate in it, he said. The LOP also called for talks with daily wagers protesting in essential departments, including the PDD, PWD, and PHCs. I would also appeal to the daily wagers to call off their strike if the government agrees to negotiate. But at least take some initiative, he said. As the Opposition, it is our responsibility to become the voice of the people because the government is not listening, Sharma said. I have not come to topple any government. I have not come to seek votes. People form governments, he said.
CM Omar greets PM, demands statehood restoration
Amritsar, Sep 17:Chief Minister Omar Abdullah on Thursday reiterated his demand to restore J&Ks statehood, saying all they have received so far on the matter were verbal assurances. Talking to media persons here, CM Omar also wished Prime Minister NarendraModi on his 76th birthday, saying, We wish him on his birthday. Asked what announcement he expected today, Abdullah said, What can I say as to what he (Modi) does If nothing else, let him grant us statehood; what else could we want? Abdullah was in Amritsar to inaugurate the renovated heritage building of the Jammu & Kashmir House on Court Road. Asked about statehood, Abdullah said, You all know what happened with us. We were told that statehood would be restored after the (J&K) elections. But nothing was given in writing; only verbal assurances were given. He also advised the leadership of Ladakh not to rely on the Centre's verbal assurances regarding their struggle for constitutional safeguards with regard to land and jobs. Hence, I suggest to people and friends in Ladakh not to trust the Centre's words Rather, have them in writing. We did not get anything in writing, and we are at the same place today. J&K has been a victim of the BJP-led Centre's verbal assurances, the chief minister said. Abdullah noted that the Centre had outlined a three-step process delimitation, Assembly elections and the restoration of statehood. Even in Parliament and in the Supreme Court, this assurance was given. While we saw delimitation and elections in J&K, in which people participated, statehood has not been restored even till now, he said. On August 5, 2019, the Centre revoked Article 370 of the Constitution that granted special status to the erstwhile state of Jammu and Kashmir and bifurcated it into two Union territories J&K with a legislative assembly with limited powers and Ladakh without one. In December 2023, the Supreme Court upheld the Centre's decision to revoke the special status and create the two UTs but told the government to restore J&Ks statehood as soon as possible.
LG celebrates PM's birthday with children at Palaash, Pareesha
Srinagar, Sep 17:Lieutenant Governor Manoj Sinha on Thursday celebrated the birthday of Prime Minister NarendraModi with the children of the Palaash and Pareesha childrens homes in Srinagar. He distributed school bags, sports kits, and sweets, and also reviewed the residential facilities provided to ensure their well-being. Subsequently, he visited the Childrens Hospital at Bemina to spend time with the young patients and wish them a full and speedy recovery. The SevaSankalpAbhiyan begins today, marking a month-long festival of selfless service till October 17. This campaign celebrates 25 years of the Prime Minister's public service, transforming India from the fragile five to the worlds top five economies. Over the next month, 12 programmes will include school competitions on Mere Sapnoka Bharat, honouring Anganwadi and ASHA workers, tree plantation, youth activities, and registration camps under SevaSetuAbhiyan. Until October 17, a 'SevaSetuAbhiyan' will be run at block and ward level, with 3-4 day camps to register deprived beneficiaries for government schemes. I earnestly appeal that every citizen of Jammu and Kashmir participates wholeheartedly in this campaign. Prime Minister has worked day and night for 140 crore countrymen and has helped build a new, powerful Jammu and Kashmir. The GDP growth rate for the first quarter of 2026-27 is 7.8 percent. If we look at other indicators of welfare and development, 25 crore people have moved above the poverty line and 80 crore people are receiving free ration under the GaribKalyan Ann Yojana, LG Sinha said. He also highlighted the unprecedented growth of national highways, which have increased from 91,000 km to 146,000 km, and the number of airports has risen from 74 to 165. Kashmir is now directly connected with the rail network. Discrimination has been eliminated and J&K is witnessing historic transformation. As far as the welfare schemes across the country are concerned, 11 crore toilets, more than 10 crore gas connections and 4 crore PM Awas have been provided, and another 3 crore houses are under construction. Under Prime Ministers guidance Jammu and Kashmir will emerge as an unparalleled example of prosperity and happiness. I urge all citizens of Jammu Kashmir to contribute to this Service Campaign, the LG said.
Leaders across political spectrum greet PM
New Delhi, Sep 17:Leaders across the political spectrum greeted Prime Minister NarendraModi on his 76th birthday on Thursday, highlighting his 25 years in public office. While President Droupadi Murmu hailed his record on governance, Home Minister Amit Shah recalled Modi's journey from an ordinary BJP volunteer to the nation's highest political office. Vice President C P Radhakrishnan credited Modi with presiding over India's emergence as one of the world's fastest-growing major economies, while Andhra Pradesh Chief Minister N Chandrababu Naidu said his journey from Gujarat chief minister to prime minister had given a new momentum to India's growth story. Congress president Mallikarjun Kharge and Leader of Opposition in the Lok Sabha Rahul Gandhi also wished Modi a long and healthy life. Born on September 17, 1950, in Gujarat's Vadnagar, Modi turned 76 on Thursday. He completes 25 uninterrupted years in public office on October 7, having first taken the oath as Gujarat chief minister in 2001 before becoming prime minister in 2014. In her birthday message, Murmu said Modi had set numerous new benchmarks for good governance during his tenures as chief minister and prime minister and given unprecedented momentum and a new direction to inclusive development. Advancing on the path of modern progress while upholding a sense of cultural pride, our fellow citizens are realising the harmonious blend of heritage and development, the president said on X. She prayed for Modi's good health and long life so that he could continue his mission of public service and nation-building. Radhakrishnan said under Modi's leadership, India was shining as a bright spot in the world and among the fastest-growing major economies. He cited the country's progress in areas ranging from digital technology and space to healthcare, infrastructure and manufacturing, and said more than 25 crore Indians had come out of extreme poverty in recent years. Radhakrishnan said Modi's references to backward districts as aspirational districts, border villages as vibrant and first villages, and the northeast as ashtalakshmi reflected an approach aimed at transforming geographical marginalisation into empowerment. Over the past year, as I travelled across the states and Union territories, I witnessed firsthand how these transformative changes are reaching even the remotest parts of our country, he said. LokSabha Speaker Om Birla said India was forging a new identity on the global stage under Modi's leadership and making progress in development, self-reliance, innovation, digital technology, infrastructure and public welfare. Your public life, spanning over 25 years, has proven immensely fruitful for the strengthening of democratic values and for the upliftment of the nation's vulnerable and underprivileged sections, Birla said. N Chandrababu Naidu, the TDP chief and a key BJP ally, hailed Modi's journey from Gujarat chief minister to prime minister. Marking 25 exemplary years of public service, from leading Gujarat as a transformational CM to guiding the nation as a revolutionary PM, you have given a new momentum to India's growth story, he said. Your vision of 'seva, sankalp and sushasan' continues to inspire 140 crore citizens across the nation, Naidu said, praying to Lord Venkateswara for Modi's long and healthy life. JD(U) chief and former Bihar chief minister Nitish Kumar also extended his greetings, wishing Modi a healthy and long life. BJP president Nitin Nabin described Modi as the embodiment of dedication and service to the nation. He said his journey, driven by the resolve of Nation First, was an inspiring saga of service, good governance, and public welfare. Under your guidance, India is scaling new heights of development and self-reliance, steadily advancing on the global stage with a renewed identity and enhanced strength, he said. Maharashtra Deputy Chief Minister and Shiv Sena chief Eknath Shinde described Modi as the embodiment of India's progress and the aspirations of its people. Modi embodies the story of India's progress. He resonates in the hearts of every citizen. He stands as a symbol of welfare for the poor. He represents the youthful spirit of this young nation. He is the source of courage amidst every challenge. He is a thunderous force against adversaries. He embodies the soul of 1.4 billion dreams. He is the hallmark of a New India, Shinde said. Former prime minister and JD(S) chief H D Deve Gowda conveyed his wishes to Modi in a letter. May you be blessed with a long and healthy life. May you continue to lead our nation with dedication and wisdom. May you help our nation realise its enormous potential and further strengthen its exalted place in the world, he said. DMK president and former Tamil Nadu chief minister M K Stalin wished Modi good health, happiness and a long life. Tamil Nadu Chief Minister and TVK chief Vijay also conveyed his heartfelt birthday wishes to Modi, whom he described as working with dedication towards building a strong India, and wished him a long and healthy life. NCP (SP) chief SharadPawar extended heartfelt birthday wishes to Modi and wished him good health and a long life. Jharkhand Chief Minister Hemant Soren conveyed his johar (greetings) to Modi. Jammu and Kashmir Chief Minister Omar Abdullah also wished Modi a happy birthday, good health and a long life. Nagaland Chief Minister Neiphiu Rio extended birthday greetings to Modi on behalf of the state government, the political parties in the ruling alliance and the people of Nagaland, saying India was fortunate to have a leader dedicated to serving the nation. Meghalaya Chief Minister Conrad Sangma said Modi's 25 years in public service had been marked by dedicated leadership and a steadfast commitment to the growth and development of our nation. Mizoram Chief Minister Lalduhoma wished Modi good health and continued strength. May you be blessed with wisdom and success in your service to the nation, he said. Kharge, Rahul greet PM Congress president Mallikarjun Kharge and former party chief Rahul Gandhi on Thursday wished Prime Minister NarendraModi good health and long life on his 76th birthday. Born on September 17, 1950, in Gujarat's Vadnagar, Modi turned 76 on Thursday. In a post on X, Kharge said, Best wishes to Prime Minister Shri NarendraModiJi on his birthday. May he be blessed with good health and long life. Wishing the prime minister, Gandhi said, Happy birthday to PM Narendra Modiji. Wishing you good health and a long life.
Inaugurated by Chief Minister Omar Abdullah on September 7 at Srinagars SKICC, the maiden International Film Festival of Jammu and Kashmir brought world cinema to the valley. Organised by the Department of Information and Public Relations (DIPR) of the Government of Jammu and Kashmir, in collaboration with the National Film Development Corporation (NFDC), the festival drew over 300 global delegates, screened 135 films from 40 countries, and offered Rs 96 lakh in prize money across nine categories. Yet, from a local perspective, the festival highlighted a glaring gap. Filmmaker Kapil Matoo urged the J&K government to draw inspiration from Uttar Pradesh to create a genuinely filmmaker-friendly environment. It served as a wake-up call and made evident that the regions infrastructure and policies are not yet fully equipped to ensure that Kashmirs indigenous artists reap the real benefits of such international platforms. Speaking on the sidelines of the festival, Kapil Matoo highlighted the way the UP government provides subsidies, allowing a local filmmaker or producer to take the money. If local filmmakers are shooting their films completely in Kashmir, what are they getting? he asked. He stressed that the administration must move beyond merely providing locations; it needs to actively handhold local filmmakers and empower them to tell their own stories. Kashmir has a lot of talent, but much of it remains directionless. To bridge this gap, Matoo emphasised the need for enablers who can provide three to four years of dedicated mentorship. He also urged local artists to unite, refine their craft, and scale up their storytelling to meet high standards. Renowned filmmaker Imtiaz Ali spoke optimistically of Kashmirs untold stories. He said that Kashmir possesses a treasure trove of untold stories, vibrant characters, and rich cultural traditions that could provide exceptional material for cinema. He expressed hope that Kashmirs growing engagement with the film industry would create greater opportunities for Kashmiri talent. However, the ground reality paints a completely different picture. Local artists and tourism stakeholders have expressed deep regret and concern over not being provided due representation. When I spoke with Waheed Jeelani, a renowned artist and founder-chairman of the Kashmir Music Club, he revealed that indigenous creators were not taken on board and were denied access to the main stage, instead being asked to perform on the periphery at the banks of Dal Lake. The event should have featured our traditional Kashmiri instruments and popular local artists to represent the real Kashmir, Waheed Jeelani stated. He pointed out that the event management and contractors were outsourced, leaving local professionals out of the loop. According to him, Kashmir was merely used as a beautiful backdrop for shooting rather than being authentically promoted. Highlighting a 15-year struggle for artists, he said that the government has spent crores of rupees on the international film festival but has remained completely unconcerned about investing in local artists who actually carry forward the true art, culture, and heritage of Kashmir. Prominent J&K film director and artist Mushtaq Ali Khan, who has organised six film festivals in the past, said that the government ignored indigenous talent. He stressed that the active participation of local film and tourism stakeholders was crucial for genuinely boosting the regional tourism and film industries in Kashmir. Aqib Chayia, President of the J&K Hoteliers Club in Gulmarg, said that local stakeholders should have been the primary invitees, not an afterthought. During my own visit to the SKICC for the event, I saw this disheartening reality with my own eyes. Instead of being celebrated on the main stage, local artists from Pamposh Folk Theatre, Bamrada Khag, were performing in a park far away from the spotlight. When I spoke to the groups head, Manzoor Ahmad, he expressed his dismay, noting that they were simply instructed to perform outside and were denied a dignified stage. This begs a critical question: how can we claim to revive local art and integrate it with cinema if our artists are not given the space, respect, and due recognition their craft demands? After more than a year of meticulous planning and heavy public investment, the curtains have fallen on the festival. Yet the scenes of empty shikaras facing the floating screen on Dal Lake pose a strong question regarding the scale of actual public participation. The relationship between Kashmir and Bollywood is not new. For decades, Bollywood capitalised on the valleys stunning mountains, beautiful lakes, and flowing rivers, branding Kashmir a Paradise on Earth and consequently boosting tourism. Historically, Kashmir was not just a backdrop; cinema halls ran to packed houses, and film releases were celebrated events. Even during periods of intense uncertainty, the magic of movies survived through VCRs in Kashmiri living rooms. Recent years have seen a shift. Films like Haider and Bajrangi Bhaijaan moved beyond the scenic backdrop to incorporate Kashmiri characters, settings, and hospitality into their core narratives. Kashmir possesses emerging filmmakers and profound stories that demand a strong supportive ecosystem. Showcasing traditional crafts through isolated documentaries is not the solution; our heritage, musicians, and artisans need to be mainstreamed into grand, commercial cinematic storytelling. The true test of IFFJK 2026 lies in its aftermath. If it successfully empowers local filmmakers and helps establish a self-sustaining film industry, it will be a historic leap forward. But if it remains limited to tourism promotion and image projection, it will go down as nothing more than a grand administrative spectacle. The ultimate challenge is no longer just shooting in Kashmir, but giving Kashmir its own authentic cinematic face.
Kupwara is known for its mountains, forests and murmuring waters. But there is another Kupwara, quieter and deeper, hidden in the memories of its people. It is the Kupwara of saints, sages, shrines and sacred placesa land where faith has often inspired people to cultivate respect beyond religious differences while remaining rooted in their own traditions. The district has produced and preserved the memory of many saints and sages. Their stories are woven into the cultural landscape of its villages and towns. Among the revered Pandit sages associated with this land was Yogiraj Swami Kral Bab Ji Maharaj of Kralgund, Langate. Yogiraj Swami Kral Bab Ji Maharaj was a spiritual figure whose life reflected devotion, simplicity and universal love. He belonged to the tradition of Kashmiri Pandit saints who dedicated themselves to prayer, meditation and service. His presence in Kralgund left a lasting impression on the region, and his memory continues to be honoured by people of all communities. The legacy of Swami Kral Bab Ji Maharaj is not confined to one faith. It speaks of a shared heritage in which Hindus and Muslims lived as neighbours, sharing joys and sorrows, festivals and hardships. His life embodied the ethos of Kashmiriyata tradition of harmony, mutual respect and coexistence that has been an integral part of the Valleys cultural fabric for centuries. Such saints were not merely religious leaders. They were also social anchors, guiding people through difficult times, offering solace to the distressed and promoting peace within communities. Their teachings emphasised the importance of inner purity, compassion and humility. They reminded people that true spirituality lies not in outward rituals alone but in the way one treats fellow human beings. The shrines and sacred sites associated with these sages remain places of reverence. They are visited by devotees seeking blessings, peace and guidance. For many, these places are reminders of a time when faith united rather than divided, when diversity was celebrated as a strength rather than seen as a threat. In recent decades, Kashmir has witnessed tremendous change and turbulence. Many Pandit families were forced to leave their homes, and with them went a part of the regions living cultural heritage. The memory of saints like Swami Kral Bab Ji Maharaj thus becomes even more significant. It serves as a bridge between the past and the present, reminding people of what was and what could be again. Preserving this legacy is not merely an act of historical remembrance. It is a commitment to the values that these saints stood forfaith, respect and coexistence. It is a call to recognise that the cultural tapestry of Kashmir is woven from many threads, each contributing to its richness and beauty. The story of Swami Kral Bab Ji Maharaj is a story of Kupwara, of Kashmir and of humanity itself. It tells us that holiness is not confined to any single community, that wisdom can emerge from the simplest of lives and that the bonds of neighbourliness can transcend the boundaries of religion. As we remember him, we are reminded that the true measure of a society lies in its ability to honour its shared past and to build a future rooted in mutual respect. The legacy of Swami Kral Bab Ji Maharaj challenges us to live with the same spirit of faith, humility and love that he embodieda spirit that can illuminate even the darkest of times and bring people together in a world too often divided by difference.
God is the one who created us all. It is His prerogative to give life, and take it back. None on this earth has the right to inflict death on anyone else. If we go through the religious literature, across historic and cultural distinctions, we find that life is considered as supreme. All the moral, ethical, and legal codes are designed to safeguard life. The story of Abel and Cain tells us the eternal lesson of what it means to kill a soul in the sight of God. Referring to the same story God emphatically makes it clear in His last word, The Quran, that one who kills a soul kills the entire humanity. The way this teaching has been eternally saved in the holy Quran speaks of the importance of human life. The act of killing an innocent person is unpardonable. The punishment for this crime in the hereafter is hellfire, and that too eternal. The life of Prophet Muhammad (SAW) tells us how even a slightest harm to anyone would turn the Prophet restless. He would even feel for the animals, and thus the teaching that whenever an animal is found tired one should dismount, and allow the creature to take rest. All the religions that people around the globe follow lay emphasis on not harming any soul. Unfortunately there are people who forget this divine teaching and resort to harming others. Sometime ignorance and evil emotion makes them cross the final barrier, and they snatch an innocent life. In the light of Quran there is no bigger crime that one can commit against mankind. The Prophet of mercy (SAW) taught us the value of life. If we are his followers we must be on the side of the oppressed, and in case an innocent is killed we should feel the pain. We must remember the divine words: Because of that We ordained for the Children of Israel that if anyone killed a person not in retaliation of murder, or (and) to spread mischief in the land - it would be as if he killed all mankind, and if anyone saved a life, it would be as if he saved the life of all mankind. (5:32)
When Dr Masood Choudhary assumed responsibility as the Founder Vice-Chancellor of BGSB University, he did not inherit a flourishing institution. There was no established academic ecosystem, impressive infrastructure or accumulated institutional reputation upon which he could build. He began virtually from scratch, on a rugged and inhospitable stretch of land where even ordinary vegetation struggled to grow. It demanded persistence, personal sacrifice, networking, persuasion and an almost emotional attachment to the project. Dr Choudhary mobilised every legitimate resource at his disposal. He approached friends, well-wishers, administrators, academics and influential members of society. He used the goodwill and credibility accumulated during his distinguished public career to secure assistance for the university. This was not merely the routine discharge of official duties. He treated the university as a mission. Brick by brick, department by department and programme by programme, an institution began to emerge from the barren landscape. Roads were laid, buildings were raised, laboratories were established and students and scholars were brought to a place that had previously existed outside the recognised academic map of the country. Dr Masood Choudhary did not simply construct a university campus; he created confidence in a region that had long been conditioned to believe that prestigious institutions could only be established elsewherein Jammu or Srinagar. For the people of Rajouri and Poonch, its establishment carried a significance far beyond education. It demonstrated that the Pir Panjal region was capable of hosting and sustaining an institution of higher learning. It created employment, encouraged local enterprise, expanded social interaction and gave countless families hope that quality education could become accessible closer to home. The university also helped introduce the region to the rest of India. Students who arrived from outside Jammu and Kashmir encountered the natural beauty, cultural diversity and hospitality of Pir Panjal. In this manner, the institution became a bridge connecting a historically neglected frontier with the wider national academic community. This remarkable rise was inseparable from the personality and leadership of its Founder Vice-Chancellor. Dr Choudhary possessed the rare combination of vision and execution. Many people can conceive ambitious ideas; only a few possess the discipline and determination required to translate them into durable institutions. Had his work been carried forward with the same seriousness, BGSB University could today have been among the foremost centres of scientific research, technological education and intellectual innovation in northern India. From rise to decline Unfortunately, the departure of a great institution-builder is also a test of the society inheriting his creation. The real strength of an institution lies not only in its establishment but in its ability to retain direction, standards and momentum after its founder has left. It is here that the story of BGSB University becomes deeply painful. After his departure, the university gradually became vulnerable to administrative inconsistency, political indifference and competing interests. Instead of building upon the solid foundation that had already been laid, successive years witnessed an apparent loss of momentum. The institution that had once attracted students from distant parts of the country began struggling to retain even its natural appeal among students from the surrounding districts. When initiative disappears and institutional decisions become captive to political calculations, personal interests or prolonged administrative uncertainty, decline becomes inevitable. The deterioration of this university cannot be attributed to any one government, officer, community or political party. Responsibility extends across the spectrum. The political leadership failed to accord the institution the sustained attention it deserved. Administrators did not always protect its long-term academic interests. Civil society remained largely silent, while the regions intellectual class failed to develop a united movement for its preservation and advancement. Cost of internal divisions The Pir Panjal region has also suffered because of internal social and political divisions, particularly the prolonged rivalry between sections of the Gujjar and Pahari communities. Legitimate questions of representation, identity and constitutional rights have too often been transformed into political contests in which one communitys advancement is presented as another communitys loss. Political elites have frequently benefited from these divisions. While communities remained occupied with competing claims and electoral calculations, institutions meant to serve everyone were gradually neglected. BGSB University does not belong to any single tribe, caste, religious group, constituency or political party. It belongs equally to the Gujjar, Pahari, Kashmiri, Dogra and every other community. More importantly, it belongs to generations yet to come. Allowing it to decline because of political differences or community rivalries would be a betrayal of the entire Pir Panjal region. A university is not a prize to be captured by one group; it is a shared inheritance that must be preserved by all. Need for revival The decline of BGSB University is not irreversible. Institutions can recover if their problems are acknowledged honestly and addressed through competent leadership and collective determination. The university requires a comprehensive academic and administrative revival plan. It needs visionary and independent leadership, transparent appointments, modern professional courses, stronger research facilities, national and international academic collaborations, and sustained engagement with industry. It must once again reach out to students across India while restoring confidence among the people of Rajouri, Poonch and adjoining areas. The political representatives, academics, business community, civil society organisations and diaspora of Pir Panjal must come together to demand and support its revival. A permanent non-partisan forum could be constituted to monitor the universitys progress and advocate its legitimate requirements before the government and other authorities. Above all, the university must be liberated from narrow political and communal considerations. It should be treated as the intellectual heart of Pir Panjal and developed as a premier centre for science, technology, mountain studies, environmental research, border-area development, tribal studies, languages and the distinctive cultural heritage of the region. Warning for Pir Panjal The people of Pir Panjal must change their outlook. Its intelligentsia cannot awaken only during elections or remain occupied exclusively with questions of political representation. It must also protect the regions universities, colleges, tourist destinations, forests, languages, culture and historical heritage. If we cannot preserve what has already been created for us, our demands for further development will gradually lose their moral force. Late Dr Masood Ahmed Choudhary fulfilled his responsibility. He conceived a dream, transformed it into an institution and placed the Pir Panjal region on the educational map of the country. The responsibility now rests with the government, political leadership, civil society and, above all, the people of the region. Author is SSP, J&K Police
A brotherhood forged in uniform
Some meetings are arranged. Some meetings happen by chance. But there are meetings that the heart has been waiting for years to experience. The recent Milan of the 1995 batch of Sub Inspectors of Jammu & Kashmir Police, now spanning the journey from young Sub-Inspectors to DySPs and senior officers after nearly 32 years of service, was one such meeting. It was much more than a reunion. It was a homecoming. A homecoming of friends who had once marched together, run together, trained together, struggled together and dreamed togetherand who, after more than three decades, found themselves sitting across from one another once again, carrying the memories of youth in their hearts. Nearly 60 out of around 70 batchmates attended the Milan. Those who could not join us were deeply missedsome because of ill health and some because of unavoidable professional commitments. Otherwise, the gathering was almost complete. And perhaps that itself tells the story of the bond that the 1995 batch has carried through all these years. When we were young It hardly seems possible that nearly 32 years have passed. The memories of Sher-i-Kashmir Police Academy, Udhampur, still feel remarkably fresh. We were young Sub-Inspectors then young lads, full of energy, dreams and enthusiasm. Some of our colleagues were a little older than us, but most of us were at an age when the future seemed limitless. We spent nearly two long years together in training. We marched together. We ran together. We played together. We studied together. We faced obstacles together. We trained during the day and often continued our camaraderie long into the night. There were long runs, parade drills, games, obstacle courses, classroom sessions and countless moments of shared laughter and hardship. We also underwent training at CRPF traiy centre Mudkhed Nanded, which added another chapter to our collective experience. At that age, perhaps we did not realise what was happening. We thought we were simply completing our training. But unknowingly, we were building something that would stay with us for the rest of our lives. We were building a brotherhood. The sweat of the training ground became the cement of our friendship. Then we went our separate ways. Around 1997, we passed out from the Academy. Our batchmates were posted to different parts of Jammu & Kashmir,Jammu, Kashmir and Ladakh. A large batch of officers, including our female colleagues, spread across districts, police stations and assignments. From the mountains to the plains, from cities to remote and challenging areas, the 1995 batch became part of almost every facet of policing in Jammu & Kashmir. We were no longer the young trainees of SKPA. We became police officers. And then began the real test. A phone call was enough Police service has a peculiar way of creating bonds. The profession takes us away from our families, friends and personal commitments. Long hours, emergencies, law-and-order duties, difficult terrain, operational assignments and unforeseen situations become part of everyday life. There were occasions when we could not attend family functions. There were occasions when personal plans had to be sacrificed for duty. There were nights spent away from home. And there were moments when professional responsibility had to take precedence over everything else. Yet, whenever a difficult situation arose, one often knew whom to call. A batchmate. For an emergency. For professional advice. For assistance. For helping someone in need. Sometimes even for a personal problem. The words He is our batchmate carried a meaning of their own. No lengthy explanation was required. The bond was understood. Over the years, that sense of belonging became stronger than the ordinary bonds of professional association. We were not merely colleagues. We had become each others extended family. Thirty-two years changed our faces but not our hearts. When we met at the Milan, the most emotional part was perhaps looking at one another. Some of us had met occasionally. Some had remained in touch. But there were batchmates whom many of us were seeing after almost three decades. The young faces of 1995 had changed. The hair had turned grey. The faces carried the marks of experience. The enthusiasm of youth had been replaced by the wisdom of years. And somewhere in that moment, one could not help asking: Where did those 32 years go? We had entered the police service as young men and women. Now we were standing together as experienced officers, many having risen to the rank of DySP and beyond, carrying decades of professional experience and countless stories. Time had changed us. But it had not changed the affection we carried for one another. For a few hours, time stood still. The Milan began around noon and continued until nearly 7 PM. Those few hours seemed to erase three decades. The files were forgotten. The ranks were forgotten. The postings were forgotten. The pressures of service were forgotten. For those few hours, we were not SSPs,DySPs, or officers. We were simply the 95ians. The young lads of SKPA. There was laughter. There were stories. There was teasing. There were memories that had almost been forgotten. And there were moments when a simple smile or a familiar face took us back to a parade ground three decades ago. It was as though someone had opened an old album and, suddenly, all those golden photographs had come alive. But there were empty chairs too Every reunion carries happiness. But this one also carried a profound sense of loss. Some of our batchmates could not be with us because of illness. Some were prevented by professional commitments. And some were absent because they had made the ultimate sacrifice. They had given their today for the tomorrow of others. We remembered them. We missed them. And we observed a two-minute silence in honour of our fallen heroes. The presence of some of their children and family members made the moment even more emotional. Looking at those children, one could feel the presence of their fathers in the gathering. There were smiles. But there were also moist eyes. For a brief moment, words seemed unnecessary. Some people may leave this world, but they never leave the hearts of those who walked beside them. Our fallen batchmates remain an inseparable part of the story of 1995. Thirty-two years of experience in one room Another beautiful aspect of the Milan was the interaction among batchmates. Officers who had served in conflict areas and some of the most challenging assignments of Jammu & Kashmir shared their experiences. The years had made everyone wiser. The challenges of policing had made us more prudent. The difficult situations we had encountered had given us professional maturity and a deeper understanding of people and society. Listening to one another, it became clear that each batchmate had travelled a unique journey. Different postings. Different challenges. Different experiences. Different scars. But one common thread connected everyone: A desire to serve and contribute towards a better and safer society. Perhaps that is what three decades in the police service ultimately teaches a person that beyond rank and authority, the real purpose of service is to make a difference in the lives of people. The promise we made while departing When the Milan finally came to an end, there was a sense that something important had happened. We had rediscovered one another. We had rediscovered our youth. And perhaps, more importantly, we had rediscovered the value of staying connected. We departed with a simple promise: We will meet again. We will celebrate each others successes. We will share each others happiness. We will stand beside each other during difficult times. We will visit those who are unwell. We will remember those who are no longer with us. And whenever any batchmate needs us, we will try to be there. Because after 32 years, the relationship does not need a designation. It only needs a heart. Let the distance never become a barrier again. Everyone understands that life is busy. We all have professional responsibilities. We have families, commitments and our own challenges. But perhaps we have also learnt a lesson from this Milan: We should not wait another 32 years to meet again. Let our gatherings become more frequent. Let our conversations become longer. Let us remain a source of happiness and strength for one another. Let us celebrate the achievements of our batchmates without hesitation and stand beside them in their difficult moments without being asked. Let the love, affection and camaraderie of the 95ians grow stronger with every passing day. Because the most precious thing we carried from SKPA Udhampur was not merely our training. It was each other. A journey that continues Thirty two years ago, we entered the Academy as young Sub-Inspectors. We did not know where life would take us. We did not know how many difficult situations we would face. We did not know how many friends we would lose along the way. We did not know how many of us would eventually wear the stars of a DySP. But we knew one thingwe were together. Three decades later, when we met again, we realised that the most valuable part of that journey was never the rank on our shoulders. It was the people who walked beside us. The 1995 batch is not merely a batch. It is a memory. It is an emotion. It is a shared history. It is a story of youth, service, sacrifice, friendship and resilience. And above all, it is a brotherhood that has survived time. The uniforms may one day be put away. The ranks may eventually fade. The postings may become memories. But the bond forged in 1995 will remain. So let us meet again. Let us laugh again. Let us celebrate again. Let us stand together again. And let us keep spreading happiness in one anothers lives. Because after all these years, we have realised something beautiful. Some friendships are made in a moment. Some are nurtured over years. But the rarest ones are forged in hardship and survive a lifetime. The 95ians are one such brotherhood. And this time, let us not wait another 32 years.
When Disability Becomes a Punchline
Social media has transformed the way Kashmiri is written, spoken and circulated. Facebook pages, Instagram reels, YouTube videos and memes have created new spaces for a Kashmiri to flourish. This expansion of the language online is worth celebrating. But it also raises an uncomfortable question: what happens when disability becomes a source of humour, insult and ridicule in Kashmiri digital content? One does not have to look far to encounter disability-related language being used casually to describe stupidity, incompetence or irrational behaviour. A recent qualitative study on derogatory labels used against persons with disabilities in Kashmir documents terms such as zor for a deaf person, kol/chouer for someone who has speech disability, oun for a blind person and koen for someone blind in one eye. It also documents the use of pagal in reference to people experiencing mental-health difficulties and other labels associated with physical impairments. The issue is not simply whether these words exist in Kashmiri. Languages everywhere contain words and expressions that emerge from social attitudes. The more important question is what these words come to mean when they are used as insults or jokes. Consider the familiar expression Kacxetember chiya?roughly, Are you blind?used when someone fails to notice something obvious. On the surface, it may appear harmless. Nobody is necessarily talking about a blind person. Yet the expression derives its force from an underlying assumption: not seeing something is associated with foolishness or incompetence. Blindness becomes a metaphor for deficiency. The same pattern appears when pagal is casually used to describe someone who behaves irrationally or makes a foolish decision. Mental-health difficulties become shorthand for stupidity or absurdity. Similarly, when words associated with deafness, speech or physical impairment are used to ridicule someone, disability becomes a linguistic marker of what is considered wrong, inferior or laughable. Social media intensifies this problem. A joke that might once have been heard by a few people in a conversation can now become a reel viewed thousands of times. Someones manner of walking, speech, facial expressions or behaviour may be exaggerated and presented as comedy. The comments section then reproduces the joke, often using disability-related words as insults. What appears to one viewer as just humour can be experienced very differently by a person with a disability. This is where ableism becomes important. Ableism is not simply discrimination against disabled people. It is a broader system of beliefs that treats certain bodies and minds as normal, desirable and capable while presenting others as deficient, dependent or inferior. It often operates through ordinary interactions rather than explicit hostility. When blindness means not understanding, deafness means not listening, intellectual disability means stupidity, or mental illness means being ridiculous, these associations are not neutral. They teach us something about what society considers a normal person to be. For a disabled Kashmiri watching such content, the experience can therefore be deeply alienating. Imagine repeatedly seeing your body, your speech, your movement or your way of communicating turned into a joke. The problem is not one meme or one word. It is the cumulative message: your difference is something other people are entitled to laugh at. This also shapes how non-disabled people learn about disability. Most people do not encounter disability first through disability studies or human-rights frameworks. They encounter it through family, school, popular culture and increasingly through social media. If digital culture repeatedly presents disability as tragedy, helplessness or comedy, those representations become part of everyday understanding. This is not an argument that Kashmiri humour should disappear. Nor is Kashmiri culture uniquely ableist. Ableism exists across languages and societies. Nor should every use of a disability-related word automatically be treated as discriminatory. Context matters. There is, however, an important distinction between laughing with disabled people and laughing at disabled people. Disabled people themselves can and do use humour to reclaim identities, challenge stereotypes and expose social barriers. A disabled comedian making fun of inaccessible public transport is very different from a non-disabled creator imitating a disabled persons movement for laughs. One challenges ableism; the other can reproduce it. Kashmiri humour has a long tradition of satire and social commentary. That creativity could be directed towards challenging ableist structures rather than disabled bodies. Imagine a reel that makes fun of an inaccessible government office rather than the wheelchair user trying to enter it. Or a satire about the bureaucratic difficulties faced by a person seeking disability certification. Or comedy that exposes the absurdity of calling disabled people bechare while excluding them from education, employment and public life. The target of humour then changesfrom the person who is different to the structures and attitudes that create exclusion. This conversation also needs to include disabled people themselves. They should not appear only in social-media stories about charity, suffering or inspiration. They are audiences, creators, writers, artists, comedians and citizens. Their experiences should inform how disability is represented in Kashmiri digital culture. As someone working in disability studies and through the Indian Society of Disability Studies, I see this not as an attempt to police language but as an invitation to examine it. Every language carries the histories, hierarchies and prejudices of the society that speaks it. Kashmiri is no exception. But language can also change. The growth of Kashmiri on social media gives us an opportunity to ask not only how much Kashmiri content we are producing, but what kind of society that content imagines and reproduces. Language does more than describe the world. It teaches us how to see it. So the challenge to Kashmiri content creators is not to stop making jokes. It is to ask a more difficult question: Can we make people laugh without making someone elses body or mind the price of that laughter? That is a conversation Kashmiri social mediaand all of usneed to have. Aqib Rehman is founder of Indian Society of Disability Studies, and Breaking Barriers fellow with the Department of Empowerment of Persons with Disabilities, Govt of India. Views expressed are personal
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UN-backed experts cite possible US war crimes in Iran strikes
Geneva, Sep 17: Human rights experts commissioned by the UN's top human rights body say they have found reasonable grounds to believe the United States committed war crimes in two strikes in Iran, including on a school in the southern city of Minab. They also accuse Iran's theocratic government of carrying out crimes against humanity against its own people in a report published Thursday. The report, while not binding, adds to international evidence gathered about crimes in the war in Iran, and could eventually be used in efforts to reach justice in international courts. The fact-finding mission on Iran, chaired by jurist Sara Hossain of Bangladesh, is made up of independent experts and was created in 2022 by the Human Rights Council, the UN's top human rights body, which is based in Geneva. The experts were expected to present their findings on Monday to the council, which is made up of 47 UN member countries. The team says the US launched indiscriminate' attacks The international fact-finding mission says its findings on US war crimes center on a pair of US airstrikes that killed at least 178 civilians, including women and children. At the start of the US-Israeli war against Iran in February, at least one U.S. missile hit the Shajareh Tayyebeh school in Minab, according to an Associated Press investigation. There has been no final accounting of what happened. Iranian state media have said 168 people were killed in the strike, most of them children. Following the United States and Israeli attacks on 28 February, the mission found reasonable grounds to believe the United States committed the war crime of launching indiscriminate attacks resulting in the loss of life or injury to civilians or damage to civilian objects, a U.N. statement about the team's findings said. The US State Department did not immediately respond to a request from The Associated Press seeking comment. In their report, the experts concluded that the building of the school was the intended point of impact and the resulting damage wasn't the result of an errant strike or collateral damage from an attack on a compound of Iran's Revolutionary Guard next to the school. The Trump administration has yet to directly accept responsibility or release the findings of a Pentagon investigation into the school bombing. The UN-backed team based its allegations on two strikes one involving Tomahawk missiles that hit the clearly identifiable school, and another in which Precision Strike Missiles dispersed tungsten pellets over a clearly identifiable sports complex and residential area in the southern city of Lamerd, also on Feb. 28. The UN-backed team said 22 civilian men and women were killed. US Central Command has denied responsibility for the strike on Lamerd. Experts cite crimes against humanity' by Iran's government The team found that killings by state security forces in Iran have occurred on a staggering scale, and civilians faced gross human rights violations and crimes against humanity committed by their own government. Iranian security forces carried out violent repression over the last two years by firing assault rifles into crowds, beating protesters and arresting healthcare workers, among other things, the team said. Detainees faced torture, and were deprived of legal counsel, leaving their families in the dark about their whereabouts, the experts said. The Tehran government intensified the use of the death penalty, and said more than 70 people including five women and three boys remain at imminent risk of execution, they added. The report concluded that many of these gross violations amount to crimes against humanity including murder, imprisonment, torture, and other inhumane acts committed as part of a widespread and systematic attack on civilians, the statement said. Both US and Iran should provide reparations, they say The experts said the United States and Iran should halt all rights violations and crimes, and provide full reparations to victims. The report, built on a victims-centred approach, was based on interviews with 73 people both inside and outside Iran, along with documentation, satellite imagery, photographic and video material and information from credible organizations and experts, the experts wrote. The ongoing conflict that has driven people from their homes in Iran as well as an internet shutdown and a lack of full cooperation from the two governments partially impeded the team's efforts to get information. Nearly three dozen requests from the experts for information from Iran's government went unanswered, they said, as have requests in June to the US government for information and meetings with officials.
US approves visas for top Iranian leaders to attend UN high-level meeting even with sides at war
The United States approved visas for Iran's core delegation to attend the UN General Assembly. This includes President Masoud Pezeshkian and Foreign Minister Abbas Araghchi. The delegation faces travel restrictions and prohibitions on certain purchases. This decision comes amid a protracted conflict and sanctions against Iran. The US also denied visas to Palestinian President Mahmoud Abbas and his delegation.
The Union health ministry issued an advisory against unregulated stem cell therapies. Therapeutic use of stem cells for autism is restricted to approved clinical trials. This advisory reiterates the existing framework governing stem cell research and therapy. It aligns with a Supreme Court ruling restricting unproven stem cell treatments. States and union territories must ensure strict compliance with the applicable framework.
Madagascar rebuilt giant tortoises from 12 founders, with offspring showing more diversity
Northern Army commander reviews security, counter-terrorism operations in Poonch
Jammu, Sep 17: General Officer Commanding-in-Chief of Northern Command Lieutenant General Pratik Sharma on Thursday visited Surankote sector in Jammu and Kashmir's border district of Poonch to review security arrangements and counter-terrorism efforts, the Army said. The northern commander's visit to Surankote comes three days after General Officer Commanding (GOC) of White Knight Corps Lt Gen P K Mishra visited different operational locations in the sector. Lt Gen Sharma visited Surankote sector to review the prevailing security posture and ongoing Counter-Terrorism efforts. The Army Commander was briefed on the ongoing operations, including sustained efforts towards focused targeting of terrorists, joint intelligence framework and enhanced synergy with sister agencies, the Udhampur-based Northern Command said in a post on X. It said the commander interacted with troops, boosting their morale as he commended them for their professional conduct of operations in the challenging terrain and weather conditions.
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Longevity healthcare startup Vytalyou raises 8-10 cr in growth funding
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MLA Para urges Centre to initiate meaningful, sustained political process in J&K
Srinagar, Sep 17: Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) leader and MLA Pulwama Waheed-ur-Rehma Para has moved a resolution to Jammu and Kashmir Legislative Assembly, seeking the intervention of the House in convincing New Delhi for meaningful and sustained political process in Jammu and Kashmir. In a resolution addressed to the Secretary, Legislative Assembly, Jammu and Kashmir, MLA Para said the House must call upon the Government of India to begin a meaningful and sustained political process in Jammu & Kashmir and to take a historic step towards healing by offering a one-time, comprehensive amnesty to those affected by years of turmoil. Para said the House must urge a humanitarian review of cases involving youth who were misguided, caught in circumstances beyond their control, or continue to carry cases and restrictions long after the events have passed. He said that no young person should be condemned to a lifetime of suspicion because of an allegation, a past case or circumstances of conflict, and urged the House to call for a time-bound review of eligible cases, including restrictions affecting passports, security clearances, education and employment, with due process and safeguards for serious offences. He also said the House believes that peace cannot be built by keeping an entire generation trapped in its past. Our youth must be given the chance to study, work, travel, support their families and rebuild their lives with dignity. This is not a plea for forgetting. It is a call for justice with compassion, accountability with humanity and peace with dignity, he said. The House believes that the time has come to replace fear with trust, exclusion with opportunity and conflict with reconciliation. History will remember whether we chose to perpetuate the wounds of the past or had the courage to heal them, MLA Para added.
NDude Labs invests in nutraceutical ingredients firm Nutriventia
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ACB registers 3 FIRs; female JKAS officer booked in 2 cases
Srinagar, Sep 17: The Jammu and Kashmir Anti-Corruption Bureau (ACB) on Thursday registered three separate FIRs against officers and officials of Motor Vehicle, Rural Development and Consumer Affairs & Public Distribution Departments. In a statement issued, the ACB said it has registered a disproportionate assets case FIR No. 06/2026 under Section 13(1)(b) r/w 13(2) PC Act 1988 at Police Station ACB Jammu against Ashwani Kumar, an employee of Motor Vehicle Department, son of Chunni Lal, resident of Vinayak Nagar, Muthi, Jammu. According to ACB, verification revealed that the accused has acquired huge assets both movable and immovable, disproportionate to his known sources of income, in his own name as well as in the names of his family members, including shops, plots, flats and luxurious vehicles. During investigation, search warrant was obtained from the court and search was conducted at his residential premises at Vinayak Nagar, Muthi, Jammu in presence of independent witnesses and magistrates, it said. In another case, ACB has registered FIR No. 03/2026 at Police Station ACB Baramulla under Section 5(1)(e) r/w 5(2) of J&K Prevention of Corruption Act against Sheeba Inayat, JKAS, then Block Development Officer, Singhpora/Pattan, for accumulation of assets disproportionate to known sources of income. The assets include huge bank balance, FDRs, LIC policies, jewellery, besides immovable properties such as five-storeyed commercial shopping complex at Baramulla and plots at Baramulla, Gulmarg, Kreeri and Chowadi Jammu. Searches were conducted at her residential as well as office premises after obtaining warrants from Anti-Corruption Court Baramulla and incriminatory material was seized, ACB said. In the third case, ACB has registered FIR No. 04/2026 at Police Station ACB Baramulla under Section 5(1)(c), 5(1)(d) r/w 5(2) of J&K Prevention of Corruption Act and Sections 409, 120-B RPC against Sheeba Inayat, JKAS, then Assistant Director, Consumer Affairs & Public Distribution Baramulla and Mohammad Shafi Rather @ Kandaman, then Salesman in CAPD Department Baramulla, besides other public servants. ACB said the case pertains to alleged malpractices in distribution of government food grains under public distribution system during June 2013 to June 2015. Verification established unauthorized diversion of food grains from APL to BPL/AAY categories involving Rs 26,32,468, unexplained shortage of 16,763.77 quintals worth Rs 1,67,63,770, discrepancy of 6,120.13 quintals worth Rs 61,20,130 between district and circle-wise statements, short remittance of Rs 6,74,194 and abnormal escalation in ration cards during 2014 floods, causing wrongful loss of Rs 2,61,90,562 to the exchequer, ACB said. Searches were conducted at residential and office premises of both accused and incriminatory material was seized, it said, adding further investigation in all three cases is underway.
Do Plant Proteins Increase Uric Acid? Expert Weighs In
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Police apprehend 9 drug peddlers in separate operations across Kashmir
Srinagar, Sep 17: Jammu and Kashmir Police on Thursday apprehended nine drug peddlers in Anantnag, Sopore, Shopian, Pulwama and Kangan areas; and recovered contraband substances from their possession. A police spokesperson said that in Anantnag, a police party from Police Station Anantnag intercepted two persons during naka checking operation at Dugga Petrol Pump, Naibasti Khanabal. During search, a total of 10.31 grams of charas was recovered from their possession. They have been identified as Adil Ahmad Shah son of Bashir Ahmad Shah resident of Naibasti, A/P BED College Donichak Anzalla, and Adil Ahmad Wani son of Mohd Iqbal Wani resident of Krangsoo, Mattan Mohalla Khandipora. In Sopore, during naka checking at Malgonipora, a suspicious individual was intercepted. During checking, contraband substance was recovered from his possession and seized in accordance with due legal procedure. The accused has been identified as Zakir Rashid Lone son of Abdul Rashid Lone resident of Wadoora, Sopore. In Shopian, during naka checking at Audoora Rampathri, a police party from Police Post Keegam intercepted a suspicious person along with nylon bag. During search, 2.472 Kgs crushed Cannabis-like substance were recovered from his possession. The accused has been identified as Ab Ahad Mochi son of Gh Mohd Mochi resident of Audoora Rampthri. The spokesperson said that in Pulwama, during naka checking at Old Bus Stand, Pulwama, the naka party apprehended three suspicious persons carrying polythene packets. During search, 286 grams of charas powder and 101.5 grams of charas-like substance were recovered from their possession. The accused have been identified as Abrar Ahmad Yatoo son of Gh Nabi Yatoo resident of Sunchakoo Pulwama, Owais Ahmad Baba son of Feroz Ahmad Baba resident of Gulshanabad Rajpora, and Mudasir Ahmad Dar son of Gh Nabi Dar resident of Gulshanabad Rajpora. Similarly, during Naka checking, a police party of Police Post Newa apprehended Arshid Ahmad Ganaie son of Bashir Ahmad Ganaie resident of Chandgam, Pulwama, who was driving a Tata Ace Gold Load Carrier bearing registration No. JK13K-3132. During his search, 22 grams of charas was recovered from his possession. The vehicle was also seized as per legal procedure. In Kulgam, a police party of Police Station Kulgam during a naka checking at Amnoo apprehended a suspected person identified as Ashfaq Ahmad Wani son of Bilal Ahmad Wani resident of Mirhama, Kulgam. During checking, 1.450 Kg of Ganja-like Contraband substance filled in a bag and cash amount of Rs 3,000/- pertaining to proceeds of narcotics have been recovered from his possession. He has been arrested and shifted to police station where he remains in custody. Accordingly, cases under relevant sections of law have been registered at respective police stations and further investigations have been initiated. Police remains committed to its zero-tolerance approach against drug trafficking and will continue sustained action against those involved in the illegal narcotics trade, the spokesperson added.
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Education ministry proposes comprehensive review of TET framework, serving teachers issues
Srinagar , Sep 17: In a significant development, the Ministry of Education (MoE) has proposed a comprehensive review of the existing arrangements governing the Teacher Eligibility Test (TET), including the eligibility framework and issues faced by teachers already in service. The MoE has taken these measures relating to Teacher Eligibility Test (TET) and proposed legislative review in view of emerging issues concerning teachers and teacher eligibility. In an Office Memorandum, the Department of School Education and Literacy (DSEK) MoE said it had taken note of representations and issues raised by teachers, teacher associations, educational institutions and other stakeholders over implementation of the TET requirement. The Ministry said it had also taken note of the directions and observations of the Supreme Court concerning the requirement of TET for teachers covered under the Right of Children to Free and Compulsory Education Act, 2009. In wake of this, the government has proposed to review the existing TET arrangements with the stated objective of ensuring a transparent, fair and workable framework for teacher eligibility. The proposed review will examine the existing TET eligibility and qualification framework as well as issues concerning teachers already in service who are required to acquire TET qualification. The MoE has also proposed examining measures to ensure that TET examinations are conducted periodically and at reasonable intervals. Another component of the proposed exercise will focus on the practical difficulties faced by serving teachers in obtaining TET qualification. The MoE has further proposed consultations with State Governments, Union Territory Administrations, the National Council for Teacher Education (NCTE), educational experts and other stakeholders as part of the review process. The memorandum also proposes examining whether amendments to relevant statutory provisions are necessary in the larger public interest. The government will examine the practical difficulties faced by serving teachers in obtaining TET qualification and will hold consultation with State Governments, Union Territory Administrations, NCTE, educational experts and other stakeholders besides examining whether appropriate amendments to the relevant statutory provisions are necessary in the larger public interest, the memorandum issued by MoE reads.
NHM employees extend strike by 72 hours from Sep 18 across J&K
Srinagar, Sep 17: The Jammu & Kashmir National Health Mission Employees Association (JKNHMEA), Joint Coordination Committee on behalf of the NHM employees of the Union Territory of Jammu & Kashmir on Thursday extended its ongoing peaceful strike for a further period of 72 hours, commencing from September 18, 2026, across Jammu and Kashmir. In a communication, the Association said that the extension has been necessitated due to the continued pendency of the Associations long-standing and legitimate demands and the absence of a concrete, time-bound resolution to the issues raised before the competent authorities. The Association reiterated that the protest/strike shall remain completely peaceful, democratic and constitutional, and all participating employees shall maintain discipline and uphold public order. The Association remains committed to dialogue and constructive engagement and sincerely hopes that the government will initiate meaningful and time-bound measures for resolution of the genuine grievances of NHM employees, the communication reads.
Food safety violators to face strict action under law: Food & Drug Control Kashmir
Director Geology & Mining reviews ongoing mining operations in Pulwama
Srinagar, Sep 17: The Director, Geology and Mining, Pawan Kumar Sharma on Thursday conducted an extensive inspection of multiple mining sites in Pulwama District to review ongoing mining operations and to obtain a firsthand assessment of departmental measures aimed at curbing the menace of illegal mining. He was accompanied by the Joint Director Mining, Kashmir, and the District Mineral Officer, Pulwama during the visit. The inspection also covered the major mineral blocks, where the Director interacted with the lessees and underscored the imperative of conducting mining activities strictly in accordance with the applicable norms, guidelines, and statutory provisions. He categorically directed that environmental safeguards must be adopted and adhered to, without exception. During the course of the visit, the Director issued strict instructions to the field functionaries to enforce a regime of zero tolerance against illegal mining activities. He emphasized that any deviation from prescribed norms would invite immediate and stringent action under the relevant rules. The Director further reiterated that such inspections shall continue in future as part of a sustained monitoring mechanism to take stock of the implementation of departmental directives, thereby ensuring that compliance standards are consistently upheld across all mining sites. This inspection reflects the Departments unwavering commitment to promoting sustainable mining practices, safeguarding the environment, and ensuring strict regulatory compliance in Pulwama District.
15 kanals of land, two residential houses attached in north Kashmir's Kupwara: Police
Srinagar, Sep 17: Acting on orders from Director General of Police Nalin Prabhat, the Jammu and Kashmir Police on Thursday attached 15 kanals of land and two residential houses in north Kashmir's Kupwara belonging to notorious terrorists operating from Pakistan, officials said. Sh Nalin Prabhat, DG-P, has ordered the attachment of properties belonging to notorious terrorists, now operating from Pakistan, a police spokesperson said in a press statement. As per an order issued by DG-P Nalin Prabhat, 10.7 kanals of land and a three-storey residential house belonging to Ab Majid Qureshi, son of Ab Rouf Qureshi, a resident of Kachama, Kupwara, have been attached. Another five kanals of land and a single-storey residential house were also attached. The properties belonged to Parvaiz Ahmad Qureshi, son of Mohd Mustafa Qureshi, a resident of Kachama, Kupwara, it said. The order said that the attached properties fall within the ambit of proceeds of terrorism in terms of Section 2 (1) (g) (ii) of UAPA and are liable to be attached in FIR No. 276/22 of PS Kupwara.
Two JeM militants killed, one suspect detained in J-K's Udhampur
Jammu, Sep 17: Two Pakistan-based proscribed outfit Jaish-e-Mohammad (JeM) militants were killed, and an alleged over-ground worker was detained in a remote high-altitude area in Jammu and Kashmir's Udhampur district, officials said on Thursday. The joint operation by the Army, police and CRPF was conducted in the dense Brattal Sohan and Khubban forests of Majalta bordering Kathua district amid heavy rain, they said. Army confirmed the killing of two militants in the operation. In a joint intelligence-based operation during the intervening night of September 16-17, confirmed inputs indicated the presence of terrorists in the general area of Brattal, Udhampur. Despite hostile weather, difficult terrain and poor visibility, troops of White Knight Corps, Police and CRPF launched a targeted counter-terrorism operation, resulting in the neutralisation of two terrorists. The operation is still in progress, with search and surveillance continuing in the area. Security forces remain deployed to track and neutralise any remaining threat, the Jammu-based White Knight Corps said in a post on X. The officials said police and security forces were looking for a terrorist group after its movement was noticed in the forested area last week. The security forces cordoned off a particular area around 9 pm on Wednesday following fresh inputs, leading to the initial contact. A few rounds of firing and blasts were heard shortly after the operation began, the officials said, adding that the area, however, remained largely quiet through the night before the lull ended on Thursday morning, when the terrorists opened heavy fire in an attempt to break the cordon. Reinforcements were rushed to the area, and the search operation was continuing when the last reports were received, they said. Meanwhile Jammu and Kashmir Police identified the two killed militants as Saddam and Mustafa. In a post on X, J&K Police wrote, You Can Run But You Can't Hide! Op Soan: the two neutralised Pakistani Jaish-e-Mohammed terrorists have been identified as Saddam and Mustafa. Police said that arms and ammunition including an AK Assault Rifle with 4 magazines, an M4 Carbine with 3 magazines, a Glock Pistol with 2 magazines and 4 grenades were recovered from their possession. A local youth, believed to be an over-ground worker (OGW), has been detained for questioning, they said. It was the second major encounter in Udhampur district this year. In February, two Pakistani terrorists, including a self-styled commander Rubani alias Abu Mavia, who was active in the area for the past several years were killed in the Ramnagar forests. Over the past several years, the difficult mountain terrain of the Kathua-Udhampur-Doda belt was used by JeM terrorists to establish hideouts and evade security forces after infiltrating from across the border. However, security forces have dismantled these networks to deny terrorists safe passage and shelter in the upper reaches, the officials said. They said the relentless operations have resulted in the elimination of a large number of active terrorists operating in the region, many of them identified as Pakistani nationals. Security agencies are also maintaining heightened surveillance and launching searches in remote forest areas based on intelligence inputs and assessments of possible terrorist movement. In Doda, four terrorists and five security personnel were killed in separate encounters in 2025, while five people, comprising four terrorists and one security personnel, were killed in adjoining Kishtwar district this year, compared to four deaths in 2025, including three terrorists and one security person. In 2024, the district recorded five deaths three security personnel and two civilians. In Udhampur, four people were killed in 2024, including two terrorists, one security person and one civilian, while 2025 saw four deaths one terrorist and three security personnel. Kathua recorded the highest casualties among the four districts in 2024 with nine deaths, including two terrorists and seven security personnel. The following year, seven people were killed three terrorists and four security personnel while 2026 has so far witnessed the death of one terrorist.
Paneer vs Tofu: Which One is Better for Women Struggling with PMOS?
Wondering whether paneer or tofu is a better choice if you are struggling with PMOS? Our expert explains certain factors that can help you decide.
Lab-Grown Human Brain Tissue Transplanted Into Mouse Brains
Researchers transplanted lab-grown human brain organoids into mouse brains, where they survived, developed human brain cells and formed neural circuits.
In 1986, captive-bred bearded vultures returned to the Alps; by 2021, 344 lived there wild-born
Health Ministry proposes CCTV surveillance at medical stores selling prescription drugs
In a bid to enhance regulation, the Union Health Ministry has put forth a proposal for mandatory CCTV installations at pharmacies across India. This amendment intends to fortify control over the sale of prescription drugs, ensuring that restricted categories are safeguarded effectively. The ministry emphasizes the need for public input to refine this initiative aimed at increasing transparency and accountability within the pharmaceutical industry.
Israeli national detained at Kangra airport with live cartridge
Dharamsala, Sep 17: An Israeli national has been detained at the Kangra airport in Himachal Pradesh after a live cartridge was found in his possession during a security check, police said on Thursday. According to police, Yonatan Levy (24), an Israeli national, reached the airport on Tuesday to board a flight to New Delhi. However, he was detained by police after a live cartridge was found in his bag. Kangra SP Kulbhushan Verma confirmed the detention and said a case has been registered in the matter under the Arms Act. Levy is presently in police custody till September 18, the SP said.
Dr Reddy's inks pact with Gilead for once-yearly HIV prevention drug lenacapavir
Dr Reddy's Laboratories and Gilead Sciences have signed a licensing agreement. This pact involves investigational once-yearly lenacapavir for HIV prevention. The agreement facilitates manufacturing and supply planning for 120 countries. This collaboration builds upon a previous pact for twice-yearly lenacapavir.
Short Selling vs. Put Options: Which Strategy Fits Which Market?
Both short selling and put options profit when prices fall. That's where the similarity ends. The mechanics, the risk profile, and the capital requirements diverge sharply - and using the wrong tool for a given market condition doesn't just reduce returns, it can produce losses that far exceed what the trader anticipated. Understanding which strategy fits which context is what separates opportunistic hedgers from traders who get squeezed. How Short Selling Works in Practice Short selling means borrowing an asset from a broker, selling it immediately on the open market, then repurchasing it later at a lower price. The profit is the difference between the sale price and the repurchase price, minus borrowing fees and any applicable financing costs. The mechanics require a margin account. The broker holds collateral against the borrowed position, and the trader pays an ongoing fee for the loan - typically expressed as an annualized borrow rate that varies by asset and broker. For liquid, heavily traded stocks, this cost is modest. For hard-to-borrow securities or assets experiencing a squeeze, the borrow rate can spike to several percentage points per week. The critical feature of short selling is that losses have no theoretical ceiling. If you short a stock at $50 and it climbs to $200, you're down $150 per share - three times your initial credit. This is not a hypothetical concern: short squeezes have eliminated accounts that had no stop-loss in place. George Soros shorted the British pound in 1992 and made $1 billion precisely because he had the conviction and the margin to hold. Most traders do not have that margin buffer. How Put Options Work in Practice A put option gives the buyer the right - not the obligation - to sell an underlying asset at a predetermined price, called the strike price, before a specific expiration date. The buyer pays a premium upfront to acquire this right. If the asset's price falls below the strike price before expiration, the option is in the money and the trader profits from the difference between the strike and the current price, minus the premium paid. If the price stays above the strike at expiration, the option expires worthless and the trader loses only the premium - nothing more. That hard cap on downside is the defining characteristic. No margin account is required to buy a put. The maximum loss is known at the moment of entry. This makes puts particularly attractive when a trader wants to speculate on a decline or hedge an existing long position without exposing themselves to open-ended losses if the trade goes against them. Comparing the Two: A Practical Framework The choice between the two strategies comes down to four variables: risk tolerance, time horizon, cost structure, and market conditions. Factor Short selling Put option Maximum loss Unlimited Premium paid Margin required Yes No Time limit None Expiration date Cost structure Borrow fee + spread Upfront premium Best market Sustained downtrend Volatile or uncertain decline Hedging use Yes Yes (preferred) Short selling suits traders who expect a sustained, directional decline and can actively manage the position. Put options suit those who want defined risk, particularly when volatility is elevated or the timing of a move is uncertain. When to Use Each Strategy Short selling performs best in trending bear markets where the move is expected to develop over weeks or months. There is no expiration to race against, and a trader with sufficient margin can hold through temporary bounces. The risk is that those bounces become reversals - and without a stop-loss, a short seller has no automatic exit. Put options are better suited to three specific scenarios. First, when volatility is high and a sharp move may come but the exact timing is unclear: the defined loss means a wrong call costs only the premium. Second, for hedging a long equity portfolio against a correction - buying puts on an index provides direct downside protection with a known cost. Third, when a trader wants bearish exposure but cannot access margin or prefers not to take on open-ended liability. The premium cost matters. In high-volatility environments, options pricing rises because implied volatility is elevated. Paying a large premium on an out-of-the-money put requires the asset to move significantly just to break even. In those conditions, a short sale with a tight stop may actually carry lower all-in cost than an expensive put. Choosing a Platform for Both Strategies Execution quality, financing costs, and instrument availability shape returns as much as strategy does. Traders using short selling vs put options approaches should look for a platform offering transparent fee disclosure, access to both CFD short positions and derivatives, and reliable order execution during volatile sessions. The difference between a 0.1% spread and a 0.4% spread on a leveraged position compounds meaningfully over multiple trades. Conclusion Short selling and put options are both tools for profiting from declining prices, but they carry fundamentally different risk structures. Short selling gives unlimited upside in a falling market - and unlimited downside if wrong. Puts cap the loss at the premium and remove the need for margin, but they require the move to happen before expiration. Neither is universally superior. A sustained trend with active management favors the short. Uncertainty, hedging needs, or limited risk appetite favors the put. Match the instrument to the market, not the other way around.
Puyamehahar Gutika Ingredients, Preparation, Ayurvedic Properties, Indications & Dosages REFERENCE Rastantrasar evum Siddhpryog Sangreh/ Puyameh/ Chapter-39/ Formulation-4. Abstract ... Read more The post Puyamehahar Gutika appeared first on Planet Ayurveda .
Vriddhi Vadhika Vati Ingredients, Preparation, Ayurvedic Properties, Indications & Dosages REFERENCE Bhaishajya-Ratnavali Chapter 43 (Vriddhirogadhikar) Verse 97- 101. ... Read more The post Vriddhi Vadhika Vati appeared first on Planet Ayurveda .
Mehbooba accuses BJP of policing vocabulary of Muslims after IPS officer's transfer in Bengal
Srinagar, Sep 17: PDP president Mehbooba Mufti on Thursday accused the BJP of being insecure, saying the ruling party at the Centre is now policing the vocabulary of the Muslim community in the country. Referring to the case of IPS officer Bushra Bano, who was transferred from her post of ASP in West Bengals Kharagpur within just two-and-a-half months of taking charge, allegedly over her use of Muslim greetings in a video, Mehbooba said such incidents do not shock the minority community anymore. Bushra Bano's transfer for saying 'Assalamu Alaikum', 'InshaAllah' and 'JazakAllah', followed by the West Bengal Chief Minister (Suvendu Adhikari) calling an election a test of Muslim loyalty, a veiled threat to the community as a whole, doesn't shock us anymore, the former J-K chief minister said in a post on X. It is amusing that simple words invoking peace and blessings of god have rattled the big political party, she said. What is rather amusing is that three simple words peace be upon you, god willing, and god be praised can apparently rattle a party so large and powerful. First our food, clothes and marriage, now even our vocabulary and our votes are being policed. Insecurity, thy name is BJP, Mehbooba said.
Sunil Sharma in Anantnag: Well hear Kashmiris out, regardless of whom they vote for
GERD and Gastritis Are Different Conditions: Why Most People Fail To Differentiate
Heartburn, burning in the chest, nausea, and stomach discomfort are often casually described as acidity. But these symptoms can come from different digestive conditions. It is crucial to identify the differences and get treated accordingly.
Bait Ul Meeras: Preserving Kashmirs Heritage
Located in the old city of Srinagar, Bait Ul Meeras is a historic building that offers a glimpse into Kashmirs past. Once associated with the Kaul family, the heritage property has now been preserved and turned into an art centre and museum, where Kashmirs history, culture and traditions are being brought closer to visitors and younger generations. In this GKTV report, we look at the story of Bait Ul Meeras its history, its transformation into a museum, and the idea behind preserving a part of Kashmirs heritage for the future. Report & Edit: Murtaza Bilal
Advent International joins Indias hospital gold rush with Rs 3,150 crore Yatharth bet
Advent International will invest Rs 3,150 crore in Yatharth Hospitals for a significant stake. This marks one of the largest private equity investments in India's hospital sector. The investment comes amid rising demand for quality healthcare services. Yatharth operates a growing hospital network across North India. The deal aims to accelerate Yatharth's next phase of growth.
Jammu NIA court issues NBW against LeT commander linked to Pahalgam, other major terror acts
Jammu, Sep 17: A special NIA court in Jammu has issued a non-bailable warrant (NBW) against Pakistan-based Lashkar-e-Taiba (LeT) commander Saifullah, who has been linked to several major terror attacks, including the April 2025 Pahalgam massacre, officials said on Thursday. Saifullah is a resident of Changa Manga village in Pakistans Kasur. He is also known in the terror ranks by the aliases of Sajid Jatt, Ali Bhai, Habibullah Malik, Langda, Noomi, Numan, Usman Habib and Shani. He is a key figure in the terror outfits operations and has remained active for over two decades. The NBW comes after NIA busted a deep-rooted LeT module headed by Pakistani terrorist Abdullah, alias Abu Hureira, who was arrested with another Pakistani accomplice, Usman alias Khubaib, and three local operatives early this year. Quoting an order issued by the special NIA court on September 8, the official said the case arose after J&K Police intercepted a LeT operative in the Pandach area of Srinagar in March, leading to the successful arrest of the entire group, particularly Abdullah, who had been on the run for 16 years, and successfully established bases outside the Union Territory. Seeking the NBW against the LeT commander for his role in the terrorist module, the NIA told the court that Saifullah, the designated terrorist listed under the Fourth Schedule of the UAPA, has been operating from Pakistan and providing weapons, funds and directions to terrorists in the Kashmir Valley. The agency also informed the court that Telegraph IDs linked to Saifullah were recovered from one of the arrested Pakistani terrorists, revealing that he had provided directions for attacks on security forces, civilians and government establishments. After hearing the NIA and examining the application and accompanying material, the court issued the NBW against the LeT commander. Keeping in view the fact that the accused person is at large and the investigating agency has not been able to procure his attendance in the ordinary manner....as such a general warrant of arrest (non-bailable) is issued against Saifullah and is forwarded to SSP, Kulgam, as the last known address of the accused is village Yamrach (in South Kashmir district) for execution of the warrant as per procedure prescribed under law. The warrant has been sent for execution to the concerned authority through NIA, the official said, quoting the order. According to NIA, Saifullah also acted as a terrorist commander of LeT in 2005 to 2007 in Kulgam district and later exfiltrated to Pakistan.
