Sakina Itoo flags erosion of journalistic ethics on social media
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CAT directs J&K govt to examine regularisation claims of 12 Rehbar-e-Janglaat employees
Srinagar, Oct 10: The Central Administrative Tribunal (CAT), Srinagar Bench, has directed the Jammu and Kashmir government to examine the regularisation claims of 12 Rehbar-e-Janglaat employees in accordance with its existing policy and relevant government orders, and issue a reasoned decision, preferably within eight weeks. The direction comes as a significant development for the employees, who completed five years of service in 2022 but have been awaiting regularisation under the government's policy, news agency Kashmir News Service (KNS) reported. The Tribunal directed the competent authorities to consider the applicants' claims in light of Government Order No. 155-FST of 2017 and subsequent orders governing the regularisation of Rehbar-e-Janglaat employees. Under Clause VIII of the 2017 policy, employees completing five years of satisfactory and continuous service are eligible for consideration for regularisation, subject to fulfilment of the prescribed conditions. The applicants maintained that despite completing the stipulated service period, their cases had not been settled, prompting them to approach the Tribunal for relief. While examining the matter, the Tribunal took note of the government's earlier decisions concerning the creation and adjustment of posts in the Forest Department. These included the creation of 333 additional Forest Guard posts in 2017 and the subsequent adjustment of 234 supernumerary posts against available vacancies in 2021. The developments were considered relevant to the applicants' claims for regularisation under the existing policy framework. Importantly, the Tribunal also directed the authorities to consider the applicability of the Supreme Court judgment in Rupesh R. Gaonkar and Others versus State of Goa and Others while deciding the matter. It observed that the benefit of the judgment should be extended to the applicants if their cases are covered by the ruling and no legal impediment exists. The Tribunal, however, did not order the immediate regularisation of the employees. Instead, it directed the competent authorities to examine their individual eligibility and claims in accordance with the applicable rules, government orders and judicial precedents. The authorities have been asked to pass a reasoned order, explaining the decision taken on the applicants' claims, preferably within eight weeks from the date of service of the certified copy of the Tribunal's order. The direction places the responsibility on the government to assess the pending claims and communicate its decision within the stipulated timeframe. The matter assumes significance for Rehbar-e-Janglaat employees who have been seeking regularisation after completing the service period prescribed under the government's 2017 policy. The Tribunal's directions have provided the 12 applicants an opportunity for formal reconsideration of their claims, although their regularisation will depend on their eligibility and the applicable legal provisions. (KNS)
CM Omar Abdullah calls for future-ready education beyond examinations
New Delhi, Oct 10: Chief Minister Omar Abdullah today called for a future-ready education system that prepares children for life beyond examinations, equipping them with critical thinking, digital literacy, adaptability and a strong sense of responsibility. The Chief Minister was addressing the School Leader of the Year 2026 Summit & Awards in New Delhi, which brought together leading educators, school principals and institutional heads to celebrate excellence, innovation and leadership in K-12 education. Emphasising the role of school leaders in nation-building, Omar Abdullah said principals and headteachers do much more than administer schools. They shape the learning environment, values, aspirations and future of young minds. Strong leadership, he said, is fundamental to building safe, inclusive, innovative and student-centric institutions. The Chief Minister underscored that education must focus on the holistic development of every child, going beyond academic achievement to nurture creativity, communication, collaboration, problem-solving abilities and digital competence. He stressed that schools must prepare students to meet emerging challenges with confidence and responsibility. Highlighting the opportunities presented by technology and Artificial Intelligence, the Chief Minister emphasised the need to adopt these tools responsibly to improve learning outcomes, personalise education and support teachers, while ensuring that technology complements rather than replaces the human element of education. He also stressed the importance of continuous professional development for teachers and school leaders, noting that exposure to innovative teaching methods, exchange of best practices and opportunities for collaboration are essential to strengthening educational institutions. Omar Abdullah called for an inclusive approach to educational excellence, emphasising that quality education must reach children in rural, remote and underserved communities as well as those in urban areas. He said governments, educators, institutions, parents and communities must work collectively to address the diverse academic, social and developmental needs of children. The Chief Minister also highlighted the importance of meaningful collaboration among educational institutions, both within India and internationally, to promote innovation, share successful models and strengthen the quality of education. He observed that recognition of exemplary school leadership helps foster a culture of excellence, encouraging other institutions to learn from successful practices and adapt them to their own contexts. On the occasion, the Chief Minister felicitated the heads of several educational institutions in recognition of their contributions. Kalinga Institute of Industrial Technologys Achyuta Samanta; Executive Chairman, Association of Indian Principals, (AIP), Dalip Sharma; CTO, AIP and CEO, City Innovates Kashish Jhamb and Managing Director, Macmillan Education India, Rajesh Pasari, were among those present. Chancellors and senior officials from Indian and international universities, officials from Austrade, school founders, directors, principals and heads of schools from across the country also attended the summit.
Police recover huge cache of arms, ammunition in Sopore forests
Srinagar, Oct 10: In a major breakthrough, Sopore Police recovered a huge cache of arms, ammunition and explosives from the forest area of Mukaam Cherhar under the jurisdiction of Police Station Bomai. In a statement issued, the police said acting on specific intelligence inputs generated by Sopore Police, a Cordon and Search Operation (CASO) was launched in the forest area. During searches, a blue coloured barrel and a bag were found concealed beneath a large boulder. The Bomb Disposal Squad (BDS) was immediately called to the spot for examination and safe handling of the suspected explosive material. During thorough searches, police recovered 02 assault rifles including 01 AK-47 and 01 AK-76 along with 07 magazines, 04 pistols with 04 magazines, a Multi Grenade Launcher (MGL) with 05 rounds, 11 hand grenades, 03 IEDs with remote controls, 08 detonators and 02 timers. Other incriminating material including a Y-SMS set, prima cords, wires, battery cells, IED-related components and miscellaneous accessories were also seized from the spot. The recovered arms and explosives were taken into possession after following due legal procedure and observing necessary safety precautions. In this connection, FIR No. 66/2026 under Sections 13, 18, 20 and 23 of UAPA, 7/25 Arms Act and 5 Explosive Substances Act has been registered at Police Station Bomai and further investigation has been taken up. Police said the recovery is a significant achievement in ongoing counter-terrorism efforts. Investigation is underway to establish the source, ownership and those involved in concealment of the cache and to ascertain possible terror linkages, police statement added.
Russian attacks kill 12 in Ukraine after Trump strikes diesel deal with Putin
Kyiv, Oct 10: Russian strikes killed at least 12 people in Ukraine's Zaporizhzhia region, Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy said Saturday, a day after US President Donald Trump announced a deal to buy Russian diesel that Kyiv warned would help bankroll Moscow's war in Ukraine. Three children were among those killed when Russian aerial bombs hit residential buildings in Zaporizhzhia, Zelenskyy said Saturday. At least 14 people were wounded in the attack. Russia and Ukraine are locked in a long-range aerial war while their armies remain largely deadlocked on the front line, more than 4 1/2 years since Moscow's full-scale invasion. Ukraine is struggling to counter escalating Russian bombardments that have killed more than 60 people over the past four days. Trump said Friday he had struck a deal to obtain diesel from Russia, a stunning reversal of years of US pressure on Moscow over its war with Ukraine and an attempt to address high fuel prices ahead of the US midterm elections. Today, Russia expressed its thanks for the lifting of sanctions on diesel exports by dropping five glide bombs on residential buildings in Zaporizhzhia, Zelenskyy wrote Saturday on X. He said the attacks show Moscow understands any easing of pressure to mean they can keep fighting, to mean they can keep dropping bombs on cities, adding that different signals are needed. Trump had been set to discuss a suspected case of plague in Russia with President Vladimir Putin in a phone call. Instead, the American leader announced Friday that Russia will immediately supply more than 300,000 tons of diesel, followed by an additional 500,000 tons in November and 1 million tons immediately thereafter. Russia will deliver an additional 3 million tons within a short period of time after that, he wrote. In Kyiv, people gathered at a memorial to fallen soldiers on Independence Square greeted the deal with a mix of anger and resignation. Trump has once again shown his true face, said Oleksandr Petrenko, 26. He didn't care about the situation, the shelling or the destruction of our homes. All he's interested in is oil or the fuel prices and how much Americans have to pay. Knowing Trump, he tries to manipulate the markets. He's got an election coming up soon, Petrenko said. So he needs to emphasise to his voters that gasoline will be cheap. But it won't be effective. For Oksana Yakunina, a financial adviser from Kropyvnytskyi, the announcement didn't really come as a surprise. Trump has been working with Putin for a long time, she told The Associated Press. Trump's announcement was in stark contrast to a sweeping Russia sanctions law he signed last month that aimed at clamping down on the oil and gas revenues that fuel Russia's war against Ukraine. In a lengthy post online reacting to the deal on Friday, Zelenskyy said Russia would repay it with further terror and perfidy. He framed it as an investment in the war that could prolong it. It plays into Russia's hands -- allowing it to kill more, wage war for longer, have even less respect for America, and inflict even greater losses and damage on the world, he said. According to a statement released by the Ukrainian Embassy in Washington, Zelenskyy called it a weak decision, unfortunately, a weak decision by strong partners. Trump announced the deal as his envoy Steve Witkoff and son-in-law Jared Kushner met with Ukrainian officials in Miami to discuss a proposal to end the war. I believe our team is simply being used as a smoke screen. And that is certainly not fair. It is certainly not how partners should treat each other, Zelenskyy said. [AP]
FCIK expresses strong resentment over GCC's 'misleading' apprehensions on Ease of Doing Business Act
Srinagar, Oct 10: The Federation of Chambers of Industries Kashmir (FCIK) has expressed deep anguish and strong resentment over the apprehensions voiced by the Group of Concerned Citizens (GCC) regarding the recently enacted Jammu and Kashmir Ease of Doing Business Act, 2026, describing its observations as misleading, speculative and detached from the harsh realities endured by the industrial fraternity for decades. In a statement, FCIK said it was particularly disturbing that some former senior bureaucrats, who themselves occupied influential administrative positions when entrepreneurs struggled under excessive regulatory controls, should now question reforms intended to dismantle that very system. The Federation recalled that it had consistently sought comprehensive Ease of Doing Business reforms for decades, including during the tenures of some officers now associated with GCC. Repeated representations had highlighted the ordeal of entrepreneurs moving endlessly between departments for permissions, renewals and clearances, encountering overlapping jurisdictions, arbitrary inspections and prolonged administrative indecision. Thousands of entrepreneurs have suffered humiliation, financial losses and uncertainty under a system where their investments and livelihoods remained hostage to bureaucratic discretion. These reforms represent a long-awaited opportunity to free enterprise from that stranglehold, FCIK observed. The Federation said political disturbances, natural calamities and economic uncertainty had already devastated industrial growth, while excessive bureaucratic control compounded these difficulties, discouraging investment, obstructing expansion and frustrating employment generation. FCIK maintained that GCC appeared to have overlooked important provisos, exceptions and safeguards incorporated in the Act concerning environmental protection, human safety, larger public interest and specified planning restrictions. The legislation seeks to eliminate unnecessary procedural barriers, not dispense with substantive statutory obligations. The Federation questioned how GCC could draw sweeping conclusions about environmental degradation and unregulated development without demonstrating which mandatory safeguards had actually been extinguished. Referring to apprehensions about deemed approvals, inspection moratoriums and Master Plan relaxations, FCIK said time-bound decisions and risk-based regulation were established instruments of administrative reform intended to prevent official inaction from becoming an indefinite veto over lawful enterprise. An inspection undertaken to prevent genuine environmental harm or danger to human life is entirely different from one conducted merely because an officer possesses the authority to do so. The former protects society; the latter, when exercised arbitrarily, becomes an instrument of harassment, the Federation stated. FCIK also rejected the suggestion that Ease of Doing Business and Ease of Living were contradictory objectives. An enterprise, it said, was not merely a source of income for its promoter but generated employment, supported ancillary businesses, sustained families and contributed to public revenue. How can there be meaningful ease of living without opportunities for earning a dignified livelihood? For an unemployed graduate, a struggling artisan or a family dependent upon a distressed enterprise, productive economic activity is itself an essential component of ease of living, FCIK observed. The Federation emphasised Kashmir's traditional household-based production economy, where activities such as sozni embroidery, shawl making, carpet weaving, papier-mch, handloom production and wood carving have historically sustained generations of families with negligible or low environmental impact, depending upon the processes involved. FCIK said its aspiration was to see every willing household in Kashmir become a potential production centre, enabling women, youth and other family members to supplement incomes while preserving traditional craftsmanship. Such genuinely non-polluting activities should not be burdened with unnecessary permissions merely because they involve commercial production. Turning to environmental concerns, FCIK questioned why the historical failures of regulatory institutions were receiving so little attention in GCC's discourse. During whose administrative tenures did wetlands suffer encroachments, water bodies deteriorate, agricultural land undergo indiscriminate conversion and unplanned construction proliferate? Jammu and Kashmir already possessed extensive environmental and planning laws when much of this degradation occurred. Multiple permissions and powerful regulatory authorities did not, by themselves, prevent these developments, the Federation observed. FCIK clarified that these questions concerned institutional accountability rather than personal blame. It also asked the former administrators associated with GCC to reflect upon what initiatives they had undertaken during their respective tenures to simplify procedures, eliminate redundant permissions, curb arbitrary inspections and hold officers accountable for delays, particularly when FCIK had repeatedly sought such reforms from successive administrations. The Federation appreciated the efforts of the present administrative establishment under Chief Secretary AtalDulloo in advancing a renewed regulatory framework aimed at replacing discretionary permissions with transparent, time-bound and accountable governance. It also commended Chief Minister Omar Abdullah and his government for refining and carrying these reforms through the legislative process. FCIK said investors today compared states on regulatory predictability, infrastructure, incentives, administrative responsiveness and the cost and time involved in establishing enterprises. Jammu and Kashmir, already disadvantaged by decades of disruptions and accumulated industrial distress, could ill afford to lose further investment and employment opportunities because of outdated administrative practices. The Federation stressed that environmental protection and economic development were not mutually exclusive. It said the safeguards and qualifications contained in the legislation must be faithfully reflected in the forthcoming rules, ensuring that environmental, planning and safety obligations remain enforceable while unnecessary bureaucratic interference is eliminated. FCIK called upon GCC to substantiate its apprehensions through specific statutory references, technical evidence and workable alternatives rather than allowing speculative concerns to overshadow the long-overdue reform of an oppressive regulatory system. The industrial fraternity has waited decades for a system in which an entrepreneur remains answerable for violating the law but is no longer perpetually dependent upon an officer's discretion to undertake lawful economic activity, the Federation stated. FCIK concluded that the real success of the legislation would be measured when entrepreneurs could devote more time to production, innovation and employment generation and less to pursuing files and permissions. It expressed hope that the forthcoming rules would preserve the reform's original intent and prevent the reintroduction of unnecessary bureaucratic controls under different names.
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BJP to launch district-level protests against Omar government: LoP Sunil Sharma
Srinagar, Oct 10: The Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) will launch district-level protests against the National Conference-led government in Jammu and Kashmir, accusing it of ignoring the concerns of poor and disadvantaged sections of society. Leader of Opposition Sunil Sharma said the party had decided to take the issues to the streets after discussing them at a meeting of its district presidents and district general secretaries. The BJP's responsibility in Jammu and Kashmir is that of the opposition. The government here is working in a manner that keeps it miles away from the common people, particularly the poor, Sharma told reporters. He said the party had tried to raise these issues in the Legislative Assembly but had not received a satisfactory response from the government. We cannot turn a blind eye to these issues and difficulties. We have decided that we will take up the cause of the poor and the oppressed and fight the government on the streets, he said. Sharma said the party would organise protests in every district of Jammu and Kashmir in the coming days to hold the government accountable. Sharma alleges conspiracy to destabilise India Asked about protests in Delhi against the Election Commission and the Special Intensive Revision (SIR) of electoral rolls, Sharma accused the Congress and other opposition parties of attempting to destabilise the country. This is a big conspiracy to destabilise India and create unrest by involving as many young people as possible, he said, alleging that some forces wanted a change of regime similar to developments in Nepal and Bangladesh. He accused the opposition of trying to generate public distrust in the Chief Election Commissioner, who heads a constitutional institution, and said electoral defeats should not be blamed on the poll machinery. The party that has been losing elections continuously for the last 12 years now claims that the Chief Election Commissioner, who took office a year ago, is responsible for its defeats, Sharma said. Defending the SIR exercise, Sharma argued that electoral rolls should not contain duplicate, deceased or otherwise ineligible voters. As a resident of Jammu and Kashmir, I support the SIR. We should never allow an illegal voter to vote here, he said, referring to alleged cases of people from Bangladesh and Pakistan voting in India. Sharma cited figures of 6.5 crore voters who had moved from one location to another, 2.5 crore deceased voters and one crore voters whose addresses could not be traced. He argued that voters who had shifted residence or died should be removed from the relevant electoral rolls. Should a voter be registered in two places? Should the names of people who have died remain on the rolls? Should voters whose addresses cannot be traced remain there? he asked. The figures and characterisation of voter deletions were cited by Sharma in defence of the exercise and have not been independently verified here. Challenges Omar Abdullah on delimitation Responding to Chief Minister Omar Abdullah's allegation that the delimitation exercise in Jammu and Kashmir had benefited the BJP, Sharma said the National Conference had gained the most from it. If he believes that the BJP or the Election Commission manipulated the process, the biggest moral responsibility lies with Omar Abdullah. He should leave the government, Sharma said.
J&K Waqf Board calls for role of Imams in fighting social evils
New Delhi, Oct 10: Defence Minister Rajnath Singh addressed the participants of the second edition of Exercise Tarang Shakti 2026 at Air Force Station Jodhpur on October 10, 2026. Hosted by the Indian Air Force (IAF) from 26 September to 12 October 2026, the multinational air exercise brought together air forces from seven Friendly Foreign Countries (FFCs) including Australia, Bangladesh, France, Germany, Sri Lanka, the United Arab Emirates and the United States of America along with 32 observer nations. Congratulating the IAF and all organisations and personnel involved in the successful conduct of the exercise, the Defence Minister welcomed the participating nations and appreciated their contribution to strengthening professional understanding and operational cooperation. He noted that the presence of participating air forces had added significant value to the exercise and expressed hope that the contingents would return with valuable professional insights and a deeper understanding of India's capabilities and perspectives. He highlighted the importance of self-reliance in the defence sector, technological innovation and international partnerships in addressing the evolving challenges of modern warfare. Addressing the gathering, Defence Minister Rajnath Singh observed that modern warfare was undergoing a profound transformation, extending beyond the traditional domains of land, sea and air to encompass space, cyber, the electromagnetic spectrum and the information domain. He highlighted the growing influence of unmanned systems, drones, artificial intelligence, electronic warfare and long-range precision weapons in shaping contemporary military operations. Future military power will be defined less by the number of platforms we possess. It will be determined by the speed of sensing, understanding, deciding, and acting, he said, underlining that speed, precision, information and integration had emerged as defining attributes of military capability. He also emphasised the need for continuous vigilance in view of the rapidly changing geopolitical environment and the uncertainties associated with technological advancements in the defence sector. The Defence Minister said that India, under the leadership of Prime Minister Narendra Modi, had recognised the importance of strengthening national resilience against emerging security challenges and had adopted Atmanirbharta in defence as a national policy. He stressed that a nation must possess the capability to produce its own weapons and critical technologies to sustain itself during prolonged conflicts and periods of uncertainty. Highlighting the transformation of the Indian Defence Forces, Defence Minister said that the Indian Air Force had evolved from a force operating with limited resources at the time of Independence into a modern aerospace power equipped with advanced aircraft, precision weapons, sophisticated sensors, integrated networks and increasingly advanced indigenous technologies. He emphasised that Atmanirbhar Bharat did not mean isolation from the world, but the development of domestic capabilities to design, develop, manufacture, maintain and upgrade critical defence technologies. Referring to India's growing aerospace and defence manufacturing ecosystem, the Defence Minister highlighted indigenous programmes and systems, including the Tejas fighter aircraft, helicopters such as Dhruv, Rudra, Prachand and the Light Utility Helicopter (LUH), the Akash air defence system, AESA radars, electronic systems, and emerging unmanned and aerospace technologies. Defence Minister also referred to the Advanced Medium Combat Aircraft (AMCA) programme as an important step towards mastering fifth-generation stealth fighter technology and underscored the importance of advanced aero-engine development and co-production. He said that India was keen to explore cooperation with like-minded countries in research, co-development, co-production, maintenance, training and innovation. Emphasising the growing importance of trusted partnerships and resilient supply chains, he stated, The defence relationships of the future will be about technology and trust, not just about platforms. The Defence Minister observed that building strong indigenous capabilities must go hand in hand with meaningful cooperation with trusted partners. India must be capable of acting independently when required while also operating effectively with other nations when their interests and responsibilities converge, he emphasised. In this context, Defence Minister highlighted the significance of Exercise Tarang Shakti in translating the principles of capability, technology, interoperability and trust into operational experience. The exercise provided participating air forces an opportunity to operate alongside one another, exchange operational knowledge, assess procedures and understand different platforms, doctrines and approaches to mission planning. He noted that multinational exercises enabled aircrews and commanders to learn from one another, examine existing assumptions and identify opportunities to improve their systems and processes. Describing the spirit of the exercise, Defence Minister Rajnath Singh said, Different nations. Different aircraft. Different experiences. But one sky. That is the message of Tarang Shakti. He emphasised that the value of the exercise extended beyond the sorties flown and scenarios practised, encompassing the ability to communicate, coordinate and operate effectively with partner forces. The RM called upon the Indian Air Force to incorporate the lessons of the exercise into its training, tactics, technology, doctrine and future capability development. He expressed confidence that the participating nations would carry forward the professional relationships and mutual understanding developed during the exercise to explore new avenues of aerospace and defence cooperation. The second edition of Exercise Tarang Shakti builds on the success of its inaugural edition in 2024 and reinforces India's commitment to constructive defence engagement and international cooperation. The exercise brought together diverse combat, transport, surveillance and air-to-air refuelling capabilities, providing opportunities for joint mission planning, operational learning and enhanced interoperability. The participation of indigenous platforms, including the Light Combat Aircraft (LCA) Tejas and the Light Combat Helicopter (LCH) Prachand, also highlighted India's progress in indigenous aerospace design, engineering and manufacturing. The contemporary relevance of the exercise is underscored by the decisive role of air power in Operation Sindoor, which demonstrated the Indian Air Forces ability to execute precise, calibrated and effective operations in furtherance of national security objectives. The operation highlighted the importance of operational preparedness, integrated planning, credible deterrence and the effective application of air power in a complex security environment. The experience gained from operational employment reinforces the value of multinational exercises such as Tarang Shakti in advancing professional understanding and preparing for the evolving challenges of modern warfare. Beyond flying operations, the exercise featured professional engagements, industrial visits and cultural interactions, including yoga sessions, heritage visits and an International Night celebrating the traditions of participating nations. Chief of Defence Staff General N. S. Raja Subramani, Chief of the Air Staff, Air Chief Marshal A P Singh, Chief of the Naval Staff, Admiral Krishna Swaminathan, other dignitaries, officials of the Ministry of Defence and participating countries attended the event.
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Public feedback key to improving Police functioning: SSP Baramulla
Baramulla, Oct 10: Senior Superintendent of Police (SSP) Baramulla Gurinderpal Singh on Saturday urged people to approach the police with their grievances and provide direct feedback on the functioning of officers, saying public cooperation and accountability within the force were essential for improving policing. Addressing media persons in Pattan regarding several theft cases solved by Baramulla Police, SSP Baramulla said the police were committed to resolving public grievances and would make every effort to address complaints related to theft, lost mobile phones and other offences. He credited the success of the investigations to the professionalism of police personnel and the cooperation extended by the public, saying the teams worked independently and demonstrated professional competence. The most important thing for success is the public, Singh said, adding that complainants and civilians assisted investigations by providing CCTV footage, statements, information and other technical evidence. He urged people to maintain faith in the Police and approach the department whenever they faced a problem. We are always at your service 24x7, 365 days, he said. He added that the Police would make every possible effort to resolve cases and public grievances. On accountability, SSP Baramulla said the public must use the hierarchy available if they were not satisfied with the progress of any investigation. He said complainants could first approach the investigating officer and then escalate the matter to the concerned police post or police station in-charge, the Sub-Divisional Police Officer (SDPO) and the SSP. If thegrievances still remain unaddressed, people can approach senior officers, including the Deputy Inspector General and Inspector General of Police, he added. SSP Gurinderpal Singh said the police hierarchy operated within established rules and norms of accountability and responsibility. People must inform senior officers if they feel an officer at any level is not performing effectively, he said. He said such feedback should not necessarily be viewed as a complaint against an individual, as it could help identify areas requiring training or other corrective interventions. If a person needs training, we will focus on training, he said, adding that feedback from the public would help the department identify shortcomings and improve its functioning. The SSP also stressed that rehabilitation of offenders required a collective effort involving families, communities and the government. He said Police alone could not ensure reform, saying it was a whole-of-society and whole-of-government responsibility. The family of an accused person, the immediate social environment and government interventions all had a role to play in preventing repeat offences, he said. SSP Baramulla however said that an individual's willingness to change remained crucial, saying that the best rehabilitation facilities and policies would have limited impact if an offender was unwilling to abandon criminal activity. Police uses legal procedures, arrests, prosecution and court trials to make repeat offenders understand the consequences of their actions and their impact on society, he added. He said that while most people improved after their first involvement in an offence, those who repeatedly engaged in criminal activity required stronger legal action. Enhanced prosecution and punishment measures are available to deal with habitual offenders, he added.
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CJP stir against CEC: Delhi Police detains around 500 protestors
New Delhi, Oct 10: Delhi Police on Saturday detained around 500 protesters, who were trying to reach Jantar Mantar for the proposed CJP stir against Chief Election Commissioner Gyanesh Kumar. Sources said the protestors were detained across the New Delhi area, where police are using drones to monitor movement of people attempting to reach the protest site. The protestors were detained from several places, including near Regal Cinema, Minto Bridge and near Akashwani Bhawan. Ahead of the Cockroach Janta Party's (CJP) proposed protest at Jantar Mantar, police sources said over 600 people with criminal records were also detained across all 15 districts of the national capital as part of preventive measures. The preventive action is aimed at ensuring that people with criminal backgrounds do not create a law-and-order situation during the proposed demonstration, the sources said. Police are also keeping a close watch on the movements of certain people, who could mobilise crowds or influence others to participate in the proposed protest, the sources said. Surveillance has been intensified outside the residences of such people as part of the security measures, they added. Special Commissioner of Police (Law & Order) Devesh Srivastava told PTI, We have made elaborate security arrangements today and areas neighbouring bordering states have been picketed in coordination with neighbouring police force. Senior officers have been deployed. Along with that we are getting cooperation from citizens and our community policing teams like Aman Committee are working. Police have appealed to citizens to not participate in the protests, he said. The situation is under control. People who are going to Jantar Mantar are being detained as we had already said that no permission for such protest is granted, the senior police officer said. Police personnel have been deployed at strategic locations across the city, particularly in areas leading to Jantar Mantar and other sensitive locations, to prevent any untoward incident. The security arrangements include heightened surveillance and monitoring of the movement of people suspected of attempting to disrupt law and order. Police are also keeping a close watch on possible mobilisation efforts ahead of the proposed demonstration. Police have said that prohibitory orders are in force in the New Delhi area and appealed to people to abide by the restrictions. Security arrangements have been tightened across Delhi in view of the proposed protest, with personnel deployed to maintain law and order and prevent any unauthorised gathering, the sources added. The CJP has called the proposed demonstration against the CEC over allegations of voter-list manipulation during the Special Intensive Revision (SIR) of electoral rolls and changes relating to Form 6, used for voter registration.
Stone pelting at police personnel near Akashwani Bhawan; two police personnel injured
New Delhi, Oct 10: Protesters allegedly stone-pelted security personnel at Imtiaz Ali Marg near Akashwani Bhawan after toppling barricades during the proposed Cockroach Janata Party (CJP) stir against Chief Election Commissioner Gyanesh Kumar in the national capital on Saturday, officials said. Around noon, 25 to 30 protesters jumped barricades on Imtiaz Ali Marg and stone-pelleted at security personnel, they said, adding that some of them have been detained and two police personnel were injured in the process. Police have detained about 500 people as protesters attempted to reach Jantar Mantar despite authorities denying permission to protest and enforcing strict security measures across the New Delhi district. Several protesters were chased and detained as they tried to regroup at different locations and evade the security cordon. The protest was scheduled to begin at 10.30 am, but police and paramilitary personnel prevented participants from reaching the designated area, where prohibitory orders are in force. Several protesters were detained from locations including Connaught Place, while many others were sent back.
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US-brokered ceasefire was supposed to end war in Gaza. A year later, progress has stalled
Dubai, Oct 10: It's been a year since a ceasefire deal brokered by US President Donald Trump and Arab allies promised to end the war in Gaza, and Israel is still launching deadly strikes on the devastated territory. The agreement halted major military operations, freed all remaining hostages and increased humanitarian access. But it has failed to deliver on promises of a new Palestinian administration aided by international forces, the disarmament of Hamas and an end to Israel's control over more than half the territory. Almost nothing has been rebuilt. Israel has tied any progress on the other issues to Hamas' complete disarmament, while the militant group -- and the Trump administration -- say they should happen simultaneously. Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu hardened his stance over the summer, openly defying Trump, his most important ally, ahead of Israeli elections later this month. The wrangling has left Gaza's 2 million Palestinians in limbo. Most are sheltering in rodent-infested tent camps, the rubble of their former neighbourhoods or war-damaged buildings at risk of collapse. In the Jabaliya area of the northern Gaza Strip, Abdullah Abu Zubaida's family lives in a makeshift shelter built from the debris of their house. When the ceasefire began last October, we expected the war to halt, assassinations to cease, and aid to flow in, he said. None of that has happened. For Ne'man Abu Jarad and his family, displaced from Beit Lahia in northern Gaza to Khan Younis in the south, the truce also has brought no clear path home. The family, including five daughters, continues to live in tents. The ceasefire is merely nominal, ink on paper, Abu Jarad said. Early success raised hopes of ending the war The 20-point ceasefire agreement, reached after months of negotiations under the Biden and Trump administrations, ended major military operations and led to the return of all the remaining hostages taken in Hamas' Oct. 7, 2023, attack that ignited the war. Hamas-led militants killed some 1,200 people that day and abducted 251. Israel responded with massive bombardment and a ground invasion that has killed more than 74,000 Palestinians, according to the Gaza Health Ministry. The ministry, part of the Hamas-run government, maintains detailed records and is seen as generally reliable by UN agencies and independent experts. It does not distinguish between civilians and militants in its toll but says women and children make up around half the dead. After the deal was announced, Trump called for a new era of harmony in the Middle East. We have a once-in-a-lifetime chance to put the old feuds and bitter hatreds behind us, he said at a summit marking the deal. The agreement called for much more The agreement called for Hamas to hand over power to a committee of Palestinian administrators vetted by the Board of Peace, a new body chaired by Trump and charged with implementing the ceasefire. The militants officially dissolved their government in July but left the civil service intact and remain the dominant power in the roughly 40 per cent of Gaza not controlled by the Israeli military. Israel has meanwhile barred the new Palestinian administration from entering Gaza via Egypt. The formation of an International Stabilisation Force was announced in February but has yet to materialise. Indonesia, which pledged the largest troop contingent -- 8,000 soldiers -- put those plans on hold last spring as the world's focus shifted to the Iran war. Israel was supposed to withdraw from Gaza but has instead seized more territory, pushing the so-called yellow Line of Control westward toward the Mediterranean Sea. It has also carried out regular strikes on individuals it accused of violating the ceasefire, approaching the yellow line or having taken part in the Oct. 7 attack -- strikes that have often killed civilians. Israeli strikes have killed over 1,400 Palestinians since the ceasefire took effect, according to the Gaza Health Ministry. Sporadic attacks have killed five Israeli soldiers in Gaza in the same period. More deadlock after Netanyahu defied Trump In July, Trump announced a deal to disarm Hamas, portraying it as a breakthrough in the long-stalled process. That deal, an extension of the original ceasefire, called for Hamas to disarm in a gradual, sequential and time-bound manner that is linked to an Israeli withdrawal, in phases. Hamas confirmed for the first time that it had agreed to disarm, also linking it to Israel halting its strikes and withdrawing from Gaza. Days later, Netanyahu announced that Israel would not withdraw from any part of Gaza until after Hamas has been completely disarmed, explicitly rejecting the agreement announced by Trump. The rare instance of friction between the two allies came as Netanyahu seeks to shore up his nationalist base ahead of Oct. 27 elections that could end his nearly unbroken 17-year rule, the longest in Israel's history. Netanyahu has come under fire over security and intelligence failures leading up to the Oct. 7 attack, with opponents accusing him of having been soft on Hamas. That gives him little space to make even minor compromises on Gaza, at least until a new government is formed, which could take months.
Worse than Emergency, we are living under dictatorship: Arvind Kejriwal
Arvind Kejriwal has criticized the central government's security clampdown in Delhi regarding the CJP protest. He stated that the situation is worse than during the Emergency. Kejriwal accused Prime Minister Narendra Modi of using fear tactics to suppress democracy. Additionally, he called for the resignation of Chief Election Commissioner Gyanesh Kumar due to alleged electoral fraud.
Five landmines found, defused along LoC in J-K's Poonch
Mendhar, Oct 10: Five landmines were detected and safely destroyed by the Army along the Line of Control (LoC) in Poonch district of Jammu and Kashmir, officials said on Saturday. While two landmines were detected by an Army patrol party near the border fence in Basoni top area on Saturday morning, three others had been found in the same area the previous day, the officials said. They said the explosives were subsequently destroyed through controlled explosions by the Bomb Disposal Squad of the Army without causing any damage. The forward areas along the LoC are dotted with landmines as part of an anti-infiltration obstacle system. However, heavy rainfall can sometimes wash away the mines, causing them to surface in areas where they may pose a potential risk.
BJP govt will deal with 'anarchists' sternly: Nitin Nabin warns Rahul Gandhi, Kejriwal and CJP
New Delhi, Oct 10: BJP president Nitin Nabin on Saturday accused Congress leader Rahul Gandhi, AAP national convenor Arvind Kejriwal and the CJP of attempting to destabilise the country with the backing of foreign forces, and asserted that the government will deal sternly with their ill intentions, while the party workers will foil their design on the ground. Speaking to reporters here, Nabin alleged that Gandhi, Kejriwal and the Cockroach Janata Party (CJP) are resorting to create anarchy because they cannot digest the country's progress under Prime MInister Narendra Modi's leadership. An attempt is being made to create a state of anarchy in the country. Efforts are underway to destabilise the country and its 140 crore people. Who is doing this? They are two anarchic groups, one led by 'INDI Alliance' leader Rahul Gandhi, and the other led by Arvind Kejriwal and his associate CJP, he added. The BJP chief said both groups are trying to compete with each other to prove who is the greater anarchist, pointing out that the people of India are fully aware of their objectives. I give a clear warning to you today that the 'bikau' politics you are pursuing and attempting to destabilise India in collusion with foreign forces will never succeed. I warn you today that the Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) and the patriotic people of this country will give you a fitting reply, Nabin said. The Government of India will deal sternly with the situation as you attempt to stoke tension, and BJP workers, remaining firmly among the people, will thwart these designs of yours, he added.
High-level MHA team to meet LAB, KDA leaders on Oct 15 in Ladakh
Srinagar, Oct 10: A high-level team from the Union Ministry of Home Affairs (MHA) is scheduled to visit Leh to meet leaders of the Leh Apex Body (LAB), the Kargil Democratic Alliance (KDA) and other representatives of Ladakh for crucial talks on October 15, media reports said on Saturday. According to media reports, three LAB members expected to attend the meeting are Lakruk, climate activist Sonam Wangchuk and Ladakh Buddhist Association president Gelong Stanzin Dorjay. The KDA will be represented by Sajjad Kargili, Asgar Ali Karbalai and Ghulam Rasool Naqvi. They added that Hanifa Jan, Lok Sabha member from Ladakh, Thupstan Chhewang, former MP, Kargil Hill Development Council chairman Mohammad Jaffer Akhoon and Tashi Gyalson, former chairman Leh Hill Development Council are also expected to attend the meeting, among others. Top bureaucrats of Ladakh besides the senior MHA officials will be attending the Sub-Committee meeting.Jammu Kashmir News As per the sources, LAB chairman Chering Dorjay Lakruk said that they haven't received any written invitation for talks but the Ladakh Chief Secretary (Ashish Kundra) has briefed them that the Sub-Committee meeting will be held on October 15 and the venue this time will be Leh instead of New Delhi. Lakruk reiterated that they will be submitting replies to nine queries given to them by the MHA in last Sub Committee meeting held in New Delhi on September 9. We are ready with the replies finalized with the help of our legal advisor from New Delhi and we will hand over the document to the MHA officials,'' the LAB chairman said However, senior KDA leader Sajjad Kargili, when approached for expectations from the upcoming Sub-Committee meeting proposed to be held in Leh, said they are expecting draft of UT-level body from the Home Ministry officials. ``The draft should come from the MHA in the meeting for UT-level body with legislative, financial and executive powers,'' Kargili said. On response to MHA's 9 queries, the KDA leader said since the proposal for UT-level elected body has come from the Home Ministry, they should submit the draft. There should be no delay in it, he added. In September 9 Sub-Committee meeting in New Delhi, it was decided that there will be direct election to the UT-level body i.e. its representatives will be elected by the people and not by members of seven Autonomous Hill Development Councils. Sources said the reponse to nine queries sought by the MHA from the LAB pertained only to limited issues and not all powers which the newly-elected UT-level body will have. In September 9 talks, the Ladakh bodies were also told that land, culture, heritage, forest, environment and natural resources will be under the UT-level elected body under Article 240. In May 22 meeting held in New Delhi, the LAB and KDA reached an in-principle understanding with the Central Government on restoring democracy in Ladakh and providing Constitutional safeguards on the lines of Article 371 A, F, and G and constitution of UT-level elected body with legislative, financial and executive powers. Later, two more meetings were held by the MHA in Leh in which the issues pertaining to the UT-level body were discussed but the Home Ministry has so far not come out with broad contours of the body like its name, total number of seats, exact powers and other related issues. The UT administration in Ladakh has already notified seven District Hill Development Councils. Previously, there were two Hill Councils-Leh and Kargil. The district Kargil presently has the elected Hill Council while the Leh Council had completed its term in October last year
How an Indian professors research connects to the 2026 Medicine Nobel
Abhijeet Dipke, two other CJP leaders detained after landing in Delhi
New Delhi, Oct 10: The Cockroach Janta Party (CJP) on Saturday claimed that its leaders Abhijeet Dipke, Saurav Das and Ashutosh Ranka were detained from inside the aircraft by Delhi Police as soon as their flight landed in the national capital. The CJP leaders had arrived here from Mumbai for their proposed protest at Jantar Mantar against Chief Election Commissioner Gyanesh Kumar. In a video shared by the CJP, Dipke can be heard telling police officers who entered the aircraft that, We are here to be arrested, come and arrest us. Before detention, police personnel told the CJP leaders that they don't have permission to hold their protest at Jantar Mantar. Dipke said CJP leaders are being detained as if they are criminals. In a statement, the party condemned the alleged detentions, claiming they were part of a pre-planned move to prevent its leaders from reaching the site of their proposed protest. The CJP described the action as a violation of freedom of movement and demanded the immediate and unconditional release of the three leaders. The CJP has called the proposed demonstration at Jantar Mantar against the CEC over allegations of voter-list manipulation during the Special Intensive Revision (SIR) of electoral rolls and changes relating to Form 6, used for voter registration.
Oil tanker with 22 Indian crew members attacked at Sharjah Anchorage; all reported safe: Sonowal
New Delhi, Oct 10: Shipping Minister Sarbanada Sonowal has said that Panama-flagged crude oil tanker MT GEM NO. 2, carrying a crew of 22 Indian nationals, was subjected to a drone attack at Sharjah Anchorage on October 9. Sonowal, in a post on X, further said that he was relieved to share that all 22 Indian seafarers onboard were reported to be completely safe. We are continuously monitoring the situation and in contact with the ship management company to ensure security, he added. PTI
Salt food festival in Mumbai 2026: Dates, venue, tickets and top experiences
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India addressed the UN General Assembly, condemning Pakistan for its ongoing misrepresentation of Jammu and Kashmir. Member of Parliament Mahima Kumari Mewar emphasized Pakistan's history of military dictatorship and state-sponsored terrorism. India called for Pakistan to cease human rights violations in its illegally occupied territories. The delegation condemned recent attacks on civilians protesting for their rights and freedoms.
National Formulary of India lists drugs not approved by CDSCO, DCGI seeks explanation from IPC
The National Formulary of India released its latest edition amidst concerns regarding unapproved drugs included in it. The Drug Controller General of India has communicated with the Indian Pharmacopoeia Commission regarding this discrepancy. Several drugs listed in NFI 2026 have not received approval from the Central Drugs Standard Control Organisation. Stakeholders have also raised complaints about the unavailability of the online version of NFI 2026.
Co-payments and deductibles in health insurance: Are they right for you?
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Kishtwar terror attack case: NIA files chargesheet
Jammu, Oct 9: The National Investigation Agency (NIA) on Friday filed a chargesheet before the NIA Special Court Jammu against an arrested accused and three killed Pakistani terrorists in the Kishtwar terror attack case. In a statement, NIA said it filed the 535-page chargesheet against arrested accused Maneer Ahmed, son of Mohammad Yousuf Koli, resident of Naidgam Chatroo, Inderwal, Kishtwar and three killed terrorists including Saifullah @ Saifullah Kashmiri @ Atiq Nazir @ Atiq Ur Rehman. The chargesheet pertains to the terror attack on 22nd February 2026 at Chatroo, Wani Mohalla, Passer Kote in Kishtwar (RC-03/2026/NIA/JMU). The chargesheet details the conspiracy, the role of the three killed terrorists including Saifullah, a resident of Pakistan and commander of proscribed outfit Jaish-e-Mohammad (JeM), and of arrested accused Maneer Ahmed, along with supporting evidence. It charges Maneer Ahmed with voluntarily harbouring and concealing terrorists involved in attacks on security forces and civilians in hilly district Kishtwar under relevant provisions of UA(P) Act, 1967. NIA has also invoked penal section against the accused terrorists for waging war against India and hatching conspiracy from across the border. As per NIA, the attack involved three terrorists led by terror commander Saifullah, affiliated to Kashmir Tigers (Azrael Group), which acts under the proscribed outfit JeM. Retaliatory fire from security forces led to killing of all three. The group, which was active in upper reaches of Kishtwar, was found to have conducted several attacks that resulted in killing of security forces personnel and locals. Arrested accused Maneer Ahmed has been found to be involved in providing support to the group. NIAs investigation, spanning almost 5 months, has traced the conspiracy to Pakistan. Further investigation in the case is continuing, the agency in a statement said.
Eight NIT Srinagar faculty members feature in Worlds top 2% Scientists list
Srinagar, Oct 9: NIT Srinagar organised a cyber security awareness session for students of the Department of Civil Engineering to sensitise them about safe, responsible and secure use of digital technologies. The session was conducted by Dr. Vivek, Assistant Professor, who discussed cyber hygiene, online safety, password security, phishing, social-engineering attacks, protection of personal data, safe use of social media and responsible use of digital platforms. Students were advised to remain vigilant against suspicious links, messages, emails and applications and to adopt secure digital practices. The session concluded with an interactive discussion in which students raised queries related to cyber fraud, online safety and protection of personal information. Srinagar, October 9: Eight faculty members of the National Institute of Technology (NIT) Srinagar have been featured in the 2026 edition of the Worlds Top 2% Scientists database, compiled by researchers associated with Stanford University and Elsevier, marking a significant recognition of the institutes research contributions. The faculty members recognised in the database are Dr. Vijay Kumar, Department of Physics; Dr. Neeraj Gupta, Department of Electrical Engineering; Dr. Pravan Kumar Katiyar, Department of Metallurgical and Materials Engineering; Dr. Sandeep Samantaray, Department of Civil Engineering; Prof. Bashir Ahmad Mir, Department of Civil Engineering; Dr. Sandeep Rathee, Department of Mechanical Engineering; Prof. M. A. Shah, Department of Physics; and Dr. Tawseef Ayoub Shaikh, Department of Computer Science and Engineering. Released this week, the database uses standardised citation indicators derived from Scopus data to assess researchers scientific impact and contributions across disciplines. The evaluation considers multiple bibliometric parameters, including citations, h-index, co-authorship-adjusted h-index, career-long impact and single-year research performance. Congratulating the faculty members, Director NIT Srinagar, Prof. Anurag Misra, said the recognition reflected the Institutes sustained efforts to promote quality research and academic excellence. He said the achievement was a matter of pride for the institute and acknowledged the faculty members contributions to advancing knowledge in their respective fields. Their inclusion in the global database, he added, would further strengthen NIT Srinagars academic and research profile and encourage a culture of innovation and scientific inquiry, Prof. Misra added. Registrar NIT Srinagar, Prof. Atikur Rehman, also congratulated the faculty members, describing the recognition as an encouraging reflection of the institutes research environment and academic commitment. He said the achievement demonstrated the importance of sustained research, collaboration and scholarly engagement in strengthening the institutes academic standing. Prof. Rehman also expressed confidence that the recognition would motivate students, research scholars and young faculty members to pursue innovative research and contribute to scientific advancement.
New Delhi, Oct 9: An unprecedented security clampdown has been enforced in the Capital ahead of Saturday, after Delhi Police denied permission to the Cockroach Janta Party to hold a protest at Jantar Mantar, with the deployment of 25,000 police and paramilitary personnel, closure of 57 metro stations, suspension of internet services and intensive checks at city's border points, railway stations, bus terminals, hotels and other sensitive locations. According to police, the elaborate security arrangements are aimed at preventing protesters from staging an unauthorised sit-in at Jantar Mantar and to maintain law and order across the city amid the possibility of large-scale mobilisation of people. Internet services will be suspended within a 4-kilometre radius of Jantar Mantar from 10 pm on October 9 to 10 pm on October 10, sources said. The Union home ministry has approved the decision, they said. The suspension will apply to all mobile internet services. Internet services in the rest of Delhi will remain unaffected, they said. The New Delhi district has been divided into 20 zones to strengthen security arrangements and maintain law and order. Each of the 20 zones will be monitored by a Joint Commissioner of Police, a Deputy Commissioner of Police and an Additional Deputy Commissioner of Police to ensure close supervision of the security arrangements, the sources said. Special Commissioners of Police heading various units will also closely monitor the zones and coordinate with senior officers whenever required to respond to any law-and-order situation, they added. Addressing a press conference, Joint Commissioner Nupur Prasad said on Friday that police have denied permission for the proposed October 10 demonstration, citing the short notice given for the event and alleged violations of rules and directions during an earlier protest. She said the application seeking permission for the demonstration was submitted on October 7, just three days before the proposed gathering, adding that according to rules, such applications have to be submitted at least 10 days in advance Police said the application did not meet the stipulated notice period and that the conduct of the July demonstration had raised concerns over compliance with directions issued by authorities. The restrictions have been proposed in view of the Cockroach Janata Party's protest at Jantar Mantar on October 10 against Chief Election Commissioner Gyanesh Kumar. Kumar is facing allegations of voter-list tampering under the guise of the Special Intensive Revision (SIR) of electoral rolls and of bypassing his two colleagues to alter Form 6, a key document to register as a voter. As part of the security arrangements, Delhi Police conducted mock drills at several locations. More than 120 companies of Central Armed Police Forces are expected to be involved in the security arrangements. Liquor shops across Delhi have been ordered to remain closed on October 9 and 10 as a preventive measure. Entry and exit gates at 57 Delhi Metro stations, including Rajiv Chowk, New Delhi, Central Secretariat, Patel Chowk and Kashmere Gate, will remain closed from 9 pm on Friday till further notice. According to the Delhi Metro Rail Corporation (DMRC), restrictions will also continue on October 10, with the interchange facility remaining available at all affected stations except for the New Delhi metro station. Other prominent stations where entry and exit gates will remain closed include Janpath, Mandi House, Barakhamba Road, Supreme Court, Indraprastha, ITO, Delhi Gate, Khan Market, Jama Masjid, Chandni Chowk, Hauz Khas and INA. The list also includes Shaheen Bagh, Jamia Millia Islamia, Okhla Vihar, Kalindi Kunj, Lajpat Nagar, Ashram, Sarai Kale Khan-Nizamuddin, Welcome, Shahdara, Rithala, Rohini, Azadpur, Kashmere Gate and Shivaji Stadium, among others. Railway services are also expected to be disrupted, with several trains scheduled to arrive at or depart from New Delhi and Hazrat Nizamuddin railway stations between 4 am and 2 pm on Saturday reported cancelled. The restrictions are intended to prevent large groups from converging on sensitive locations and moving towards areas where demonstrations are not permitted. The proposed measures could affect office-goers, students, shoppers and other commuters who rely on the metro for daily travel. Passengers have been advised to check official announcements. Meanwhile, police have stepped up monitoring of social media platforms, with more than 200 content creators reportedly under scrutiny in connection with mobilisation for the protest. Borders of the national capital will also face heightened surveillance and additional security cameras have been installed. There is a possibility of restrictions on vehicles entering New Delhi after 6 am on Saturday, depending on the security assessment and the situation on the ground, police sources said. Hotels, lodges, guest houses and dharamshalas are being checked as part of the preventive security exercise. Police are also issuing appeals from various mosques and temples, urging people to maintain peace. Bus terminals across the Capital will witness heightened vigilance, with security personnel monitoring passengers and vehicles arriving from neighbouring states. The airport and its approach roads are expected to remain under heightened security, with additional checks and surveillance to ensure that passenger movement remains orderly. Travellers heading to the airport have been advised to account for possible congestion and security checks while planning their journeys. Police will keep a close watch on people associated with the protest and assess attempts to mobilise supporters through social media platforms. More than 200 content creators have reportedly come under scrutiny as part of the monitoring exercise. Police teams are examining online posts and messages relating to mobilisation, gathering points and the proposed demonstration. Police said security personnel will monitor developments throughout Saturday and respond to any incidents, including crowd build-up, traffic obstructions and attempts to breach barricades.
SC seeks response of States, UTs on plea alleging prolonged vacancies in power regulatory bodies
New Delhi, Oct 9: The Supreme Court on Friday sought a response from 15 states and the Union Territories of Jammu and Kashmir and Ladakh on a PIL filed by NGO Energy Watchdog seeking directions to ensure that their state electricity regulatory commissions are properly constituted under the law. The bench comprising Chief Justice of India Surya Kant and Justices Joymalya Bagchi and V Mohana issued notice on the PIL filed by the NGO through lawyer Pranav Sachdeva. The petitioner has sought the apex court's directions directing the states and UTs to take all steps to comply with the provisions of the Electricity Act, 2003, and with the directions of the apex court in a verdict of April 2018 regarding composition of State Electricity Regulatory Commissions (SERCs). The plea said there were several statutory infractions, such as prolonged vacancies in the offices of chairperson and members and the complete absence of a person of law on the Commission, across 230 SERCs in the 15 states and the UTs. In the 2018 ruling, the Supreme Court held that SERCs have the rappings of the court and must have a suitably qualified person of law as a member, the plea said. It said the commissions across several states, including West Bengal, Tamil Nadu, Andhra Pradesh, Kerala, Himachal Pradesh, Meghalaya, Manipur, Mizoram and Nagaland, continue to lack a person of law despite this ruling. The plea said in Tamil Nadu, all three offices are vacant, while in Andhra Pradesh, the chairperson and member (technical) posts are vacant, and the Commission functions with a sole member (finance). It said that in West Bengal, only the chairperson's office has been created, and the incumbent does not have the required legal background. The plea said the failure strikes at consumers' access to justice under Articles 14 and 21 of the Constitution and, without the mandated person of law, consumers cannot get lawful adjudication of complaints under the Electricity Act. Consumers' access to that remedy cannot be made dependent upon indefinite executive inaction, the plea said. It sought directions to the states of West Bengal, Madhya Pradesh, Tamil Nadu, Andhra Pradesh, Odisha, Kerala, Jharkhand, Chhattisgarh, Haryana, Himachal Pradesh, Meghalaya, Manipur, Nagaland, Mizoram and Sikkim, and to the UTs of Jammu and Kashmir and Ladakh, directing the authorities concerned to file a reply disclosing the steps taken to ensure that their SERCs had been constituted in compliance with the Electricity Act provisions.
India could be among first countries to roll out 6G: Jio
New Delhi, Oct 9: Indian telecom giant Jio is gearing up for the 6G era. The company says India could be among the first countries to roll out 6G when global standards are finalised in 2030. Jio has already developed its pre-6G stack and Giga MIMO Radio, both of which are on display at the ongoing India Mobile Congress (IMC) 2026 in New Delhi. According to Jio, 6G networks could offer up to five times the capacity of current 5G networks, with a target to reduce latency by nearly 10 times. In simple terms, networks could handle much more data and many more users simultaneously, while responding to commands significantly faster. Data speeds are also expected to improve. These advances could unlock new possibilities for real-time AI, holographic video, healthcare, education and other next-generation digital services. A major highlight of Jio's IMC showcase is its Giga MIMO Radio, which the company describes as India's first. Jio has also unveiled a common baseband unit that can support both 5G and 6G. But the race to 6G isn't just about greater capacity or faster response times. It's also about helping shape the technology and global standards that will define the next generation of connectivity. Jio says it has filed more than 8,000 patents, including hundreds related to 6G. The company also claims to have made over 934 contributions to global standards. Jio expects 6G to make AI-powered services more responsive, particularly in situations where instant information or quick answers matter. At IMC, the company highlighted potential AI applications for farmers, doctors and students. Jio is also working towards AI-native and quantum-safe networks, aiming to combine faster connectivity with stronger security. Jio's 6G ambitions go beyond simply operating the next generation of mobile networks. The company wants to build a stronger presence across four key areas: hardware, software, patents and global standards. Jio describes its vision through two themes: 'India's 6G in the Making' and 'From India to the World'.
Soaked Walnuts vs Dry Walnuts: Which is Better For Brain Health? Dietitian Answers
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Video: This Kolkata Cafe Lets You Sip Coffee With 30+ Rescued Cats
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Expired Milk, Khoa And More Seized By Food Safety Officials At Bengaluru Ice Cream Outlets
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Can Drinking Piping Hot Tea and Coffee Raise Cancer Risk? Doctor Answers
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Two-storey madrassa building reduced to ashes in J&Ks Ramban, no casualties reported
Banihal, Oct 9: A devastating fire gutted the two-storey building of Madrasa Maseeh-ul-Uloom in the remote Mahoo area of Khari tehsil in Ramban district on Friday afternoon. Fortunately, no casualties were reported. The fire broke out at around 3:30 pm, reportedly due to an electric short circuit, according to local residents. Soon after the incident, local men and women joined firefighting efforts. Police personnel from Police Post Mahoo, led by Fulail Singh, along with Army personnel and QRT volunteers from Khari, worked tirelessly to control the blaze and prevent it from spreading to nearby residential houses. Mahoo is a far-flung area without a local fire service facility in Tehsil Khari. A fire tender was dispatched from Banihal, but by the time it reached the spot, the entire madrasa building had been reduced to ashes.
Police, CRPF working in close coordination with civil admin: IGP Kashmir
Altaf Bukhari demands compensation for hailstorm-hit farmers, orchardists
Srinagar, Oct 9: Jammu and Kashmir Apni Party (JKAP) President Syed Mohammad Altaf Bukhari on Friday expressed deep concern over the extensive damage caused to crops and orchards by the recent hailstorm. He also expressed grief over a fire incident in Sempora, Sopore, where an apple storage shed was gutted, causing massive losses to the stored produce. He urged the authorities to assess the losses promptly and ensure adequate compensation and timely assistance for the affected farmers and orchardists. In a statement, Bukhari said, I am saddened to learn that the devastating hailstorm on Thursday has caused extensive damage to standing crops and orchards in several villages across North and South Kashmir, particularly in parts of Sopore and Shopian. He further said, The damage to apple crops is especially heartbreaking, as it comes just weeks before the peak harvesting season, when orchardists were preparing to reap the rewards of their hard work. Apni Party President also expressed deep sorrow over the fire incident in Sempora, Sopore, where an apple storage shed containing harvested produce was gutted, resulting in substantial financial losses for the affected fruit grower. Equally distressing is the fire incident in Sempora, Sopore, where a major apple storage shed filled with harvested produce was gutted following a short circuit in a power transformer amid rain and gusty winds. The incident has caused huge financial losses to the affected fruit grower, he said. Calling for immediate relief, Bukhari said, I urge the authorities to assess the losses without delay and provide adequate compensation to the affected farmers and orchardists. They must receive timely assistance to recover from these losses and safeguard their livelihoods.
Thousands offer Friday prayers at Charar-e-sharif on Urs of Sheikh-ul-Alam (RA)
Police intensify crackdown against drug traffickers, 6 held in Anantnag and Kulgam
Srinagar, Oct 9: Jammu and Kashmir Police on Friday arrested 06 drug peddlers in separate NDPS cases in Anantnag & Kulgam and recovered contraband substances from their possession. A police spokesperson said that a police party from Police Station Dooru, during naka checking at Fidar Road, apprehended a person identified as Adil Rahman son of Abdul Rahman resident of Peti Khas, Verinag. During his personal search, approximately 07 grams of heroin was recovered from his possession. A case under relevant sections of law has been registered at Police Station Dooru, and investigation has been initiated. In another case, a police party from Police Station Dooru, during naka checking at Qamar, apprehended another person identified as Ishfaq Ahmad Bhat son of Abdul Salaam Bhat resident of Kapran. During his search, approximately 08 grams of heroin was recovered from his possession. Accordingly, FIR No. 155/2026 under relevant sections of law has been registered at Police Station Dooru, and investigation is underway. He said a police party from Police Station Anantnag, deployed on naka duty at NH-244 near Najigund, Anantnag, intercepted a person identified as Amir Hussain Sheikh son of Mohd Ramzan Sheikh resident of Donipawa. During his search, 10.76 grams of charas was recovered from his possession. Necessary legal proceedings have been initiated in the matter. In another case, a police party from Police Station Anantnag, during naka checking at Mehendi Kadal, intercepted a person identified as Muneeb Saleem Wani son of Mohammad Saleem Wani resident of Bangidar. During his search, 06 grams of charas was recovered from his possession. Necessary legal proceedings have been initiated in this case as well. Moreover, a police party from Police Post Sangam intercepted a person identified as Urood Gul son of Gulzar Ahmad Sheikh resident of Bijbehara. During search, 6.30 grams of charas-like substance was recovered from his possession. Accordingly, a case vide FIR No. 291/2026 under Sections 8/20 of the NDPS Act has been registered, and further investigation has been taken up. In Kulgam, a police Party of Police Post Mirbazar intercepted & apprehended a person identified as Dharm Veer son of Ram Autar, resident of Pilibhit, Uttar Pradesh, near DBZ Brick Kiln, Kachpora, and recovered 1.360 Kgs of charas powder and 11.02 grams of charas-like substance from his possession. Accordingly, FIR No. 244/2026 under Section 8/20 NDPS Act has been registered at PS Qazigund. Further investigation is underway, spokesperson said. Jammu and Kashmir Police reiterated its commitment to continuing the crackdown against drug trafficking and peddling. They said that sustained enforcement and preventive measures are being undertaken across the district to protect the youth and society from the menace of drugs.
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How Anmol Biscuits Transformed From A Small Kolkata Factory To A Rs 2,000 Crore Business
Anmol Biscuits started selling Rs 5 biscuit packets in the villages of West Bengal. Now, it has a revenue of over Rs 2,000 crore.
AAAM DC Bemina commemorates Gandhi Jayanti
Srinagar, Oct 8: The Department of Environmental Sciences, Abdul Ahad Azad Memorial Degree College (AAAM DC), Bemina, Cluster University Srinagar, incollaboration with the NSS and IQAC, organised a one-day programme to commemorate Gandhi Jayanti 2026 at the College Auditorium on October 7.The programme was held under the theme, From Gandhian Vision to Viksit Bharat @2047: Pathways to Environmental Sustainability. The eventaimed to revisit Mahatma Gandhis ideals of simplicity, self-reliance, environmental stewardship and sustainable living, while connecting these valueswith Indias developmental aspirations for 2047. Prof. Muzafar Ahmad Bhat, Principal of the college, graced the occasion as the Chief Guest and delivered the inaugural-cum-welcome address. The programme featured a lead talk by eminent academician Prof. (Dr.) Hamid Naseem Rafiabadi, who spoke on the relevance of Gandhian philosophy in the context of contemporary environmental challenges and sustainable development in the larger quest for Indias Viksit Bharat initiative. He said, Civilisations that have proved successful over time have been those guided by a spiritual quest and contentment and not those driven by physical and material gratification. He said that as citizens, we must be austere in our overtures and safeguard air, water and land from crusades.An interactive question-and-answer session with the resource person followed the talk. A large number of students attended the event. The proceedings were conducted by Dr. Tanveer Ahmad, Assistant Professor, Department of Functional English, followed by a formal vote of thanks presented by Dr. Niyaz Ahmad Khan, Assistant Professor and Secretary of the Staff Council.
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Binomo: How Digital Platforms Are Redefining the Trading Experience
The digital transformation of financial services has changed more than the way people access markets. It has also raised expectations around education, usability, technology, and the ability to test new approaches before committing real funds. For trading platforms, this means that a functional interface alone is no longer enough. Users increasingly look for an environment where market tools, learning resources, practice opportunities, and account management can work together. Binomo has developed its platform around this broader model, combining online access with educational content, a demo environment, analytical functionality, mobile applications, and security features. From Access to a More Complete Digital Environment One of the clearest changes in online trading is the move toward integrated platforms. Instead of relying on separate sources for market information, education, and technical tools, users can find many of these functions within one ecosystem. Binomo offers browser-based access as well as applications for iOS and Android. Its platform includes charts, indicators, strategies, account tools, tournaments, and access to support. The website currently states that the minimum account balance starts at $10 and the minimum trade amount at $1. These features address a practical consideration: users can explore the platforms functionality without needing to navigate several unrelated services. Why Practice Has Become an Important Part of Trading The transition from learning about trading to actually using a platform can be challenging. A demo environment provides a way to bridge that gap. Binomos demo account provides $10,000 in virtual funds and access to platform functionality, real quotes, indicators, strategies, and training materials. This allows users to become familiar with the interface and experiment with analytical tools without placing real funds at risk. The educational value of a demo account goes beyond simply learning where different buttons are located. Users can observe how charts behave, examine indicators, and explore strategies in a simulated environment. At the same time, demo performance should not be interpreted as a guarantee of results under real financial conditions. Education as Part of the Platform Another shift is the growing role of education within digital trading services. Rather than treating learning as something that happens separately, platforms can integrate educational resources directly into the user experience. Binomo provides free training, a knowledge base, tutorials, and strategy-related materials. Its educational content covers subjects including chart analysis, indicators, candlestick patterns, Fibonacci concepts, RSI, ADX, and moving-average strategies. This creates a practical learning cycle: study a concept, examine the relevant tools, and then explore them through the demo environment. Binomos educational materials also note that no strategy can guarantee a successful outcome, an important distinction when discussing analytical methods. Mobility Is Becoming a Standard Expectation The desktop browser is no longer the only way users interact with digital financial services. Mobile access has become an important part of the experience, particularly for users who want to monitor markets or manage an account from different locations. Binomos mobile applications for iOS and Android provide access to core platform functions, while the browser version remains available for desktop users. The result is a more flexible model in which users can choose the device that best suits their circumstances rather than being tied to a single access point. Security Behind the User Experience Convenience also brings the responsibility of protecting accounts and financial information. Binomo lists several security measures, including two-factor authentication, AI-assisted verification of identity and payment methods, and PCI-standard protection for payment card data. These measures form part of the infrastructure behind the platform rather than being visible trading features. For users, however, they can be just as important as charts or educational tools when evaluating an online service. The Broader Direction of Digital Trading The development of platforms such as Binomo reflects a wider shift in digital financial services. The focus is increasingly moving from simply providing market access toward creating an environment that combines technology, education, practice, mobility, and account protection. For users, that broader approach can make the process of exploring a platform more structured. A demo account can provide an initial practice environment, educational resources can support further learning, and analytical tools can help users examine market information more systematically. None of these features removes financial risk, and real-money trading requires an understanding of the applicable terms and potential losses. What they can provide is a more comprehensive environment in which users can learn about the platform, test its functionality, and make decisions with a clearer understanding of how its tools work. As digital financial services continue to evolve, the platforms most closely aligned with changing user expectations may be those that treat education, accessibility, technology, and responsible use as connected parts of the overall experience.
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Saudi authorities say 3 killed in Houthi-claimed attacks on Riyadh airport
Beirut, Oct 9: An airline pilot was among three Saudi citizens killed in attacks targeting Riyadh's King Khalid International Airport and a Saudia aircraft, the kingdom's civil aviation authority said on Friday. Several people of different nationalities were wounded. The attacks on Thursday were the deadliest in Saudi Arabia since the kingdom and allied forces in neighbouring Yemen launched a major military offensive against Yemen's Iran-backed Houthi rebels last weekend. They also marked a significant escalation on the latest front in the Iran war, which has kept oil prices and financial markets volatile. Hundreds of flights to and from Riyadh were cancelled on Thursday, according to flight-tracking site FlightAware. The Indian Embassy later said Air India had suspended operations through to Saturday, while the Lufthansa Group said its airlines would suspend flights to Riyadh through to Oct. 16. Pakistan International Airlines has also suspended flights to Riyadh because of the evolving situation in the Middle East, an airline spokesman said. The US Embassy warned citizens on Wednesday of potential airspace closures. Yemen's Houthis claim the attack ---------------------------------------- The first attack on Thursday targeted airport facilities, while the second struck the aircraft, the Saudi statement said. It did not identify those responsible, though the Houthis claimed to have targeted the airport with a ballistic missile. Among the dead was Capt. Hamoud Ali Alkalthami, the Saudia Group said in a statement. It appeared to be the first confirmed attack on the Saudi national carrier since the new offensive began. A separate Saudia Group statement said one of its aircraft was damaged while it was on the ground, with no passengers on board. The aviation statement also said the injuries to citizens and people of other nationalities ranged from minor to serious. The Saudia Group statement later said operational activities at the airport had returned to normal. Meanwhile, the Saudi-led coalition fighting the Houthis said it had destroyed three rocket launch platforms used by the rebels to threaten regional security. Riyadh airport has been repeatedly targeted The airport in the Saudi capital has come under repeated attack in recent days. This week, the Houthis warned global airlines for the last time about the potential consequences of operating in Saudi airspace, which they described as a theatre for their military operations. On Wednesday, Saudi officials said Houthi-claimed attacks on airports in Riyadh and Abha had killed three people. Saudi Arabia faces mounting attacks from the Houthis, who declared a blockade of the kingdom earlier this year in response to one imposed on them. The kingdom has sought support from allies, including the United States. Officials said US assistance has included intelligence sharing, target identification and planning for the latest offensive. But President Donald Trump has shown reluctance to expand US military involvement in the Middle East and, for now, has not ordered American forces to resume strikes against the rebels. The offensive aims to retake territory the Houthis seized a month ago along Yemen's western Red Sea coast and the strategic Bab el-Mandeb Strait. Their presence there threatens a crucial alternative shipping route to the Strait of Hormuz, where Iranian attacks on ships have curtailed traffic. (AP)
After inquiry, JNU dismisses professor over sexual harassment allegations
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Delhi-NCR's toxic air may have role in gynaecological cancers, say experts
New Delhi, Oct 9: Long-term exposure to air pollution may have a role in development of gynaecological cancers, Delhi-NCR experts said, citing emerging research on the possible links between PM2.5 exposure, reproductive health and cancers of the female reproductive system. Experts explained that gynaecological cancers do not have a single cause, adding that environmental factors may contribute to the biological processes involved in cancer development. PM2.5 is of interest because prolonged exposure is associated with inflammation, oxidative stress and systemic biological effects, Dr Rama Joshi, gynae onco surgeon and chairman, Gynae Oncology and Robotic Surgery, Fortis Gurugram, said. She said recent studies have reported associations between air pollution and certain aspects of women's reproductive health, raising questions about whether environmental exposure may also have a role in the broader cancer-risk environment. She said an association between pollution exposure and cancer does not mean that pollution directly causes cancer, adding that such evidence in gynaecological cancers is still evolving and findings have not been uniform across studies. More India-specific data is needed before drawing conclusions about causation, she said. Women should focus on the risk factors that we already know can be modified or monitored. Maintaining a healthy weight, staying physically active, managing diabetes and other metabolic conditions, understanding family history and seeking timely evaluation for abnormal bleeding remain important. Environmental pollution is an additional concern that deserves further scientific investigation, Joshi said. The experts also referred to a recent India-wide study that examined the relationship between environmental exposure and reproductive health among Indian women. The study reported that women exposed to PM2.5 levels above 40 micrograms per cubic metre had 24 per cent higher odds of delayed menarche and a 23 per cent higher hazard of early menopause. The researchers analysed National Family Health Survey data along with satellite-derived PM2.5 estimates and other environmental indicators. The analysis included nearly 1.8 lakh women aged 15-24 for menarche and nearly 3 lakh women aged 30-49 for menopause, with stronger associations reported in northern India, including areas such as Delhi, Haryana, Punjab and parts of Uttar Pradesh. Such findings are adding to scientific interest in how prolonged exposure to air pollution may influence hormonal and reproductive pathways in women. Researchers are also examining whether biological effects associated with PM2.5, including chronic inflammation, oxidative stress and cellular damage, could potentially contribute to conditions affecting hormone-sensitive tissues and the female reproductive system. Endometrial cancer, which develops in the lining of the uterus, is strongly associated with established risk factors such as obesity, prolonged oestrogen exposure, diabetes, increasing age and certain genetic conditions. Ovarian cancer has a different set of risk factors, including age, family history and inherited genetic mutations. The possibility that chronic environmental exposure could add to these established risk factors is an area of growing scientific interest. Long-term exposure to fine particulate matter may have systemic effects beyond the lungs, potentially influencing inflammatory, hormonal and cellular processes that are relevant to cancer biology. The issue assumes greater relevance in Delhi-NCR, where women may be exposed to elevated PM2.5 concentrations repeatedly over many years. Fine particulate matter has been linked to inflammation, oxidative stress and other systemic effects, prompting scientists to examine whether these biological pathways could influence tissues beyond the lungs, including hormone-sensitive organs. Dr Joshi stressed that women should not interpret air pollution as a standalone cause of gynaecological cancer. Abnormal uterine bleeding, bleeding after menopause, unusually heavy or prolonged periods, persistent pelvic or abdominal discomfort, unexplained bloating and changes in urinary or bowel habits warrant medical evaluation, particularly when symptoms persist. With gynaecological cancers remaining an important health burden among women, experts said larger, long-term Indian studies involving Indian women are needed to further determine pollution as the important risk factor for gynaecological cancer. Dr Aditya Sarin, vice chairman, Medical Oncology, Sir Ganga Ram Hospital, New Delhi, said the emerging evidence provides a reasonable basis to consider air pollution as a potential contributing factor in the cancer-risk environment. Chronic exposure to PM2.5 can promote inflammation, oxidative stress and cellular changes, which are mechanisms relevant to cancer development. The emerging association with reproductive health makes it important to investigate whether prolonged pollution exposure may also contribute to gynaecological cancers. While causation is yet to be established, the signal is important and deserves further study, particularly in highly polluted regions such as Delhi-NCR, Sarin said.
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LG raises maximum age limit for Nambardars in Ladakh from 60 to 63
Leh, Oct 09: Ladakh Lieutenant Governor V K Saxena on Friday raised the maximum age limit for Nambardars in the Union Territory from 60 to 63 years, fulfilling a long-standing demand of village heads in the Union territory. The decision followed a request by the president of the All Ladakh Goba Association during an interaction between the LG and Nambardars from different parts of Ladakh at Lok Niwas on October 3, an official statement said. The association had sought removal of the existing age ceiling, provided the Nambardars remained capable of discharging their responsibilities and enjoyed public support. Under the Jammu and Kashmir Lambardari Rules, 1980, a Lambardar's term is five years or until the age of 60, whichever is earlier, it said. Exercising powers under Section 6 of the Jammu and Kashmir Lambardari Act, 1972, read with Rule 16 of the 1980 rules, the Lieutenant Governor has increased the maximum age limit to 63 years while retaining the five-year term, it added. The move is aimed at ensuring continuity in grassroots administration, preserving institutional and traditional knowledge, and facilitating smoother administrative transitions, particularly in remote villages and difficult terrain. Nambardars are an important link between the administration and the people, particularly in Ladakhs remote and geographically challenging areas. Their experience, knowledge of local traditions, and close connection with their communities are valuable assets, Saxena said. He said the revision of the age limit would help ensure continuity in grassroots governance and enable experienced community leaders to continue contributing. Nambardars, also known as Gobas, serve as a vital link between the administration and local communities, it said. Their understanding of local issues, traditions and public concerns helps strengthen last-mile governance and the delivery of government services and welfare schemes, it said. The decision follows the Lieutenant Governor's earlier initiative to increase the monthly honorarium of Nambardars from Rs 1,500 to Rs 5,000 in recognition of their contribution to local administration.
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Health Ministry proposes tighter rules for ads promoting prescription drugs
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No major rainfall or snowfall expected in J&K till October 20: MeT
Srinagar, Oct 9: Jammu and Kashmir is likely to witness predominantly dry weather until October 20, with brief spells of light rain, thunderstorms and gusty winds expected in some districts over the next few days, Director Meteorological Centre Srinagar Mukhtar Ahmad said on Friday. Ahmad said a light spell of precipitation was expected around October 10, with a similar weather pattern likely on October 13 and 14 due to a weak Western Disturbance. An expected spell occurred around the 8th. Light snowfall was also observed during this period. In the coming days, there are chances of another light spell around the 10th in several districts, Ahmad said. A similar weather pattern may persist, particularly around October 13 and 14. Due to a weak Western Disturbance, there are chances of light rain, thunderstorms and lightning in some districts, along with gusty winds, he added. However, Ahmad said no major spell of rain or snowfall was expected until October 20. Overall, the weather is likely to remain generally fine until October 20, with chances of a few light spells in between. There is no major spell expected until then, he said. Ahmad said no significant weather warning was warranted at present, although people should exercise caution during periods of thunderstorms and gusty winds. There is no weather activity at present that warrants a warning. However, there are chances of thunderstorms and gusty winds, particularly around the 10th and again between the 13th and 14th. People should take some precautions, he said. There is no possibility of any major rainfall or snowfall in the higher reaches, he added. Farmers, travellers advised caution Ahmad advised farmers to continue harvesting operations over the coming days and ensure that harvested crops and agricultural produce were stored safely. Farmers should continue harvesting in the coming days and try to store harvested crops or produce safely, he said. Travellers were advised to follow the advisories issued by the administration and the traffic department. Travellers should fully follow the advisories issued by the administration and the traffic department, Ahmad said. Temperatures to decline gradually Daytime temperatures in the plains of Kashmir are currently hovering around 2728 degrees Celsius, while temperatures in the higher-altitude areas are around 2022 degrees Celsius. In the Jammu division, daytime temperatures are ranging between 28 and 30 degrees Celsius. Ahmad said temperatures were expected to decline gradually as the season changed, although the ongoing dry spell was likely to slow the fall. Day temperatures are still around 27, 28 degrees Celsius in the plains, while in the hilly areas they are around 20 to 22 degrees. In the Jammu division, temperatures are approximately 28 to 30 degrees, he said. In the coming days, temperatures will fall gradually. The season has already changed, so temperatures will decline little by little. However, because of the dry spell, the fall will be slow. The chances of a rapid decline are very low, Ahmad added.
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Centre proposes tighter curbs on retailers, wholesalers advertising prescription drugs
New Delhi, Oct 09: The Union Ministry of Health and Family Welfare has proposed an amendment to the Drugs Rules, 1945, to strengthen regulation of advertisements relating to prescription-only medicines. The proposed amendment seeks to extend the existing requirement of prior Central Government sanction for advertising drugs specified under Schedule H, Schedule H1 and Schedule X to entities holding licences for the sale and distribution of drugs. The draft amendment has been notified through Gazette Notification G.S.R. 861(E), dated 28 September 2026, following consultations with the Drugs Technical Advisory Board (DTAB). Under the existing regulatory framework, pharmaceutical manufacturers are prohibited from advertising drugs covered under Schedule H, Schedule H1 and Schedule X without prior sanction of the Central Government. However, corresponding provisions have not explicitly covered entities engaged in the retail and wholesale sale and distribution of these medicines. To address this regulatory gap, the Ministry has proposed the insertion of sub-rule (22) under Rule 65 of the Drugs Rules, 1945, extending the advertisement restriction to holders of licences to sell, stock, exhibit or offer for sale, or distribute drugs, including retail and wholesale drug licence holders. Under the proposed provision, no advertisement of drugs specified in Schedule H, Schedule H1 or Schedule X shall be made except with the previous sanction of the Central Government. The proposed amendment is intended to strengthen regulatory oversight across the pharmaceutical supply chain, discourage unauthorised promotion of prescription medicines and reduce risks associated with inappropriate self-medication. The measure is expected to reinforce safeguards relating to medicines that require appropriate medical supervision, including certain antibiotics, psychotropic medicines and other prescription-only drugs. The proposal follows the recommendations of the 93rd meeting of the Drugs Technical Advisory Board, held on 16 February 2026, which considered the need for appropriate provisions governing advertisements by drug sale and distribution licence holders. The Ministry has invited objections and suggestions from stakeholders and members of the public within 30 days from the date on which copies of the Gazette containing the draft rules are made available to the public. Submissions received within the prescribed period will be considered by the Central Government before finalisation of the amendment.
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Govt advises social media firms to swiftly act on unlawful posts related to protests
New Delhi, Oct 09: The government has advised large social media firms to prioritise action against unlawful content related to ongoing protests based on complaints received from authorised bodies, including law enforcement agencies, sources aware of the development said. The Ministry of Electronics and IT (MeitY) is learnt to have issued an advisory to social media platforms on October 8, expressing concern over the online circulation of certain information related to the ongoing protests that is false, misleading, manipulated or presented out of context. The IT Ministry has expressed apprehension that such unlawful content may disturb public order, social tranquility and raise law and order concern as well as may incite violence. MeitY has advised large social media platforms to identify such unlawful content and prioritise action based on complaints received from authorised government bodies, an official source aware of the development said. The advisory has asked social media platforms to label synthetically generated content on their platform particularly where the content is presented to depict the ongoing events. MeitY has advised social media companies to ensure timely cooperation with law enforcement and other authorised government agencies for action and furnishing information as well as provide assistance as per the applicable law within stipulated timelines under the IT Rules, 2021, the source said.
Five former J&K cadre IAS officers among 33 transferred in Delhi
New Delhi, Oct 09: The Delhi Government has ordered the transfer and posting of 33 IAS officers belonging to the AGMUT and DANICS cadres, including five officers from the erstwhile Jammu and Kashmir cadre. Among the key appointments, senior IAS officer Navin Kumar Choudhary has been posted as Additional Chief Secretary (General Administration Department), while Bipul Pathak and Prashant Goyal have been assigned revised responsibilities in the Delhi administration. According to the government order, Bipul Pathak, a 1992-batch AGMUT cadre officer, will continue as Additional Chief Secretary (Social Welfare). He will also hold additional charges as Managing Director of the Delhi SC/ST/OBC Finance and Development Corporation and the Delhi Scheduled Castes, Scheduled Tribes, Other Backward Classes, Minorities and Handicapped Financial and Development Corporation. Pathak will additionally hold the posts of Additional Chief Secretary (SC/ST/OBC), Additional Chief Secretary (Women and Child Development) and Financial Commissioner. Prashant Goyal, a 1993-batch AGMUT cadre IAS officer, has been appointed Additional Chief Secretary (Power). He will also hold additional charges as Chairman and Managing Director of the Delhi Financial Corporation and the Delhi State Civil Supplies Corporation, besides serving as Additional Chief Secretary (Administrative Reforms) and Additional Chief Secretary (Health and Family Welfare). Navin Kumar Choudhary, a 1994-batch AGMUT cadre officer, has been posted as Additional Chief Secretary (General Administration Department). He was previously serving as Additional Chief Secretary (Irrigation and Flood Control), while also holding charge of the GAD. Choudhary will retain additional charge of the Irrigation and Flood Control Department and take on the additional responsibility of Additional Chief Secretary (Food and Civil Supplies). The order also assigns fresh responsibilities to officers who were awaiting postings. Prasanna Ramaswamy G, a 2010-batch AGMUT cadre officer, has been posted as Additional Commissioner in the Municipal Corporation of Delhi. Swati Sheemar, a 2023-batch AGMUT cadre IAS officer, has been appointed Additional Director (Education), replacing Patil Pranjal Lahensingh, who has been transferred to the Women and Child Development Department. The order covers 33 IAS officers from the AGMUT and DANICS cadres. Details of all transfers and postings were not available in the information provided.
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Pharmacies, drug distributors may need approval to advertise prescription medicines
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Kashmir University researcher named among worlds top 2% of scientists for fourth consecutive year
Srinagar, Oct 09: Dr Manzoor Ahmad Mir, a renowned breast cancer researcher in the Department of Bioresources at the University of Kashmir and an adjunct professor at the Indian Institute of Sustainability (IIS), Gujarat University, Ahmedabad, has earned international recognition for his contributions to scientific research, particularly in breast cancer research. He has been featured in the list of the worlds top 2% of scientists associated with Stanford University, USA, for the fourth consecutive year, from 2023 to 2026, in the Health Sciences category. The achievement marks a significant milestone in Dr Mirs scientific career and highlights his sustained contributions to research, academic scholarship, online content creation, postgraduate and doctoral mentoring, scientific outreach and community services. His inclusion in the prestigious global ranking reflects his research visibility and scholarly contributions to the international scientific community. Dr Mirs research focuses on drug repurposing for breast cancer, the molecular mechanisms underlying cancer development and progression, metastasis and drug resistance. His work aims to advance scientific understanding of cancer and explore potential therapeutic strategies, contributing to broader efforts to improve cancer prevention, diagnosis and treatment through interdisciplinary research and evidence-based approaches. Dr Mir has an outstanding academic and research record. He obtained his masters degree in Life Sciences with a gold medal and qualified the CSIR Junior Research Fellowship and National Eligibility Test (CSIR-JRF-NET) four times. He subsequently completed his PhD through Jawaharlal Nehru University (JNU), New Delhi, and the CSIR-Institute of Microbial Technology, Chandigarh. Over the course of his academic career, Dr Mir has established a substantial research and publication record. He has published more than 100 research papers, with a cumulative journal impact factor exceeding 750, an h-index of 40 and an i10-index of 118. His research publications have received more than 4,900 citations in the last five years, reflecting the reach and influence of his scientific contributions. In addition to research papers, Dr Mir has authored 22 books and 85 book chapters published by leading international publishers, including Elsevier, Taylor & Francis and Springer Nature. He has also developed four massive open online courses (MOOCs) for the SWAYAM platform under the Consortium for Educational Communication (CEC) and the University Grants Commission (UGC), Government of India. The courses cover Immunology, Endocrinology, Human Genetics and Human Population Genetics and have reportedly reached more than 20,000 students worldwide over the past seven years. Dr Mir has made significant contributions to breast cancer research, awareness, communication and education across the Kashmir Valley. Through research publications, scientific collaborations, academic engagement and community outreach activities, he has contributed to the growing body of knowledge in cancer biology and allied biomedical sciences. In recognition of his research and awareness initiatives in breast cancer, Dr Mir received the Best Cancer Researcher Award at Kashmir Expo-2022 from the Lieutenant Governor of Jammu and Kashmir. The event was organised by the Department of Biotechnology (DBT), Government of India, and the Jammu and Kashmir Science, Technology and Innovation Council (JKST&IC), Government of Jammu and Kashmir. In 2019, he received the Teacher Associateship for Research Excellence award from the Science and Engineering Research Board (SERB), Department of Science and Technology, Government of India. In 2020, he received the Summer Research Fellowship for Teachers from the Indian National Science Academies. In 2026, Dr Mir received the Breast Cancer Awareness and Care Excellence Award at the seventh Cancer Summit Awards in New Delhi in recognition of his contributions to cancer research and public health initiatives. The award acknowledged his work in breast cancer research and awareness and reinforced his commitment to addressing cancer-related challenges through scientific research and public engagement. These awards and recognitions highlight Dr Mirs dedication to scientific research, awareness, education and care initiatives. His work has established him as a prominent contributor to regional and national efforts to advance cancer research, promote preventive measures and explore effective therapeutic strategies. His research activities are also supported by externally funded projects. He has successfully completed six research projects and is currently leading two ongoing projects funded by the Anusandhan National Research Foundation (ANRF), under the Department of Science and Technology (DST), Government of India. Dr Mir has also made significant contributions to teaching, mentorship and research training. He has guided eight PhD scholars, while five doctoral scholars are currently pursuing research under his supervision. He has also guided 60 masters students in their dissertation projects, mentoring them in scientific inquiry, research methodology and evidence-based analysis. His commitment to technology-enabled education is reflected in the development of four MOOCs for the SWAYAM platform under the UGC, Ministry of Education, Government of India. The courses have helped extend access to specialised scientific knowledge and provide flexible learning opportunities for students. Dr Mir has further contributed to student enrichment and scientific outreach by organising national and international conferences and DST-INSPIRE Science Camps. These initiatives provide platforms for scientific discussion, interdisciplinary collaboration and the encouragement of young students to pursue careers in science and research. He is actively engaged with the international scientific community and is a member of several prominent professional and scientific organisations. These include the American Association for Cancer Research (AACR), the American Society of Clinical Oncology (ASCO), the European Society for Medical Oncology (ESMO), the American Oncology Association, the International Immunology Association, the Indian Cancer Society, the Indian Immunology Society and the Indian Immuno-oncology Society, among others. He is also a Fellow of the Royal British Society (FRBS). Dr Mir serves on the editorial boards of several scientific journals, contributing to peer review and the maintenance of scientific quality and integrity. He has also completed guest-edited collections for internationally recognised scientific journals, including Scientific Reports and Frontiers in Immunology . His participation in international scientific conferences and research presentations has taken him to more than 10 countries, including the United States, China, the United Kingdom, Spain, Singapore, Sri Lanka and the United Arab Emirates. These engagements have facilitated scientific exchange, strengthened professional networks and created opportunities for research collaboration across institutions and countries. In addition to his research and teaching responsibilities, Dr Mir has contributed to institutional development and academic coordination. He served as the first nodal officer and coordinator of the Kupwara University Campus, contributing to the development and coordination of academic activities there. He is also the coordinator of the collaboration between the Indian Institute of Sustainability at Gujarat University and associated academic initiatives. He served as coordinator and head of the Department of Bioresources from 2019 to 2025. His work reflects a commitment to strengthening the research ecosystem, promoting interdisciplinary engagement and expanding educational and collaborative opportunities for students and researchers. Dr Mirs inclusion in the worlds top 2% scientists list for four consecutive years marks an important professional milestone. His record combines sustained research output, scholarly publications, doctoral mentoring, the development of online learning resources, competitive research awards and participation in international scientific forums. His achievements also highlight the contributions of researchers at universities in Jammu and Kashmir to the broader national and international scientific landscape. Through continued research in breast cancer and allied biomedical sciences, Dr Mir remains engaged in advancing scientific knowledge, mentoring future researchers and supporting efforts to address important challenges in human health. The recognition is a source of pride for the University of Kashmir and the wider academic and research community of Jammu and Kashmir. It also serves as an inspiration for emerging researchers and students to pursue rigorous scientific inquiry, innovation and excellence in research.
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Shree Guru Krupa Foods, based in Mysuru, has shown that making pani puri on a large scale does not have to mean ignoring hygiene.
Two youth from Srinagar go missing during trekking in Kangan forest; rescue operation launched
Ganderbal, Oct 09: Two youth from Srinagar locality reportedly lost their way in the forest area of Rayil Gund area of Kangan in central Kashmirs Ganderbal district while trekking, on Thursday. Officials said that the youth contacted emergency helpline 112 seeking assistance after losing their way in the forest Thursday eveningprompting an emergency response from the authorities. Following the distress call, teams from the State Disaster Response Force (SDRF), Gund Police and the 112 Police unit rushed towards the reported location to trace the duo. However, no contact had been established with the youth so far , as their mobile phones were switched off. Further details are awaited as efforts to establish contact with the missing youth continue.
Navratri 2026: Which Spices Are Not Allowed During Fasting?
This year, Sharad Navratri begins on October 11 and concludes with Ram Navami.
There's a new Bengaluru-led dining space in Mumbai; here's all you need to know
With their first outlet in Mumbai, a chain introduces the Darshini-style of dining, a key facet of Bengalurus QSR ecosystem, to Juhu
Trump administration suspending Microsoft from green card program, alleging fraud
Washington, Oct 09: President Donald Trump's administration announced Thursday it was suspending Microsoft and several other firms from a programme allowing foreign workers to apply for green cards as it also lashed out at universities that bring international students to the US on exchange programs. The announcement by Vice President JD Vance marks the latest swing from the Trump administration at employers and universities that welcome foreign students and workers into the country. Such programs have frequently been targeted by some Trump supporters who argue they undercut American students and workers. Supporters say they allow the US to attract the best talent from around the world and fill important hiring gaps. Supporters of the Republican president have long argued that various programs like H-1B visas which Vance accused Microsoft of abusing essentially empower American companies to recruit foreign workers for jobs that end up undercutting Americans. In the wide-ranging announcement, Vance and other top administration officials also called out universities over their use of J-1 visas for international students and information technology outsourcing firms. The announcement came hours before Trump awarded the National Medal of Technology and Innovation to Microsoft CEO Satya Nadella, part of an event at which he granted some of the nation's most prestigious science and technology awards to his tech billionaire allies. Vance says US workers are replaced with foreign indentured servants' Vance said the program from which Microsoft is being suspended requires companies to advertise jobs in America before applying to the Department of Labour to show they need to give a foreign worker a green card because of a lack of American workers. They'll put an advertisement in a small-town newspaper. They'll go out there and say that We have advertised for a position with our company, and nobody is responding to it.' And they will use that lack of response to then go and replace American workers with what is effectively foreign indentured servants, Vance said. There has been no company in the United States, unfortunately, that has used this system more than Microsoft. Microsoft is No. 5 among US employers when it comes to using H-1B visas, according data from US Citizenship and Immigration Services. Amazon is No. 1. Vance said Microsoft last year laid off 6,000 American workers but also obtained 6,300 H-1B visas and almost 3,000 green cards. If you do the math, for every worker that Microsoft laid off, they replaced that worker with one and a half foreign indentured servants, Vance said in a White House news conference announcing the decision. Our message to Microsoft is: You're a great American company, but you've got to hire great American workers. Vance said H-1B workers are effectively foreign indentured servants because if they lose their jobs, they have to leave the country, and they earn less than Americans in the same position. Microsoft, which is based in Redmond, Washington, said of the approximately 6,000 H-1B visa applications it submitted in the last fiscal year, 80 per cent were to extend or change the status of existing Microsoft employees. These were not to hire new people, Microsoft said in a statement. The remaining filings for new employees were for individuals already legally in the United States who decided to come work for us, and they equal only 1 per cent of our US workforce. They are not new arrivals to our country. The company added that it only files H-1B petitions for those who meet the rigorous standards of this visa category. Doug Rand, a former senior adviser at USCIS during the Biden administration, called Vance's announcement incoherent. If the Trump administration were truly concerned that H-1B workers are indentured servants,' then the last thing they would do is block companies from helping their own H-1B workers get green cards, he said. Once you have a green card, you're no longer dependent on your employer for your immigration status you're a permanent resident who can change jobs and negotiate higher wages without fear. H-1B programme has been scrutinised The H-1B program has long been a target of Trump supporters who say that the program undercuts American workers and is rife with abuse. H-1B visas are meant for high-skilled jobs that are difficult to find American workers to fill. Technology companies are the biggest users, with nearly three-quarters of approvals going to workers from India. Trump last year attempted to ratchet up the fee for H-1B work visas to USD 100,000, saying it would protect American workers from losing their jobs to lower-paid foreigners, but a federal judge struck that down in June. The administration has since tried a different tack, announcing plans in August for a USD 103,265 fee. The proposed regulation described the new fee as a dedicated revenue mechanism to help recover a portion of the federal government's costs of administering the lawful immigration system. The rule isn't yet final and is expected to face a legal challenge, like the one before it. Ron Hira, a Howard University political science professor and longtime critic of the H-1B programme, called the move against Microsoft very significant.'' Hira noted the White House last month issued a little-noticed executive order directing government agencies to implement appropriate measures to protect American workers from abuse of the H-1B program and ensure that the programme serves the national interest.'' There are supposed to be protections for US workers that say: If you hire an H-1B, you are promising that you are not adversely affecting similarly employed US workers,'' Hira said. That's never been enforced.'' Besides Microsoft, Vance said the government was similarly suspending Adobe and tech consulting firms Cognizant, Infosys, Tata, Wipro, HCL and Capgemini. The companies did not immediately respond to messages seeking comment. Trump also has targeted international students The Vance announcement came a day after Trump's administration launched another broadside against international students and their ability to work in the US. The Department of Homeland Security on Wednesday proposed a USD 70,000 fee for international students seeking to work in the United States. The proposed rule would require schools to pay the fee for every student who participates in the Optional Practical Training program, which allows students to work in jobs related to their major during or after their time in school. Vance also called out universities, suggesting that they were abusing a program to allow international students to come to the US. These temporary visas, called J-1 visas, allow international visitors to temporarily come to the US for work and study exchange programs. Vance singled out nine universities that he said merited further investigation for J-1 visa fraud, saying they used the program in greater proportions than their counterparts. The universities were Harvard; Yale; Stanford; Brown; the University of Pittsburgh; the University of California, Davis; the California Institute of Technology; Arizona State; and the Massachusetts Institute of Technology. Stanford said it would cooperate with the investigation. MIT and Brown said they had received and were reviewing subpoenas from the government related to programs for foreign workers. Of note, each J-1 visa holder at MIT has been vetted and authorized to come here by the US government, and we take seriously our obligations to follow US law, MIT spokesperson Kimberly Allen said in a written statement.
Counting begins for Bengal bypolls, BJP's first electoral test after coming to power
The counting started amid tight security arrangements at the designated centres in both constituencies, with officials first taking up postal ballots and Electronically Transmitted Postal Ballots before proceeding with the EVM votes.
Five injured as gas leak triggers fire in hostel on IIT Bombay campus
Mumbai, Oct 09: Five persons, including two children, suffered injuries after a gas leak from a cylinder pipe triggered a fire at a hostel on the Indian Institute of Technology Bombay campus in Powai here, officials said. They said the incident was reported at around 10.25 pm on Thursday from hostel number 6. The injured were taken to BMC-run Rajawadi Hospital in Ghatkopar, an official said. Four of them were later shifted to civic body-run Kasturba Hospital at Chinchpokli. One remains admitted to Rajawadi Hospital. The five have been identified as Ansh Ahirwar (12), Tahjib Aalam (9), Ishwar Singh (37), Shivkumar Singh (34) and Anilkumar Yadav (23), the official said. Police personnel and Brihanmumbai Municipal Corporation staffers were mobilised following the incident, he added.
Kashmiri filmmaker Arfat Sheikh released from US ICE detention, campaign says
Award-winning Kashmiri filmmaker
TSP 10K Kathua Marathon Competition: DPS Junior Kathua students shine
Kathua, Oct 8:Students of Delhi Public School Junior, Kathua, brought laurels to the institution with their impressive performance at the TSP 10K Kathua Marathon Competition, showcasing remarkable determination, stamina, discipline and sporting spirit. The young athletes, as per a statement, participated with great enthusiasm and secured medals in the competition, making their school proud. Their commendable achievement reflects their dedication, perseverance and commitment to excellence in sports. Former MLA and Chairperson of DPS Kathua, KantaAndotra, congratulated the medal winners and appreciated their outstanding performance. She emphasised the importance of sports in fostering discipline, confidence, physical fitness and a spirit of healthy competition among young learners. School Administrator, Gauri Thakur, applauded the students for their dedication and sporting spirit. She encouraged them to continue exploring their potential and actively participating in sporting activities, highlighting the schools commitment to nurturing talent and promoting holistic development.
Inter-collegiate volleyball, football, badminton tournaments enter final stage at JU
Jammu, Oct 8:The Inter-Collegiate Tournaments of Volleyball (Men), Football (Men & Women) and Badminton (Men &Women) for the session 202627, organised by the Directorate of Sports and Physical Education, University of Jammu, continued with their fourth day of competition Thursday at the University Volleyball Court, Football Ground and Gymnasium Hall, University of Jammu. The day, as per a statement, witnessed exciting and closely contested Pre-Quarterfinal and Quarterfinal matches in Volleyball (Men), along with the Quarterfinal matches in Football (Men) and Badminton (Men & Women). The participating teams displayed excellent skill, coordination, teamwork and competitive spirit throughout the day. With the competitions progressing towards their concluding stages, the Semi-Final, Final & Third Place matches will be played tomorrow, marking the culmination of the respective tournaments. The tournaments are being conducted under the supervision of Dr Daud Iqbal Baba, Director, Directorate of Sports and Physical Education, University of Jammu, whose leadership and guidance continue to play a significant role in promoting and developing sports among the students of affiliated colleges.
SMVDU chess team finishes runner-up at inter-university competition
Jammu, Oct 8:Continuing its impressive sporting achievements, the Chess Team of Shri Mata Vaishno Devi University (SMVDU) secured an outstanding second position at the Inter-University Chess Competition held at Jaypee University, Solan, Himachal Pradesh. The SMVDU chess contingent, as per a statement, displayed commendable skill, strategic thinking and competitive spirit throughout the tournament, finishing as runners-up among the participating universities. The team was accompanied by Dr. Kamaldeep, Vice President, Board for Sports Activities (BSA), SMVDU, who supported and guided the players
