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SED notifies new transfer policy for employees excluding ReT teachers
Srinagar, Aug 20: In a latest development, J&K School Education Department (SED) Thursday notified a new comprehensive transfer policy for its employees while introducing a five-zone rotation system. The new policy has introduced a point-based assessment mechanism besides special safeguards for employees serving in difficult areas. As per the order, the policy has been issued while superseding all previous government orders on the subject and seeks to regulate transfers through prescribed tenure norms, merit-based points and staff rationalisation. Under the new framework, all educational institutions have been divided into five Annual Transfer Drive (ATD) zones. As per the policy, Zone-I covers institutions within municipal limits of district headquarters while Zone-II includes those areas located outside municipal limits and up to 20 kilometres from district headquarters while Zone-III covers institutions beyond 20 and up to 40 kilometres. Also, Zone-IV comprises institutions located beyond 40 kilometres from district headquarters that require a change of residence, while Zone-V has been designated as the difficult-area category. As per the framework, employees posted in Zones I, II and III will ordinarily have a three-year tenure at a particular institution. The tenure will be two years for Zone-IV and one year for Zone-V, it reads. As per the policy, the government has ordered that employees completing the prescribed tenure in Zone-V will ordinarily be relieved from such postings for which the concerned directorates will be required to initiate their further adjustment. Retention beyond the prescribed tenure will be allowed only in exceptional circumstances and reasons will have to be recorded in writing, it reads. Also, the completion of prescribed Zone-V tenure will give employees a preferential claim for consideration against suitable vacancies in Zones-I and II, subject to administrative requirements. The policy also seeks to prevent prolonged postings in difficult areas by making service there a major factor in the new transfer assessment system. Employees serving in Zone-V can earn five points for completing the prescribed tenure, apart from additional points for service beyond the mandatory tenure, with a maximum of 25 points, the policy document reads. For Zone-IV service, employees will get three points for completing the prescribed tenure and additional points for service beyond the mandatory period, with a maximum of 15 points. The department has introduced an online, point-based Transfer Assessment Matrix for the annual transfer exercise, aimed at determining relative priority among employees seeking transfers. Apart from hard-area service, the matrix gives five points to employees aged 55 years or above and five points to female employees who are widows, divorcees or single parents. Persons with benchmark disabilities can receive up to 10 points, while employees with serious illness of themselves, their spouse, child or dependent parent can also receive 10 points, it reads. As per the policy, employees whose spouses are serving in government and posted in the same district will receive five points. The policy additionally provides 10 points for demonstrated exceptional academic performance, including improvement in student learning outcomes, board examination results, school performance and other measurable academic achievements during the preceding three academic years. Employees aged 58 years and above will ordinarily not be posted to Zone-IV or Zone-V, except where compelling administrative considerations exist and the employee requests such posting, it reads. As per the policy, the special consideration will be given to government-employed spouses, employees nearing superannuation, single parents, widows, divorcees, female employees, persons with benchmark disabilities and employees facing exceptional medical or security-related circumstances. Government-employed spouses will, as far as feasible, be posted suitably or within reasonable proximity to each other, subject to availability of posts, it reads. Also, employees due to retire within one year will preferably be posted near their residences, while those aged 58 years and above will ordinarily be kept out of the two hardest zones. The government will also consider inter-cadre transfers on marriage ground on the recommendation of a designated committee, provided the employee has completed at least five years of service in the parent district or divisional cadre. The policy also places restrictions on mutual transfers. Such transfers will ordinarily not be permitted within the so-called soft Zones I, II and III and will primarily be considered where they facilitate rotation from hard zones without adversely affecting pupil-teacher ratios. 'Employees transferred on a mutual basis will be required to serve for a minimum of three years at the allotted place, it reads. The department has also tightened staff rationalisation provisions wherein the surplus employees identified through rationalisation can be redeployed to institutions facing shortages irrespective of their period of stay at the existing place of posting. However, the government has said that rationalisation should not completely deplete teaching staff from an institution or adversely affect teaching of core subjects. Transfers will ordinarily be carried out after conclusion of the academic session and before commencement of the next academic session. The department, however, retains the power to order transfers during the academic session in cases involving academic or administrative exigencies, including subject-specific requirements, staff imbalances, school results, enrolment patterns and institutional performance, it reads. The policy framework also empowers the competent authority to defer, modify or withhold a transfer if its implementation is likely to adversely affect academic outcomes, public examinations or the functioning of an institution. The government has reiterated that the new policy does not apply to Rehbar-e-Taleem (ReT) and Regularised Rehbar-e-Taleem (RReT) employees, whose appointments are school-specific. A separate framework governing their transfers and allied service matters is under formulation and will be notified separately, it reads.
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Foreign Ministers of Pakistan and Syria discuss bilateral ties, regional and global developments
Islamabad, Aug 20: Pakistan on Thursday reaffirmed its support for Syria's sovereignty and territorial integrity, as the foreign ministers of the two countries held wide-ranging talks focused on regional and global developments and efforts to promote security and stability in West Asia. Asaad Hassan al-Shaibani, the first Syrian foreign minister to visit Islamabad in 19 years, met his Pakistani counterpart Ishaq Dar and exchanged views on international developments, including Palestine, the Golan Heights, Afghanistan, and the situation in South Asia and West Asia. The two sides reaffirmed the longstanding brotherly ties between Pakistan and Syria and agreed to further strengthen bilateral cooperation across areas of mutual interest, the Foreign Office said in a statement. The ministers also exchanged views on regional and international developments, including Palestine, the Golan Heights, Afghanistan, the situation in South Asia, and developments in West Asia, it added. His visit comes amidst Israels ongoing incursions into Syria since the fall of the Bashar al-Assad regime in December 2024. Dar, who is also Deputy Prime Minister, eaffirmed Pakistans support for Syrias sovereignty, unity, and territorial integrity, the FO said. The Syrian minister welcomed the signing of the trilateral defence pact by Pakistan, Saudi Arabia and Turkiye and commended Pakistans constructive role in promoting regional peace and stability, including its efforts towards de-escalation in the US-Iran context, it said. Both sides reaffirmed their commitment to continued engagement and cooperation for peace, stability, and prosperity in the region and beyond, the FO said. The two sides also discussed regional and international developments and efforts to promote security and stability in the region, Syria's state-run SANA news agency reported. The Syrian foreign minister also called on Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif, who reaffirmed Pakistan's support for Syrias position on the Golan Heights -- a Syrian-claimed territory occupied by Israel since 1967. Sharif emphasised the need to translate the longstanding Pakistan-Syria friendship into enhanced cooperation across politics, defence, trade, investment, education, and human resource development, his office said in a statement. He said the resumption of direct flights between the two countries would enhance people-to-people exchanges and facilitate a large number of pilgrims who undertake religious visits to Syria from Pakistan. Al-Shaiban thanked Pakistan for its consistent support to Syria and expressed his government's keen interest in revitalising bilateral engagement, including through early institutional mechanisms for cooperation. Sharif also invited President Ahmed al-Sharaa to undertake an official visit to Pakistan at a mutually convenient date. Then Foreign Minister Walid al-Mouallem travelled to Pakistan in May 2007.
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J&K Police chief reviews security arrangements for Kousarnag Yatra
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Union Cabinet approves setting up of J&K High Court bench in Ladakh: Amit Shah
New Delhi, Aug 20: Union Home Minister Amit Shah on Thursday announced that the Union Cabinet has decided to set up a bench of the High Court of Jammu and Kashmir in Ladakh. In a post on X, Shah said the decision was taken under the leadership of Prime Minister Narendra Modi. The Union Cabinet, under the leadership of the PM Shri @narendramodi Ji, has decided to set up a bench of the High Court of Jammu and Kashmir in Ladakh. Shah said the setting up of new bench in Ladakh will enhance access to justice for citizens living in remote areas of Ladakh. This will significantly enhance access to justice for citizens living in remote areas of Ladakh by reducing the time required to avail themselves of the legal services they are entitled to, Shah said. He added that government is fully committed to the all-round development of Ladakh and to ensuring constitutional safeguards. Meanwhile, Lieutenant Governor Ladakh Vinai Kumar Saxena terms the decision as historic and expressed gratitude and heartfelt thanks to Prime Minister Narendra Modi and Home Minister Amit Shah. In a post on X, LG Ladakh said: Sincere gratitude and heartfelt thanks to Honble PM, Shri @narendramodi Ji and Honble HM Shri @AmitShah Ji, for this historic decision! Establishing a High Court bench in Ladakh not only ensures speedy justice but reaffirms the government's unwavering commitment to the all-round development of Ladakh and fulfilling the long-standing collective aspirations of its people.
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Govt strengthens post-matric scholarship support for scheduled caste students
New Delhi, Aug 20: The Government continues to strengthen educational support for Scheduled Caste students through the Centrally Sponsored Scheme of Post-Matric Scholarships for Scheduled Castes. The scheme provides financial assistance to eligible students pursuing post-matriculation and post-secondary education. The Revised Budget Estimate under the scheme stood at Rs 5,400 crore in 202324, Rs 5,500 crore in 202425 and Rs 6,000 crore in 202526. The corresponding actual expenditure was Rs 5,475.42 crore, Rs 5,581.52 crore and Rs 6,208.08 crore, respectively. Central assistance released to States and Union Territories amounted to Rs 5,475.43 crore in 202324, Rs 5,562.26 crore in 202425 and Rs 6,186.95 crore in 202526. The State and Union Territory-wise releases reflect the demand-driven nature of the scheme and the verified scholarship requirements submitted by the respective implementing authorities. Since the introduction of Direct Benefit Transfer in 202122, the Central share of the scholarship amount has been disbursed directly into the Aadhaar-seeded bank accounts of beneficiaries. This mechanism has facilitated a simpler and faster flow of funds while enhancing transparency in scholarship delivery. The scheme is open-ended and demand-driven. The release of the Central share is contingent upon the concerned State Government or Union Territory Administration releasing its share and uploading the finally verified data of eligible beneficiaries on the National Scholarship Portal. States and Union Territories serve as the implementing agencies for the scheme. Issues relating to implementation, including delays in scholarship disbursal, are regularly reviewed and taken up with the concerned stakeholders to facilitate timely processing and release of benefits to eligible students. The Government remains committed to promoting equitable access to higher education and supporting Scheduled Caste students in pursuing their academic aspirations.
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BNP's Mirza Fakhrul Islam Alamgir elected as Bangladesh's new President
Ruling Bangladesh Nationalist Party (BNP) candidate Mirza Fakhrul Islam Alamgir was on Thursday elected as the country's new President in the first contested poll for the post in 35 years. The 78-year-old BNP stalwart defeated his rival Colonel (retd) Oli Ahmed, the Liberal Democratic Party chairman and the nominee of the Jamaat-e-Islami-led 11-party opposition alliance, Chief Election Commissioner and also Election Returning Officer AMM Nasir Uddin said. Alamgir secured 255 votes while Oli Ahmad bagged 88 votes, he said. Of the total 349 registered voters, 343 voted in the election. Six lawmakers didn't vote, he added. The president-elect will take the oath as Bangladesh's new President on Friday evening at the Darbar Hall of Bangabhaban. It is the first contested presidential election in Bangladesh since 1991, as the office had largely been filled through consensus and uncontested polls in recent decades. The presidential election was necessitated after Mohammed Shahabuddin, a
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Saptamrit Loha Ingredients, Preparation, Ayurvedic Properties, Indications & Dosages Reference Bhaishajya Ratnavali, Shoolrogadhikar, Chapter 30 Verse 125-126. A.F.I.- ... Read more The post Saptamrit Loha appeared first on Planet Ayurveda .
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Ashok Bhan welcomes US Ambassadors statement on Jammu and Kashmir
Srinagar, Aug 20: Chairman Kashmir Policy and Strategy Group, Ashok Bhan on Thursday warmly welcomed the statement of the US Ambassador to India, Sergio Gor, during his visit to Srinagar, that Jammu & Kashmir is an important part of India. In a statement issued, Bhan said that such a clear and unambiguous statement and acknowledgement is significant that comes at a time when Indias position on Jammu & Kashmir has consistently been that the region is an integral part of the country. He said the Ambassadors observations on the improving security environment and his appreciation of the efforts of the Government of India and the Jammu & Kashmir administration are equally welcome. His indication that the United States may review its travel advisory for J&K is a positive recognition of the changing ground realities and the growing confidence in peace, stability and normalcy in the region. Bhan said the statement should also encourage a larger international engagement with Jammu & Kashmir based on development, democracy, economic opportunity, tourism and the aspirations of its people, rather than through the prism of conflict and terrorism. The people of Jammu & Kashmir deserve peace, prosperity, dignity and full participation in Indias democratic, economic and constitutional journey, he said. At the same time, this welcome development must strengthen our resolve to address the remaining political and humanitarian challenges within the constitutional framework. Restoration of democratic institutions, reconciliation among communities and the dignified and secure return of those who were forced into exile must remain important components of the larger process of healing and rebuilding Jammu & Kashmir. The future of J&K must be defined by peace, pluralism, constitutional democracy and an empowered people, Bhan said. Bhan emphasized that the return of the exiled Kashmiri Pandit community must be an integral part of the larger process of peace, reconciliation and reconstruction in Jammu & Kashmir. The Government of India and the J&K administration should evolve a time-bound, secure, dignified and community-sensitive return and rehabilitation module, with assured physical security, protection of property and cultural heritage, livelihood and housing support, and mechanisms for restoring legitimate rights and community institutions. The objective should not merely be the rehabilitation of displaced families outside Kashmir, but enabling the safe and honourable return of the exiled natives to their ancestral homeland, at least in three smart cities in three districts headquarters i.e., Srinagar, Baramulla and Anantnag with dignity, equality and a meaningful stake in the social, economic and political life of a peaceful and pluralistic Jammu & Kashmir.
Naeem Akhtar urges govt to make rainwater harvesting part of JJM in hilly areas
Bandipora, 20 Aug: Former Minister and PDP leader Naeem Akhtar has urged the Jammu and Kashmir Government to integrate rainwater harvesting and storage systems with the Jal Jeevan Mission (JJM), particularly in hilly and mountainous habitations facing difficulties due to the absence of dependable perennial water sources. Akhtar said he discussed the proposal with Additional Chief Secretary Shaleen Kabra during a meeting and subsequently followed up the matter with a detailed note, highlighting the need for a more sustainable approach to drinking water supply in the mountainous regions of Jammu and Kashmir. In his note, Akhtar pointed out that a significant number of habitations in the Union Territory are situated in mountainous terrain where reliable and perennial sources of water are either scarce or altogether absent. He said that in several cases, JJM schemes have been planned around seasonal springs and streams which may initially appear adequate but often witness a substantial decline in discharge during lean seasons. According to the former minister, some such water sources have even dried up after schemes were commissioned, making it difficult to maintain assured and sustainable tap-water supply to the concerned habitations. Akhtar said that ironically, many of these mountainous areas receive substantial rainfall and snowfall every year, but a large portion of this water is lost as surface runoff due to the absence of adequate infrastructure for its collection and storage. He proposed that small-scale rainwater harvesting structures and storage reservoirs should be incorporated into JJM schemes in habitations where dependable natural water sources are unavailable. The stored water could subsequently supplement drinking water supplies during periods when existing sources face depletion. He also suggested that, wherever technically feasible, stored water could be conveyed through gravity-based systems, reducing dependence on energy-intensive pumping arrangements. Akhtar specifically referred to several villages in Bandipora district, including Doban, Malangam, Argam, Chittibandi, Aloosa, Ajas and Guroora, where he said he had personally observed the need for such an intervention. He also mentioned Hajibal village in Baramulla district, besides instances in Rajouri and Poonch, where villages receive considerable rainfall but continue to face drinking water shortages because of the absence of dependable perennial sources. To minimise the additional financial burden on the government, Akhtar suggested that rainwater harvesting infrastructure could be developed through convergence with existing government programmes, including the Vibrant Villages Programme (VVP), MGNREGA and schemes of the Rural Development, Irrigation and Flood Control and Agriculture Departments. He said such convergence could help create durable community assets while making better use of existing resources. He further suggested that ST Sub-Plan funds could be utilised for such interventions in mountainous areas inhabited predominantly by Scheduled Tribe populations. Akhtar has requested the government to consider issuing appropriate policy directions and technical guidelines for incorporating rainwater harvesting components into JJM schemes in identified vulnerable habitations. He said such an initiative could significantly improve the sustainability and reliability of rural drinking water supply in the mountainous areas of Jammu and Kashmir. The proposal seeks to address a key challenge faced by remote hill habitationswhere water is available in abundance during the wet season but is not adequately captured and stored for use during periods of water-source depletion. Akhtar has urged the concerned authorities to examine the proposal and explore its integration into the planning and implementation of JJM schemes in vulnerable areas across Jammu and Kashmir. (KNS)
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ACB nabs SMC building inspector for accepting Rs 10,000 bribe
Srinagar, Aug 20: The Jammu and Kashmir Anti-Corruption Bureau (JKACB) on Thursday said it had trapped and arrested a Junior Building Inspector of the Srinagar Municipal Corporation (SMC) for allegedly demanding and accepting a Rs 10,000 bribe from a complainant. Official said that Anti Corruption Bureau received a written complaint alleging that Gazala Akhter, Jr. Building Inspector, SMC, Ward No. 28, Srinagar, had demanded illegal gratification from the complainant in connection with the construction of two structures, despite the complainant having already obtained the requisite building permission from the competent authority. It was further alleged that the accused public servant was deliberately adopting delaying tactics by obstructing ongoing construction and causing harassment to the complainant with the intention of preventing him from completing the construction within the stipulated period, thereby putting the complainant under pressure to pay the demanded amount. Upon receipt of the complaint, a discreet verification was conducted, which prima facie substantiated the allegations. Accordingly, FIR No. 11/2026 under Section 7 of the Prevention of Corruption Act, 1988 was registered at Police Station ACB Srinagar, and investigation was taken up. During the course of investigation, a trap team was constituted. The team laid a successful trap and apprehended the accused public servant, Gazala Akhter, Jr. Building Inspector, SMC Srinagar, red-handed while demanding and accepting a bribe of Rs 10,000/- from the complainant. The bribe amount was recovered from her possession in the presence of independent witnesses, and she was taken into custody. Further investigation in the case is in progress, officials added.
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Rs 31-crore modern abattoir to come up in Srinagar: Omar Abdullah
Srinagar, Aug 20: Jammu and Kashmir Chief Minister Omar Abdullah on Thursday said a 31-crore modern abattoir project in Srinagar had been revived and would introduce systematic testing and certification of meat sold in the city. Omar said the project, originally conceived in 2011-12, had remained stalled for several reasons before being revived by Srinagar Municipal Corporation Commissioner Fazl-ul-Haseeb and other officials. Almost 31 crore will be spent on it, Omar said, adding that the facility would test sheep brought for slaughter to ensure they were free of disease. The meat leaving the facility would also be halal-certified, he said. Although the project is to be completed in two years, Haseeb has assured me that they will complete it within a year and a half, Omar said. The Chief Minister said the project was particularly important given complaints about the quality of meat sold in Srinagar over the past two years. There were major complaints regarding meat, and in many places poor-quality meat was also found being sold to people, he said. He recalled that consumers had earlier been able to identify inspected meat through an official stamp. There was a time when meat sold in Srinagar and surrounding areas carried a stamp. You knew that the meat was genuine and safe, Omar said. We want to restart it, so that wherever meat is sold in Srinagar, it carries an official stamp and people know that it is of good quality and that eating it will not harm their health, he added. Film festival not about bringing Bollywood stars On the upcoming film festival in Jammu and Kashmir, Omar played down expectations of participation by Hollywood stars and said the event was primarily intended to expose local audiences and aspiring filmmakers to different forms of cinema. Don't expect Hollywood. I wish we had reached a stage where people from Hollywood came, but that will take time, he said, adding that the participation of some Bollywood personalities would be welcome. However, Omar stressed that attracting Bollywood celebrities was not the festival's objective. The purpose is not to bring Bollywood people here. Our effort is to give people here exposure to different kinds of films, he said. It is not my purpose, nor is it the purpose of this film festival, that we should remain under the misconception that if Shah Rukh Khan, Aamir Khan or Salman Khan comes here, then our film festival will become successful, he added. The festival would instead focus on screening films that local audiences would not normally get to watch, besides conducting workshops in editing, directing, cinematography and music. Omar said the aim was also to develop local technical expertise so that filmmakers shooting in Kashmir would not have to depend entirely on technicians from outside. Our people should be able to do that work, and employment will also increase here as a result. That is the effort, he said. Omar declines comment on US-Pakistan diplomatic row Asked about the meeting between him and US Ambassador Sergio Gor and the subsequent summoning of Pakistan's diplomatic representative, Omar said the matter concerned Washington and Islamabad. They were not summoned; the Charg dAffaires was. This is a matter between Pakistan and America. Neither you nor I can do anything about it, he said. On Congress saying that Jammu and Kashmir is an important part of India and questioning why such a statement should come from the US, Omar declined to engage in a political exchange. I am not getting into this now. Congress has a point of view. They are a political party; they are the largest Opposition party; they are entitled to their point of view, he said. I am not going to get into a war of words over this. What can I say about it? he added. AIIMS work progressing, law university file nearly ready On the proposed AIIMS facility, Omar said construction was progressing rapidly and that one block was expected to become operational this year. We have been assured that when I had earlier gone there to review the construction, one block would become operational this year, where OPD and some other treatments would begin, he said. We hope they will stick to that commitment, he added. On the proposed law university, Omar said discussions were still underway over its location but indicated that the government was close to completing the necessary paperwork. Discussions are underway about where the law university will be established, but I think the file is almost ready, he said. We will have to give further approval, but it will happen. Omar also said one or two private universities could soon begin setting up operations in Jammu and Kashmir. I have heard that one or two private universities are ready to come here, he said, adding that the government could soon announce their arrival and witness the laying of their foundation stones. He said the private universities had been waiting for the government to complete the regulatory process. The Act was passed during the Budget Session. After that, we were preparing the rules. The rules have been completed and released. Now private universities will start coming in, Omar said.
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AIIMS block to open this year, law university file nearly ready: Omar Abdullah
Foreign dignitaries J&K visits are curated after 2019: Mehbooba Mufti
Srinagar, Aug 20: Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) president Mehbooba Mufti on Thursday criticised the manner in which foreign dignitaries visit Jammu and Kashmir, saying their tours have become curated since 2019 and do not provide them an opportunity to hear different sections of society. Her remarks came a day after US Ambassador to India Sergio Gor visited Srinagar, met Chief Minister Omar Abdullah and described Jammu and Kashmir as an important part of India. Gor also indicated that the US would review its travel advisory for J&K and consider greater economic engagement with the region. This is not the first time that an ambassador, particularly from the United States, has come to Jammu and Kashmir, Mufti said. The difference is that before 2019, whenever ambassadors came here, they would meet people from every section of society. She said representatives from tourism, trade, travel and other sections of society were previously consulted by foreign dignitaries before they returned. But after 2019, the tours of these foreign dignitaries are curated. They come, meet the Chief Minister, meet the Governor, go for a shikara ride and leave, she said. Mufti agreed with Abdullahs position that the problems of Jammu and Kashmir cannot be resolved by Washington. I agree with Omar Sahib that the issues of Jammu and Kashmir cannot be resolved by America. New Delhi will have to resolve them, she said. However, she criticised the Chief Minister for not using the ambassadors visit to raise concerns of the people of J&K. I expected Omar Sahib at least to tell the ambassador from America about the concerns of the people of Jammu and Kashmir, she said, referring particularly to US military action in Iran and its impact on Muslim countries. Mufti also said Abdullah should have raised issues within Jammu and Kashmir that, in her view, require the intervention of New Delhi. She referred to alleged harassment during security operations in Pulwama and said, We have thousands of our people in jails. Every day people are removed from jobs. Raids are conducted every day. Properties are attached and there is a kind of suffocation in Jammu and Kashmir. These are issues that Omar Sahib can talk about. There is no need to talk to Washington about these, she said. Mufti also invoked the tenure of her father, former Chief Minister Mufti Mohammad Sayeed, saying his government had pursued dialogue and reconciliation with different stakeholders. When Mufti Sahib persuaded the Vajpayee government, a process of reconciliation was started. There was dialogue here. There was dialogue with every section. There was also dialogue with Pakistan. Routes were opened, she said. She urged Abdullah to similarly persuade New Delhi to address issues facing the people of Jammu and Kashmir. On Gors indication that the US would review its travel advisory for J&K and increase economic engagement, Mufti said the move could benefit the region if it focused on employment-generating sectors. I hope they will review it. And he said that we will engage more economically with Jammu and Kashmir, she said. If they engage here in horticulture and handicrafts, which can create jobs and benefit us economically, I think that needs to be looked at, she added. Gors description of J&K as an important part of India also drew a sharp response from Mufti. I don't think we need to take America so seriously, she said. Wherever America has intervened in the world, it has brought destruction, from Vietnam to Iran, she said, adding that the US was not in a position to certify Indias position on Jammu and Kashmir. They are not our masters that they have to give us a certificate before anything can be said, Mufti said.
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US cannot resolve J&K issues, but Omar should have raised peoples concerns: Mehbooba
Adhaar App achieves milestone, crosses 5 crore downloads
Srinagar, Aug 20: The Aadhaar App has crossed the significant milestone of 50 million (5 crore) downloads, reflecting the growing adoption of convenient and digital-first Aadhaar services among residents. The milestone marks a significant expansion of the Aadhaar App's role as a digital interface between residents and UIDAI, enabling Aadhaar number holders to access a growing range of services from their smartphones, including mobile number update, address update, email update, biometric lock/unlock and e-Aadhaar download. The App has seen strong and sustained usage since its launch. While more than 60 lakh people updated their mobile number using the Aadhaar app, over 15 lakh address updates and more than 23 lakh email updates were done using the Aadhaar app. The growing adoption of these services reflects the increasing preference among residents for availing Aadhaar-related services digitally, without the need to visit an Aadhaar centre. The Aadhaar App is designed around the principle of Show, Share and Verify, giving Aadhaar number holders greater control over how their Aadhaar information is used while enabling convenient identity verification. Alongside the growth of the Aadhaar App, UIDAI continues to expand the ecosystem for secure and convenient offline verification. UIDAI has now onboarded more than 200 entities as Offline Verification Seeking Entities (OVSEs), since its roll out in January. This milestone marks a major advancement in enabling secure, consent-based, and paperless verification through Aadhaar offline mechanism -- empowering both service providers and people, alike. The onboarding of these OVSE partners reflects growing confidence in Aadhaar-enabled, privacy-first digital verification frameworks that prioritise user control while ensuring ease of access. By leveraging Aadhaar Offline Verification methods such as QR code-based verification and secure digitally signed documents, these entities will now be able to verify identity information without requiring real-time connectivity to UIDAIs central database. This approach brings a strong resident-centric focus, ensuring that Aadhaar number holders can share only the minimum necessary data, thereby enhancing privacy. This simplified verification journey builds trust through transparent and consent-driven interactions. The initiatives are aligned with the Government's Digital India vision and the broader objective of improving ease of living through secure, accessible and technology-enabled public services.
'My best shot': Nasa astronaut shares image of 2025 Maha Kumbh taken from space
Search operation in J-K's Kathua after suspicious movement
Jammu, Aug 20: Security forces launched a search operation in the bordering areas of Jammu and Kashmir's Kathua district on Thursday following reports of suspicious movement, officials said. The operation was launched in forest areas near the Udhampur-Kathua border in Billawar forests. According to locals, unidentified persons allegedly knocked on the door of a house in a village in the Billawar belt late Wednesday night. The family did not open the door but found next day that food the kept in their house had gone missing, leading to suspicion that someone had entered the premises. Kathua Superintendent of Police, Operations, Pritpal Singh said such routine operations are carried out to maintain vigil in the border areas. To maintain alertness, these routine operations are carried out. Regarding the suspicious activity reported, yes, this is a bordering area, so keeping that in mind, we are carrying out this operation, Singh said.
Blood in Urine With Abdominal Pain? Urologist Explains What It Could Mean
Abdominal pain and blood in urine often point to the same underlying issue. Read on to know as an Urologist explains how they're connected, what causes them, and when to seek care.
Chennai, Aug 20: Union Home Minister Amit Shah on Thursday launched a scathing attack against the Congress party saying the party's decision to sing only two stanzas of 'Vande Mataram' was not only anti-national but also an open defiance of law and appeasement eyeing vote bank. Referring to the Congress Working Committee's decision to follow only two paras of the national song, instead of its full rendition, Shah traced the history of partition and underlined the consequences suffered by the nation following the truncation of Vande Mataram. In a statement posted on 'X,' the Union Home Minister alleged: In 1937, for the sake of appeasement, it was the Congress itself that fragmented Vande Mataram into two parts. From there, the two-nation theory gained strength, leading to the partition of the country. On the 150th anniversary of Vande Mataram, the Modi government corrected this historic mistake and gave the full song legal form. But under Rahul Gandhis leadership, the Congress is once again treading the path of appeasement for the sake of its vote bank, Shah charged. The mistake of fragmenting Vande Mataram has happened once, and the nation has already suffered its consequences, he alleged. This is an appeal to the countrymen to unite and raise their voices against this appeasement by the Congress, he added. The CWC on Wednesday decided to abide by the 1937 resolution of its highest decision-making body on Vande Mataram, saying only two stanzas of the national song would be sung at all party events henceforth. BJP president Nitin Nabin has slammed the Congress alleging the opposition party has become the ew Muslim League for votes.
CISF detects Rs 68.53 lakh unaccounted cash at Delhi Airport
Delhi, Aug 20: In a significant detection at Indira Gandhi International Airport, Delhi, CISF personnel deployed at Random X-BIS, ASG Delhi, detected cash amounting to 68,53,500 from two passengers based on behavioural observation and subsequent CCTV analysis. Acting on suspicion, CISF personnel identified a passenger for detailed screening. During CCTV review, another passenger accompanying him was also identified. Both passengers were travelling to Guwahati and onward to Agartala. During detailed screening of their baggage, a total of 68.53 lakh in cash was detected from both passengers. The passengers, along with the detected cash, baggage and relevant travel documents, were handed over to the Income Tax officials for further necessary action. The detection once again highlights the vigilance, behavioural observation skills and alertness of CISF personnel in maintaining security at the nations busiest airport.
Hypomania or Highly Productive? Expert Shares Warning Signs and Tips To Deal With It
Confusing hypomania with being highly productive is common. Uncover expert warning signs and learn practical tips to deal with it in our latest article.
Tariq Karra questions US envoys J&K remark, says it has always been integral to India
Shah Faesals central deputation extended by two years till September 2028
New Delhi, Aug 20: The Centre has extended the central deputation tenure of IAS officer Shah Faesal, currently serving as Deputy Secretary in the Ministry of Culture, by another two years, according to an order issued by the Department of Personnel and Training (DoPT). The extension has been approved by the Appointments Committee of the Cabinet and will remain effective beyond September 18, 2026, up to September 18, 2028, or until further orders, whichever is earlier. Faesal, a 2010-batch IAS officer of the AGMUT cadre, has been on central deputation since September 19, 2022. He was posted as Deputy Secretary in the Ministry of Culture under the Central Staffing Scheme. The DoPT memorandum, dated August 19, 2026, said the extension was approved on the proposal of the Ministry of Culture. Faesal had joined the Indian Administrative Service in 2010 and served in Jammu and Kashmir before moving to the Centre on deputation.
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Milk Gives You Acidity or Bloating? A Gastroenterologist Explains Why It Happens
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J&K has always been integral to India: Tariq Karra on US envoys remarks
Srinagar, Aug 20 : Jammu and Kashmir Pradesh Congress Committee president Tariq Karra on Thursday rejected US Ambassador Sergio Gors remarks describing Jammu and Kashmir as an important part of India, saying the region has always been an integral part of the country and does not need to be told about its strategic importance. Reacting to Gors remarks, Karra said, I don't know why should he have said this. I mean Jammu and Kashmir has been integral part of India, is integral and it will remain integral. He said the significance being attached to Jammu and Kashmir by the US envoy reflected what he described as the failure of the present dispensation. What importance he is trying to give to Jammu and Kashmir, I think that is the failure of the present dispensation, Karra said. The Congress leader also criticised what he described as increasing third-party intervention in Indias affairs, saying the country had traditionally opposed such involvement after the 1971 war and the Shimla Agreement. India has never, especially after 1971, this Shimla Agreement, after that none of the countries have to have third-party intervention, he said. But it is only during this regime, BJP's regime, that we are seeing third-party interventions. Many decisions are being forced upon us, Karra added. He alleged that issues without international ramifications were also being subjected to external intervention. Many such things which have no international ramifications, like taxation and other things, are being imposed upon us. Today India, under such intervention, seems to be going back to the colonial style of functioning, he said. Karra said Jammu and Kashmir was strategically important because of its geographical location and its proximity to several countries. As far as the Congress party is concerned, for us, of course, Jammu and Kashmir is an important state in India because of the strategic position, geographical strategic position, he said. So we don't need to know this thing as if it is for the first time that we have been told that we are important. Yes, strategically we have always been important, he added. Referring to the regions geopolitical location, Karra said, We have many countries around us and a couple of them very hostile. He also cautioned against attempts to use Jammu and Kashmir as a pretext for pursuing broader foreign-policy objectives. If anyone has this thing in mind that they would fix their guns on our shoulders under different pretexts, that is not acceptable to us as far as our foreign policy is concerned, Karra said. Asked about Pakistan lodging an official complaint over Gors remarks, Karra said he did not have the mandate to comment on the matter as state Congress president. Well, that is their internal matter. As Congress president of a state, I don't have mandate for speaking on that, he said. However, he reiterated the Congress position on Jammu and Kashmir.I can say that Congress stand is stated that Jammu and Kashmir is an important place, yes, strategically, and it has remained integral part of India. It is integral part of India and it shall remain to be integral part of India, Karra said.
Scientists found the worlds fastest star moving at 15,500 miles per second
Budha Amarnath Yatra: Security stepped up along Jammu-Rajouri-Poonch highway
Rajouri, Aug 20: Security has been stepped up along the Jammu-Rajouri-Poonch highway in view of the Budha Amarnath Yatra, officials said on Thursday. With convoys of pilgrims travelling along the highway, Jammu and Kashmir Police, Central Armed Police Forces and the Army have intensified security and area domination measures, they added. Dozens of temporary checkpoints have been established along the highway for better regulation of traffic and enhanced surveillance, while Army units are also providing security cover to the vital road, they said. Road Opening Parties (ROPs) are conducting inspections of vulnerable stretches to detect any possible threat or suspicious activity before the movement of convoys, they said. The yatra, which was flagged off by Lieutenant Governor Manoj Sinha on August 17, will continue till August 28.
Lupin arm to commercialise YUVEZZI eye drop across key European markets
Lupin's VISUfarma BV has secured exclusive rights for YUVEZZI in key European markets. This ophthalmic product treats loss of clear close-up vision in adults. VISUfarma will undertake regulatory activities and commercialization of the eye drop. The agreement includes a strategic investment and potential milestone payments. YUVEZZI represents a significant advancement in eye care for presbyopia.
Coffee drinkers have less fat, more muscle: study
Srinagar, Aug 20: Regular coffee consumption was associated with lower body fat, greater muscle mass and differences in sex hormone levels in a Finnish study, suggesting that coffee may have effects on metabolism beyond its well-known ability to increase alertness. Researchers at the University of Oulu examined data from 2,264 people aged 46 who were part of the Northern Finland Birth Cohort 1966. They looked at participants usual coffee intake and compared it with measures of body composition, metabolic health, circulating metabolites and sex hormones. People who reported drinking more coffee generally had less total body fat and visceral fat, while also having greater skeletal muscle mass. Notably, these differences were observed even though participants with different levels of coffee consumption had similar body mass indexes. Higher coffee intake was also linked to lower concentrations of branched-chain amino acids in both men and women. Persistently elevated levels of these amino acids have previously been associated with insulin resistance and an increased risk of type 2 diabetes. The researchers also found differences in hormone profiles, particularly among men. Greater coffee consumption was associated with a more favorable glucose-insulin profile, higher total and bioavailable testosterone and higher levels of sex hormone-binding globulin (SHBG). At the same time, free testosterone and the free androgen index were lower. Among women, the hormonal associations were less extensive. Higher coffee intake was mainly linked to increased SHBG and lower measures of free androgens. Coffee is consumed by millions of people every day, yet we still know surprisingly little about how it relates to our metabolism and hormones, said Luca Verroest, lead author of the study and a doctoral researcher at the University of Oulu. What stood out in our findings was a distinct hormonal signature that didn't disappear even after we took into account BMI and lifestyle factors, with several of these associations differing between men and women, he added. The researchers said the hormonal changes could provide clues to previously observed links between coffee consumption and a lower risk of metabolic diseases, including type 2 diabetes. However, the study was observational and therefore cannot show that coffee itself caused the differences. The findings are particularly notable in Finland, one of the worlds highest coffee-consuming countries, where average annual consumption is about 11.8 kilograms per person. The study, titled Associations of habitual coffee intake with testosterone and cardiometabolic markers: the Northern Finland Birth Cohort 1966 study, was published in the European Journal of Nutrition. The researchers said further studies, including experimental and human intervention research, are needed to determine whether coffee directly causes the observed changes and which compounds may be responsible.
Pakistan summons US Charg dAffaires over Gor's remarks regarding Jammu and Kashmir
Islamabad, Aug 19: Pakistan on Wednesday summoned US Charg dAffaires Natalie Baker and lodged a strong demarche over remarks by US Ambassador to India Sergio Gor regarding Jammu and Kashmir during his visit to the union territory. In Srinagar, Gor told reporters on Wednesday that Jammu and Kashmir is an important part of India and an incredibly beautiful place. Gor, who took a 'shikara' ride at the famous Dal Lake in Srinagar, also said that the US will reconsider the advisories on travel to Jammu and Kashmir as the central government and Chief Minister Omar Abdullah have taken steps to make it a safer place. Hours after his remarks, Pakistan's Foreign Office summoned the US Charg dAffaires in Islamabad and lodged a strong demarche over the comments made by Gor, who is also the Trump administration's Special Envoy to South and Central Asia. Pakistan strongly condemned and categorically rejected the characterisation of Jammu and Kashmir as a 'part of India', the Foreign Office said in a statement. It was underscored that Jammu and Kashmir is an internationally recognised disputed territory, awaiting final disposition in accordance with the relevant UNSC resolutions and the aspirations of the Kashmiri people, the statement added. It was further highlighted that the irresponsible statement by the US ambassador negated the long-standing and well-documented position of the United States on the Jammu and Kashmir dispute, and also ran contrary to the US commitment to the supremacy of international law and the UN Charter, it said. While appreciating President Donald Trump's offer to mediate between India and Pakistan to resolve the Kashmir issue in the aftermath of the four-day conflict in May last year, the US side was urged to ensure that its public statements remain consistent with the disputed status of Jammu and Kashmir, the statement added.
US ambassador Sergio Gor lands in Leh after weather delays flight from Srinagar
Srinagar, Aug 20: US Ambassador to India Sergio Gor landed in Leh on Thursday after adverse weather conditions delayed his onward flight from Srinagar, officials and sources said. Gor arrived in Leh on a flight directly from Srinagar after remaining at Srinagar Airport for some time as weather conditions delayed the scheduled flight. Upon his arrival in Leh, the US envoy was escorted by a large security convoy as he proceeded from the airport. Gor is on his first visit to Jammu and Kashmir and Ladakh as part of his ongoing engagements in the region. His visit to Leh is part of his scheduled programme, sources said. The ambassador had earlier remained at Srinagar Airport as adverse weather conditions affected flight operations and delayed his onward journey to Leh. Gors visit to Jammu and Kashmir comes amid continued diplomatic engagement between India and the United States. During his stay in Srinagar, he met Jammu and Kashmir Chief Minister Omar Abdullah and held discussions on a range of issues. The US envoy had described his meeting with Omar as very good and said follow-up discussions would be held in New Delhi and Washington. Gor had also said Washington was hopeful of strengthening its engagement with Jammu and Kashmir, while describing the Union Territory as an important part of India and praising its natural beauty. His arrival in Leh marks the next leg of his visit to the region.
Short Videos May Temporarily Switch Down the Brains Self-Control Network, Study Finds
Short videos are the most-watched content type these days. Despite shorter duration, they garner higher viewership and attention. However, we tend to overlook the fact that we keep scrolling them, which can have a negative impact on our brains.
Body recovered from Nowshera river
Rajouri, Aug 20: An unidentified body was recovered from a river in the Nowshera area of Rajouri district on Thursday, officials said. An official said that locals engaged in contract-related work spotted the body floating in the river and informed the police. He said a police team along with personnel from the SDRF reached the spot and recovered the body from the river. The body has been taken into custody, while the identity of the deceased has not been ascertained, he said, adding that the body is in a decomposed condition, making identification difficult. Meanwhile, an investigation has been taken up and a probe has begun.(KNO)
Moderna, Merck breakthrough could usher in wave of cancer vaccines
Merck and Moderna's personalized cancer vaccine shows promise for melanoma patients. This new treatment trains the immune system to target specific tumor mutations. The vaccine, combined with Keytruda, significantly reduced cancer recurrence in trials. Doctors are hopeful this approach will expand to treat many other cancer types. Further trials are underway for lung, bladder, kidney, pancreatic, and stomach cancers.
Russian missile barrage kills at least 6 in Kyiv, injures 33
Kyiv, Aug 20: A Russian missile barrage overnight Thursday killed at least six people in Kyiv as explosions echoed across the capital throughout the night, local authorities said. At least 33 people were wounded in the attack, according to Ukraine's Emergency Service. The air raid alert remained active into the early morning hours Thursday. The strikes hit 12 locations across Kyiv's Darnytskyi, Sviatoshynskyi and Solomianskyi districts, damaging residential buildings, a medical facility and an educational institution. Emergency crews pulled people trapped under the rubble. Russia has intensified ballistic missile attacks on the capital to constrain Kyiv's air defence stocks. Kyiv has limited systems capable of intercepting ballistic threats, while supplies of missiles for its US-made Patriot air defence systems remain chronically constrained. US President Donald Trump had authorised Ukraine to obtain licenses to produce Patriot air-defence systems, but later reversed that decision. Ukraine, meanwhile, has intensified its own campaign of long-range strikes against weapons depots, military facilities and other strategic targets deep inside Russian territory, seeking to degrade Moscow's ability to sustain its attacks on Ukrainian cities. In Solomianskyi district, the top two floors of a nine-story residential building were destroyed and fires broke out on other floors. People were also trapped in two residential buildings and a school shelter.
A new food pop-up in Mumbai immerses in the Sundarbans
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DGP reviews operational readiness of forces deployed in Pir Panjal range
Srinagar, Aug 19: Director General of Police (DGP) Nalin Prabhat on Wednesday conducted an operational review of Temporary Operating Bases (TOBs) established in the Todasmaidan area on the northern face of the Pir Panjal range, taking stock of the security arrangements and operational preparedness of forces deployed in the strategically important terrain. The DGP was accompanied by Inspector General of Police, Kashmir Zone, V.K. Birdi; senior police officer Rajiv Pandey; Hariprasad K.K., Senior Superintendent of Police, Budgam; and other officers and personnel of the district police. During the visit, the DGP reviewed the functioning of the TOBs and assessed the operational preparedness of the security personnel deployed in the difficult and mountainous terrain. The review focused on the deployment pattern, surveillance arrangements, mobility, logistics and the overall capability of the forces to respond swiftly to emerging security challenges. Todasmaidan, located along the northern slopes of the Pir Panjal range, is strategically significant because of its difficult terrain and its connectivity with areas lying along the mountain belt. The establishment of temporary operating bases in such areas enables security forces to maintain a sustained presence and improve their ability to dominate vulnerable stretches and respond to threats. The DGP interacted with officers and personnel deployed at the operating bases and took feedback on their operational requirements, logistical support and challenges arising from the terrain and weather conditions. He also emphasised the need for close coordination among different security agencies and maintaining a high level of alertness, particularly in remote and strategically sensitive areas. The visit formed part of the ongoing operational assessment by the police leadership of security arrangements and deployments across Kashmir. Senior officers have been undertaking field reviews to assess preparedness, strengthen coordination and ensure that forces remain capable of responding effectively to any emerging threat. The DGPs visit to the Pir Panjal area also underscored the importance being accorded to maintaining a robust security grid beyond the major urban and populated areas, particularly in remote mountainous zones that require sustained surveillance and operational presence. The officers accompanying the DGP briefed him on the prevailing security situation and the measures being undertaken to further strengthen the operational effectiveness of the TOBs and security formations deployed in the area.
Invasive pest threatens Kashmirs poplar, willow plantations
Pulwama, Aug 19:An invasive pest identified as Drosicha turkistanica has emerged as a growing threat to poplar and willow plantations in parts of south Kashmir, leaving farmers worried over the possible impact on trees that form an important source of livelihood for many families. Farmers in the Hanjipora area of Pulwama district said they first noticed unusual snow-white, cotton-like masses covering poplar and willow trees nearly two years ago. What initially appeared to be a fungal infection gradually spread to more trees, with some affected plants showing signs of weakening and drying. Concerned farmers initially treated the infestation as a fungal disease and sprayed fungicides, but the measures failed to bring any visible relief. We have seen such a thing for the first time. Initially, we thought it was some fungal disease, so we sprayed fungicides, but nothing changed, said Bilal Ahmad, a farmer from the area. Since then, similar infestations have reportedly been noticed in several areas of south Kashmir, including parts of Kulgam and Anantnag, raising concerns among growers who depend on poplar and willow cultivation. We rely on poplar and willow cultivation. If the trees start dying, our income will be badly affected. Many families here depend on these trees directly or indirectly, Ahmad said. Another farmer, Ashiq Hussain, said the rapid spread of the infestation had added to their concerns. At first, we saw it on only a few trees. Within a short time, the white mass appeared on trees in neighbouring areas. We do not know how to control it, he said. Farmers said they were particularly concerned about younger trees, which they fear could be more vulnerable to prolonged infestation. If this continues for another few years, we could lose a large number of trees. Poplar and willow are not just trees for us; they are a source of livelihood, said Mashkoor Sajad, another farmer from Pulwama. Experts said similar cases have been reported from other parts of south Kashmir and described the pest as an invasive species that was first reported from the Arwani area of Kulgam. Professor Bashir Ahmad Rather, a scientist at the Mountain Research Centre for Field Crops (MRCFC), Khudwani, said the pest was new to Kashmir and was initially suspected to have characteristics similar to other invasive pests. Rather told Greater Kashmir that samples were sent to the National Bureau of Agricultural Insect Resources (NBAIR), Bengaluru, for identification. Samples were sent to the National Bureau of Agricultural Insect Resources (NBAIR), Bengaluru, where the pest was identified as *Drosicha turkistanica* (Hemiptera: Monophlebidae), he said. According to Rather, the pest is a sap-sucking insect that feeds on trees and can progressively weaken them. In cases of severe infestation, prolonged feeding could potentially result in the death of affected trees. The pest has tremendous reproductive potential, which makes it particularly concerning, Rather said. He said the pest may have entered Kashmir through imported planting material, underscoring the need for greater caution in the movement of nursery and planting material. The pest has been brought into the Valley through imported planting material, he said, advising farmers to seek expert advice before applying pesticides. Experts have also cautioned against indiscriminate pesticide use, particularly when the nature of the infestation has not been established, as inappropriate chemical treatment may prove ineffective while creating additional risks for the surrounding environment. For farmers, however, the emergence of the pest has already become a source of anxiety, particularly because poplar and willow require years to mature and cannot be quickly replaced if plantations are lost. We have seen many problems affecting crops, but this is different. If our trees are lost, replacing them will take years, Ahmad said. Farmers are now seeking intervention from the agriculture and horticulture authorities for field-level assessment, technical guidance and an effective management strategy to prevent the pest from spreading further across Kashmirs poplar and willow plantations.
LG Sinha chairs 37th Executive Council Meeting of Shri Mata Vaishno Devi University
Lieutenant Governor Manoj Sinha on Wednesday chaired the 37th meeting of the Executive Council of Shri Mata Vaishno Devi University, at SMVDU, Kakryal, Katra. The meeting, as per an official statement, was attended by Prof. Pragati Kumar, Vice Chancellor, SMVDU; Prof. Umesh Rai, Vice Chancellor, University of Jammu; Prof. Nilofer Khan, Vice Chancellor, University of Kashmir; Prof. Pankaj Chandra, Vice Chancellor and Chairman, Board of Management, Ahmedabad University; Prof. A.S.K. Sinha, Former Director, Rajiv Gandhi Institute of Petroleum Technology, Amethi; Prof. Manoj Singh Gaur, Director, IIT Jammu; Dr Mandeep K. Bhandari, Principal Secretary to Lieutenant Governor; Shri Sachin Kumar Vaishya, CEO, SMVDSB; Shri Ajay Kumar Sharma, Registrar, SMVDU and other members of the Executive Council. The Council accorded in-principle approval for a 200-bed boys' hostel, to be funded by SMVDSB, along with preparation of a detailed project report. It also granted in-principle approval for two new academic programmes B.A. LL.B. (Hons.) and B.Tech in Food Technology and suggested exploring the possibility of offering LL.B. in conjunction with the science and commerce streams. The budget proposals for FY 202627 and the final audit report for FY 202425 were adopted, along with a proposal for enhanced financial assistance to students attending national and international conferences, workshops, and events. The Council further approved the completion and development of the sports complex at the SMVDU campus, in collaboration with SMVDSB, to provide sports facilities for students and employees, and decided to finalise a five-year roadmap for the University, based on a viable operating model, in consultation with the Academic Council and Finance Committee. The Executive Council also adopted the University's proposed Kulgeet (institutional anthem). The Council reviewed the University's academic, administrative, and financial progress and also approved several initiatives for the forthcoming academic sessions. It also ratified the nomination of external members to the Executive Council and to the Academic Council of SMVDU, and reviewed the status of ongoing and completed major construction projects, calling for their timely completion. Appreciating the University's initiatives on wellness, sports, and youth engagement, the Lieutenant Governor directed the administration to conduct counselling, mental health, and value-based awareness programmes for students, and to subscribe to online counselling platforms for student support. The Lieutenant Governor, who is also the Chancellor of the University, suggested academic relaxation for NSS and NCC students selected to represent the University at events of national importance, along with additional credits in recognition of their achievements. He further recommended introducing industry-linked vocational courses, delivered through internal faculty and external experts, and open to all students regardless of minimum eligibility criteria. Prof. Pragati Kumar, Vice Chancellor, SMVDU briefed the Executive Council on key developments relating to admissions, recruitment, faculty career advancement, ongoing construction projects, and new academic programmes proposed for the upcoming academic year.
SMVDU a beacon of knowledge, innovation, values: LG Manoj Sinha
The Lieutenant Governor, Manoj Sinha, on Wednesday attended the 23rd Foundation Day celebrations of Shri Mata Vaishno Devi University (SMVDU). He felicitated the achievers and delivered a keynote address that outlined a vision for the Universitys future and its role in nation-building. Extending warm greetings to the University family, the Lieutenant Governor, as per an official statement, described the day as a celebration of foresight, resolve, and sustained efforts that has transformed SMVDU into a centre of knowledge, innovation, and social responsibility. He emphasised that the University, blessed by Mata Vaishno Devi, carries in its name the tradition of devotion, strength, and faith, inspiring millions across India and the world. The Lieutenant Governor said that a university is not built by its buildings but by ideas, dreams, and possibilities. He highlighted the role of visionary leadership, dedicated faculty, and curious students in shaping institutions that nurture not only knowledge but also humility, sensitivity, and responsibility towards society. Reflecting on SMVDUs journey, the Lieutenant Governor lauded its achievements in education and research. He noted that faculty members have secured around 140 research projects, including international collaborations, and established a state-of-the-art AI and Deep Learning Lab. The University has received 14 patents, incubated 30 start-ups, and launched innovative programmes such as peer-learning. He urged the institution to strengthen industryacademia relations by organising open-house meetings to commercialise patents and innovations. The Lieutenant Governor stressed that the true measure of a universitys success lies in its students and alumni, who carry forward its reputation through their contributions to society and the nation. He encouraged SMVDU to leverage government initiatives such as the Rs. One lakh crore research fund announced by the Hon'ble Prime Minister, Shri Narendra Modi on 15th August 2026 and the PM Research Chairs scheme launched earlier this year, to ensure maximum participation in national innovation efforts. In the contemporary world, research and innovation becomes meaningful when it finds solutions to real problems, improves the quality of life in society and brings positive change to the lives of ordinary citizens through its contributions across different fields. On 15 August, Prime Minister, Narendra Modi, made a historic announcement from the ramparts of the Red Fort and allocated Rs.1 lakh crore. He called upon the youth of the country to focus on research and innovation, saying that they should come forward with ambitious dreams. The Government of India had created a robust system of financial support, and that no young person would now face lack of resources. I would like the Vice-Chancellor to constitute a team comprising faculty members and selected students so that the maximum possible number of applications may be submitted from this University, the Lieutenant Governor said. In his speech, the Lieutenant Governor underscored that education is the most powerful investment for universities, society, and the nation. He cited foreign university's success in generating revenue through innovation and research as an example, urging Indian universities to aspire to similar heights by focusing on research, innovation, leadership, and entrepreneurship. The Lieutenant Governor identified key challenges facing Indian universities, including limited research, shortage of faculty, lack of accountability and weak industry linkages. He called for a change in mindset, urging institutions to ask not What should we teach? but What problems must we solve? He emphasised that Indias youthful population, creativity, and risk-taking ability are its greatest assets, and universities must transform students into creators of opportunities rather than mere job seekers. Highlighting Indias strengths, the Lieutenant Governor pointed to the nations ability to innovate at low cost, its cultural and linguistic diversity, and its vast diaspora. He urged SMVDU to connect these strengths with its research ecosystem and create solutions for real-world challenges in healthcare, rural economy, urbanisation, and digital innovation. The Lieutenant Governor also emphasised the importance of holistic education, calling for the promotion of sports, arts, literature, debates, and cultural activities alongside science and technology. He encouraged the University to engage with rural communities, promote sustainable development, and adopt best practices from global education models such as emphasis on fieldwork, industry partnerships, and a strong vocational training system. Looking ahead, the Lieutenant Governor presented a comprehensive vision for SMVDU by 2040. He urged the University to become a leading global knowledge centre, establish advanced research facilities in AI, robotics, biotechnology, and climate science, and develop digital learning networks across rural Jammu Kashmir. He also called for international student-exchange programmes to strengthen global collaboration. He said the ultimate purpose of education is not limited to economic development but also the creation of creative human beings who understand themselves, respect nature, and recognise their responsibility towards humanity. He urged SMVDU to harmonise modernity with human values and to resolve to become a pilgrimage centre of knowledge, a laboratory of innovation, and a beacon guiding society towards progress. On this Foundation Day, I urge all of you to move beyond established paths and work courageously on the important issues. As efforts are undertaken in this direction, we should ask ourselves: What do we possess that other countries do not? Our nation's greatest wealth and strength is the passion, ingenuity and daring spirit of our youth. We must remember, the light of education becomes complete only when it moves beyond the walls of the University and reaches the last person in society, the Lieutenant Governor said. The Lieutenant Governor invited suggestions from various stakeholders for the establishment of the state-of-the-art International Museum of Goddess at Katra. On the occasion, the Lieutenant Governor also inaugurated the Self-Help Groups Bakery unit at SMVDU. Dr Ashok Bhan, Suresh Kumar Sharma and Gunjan Rana- Members of Shri Mata Vaishno Devi Shrine Board; Dr Mandeep K. Bhandari, Principal Secretary to Lieutenant Governor; Prof. Pragati Kumar, Vice-Chancellor, Shri Mata Vaishno Devi University; Bhim Sen Tuti, IGP Jammu; Ramesh Kumar, Divisional Commissioner Jammu; Sachin Kumar Vaishya, CEO, Shri Mata Vaishno Devi Shrine Board; Shiv Kumar Sharma, DIG, Udhampur-Reasi Range; Kumar Abhishek, Deputy Commissioner Reasi; Members of Universitys Executive Council; Heads of various educational institutions; senior officials, faculty members, staff, and students of Shri Mata Vaishno Devi University attended the foundation day celebrations.
Amid lukewarm response, HED runs out of ideas to increase enrollment in new colleges
Srinagar, Aug 19: The J&K government seems to be running out of ideas to increase enrollment in the newly established degree colleges as all the efforts by the Higher Education Department (HED) have not resulted in improvement in enrollment in newly established colleges. During the current year, the government claims to have witnessed a 12 percent increase in college admissions compared to last year. However, the increase in admissions has been reported due to the encouraging response from students. The situation has left the government in a tight spot, as the new colleges have failed to attract the students as per the expectations of the government. Talking to Greater Kashmir , Minister for Education Sakina Itoo said Jammu and Kashmir has witnessed mushrooming growth of new colleges over the past few years, which resulted in an enrollment decline. The department has witnessed mushrooming growth of colleges. How can we expect an increase in enrollment when we have four to five colleges within a radius of a few kilometres? Sakina Itoo said. She, however, said that the department took several initiatives to overcome the challenge, but the problem still persists in these new colleges. We decided to introduce new streams and demand-driven subjects so that enrollment increases in the colleges. At some places we decided to introduce co-education in both boys and womens colleges, Itoo said. In the wake of the steady decline in admissions in the newly established Colleges, the institutions across J&K earlier constituted teams of faculty members to visit villages, interact with students, parents, civil society members and local stakeholders, and create awareness about undergraduate admission opportunities. The outreach initiatives included door-to-door campaigns, community meetings and on-the-spot admission facilitation in an attempt to arrest the declining enrolment trend that has emerged as a major challenge for the Higher Education Department, particularly in colleges established in recent years. Citing examples, a top official said that GDC Kokernag, one of the newly established colleges, has good faculty and infrastructure but students still prefer GDC Anantnag. Such a situation poses a challenge for the department to convince the students to opt for a new college in a nearby location instead of travelling a long distance to seek admission in a legacy college, the official said. If the situation remains the same for the next two to three years, most of the new colleges will meet the fate of SSA schools, he added. The education minister, however, said that the government was doing everything possible to improve admissions in new colleges. The only problem is that students opt for legacy colleges for admissions, she said.
MHA holds fresh talks with Ladakh bodies on political, constitutional demands
Leh, Aug 19:A high-level team from the Union Ministry of Home Affairs (MHA) held separate discussions with representatives of the Leh Apex Body (LAB) and Kargil Democratic Alliance (KDA) in Leh on Ladakhs political demands, including statehood, constitutional safeguards and the proposed framework for an elected UT-level body. The meeting, the second such interaction between the MHA team and the Ladakh leadership in Leh in less than two months, also discussed the roadmap for an elected arrangement with legislative, executive, and financial powers, as well as the functioning of the seven Autonomous Hill Development Councils. Sources said the MHA team, including senior officials handling Ladakh-related issues under the ongoing sub-committee process, met three members each from LAB and KDA, along with senior officers of the UT administration and other stakeholders. The meeting was attended by Ladakh Chief Secretary Ashish Kundra and senior administrative officers, besides Hill Council Kargil Chairman Dr Mohammad Zaffar Akhoon, former Leh Hill Council chairman Tashi Gyalson and former Union minister Thupstan Chhewang, among others. The LAB delegation comprised its newly elected chairman Tsering Dorjay Lakruk, Sonam Wangchuk and Dorje Stanzin, while the KDA was represented by Asgar Ali Karbalai and Sajjad Kargili, among others. The latest meeting comes nearly seven weeks after the previous interaction held in Leh on July 3. That meeting had helped break the deadlock over the signing of the minutes of the May 22 meeting of the High Powered Committee (HPC) held in New Delhi. The LAB and KDA subsequently signed the minutes on July 3 after an understanding was reached on the proposed arrangement, including the demand that bureaucratic officials, including the Chief Secretary, should function under the control of the head of the proposed UT-level elected body. Sources said Wednesdays discussions centred on the broader political and constitutional framework being sought by the two bodies and the modalities for a tailor-made democratic arrangement for Ladakh. Following the meeting, KDA co-chairman Sajjad Kargili said the two organisations had placed before the MHA their important and non-negotiable points relating to the powers and functioning of the proposed democratic setup. We also submitted a resolution demanding the unconditional withdrawal of all cases against those affected by the 24 September incident, along with dignified and adequate compensation for the victims and their families, Kargili said in a post on X. He said the KDA and LAB remained committed to safeguarding the democratic, constitutional and political rights of the people of Ladakh. In a joint note submitted during the meeting, the LAB and KDA said their demands were based on the broad understanding reached between the MHA and the two organisations during the May 22 discussions in New Delhi. The two bodies said that, considering the present limitations in Ladakhs revenue resources for a full-fledged statehood arrangement, a mutually acceptable sui generis democratic model could be adopted as an interim framework, while keeping full statehood as the ultimate objective. Under the proposed framework, the organisations have sought a Ladakh Legislative Assembly headed by a Chief Minister and a Council of Ministers, with members directly elected from constitutionally delimited constituencies. They have also demanded meaningful legislative, executive and financial powers for the proposed Assembly, with the distribution of powers drawing upon the relevant provisions of the Constitution, including the Seventh Schedule. The LAB and KDA have further sought a framework under which the Lieutenant Governor of Ladakh would act on the aid and advice of the elected Assembly to prevent conflicts between the elected government and the UT administration. Financial powers have emerged as another key component of the demands. The two bodies have sought constitutionally protected control of taxation, budget, appropriation, expenditure, borrowing and public funds for the proposed elected legislature. They have also called for a constitutionally protected Consolidated Fund and Contingency Fund for Ladakh, along with financial procedures covering money bills, annual financial statements, grants and appropriation. On legislative safeguards, the two organisations have sought a directly elected and constitutionally empowered legislature with separately constituted and properly delimited constituencies. They have also sought constitutional protection for the composition, territorial representation and legislative, executive and financial powers of the proposed Assembly, citing safeguards available to certain other parts of the country. The organisations have placed Home, Public Order and Police under the elected government among their major demands. They have sought substantial democratic control over these subjects through the proposed Assembly and government. Another demand is the creation of a separate Ladakh Public Service Commission, along with distinct Ladakh Administrative and Police Services and Ladakh-specific cadres. The bodies have also called for necessary amendments to the Jammu and Kashmir Reorganisation Act, 2019 and relevant constitutional provisions to establish an appropriate framework for Ladakhs public services. The September 24, 2025 incident and its aftermath also figured prominently in the demands submitted to the MHA. The LAB and KDA have sought dignified compensation and appropriate assistance for those killed, injured and otherwise affected by the firing and lathi-charge during the incident. They have demanded comprehensive and uniform withdrawal of all cases arising from the incident, including FIR No. 144, arguing that the commitment recorded in the May 22 minutes should be implemented in full. The two bodies have specifically opposed any selective or phased withdrawal of cases, calling for the commitment to be honoured comprehensively. Pending a final constitutional settlement, LAB and KDA have also sought interim safeguards for Ladakhs land, economy and demographic interests. Among the proposed interim measures is making a valid Ladakh Residence Certificate mandatory for registration of business units, regulation of commercial activities and grant or renewal of trade licences. They have also sought Ladakh-specific safeguards in relation to land transactions, including keeping allotment, transfer or disposal of land to persons who do not meet prescribed residence requirements in abeyance until a final constitutional arrangement is put in place.
GDC Womens Baramulla clinch girls volleyball title
Baramulla, Aug 19: Government Degree College (GDC) for Women Baramulla emerged champions in the Girls Volleyball Tournament 2026, defeating GDC (Boys) Sopore 2-1 in a closely fought three-set final. The girls' volleyball tournament was organised by 53 Battalion CRPF in collaboration with Government Degree College Baramulla (GDC) Baramulla at Indoor stadium Khoja Bagh. The final witnessed an intense contest, with both sides displaying determination, skill and sportsmanship.
Srinagar Premier League | J&K Police secure 30 victory over Kashmir Avengers FC
J&K Police delivered a confident and disciplined performance to secure a comprehensive 30 victory over Kashmir Avengers FC in the latest fixture of the Srinagar Premier League 2026 at the TRC Turf, Srinagar. The encounter, as per a DFA statement, featured determined efforts from both sides, but J&K Police's organisation, composure and attacking efficiency ultimately proved decisive as they walked away with all three points. From the opening whistle, the match carried the intensity expected from a competitive league fixture. Both teams looked to settle into their rhythm quickly, with the midfield becoming the main battleground during the early stages. Kashmir Avengers FC attempted to build their attacks through controlled possession, while J&K Police focused on maintaining their defensive shape and looking for opportunities to transition quickly from defence into attack.
Consequences of the Curriculum
The curricular omissions discussed in the previous column, (Curriculum of Omission, Greater Kashmir August 6, 2026) has had consequences that extend far beyond the classroom. Generations grew up with a fragmented sense of inheritance. Even though the society had intense emotional resources, we were not equipped with the intellectual wherewithal required to make coherent sense of Kashmirs own cultural specificity. A publicly validated framework through which to understand our own past, language, political experiments, and constitutional arrangements was never imparted at school. The omission was not accidental. It reflected a broader post-colonial assumption that regional histories and cultural specificities were potential sources of division and were therefore best kept at the margins of formal education. In Kashmir, the stakes were considerably higher. The region possessed a heightened sense of distinct ethnicity, a special constitutional status, and a sensitive geostrategic location. When its past was treated as either irrelevant or too politically sensitive to teach, public debate about Kashmir lacked the depth that shared historical literacy normally provides. The resulting disconnect was not merely academic; it was existential. Even when major events such as the accession or the rupture of 1953 remained outside textbooks, they continued to exist as living arguments within families. Similarly, figures such as Lal Ded and Sheikh ul Alam remained active presences in the moral imagination transmitted at home. The formal educational system, however, offered almost no institutional space for these resources to be engaged with systematically. When formal institutions of public knowledge provided almost no local intellectual or political resources -- whether in history, language, or political economy -- the work of identity formation fell entirely upon the informal sphere. Knowledge of Kashmirs specific political markers and historical experiences survived primarily through family conversations and neighbourhood memory. Over time, even this informal mechanism began to weaken. By the mid-1980s, Urdu had increasingly displaced Kashmiri as the language of aspiration and mobility among the urban middle classes. What survived in the private domain became disproportionately precious precisely because it lacked public validation. Identity could not develop as confident self-knowledge. Instead, it developed as a defensive possession; something to be defended rather than inhabited. In the absence of institutional recognition, identity markers acquired an intense emotional charge. Political disillusionments of the 1980s perceptions of rigged elections, shrinking democratic space, repeated central interventions, and economic stagnation arrived on top of this long-standing cultural and educational deficit. The privately held fragments of history and identity were pressed into service as the only available resources for self-defence. The absence of a strong public cultural narrative did not produce indifference. It produced a heightened, sometimes brittle, sense of identity. Over the years, the educational vacuum created the conditions in which private preservation gradually hardened into a more explicit politics of identity. The failure of formal education to nurture any meaningful sense of local historical continuity or cultural rootedness created space for other institutions to step in. Religious institutions, particularly those operating within Deobandi, Ahl-e-Hadith, and Jamaat-e-Islami frameworks, moved to fill this gap. These institutions often viewed local cultural practices with suspicion, regarding them as deviations from scriptural norms. In the absence of a strong cultural counter-narrative from the school system, religious institutions became the most organised vehicle for identity formation during a period of growing political disillusionment. They redefined identity primarily in religious terms, giving primacy to scriptural and reformist interpretations over Kashmirs older syncretic traditions. The Rishi-Sufi legacy and the philosophical resources of the Trika tradition received little or no public institutional support. As a result, the process of identity formation increasingly moved away from cultural synthesis and toward more exclusive religious frameworks. A society whose formal education had taught it almost nothing about itself was left with very few non-violent resources for articulating its sense of self and its political claims. Militancy did not emerge from a confident, well-articulated civilisational project. It emerged, in significant part, from the exhaustion of other avenues and from the perception that what little had been preserved language at home, memories of autonomy, and a syncretic moral tradition was under irreversible threat. When formal education had failed to equip people to see their own history as continuous and layered public intellectual resource, the only available grammar for resistance became the grammar of protection and retrieval. The heightened sense of identity that emerged from educational silence was, at its core, a form of cultural self-preservation. Militancy became one of its most destructive political expressions. This defensive posture helps explain how cultural and linguistic preservation could slide into armed militancy. The thinness of public cultural self-knowledge made society more vulnerable to simplifications, whether these simplifications originated internally or were projected from outside. Militancy was not a sudden eruption of religious or ethnic atavism, nor was it solely the product of unemployment or economic stagnation. It was, in part, the violent expression of a society denied systematic access to its own history, intellectual traditions, political experiments, and constitutional inheritance. The militancy that ruptured Kashmiri society in the late 1980s and 1990s exacted an enormous price: loss of life, generational trauma, the exodus of the Pandit community, economic devastation, and the militarisation of everyday life. It was, among other things, a catastrophic symptom of prolonged educational and cultural blindness. The constitutional changes since 2019 have removed the old framework of Article 370 and reorganised the states relationship with the Centre. A new generation is growing up under different institutional rules. Yet the underlying problem of cultural and educational rootedness has not been resolved. For many, home continues to function as the primary sanctuary of language and historical memory. If the post-2019 order is accompanied only by administrative integration and constitutional symmetry without a parallel investment in making Kashmiri history, philosophy, language, and political experience visible and legitimate within formal education, the old pattern of alienation risks reproducing itself in new forms. A different educational settlement remains possible. It would require treating Kashmirs history, language, philosophy, and political experiments as subjects worthy of systematic study rather than as sensitive or secondary material. This would mean including the Quit Kashmir movement alongside Quit India, studying the land reforms of the 1950s as a significant democratic experiment, and teaching Article 370 and its long afterlife as constitutional and political history. It would also require giving Kashmiri serious curricular space as a living medium of thought and expression and treating the moral and philosophical resources as contributions to societal ethics rather than as private inheritance. Public institutions would need to reflect local intellectual and cultural achievement alongside existing historical names. Such changes would not erase political disagreements. They would, however, change the quality of those disagreements. Identity could move from a defensive possession preserved against silence to a more confident inheritance capable of engaging the larger world without the constant fear of disappearance. The society that emerged from the rupture of militancy still carries the capacity to choose whether the next generation will inherit the same absences or whether it will finally be offered the tools to understand clearly what lies both inside and outside the walls of its schools. What comes after depends on whether society is now willing to move from preservation to confident self-articulation. That requires more than security or economic measures. It requires an educational and cultural settlement that finally treats Kashmirs layered past -- its histories, political experiments, languages, and moral traditions -- as worthy of systematic transmission rather than as private compensations for public absence. Only then can identity cease to be something that must be protected at all costs and become instead something that can be inhabited with greater ease and offered outward without insecurity and fear. (The first part of this article, Curriculum of Omission appeared in Greater Kashmir on August 6, 2026) The author is a Contributing Editor of Greater Kashmir.
52nd National Aquatic Championships 2026 | Day- 2: J&K swimmer Musa Pervaiz Malik finishes 2nd
On Day 2 of the 52nd National Aquatic Championships 2026, Musa Pervaiz Malik of the Jammu & Kashmir Junior Swimming contingent finished second in Heat 1 of 4 in the 50 mtr Free Style event with a time of 28.47 seconds. As per a statement, he competed against eight swimmers from different states, delivering a strong performance marked by determination and competitive spirit. His result reflects the structured training provided by the Jammu & Kashmir Sports Council. Before the event, the team underwent a 14-day intensive training camp focused on technique, fitness, and endurance under Senior Coach Vikas Magotra. Musas performance highlights the emerging swimming talent from Jammu & Kashmir and the impact of focused coaching. The contingent continues its campaign with strong determination.
Ladakh becomes first UT to fix 4% Govt job reservation for sportspersons
In a landmark decision aimed at securing the financial future of young athletes and elevating sports as a viable career, Ladakh has officially become the first Union Territory in India to implement a fixed 4% horizontal reservation for outstanding sportspersons in direct recruitment for government jobs. The statutory reservation was approved by Lieutenant Governor Vinai Kumar Saxena under the framework of the new Ladakh Sports Policy, 2026. Following the approval, the UT administration notified the Union Territory of Ladakh Outstanding Sportspersons (Horizontal Reservation in Direct Recruitment to Group C Non-Gazetted Posts) Rules, 2026. Proud to announce a historic milestone for our youth. Ladakh is now the first UT in India to provide a statutory 4% reservation for Outstanding Sportspersons in government jobs for Group 'C' Non-Gazetted posts LG said in a post on X. LG said that Along with assured scholarships, cash incentives, and modern infrastructure envisaged under the New Ladakh Sports Policy, the new reservation framework would ensure that no talented athlete in Ladakh should ever have to give up their sporting dreams due to financial or future employment concerns. Aligned with PM, Narendra Modis vision of making India a global sports powerhouse, the UT Administration is firmly committed to creating an ecosystem where sporting excellence leads to both national pride and a secure career .
Getting it right, not getting it wrong
When a contractors Input Tax Credit worth over ten crores goes silent overnight, the taxpayer feels the shock first. But behind every Rule 86A action lies a department that has, at some point, formed a considered view that revenue is at risk from fake invoicing, circular trading, or credit claimed without any underlying supply. The Honble High Court of Jammu & Kashmir and Ladakh at Srinagar, vide judgment dated 12.08.2026 in NCC Limited [WP(C) 1935/2026], set aside the departmental communication blocking Input Tax Credit (ITC) of 10,45,38,432/-. Read quickly, this can look like a setback for the department. Read properly, it is nothing of the kind it is the Court doing exactly what judiciary should do: telling the department how to make its orders and actions bullet proof, rather than telling it to stop enforcing. The power itself was never in doubt The most important line in the entire order is easy to miss because it comes almost as an afterthought: the Bench expressly clarified that setting aside the communication shall not come in the way of the Competent Authority... to pass an appropriate order under Rule 86-A... after providing the petitioner an adequate opportunity of being heard. Read that again. The Court did not say the department was wrong to suspect the credit. It did not say Rs. 10.45 crore was safe. It did not restore the credit to NCC Limiteds ledger without conditions. It simply sent the case back with an instruction: do it again, and do it with reasons on record and a hearing given. That is not a defeat for the department it is a second chance to issue an order that will actually survive scrutiny at every subsequent stage, from appeal to Tribunal to writ court. This matters because an order that is set aside on a technical or procedural ground is an order the department gets to correct. An order that survives on a weak procedural foundation but is later challenged on merits, after years of litigation, is a far costlier outcome for revenue. The NCC Limited Judgement should be read by every GST Officer as a warning against the wrong kind of risk not the risk of blocking bogus credit, but the risk of handing the taxpayer an easy exit route on a paperwork lapse. A useful discipline, not a new burden Rule 86A already required reasons to believe, recorded in writing, before any blocking order could be passed. That requirement was never optional; it was built into the rule from the outset precisely so that the power would be used with rigour and not casually. What the J&K High Court has done following the Karnataka High Court in K-9 Enterprises (whose SLP the Supreme Court dismissed) and the Telangana High Court in Bhavani Oxides is read a further, closely related discipline into the same provision: a short opportunity of hearing before the block, given how adversely it affects the taxpayers cash flow and business operations. Far from weakening the departments hand, this discipline strengthens it. A blocking order preceded by even a brief notice, and grounded in specific, recorded reasons mismatches in GSTR-2B, absence of proof of actual receipt of goods, non-existent or non-functional suppliers, values inconsistent with e-way bill trails becomes far harder for any taxpayers counsel to dislodge on appeal. It converts a suspicion into a documented finding. Officers who already build their Rule 86A cases this way recording the specific red flags, will find that this judgment changes nothing about how they already work. It simply makes explicit the standard the best GST cases were always meeting. What this means going forward For GST Officers, the message from NCC Limited Judgement is not caution but confidence: use Rule 86A firmly against every genuine case of fraudulent or ineligible credit, but build the case the way the law always intended reasons recorded before the order is signed, a short notice or hearing given wherever the urgency of the situation allows it, and the blocked quantum tied transparently to the credit balance actually standing in the ledger. Orders built this way do not get set aside; they get upheld, and they send the clearest possible signal to habitual evaders that the departments enforcement machinery is both vigorous and legally unassailable. The departments interest is never served by a shortcut. It is served by a Rule 86A order that a taxpayers lawyer reads and decides not to challenge at all. (The author is a State Taxes Officer posted at Circle-C, Srinagar. Views are personal.)
Christianity & Kashmir: A Shared Legacy
Christianity and Kashmir have a shared legacy as Christian missionaries have played a pivotal role in laying the foundation of education system in this beautiful land that left a lasting imprint on its social and intellectual development. Roots of the Christian educators can be traced back to late 19th century when they introduced the concept of structured schooling, modern subjects, physical training and girls education in the Valley.Classrooms of the missionary schools brought together children from different communities. These institutions became spaces where education, friendship, sport, discipline and shared experiences often transcended religious boundaries. Long before phrases such as interfaith dialogue and social cohesion became part of public vocabulary, generations of Kashmiris experienced diversity naturally inside these institutions. Across Kashmir, former students of Christian missionary schools became doctors, engineers,administrators, politicians, religious leaders, diplomats, academics, entrepreneurs, journalists,lawyers, artists, industrialists, hoteliers and public servants. Some remained in Kashmir. Others carried their education across India and around the world. Stories of these students form an important part of Kashmirs modern social history and drive home a point that a school can have a religious identity and still make an educational contribution to a society much larger than that religious community. TYNDALE BISCOE SCHOOL A significant milestone in the educational history of Kashmir came in 1880, when the Church Mission Society established a school in Srinagar under Reverend J. Hinton Knowles. The institution gradually developed into the educational tradition associated with Tyndale Biscoe. Canon Cecil Tyndale-Biscoe, who joined the school in the 1890s, left a lasting imprint through his emphasis on discipline, physical education, self-reliance, service and character. Its alumni reflect the remarkable diversity. They include Dr Farooq Abdullah, former Chief Minister of Jammu and Kashmir; Aga Syed Ruhullah Mehdi, Member of Parliament from Srinagar; Moulvi Imran Raza Ansari, prominent Shia cleric and political leader; Dr Anil Bhan, renowned cardiac surgeon and P. N. Dhar, economist and former senior adviser to Prime Minister Indira Gandhi. The institutions alumni also include first IAS topper from J&K, Shah Faesal. MALLINSON GIRLS SCHOOL Mallinson Girls School was established in October 1912 by Miss Violet B. Fitze as the Girls Mission High School, initially operating from a modest mud house at Fateh Kadal in Srinagars old city. Fitze, a missionary educator, founded the institution under the auspices of the Church Missionary Society (CMS), marking it as a dedicated effort to introduce formal schooling for girls in the region. In the mid-20th century, the CMS Girls School at Fateh Kadal in Srinagar, faced increasing enrolment and spatial constraints due to its rapid growth under missionary leadership. By the late 1950s, the decision was made to relocate the institution to a more expansive site near Lal Chowk area. The move was completed in 1962, coinciding with the retirement of principal Miss Muriel P. Mallinson after her 40-year tenure from 1922 to 1962, and positioned the school adjacent to the CMS Boys School (now Tyndale Biscoe School), facilitating shared infrastructure on a donated plot that supported further development. ST JOSEPHS SCHOOL BARAMULLA Another important institution St Josephs Higher Secondary School Baramulla in North Kashmir was established by the Mill Hill Fathers or Mill Hill Missionaries from London in 1903 for everyone without any distinction of religion, caste, creed or colour. It was run by Society of Jesus after Mill Hill Missionaries left the mission. Among its distinguished alumni was Dr Mohammad Najibullah, who later became President of Afghanistan. His journey from a school in Baramulla to the presidency of Afghanistan is a remarkable example of how far the influence of a Kashmiri educational institution could travel. The schools alumni also include figures former minister and a senior politician Syed Altaf Bukhari, former bureaucrat Muhammad Ashraf Bukhari and others. PRESENTATION CONVENT The Presentation Convent was founded in 1936 by Sisters Peter Conway, Sacred Heart, Annunciata, and Xavierwho relocated from Rawalpindi at the invitation of Maharaja Hari Singhthe school commenced operations in Srinagar before shifting to its current 10-acre site at Rajbagh in Srinagar along the Jhelum River in 1939, with initial government support for land lease and construction. In 1977 it transitioned to an exclusively girls day school emphasizing value-based instruction, life skills, critical thinking, and alignment with principles of tolerance and inclusivity, guided by the motto Virtue and Labour. Among those associated with its alumni tradition are Mehbooba Mufti, former Chief Minister of Jammu and Kashmir; Nilofer Khan, Vice-Chancellor of the University of Kashmir; late Aasiya Jeelani, journalist and human-rights activist. BURN HALL SCHOOL Burn Hall School in Srinagar, Kashmir, was established in 1942 by the Mill Hill Missionaries, specifically by Fathers Tijssen and S. De Jong. The school was initially started as the Senior Cambridge School. The school closed down temporarily following the Pakistani invasion that occurred during the India-Pakistan War of 19471948. The school was restarted by Fr. J. Boerkamp in 1956 as the founding father and the first principal of the school he rendered yeomen service to the cause of education in the valley. The school became part of the wider Mill Hill missionary educational tradition. In 1976 tragedy struck the Burn Hall School in the form of a major fire that engulfed the building on March 27. The school was completely gutted down. After fairly protracted negotiations with Misereor of Germany and Cebemo of the Netherlands, financial support came in, and the school was rebuilt. The new Burn Hall complex was inaugurated by lateSheikh Mohammad Abdullah, then Chief Minister of Jammu and Kashmir, on 20 September 1978. That moment was significant in its own right. A Christian educational institution had become so deeply embedded in Kashmirs social landscape that its new complex was inaugurated by one of the Valleys most powerful political leaders. BURN HALL ALUMNI LEGACY Burn Hall over the decades has produced an unusually diverse body of alumni who have contributed to politics, public administration, diplomacy, academia, business, literature, journalism, the arts and other professions. Among its most prominent alumni is Omar Abdullah, presently the Chief Minister of Jammu and Kashmir. His journey from the classrooms of Burn Hall to the highest elected political office in the Union Territory is an important part of the institutions contemporary legacy. Another distinguished alumnus is Vikram Misri, Foreign Secretary of India, whose diplomatic career has included serving as Indias Ambassador to China, Spain and Myanmar and as Deputy National Security Adviser. His journey from a Srinagar school to one of the countrys highest diplomatic positions is a remarkable example of the reach of education. The alumni story also includes Haseeb Drabu, economist, former Finance Minister of Jammu and Kashmir and former Chairman of Jammu & Kashmir Bank; Agha Shahid Ali, the internationally acclaimed poet; Rohit Bal, one of Indias best-known fashion designers. Among its political alumni are Tanvir Sadiq and Lone brothers, while the wider alumni community has made its mark in medicine, civil administration, academia, business, journalism and cinema. Perhaps one of the most striking names in this story is Mirwaiz-e-Kashmir, Molvi Umar Farooq. His association with Burn Hall offers a particularly powerful illustration of Kashmirs plural educational tradition. A future Muslim religious leader received part of his formative education in a Christian institution. There is no contradiction in that history. Rather, it demonstrates how education can create common spaces without requiring people to surrender their individual faiths or identities. The schools historical material also records my name among its notable alumni. My own journey did not end when I left the school gates. In 1995, I was elected President of the Students Union. During that period, I became closely engaged with students concerns, their rights and wider human rights issues. That experience became an important formative chapter in my public life. It gave me an opportunity to engage directly with young people, understand their aspirations and concerns, and appreciate the importance of giving a voice to those who often feel unheard. Looking back, I see that experience as part of the wider confidence, discipline and sense of civic responsibility that education helped cultivate in me. And among the political alumni are the Lone brothers, whose association with Burn Hall adds yet another dimension to the institutions long and diverse public legacy. PERSONAL CONNECTION I write about this legacy with a deeply personal connection. I am a Kashmiri Muslim and an alumnus of Burn Hall School. My wife is a practising Christian from South India who has made Kashmir her home and has worked in a senior administrative and human resources role at a missionary school in Srinagar. Both my daughters have also received their high-school education at Presentation Convent School in Srinagar. For our family, therefore, Christian education in Kashmir is not simply a subject of history. It is part of our lived experience. I experienced it as a student. My wife has experienced it as a Christian professional working within the educational tradition. My daughters have experienced it as students. Our association with interfaith engagement has also extended beyond Kashmir. My wife and I have been associated with US-based interfaith organisations and initiatives that promote dialogue, understanding and cooperation among people of different faiths. Those experiences have reinforced a simple belief: interfaith harmony does not require us to erase our differences. It requires us to respect those differences while finding common ground. In our own home, this understanding is lived rather than merely discussed. We celebrate Eid and Christmas together, sharing in each others traditions with respect and affection. For us, this does not diminish either faith. It reflects something more fundamental family, love, friendship and mutual respect. Sheikh Khalid Jehangir is Director of the International Centre for Peace Studies (ICPS), former Vice Chairman of JKPCC, and the BJPs 2019 Lok Sabha candidate from Srinagar. He is a regular columnist for Greater Kashmir, has worked with national and international news organizations, and has authored books on Kashmir.
What is so fascinating about the birds that leads certain men to spend a good deal of time just observing them. Matter of fact, like other commonly admissible forms of human activity such as trekking and cycling, it too has scored a name for itself. Its called bird watching. But its not like a watchman who in his capacity as a guardian watches over a premise solely as an act of duty. Its recreational natures very own theatre for human leisure or so we assume. And like every other performance, it too should need an audience to exist for what isnt observed, from at least a purely humanistic point of view, isnt existing. But what is it really about the birds? Is it their enchanting speech with which they seem to call upon us endlessly. Those mesmerizing tunes that we tend to relish even on the dullest of days. How much of the human speech is capable of doing just that? Very little, we would all agree. And when it does on occasion, its rarely in its natural form. Most of the time it has to be molded into music or poetry like a sugar coated tablet which is bitter and unbearable in itself. Or is it the paradisiacal elegance of their whole being? Feathers like fine royal garments, perfectly chiseled vibrant beaks which are announced before the bird is, eyes like crystals of black saphire, sufficiently sharp to capture the slightest motion nearby, tiny delicate limbs strong enough to support their brief sojourns on the surface. There is of course too much to adore. But in spite of all this that is beautiful and sublime; in order to stir the human heart this somehow feels less still. What truly excites the human soul, one way or the other, seems to spring forth from a nostalgia of an otherworldly but seemingly non-existent past. A feeling that is distant but familiar in a hard to explain way, which arouses in the soul a desire for something which once was but now seems to be lost. One of these so-called non-existents is the nostalgia of absolute freedom. Looking at the birds, we witness their flight, we see them reach for the unknown with absolute liberty. Nothing seems to hinder their advance. All the man-made obstructions seem to vanish into oblivion. There are no definite routes, no traffic lights nor any boundaries in the sky. There is no one to question your movement nor tax it. Every inch and corner of the vast blue oceanic space bears an open invitation, as if seducing to come forth without condition. Perhaps, deep down humans long for such a kind of freedom and would give anything to possess it. To be able to tread without bounds, without having to think twice before taking a stride. Limited only by ones ability, rising to the highest of highs or keeping to the lowest of lows without the fear of envy or judgment. In the sky no one is in charge, nor better. Whether its a feeble sparrow that induces compassion or a fierce falcon; the size of your being or the beauty of your appearance doesnt impress it. Nor is it concerned with the speed of your flight: you are free to maintain your own pace and keep summiting this celestial dome. Neither does it judge you on the extent of your sociability. You may take companions of your feather or tread alone altogether, it spares you the choice. The sky doesnt discriminate, it lets you be yourself, as long as you have wings you belong. But for the birds too, this period of poetic joy is most certainly preceded by a period of winglessness and bondage of the nest. Needless to say that its not without import. Its there and then that the wings of freedom are patiently forged into existence. Its the limitation of the nest that inculcates in the bird, the control of its abilities and saves it from the harm which almost always accompanies in tandem the prospect of freedom. Perhaps, the world as we know it with all its confining limitations and predisposition for captivity, is for humans too a period of disciplining winglessness precisely meant to prepare the human soul for whats to come. After all and rightly so, everything comes at a cost, even freedom. And here we are with our chance to pay its due. Tawheed Yousuf, data scientist, is alumnus GK School of Communication.
ASI spends Rs 26.59 Cr on protected monuments in J&K in 5 years
Srinagar, Aug 19:The Archaeological Survey of India (ASI) spent Rs 26.59 crore on conservation, preservation, and environmental development of centrally protected monuments in Jammu and Kashmir between 2021-22 and 2025-26, the Centre said. Spending in J&K rose from Rs 2.55 crore in 2021-22 to Rs 5.95 crore in 2025-26, peaking at Rs 7.17 crore in 2023-24, according to figures placed before the Rajya Sabha by the Ministry of Culture. The disclosure came in response to a question on the conservation and promotion of historical forts. Separately, the ministry approved an NCF project worth Rs 1.21 crore for 2026-27 to develop amenities at the Shankaracharya Temple in Srinagar. Ladakh, listed separately in the ASI expenditure statement, received Rs 12.70 crore for conservation-related works during the 5-year period. Its annual spending rose from Rs 43 lakh in 2021-22 to Rs 4.65 crore in 2025-26. Across J&K and Ladakh, ASI conservation-related expenditure totalled Rs 39.29 crore during the period. Nationally, the ASI spent Rs 1794.74 crore on conservation, preservation, and environmental development. Annual spending rose from Rs 269.57 crore in 2021-22 to Rs 376.67 crore in 2025-26, with the highest expenditure of Rs 443.53 crore recorded in 2023-24. The government said 3688 centrally protected monuments and sites are under ASI care nationwide. Conservation, maintenance and development works are undertaken according to the requirements of individual monuments and the availability of resources, it said. The government said no centrally protected monument has been identified as endangered under ASI protection. All centrally protected monuments are in a good state of preservation, it said. J&Ks five-year expenditure accounted for about 1.5 percent of the national conservation spending. The ministry said conservation of centrally protected monuments is a continuous process and is carried out based on the condition and requirements of protected sites, subject to the availability of resources.
SC stresses institutional overhaul of NTA to prevent exam paper leaks
New Delhi, Aug 19:The Supreme Court on Wednesday stressed the need to institutionalise and strengthen the National Testing Agency (NTA), saying the agency must have adequate infrastructure, experienced manpower and advanced technology to prevent question paper leaks and ensure examinations are conducted smoothly. Bar and Bench reported that the Bench of Justices P S Narasimha and Alok Aradhe, hearing petitions arising from the NEET question paper leak controversy, said the court was concerned with building a vibrant institution that could retain institutional expertise and keep pace with technological changes. Our duty is to ensure that there is a vibrant institution that the country can be proud of. If you dont institutionalise, experienced people get transferred and the entire experience is lost. There are a lot of technological changes that have to be brought about, the Bench observed. The court directed the Centre to file an affidavit detailing the progress made in implementing the recommendations of the Radhakrishnan Committee, constituted after the NEET-UG controversy in 2024, as well as reforms suggested by the Nandan Nilekani Committee this year. The Bench said its concern was not merely about the existing safeguards but about creating a permanent institutional framework for conducting examinations. Our concern is how you institutionalise the conduct of the examination - secure office premises, confidential operational infrastructure, cyber security, the court said. It also referred to recommendations for creating specialised verticals for testing centres, central network operations and other functions, besides developing research and development infrastructure, a sovereign database, and stronger cybersecurity mechanisms. The court emphasised the need to preserve institutional memory and institutional expertise, noting that examination systems and technology keep changing. Solicitor General Tushar Mehta, appearing for the Centre, told the Bench that several safeguards had already been introduced to iron-fence the examination process. He explained that question papers undergo multiple stages of moderation and selection, are printed under CCTV and CISF surveillance, transported in GPS-tracked vehicles and stored in secure bank strong rooms. The Solicitor General said the process involved sealed question-paper boxes, strict access controls and videography at various stages, with question papers opened only immediately before examinations. The petitions before the court include pleas seeking restructuring or replacement of the NTA, shifting NEET-UG to a computer-based test (CBT) format, digital locking of question papers and publication of centre-wise results to identify anomalies. One of the petitions has also sought the creation of an independent statutory national testing authority with greater oversight and parliamentary accountability. The Supreme Court had dealt with allegations of a NEET-UG paper leak in 2024 and declined to order a nationwide re-examination, while directing reforms in the examination system. The issue has again come under judicial scrutiny following fresh concerns over examination security. The court has now directed the Centre to file a detailed affidavit on the steps taken to implement the committee recommendations. The matter will be heard again after three weeks.
Torrential rains trigger flash floods in Kashmir parts, heavy rains lash Jammu
Srinagar, Aug 19: Torrential rains triggered flash floods in parts of Kashmir on Wednesday, while heavy showers lashed Jammu, swelling rivers and streams as the Meteorological Centre Srinagar ruled out widespread rainfall but warned of more intense localised weather.In Shopian, showers in Shadab Kareva swelled a local stream. Water, mud and slush flowed through the area. Flash floods were also reported in Dachnoo and Herpora. Overflowing streams entered orchards.A flash flood also hit Baderhma village.Flash floods were reported from Haknar and Gund in Ganderbal. Upper Batkoot in Pahalgam, Anantnag, also witnessed flooding. Road connectivity and water supply were affected. Batkoot has witnessed at least five such incidents during intense showers and cloudbursts. Gusty winds also disrupted normal life in parts of Kashmir. Jammu recorded 88.7 mm of rain. Banihal received 20.7 mm, Batote 28.8 mm, Katra 48.2 mm, Bhaderwah 1.8 mm, Kathua 76.6 mm, Jammu Airport 33 mm, Udhampur 32.2 mm, Ramban 6.5 mm, Samba 85 mm, Poonch 1.5 mm, Reasi 39 mm and Doda 9 mm. Rajouri and Kishtwar recorded traces.The rains swelled rivers and streams across parts of Jammu. Kathua faced the highest risk of a rapid rise in water levels, followed by Samba. Authorities issued a red alert. People were advised to stay away from water bodies and low-lying areas. Temperatures in Jammu remained below normal. Kashmir stayed near normal.Jammu recorded 27.4 degrees Celsius, 5.7 degrees below normal. Banihal recorded 23.2 degrees Celsius, Batote 23.7 degrees Celsius, Katra 24.6 degrees Celsius, and Bhaderwah 25 degrees Celsius. Srinagar recorded 31.6 degrees Celsius, Qazigund recorded 28 degrees Celsius, Pahalgam 25.2 degrees Celsius, Kupwara 32.5 degrees Celsius, Kokernag 26.5 degrees Celsius, and Gulmarg 20.4 degrees Celsius. Temperatures remained close to normal. The MeT forecast generally hot and humid conditions from August 19 to 22. Light to moderate rain and thundershowers are likely at scattered to many places. Brief intense showers may occur in a few districts during the early morning and afternoon. From August 23 to 27, brief rain and thundershowers are likely at scattered places. These are expected mainly during the early morning and afternoon. The department warned that intense localised showers could trigger flash floods, mudslides, and landslides. People were advised to avoid rivers, streams, nallahs, and landslide-prone areas. They were also asked to follow local advisories. Farmers may continue harvesting and other farm operations. The latest weather events come amid a series of monsoon-related disasters in J&K in which more than 30 people have died. Roads, homes, farmland, and livestock have also been damaged. Flash floods and landslides in Poonch and Rajouri on July 19 killed more than 25 people. Earlier cloudbursts caused widespread damage in Doda, Kishtwar and Ramban. Director MeT Srinagar Mukhtar Ahmad said rainfall would remain largely localised. Parts of Jammu division could, however, receive intense showers. The intense, brief thundershowers and cloudbursts are a recurring phenomenon during the monsoon, Ahmad said. IRFAN RAINA REPORTS FROM KANGAN Two low-intensity flash floods struck Haknar and Wangath areas in Kangan sub division of Ganderbal district on Wednesday following a brief spell of intense rainfall. Despite initial panic among locals, official reports confirmed that the twin surges caused no casualties, no injuries, and no structural damage to property. The incidents occurred in quick succession along two local streams (nallahs) in the upper reaches of the Kangan sub-division. Sudden torrential downpours upstream led to a rapid rise in water levels, carrying silt, loose rocks, and mud down toward the main road stretches. Local authorities, along with teams from the J&K Police, State Disaster Response Force (SDRF), rushed to the spot. The situation was brought under control quickly as water levels receded, said an official. There has been no damage to residential homes, commercial property, or livestock. M M PARVAIZ REPORTS FROM RAMBAN Despite intermittent rainfall, fresh mudslides, and waterlogging at several vulnerable locations, the Srinagar-Jammu National Highway remained open for regulated two-way traffic on Wednesday. However, movement of traffic remained slow at several stretches, officials said. Traffic authorities said that the Udhampur-Chenani section of the highway, which has remained vulnerable to landslides during the ongoing spell of rain, remained open. Rain-induced waterlogging and mudslides at Dewal and other locations affected the smooth flow of traffic. Traffic movement remained particularly slow at Dewal in Udhampur district, where vehicles were being regulated through an approximately 40-metre damaged, uneven and undulating single-lane stretch. Ongoing road improvement and highway construction works further contributed to intermittent congestion. Similar conditions prevailed on the Maroog-Kishtwari Pather stretch in Ramban district, where traffic was being regulated through a single-lane portion amid ongoing construction activity and damaged road conditions. The movement of heavy vehicles was particularly slow at the vulnerable locations. Earlier in the day, traffic on the highway was disrupted for some time after a mudslide blocked the road near a construction site at Nagrota in Jammu, leaving vehicles stranded in long queues. NHAI men and machinery were immediately pressed into service, and the debris and muck were subsequently cleared with the help of dumpers, restoring vehicular movement. Later, following heavy rains a huge mudslide hit and blocked the road in Khari Tharad area of Udhampur, however, it was cleared for traffic. Traffic congestion persisted for some time after the road was reopened due to slippery road conditions and the accumulation of vehicles during the disruption. Meanwhile, restoration work on the Srinagar-bound road tube at Dhramthal near Samroli in Udhampur district continued despite persistent rainfall. An NHAI official said men and machinery remained deployed at the site, but rain was hampering the restoration operation. The Srinagar-bound tube was blocked on Sunday evening after a massive landslide brought a large quantity of debris onto the carriageway. Following the incident, traffic was diverted from Samroli through the alternate Jammu-bound road tube. Officials said the massive debris slide is likely to take a couple of days to clear completely. To facilitate traffic movement in the meantime, inter-lane ramps have been carved out at both ends of the affected stretch to bypass the slide zone. They said the restoration of the affected tube is expected to take at least four to five days. The NHAI has also been asked to widen and smoothen the inter-lane ramps to facilitate the movement of commuters, particularly large trailers and bulk carriers, through the restricted section. The temporary arrangement has allowed up- and down-bound traffic to continue moving through the respective tubes. However, traffic authorities said the arrangement requires careful regulation because of the restricted road width. The down tube in the vicinity has also been reduced to a single lane at two to three locations following erosion triggered by recent rains. SSP Traffic National Highway Raja Adil Hameed said the highway remained open for two-way traffic, while traffic personnel were regulating movement at vulnerable stretches. Traffic authorities said that, subject to fair weather and satisfactory road conditions, the highway is expected to remain open for regulated two-way traffic on Thursday. Passenger vehicles, private cars, and goods carriers will be permitted to ply in both directions, subject to the condition of the highway and clearance of any fresh obstructions. Authorities have advised commuters to check the latest highway status before commencing their journey and remain in contact with the Traffic Control Units at Jammu, Ramban and Srinagar. Passengers and Light Motor Vehicle (LMV) operators have been particularly advised to undertake travel between Ramban and Banihal during daylight hours and avoid unnecessary night journeys due to the risk of shooting stones, landslides, and other weather-related hazards. Motorists have been urged to maintain lane discipline, avoid overtaking and wrong-lane driving, and refrain from unnecessary stoppages at vulnerable locations to prevent further congestion. Truck operators carrying fresh and perishable commodities and livestock have been directed to adhere strictly to prescribed loading norms. Heavy vehicle operators have also been advised to avoid overloading, ensure proper vehicle fitness and carry adequate fuel in view of possible delays. Officials cautioned that the highway status could change at short notice in the event of fresh landslides, mudslides, or deterioration in weather and road conditions, and urged travellers to follow official traffic advisories before and during their journey.
CM calls for steps to decongest Srinagar
Srinagar, Aug 19:Chief Minister Omar Abdullah on Wednesday called for decongesting Srinagar from traffic jams. Undertaking an extensive early-morning tour of Srinagar city, covering all eight assembly constituencies, to take stock of ongoing development works, inspect key infrastructure projects, and assess the delivery of public facilities and civic amenities on the ground, CM Omar reviewed infrastructure, healthcare, heritage, and sports projects. Beginning the tour at around 6:30 am, he visited a number of important project sites covering road and traffic infrastructure, healthcare, heritage conservation, sports facilities and other urban development works. He reviewed the physical progress of the projects with officers and executing agencies and sought timely completion of works so that their intended benefits reach the people at the earliest. At Barbar Shah in Habba Kadal, the CM inspected the site for the proposed multi-span bridge over Choont Khul, a project aimed at improving connectivity to Shehar-e-Khaasand easing traffic congestion in the area. The bridge is being executed by the PW(R&B) Department, Srinagar Core Division, at an estimated cost of Rs 32.50 crore, designed as per IRC codal standards and MoRTH specifications and taking into account the requirements of Seismic Zone-V. CM Omar was briefed that the bridge is expected to facilitate smoother movement of commuters heading towards Shehar-e-Khaas, streamline traffic flow, improve road safety and strengthen urban mobility in the historic core of the city. He also inspected the newly constructed building of the Urban Primary Health Centre (UPHC), Maharaj Gunj. The upgraded facility, located in the historic heart of Shehar-e-Khaas, is intended to strengthen primary healthcare delivery and improve patient care through enhanced infrastructure. The project has an estimated cost of Rs 2.63 crore under UT CAPEX and is being executed by the Public Works Department (R&B), Kashmir. Work commenced in November 2024 and is scheduled for completion by November 20, 2026. During his inspection of the medical facility, the CM was informed that brickwork, internal plastering, door and window framework, tile work on all three floors, and window fixing have been completed. Electrical works are about 85 percent complete, while the fire-fighting system has been completed. Roofing of the adjacent building (Structure-B) has also been completed, and overhead water tanks have been installed. At Mirza Kamil Sahib Chowk, Hawal, CM Omar laid the foundation stone for the beautification, upgradation and junction improvement project, aimed at improving traffic management, pedestrian movement and the overall appearance of the important urban junction. The project, under the UT Sector, has a cost of Rs 1.33 crore. The proposed works include upgradation of the existing road pavement, development of pedestrian-friendly footpaths, new kerbs and drainage arrangements, road markings, traffic signage, bollards, delineators, and glow studs. The project also provides for modern LED street lighting, decorative illuminated butterfly and tree sculptures, and solar traffic blinkers at pedestrian crossings to enhance pedestrian safety. At Sub District Hospital (SDH) Habak, Hazratbal, the CM inspected the ongoing construction of the new hospital building and reviewed the progress of the long-pending project. The project had remained stalled for a considerable period and was revived after the present Council of Ministers granted the required norm relaxations, paving the way for its resumption and eventual strengthening of medical services in the area. CM Omar inspected the ongoing upgradation of SDH Habak, Hazratbal, which has a revised project cost of Rs 54.49 crore and envisages a two-phase facility comprising two basements, four storeys and a 50-bed hospital. He directed the concerned authorities to maintain momentum and ensure that the upgraded facility is completed within the stipulated timelines. The CM next inspected the ongoing conservation and restoration of the historic Aali Masjid at Eidgah, being undertaken by the Department of Culture. Reaffirming the immense historical, architectural and spiritual importance of the centuries-old monument, he directed the authorities to ensure meticulous conservation and timely completion of the project while maintaining the character and heritage value of the structure. The first phase of the conservation and restoration project has a cost of Rs 4.88 crore and is being executed by the Public Works Department (R&B), Kashmir, under the Archives head. Work commenced in July 2025 and is expected to be completed by October 2026. The scope of the project includes waterproof cement concrete works, wooden flooring, CGI sheets and painting, Khatam Band work, papier-mch, chiselling of Devri, strengthening of roofing, ashlar stone work and Devri cornices. CM Omar was informed that roofing, wooden flooring inside the mosque and Khatam Band work have already been completed. He also reviewed the major road-safety infrastructure project involving construction of flyovers at Parimpora and Shalteng Junctions on the Srinagar Bypass (NH-44). The project, being executed under Road Safety Works on EPC mode, has an approximate total length of 2000 metres, with elevated portions of 105 metres at Parimpora and 92 metres at Shalteng. The six-lane facility has a deck width of 14 metres for the specified carriageway arrangement and provides for approaches, service roads, drainage, and utility corridors. The estimated cost of the project is Rs 85 crore with a project duration of 48 months. The CM was also briefed that strengthening of the truss has been completed. At SKIMS Medical College and Hospital, Bemina, the Chief Minister reviewed the progress of two major institutional buildings the 250-bedded IPD block and the college and laboratory block. The 250-bedded IPD block has an approved cost of Rs 83.94 crore. The project has achieved 80 percent physical progress and is targeted for completion by December 2026. The college and laboratory block has an approved cost of Rs 88.23 crore. The project has achieved 66 percent physical progress and is targeted for completion by December 2027. CM Omar also inspected the site of the new High Court Complex at Rakh-e-Aksha, Bemina, a comprehensive project having an approved cost of Rs 908.20 crore. The main building, comprising two basements, ground floor and six upper floors, will house courtrooms, Judges chambers and lounge, Bar rooms, meeting rooms and podium parking. The proposed Western Block, comprising two basements, ground floor and five upper floors, will accommodate the judicial branch, registrar chambers, library, lawyers chambers, cafeteria, medical branch, archives and podium parking. The eastern block, also comprising two basements, ground floor and five upper floors, will house the administration branch, registrar chambers, meditation chamber, lawyers chambers, cafeteria, archives and podium parking. These two blocks are yet to be tendered. The project also envisages, in phase-II, a police constabulary, judicial block, guest house, auditorium and residential quarters. The overall complex is planned to provide 1600 car-parking spaces, including 265 spaces in podium-1 and 115 spaces in podium-2 of the main building. The CM subsequently inspected the site for the proposed Mominabad Vehicle Underpass (VUP), intended to reduce traffic congestion and facilitate seamless movement along the National Highway. The proposed four-lane RCC T-Beam Slab type underpass will have a 22.50-metre main carriageway, service roads with paved shoulders on both sides, a one-kilometre total main-carriageway approach length and drainage and utility corridors. The viaduct will have a vertical clearance of 5.5 metres. CM Omar also reviewed associated traffic infrastructure proposals, including the underpass at Nowgam Railway Station and the foot over bridge at Children's Hospital, Bemina. The Nowgam underpass will have a 25-metre main carriageway, service roads on both sides and a 5.5-metre vertical clearance, besides a 270-metre railway approach road. The proposed FOB at Children Hospital, Bemina, will have a length of 48.5 metres and a width of 3.19 metres, with steel fabrication and staircases on both sides. Lift provision has also been envisaged for persons with disabilities, senior citizens and women. The combined sanctioned amount for these works is Rs 31.52 crore. At Gindun Sports Complex, Rajbagh, the CM inspected the recently completed main swimming pool, a state-of-the-art aquatic facility aimed at promoting competitive swimming, diving and other aquatic sports in Jammu and Kashmir. The project, which was initiated in 2014 and had remained languishing during 2019-20 due to paucity of funds, was subsequently revived. Completed in November 2025 and commissioned in July 2026, the facility has been developed at Rs 20.60 crore. The international-standard swimming facility has a 50-metre by 25-metre pool with 10 lanes, a maximum depth of 3.88 metres and a minimum depth of 1.40 metres, along with 1-metre, 3-metre and 5-metre diving platforms. It includes gender-based changing rooms and washrooms, 50 storage lockers, seating capacity for 300 spectators, modern filtration, circulation and disinfection systems, lifeguard and pool management facilities, equipment storage, barrier-free access and fire-safety and emergency provisions. CM Omar also reviewed the training-cum-toddler, all-weather heated pool facility and inspected the newly completed Gymnastic Hall at Gindun, Rajbagh. The gymnastic hall, measuring 110 feet by 70 feet and covering around 8700 square feet, has been developed as a dedicated facility for gymnastics training and indoor sports activities. The project was initiated on June 19, 2023, at an advertised cost of Rs 3.29 crore, and was completed in July 2026. Speaking after the tour, the CM described the extensive visit as a recognition of the importance of Srinagar and the need to give focused attention to both capital cities of Srinagar and Jammu. We are the only area in this country where there are two capitals Srinagar in the summer and Jammu in the winter. It is obvious that both cities need to be given special attention. We left at 6:30 in the morning to inspect some important projects, and around 10-12 projects were reviewed in the city. Most of the projects are in good progress. We need to give a push to one or two of them, he said. CM Omar said that field visits provide an opportunity to assess the actual position of projects and compare it with the information available at the Secretariat. The benefit of these tours is that we get a chance to compare what is told in the Secretariat and the ground reality. I assure the people of Srinagar that similar projects will be taken up. The big bottlenecks will be corrected. We need to decongest Srinagar from traffic jams, for which some important steps have to be taken. In Shehar-e-Khaas, there is a huge problem of parking, and we will address and resolve that issue also, he said. During the tour, the CM was accompanied by Deputy Chief Minister Surinder Kumar Choudhary, Minister for Health and Medical Education Sakina Itoo, Minister for Sports Satish Sharma, Advisor to the Chief Minister Nasir Aslam Wani, MLA Khanyar Ali Mohammad Sagar, MLA Habba Kadal Shamim Firdous, MLA Eidgah Mubarik Gul, MLA Zadibal Tanvir Sadiq, MLA Hazratbal Salman Ali Sagar, MLA Chanapora Mushtaq Guroo and MLA Lal Chowk Sheikh Ahsan Ahmed. Additional Chief Secretary to the Chief Minister Dheeraj Gupta, Commissioner Secretary Youth Services and Sports, Deputy Commissioner Srinagar, Commissioner Srinagar Municipal Corporation, Director Health Services Kashmir, Engineer-in-Chief R&B, Secretary Sports Council, senior engineers of executing agencies and other concerned officers and officials also accompanied the CM during the tour.
CM Omar dares BJP to order probe into corruption allegations
Srinagar, Aug 19:Chief Minister Omar Abdullah on Wednesday hit back at the Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) over its allegations of corruption in recruitment, challenging the party to order an investigation and establish the charges instead of making what he termed baseless allegations against his government. Speaking to reporters during an extensive tour of Srinagar city, CM Omar said the Jammu and Kashmir government did not exercise control over the investigative agencies that could independently probe allegations of corruption. Even if we assume for a second that their allegation is true, we don't even have the power to conceal such things. Tell me, which investigative agency is under my control? Not even one, he said. Responding to questions about protests being held by the BJP in the Jammu region against his government over alleged irregularities in recruitment, the CM said the BJP, being in power at the Centre, should facilitate an investigation if it had credible evidence of wrongdoing. I don't have police; I don't have the Crime Branch; I don't have the Anti-Corruption Bureau, let alone the central agencies, he said. CM Omar questioned whether any investigative agency had so far established that corruption had actually taken place in the recruitment process. If corruption has truly taken place, register a case and take action against them. But these baseless allegations are just being made unnecessarily, he said, asking the BJP to allow the appropriate agencies to investigate the matter. The CM's remarks came amid an escalating political exchange between the ruling National Conference (NC) and the BJP over allegations of corruption and backdoor recruitment. He sought to turn the BJPs criticism into a challenge, arguing that a genuine allegation should be followed by a formal complaint, registration of a case and an investigation rather than political accusations. On questions over the implementation of the NCs election manifesto, CM Omar said voters had given his government a five-year mandate and that the performance of the administration should be judged at the end of that period. Has it been five years? Did I fall asleep for three years? It hasn't even been two years yet, he said. The CM reiterated that the manifesto was conceived as a five-year roadmap and not as a list of commitments to be completed within the first few months or years of the governments tenure. I have stated from day one that the National Conference did not give its manifesto for a single day, a week, a month or a single year. It is a five-year roadmap. Ask me this question after five years, and I will give you a detailed answer, he said. At the same time, CM Omar maintained that his government had not set aside the manifesto and claimed that work had already begun on every component of the document. Every single point has been touched upon somewhere or the other, he said, adding that the government would continue working on the commitments that remained to be fulfilled. Moving forward, whatever remains to be done, we will do it, he said. The CM was also asked about an FIR registered in Kargil in Ladakh over alleged objectionable remarks concerning the late Iranian Supreme Leader Ayatollah Ali Khamenei. He said he was not aware of the specific details of the case but maintained that religious sentiments should not be deliberately hurt. No one should use derogatory language against any religious leader, CM Omar said. He said people belonging to different faiths had religious sentiments that deserved to be respected, adding that remarks directed against a religious leader could have repercussions beyond the immediate locality. Everyone has sentiments, regardless of which religion they belong to, the CM said. Referring to a particular community community, he said any statement that had hurt religious sentiments should be dealt with through due process of law. If someone has made such statements that have hurt the sentiments - not just of the people of Kargil, but the Shia community resides worldwide - their feelings shouldn't be hurt, CM Omar said. He said the police should take whatever legal action was warranted in accordance with law. Whatever legal action police need to take, they should take it, the CM said. His remarks came during his Srinagar tour, where he reviewed and took stock of various issues concerning the city, while also responding to questions on the governments political performance, corruption allegations and matters of wider public concern. CM Omar also warned that using the 'Gen Z' tag as a threat would quickly lead to the erosion of any goodwill for the youth. He was commenting on a video in which a young woman could be seen raising her voice against the Ladakh police at a checkpoint.
CM Omar sees deeper US-J&K engagement ahead
Srinagar, Aug 19:Chief Minister Omar Abdullah on Wednesday said his meeting with US Ambassador to India, Sergio Gor, opened the possibility of a broader engagement between the United States and Jammu and Kashmir, with discussions focusing on India-US relations and areas where Washington could contribute to J&K. Speaking to reporters after meeting Gor at his Gupkar residence, CM Omar described the interaction as a very good meeting and said the discussions, while covering the wider relationship between New Delhi and Washington, had a specific focus on J&K. It was a very good meeting. We had an opportunity to discuss the relations between our two countries, but with a specific focus on what the US can do with Jammu and Kashmir, he said. The CM indicated that the meeting was not limited to a general exchange on diplomatic relations, but also explored the scope for greater US engagement with Jammu and Kashmir in the years ahead. He acknowledged that there were certain legacy issues which would require time and continued engagement, but said he was keen to carry the conversation forward. There are obviously certain legacy issues that over time we will be working to resolve. But we look forward to taking this conversation further, CM Omar said. He said the dialogue would now have to continue at two levels between Ambassador Gor and Washington on one side, and between the J&K government and the Government of India in New Delhi on the other. This is a conversation that will take place both between Ambassador Gor and Washington, and between me and the Government of India in New Delhi, the CM said. He expressed confidence that the interaction could develop into a sustained engagement, saying he was very hopeful and optimistic that relations between the United States and J&K would widen and deepen in the coming years. The meeting assumed significance as Gors visit marked a high-level US diplomatic engagement with J&K after a considerable gap. Before the meeting, CM Omar had said he intended to discuss the situation in the region with the visiting ambassador, while making it clear that he would not use the interaction to raise internal grievances against the Centre. It is after a very long time that a US ambassador is visiting Jammu and Kashmir. For me personally, it has been a long time since I met any American ambassador. Let him come; we will sit and talk, he had said earlier in the day. The CM also indicated that he would approach the meeting as a two-way conversation, saying he expected the US envoy to listen to his perspective but that he was equally interested in hearing Gors views. Let him come; we will sit and talk, he had said, adding that he would prefer to listen more even as the ambassador was also coming to listen. However, CM Omar drew a clear line between discussing Jammu and Kashmir and seeking Washingtons intervention in J&Ks internal political or administrative matters. He said he did not believe such issues should be taken up as complaints before a representative of another country. It has never been my habit to lodge complaints about my country to an ambassador of another country, the CM said. He argued that the resolution of J&Ks internal issues ultimately rests with the Government of India and not Washington. The resolution to our issues will not come from Washington; the resolution to our problems lies with our central government, CM Omar said. He said he would therefore discuss Jammu and Kashmir and its prevailing circumstances with the US envoy, but would neither use the meeting to complain about the country nor seek solutions to internal grievances from the United States. I believe it would be very inappropriate to complain about our country to an ambassador of another country. That is not my habit, the CM said. He has repeatedly pressed the Centre to fulfil its commitment on restoration of Jammu and Kashmirs statehood. The issue remains one of the principal political demands of the National Conference-led government. Wednesdays meeting, however, appears to have been positioned by CM Omar as an opportunity to explore areas of cooperation and engagement rather than an attempt to internationalise issues concerning J&K.
J&K an important part of India: US envoy
Srinagar, Aug 19:United States Ambassador Sergio Gor on Wednesday described Jammu and Kashmir as an important part of India during his first visit to the Union Territory. Gor, who also serves as President Donald Trumps Special Envoy for South and Central Asia, made the remarks after a meeting with Chief Minister Omar Abdullah at the latters Gupkar residence. Standing alongside Abdullah, he told reporters: As everybody here knows, I am the US ambassador to India. And this is an important part of India. And so Im here visiting for the first time. It is an incredibly beautiful place and I am thrilled to be here. The two-day visit to J&K and Ladakh is the first standalone trip by a serving US ambassador to J&K and Ladakh since the abrogation of Article 370 in 2019 and the reorganisation of the erstwhile state into two Union Territories. It is also the first such engagement after the April 2025 Pahalgam terror attack, in which 26 tourists were killed, and Indias subsequent Operation Sindoor. The last meeting between a serving US ambassador and a sitting J&K CM took place in 2011, when Timothy Roemer called on Omar Abdullah. The last standalone visit by a US envoy was by Kenneth Juster in 2018. Gor described the interaction as very warm and very cordial. In a post on X, he said he had appreciated the chance to learn about CM Omars priorities. We discussed ways to deepen economic collaboration and create opportunities that would mutually benefit both of our nations, he said. One of the most closely watched remarks concerned the US travel advisory. The State Department currently maintains a Level 4 do not travel warning for J&K (except eastern Ladakh and Leh), citing terrorism and civil unrest. The advisory has long been a concern for the J&K administration as it seeks to attract more international tourists. Gor indicated Washington would examine whether it should be downgraded. The United States puts out travel warnings. And every so often we re-evaluate travel warnings. I cannot make any big announcements here today, but it is something we are going to look at, he said. Gor credited New Delhi, CM Omar, and the J&K government with having made some incredible steps toward keeping this area safer and making it more secure. So we will be looking at whether the travel warning that is recommended by the United States is something that should be downgraded. This is a beautiful area. I think a lot of Americans would enjoy coming here and seeing the beauty and the opportunities that exist here, he said. No formal change was announced. Officials said that any revision would follow a standard review process in Washington. A team of US diplomats from the embassy in New Delhi had called on National Conference President Farooq Abdullah a day earlier as part of preparations for the visit. Kashmirs chief cleric, Mirwaiz Umar Farooq, welcomed the ambassadors arrival and expressed hope that he would engage with a broad cross-section of people. PDP President Mehbooba Mufti urged Gor to review and withdraw the travel advisory, describing it as a barrier for families dependent on tourism. Gors comments, particularly the explicit description of J&K as an important part of India, are being viewed in New Delhi and Srinagar as a notable diplomatic signal amid Pakistans continued claims on the region. The visit comes as India-US strategic ties have deepened, including in defence and intelligence sharing following earlier tensions along the Line of Actual Control. The ambassadors Ladakh leg on Thursday will mark another first: the first visit there by a US ambassador since the 2020 Galwan clashes.
