Ruhullah sticks to Nov 3 exit plan, questions NCs stand on Article 370
Budgam, Oct 31: Dissenting National Conference MP Aga Ruhullah Mehdi on Saturday reiterated that he would resign from the party as well as his Lok Sabha membership on November 3. The NC MP said his decision is rooted in principles and the alleged failure of the NC leadership to honour electoral promises made to the people. Speaking to reporters in Budgam, Ruhullah said his resignation announcement had been made earlier and would be implemented on November 3, the death anniversary of his father, Martyr Aga Syed Mehdi. A public programme will be organised at Behisht-e-Zehra Park near the DC Office in Budgam, he said. Clarifying his position amid speculation over possible attempts to destabilise the elected government, Ruhullah said he was neither in favour of horse-trading nor wanted to be associated with any such activity. The National Conference government should be allowed to complete its five-year term, and governments should not be brought down through horse-trading, the MP said. He said his disagreement with the party leadership was based on promises made during the elections, particularly regarding the restoration of Article 370, constitutional rights, reservation issues and the release of prisoners. There is no personal grievance over not getting any position or chair. My fight is based on principles and the promises made by the National Conference to the people during elections, he said. Ruhullah also referred to remarks by NC president Dr Farooq Abdullah regarding the partys position on Article 370 and questioned why he should continue holding a parliamentary seat under the partys symbol when the leadership was no longer willing to pursue that political struggle. Why should I continue holding a seat when the party itself does not want to fight for Article 370 and our constitutional rights? I do not want to become part of any confusion or deception, he said. Ruhullah said he was prepared to face the political consequences of his decision, adding that if people supported his position, the opportunity to represent them through the parliamentary platform could arise again. The MP further appealed to people who believed in principled politics, transparency and political accountability to participate in the gathering, saying the programme would provide an opportunity for like-minded people from across Jammu and Kashmir to come together.(KNO)
PM Modi visits CCIC Pavilion at Bharat Parv 2026 in Gujarat
New Delhi, Oct 31: Prime Minister Narendra Modi on friday visited the pavilion of the Central Cottage Industries Corporation of India Ltd. (CCIC) at Bharat Parv 2026 in Ekta Nagar, Kevadia, Gujarat, where he was briefed on the corporations rich legacy and its initiatives to promote Indias traditional handloom and handicraft heritage. The visit highlighted CCICs longstanding association with artisans and weavers and its continued efforts to showcase and preserve the countrys rich cultural craftsmanship. CCIC Pavilion presents the Corporations journey of empowering artisans and weavers by providing them with better market access and sustainable livelihood opportunities. Through its initiatives, CCIC is actively contributing to the vision of Vocal for Local and taking Local to Global, by connecting Indias traditional craftsmanship with wider domestic and international markets. Bimal Gopalachari, Managing Director, CCIC, along with officials of the Corporation, artisans and weavers, were present at the Pavilion. The Pavilion showcases the exceptional skills and craftsmanship of artisans from different parts of the country, including artisans from Gujarat demonstrating traditional artwork using Agate stones and semi-precious stones and intricate Appliqu work. CCIC is celebrates the rich and diverse heritage of Indian handloom and handicrafts, bringing together exceptional artistry, creativity and craftsmanship from across the country and showcases a wide range of traditional and handcrafted products that reflect Indias vibrant cultural legacy and the timeless beauty of its indigenous art forms.
Mubarak Gul to reveal everything about NC on November 4
Srinagar, Oct 31: Senior National Conference leader Mubarak Gul has said he will reveal details about developments within the party at a press conference on November 4, amid uncertainty over his appointment as General Secretary. Gul said he had so far maintained silence but would disclose everything about the developments within the party when he addresses the media, news agency KNT reported. Gul was responding to a question about the party leaderships decision to retain Ali Mohammad Sagar as General Secretary despite his appointment to the post earlier this week. On October 27, NC president Farooq Abdullah appointed Gul as General Secretary after Sagar was inducted into the Omar Abdullah-led Council of Ministers. However, on October 30, the party issued a fresh order directing Sagar to continue as General Secretary until further orders, raising questions over Guls appointment. The developments come amid reported discontent within the ruling party following the recent Cabinet expansion, which left several senior legislators out of the government. Guls November 4 press conference is expected to shed light on the controversy surrounding the partys organisational leadership and the ongoing developments within the NC.
Memorandum sent to NCs top brass? Srinagar, Oct 31: Legislators of the National Conference (NC), who are up in arms against the party leadership over Tuesdays cabinet reshuffle-cum-expansion, have prepared a memorandum listing a set of demands, including a cabinet reshuffle, intensified efforts for the restoration of statehood and Article 370, and the time-bound implementation [] The post Apart from cabinet reshuffle, NC MLAs seek intensification of struggle for statehood, Article 370, time-bound implementation of 2024 manifesto appeared first on Northlines .
Burning Eyes After Hours on Your Phone: Screen Strain or Dry Eye?
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Salman Sagar dismisses reports of dissent within NC, says party remains strong
Srinagar, Oct 31: Senior National Conference leader Salman Sagar on Saturday dismissed reports of growing resentment and internal differences within the party, saying the National Conference remained strong and its legislators continued to have complete faith in the leadership. Reacting to reports that around 20 MLAs had demanded the removal of an adviser and certain ministers from the Cabinet, reportedly issuing a 15-day ultimatum to the leadership, Sagar said the situation was being exaggerated. I don't think the matter is the way you are presenting it. We had a discussion with some of our senior colleagues, he said. Describing the gathering of legislators as a normal meeting, Sagar said the media had given it unnecessary prominence. What was essentially a normal meeting has been turned into something else by the media hype, he said, adding that the National Conference had been a strong party and would continue to remain so. There can be grievances. Anyone can have grievances, including me. At the same time, everyone has the right to express their displeasure, he said. However, Sagar maintained that the resentment within the party was not as serious as being portrayed. Our MLAs have complete faith in the leadership. They trust the leadership, and these minor issues keep happening within families. This is an internal matter of our family, he said. He said the legislators would meet party president Dr Farooq Abdullah and Chief Minister Omar Abdullah to discuss their concerns and could also submit a memorandum. Sagar said the leadership would examine their demands and consider addressing those found to be genuine. If he finds any of the points justified and genuine, some of them may be addressed. It is also possible that certain things will be corrected, he said. Targeting those he accused of trying to exploit the situation, Sagar said the National Conference's opponents would not succeed in creating divisions within the party. Those who are trying to create a controversy out of this, particularly the traditional enemies of the National Conference who want such things to happen, will fail this time as well, he said. On questions surrounding the party's organisational decisions, including Sagar's appointment as general secretary, he said there was no reason for suspicion, adding that administrative considerations could have been involved. Dr Sahib would know better. There must have been some reason behind whatever decision the leadership took, he said. Reaffirming the position of senior party leaders amid speculation over their reported dissatisfaction, Sagar named senior leaders Gulam Hassan Mir (Gul Sahib), Mohammad Akbar Lone (Gurezi Sahib) and Kaiser Jamsheed Lone, saying they remained firmly with the party. Don't be under the impression that they are going anywhere. They are pillars of the National Conference here, he said.
Salman Sagar dismisses reports of rift in National Conference
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IPS officer who led Pahalgam attack probe bags Home Ministers medal
Srinagar, Oct 31: IPS officer Sandeep Chaudhary, a 2012-batch officer who headed the investigation into the Pahalgam terror attack, has been awarded the Kendriya Grihmantri Dakshata Padak for outstanding work in investigation. The medal is among the awards conferred on 490 personnel from various States, Union Territories, Central Armed Police Forces (CAPFs) and Central Police Organisations (CPOs) for the year 2026, according to the Ministry of Home Affairs (MHA). The Ministry said the medal recognises excellent work, promotes high professional standards and boosts the morale of police and other personnel. The award was instituted by the Ministry of Home Affairs through a notification dated February 1, 2024, and is conferred on personnel of police forces, security organisations, intelligence wings, CAPFs, CPOs, the National Security Guard, Assam Rifles and forensic science departments for excellence in operations, outstanding investigation, exceptional performance, intelligence services and meritorious work in forensic science, the Ministry said. The medal is announced every year on October 31 to mark the birth anniversary of Sardar Vallabhbhai Patel.(KNO)
PM Modi congratulates scientists, engineers at ISRO on successful launch of NVS-03
New Delhi, Oct 31: Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Saturday congratulated scientists and engineers at ISRO on the successful launch of GSLV-F18 carrying NVS-03 and said the mission marks an important step in strengthening NavIC, the country's indigenous satellite navigation system. Modi also said that equipped with enhanced capabilities, NVS-03 will further India's pursuit of self-reliance in critical technologies and support navigation services that benefit the people. Congratulations to our scientists and engineers at ISRO on the successful launch of GSLV-F18 carrying NVS-03. This mission marks an important step in strengthening NavIC, our indigenous satellite navigation system, he said in a post on X. The prime minister said the dedication and ingenuity of India's space scientists continue to make the nation proud. India's independent regional navigation satellite system NavIC was restored to its minimum operational configuration of four satellites on Friday as ISRO successfully launched its navigation satellite NVS-03, which was placed into the designated injection orbit by a GSLV rocket. The second-generation navigation satellite NVS-03, with indigenous and procured atomic clock, has a wide array of applications, including civilian use like real-time tracking of trains, vehicles and shipping vessels.
Abrogation of Article 370 integrated Kashmir with India: Amit Shah
Srinagar, Oct 31: Union Home Minister Amit Shah on Saturday said the abrogation of Article 370 had integrated Kashmir with the rest of the country, describing it as one of the major achievements of the Narendra Modi government. Addressing a gathering ahead of flagging off the Run for Unity in New Delhi on the occasion of Rashtriya Ekta Diwas, marking the birth anniversary of Sardar Vallabhbhai Patel, Shah said several significant decisions had been taken during Prime Minister Narendra Modis tenure, including the abrogation of Article 370, elimination of Naxalism and implementation of the One Nation, One Tax system. When we succeed in building a drug-free India, it will be the most significant achievement among all these initiatives for the countrys youth and its future, he said. Shah set December 31, 2029, as the target for making India completely drug-free, saying the vision of a Viksit Bharat begins with the creation of a Nasha-Mukt Bharat. He said Indias linguistic, cultural, traditional and religious diversity is its strength and reflected the message of national unity associated with Sardar Patel. Referring to the governments fight against Naxalism, Shah said India has moved beyond the shadow of Naxalism on March 31 this year and was now moving towards becoming a drug-free nation. He said collective efforts are needed to protect the countrys youth from drugs and build a stronger and more prosperous India.(KNO)
Womans body recovered in Udhampur
Udhampur, Oct 31: The body of a woman was recovered under suspicious circumstances near the CO Office in Udhampur on Saturday morning, officials said. An official said that a police team rushed to the spot after receiving information and took the body into its custody. He said an Eco vehicle was also found at the location, from which some personal belongings, like scarf, were recovered. The official said the identity of the deceased and the exact cause of death are yet to be ascertained, while further investigation is underway.(KNO)
When a blunder led to a news scoop
It rarely happens that a reporter makes a big blunder, and the blunder leads him to the biggest news story of his career. Perhaps, it was fate. Exactly 42 years ago, Indira Gandhi was shot by two of her own security guards at her prime ministerial residence around 9:30 in the morning on October 31, 1984. The news spread like wildfire that she has been taken to AIIMS for treatment. This reporter quickly reached AIIMS riding the pillion of the scooter of his professional friend, Anil Tyagi. Acting smart, the duo decided not to go to the emergency ward from the main gate. Instead, they entered AIIMS from the side gate located on the Ring Road, and rode straight to the Directors bungalow. It was an act of sheer stupidity. Why would the Director be at home when the Prime Minister has been shot? That morning, unrelated to the shooting, a top-level routine meeting had already been held in AIIMS to appoint Dr. Sneh Bhargava as the new Director. When the journos reached the Directors bungalow, it was locked. This reporter and his friend felt like fools. They had no option but to turn the scooter around and exit the AIIMS campus and re-enter from the main gate leading to the emergency ward. After all, that was the place to get real news. But, fortunately, the reporters did not need to reach the right place. Fatefully, on the way towards the side gate, the reporters spotted a bunch of young doctors, with grave faces, talking animatedly with one another. Such a scene is almost surely bound to get noticed by a journalist. They were all standing at the gate of the doctors hostel. The reporters quietly parked the scooter and merged into the crowd. The fraternity conversation between the doctors turned out to be a scoop, on a platter, for the reporter duo. The doctors doing the talking were senior residents who were looking after the emergency ward when Indira Gandhi was brought in. They had examined her themselves. They were sharing the story with their colleagues. Indira Gandhi had been brought dead to the hospital. There was no pulse, no heartbeat, no sign of life. They had informed their seniors at lightning speed. Meanwhile crowds had begun to build up outside the emergency ward. The AIIMS administration took two quick decisions. One: They shifted Indira Gandhis body to an operation theatre on the sixth floor. Two: They persuaded all the senior residents present in the emergency ward to vacate their post and go back to their hostel. Free from duty, those doctors returned to the hostel and were sharing their once-in-a-lifetime experience with their fellows. After hearing out all the details, this journalist asked gently, doctor sahib, was Indira Gandhi clinically dead?. The doctors reply was categorical. Not just clinically, even otherwise she was dead. Suddenly, the doctor realised that he was interacting with two unknown faces. He wanted to know their identity. The reporters replied politely that they were just passing by, and had joined the group out of curiosity. Both the journos had got the final news from the horses mouth. Now they did not need to go to emergency ward for confirmation. So they parked the scooter behind the academic block, and entered AIIMS from the rear. There was no one there to stop them. Walking unhindered through the corridors of the academic block, the two reporters reached the backdoor of the emergency ward, and walked right into it. Before anyone could realise what was happening, suddenly the front door of the emergency ward opened, and Chandra Shekhar walked in. The reporters greeted him with folded hands. He caught hold of their hands and took them along with him right up to the sixth floor. This was where Indira Gandhis body was being embalmed because it had to be kept in state at Teen Murti Bhawan for people to have their last darshan. Embalming was proving to be a difficult task. The body was riddled with bullet wounds. A total of 36 bullets, fired at point blank range, had pierced through her frail frame. No human being could have survived such a lethal attack. The doctors walked Chandra Shekhar alone, a little further down the corridor, and whispered something into his ears. He nodded and, with a grim face, returned to leave. The three walked back through the emergency ward, and emerged outside from the front door. This was where a crowd of journalists and Congress workers had gathered, anxious for news. The AIIMS administration had deliberately misinformed everyone. The plan was to keep the news under wraps to enable Rajiv Gandhi to be smoothly sworn in as the next Prime Minister. The AIIMS administration had succeeded in withholding the vital information. The journalists waiting outside the emergency ward were under the impression that a wounded Indira Gandhi is being operated upon, to save her life. This reporters professional senior, Kumkum Chadha, pointed out towards a van parked some distance away, and it was believed that it had brought blood for the operation. When this reporter gave her the news that Indira Gandhi was dead, she did not believe it. Rajiv Gandhi returned from West Bengal to Delhi by 4 p.m. President Zail Singh returned from North Yemen to Delhi by 4:30 p.m. Around 6:30 pm, Rajiv Gandhi was sworn in at Ashoka Hall, Rashtrapati Bhawan. Meanwhile, BBC had broken the news by 1 p.m. IST. Major Indian newspapers had brought out special afternoon editions with screaming banner headlines announcing the news. Doordarshan had been obedient, as expected. It finally put out the news at 6 p.m.
Seven injured in Samba as bus rams into Truck
Samba, Oct 31: At least seven persons were injured after a bus and a truck collided head-on in the Sandbari area of Samba district on Saturday, officials said. An official said that the collision triggered a rescue operation, with local residents rushing to the spot and helping evacuate the injured passengers from the bus. The injured were shifted to District Hospital Samba for treatment, while their identities are being ascertained, the official said. Police have registered a case and further proceedings are underway.(KNO)
US approves a proposed USD 2.1 billion sale of Patriot interceptors to Ukraine after alleged holdup
Washington, Oct 31: The Trump administration has said that it has approved a proposed USD 2.1 billion sale of Patriot air defense interceptors for Ukraine after Kyiv had accused the Pentagon of delaying delivery of the vital munition needed to stop Russian ballistic missiles. The State Department said 500 Patriot missiles are being purchased for Ukraine with donations from Canada, Germany and Norway through a US programme and that no American funds were involved. This proposed sale will support the foreign policy and national security objectives of the United States by improving the security of a partner country that is a force for political and economic stability in Europe, the department said in a press release. Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy has warned this month that his country had nearly run out of the vital military munition it needs to combat Moscow's attacks as tensions with US President Donald Trump's administration escalated. The Ukrainian leader had accused the Pentagon of delaying the delivery of the missiles that other countries have purchased for Ukraine. He also said US intelligence that warns of incoming Russian attacks had been interrupted and the Starlink satellite internet service had been throttled. Ukraine says Starlink speeds and intelligence have been restored.
Sriharikota, Oct 31: India's independent regional navigation satellite system NavIC was restored to its minimum operational configuration of four satellites on Friday as ISRO successfully launched its navigation satellite NVS-03, which was placed into the designated injection orbit by a GSLV rocket. The second-generation navigation satellite NVS-03 with indigenous and procured atomic clocks has a wide array of applications including civilian use like real time tracking of trains, vehicles, and shipping vessels. Further, the NavIC constellation is an important component of the 'one nation, one time' project, ISRO chief V Narayanan said after the successful mission launch. The NVS-03 satellite is all set to complement three other navigational satellites in operation including the NVS-01 and it will strengthen infrastructure for a robust IST with the government recently notifying the Legal Metrology (Indian Standard Time) Rules, 2026. The nation's own satellite navigation system 'NaVIC,' is the Indian version of GPS, albeit confined to the country and 1,500 km beyond. On Friday, the 50-metre-tall GSLV rocket carrying NVS-03 lifted off at the scheduled time of 11.51 pm from the second launch pad at Satish Dhawan Space Centre, following a 24-hour countdown. After a flight of about 18 minutes, which saw the successful performance of all three stages including the complex cryogenic upper stage, the primary payload got separated from the launch vehicle and was injected into a Geosynchronous Transfer Orbit (GTO). In his address following the success of the crucial mission, Narayanan said already three satellites, including NVS-01 are successfully working and now, NVS-03 has restored Position, Navigation and Timing (PNT) services. NavIC ((Navigation with Indian Constellation) is a strategic national asset which provides independent access to Position, Navigation, Timing services, and it is also used for civilian applications like real time tracking of trains, vehicles, shipping vessels, he said. Further, he asserted that the NavIC constellation is an important component of the 'one nation, one time' project. Speaking on the constellation, he said that one of the indigenous atomic clocks had already been placed in the orbit. He announced that the EOS-05 geo imaging satellite, launched in September, was working perfectly and that the space agency is getting outstanding data from it. On NVS-03, the ISRO chief said that all the vehicle systems performed as predicted, and as expected. The GSLV rocket, in its 20th flight, successfully, and precisely injected NVS-03 satellite into the designated orbit. The NVS-03 satellite mission has been accomplished with the least turnaround time of 56 days between successive GSLV missions, he said. He congratulated the entire ISRO team, industrial partners, and academia for the outstanding accomplishment, and for the success of the mission. Also, he said that almost 80 per cent of the budget has been pumped into the Indian industries. The targeted orbit of NVS-03 has a planned perigee (closest point to Earth) of 170 km and an apogee (farthest point) of 37,023 km. The 2,232 kg NVS-03 satellite will subsequently use its onboard propulsion to reach its final Geosynchronous slot at 32.5 degrees East. To ensure propulsion system reliability, ISRO flew the satellite with its pyrotechnic valves already open, an unprecedented safety measure adopted for this mission. The satellite, which features an indigenous Rubidium atomic clock, is a crucial addition to the NavIC system and will transmit signals in the L1, L5, and S bands to strengthen India's regional positioning services. Meanwhile, Union MoS (Independent Charge) Science & Technology, Jitendra Singh congratulated Team ISRO for the successful launch of GSLV-F18/NVS-03 mission. This remarkable achievement reflects India's growing prowess in Space technology and our unwavering commitment to strengthening sovereign indigenous navigation capabilities. With revolutionary Space reforms announced by PM Shri @narendramodi ji in recent years, India's success stories in Space vindicate the dream of founding fathers Vikram Sarabhai and Satish Dhawan. Today is the celebration of another proud moment for India, he said in a social media post.
JKEEGA bids farewell to CS J&K Atal Dulloo
Srinagar, Oct 30: A delegation of the Jammu and Kashmir Electrical Engineers Association (JKEEGA) called on Atal Dulloo (IAS), Chief Secretary, J&K, in his chambers at the Civil Secretariat, Srinagar, to bid him farewell on his last working day at the Civil Secretariat, Kashmir. During the interaction, General Secretary JKEEGA, Er. Pirzada Hidayatullah, as per a statement, acknowledged and appreciated his valuable contributions towards the welfare and professional interests of engineers, particularly those serving in the Power Development Department (PDD). He specifically highlighted the pivotal role played by Atal Dulloo in addressing and resolving various HR-related issues concerning Power Engineers and employees, particularly the long-pending issue of regularisation of engineers. Er. Pirzada Hidayatullah expressed the Associations sincere gratitude for his support, understanding and positive interventions in addressing the concerns of the engineering fraternity. He also wished him good health, happiness and a prosperous life ahead. The delegation was accompanied by Er. Surjeel Gani Lala, Er. Haroon Masoodi, Er. Hur e Yasrab, Er. Farhan Manzoor, Er. Tufail Ahmed Khan and Er. Amir Masoodi. JKEEGA places on record its sincere appreciation and extends its best wishes to Atal Dulloo for his future endeavours.
Committed to take development to every village, habitation: MLA Sajjad Shaheen
Banihal, Oct 30:MLA BanihalGool, Sajjad Shaheen, Friday laid the foundation stone of the MangitJamando Road, marking the commencement of work on a long-pending demand of the local population. The road, as per a statement, will provide connectivity to the picturesque tourist destination of Jamando and open new opportunities for tourism and local economic activities. Shaheen said that plans are also underway to develop a park at Jamando to further promote the area as an attractive tourist destination. He further informed that an internal circular road connecting Mangit and Mahoo has also been proposed at an estimated cost of Rs 50 lakh, and work on the project is expected to start shortly. He added that work on improving road connectivity to Mangit and the Bajnari Road is also expected to commence soon. Several other road projects aimed at connecting remote habitations and potential tourist destinations have also been taken up and proposed. On the power front, Shaheen said that separate 11 kV feeders for Neel and Ukhral were successfully commissioned yesterday at the 33/11 kV Receiving Station, Ramsoo. He said the feeder segregation fulfils a long-pending demand of the local population and is expected to improve power distribution, reduce frequent interruptions and ensure better electricity supply in Neel, Ukhral, Ramsoo and adjoining areas. Highlighting the broader development agenda of the constituency, Shaheen said that over the last two years, several major initiatives have been undertaken across BanihalGool to address the long-standing developmental deficit and improve the quality of life of the people. He said that focused efforts are underway to strengthen healthcare infrastructure, upgrade school buildings and educational facilities, improve major road networks, extend road connectivity to unconnected habitations and construct bridges in areas where people continue to face difficulties due to the absence of proper connectivity. He further said that special attention is being given to sports infrastructure, while tourism is being promoted through the development of eco-parks, recreational parks and other tourism-related faciilities. Work on several such projects have already been started, while more projects are in the pipeline. Shaheen said that remote areas such as Mangit and Mahoo have remained among the priority areas of his development agenda. Efforts are being made to improve their road connectivity and basic infrastructure so that people living in these far-flung areas can also benefit from better facilities and development opportunities. He added that the power sector is also undergoing a major strengthening and improvement exercise, with feeder segregation, augmentation of receiving stations and other infrastructure upgrades being undertaken to improve the reliability of electricity supply across the constituency. Over the last two years, our consistent effort has been to bring a visible and meaningful change in the lives of people, reduce their day-to-day difficulties and ensure that people in every part of BanihalGool can lead a dignified life. A number of important projects have already been started, while several others are at different stages of planning and execution, Shaheen said. He added that a new phase of development, involving projects of significant and transformative nature, has begun in the BanihalGool constituency. He assured that the pace of implementation would be further accelerated in the coming months to ensure timely completion of ongoing works and early commencement of the projects still in the pipeline. Shaheen reiterated his commitment to taking development to every village and habitation, particularly those which have remained underserved for decades. He also expressed gratitude to Chief Minister Omar Abdullah and the concerned departments for their continued support and cooperation in advancing the development agenda of BanihalGool.
Democratic struggle for rights, identity, dignity of people of J&K to continue: NC
Srinagar, Oct 30: The Jammu and Kashmir National Conference Provincial President Showkat Ahmad Mir Friday reiterated the partys unwavering commitment to the restoration of Jammu and Kashmirs special status and full statehood. He said that the National Conference has always represented the rights, identity and dignity of the people of Jammu and Kashmir and will continue to raise their voice with full strength on every democratic and constitutional platform. The Provincial President, as per a party statement, urged party functionaries and workers to remain prepared to face the prevailing circumstances and all emerging challenges, while further strengthening their engagement with the people. He said that the real strength of the National Conference lies in the trust of the people and the selfless dedication of its workers. Every party worker, he said, must work with unity, discipline and determination to carry forward the partys mission. He asserted that depriving the people of Jammu and Kashmir of their constitutional rights can neither suppress their voice nor silence the National Conference. He said the party would continue to raise the concerns of the people in every forum, democratic institution and appropriate platform across the country, while pursuing all peaceful, democratic and constitutional means for securing their democratic, constitutional and legal rights. Showkat said that since 2015, the people of Jammu and Kashmir have endured prolonged hardships, uncertainty and numerous challenges, severely affecting their daily lives, economy and livelihood opportunities. In such circumstances, he said, providing maximum relief to the people has become an urgent necessity and remains the foremost priority of the present government. He appreciated the welfare measures undertaken by the government led by Chief Minister Omar Abdullah, stating that the government is working on the ground to address public grievances, improve basic amenities, accelerate developmental activities and provide relief to people facing various difficulties. He said the induction of additional ministers into the Cabinet has created further avenues for addressing public grievances and ensuring better public service delivery, adding that the benefits of this expansion would become increasingly visible to the people. While acknowledging that the government continues to face constraints due to limited powers, financial difficulties, administrative hurdles and other challenges, he maintained that it is moving in the right direction and utilising all available resources to serve the people. He reiterated that the National Conference remains steadfast in its commitments and principles, adding that the party's democratic struggle for the restoration of the dignity, identity, special constitutional rights and statehood of the people of Jammu and Kashmir would continue with full vigour, responsibility and determination.
TCI MAX launches 53 Grade Winter Shield cement in Kashmir
Srinagar, Oct 30: TCI MAX Cement has launched its 53 Grade Cement in new packaging under the brand name 53 Grade Winter Shield, targeting the growing demand for reliable construction materials in Kashmir, where freezing temperatures and harsh winter conditions pose challenges to construction activity. The product was unveiled at a launch event held at the Sheraton Hotel on Thursday, with company representatives highlighting the importance of strength, stability and reliability in construction during the regions winter months. The company said Winter Shield was previously available in regular 53 Grade Cement bags and has now been introduced in distinctive new packaging to reflect changing market requirements and customer demand. Due to the growing demand for 53 Grade Cement, we have introduced 53 Grade Winter Shield, keeping in mind the evolving market and customer requirements, said Nisar Ahmad Bhat, Marketing Manager at TCI MAX Cement. He said the launch reflected the companys focus on providing strength, stability and protection, particularly in a region where construction materials have to withstand challenging weather conditions. Tawseef Ahmad, Sales Manager at TCI MAX Cement, said the product was aimed at meeting the specific construction requirements of Kashmir, where low temperatures and severe winter conditions make the selection of dependable building materials important. When it comes to harsh weather conditions in Kashmir and freezing temperatures, TCI MAX is among the most preferred and dependable cement brands. With the launch of 53 Grade Winter Shield, we aim to make construction more dependable and reliable, he said. The launch comes amid growing demand for 53 Grade Cement in the region, with builders and customers increasingly focusing on strength and reliability while undertaking construction during the winter season.
SKUAST-K witnesses live telecast of 24th PM-KISAN instalment release
Srinagar, Oct 30: Sher-e-Kashmir University of Agricultural Sciences and Technology of Kashmir (SKUAST-Kashmir) witnessed the live telecast of the national programme marking the release of the 24th instalment of the Pradhan Mantri Kisan Samman Nidhi (PM-KISAN) scheme at its Shalimar Campus today. Held under the guidance of Honble Vice-Chancellor, Prof. Nazir Ahmad Ganai, the programme brought together around 650 farmers, besides university officials, scientists, students, extension functionaries and representatives of various government departments. The programme was attended by Prof. Raihana Habib Kanth, Director Extension, SKUAST-Kashmir; Shri G. A. Sofi, Secretary Technical, Agriculture Production Department, Jammu and Kashmir; Shri Sartaj Ahmad, Director Agriculture Kashmir; Dr Ashfaq Ahmad Kelan, Director Animal Husbandry Kashmir; Dr. Bashir Amin Kuthu, Director Sheep Husbandry Kashmir; and Smt. Ravdeep Kour, Deputy Secretary, Agriculture Production Department. The participants witnessed the live address of Honble Prime Minister Shri Narendra Modi from Banaskantha, Gujarat, during which over 18,690 crore was released through Direct Benefit Transfer (DBT) to more than 9.34 crore eligible farmer families across the country under the 24th instalment of PM-KISAN. The national programme also marked the dedication of 521 agricultural infrastructure units and the inauguration of 12 horticulture clusters, aimed at strengthening agricultural infrastructure, enhancing production efficiency and promoting value-chain development in the horticulture sector. Under the PM-KISAN scheme, eligible farmer families receive annual financial assistance of 6,000 in three equal instalments of 2,000 each, directly credited to their bank accounts. The scheme provides income support to farmers to help them meet agricultural and household requirements. The live telecast provided an opportunity for farmers and other stakeholders to gain insights into various government initiatives aimed at strengthening agricultural infrastructure, improving farm productivity and enhancing rural livelihoods. The programme also highlighted the importance of coordination among agricultural universities, government departments and farming communities in facilitating access to farmer welfare schemes and institutional support services. SKUAST-Kashmir, through its Directorate of Extension and network of Krishi Vigyan Kendras (KVKs), continues to strengthen farmer-oriented outreach, capacity building and dissemination of scientific agricultural technologies across Jammu and Kashmir, with a focus on improving farm productivity, profitability and sustainability.
Khet Bachao Abhiyan concludes in Pulwama with coordinated farmer outreach, awareness activities
Pulwama, Oct 30: Khet Bachao Abhiyan, which commenced on October 22, 2026, concluded today with a series of coordinated farmer outreach and awareness activities across Pulwama district. The concluding day also featured activities connected with the release of the 24th instalment of Pradhan Mantri Kisan Samman Nidhi (PM-KISAN) by the Honble Prime Minister, with the proceedings followed through live telecast. As part of the campaign, the Chief Agriculture Officer, Pulwama, coordinated the observance of Khet Bachao Abhiyan across the district and issued a calendar for its observance in each Agriculture Zone, facilitating a structured programme of farmer-oriented activities throughout the campaign period. On the concluding day, programmes were organised at Town Hall Tral and Town Hall Awantipora under the leadership of ADC Tral and ADC Awantipora, respectively. The main district-level programme was organised at Circuit House, Pulwama, under the chairmanship of District Development Commissioner, Pulwama, Kuldeep Krishan Sidha, with farmers participating in large numbers along with district officers and officials from the Agriculture, Horticulture and allied departments. The farmer gatherings held under the campaign were utilised for saturation of AgriStack IDs, dissemination of information regarding agriculture-related schemes and services, Census-related activities and sensitisation against drug abuse. Farmers were also sensitised against the cultivation of poppy and other narcotic plants and encouraged to contribute towards efforts aimed at combating drug abuse. A special focus was laid on the PM-KISAN saturation drive, under which eligible farmers and beneficiaries were identified and verified, while pending issues were taken up for resolution as per the prescribed guidelines. The campaign also witnessed effective inter-departmental coordination and Information, Education and Communication (IEC) activities, with concerned line departments working together to disseminate information regarding PM-KISAN, the 24th instalment and other agriculture-related schemes and initiatives. The programmes witnessed participation of district officers and officials from the Agriculture, Horticulture and allied departments, who extended support to the campaign and undertook necessary field-level activities within their respective jurisdictions. The conclusion of the Khet Bachao Abhiyan marked a coordinated district-wide effort towards strengthening farmer outreach, facilitating beneficiary saturation and verification, promoting awareness about government schemes and ensuring effective convergence among departments for improved delivery of services and benefits to the farming community.
Jio adds nearly 10 times more core mobile subscribers than Airtel in September
Srinagar, Oct 30:Reliance Jio strengthened its position in Indias telecom market in September, adding nearly 10 times more core mobile subscribers than Bharti Airtel, according to the latest data released by the Telecom Regulatory Authority of India (TRAI). As per analyst reports based on TRAI data, Indias core mobile subscriber base, excluding machine-to-machine (M2M) connections, increased by 2.2 million during September to reach 1.15 billion. Jio accounted for 1.9 million of these additions, while Airtel added just 0.2 million subscribers. Jio ended September with 511.14 million core mobile subscribers, maintaining its lead over Airtel, which had 494.29 million users. Airtels subscriber additions marked its weakest monthly expansion in recent months. Analysts have attributed the slowdown partly to the withdrawal of its affordable Rs 299 prepaid plan in August, which may have affected its ability to attract and retain price-sensitive customers. Although Airtel recorded gross wireless subscriber additions of 2.69 million during September, its much smaller gain in core mobile users indicates that a significant portion of its additions came from M2M connections rather than regular mobile subscribers. The trend was also reflected in active subscriber numbers, which provide a broader indication of actual network usage. The industrys active core mobile subscriber base, measured through the Visitor Location Register (VLR), increased by 0.6 million during September. Jio alone added 1.3 million active subscribers, while Airtel lost 0.2 million and Vodafone Idea registered a decline of 0.3 million. The figures indicate that Jio was the only major private telecom operator among the three to record growth in its active subscriber base during the month. Septembers numbers underline Jios continued dominance in subscriber additions, with the company accounting for nearly nine out of every 10 net core mobile subscribers added by the industry. For Airtel, the slowdown in core mobile additions and the decline in active users present a challenge, particularly following the discontinuation of its Rs 299 prepaid plan. Jio, meanwhile, continued to widen its lead over its nearest competitor in Indias highly competitive telecom market.
J&K Bank holds breast cancer awareness programme at Corporate Headquarters
Srinagar, Oct 30: Promoting awareness about breast health and encouraging informed, supportive conversations, J&K Bank today organised a Breast Cancer Awareness Programme at its Corporate Headquarters. Held under the message Know More, Fear Less, Act Early, the programme brought together medical experts, cancer survivors and Bank employees to discuss breast health, early detection, the role of caregivers and compassionate support. Executive Director Sudhir Gupta chaired the programme in the presence of Chief General Managers Imtiyaz Ahmad Bhat, Ashutosh Sareen and Rajesh Malla Tikoo, General Managers, DGMs, medical experts and other senior officers and staff. Divisional and Zonal Offices across J&K and outside also joined the awareness program through VC. Speaking on the occasion, Executive Director Sudhir Gupta said, Behind every cancer diagnosis is a person whose concerns extend to her family, her work and the uncertainties ahead. Through this programme, we want to encourage conversations that women can engage in without hesitation or embarrassment. Within the Bank, we must nurture a culture where our colleagues feel comfortable seeking support and giving their health the attention it deserves. The purpose of awareness is fulfilled when better understanding translates into timely action and greater care for one another, he added. In her opening remarks, General Manager Aneeta Nehru welcomed the guests saying, Prioritising our health is a necessity, and making time for screening and seeking medical advice promptly can make a crucial difference to treatment outcomes. While thanking the Banks leadership for conducting the awareness program, Renowned Surgical Oncologist Dr Shabnam Bashir provided a detailed overview of different types of cancer and underlined the importance of early diagnosis. Many cancers can be treated successfully when detected at an early stage. Yet around 60 per cent of the cases we receive are already at an advanced stage. We need to talk openly about cancer, recognise warning signs and seek medical advice promptly so that opportunities for early treatment are not lost, she said. She also highlighted the contribution of tobacco use and unhealthy lifestyle choices to cancer risk. Pain management and palliative care specialist, Dr Henana Berjes, speaking on the role of caregivers, said, Care must extend beyond managing physical pain to understanding the emotional distress that patients and their families experience. Breast cancer patients need us to stand by them with an extra measure of love, patience and compassion. Being present, listening to their concerns and offering practical help can make a meaningful difference to their experience of care. Regarding the nutritional needs of breast cancer patients, Onconutritionist Dr Umi Laila said, Nutrition is an important part of supportive care during treatment and recovery. The emphasis should be on informed, balanced dietary choices suited to each patients needs and treatment requirements. Two cancer survivors shared their experiences, bringing a personal perspective to the programme. An interactive question-and-answer session provided participants with an opportunity to raise their concerns and seek guidance from the experts. The programme concluded with a vote of thanks by General Manager Hafeeza Rahim, who expressed gratitude to the chairperson, senior management executives, medical experts, survivors and participants, while encouraging them to carry the message of awareness and care into their families and communities.
Council of Ministers approves 2 new industrial estates in J&K at Rs 162.72 Cr
Srinagar, Oct 30: The Council of Ministers, recently chaired by Chief Minister Omar Abdullah, has approved the establishment of two new Industrial Estates in Jammu & Kashmir, involving a combined investment of Rs 162.72 crore. The approved projects include a New Industrial Estate at Pehlipora, Lar, Ganderbal, at a cost of Rs 60.92 crore, and Industrial Estate Bhagthali (Part-II), Kathua, at a cost of Rs 101.80 crore. The Chief Minister said the projects would strengthen industrial infrastructure, attract investment, promote local manufacturing and create new employment opportunities for the youth. He added that these initiatives would contribute to sustained economic growth and further strengthen the industrial ecosystem across Jammu & Kashmir.
PM Modi visits J&K pavilion at Bharat Parv in Gujarat
Ekta Nagar, Oct 30:Prime Minister Narendra Modi visited the Jammu and Kashmir pavilion at Bharat Parv in Gujarats Ekta Nagar, where the Union Territorys rich cultural heritage, traditional handicrafts, handlooms, local products and emerging tourism destinations were showcased. During the visit, Director Tourism Jammu, Dr Vikas Gupta, briefed the Prime Minister about the pavilions theme and the diverse range of traditional products, cultural attractions and tourism opportunities being presented by Jammu and Kashmir Tourism Department. The participation was organised under the guidance of Secretary Tourism, J&K, Avny Lavasa, and Managing Director, Jammu and Kashmir Tourism Development Corporation (JKTDC), Akriti Sagar, with the objective of promoting the regions cultural identity, indigenous craftsmanship and tourism potential. The pavilion prominently featured products under the One District One Product (ODOP) initiative, highlighting the distinctive crafts and agricultural produce associated with different districts of Jammu and Kashmir. According to officials, the Prime Minister showed keen interest in the products on display and enquired about Basohli paintings, Sulai honey, garlic and Rajma from Jammu, besides walnuts, saffron, Pashmina and Kani shawls from Kashmir. A major attraction at the pavilion was a live demonstration of traditional Sozni embroidery by renowned artisan Gulab Gilani, offering visitors an opportunity to witness the intricate craftsmanship and skills involved in producing Kashmirs celebrated embroidered textiles. The cultural presentation also featured a live Santoor performance by Kashmiri artist Younis Majid, highlighting the Valleys distinctive musical heritage and artistic traditions. The Tourism Department showcased several emerging and offbeat destinations, including Patnitop, Bhaderwah, Basohli-Sarthal, Panchari and the seven lakes of Rajouri and Poonch in the Jammu region. Tourist destinations in Kashmir, including Gurez Valley, Bangus and Yousmarg, were also highlighted for their scenic landscapes and potential for adventure, nature-based and experiential tourism. Officials said the focus on lesser-explored destinations was aimed at diversifying tourism circuits, encouraging longer visitor stays, supporting local communities and creating economic opportunities in different parts of Jammu and Kashmir. The pavilion also promoted the Union Territorys potential in adventure tourism, pilgrimage tourism, heritage tourism, rural tourism and nature-based travel. General Manager JKTDC Srinagar Altaf Hussain Bhat, Assistant Director Tourism Jammu Vishal Sadhotra and Manager JKTDC Srinagar Mushtaq Ahmad Bhat were also present during the Prime Ministers visit. Artists and artisans participating in the event expressed gratitude to the Jammu and Kashmir Government and the Tourism Department for providing them with an opportunity to showcase their craftsmanship and artistic talent at a national platform. Officials said the participation at Bharat Parv offered an opportunity to introduce visitors from across the country to Jammu and Kashmirs diverse tourism destinations, traditional products and cultural heritage.
6 killed as helicopter crashes near Joshimath in Uttarakhand
New Delhi, Oct 30:Six people, including a pilot and five passengers, were killed after a helicopter crashed near Chayee village in the Joshimath area of Uttarakhands Chamoli district on Friday afternoon. The helicopter, operated by private aviation company Trans Bharat Aviation Pvt Ltd, was flying from Badrinath to Sahastradhara in Dehradun when it crashed near the JP Power House amid adverse weather conditions, officials said. The bodies of all six occupants were recovered from the crash site following a joint search and rescue operation involving the Army, police, district administration and State Disaster Response Force (SDRF), Hindustan Times reported. According to Chamoli District Disaster Management Officer NK Joshi, the helicopter, bearing call sign VT-HCX, took off from Badrinath at around 1.14 pm. It lost communication shortly afterwards while flying over the Jyotirmath valley, and its tracking system also stopped transmitting its location. The incident was reported through an Army post, following which rescue teams were mobilised. Drone teams were also deployed to assist in the search operation. Two helicopters of the Uttarakhand Civil Aviation Development Authority were deployed for aerial reconnaissance as the state government launched an extensive rescue operation. Chief Minister Pushkar Singh Dhami said he was personally monitoring the situation and had directed officials to ensure immediate medical assistance and airlifting of critically injured passengers, if required. In a post on X, Dhami said a joint rescue operation was being conducted by the district administration, Disaster Management Department and SDRF. The cause of the crash was not immediately known.
Govt reconstitutes Hajj Committee
Sagar reappointed as NC General Secretary
NC likely to field Rather on Srinagar-Budgam parliamentary seat
Srinagar, Oct 30:Ruling National Conference (NC) is considering veteran NC leader and Legislative Assembly Speaker Abdul Rahim Rather as a possible candidate for the Srinagar Lok Sabha seat after Member of Parliament from Srinagar-Budgam parliamentary constituency Aga Syed Ruhullah vacates it on November 3, sources said. They said senior NC legislator Nazir Ahmad Khan (Gurezi) was being considered for Speaker of the Jammu and Kashmir Legislative Assembly. However, talking to Greater Kashmir, Khan said that he had not been informed about any such decision. On October 27, at the swearing-in ceremony of four new ministers in Chief Minister Omar Abdullah-led government's Council of Ministers (CoM), over a dozen NC legislators were conspicuous by their absence, with reports attributing the absences to dissatisfaction over the distribution of ministerial positions and regional representation. Gurezi was among those who did not attend the swearing-in ceremony of the newly-inducted ministers. Senior party leaders subsequently visited Gurezi at his Srinagar residence amid reports that he was unhappy at being left out of the expanded cabinet. Against this backdrop, reports that Rather could be considered for the Srinagar-Budgam parliamentary seat and Gurezi for the Legislative Assembly Speakers post have added another dimension to the partys internal calculations. Rather, a veteran NC leader and seven-time legislator from Charar-e-Sharief in central Kashmir's Budgam district, was elected Speaker of the Jammu and Kashmir Legislative Assembly in November 2024. Any move to field him for the Srinagar Lok Sabha seat would involve a change in his current legislative role, subject to formal party decisions and the procedures governing the respective offices.
17 NC MLAs, 1 independent MLA hold closed-door meeting in Srinagar
Srinagar, Oct 30:Seventeen legislators of the ruling National Conference (NC), including MubarikGul, who was announced as the party's general secretary just three days ago, and an independent MLA, held a closed-door meeting in Srinagar on Friday amid mounting discontent within the party over Chief Minister Omar Abdullah's recent cabinet expansion. According to sources privy to the meeting, 17 NC MLA who attended the meeting included MLA GurezNazir Ahmad Khan (Gurezi), MLA EidgahMubarikGul, MLA Pampore Justice (Retd) HasnainMasoodi, MLA SonawariHilal Akbar Lone, MLA Poonch Haveli Aijaz Jan, MLA BudhalJavaidChoudhary, MLA Uri Sajad Shafi, MLA KarnahJavid Ahmad Mirchal, MLA RajporaGhulamMohiuddin Mir, MLA ChanaporaMushtaq Ahmad Guroo, MLA GulabgarhKhurshied Ahmad, MLA Ramban Arjun Singh Raju, MLA Anantnag West Abdul Majid Larmi, MLA Khan Sahib SaifuddinBhat, MLA Bijnehra Bashir Ahmad Veeri, MLA TangmarPirzada Farooq Ahmad Shah, besides host MLA LolabQaysarJamsheed Lone and independent MLA ThanamandiMuzaffar Iqbal Khan. The meeting comes days after Chief Minister Omar Abdullah inducted four legislators into his cabinet on October 27, a move that triggered resentment among several party MLAs who felt they had been overlooked despite their seniority and political experience. The meeting has raised questions about internal cohesion within the NC, although there was no immediate confirmation that the legislators had agreed on a collective course of action or were seeking a change in the party's leadership. Talking to Greater Kashmir, MLA GurezNazir Ahmad Khan (Gurezi) said that MLA Lolab Qaysar Jamsheed Lone had invited all NC legislators for a meal. Almost every NC legislator attended. We were around 20 to 25. It was not a meeting of dissidents or a protest by those who missed out on the cabinet expansion. It was just a routine meeting over a meal and, of course, several party issues were discussed, Khan said. He said the meeting had no connection with Member of Parliament Aga Syed Ruhullah, who is set to resign from the party and as a parliamentarian on November 3. Ruhullah will announce his resignation at Behisht-e-Zehra Park near the Deputy Commissioner's Office in Budgam on November 3, at a function commemorating the death anniversary of his father, Aga Syed Mehdi, who was killed in a militant attack in 2000. If the participation of 17 NC legislators and independent MLA from Thanamandi, Muzaffar Iqbal Khan at the Srinagar residence of MLA Lolab is an indication of dissent within the party, it represents a substantial section of the NC's 41-member legislative strength in the Jammu and Kashmir Assembly. The cabinet expansion brought Ali Mohammad Sagar, Mir Saifullah, Shamim Firdous, and Altaf Ahmad Wani (Kaloo) into the government. The reshuffle also saw independent MLA Satish Sharma being dropped from the cabinet. Following the cabinet expansion, several legislators publicly expressed disappointment over the appointments. MubarikGul, a six-time legislator and former Speaker of the Legislative Assembly, was among those dissatisfied with the cabinet composition. His supporters staged protests in Srinagar, demanding that he resign from the party and questioning the leadership's decision to exclude him from the government. Abdul Majeed Larmi, the MLA from Anantnag West, also questioned Wani's selection, arguing that his own seniority warranted consideration for a ministerial position. According to sources, Larmi also attended Friday's meeting in Srinagar. Bashir Ahmad Veeri, the MLA from Bijbehara, criticised the continuation of ministers whom he described as non-performing, while congratulating those inducted into the cabinet. Talking to Greater Kashmir, MLA Kangan Mian Mehar Ali said he had been invited to attend the meeting but could not do so as he was in Jammu. MLA Lal Chowk Sheikh Ahsan Ahmed told Greater Kashmir that he did not attend the meeting as he was looking after his ailing father, Sheikh Ghulam Qadir (Pardesi), at home. The sources said the legislators demanded the removal of ministers who had completed two years in office. The sources said that all NC MLAs from the Jammu region, along with the independent MLA from Thanamandi, expressed resentment over the continuation of Deputy Chief Minister Surinder Kumar Chaudhary. The legislators from the Jammu region said they had already raised concerns with Chief Minister Omar Abdullah over Chaudhary allegedly using funds allocated to the Public Works (R&B) Department largely in his own Assembly constituency while neglecting the constituencies of other legislators from the region. They said that although the Chief Minister had assured them that action would be taken on the issue, he had done nothing so far and had instead rewarded Chaudhary by retaining him as Deputy Chief Minister. The sources said that if independent MLA Satish Sharma had been dropped from the cabinet, there was no reason to continue Chaudhary and other ministers who had held their portfolios for the past two years. The NC MLAs from the Kashmir region also expressed resentment over Chief Minister's Advisor Nasir Aslam Wani allegedly calling the shots in the party, the sources said. They said the legislators from Kashmir questioned how Wani could continue to hold a position equivalent to that of a cabinet minister when several legislators who had won their seats multiple times had not been accommodated in the cabinet. The NC has 41 legislators in the 90-member Legislative Assembly, while the government is supported by the Congress, the CPI(M), and a few independent legislators. The ruling alliance and its supporting members have a strength of 53, above the 46 required for a majority. The Congress has so far stayed out of the cabinet, maintaining that it would not join the government until statehood is restored to Jammu and Kashmir, while continuing to support the administration. The internal tensions have also emerged against the backdrop of differences between Chief Minister Omar Abdullah and National Conference MP Aga Syed Ruhullah, who has been critical of aspects of the party leadership. Meanwhile, the BJP has sought to capitalise on the developments, with its Jammu and Kashmir Legislative Party leader and Leader of Opposition Sunil Sharma describing the growing discontent as a sign of trouble for the Omar Abdullah-led government. However, the reported meeting does not, by itself, indicate an immediate threat to the government's survival. The developments could become a significant test of the party's internal cohesion, particularly if the legislators move beyond individual grievances and present a coordinated set of demands to the party leadership.
Issueless NC-Congress govt belies peoples trust: Pathania
Udhampur, Oct 30:Launching a scathing attack on the National Conference-Congress government for, what he alleged, its failure to honour the promises made to the people during the assembly elections, BJP MLA from Udhampur East, Ranbir Singh Pathania on Friday maintained that the government had reduced governance to a political rhetoric, excuses and unfulfilled assurances, while the aspirations of the people continued to remain unaddressed. He was addressing the people after inaugurating and initiating a series of important developmental works in the Khandui-Khandra area. Pathania said that the National Conference had sought votes on the basis of a tall catalogue of promises, including 200 units of free electricity; free LPG cylinders; free travel and one lakh jobs for the youth. However, even after assuming power, the government failed to translate these commitments into tangible relief for the people, he claimed. An issue-less and purposeless government seems to have lost its direction and sense of responsibility. The people were given tall promises and lofty assurances, but what they are receiving in return is disappointment and disillusionment. Political rhetoric cannot substitute for governance, nor can excuses compensate for unfulfilled commitments, he asserted. Taking particular exception to what he termed the continued neglect of the Jammu region, Pathania said that the entire region was being left out of the developmental priorities of the present dispensation. From Doda and Kishtwar to the Pahari belt of Rajouri and Poonch and from Udhampur to Kathua and Samba, people across Jammu region continue to await equitable attention, development and their legitimate share in governance, BJP MLA alleged. He said that the people of Jammu region had equal aspirations and equal rights to development and there could be no justification for any discriminatory or indifferent approach towards their concerns. Elections are not merely about securing votes through attractive promises; they are about delivering on those promises. The real test of leadership lies in the roads constructed, grievances resolved, facilities created and opportunities delivered, he added. On this occasion, he also inaugurated and initiated important developmental works in the Khandui-Khandra area, aimed at strengthening rural connectivity, community infrastructure and educational facilities. A major highlight was the Naddi Talab to Khandra road project, to be taken up at an estimated cost of Rs 12 Cr. He also kickstarted construction of a shelter shed, community hall at Baba Loundna Dev Sthan at an estimated cost of Rs 30 lakh. Pathania stated that three additional classrooms would be constructed at Middle School Khandui. Timely execution, quality of construction and effective monitoring of all developmental works, he said, would remain central to his approach.
No heavy vehicle movement on Jammu-Srinagar highway for two days
Ramban, Oct 30: In view of the Darbar Move and to facilitate the smooth movement of the secretariat employees' convoy from Srinagar to Jammu, traffic authorities have imposed restrictions on the movement of heavy and medium goods vehicles on the Srinagar-Jammu National Highway (NH-44) on October 31 and November 1. As per the traffic advisory, no upward movement of heavy vehicles and medium motor vehicles, including goods carriers, will be allowed from Jakheni in Udhampur towards Srinagar on Saturday and Sunday i.e., October 31 and November 1, 2026. However, downward movement of heavy vehicles from Qazigund towards Jammu will be permitted in a regulated manner. The advisory further states that no goods carriers (heavy or medium vehicles) will be allowed to proceed from Jakheni towards Ramban, Banihal and Srinagar or from Qazigund towards Banihal, Ramban and Udhampur, after 2 am on October 31 and November 1. Meanwhile, the Srinagar-Jammu National Highway remained open for regulated two-way traffic of Light Motor Vehicles (LMVs) on Friday. Traffic authorities said very slow movement was witnessed at several stretches due to single-lane road conditions and the uneven and undulating 30-40-metre stretch at Dawal in Udhampur, besides the single-lane section between Marog and Kishtwari Pather. The movement was further affected by vehicle breakdowns between Marog and Kishtwari Pather and the crossing of nomadic herds between Banihal and Nachlana. Traffic authorities cautioned that the movement of nomadic herds could further slow down traffic on the single-lane stretch between Marog and Kishtwari Pather. Passengers and LMV operators have been advised to undertake their journeys during daytime and avoid night travel due to the possibility of shooting stones and landslides, movement of nomadic herds from the valley and ongoing construction work between Ramban and Banihal. The advisory also states that, in view of widening work being undertaken by the National Highways Authority of India (NHAI) on the Digdol-Khooni Nullah stretch, the movement of Kashmir-bound oil and gas tankers will remain restricted during daytime between 7 am and 7 pm. Since tankers carrying inflammable material are not permitted through tunnels, upward-bound tankers will be allowed beyond Chenani only between 5 pm and 5 am. Tanker operators have been advised to plan their journeys accordingly to avoid inconvenience. Goods carrier operators transporting fresh perishable commodities and livestock have been asked to plan and load their vehicles in accordance with traffic advisories issued by Traffic Police Headquarters. Heavy vehicle operators have also been advised against overloading and asked to ensure proper vehicle fitness and carry sufficient fuel before undertaking journeys on the highway. Commuters have been urged to avoid unnecessary halts between Ramban and Banihal, particularly near landslide-prone and shooting-stone areas, to ensure their safety and prevent traffic congestion.
Reasi inhabitants demand bridge over Pai nullah linking Kotli, Chamiyara
Reasi, Oct 30:Residents of Chamiyara and Kotli areas of Katra tehsil in Reasi district have urged the central government and the Jammu and Kashmir administration to immediately construct a bridge over Pai Nullah between Kotli and Chamiyara, highlighting the difficulties faced by thousands of people due to the absence of a proper crossing. Abdul Quddir Kundria, a local social activist, writer and poet, points out, Pai Nullah, which originates from the sacred surroundings of Shri Mata Vaishno Devi, flows between the areas of Chamiyara and Kotli. Nearly 30,000 people reside in these areas and their adjoining villages, including Kotli, Chamiyara, Seri and Sirla. Although roads have been constructed in the area with the support of the Railway authorities and the government, the absence of a bridge over the nullah continues to cause serious inconvenience to the local population. Kundria stated that a bridge over Pai Nullah near Noudevyian on the Katra-Reasi National Highway was also in a damaged condition. Nearly half of the structure was damaged during the previous monsoon season. Since a large number of vehicles use this bridge throughout the day and night, its present condition poses a serious threat to public safety, particularly during heavy rainfall, he maintained. Kundria, in a press statement issued on behalf of local inhabitants, urged the concerned authorities to undertake its immediate repair or construct a new bridge without further delay. He further emphasised that constructing a bridge between Chamiyara and Kotli would serve a much larger public purpose beyond providing connectivity to the local population. It, he said, would also act as an important alternative route between Katra and Reasi. In case the existing bridge near Noudevyian gets further damaged or the Katra-Reasi National Highway is disrupted due to heavy rains or any other reason, the Chamiyara-Kotli route may provide an alternative passage for vehicles, helping maintain connectivity between the two important towns, he maintains. Kundria appealed to the central government and the Jammu and Kashmir administration to treat the demand as a matter of public importance and initiate the construction of a bridge over Pai Nullah between Chamiyara and Kotli on a priority basis. He said that the proposed bridge would bring considerable relief to nearly 30,000 residents while also strengthening road connectivity, public safety and alternative transportation facilities between Katra and Reasi.
Why Congress afraid of clean voter lists, asks Sat Sharma
Jammu, Oct 30:J&K BJP president and Rajya Sabha MP Sat Sharma on Friday slammed the Congress party for, what he alleged, attempting to create political instability and confusion in the country out of frustration over its declining public support. Sat Sharma and MLA Mohan Lal Bhagat, accompanied by district Prabhari Vinay Gupta, president Kuldeep Sharma, and others, were addressing a gathering of prominent citizens in the event, organised by the BJPs Akhnoor district unit under the theme Loktantra Bachao, Arajakta Hatao (Save democracy, eliminate anarchy). Gurvinder Singh, president Gurudwara Committee; Rashpaul Singh, Jitender Singh, Swarn Singh, Amrik Singh, ex Sarpanch Vijay Sharma, Bablu Sharma, Kishori Sharma, Virender Kumar, Gullu Ram, Babu Ram besides others were amongst the prominent citizens present on the occasion.. Sat Sharma said that the Congress leadership, particularly Rahul Gandhi, had increasingly resorted to misinformation, baseless allegations and political confrontation to regain lost ground. He said that the congress was putting its hunger for power above national interest and attempting to undermine public confidence in constitutional institutions. He said that Congress, instead of strengthening democratic institutions, was repeatedly questioning them whenever their functioning did not suit its political interests. Strongly defending the Special Intensive Revision (SIR) of electoral rolls, Sat Sharma said that maintaining an accurate, transparent and clean voter list was fundamental to free and fair elections. He questioned why Congress was opposing an exercise intended to identify duplicate, deceased, shifted and otherwise ineligible entries while ensuring that every eligible citizen retained the right to vote. Does Congress believe that it cannot win people's trust and secure votes through democratic means? Why does it become uncomfortable whenever electoral rolls are scrutinised? Is its political survival dependent on questionable entries and bogus voting? he asked. J&K BJP president further pointed out that intensive revisions of electoral rolls had been conducted several times in the past, including during earlier Congress-led governments. Such exercises took place in 195256, 1957, 1961, 196566, 198384, 198789, 199295 and 200204, among other periods. He said that a process recognised as a legitimate electoral exercise in the past should not suddenly become controversial merely because the present government supported its implementation. Mohan Lal Bhagat said that Congress was attempting to manufacture controversy around constitutional processes instead of addressing public concerns and presenting a constructive political alternative. He said democracy required responsible opposition, not persistent attempts to create confusion and confrontation. Kuldeep Sharma said that the intellectual community must expose misinformation and encourage informed public participation. He said that transparent electoral processes and respect for democratic institutions were essential for protecting the country's democratic framework.
PCJ welcomes move for new media policy
Jammu, Oct 30:The Press Club of Jammu (PCJ) on Friday welcomed the J&K governments decision to formulate a long-awaited new media policy, expressing hope that the proposed framework would comprehensively address all issues concerning the media fraternity across the Union Territory. In a statement issued here today, Press Club Jammu president Sanjeev Pargal said, In view of the rapidly changing dynamics of the media landscape, there is an urgent need for a comprehensive policy that takes into account the concerns of all segments of the fraternity, including print, electronic and digital media and provides lasting solutions to them. Pargal appreciated the statement of Director Information, Mamta Yadav, who had said that, besides print and digital media, the proposed policy would also cover social media platforms such as Facebook and Instagram. He termed the move a timely and realistic step, given the growing influence of social media in news dissemination. Highlighting the issues faced by the media fraternity in Jammu and Kashmir, Pargal said journalists must be accredited at regular intervals. He has pointed out that the accreditation cards of accredited journalists have remained lapsed since December 2025, causing difficulties for working journalists in the discharge of their professional duties. Stating that the media industry in Jammu and Kashmir provides direct and indirect employment to a large number of people, PCJ president stressed the need to revise the existing advertisement rates to ensure the sustainability of the industry. He also emphasised the need for a comprehensive advertisement policy - transparent, fair and in tune with present-day realities. Drawing attention to the problems faced by working journalists, Pargal demanded that the government introduce welfare schemes on the lines of those already in place in the neighbouring hilly state of Himachal Pradesh, so as to provide social and financial security to journalists. Stressing that journalists must be consulted in the formulation of any policy concerning the media, he urged the government to involve representatives of the Press Club of Jammu in the process. Pargal said the Press Club of Jammu was the only duly elected body of journalists representing print, electronic and social media across Jammu and Kashmir. Involving its representatives, he added, would help the government understand the ground realities and address the real issues of the fraternity effectively. The statement was also signed by Zorawar Singh Jamwal, vice president; Dinesh Manhotra, secretary general and executive committee members namely Nishikant Khajuria, Dinesh Mahajan, Govind Chouhan and Ajay Menia.
J&K Sports Council facilitates opening match of Indian Football League at TRC Turf Srinagar
Srinagar, Oct 30:The Jammu and Kashmir Sports Council Friday facilitated the launch of Indian Football League season 2026-27, featuring Real Kashmir FC and Nagaland United Sports Club in the opening match. As per a statement, the league is being organised by the All-India Football Federation (AIFF) and hosted by RKFC in collaboration with J&K Sports Council. The event holds importance for the promotion of football in the union territory of Jammu and Kashmir, bringing together players, officials and football enthusiasts. The stadium witnessed an enthusiastic turnout, with a large number of spectators turning up to support the teams and enjoy the fixture. The match generated considerable excitement among football fans, reflecting the growing popularity of the sport in Jammu and Kashmir. On the occasion, Minister for Youth Service and Sports, Mir Saifullah was the chief guest and was accompanied by Secretary J&K Sports Council Tazayun Mukhtar. Real Kashmir FC, while welcoming the J&K Sports Minister and Secretary J&K Sports Council presented them with their uniform kit. Later guests interacted with both the teams, wishing them best for the game. The administration had made all necessary arrangements for the smooth conduct of the match. The Sports Council reiterated its commitment to promoting football and providing quality sporting infrastructure and facilities to support major sporting events in UT of Jammu and Kashmir.
Barzulla-Rangreth road widening project still on paper as commuters face traffic jams
Srinagar, Oct 30:Despite persistent traffic congestion, the proposed project for widening of the Barzulla-Rawalpora-Sanat Nagar-Rangreth road has been facing inordinate delay causing inconvenience to thousands of commuters travelling daily on the route. The Roads and Buildings (R&B) Department claims it is actively pursuing approvals for the long-awaited project. However, while officials speak of progress at the departmental level, the widening work is yet to begin on the ground, leaving thousands of commuters to grapple with daily traffic jams along one of Srinagar's busiest corridors. The Barzulla-Sanat Nagar-Rawalpora-Rangreth stretch serves as a vital link connecting several densely populated residential localities, commercial establishments, educational institutions, the Rangreth Industrial Estate and various government and security installations. Over the years, rapid urban expansion has significantly increased traffic on the corridor, while the road width has remained largely unchanged. Residents said traffic congestion has become a daily ordeal, particularly around Rawalpora and adjoining stretches, where long queues of vehicles are witnessed during morning and evening rush hours. Every year new residential colonies come up and the number of vehicles keeps increasing, but the road remains the same. What was once sufficient for traffic several decades ago can no longer handle the present volume, said Bilal Ahmad, a resident of Rawalpora. Commuters said travelling through the corridor has become increasingly time-consuming, especially during office and school hours when private vehicles, buses, public transport and commercial traffic converge on the narrow stretch. Sometimes a journey that should take 10 minutes ends up taking more than half an hour. The congestion has become part of our daily routine, said Asif Hussain, who frequently travels between Barzulla and Rangreth. Parents also expressed concern over the impact of traffic on school-going children. School buses remain stuck in long traffic queues almost every morning. During emergencies too, moving through this road becomes extremely difficult, said Bilquees Jan, a commuter. Speaking to Greater Kashmir, Executive Engineer, R&B, Khalid Mehmood, said the department is actively working to take the project forward and several procedural steps have already been completed. The department is seriously pursuing the proposal. Multiple DPRs have been prepared and submitted. A comprehensive DPR covering the broader corridor from Barzulla to Rangreth has also been submitted. We have completed substantial groundwork and necessary formalities from our side, Mehmood said. He said the proposal broadly covers two stretches, one from Barzulla to the Sanat Nagar bypass junction and the second onwards towards Rangreth, considering the growing traffic requirements across the entire corridor. We are continuously pursuing the matter at higher levels. We are hopeful that the required approvals will be received soon, after which the remaining formalities can be taken forward, he said. Mehmood said the department remains optimistic that commuters will not have to wait indefinitely for the project. Our objective is to ensure that the project reaches its logical conclusion so that people get relief from the persistent traffic congestion. We are making every effort from our side to move it forward, he said. Residents, however, said they would like to see visible progress on the ground rather than assurances alone. We have been hearing about proposals for years. It is encouraging that officials say the project is being pursued, but people will feel confident only when actual work begins, said Mushtaq Ahmad, a resident of Sanat Nagar. The demand for widening the corridor is not new. The proposal for upgrading the road has existed for decades as authorities anticipated rising traffic movement with the expansion of Srinagar towards the southern outskirts. However, issues related to land acquisition, rehabilitation of structures and financial implications have delayed the project over the years. Meanwhile, the corridor continues to witness increasing traffic due to the expansion of residential colonies, commercial activity and industrial establishments in Rangreth, placing additional pressure on infrastructure that was built to serve a much smaller population. With the department now stating that the proposal is being actively pursued and DPRs have already been submitted, residents say they hope the long-pending project finally moves beyond paperwork and translates into visible work on the ground, bringing long-awaited relief to thousands of daily commuters.
Decade on, Munawar Tawi bridge in Rajouri awaits completion
Rajouri, Oct 30:A motorable bridge over the Munawar Tawi river in Androlla village of Rajouri district has been awaiting its completion for almost a decade, forcing villagers to install steel ladders at both ends to climb onto the structure to cross the river, while risking their lives. Despite construction work being started and resumed multiple times, the bridge is yet to be made functional, leaving thousands of residents dependent on a risky way to cross the river to reach their destinations. The bridge was proposed after a footbridge at the site was washed away in the devastating floods of 2014, disconnecting several villages, including Androlla, Chakli and Potha. More than 7,000 people depend on the crossing for connectivity with the Jammu-Rajouri-Poonch National Highway and the Rajouri district headquarters. Locals told Greater Kashmir that following protests by residents, a motorable bridge project was sanctioned and construction commenced in 2017. However, the work was stalled after some time due to a shortage of funds, they informed. Although funds were subsequently released and construction resumed, the project again came to a halt, with even the approach road on the southern end remaining incomplete. Angry locals added that the work was taken up again in 2022-23, but construction was reportedly stopped after discrepancies emerged between the sanctioned technical specifications and the work being executed. A fresh project to complete the pending work was sanctioned in the first quarter of 2026, raising hopes among residents that the long-pending demand would finally be addressed, they said. However, the July floods that hit Rajouri district dealt another blow to the project, damaging the already completed northern portion of the bridge and washing away a section of its approach road as well. As a result, the bridge now stands incomplete in the middle of the river, with neither end providing proper access. Locals, narrating their plight, said that with no functional approach roads on either side, villagers installed steel ladders to climb onto and descend from the bridge while crossing the river. The makeshift arrangement is being used by thousands of residents, including students, despite the risks involved in navigating the ladders and the damaged structure, they said. Residents have expressed serious concern over the prolonged delay, questioning how a bridge that was meant to restore connectivity after the 2014 floods has remained unfinished for nearly ten years despite repeated interventions. Member Legislative Assembly (MLA) Rajouri, Iftkhar Ahmed, who got the new project sanctioned a few months ago, told Greater Kashmir, Necessary project for restoration of recently damaged portion has already been issued. It's our bad luck that the bridge, lying incomplete for a decade, was set to be completed in a few months but July floods caused extensive damage to another portion which could lead to more delay in completion of this bridge, MLA Rajouri said. He, however, assured that the project was being followed meticulously at the government level. All efforts are being made to ensure that all kinds of pending work is completed at the earliest and misery of thousands of people comes to an end, MLA reaffirmed.
As the modern world evolves, Islam faces both challenges and opportunitieseach shaping how the faith is understood, practiced, and experienced across different societies. Notwithstanding Islams rich history and teachings rooted in peace, justice, and compassion, misconstructions remain prevalent. Media depictions, political conflicts, and fabrication often lead to typecasts that dwarf the true essence of the belief. These misapprehensions not only distress Muslims social experiences but also deter evocative discourse between the Muslims and other communities. One of the misconceptions created by people at present is why hijab in Islam is obligatory? Hijab is a graciousness obligation in interactions between members of the opposite sex in Islam. The Menfolk is also supposed to sentinel their modesty. It is important to understand that modesty has always been a part of Islamic culture. Hijab promotes development of a woman at physical and spiritual level. When a woman covers her head following Allahs command, she demonstrates her faith in Allah and acceptance of all His commands. Allah, has commanded women to cover themselves using a piece of clothing. Allah says in the Quran, And say to the believing women that they should lower their gaze and guard their modesty; and that they should not display their beauty and ornaments except what must ordinarily appear thereof; that they should draw their veils over their bosoms and not display their beauty except to their husbands (Surah Noor, Ayat, 31). Wearing hijab is a personal and independent decision that comes from a sincere longing to please Allah while growing the insight underlying His command. Many people mistakenly believe that women are forced to wear the hijab. This concept is not based on Islamic teachings as Allah says in the Quran, Let there be no compulsion in religion (Surah, Baqra, Ayat, 256). It has been witnessed in recent years that some Muslim dominated countries are restricting the use of Hijab which tantamount working against the Muslim ethos. These countries ban hijab primarily to enforce secularism, state modernization, and citing security concerns. The countries with profound secular institutions like Azerbaijan and Turkey construe public institutions, schools, and government offices as strictly secular spaces. Azerbaijans recent school uniform rules restricted dress considered inconsistent with secular educational procedures. In many Central Asian and post-Soviet countries, Tajikistan, Kazakhstan, Kyrgyzstan, and Uzbekistan, autocratic governments enforce restrictions or total ban on Hijab. In Tajikistan complete hijab ban was imposed in June 2024, under the rationale of security services needing to clearly detect individuals in public. The autocratic Governments often justify headscarf restrictions as a way to curb the influence of radical elements that challenge state authority. The power hungry leaders in such countries promote undemocratic practices by imposing a particular public dress in the name of gender equality and secular incorporation. If this is the case of Muslim majority countries, we shouldnt be complaining if a minority Muslim country imposes any restriction in this regard. More than twenty countries have enacted full or partial bans on full-face coverings in public spaces or specific institutions. These countries include, France, first European country to introduce a full public ban in 2011, Belgium, Austria, Denmark Switzerland, Netherlands covering veils in Bulgaria , Sri Lanka, Tajikistan, and Kazakhstan. Some Muslim-majority countries have banned the burqa and hijab in public schools, universities, or government buildings, including Tunisia, Azerbaijan and Kyrgyzstan. Noteworthy to mention that India, a non-Muslim dominated country has not banned Hijab officially, displaying its true democratic spirit. Muslim world today is facing a crisis of identity and values. The attitudes in the outside world can be ignored as misguided or hostile, but the tensions within Muslim world are dismaying. Saudi Arabia enjoys much of its strength as it remains the religious and economic centre of the Muslims. It ought to have been a guiding force for all the Muslim countries but it has failed. A mounting number of critics, media activists and members of the public in Saudi Arabia have expressed concern over what they describe as an increasing number of controversial entertainment programs, mixed-gender concerts and festivals that they believe conflict with the countrys Islamic cultural values. The detractors argue that these activities, promoted as part of Saudi Arabias new cultural agenda, are deliberately targeting religious beliefs and influencing the lifestyle of younger generations. The criticism of these advancements has been met with stringent actions by the Govt in Saudi Arabia. The new cultural policies, largely implemented under the General Entertainment Authority, have engendered substantial unease. Events including music concerts, mixed-gender celebrations, womens wrestling competitions and Halloween-themed programs have been described by opponents as attempts to undermine moral values. Same is the case with other Arab and Gulf countries, which instead consolidating themselves into a unified cultural and political space, have turned to be stooges in the hands of foreign forces. The UAE, Qatar, Kuwait, Bahrain, Jordon and Egypt are in a process of dismantling the overall moral vision of a society, driven by rapid political, economic, and social changes at various levels. Social structural studies reveal that the rapid modernization and economic wealth particularly in the in Arab and Gulf countries have rapidly transformed Islamic societies and culture into consumer-driven economies. The quest for material wealth, luxury branding, and hyper-individualism is the cause of riddance from values like modesty, community welfare, and familial cohesion within the Muslim nations, which is a matter of concern for the whole Muslim world.
In a tight-spot after storm whipped up by the newly born Cockroach Janata Party (CJP) on the shear strength of Gen Z raking up NEET and other examination paper leaks, and related fallacies in the education system affecting the youth; although the issue was already being raised by Congress leader Mr Rahul Gandhi but got a fillip after the Gen Z movement. The Narendra Modi government and the ruling BJP-led alliance (though some of the ruling allies have exhibited their unease over the issue), has endeavoured to see red in the expression regime change. It seems to be an attempt to corner the opposition I.N.D.I.A bloc and the CJP, they have only talked about peaceful protest as means of change, through the narrative of regime change and portray them as working against the national interest. The ruling dispensation of the current era (read BJP) have perfected the art of setting narratives and counter-narratives as diversionary tactics and as means to corner the political opponents. In the process, not minding even if the process becomes vicious. This process in itself seems to have reached a saturation stage and with entire gamut of SIR-related operation of the ECI getting public traction, they need to relook into this strategy with a positive frame of mind. Yes, Mr Gandhi, other leaders of the opposition alliance, CJP/other youth leaders and social activist/lawyer Mr Prashant Bhushan, have been facing a major political backlash from the BJP and indirectly from the government over remarks regarding regime change. The ire is directed more against them for targeting the Narendra Modi government under the garb of happenings in the ECI. Why has the word regime and phrase regime change suddenly become a hot potato for BJP to handle? Or does this reflect signs of insecurity for the most powerful government/ruling party in the world? What is the dictionary meaning of the word regime? It is just for the sake of clarity on something which is nothing new to be used in political parlance of the country and which found a greater expression in the then opposition leaders, including towering one of the then Bharatiya Jan Sangh (BJS) and now BJP, scathing attacks against Prime Minister Mrs Indira Gandhi particularly on imposition of internal emergency in 1975. The powerful opposition brigade using the term Indira regime (reference to the authoritarian nature of her administration) and the far-cry to oust it was led by Congress (O) leader and later Prime Minister Mr Morarji Desai. It included top BJS leader Mr Atal Bihari Vajpayee and Mr L K Advani, apart from Mr Jayaprakash Narayan who spearheaded campaign against Mrs Gandhi, another former Prime Minister Ch Charan Singh and socialist leader Mr Geroge Fernandes. And many others and including the maverick Mr Raj Narain who defeated Mrs Gandhi in Rai Barelli. According to AI a regime is a system or method of governing a country, organization, or institution, or the specific group of people currently holding power. The Cambridge dictionary terms it as a particular government or system or method of government. The Wikipedia defines it; in the context of national politics, it typically refers to the system of political organization that determines access to public office, and the extent of power held by officials. Does in any way, under the shadow of these definitions and given the history of Indira Gandhi-era, expression regime change reflect hatching of a conspiracy? It does not seem so. And on top of that a strong dispensation such as Narendra Modi government need not fear what at best could be the political usage of the expression. They have the wherewithal to expose conspiracy, if any. Political scientists often categorize regimes as being democratic, autocratic, or hybrid in the academic sense of the term. However, in everyday language, a regime is an authoritarian or unjust government. There is nothing unparliamentary or unconstitutional in these expressions which were very rightly used, at times even crossing limits of niceties, during the 1975-77 phase by the then opposition leaders and their young cadres. In the present context the regime change mention has come in the light of alleged charges of manipulating electoral rolls with a motive to help the ruling party. Obviously, the reference has been made in order to build public opinion and convince the people that their votes could be safeguarded only through a regime change. The underlining factor is voter-lists without wholesale deletions and alleged arbitrary inclusions, and which are above any doubt. The BJP strategists seem to have lapped up the regime change opportunity with both the hands. The party president, Mr Nitin Nabin led the charge through a post on X which read; The use of terms like regime change has exposed the true agenda of the opposition.. This nefarious attempt to destabilise India in collusion with foreign powers is part of the agenda of urban naxals. The oppositions fight is not for electoral reforms, SIR, or the future of the countrys youth but rather to spread anarchy in the country and seize power at any cost. Mr Nabin must decipher from the archives, as he was born in the year when the party which he heads now was born in 1980, as to how often phrase regime change was used by his senior leaders and how often Mrs Gandhi and her coterie described the oppositions movement as aided and abetted by foreign powers. Colourful theories were touted by the then opposition leaders as to how erstwhile USSR was helping Mrs Gandhi win elections through the use of a mysterious ink-pad and ballot paper; wherever you stamp it will appear on Congress symbol, was the oft repeated charge. Fact of the matter is that despite all such charges flying thick and high and the mysterious foreign hand at play, Mrs Gandhi lost the election in 1977, even losing her own seat. Majority of the opposition leaders including Mr Vajpayee and Mr Advani won the election to become Union Ministers for the first time. The regime change had taken place through an impartial, free and fair election for which credit must go to Mrs Gandhi, notwithstanding excesses committed during the imposition of internal emergency. The regime change did not connote any conspiracy at that point in time and the expression is finding place during the present movement against SIR and other failures of the government, in the same spirit. As a counter to BJP presidents assertion invoking urban naxal and foreign powers syndrome behind oppositions regime change metaphor, opposition is firm on its stand and so are the CJP activists. Mr Gandhi and other opposition alliance leaders maintain that their protests and criticisms are rooted in constitutional rights, democratic resistance, and fighting alleged capture of state institutions. And that there is nothing unconstitutional, illegal or anti-national in talking of a regime change using peaceful means through the expression of ballot.
Ask anyone from the valley whether the economy is growing and the answer rarely matches the statistics. Both can be right. Economics separates what an economy produces from what a household can actually buy with what it earns, and the gap between the two is where the current argument sits. Lets begin with the official account, because it is not a bleak one. The Jammu and Kashmir Economic Survey 2025-26 estimates real GSDP growth of 5.82 per cent and per capita income of Rs 1,68,243, and shows J&Ks per capita income rising from 71.9 per cent of the national figure in 2014-15 to about 76.5 per cent. That convergence is real and deserves credit. Yet the same document puts Indias real growth at 7.4 per cent, so the Union Territory is still growing more slowly than the country it is trying to catch. Purchasing power, though, is income measured against the price level. In plain terms, it is how much rice, fuel and rent a months earnings will cover. The Surveys per capita figure is nominal, and it is an average. Two things can go wrong between that average and a households shopping basket: prices can outrun incomes, or incomes can fail to reach the household at all. The valley faces both risks. Take prices first. The Survey reports inflation easing from 4.5 per cent in 2024 to 3.8 per cent in 2025. That relief has not lasted. On the Ministry of Statistics new price index, J&K inflation was 1.34 per cent in January 2026 and 4.27 per cent in September, provisionally, with urban households at 4.65 per cent. Fairness requires saying that India as a whole is now at 5.54 per cent, so Kashmir is not the outlier this year. But a household feels a price level and the Survey concedes the level is high. Its consumer price index for agricultural labourers is the highest among a panel of nine states, with the food index second highest, both above the national average. Now the income side. A household lives on the earnings of its workers, so employment is the channel through which growth becomes purchasing power. The Ministrys latest labour bulletin, for April to June 2026, shows an unemployment rate of 9.1 per cent in J&K for those aged 15 and above, against 5.4 per cent nationally. In urban J&K the rate was 14.9 per cent against 6.7 per cent, and for urban women 33.3 per cent against 8.7 per cent. Among those aged 15 to 29 it was 28.4 per cent against 15.9 per cent, rising to 41.5 per cent against 18.2 per cent in towns and cities. These are sample estimates, and the Ministry publishes their standard errors; the gaps are several times larger. The 6.1 per cent the Survey cites for 2023-24 rests on a one-year reference period, while the bulletin uses a one-week period, so the two should not be read as a trend. Nor is this a story of people staying home. Labour force participation among those 15 and above is 58.9 per cent in J&K against 54.6 per cent nationally. Kashmiris are looking for work. The work is not there in sufficient quantity. The Surveys own numbers hint at why. Agriculture and allied activities employ 42.99 per cent of the workforce but generate 20.45 per cent of value added. Services produce 61.02 per cent of value added and employ 31.31 per cent. Economists call this a sectoral mismatch: people are concentrated where output per worker is lowest, and output is concentrated where jobs are fewest. Low labour productivity means low wages, and headline growth cannot lift household incomes when it accrues to sectors that hire few people. Then came a shock. Tourist arrivals fell from 2.36 crore in 2024 to 1.78 crore in 2025, a drop of roughly a quarter, and the Survey itself links a slowdown in services to subdued tourism activity after a recent untoward incident. Tourism accounts for nearly 7 per cent of GDP and about five lakh livelihoods. A demand shock to a sector that large does not stay in the sector. It travels through the multiplier to every local trader who sells to those households. The public purse cannot easily close the gap. Grants make up 56 to 66 per cent of resources and own revenue only 22 to 24 per cent. Salaries and pensions take 52.42 per cent of revenue expenditure. Capital expenditure, the spending that builds assets and creates jobs, had reached 42 per cent of last years total by November, against 64 per cent for revenue expenditure. Capital spending is usually heavier late in the year, so this may narrow, but it bears watching. What would help must work on both sides of the ratio. On prices, the Survey promises a logistics policy in 2026; it should be judged by whether it lowers the cost of moving goods into Jammu and Kashmir. On jobs, Mission YUVAs target of 4.25 lakh jobs over five years offers a yardstick, and progress against it should be reported openly. On savings, banks held about ` 2.04 lakh crore in deposits in September 2025 but advanced ` 1.28 lakh crore, a credit-deposit ratio of 62.93 per cent. Local savings should finance local enterprise. And government should publish a regular, district-level real wage series, so that the question can be answered with data rather than argument. A per capita figure is an arithmetic mean, and a mean is true of nobody in particular. Jammu and Kashmirs economy may well be growing; the Survey says it is. The test of whether that growth is working is whether a graduate in Srinagar can find a job, and whether a familys rupee buys as much next year as it did this one. On the evidence the government itself publishes, the honest answer is: not yet. Malik Daniyal is a regular contributor to GK. He writes on the economics of valley.
Israel: Heading to another election?
The elections to the 120-member Israeli Knesset which were held on October 27 were closely watched in the region. This was primarily because they were expected to indicate the support which Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu had among the Israeli people for the pursuit of the Iran war. Netanyahus Likud party along with its rightwing coalition partners went all out to woo voters to their cause but the result was fractured. It demonstrated the political and social contentions within Israel in general and also on the Iran war. Israeli elections are held on a proportional basis. That means that voters do not vote for particular candidates but for political parties. Generally, each party, even in a coalition, puts up separate lists. The number of seats allotted to a party depends on the number of votes it has got provided it crosses the threshold of 3.25 % of the total vote. The entire country is treated as one constituency. The result of this complex election process is that no single party succeeds in getting a majority on its own strength. Hence, coalitions are formed. The coalition situation prior to the October 27 election was thus: Netanyahus Likud led party coalition had 68 seats. It had won 64 seats in the 2022 elections but four members of another party had later joined it to raise its number to 68; the Jewish opposition parties 42 and the two Israeli-Arab parties 10. The results led to a sharp drop in the Netanyahu led Likud party coalitions. It secured only a vote share which would give it 53 seats. Meanwhile the Jewish bloc which is now under the leadership of former head of the Israeli defence forces, Gadi Eisenkot managed to get 48 seats based on its vote share. At the same time there was a dramatic increase in the share of the Israeli Arab parties from 10 to 19. The consequence of this break-up is that no coalition has sufficient number of seats to form a government on its own. It also means that Netanyahu has suffered a definite reverse but it has not been strong enough to oust him. This reverse has led the Israeli Prime Minister to claim that Qatar has sought to manipulate the election. On their part the Qataris have angrily and outrightly denied this charge. Most Israeli officials have rejected the charge of foreign manipulation in the election. However, Justice Noam Scholberg who was head of the Central Election Committee overseeing these elections claimed, according to news reports, that he had been shown some exceptionally grave information of foreign funding coming to these elections by Shin Bet, Israels internal security agency. Consequently, he has asked for Shin Bet to give its findings within the next few days. Clearly, the target of this charge of foreign funding are the Israeli Arab parties. On their part they have denied them. However, one Likud party spokesman was quoted in the media as saying The Raamgate scandal is a political earthquake. Israels elections have been stolen! Raam is one of the Arab parties. Meanwhile, while going along with the Shin Bet investigation Israels President Isaac Herzog has said that an entire community should not be tarnished for exercising its right to vote. The fact is that Israeli Arabs came out in record numbers to vote. That can be attributed to their anger with Netanyahu over the manner in which he conducted the campaign in Gaza after the horrific terrorist attack by Hamas on October 7, 2023. It is not only the Israeli Arabs but other sections of Jewish opinion which while outraged by Hamas terrorism were deeply disturbed by the disproportion of the Netanyahu led governments response. They too may have swelled up the Israeli Arab parties numbers. Some analysts are viewing the Likud charge of foreign funding and interference in the election as a Netanyahu tactic to ensure that the Eisenkot led coalition does not even think of joining hands with the Israeli Arabs to seek to oust Netanyahu from power. In any event the prospect of the Jewish parties joining hands in a government with the Arab parties is remote. This is despite the fact that Israeli Arabs form around 20% of the countrys population. This is also because even though Israel projects itself as a democratic state which treats all its citizens equally it is in essence a Jewish state which is committed to protect the Jews especially in a land which the Jews believe was given to them by God. Israels Jewishness was consolidated by a Basic Law enacted in 2018. That law proclaimed: The land of Israel is the historical homeland of the Jewish people, in which the State of Israel was established. It also proclaimed that The states language is Hebrew. The only concession it made to Arab Israelis was The Arabic language has a special status in the state; Regulating the use of Arabic in state institutions or by them will be set in law. With 19 seats the Arab parties are now in a position to disrupt Israels political process. That is intolerable for most Jews. A number of options are under consideration of how the results of this election can be preserved. Under Israeli laws the President will be obliged to go through the motions of asking some leaders to form a coalition government. One can only be formed if some parties in Eisenkots coalition go to Netanyahu. That seems difficult to foresee but not as difficult as Eisenkot attracting the ultra-right-wing parties from Netanyahus coalition. Most likely Israel will head to another election. Meanwhile, Netanyahu will continue as a care-taker Prime Minister.
Possibilities of Bonding in the Age of AI
The emergence of artificial intelligence marks a turning point in human history, raising questions that extend far beyond technological innovation. At stake is the future of human agency, moral authority and social relationships. Are we moving from an age in which human beings sought to shape their own destinies to one in which they may increasingly surrender their judgement to intelligent machines? The concern is not merely that technology will replace human labour or automate decisions, but that people may gradually lose the habit of independent thinking, critical reflection and moral reasoning. The danger is that, while acquiring unprecedented power to control the world around them, human beings may become less capable of deciding what that power should serve. Modernity, which transformed European societies over the past three centuries, rested on confidence in reason, scientific inquiry and human agency. It challenged inherited authority and encouraged individuals to question established beliefs and participate in shaping their own destinies. Yet modernity was not simply a revolt against religion. Its historical development remained deeply connected to Christianity, whose moral traditions helped shape ideas of human dignity, compassion, duty and responsibility. As public institutions became increasingly secular, elements of this ethical inheritance continued to influence social life. The United States subsequently extended the influence of modernity within a society whose public culture retained a significant Christian ethos. Modernity thus combined the emancipation of human reason with a moral inheritance that continued to inform its understanding of the individual and society. The age of artificial intelligence may represent a different historical configuration. Whereas modernity sought to liberate individuals from the unquestioned authority of tradition, AI may create new forms of dependence on technological systems that increasingly mediate perception, judgement and choice. Algorithms already influence what people read, purchase and believe. As these systems become more sophisticated, decisions requiring experience, empathy and moral discernment may increasingly be delegated to computational processes designed to predict outcomes and optimise performance. Individuals may retain the formal freedom to choose while becoming dependent on systems that shape the choices available to them. Human agency may consequently be weakened without being explicitly abolished. The geopolitical context makes this transition particularly significant. If Europe was the historical centre of modernity and America substantially amplified its reach, China has emerged as one of the principal powers shaping the AI era. Its technological rise is taking place within a political system in which the state and the Communist Party exercise central authority. The governing ideology is officially atheist, and religious institutions have limited autonomy, although Chinese society retains diverse religious and philosophical traditions. This differs from the historical experience of Western societies, where Christian moral ideas continued to influence public culture even as political institutions became secular. The distinction is not that technological development without religion must necessarily lack morality. Chinese philosophical traditions possess their own conceptions of ethical conduct, social obligation and collective responsibility. The deeper question is what moral framework will govern the exercise of technological power. If efficiency, prediction and administrative control become the principal measures of progress, what place will remain for independent judgement, ethical disagreement and the search for meaning? The transition from modernity to the AI era may therefore involve more than a change in technological leadership. It may transform the relationship between human autonomy, moral authority and the purposes of social life. One particularly important question concerns the future of religious belief. Scientific and technological progress may increasingly challenge religious explanations of existence, while the authority of established religious institutions may weaken. Yet humanitys oldest questions, concerning the origins of life, the meaning of suffering and the possibility of existence beyond death, cannot simply be dismissed because they resist computational resolution. The challenge may be especially acute for confessional religions whose doctrines and claims are codified into established systems of belief. Their authority may be questioned more insistently in an age that privileges empirical verification and technological rationality. Whether religion adapts through critical reinterpretation or retreats into defensive certainty will influence how societies negotiate the relationship between scientific knowledge, moral responsibility and the human search for meaning. These questions may appear abstract, but their significance becomes tangible in the changing character of personal relationships. A friend once told me about an acquaintance who had migrated to America in the 1960s, accumulated considerable wealth and eventually decided to settle in Dehradun during his later years. After decades abroad, he wished to return to his roots and enjoy the tranquillity of the hills. Behind this decision, however, lay a painful family experience. The couples son had separated from his wife, who had taken their child with her. He became increasingly depressed and withdrew from social life. Unable to help him regain his emotional balance, his parents eventually got him a dog, hoping that its companionship would provide comfort. The story is not an argument against keeping pets. Animals can offer genuine affection and emotional support, particularly during periods of loneliness and distress. Yet the experience raises a larger sociological question: what happens when the breakdown of an intimate human relationship leaves an individual so isolated that animal companionship becomes an important source of emotional reassurance? The issue is not the value of companionship with animals, but the fragility of the human relationships that sustain emotional security and belonging. Modernity expanded individual freedom, geographical mobility and the ability to escape restrictive relationships. These developments brought undeniable benefits, particularly where inherited family structures constrained personal choice. But greater autonomy does not automatically produce stronger social bonds. The freedom to leave unsatisfactory relationships may coexist with increasing difficulty in establishing enduring ones. Material prosperity and personal independence cannot guarantee intimacy, mutual understanding or a sense of belonging. The family experience described above illustrates how a life of considerable material comfort may nevertheless be marked by profound emotional distress. Artificial intelligence may introduce a new dimension to this problem. As machines become capable of conversation, personalised assistance and simulated emotional companionship, they may help people cope with isolation. Yet they may also make withdrawal from demanding human relationships easier. Human intimacy requires compromise, reciprocity and acceptance of another persons independent needs. Technological interactions may offer convenience without necessarily cultivating these qualities. The question is whether technology will help people rebuild relationships or encourage them to substitute predictable interactions for the difficult work of sustaining human bonds. India offers an important perspective on this dilemma. Despite persistent inequalities and social tensions, many Indian communities continue to draw support from extended families, neighbourhood networks, religious gatherings and shared celebrations. Weddings, festivals and family gatherings renew relationships across generations and provide emotional reassurance and practical assistance during illness, financial hardship and personal crises. These networks constitute social capital, the trust, reciprocal obligations and resources embedded in social relationships. They also sustain solidarity by reminding individuals that their lives are connected to a wider community. For many middle class Indians, such relationships make a fulfilling life possible without substantial wealth. Companionship, mutual assistance and shared enjoyment can be sustained through established social networks rather than purchased entirely through formal services. In some Western settings, particularly among people living alone or far from family networks, care and companionship may depend more heavily on paid arrangements. This contrast should not be overstated, since loneliness and family breakdown are also realities in India, while Western societies possess strong traditions of community support. Nevertheless, it highlights an important principle: quality of life depends not only on material prosperity and individual autonomy, but also on relationships that provide continuity, care and meaning. Indias potential contribution to the AI era lies in demonstrating that technological advancement need not come at the expense of collective belonging. Its religious traditions, philosophical schools and cultural diversity offer resources for thinking about duty, compassion and mutual responsibility. Yet India must not romanticise its social inheritance. The same family and community structures that provide support can reproduce patriarchy, caste discrimination, hierarchy and pressure to conform. Family cohesion cannot be preserved at the cost of individual freedom, and social solidarity should not require submission to oppressive expectations. The task is to preserve the supportive dimensions of tradition while challenging practices that undermine equality and human dignity. Tradition is valuable not merely because it has endured, but because its ethical resources can be critically reinterpreted for changing social conditions. India must strengthen its democratic institutions, protect pluralism, reduce structural inequalities and ensure that technological progress benefits society broadly. Only then can its traditions of collective life become a resource for the future rather than an idealised image of the past. The transition from modernity to the AI era ultimately raises two interconnected questions: whether human beings will retain control over the technologies they create, and whether they will preserve the relationships that give their lives meaning. Modernity expanded human agency while drawing, in part, upon moral traditions that helped shape its understanding of human worth and responsibility. The AI era is emerging within a different geopolitical order, with China occupying a leading technological position. Its defining challenge will be to ensure that technological power remains subject to ethical judgement rather than allowing efficiency and control to become ends in themselves. Prof. Ashok Kaul, Retired Emeritus Professor of Sociology at Banaras Hindu university
Indian Football League 2026-27:Nagaland United SC beat RKFC 3-1 in IFL opener in Srinagar
Srinagar, Oct 30:Nagaland United SC defeated Real Kashmir Football Club (RKFC) 3-1 in the opening match of the Indian Football League (IFL) 2026-27 season at TRC Ground, Srinagar, on Friday. The match, which kicked off at 6:30 pm, was played under floodlights and witnessed a massive turnout, with thousands of football enthusiasts turning up despite the cold weather. As per a statement, Minister for Youth Services and Sports Mir Saifullah, Secretary J&K Sports Council Tazayun Mukhtar and RKFC owner Arshad Nizam Shawl were among those present on the occasion. Both teams started aggressively, but Nagaland United SC took an early lead by scoring the opening goal in the initial minutes of the match. The visitors continued their attacking approach and doubled their lead before the half-time whistle, taking a comfortable 2-0 advantage into the break. RKFC came back strongly in the second half and managed to reduce the deficit by scoring their first goal of the match. However, Nagaland United SC responded quickly with another goal, restoring their two-goal cushion and making it 3-1. Despite efforts by the home side to stage a comeback, Nagaland United SC maintained their lead until the final whistle to register a winning start to their IFL campaign. RKFC will now play their second match of the season on November 7 at their home ground in Srinagar.
Director Information directs DICs to strengthen grassroots communication
Srinagar, Oct 30:Director Information Mamta Yadav on Friday directed District Information Centres (DICs) across Kashmir to strengthen grassroots communication, improve media coordination and ensure wider publicity of government activities and public welfare initiatives. Chairing a review meeting to assess the functioning of DICs across the Kashmir division, Yadav reviewed their publicity activities, media outreach, field-level coverage, infrastructure, manpower requirements and overall performance. Describing DICs as the grassroots communication network of the Department of Information and Public Relations (DIPR), she said they play a vital role in ensuring that information about government policies, development initiatives and public welfare schemes reaches people in a timely and accessible manner. DICs are the face of the DIPR at the grassroots level. Their role goes beyond disseminating information; they serve as an important link between the administration, media and the public. It is imperative that every district unit functions with dedication, professionalism and a clear sense of responsibility, she said. Yadav stressed the need to make departmental publicity more dynamic and responsive to the changing media landscape, urging district officers to effectively use digital and social media platforms alongside conventional channels to widen outreach and public engagement. She also called for proactive engagement with media organisations and better coordination with district administrations and concerned departments to ensure comprehensive coverage of government events, public outreach programmes and developmental activities. Emphasising the need to look beyond official events, Yadav asked district units to identify local success stories, developmental milestones, cultural heritage and public-oriented initiatives for wider dissemination through print, electronic and digital media. Every district has its own stories of development, innovation and public participation. Our officers must identify these stories and bring them to the forefront. Effective communication should not remain limited to official events but must also reflect the impact of government initiatives on the ground, she said. The Director also stressed accountability, regular monitoring and adherence to professional standards. She directed officers to maintain regular communication with headquarters, ensure timely submission of reports and improve the quality and consistency of departmental publicity. Reiterating the need to strengthen the department's institutional capacity, Yadav said a coordinated, responsive and technology-driven approach was essential to making government communication more effective and people-centric. Joint Director Information (Hqrs) Dr Zahoor Ahmad Raina, Joint Director Information Kashmir Syed Shahnawaz Bukhari, Deputy Director Information (PR/AV) Javid Ahmad Rather, Deputy Director (PR) Kashmir Mohammad Rafiq Zullah, Deputy Director (Hqrs) Kashmir Zubair Ahmad, Cultural Officer, Field Publicity Officer, District Information Officers of Kashmir division and other concerned officers attended the meeting.
J&K government notifies new rules for JKAS probation, departmental examination
Srinagar, Oct 30:The Jammu and Kashmir Government has notified a new set of rules governing probation and departmental examinations for officers appointed to the Junior Scale of the Jammu and Kashmir Administrative Service (JKAS) through the Combined Competitive Examination, replacing the existing framework introduced in 2000. The General Administration Department (GAD), through Notification S.O. 278 dated October 28, 2026, issued the Jammu and Kashmir Combined Competitive Services (Probation and Examination) Rules, 2026, which have come into force with immediate effect. Under the new rules, officers appointed through direct recruitment will undergo a probation period of two years. Their confirmation in service will depend on satisfactory completion of probation and passing the prescribed departmental examination. The examination will comprise seven papers carrying 100 marks each, with probationers required to secure at least 50 per cent marks in every paper. The Jammu and Kashmir Public Service Commission (JKPSC) will conduct the examination, as far as practicable, twice a year. The syllabus covers a wide range of subjects, including management and public administration, Jammu and Kashmir's geography, economy and society, service rules and office procedures, revenue laws and land administration, government development schemes, social welfare and human rights, and the legal and regulatory framework governing administration and public order. Apart from conventional administrative and legal subjects, the syllabus also includes emerging areas such as artificial intelligence, cybersecurity, digital governance, data analytics, social media communication, financial management systems and the Digital Personal Data Protection Act, 2023. The examination will also test officers' knowledge of important land laws and revenue procedures, including mutation, Jamabandi, land acquisition, agrarian reforms and digital land records. Subjects relating to industrial development, employment generation, tourism, horticulture and agriculture in Jammu and Kashmir have also been included. The new rules make passing the examination an important condition for the release of increments and confirmation in service. A probationer will be entitled to the first annual increment after completing one year of probation. However, the second increment will remain withheld until the officer satisfactorily completes probation and passes the prescribed examination. The rules further provide that if an officer fails to perform duties satisfactorily or does not pass the examination, annual increments will remain withheld. No officer will be eligible for confirmation unless the examination is cleared. Each probationer will be given three chances and one additional mercy chance to qualify. The Government may also allow an officer to avail of missed chances if the failure to appear in an examination was due to circumstances beyond his or her control. In a provision concerning the examination process, candidates will be permitted to consult Bare Acts, Rules, Regulations and Manuals during the written examination. However, such material must contain only the relevant statutory or regulatory provisions and cannot carry annotations. Applications for appearing in the examination will have to be routed through the concerned Administrative Department, while the JKPSC will separately prescribe the procedure for conducting the examination. The Government has also retained the power to revise the syllabus in consultation with the Commission whenever considered necessary. Further, probationers covered under these rules will be exempted from passing any other departmental examination prescribed in their respective feeding services. The rules, however, provide for an exceptional exemption from the departmental examination. The Government may, for good and sufficient reasons recorded in writing, grant such exemption and declare an officer's probation completed without the examination being cleared. The notification, issued by Commissioner/Secretary to the Government M. Raju, IAS, supersedes the Jammu and Kashmir Combined Competitive Services (Probation and Examination) Rules, 2000, notified through SRO 130 of 2000, along with other existing rules relating to matters covered by the new framework.
Kupwaras Tarathpora shopkeepers forced to pay for basic civic repairs
Kupwara, Oct 30:Shopkeepers and residents of Tarathpora market in north Kashmir's Kupwara district have urged the authorities to address long-pending civic issues, saying the lack of basic amenities has made daily business and movement difficult. The market lacks a proper drainage system, adequate sanitation, public washrooms and streetlights, causing inconvenience to traders, customers and visitors. Damaged drains have added to their woes, forcing shopkeepers to pool money and arrange cleaning themselves. We have been facing these issues for a long time, but little has been done to improve the situation. Recently, we pooled money to get a damaged drain cleaned because it had become difficult to manage, said Mohammad Sultan, a local transporter. The absence of proper drainage and sanitation facilities affects the overall condition of the market and creates difficulties for both traders and visitors. Maintaining a market is the responsibility of the concerned authorities. We cannot keep spending our own money to address basic civic issues, he added. The shopkeepers urged the authorities to repair damaged drains, improve sanitation, provide public washrooms and install streetlights, saying the responsibility for maintaining basic civic infrastructure should not be left to traders.
Flood Control in Jhelum:HC seeks report on mining activities, STPs, embankments
Srinagar, Oct 30:The High Court of Jammu and Kashmir has sought a report attesting to mining activities, proposed setting up of Sewage Treatment Plants (STPs) in river Jehlum as also construction or removal of embankments for flood control of the waterbody. A division bench comprising Chief Justice Dr Pushpendra Singh Bhati and Justice Yash Paul Bourney sought the report after Advocate Nadeem Qadiri assisting as amicus curiae in the Public Interest Litigation (PIL) by Environmental Policy Group on conservation of Jehlum, raised these issues. What is the kind of legal or illegal mining activity is going on in the entire river Jhelum? How many STPs have been proposed to be established in the course of river Jhelum? And how many of the embankments have been built or removed for the purpose of containing the flood? the amicus said at the very outset. Following the Court counsels submission, senior Additional Advocate General for the government informed the court that he would respond to all the issues. Furthermore, he would explain the execution of the affidavit filed by the Divisional Commissioner on October 25, he said The Court however directed the senior AAG to indicate also the milestones achieved so far in the matter related to flood mitigation. It listed the matter for further hearing on October 31. Filed in 2017, the PIL flags the fragile flood management system in Kashmir. It seeks the court's intervention for measures to protect Kashmir from future flood disasters. The PIL also highlights the shortcomings in flood management due to which massive damage was caused during 2014 floods and seeks tangible steps to avoid such situations.
Power woes Part II: 3 decades on, 93-MW new Ganderbal project yet to take off
Ganderbal, Oct 30:Nearly three decades after its announcement, the 93-MW New Ganderbal Hydro Electric Project remains grounded, with construction yet to begin and its latest setback coming from the Expert Appraisal Committee (EAC), which has refused to extend its environmental clearance. Conceived in 1996 to harness the hydropower potential of the Sindh Nallah, a major tributary of the Jhelum basin, the run-of-the-river project comprises three generating units of 31 MW each. The EAC, under the Union Ministry of Environment, Forest and Climate Change, has asked the Jammu and Kashmir State Power Development Corporation Limited (JKSPDC) to submit a fresh Environmental Impact Assessment (EIA) proposal instead of extending the project's existing environmental clearance. The project received environmental clearance on September 27, 2013, valid until September 2026. JKSPDC had sought a two-year extension until 2028. However, during its recent appraisal, the EAC observed that construction of the main project components had not commenced. It said the proposed extension would be insufficient as construction and implementation of environmental safeguards would require at least 48 months. The committee also flagged substantial changes in project costs and price escalation since the scheme was originally formulated. The project had moved towards execution in 2014 when a two-stage bidding process was initiated to select an Engineering, Procurement and Construction (EPC) contractor. Hindustan Construction Company (HCC) emerged as the successful bidder at a negotiated cost of Rs 819.18 crore. However, HCC failed to execute the project by 2017, following which its contract was cancelled. The proposal was subsequently placed before the State Administrative Council (SAC), chaired by the then Governor Satya Pal Malik, which approved cancellation of the bidding process and fresh procurement by JKSPDC through the EPC mode, in line with a resolution of the corporation's Board of Directors. Despite the decision to restart the procurement process, the project failed to take off. The prolonged delay has triggered resentment among residents, who said successive governments had failed to translate repeated assurances into action. The announcement of a new power project in Ganderbal had raised hopes among people, but those hopes proved short-lived. Even after so many years, there is no construction on the ground, residents told Greater Kashmir . They said the project could have strengthened power availability in the region and helped ease the electricity crisis. The continued delay reflects the authorities' failure to take this important project forward. If commissioned, it could provide some relief to common people facing power shortages, said Bilal Ahmed, a local resident.
Private schools flout JKBOSE norms, burden parents with costly textbooks
Srinagar, Oct 30:Despite repeated government directions to use textbooks prescribed by the Jammu and Kashmir Board of School Education (JKBOSE) in affiliated private schools, parents across Kashmir continue to bear the burden of purchasing costly books published by private publishers. Parents complained that schools prescribe additional textbooks and restrict their availability to selected bookshops. With the commencement of a new academic session every year, the issue resurfaces, with parents alleging that private schools have turned textbook sales into a lucrative business by prescribing books that cost several times more than the complete set of textbooks recommended by JKBOSE. Parents alleged that schools affiliated with JKBOSE continue to prescribe additional textbooks published by private publishers in violation of government instructions, substantially adding to the financial burden on families. The cost difference is significant. A complete set of JKBOSE-prescribed textbooks for primary classes costs around Rs 700, while a single additional textbook prescribed by some private schools is priced between Rs 500 and Rs 600, parents said. In several cases, parents said, schools have shifted to curricula such as Cambridge, with a set of textbooks costing between Rs 7,000 and Rs 8,000, making education increasingly unaffordable for many families. The schools have made it a business and are earning profits out of it. These textbooks are kept available only at selected bookshops, leaving parents with no choice but to purchase them at whatever price is demanded, a parent told Greater Kashmir . Parents alleged that some schools and booksellers have an understanding with publishers, with the latter earning substantial margins on the sale of prescribed books. The booksellers earn huge profits from these textbooks and commissions are allegedly passed on to schools as well. The government needs to investigate this arrangement, another parent said. As already reported, the government has warned private schools of strict action and directed them not to force parents to purchase textbooks or uniforms from any particular bookshop. Apart from high prices, parents have raised concerns over the practice of changing textbook editions and curricula every academic session, which, they alleged, prevents books from being reused by younger siblings and forces families to purchase fresh sets every year. Even if schools prescribe additional textbooks, the complete list should be made public well before the commencement of the academic session and the books should be available in the open market rather than being restricted to selected outlets, parents said. Over the past several years, JKBOSE has made it mandatory for its affiliated private schools to adopt Board-prescribed textbooks from primary to Class 12 under the Jammu and Kashmir Board of School Education Act, 1975. The Act empowers JKBOSE to prescribe courses of instruction, curricula, syllabi and textbooks for different academic levels. In March 2024, the Board directed its sub-offices to conduct inspections to verify whether private schools were complying with the prescribed textbook norms for the 2024-25 academic session. It had also warned of action against institutions found violating the instructions. However, parents said the directions had failed to bring any change on the ground. They also questioned the School Education Department's alleged failure to monitor the practice and initiate action against schools accused of burdening parents through expensive textbook packages. The government orders and directions have remained confined to papers. The schools get their job done within a few days and later the government wakes up to the issue, which doesn't serve any purpose, parents said. The issue has further raised questions over the role of the Fee Fixation and Regulation Committee (FFRC), which parents expect to regulate private schools and address complaints related to their functioning and financial practices. However, the committee has remained without a chairman for over two months following the expiry of the previous chairman's tenure, raising concerns over its ability to effectively address complaints during the crucial admission and textbook-purchasing period. Parents said the government should ensure that private schools, irrespective of the curriculum they offer, disclose their prescribed textbook lists on their official websites well before the start of the academic session. Whether a school follows Cambridge, Oxford or any other curriculum, parents should be informed about the complete list of books in advance. The lists should be uploaded on school websites so that parents can purchase textbooks from any bookshop of their choice instead of being forced to visit specific outlets, a parent said. They said the government must move beyond issuing annual advisories and ensure effective inspections and accountability to prevent the commercialisation of textbook sales at the cost of students and their families. Minister for Education Shamim Firdous was not available for comment on the issue.
JPDCL, KPDCL penalising honest consumers: BJP
Jammu, Oct 30:Jammu and Kashmir Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) on Friday raised serious concerns over the functioning of Jammu Power Distribution Corporation Limited (JPDCL) and Kashmir Power Distribution Corporation Limited (KPDCL), alleging deficiencies in transparency, regional equity, consumer services and grievance redressal. The party demanded immediate relief for consumers facing inflated bills, defective smart meters and excessive power cuts. It further questioned loss-linked power curtailment schedules, under which feeder-level losses reportedly determine power cuts,penalising honest, bill-paying consumers for electricity theft, revenue leakage and distribution inefficiencies. Former MLC and spokesperson Girdhari Lal Raina joined by spokesperson Dr Abhijeet Jasrotia and state media in-charge Dr Pardeep Mahotra, while addressing a press conference at BJP headquarters, Trikuta Nagar, Jammu, demanded separate reporting of JPDCL and KPDCL and accountability. Raina pointed out that despite the legal unbundling of JPDCL and KPDCL from PDD in October 2019, their performance is often presented through combined figures, concealing regional deficiencies. He stressed that the Joint Electricity Regulatory Commission (JERC) also called for granular, circle-wise and subdivision-wise reporting of Aggregate Technical and Commercial (AT&C) losses. Citing reported figures, he said JPDCL recorded AT&C losses of 27.45 percent in FY 202425 against 33.54 percent for KPDCL, with losses reaching 46 percent in certain KPDCL feeder areas compared to around 20 percent in some JPDCL areas. He demanded independent assessments of both corporations and said that Jammus consumers must not pay for systemic failures. Defective, damaged and non-communicating smart meters, coupled with delayed replacements, further aggravate outages and consumer hardship, J&K BJP spokespersons added. On smart metering and inflated bills, Raina highlighted reports of thousands of defective meters and demanded an authoritative count, time-bound replacement and accountability of installation and maintenance agencies. He said inaccurate meter recording or transmission led to estimated or average billing and unexpectedly high bills. Consumers must receive transparent billing calculations, prompt correction of disputed bills and effective grievance redressal, Raina said. Questioning RDSS Implementation, Dr Jasrotia criticised Chief Minister Omar Abdullah over the government's inconsistent position on smart metering. He highlighted the Centre's Rs 5,641.91 Cr sanction under the Revamped Distribution Sector Scheme (RDSS) for smart prepaid meters and infrastructure upgrades through both corporations. The scheme targets AT&C losses of 1215 percent and elimination of the gap between Average Cost of Supply (ACS) and Average Realizable Revenue (ARR). He blamed inadequate progress by the NC government and demanded corporation-wise details of expenditure, implementation and measurable outcomes, questioning the NC government's progress. Jasrotia highlighted the five-point demands by BJP, including separate JPDCL and KPDCL performance data, including circle-wise and subdivision-wise AT&C losses; transparent audit of power procurement, allocation, billing, revenue realization and curtailment; time-bound replacement of defective smart meters and correction of inaccurate bills; review of loss-linked power cuts to protect honest consumers and time-bound grievance redressal with clearly fixed accountability. The BJP asserted that electricity was an essential public service, not a privilege, and honest consumers must not suffer for administrative failures, faulty meters and distribution inefficiencies.
Mandeep Kaur inspects ABC Facility at Tengpora
Srinagar, Oct 30:Commissioner Secretary, Housing and Urban Development Department (H&UDD), Mandeep Kaur, accompanied by Commissioner, Srinagar Municipal Corporation (SMC), Dr. Basharat Qayoom, today inspected the Animal Birth Control (ABC) Facility at Tengpora to take stock of its functioning, infrastructure and arrangements for animal care. During the inspection, the Commissioner Secretary emphasised the need for adequate feed stock and uninterrupted availability of essential medicines, besides ensuring proper heating arrangements to safeguard the animals against the prevailing cold conditions. She also stressed maintaining proper sanitation and hygiene across the facility, with regular cleaning and effective upkeep of all sections. Mandeep Kaur directed the concerned officers to ensure timely replenishment of essential supplies, close monitoring of day-to-day operations and proper care of animals housed at the facility. The officers were asked to address any shortcomings promptly and ensure that the facility remains adequately equipped and operationally efficient. Emphasising that animal welfare and hygienic conditions must receive due attention, the Commissioner Secretary called for sustained supervision and accountability to ensure that all essential arrangements are maintained and the facility functions smoothly. The inspection was attended by Joint Commissioner (Administration), Joint Commissioner (Works), Executive Engineers and other senior officers of SMC.
J&K Govt appoints five members to Haj Committee for three years
Srinagar, Oct 30: The Jammu and Kashmir Government on Friday appointed five members to the Union Territory Haj Committee for a period of three years, with Member of Parliament Mian Altaf Ahmad among those nominated. According to a notification issued by the Revenue Department, a copy of which is available with the news agencyKashmir News Observer (KNO), the appointments have been made by the Lieutenant Governor under Sections 17(1) and 18(1) of the Haj Committee Act, 2002, read with Rule 20 of the Haj Committee Rules, 2002. The appointed members include MP Mian Altaf Ahmad, legislators Javaid Iqbal and Mir Mohammad Fayaz, Zafar Iqbal Manhas and Ahsan Ul Haq Mirza. The notification further states that the Executive Officer of the Haj Committee shall serve as an ex-officio member of the J&K Haj Committee. The members will hold office for three years from the date of publication of the notification in the Official Gazette.
Karnataka govt pauses circular on medicine price disclosure by hospitals
In a significant move, the Karnataka government declared it would not proceed with a disputed circular aimed at mandating hospitals to disclose medicine pricing information. This decision emerged during a High Court review related to the circular's compliance and repercussions. The proposal required hospitals to clearly present procurement costs, MRP, and patient billing in their invoices.
Teacher dies, son critical after vehicle accident In Kotranka Rajouri
Rajouri, Oct 30: A senior teacher died while his son sustained critical injuries after a vehicle met with an accident in Jaglanoo area of Kotranka sub-division in Rajouri district on Friday evening. Officials told GNS that the accident occurred when a Tata Mobile bearing registration number JK06B-2633 carrying grass was on its way home. In the accident, Sh. Mohd Amin, Senior Teacher and Head of Institution, Middle School Madhar, lost his life on the spot, while his son Mohd Ashaiq S/o Mohd Amin sustained critical injuries. The injured has been shifted to a nearby hospital where his condition is stated to be critical. Meanwhile police have taken cognizance of the incident.
MCA clarifies role in NCLT appointments after Supreme Court flags interference
New Delhi, Oct 30: In the light of certain news reports concerning personnel matters relating to the National Company Law Tribunal (NCLT) made by the Supreme Court, the respective roles of the Ministry of Corporate Affairs (MCA) and the NCLT may be seen in the context of the distinct responsibilities assigned to them. In a statement issued, the Ministry of Corporate Affairs said the MCA only performs the administrative role in the conduct of the appointment process for the 63 Judicial and Technical Members of the NCLT. The NCLT independently undertakes the process for appointment and management of its officers and staff, including Deputy Registrars, Court Officers, Stenographers, Office Assistants and Multi-Tasking Staff. The Government delegated this responsibility to the NCLT vide notification dated 14 October 2019, with a view to ensuring its effective and independent functioning.
Srinagar, Oct 30: Lieutenant Governor Manoj Sinha today chaired a high-level meeting with Deputy Commissioners, SSPs and senior officials to review the security scenario in Kashmir Division. The meeting was attended by Chief Secretary, Atal Dulloo; Chief Secretary Designate, Dr. Sajjan Singh Yadav; DGP, Nalin Prabhat; Additional Chief Secretary Home Department, Chandraker Bharti; Special DG Coordination PHQ, S.J.M.Gillani; ADG CID, M.K. Sinha; Commissioner Secretary, GAD, M Raju; Principal Secretary to Lieutenant Governor, Govind Jaiswal; IGP Kashmir, Sujit Singh; Divisional Commissioner Kashmir, Anshul Garg; Range DIGs, DCs, SSPs, and other senior officials. The meeting focused on operational preparedness, security strategies, and future action plans to ensure a peaceful environment in Kashmir Division. The Lieutenant Governor directed the officials for sustained and aggressive action against terror modules. He emphasized tightening counter-infiltration grids and fostering seamless synergy between the District Administration, Jammu Kashmir Police, Army, and Central Armed Police Forces (CAPFs) in executing counter-terror operations. He directed the Deputy Commissioners and SSPs to closely monitor anti-national elements within the administration and prioritize efforts to combat radicalization. The Lieutenant Governor also asked for monthly reviews regarding the attachment of properties belonging to narco-terrorists and the terror-supporting ecosystem. He said the action against narco-terrorists must continue unabated, besides relentless crackdowns on drug smugglers and peddlers, to realize the vision of Drug-free Jammu Kashmir. Emphasizing the swift resolution of public grievances, the Lieutenant Governor stated that fostering a strong connection between citizens, police, and the administration is of paramount importance. Under no circumstances should communal harmony and the law & order situation be allowed to deteriorate. We must institutionalize best practices and implement District Convergence Plans to ensure sustainable peace and development, the Lieutenant Governor said. He called for setting up district-level social media cells to swiftly counter misinformation. In view of the winter season, the Lieutenant Governor directed the administration to ensure adequate stock and availability of essential commodities and robust snow-clearance mechanisms. The meeting also reviewed the progress of key infrastructure projects across Kashmir Division.
PG doctors across J&K warn of peaceful protest from November 12 over stipend demand
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Uttar Pradesh, Oct 30: In a major crackdown on illicit synthetic drug manufacturing in the country, the Directorate of Revenue Intelligence (DRI) busted a big clandestine drug manufacturing laboratory operating in a remote village in Jalaun district, Uttar Pradesh. The operation led to the massive seizure of approximately 1,100 kg drugs and precursor chemicals, along with manufacturing equipment. Two persons have been arrested in connection with the case. Acting on specific intelligence, a large team of DRI officers, with operational assistance from UP ATS, launched a coordinated operation at the suspected premises in the early hours of 29th October 2026. The search of the premises revealed a well-established and functional laboratory for the manufacture of synthetic drugs, resulting into huge seizure of approximately 184 kg semi-prepared drugs, along with around 582 kg precursor chemicals and associated equipment used in the manufacturing process. In swift follow-up action, searches at the residential premises of the accused led to the recovery of around 15.4 kg finished methaqualone, along with around 153 kg chemicals and a machine used in the manufacturing process. A further search at the premises of another accused resulted in another huge seizure of around 168 kg precursor chemicals. Two persons associated with the clandestine manufacturing facility were arrested under the provisions of NDPS Act, 1985. The recovery of huge quantities of finished drugs, semi-prepared material, precursor chemicals and manufacturing equipment indicates the existence of an organised illicit drug manufacturing operation. The operation has dealt a significant blow to the illicit drug manufacturing ecosystem by dismantling a large clandestine production facility, removing substantial quantities of drugs and precursor chemicals from the illicit supply chain, and preventing the manufacture of further quantities of synthetic drugs. DRI remains committed to dismantling clandestine drug manufacturing networks, disrupting the supply chains that sustain illicit drug production, to combat the trafficking of narcotic drugs and psychotropic substances.
Minister Ali Mohammad Sagar chairs meeting at Civil Secretariat Srinagar
Centre mandates minimum one-year residual shelf life for drug imports
The Health Ministry has replaced the 60 per cent residual shelf-life requirement with a fixed 12-month minimum for most imported drugs, aiming to ease imports and reduce wastage
Decline in J&K violence welcome, but lasting peace needs justice: Mirwaiz Farooq
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TRAI assesses mobile network quality across Leh, nearby areas route under J&K LSA during August 2026
New Delhi, Oct 30: The Telecom Regulatory Authority of India (TRAI) has released findings of Independent Drive Test (IDT) conducted across Leh and nearby areas route under J&K LSA, during the month of August 2026, for information of general telecom consumers. The purpose of this drive test is to assess and verify real time quality of mobile network services (both voice & data) provided by Telecom Service Providers (TSPs). During the IDT, TRAI captures performance of TSPs for key Quality of Service (QoS) parameters like Coverage, Call Drop Rate (CDR), Call Setup Success Rate (CSSR), data Download (DL) and Upload (UL) throughput etc., which are then published to inform Consumers and encourage TSPs to improve their services. These IDTs have been designed to capture on ground mobile network performance of all TSPs across diverse usages environment like cities, hotspots, public transport hubs, etc. In this type of drive testing, live data and voice sessions are established using SIM cards from all TSPs over 2G, 3G, 4G and 5G networks. Multiple advanced test handsets are used, and the sessions are monitored and analyzed in real-time using advanced Software Systems. TRAI, through its appointed agency, conducted drive tests across City drive 62.6 Km, Hotspot locations - 07, Walk Test - 1.1 Km, Inter Operator Calling at 01 location and on Highway drive - 396.3 Km during 17th Aug 2026 to 21st Aug 2026 in J&K LSA. These tests were conducted under the supervision of the TRAI Regional Office Delhi. The observations presented in drive test reports represent the performance of the TSPs on the area / route under test on the day / time of conducting the drive test. Drive Test Route Map: The following map provides overview of drive test routes indicating City drive, Inter-operator calling, Hotspots, Walk test & Highways drive as per the legends shown on the map: - Key Parameters Assessed Coverage Gap: Percentage of samples, for which signal strength observed less than the minimum prescribed signal strength for respective technology (2G/ 3G/ 4G/ 5G). Voice Services: Call Setup Success Rate (CSSR), Drop Call Rate (DCR), Call Setup Time, Call Silence Rate, Speech Quality (MOS). Call Silence Instance: Number of call silence instances occurred during the calls. Data Services: Download / Upload Throughput, Latency, Jitter, Packet Drop Rate. The overall mobile network performance in Leh, Nubra Valley and Pangong areas route for the key parameters has been summarized below: - Coverage Gap - The signal strength observed during voice testing on the drive test route in auto-selection mode (5G/4G/3G/2G), measured as the number of samples having poor signal strength out of the total samples collected, was 583/9318 for Airtel, 966/8977 for BSNL & 770/8371 for RJIL. Details of the coverage gaps have been provided in the map of Annexure-I. Dropped Calls - Dropped calls in auto-selection mode (5G/ 4G/ 3G/ 2G), measured as the number of dropped calls out of the number of successfully established calls, were 0/83 for Airtel, 5/77 for BSNL & 1/76 for RJIL. Details of the dropped call locations have been provided in the map of Annexure-I. Call Silence Instance - Call silence instances in Auto-selection mode (5G/4G), measured as the total number of silence instances observed for > 3 seconds out of the total calls established, were 2/75 for Airtel, 2/75 for BSNL & 1/72 for RJIL. Details of the call silence instance locations have been provided in the map of Annexure-I. Data Download and Upload Throughput: Data Download performance (Overall): Average download speed was observed as 121.65 Mbps for Airtel (5G), 8.00 Mbps for BSNL (4G) & 267.13 Mbps for RJIL (5G). Detail of Download throughput has been provided in the map of Annexure-I. Data Upload performance (Overall): Average upload speed was observed as 22.13 Mbps for Airtel (5G), 4.87 Mbps for BSNL (4G) & 21.20 Mbps for RJIL (5G). Details of Upload throughput have been provided in the map of Annexure-I. Locations of Dropped Calls and Call Silence instances can be seen by clicking red dot on the map of Annexure-I. The overall mobile network performance on Leh to Nubra Valley highway route for the key parameters has been summarized below: - Coverage Gap - The signal strength observed during voice testing on the drive test route in auto-selection mode (5G/4G/3G/2G), measured as the number of samples having poor signal strength out of the total samples collected, was 4040/11146 for Airtel, 3361/11313 for BSNL & 3530/9209 for RJIL. Dropped Calls - Dropped calls in auto-selection mode (5G/ 4G/ 3G/ 2G), measured as the number of dropped calls out of the number of successfully established calls, were 12/108 for Airtel, 13/95 for BSNL & 4/85 for RJIL. Call Silence Instance - Call silence instances in Auto-selection mode (5G/4G), measured as the total number of silence instances observed for > 3 seconds out of the total calls established, were 14/91 for Airtel, 6/71 for BSNL & 16/78 for RJIL. Data Download and Upload Throughput: Data Download performance (Overall): Average download speed was observed as 109.57 Mbps for Airtel (5G), 16.39 Mbps for BSNL (4G) & 122.16 Mbps for RJIL (5G). Data Upload performance (Overall): Average upload speed was observed as 14.21 Mbps for Airtel (5G), 7.81 Mbps for BSNL (4G) & 12.02 Mbps for RJIL (5G). Locations of Dropped Calls and Call Silence instances can be seen by clicking red dot on the map of Annexure-II. The overall mobile network performance on Nubra Valley to Pangong highway route for the key parameters has been summarized below: - Coverage Gap - The signal strength observed during voice testing on the drive test route in auto-selection mode (5G/4G/3G/2G), measured as the number of samples having poor signal strength out of the total samples collected, was 4950/12272 for Airtel, 3203/12041 for BSNL & 5105/9930 for RJIL. Dropped Calls - Dropped calls in auto-selection mode (5G/ 4G/ 3G/ 2G), measured as the number of dropped calls out of the number of successfully established calls, were 11/67 for Airtel, 17/64 for BSNL & 16/60 for RJIL. Call Silence Instance - Call silence instances in Auto-selection mode (5G/4G), measured as the total number of silence instances observed for > 3 seconds out of the total calls established, were 18/66 for Airtel, 16/59 for BSNL & 24/52 for RJIL. Data Download and Upload Throughput: Data Download performance (Overall): Average download speed was observed as 80.59 Mbps for Airtel (5G), 8.86 Mbps for BSNL (4G) & 44.48 Mbps for RJIL (5G). Data Upload performance (Overall): Average upload speed was observed as 14.69 Mbps for Airtel (5G), 3.51 Mbps for BSNL (4G) & 3.94 Mbps for RJIL (5G). Locations of Dropped Calls and Call Silence instances can be seen by clicking red dot on the map of Annexure-III. The overall mobile network performance on Sakti to Sangam highway for the key parameters has been summarized below: - Coverage Gap - The signal strength observed during voice testing on the drive test route in auto-selection mode (5G/4G/3G/2G), measured as the number of samples having poor signal strength out of the total samples collected, was 800/6295 for Airtel, 2140/6252 for BSNL & 893/5597 for RJIL. Dropped Calls - Dropped calls in auto-selection mode (5G/ 4G/ 3G/ 2G), measured as the number of dropped calls out of the number of successfully established calls, were 1/32 for Airtel, 5/27 for BSNL & 2/30 for RJIL. Call Silence Instance - Call silence instances in Auto-selection mode (5G/4G), measured as the total number of silence instances observed for > 3 seconds out of the total calls established, were 2/31 for Airtel, 15/26 for BSNL & 5/30 for RJIL. d) Data Download and Upload Throughput: Data Download performance (Overall): Average download speed was observed as 96.97 Mbps for Airtel (5G), 6.00 Mbps for BSNL (4G), and 203.25 Mbps for RJIL (5G). Data Upload performance (Overall): Average upload speed was observed as 14.67 Mbps for Airtel (5G), 4.14 Mbps for BSNL (4G) & 18.84 Mbps for RJIL (5G). Details of drive test route and area covered during the IDT are as below: - City - The areas covered in the city drive are Lakjung, Tsati, Yurtung, Kushok Bakula Rimpochee Airport, Leh Palace, Sankar Gompa, Leh, Choglamsar and Spituk etc. under Leh and nearby areas. Highway - The area covered in the highway route are Leh to Nubra Valley via Power House, View Point Khadungla road, South Pullu, Shiv Shankar Temple, North Pullu, Khardung Viewpoint, Khalsar and Diskit etc., Nubra Valley to Pangong via Tsati, Agham, Sakti, Zingral, Tsoltak, Tangtse, Muglib, Spangmik and Pangong beach etc. & Sakti to Sangam via Chemrey, Karu, Thiksey, Shey, Kushok Bakula Rimpochee Airport, Indus Viewpoint and Sangam Point Leh Ladakh etc. Hotspot - The hotspot locations, capturing stationary user experience are Army Hospital Hundar, Artisan Bazaar, EJM College, Gurudwara Sri Pathar Sahib, Leh Airport, Leh Market & SNM Hospital. d) Walk Test - The walk test conducted on 17th Aug 2026, covered Leh Market capturing mobile network behaviors in crowded pedestrian environments. The findings of this IDT report have been shared with respective TSPs for taking further necessary action at their end. Detailed reports of IDT are made available on the TRAI website at www.trai.gov.in. For any clarification or additional information, an email can be sent to adv.ca@trai.gov.in or Regional Office of TRAI at Delhi RO can be contacted on Telephone No. +91-11-20907772.
Gujarat, Oct 30: Prime Minister Narendra Modi laid the foundation stone, inaugurated, and dedicated to the nation development projects worth over 14,000 crore today in Banaskantha, Gujarat. Speaking on the sacred soil of Mother Amba shortly after Navratri, he unveiled multiple initiatives for women, children, farmers, and cattle rearers, while also disbursing a fresh installment of the PM Kisan Samman Nidhi to tens of millions of small farmers nationwide. Describing farmers and annadatas as among the strongest pillars of a Viksit Bharat, the Prime Minister stated that the government has consistently prioritized their welfare and empowerment, increasing the national agricultural budget more than fivefold compared to 2013-14. Noting that the PM Kisan Samman Nidhi has become an integral part of small farmers' lives, he highlighted that over 1,000 crore rupees have been deposited into the accounts of more than 50 lakh farmers in Gujarat, including nearly 50 crore rupees for lakhs of farming families in Banaskantha. Today, an amount of more than 18 thousand crore rupees has been sent into the accounts of about 10 crore farmers, noted PM Modi. Highlighting that government policies over recent years have delivered or saved more than 50 lakh crore rupees for farmers, the Prime Minister cited the first of five key examples by pointing out that nearly 4.5 lakh crore rupees have been transferred directly into the bank accounts of small farmers under the PM Kisan Samman Nidhi. He observed that small farmers constitute over 85 percent of the farming community and our government cared for such small farmers and provided them help through PM Kisan Samman Nidhi, asserted PM Modi. Pointing to the sharp surge in global fertilizer prices amid international uncertainty over the past few years, the Prime Minister emphasized that his farmer-centric government shielded cultivators from the price hike. The government spent about 16 lakh crore rupees on this, noted PM Modi. The Prime Minister underscored that the government fulfilled its MSP commitment. In the past 12 years, wheat and paddy farmers have received more than 24 lakh crore rupees as MSP, observed PM Modi. Spotlighting the strong security shield provided to cultivators through the PM Fasal Bima Yojana, the Prime Minister stated that farmers have received over 2 lakh crore rupees in crop insurance compensation over the last 10 to 12 years, alongside continuous efforts to reduce irrigation costs through the expanding role of the PM-KUSUM scheme. He explained that the distribution of nearly 12 lakh solar pumps under the scheme has generated additional electricity and saved lakhs of farmers the expense of purchasing over 80 crore liters of diesel, bringing the total financial benefit or savings from just these five major schemes and decisions to 50 lakh crore rupees. These 50 lakh crore rupees have increased the income of the country's farmers and enhanced the capability of agriculture in India, asserted PM Modi. Emphasizing that agriculture is both a tradition and a vital part of Indian culture, the Prime Minister stated that the government has extensively integrated science and technology into farming and animal husbandry over the past 12 years. He cited the Soil Health Card as a prime example that resolved farmers' earlier difficulties in determining the exact type and quantity of fertilizer required for their fields, modernizing agricultural practices across the country. Today more than 26 crore Soil Health Cards are with the country's farmers, noted PM Modi. Acknowledging that changing weather patterns pose a major challenge to cultivators, the Prime Minister stated that the government is continuously striving to provide farmers with new climate-resilient seed varieties. In recent years, about three thousand new varieties of seeds have been made available to farmers, observed PM Modi. Highlighting animal husbandry as a vital component of the rural economy with massive participation from rural women, the Prime Minister emphasized the integration of science and technology into the dairy and livestock sector over the past decade. He explained that superior animal breeds boost milk yields while timely vaccination and medical treatment curb losses from disease. Meaning, if the animal is healthy, the earnings of my livestock-rearing brothers and sisters will also increase, affirmed PM Modi. Spotlighting the Rashtriya Gokul Mission's role in promoting the conservation and scientific breeding of indigenous livestock, the Prime Minister noted that the newly built research center in Banaskantha will strengthen this mission by conserving and improving the quality of indigenous cow breeds like Gir, Sahiwal, and Kankrej, as well as buffalo breeds like Mehsana, Murrah, and Jaffarabadi, serving as the country's first such facility for the Kankrej breed. He explained that when a farmer wishes to pass down the traits of a high-yielding, low-maintenance, healthy cow to future generations, modern technologies like IVF increase the probability of transferring those superior qualities. The livestock farmer will get its direct benefit, noted PM Modi. Stating that protecting livestock from ailments like foot-and-mouth disease is a key priority because such illnesses impact both animal health and milk yields, the Prime Minister highlighted the launch of a nationwide free vaccination drive. He pointed out that about 150 crore vaccine doses have been administered so far, providing free vaccination to the livestock of over 8 crore farmers. This has also reduced the financial burden on livestock farmers, observed PM Modi. Pointing to the visible impact of these interventions on dairy output, the Prime Minister noted that average daily milk yield per cow or buffalo has risen from under 5 liters in 2013-14 to nearly 8 liters today, giving India the fastest milk productivity growth rate in the world and benefiting rural farming families. India is number one in the world in milk production, remarked PM Modi. Expressing the government's resolve to help livestock rearers earn from cow dung as well as milk, the Prime Minister stated that infrastructure is being built with the vital support of institutions like Banas Dairy to produce biogas, bio-CNG, and organic fertilizer from dung and farm residue, marked by the foundation stone laying of two bio-CNG plants today. He underscored the clear objective of keeping livestock healthy, increasing milk yields, and ensuring the complete utilization of dung. We are making animal husbandry not just a tradition, but a powerful instrument for increasing farmers' income and enriching villages, asserted PM Modi. Explaining that the government has worked with a holistic approach over recent years to ensure rural prosperity, the Prime Minister pointed to the vast expansion of the fisheries sector and the promotion of cooperatives within it. You will be glad to hear that India's seafood exports have more than doubled, noted PM Modi. Highlighting beekeeping as another major avenue of supplementary income for farmers, the Prime Minister noted that honey production has doubled over the past 12 years and lauded the growing contribution of women's Self-Help Groups in driving this Madhu Kranti. You will be proud to know that our country has become the second-largest exporter of natural honey, observed PM Modi. Recalling that on October 7 he completed 25 years of service as the head of a government after first taking oath on October 7, 2001, the Prime Minister reflected on the immense love and guidance he received from every Gujarati at a time when he knew nothing of government offices or official files. He expressed gratitude to the people for entrusting a person from a poor family, whose ancestors never even dreamed of becoming a village sarpanch, with the responsibility of serving first Gujarat and then the nation. And even more than love, every single Gujarati has taught me and led me on the right path, remarked PM Modi. Stating that he only knew the two guiding principles of serving the nation through public service and developing the country through Gujarat's development while learning everything else from the people, the Prime Minister credited citizens for whatever he has achieved for the nation. For this, I will remain indebted to you for life, and until the last moment of life, I will remain engaged in your service, affirmed PM Modi. Reminding older citizens of the acute water and electricity shortages that plagued the region 25 years ago, the Prime Minister recalled how the people heeded his appeal to conserve both resources and transformed their circumstances so thoroughly that those old hardships now remain only in memories. I will say the same thing to you again today, that we have to save water, save electricity, urged PM Modi. Highlighting how Narmada waters and modern technologies like drip irrigation have transformed Banaskantha and made its potatoes world-famous alongside Banas Dairy's expansion of the cooperative movement to Kashi and beyond, the Prime Minister pointed out that the capacity of the potato plant that makes French fries has also been increased to enable greater procurement of potatoes. This is a very big facility for potato farmers, noted PM Modi. Detailing the ongoing cluster development program for fruit and vegetable cultivators under which 12 clusters were approved today for tomato, potato, chili, grapes, banana, onion, orange, pomegranate, and cocoa, the Prime Minister stated that farmers are receiving subsidies to plant new orchards and rejuvenate old ones. The two clusters received in North Gujarat will greatly benefit the potato farmers of Banaskantha and Sabarkantha, observed PM Modi. Listing several major infrastructure projects inaugurated or initiated for Gujarat's development today, the Prime Minister highlighted the flagging off of two new rail services, the Ahmedabad-Varanasi Sabarmati Express and the Mehsana-Becharaji-Sabarmati MEMU train, alongside the expansion of the Ahmedabad Metro with foundation stones laid for metro projects connecting GIFT City and the airport. The Ahmedabad-Mehsana highway is now going to become eight-lane from four-lane, noted PM Modi. Spotlighting new social welfare infrastructure launched for the children of the state today, the Prime Minister noted that over 4,000 modern Anganwadis have been inaugurated across Gujarat. This will benefit about 4 lakh children and pregnant mothers, observed PM Modi. Stating that every such developmental effort is aimed at building a developed India as every farmer, youth, sister, and daughter marches forward with the resolve of a Viksit Bharat, the Prime Minister remarked that unfortunately some elements dislike this progress and wish to see the nation in difficulty. When crises befall the country, they feel happy, remarked PM Modi. Citing the ongoing war around Iran and the Gulf countries as a recent example where India stood united to face the situation while certain elements spread rumors to scare farmers about fertilizer shortages and women about gas supplies, the Prime Minister stated that their plan was to trigger chaos in the country to defame him. When India was engaged in facing this unitedly, then these people kept spreading rumors, remarked PM Modi. Reminding the farming community of his solemn assurance to stand firmly beside them, the Prime Minister pointed out that the government prevented any scarcity of agricultural inputs despite the ongoing conflict. Noting that the war caused global prices of fertilizers and raw chemicals to skyrocket, the Prime Minister highlighted that the government shielded Indian cultivators from the burden, providing a bag of urea that costs 3,000 rupees globally for under 300 rupees in India, and supplying a bag of DAP that exceeds 5,000 rupees internationally for just 1,350 rupees. The country is providing this help so that our farmer is empowered, and the farmer's life becomes better, affirmed PM Modi. Emphasizing that India's rapid development offers new hope to an uncertain world and requires marching continuously on the path of Ek Bharat, Shreshtha Bharat, the Prime Minister noted that October 31 marks National Unity Day when the entire nation runs with the inspiration of unity amid grand preparations for the Run for Unity. I would urge all countrymen, especially my young companions, to participate enthusiastically in the Run for Unity tomorrow morning, exhorted PM Modi. Pointing out a schedule change for the annual Unity Festival at Ekta Nagar on October 31, the Prime Minister announced that this year's celebrations will take place grandly at 5:30 PM tomorrow evening featuring police and security force parades and tableaus, and urged citizens from Kashmir to Kanyakumari and Kutch to Kamakhya to join the event and bow to Sardar Patel while reiterating the resolve of Ek Bharat, Shreshtha Bharat. With this request, once again best wishes to all of you for the development works, concluded PM Modi.
Decline in violence in J&K welcome, but lasting peace requires justice: Mirwaiz Farooq
Srinagar, Oct 30: Kashmir's chief cleric Mirwaiz Umar Farooq said on Friday that the decline in violence in the valley is welcome, but lasting peace requires justice, reconciliation and restoration of public trust. Addressing the Friday congregation at the Jamia Masjid here, Farooq referred to the recently released International Crisis Group report on Jammu and Kashmir. The report says that militancy, street protests and violence have declined in recent years, which everyone welcomes, as no one understands the value of peace more than the people of Kashmir, who have suffered enormously over the past several decades, he said. However, he said the report also makes a fundamental point that reduction in violence does not necessarily mean that underlying political grievances have been resolved, or that public confidence has been restored. Security is necessary, and the government has a responsibility to protect lives. But security measures alone cannot provide a lasting answer to a problem that also has deep political and human dimensions, Farooq said. He asserted that Kashmir remains one of the most militarised places on earth. One of the most disturbing aspects highlighted in the report is the scale of arrests and detentions since 2019. According to the Union Home Ministry's own figures, 3,662 people were arrested under UAPA in Jammu and Kashmir between 2019 and 2023, while only 23 convictions were recorded during that period. These figures raise serious questions about prolonged detention, due process and the widespread use of stringent laws, he said. Mirwaiz said thousands of families suffer the consequences of arrests, detentions and prolonged legal proceedings and they continue to live with uncertainty about the future of their loved ones. Referring to the detention of Kashmiri political prisoners, including Yasin Malik, Shabir Ahmad Shah, Shahid Ul Islam, Engineer Rashid, Asiya Andrabi, and Masrat Alam, he said their incarceration emains a matter of concern. We have repeatedly appealed for their release, review of their cases and humanitarian consideration towards elderly and ailing prisoners. I reiterate that appeal today, he said. Farooq said justice and compassion cannot be separated from the pursuit of peace. The report also raises concerns about restrictions on political and civic activities, the shrinking space for peaceful expression, curbs on free reporting and a growing feeling of alienation. These are concerns that should not be brushed aside, he said. Farooq asked that if the situation has improved, should it not also be an opportunity to ease restrictions, review detentions, restore civil liberties and create an environment in which people can express their views and grievances peacefully? Peace cannot simply be measured by the absence of protests. The report calls for the restoration of statehood, meaningful powers for the elected government, a review of stringent anti-terror laws and renewed dialogue between India and Pakistan. These are important recommendations that deserve serious consideration, he said. The former separatist leader said our consistent position has been that the Kashmir issue cannot be addressed through a security approach alone. He said, Political issues require political engagement, and longstanding grievances require sincere efforts at reconciliation. While governments have their own security concerns and responsibilities, but, the concerns and aspirations of the people are equally important and must find a place in any meaningful process towards peace, he said. Apparently referring to the Pahalgam attack and Operation Sindoor last year, he said the events once again demonstrated the dangers of confrontation between India and Pakistan. We have always maintained that dialogue, rather than confrontation, remains the most responsible way forward. I raise these issues not in a spirit of confrontation, but out of genuine concern for the future of our people. If meaningful progress has been made in improving security, the next step should be to build upon it through reconciliation, release and review of political prisoners, restoration of civil liberties and sincere political engagement, he said. The real measure of peace is not merely how much violence has declined, but how much trust has been restored. That is the message we should take from this report, Kashmir's chief cleric added.
Air India, AI Express extend cancellation of Saudi Arabia flights till Nov 14
New Delhi, Oct 30: Air India and Air India Express on Friday announced extending the cancellation of their flights connecting Saudi Arabian cities till November 14 due to the prevailing situation in the region. Last week, the two airlines cancelled the services to Riyadh and Dammam till November 7 and the flight to Jeddah till October 31. IndiGo and Akasa Air have also cancelled their flights to Saudi Arabia. In recent times, geopolitical tensions have escalated in West Asia, and infrastructure facilities in Saudi Arabia, including airports, have come under attack. Due to the prevailing situation in the region, Air India and Air India Express flights to and from Jeddah, Riyadh and Dammam will remain suspended until 14 November 2026 (inclusive), Air India said in a post on X. Passengers with confirmed bookings issued on or before October 30 for travel up to November 14 can avail a one-time complimentary rebooking, subject to availability, for travel up to November 29. They can also opt for a full refund upon cancellation of their bookings. Air India guests may rebook to or from any operational Air India station in Saudi Arabia, while Air India Express guests may rebook to or from any operational Air India Express station in Saudi Arabia or Bahrain, the post said. IndiGo has cancelled flights to and from Jeddah, Dammam and Madinah till November 14, while Akasa Air has cancelled services connecting Riyadh till November 30 and Jeddah till November 10.
SC dismisses NIA's plea challenging bail granted to JK activist Khuram Parvez in UAPA case
New Delhi, Oct 30: The Supreme Court on Friday dismissed a plea filed by the National Investigation Agency (NIA) challenging the bail granted to human rights activist Khuram Parvez from Jammu and Kashmir in a case under the anti-terror law. Parvez, programme coordinator of the Jammu and Kashmir Coalition of Civil Society and chairperson of the Asian Federation Against Involuntary Disappearances, was arrested by the NIA on November 22, 2021. The NIA had alleged that under the guise of human-rights activism, Parvez conspired with a Lashkar-e-Taiba (LeT) operative to run a network of overground workers for furthering the activities of the Pakistan-based terrorist organisation and committing terror acts in India. Parvez has denied the allegations. The Delhi High Court had on June 10 granted him bail in the case. The NIA's plea challenging the high court verdict came up for hearing on Friday before a bench of justices M M Sundresh and Prasanna B Varale. The bench refused to interfere with the high court judgment. In its verdict, the high court had taken note of Parvez's over-four-year incarceration in the case and the unlikelihood of the trial concluding soon to hold that his rights under Article 21 of the Constitution trumped the restriction on bail under section 43D(5) of the Unlawful Activities (Prevention) Act (UAPA). The high court had further observed that having lost his leg in a landmine blast in 2004, the accused was infirm and deserves special consideration. It had set aside a trial court's December 2024 order rejecting Parvez's bail plea. The NIA alleged that Parvez was actively involved in collecting information regarding the movement of Army vehicles near the Line of Control, road conditions and details of Army camps, structures of the Army, paramilitary and police etc. The NIA has listed Parvez in a charge-sheet for several alleged offences, including under sections 13 (punishment for unlawful activities), 18 (punishment for conspiracy etc.), 18B (punishment for recruiting of any person or persons for terrorist act), 38 (offence relating to membership of a terrorist organisation) and 39 (offence relating to support given to a terrorist organisation) of the UAPA and other sections under the Prevention of Corruption Act and the Indian Penal Code. Parvez's counsel had contended before the high court that mere statements against him without conclusive evidence did not make out a prima-facie case under the UAPA. The lawyer had submitted that information regarding Army structures etc was collated and published in 2015 in a report, which was a legitimate human-rights documentation in public interest and most of the information was collected through RTI.
J&K Tourism delivers impactful presentation at B2B networking dinner of IITM Mumbai
Mumbai: IITM Mumbai 2026 commenced with an innovative B2B Networking Evening at the Club Mumbai in which an impactful presentation was delivered by Waseem Raja joint director tourism kashmir and Vivek Puri CEO Surinsar Mansar Development Authority,J&K Tourism. The evening provided an excellent platform for meaningful B2B interactions, with participating officers from J&K Tourism and tourism stakeholders showcasing their products and offerings. The J&K Tourism presentation highlighted not only the established and off beat destinations, but also the recently organized events like the successfully conducted kashmir marathon. The presentation generated considerable interest among travel trade professionals, with numerous queries, suggestions, and valuable inputs received from participants. The visiting J&K Tourism officials actively addressed their queries, provided relevant information, and highlighted the diverse tourism experiences, destinations and business opportunities available in Jammu & Kashmir. The initiative added a distinctive dimension to the networking evening, strengthening engagement with the travel trade and opening avenues for enhanced collaboration and promotion of Jammu & Kashmir as a leading tourism destination.
New Delhi, Oct 30: Department of Pension & Pensioners Welfare will be conducting the 5th Nation-wide Digital Life Certificate campaign in 2000 cities/districts across India from November 1-30, 2026. The department has notified the guidelines through O.M. dated 13th August, 2026. This is the biggest-ever DLC Campaign undertaken. A Whole of Government approach will be adopted through coordination with Pension Disbursing Banks, India Post Payments Bank, Pensioners Welfare Associations, CGDA, DoT, Railways, EPFO, State Governments, UIDAI & MeitY with the objective of reaching pensioners in the remotest corners of the country. The focus is majorly on promoting Face Authentication Technology. Ministry of Electronics and Information Technology and UIDAI will provide technical support during this Campaign. Face Authentication for Digital Life Certificate is a seamless and fast mode for DLC generation which can be used on Android as well as iOS, making it easy and convenient for elderly Pensioners. DD, AIR and PIB teams are actively geared up to provide full support to this campaign for Audio, Visual and Print publicity. Outreach efforts will be further complemented by SMSs, tweets (#DLCCampaign5), Jingles and Short films to spread awareness about the campaign. The Campaign will be conducted in an Utsav mode by offering a bouquet of services such as such as Health Check-ups, Aadhar updation for pensioners. Doorstep services will be provided to pensioners where required. Grievance officers will handle grievances regarding DLCs with an immediate resolution approach. The campaign will be monitored by senior officials from DoPPW who will carry out on-ground reviews in identified states. Mega Camps will be held by stakeholders in areas having high concentration of pensioners and these Mega Camps will be attended by senior officials from DPPW.
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Is It Safe to Work Out During IVF? Here Is What Fertility Experts Have To Say
Can you continue going to the gym while undergoing IVF? Two fertility doctors explain safe exercises, what to avoid at each stage, and warning signs that need urgent care.
KU professor honoured with Pharma Ratna Recognition award by PCI
Srinagar, Oct 30: Pharmacy Council of India (PCI), an apex statutory body which regulates pharmacy education and research in India, has awarded Prof. Geer Mohammad Ishaq, working as a senior Professor at the Department of Pharmaceutical Sciences of the University of Kashmir with Pharma Ratna Recognition Award in recognition of his distinguished services, exceptional dedication, and outstanding contributions to the field of pharmacy education and research. A citation received by Prof. Geer from the Pharmacy Council of India in this regard reads that in honour of your exemplary impact on the student community and the profession, the Council is privileged to bestow upon you the prestigious Pharma Ratna Recognition Award. This award was presented to Prof. Geer Mohammad Ishaq by the Pharmacy Council of India (PCI) at a glittering felicitation function held on Tuesday, 27th October 2026 at the headquarters of Pharmacy Council of India Office, New Delhi. A select group of highly acclaimed and accomplished senior academicians and researchers from all parts of India have been bestowed with this rare honour in recognition of their meritorious services, significant contributions and remarkable achievements in the field of Pharmaceutical Sciences and Prof. Geer is one among them from the valley of Kashmir who has been chosen for this prestigious award after thorough screening and deliberations by the apex committee of PCI. Prof. Geer Mohammad Ishaq is a senior faculty member at the Department of Pharmaceutical Sciences, University of Kashmir with more than twenty five years of teaching and research experience. Additionally he has earlier served as Director, Centre for Career Planning and Counseling; Director of the Centre for Lifelong Learning and Skill Development and as Coordinator, UGC-Human Resource Development Centre of the University of Kashmir. In these capacities he has organised several faculty development programmes, placement drives, counselling and coaching programmes. Prof has delivered more than 200 extension lectures outside his department besides having more than 175 publications including original papers, review articles and popular science articles. His research team has won six best research paper awards and he has chaired more than 40 technical sessions at various conferences and seminars and has reviewed more than 60 research articles for peer reviewed international journals of repute. Prof. Geer has formulated several policy papers for higher education and healthcare system. Earlier he has received Distinguished/Eminent /BestTeacher Awards from SPSR, APP, Pharmalok besides Pharma Ratna Recognition Award from the Pharmacy Council of India.
Sun Pharma ordered to halt eye drug production at Assam plant over quality lapses: Report
Indian regulators have ordered Sun Pharmaceutical Industries to stop manufacturing ophthalmic products at the Assam facility. This decision followed the discovery of failures in the company's quality management system. A joint inspection cited lapses that affected drug safety and quality, leading to a recall of several eye-drop brands. Significant adverse cases have raised concerns regarding product contamination, prompting further investigation.
India has exported the first-ever shipment of GI-tagged Tandur Redgram to Australia, marking a major milestone for Telangana's traditional tur dal variety.
Max Healthcare to add 209 beds with Rs 415 crore capex; Q2 network profit rises 10% to Rs 448 crore
Max Healthcare has approved a significant capital expenditure to expand bed capacity at its hospitals. The investments include adding 209 beds at three different locations to meet healthcare demands. BLK-Max Hospital will also feature a new multi-level parking tower as part of the expansion. In addition, the network's operational bed capacity has increased substantially over the past year. This expansion reflects the growing need for quality healthcare services across India.
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Why Do Some People Sleep Instantly and Some Struggle? Here Is What A Doctor Explains
Why do some people sleep instantly while others struggle? A doctor explains sleep pressure, stress, body clock and light, plus when falling asleep fast is a warning sign.
Meet Shannon Hoffman, the conservationist saving Africas bone-eating vultures
Tarigami seeks probe, removal of Chief Election Commissioner over SIR
Wild Burmese python lays eggs containing twin and triplet embryos in Florida
Scientists discover silk traces on 101 ancient objects in China, uncover clues to ancient rituals
PM Modi inaugurates Rs 325-crore bovine breeding centre in Banaskantha
PALANPUR: Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Friday inaugurated the Bharat Bovine Breeding and Research Centre (BBBRC), aimed at improving indigenous cattle breeds and enhancing milk production, at Bhildi in Gujarats Banaskantha district. The PM, who arrived in the town as part of his two-day visit to the state, took a tour of the centre and []
Australias stingless bees may help fight antibiotic resistance
Russian man suffers months of headaches after seed sprouts in his eye
