Identify and defeat enemies of India: PM Modi
New Delhi, Oct 20: Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Tuesday called upon citizens to adopt a 'Nation First' pledge to jointly identify and defeat the enemies of 'Maa Bharati', especially forces that harm national honour, divide society and harbour hatred toward Indian culture. Participating in the Vijaya Dashami celebrations in the national capital, Modi also highlighted India's tradition of keeping Lord Ram's ideals alive, proclaiming the end of tyranny and terror, and upholding the victory of eternal truth over falsehood. The prime minister's comments came as his government faces protests led by the opposition and the Cockroach Janta Party seeking the resignation of Chief Election Commissioner Gyanesh Kumar over alleged irregularities in the Special Intensive Revision of the electoral rolls. The BJP has alleged that the protests, which were held in the national capital and several other places in different states, were staged at the behest of foreign forces that do not want the country's progress. Everyone should adopt a 'Nation First' pledge to jointly identify and defeat the enemies of Maa Bharati, specifically forces that harm national honour, divide society, and harbour hatred toward Indian culture. When we stand with truth and humanity, then in the end, victory is ours, he said. The prime minister also recalled the immense hardships that Lord Ram faced without ever forsaking truth and morality. Quoting Sanskrit verses to illustrate Lord Ram's equanimity during both his royal coronation and his exile, the prime minister highlighted how Lord Ram upheld righteousness through every crisis and established truth. Lord Ram established benchmarks of mercy, compassion, love, and harmony, he said. Modi said India is maintaining he tradition of keeping Lord Ram's ideals alive, proclaiming the end of tyranny and terror, and upholding the victory of eternal truth over falsehood. The tradition of keeping the ideals of Lord Ram alive, the proclamation of the end of tyranny and terror, and the firm belief in the victory of eternal truth over falsehood -- these are not merely festivals for us; they are the very life energy of India, he said The prime minister said Lord Ram taught everyone that the obstacles on the path cannot stop the journey. The ocean lay ahead and Lanka was far, but the resolve was firm, he said. Therefore, he said, Lord Ram awakened the collective strength of the people, made public participation his support, and brought together the available resources, making an apparently impossible goal possible. Modi said this is the fundamental formula for success: trust in one's own power, confidence in one's capability, proper utilisation of resources, and an unwavering commitment to the goal. We must fulfil every aspiration of the people through public welfare powered by people's strength, and for this too, we must draw inspiration from Lord Ram himself, he said.
In Pics: Kashmiri Hindu devotees celebrate Dussehra at Sher-e-Kashmir Cricket Stadium in Srinagar
Srinagar, Oct 20: Dussehra, also known as Vijay Dashmi, falls on the tenth day of Ashvin in the Hindu Luni-Solar calendar. The festival commemorates Lord Ramas triumph over Ravana, and is observed after nine days of fasting and devotion during Navratri. (Photography by Mubashir Khan & Murtaza Bilal, for Greater Kashmir)
West Asia situation 'matter of deep concern': Jaishankar to UAE counterpart
Mumbai/New Delhi, Oct 20: The situation in West Asia remains a matter of deep concern and India will support all efforts to promote peace through dialogue and diplomacy, External Affairs Minister S Jaishankar said on Tuesday during talks with his UAE counterpart Sheikh Abdullah bin Zayed Al Nahyan. Al Nahyan, who is also the deputy prime minister of the UAE, landed in Mumbai on Monday night on a two-day visit. His trip to India comes amid a fresh wave of attacks on Saudi Arabia reportedly by the Houthi militants. In his televised opening remarks at the meeting, Jaishankar also backed efforts for free, safe and unimpeded flow of trade, energy and fertilisers. The external affairs minister made a mention of how the Comprehensive Economic Partnership Agreement (CEPA) between India and the UAE has significantly enhanced bilateral trade and economic ties. The situation in the Gulf remains a matter of deep concern. We will continue to work together and support all efforts to promote dialogue and diplomacy, he said. We continue to support free, safe and unimpeded flow of trade, energy and fertiliser. I would also like to thank you and, through you, the UAE leadership for ensuring the well-being of the Indian community in the UAE, he said. Jaishankar also noted that despite global headwinds and regional challenges, the economic partnership between the two countries continues to set ew benchmarks. The bilateral trade has crossed the USD 100 billion mark since the signing of the CEPA and two-way investments continue to grow, reflecting the confidence of our businesses in each other's economies, he said. Cooperation in defence, energy and technology are acquiring a strategic character. Our people-to-people ties continue to enrich the lives of our communities. Our cultural partnership is also gaining strong momentum, he said. After the talks, Jaishankar said on social media that the India-UAE relationship is living up to its promise as a Comprehensive Strategic Partnership. He also described his talks with the UAE leader as productive. The breadth and ambition of our cooperation is visible across the domains of trade, investments, energy, technology, logistics, defence, education and people-to-people ties, he said. Al Nahyan said the UAE wanted to further enhance bilateral cooperation with India. The UAE is honoured to be one of India's largest trading partners, and the aim of the Emirati leadership is to have a closer, stronger and diverse relationship, he said. We are very close, but we want to be closer, Sheikh Abdullah said. The UAE wants to do more with India in areas such as people-to-people ties, culture and education, he said. There has been a significant upswing in bilateral trade and people-to-people ties after New Delhi and Abu Dhabi inked the CEPA in 2022. The two countries are among each other's top trading and investment partners, bolstered by the CEPA, a local currency settlement system and the bilateral investment treaty.
Dussehra celebrated at Sher-e-Kashmir Stadium in Srinagar
Indias nuclear programme dedicated to peaceful purposes, not warfare: Jitendra Singh
New Delhi, Oct 20: Union Minister Dr. Jitendra Singh has said that Indias nuclear programme is dedicated to peaceful purposes and not warfare, reaffirming the vision that has guided the countrys nuclear journey since its inception. In an exclusive conversation on the sidelines of Bloomberg Economy Forum 2026, the Minister said nuclear energy would play an increasingly important role in meeting Indias future energy requirements, including the growing demand for reliable electricity to support Artificial Intelligence (AI) and data centres. Recalling the vision of Dr. Homi Bhabha, the architect of Indias nuclear programme, Dr. Jitendra Singh said India had consistently pursued nuclear energy for peaceful applications and national development. The commitment to the peaceful use of nuclear technology, he said, remains central to the countrys approach as it expands its capabilities to meet emerging developmental and technological needs. The Minister said Indias nuclear energy ambitions must be viewed in the context of its long-term development goals and clean energy commitments. With the country targeting 100 GW of nuclear power capacity by 2047 and Net Zero emissions by 2070, nuclear energy is expected to complement other sources of power by providing a continuous and reliable supply of clean electricity. Linking nuclear energy with the next phase of technological growth, Dr. Jitendra Singh said the expansion of Artificial Intelligence and data centres would require dependable sources of electricity capable of meeting their substantial and continuous energy needs. Nuclear energy, he said, would supplement Indias other energy programmes and contribute to meeting the power requirements of an increasingly technology-driven economy. On the expanding role of Artificial Intelligence, the Minister said AI should be viewed as a tool applicable across sectors rather than as a domain in itself. From Space and life sciences to other areas of scientific and technological development, AI is set to become an increasingly necessary instrument. Emphasising the importance of human judgement in its application, he said, One has to be intelligent enough to use Artificial Intelligence. Dr. Jitendra Singh said AI offers significant advantages across domains, but ensuring its optimal use without allowing it to be misused by individuals or other actors remains a key challenge. While regulations are in place, he said integrity at both the individual and national level is fundamental to ensuring that the technology is used responsibly. India, he added, has made appreciable efforts in this direction under the leadership of Prime Minister Narendra Modi. The Minister also referred to the wider opening of critical and sensitive sectors to non-government players under the Modi Government. He said the approach has expanded the scope for private sector participation in areas that were traditionally more restricted, creating opportunities for industry to contribute to technological advancement, innovation and national development. Dr. Jitendra Singhs remarks bring together two important dimensions of Indias development trajectory: strengthening nuclear energy as a dependable source of clean power and harnessing emerging technologies such as AI through responsible, human-led application. As India advances towards its 2047 development goals and its 2070 Net Zero commitment, reliable energy infrastructure and wider participation in strategic sectors will remain important to sustaining the countrys technological and economic ambitions.
Air India Express flight en route to Bengaluru reports bird strike; lands safely
Bengaluru, Oct 20: An Air India Express flight travelling from Bhogapuram in Andhra Pradesh to Bengaluru has reported a bird strike, but landed safely at Kempegowda International Airport here, official sources said on Tuesday. The incident occurred on Monday, and 148 passengers were reportedly on board. No injuries were reported for passengers or crew members, sources added. As part of standard safety procedures, technical teams inspected the aircraft to see if there was any damage to it and its engines. Our Bhogapuram-Bengaluru flight reported a bird strike. The aircraft was inspected and has been declared serviceable. There has been no impact on our operations, an Air India Express spokesperson said in a statement.
Rubio, Jaishankar discuss energy security, defence ties amid continuing friction in India-US ties
Mumbai/New Delhi, Oct 20: US Secretary of State Marco Rubio and External Affairs Minister S Jaishankar on Tuesday held wide-ranging talks largely focusing on cooperation in the energy and defence sectors against the backdrop of continuing friction in bilateral ties. The Jaishankar-Rubio meeting took place shortly after the top US diplomat landed in Mumbai on a three-day India visit that came nearly five months after his first trip to the country as the Secretary of State. Before his talks with Jaishankar, Rubio visited the Taj memorial and laid a wreath in honour of the victims of the horrific 26/11 Mumbai terror attacks that included six American citizens. In Mumbai, Indian External Affairs Minister @DrSJaishankar and I discussed energy security and defense cooperation while reaffirming the importance of advancing the U.S.-India strategic partnership, the US Secretary of State said on social media. The top diplomat also answered questions from the media on the India-US energy ties as well as his trip to Reliance Industries Ltd's refinery in Jamnagar on Wednesday. In order for energy to become usable, you have to refine it. You have a company with a massive amount of refining capability. I think I should go talk to them, especially when it involves nation-states, he said. We're going to go see a company that has a tremendous amount of refining capability. It makes all the sense in the world to talk to them about it. It's very difficult to understand something or see what the possibilities are if you're not going to speak to them, he noted. The US Secretary of State also responded to a query on India's procurement of Russian crude oil. India has expressed repeatedly its desire to diversify its energy portfolio, which is a smart thing to do. It's not easy to do that from one day to the next, he said. I think they've made some substantial progress in that regard, and we're happy to see that. But in the end, it's not just about Russian oil; it's about India's desire to diversify, and we think we can be a source of some of its energy inputs. We have discussed Venezuela and other countries, and I think it's in our interest to have strong allies with diverse energy portfolios, he noted. It is not immediately known whether the proposed trade deal between India and the US figured in the Rubio-Jaishankar talks. Ahead of his visit, Rubio said in Uzbekistan that the US is very close to finalising the trade deal with India. He also suggested that the US waiver on tariffs for buying Russian oil was linked to the decision. Last week, US President Donald Trump suspended certain sanctions against Russia and five of the biggest buyers of Russian oil including India. We're trying to finalise the trade deal with India right now. We're very close to doing that. So that's one of the things we take into consideration when the President makes a decision about national security waivers and things of that nature, Rubio said on Monday. India and the US have been engaged in talks since early 2025 on the proposed trade pact to address tariff friction, eliminate non-tariff barriers and boost bilateral market access. India is seeking better tariffs than its competitors for its goods in the US market. External Affairs Minister Jaishankar said a few days back that the trade talks between the two sides are nearing a landing point. The India-US relations witnessed a major downturn after Washington imposed punitive tariffs on India last year and President Trump made assertions regarding his role in de-escalating the India-Pakistan military clashes of May 2025 that drew sharp reaction from Indian officials. Washington's new immigration policy and its decision to increase H1B visa fees also contributed to the slide in India-US ties. The ties came under fresh strain after the US decided to restrict a key green-card processing programme for major global and Indian IT firms, including Tata Consultancy Services and Wipro.
Grenade destroyed in controlled explosion in J-K's Rajouri
Rajouri, Oct 20: A grenade was found abandoned near a temple in a remote village in Jammu and Kashmirs Rajouri district on Tuesday, prompting police to rush a bomb disposal squad to the spot, officials said. The explosive device was noticed by some children playing with construction material near a temple in Chattyar village, the officials said. They said the village head subsequently informed the local police station, following which a police team, accompanied by a bomb disposal squad, was rushed to the area. The grenade was later destroyed in a controlled explosion at an isolated location nearby, with no damage reported, the officials said. They said police have launched an investigation to ascertain how the grenade reached the village. A preliminary report suggested that the grenade is believed to have been carried into the village along with construction material, the officials said.
Rice Water for Hair: Beauty Hack or Overhyped Trend?
Rice water, currently, is one of the most viral beauty hacks that young women are going gaga over. While it is mostly used in skin care, it may supposedly work for hair too. Lets find out if rice water for hair is worth trying or another passing trend.
HealthRail: Turning India's hospital receivables into growth capital
In a strategic move to streamline hospital cash flow, HealthRail is offering expedited access to accrued revenues. This initiative specifically addresses the payment delays that hospitals experience with insurance providers and public funding programs. By lowering days sales outstanding for qualifying receivables, this system aims to substantially bolster hospitals' liquidity.
US Secretary of State Rubio lands in Mumbai for 3-day visit; trade deal, energy in focus
Mumbai/New Delhi, Oct 20: US Secretary of State Marco Rubio kick-started a three-day visit to India on Tuesday to advance bilateral ties in energy, trade and investment, defence and critical technologies, and exchange views on the West Asia crisis. Rubio's second India visit this year comes amid persistent friction in bilateral ties. During his earlier trip in May, he held talks with Prime Minister Narendra Modi and External Affairs Minister S Jaishankar, besides attending a Quad foreign ministers' meeting. The visit of the US Secretary of State, who is accompanied by a large business delegation, is likely to focus largely on boosting India-US economic engagement. In their meeting in Mumbai on Tuesday afternoon, Jaishankar and Rubio are expected to deliberate on ways to further strengthen the India-US Comprehensive Global Strategic Partnership. Welcome to Mumbai, US Secretary of State, on your second visit to India! Ministry of External Affairs (MEA) spokesperson Randhir Jaiswal posted on social media shortly after the top American diplomat landed at the Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj International Airport in India's financial capital. Rubio was received by Ashish Shelar, Maharashtra's Minister of Culture, Electronics, IT and AI, at the airport. The visit provides an opportunity to further advance cooperation across the various pillars of the India-US Comprehensive Global Strategic Partnership, Jaiswal said. In addition to his meeting with Jaishankar, Rubio's engagements in Mumbai included laying a wreath at the Taj memorial to honour the victims of the 26/11 terror attack, which claimed the lives of over 160 people, including six US nationals. The top American diplomat will also attend a reception to mark the 250th anniversary of the US' independence. Discussions are expected to cover key areas of bilateral cooperation, including energy, trade and investment, defence, critical and emerging technologies, and other areas of mutual interest, Jaiswal said last week. The two sides are also likely to delve into the proposed bilateral trade deal as well as the situation in West Asia. The visit will provide an opportunity to sustain the high-level engagement between the two countries and advance our shared priorities, Jaiswal had said. Rubio will travel to Jamnagar in Gujarat on Wednesday. Ahead of his visit, Rubio said in Uzbekistan that the US is very close to finalising the trade deal with India. He also suggested that the US waiver on tariffs for buying Russian oil was linked to the decision. Last week, US President Donald Trump suspended certain sanctions against Russia and five of the biggest buyers of Russian oil, including India. We're trying to finalise the trade deal with India right now. We're very close to doing that. So that's one of the things we take into consideration when the President makes a decision about national security waivers and things of that nature, Rubio said. India and the US have been engaged in talks since early 2025 on the proposed trade pact to address tariff friction, eliminate non-tariff barriers, and boost bilateral market access. India is seeking better tariffs than its competitors for its goods in the US market. External Affairs Minister Jaishankar said a few days back that the trade talks between the two sides are nearing a landing point. The India-US relations witnessed a major downturn after Washington imposed punitive tariffs on India last year and President Trump made assertions regarding his role in de-escalating the India-Pakistan military clashes of May 2025 that drew sharp reaction from Indian officials. Washington's new immigration policy and its decision to increase the H1B visa fee also contributed to the slide in India-US ties. The ties came under fresh strain after the US decided to restrict a key green-card processing programme for major global and Indian IT firms, including Tata Consultancy Services and Wipro.
RSS engaged in monumental task of nurturing roots of Indian culture: Amit Shah
New Delhi, Oct 20: Extending greetings to swayamsevaks on 101 years of the RSS, Union Home Minister Amit Shah on Tuesday said the organisation is engaged in the monumental task of nurturing the roots of Indian culture, igniting the flame of patriotism in society and connecting the youth to nation-building. In a message posted on X, he said, Heartiest greetings to all the swayamsevaks of the Rashtriya Swayamsevak Sangh, dedicated to serving Mother India with the spirit of Nation-First and unwavering loyalty, on the Founding Day of @RSSorg. The Sangh is engaged in the monumental task of nurturing the roots of Indian culture, igniting the flame of patriotism in society, and connecting the youth to the nation's building. The service initiatives undertaken by Sangh swayamsevaks across the country are continuously strengthening the resolve to build a powerful, prosperous and self-reliant India, he said. Shah said the ceaseless stream of service, values and patriotism will keep the eternal flame of love for the homeland aglow in the hearts of generations to come for ages.
Naming places after Sheikh Abdullah everywhere is unfortunate: Mehboob Beg
Police arrest 6 drug peddlers in Kashmir, contraband substance recovered
Srinagar, Oct 20: Jammu and Kashmir Police on Tuesday arrested 06 drug peddlers in Shopian, Kulgam & Anantnag and recovered contraband substances from their possession. A police spokesperson said that in Shopian, a police party from Police Station Heerpora during routine naka checking at Circuit House, intercepted a vehicle (Alto) bearing registration number JK22C-4688, travelling from Sedow towards Shopian with two persons on board. During their personal search, 60 grams of charas-like substance was recovered from each individual. They have been identified as Mashooq Ahmad Hajam son of Mohd Shaban Hajam and Bilal Ahmad Hajam son of Gh Mohd Hajam both residents of Sedow, Heerpora. Accordingly, a case vide FIR No. 115/2026 under the relevant sections of law has been registered at Police Station Heerpora and further investigation has been initiated to ascertain the source of the contraband and establish its forward and backward linkages. Similarly in Kulgam, a Police Party of Police Post Mir Bazar intercepted a blue-coloured auto-rickshaw bearing registration No. JK03P-3053 at NH-244 near Lalipora Crossing during dynamic Naka checking. During checking, police recovered 860 grams of cannabis-like substance and 12.05 grams of charas from a polythene bag found inside the drivers cabin. The driver was identified as Fazil Ahmad Sheikh son of Nisar Ahmad Sheikh, resident of Kapran, Veerinag, Anantnag. Accordingly, a case vide FIR No. 255/2026 under Sections 8/20 of the NDPS Act has been registered at Police Station Qazigund, and further investigation is underway. In Anantnag, a police party from Police Station Kokernag, while patrolling at Soaf Shali, apprehended a person identified as Mushtaq Ahmad Rather, son of Gh. Mohd Rather, resident of Panzgam, Kokernag. During his search, approximately 119 grams of charas powder-like substance were recovered from his possession. Accordingly, FIR No. 175/2026 under Sections 8/20 of the NDPS Act has been registered at Police Station Kokernag, and investigation has been initiated. Moreover, police parties from Police Station Dooru apprehended two persons identified as Adil Ahmed Wani, resident of Malikpora, and Mushtaq Ahmad Sheikh, resident of Verinag. During their personal searches, approximately 7 grams and 8 grams of heroin, respectively, were recovered from their possession. Accordingly, cases under the relevant provisions of law have been registered, at Police Station Dooru, and further investigation is underway, spokesperson said. Police urged the general public to cooperate with the police and share any information regarding drug peddling or related activities for timely action.
Ruhullah questions Omar govts record on Article 370, jobs and reservation
IAF chief AP Singh completes final flying sortie in Kiran trainer aircraft
New Delhi, Oct 20: Chief of the Air Staff Air Chief Marshal AP Singh on Tuesday completed his final flying sortie in an Indian Air Force (IAF) aircraft, flying the HJT-16 Kiran Mk-1 trainer with his first flying instructor, Wing Commander V S Kochar (Retd). The 55-minute sortie marked the culmination of more than four decades of the Air Chief's flying journey, bringing his career in the cockpit full circle. The sortie was particularly significant as Singh flew in aircraft bearing tail number U 707 alongside Kochar, who had guided him during his earliest days of flying training in the IAF. Singh undertook his first-ever flying sortie on January 28, 1984. More than 42 years later, his final sortie in the Kiran trainer brought him back to the aircraft type associated with the training of generations of IAF pilots. The Kiran, an iconic trainer aircraft of the IAF, added special significance to the occasion, reconnecting the Air Chief with the formative years of his flying career. The reunion between Singh and Kochar also served as a tribute to the Indian Air Force's tradition of flying training and the mentorship that continues to influence aircrew throughout their careers. With the sortie, Singh concluded a distinguished chapter of flying in IAF aircraft, carrying forward the experience and commitment that have defined his association with the force.
J&K MBBS, BDS interns continue protest, seek written order on stipend hike
Srinagar, Oct 20: Protesting MBBS and BDS interns in Jammu and Kashmir have refused to call off their agitation until the government issues a formal written order on the proposed increase in their monthly stipend to 25,000. The development comes amid reports of a possible stipend hike following an announcement by Chief Minister Omar Abdullah. However, the status of the proposal remains unclear in the absence of an official government order. Dr Mohammad Momin Khan, president of the All India Medical Students Association (AIMSA), said the interns would not accept verbal assurances or announcements as a substitute for formal government notification. He said the protesting interns had made it clear that they would continue their agitation until the government issued a written order confirming the revised stipend. AIMSA reiterated its stand, saying, No Written Order No End to Protest. The association said the interns would consider ending their protest only after the government formally communicates its decision on the stipend issue.
J&K CM Omar Abdullah approves doubling of MBBS, BDS Interns stipend to Rs 25,000: report
Srinagar, Oct 20: In a major development for medical and dental graduates undergoing compulsory internship in Jammu and Kashmir, Chief Minister Omar Abdullah has approved the enhancement of their monthly stipend from Rs 12,300 to Rs 25,000, with the Health and Medical Education Department directed to issue the necessary orders immediately. Quoting top government sources, news agency KNS reported that the Chief Minister has cleared the file concerning the long-awaited revision, paving the way for a substantial increase in the monthly remuneration paid to MBBS and BDS interns. The Chief Minister has approved the file for enhancement of the monthly stipend from Rs 12,300 to Rs 25,000. The Health and Medical Education Department has been directed to issue the necessary orders immediately, top government sources told KNS. Sources said the formal order was expected to be issued on Tuesday itself, but the holiday prevented its issuance. The department is now to issue the necessary notification on Wednesday, October 21. The decision will increase the monthly stipend by Rs 12,700, representing a rise of approximately 103.25 per cent over the existing amount. On an annual basis, an intern receiving the revised stipend for 12 months would get Rs 3 lakh against the earlier Rs 1,47,600, an increase of Rs 1,52,400. The decision comes against the backdrop of sustained protests by MBBS and BDS interns across Jammu and Kashmir, who have been demanding an increase in their monthly stipend to Rs 30,000. The interns had launched an indefinite strike on August 31, arguing that their stipend had remained unchanged for nearly seven years despite rising living costs and demanding hospital duties.(KNS)
People disappointed with govt on political agenda, governance: MP Aga Ruhullah
Srinagar, October 20: National Conference MP Aga Syed Ruhullah Mehdi on Tuesday said Kashmir had been polarised rather than normalised since 2019, alleging that Kashmiris faced hostility both within Jammu and Kashmir and in other parts of the country. Commenting on attacks on Kashmir-based buses and people outside the Union Territory, Ruhullah said, Kashmir has been polarised instead of being normalised, and I have been saying this from 2019 until now. He alleged that Kashmiris were increasingly treated as suspects and held the BJP responsible for the hostile environment. The relationship between this state and the Union was not normalised in 2019. It was made hostile, and the responsibility for that hostility lies with the BJP, he said. Ruhullah also expressed disappointment with the Jammu and Kashmir government, saying it had failed to meet people's expectations on both the political agenda and governance after two years in office. People in Jammu and Kashmir have been disappointed, unfortunately. They should not have been, he said. Questioning the government's record on Article 370, employment, reservation, electricity, students' issues and prisoners, he asked, On which parameter can we say that the government has delivered anything that we can be proud of? Referring to former chief minister Farooq Abdullah's reported remarks that the abrogation of Article 370 was wrong, Ruhullah said the focus should be on concrete steps to reverse the decision. Everyone knows that the abrogation was wrong. You know it, I know it, and most people in India know it, he said. The question is: what are we doing to reverse that decision? On protests seeking accountability from the Election Commission, Ruhullah described the demonstrations as genuine and said they could signal a revival of democratic resistance. It is a genuine protest, and it seems democracy may be starting to breathe again after being suppressed over the past 10 to 12 years, he said.
Ladakhs first medical college in Leh set to begin operations in 2027-28
Leh, Oct 20: Ladakhs first medical college in Leh is set to become operational from the academic year 2027-28, with the Union Ministry of Health and Family Welfare granting a one-time relaxation to initiate recruitment of faculty and support staff before completion of 80 percent of the required infrastructure. Lieutenant Governor of Ladakh, Vinai Kumar Saxena, described the approval as a historic milestone for the Union Territory, saying it would fulfil a long-standing aspiration of the people and expand opportunities for local youth to pursue medical education closer to home. In a statement, posted on X, the LG thanked Union Health Minister J P Nadda for taking cognisance of his request and granting the relaxation for the proposed Government Medical College at Spituk Pharka, Leh. The approval allows the UT Administration to begin staggered preparatory recruitment against 103 sanctioned regular posts, even as construction of the colleges dedicated infrastructure progresses. According to the ministrys communication, the Department of Expenditure examined the proposal on October 8, 2026, and agreed to the one-time relaxation, subject to specified conditions. The 103 posts, sanctioned by the Department of Expenditure on November 27, 2024, will be filled in phases from the academic year 2027-28, in accordance with academic requirements identified by the UT Administration. The recruitment will be undertaken on a regular basis and strictly in accordance with the approved Recruitment Rules. The ministry has also stipulated that any interim premises used to operationalise the college must remain temporary. The institution will have to shift to its dedicated infrastructure once construction is completed. The UT Administration has been asked to establish reasonable timelines for completion of the permanent infrastructure and inform the Department of Expenditure when the college shifts to the new premises. The development is expected to help address one of the key preparatory requirements for establishing a new medical college by allowing faculty and support staff recruitment to begin ahead of the completion of the infrastructure. However, the approval relates to the relaxation of recruitment-related requirements and does not, by itself, constitute permission to admit students. The proposed college will also have to meet the applicable National Medical Commission requirements and obtain the necessary permissions before admitting its first batch. The UT Administration, the LG said, would ensure all necessary arrangements to welcome the first batch of medical students and strengthen the regions long-term healthcare ecosystem.
Dhanyakadi Kashaya(Hridrogahara Kashaya)
Dhanyakadi Kashaya (Hridrogahara Kashaya) Ingredients, Preparation, Ayurvedic Properties, Indications & Dosages Introduction Dhanyakadi Kashaya, also known as Hridrogahara Kashaya, ... Read more The post Dhanyakadi Kashaya(Hridrogahara Kashaya) appeared first on Planet Ayurveda .
Death toll rises to 60 in Houthi strike on Yemen training camp in deadliest attack in months
Cairo, Oct 20: The death toll from a Houthi missile strike on a government military camp in southern Yemen rose to 60 people, primarily new recruits, making it the deadliest strike since fighting in the country began escalating three months ago, Yemeni officials said Tuesday. At least a dozen people were still missing a day after the Iranian-backed rebels hit the al-Alam training camp in the southern province of Shabwa with ballistic missiles, three officials said. Monday's strike was part of a recent surge of fighting in Yemen, which started when forces from the internationally-recognised government and Saudi-led coalition launched airstrikes on Houthi-held Sanaa International Airport in July, shattering a 2022 ceasefire deal that largely stopped fighting in the country's civil war. The Houthis have also fired missiles and drones on Saudi Arabia, which has struggled to counter the Houthi attacks, even with far superior US-supplied arms. The strike on the al-Alam camp hit while recruits were lining up in formation for a training session. Videos from the area circulated online and were analysed by The Associated Press and showed many motionless bodies lying on the sandy ground of the camp. More than 200 other recruits were also wounded, said the officials, who spoke on condition of anonymity because they were not authorised to brief the media. One of the officials, from the local government, said several suffered serious injuries and were transferred to hospitals in other provinces in life-threatening condition. He said at least 15 of the recruits killed were from a single Yemeni tribe. In televised comments aired by the Saudi-owned Al Arabiya satellite news television, Shabwa governor Awad Ibn al-Wazir said the dead were new recruits from across Shabwa being trained to provide security in the province and not combat operations. These recruits have never before participated in any mobilisation or on any front, he said. They have no connection to the front lines they were (part of) a non-offensive security force. The Shabwa provincial government said in a statement Monday that the Houthis fired three ballistic missiles on the camp. The Houthis claimed the attack, saying they had killed and wounded dozens but did not provide further details. The camp, which was previously used by a militia backed by the United Arab Emirates, is located in the Jardan district, north of the provincial capital of Ataq. It sits on a crucial supply line connecting to the government-controlled province of Marib. Shabwa and Marib, along with neighbouring Hadramawt province, contain what has been dubbed the Yemeni government's triangle of power, a strategic area in which the country's oil and gas production is located. On Tuesday, authorities in Saudi Arabia issued an attack warning for the capital area in the late morning, followed by the sound of an explosion in northern Riyadh where the King Khalid International Airport is located. The airport has come under repeated Houthi attacks this month, forcing the facility to suspend its operations. The all-clear was given a short time later, and Saudi Arabia said a ballistic missile fired by the Houthis had been intercepted. Yemen first plunged into civil war in 2014, when the Houthis seized Sanaa and much of northern Yemen and forced the government into exile. A Saudi-led coalition intervened the following year in an attempt to restore the government to power. The conflict created one of the world's worst humanitarian disasters and killed more than 150,000 people. (AP)
Trivritadi Kashaya (1) Ingredients, Preparation, Ayurvedic Properties, Indications & Dosages Introduction Trivritadi Kashaya is a classical Ayurvedic decoction prepared ... Read more The post Trivritadi Kashaya (1) appeared first on Planet Ayurveda .
16 Bengali Snacks You Must Try Durga Puja 2026
Durga Puja 2026: Want to taste flavourful Bengali dishes this festive season? Here are some iconic snacks you must not miss out on.
Kentucky sinks 1,700 discarded Christmas trees in a lake to create homes for fish
At SCO meet, Rajnath Singh calls for unified action to dismantle entire terrorism ecosystem
Dushanbe, Oct 20: Defence Minister Rajnath Singh on Tuesday called on Shanghai Cooperation Organisation (SCO) member states to work together to dismantle the entire ecosystem of terrorism, asserting that there can be no justification for the menace and no double standards in addressing it. Addressing the 25th Meeting of the SCO Council of Heads of Government in Dushanbe, Tajikistan, Singh said terrorism posed a grave threat to peace, development and economic prosperity. Terrorism results in the loss of innocent lives and disrupts investment and commerce. It radicalises societies and deprives youth of the opportunities they rightfully deserve, he said. There can be no justification for terrorism, no double standards in addressing it, and no place for those who finance, support, or provide safe havens to terrorists, Singh added. Recalling the deliberations at the SCO Summit in Bishkek in August-September 2026, Singh said Prime Minister Narendra Modi had underlined the need for concrete action by the organisation on security, connectivity and opportunities. He reiterated India's commitment to inclusive and mutually beneficial economic engagement among member states, stressing that the SCO must adhere to the principles of sovereign equality, consensus and mutual respect. A greater number of institutions does not necessarily translate into greater achievements, Singh said, adding that new mechanisms should address clearly identified needs, avoid duplication and deliver practical benefits to member states. Highlighting the uncertain global economic environment marked by geopolitical tensions, trade disruptions and concerns over energy and food security, Singh called for stronger supply chains, increased trade and investment, and greater use of technology to drive development. He also reaffirmed India's support for the adoption of an Action Plan for the Multilateral Trade and Economic Cooperation Programme for 2026-2030. On regional connectivity, Singh said India supported initiatives that link markets, facilitate trade and create new avenues for development. He cited the International North-South Transport Corridor and Chabahar Port as important avenues for connecting Central Asia with wider markets. However, he stressed that connectivity projects must be based on consultation and respect for the sovereignty and territorial integrity of all countries. Projects not founded on these principles will not be sustainable, he said, calling for simplified customs procedures, digital documentation, improved logistics and interoperable digital solutions to reduce the cost of doing business. Singh welcomed the decisions taken at the SCO Summit in Bishkek to establish the Universal Centre in Tashkent and the Anti-Drug Centre in Dushanbe as permanent bodies of the organisation. Their effectiveness, he said, would depend on efficient coordination and timely implementation. Highlighting India's development experience, the Defence Minister said technology and innovation could drive economic growth and improve public service delivery. He cited India's Digital Public Infrastructure, its start-up ecosystem and initiatives promoting women-led development as examples of technology-driven progress. He also referred to India's global initiatives, including the International Solar Alliance, the Coalition for Disaster Resilient Infrastructure, Mission LiFE and the Global Biofuel Alliance, saying they contributed to clean energy, climate resilience and sustainable development. Our success should be measured by the opportunities we create for youth, new markets we open for our entrepreneurs, technologies we make available to our farmers and small-scale business owners, and the connections we foster among societies, Singh said. He urged the SCO to build on its achievements over the past 25 years and pursue a forward-looking agenda focused on consensus-driven cooperation and tangible outcomes. He also invited member states to participate in the first SCO Civilisational Dialogue Forum, which India will host later this year. The meeting reviewed progress in economic and trade cooperation among SCO member states and discussed ways to strengthen collaboration in transport, finance, the digital economy and social development. The heads of delegation adopted the Joint Communiqu of the 25th SCO Council of Heads of Government meeting, along with the organisation's budget for 2027 and the PMTEC Action Plan for 2026-2030. India has been a full member of the SCO since 2017 and actively participates in its mechanisms for promoting economic and practical cooperation among member states.
J&K Medical Interns Resume Strike Over Stipend Hike Delay, Candle Marches Tonight
Darbar Move: J&K govt orders offices to reopen in Jammu on November 2
Srinagar, Oct 20: The Jammu and Kashmir Government has ordered the annual Darbar Move of government offices from Srinagar to Jammu for the winter season of 2026-27, with offices scheduled to reopen in Jammu on November 2. According to Government Order No. 1664-JK(GAD) of 2026, issued by the General Administration Department on October 19, offices observing a five-day week will close in Srinagar after office hours on October 30, while those observing a six-day week will close on October 31. The order states that offices listed under Annexure A will move to Jammu in full, while those listed under Annexure B will operate in camp mode with limited staff. Offices moving in camp will carry 33 percent of their staff strength or 10 officials, whichever is less, unless otherwise specified. Rs 25,000 Special Move Allowance The government has fixed a uniform Special Move Travelling Allowance of Rs 25,000 for each employee moving to Jammu. The allowance will not be payable to employees who fail to move before or within the prescribed date. Non-gazetted employees moving to Jammu may also apply for advance pay, which will be recovered in instalments as per rules. Salaries for October 2026 of employees working in move offices will be drawn on October 29. The order further states that leave will not ordinarily be allowed in combination with or in continuation of the move days, except in very exceptional circumstances. Five days of Special Casual Leave will, however, be available to Kashmir-based employees who wish to avail it. Winter Secretariat to Function in Srinagar The General Administration Department will establish a Winter Secretariat at the Civil Secretariat in Srinagar to ensure the continued functioning of the administration during the winter session. Each administrative department has been asked to identify one gazetted officer and four non-gazetted officials to remain in Srinagar, subject to prior approval from the competent authority. Departments have been directed to give preference, wherever feasible, to female employees and those with serious medical conditions. The order also directs administrative departments to detach staff posted from subordinate offices in Kashmir Division by October 27. Transport, Security and Medical Arrangements The Jammu and Kashmir Road Transport Corporation (JKRTC) has been directed to arrange sufficient buses in good condition to transport employees on October 31 and November 1. Advance ticket booking will begin on October 27 at the Civil Secretariat and JKRTC's main booking counters. Each convoy will be accompanied by a crane, two empty buses and mobile workshop facilities to address breakdowns en route. J&K Police will escort the convoys to their respective destinations and ensure precedence at the Banihal-Qazigund Tunnel and the Dr Syama Prasad Mookerjee Tunnel. The Health and Medical Education Department will arrange medical aid facilities at Qazigund, Banihal, Ramsu, Ramban, Chenani, Udhampur and Jhajjar Kotli on the days employees travel from Srinagar to Jammu. The Food, Civil Supplies and Consumer Affairs Department has also been directed to establish ration counters at suitable locations near residential colonies of employees in Jammu. Office Timings in Jammu After reopening in Jammu, the Civil Secretariat and Heads of Departments located within its premises will function from 9:30 am to 5:30 pm. Moving Heads of Departments located outside the Civil Secretariat premises and observing a six-day week will function from 10 am to 4:30 pm. The Estates Department will provide accommodation to officers and officials moving with the Darbar Move as per past practice. Employees will not be permitted to occupy government, municipal or other residential accommodation without a proper allotment order.
AIMSA, J&K medical interns resume strike over delay in implementing stipend hike
Srinagar, Oct 20: The All India Medical Students Association (AIMSA) and MBBS/BDS interns across Jammu and Kashmir have resumed their strike and announced candle marches tonight at all Government Medical Colleges (GMCs) and SKIMS Bemina over the continued delay in implementing the long-pending stipend hike. The decision, they said, follows the alleged failure of the government to honour its written assurance issued on September 8, under which interns were asked to wait for 30 days. On October 12, an AIMSA delegation again met the authorities, when OSD Peerzada Zahoor Ahmad reportedly sought another week to resolve the matter. However, on October 19, a delegation once again visited the Secretariat and met the Director General of Finance, but the issue remained unresolved, said the students. According to Dr Tasaduk, Joint Secretary AIMSA, the delegation was subjected to humiliating remarks during its interaction with the OSD, who reportedly stated that the government was doing interns a favour by providing free medical education. AIMSA strongly objected to the alleged remarks, asserting that public expenditure is funded by taxpayers and that interns legitimate demands deserve respectful consideration. Dr Mohammad Momin Khan, President AIMSA, said, We respect every officer and every institution, but we will not tolerate rude or humiliating behaviour towards medical interns. A written assurance, 30 days of waiting, another week of patience and repeated meetings have still not resulted in an implementation order. If the file regarding the stipend hike is ready, release the order without further delay. Interns deserve dignity, transparency and justicenot endless assurances. AIMSA reiterated that the protest concerns the legitimate demand for a stipend hike for MBBS and BDS interns in Jammu and Kashmir. Candle marches will be held tonight across GMCs and SKIMS Bemina, while the association has called upon the government to honour its written commitment and resolve the issue immediately, it said.
Simhasyadi Vati Ingredients, Preparation, Ayurvedic Properties, Indications & Dosages In contemporary gastroenterology, pulmonology, and hematology, severe multi-etiological hemorrhagic and ... Read more The post Simhasyadi Vati appeared first on Planet Ayurveda .
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Protests can become instruments of political interests, fuel divisions: Bhagwat
Nagpur, Oct 20: RSS chief Mohan Bhagwat on Tuesday said that regime-change agitations do not resolve fundamental problems, warning that protests could become instruments of political interests and fuel divisions in society rather than delivering solutions. Addressing the Rashtriya Swayamsevak Sanghs annual Vijayadashami Utsav gathering in Nagpur, Bhagwat cited recent upheavals in Bangladesh, Nepal, France, and Albania, asserting that forces pursuing their own interests use regime change as a means to alter political circumstances, rarely achieving intended results. They claim that changing a regime will change the situation, but that has never really happened, he said. Bhagwat claimed that a stronger India would constrain such forces, making the country a target of attempts to weaken and divide it. While some global powers want India to develop, they do not want it to become too powerful, as it could challenge their dominance, he added. Bhagwat performed shastra puja (weapon worship) at RSS Vijayadashami Utsav in Nagpur. On protests in a democracy, the RSS chief said their purpose should be to resolve problems rather than deepen social divisions. Problems will remain, and protests are inevitable in a democracy. But what should the purpose of protests be? They should be aimed at finding solutions, he said. He cautioned that protests could become political instruments when driven by objectives other than public welfare, fuelling hostility towards individuals, groups or ideologies. Bhagwat also urged political leaders, protesters and the administration to ensure that their actions did not create bitterness or divisions in society. However intense our emotions may be, we must respect the limits set by our Constitution, the norms of civilised public discourse and standards of decent conduct, he said. Bhagwat highlighted the need for greater discernment among the younger generation in consuming information. Citing concerns about the adverse effects of unchecked content, particularly on OTT platforms, he urged the government to consider appropriate regulations in the society's interest. Having experienced the adverse consequences, many countries have introduced regulations and restrictions on social media platforms, he said. In India also, society is increasingly recognising the need for such measures, particularly with regard to OTT platforms, he added. At the same time, even when information is freely accessible, the younger generation must be taught to exercise discernment and distinguish between what is appropriate and what is not, Bhagwat said. Balanced and holistic development must go beyond material comforts, he said. Science and technology can improve lives and promote rational thinking, but they are only means, not ends, he added. Development driven solely by consumerism and materialism may bring convenience at the cost of greater social and human loss, he said. Drug addiction is a serious national problem, and the government and society must timely address it and start taking measures to overcome it, Bhagwat said. Parents and elders in the society must impart this discernment to the younger generation, which must keep itself away from all influences and activities that can lead to the development of such harmful habits, he said. The recent devastating floods in Nepal can be partly attributed to the consequences of one-sided development across the Himalayan region, which spans several countries, Bhagwat said. Referring to artificial intelligence, Bhagwat said people must learn to use the technology and master it, while ensuring that ethical principles were not ignored. We can already see how many fake videos are being generated using AI. A new tool has become available for spreading false propaganda, he said. Bhagwat also stressed that national unity was based on an emotional bond rather than a transactional relationship. All of us Indians are one, and our unity is internal. It is a unity of the heart. It is not a bargain or a contract, he said. The RSS chief alleged that certain forces exploited social differences, encouraged a sense of victimhood among communities and sought to undermine faith in the country's institutions to create discontent and disorder. He noted that the country's firm policies, leadership and growing national consciousness among the younger generation had strengthened India. The RSS chief further called for a Hindu vision rooted in universal brotherhood, spirituality and humanity, saying India must develop a new model of integrated and balanced development to guide the world. Explaining the Hindu vision, Bhagwat said it was not defined by any particular form of worship, food habits, language, customs, lifestyle or political ideology. He said the Hindu spirit had the capacity to unite the world without forcing anyone to change their identity or destroying the distinctive identities of different communities. He cited the phrase Sa Prathama Sanskriti Vishwavara to describe India's civilisational tradition. He said that the RSS sought to build a well-organised, strong Hindu society, asserting that the effort was not opposed to respect for all faiths or the emotional unity of the nation.
World Osteoporosis Day: Can Osteoporosis Be Reversed? What You Need to Know About Bone Loss
This World Osteoporosis Day, we spoke to two renowned doctors to understand whether it is possible to reverse osteoporosis. This is one of the most-asked questions, and if you are also looking for the answer, we recommend that you read this complete article for a detailed understanding.
Is It Safe To Eat Eggs Every Day? Here Is What A Dietitian Says
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Ladakh LG notifies LAHDC amendment regulation, paves way for councils in 8 districts
Lieutenant Governor of Ladakh Vinai Kumar Saxena has notified the Ladakh Autonomous Hill Development Councils (Amendment) Regulation, 2026, with effect from October 19, paving the way for the creation of autonomous hill development councils in all eight districts of the Union Territory, including the newly created Sankoo district. In a post on X, Saxena said the regulation had been implemented within six days of the Union Cabinets approval on October 14 and its promulgation by President Droupadi Murmu on October 16. The amended regulation rationalises the number of constituencies in the Ladakh Autonomous Hill Development Councils (LAHDCs), replacing the earlier provision of 26 seats in each council with a minimum of seven and a maximum of 24 seats. It also provides for the nomination of four members from women and unrepresented communities to promote inclusivity and broaden participation in local governance. Saxena said the regulation would strengthen grassroots democracy, enhance local representation and promote inclusive governance across Ladakh. He expressed gratitude to Prime Minister Narendra Modi and Union Home Minister Amit Shah for the regulation, describing it as a landmark step towards strengthening local democratic institutions in the Union Territory.
Sajad Lone questions extra cable charges for smart meter installation
Srinagar, Oct 20: Peoples Conference president and MLA Handwara Sajad Gani Lone on Tuesday criticised the Jammu and Kashmir government over alleged charges being imposed on households for additional cable required during smart meter installation, accusing the government of burdening consumers, particularly those from economically weaker sections. In a statement, shared on X, Lone claimed that the company installing smart meters was providing only four metres of cable per household, comprising two metres for input and two metres for output connections. He alleged that households requiring additional cable were being asked to pay for it, with consumers in some cases having to spend between Rs 4,000 and Rs 5,000 to get smart meters installed. Lone said the cost could be higher for households located farther from electricity poles, as they would require longer cables. He questioned the arrangement, alleging that poorer households were being forced to bear additional expenses to secure electricity connections and warning that consumers could face disconnection if the required installation was not completed. Here is another shocker of a gift for the people of J & K especially for the poorer sections of the society. The smart metering is in process. The company issues a cable for connection to each household measuring not more than 4 meters. (2 meters for input and 2 meters for Sajad Lone (@sajadlone) October 20, 2026 Targeting Chief Minister Omar Abdullah, Lone also referred to the National Conference's promise of providing 200 units of free electricity to eligible households, alleging that the commitment had not been fulfilled despite two years having passed. He recalled the criticism of smart metering during the election campaign, saying consumers were now facing additional expenses associated with the installation process. Those who queued up to vote have to pay to get the smart meter installed, Lone said, according to the statement.
Jio Platforms' anchor book draws record Rs 2.5 lakh crore in bids ahead of IPO
New Delhi, Oct 20: Jio Platforms has allotted shares worth Rs 8,109.85 crore to 212 anchor investors at the top end of its price band, after institutional demand for the offering exceeded Rs 2.5 lakh crore, more than 30 times the amount available in the anchor book, according to a stock exchange filing and people familiar with the matter. The allotment of 7.24 crore shares at Rs 1,119 apiece comes ahead of the initial public offering that opens for public subscription on Wednesday. The strong demand underscores institutional investor interest in what is expected to be India's largest IPO, although the extent to which it translates into broader public demand will become clearer once the offer opens. Life Insurance Corporation of India received the largest allocation, worth Rs 499.98 crore, accounting for 6.17 per cent of the anchor portion. New World Fund Inc was allotted shares worth Rs 486.27 crore, followed by the Government of Singapore at Rs 340.93 crore, SBI Focused Fund at Rs 315 crore and BNP Paribas Financial Markets - ODI at Rs 303.25 crore. Domestic mutual funds received 2.489 crore shares worth Rs 2,784.96 crore, representing 34.34 per cent of the anchor book, through 95 schemes across 25 fund houses. Life insurers and pension funds received 97.4 lakh shares worth Rs 1,089.95 crore, or 13.44 per cent of the total. Both categories exceeded the allocations reserved for them under the red herring prospectus dated October 14, which earmarked 33.33 per cent of the anchor portion for mutual funds and 6.67 per cent for insurers and pension funds. Global investment firms participating in the anchor book include BlackRock, Capital Group, Fidelity, T. Rowe Price, Schroders, JPMorgan Asset Management, Franklin Templeton and Janus Henderson. Sovereign and public investment institutions include the Abu Dhabi Investment Authority and the Monetary Authority of Singapore, alongside other long-term institutional investors. Some large overseas and domestic institutions bid for allocations worth USD 750 million to more than USD 1 billion each, people familiar with the matter said. Jio Platforms is seeking to raise about Rs 30,213 crore through a fresh issue of up to 27 crore shares, at a price band of Rs 1,065 to Rs 1,119 apiece. The offering values the company at around USD 108 billion, according to the offer documents. The IPO will open on October 21 and close on October 23. The company will use the proceeds partly to repay debt at its telecom subsidiary, with the remainder earmarked for general corporate purposes. Reliance Industries Ltd, controlled by billionaire Mukesh Ambani, will retain a majority stake in Jio Platforms after the listing. Jio Platforms has grown into one of the world's largest mobile operators by subscriber numbers since Reliance entered the telecom market a decade ago. The business has expanded beyond mobile connectivity into broadband, digital entertainment, cloud and enterprise services, making it the central part of Reliance's push into India's digital economy. The company had 533.3 million subscribers as of June 2026 and carried nearly 60 per cent of India's data traffic, according to reported company figures. The listing will give public-market investors direct exposure to a business that has so far operated as a subsidiary of Reliance Industries. Its scale and the breadth of institutional participation make the offering a closely watched test of investor appetite for large Indian equity issuances. The anchor book, which allows institutional investors to receive shares before the public subscription period, represents about 27 per cent of the total IPO. Demand exceeding 30 times the anchor allocation, alongside subscriptions at the top of the price band, provides an early indication of institutional appetite for the offering. However, strong anchor demand does not guarantee similar enthusiasm from retail investors or ensure gains after listing. Investors will weigh Jio's subscriber base and opportunities in digital services against competitive pressures, regulatory risks, capital requirements and its ability to translate scale into sustained revenue and profit growth, analysts said. The offering also provides a measure of the Indian market's capacity to absorb a transaction of this size, with domestic mutual funds, insurers and pension funds accounting for nearly half of the anchor allocation. The public subscription will offer a clearer indication of whether that institutional confidence extends across the wider investor base.
India has highlighted the dangers posed by weapons of mass destruction falling into the hands of terrorists. During a statement at the UN General Assembly, the country urged global vigilance regarding sensitive technology transfers. Lok Sabha MP Alok Kumar Suman's remarks pointed towards Pakistan's proliferation links and the network led by A Q Khan. India has consistently proposed measures to prevent terrorists from acquiring such weapons since 2002.
SMC Commissioner reviews winter preparedness
Srinagar, Oct 19: Commissioner, Srinagar Municipal Corporation (SMC), Dr. BasharatQayoom, today chaired a review meeting at the SMC Central Office, Karan Nagar, to assess the Corporations preparedness for snow clearance and dewatering operations ahead of the winter season. The meeting was attended by Joint Commissioner, R&E, Joint Commissioner, Works), Joint Commissioner, Superintending Engineer, City Drainage Circle, and other officers of the Corporation. The Commissioner reviewed a comprehensive deployment plan for manpower and machinery across all municipal wards to ensure timely and efficient snow clearance. He directed the concerned officers to prioritise key public routes, particularly those connecting hospitals, ration depots, shrines, and government institutions, to ensure uninterrupted accessibility during snowfall. Highlighting SMCs operational capabilities, the Commissioner reviewed the availability of snow clearance machinery, advanced dewatering systems, and mobility support to facilitate a swift and effective response to winter-related challenges. Emphasising the importance of seamless inter-departmental coordination, the Commissioner directed the Snow Monitoring Committee and the 247 Control Room to remain fully operational and responsive. He stressed that public grievances must be addressed promptly and that immediate action should be taken on reports concerning snow accumulation, blocked roads, and other winter-related disruptions. Reviewing dewatering preparedness, the Commissioner directed that all permanent dewatering stations be maintained in optimal working condition. He further stressed the need for the timely deployment of high-capacity mobile pumps in vulnerable and low-lying areas to mitigate waterlogging during rainfall, snowmelt, and adverse weather conditions. The Commissioner also underscored the importance of advance planning, field-level monitoring, accountability, and effective coordination among all concerned wings to ensure the uninterrupted delivery of essential civic services throughout the winter season. Dr.Basharat underscored the Corporations focus on operational readiness, rapid-response capability, and uninterrupted civic service delivery, directing all concerned officers to ensure end-to-end preparedness, real-time field coordination, and swift mobilisation of resources. He emphasised that every municipal ward must be equipped to respond effectively to snow-related disruptions and waterlogging, ensuring safer mobility, accessible essential services, and minimal public inconvenience throughout the winter season.
Regional Passport Office Srinagar to organise Passport LokAdalat on October 21, 22
Srinagar, Oct 19:The Regional Passport Office (RPO), Srinagar, will organise Passport LokAdalat on October 21 and 22, 2026, to expedite the disposal of pending passport application cases pertaining to 2024 and 2025. The LokAdalat will be held at the Regional Passport Office, Srinagar, from 11:00 AM to 4:00 PM on both days. The Regional Passport Officer, B S Rawat will hear the grievances of applicants and take up cases for disposal. An official statement said that in view of the limited time available, 100 applications will be taken up each day. Applicants are advised to bring all relevant documents in original, along with one set of photocopies, to facilitate the disposal of their cases. The initiative is part of the Regional Passport Offices efforts to ensure timely grievance redressal, improve service delivery and provide transparent, efficient and citizen-centric passport services, the statement said.
KU, IMHANS organise intl workshop on digital wellbeing, neurodiversity inclusion across Asia- Africa
Srinagar, Oct 19:The Department of Psychology, University of Kashmir (KU), in collaboration with the Institute of Mental Health and Neurosciences (IMHANS), Government Medical College (GMC) Srinagar, began a week-long international workshop on Digital Wellbeing and Inclusion for Neurodiversity at the Main Campus. The workshop is being organised under the European Commission-sponsored project Digital Transformation for Neurodiversity Inclusion in Africa and Asia (AAN-DI). It aims to strengthen international research collaboration and explore how digital technologies can improve wellbeing and promote social and educational inclusion for neurodivergent individuals across Asia and Africa. The programme brings together researchers, experts and participants from Kenya, Finland, Ethiopia and India, along with project consortium partners, the Department of School Education, J&K, and IMHANS J&K. Speaking at the inaugural session, Vice-Chancellor KU, Prof. Nilofer Khan highlighted the importance of inclusive education, mental health awareness and the responsible use of technology in addressing the needs of neurodivergent individuals. She said, universities have an important role in promoting research and collaboration to make digital spaces more accessible and supportive. She added that the University is exploring opportunities to establish further collaborations with national and international organisations, to strengthen research in neurodiversity and related areas. Such partnerships, she said, would provide KU researchers and academicians with greater opportunities for academic exchange, exposure to global research practices and the utilisation of their expertise to address emerging challenges and develop inclusive solutions. Prof. Hazel Miseda, Vice-Chancellor, Great Lakes University of Kisumu, emphasised the role of universities in promoting digital wellbeing and neurodiversity through inclusive education, research and institutional collaboration. Dean, School of Education &Behavioural Sciences, KU, Prof. Touseef Rizvi, spoke about the importance of creating supportive environments in educational institutions and society. Prof. Aziz-ud-din, IIT Bombay, also shared his views on the subject and noted the role of research, technological innovation and collaboration in developing inclusive approaches to neurodiversity. Prof. Showkat Ahmad Shah, Project Principal Investigator, KU, and organising secretary of the workshop, provided an overview of the programme and its objectives. Prof. Susannah OtienoLeppnen, Principal Investigator, University of Jyvskyl, Finland, presented an overview of the AAN-DI project. Earlier, in her welcome address, Head, Department of Psychology, KU, Prof. HumeraShafi, highlighted the importance of the workshop in advancing research and awareness around neurodiversity. The week-long workshop will feature technical sessions on various areas such as baseline survey tools for the assessment of neurodiversity, the biological understanding of neurodiversity, and the use of artificial intelligence for detecting neurodevelopmental issues. It will also include a sensitisation programme for teachers from the Department of School Education J&K, blended mobility research presentations by participants from Kenya, Finland, Ethiopia and India and a visit to IMHANS J&K. The event proceedings were conducted by Dr. AsmaNabi, faculty, Department of Psychology KU, who also proposed the vote of thanks.
Massive traffic jams in Srinagar areas irk commuters
Srinagar, Oct 19:Commuters faced a tough time on Monday due to massive traffic jams in city centre areas in absence of regulation of vehicular movement. Traffic jams were compounded amid rush of students towards examination centres in city centre areas. Commuters were stranded for a long time amid traffic jams on Maulana Azad Road, Residency Road, Sonwar, Jawahar Nagar, Hari Singh High Street. There was total chaos due to traffic jams on city centre roads. Traffic Police had failed to devise a route plan to facilitate smooth vehicular movement amid matriculation exams, said Abdul Hamid, a commuter. What added to the traffic mess was the non-functioning of traffic lights at various intersections. What is the logic of installing these intelligent traffic lights when traffic is regulated manually. Traffic system must be streamlined to ensure relief to commuters, Mehrajuddin, a commuter said. Commuters said traffic jams can be detrimental as ambulances and fire-brigade vehicles are frequently stuck. Recently Chief Secretary, Atal Dulloo, chaired a meeting of the Multi-Disciplinary Committee (MDC) on Traffic Management to review the implementation of a comprehensive action plan aimed at easing traffic congestion, improving urban mobility and strengthening road safety in Srinagar. The Chief Secretary had emphasised that systematic parking management, effective enforcement, safer road infrastructure and timely emergency response must remain central to the administration's efforts to make urban travel safer, smoother and more convenient for the people.
Athwas India XI seal final berth with 3-wicket win
Srinagar, Oct 19:Athwas India XI secured a thrilling three-wicket victory over Royal Goodwill Cricket Club in Semi-Final 1 of the Khyber Red Premier League Season 3, successfully chasing down a target of 154 runs to book their place in the grand finale. As per a statement issued, batting first, Royal Goodwill CC were bowled out for 153 runs in 18.2 overs. Nasir Bashir led their batting effort with an impressive 73 off 39 balls, Athwas India XIs Yash Garag delivered a match-defining bowling performance, claiming five wickets for just nine runs in 3.2 overs. Tripuresh Singh also made a significant contribution with three wickets. In reply, Athwas India XI chased down the target in 19.4 overs, losing seven wickets. Tripuresh Singh contributed a valuable 35 runs off 21 balls, while Asif Rasool added 26 runs off 27 deliveries to Royal Goodwill CCs first-innings total. For Royal Goodwill CC, Vaibhav Mali picked up three wickets for 29 runs, while Sajad Dar claimed two wickets. The high-stakes encounter was graced by the presence of Deputy Commissioner Srinagar, Akshay Labroo, adding significance to the occasion. The match witnessed an extraordinary response from cricket fans, with more than 10,000 spectators turning up to witness the contest, underlining the growing popularity of the Khyber Red Premier League across Jammu & Kashmir. Irfan Ahmad Guju, Owner of Athwas India XI and Founder of IA Multi Ventures Private Limited, who was also present to back his team, said, We are committed to promoting sports in Kashmir and providing a platform to talented youth who lack access to opportunities. Organised by Red FM, the Khyber Red Premier League has emerged as a major platform for cricketing talent, bringing together leading players and passionate fans. The tournament also supports the broader vision of youth engagement through sports and a drug-free Kashmir, encouraging young people to channel their energy into positive and constructive activities. With this victory, Athwas India XI have taken a significant step towards the title, setting the stage for an eagerly anticipated grand finale of Khyber Red Premier League Season 3.
Vidarbha seize control, J&K collapse to 7/4
Srinagar, Oct 19:Vidarbha seized control of their Ranji Trophy Elite clash against Jammu and Kashmir after taking a 45-run first-innings lead before reducing the hosts to 7 for four at stumps on Day 2 at Sher-i-Kashmir Cricket Stadium in Srinagar on Monday. After bowling out J&K for 260 on the opening day, Vidarbha responded with 305 in 73 overs, powered by opener Ravikumar Samarths 143 off 202 balls and a fighting 64 from Rajneesh Gurbani. Samarth anchored the innings with 17 fours and a six, while Gurbani struck 10 boundaries and a six in his 104-ball knock to help Vidarbha establish a valuable lead. Their contributions proved decisive as J&Ks bowlers struggled to contain the visitors scoring. Umar Nazir and Sunil Kumar led the J&K bowling attack, claiming four wickets each. Nazir finished with figures of 4 for 56, while Sunil returned 4 for 73. Umran Malik and Abid Mushtaq picked up a wicket apiece. J&Ks second innings, however, began disastrously as Vidarbhas pace attack ripped through the top order, leaving the hosts reeling at 7 for four after five overs. Yawer Hassan was dismissed for a duck, followed by nightwatchman Umran Malik and Lone Nasir, who also failed to open their accounts. Kawalpreet Singh, who had starred with a 96 in the first innings, was the fourth batter to depart, bowled for four. Vidarbha pacer Nachiket Bhute did the bulk of the damage, claiming three wickets for just six runs, while Yash Thakur picked up one wicket. At Stumps, Qamran Iqbal was unbeaten on one, with captain Paras Dogra on other side, as J&K trailed Vidarbha by 38 runs with six wickets remaining. The hosts face an uphill task on Day 3, with their middle and lower order needing to produce a substantial recovery to prevent Vidarbha from tightening their grip on the match.
France empowers mayors to impose partial curfews after riots and looting
New Delhi, Oct 19: French Prime Minister Sbastien Lecornu has authorised local mayors to impose partial curfews in some areas to protect residents and businesses following a weekend of riots and looting, the BBC reported. Announcing the measures after an emergency cabinet meeting in Paris, Lecornu said the government was determined to prevent further violence. He warned that a state of emergency could be imposed if the unrest continued. The Prime Minister said people wanted to know how such violence had erupted in the country. He also announced that 200 investigators would begin examining video footage of the weekends violence, including recordings posted online, to identify those responsible and bring them to justice. The unrest began last month with student protests over school conditions but later widened to include broader grievances. More than 500,000 people took to the streets on Saturday, with demonstrations turning violent in several places. Buildings were set on fire and shops looted. The violence continued on Sunday, when police arrested more than 350 people in Paris, with at least five shops reportedly looted. Interior Minister Laurent Nuez admitted that police had lost control in some cities and acknowledged a lack of anticipation by the authorities. He offered to resign, but President Emmanuel Macron wants him to remain in office, according to the BBC. Lecornu also criticised the political far-left, accusing it of attempting to fuel disorder ahead of next Aprils presidential election. The Justice Minister is expected to provide further details on measures to prevent a recurrence of the violence. The governments latest steps come amid growing concerns over public order and the effectiveness of the police response to the unrest.
Qatar to announce new regional defence partnership amid Gulf tensions
New Delhi, Oct 19: Qatar will soon announce a new defence partnership with regional countries as it seeks to strengthen security cooperation amid continuing tensions in the Gulf, Qatars Deputy Prime Minister and Minister of State for Defence Sheikh Saoud bin Abdulrahman Al Thani has said. Speaking at the Global Security Forum in Doha, Sheikh Saoud said Qatar had reviewed its defence capabilities, with a focus on air defence, counter-drone measures, cybersecurity and water security, Al Jazeera reported. Emphasising cooperation among Gulf Cooperation Council (GCC) countries, he said collaboration with the United States had strengthened regional defence capabilities. He claimed that more than 90 percent of attacks during the Iran war had been prevented through shared expertise and decades of military investment. Warning of further economic repercussions from disruptions to Gulf energy supplies, Sheikh Saoud said the impact had yet to reach its peak. We havent reached the peak with respect to energy, he said, cautioning that the consequences could become more severe in the coming days and months. He said instability in the Gulf threatened energy supplies and international trade, potentially disrupting supply chains between the East and the West. It could also affect Gulf investments in Europe and the US, as well as financial assistance provided by Gulf countries to other nations. Qatars Ras Laffan industrial complex, a major liquefied natural gas (LNG) production hub, was damaged in Iranian attacks in March, according to the report. On relations with Tehran, Sheikh Saoud said Qatar had maintained communication with Iran despite attacks on its territory and differences over the regional conflict. Referring to the two countries shared gasfield, he said they had enjoyed a relationship of trust before the attacks. We never stop our communication, he said, adding that contacts continued at different levels and that the two sides had reached a common understanding.
KGC revival plan focuses on junior golfers, coaching academies: Advisor Nasir Aslam Wani
Srinagar, Oct 19:Advisor to Chief Minister Nasir Aslam Wani said the government aims to revive the historic Kashmir Golf Club within a year and a half, with a focus on upgrading infrastructure, promoting golf among youngsters and developing future players. Speaking on the sidelines of the clubs 26th AGM and elections, Wani said the elected body would manage the clubs affairs, while the government would extend financial support and help improve facilities and players skills. He said Rs 2 crore had already been sanctioned for the reconstruction of the clubhouse, adding that efforts would be made to make golf more accessible to children through academies and structured training. There is a lot of scope for professionalism in golf. Our aim is to train children so they can compete at higher levels, Wani said. Highlighting the governments broader sports promotion agenda, he said Jammu and Kashmir had hosted a large-scale Professional Golf Tour of India (PGTI) tournament this year and was also working to promote marathons and winter sports. Wani said the government was exploring the installation of snow-making machines to extend the skiing season and considering additional ski lifts at Gulmarg to attract more enthusiasts and strengthen its position as a winter sports destination. He added that the government was committed to expanding sports infrastructure beyond district headquarters to block and educational levels to encourage greater participation among children.
Australian MP critically injured after being hit by car in deliberate act
New Delhi, Oct 19: Australian independent MP Helen Haines has suffered critical injuries after being hit by a car near her regional office in Wangaratta, Victoria, in what Prime Minister Anthony Albanese described as a possible deliberate act, the BBC reported. Police said Haines was taken to hospital with critical injuries and an investigation was underway to establish whether the incident was intentional. A 43-year-old man from nearby Tarrawingee was arrested at the scene after being detained by a passer-by. He was driving a white Toyota Land Cruiser, and a knife was reportedly found inside the vehicle. The motive behind the incident remains unclear. Albanese said counter-terrorism police would examine the suspects background to establish the motive. This wasnt an accident. There was a deliberate act, it would appear, he told the Australian Broadcasting Corporation (ABC), expressing hope for positive news about Hainess condition. There is no place for violence in a democracy, the Prime Minister said, urging people to lower the temperature of political discourse. Home Affairs Minister Tony Burke said reports of threatening or harassing behaviour towards Australian politicians had risen from 951 to 1,067 over the past year. Foreign Minister Penny Wong described the incident as a shocking and deeply disturbing attack and expressed support for Haines, her family and her colleagues, BBC reported Haines, 65, represents the Indi constituency in Victoria and was first elected to the Australian House of Representatives in 2019. A former nurse, midwife and public health researcher, she was re-elected in 2022 and 2025.
Kashmir Golf Club holds AGM after 14-year gap
Srinagar, Oct 19:The Kashmir Golf Club held its 26th annual general meeting (AGM) and elections on Monday after a gap of 14 years, with the exercise aimed at restoring the historic club to its former glory and putting an elected executive body in place to manage its affairs. Haris Handoo, Secretary of the Royal Springs Golf Course (RSGC) and Administrator of the Kashmir Golf Club (KGC), said the clubs previous AGM was held in 2012. Since the elected government took office in 2024, it was decided that an elected body should be put in place, Handoo said. The election is being held to elect four members to the clubs 10-member executive committee. Five members will be nominated by the clubs president, Chief Minister Omar Abdullah, while the Chief Secretary will head the committee. Handoo said the formation of the executive body would enable club members to prioritise development works, improve maintenance and upgrade facilities at the historic venue. Kashmir Golf Club needs to be restored to its pristine glory. It is one of the oldest golf clubs in India, second only to Kolkata, he said, adding that the focus would be on improving the turf and other club facilities. The government has already sanctioned Rs 2 crore under the CAPEX budget for the construction of a new club building, Handoo said. The club has 525 permanent members, and officials were expecting around 60 per cent voter turnout. Voting and the announcement of results were scheduled for the same day. Handoo, who was assigned the additional charge of KGC administrator, said the election was being conducted under the control and supervision of the government, with senior member Justice Muzaffar Jaan appointed as the returning officer. He expressed hope that the club could regain its former standing within a year, with an elected body taking responsibility for identifying priorities and overseeing its functioning. Once the reins are handed over to the members themselves, they will be able to decide the priority works and how the club should be maintained, he said. Handoo added that golfing activities at KGC had diminished since the establishment of the Royal Springs Golf Course. The club recently hosted a caddies tournament, and efforts would be made to revive its independent golfing activities and organise more tournaments. He said the aim was to ensure that the historic club continued to live up to its reputation and function as an active golfing venue. Following the conclusion of elections, Advisor to the Chief Minister Nasir Aslam Wani felicitated the newly elected members of the Executive Committee of Kashmir Golf Club (KGC) at the Sher-i-Kashmir International Convention Centre (SKICC), Srinagar. Chief Minister, president of the Club, had nominated Advisor Nasir Aslam Wani to preside over the Annual General Meeting of the Kashmir Golf Club. Former Chief Minister Dr Farooq Abdullah, MLA Gulmarg Pirzada Farooq Shah, Chief Secretary Atal Dulloo who is the chairman of the Executive Committee and other club members were present on the occasion. Congratulating the newly elected members, the Advisor described Kashmir Golf Club as a prestigious institution with a distinguished place in the history of golf in the country. He noted that the elections, held after a gap of 14 years, marked an important step towards strengthening the clubs administration and restoring its facilities. The Advisor also announced that funds amounting to Rs 2 crore have been earmarked for rebuilding the clubhouse.
3 detained in Tiger Shroff firing case, 1 linked to Bishnoi gang aide: Police
New Delhi, Oct 19: Three people, including a minor, have been detained in Rajasthans Kota in connection with the firing at Bollywood actor Tiger Shroffs car in Mumbai, with one of them allegedly in contact with an associate of the Lawrence Bishnoi gang, police said on Monday. The suspects were detained at Kota railway station from the Pune-Jaipur Superfast Express in a joint operation involving Mumbai Police, Rajasthan Police and railway police. They were allegedly planning to flee to Nepal, Kota Superintendent of Police Tejaswani Gautam said at a press conference. Gautam said one of the suspects was in contact with Anil Pandit, an alleged associate of the Bishnoi gang, which claimed responsibility for Sundays attack in an unverified social media post, the Press Trust of India (PTI) reported. According to NE India Today, police sources said the suspects had allegedly received Rs 50,000 in advance for the attack. Two of them are from Haryana and one from Bihar. Their identities have been established and they are being questioned to determine their individual roles in the shooting. Earlie, Maharashtra Chief Minister Devendra Fadnavis said Mumbai Police had obtained important leads and would soon arrest those involved in the firing as well as their handlers. Speaking to reporters in Nagpur, Fadnavis said such acts would not be tolerated and assured that the police would track down everyone involved in the incident.
DC Ganderbal reviews 460 cases under Mission YUVA
Ganderbal, Oct 19: Deputy Commissioner (DC) Ganderbal, Shreya Singhal, today chaired a meeting of the District Level Implementation Committee (DLIC) to review the progress achieved under Mission YUVA and consider beneficiary cases under the scheme. During the meeting, the committee took up 308 fresh cases of nano-entrepreneurs, 94 cases requiring verification for completion of units, and 58 improvement cases under the Nano Entrepreneur Scheme, taking the total number of cases under consideration to 460. The Deputy Commissioner reviewed the progress of implementation and emphasised the need for proper scrutiny and verification of beneficiary cases in accordance with the prescribed guidelines. She stressed that all concerned departments and financial institutions must ensure timely processing of cases and extend the requisite support to eligible beneficiaries. The DC underscored the importance of effective coordination among the departments concerned to facilitate the establishment and completion of nano-enterprise units, address deficiencies in pending cases and ensure that the benefits of Mission YUVA reach eligible youth. The concerned officers were directed to maintain close follow up on the cases under different categories and ensure timely action in accordance with the schemes provisions. The meeting was attended by the Additional District Development Commissioner Ganderbal, General Manager, District Industries Centre; Assistant Commissioner Revenue; Sub Divisional Magistrate Kangan; representatives of educational institutions; District Social Welfare Officer; Employment Officer, officials from JKEDI and NABA RD; NRLM representatives, representatives of J&K Bank; Lead District Manager; Director JKRSETI; and other concerned officers and officials.
Hoteliers Club seeks better infrastructure, aggressive promotion for winter tourism
Srinagar, Oct 19: The Jammu and Kashmir Hoteliers Club has called for improved infrastructure, reliable essential services and an aggressive promotional campaign to attract tourists to the Union Territory ahead of the winter season. At a meeting of the Clubs office-bearers held at Radisson Collection, Rajbagh, Srinagar, under the chairmanship of its president, Mushtaq Ahmad Chaya, members discussed challenges confronting the hospitality sector and measures to strengthen tourism during the coming winter months. The meeting highlighted the need for uninterrupted electricity, reliable water supply, improved road connectivity and better winter tourism facilities at major destinations, particularly Gulmarg, Pahalgam and Sonamarg. Expressing concern over frequent power cuts in Sonamarg, members said the area was reportedly experiencing outages lasting six to eight hours daily. They stressed that reliable electricity supply was essential to maintain hospitality services and ensure tourist comfort during the winter season. The Club also called for the installation and operationalisation of gondola facilities in Sonamarg to enhance its appeal as a winter tourism destination. Members emphasised the need to ensure the uninterrupted functioning of ski lifts and other winter tourism infrastructure to improve visitor facilities and attract more tourists. Concerns were also raised over recurring disruptions in road connectivity and water supply in Gulmarg during winter. The Club urged the authorities to prioritise road maintenance, ensure an uninterrupted water supply and facilitate smooth movement of visitors in the popular tourist destination. Members said the decline in tourist arrivals during the previous season and recent months had adversely affected tourism-related businesses, underlining the need for timely intervention to support the sectors recovery. Abdul Wahid Malik, Honorary Secretary General of the Club, stressed the need for coordinated efforts to revive tourism and support hospitality businesses that had suffered losses in recent seasons. He called for a comprehensive marketing strategy, including promotional campaigns and roadshows in major domestic markets and selected international destinations, to restore tourist confidence and attract more visitors to Jammu and Kashmir. The meeting underscored the importance of close coordination among the administration, tourism authorities and industry stakeholders to ensure a successful winter tourism season. Members said infrastructure improvements, better visitor facilities and sustained promotional efforts were essential to position Jammu and Kashmir as a year-round tourism destination. The Jammu and Kashmir Hoteliers Club reiterated its commitment to promoting responsible and sustainable tourism and working with the government and other stakeholders to strengthen the industry, protect the regions natural heritage and generate long-term economic benefits for the people of Jammu and Kashmir.
Advocate Sunil Sethis recent analysis in Greater Kashmir, NC and Congress: History of political misadventures, rightly demands a painful, honest reckoning with Jammu and Kashmirs past. He correctly asserts that when short-term power overrides democratic integrity, institutional damage endures for generations. The historical trajectory he charts, from the forced reversals of the 1975 Accord to the catastrophic manipulation of the 1987 elections, consists of undeniable blunders for which the National Conference and Congress must answer. Yet, an honest reckoning cannot be selective. If history demands true political accountability rather than convenient explanations, the lens of scrutiny must turn with equal force towards the BJP. The present establishment routinely treats its own record as an exception to the rule. However, for over two decades, BJP has embedded itself within the regions political matrix, engaging in the exact brand of opportunistic accommodations and realpolitik it decries in its predecessors. While new highways, tunnels, and road networks are visible achievements, they serve as a glossy facade. Beneath this manufactured normalcy, Jammu and Kashmir remains caught in a volatile, evolving conflict marked by shifting security threats, unprecedented societal crises, and a total democratic deficit. Central to the current establishments narrative is its routine bragging over record-breaking tourist footprints. Conflating recreational footfall with genuine, structural peace is a deceptive illusion. Tourists visit under the heavily armed protection of omnipresent security cordons, passing through a landscape dotted with bunkers and checkpoints. Tourism is a commercial transaction facilitated by temporary stability; it is not an indicator of a resolved political conflict or a reconciled populace. The region has witnessed a shivering increase in targeted assassinations specifically designed to engineer demographic fear. Elusive, untraceable hybrid cells have systematically executed vulnerable populations, including minority Kashmiri Pandits, grassroots political workers, and non-local migrant laborers. Simultaneously, strategic stabilization of the past has disintegrated with dramatic, violent reactivation of the Jammu division. Highly trained foreign mercenaries have systematically shifted the theater of conflict utilizing the rugged terrains of Udhampur, Rajouri, Poonch, and Kathua to launch lethal operations. From regular ambushes on security installations to the brutal attack on pilgrims in Reasi, Jammu is effectively boiled all over again, proving that valley containment has simply pushed a lethal conflict into previously cleared territories. Beyond the immediate threat of gunfire lies an unprecedented socio-economic catastrophe: J&Ks worst-ever drug influx. There has been a lethal surge of high-potency synthetic opioids, primarily intravenous heroin, locally known as Chitta. Driven extensively by cross-border drone smuggling networks that use narco-terrorism to fund insurgent infrastructure, this epidemic has swept up an estimated 1 to 1.35 million users. It is systematically hollowing out an entire generation of youth, tearing the social order apart far faster than the UTs limited rehabilitation infrastructure can manage. The BJP cannot distance itself from the very matrix of power it claims to have dismantled. The partys own record is defined by the politics of contradiction. In 1999, under the Vajpayee-led NDA, it readily inducted Omar Abdullah, the premier face of the dynastic order it lambasts, into the Union Cabinet. In 2015, the quest for power culminated in a highly contradictory coalition with PDP, for which the BJP willfully shelved its foundational demands under a mutually convenient Agenda of Alliance. The ultimate irony manifested when, after placing harsh curbs on these regional dynasts post-August 2019 and branding them as untrustworthy, the Prime Ministers Office invited these very same untrustworthy leaders for political consultations in New Delhi. This exposes a recurring truth: when it suits BJP, yesterdays adversary instantly becomes todays indispensable partner. SethiJi is entirely correct that political accountability concerns whether decisions taken by those exercising power strengthened or weakened the institutions entrusted to them. Congress and the National Conference must face historical scrutiny for their past conduct. However, BJP cannot escape the consequences of its own governance since 1999, 2015, and the post-2019 era of direct rule. When a state boasts of record tourist numbers but cannot guarantee the safety of pilgrims on its hills, and when it showcases infrastructure while its youth are destroyed by an unchecked drug epidemic, it is not an erasure of the conundrum. It is merely the continuation of political experimentation by different means. History demands symmetric accountability, and the current rulers of New Delhi are as much a part of this boiling conundrum as the dynasts they seek to replace. Lalit Aditya Pandit, Kashmiri Pandit Activist, Columnist, Journalist with JK Patrika.
India-New Zealand trade pact effective from today
New Delhi, Oct 19:India's free trade agreement with New Zealand will come into force on October 20, allowing 100 per cent of Indian goods, including leather, footwear, apparel and textiles, to enter the country at zero import duty in the island country. The agreement, which will come into force at 12:01 am on October 20 in India, will also open a 1.4-billion Indian market for New Zealand goods. Besides, it will expand opportunities for services, professionals, students and agricultural cooperation and facilitate foreign direct investments of USD 20 billion over the next 15 years from New Zealand to India. Announcing the move, Commerce and Industry Minister Piyush Goyal said the pact aims to increase bilateral trade in goods and services from about USD 2.4 billion to around New Zealand dollar 7 billion or about Rs 35,000 crore, by 2030. Flagging off heavy earthmoving and construction equipment maker JCB India's small excavator, which will be exported to New Zealand under the trade pact, Goyal said the company exports 25 per cent of its total production to different countries from India. I am giving them a target to increase it to 50 per cent. New Zealand is now the 140th export destination for them, he said. New Zealand is giving 100 per cent duty-free market access from Tuesday itself. It covers all tariff lines or product categories and 100 per cent of India's current exports to New Zealand. This is the first FTA for India where it receives full duty-free access across all tariff lines from entering into force. Elimination of import duty would remove the existing tariff disadvantage of pre-FTA rates of up to 10 per cent faced by Indian exporters in the New Zealand market. The major sectors that would benefit include fruits and vegetables; coffee, tea, cocoa and spices; cereals; processed foods; textiles and clothing; leather and footwear; pharmaceuticals; engineering goods; marine products; plastics and rubber. India's exclusion list primarily includes products considered sensitive from a domestic perspective. The major categories are dairy products (milk, cream, whey, yoghurt, cheese); animal products (other than sheep meat); vegetable products such as onions, chana, peas, corn, almonds); sugar and artificial honey; animal, vegetable or microbial fats and oils. The list also includes arms and ammunition; gems and jewellery (Precious metals and finished jewellery products); copper and copper articles (cathodes, cartridges, rods, bars, coils); and aluminium and aluminium articles (ingots, billets, wire, rods, bars).
JKSA condemns attack on Kashmir-bound bus in Ludhiana
Srinagar, Oct 19: The Jammu and Kashmir Students Association (JKSA) on Monday expressed serious concern over the reported stone-pelting attack on a Delhi-to-Srinagar passenger bus in Doraha, Ludhiana district, Punjab, late Saturday night. The Association has taken up the matter with the Punjab Chief Ministers Office (CMO), seeking urgent intervention, accountability, and measures to ensure the safety of Kashmiri passengers travelling through the state. JKSA National Convenor Nasir Khuehami, as per a statement issued, said that several miscreants and goons allegedly attacked the Kashmir-bound bus around 11 PM while it was travelling towards Srinagar. According to the bus driver, Ishfaq Ahmad, the attackers resorted to stone-pelting and smashed the vehicles window panes while passengers, including women and children, were asleep inside. Khuehami strongly condemned the incident, describing repeated attacks on Kashmir-bound vehicles as a serious concern requiring immediate intervention by law-enforcement agencies. He urged Punjab Chief Minister Bhagwant Mann and Director General of Police (DGP) Punjab to ensure a thorough and impartial investigation, identify those responsible, and initiate strict legal action against the perpetrators. Following the incident, Khuehami took up the matter with the Punjab Chief Ministers Office, including the Media Adviser and Spokesperson, Baltej Pannu and others, and sought their immediate intervention to ensure swift action. The Association also flagged the incident with the Punjab Chief Secretary and DGP Punjab, seeking their intervention to ensure accountability and strengthen security measures for Kashmiri passengers travelling through the state. Pannu assured Khuehami that the state government had taken serious note of the incident and that no one would be allowed to intimidate, harass, or target Kashmiri bus drivers or passengers anywhere in Punjab. He reiterated the governments commitment to zero tolerance towards such incidents and assured that strict action would be taken against anyone found involved. Pannu also directed the concerned police authorities, including the Commissioner of Police Ludhiana, the Senior Superintendent of Police (SSP), and the Superintendent of Police (Investigation), to intervene and ensure prompt action in the matter. Following the intervention, SP Investigation Khanna, Rakesh Kumar Yadav, informed Khuehami that an FIR (No. 0343) had been registered at Doraha Police Station under Sections 324(4) and 125 of the BNS in connection with the incident. He added that multiple police teams had been constituted to identify and apprehend those responsible, while further investigation and legal proceedings were underway. Khuehami said, Why should Kashmiris fear for their safety while travelling through different parts of the country? A passenger bus carrying ordinary citizens, including women and children, was allegedly targeted while people were asleep. Such incidents are deeply disturbing and must not be taken lightly. The authorities must ensure accountability and send a clear message that violence and intimidation against Kashmiri passengers will not be tolerated.
JKCSF chairman calls for joint efforts to build drug-free, crime-free society
Srinagar, Oct 19: Chairman of the Jammu and Kashmir Civil Society Forum (JKCSF), Ab Qayoom Wani, along with senior leaders of the Forum, on Monday met Inspector General of Police (IGP), Kashmir Zone, Sujit Kumar, at his office and congratulated him on assuming charge as IGP Kashmir. During the interaction, Wani, as per a statement, expressed confidence in Sujit Kumars vision, wisdom and professional competence, stating that effective policing, coupled with strong public cooperation, can play a vital role in addressing pressing social challenges. The meeting witnessed detailed discussions on the eradication of drug abuse and other social evils, with the delegation emphasising the need for collective and sustained efforts by the police, civil society and the general public to build a drug-free, crime-free and peaceful society. The delegation further stressed that strengthening police-public relations is essential for social reformation, communal harmony, mutual trust and lasting peace in the region. It highlighted the importance of community participation, awareness initiatives and coordinated action to safeguard the younger generation from the growing menace of drug abuse and other social problems. Sujit Kumar assured the delegation of the full support and cooperation of the Police Department in taking effective measures towards curbing drug abuse, preventing crime and promoting peace and harmony in society. The JKCSF delegation expressed hope that continued coordination between the police and civil society would contribute meaningfully towards building a safer, healthier and more harmonious Jammu and Kashmir.
Ethics is not optional in civil service
A civil servants authority is borrowed. It comes from the people, through the Constitution, and it is held in trust for their welfare. The moment it is used to humiliate rather than to serve, it stops being authority and becomes mere power. The controversy now unfolding in Jammu and Kashmir should be read in that light. A senior IAS officer stands accused of verbally abusing a junior woman officer of the Jammu and Kashmir Administrative Service (JKAS) in an official review meeting, an allegation he disputes. The facts are for the governments inquiry to establish. But the episode points to something larger that anyone who deals with government will recognise: a drift, in parts of the civil service, from welfare towards power, and from service towards authority. Most officers do not behave this way. The concern is a culture that allows some of them to, without consequence. The irony is hard to miss. Since 2013, the main examination for the IAS has carried a compulsory 250-mark paper, Ethics, Integrity and Aptitude, and the JKAS examination carries the same paper. Since 2014, the conduct rules for All India Services officers have required them to maintain high ethical standards, responsiveness to the public, particularly the weaker sections, and courtesy and good behaviour. Ethics is not optional to enter the civil service. It cannot become optional once an officer is inside it. We must remember what these services are for. Being an IAS or JKAS officer is not about making reels, building a social media image or enjoying the trappings of a chair. It is about executing authority for peoples welfare. Indias highest examination does not hand anyone absolute power; it hands them a trust, held on behalf of the farmer, the unemployed graduate and the young person waiting on a government scheme for a loan. I have sat through many meetings and review sessions in my own work. What I have always felt is that the review meeting has quietly become a theatre of hierarchy rather than a tool of governance. Targets are read out, numbers are questioned, and too often the loudest voice in the room is mistaken for the most competent one. Juniors learn to stay silent, and silence is the most expensive thing a government can buy, because it hides problems until they become failures. This is not a Kashmiri problem alone; an officer in any state will recognise the room. This is where the decline hurts the people most. An officer who rules a meeting through fear will not hear the truth about why loans are stuck, why a scheme is failing or why a village has been left out. When authority replaces ethics inside the office, welfare is the first casualty outside it. An office that cannot protect the dignity of its own officers will not protect the dignity of the citizen waiting at its door. Yet within hours, the debate on this episode split along familiar lines: IAS versus JKAS, outsider versus native, Kashmiri versus non-Kashmiri. Some voices on social media began demanding that the officer be sent back, as if people from elsewhere are somehow less human and we are above them. Some of the anger has a real context, since control over IAS officers in the Union Territory rests with the Lieutenant Governor rather than the elected government. But this reaction is intellectual bankruptcy, and it lets the real wrong slip away. I am not making an argument of IAS versus JKAS. If a Kashmiri secretary spoke this way to a junior from Bihar or Rajasthan, the act would be exactly as wrong; so would a JKAS officer humiliating a clerk or a patwari (village revenue official). Every human has a morality and a conscience, and as Immanuel Kant reminded us, persons have dignity, not a price, and must never be treated merely as a means. Abuse does not change its character with the abusers domicile or the victims cadre. To make it a question of origin is tribalism wearing the clothes of outrage. None of this is to deny that senior officers work under real pressure. Flagship schemes come with hard targets, reviews are relentless, and a secretary answers for every lag in every district. Frustration in a review meeting is understandable. But pressure may explain a raised voice; it never justifies abuse. What Kashmir needs, and what Indias bureaucracy needs, is professionalism: the discipline of disagreeing on facts without attacking persons, and of using authority as a responsibility rather than a weapon. Even when a junior speaks out of turn, the answer is a written record and due process, never public humiliation. It also means a person needs to be assigned the job he or she is capable of doing. Managing people is a skill, not a privilege of seniority, and postings should weigh temperament and conduct as seriously as batch and seniority. Juniors, in turn, need a way to report humiliation without fearing for their careers. So let the inquiry be impartial, let its findings be made public, and let accountability follow the facts, whatever cadre they point to. But the larger task is ours. Ethics has to be adopted, not as a paper to be cleared or a rule to be cited, but as the everyday practice of power in the service of people. The question before us is not where an officer comes from. It is whether he, or she, governs for the welfare of the people. On that question, there must be a single standard, applied to everyone. The author works with a bank on rural self-employment and writes on public policy and development.
Former J&K cadre IPS officer Ram Prakash passes away in Chandigarh
Srinagar, Oct 19: Former Indian Police Service (IPS) officer Ram Prakash, who belonged to the erstwhile Jammu and Kashmir cadre and was widely remembered in police and administrative circles for his professional integrityincluding an epic face-off with the then Chief Minister Ghulam Mohammad Shahpassed away in Chandigarh on Sunday. He had been unwell in recent times. Prakash served the erstwhile state of Jammu and Kashmir during a period marked by political flux and challenges to law and order. As a senior IPS officer of the J&K cadre, he held various key field and supervisory assignments across the region. Colleagues and contemporaries recalled him as an officer known for uprightness and a willingness to uphold professional norms.
A Union Territory in its own Home
You are bloody sh*t. I can always talk to you like this. There is something particularly revealing about those words, allegedly uttered by a senior IAS officer during an official meeting in Jammu and Kashmir. Not merely the vulgarity, not merely the public humiliation of a junior colleague, but the assertion that he can speak that way because he is her boss. It is the language of a hierarchy that has begun to mistake authority for entitlement and subordination for submission. The video of the exchange involving a senior IAS officer has understandably triggered outrage. The reported threats of suspension and dismissal, following the junior officers objection to his language, make the incident even more disturbing. An officer responsible for implementing government programmes may be questioned about performance, targets and accountability. But when a review meeting descends into personal insults and threats, the question is no longer simply whether a subordinate has done her job. It is whether the administration itself understands the limits of power. Yet the most important question raised by this incident goes beyond the conduct of one officer. It concerns the peculiar position in which Jammu and Kashmir finds itself today: governed by an elected Chief Minister, but without the full authority that a state government would ordinarily exercise over its administration. Chief Minister Omar Abdullah has publicly stated that he took up the matter with the Chief Secretary and directed that the JKAS officer face no retaliatory action. He has also made an important distinction between Jammu and Kashmir as a Union Territory and what it would mean to have a state government with the corresponding administrative powers. Had Jammu and Kashmir been a state, he observed, the officer could have been attached to the General Administration Department pending an inquiry into his conduct. That is the heart of the matter. In a full fledged state, an elected government operates within a different constitutional and administrative framework, with greater authority over the functioning of its administration, subject to the applicable service rules and the Unions powers. In Jammu and Kashmir, the distribution of powers is different. The Lieutenant Governor and the Union government retain significant authority over services, particularly the IAS cadre, while the elected government remains responsible for governance and public delivery in areas entrusted to it. This creates an extraordinary imbalance. The Chief Minister is answerable to the people for the functioning of the government, but does not enjoy the same degree of control over the IAS officers whose conduct can directly affect that functioning. The public expects accountability from the elected leadership, yet important administrative levers remain outside its full command. Responsibility without corresponding authority is not meaningful democratic empowerment. It is a structural contradiction. Imagine the same incident unfolding in a state where the elected government has the relevant authority to initiate an immediate administrative response. The Chief Minister would not have to publicly explain the limitations of his control or rely on another authority to ensure that a junior officer is protected from retaliation. The competent state authorities could consider attaching the senior officer pending inquiry, subject to the applicable rules, while the facts were established. That difference is not cosmetic. It changes the relationship between elected representatives, the bureaucracy and the people they serve. And in Jammu and Kashmir, the consequences are particularly sensitive. Local officers are expected to implement policies, respond to public grievances and understand the regions administrative realities. JKAS officers bring years of local experience and institutional knowledge. They are not lesser public servants, nor are they meant to function as a permanently subordinate class within their own administration. The IAS is an all India service, and officers from outside Jammu and Kashmir have an entirely legitimate role in its governance. The problem is not where an officer comes from. It is whether the administrative structure permits anyone to behave as though coming from a particular cadre confers superior human worth or unquestionable authority over local officials. The perception that local officers can be humiliated while those exercising power remain beyond the effective reach of the elected government is damaging in itself. When such incidents occur, they reinforce a sense that Kashmiris are expected to carry the burden of administration without possessing an equal voice in how that administration is controlled. This is not about denying the importance of an all India service. It is about insisting that its members operate with the same professional accountability expected of every public servant. No cadre should become a shield against scrutiny. No posting should be interpreted as permission to disregard the dignity of colleagues. And no local officer should have to calculate whether objecting to misconduct might endanger an entire career. There is also a gendered dimension that cannot be ignored. Women in public service should not have to choose between professional dignity and professional survival. When a woman objects to being addressed in degrading language, her objection should not automatically be recast as indiscipline. The appropriate response is to establish the facts, assess the conduct of everyone involved and ensure that no one is punished for raising a legitimate grievance. A woman officers dignity is not conditional upon the goodwill of her superior. The applicable service rules already establish expectations of professional conduct. The All India Services (Conduct) Rules, 1968, require officers to maintain integrity, devotion to duty and conduct becoming of a member of the service. Administrative disagreements must be addressed through established procedures, not threats issued in anger. If misconduct is established, proportionate action must follow through the competent authority, with due process for everyone concerned. The wider record of investigations involving the officer in case makes scrutiny of his conduct and the exercise of official authority especially important, although allegations in separate cases must not be confused with proof of guilt in this incident. Ultimately, restoring statehood is about much more than a constitutional label or a political slogan. It is about restoring the relationship between democratic responsibility and administrative power. An elected government must have the institutional capacity to govern effectively, hold officials accountable within the law and protect the dignity of the people and public servants it represents. Jammu and Kashmir cannot indefinitely be expected to function as a democracy in which the elected leadership answers for administrative failures while important powers over the administration remain elsewhere. The question raised by this incident is therefore larger than one officers alleged words. It is whether Jammu and Kashmir will continue with a system in which local officers can feel vulnerable before an entrenched hierarchy, and an elected Chief Minister must publicly acknowledge the limits of his own authority. A government office is not a personal fiefdom. A senior designation is not a licence to humiliate. And Kashmiri public servants are not second class citizens in their own homeland. Jammu and Kashmir needs full statehood not merely so that its elected government can exercise power, but so that power can be made answerable to the people in whose name it is exercised. Adv Shriya Handoo, Research Head, Spokesperson, JKNC
Committed to fight for restoration of Articles 370, 35A, statehood: NC
Srinagar, Oct 19: The Jammu and Kashmir National Conference President Dr Farooq Abdullah Monday presided over a workers convention in the Arwah area of Beerwah constituency. The convention was organised by Beerwah MLA Dr Shafi Ahmad Wani. The convention, as per a party statement, was attended by Provincial President Showkat Ahmad Mir, Central Zone President and Chadoora MLA Ali Mohammad Dar, Budgam District President Ghulam Nabi Bhat, block presidents, constituency presidents, mohalla presidents, delegates and party workers. Addressing the convention, Dr Farooq reiterated the National Conferences unwavering commitment to fight for the restoration of Jammu and Kashmirs special constitutional status, Articles 370 and 35A, and full statehood. He said that before the abrogation of Article 370 on August 5, 2019, the Supreme Court, in two earlier hearings, had upheld the provisions permanent status and described it as a permanent provision of the Constitution of India. He asserted that the National Conference would continue its struggle for the restoration of Jammu and Kashmirs constitutional rights and special status. Highlighting the historic contributions of the National Conference, Dr Farooq said that the partys revolutionary and historic initiatives had paved the way for land reforms, enabling poor and marginalised farmers and cultivators to acquire ownership rights over land. He said that it was also due to the National Conference that the light of education reached every household in Jammu and Kashmir, with the literacy rate rising from 6 per cent to nearly 82 per cent today. He added that the partys role in establishing and strengthening fundamental, constitutional and democratic institutions, as well as essential infrastructure, remained unforgettable. Dr Farooq Abdullah said that repeated attempts and conspiracies had been made over the past several decades to weaken the National Conference, but with the unwavering support of the people and the grace of Almighty Allah, the party had overcome every challenge. He asserted that as long as the people stood firmly with the National Conference, no force could undermine its political strength. Targeting the PDP, Dr Farooq Abdullah said that the hardships endured by the people of Jammu and Kashmir over the past several years were a consequence of the PDPs actions. He said that the National Conference had announced unconditional support to the PDP in 2014 and warned it against bringing the BJP to Jammu and Kashmir, cautioning that the party would wreak havoc in the region. However, he said, the PDP ignored the warning and pushed the state towards destruction. Had the PDP not brought the BJP to Jammu and Kashmir, Article 370 would not have been abrogated, he added. He described the Supreme Courts 2024 judgment on Article 370 as entirely wrong, arguing that the same court had upheld the provision on two earlier occasions and stated that it had acquired permanent status under the Constitution of India. Almighty Allah is watching everything. We need only to exercise patience and restraint. Oppression may last for a while, but it cannot continue forever. Allah will certainly bring oppression to an end, and injustice will be eradicated, he said. The winds of change have begun to blow, and they are gathering speed. Dr Farooq Abdullah said that the people of Jammu and Kashmir were seeking their rightful due. He recalled that promises had been made regarding delimitation, elections and the restoration of statehood following the elections. Where have those promises gone? Why has statehood still not been restored even after two years? he asked. He said that, in January this year, National Conference Members of Parliament had met the Union Home Minister in New Delhi, where the latter had assured them that business rules would be provided immediately to clarify the respective powers of the Lieutenant Governor and the elected government. However, he said, even after ten months, the promised business rules remained nowhere in sight. He said those in power are relying on false promises and deception. Allahs justice may be delayed, but it is never denied. These circumstances will not last forever, and the people of Jammu and Kashmir will certainly receive their rightful due, he said. He stressed the need for party workers to remain united, strengthen their ranks and foil the nefarious designs and conspiracies of their adversaries. Speaking about the current development scenario, Dr Farooq Abdullah said that the government led by Chief Minister Omar Abdullah was utilising all available resources to accelerate development across Jammu and Kashmir despite the most challenging circumstances. He said that every possible effort was being made to provide relief to the people. The initiation of several development projects in different parts of Jammu and Kashmir, including Beerwah constituency, reflected a new phase of progress, he added. In his address, Beerwah MLA Dr Shafi Ahmad Wani highlighted the ongoing development initiatives in the constituency. He said that substantial funds had been released for various projects and that numerous works had been initiated to improve local infrastructure and public amenities. He asserted that Beerwah was moving towards a new phase of development and reaffirmed his commitment to resolving all pending issues faced by the constituency. At the conclusion of the convention, party leaders reiterated their commitment to public service, inclusive development and the protection of Jammu and Kashmirs constitutional rights. They expressed confidence that the National Conference would continue to enjoy the support of the people in the future. Youth National Conference Zonal President Raees Ahmad Matoo and Zonal Secretary Mohammad Ashraf Matoo were also present on the occasion.
Ladakh and Delhi Should Forge Strategic Solidarity
It is absolutely clear that the Centre will not give Ladakh what it has not given to Jammu and Kashmir after the two regions were separated from each other in August 2019. This separation followed the reorganization of the State, through which they had been tied together since the era of the Dogra rulers. The talks between the Ladakh leadership and the Centre have not reached a fair conclusion, and it does not seem that a mutually acceptable draft will be ready anytime soon. This reality stems from the way negotiations have shaped up in recent months. Attempts to untangle the contentious issues have proved futile so far. It is a given that negotiations of this naturewhere local aspirations are weighed against overall national security concerns and strategic objectivestake time. There is no scope for rushing through things when high national stakes are involved. The International Dimension Usually, Ladakh is viewed as a region cradled between borders with China and Pakistan, alongside the Pakistan-occupied territories of the erstwhile princely state of Jammu and Kashmir that acceded to India in October 1947. However, it has other international dimensions that are rarely spoken of. The Pakistani invasion of Jammu and Kashmir in October 1947 and the subsequent war that lasted well into 1948 affected Ladakh just as much as Kashmir. Its international dimensions have surfaced time and again. There are at least two recorded facts in post-independence history that highlight this: The 1999 Kargil War: This conflict demonstrated how Pakistan, after declaring itself a nuclear power in May 1998, mounted intrusions into this side of the Line of Control (LoC). International powers were keenly interested in the outcome and counseled restraint. While the United States saw the flare-up in Kargil as a sign of Kashmir becoming a flashpoint for an Indo-Pak nuclear war, Ladakh at the time was part of the Kashmir Division within Jammu and Kashmirdespite being ethically, geographically, and topographically an altogether different entity. The 2020 Standoff: More recently, China gathered its troops along the Line of Actual Control (LAC) in AprilMay 2020 and instigated the Galwan Valley clashes in June 2020. The impact of this is still felt today, even though attempts continue to relegate the episode to the margins of history. During the tense military standoff between India and China in eastern Ladakh, which lasted for over four and a half years, the United States and other Western nationswith their own strategic goals against Chinaoffered support and intervention, much like they did during the Kargil War. India spurned these offers, stating it was capable of handling the crisis on its own, and it ultimately did so. Ongoing Geopolitical Challenges This success, however, has not kept the region out of the international spotlight. The Galwan Valley clashes left lasting imprints on the mountains. Furthermore, any doubts about Chinese intentions following the renewed China-India bonhomie in October 2024 were cleared when Beijing declared that it does not recognize the so-called Union Territory of Ladakh and made several uncharitable remarks. India challenged the Chinese contention and replied in an appropriately suitable diplomatic language, but that does not change how China views this region and its positioning. The best answer to all these international and strategic concerns can be provided by the Centre alone. The Ladakh leadership knows well that only the Centre can handle a crisis of such magnitude, which also occasionally reflects on the internal situation. Therefore, it is incumbent upon them to draw a line regarding their demands. These calls for an understanding of real-time issues may be defined by mutual trust, but the fact remains that robust strategic solidarity is a national security necessity to meet the challenges strewn across the border. The changing global geopolitical order has created a whirlpool of challenges for India. These cover all regions, especially border areas sharing a hostile neighborhood. These shadows on strategic regions cannot be wished away, whether in the North-East, Kashmir, or Ladakh. Strategic solidarity must be unconditional. Lessons from Recent Unrest A fair assessment of the ongoing talks can be traced to what happened on September 24, 2025, when an unfortunate incident left four dead and several others wounded. It was only after violence hit the streets of Leh that the gravity of the situation was fully understood. There was a lesson in that: unfortunate incidents tend to occur when vested interests exploit the public gaps created by delaying the dialogue process. There should be a greater understanding of these issues, and they must be responded to with a sensitive narrative. If sensitivity and strategic necessity are fundamental requirements, then the peoples aspirations should be taken on board in a timely manner. The talks should move beyond the technicalities that Buddhists in Ladakh should simply be satisfied because they were given the UT status they had agitated for over decades. Indeed, it was a failure on the part of the Ladakhi leadership, particularly the Buddhists, that they did not clarify what specific powers they expected alongside UT status. They were simply interested in achieving UT status for two primary reasons: To showcase themselves as the ultimate paragons of Indian nationalism. To secure a secession from Kashmirwhich at the time was a hotbed of terrorismand present it as an act of nationalism. Conversely, Kargil and its population were viewed as a different people due to their strong ties with Kashmir, essentially owing to religious affinity, as both Kargil and Kashmir are overwhelmingly Muslim-majority areas. The Path Forward UT status was thought to be the best way to achieve these local objectives, and the Centre delivered exactly what it was asked for. The demands for statehood, the Sixth Schedule, and other constitutional safeguards for their land, culture, and traditions were only flagged after leadership realized that the administration within the UT setup did not match their expectations. They began weighing the pros and cons of whether they were better off with the state of J&K or under the current UT system. Now is the time to move on. The leadership should sit down together and draft a roadmap that upholds strategic solidarity. There should not be a selective approach. The path forward must be completely in sync with local aspirations and national security necessities.
CIVIC Foundation holds youth leadership roundtable in Srinagar
Srinagar, Oct 19: The Civic Research and Development Foundation (CRDF), in support of the Watson Institute and Western Union Foundation, hosted a regional co-design roundtable in Srinagar. The gathering brought together civil society members, academics, journalists, activists, artists, historians and youth from across Kashmir, including Bandipora, Kupwara and Srinagar, to shape a youth leadership initiative rooted in local solutions and sustainable economic models. The roundtable served as the official consultation for the upcoming CIVIC Youth Leadership Fellowship, a one-year initiative designed to equip young Kashmiris with participatory leadership skills, conflict mediation and practical tools to address urgent community challenges. Rather than relying on temporary grants or conventional tourism models, the fellowship emphasises building permanent, self-sustaining micro-enterprises and local economic capacity. Speaking at the event, Sajad Rasool, Director of CRDF and a Fellow at the Watson Institute, highlighted the crucial role of youth in driving local economic autonomy while safeguarding the regions natural and cultural heritage. Storytelling and documented grievances open long-overdue conversations, but storytelling alone cannot pay a young persons monthly bills, said Sajad Rasool. Young Kashmiris need permanent, community-rooted institutions. Through this fellowship, our goal is to empower youth to create dignified, self-sustaining livelihoods that protect our fragile environment, our waterbodies, forests and biomass, while reviving our rich language, oral histories and traditional crafts. During the three-hour interactive session, participants engaged in asset-mapping exercises that linked personal heritage and cultural memory directly to economic opportunities. Discussions highlighted systemic challenges, including environmental degradation, the loss of traditional architecture, biomass burning and language decline, alongside promising local assets.
Kashmir is slowly losing its ability to feed itself. Cultivable land in Jammu and Kashmir is barely 4.4 percent of the total geography; mountains, forests and rough terrain make up the rest. Yet this small stretch of fertile ground is exactly what we are covering with housing colonies, shopping complexes and roads, or turning into orchards. The numbers tell the story. Paddy acreage fell from 1,62,309 hectares in 2012-13 to 1,32,641 in 2024-25, a loss of nearly 5.93 lakh kanal. Satellite studies show the Valleys farmland shrank by about 28 percent between 1992 and 2015. Kashmir now grows perhaps half of what it eats. The rest comes from Punjab and Haryana. Rice imports rose from 3.74 lakh tonnes in 2022-23 to 4.86 lakh tonnes in 2024-25. A staple we once grew in plenty now depends on trucks, highways and open supply routes. Anyone who remembers a blocked highway in winter knows how fragile that is. Farmers should not be blamed. A grower who earned
IUST trains 24 researchers in Antimicrobial Resistance
Awantipora, Oct 19: The Islamic University of Science and Technology (IUST) has concluded a week-long hands-on workshop on AMR: Integrating Immunology and Infectious Diseases, supported by the Department of Health Research, Ministry of Health and Family Welfare, Government of India. The programme attracted 110 applications, from which 24 early-career researchers from institutions across Jammu and Kashmir were selected for intensive laboratory training and scientific interactions. Presiding over the valedictory session, Vice Chancellor Prof. Shakil Ahmad Romshoo emphasised the need to address antimicrobial resistance (AMR) through a One Health approach. He observed that tackling AMR and other health challenges is essential to achieving the vision of Viksit Bharat. The session was attended by Registrar Prof. Shamim Ahmad Shah, Dean Academic Affairs Prof. Sheikh Aijaz Bashir and Dr. Zahoor Ahmad Parray, Scientist F, CSIR-IIIM. The programme was inaugurated by Dr. Aabid Hussain Shala, Dean Research, IUST, in the presence of university officers, including Finance Officer Sameer Wazir, who appreciated the initiative for promoting scientific learning and innovation. The workshop highlighted the importance of integrating immunology with infectious disease research to advance understanding of antimicrobial resistance and support the development of improved diagnostics, vaccines and treatment approaches. Coordinated by Dr. Arsheed A. Ganaie, Organising Secretary, and Dr. Rais Ahmad Ganai, Co-organising Secretary, the workshop combined expert lectures with more than nine practical sessions covering antimicrobial susceptibility testing, molecular detection of resistance genes, biofilm studies, hostpathogen interactions and bioinformatics. Resource persons from leading research institutions, medical colleges and universities across the country contributed to the scientific deliberations. Addressing the participants, Dr. Ganaie encouraged them to translate the knowledge and skills acquired during the workshop into future research and collaborations. He also invited them to explore research ideas and partnerships with IUST. The organisers expressed gratitude to the Department of Health Research, university leadership, resource persons, technical staff, student volunteers and the Estates Department for their support in successfully conducting the programme. The workshop concluded with a renewed emphasis on strengthening research capacity and preparing young scientists to contribute to addressing the growing challenge of antimicrobial resistance.
Srinagar, Oct 19:The Mission Director, National Health Mission (NHM), Jammu and Kashmir, Athar Aamir Khan, visited SKIMS Medical College, Bemina, on October 19, 2026, and chaired a meeting to discuss issues related to maternal and child health services to further strengthen patient care at the institution. The meeting was attended by Principal, SKIMS Medical College, Bemina, Prof. (Dr.) Fazl Q. Parray; Medical Superintendent Dr. Shafa Deva; various Heads of Departments and faculty members of SKIMS Medical College Hospital, Bemina; and NHM officers, including Dr. Jitendar Mehta, Programme Manager; Dr. Mushtaq, Programme Manager; and Dr. Bisma, Programme Manager. During the meeting, the Medical Superintendent presented a detailed overview of issues and requirements related to maternal and child health services, highlighting areas requiring attention and support to improve the quality of patient care. Athar Aamir Khan assured the institution of all possible support from NHM to address the identified issues and strengthen healthcare delivery, particularly in maternal and child health. Following the meeting, the Mission Director, accompanied by the SKIMS Medical College team and NHM officials, conducted a detailed inspection of the Critical Care Block being constructed under the Pradhan Mantri Ayushman Bharat Health Infrastructure Mission (PM-ABHIM). During the inspection, he reviewed the progress of the ongoing construction work and issued strict directions to the executing agency to expedite the work and ensure timely completion of the project. The Mission Director also inspected the Labour Room, Neonatal Intensive Care Unit (NICU) and Gynaecology Ward to assess the existing facilities and review requirements for improving service delivery. He interacted with patients and concerned staff and reiterated NHMs commitment to extending all possible assistance to strengthen maternal and child healthcare services and ensure better patient care. The visit underscored the importance of coordinated efforts between NHM and SKIMS Medical College, Bemina, in strengthening healthcare infrastructure, improving service delivery and ensuring quality healthcare for mothers, newborns and children. Principal, SKIMS Medical College, Bemina, Prof. Fazl Q. Parray, thanked Athar Aamir Khan, Mission Director, NHM, for his concern for the healthcare system and expressed gratitude.
DC Srinagar visits UPHC Lal Bazar, presides over registration camp for senior citizens
Srinagar, Oct 19:Deputy Commissioner (DC) Srinagar, Akshay Labroo on Monday visited the Urban Primary Health Centre (UPHC) Lal Bazar and presided over an awareness cum registration camp for senior citizens aged 70 years and above under the Vay Vandana Scheme. The programme on Ayushman Vay Vandana scheme was a part of District Administrations outreach efforts to ensure maximum coverage of eligible senior citizens aged 70 years and above under the scheme providing additional health support of Rs 5 Lakh over and above the existing cover aimed to strengthen senior citizen health security. The DC was accompanied by Chief Planning Officer, Fayaz Ahmad Dar, IAS Probationer, Aakash Garg, Chief Medical Officer, Dr Tahir Sajad, Tehsildar Eidgah, mohamamd Iqbal Zargar, ZMO Zadibal, Dr Rubeena Aziz, ZMO SR Gunj, Dr Shafqat Medical Superintendent Government Gousia Hospital, Dr Zahida Gul and other District Officers. On the occasion, the Deputy Commissioner led an Awareness-cum-Registration Camp on Ayushman Vay Vandana scheme of Government organized by Zonal Medical Officer, Zadibal which witnessed enthusiastic participation from elderly residents from Lal Bazar, Mandibal, Nowshahra, Botshah Mohalla,, Baghwanpora and other adjoining areas. The participants were sensitised about the benefits and advantages of the scheme and the process for registration. Addressing the gathering, the DC highlighted the significance of the Ayushman Vay Vandana Card and urged all eligible senior citizens aged 70 years and above to enrol under the scheme. He said the initiative aims to strengthen healthcare security for the elderly by providing health coverage of Rs 5 lakh and reducing the financial burden of medical treatment, thereby ensuring greater access to healthcare and promoting dignity, well-being and a better quality of life in their later years.
Extended power curtailments return to haunt Ganderbal residents
Ganderbal, Oct 19:With the onset of the pre-winter chill, long and unpredictable power curtailments have returned to haunt residents of Ganderbal district. The erratic electricity schedule has left shopkeepers, students and households struggling to manage their daily routines. Residents in the main towns of Beehama and Kangan, as well as rural areas including Haripora and Gund, report experiencing extended power cuts lasting for hours at a stretch. According to local business owners, operations have been hit hard during peak evening hours, forcing many to rely heavily on expensive diesel generators or battery inverters. We aren't even into peak winter yet, and the power grid is already collapsing. The unpredictable and extended power cuts make it impossible to plan work or studies, said Mohammad Shafi, a resident of Haripora. Locals said the newly announced curtailment schedule has caused anger among consumers. Students preparing for upcoming examinations are among the worst affected, with their study hours routinely interrupted by evening power cuts. Officials in the Kashmir Power Distribution Corporation Limited (KPDCL) attribute the recent curtailments to a widening gap between power demand and peak availability across the Valley. An official said load-shedding and forced grid curtailments were being carried out to prevent overloading at key receiving stations during peak hours. Consumers have urged the Power Department to ensure a minimum curtailment schedule so that people do not face hardships.
Ex LG Puducherry Kiran Bedi participates in Dhruv Tara Asmita 2026 hosted by Northern Command
Udhampur, Oct 19: Regional AWWA, Northern Command, hosted Dhruv Tara Asmita 2026 in Udhampur the other day, under the guidance of Shinei Sharma, regional president AWWA, Northern Command. The event brought together Army wives and Veer Naris to share their experiences of overcoming adversity, pursuing their goals and forging their own identities, said PRO Defence Jammu Lt Col Suneel Bartwal. Asmita 2026 featured 7 inspiring speakers who shared their real-life stories of courage, resilience and determination. The speakers included two Veer Naris, one cancer warrior, a mother of a special child and three entrepreneurs. Their experiences highlighted sacrifice, perseverance, overcoming adversity and the power of self-belief. Dr Kiran Bedi, Indias first woman IPS officer and former Lieutenant Governor of Puducherry, graced the occasion as the chief guest. Her address encouraged the audience to approach lifes challenges with confidence and conviction. Shinei Sharma thanked the distinguished guests and commended the speakers for their courage and determination. In her address, she highlighted the importance of platforms such as Asmita in helping women recognise their potential and draw inspiration from one another. Dr Kiran Bedi and Shinei Sharma felicitated the participants and Veer Naris as a mark of appreciation and respect. Asmita 2026 concluded with a message that every womans voice deserves to be heard and every aspiration deserves an opportunity to take flight. The event reaffirmed AWWA Northern Commands commitment to creating opportunities for women to grow, lead and shape their own futures, said Lt Col Bartwal.
Rana takes stock of concerns of land-sinking victims of Sunjwan-Barmini in Jammu
Jammu, Oct 19:Minister for Jal Shakti, Forest, Ecology and Environment and Tribal Affairs, Javed Ahmed Rana, on Monday held a public outreach programme in the Sunjwan-Barmini area of Jammu district to listen to public grievances and assess the difficulties faced by the residents, particularly families affected by the land-sinking incident. The land-sinking incident in the Sunjwan area in August 2026 reportedly damaged 15 houses and displaced dozens of families, forcing them to relocate to safer places. The incident severely affected the lives of the residents, making continued administrative support and access to essential services imperative. Accompanied by senior JKNC leaders Abdul Gani Teli, Vijay Lochan, Shamma Akhter and others, the Minister interacted with the affected families, heard their concerns and reviewed the challenges they continue to face following the incident. During the interaction, the affected families raised issues concerning basic amenities, drinking water supply, land-related matters and the assistance required at their temporary places of settlement. Taking cognisance of their concerns, Rana reviewed matters pertaining to the Forest Department, particularly those relating to land. He assured the families that their genuine grievances would be examined and addressed through the appropriate authorities. The Minister also took serious note of complaints regarding the irregular supply of drinking water. He directed the concerned officers to ensure an adequate, regular and uninterrupted supply of potable water to the residents, with focus on families displaced by the land-sinking incident. Emphasising the importance of essential services and basic amenities, he instructed the concerned departments to work in close coordination and take prompt action to resolve the issues highlighted during the programme. He stressed that families living in temporary settlements must not be left to face avoidable hardships due to gaps in service delivery. Rana directed the officers to maintain regular coordination, prioritise the issues raised by residents and ensure timely intervention wherever required. He underscored the need for continued engagement with the public to assess ground-level challenges and facilitate effective solutions.
Searches on in Chenab for 2 missing in Ramban, Doda
Ramban, Oct 19:Search operations were underway on Monday to trace two persons, including a woman, who reportedly went missing after allegedly jumping into the Chenab river in separate incidents in Ramban and Doda districts. Police, the State Disaster Response Force (SDRF) and other rescue personnel are involved in efforts to locate the missing persons. In the first incident, Mohammad Imran, son of Imtiaz Ahmad Rather and a resident of Rajgarh tehsil in Ramban district, reportedly went missing after allegedly jumping into the Chenab river on Saturday. Police, the Quick Response Team (QRT) Ramban and SDRF personnel have been conducting searches to trace him. According to preliminary information, his mobile phone was recovered from a stone near the river and taken into police custody as part of the investigation. Sources said an alleged suicide note reportedly referred to harassment, a disputed allegation involving Rs 9 lakh and financial issues. The contents of the note and the circumstances surrounding the incident have not been independently verified. He had also reportedly posted something on Facebook before the incident. In a separate incident in Doda district, a 2425-year-old woman, identified as Priya Devi, wife of Vijay Kumar and a resident of Balwana village in Thathri tehsil, reportedly jumped into the Chenab River from Barshalla Bridge on Sunday. She went missing following the incident, and efforts were initiated to trace her. The circumstances leading to both incidents remain unclear. Search and rescue operations were continuing, while the whereabouts of both persons remained unknown at the time of filing this report.
Indian Army imparts training to SDRF, Civil Defence personnel at Rajouri
Rajouri, Oct 19: Aimed towards strengthening Civil Defence preparedness and in line with the governments vision of strengthening and modernising the Civil Defence network, the Indian Army conducted the Train with Your Army initiative under the theme Sashakt Nagrik, Surakshit Rashtra (Empowered Citizens, Secure Nation). White Knight Corps, under the aegis of Northern Command, conducted this three-day residential training camp at the Corps Battle School, Sarol, Rajouri in coordination with the Civil Defence Organisation and the State Disaster Response Force (SDRF), Jammu and Kashmir. The camp trained fifty participants, comprising sixteen SDRF personnel and thirty-four Civil Defence volunteers from Jammu, Doda, Samba, Akhnoor, Sunderbani, Nowshera and Rajouri. The training covered hybrid warfare, drone threats, air raids, information warfare, cyber threats, survival techniques and emergency response procedures, the army further said. Practical demonstrations and hands-on training enhanced the participants understanding of emerging threats and their preparedness to respond effectively to emergencies. The camp culminated on Monday with outstanding trainees being felicitated by Major General Manoj Kumar Ruria, General Officer Commanding, Ace of Spades Division. The Deputy Commissioner, Rajouri Dr Devyansh Yadav; DIG Civil Defence Anita Sharma, DIG Police Rajouri Poonch range Sandeep Wazir, Station Commander Brig Atul Choudhary and other representatives of the district administration attended the closing ceremony. The initiative reaffirmed the Indian Armys commitment to strengthening civil - military cooperation, enhancing community preparedness and building national resilience, PRO Defence Jammu stated. By equipping Civil Defence volunteers and SDRF personnel with essential skills to address emerging threats and emergencies, the initiative underscored the importance of a well-prepared citizenry in ensuring a safer and more resilient nation, the army further stated.
Northern Army Commander visits forward post in north Kashmir
Srinagar, Oct 19:Lieutenant General Pratik Sharma, General Officer Commanding-in-Chief of the Northern Command, conducted a series of visits to north Kashmir over the weekend to review the operational preparedness of troops and assess the prevailing security situation, according to official posts by the Northern Command on X. On Sunday, Lt Gen Sharma visited Rashtriya Rifles units deployed in north Kashmir. Interacting with commanders and troops on the ground, he emphasised the importance of constant vigil, operational synergy and regional outreach in the hinterland to retain an upper hand over inimical elements. The Army Commander commended the professionalism of the troops and their commitment to maintaining the resolve of a terror-free Jammu and Kashmir. In a follow-up visit on Monday, the Northern Army Commander accompanied by GOC 15 Corps, Lt Gen Balbir Singh reviewed the operational preparedness of units deployed in forward areas of north Kashmir. He lauded the troops for their professionalism and operational acumen. Stressing the need for sustained readiness, he underlined the importance of rigorous training, innovation and technology-driven capability enhancement to strengthen preparedness for operations, particularly in view of the forthcoming winter season and the associated challenges. North Kashmir, encompassing sensitive areas along the Line of Control in districts such as Baramulla and Kupwara, remains a critical sector in the Armys security grid. The visits come amid ongoing efforts to maintain a high state of alertness across the counter-terrorism and border management grid as the region prepares for harsh winter conditions that traditionally affect logistics, mobility and surveillance. The Northern Commands posts highlighted the Army Commanders focus on operational synergy, constant vigilance and proactive measures to counter any threats while reinforcing the commitment to peace and stability. The interactions with troops on the ground formed a key part of the review, with Lt Gen Sharma appreciating the high morale and readiness of the formations. These visits form part of the Northern Commands regular assessment of security arrangements and operational readiness in Jammu and Kashmir. The emphasis on technology integration, innovation and winter preparedness reflects the Armys approach to maintaining dominance in challenging terrain and climatic conditions.
DRM lays foundation stone for new integrated control office
Jammu, Oct 19: To further strengthen operational efficiency and safety in Jammu Railway Division, the foundation stone for the new Integrated Control Office was laid on Monday, October 19, 2026, at Jammu Tawi railway station. The foundation stone for the new control office was laid by Vivek Kumar, IRSSE, Divisional Railway Manager, Jammu. On this occasion, Akshay Kumar Marantu, Additional Divisional Railway Manager, Jammu, along with senior officers from all departments were also present, said Raghvender Singh, Public Relations Inspector (PRI), Jammu Railway Division of the Northern Railway. This new control office is being built with the concept of bringing the controls of all departments under one roof. This integrated control will house controls of all departments including Operating, Engineering, Signal & Telecommunication and Electrical, which will lead to better coordination and greater efficiency in train operation, monitoring and management, Singh shared. The new control office will be equipped with modern facilities and latest technology. It will prove to be a milestone in meeting the growing traffic requirements of Jammu Division and for its future expansion, Singh said.
Curtailed flying hours end at Srinagar Airport; evening flights to resume
Srinagar, Oct 19:After witnessing curtailment in flying hours for almost seven months, owing to runway repairs, the Srinagar International Airport is set to see resumption of extended hours for flight operations. This essentially means that late evening flights, which were restricted at the airport since April this year, will soon become functional. An official at the Srinagar Airport, said they have already received the Notice to Airmen (NOTAM), regarding lifting of time restrictions of flight operations. The NOTAM, in the aviation sector, is a communication to all the operating airlines and airport handling agencies. The airlines operating to this region have been informed that numbers of hours for which they can operate to and from Srinagar have been increased. Resumption of evening flights will start with implementation of the Winter Schedule from October 25, said the official. During the runway repair period between April and October this year, flights were allowed to operate between 8 am to 5pm at the Srinagar Airport, resulting in almost 25 to 30 daily arrivals, down from almost 50 flight arrivals seen prior to April. Although the number of flights are expected to increase due to lifting of curbs on flying hours, smooth functioning of evening flights during winter months, depends on runway visibility. Earlier, in a statement issued, the airport spokesperson made an announcement regarding withdrawal of operational restrictions and commencement of winter schedule at Srinagar International Airport. Srinagar International Airport wishes to inform passengers and stakeholders that the previously imposed restrictions on airport operational hours, limiting operations to 8 am to 5 pm, have been withdrawn. Consequently, the restriction on airport operations beyond 5 pm no longer applies, and operations can be planned as per the applicable schedule, subject to operational requirements, said the statement. The Winter Schedule 2026 will come into effect from October 25, 2026. Airlines are in the process of filing slots for late-evening flights to and from Srinagar, which is expected to enhance flight connectivity and provide greater flexibility to passengers during the winter season, it said. The advisory urged passengers to check the latest flight status and timings with their respective airlines before proceeding to the airport. Earlier this year, a proposal to shut the airport for two weeks in October was scrapped, bringing relief to travellers. In the last few years, daily arrivals and departures at the Srinagar Airport have at times even touched 70 flight movements. The number of flights had drastically reduced after the sharp decline in tourist influx post Pahalgam attack last year. Besides the runway repairs, for which the flying hours were restricted, a larger expansion plan is also in the pipeline, under which there would be a terminal expansion. As a part of this, various passenger amenities will also get a boost. Meanwhile, trade and tourism players have welcomed the lifting of curbs in flying hours. Kashmir Chamber of Commerce and Industry (KCCI) President Javed Tenga said an increase in flying hours, will benefit tourists as well as local travellers. The resumption of normal flying hours at the airport was long-awaited and it is a welcome step. Not only will the tourists have ample number of flight options for coming to Srinagar, local travellers who would find it difficult to plan their journey due to limited number of flights, can now utilise the better connectivity between Srinagar and other destinations, Tenga said.
Jammu Railway Division to develop warehouses at Anantnag, Pampore; invites tenders
Jammu, Oct 19: Jammu Railway Division has invited tenders for the development and operation of state-of-the-art warehouse and storage units through private investment near Anantnag and Pampore railway stations. Railway officials assert that the significant initiative has been taken with the objective of making logistics facilities in the Kashmir valley world-class and giving new momentum to local trade. This scheme has been implemented for a long-term period of 25 years under the Railway's Cargo Related Facility (CRF) Policy dated February 14, 2026, which provides a golden opportunity for a permanent business partnership with the Railways for investors. According to officials, the initiative will bring benefits at multiple levels. In view of the ongoing apple season in Kashmir and the famous saffron production of Pampore, the availability of storage facility right next to the station will allow orchardists and traders to keep their produce safe, prevent it from getting spoiled and store it till they get the right market price. Warehouses near the railway station will save a lot of loading-unloading cost and time and products will be able to reach the big markets of the country directly through rail faster and cheaper, they maintain. Senior Divisional Commercial Manager (DCM), Jammu, Uchit Singhal, while highlighting the move, asserts, The development of warehouses in Anantnag and Pampore is a big gift for the local products of Kashmir. This scheme will not only increase the freight carrying capacity of the Railways, but will also provide a permanent solution to the problem of cold chain and safe storage for perishable products like apples and saffron. We appeal to private investors to participate enthusiastically in this long-term and profitable scheme of 25 years and become partners in building a Viksit Bharat as well as Viksit Jammu and Kashmir, Singhal says, adding, It is also a highly profitable scheme for private investors. The long lease period of 25 years will ensure stable and long-term returns on their investment. Along with this, new employment opportunities will be created in the Valley and the local economy will be strengthened. According to officials, this facility will be provided at three railway stations in Jammu Division, which includes Bari Brahmana, Anantnag and Pampore in the first phase. Interested investors, they say, can become a part of this beneficial scheme by submitting their tender on http://www.ireps.gov.in .
Railway Board offers special concessional fare on round-trip booking in JPP-RCS trains
Jammu, Oct 19: In a significant decision to make parcel and cargo transportation more affordable, accessible and industry-friendly across the Jammu Railway Division and the entire region, the Railway Board has initiated a special concessional freight on round-trip booking in Joint Parcel Product - Rapid Cargo Service (JPP-RCS) trains. The biggest benefit of this facility, according to railway officials, will be seen in the ongoing apple season in Kashmir. The Kashmir valley is currently witnessing a bumper arrival of apples. This new facility has been started under Freight Marketing Circular number 26/2026 issued by the Board. Railway officials maintain that under this new and streamlined system, if any aggregator, trader or logistics service provider makes advance booking of parcel coaches for both directions through JPP-RCS trains, he will have to pay only 1.5 times the normal rate (JP Scale) as total round-trip freight. That is, full freight for one side and a massive 50 percent discount on the return trip. Senior Divisional Commercial Manager (DCM), Jammu Railway Division, Uchit Singhal asserts, This scheme is a game-changer for our business customers. Round-trip freight of only 1.5 times, i.e. 50 percent discount on the return trip, will lead to a huge reduction in transportation costs. Especially in view of the apple season in Kashmir, this facility will prove to be a boon for orchardists, fruit growers and aggregators. For the convenience of traders, according to officials, the entire booking and payment process will be completed at once at the originating station itself, freeing them from repeated paperwork and saving valuable time. This scheme has been implemented with immediate effect on all JPP-RCS routes in the country and is being operated as a pilot project for a period of one year. With this new concessional rate, Kashmiri apples and other fruits and vegetables can be transported to Jammu, Delhi, Mumbai and other major markets of the country in a highly economical, fast and safe manner, which will directly benefit orchardists and traders and reduce logistics costs by about 25 percent, Singhal points out. The Jammu Railway Division administration has appealed to all traders, industry associations, Chambers of Commerce and cargo aggregators to make maximum use of this highly economical and time-bound service of the Railways.
Ease of Doing Business Act gets all-round welcome amid calls for environmental safeguards
Srinagar, Oct 19:The Kashmir Chamber of Commerce and Industry (KCCI) will constitute a joint committee comprising representatives of the business community, citizens groups, environmentalists and experts to examine concerns over certain provisions of the newly assented Jammu and Kashmir Ease of Doing Business Act, 2026, even as business leaders at a stakeholder deliberation on Monday strongly backed the legislation, describing it as a long-awaited intervention to address bureaucratic delays and facilitate investment. The decision was taken at a marathon consultative meeting, presided over by KCCI President Javid Ahmad Tenga, which brought together business leaders, environmentalists, civil society representatives and professionals to discuss the legislation's implications for investment, building permissions, land use and environmental protection. While industry representatives broadly welcomed the Act as a long-awaited measure to address bureaucratic delays, experts raised concerns over its interaction with existing planning laws, building regulations, seismic zoning and environmental safeguards. Participants agreed that procedural simplification should not compromise planned urban development, public safety or the Valley's fragile ecology. Welcoming the participants, Tenga said the business community had consistently sought an end to unnecessary bureaucratic delays and red tape. The Ease of Doing Business Act is a welcome step in this direction, as it seeks to address many of the difficulties entrepreneurs have been facing while obtaining permissions and carrying out their business activities. The majority of the provisions of the Act have been welcomed by the business community, he said. However, he said certain provisions required detailed examination through constructive dialogue. Our objective is not to oppose the legislation or dilute its purpose of facilitating business and investment. We want the Act to achieve its intended objectives while ensuring that the concerns raised by experts and citizens are properly considered. Economic development, environmental protection and planned urban growth must go hand in hand, Tenga said. However, certain provisions have raised concerns among some stakeholders, and we believe these issues need to be examined through constructive dialogue rather than allowing differences to persist. It is in this context that KCCI has decided to constitute a joint committee comprising representatives of the business community, the Group of Concerned Citizens (GCC), the Environmental Policy Group (EPG) and experts from relevant fields. The committee will deliberate on the specific provisions that have been questioned and provide an opportunity for all stakeholders to present their views and examine the implications. The Act was introduced in the Legislative Assembly by Chief Minister Omar Abdullah on September 28 and passed the following day. Its provisions include time-bound approvals, elimination of redundant No Objection Certificates (NOCs), self-certification and deemed approvals, subject to applicable statutory conditions. Former FCIK President Syed Shakeel Qalander presented a point-by-point response to the apprehensions raised by the GCC and EPG, referring to the provisions and safeguards contained in the Act. He traced the industrial communitys decades-long efforts, particularly through FCIK, to replace discretionary bureaucratic controls with transparent, time-bound and accountable administrative procedures. He said repeated permissions, overlapping regulatory requirements and prolonged delays had often left otherwise viable projects financially distressed even before commercial production began. Qalander maintained that procedural simplification should not be confused with exemption from substantive legal obligations, asserting that the industrial community had neither sought nor would support any relaxation compromising environmental protection, public safety or planned development. He urged stakeholders to assess apprehensions about possible misuse against the actual provisions of the Act rather than allow them to undermine the objective of administrative reform. On building permissions and development controls, he proposed a joint committee to examine the proposed amendments to the Unified Building By-laws, 2021, and issues concerning construction in residential and other sensitive localities. Genuine deficiencies, wherever established, should be collectively taken up with the government for appropriate correction, he said. Aijaz Rasool presented the concerns raised by the EPG, emphasising the need to ensure that administrative simplification did not weaken regulatory oversight in environmentally sensitive areas and established residential neighbourhoods. Former judge Khaliq-uz-Zaman presented the GCC's perspective, clarifying that the group was not opposed to facilitating industry but wanted safeguards against possible misuse of certain provisions. A GCC member and former chief town planner raised concerns over Section 22, saying its implementation could permit departures from established planning parameters, including Floor Area Ratio (FAR), building heights, ground coverage and other development controls. Hakim Iftikhar said Section 30(2) needed to be read alongside Section 22 to understand the legislation's overriding effect. While welcoming the protection afforded to specified environmental laws under Section 30(4), he called for comparable clarity regarding Master Plans, urban and regional planning laws, development-control regulations and building-safety provisions. He also flagged the Schedule III provision concerning residential buildings up to 24 metres in height without prior permission, saying the exemption's scope needed to be clarified. Manzoor Ahmad Tak and Touseef Ahmad Bhat stressed the importance of protecting the Valley's fragile ecology. Touseef said industrial facilitation should translate into tangible public benefits, including employment and responsible business practices. GCC member Iftikhar Drabu advocated an amicable resolution of ecological concerns, while writer and international development professional Arjimand Hussain Talib cautioned against drawing sweeping conclusions without examining the Act in its legal and administrative context. He suggested that industry and citizens jointly identify genuine deficiencies and distinguish them from differences of interpretation. Industrial consultant Sayyed Parvaiz Qaisar, drawing on his experience of providing consultancy services to more than 9,000 projects, said procedural complexities, repeated clearances and prolonged delays had forced many aspiring entrepreneurs to abandon projects midway. He cautioned against speculation before the government notified the Act's rules and operational guidelines. Kashmir Small Scale Industrial Association President Syed Fazal Illahi cited the requirement introduced by the Industries and Commerce Department in 2017 for departmental permission to induct partners into a business, despite the arrangement being governed by partnership law. He said the requirement had resulted in delays lasting months and sometimes years. FCIK President Shahid Kamili said industrial organisations had never sought permission to violate Master Plans, environmental regulations or other legitimate safeguards. Entrepreneurs, he said, wanted timely decisions and predictable procedures rather than discretionary concessions. He also highlighted operational difficulties faced by enterprises after establishment, arguing that reforms must address hurdles affecting businesses throughout their functioning. Industrial Estate Lassipora representative Sheikh Nisar Ahmad and the president of the Industrial Estate Association, Anchidora, Anantnag, also highlighted delays in routine approvals that consumed time and resources and disrupted business operations. Syed Afaq Qadiri, president of the Integrated Handicraft and Textile Park, Zakoora, linked the need for administrative facilitation to unemployment and the migration of skilled youth. Representatives of the educational sector, including G.N. War and Nazrul Islam Baba, said reforms envisaged under the Act addressed longstanding demands to reduce multiple regulatory requirements faced by educational institutions. KCCI Secretary General Faiz Ahmad Bakshi supported the legislation's objective but stressed that environmental safeguards must remain paramount. He said Jammu and Kashmir could not afford to lose agricultural land. J&K Hoteliers Club President Mushtaq Ahmad Chaya described the legislation as a positive step and cautioned against opposing it merely for the sake of opposition, saying specific concerns should instead be taken up with the government. Gowhar Maqbool acknowledged that several of his earlier apprehensions had been addressed through explanations offered by industrial representatives, underlining the value of direct engagement between stakeholders. Former KCCI president G.M. Dug highlighted regulatory difficulties confronting the tourism sector and called for examining how the Act could help tourism enterprises become more competitive and self-sustaining. The meeting was attended by KCCI Senior Vice President Umar Nazir Tibetbaqal, Junior Vice President Farooq Amin, Joint Secretary General Akib Chaya, executive committee members Ashiq Hussain Shangloo, Fayaz Punjabi, and G M Dug, KHAROA President Gowher Maqbool, Afaq Qadri, Nasrul Baba, Tauseef Ahmad Bhat and other trade and industry representatives. The proposed committee will examine the contentious provisions of the Act, amendments to the Unified Building By-laws, 2021, and associated land-use concerns, with the aim of identifying areas requiring clarification or additional safeguards. Participants said the forthcoming rules and guidelines would be crucial in determining how the legislation operates on the ground.
Cabinet expansion after LGs return: Farooq Abdullah
Srinagar, Oct 19: National Conference (NC) President Farooq Abdullah on Monday said the long-awaited expansion of the Council of Ministers would take place after Lieutenant Governor Manoj Sinha returns to the Valley, bringing renewed attention to the pending reshuffle in the Omar Abdullah-led government. Speaking to reporters in Budgam, Abdullah said the LGs return would pave the way for the exercise. The LG was not well and is out of J&K. When the LG comes, there will be an expansion of the cabinet, he said. The statement comes three days after CM Omar-led government completed two years in office without undertaking a major Cabinet reshuffle. The expansion has been under discussion for several months, with the CM previously indicating that he would consult Abdullah before taking a final decision. CM Omar had earlier said that a decision on the expansion would follow the GST Council meeting and consultations with the NC president. The latest statement by Abdullah indicates that the exercise is now expected after the LGs return, although no specific date has been announced. Under Section 53(1) of the Jammu and Kashmir Reorganisation Act, 2019, the Council of Ministers cannot exceed 10 percent of the total strength of the Legislative Assembly. With 90 elected members, the council can have a maximum of nine members, including the Chief Minister. The present council comprises six members: CM Omar, Deputy Chief Minister Surinder Kumar Choudhary, and Ministers Sakeena Masood Itoo, Javed Ahmed Rana, Javid Ahmad Dar and Satish Sharma. This leaves room for three additional ministerial appointments. The anticipated expansion has triggered speculation over the induction of experienced legislators and a possible reshuffle of existing portfolios. The position of Congress, an electoral ally of the NC, remains another factor in the political calculations surrounding the expansion. Congress has so far declined to join the government, opting to support it from outside until the restoration of full statehood to Jammu and Kashmir. The NC had offered the party a ministerial berth, but Congress has maintained its position on statehood. Separately, Abdullah said the elected government was functioning on a double-edged sword, citing uncertainty over the division of powers between the LG and the elected dispensation. Referring to the delimitation exercise, he said assurances had been given that elections would follow delimitation and that statehood would subsequently be restored. The assurances were given to us, but the BJP is not keeping its promises, he said. He also recalled that NC MPs had met Union Home Minister Amit Shah in January to discuss the business rules intended to clearly define the respective powers of the LG and the elected government. It has been ten months since that meeting, but the business rules have still not been framed, he said. Abdullahs remarks underline the continuing political debate over the functioning of the elected government under the Union Territory framework, even as the administration prepares for a possible restructuring of its Council of Ministers. About reports that Srinagar MP Aga Syed Ruhullah Mehdi could resign from Parliament on November 3, Abdullah said the decision rested with the MP himself. If Ruhullah wants to resign, he is free to do so. It makes no difference, he said. He did not elaborate further on the reported resignation or the circumstances surrounding it. Abdullah also expressed concern over the attack on a Kashmir-bound passenger bus in Haryana, saying CM Omar Abdullah had sought strict action against those responsible and compensation for the damage caused. He said the incident required immediate attention from the authorities, warning that attempts to disturb peace could have wider consequences if not addressed promptly. Abdullah said the CM had urged the Central Government to take cognisance of the matter and ensure that such incidents did not recur. The attack has triggered concern in Jammu and Kashmir, with political leaders calling for accountability and adequate protection for passengers travelling outside the Union Territory.
Blaze in Bani? Fire tender from 155 kms away Kathua F&ES station will arrive to extinguish it!
Jammu, Oct 19: Fire destroys 40 houses in Warwan area of Kishtwar. 8 houses gutted in Warwan blaze. Screaming headlines from Warwan and any other place across Union Territory create trepidation among thousands of inhabitants of Bani tehsil headquarters spread across over 33 villages in Kathua district as a dreadful thought crosses their mind It may happen to us even, anytime! They, in particular, share empathy with the Warwan inhabitants, who in the past few years have witnessed such destruction, a number of times. Comparative empathy is not out of place. Reason being, both Warwan in Kishtwar district and Bani tehsil in Kathua district remotely placed treacherous areas, do not have a fire station or even a locally stationed fire tender a demand being made and ignored for long now. If for Warwan in Kishtwar district, fire tender comes traversing a distance of over 80 kms from Kokernag in Anantnag district of Kashmir, in Bani tehsil of Kathua district, the distance even stretches further to around 155 kms. In case of any fire or emergency incident in Bani tehsil, Fire and Emergency Services station in district headquarter Kathua, situated at around 155 kms away, is the nearest available station to respond to (emergency) situation or deploy even fire tender. And this is not mere allegation by the inhabitants; the assertion has come straight from the horses mouth. Directorate of Fire and Emergency Services (F&ES), J&K, itself, has made this admission in response to an application filed under Right to Information (RTI) Act by a social activist of the area, Mudasar Ali, regarding fire and emergency services and availability of fire tenders in Bani tehsil of Kathua district. As per reply furnished by the Director, F&ES, J&K on October 7, 2026, in response to Mudasar Alis RTI application registration number FIREE/R/2026/60027 dated August 31, 2026, there is no Fire & Emergency Services Station presently established or stationed in tehsil Bani, district Kathua. No fire tender of this department is presently stationed or deployed in tehsil Bani. Accordingly, no fire tender registration number, date of deployment or operational status is applicable, the Directorate mentioned in response to a query regarding details of fire tenders, fire service vehicles presently deployed or stationed in Tehsil Bani. When asked if no fire tender is permanently stationed in tehsil Bani, what is location of the nearest Fire & Emergency Services Station from which fire tenders are dispatched to Bani during emergencies, the Directorate has replied that F&ES Station Kathua is the nearest Fire and Emergency Services Station to Tehsil Bani, being situated at a distance of approximately 155 kms from Bani. In case of any fire or emergency incident in tehsil Bani, F&ES Station Kathua is the nearest available Fire and Emergency Services Station for responding to the emergency, it has been maintained. F&ES Station Kathua is responsible for responding to fire calls received from tehsil Bani and for deployment of available fire-fighting resources in case of any fire emergency, as per operational requirements and availability of resources, the Directorate F&ES, J&K informs. In response to a query about details of the number of fire incidents reported in tehsil Bani during the financial years 2021-22 to 2025-26, year-wise and the number of fire tenders dispatched in response to such incidents, if such information is maintained, the Directorate mentions that as per the report furnished by the in-charge, F&ES Station Kathua, no fire tender was deputed for any fire incident in tehsil Bani during the period from April, 2021 to April, 2026. However, F&ES Station Kathua has attended a number of deployments relating to fire-safety arrangements in tehsil Bani from time to time, as required, it has been stated. However, as per the reply, a proposal for establishing 102 new Fire and Emergency Stations is presently under consideration, which also includes the proposal of Fire and Emergency Station Bani and is under process. No fire station or fire tender has been sanctioned and made operational at Bani as on date (October 7, 2026). The proposal for establishment of a Fire and Emergency Services Station at Bani is, however, presently awaiting government sanction, reads the reply to a query about any Government order, sanction order, proposal, correspondence, inspection report or other official communication regarding establishment of a Fire Station in Bani; deployment or provision of a fire tender in Bani; construction or provision of infrastructure for Fire and Emergency Services in Bani. Himanshu Gandotra, Deputy Director, Command Officer, Fire and Emergency Services, Samba-Kathua, as per the Directorates reply, is the designated authority for arranging and coordinating fire-fighting services in district Kathua including tehsil Bani in case of any fire or emergency. Social activist and applicant under RTI Act, Mudasar Ali points out that the residents of Bani tehsil in district Kathua have long been demanding for the establishment of a fire service station in the area. The residents allege that despite repeatedly highlighting the issue over the years, there has been no positive response from the government so far. The locals maintain that during recent years, they have suffered property losses worth crores, due to the absence of a fire service station. Despite several fire mishaps reported frequently in the sub-region, the government has failed to set up even a single fire station, leaving the population exposed and helpless, they lament. Had there been a fire station in our area, the damage could have been less, Mudasar Ali asserts. Bani is a snow-bound and hilly region, where more than 90 percent of the houses are made of wood and tin sheetsmaking them highly vulnerable to fire incidents.
9 UBGL grenades among arms, ammunition recovered from cave in Rajouri
Rajouri, Oct 19: Security forces on Monday recovered a cache of arms and ammunition, including nine under-barrel grenade launcher (UBGL) grenades, from a cave in a forest area of Rajouri district, sources said. Sources told the news agencyKashmir News Observer (KNO) that the recovery was made during a search operation in the Chor Hill-Panch Gabbar area of Koteranka tehsil. During the operation, troops recovered nine UBGL grenades, one AK-47 magazine and 18 rounds of AK-series ammunition concealed inside a cave, they said. The recovered ammunition has been seized and further details regarding the operation are awaited.
LoP Sunil Sharma thanks PM Modi as Centre approves Rs 475.41 crore for upgradation of 10 ITIs in J&K
Jammu, Oct 19: Leader of the Opposition in the Jammu and Kashmir Legislative Assembly, Sunil Sharma, today expressed his gratitude to Honble Prime Minister Narendra Modi and Union Minister for Skill Development and Entrepreneurship Jayant Chaudhary for the approval of investment plans worth 475.41 crore under the PM-SETU scheme for the upgradation of ten Government Industrial Training Institutes (ITIs) across Jammu and Kashmir. The approval by the National Steering Committee marks a significant step towards strengthening the skill development ecosystem in the Union Territory, enhancing vocational training infrastructure and creating better employment opportunities for the youth. Under the approved plan, the Jammu cluster will receive an investment of 240 crore, with ITI Jammu designated as the hub institute and ITIs at R.S. Pura, Nowshera, Samba and Kathua functioning as linked institutes. The Srinagar cluster will receive 235.41 crore, with ITI Srinagar as the hub institute and ITIs at Ganderbal, Kangan, Budgam and Charar-i-Sharief as linked institutes. The proposed upgradation will focus on modern workshops, advanced machinery and equipment, improved instructor training and industry-aligned courses to ensure that young people acquire skills relevant to the evolving needs of the job market. Expressing his appreciation, Sunil Sharma said, I sincerely thank Honble Prime Minister Shri Narendra Modi and Union Minister Shri Jayant Chaudhary for this landmark approval. The investment of 475.41 crore will give a major boost to skill development in Jammu and Kashmir and open new avenues of opportunity for our youth. By strengthening our ITIs and aligning vocational training with industry requirements, this initiative will help our young people become more skilled, employable and self-reliant. He further stated, The equal focus on the Jammu and Srinagar clusters reflects a commitment to ensuring balanced development across the Union Territory. Whether it is a young man from R.S. Pura or a young woman from Budgam, our youth must have access to quality vocational education and skills that can translate into meaningful employment and entrepreneurship. Highlighting the expansion of skill development infrastructure in Jammu and Kashmir, Sunil Sharma noted that the number of ITIs in the Union Territory had increased from 35 in 2014 to 56 at present, while seating capacity had risen from approximately 3,800 to over 12,400. The expansion of ITIs and the substantial increase in training capacity reflect the growing emphasis on skill development under the leadership of Prime Minister Narendra Modi. The focus must now remain on quality training, industry participation and ensuring that these institutions become effective gateways to employment and economic empowerment, he added. Sunil Sharma also expressed his gratitude to Honble Lieutenant Governor Shri Manoj Sinha for his continued support and efforts towards strengthening skill development and vocational education in Jammu and Kashmir. At the same time, the Leader of the Opposition urged the Omar Abdullah-led government to ensure the timely release of the UTs matching share, wherever applicable, and complete all requisite administrative and procedural formalities without delay. The Centre has taken an important step by approving this major investment. The UT administration must now act with urgency and ensure that no young person is deprived of these opportunities because of administrative delays. Timely implementation is essential to translate this approval into modern training facilities, industry-ready skills and sustainable employment for the youth of Jammu and Kashmir, Sunil Sharma said.
KDA co-chairman questions centres move to amend LAHDC framework without consultation
Leh, Oct 19: Kargil Democratic Alliance (KDA) co-chairman Sajjad Kargili on Monday questioned the Centre's move to amend the legal framework governing the Ladakh Autonomous Hill Development Councils (LAHDCs), claiming that the changes were introduced without consulting local stakeholders. Kargili said the decision raised doubts over the central government's commitment to ongoing talks on Ladakh's constitutional safeguards and political future. On October 16, the Centre amended provisions governing the Councils through the Ladakh Autonomous Hill Development Councils (Amendment) Regulation. Under the amended framework, published in the Gazette of India, the number of elected members in each Council will be determined by the Ladakh Administration, ranging from seven to 24. The administration may also nominate up to four members from among women and unrepresented communities, subject to the prescribed limit. The regulation also makes the Ladakh MP an ex-officio member, places Council elections under the Union Territorys State Election Commission, and provides for election disputes to be taken to the High Court of Jammu and Kashmir and Ladakh. At a time when talks are ongoing to negotiate a settlement for Ladakh, including demands for constitutional status and stronger protections for the LAHDCs, it is deeply problematic that the government has chosen to make substantial changes to the composition, powers and functioning of these Councils without consulting the people and stakeholders of Ladakh, the KDA leader said on X. He said these changes directly affect the institutions through which local self-government is exercised, making consultation especially important when the future of Ladakhs political and constitutional arrangements remains under discussion. The KDA, along with the Leh Apex Body, is jointly spearheading an agitation in support of various demands, including constitutional safeguards and a Union Territory-level legislative assembly and governing body with meaningful legislative, executive, financial, and budgetary powers for Ladakh and have held several rounds of talks with the Centre since 2021. The government is effectively changing the institutional framework that these negotiations are meant to address, while giving the Union Territory Administration greater control over the composition and functioning of the Councils, Kargili said. This raises serious questions about the government's commitment to the ongoing dialogue and whether the eventual settlement will secure meaningful autonomy for Ladakh or leave its representative institutions subject to executive discretion, he said.
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Folk theatre artist Rayees Wathori earns national recognition
Srinagar, Oct 19: Kashmiri folk theatre artist and cultural activist Ravice Rashid, popularly known by his stage name Rayees Wathori, has been conferred the prestigious Ustad Bismillah Khan Yuva Puraskar 2025 in the Folk Theatre category for Bhand Pather of Jammu and Kashmir, bringing national recognition to the regions rich theatrical heritage. The award, instituted by the Sangeet Natak Akademi under the Ministry of Culture, Government of India, recognises Wathoris contribution to preserving and promoting Bhand Pather, Kashmirs traditional folk theatre form known for its satire, humour and social commentary. Wathori received the award in New Delhi from Gajendra Singh Shekhawat, Union Minister of Culture and Tourism, Government of India, in the presence of Vivek Agarwal, IAS, Secretary, Ministry of Culture, Dr Sandhya Purecha, Chairman of the Sangeet Natak Akademi; Anwar Khan Manganiyar, Vice-Chairman and Raju Das, Secretary of the Akademi. The ceremony was also attended by other distinguished guests, eminent artists and cultural activists. Through his sustained engagement with folk theatre, Wathori has contributed to keeping Kashmirs traditional performing arts alive and relevant for future generations. His recognition marks a proud moment for Jammu and Kashmir and highlights the cultural significance of Bhand Pather as an enduring expression of the regions identity, creativity and heritage.
GOC Northern Command reviews operational preparedness in forward areas of north Kashmir
Srinagar, Oct 19: General Officer Commanding-in-Chief (GOC-in-C) Northern Command Lieutenant General Pratik Sharma on Monday visited north Kashmir and reviewed operational preparedness of units deployed in forward areas. The Army Commander lauded the troops for their professionalism and operational acumen. He emphasised rigorous training, innovation and technology-driven capability enhancement to strengthen readiness for operations, especially in the wake of forthcoming winter season and the associated challenges.
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Srinagar airport withdraws 5 pm operational cut-off ahead of winter schedule
Srinagar, Oct 19: Srinagar International Airport has withdrawn the restriction limiting its operational hours to 8 am to 5 pm, allowing flights beyond 5 pm to be scheduled in line with applicable timings and operational requirements. The decision comes ahead of the Winter Schedule 2026, which will take effect on October 25. Airlines are currently filing slots for late-evening flights to and from Srinagar, a move expected to improve connectivity and offer passengers greater flexibility during the winter season, an airport spokesperson said in a statement. With the restriction withdrawn, the earlier cut-off for operations beyond 5 pm no longer applies. Flight operations will be planned according to the applicable schedule, subject to operational requirements. The airport has advised passengers to check the latest flight status and departure timings with their respective airlines before leaving for the airport.
FSSAI Proposes Ban on Added Sugar in Baby Food for Infants Up to Six Months
Indias food safety regulator has proposed a ban on adding sucrose and fructose to infant food products intended for babies up to six months of age. The move aims to strengthen infant nutrition standards and minimise early exposure to added sugars.
Video: In Himachal, This Local Ice Cream Is Sweetened With Jaggery, Not Sugar
This dessert is a little different from the ice cream you usually find at your neighbourhood parlour
