Daily Excelsior

New Delhi, May 1: The government has cut the windfall gains tax on the export of diesel to Rs 23 per litre and aviation turbine fuel to Rs 33/litre, effective Friday. The finance ministry, in a statement, said there will be no change in existing excise duty rates on petrol and diesel for domestic consumption. The special additional excise duty on export of diesel was reduced to Rs 23 per litre from Rs 55.5 per litre, and aviation turbine fuel [] The post Excise Duty On Diesel Exports Cut To Rs 2

New Delhi, May 1: Aviation turbine fuel (ATF) prices for domestic airlines remained unchanged on Friday as state-owned oil companies decided to absorb the rise in global fuel prices to protect airlines and consumers, IndianOil said. Retail prices of petrol, diesel and domestic LPG cylinders have also been kept steady, insulating consumers from international price volatility. In a statement, IOC said there has been no rate revision in key fuels affecting the general public. ATF prices are, as per

Excelsior Correspondent JAMMU, Apr 30: The 13th season of the J&K Wedding Jewellery Exhibition was today inaugurated in Jammu at Radisson Blu. The exhibition is being held from April 30th to May 3rd, 2026 will bring together some of the leading jewellers of Jammu & Kashmir under one roof. Presented by Silverlines, Fortofino and Semparia, the event promises a premium jewellery experience that combines luxury, variety and strong value-driven offerings. The exhibition features over 10,000 exclusive

Excelsior Correspondent JAMMU, Apr 30 : Red Chief, one of Indias leading footwear brands, today unveiled its new brand film and campaign featuring actor Ayushmann Khurrana, marking the introduction of its new brand philosophy, No Shortcuts. This campaign challenges the idea of shortcuts, reminding audiences that meaningful destinations demand time, courage and resilience. The closing product showcase positions Red Chief not just as footwear, but as a reliable companion for every step of ones jou

Excelsior Correspondent JAMMU, Apr 30: Galgotias University has been recognised in the prestigious Times Higher Education (THE) World University Rankings 2026, further strengthening its national and global standing in one of the most closely watched global assessments of higher education institutions. Out of more than 1,300 universities across India, only 128 institutions have been featured in the latest edition of the rankings. The University is among this select group and has been placed 27th

Inaugural run of Jammu-Srinagar Vande Bharat flagged off Poonch-Rajouri rail link, Uri-Baramulla line projects under planning Nishikant Khajuria JAMMU, Apr 30: Flagging off inaugural run of much awaited direct Vande Bharat train between Jammu and Srinagar, here today and describing it as a landmark achievement in the history of Indian Railways, the Union Minister for Railways Ashwini Vaishnaw said that the Government is now focusing to enhance existing operational capacity of trains in the Union

LG, Home Secretary, Director IB, other top officials attend *HM to inaugurate series of key initiatives today Sanjeev Pargal JAMMU, Apr 30: Union Home Minister Amit Shah today met a group of leaders from Ladakh in the presence of Lieutenant Governor Vinai Kumar Saxena, Union Home Secretary Govind Mohan, Director Intelligence Bureau (DIB) Tapan Deka and other top officials of MHA and UT administration; and discussed the religious issues including arrangements for darshan of sacred relics of Lord

Udhampur included as stoppage for Vande Bharat Express Excelsior Correspondent JAMMU, Apr 30: Describing commencement of the Jammu-Srinagar Vande Bharat Express as a landmark achievement in the ongoing efforts to transform rail connectivity in J&K, Union Minister of State in the PMO Dr Jitendra Singh said that had Narendra Modi not become Prime Minister of the country, the train to Kashmir would never have reached. Follow the Daily Excelsior channel on WhatsApp Although the first train had reach

AHMEDABAD, Apr 30: Jason Holder was immense on the night, taking two wickets and three catches. Shubman Gill and Jos Buttler then backed his all-round prowess with handy cameos as Gujarat Titans sealed a nervy four-wicket win over Royal Challengers Bengaluru in an IPL match here on Thursday. Holders two-wicket burst (2/29) and those sharp catches helped the Titans bowl out defending champions RCB for a modest 155 in 19.2 overs. But with Gill (43, 18b), Buttler (39, 19) and [] The post Holder, Gi

Excelsior Correspondent JAMMU, Apr 30: The High Court of Jammu & Kashmir and Ladakh has sought fresh affidavits from the Health and Medical Education Department and Jammu and Kashmir Medical Supplies Corporation Limited regarding the installation and commissioning of CT Scan machines at different hospitals across the Union Territory. Follow the Daily Excelsior channel on WhatsApp A Division Bench comprising Chief Justice Arun Palli and Justice Rajnesh Oswal passed the order in a suo motu Public

CORAS Commandos to guard Vande Bharat Excelsior Correspondent JAMMU, Apr 30: People across Jammu and Kashmir have hailed the launch of the direct Vande Bharat Express service between Jammu and Srinagar, calling it a major step towards improved connectivity, tourism and economic growth. Passengers and stakeholders termed the development a game changer, highlighting that the service would significantly reduce travel time, cut costs, and provide all-weather connectivity to the Valley. Click here to

Visits LJK Store Jammu, SIBVM School Udhampur Excelsior Correspondent JAMMU/ UDHAMPUR, Apr 30: B. L. Verma, Union Minister of State for Social Justice and Empowerment, expressed his appreciation for the team of Ladakh Jammu Kashmir Multipurpose Cooperative Ltd for the initiative, noting that such platforms play a crucial role in enhancing farmers income, encouraging entrepreneurship, and strengthening grassroots economic systems. Click here to watch video He congratulated the team for their work

JAIPUR, Apr 30: Delhi Capitals have little time to dwell on what has been a bruising stretch of results as they gear up to face a confident Rajasthan Royals in their Indian Premier League match here on Friday. It has been a difficult run for the Axar Patel-led side this season. They have swung between extremes in the last two games. From posting a 250-plus total only to concede a world-record chase, to being bowled out for 75 against Royal [] The post Starc boost for DC against high flying Rajas

Drug traffickers will be treated like terrorists Excelsior Correspondent JAMMU, Apr 30: Lieutenant Governor, Manoj Sinha today ignited the Drug-Free Jammu Kashmir campaign in Doda, rallying citizens against narcotics. Follow the Daily Excelsior channel on WhatsApp Addressing the gathering on the occasion, he said the peoples movement against drug abuse reflects their determination and unity, and this menace can be eliminated when communities rise together and speak with one voice. The Lieutenant

Excelsior Correspondent JAMMU, Apr 30: Director, Rural Development, Jammu has been assigned the additional charge of the post of Managing Director, State Procurement & Supplies Agency. An order issued today by the Government of Union Territory of Jammu and Kashmir said that Director Rural Development, Jammu, Shahnaz Akhter shall hold the additional charge of the post of Managing Director (MD), State Procurement & Supplies Agency (SPSA), in addition to her own duties, till further orders. The pos

Excelsior Correspondent JAMMU, Apr 30: The Lieutenant Governor, Manoj Sinha has extended his greetings to the people on the auspicious occasion of Buddha Purnima, which is being observed tomorrow. In his message, the Lieutenant Governor has said: On the auspicious occasion of Buddha Purnima, I extend my greetings and good wishes to all. The timeless wisdom of Lord Buddha, rooted in compassion, non violence and equality, continues to illuminate humanitys journey toward spiritual salvation and las

Jammu-Srinagar train beginning of transformative phase Excelsior Correspondent JAMMU, Apr 30: Conveying gratitude to Central Government for extending Vande Bharat train services between Jammu and Srinagar, Chief Minister Omar Abdullah today demanded setting up an inland dry port for the Union Territory to boost trade and business. Follow the Daily Excelsior channel on WhatsApp Addressing a gathering during the flagging-off of the Vande Bharat train from the Jammu Railway Station, he described th

*To seek blessings at Vaishno Devi Shrine Excelsior Sports Correspondent JAMMU, Apr 30: Ace Indian badminton player and Olympian Saina Nehwal arrived in Jammu today. According to sources, she reached the city this morning and is scheduled to visit the Shri Mata Vaishno Devi Shrine tomorrow to offer prayers. She will leave Jammu on Saturday. During her visit to a local park, Saina interacted with the media and spoke warmly about the region. She described Jammu as a wonderful place [] The post Sai

Baseless allegations against Judicial Officers to invite strict action *Petitioner asked to show remorse, tender apology Excelsior Correspondent JAMMU, Apr 30: Emphasising that the sanctity of judicial proceedings cannot be permitted to be sullied, the High Court of Jammu & Kashmir and Ladakh has issued a stern warning against the growing tendency of litigants to level baseless allegations against Judicial Officers. Hearing a transfer petition titled Assadullah Bhat and Others Versus Gul Dar and

MS, DyMS re-designation to increase PG seats *JKAS officers promoted, order after LGs approval Excelsior Correspondent JAMMU, Apr 30: The Jammu and Kashmir Cabinet today cleared a number of proposals in its meeting held here this morning including grant of two percent DA, construction of three Grid Stations, sewerage and waste management projects, protection of the assets of Kashmiri migrants, changes in J&K Cooperative Societies Act, Cadre Review and Reorganization of Jal Shakti Department (JSD

Excelsior Correspondent JAMMU, Apr 30: Chief Principal Census Officer and Director Census Operations, J&K and Ladakh, Amit Sharma today reviewed preparations for Census 2027 with officers of the Relief and Rehabilitation Commissioner (Migrants) and assured that the migrant community will be fully covered during the nationwide exercise. During the meeting, he said every individual and household would be counted without any exclusion. Sharma also clarified that no personal or financial details suc

Excelsior Correspondent JAMMU, Apr 30: A three-day capacity building programme on the implementation of MSME Health Clinics concluded at the Indian Institute of Management (IIM) Jammu today, aiming to strengthen the micro, small and medium enterprises ecosystem in Jammu and Kashmir. The programme, which began on April 28, was organized in collaboration with the Industries and Commerce Department, Government of Jammu and Kashmir, and focused on equipping officials with practical knowledge and str

Excelsior Correspondent JAMMU, Apr 30: Satyarth Pandita, author of the recently released book Grammar of the Void, today called on Chief Secretary, Atal Dulloo at his office chambers here at Civil Secretariat and presented him with a copy of the book. The Chief Secretary after having a cursory view of the book lauded the efforts of the budding author and extended his best wishes to him for his success in his future endeavours. He said the parents and teachers too [] The post Satyarth Pandita pre

Excelsior Correspondent JAMMU, Apr 30: Narsingh Jayanti was today celebrated at historic Dewan Mandir, with deep devotion, cultural vibrancy and enthusiastic participation of devotees from across the region. Built in 1867 by Dewan Jwala Sahai, the Prime Minister during the reign of Maharaja Gulab Singh, the temple stands as an enduring symbol of the regions rich spiritual and cultural heritage. The evening commenced with traditional invocations by the students of Panjvaktra Mahadev Ved Pathshala

Excelsior Correspondent JAMMU, Apr 30: At the ongoing 78-day Yajna (Vedic ritual) of all four Vedas at Ved Mandir, Yol (Himachal Pradesh), Swami Ram Swarup, Yogacharya, while elaborating on Rigveda mantras 1/105/14 and 15, emphasised the importance of Vedic knowledge for spiritual upliftment. He stated that human beings should acquire Vedic education from learned scholars well-versed in the Vedas, whose conduct reflects Vedic ideals and who practice Yoga. Such guidance, he said, helps in eradica

Chetan Prabhakar chetanprabhakarassociates@gmail.com On the luminous occasion of Buddha Purnima, the mind is invited not to celebrate outwardly, but to turn inward-toward stillness, toward awareness, toward that subtle space where identity dissolves. The life of Gautama Buddha is not merely a historical narrative; it is a living inquiry into suffering, perception, and liberation. What he discovered beneath the Bodhi tree was not a belief system, but a direct seeing-an unfiltered recognition of r

Excelsior Correspondent KATRA, Apr 30: MLA, Shri Mata Vaishno Devi constituency, Baldev Raj Sharma, today met the Union Minister for Railways, Ashwini Vaishnaw, during his visit to Katra, and strongly projected key public issues concerning district Reasi and the Shri Mata Vaishno Devi region. He was accompanied by Ex DDC Chairman Reasi, Saraf Singh Nag, ex BDC Panthal, Chander Mohan Singh, ex Sarpanchs, Sudesh Sharma, Mangal Singh and Bhuri Singh Nag, among others. The MLA submitted memorandum h

Nawang Tsering Shakspo sntsering52@gmail.com Unlike other tribal areas of India, the tribal people of Ladakh are the inhabitants of what they call cold desert; while in the rest of the country tribals are found in deeply-forested areas, mingling with nature. Interestingly, Ladakh is a Buddhist-dominated area where the Mahayana form of Buddhism flourished as it had taken firm roots in the region in the seventh century A.D onwards. In the region, besides Buddhists, one can find a large number of [

Excelsior Correspondent AKHNOOR, Apr 30: A one-day international seminar on Ayurveda beyond Borders organised at the Government Ayurveda Medical College (GAMC) was held here today. The seminar was held under the aegis and patronage of Dr Ashutosh Gupta, Principal/Dean, Government Medical College Jammu and Government Ayurvedic Medical College, Akhnoor. The seminar brought together eminent national and international experts to deliberate on the expanding global footprint of Ayurveda. The distingui

Excelsior Correspondent SRINAGAR, Apr 30: MLA Tanvir Sadiq, Chief Spokesperson of the Jammu and Kashmir National Conference (NC) today launched a sharp attack on the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP), accusing it of a legacy marked by repression, inconsistency and political duplicity that has eroded public trust in Jammu and Kashmir. In a statement issued, Sadiq alleged that during the 2016 unrest under then Chief Minister Mehbooba Mufti, the PDP-led government oversaw one of the most excessive and

Excelsior Correspondent JAMMU, Apr 30: Apni Party provincial president, Manjit Singh today strongly condemned the recent arbitrary hike in passenger fares, terming the move a severe blow to the common man who is already grappling with mounting economic hardships. While addressing a meeting of party workers, Singh expressed his deep concern over the sudden financial burden this decision places on daily commuters, students and stated that public transport is an essential service that must remain a

Excelsior Correspondent Srinagar, Apr 30: Senior Superintendent of Police Anantnag Amod Ashok Nagpure today chaired a meeting to review arrangements for the upcoming Amarnath yatra. The meeting discussed security, traffic management, crowd control and inter-departmental coordination. Officers were directed to ensure robust deployment, identify vulnerable points and maintain effective communication systems. Special focus was laid on pilgrim safety and assistance. Officials reaffirmed commitment t

Excelsior Correspondent Srinagar, Apr 30: Continuing its focused campaign under the ongoing Nasha Mukt Bharat Abhiyan, Jammu and Kashmir Police carried out a series of enforcement, inspection and awareness activities across Pulwama district to curb drug abuse and trafficking, officials said today. In a major enforcement drive, Police Station Rajpora conducted intensive searches at the residences of suspected drug peddlers. A cordon and search operation (CASO) was also launched in the Mohanviji a

Excelsior Correspondent JAMMU, Apr 30: The Finance Department of J&K Government here today transferred two Directors and 12 Financial Advisors. As per an order by Financial Commissioner, Shailendra Kumar in this regard, Iftikhar Hussain Chouhan, Director Finance, Information and Technology Department shall hold the charge of the post of Director Finance, Chief Ministers Secretariat in addition to his own duties till Mohd Araf Khan returns from leave. Naila Zahoor Chib, Director Finance Police He

Excelsior Correspondent SRINAGAR, Apr 30: High Court today upheld two detention orders passed under Public safety Act and quashed three with the direction to the authorities to release the detenues. Justice M A Chowdhary upheld the PSAs of Sheeraz Ahmad Sheikh of Wanpora, District Shopian and Mohammad Ashraf Sheikh of Narbal, District Budgam. They were detained by the concerned District Magistrates on 01.05.2025 and 23.11.2024 respectively. The grounds of detention reveal that Sheeraz was contin

Excelsior Correspondent LEH, Apr 30: The four-day mega eye camp- Operation Netra 1.0, organised by the Fire & Fury Corps, held from April 27 to April 30 was concluded here today. The camp was organised under Operation Sadbhavana for veterans and civilians at the Army General Hospital in Leh in collaboration with Army Hospital (Research & Referral), New Delhi. The Lieutenant Governor of Ladakh, Vinai Kumar Saxena, attended the closing ceremony of the Mega Eye Camp. The camp also witnessed [] The

Excelsior Correspondent UDHAMPUR, Apr 30: Bi -annual meeting of the J&K Bank Retired Employees Welfare Association Unit Udhampur was held here wherein new body of the unit was announced. The meeting was chaired by President of the Association, Iqbal Singh .General Secretary R K Bhan and Executives of J&K Bank REWA Jammu. Iqbal Singh announced new body of the Udhampur Unit, which was elected unanimously and said that restructuring of Kathua unit will be done once some urgently required amendments

Excelsior Correspondent JAMMU, Apr 30: Jammu and Kashmir has recorded its highest-ever annual investment of Rs 5,824.42 crore in the financial year 2025-26, marking a major milestone in the Union Territorys industrial growth and ongoing economic transformation. According to official data, the investment is over 13 times the average annual inflow recorded between 2014 and 2021, reflecting a sustained surge in industrial activity across the UT. The data shows that the upward trend has remained con

Excelsior Correspondent JAMMU, Apr 30: To ensure that benefits of Government welfare schemes reach grassroots level, social activist and chairman of the Samvedna Society, Keshav Chopra here today organized a special distribution programme during which essential documents including Ration Cards, Ayushman Bharat Health Cards and ABHA Cards were handed over to the local residents. Speaking on the occasion, Keshav Chopra said that primary objective of Samvedna Society is to serve as a helping hand t

NEW DELHI, Apr 30: Railway Minister Ashwini Vaishnaw on Thursday underscored the need to adopt new maintenance practices for the Jammu and Kashmir rail network, highlighting the unique challenges posed by the Himalayan terrain. Addressing a gathering in Jammu after flagging off a 20-coach Vande Bharat train from Jammu to Srinagar, he said the Himalayas are young mountain ranges hence advanced technologies are required to maintain critical infrastructure, including the Chenab and Anji bridges and

NEW DELHI, Apr 30: Congress leader Rahul Gandhi alleged on Thursday that Ladakhi peoples voices have been suppressed, democratic rights crushed, and their land and fragile environment are being handed over to Prime Minister Narendra Modis billionaire friends. Gandhi posted a video on X of his recent interaction with youngsters from Ladakh. The video was posted amid Home Minister Amit Shahs Ladakh visit. The leader of opposition in the Lok Sabha said the people of Ladakh are not against developme

New Delhi, Apr 30: The Haj Committee of India has raised the Haj airfare by Rs 10,000 per pilgrim this year due to a sharp global rise in Aviation Turbine Fuel (ATF) prices, with the Centre asserting that the increase has been restricted through hard negotiations. The Haj airfare hike has drawn criticism from opposition leaders, who have stated that such an increase amounts to injustice. A circular issued by the Haj Committee of India said in view of the [] The post Haj Pilgrims To Pay Rs 10K Mo

The Jammu and Kashmir Government has ordered the transfer and posting of 179 officers. Among those transferred are several Jammu and Kashmir Administrative Services (JKAS) officers. See Order Copy Click Here The post Several JKAS Among 179 Officers Transferred In Major Admin Reshuffle appeared first on Daily Excelsior .

JAMMU, Apr 30: The Jammu and Kashmir Government has ordered the promotion of Naila Zahoor Chib, Selection Grade Officer of the Jammu and Kashmir Accounts Service, to the Special Scale with immediate effect. See Order Copy Click Here The post J&K Govt Promotes Accounts Service Officer To Special Scale appeared first on Daily Excelsior .

Rajouri , April 30: A residential house was completely damaged after a lightning strike hit Azmatabaad village in Thannamandi Rajouri on Wednesday evening. Officials said that at around 6:20 PM, lightning struck the house belonging to Mohd Gafoor, son of Ahmed Din, a resident of Azmatabaad. The impact of the strike caused extensive damage to the structure. However, no loss of life or injuries have been reported in the incident. Authorities have taken note of the situation, and further assessment

JAMMU, April 30: The Government of Jammu and Kashmir on Wednesday ordered a large-scale reshuffle in the Finance Department, transferring and posting more than 70 officers across various departments and districts to streamline administrative functioning. According to Government Order No. 174-F of 2026 dated April 30, 2026, the transfers and postings have been made with immediate effect in the interest of administration. As per the order, several senior officers have been reassigned to key positi

PITHORAGARH (UTTARAKHAND), Apr 30: The Kailash Mansarovar Yatra through the Uttarakhands Lipulekh pass will begin in June this year with 500 pilgrims permitted to visit the sacred site in Tibet, officials said on Thursday. The pilgrims will travel in 10 batches, with each group comprising 50 members, Pithoragarh District Magistrate Ashish Bhatgain said on Thursday. Bhatgain said the decision came after a meeting in Delhi on April 27, chaired by the joint secretary of the Ministry of External Aff

JAMMU, Apr 30: Jammu and Kashmir Lieutenant Governor Manoj Sinha on Thursday said that drug traffickers would be dealt with like terrorists under the law in the Union territory, where 440 drug offenders have been arrested and 350 FIRs filed in the past 20 days under the 100-day Nasha Mukt J-K Abhiyan. Addressing a gathering after launching the anti-drug campaign in Doda, Sinha termed drug abuse a form of silent terrorism and called for a public movement against the menace. [] The post Drug Traff

JAMMU, Apr 30: The Jammu and Kashmir Government on Wednesday ordered the transfer and posting of 5 In-charge Executive Engineers in the Rural Engineering Wing of the Rural Development and Panchayati Raj Department with immediate effect. The post J&K Govt Transfers 5 Executive Engineers In Rural Engineering Wing appeared first on Daily Excelsior .

JAMMU, Apr 30: Chief Secretary, Atal Dulloo today inaugurated the Jammu and Kashmir Security Operations Centre (JK SOC), marking a significant step towards strengthening the Union Territorys cyber security infrastructure. Additional Chief Secretary, (Financial Commissioner) Revenue, Shaleen Kabra; Principal Secretary, Home, Chandraker Bharti; Divisional Commissioner, Jammu, Ramesh Kumar; Secretary, IT Department, Dr. Piyush Singla; Director General, National Informatics Centre, VTV Ramana; CEO,