Daily Excelsior

Jerusalem, Mar 1: U.S. President Donald Trump said that Irans supreme leader Ayatollah Ali Khamenei was dead, after Israel and the United States launched an attack of unprecedented scale aimed at bringing down the Islamic republic. Cheers could be heard on Tehrans streets after reports of the death of Mr. Khamenei, Irans paramount leader since 1989, as plumes of black smoke hovered over the Pasteur district where he usually resides, witnesses told AFP. Khamenei, one of the most evil people [] Th

Ranjit Thakur/ Rajesh Dhar rajeshkhannadhar26@gmail.com thakur.ranjit3@gmail.com It is history now. Jammu and Kashmir have etched their name in golden letters as Ranji Trophy Champions. At the KSCA Stadium in Hubballi, Karnataka, a defining moment unfolded as the team scripted an extraordinary chapter in the annals of Indian cricket. This remarkable triumph is not merely a victory on the scoreboard but a testament to resilience, belief, and the indomitable spirit of a side that rose above challe

Excelsior Correspondent THIRUVANANTHAPURAM, Feb 28 : Union Minister of State (Independent Charge) for Science & Technology, Earth Sciences, PMO, Personnel, Public Grievances, Pensions, Atomic Energy and Space, Dr. Jitendra Singh traced Indias journey from civilisational resilience to technology leadership and said that Indias journey from being counted among the Fragile Five economies in 2014 to emerging as the worlds fourth largest economy reflects a decisive shift in national confidence, capab

Excelsior Correspondent JAMMU, Feb 28: The Jammu & Kashmir Branch of the Northern India Regional Council (NIRC) of the Institute of Chartered Accountants of India (ICAI) today announced its new office bearers for the term 2026-27. The newly constituted managing committee will lead the Branch with a renewed focus on professional development, quality learning initiatives and stronger engagement with members and students across the region. Among others, who were appointed as the new office bearers

Excelsior Correspondent JAMMU, Feb 28: The restored October Mansion in the Himalayan foothills opened its doors for an immersive evening of craft, culture and conversation. The event opened with an invitation only sit down dinner attended by dignitaries including senior NC leader Dr. Farooq Abdullah, J&K Deputy CM and Ritu Singh. The heritage bungalow was transformed into a museum-style installation space, featuring immersive rooms dedicated to the brands collaborators and sponsors, including AM

PALLEKELE, Feb 28: Pakistan were on Saturday knocked out of the T20 World Cup despite winning against Sri Lanka by five runs in their Super Eights match here, with New Zealand sneaking into the semifinals on the basis of better net run rate. Invited to bat, Pakistan made a formidable 212 for 8 with Sahibzada Farhan (100) hitting a stunning century and his opening partner Fakhar Zaman scoring 84. Pakistan needed to restrict Sri Lanka to 147 or less to [] The post Pakistan knocked out of T20 WC de

Mahpara Bisati/Mohd Saqib SRINAGAR, Feb 28: At an age when most graduates polish CVs for corporate jobs or pursue digital careers, 21-year-old Muntazir Ali from Bemina spends his days shaping clay, determined to revive a tradition Kashmir had nearly forgotten. In a modest workshop lined with earthen pots, plates and water bottles, his hands move with patience and purpose. A final-year student of commerce at Govt Degree College, Bemina, he has spent the past five years restoring Kashmirs fading c

NEW DELHI, Feb 28: As a joint military strike by the US and Israel on Iran triggered fears of a wider conflict in the Middle East, India on Saturday urged all parties to exercise maximum restraint and avoid escalation, emphasising that the sovereignty and territorial integrity of all countries must be respected. In its first reaction to the fast-evolving situation in the region, New Delhi said it is deeply concerned over the developments in Iran and the Gulf region, and [] The post Middle-East c

JERUSALEM, Feb 28 : Amid escalating tensions after Israel and the US launched joint strikes on Iran and frequent siren alerts, the Hebrew University of Jerusalem has cancelled all study related activities for a week. There are about 170-180 Indian students at Hebrew University, mostly researchers. Some of them told PTI that they are all safe and staying close to the protective shelter. Due to the security situation, all exams, assignments, and coursework scheduled for this week (SundayFriday, Ma

Dr Raj Nehru In the ancient treatise Arthashastra, sage Kautilya (Chanakya) declared: In the happiness of his subjects lies the kings happiness; in their welfare his welfare. He shall not consider as good only that which pleases him, but treat as beneficial to him whatever pleases his subjects. This timeless principle highlights that true governance is not about personal power or fleeting gains, but about building institutions that uplift every citizen, foster prosperity, and ensure justice. His

Lalit Gupta lalitguptajammu@gmail.com With my mothers passing in 1984, I lost not only her sandalwood-scented presence; convivial, self-assured, light on her toes, her eyes forever caressing, but an entire universe that had quietly revolved around her. With her went the rituals, the customs, the cherished dishes, and the thousand unnoticed details that had once stitched our days together. What had seemed permanent dissolved slowly, like incense thinning into air. In 1959, when I was six, my elde

Excelsior Correspondent JAMMU, Feb 28: Dr. Rajeev Kumar Bhagat, Member of Legislative Assembly from Bishnah called on Lieutenant Governor Manoj Sinha, today. Meanwhile, Lieutenant Governor Manoj Sinha was presented with books authored by Commodore Dalbir Singh Sodhi (Retd). The title of the books are Kashmir Divine Connect and Sikh Rule and Woman of Substantial Character. The post MLA Bishnah calls on LG appeared first on Daily Excelsior .

Excelsior Correspondent UDHAMPUR, Feb 28: BJP J&K president and MP (Rajya Sabha) Sat Sharma, CA underlined that sustained training initiatives are essential to preserving the ideological strength and organizational discipline of the party. Addressing a partys trainees workshop here, today as part of the nationwide Pandit Deendayal Upadhyay Prashikshan Mahabhiyan, he observed that the BJPs distinct identity stems from its ideological commitment and service-driven cadre base rather than mere elect

Excelsior Correspondent JAMMU, Feb 28: Reiterating Governments zero-tolerance policy against quality compromise, Deputy Chief Minister Surinder Choudhary today cautioned of strict action against the use of substandard material or poor execution of works under the Public Works Department (PWD) across Jammu and Kashmir. Chairing a high level review meeting held at the PWD Guest House, Jammu, the Deputy Chief Minister assessed the overall functioning, zone-wise physical and financial performance of

Excelsior Correspondent JAMMU, Feb 28: Reiterating that territorial jurisdiction cannot depend upon the convenience or residence of a litigant, the High Court of Jammu & Kashmir and Ladakh has dismissed a writ petition filed by a dismissed CRPF constable, observing that permitting petitions based merely on receipt of orders at a chosen place would encourage forum shopping and undermine the orderly administration of justice. The ruling was delivered by Justice Wasim Sadiq Nargal, who held that th

Excelsior Sports Correspondent JAMMU, Feb 28: Lieutenant Governor Manoj Sinha today inaugurated the second edition of the Sikh Cricket Premier League (SCPL) at the Cricket Ground of the University of Jammu, asserting that the youth of the country embody limitless possibilities and can script history if provided with the right opportunities, robust platforms and meaningful mentorship. Addressing the gathering, the LG said the league is playing a vital role in sculpting a disciplined and multiface

Nawshaba Iqbal SRINAGAR, Feb 28: Fruit and vegetable prices have surged across Kashmir with the onset of Ramadan, triggering concern over rising household expenses during the holy month. Consumers said the hike became noticeable at the beginning of the month of fasting, when demand for fruits and fresh vegetables surged due to their regular and sustained use. Mohammad Ayoub, a shopper at one of the markets in Srinagar, said he observed a clear difference in fruit prices compared to the [] The po

Excelsior Correspondent LEH, Feb 28: The Union Territory Administration of Ladakh has allocated departments to IAS officers in the interest of smooth governance. As per the an order issued by the General Administration Department on the recommendation of Civil Services Board, Chief Secretary Ashish Kundra has been assigned key departments including Finance, Home and Vigilance (CVO), Forest, Ecology and Environment, and Revenue. He will also serve as Advisor to the Lieutenant Governor. Commission

Excelsior correspondent KATRA, Feb 28: Deputy Commissioner Reasi, Kumar Abhishek, today chaired a comprehensive review meeting at the Spiritual Growth Centre in Katra to assess the progress of various developmental works being undertaken by different departments in the district. During the review, the Deputy Commissioner directed the concerned departments to ensure that ongoing development projects are completed in a timely and systematic manner, maintaining quality standards and adhering to app

291-run first innings lead helps take crown *Qamran, Lalotra hit tons, Auqib takes 5 wickets HUBBALLI, Feb 28: Jammu and Kashmir scripted an extraordinary tale of resilience in Indian domestic cricket to claim their maiden Ranji Trophy title by out-batting traditional heavyweights Karnataka here on Saturday, capping a glorious season that saw them tackle favourites and fellow upstarts with equal tact and confidence. The bald facts will tell that J&K held the eight-time former champions to a draw

NEW DELHI, Feb 28: Prime Minister Narendra Modi congratulated the Jammu and Kashmir cricket team on Saturday for its first-ever Ranji Trophy win and said the historic triumph reflects the players remarkable grit, discipline and passion, and is a proud moment for locals. Modi hoped that this feat will inspire many young athletes to dream big. Follow the Daily Excelsior channel on WhatsApp Congratulations to the Jammu and Kashmir team for their first ever Ranji Trophy win! This historic triumph []

Excelsior Correspondent Jammu, Feb 28: Lieutenant Governor Manoj Sinha has extended his heartiest congratulations to the Jammu & Kashmir Cricket Team for the historic maiden Ranji Trophy title victory. The Lieutenant Governor hailed the achievement as a defining moment in the Union Territorys sporting history. He praised the players and the coaching staff for their extraordinary performance, and dedication throughout the tournament. Follow the Daily Excelsior channel on WhatsApp In a post on X,

NEW DELHI, Feb 28: Union Home Minister Amit Shah on Saturday congratulated Jammu and Kashmir cricket team for winning maiden Ranji Trophy title, calling it a moment that fills every citizen with immense pride. On Jammu and Kashmir winning the Ranji Trophy for the first time ever, I extend my heartfelt congratulations to every youth of the region and especially to Team J&K that scripted this history, he said in a message posted on X. Follow the Daily Excelsior channel [] The post Peace, progress,

Excelsior Correspondent KUPWARA, Feb 28: Deputy Commissioner (DC) Kupwara, Shrikant Suse, today chaired a review meeting to assess progress under the District CAPEX Budget 202526. The Deputy Commissioner reviewed physical and financial achievements, directed strict adherence to timelines, and emphasized quality standards in execution. He instructed departments to strengthen monitoring, ensure transparency, and coordinate effectively to overcome bottlenecks. Detailed discussions were held regardi

Excelsior Correspondent HUBBALLI (KARNATAKA), Feb 28: In a moment that will be etched in the sporting history of Jammu and Kashmir, the J&K cricket team lifted their maiden Ranji Trophy title, prompting Chief Minister Omar Abdullah to announce a Rs 2 crore cash reward for the players and support staff. Describing the triumph as a defining chapter for J&K cricket, the Chief Minister said the victory has ignited celebrations across the region and inspired a new generation of young sportspersons. [

Excelsior Correspondent KATHUA, Feb 28: Deputy Commissioner Kathua, Rajesh Sharma, today visited Lakhanpur to take a detailed review of the status of infrastructure and assets available for Shri Amarnath Ji Yatra (SANJY) 2026, in the aftermath of last years floods. During the visit, the Deputy Commissioner conducted a comprehensive inspection of assets belonging to the Tourism Department, Animal Husbandry Department, DDC Office, State Taxes Department and Excise Department that were affected by

Excelsior correspondent SAMBA, Feb 28: To strengthen the districts fight against the drug menace, Deputy Commissioner Samba Ayushi Sudan convened the District NCORD review meeting today at the DC Complex. Bringing together senior officials, the meeting aimed to take stock of anti-drug measures and chart out a more aggressive course of action. The Deputy Commissioner conducted a rigorous review of compliance on decisions taken in the previous NCORD meeting, making it unequivocally clear that acco

Iranian forces hit back, target military bases *Strikes near Khameneis offices DUBAI, Feb 28: The US and Israel launched a major attack on Iran on Saturday, and President Donald Trump urged the Iranian public to seize control of your destiny by rising up against the Islamic leadership that has ruled the nation since 1979. Iranian state media, citing the Red Crescent, on Saturday evening said at least 201 people had been killed and more than 700 injured. Iran retaliated by [] The post 201 killed,

New Delhi, Feb 28: The Appointments Committee of the Cabinet (ACC) has approved the empanelment of 41 Indian Administrative Service (IAS) officers for holding Secretary-level posts in the Government of India. Among those empaneled at Secretary level are Rohit Kansal, a 1995-batch officer of the erstwhile Jammu and Kashmir cadre, and H Rajesh Prasad, currently Chief Secretary of Chandigarh and formerly posted in J&K. The list also includes senior officers like Keshav Kumar Pathak (1990 batch, BH

Chennai, Feb 28: As many as 12 flights belonging to several airlines bound for various international destinations have been cancelled following the conflict in the Middle East, airport authorities said on Saturday. The Chennai Airport issued an advisory instructing passengers bound for overseas destinations, particularly via the Middle Eastern countries, to check with their respective airlines on their journey. As many as 12 flights to be operated later in the day and Sunday have been cancelled.

Jammu, Feb 28: Reiterating governments zero-tolerance policy against quality compromise, Deputy Chief Minister Surinder Choudhary on Saturday cautioned of strict action against the use of substandard material or poor execution of works under the Public Works Department (PWD) across Jammu and Kashmir. Chairing a high level review meeting here, the deputy CM assessed the overall functioning, zone-wise physical and financial performance of the department in all districts of the Union Territory. Dur

Jammu, Feb 28: In a significant decision to make parcel services across Jammu more efficient, transparent, and customer-centric, the Railway board has authorised trans-shipment at identified stations and designated locations for dedicated parcel trains as well as leased parcel vans, an official said on Saturday. The move will reduce the time taken for parcels to reach their destination, thereby ensuring faster delivery to merchants, the spokesperson of the Northern Railways Jammu division said.

VETLAPALEM (ANDHRA PRADESH), Feb 28: As many as 21 people were killed and 8 others critically injured in the cracker unit blast here in Kakinada district on Saturday, Andhra Pradesh Minister Kandula Durgesh said. Chief Minister N Chandrababu Naidu is expected to visit the site, he said. As far as I know, 21 bodies are seen here (at the site). Another eight persons are undergoing treatment in hospitals. Approximately there were 30 people in the unit, the minister told reporters. [] The post 21 De

JAMMU, Feb 28: Chief Secretary, Atal Dulloo today chaired the 11th Governing Council Meeting of the State Health Agency (SHA) to review the progress and performance registered under PMJAY-Sehat under the current Policy Stage which commenced on April 17, 2025. The meeting was attended by Commissioner Secretary, H&ME; Secretary, IT; Secretary, RDD; Secretary, L&E; DG, Codes; CEO, SHA; Principal, GMC Jammu and other concerned officers. During the meeting, the Chief Secretary emphasized the need for

KULGAM, Feb 28: Minister for Health and Medical Education, Social Welfare and Education, Sakeena Itoo today virtually participated in the launch of nationwide Human Papillomavirus (HPV) Vaccination campaign for 14-year-old girls The campaign was launched by Prime Minister Shri Narendra Modi today from Ajmer, Rajasthan, marking a historic milestone in Indias fight against cervical cancer. Speaking on the sidelines of virtual launch ceremony at Kulgam, Minister Sakeena highlighted that this campai

JAMMU, Feb 28: Chief Secretary Atal Dulloo today stressed the need for holding a comprehensive stakeholders conference to ensure smooth, time-bound and effective implementation of reform-oriented deregulations introduced under the Reduction of Compliance Burden initiative aimed at strengthening Ease of Doing Business (EoDB) across Jammu & Kashmir. The Chief Secretary was chairing a high-level review meeting to assess the progress achieved under Phase-II of the Ease of Doing Business reforms and

Srinagar, Feb 28: Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Saturday congratulated the Jammu and Kashmir cricket team on winning their maiden Ranji Trophy title, terming the achievement a proud and historic moment for the Union Territory. In a post on X, the Prime Minister lauded the teams remarkable grit, discipline and passion that led to their first-ever Ranji Trophy victory. He said the triumph reflects the growing sporting talent and enthusiasm in Jammu and Kashmir and described it as a proud [] The

Dubai, Feb 28 : The escalating situation across the Gulf region following the joint Israel-US attacks on Iran has majorly disrupted flight connections in and out of Dubai, a major aviation destination and a commercial hub on Saturday. Regional airspace closures have caused disruption to several flights in the overall Gulf region too. Some flights have been canceled or delayed at @DXB and Dubai World Central Al Maktoum International (DWC) as a result of the partial closure of the [] The post Fli

JAMMU, Feb 28: Union Home Minister Amit Shah on Saturday congratulated the Jammu and Kashmir cricket team on winning the Ranji Trophy for the first time, calling it a proud and historic moment for the region. In a post on X, HM Shah extended his heartfelt congratulations to the youth of Jammu and Kashmir, particularly Team J&K for scripting history with their maiden Ranji title win. He said the achievement fills every citizen with immense pride and reflects the transformation [] The post Home Mi

JAMMU, Feb 28: Indian cricket icon Sachin Tendulkar on Saturday extended his congratulations to the Jammu and Kashmir cricket team for clinching a historic Ranji Trophy title, terming the achievement as a proud and emotional moment for the region. In a post on X, Tendulkar noted that Kashmir willow has traditionally powered the bats of numerous champions, and described it as truly special to now see Jammu and Kashmir emerging as champions themselves. He commended the side for maintaining consist

Hubballi, Feb 28: BCCI president Mithun Manhas was elated to see Jammu and Kashmir landing their maiden Ranji Trophy title, but his pragmatic mind has already zeroed in on the construction of new stadiums in the valley to take the cricket further forward. After 67 years of toil, Jammu and Kashmir held eight-time champions Karnataka to a draw and bagged the coveted title by virtue of a massive 291-run first inning lead. It took us 67 years. Its been a [] The post Its Been Long Journey To Title Bu

Death toll in US-Israeli strike on girls school in southern Iran rises to 40, reports AP citing state-run IRNA news agency The post Death toll in US-Israeli strike on girls school in southern Iran rises to 40, reports AP citing state-run IRNA news agency appeared first on Daily Excelsior .

New Delhi, Feb 28: Above-normal number of heatwave days are expected over most parts of the country between March and May, the India Meteorological Department (IMD) said in its monthly forecast on Saturday. These parts include West Rajasthan, Gujarat, Haryana, Punjab, south and east Maharashtra, east Uttar Pradesh, Bihar, Jharkhand, Gangetic West Bengal, Odisha, Chhattisgarh, Telangana, Andhra Pradesh, and parts of north Karnataka and north Tamil Nadu. In March, however, maximum temperatures are

Srinagar, Feb 28: Crime Branch Kashmir has charge-sheeted a cyber fraudster for allegedly duping a Srinagar-based man of Rs 41,000 on the pretext of arranging a No Objection Certificate (NOC) from Haryana for re-registration of a private car at Srinagar, officials said on Saturday. In a statement, A probe conducted by Crime Branch Kashmir into the allegations of duping a Srinagar based person of amount of Rs. 41000/_ on the pretext of arranging NOC from Haryana for re-registration of private []

AMARAVATI, Feb 28: Andhra Pradesh plans to open up its mineral-rich coastline for large-scale rare earth and titanium-bearing beach sand mining, in a strategic move aimed at reducing Indias dependence on Chinese imports and building a domestic value chain for critical minerals. State-run miner Andhra Pradesh Mineral Development Corporation (APMDC) has identified multiple heavy mineral-bearing deposits across coastal districts, positioning the state as a potential hub for titanium dioxide, titani

Jammu, Feb 28: Lt Governor Manoj Sinha on Saturday said the youth of Jammu and Kashmir are capable of overcoming every challenge and will script history if provided the right opportunities and guidance. Speaking at the inaugural ceremony of the 2nd edition of Sikh Cricket Premier League (SCPL) at University of Jammu, he highlighted that under the leadership of Prime Minister Narendra Modi, the sports landscape in the Union Territory has undergone a historic transformation over the past few years

BHUBANESWAR, Feb 28: Odisha-based Indian Metals and Ferro Alloys Ltd (IMFA) has announced the completion of its strategic acquisition of Tata Steel Limiteds ferro-chrome plant at Kalinganagar in Jajpur district. According to a company statement, the transaction is valued at Rs 707.26 crore, comprising a base consideration of Rs 610 crore along with GST and net working capital. The acquisition has been funded entirely through internal accruals. Established in 1961, IMFA is a fully integrated prod

NEW DELHI, Feb 28: State-owned gas utility GAIL (India) Ltd will invest Rs 1,736.25 crore in setting up a wind power project in Maharashtra that will help expand its renewable energy portfolio, as it targets net zero carbon emissions by 2035. In a regulatory filing, GAIL said its board at its meeting on Friday approved the investment in setting up 178.2 megawatt wind power capacity. The project, to be completed in 24 months from the award of the contract, will [] The post GAIL to invest Rs 1,736

CHENNAI, Feb 28: Electric motorcycle startup Raptee.HV has drawn up plans to expand its footprint across all southern state capitals and enter the western market by the end of the year, a top official said. The Chennai-based company has commenced deliveries of its motorcycle, the T30, and plans to enter Bengaluru-its second market after Chennai-by April. Priced at Rs 2.39 lakh (ex-showroom), the T30 comes with an eight-year battery warranty and a three-year vehicle warranty, supported by dedicat

NEW DELHI, Feb 28: Zydus Lifesciences on Saturday said it has received approval from the US health regulator to market generic anti-parasitic and leprosy medications. The company has received final approvals from the US Food and Drug Administration (USFDA) for Ivermectin Tablets (3 mg) and Dapsone Tablets ( 25 mg and 100 mg), the Ahmedabad-based drug said in a statement. Ivermectin tablets are prescription anti-parasitic medications primarily indicated for treating parasitic worm infections in h