Mangaluru-Chennai Express train stopped at Avadi due to technical fault
Passengers were accommodated in suburban trains to reach MGR Central Station
Books take a bao at fun session for likeminded in Bengaluru
The most recent edition of Book A Table was held at a restaurant, a first for the initiative
Amazons AWS commits $1 billion toward new unit for embedded AI engineers
Amazon announced the new unit as part of a two-day customer event in Washington, where it is expected to make additional announcements around government cloud offerings
UP defence corridor attracts 39,571 cr investment
With 65 companies now engaged and nine manufacturing units operational, UPDIC is not only reinforcing Indias commitment to self-reliance in defense but also contributing to Uttar Pradeshs ambition of becoming a $1 trillion economy.
Markets rebound in early trade after two days of decline
Sensex climbed to 76,661.36 and Nifty went up to 23,916.85
Inside the National Maritime Heritage Complex taking shape in Gujarat
Designed by architect Hafeez Contractor, the upcoming National Maritime Heritage Complex in Lothal blends Harappan-inspired architecture, immersive galleries, and sustainable design across nearly 400 acres
Union Bank India Increases Interest Rates on its FCNR (B) Deposits upto 6.60% P.A.
Meta loses bid to dismiss U.S. states' claims that Facebook, Instagram addict children
The judge said Meta did not comply with that laws notice and parental consent requirements, and granted summary judgment to the states on that issue
TAC Securitys Socify.ai Adds Another 100 Clients in Just Three Months
New York, United States & Mumbai, Maharashtra, India Business Wire India
Impetus Recognized Among Indias Best Companies to Work For 2026 by Great Place to Work India
Indore, Madhya Pradesh, India Business Wire India
The enterprise AI platform turns millions of engineering artifacts that run a plant into accurate, decision-ready data, delivering up to 85% extraction accuracy and full, audit-ready traceability
Watch: U.K. PM Starmer announces 15 billion plan to boost defence investment
Anthropic unveils 'Claude Science' for scientific research
Claude Science combines databases, coding tools, compute and research workflows in one workspace, helping scientists analyse literature, run analyses, create figures and manuscripts, and trace results
Why the decline of foreign languages in Indian schools needs attention
The decline of foreign language learning in schools raises vital questions about global readiness of Indian students
TikTok to settle with teen plaintiff before California social media trial, law firm says
R.K.C., who started using social media when he was about 8, said he became addicted to it, losing sleep and suffering from depression and anxiety, according to court filings
Over 20 lakh devotees attend Rottela Panduga in Nellore
On the occasion, State Endowments Minister Anam Ramanarayana Reddy offered special prayers at the dargah
EOW Kashmir Chargesheets Accused in Rs 1.04 Crore KCC Loan Manipulation Scam
Srinagar, July 01: The Economic Offences Wing (EOW) Kashmir, of Crime Branch J&K has filed a chargesheet before the Honble Court of Aditional Special Judge Anti-Corruption, Srinagar, in FIR No. 20/2018 under Sections 420, 467, 468, 471, 409 and 201 RPC read with Section 5(2) of the Prevention of Corruption Act against Rouf Mohammad Wani, son of Late Mohammad Akbar Wani, a resident of Hanjura, Chadoora, Budgam, for grabbing an amount of Rs. 10448141/- through unauthorised transactions, manipulation of KCC loan limits and misuse of banking credentials. Investigation revealed that the accused, while working as a daily wager at J&K Bank Business Unit Dada Ompora, Chadoora, Budgam, fraudulently debited customers accounts, enhanced credit limits of KCC accounts without authorisation and misused banking credentials to siphon off funds. The investigation established that the accused committed the fraud for wrongful gain to himself and his family members, causing corresponding wrongful loss to the bank. Upon completion of the investigation, the chargesheet has been filed before the competent court for judicial adjudication. The general public is advised to remain vigilant against economic fraudsters and report any such incidents to the SSP, EOW Kashmir, Crime Branch J&K. Victims of economic fraud may also submit their complaints via email at sspeow-kmr@jkpolice.gov.in.
Three killed as two lorries collide, catch fire in Andhra Pradeshs Guntur
One of the lorries was transporting stones, while the other was carrying a paper consignment, says Guntur District Superintendent of Police Vakul Jindal.
Watch: PM Modi speaks to Iran President ahead of Ayatollah Khameneis state funeral
Prime Minister Narendra Modi spoke with Iranian President Masoud Pezeshkian ahead of the state funeral of Irans Supreme Leader Ayatollah Ali Khamenei.
Flash Flood Blocks ZanskarKargil Road at Shafat Nallah; Clearance Ops Underway
Kargil, July 1:The ZanskarKargil road has been blocked after a fresh flash flood hit Shafat Nallah on West, officials said. The District Emergency Operations Centre (DEOC) Kargil confirmed that the sudden flood caused debris to spill onto the road, halting traffic movement on the vital link. Road clearance operations are currently in progress to restore connectivity at the earliest, DEOC Kargil said. Travelers have been advised to avoid the route until the road is cleared and to contact local authorities for updates.(GNS)
Watch: Seven killed, over 15 injured as bus rams into truck on Delhi-Mumbai Expressway
Deutsche India showcases cutting-edge AI applications that speed up banking operations
One of these applications even analyses factors that cause market volatilitysuch as geopolitical developments, regulatory changes, and macroeconomic shiftsallowing Deutsche Bank globally to eliminate or minimise portfolio risk
BJP rule in Bengal will be no different from rest of country: Venugopal
They do not believe in the Constitution. They want to destroy the livelihood of the common people, says Congress leader K.C. Venugopal
4-year-old child who fell into borewell in Haryanas Ambala dies
The Deputy Commissioner had said on Tuesday (June 30) that the police had been directed to initiate action as per rules against those responsible for leaving the borewell open
Fear and anger brew inside Meta amid AI frenzy
Meta employees have weathered frequent layoffs since early 2025, including this spring when the company cut 10 percent of its workforce, some 8,000 jobs
The Indus conundrum: when water is both a lifeline and a faultline
Writers are beginning to explain the ramifications of the suspension of the Indus Water Treaty, which was a shared heritage between India and Pakistan. Others map how global warming is impacting the balance in nature, and take stock of the fallout of political decisions on all rivers
Without skilled engineers, Indias chip ambitions will fall short
NMIMS launches initiative to embed AI skills in student curriculum
The fiscal tightrope for State governments
Most State government expenditure is on social sectors, such as health and education, and economic sectors, such as agriculture and irrigation. In Kerala, such spending has driven social progress since the 1960s. The gap between expenditure and receipts is usually financed through market borrowings.
Agoda rolls out suite of new features focused on real-time updates and smarter trip planning
Agoda rolls out suite of new features focused on real-time updates and smarter trip planning
Anshul Garg inspects functioning of ICCC Srinagar
Srinagar, Jun 30: Ahead of the commencement of Shri Amarnath Ji Yatra 2026, Divisional Commissioner Kashmir, Anshul Garg on Tuesday visited Integrated Command Control Centre (ICCC), Srinagar to assess the functioning of the surveillance & monitoring centre for ensuring smooth conduct of the annual religious pilgrimage. During the visit, the Div Com watched glitch-free streaming of visuals of Yatra camps and routes. On the occasion, he also interacted with the deployed staff and assessed data compilation during the day besides availability of department-wise information regarding on ground services, logistics and essential commodities. Speaking on the occasion, the Div Com highlighted the importance of the ICCC for inter-departmental coordination and synchronization of collective efforts of agencies for successful conduct of yatra. He said that the camera network helps administration in prompt dissemination of messages and undertake appropriate actions during vagaries of weather. While terming ICCC as a nerve centre of Yatra monitoring, the Div Com said that teams of various departments are deployed at the centre to monitor cameras round-the-clock for foolproof arrangements and ensuring best facilities to the pilgrims. He informed that weather-related updates will also be shared by IMD through display screens installed enroute and camps for real-time information. The Div Com informed that Lieutenant Governor has already taken comprehensive review of arrangements during his visit to Baltal and Nunwan base camps. Leveraging on the previous record influx of Yatris, the Div Com asked devotees to come with much fervor for the pilgrimage and requested them to share their feedback with the administration on 01942740003 for improvement in facilities. He said ICCC is a one-point solution for yatris to get any yatra-related information or assistance instantly.
District admin Kulgam hosts NITI TARA Capacity Building Training Programme
Kulgam, Jun 30: A capacity-building training programme under the TARA initiative was organised by NITI Aayog in District Kulgam with a special focus on strengthening development planning and improving outcomes at the grassroots level. The programme was held under the Chairmanship of District Development Commissioner Kulgam, Shazad Aalam and Team Members from NITI Aayog including Amrit Kaur, Public Policy Specialist; Utkarsh Srivastava, Assistant Section Officer, and Misba Shah, Young Professional and other three members of PIU. Team deliberated upon the importance of Artificial Intelligence in the modern-day development scenario and the tools development by NITI Aayog. The programme was attended by district officials, representatives of various line departments, Panchayati Raj Institutions, and other key stakeholders. The training aimed at enhancing institutional capacity, promoting data-driven decision-making, and ensuring effective implementation of developmental programmes in line with the vision of Aspirational District and Aspirational Block initiatives. During the sessions, experts from NITI Aayog highlighted the importance of convergence among departments, outcome-based planning, regular monitoring of key indicators, and adoption of innovative approaches for sustainable and inclusive development. Special discussions were held regarding the developmental priorities, challenges, and opportunities of District Kulgam. The participants were sensitised about strengthening local governance, improving service delivery, and accelerating progress in key sectors including health, education, agriculture, basic infrastructure, sanitation, and livelihood generation. The officials expressed their commitment to utilising the learnings from the programme to improve implementation strategies and achieve measurable improvements in development indicators.
DC Baramulla visits Uri border villages, reviews progress under VVP
Baramulla, Jun 30: Deputy Commissioner Baramulla, S.F. Hamid on Tuesday undertook a field visit to several Vibrant Villages, including Tulawari, in the border Sub-Division Uri to assess the progress of developmental works and review implementation of the Vibrant Villages Programme (VVP). During the visit, the DC inspected various development works and assessed the availability of essential public services across the Vibrant Villages. He interacted with local residents, heard their grievances, and directed the concerned officers to redress their concerns on priority. S.F. Hamid directed all officers to maintain close coordination with local communities, regularly monitor the progress of works, and ensure that all developmental interventions are executed in a transparent, efficient, and time-bound manner. Earlier, the DC chaired a comprehensive review meeting at the Officers Club, Uri, attended by SDM Uri, CPO Baramulla, and nodal officers for the Vibrant Villages Programme. The meeting focused on the saturation of VVP indicators across all identified Vibrant Villages of Uri Sub-Division to ensure holistic development of border villages through improved infrastructure, enhanced public services, livelihood generation, and better connectivity. In a significant decision taken during the meeting, it was resolved that senior district-level officers shall undertake night stays in the Vibrant Villages for on-ground assessment and close monitoring of developmental works and public service delivery. The nominated officers will interact with local residents and Panchayat representatives, review the status of infrastructure, connectivity, health, education, drinking water and electrification, and submit detailed visit reports for time-bound follow-up. The DC reviewed the status of ongoing and proposed projects under VVP and directed the concerned departments to ensure their timely completion while upholding quality standards.
DC, SSP Anantnag review arrangements for SANJY-2026
Anantnag, Jun 30: Ahead of the Shri Amarnath Ji Yatra (SANJY)-2026, Deputy Commissioner Anantnag (Yatra Officer Pahalgam Axis), Dr. Bilal Mohiuddin Bhat and Senior Superintendent of Police, Amod Ashok Nagpure, on Tuesday held a joint meeting at Meeting Hall, Pahalgam Club. The crucial meeting focused on strengthening the liaisoning and coordination among civil administration, police and security forces and to review and finalise the arrangements made by the concerned departments for the smooth conduct of the annual pilgrimage. CEO PDA, Additional Deputy Commissioner, SDMs, ACD, SEs Jal Shakti and KPDCL, CMO, CAHO, ALC, AD FCS&CA, ARTO, DSWO, Exens, officials from Traffic Police, SDRF, F&ES, ULBs besides representatives from telecom service providers and other concerned officials attended the meeting. During the meeting, detailed discussions were held regarding various arrangements for the upcoming Yatra, including security arrangements, track inspection and action on vulnerable spots, healthcare facilities, water supply, sanitation, toilet facilities, electricity supply, telecom connectivity, transport arrangements, RFID registration, pony and pithu services, labour availability, tentage arrangements, Fire & Emergency Services, SDRF deployment, disaster response mechanism and other essential facilities. Briefing about the security measures, the SSP urged the officials to work in close coordination with deployed units of JK Police and other agencies on routes, at camps and other critical locations along Pahalgam Axis. He also underscored the importance of synergy between concerned agencies to mount effective disaster response, ensuring safety and protection of the pilgrims. The Deputy Commissioner stressed upon all concerned departments to ensure close coordination and timely completion of all necessary arrangements for providing a safe, smooth and hassle-free pilgrimage experience to the devotees. He directed the officers to remain proactive and ensure effective monitoring of all arrangements at the Yatra locations. While reviewing the tentage arrangements, the Deputy Commissioner directed that tents should be placed at appropriate and safe locations after proper assessment of the area, keeping in view the risks of flash floods, fire incidents and other natural hazards. He emphasized the need for adequate safety measures, proper drainage, emergency access and regular inspection of all camping areas. The Deputy Commissioner also stressed upon strengthening the disaster management preparedness and directed the concerned agencies to ensure availability of required manpower, equipment and response teams for handling any emergency situation during the Yatra period. Instructions were issued for effective crowd and traffic management as well as optimum utilisation of parking spaces. Key directives were issued to ensure proper sanitation, collection and segregation of waste including the medical waste and monitoring of the sanitation teams. Health department was asked to keep adequate number of ambulances and oxygen cylinders available for prompt relief in high altitude besides fully equipping the deployed teams so they are in a ready state of response. Further, the BRO was directed to install barricades and reflectors in accident-prone areas, especially on Khanabal to Pahalgam road. PDD was asked to immediately undertake risk analysis of all critical amenities and installations to avoid any hazard. At conclusion, the DC directed all departments to have backup and contingency plans, ensuring swift mobilisation of manpower and resources. He reiterated that all departments must work in close synergy and ensure that all necessary facilities and services are provided to the pilgrims for smooth and successful conduct of SANJY-2026.
Tamil Nadus elusive Bengal foxes and their shrinking space
Bengal foxes are known for their monogamous behaviour. Forest Department officials said the species are now known to occur only in pockets in Dharmapuri, Tiruvannamalai, Salem, Madurai and Villupuram.
Nayara Energy cuts petrol price by 5 a litre, diesel by 3 as global oil rates cool down
The price cut follows a retreat in global crude oil prices after hostilities in West Asia eased and the reopening of a key maritime route restored the flow of crude oil and liquefied natural gas, reducing concerns over supply disruptions.
Shri Amarnath Ji Yatra-2026 Div Com Kashmir reviews facilities for Yatris at Srinagar Airport
Srinagar, Jun 30: In preparation for the annual Shri Amarnath Ji Yatra, Divisional Commissioner Kashmir, Anshul Garg, on Tuesday conducted a comprehensive review of the arrangements put in place at Srinagar International Airport to ensure a safe, seamless, and hassle-free travel experience for pilgrims. During the inspection, the Divisional Commissioner assessed the facilities established for Yatris, including dedicated eKYC counters, Yatra Facilitation Centre, passenger reception areas, and other essential facilities available at the airport. On the occasion, senior officials from the Civil Administration, Airport Authority, Jammu and Kashmir Police, and the Central Industrial Security Force (CISF) briefed the Divisional Commissioner on the preparedness and coordination measures undertaken by their respective departments to facilitate the smooth movement of pilgrims at the Airport. Speaking on the occasion, the Div Com stressed the need for coordination and robust communication mechanisms to ensure the timely resolution of issues and uninterrupted services for the pilgrims. Pertinently, in a major step towards facilitating the seamless and pilgrim-friendly Shri Amarnath Ji Yatra-2026, the local Administration have substantially augmented the registration infrastructure across Kashmir. The total number of pilgrim facilitation counters has been increased from 54 in 2025 to 131 in 2026, which includes a significant increase in E-KYC counters from 21 to 59, RFID counters from 20 to 32, and on-spot registration counters from 13 to 40. The additional registration facilities have been established at key locations including Pantha Chowk, Srinagar International Airport and Railway Station Nowgam. During the visit, the Div Com was accompanied by DC Budgam Athar Aamir, Senior Superintendent of Police (SSP) Budgam, and other officers from the concerned departments.
CM Extends Gwala Diwas 2026 Greetings, Reaffirms Support for Dairy Farmers
Gangtok, July 1: Chief Minister Prem Singh Tamang on Wednesday extended his greetings to the people of Sikkim on the occasion of Gwala Diwas 2026, [] The post CM Extends Gwala Diwas 2026 Greetings, Reaffirms Support for Dairy Farmers appeared first on The Voice Of Sikkim .
Higher conviction in cases after full implementation of new criminal laws: Home Minister Shah
The three new justice-based criminal laws are one of the milestones achieved by the country in the last 11 years, he said
Three killed in landslip at Mangalurus Naguri, rescue operation underway
Rescue workers, including NDRF personnel, rescued a male and two girls who were trapped under the debris, police said.
Russell Reynolds Associates Names Alistair Macrae as Head of Asia Pacific
Russell Reynolds Associates Names Alistair Macrae as Head of Asia Pacific
Bombay High Court directs BMC on road conditions, manhole safety
The BMC has installed protective grills beneath metal lids on over 70,000 manholes but has not installed them on more than 3,000 manholes.
Birthright citizenship was for children of slaves, not for world to 'pile' into U.S.: Trump
On the very first day of his inauguration, Trump issued an executive order against birthright citizenship, which was struck down by a federal court in Seattle the next day
U.S. government lifts restrictions on powerful AI models, Anthropic says
We've received notice that the Department of Commerce has lifted export controls on Claude Fable 5 and Mythos 5, says Anthropic in a post on X.
West Asia war LIVE: Iran was unable to export 'single barrel of oil' during U.S. blockade
We are pursuing dialogue, but if it is not implemented, we are also prepared for war and will respond accordingly, said Iran's Chief negotiator, Mohammad Bagher Ghalibaf.
Mexico vs Ecuador, FIFA World Cup LIVE updates: Match delayed by a storm in Mexico City
Mexico coach recalls several players to his starting lineup; Ecuador keeps faith in the side that beat Germany
Congo says number of confirmed Ebola cases rises to 1,333
The cases were recorded in the eastern provinces of Ituri, North Kivu and South Kivu.
Here is a select list of stories to start the day.
WhatsApp Rolls Out Username Feature: Chat Without Sharing Your Phone Number
Pakyong, July 1: Meta-owned platform lets users reserve unique handles starting this week, with an optional four-digit code adding a layer of protection against unwanted [] The post WhatsApp Rolls Out Username Feature: Chat Without Sharing Your Phone Number appeared first on The Voice Of Sikkim .
Venezuela quake deaths rise to 1,943, lawmaker says
The number of official rescues has dropped dramatically in the last three days, the government said, from 5,380 people saved in the first two days after the quakes to just four people found alive on June 29
FIFA World Cup 2026 | Mbappe uncorks France as Sweden are swept aside in Champagne show
Mbappes two goals lifted his World Cup finals tally to 18, one behind Lionel Messi on the all-time list
Trump reports more than $1.4 billion in income from crypto ventures
In his annual disclosure for 2025, the U.S. President received $635 million from sale of his $TRUMP meme coins
U.S. Supreme Court upholds State laws banning transgender girls, women from school athletic teams
Left unresolved by the outcome are lawsuits challenging State laws and regulations in Connecticut, California and elsewhere that permit transgender athletes to compete consistent with their gender identity
ENG vs IND 1st T20I preview: England bowlers will challenge struggling Indian batting unit
India's assistant coach says Vaibhav Sooryavanshi seems ready for the grind, but will have to go through the process and bide his time like any other cricketer to get a place in the eleven
Serena Williams beaten at Wimbledon in first singles match in four years
Williams' Wimbledon adventure isn't over yet as she is also playing in the doubles with her sister Venus
U.P. Congress delegation allowed to pray at Ram Temple after face-off with Ayodhya administration
An impartial investigation is not happening, State chief Ajay Rai said on the temple donations embezzlement case
FIFA World Cup LIVE updates: France vs Sweden in Round of 32 clash
The team to get past this clash will next meet Paraguay, who knocked out Germany
Indias Israel habit meets West Asian realities
A changing West Asia demands strategic imagination, flexibility, and diplomatic balance from India
PM Modi speaks with Iranian President
Stresses importance of freedom of navigation in Hormuz Strait New Delhi, Jun 30: Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Tuesday held a telephonic conversation with Iranian President Masoud Pezeshkian during which he welcomed the progress made in the negotiations with the US and reiterated the importance of freedom of navigation in the Hormuz Strait. A PMO release said that President Pezeshkian briefed the Prime Minister on the recent developments in West Asia and the way forward. PM Modi welcomed the understanding reached and reiterated India's consistent position that all issues must be resolved through dialogue and diplomacy. He reiterated the need for continued efforts to ensure lasting peace and stability in the region and for safeguarding freedom of navigation and commerce. In a post on X, PM Modi said that during his conversation with President Pezeshkian, he welcomed the progress made in the negotiations and expressed hope that efforts will lead to lasting peace. Spoke with the President of Iran, Dr. Masoud Pezeshkian, on the recent developments in West Asia. Welcomed the progress made in the negotiations and expressed hope that continued efforts will lead to lasting peace in the region. Reiterated the importance of freedom of navigation in the Hormuz Strait for India and the World, he said. This is the third conversation between the two leaders since the conflict erupted in West Asia on February 28 between Israel and the US on one side and Iran on the other. The leaders spoke on March 12 and March 21. During the conversations, PM Modi had highlighted India's priority regarding the safety and well-being of Indian nationals in the region, including in Iran, as also the importance of unhindered transit of energy and goods. He had extended greetings on Navroz and Eid. The talks between the two leaders come days after the virtual signing of a 14-point MoU between the US and Iran, which spells out provisions for the reopening of the Strait of Hormuz as also easing of financial restrictions on Iran. Iran on Tuesday said that the Islamic Republic has o plans to hold any meetings with the United States in the coming days at any level, even as diplomatic engagements continue separately in Doha on the related implementation of the 14-point memorandum of understanding (MoU) aimed at ending the hostilities in West Asia. Accorging to Iranian state media Islamic Republic of Iran Broadcasting (IRIB), speaking at a press briefing, Iranian Foreign Ministry spokesperson Esmaeil Baghaei, said Tehran is not scheduled to meet US officials in the immediate future. Basically, we have no plans to meet with the American side at any level in the next few days, the spokesperson said. He clarified that discussions scheduled in Doha are not political negotiations with Washington, but rather technical-level talks linked to the implementation of previously agreed understandings, including issues related to frozen Iranian assets. What will be done in Doha tomorrow is a discussion on the implementation of clauses of the memorandum of understanding, including the release of Iran's frozen assets, which is with the Qatari side, he said.
38-km trek, 10-hour walk: Health workers brave Gurez mountains to vaccinate nomadic children
Srinagar, Jun 30: Carrying vaccine carriers and medical supplies on their backs, a team of health workers trekked nearly 38 kilometres through the rugged mountains of Jammu and Kashmirs remote Gurez valley, walking for almost 10 hours to reach an isolated alpine meadow where nomadic children awaited life-saving polio drops. The arduous journey was undertaken as part of the ongoing National Pulse Polio Immunisation campaign to ensure that no child, no matter how remote, was left out. The team travelled on foot from Dawar to Patalwan, a high-altitude alpine meadow and lake on the eastern side of Gurez in Bandipora district, where several nomadic families are currently living in seasonal settlements. The round trip covered nearly 38 kilometres, with the health workers forced to spend the night in the meadow before making the return journey the following day. The team comprised health workers Bashir Ahmad Teroo and Shams Din Nasir, along with ASHA worker Rubina, who carried vaccines and essential medicines across steep mountain trails and difficult terrain to reach the isolated community. We started early in the morning from Dawar and walked continuously for around 10 hours to reach Patalwan. The terrain was extremely challenging, with long uphill stretches, but we knew children there were waiting for us, Teroo said. Apart from administering pulse polio drops to around 30 children, the team also organised a medical camp for the nomadic families living in the alpine pasture. Our Block Medical Officer instructed us not only to complete the immunisation drive but also to conduct a medical camp so that families living in these remote meadows could receive basic healthcare. We examined patients, distributed medicines and treated common ailments, he said. For Teroo, the expedition reflected the unseen side of public healthcare. Administering polio drops in a town takes only a few minutes. But in places like these, every dose comes after hours of trekking through mountains. This is the real challenge of public health ensuring that no child is left behind because of geography, he said. Despite the physical exhaustion, the team remained determined to complete the mission. It was one of the toughest journeys we have undertaken. Returning the same day was impossible, so we stayed overnight. But when we saw the children receiving the vaccine, every hardship seemed worthwhile, he added. ASHA worker Rubina said reaching the last person, regardless of the distance, remains central to their work. These families spend months in high-altitude pastures where access to healthcare is extremely limited. If we don't reach them, many children could miss essential immunisation. That is simply not an option for us, she said. For the nomadic families, the arrival of the health team was both unexpected and reassuring. Mohammad Kaleem, a nomad staying in Patalwan with his family, said he had never imagined health workers would undertake such a demanding journey solely to ensure their children were vaccinated. We never expected a health team to walk such a long distance just to reach us. They brought medicines, vaccinated our children and checked our health. We are deeply grateful for their dedication, he said. Calling the team the real heroes of the health department, Kaleem said such commitment deserved official recognition. They left the comfort of their homes and crossed mountains to serve people living in remote areas. Their dedication should be appreciated by the government, he added. Block Medical Officer Gurez, Dr Feroz Iqbal lauded the efforts of the team, saying their commitment ensured that every eligible child in the remote nomadic settlements was covered under the immunisation campaign. Our health workers displayed exceptional courage and dedication. They stayed away from their families, trekked through difficult terrain and ensured that every nomadic child received the polio vaccine. Such public health initiatives would not be possible without their commitment, he said.
Jumbo damages elephant-proof wall in Aralam
Corporation to end subsidised biomedical waste collection
CBI arrests IAS official in Haryana govt. funds misappropriation case
CBI has so far filed charge-sheets against 17 accused in the Haryana case, including six bank officials of IDFC First Bank and AU Small Finance Bank, three public servants, two companies and six private individuals
Operation Toofan volunteer arrested in bar brawl
Amarnath Yatra :From roads to cave shrine, multi-layer security grid in place: IGP
Drones, CCTV, latest tech deployed: SSP Sgr Joint mock drill held at Pantha Chowk Yatri Niwas to meet exigency Srinagar, Jun 30: With the annual Shri Amarnath Ji Yatra (SANJY) set to commence amid heightened security and logistical preparedness from July 3, Jammu & Kashmir Police on Tuesday said elaborate arrangements have been put in place to ensure a safe, smooth and incident-free pilgrimage. Speaking exclusively to Rising Kashmir after a joint mock drill at Pantha Chowk Yatri Niwas, Inspector General of Police (IGP) Kashmir, VK Birdi said that acomprehensive andmulti-layer security mechanism has been established across the Valley, especially along the yatra route. A multi-layer security grid is in place. We have done multiple drills related to contingencies. Today, we conducted a mock drill involving all stakeholders of the area to ensure road responsibility and security measures, the IGP said. From roads to the cave shrine, every security measure is in place. He urged pilgrims and citizens to strictly adhere to cut-off timings issued by the authorities so that movement along the highway and yatra routes remains smooth and regulated. I urge the pilgrims and citizens to follow cut-off timings issued by the traffic police so that they can plan their travel accordinglyforsmooth pilgrimage and travel, Birdi said. The Kashmir Police chief said that seamless coordination among security agencies, civil administration and local stakeholders remains central to the security architecture designed for this years pilgrimage. Speaking to reporters after the drill, Senior Superintendent of Police (SSP) Srinagar Dr Sundeep Chakravarthy said advanced surveillance and modern technology are being extensively used to monitor the yatra corridor and vulnerable areas. Every area is covered under CCTVs, and we are using drones. Higher reaches are also being covered. Latest technology is inplace,corridors are also being protected, he said. TheSSPsaid that strong inter-agency coordination would play a vital role in ensuring thepeaceful conduct of the pilgrimage.Inter-agency coordination will help us ensure a peaceful and smooth yatra, he said. Chakravarthy said that personnel on the ground are being regularly briefed about evolving situations and responsibilities. Every rank of J&K Police knows their duty and responsibility.Menon theground getregular briefings, and we getinputsfrom them also. So we know what to do and what not to do, he added. Highlighting the role of local support systems, the SSP said service providers and stakeholders have also been integrated into the larger security and management framework.Local stakeholders and service providers are on the sameplatform andensuring close coordination, he said. Earlier,a large-scale mock drill was conducted at Pantha Chowk Yatri Niwas in Srinagar involving Police, Central Armed Police Forces (CAPFs), Traffic Police, SDRF, Fire and Emergency Services, Health Department, district administration, ambulance services and other stakeholders. According to a police spokesperson, all participating agencies were thoroughly briefed on their respective roles and Standard Operating Procedures (SOPs) before the mock drill began. Emphasis was laid on maintaining coordination and communication flow, the spokesperson said. The exercise simulated multiple emergency scenarios, including road accidents, fidayeen attacks, law and order contingencies, accidental injuries, evacuation procedures, rescue operations and medical emergencies. Srinagar Police reiterates its unwavering commitment to ensuring a safe, secure and incident-free Amarnath pilgrimage through coordinated planning, seamless inter-agency cooperation and proactive policing, the spokesperson added. Officials said the administration has introduced several additional safety and monitoring mechanisms this year. ThePehchan, a QR-based verification system by the police, has been implementedfor ponywallas, palkiwallas, porters and other service providers associated with the pilgrimage to ensure proper identification and background verification. In addition, RFID-based tracking systems have been activated for pilgrims to enable real-time monitoring and movement regulation along the yatra route. The officials said the technology would help improve crowd management, emergency response and overall coordination. Security agencies have also increased deployment across J&K with around 670 companies of Central Armed Police Forces stationed at various strategic locations to strengthen the security grid around the twin routes of Baltal and Pahalgam. As Kashmir prepares to welcome thousands of pilgrims from across the country, authorities say the focus remains firmly on safety, coordination and ensuring that devotees undertake the spiritual journey with confidence and peace of mind.
Court directs police to register case, probe Ansibas plaint
Summer vacations for Kmr schools from Jul 6 to 19
Srinagar, June 30: The Directorate of School Education Kashmir (DSEK) on Tuesday announced summer vacations for all government and recognised private schools up to the Higher Secondary level across Kashmir Division from July 6 to July 19, 2026, in view of the prevailing weather conditions and rising temperatures. According to an official order issued by the Director School Education Kashmir, all educational institutions covered under the directive shall remain closed during the notified period. The order has been issued following approval from the competent authority. The announcement comes days after students from different parts of Kashmir appealed to the School Education Minister to declare summer vacations, citing intense heat and difficulties in attending classes during the ongoing heatwave. Students had expressed concern over the soaring temperatures and urged the authorities to prioritise their health and well-being. Talking to Rising Kashmir, the Director School Education Kashmir said the decision was taken after assessing the prevailing situation and considering the welfare of students and staff. We have announced summer vacations from July 6 to July 19 for all government and recognised private schools up to the Higher Secondary level across the Kashmir Division. The decision has been taken in the interest of students and school staff in view of the prevailing weather conditions, the DSEK said. Kashmir has witnessed an unusual rise in temperatures over the past several days, prompting demands from parents and students for an early summer break.
Indian and foreign: On the CBSE and third language
Forcing students to learn at least two Indian languages is not ideal
Festival to showcase J&K's landscapes, talent Local filmmakers, artists to be integrated Srinagar, Jun 30: Chief Minister Omar Abdullah on Tuesday chaired a review meeting to assess preparations for the 1st International Film Festival of Jammu & Kashmir (IFFJK)-2026, envisaging it as a landmark initiative to revive the region's cinematic legacy and evolve into a globally recognised cinematic event that celebrates storytelling while showcasing J&K's breathtaking landscapes, rich cultural heritage, and emerging creative talent. The meeting held extensive deliberations on the festival's vision, screening and programming strategy, branding, digital outreach, industry partnerships, and international participation. Director Information & Public Relations Shreya Singhal gave a comprehensive presentation outlining the proposed framework for the inaugural edition. CM Omar Abdullah underlined that the festival must not be viewed merely as a film event but as a defining cultural and economic platform for Jammu and Kashmir, generating opportunities in tourism, investment, employment, and the creative economy while reaffirming J&K's historic place as India's preferred destination for film production, creative pursuits, and cinematic tourism. Emphasising the importance of nurturing the local creative ecosystem, the Chief Minister directed that local filmmakers, writers, directors, actors, cinematographers, technicians, photographers, designers, artisans, craftsmen, and other creative professionals be meaningfully integrated with the film festival through exhibitions, networking opportunities, and business engagements. He further instructed organisers to facilitate structured interactions between local talent and eminent national and international filmmakers through master-class sessions, workshops, panel discussions, mentoring sessions, and knowledge-sharing programmes. The Chief Minister also called for instituting a special segment to recognise distinguished actors, filmmakers, directors, producers, cinematographers, musicians, and other cinema personalities who have played a significant role in keeping Jammu and Kashmir's cinematic legacy alive, celebrating Kashmir's enduring association with Indian cinema while inspiring a renewed partnership between the film industry and J&K. The proposed four-day festival, scheduled to be held in September 2026, will host screenings across multiple venues and feature international competition, Indian cinema, documentaries, short films, student films, animation, regional cinema, industry forums, workshops, and cultural programmes. Proposals for a dedicated digital ecosystem, including a festival website and an AI-enabled mobile application, as well as technical partnerships with premier film institutions, were also discussed. The meeting was attended by Advisor to the Chief Minister Nasir Aslam Wani, Additional Chief Secretary to CM Dheeraj Gupta, Additional Chief Secretary Finance Shailendra Kumar, Commissioner Secretary Information R Alice Vaz, Commissioner Secretary Floriculture Zubair Ahmad, Director Information Shreya Singhal, Joint Director Information Kashmir Syed Shahnawaz Bukhari, Joint Director Information Jammu Deepak Dubey, senior officers from Tourism and General Administration, representatives of NFDC, and other concerned officers.
Data doubts: On the latest IIP dataset
The latest IIP dataset raises more questions than it answers
Why Kashmir Cannot Afford to Ignore Food Adulteration Any Longer In a land that prides itself on its orchards, saffron fields and milk that once came straight from the neighbours cowshed, the idea that our food may be slowly poisoning us should shake us to the core. Yet across the Kashmir Valley, food adulteration has become a parallel economy, thriving in the shadows of weak enforcement, official apathy and a dangerously tolerant public mindset. From milk diluted with contaminated water to spices coloured with toxic dyes, from stale meat recycled with chemicals to substandard cooking oil sold as refined, the assault on our plates is relentless. What makes this crisis more sinister is that it strikes the poorest first and hardest. Those who cannot afford branded and certified products end up buying the anonymous packets and loose commodities where adulteration hides most easily. Successive administrations have made the right noises, occasionally seizing consignments and issuing press notes. But cosmetic raids and photo opportunities cannot substitute for a systemic war against this menace. When laboratories lack capacity, inspectors are too few, penalties remain laughable, and prosecutions drag on for years, food adulterators read it as an open invitation to continue business as usual. The message is clear: the risk is small, the profit is huge. The health cost, however, is devastating. Rising cases of digestive disorders, kidney ailments, heart disease and even cancers cannot be divorced from the quality of what we consume daily. A society that speaks of dignity and faith cannot remain silent when its children drink milk that is anything but, and eat staples laced with slow poison. This is not merely a regulatory lapse; it is a moral failure. Kashmir needs an uncompromising response. Dedicated food safety courts, fasttrack trials, cancellation of licenses, public naming and shaming of offenders and, in the worst cases, nonbailable sections must become the norm, not the exception. Testing facilities must be upgraded and decentralised so that every district can swiftly check what is sold in its markets. Routine, surprise checks, not festivalseason theatrics, should define the approach of our enforcement agencies. But the battle will not be won in inspection reports alone. Consumers must refuse to be complicit. Demand bills, ask for FSSAI licenses, support local producers with proven integrity, and report the suspicious instead of shrugging it off as chalta hai. Religious leaders, civil society and media must treat food adulteration as the public health emergency it is, not as a passing headline. Cleaning up our food chain is no longer an option; it is an obligation to our own health, to our future generations, and to the very idea of a just and humane society in Kashmir.
Rolling the Cameras, Reclaiming a Legacy
IFFJK-2026 can revive Kashmirs cinematic story, if intent is matched by honest execution Chief Minister Omar Abdullahs decision to lay out a roadmap for Jammu & Kashmirs first International Film Festival (IFFJK-2026) is, on the face of it, an ambitious attempt to restore a long-faded cinematic legacy. For a place once synonymous with Hindi cinemas most iconic frames, the idea of a globally recognised festival that brings back filmmakers, producers and artists from across the world carries both emotional resonance and economic promise. The review meeting, chaired in Srinagar, with a detailed presentation by the Information Department, signalled that the government is thinking beyond optics. The emphasis on a clear vision, curated programming, branding, digital outreach and international partnerships suggests that IFFJK is being positioned not as a token gala, but as a professionally managed cultural platform. The proposed digital ecosystem, from festival website to AI-enabled app, reflects an attempt to align Kashmirs cinematic aspirations with contemporary industry practices. Equally significant is the Chief Ministers insistence that the festival must serve as a cultural and economic engine. If executed with seriousness, IFFJK can inject fresh energy into tourism, hospitality, local entrepreneurship and the wider creative economy. For a society struggling to diversify livelihoods, the film and content industry offers relatively low-footprint, high-value opportunities, from location services and production support to crafts, design and post-production. However, the true measure of this initiative will lie in how deeply it engages local talent. The Chief Ministers directions to meaningfully integrate Kashmiri filmmakers, writers, cinematographers, technicians, artisans and designers through exhibitions, networking spaces and business engagements are crucial. Without strong local ownership, an international festival risks becoming a spectacle designed for visitors, not a ladder for homegrown creativity. The proposed masterclasses, workshops, mentoring sessions and knowledge-sharing programmes can, if curated with care, bridge a long-standing gap between Kashmirs aspirants and the national and global industry. Likewise, the idea of honouring actors, directors and technicians who kept Kashmir alive on screen is not mere nostalgia. It is a reminder that the Valleys relationship with cinema is not new; it has simply been interrupted. Yet, some cautions cannot be ignored. Kashmirs recent past is replete with grand announcements that fade once the spotlight shifts. For IFFJK-2026 to become more than a four-day event in September, timelines must be respected, funding transparent, venues and infrastructure ready, and local stakeholders treated as partners, not props. If the administration can translate this roadmap into an institution with continuity, credibility, and genuine access for Kashmiri youth, the International Film Festival could help reimagine the Valley not just as a backdrop for films but as a living, creating, and thinking cinematic hub. That would be a script worth fighting to see through to the end.
Indias Elderly Citizens Need Compassion
As Indias senior citizen population continues to grow, the need for comprehensive support systems for elderly care will become increasingly important A civilized society is not defined only by the opportunities it creates for the young, the ambitious and the able-bodied. It is also defined by the protection it extends to its senior citizens who have once contributed towards the building of the nation and now require support beyond the normal family structures. In that sense, the Atal Vayo Abhyudaya Yojana is more than a welfare scheme; it is a statement about the kind of country India wants to become. As per the estimates, the population of the countrys senior citizens was approx. 10 Crores in 2011 and is projected to rise to 23 Crores in 2036. The traditional family structures are transforming the country. Migration, emergence of nuclear families, smaller households, increasing life expectancies and changes in the informal support structures are a few of the key factors that are contributing towards the development of the policy framework based on the principles of Ageing with Dignity. A framework that must provide practical, accessible and sustained support. This is where AVYAY is making an important contribution. It adopts a holistic, comprehensive and humane approach toward the elderly welfare. While schemes for senior citizens have existed earlier as well, AVYAY signals a shift from fragmented welfare measures towards building an ecosystem of dignity, care and empowerment. One of the strongest pillars of AVYAY is the Integrated Programme for Senior Citizens, which supports senior citizen homes, continuous care homes, mobile medical units and physiotherapy units across the country. For thousands of elderly persons abandoned or left without support, these centres have become more than shelters they have become spaces of belonging. Take the example of 71-year-old Smt. M. Balasundari from Tamil Nadu. After the untimely demise of her husband, who worked as a tailor, she faced severe financial and emotional hardships. Her only son, who suffers from an eye problem, struggled to support the family. Owing to difficult circumstances and lack of adequate care at home, she was admitted to Ambujam Home for Senior Citizens, Nagapattinam District, under the Integrated Programme for Senior Citizens (IPSrC) in November 2024. When she arrived at the Home, she was anxious, lonely and deeply worried about her sons future. Through regular counselling, social interaction and participation in community activities, she gradually regained her confidence and emotional well-being. Today, she actively participates in gardening, yoga and spiritual activities, and enjoys a dignified and fulfilling life. Her son visits her regularly, providing emotional support and strengthening family bonds. The Home has provided her with free shelter, nutritious food, healthcare, recreational facilities and a safe environment. Her story demonstrates how institutional care and compassionate support under IPSrC can restore dignity, security and happiness to senior citizens facing difficult circumstances. Equally transformative has been the Rashtriya Vayoshri Yojana, under which assistive devices are distributed free of cost to economically weaker senior citizens suffering from age-related disabilities. More than 46 lakh devices have been given to the 8.43 lakh beneficiaries. For many beneficiaries, a wheelchair, hearing aid or walking stick may appear to be a small intervention but in reality, it restores independence. In Koraput, Odhisha, 75-year-old Lalita Paik struggled with the activities of daily living. She had severe mobility issues, including difficulty in walking, needed support for standing and was suffering from low back pain & knee pain. Through the RVY scheme, she received a wheelchair and walking support. Her family members say the assistance changed her daily life, enabling her to move independently and participate once again in community activities. Such interventions demonstrate how welfare schemes can directly improve quality of life when implemented effectively. An important aspect of the RVY is the creation of the Pradhan Mantri Divyasha-Vayoshri Kendras (PMD-VKs). Aids and Assistive devices are being distributed through the Walk-In Mode to the eligible senior citizens through these Kendras. Perhaps the most significant and timely initiative under AVYAY is Elderline (14567) the national helpline for senior citizens. In a society where loneliness among the elderly often remains invisible, the helpline has become an emotional and social lifeline. The fact that over 29 lakh calls have already been received is both encouraging and concerning: encouraging because support systems are reaching people, and concerning because it reveals the scale of distress among senior citizens. There have been numerous instances where Elderline has intervened to rescue abandoned elderly persons, reconnect them with families, or provide urgent medical and emotional assistance. One case is of Sh. Anantlal Rajak. Sh. Anant Lal, 70 years old, was suffering from Dementia and unknowingly reached to Pune Railway Station. He was in an abandoned condition and could not recall anything. The Elderline team in Maharashtra successfully reunited Sh. Anantlal Rajak with his family in Patna, Bihar. Timely intervention from the Elderline reportedly helped to prevent a far more serious crisis. At the same time, Indias ageing challenge is not only a welfare issue it is also an economic opportunity. Under the PM-SPECIAL component of the AVYAY Scheme, more than 35,000 trainees have been trained as Geriatric Caregivers. The governments initiative to train geriatric caregivers reflects an important recognition that the care economy will become one of the largest employment sectors in the future. By training thousands of youth in elderly caregiving, India is simultaneously addressing unemployment and the growing demand for professional eldercare services. As Indias senior citizen population continues to grow, the need for comprehensive support systems for elderly care will become increasingly important. This presents an opportunity to further strengthen and expand the initiatives already underway under the Atal Vayo Abhyudaya Yojana. The scheme has established a strong foundation for promoting dignity, care and well-being among senior citizens, while also creating pathways for greater community participation and support. As India advances on its development journey, AVYAY offers a valuable framework for ensuring that every senior citizen can lead a life of dignity, security and active participation in society. (The Author is Secretary, Department of Social Justice & Empowerment, Ministry of Social Justice & Empowerment, Govt. of India)
Limansa a star in the making from the Dilshan lineage
The daughter of the celebrated former Sri Lanka opener is leaving no stone unturned as she hopes to make an impression in the U-19 Womens World Cup which will be jointly hosted by Bangladesh and Nepal in early 2027; she is also looking to carve an identity of her own
State orders twin probes into Davangere hospital oxygen cylinder blast
The State Health Department has ordered two separate inquiries into the oxygen cylinder explosion inside the operation theatre of the Chigateri District Hospital in Davangere
Jaishankar speaks with Ireland Foreign Minister, discusses ways to deepen ties
Ireland will take on one of the EU's most influential roles when it assumes the Presidency of the Council of the European Union from July 1 to December 31, 2026
Steady and Stable as She Goes: India and the Economic Fallout of the Gulf Conflict
The Gulf conflict tested one kind of resilience; the years ahead will test others. India met the first test in good order When strikes closed the Strait of Hormuz at the end of February the channel through which close to a fifth of the worlds oil and the bulk of Indias crude oil and cooking gas pass the script for India seemed already written. A country that imports nine-tenths of its crude and more than half its cooking gas through the Gulf was, by the textbook, headed for queues at the pump, empty kitchens, a run on the rupee and a scramble for dollars. Nearly four months on, with the Strait reopening and crude back near its pre-crisis level, none of that came to pass. Not a single retail outlet ran dry. Every household that wanted a cylinder got one. India faced neither a 1991 moment nor a 2013 one. Macroeconomic stability held. This was not an accident, and it was not luck alone. It was the work of a government that chose to act as it had during the pandemic deliberately and gradually, building one measure upon another rather than reaching for a single dramatic lever. The first priority was the household. Throughout, not a single retail outlet ran out of stock, and every kitchen had its cylinder. The import-linked cost of a 14.2 kg cylinder rose above 1,600 rupees, yet the household price was held near 900 rupees, and lower still for the poorest. The memory of the early pandemic months, when panic among migrant workers set off a wave of reverse migration to the villages, was instructive. Commercial and bulk users were asked to give way to protect the home. On the fuels that power the wider economy, the government chose to absorb the shock rather than pass it on. It cut excise duty on petrol and diesel by ten rupees a litre, forgoing about 1.7 lakh crore in revenue, and eased the burden on aviation fuel. The marketing companies then held pump prices steady for more than two months before a single restrained revision. The logic is worth stating plainly: in such uncertainty, only the government has the balance sheet and the time horizon to bear the risk, and it chose to absorb the impact on the fiscal account rather than on households and firms. Special support for the airlines and a credit-guarantee scheme for micro, small and medium enterprises followed the Covid-era template of targeted and effective interventions. Behind the price cushion lay a real defence of supply. Domestic refiners lifted cooking-gas output by half within a week, largely replacing the lost imports. India quickly widened its sources, deepening purchases from the United States and Russia and adding new suppliers, so that less energy arrived through the Strait, and it secured the waivers it needed to keep buying Russian crude. The government also pressed measures for the longer run: converting homes from cylinders to piped gas, a coal gasification programme, a further push on ethanol blending, and strategic crude storage agreed on the Prime Ministers visit to the United Arab Emirates. India was among the few nations that kept its cargoes moving even as Hormuz traffic fell to a trickle. The external accounts were managed with the same patience. The government removed withholding and capital gains taxes on foreign institutional purchases of government debt and widened the securities open under the Fully Accessible Route, drawing money into the bond market. A new non-resident dollar deposit scheme is expected to bring in a sizeable sum of dollars. The free trade agreements signed over the years did their quiet work: exports of non-oil, non-gems-and-jewellery merchandise and services in April and May 2026 grew by more than 12 per cent over the same period a year earlier. The headline numbers reassure. Gross foreign direct investment in the last financial year reached ninety-five billion dollars, breaking out of the seventy-to-eighty-billion-dollar band of the post-pandemic years. The current account deficit was barely 0.6 per cent of GDP in FY26 and is now expected to be only marginally higher in FY27. Honesty also requires acknowledging that fortune lent a hand. The crude basket climbed past a hundred and twenty dollars within weeks of the closure, but from May, a fall in Chinas oil purchases and steady releases from the United States reserve eased it back below a hundred, and Chinas resumption of fertiliser exports spared the budget a heavy blow. Had the conflict dragged on, or oil settled near $120, the picture would feel less comfortable; sound policy and good fortune both played their part. Indeed, fortune eventually favours sound policymakers. In a sign of the revisions to come, Goldman Sachs recently upgraded its growth forecast for India to 6.8% for CY26 and 6.5% for FY27, both up by 30 bp from previous forecasts. The medium term, though, allows no complacency. In a world of fragmented alliances, weaponised supply chains and capital that can be turned on and off, the pressure on the balance of payments may outlast the conflict that threatened it. India must place a very high premium on attracting foreign direct investment. A balanced bilateral investment treaty framework, certainty in tax policy, state governments respecting the integrity of contracts, dependable logistics and single-window clearances that actually clear will draw the global supply chains now seeking to spread their bets. The deeper issue is import dependence, and not in energy alone. The merchandise trade deficit runs at about eight per cent of national income; strip out oil, and it is five per cent; strip out oil and gold, and it is still three and a half. Comparable large economies do better. India must indigenise what it can produce competitively and what it must. Its firms and trade bodies must work harder on their agreements particularly the new pacts with the United Kingdom and the European Union, which take effect this year and should boost labour-intensive exports. None of this is possible without skilled hands, which is why the training of young Indians in trade skills must now proceed on a war footing. These tasks will demand persistence and speed. Even as it turns to them, the government must also attend to a southwest monsoon that has so far disappointed, and to the arrival of artificial intelligence and what it will mean for Indian work and Indian life. The Gulf conflict tested one kind of resilience; the years ahead will test others. India met the first test in good order. That is a reason for quiet confidence and for getting on with the next. (The author is Chief Economic Advisor to the Government of India. His views are personal. Courtesy: PIB)
Guarding Our Digital Conscience
Why social media needs responsible users more than new laws Scrolling has become our new morning prayer. Before we greet our families, many of us greet our newsfeeds. In Kashmir, where every word carries weight and every image can stir deep emotions, social media is no longer a harmless pastime. It shapes opinions, hardens prejudices, spreads rumours, raises hope, and sometimes fans despair. The question now is not whether we can live without social media. The question is whether we can live with it responsibly. For years, the debate around social media has revolved around regulation, censorship, and platform policies. Governments want tighter controls, companies promise smarter algorithms, and activists fear shrinking spaces for free expression. Yet the most important stakeholder in this entire ecosystem is often ignored: the ordinary user. No law, no filter, and no automated system is more powerful than the simple decision of a citizen to pause for a moment before hitting share. A forwarded video from an unverified source can inflame tempers in minutes. An edited image, stripped of context, can travel faster than any official clarification. A careless comment posted in anger can deepen mistrust between communities already living on edge. We have seen how rumours about security incidents, health advisories, or political developments go viral long before facts catch up. Each time, the damage is not just digital; it is social, psychological, and sometimes even physical. The irony is that almost everyone claims to be a victim of misinformation, while few are willing to admit that they might also be its carriers. We complain about fake news, yet we rarely ask ourselves: How many times have I shared something without checking it? How often have I forwarded a message simply because it suited my emotions, not because it was true? Responsibility begins with this uncomfortable self-questioning. There are some simple habits that can change the culture of our timelines. Verifying the source of a story before sharing it is the most basic. A few extra seconds spent cross-checking information with credible news outlets or official handles can prevent hours, even days, of confusion. Reading beyond the headline is another. Sensational, half-true headlines are designed to provoke instant reactions; full stories often reveal that the reality is far more complex and far less dramatic. Equally important is the language we use online. Social media has lowered the barriers to speech, but it has also lowered the quality of our public conversation. Insults, slurs, and sweeping generalisations are posted with a casualness that we would never dare to display face to face. This digital bravado is dangerous. It normalises hate and makes cruelty appear routine. In a society like ours, where dignity and respect are central cultural values, it is tragic that our online behaviour so often betrays our offline ethics. Young people sit at the centre of this transformation. For many of them, social media is not a separate world; it is the world. Friendships, debates, learning, and even activism now flow through screens. This brings opportunities, but also deep vulnerabilities. Children and teenagers exposed to a constant stream of violence, glorified self-harm, or toxic comparison cannot emerge unscathed. Anxiety, loneliness, and digital addiction are rising quietly, often unnoticed by families until the damage becomes visible. Parents and educators must therefore expand their idea of guidance. Teaching a child how to cross a busy road while ignoring the digital highway on their phone is an incomplete responsibility. Media literacy must become as basic as reading and writing. Students should be taught how algorithms work, how echo chambers are formed, and why their data is valuable. They need to know not only how to use social media, but how social media uses them. At the same time, we must resist the temptation to place the entire burden on the young. Many of the most irresponsible posts and forwards come from adults who should know better: professionals, elders, even community leaders. When they circulate unverified claims or indulge in public character assassinations, they send a dangerous signalthat age and status exempt them from basic digital ethics. On the contrary, influence multiplies responsibility. The larger ones audience, the greater the duty to be accurate and fair. This does not mean that citizens must become timid or silent. Responsible use of social media is not about self-censorship; it is about self-respect. Criticism of authorities, honest debate about policies, and sharp questioning of power are essential in any democratic society. But there is a clear line between critique and cruelty, between dissent and defamation. Crossing that line may win a few likes in the moment, but it impoverishes our common life in the long run. In the end, responsible social media use is not about being perfect. It is about being mindful. It is about remembering that behind every profile is a person, behind every community a history, and behind every share a consequence. If we can carry this awareness into our daily digital habits, we will not just clean up our feeds. We will honour our own humanity in an age determined to compress it into clicks and views. ( The Author is a lecturer and Columnist)
Damocles sword over Keralas fortunes
The State needs to take steps to increase revenue within its fiscal framework
Lesson for the Leaders of Kashmir Who Continue to Romanticise Pakistan
The reported suffering of the people of Balochistan deserves the same attention, empathy and condemnation that political leaders often demand for human rights issues elsewhere BHAT MUSADDIK REYAZ Dr. Mahrang Baloch, who was nominated for the Nobel Peace Prize, has reportedly been sentenced to life imprisonment. The country that claims to represent a particular religion has silenced the voice of a woman who peacefully led her people on the streets, demanding justice and basic human rights. Chinas investments and Pakistans handover of major resources, including Gwadar Port and other strategic assets, have pushed thousands of people in Balochistan onto the streets in protest. At the centre of this movement stands Dr. Mahrang Baloch and the Baloch Yakjehti Committee (BYC), which has become the strongest voice of the Baloch people against the alleged enforced disappearances of Baloch youth and other reported human rights violations. One incident from the Baloch conflict has never left my mind. In March 2025, reports emerged about the recovery of 21 bodies from the morgue of a city hospital in Quetta. According to activists, the deceased were young Baloch men who had allegedly been subjected to severe torture before being killed. Their families reportedly protested for days, demanding that the bodies be returned with dignity. Whether one agrees with the politics or not, such incidents demand accountability and justice. Pakistan has, time and again, faced allegations of serious human rights violations in Balochistan, including enforced disappearances, arbitrary detention and alleged extrajudicial killings. Women and girls have suffered for years as their fathers, brothers, husbands and sons have reportedly been arrested or forcibly disappeared. The Baloch Yakjehti Committee gradually became the voice of the Baloch masses. It was largely led by women, including Sammi Deen Baloch, Beboo Baloch and Gulzadi Baloch, who stood at the forefront of peaceful protests. Dr. Mahrang Baloch gave a new shape and voice to the Baloch movement through her leadership and grassroots mobilisation. On 25 January, the BYC organised the Baloch Genocide Remembrance Day gathering in Dalbandin, where, reportedly, over one hundred thousand people assembled to send a strong message against the alleged genocide and enforced disappearances in Balochistan. The gathering demonstrated that the Baloch movement had become a mass public movement. Soon after the gathering, Dr. Mahrang Baloch, Beboo Baloch, Gulzadi Baloch and several other leaders were arrested and lodged in Huda Jail in Quetta. Their arrests triggered protest demonstrations across Balochistan in April 2025. The streets of Turbat, Panjgoor, Nokundi, Khuzdar, Kalang and Mustang witnessed thousands demanding their release. While the Prime Minister of India is leaving no stone unturned to strengthen and empower the Nari Shakti of the country, Pakistan has been accused of silencing women activists by imprisoning themnot for promoting terrorism or violencebut for raising the voice of every Baloch family whose loved ones were allegedly killed, harassed, jailed or forcibly disappeared, and whose natural resources, according to critics, have been handed over to China. According to PAANK reports, January 2026 recorded 82 alleged enforced disappearances and 12 reported extrajudicial killings. February documented 109 alleged enforced disappearances and 50 reported extrajudicial killings. March recorded 29 confirmed cases of reported extrajudicial killings, while April documented another 109 alleged enforced disappearances and 26 reported extrajudicial killings. These figures suggest that within just four months, hundreds of people were reportedly killed or forcibly disappeared. Every statistic represents a family waiting for justice. Yet, many leaders in mainstream politics in Jammu and Kashmir continue to repeat that dialogue with Pakistan is the only solution to the Kashmir issue. What these politicians and separatist leaders have seldom told the people of Kashmir is what human rights organisations and Baloch activists have consistently alleged about Balochistan and Pakistan-occupied Jammu and Kashmir (PoJK). If the leaders of Kashmir truly accept the Constitution by heart, then they must also tell the people of Kashmir about the alleged atrocities and human rights violations committed against the people of Balochistan. They should have the moral courage to openly condemn the reported life sentence imposed on Dr. Mahrang Baloch and speak with the same conviction for the rights of the Baloch people as they do on other issues. Pakistan was never the solution to Indias internal issues, and it never will be. The solution lies in speaking the truth, stopping the politics of selective narratives, and making people understand the difference between democratic institutions and regimes accused of suppressing dissent. The presidents and senior leadership of political parties in Jammu & Kashmir who, through their public speeches, often present Pakistan as part of the solution, should also speak with equal honesty and strength about the alleged atrocities committed in Balochistan and PoJK. Human rights cannot be selective. If they matter in Kashmir, they must matter equally in Balochistan & PoJK. ( The Author is a Youth & Peace Activist and can be reached at: Bhatmusaddiq99@gmail.com )
Kashmiri Pandits Return: The Missing Pillar of Lasting Peace in Kashmir
Sustainable peace shall continue to remain elusive until Kashmiri Pandits return to Kashmir in a secure, dignified and honourable manner The story of Kashmir is not merely about territory, politics or security. It is fundamentally about its people, its civilisational heritage and its composite cultural identity that evolved over millennia. Among the principal architects of this rich heritage are the Kashmiri Pandits, an indigenous community whose intellectual, spiritual and cultural contributions shaped Kashmir into one of the greatest centres of learning and philosophy in the Indian subcontinent. Their forced exodus in 1990 was not merely the displacement of a community; it was the rupture of Kashmirs civilisational continuity. More than three decades later, Kashmir continues to grapple with instability because peace can never be complete while one of its foundational communities remains absent from its homeland. Kashmiri Pandits possess an eternal and inalienable stake in Kashmir. Their relationship with the Valley transcends political dispensations and historical upheavals. It is rooted in thousands of years of shared history, sacred geography, language, literature and cultural memory. Every village, every shrine, every spring and every ancient temple bears testimony to their uninterrupted presence over centuries. Kashmir is not simply a place where Kashmiri Pandits once lived; it is the cradle of their identity, civilisation and collective consciousness. The absence of the Kashmiri Pandits has left an undeniable void in the social and cultural fabric of the Valley. Kashmir without its Pandits resembles an incomplete civilisation, deprived of one of its most significant pillars. The famed ethos of Kashmir built upon mutual coexistence, pluralism and respect for diversity, cannot attain authenticity unless Kashmiri Pandits return as equal stakeholders in society. Their physical presence on the ground is indispensable for restoring Kashmirs pluralistic character. Peace cannot merely be measured by declining incidents of violence or improved economic indicators. Genuine peace is measured by justice, reconciliation, confidence and the restoration of communities that were violently uprooted. A Valley where its original displaced inhabitants continue to live in exile cannot claim to have achieved complete normalcy. Therefore, sustainable peace shall continue to remain elusive until Kashmiri Pandits return to Kashmir in a secure, dignified and honourable manner. The recent two-day conference of exiled Kashmiri Pandits held in Srinagar marked a historic and defining moment. Thousands witnessed an unprecedented display of unity among members of the displaced community, cutting across organisational affiliations and regional differences. The conference sent a powerful and unmistakable message that the Kashmiri Pandit community has neither abandoned nor relinquished its claim to its homeland. On the contrary, it reaffirmed with remarkable clarity and conviction its united resolve to return to Kashmir. Equally significant was the fact that the community asserted its determination to return on terms that ensure dignity, security, equality and permanence rather than through symbolic or cosmetic rehabilitation measures. The community demands the acknowledgement of its genocide by the Union of India and all those concerned. The participants demonstrated maturity and realism by emphasising that return cannot merely mean relocation; it must signify the restoration of confidence, the rebuilding of institutions, the revival of cultural life, and the re-establishment of a secure social ecosystem where future generations can flourish without fear. The conference should be viewed by policymakers as a turning point. It has created a rare consensus within the community and generated renewed optimism. Such moments in history should not be allowed to dissipate through bureaucratic inertia or political indecision. Instead, they must become the foundation for decisive governmental action. The Union of India now carries a historic responsibility. Having restored constitutional integration and repeatedly asserted its commitment to the welfare of displaced Kashmiri Pandits, the Government must now move beyond declarations towards implementation. The time has come to formulate a comprehensive, time-bound, secured and dignified Return and Rehabilitation Module for Kashmiri Pandits. This programme must be prepared through meaningful consultation with representatives of the community and should incorporate clearly defined timelines, institutional accountability and measurable outcomes. It should not merely focus on housing but must comprehensively address physical security, livelihood opportunities, educational infrastructure, healthcare, cultural preservation, legal safeguards and mechanisms for rebuilding community institutions. Security remains the foremost prerequisite. The return of Kashmiri Pandits cannot depend solely upon changing political circumstances or temporary administrative arrangements. It must rest upon robust institutional guarantees that inspire lasting confidence. Equally important is economic sustainability. Employment, entrepreneurship, investment incentives and educational opportunities should enable returning families to rebuild productive and meaningful lives. The rehabilitation process must also acknowledge the emotional and psychological dimensions of displacement. Three generations have grown up in exile, carrying memories of loss, trauma and uncertainty. Return, therefore, is not merely a logistical exercise; it is an act of restorative justice. It demands empathy, healing and societal reconciliation. Every effort must be made to create conditions where returning families feel welcomed, respected and secure. The larger Kashmiri society also has an important role to play. Civil society organisations, religious leaders, political representatives and ordinary citizens must collectively extend a sincere hand of reconciliation. The return of Kashmiri Pandits should not be perceived as a favour extended to a displaced minority but as the restoration of Kashmirs own civilisational completeness. Their presence enriches the Valleys cultural diversity and strengthens the democratic and pluralistic values that have historically defined Kashmir. It is equally important that political discourse rises above partisan considerations. The return of Kashmiri Pandits is neither a political slogan nor an electoral issue. It is a national responsibility and a constitutional obligation. Every stakeholder must recognise that the future stability of Jammu and Kashmir is closely linked with the successful return of its displaced indigenous community. History offers nations moments that demand courage and statesmanship. India today stands at such a moment. The aspirations expressed by Kashmiri Pandits during the Srinagar conference have created an opportunity to correct one of independent Indias most painful chapters. Delaying action would only prolong uncertainty and weaken confidence among future generations who still cherish the dream of returning to their ancestral homes. The vision is not one of revenge or confrontation. It is a vision of reconciliation, coexistence and shared prosperity. Kashmiri Pandits seek not privilege but equality; not charity but justice; not temporary accommodation but permanent restoration in their homeland. Their return represents the revival of Kashmirs inclusive identity and its timeless civilisational legacy. Supreme Court has opined on the need for a process of truth, reconciliation and healing in Jammu and Kashmir. The apex Courts emphasis on establishing a time-bound and impartial Truth and Reconciliation Commission to investigate human rights violations committed by both state and non-state actors since the 1980s provides a historic opportunity to acknowledge the suffering of all victims and help heal the wounds of the people of Jammu and Kashmir. The Supreme Court had rightly recognised the deep intergenerational trauma caused by decades of violence, including the forced migration of Kashmiri Pandits in 1989-90 and the enormous human cost borne by residents across communities. Any durable peace process must be founded on truth, justice, acknowledgement, reparation and reconciliation. Addressing the lingering distrust and alienation among the younger generation is indispensable for building a peaceful, inclusive and confident future for Jammu and Kashmir. Endorsing this approach, its reiterated that Kashmirs civilizational ethos can only be fully restored through the safe, dignified and sustainable return of exiled Kashmiri Pandits, accompanied by confidence-building measures, institutional safeguards and meaningful reconciliation among all communities. Also, a credible Truth and Reconciliation Commission, working in a fair, transparent and time-bound manner, would not only facilitate healing but also lay the foundations for lasting peace, mutual trust and the revival of Kashmirs centuries-old pluralistic and composite culture. The Union Government must therefore seize this historic opportunity by announcing a structured, time-bound roadmap for the secure, dignified and sustainable return of Kashmiri Pandits. Such a policy would not only fulfil a long-pending national commitment but also reinforce Indias constitutional values of justice, equality and fraternity. Kashmirs story will remain unfinished until its displaced sons and daughters walk once again through the streets of their ancestral villages, offer prayers at their ancient temples, rebuild their homes and participate fully in the life of the Valley. Only then will Kashmir truly regain its soul. Only then will the promise of lasting peace become a living reality. ( The Author is a Senior Supreme Court Lawyer and an accomplished Kashmiri Leader)
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