SpaceX scrubs May 21 launch of Starship V3 from Texas
Starship V3, uncrewed and featuring dozens of upgrades tailored for rapid Starlink satellite launches and NASA moon missions, was to be a key test for the vehicle following months of testing delays
Motorists at risk as junction near Manakula Vinayagar Temple on Gingee Salai emerges a black spot
Two-wheeler riders are in danger as cars and private buses overspeed on Gingee Salai. As the road is used by many vehicles, including ambulances, motorists urge the road engineering division and the traffic police to prevent accidents
Trump peace board Gaza envoy warns imperfect ceasefire risks being permanent
Gaza remains gripped by daily violence as Israeli strikes continue, with both the military and Hamas accusing one another of violating the truce
Rubio denounces NATO refusal to help on Iran ahead of alliance talks
Ive been a strong supporter of NATO my entire career, said Marco Rubio
Its all been goingdownhill for Rishabh Pant
The southpaw appears to be a pale shadow of the player who once lit up the world stage; he has been relieved of vice-captaincy duties in Tests, dropped from Indias ODI set-up and is nowhere close to making the T20I squad
A hundred years ago | Origin of all disease
Sukhvinder Singh Sukhu said the Congress party has fulfilled all the promises made during the 2022 Assembly elections and has gone beyond its guarantees in delivering its commitments
Should the NEET-UG be decentralised?
Bangladesh-China talks underway for Tarique Rahmans first foreign visit
Bangladesh may raise the need for infrastructure development, the relocation of Chinese industries to Bangladesh, the establishment of Chinese economic zones in Bangladesh, Prothom Alo reports
Air India plane makes emergency landing at Delhi airport after suspected engine fire
All passengers and crew were safe and disembarked normally, the airline said in a statement.
On measuring freedom of the press in India
International rankings are neither absolute nor worthless. They can be useful for gauging patterns but are unreliable as precise judgements
Bihar midday meal incident: HC asks whether NGO can continue providing meals
The court directed the Saharsa Superintendent of Police, the Food Safety Officer and PM Poshan officials to file affidavits explaining the seizure, sampling and laboratory examination processes.
New govt. hospital, preventing waterlogging are among my priorities, says Katpadi MLA
M. Sudhakar of the Tamilaga Vettri Kazhagam (TVK) says he has been in constant touch with Vellore Corporation to address civic concerns and formulate a long-term plan for Katpadi constituency
Manipur DGP moved to Cabinet Secretariat
Rajiv Singh has been appointed Secretary (Security) in the Cabinet Secretariat. He had been appointed as Manipurs police chief by relaxing service conditions after an ethnic violence erupted in the State on May 3, 2023.
BJP functionarys request to HR&CE Minister
Day one of transport strike leaves commuters stranded
Five arrested for murdering youth in Triplicane over stolen mobile phone dispute
Congress workers clash with police in Jaipur during stir against NEET-UG paper leak
22 Ministers aged below 50: Cabinet signals generational shift in Tamil Nadu politics
Summer showers, strong winds damage over 200 houses in Ernakulam
Heavy rain and gusty winds battered eastern regions, including Aluva and Kothamangalam, during the third week of April. In Ernakulam district, crops on 2,306.62 hectares were damaged between March 1 and May 18 this year
Janakpuri rape case: parents upset as court grants bail to teacher
Robotic surgery performed on 12-year-old girl for pancreatitis
GCDA market revamp spells tough times for traders ahead of monsoon
Mostly fish, meat, and chicken vendors have shifted to makeshift shacks outside the market after being asked to vacate over a month ago on the assurance that they will be reinstated before monsoon
Two Electricity Department officials suspended
80-year-old man undergoes heart pump implantationat private hospital in city
Caste away: On the Court and caste count
People must have the option to state that they are casteless in the Census
Permanent solution to water hyacinth issue in Adyar sought
Madras Boat Club captain Sumana Narayanan says the spread of hyacinth had intensified since October last year, resulting in the cancellation of morning boating sessions because of dense weed accumulation
Bat for the better: On the BCCI and the RTI Act
Courts must treat tax exemptions to the BCCI as a form of state grant
Take forward reforms, PM tells Ministers
The meeting of full Council of Ministers was held in the backdrop of U.S.-Iran war and difficult economic situation that could further result from the event
Revanth demands special Parliament session to pass womens reservation bill
Murder convict who jumped parole, worked in bollywood arrested
IPL 2026: GT puts on a show with crushing victory, sends CSK packing
GTs 89-run victory not only brightened its Qualifier 1 chances but also knocked out the five-time champion from IPL 2026
South India, now, needs to be on an extra-active radar of RSS & BJP!
This scenario needs a major strategic planning within the BJP-RSS for the future course of time, so that things move positively in favour of the BJP and the RSS ideology ASHWANI KUMAR CHRUNGOO FRAGRANCE OF IDEAS Consequent upon the declaration of the results of the five state elections in eastern and southern parts of India recently, it has becomecustomary to analyse the overall political scenario of the southern region, especially the two states, namelyTamil Nadu and Kerala. This is particularly so because these two states have given contrasting results as compared to the results of the two eastern states, i.e. Assam and West Bengal. While Assam and West Bengal gave sweeping results in favour of the Bharatiya Janta Party (BJP), the two states of Kerala and Tamil Nadu have a story altogether different from the other two states. The results of the Union Territory of Puducherry have maintained the status quo and need no special mention here in this write-up. The southern states, excepting Karnataka and to some extent Telangana, have a lukewarm history of the BJPs presence. There is no doubt that the RSS started its activity in the southern region well before the partition of the country, but it gained momentum only in the 1960s and 1970s. Yadav Rao Joshi was a prominent senior RSS activist-pracharak who infused new blood in the organisational structure of RSS in the southern states. His headquarters was in Bangalore from the very inception, so Karnataka got an edge so far as the organisational expansion was concerned. On the basis of the strength of the RSS organisation in Karnataka, Joshi planned the expansion of the organisation in other southern states as well. In the 1960s and 1970s, most of the southern states were deeply influenced by the South film industry mania, Dravidian politics, left-oriented ideological leanings and also by the language and regional priorities. Congress had started losing ground in the entire southern region slowly and steadily, and the regional forces and the left parties filled up the vacuum created by the Congresss absenteeism. This kind of situation had deeply impacted the socio-political scenario of the entire southern region. It was in this kind of an adverse atmosphere that RSS, under the stewardship of Joshi, made attempts to extend its arms in the southern states. There is no doubt in the fact that Karnataka proved to be a better fertile ground as compared to the other states in the southern region. Joshi was joined by another senior RSS pracharak, H.V.Sheshadri (who later became the Secretary General of RSS), and they, along with the other scores of pracharaks and dedicated activists, created a great edifice for RSS to grow at a rapid speed in the Karnataka state. The strength gained by RSS helped the Bhartiya Jan Sangh (BJS) initially and later the BJP to take their roots deep down the earth. This created the BJP as a force to be reckoned with in the state of Karnataka in the 1980s and 1990s, and it made the BJP the main political pillar of the state politics eventually. Technically speaking, it was Jagan Nath Rao Joshi, a senior BJS-BJP leader, who planned the BJPs expansion in the southern states with great success. However, this sort of privilege, as in Karnataka, couldnt be achieved or enjoyed by the RSS and BJP in the other states. Due to the immense work done by the thousands of activists of the two organisations in these states and also the sacrifices made by the hundreds of activists, especially in the state of Kerala, the RSS and BJP made moderate inroads in the society therein. Slowly and steadily, both these organisations started to make major inroads in the 1990s, but these inroads couldnt make the BJP the main political force in any state other than Karnataka. Over the years from the 1990s to 2010s, the BJP was able to emerge as a big political force in the states of Telangana, Kerala, Andhra Pradesh, Pudduchery and Tamil Nadu. In Telangana, the BJP took the position of a major political quarter in the state, and has been able to catch votes to the tune of around 35% in the state. In Kerala also, the party has achieved 10% plus votes consistently for the last twenty years now. Even in the state of Tamil Nadu, the BJP was able to get 11% votes in the 2024 Lok Sabha elections. In Andhra Pradesh, it is in a formidable coalition with the TDP and the Janasena Party of Pawan Kalyan and is in a comfortable political position in the given situation. The way the election results came forth in Kerala and Tamil Nadu this time, it should bring all key figures in the BJP and RSS in the southern region to the main round-table to chalk out a plan to make sure that the BJP emerges as a bigger political force in the next round of elections. RSSs role is the master key in this whole arrangement. It can make the socio-cultural ground in these states more fertile by its groundwork so that the ideology and appeal of the BJP is welcome, particularly in two social groups, i.e. youth & women. These should be hence the target areas for both the RSS and the BJP. There is a visible impact of the BJPs immense victory and performances post 2024 Lok Sabha elections on the minds and intellect of the people of the country, in general and the youth in particular. For some years now, the participation of women in the political and electoral processes has increased in a profound manner, thanks to various welfare schemes of the government of India, especially designed for women and the youth. People in general, in the current socio-political scenario, recognise the fact with a welcome note that the BJP is now having power in most of the states of India, besides having it also at the centre. More than 70% of the population and area of the nation comes under
Kashmirs Moon, Kashmirs Decision: The Case for Local Lunar Declarations
The continuing institutional and psychological vacuum regarding Islamic calendar declarations within Jammu & Kashmir is deeply problematic and must be addressed with administrative necessity and a strategic requirement DR SIDDHARTHA GHOSH The last month in the Islamic calendar is called Zil Hijjah. Since the Islamic and Gregorian calendars do not align, the days of this month change annually. This month is of great importance to all the Muslims around the world, as this is the month within which the holy pilgrimage of Hajj occurs. The Hajj pilgrimage is one of the five pillars of Islam and is desirable for Muslims who go on pilgrimage to the holy city of Mecca in Saudi Arabia. This month is also when Eid al-Adha is celebrated, which is also called Bakri Eid in India. In simple terms, the month of Zil Hijjah is the sacred Islamic month that pertains to Hajj, prayer, sacrifice, and the biggest celebration in the Muslim calendar. Pakistans central moon-sighting committee claimed that the Zil Hajj moon was sighted on 17th May 2026, leading to what they perceive as the start of 1st of Zil Hajj 1447 A.H. on 18 May 2026. Accordingly, it was announced that Pakistan will observe Eid al-Adha on 27 May 2026. Pakistani TV channels, religious broadcasters and associated clerical networks quickly disseminated the announcement. Within minutes, religious leaders and groups in Kashmir, publicly supporting Pakistans statement, declared the start of Zil Hijjah on 18 May. Meanwhile, The All J&K Shia Association (AJKSA), led by Imran Raza Ansari, carried out an independent moon sighting verification exercise in India, this time at the Indian Meteorological Department (IMD) observatory in Rambagh, Srinagar. They were present at the observatory with all the scholars and local observers and determined that no moon sighting from Kashmir or any other verified Indian observation point was recorded. During the same time, consultations were done with Kargil and other areas in India, and no authenticated sighting was reported from there as well. Based on those observations, AJKSA announced that in Kashmir, 1st Zil Hijjah would begin on 19th May 2026, hence indirectly differentiating from the Pakistan-backed announcements. Those groups in Kashmir who openly back the Pakistani announcement related to Islamic practices are often heard peddling a lie that Kashmir shares the same horizon as that of Lahore. But their argument lacks scientific and astronomical reality. Its noteworthy that while Srinagar is situated at approx. 34.07N, Kargil at approx. 34.55N and Lahore at approx. 31.52N; its clear that geographically, Kargil is closer to Srinagar than to Lahore because of its latitude. Kargil and Kashmir share similar celestial and observational alignments. On the contrary, Lahore is located further south with different visibility conditions of the moon. Kargil is hence a better option than Lahore when considering lunar visibility in Kashmir. Kargil is a high-altitude area that has less atmospheric pollution, less dust, and a generally clearer sky. Kargil is also a better lunar visibility reference point than Lahore, as the latter has high atmospheric distortion, greater dust density in its atmosphere, and varying times of sunset and moonset since its a plain area. Hence, for practical as well as scientific reasons, Kargil is the better lunar visibility reference point for Kashmir. The religious experts in Kashmir must consider Kargil as their reference point of observation for all celestial observations, rather than relying upon a neighbouring countrys propaganda machinery. Religion and religious observance are emotionally sensitive topics within Jammu & Kashmir. And any dispute regarding major festivals like Eid, Ramazan, Muharram or Islamic calendar declarations have the potential to trigger widespread disagreements, which can then be exploited by nefarious elements and can also be used for cross-border narrative peddling in Jammu & Kashmir. This issue, rather than being a theological issue, has evolved into a psychological influence mechanism with a symbolic assertion of religious authority of Pakistan into the region. It also has Pakistans soft-power extension into Kashmirs social sphere. The situation, once again, shows the absence of a clear, well-structured, and technically supported Ruet-e-Hilal mechanism in Jammu and Kashmir, irrespective of the post-Article 370 administrative changes. Additionally, the situation exposed the continuing religious and psychological dependency of certain groups within Kashmir on the announcements of the Government of Pakistan regarding the Islamic practices. The absence of an institutional moon sighting framework with scientific infrastructure in Jammu and Kashmir is sad since such an establishment will encompass universal legitimacy across various sects and regions. The current situation points to a strong possibility that Eid-ul-Adha will again be observed on separate dates across Jammu & Kashmir, which not just adds up to administrative inconvenience but also increases sectarian discourse. The immediate acceptance of Pakistani announcements by certain groups in Jammu & Kashmir, that too without any local authenticated verification, demonstrates a Pakistani-controlled influence on the religious ecosystem in the region. The Pakistani Media outlets have been using moon sighting announcements as a sort of symbolic demonstration of influence over Kashmiri religious sentiment. The immediate measures which the administration can take is to establish an Official J&K Ruet-e-Hilal Committee, which must function under the Central Waqf framework and in coordination with the Indian Meteorological Department. The Committees headquarters must operate directly from the IMD observatory at Rambagh, as both technical and scientific capabilities are present in the facility. Also, this will serve as a direct central administrative linkage and lead to reduced local political interference. Standard operating Procedures (SOPs) for moon sighting verification, witness authentication, technical observation and unified public communication must be developed for the future. In this process, scientific integration, telescopic imaging, lunar tracking, digital horizon mapping and atmospheric visibility analysis must be integrated. There must be a national religious synchrony where official Eid celebrations and holidays must remain aligned with authenticated Indian observation mechanisms rather than any foreign declarations. A counter strategy must also be formed simultaneously, as there has been an observed pattern of Pakistani declarations being amplified in the Indian digital space. These coordinated acts of peddling cross-border religious messaging must be dealt
Javid Dar Condoles Er Rashids Fathers Demise
RK News Service Srinagar, May 21: Minister for Agriculture Production, Rural Development and Panchayati Raj, Cooperative and Election Department, Javid Ahmad Dar on Thursday visited Mawar, Langate to offer condolences at the residence of Baramulla Member of Parliament Engineer Rashid on the demise of his father, Haji Khazir Mohammad Sheikh. The Minister expressed deep sorrow over the passing away of the deceased and conveyed his heartfelt sympathies with the bereaved family. He prayed for eternal peace to the departed soul and strength to the family to endure the immense loss. The Minister described Haji Khazir Mohammad Sheikh as a respected and dignified elder whose contributions and values earned him immense regard in the community. He said the demise has created a void not only for the family but also for the people who knew him closely. MLA, Baramulla, Javid Hassan Beig and MLA Sonawari Hilal Akbar Lone also accompanied the Minister during the condolence visit and offered prayers for the departed soul.
CMs Advisor Interacts With Jammu Trade Bodies
Also meets several public delegations, individuals RK News Service Jammu, May 21: Advisor to Chief Minister, Nasir Aslam Wani today held an interaction with representatives of Industrial and Trade Associations of Jammu province to discuss various issues concerning the industrial sector in Jammu & Kashmir. During the interaction, representatives of the Industrial Associations raised several issues pertaining to growth and sustainability of industries in the Union Territory. The industrialists highlighted that, as on date, there is no fiscal package available for industries in J&K and stressed the need for continued policy support to strengthen the industrial ecosystem. The representatives expressed hope that the proposed Logistics Policy and Public Procurement Policy, presently under formulation, would address many of the challenges being faced by industries in the region. The issue of extension in EM-I registrations for units allotted land at Balole Industrial Estate was also raised during the meeting. The Associations further requested introduction of auto-renewal mechanisms for Green Category Units to facilitate ease of doing business. During the interaction, it was also suggested that dedicated routes for promotion of trekking tourism be identified and developed. The Associations further emphasized priority to local industries and promotion of traditional sectors, particularly the woollen industry in Jammu & Kashmir. Addressing the participants, the Advisor emphasized the Governments commitment towards improving Ease of Doing Business and making industries in J&K more vibrant and competitive. He stressed that industrial growth must translate into employment generation and called for promotion of localized industries, particularly agro-based and wool-based sectors. The Advisor further emphasized the need to support existing industrial units and encouraged industrialists to actively contribute towards sustainable industrial development in Jammu & Kashmir. The industrial representatives also sought continuation of turnover incentives and urged the Government to take up the matter of pending registrations under New Central Sector Scheme with the Central Government. The representatives also advocated for extension of benefits under NCSS and highlighted the need for leveraging Artificial Intelligence, promotion of e-commerce, and according special focus to the service sector in the Union Territory. A delegation of the Non-Teaching Employees Union, University of Jammu, raised service matters of non-teaching staff. Chairman, All J&K Transport Welfare Association, Karan Singh called on the Advisor, put forth demands of the transport fraternity. Former President, Jammu Chamber of Commerce & Industry, Rakesh Gupta also met with Advisor and highlighted issues regarding amendment in the Society Act, J&K. A delegation from Mohalla Welfare Committee, Gujjar Nagar, sought early release of compensation for flood-affected families of last year. The delegation requested expedite release of relief and rehabilitation assistance. The Advisor gave a patient hearing to all the deputations and individuals. He assured them that genuine demands would be examined and redressed on priority. He further directed the concerned departments to look into the issues raised and take appropriate action in a time-bound manner.
Cultural, Spiritual Values Key to Crime-Free Society: Dr Darakhshan
RK News Service Srinagar: May 21:- A social transformation programme under the Asluk Aalav initiative was held in Shopian on Thursday, where speakers stressed the need to strengthen cultural, spiritual and social values to build a peaceful and crime-free society. The event, organised by the Public Welfare Foundation Shopian, was attended by Jammu and Kashmir Waqf Board Chairperson Dr Syed Darakhshan Andrabi and BJP General Secretary (Organisation) Ashok Koul, besides religious scholars, social activists and local representatives. Addressing the gathering, Dr Andrabi said the Asluk Aalav initiative is aimed at promoting social reform and public dialogue across Kashmir. She said strengthening cultural and spiritual ties with the regions rich Sufi and Rishi traditions is essential for safeguarding society from crime, division and violence. We belong to the land of Sufis and Rishis. Reconnecting with their teachings of inclusiveness and harmony can protect society from divisive forces, she said. Dr Andrabi stressed the need for a broader and holistic approach to guide the younger generation towards a drug-free, violence-free and morally responsible society. We have suffered immensely due to hatred and violence in the past. We must strengthen peace and work towards creating a fearless and progressive society, she added. Speaking on the occasion, Ashok Koul said the youth must be prepared to face the challenges of the modern world through positive thinking and social responsibility. Communal harmony, brotherhood and the spirit of social service are essential for a peaceful society. We need to bridge gaps within our social fabric through dialogue and public engagement, he said. Several religious scholars, social activists, traders and civil society members also participated in the programme and discussed issues related to social harmony, youth engagement and community welfare.
Rajwar Bungus Has Huge Tourism Potential: Dy CM
Tours Handwara, inaugurates long-waited Drugmulla- Hatmulla Bridge RK News Service Handwara, May 21: Deputy Chief Minister Surinder Choudhary on Thursday said the scenic Rajwar Bungus in North Kashmir is endowed with immense natural beauty and vast tourism potential, stressing the need to promote the area as a major tourist destination in north Kashmir. Deputy CM conducted an extensive tour of Handwara in Kupwara district to review developmental works, assess public facilities and hold public outreach programmes at multiple locations. During the daylong tour, the Deputy Chief Minister also conducted public outreach programmes at Rajwar in Bungus and other locations, where he interacted with public delegations and reiterated the Governments commitment towards robust development, improved public services and responsive governance across Kupwara district The Deputy Chief Minister was accompanied by Member of Parliament Chowdhury Mohammad Ramzan and MLA Uri Dr. Sajjad Shafi. During an extensive tour, the Deputy Chief Minister also inaugurated the 110-meter-long DrugmullaHatmulla Bridge over Nallah Apurpur. Speaking on the occasion, the Deputy CM said that the long-awaited bridge project will significantly improve connectivity, mobility and ease of transportation for the people of Drugmulla and adjoining areas. This bridge which was pending for a long time will enhance access to essential services and create better opportunities for local residents, he said. The Deputy Chief Minister also visited the Bus Stand and Main Market in Handwara and addressed large gatherings of local transport and trader associations. The Deputy Chief Minister assured that the Government is committed to the welfare of transporters and traders and assured all genuine issues shall be addressed on priority. He underscored that the present Government has undertaken several long-pending developmental works in Handwara to complete on a fast-track basis. He informed that work on various vital road and bridge projects, five roads under PMGSY have also been approved for Handwara and work on these projects will commence soon. Referring to the Drugmulla Bridge, he said the project had remained pending for a long time but was completed within two years by the present Government. The Deputy Chief Minister directed the concerned authorities to identify suitable land for construction of a Labour Sarai facility at Handwara for the convenience of workers and commuters. He also reviewed macadamization works and other ongoing developmental projects and instructed officers to ensure strict adherence to quality standards and timely completion of all works. He stated that the Government is committed towards welfare, development upliftment of the local population through improved infrastructure, public services and sustainable growth initiatives. He also visited Government Medical College (GMC) Handwara to assess the healthcare facilities being provided to the public. During inspection the Deputy Chief Minister held detailed discussions with the Principal, doctors and other staff members and reviewed the availability of infrastructure, medical equipment and other essential facilities. He emphasized the need for strengthening healthcare services and ensuring quality patient care for the people. Earlier, the Deputy Chief Minister also visited the residence of MP Er. Sheikh Abdul Rashid and MLA Sheikh Khurshied at Mawar, Langate, to offer condolences on the demise of their father and expressed sympathies with them. Later, the Deputy Chief Minister also inspected the ongoing construction work of the Rs 12.5 Cr, 3x18m span Bakhiaker Bridge project in Handwara and directed officials to ensure its completion within the next three months to improve connectivity and mobility for the local population.
Jammu families hit by demolitions to skip Id festivities, stay put
DMRC to run early trains on Pink,Magentaand Grey lines for UPSC prelims
Big Cat Summit in New Delhi postponed
The summit was expected to have significant representation from African countries
Research-Based Learning Vital for Better Healthcare: Sakeena Itoo
Inaugurates PGRP Conclave-2026 at GDC Srinagar RK News Service Srinagar, May 21: Minister for Health and Medical Education, Social Welfare and Education Sakeena Itoo on Thursday said research-based learning plays a crucial role in addressing emerging health challenges and strengthening quality healthcare services across Jammu and Kashmir. She stated this while inaugurating the Post Graduate Research Programme (PGRP) Conclave-2026 at Government Dental College (GDC) Srinagar. Addressing a large gathering of doctors, academicians, researchers and students on the occasion, the Minister underscored the importance of research and innovation in strengthening the healthcare sector and improving patient care. Doctors play a pivotal role in society and the profession of medicine is one of the noblest professions meant to serve humanity with dedication, compassion and commitment, the Minister said. She said that platforms like the PGRP conclave provide an opportunity for young medical professionals and scholars to showcase their research work, exchange ideas and contribute towards advancements in medical science. Sakeena Itoo lauded the efforts of the faculty, students and organisers for conducting the conclave and encouraging a culture of scientific inquiry and academic excellence. The Minister urged young doctors and researchers to remain committed to ethical medical practices and continue striving for excellence in patient care and scientific research. She also highlighted the governments commitment towards strengthening healthcare infrastructure, promoting medical education and encouraging research activities across the Union Territory. Speaking on the occasion, Principal GDC Srinagar, presented a brief outline about the objectives of the conclave. During the event, the Minister also interacted with students and faculty members and appreciated their contribution towards academic and healthcare excellence. She also released the Newsletter on Research Conclave -2026.
APPCB holds public hearing on proposed water aerodrome project
Delays in Revenue Services Trigger Public Concern in Srinagar
RK News Service Srinagar:, May 21:- Residents in Srinagar have raised concerns over delays in revenue-related services, alleging that several cases involving property transfers, building permissions, land verification and stamp duty adjustments have remained pending for weeks. Locals said people visiting revenue offices for official documentation and clearances are facing repeated delays, causing inconvenience to property owners, home builders and loan applicants. A resident said a property transfer case in his family has been pending for nearly two months, while documents required for renovation work and land-related bank loans have also not been processed. People are making repeated visits to offices, but many files are still awaiting clearance, he said. Residents said building permission cases are also being affected due to delays in revenue verification and related formalities, slowing down construction and renovation work in several areas. They further alleged that applications related to sale and purchase of property, mutation and legal documentation are also facing delays. Locals also expressed concern over pending stamp duty adjustments linked to attorney registrations. Many people had deposited stamp duty after being informed it would later be adjusted during registration, but several cases are still pending, another resident said. The residents urged the administration and concerned officials to expedite the disposal of pending applications and streamline revenue services to reduce public inconvenience in Srinagar district.
States should be allowed to conduct CET for medical courses: CM
The Prime Minister and the Union Minister Dharmendra Pradhan should bear the responsibility for the NEET question paper leak, says Siddaramaiah
Pulwama terror attack mastermind Hamza Burhan killed by unknown gunmen in PoK
Burhan alias Arjumand Gulzar Dar, alias Doctor, a commander of the Al Badr terror group, was designated as a terrorist by India in April 2022 for his involvement in a series of terror acts in Jammu and Kashmir
Pickup van overturns on ghat road, one injured
GMC Handwara Issues Social Media Guidelines For Employees
Staff, Students Barred From Sharing Confidential Data Mansoor Peer Srinagar, May 21: Government Medical College (GMC) Handwara has issued detailed guidelines regulating the use of social media by employees, outsourced staff, and students associated with the institution and its hospitals. In an official circular, the college administration observed that various social media and digital networking platforms were occasionally being used in a manner that violates institutional discipline, professional ethics, and existing government directives. To maintain the decorum of the institution, all faculty members, administrative staff, outsourced personnel, and students of GMC Handwara and its Associated Hospitals are hereby directed to strictly adhere to the prescribed regulatory instructions, the circular stated. According to the order, no employee or student shall publish, upload, circulate, or share confidential data, official documents, patient-related records, or any institution-specific information on social media platforms without prior authorization from the competent authority. The circular further stated that personnel and students are strictly prohibited from airing grievances or commenting on government policies, administrative decisions, institutional operations, senior officials, colleagues, or workplace matters on public or social media platforms. It also warned against the dissemination of vulgar, defamatory, threatening, communal, political, misleading, or otherwise objectionable content that could harm the reputation and functioning of GMC Handwara and its Associated Hospitals. The administration clarified that grievances related to workplace issues, academics, patient care, administration, or service matters must be addressed only through established institutional channels and not through social media platforms. The order also imposed restrictions on photography and videography within college and hospital premises, particularly inside Operation Theatres (OTs), patient wards, emergency departments, and academic sections, unless officially authorized. All individuals associated with the institution must maintain exemplary conduct while using social media in their personal capacity and refrain from any online behaviour unbecoming of a public servant or professional, the circular added. It further stated that administrators and moderators of official or unofficial digital groups linked with GMC Handwara and its Associated Hospitals would be held accountable for preventing the circulation of inappropriate, misleading, or unauthorized content. The circular directed all Heads of Departments, Section Heads, Medical Superintendents, and Hospital In-charges to ensure strict implementation and wide dissemination of the guidelines. It warned that any violation would invite disciplinary action under the rules in force. With this move, GMC Handwara has become the second medical college in Jammu and Kashmir, after GMC Anantnag, to issue such guidelines governing employees use of social media.
GVMC plans e-RT system to decongest BRTS road
The proposed e-RT system aims to address these bottlenecks by introducing high-capacity, road-based public transport that replicates metro-style efficiency and facilities
GVMC to scale up dog sterilisations to 100 daily
Mr. Garg instructed Chief Medical Officer Dr. Naresh Kumar to identify suitable land for cattle shelters. He also suggested collaborating with Jain communities in city.
Bengaluru battered by rain and gusty winds; metro services delayed
Collector meets new RINL CMD, discusses steel industry developments
Rising humidity causing heat stress, discomfort in Vizag
Indigenous Vayu Astra-1 completes high-altitude trials in Uttarakhand, Pokhran
Pune-based Nibe Limited completes no-cost, no-commitment demonstrations of its indigenous loitering munition system
India great partner, ready to expand energy cooperation: Rubio
U.S. Secretary of State Marco Rubio will be in India from May 23-26 and will visit Kolkata, Agra, Jaipur and New Delhi
Public representatives discuss solid waste management issues at Jawaharnagar dump yard
Ebola case confirmed in rebel-held Congo area far from outbreaks epicentre
An Ebola case was also confirmed last week in Goma, the capital of neighbouring North Kivu province, which is under M23 control
Aurobindo Pharma Q4 net up 2% to 921 cr
The company said its European business crossed 1 billion in revenues during the fiscal
Social media post on medical emergency prompts government action
ISL | Mumbai City beats Punjab to finish third
Karnataka government mulls legal action over SIR
Congress likely to convene a meeting of its legislators, defeated candidates and former legislators for a meeting on May 24
No coercive action against Abhishek Banerjee: Calcutta HC directs West Bengal Police
The court, however, makes oral observations that the TMC leaders remarks were uncalled for
IPL 2026 | Much-improved SRH bowling attack bracesfor RCB test
SRH will challenge the visitor with a vastly different bowling attack from their previous meeting, when Jaydev Unadkat and Harshal Patel led the unit in captain Pat Cummins absence
2020 Delhi riots: HC grants bail to Salim Malik in UAPA case
The Bench notes that Malik has been in custody for more than five years and 10 months and the stage of the trial is that arguments on the charges are being presently heard. Suggesting that the trial is going to take some time, it also considers his alleged role in the case to grant him bail
Youths organs harvested, donated
Insurance Ombudsmen decided 41,055 grievances in FY26, 79% in favour of policyholders
IRDAI Chairman Ajay Seth said the institution of the insurance ombudsman promises to provide free, speedy and accessible grievance redressal to policyholders
DMK faces a challenge as allies set to join TVK government
While the Congress abandoned the DMK soon after polls and joined Chief Minister C Joseph Vijays Cabinet on Thursday, the IUML and VCK are set to join the Ministry on Friday signalling the end of their relations with the DMK
Study reveals steady increase in thunderstorm and lightning activities in Bengaluru
Because heat and humidity are foundational building blocks for storm development, the probability of more severe localised thunderstorms is expected to rise in the coming years, says the study
Grand Sports Day held as a part of Praja Palana Pragathi programme
Namma Metro to begin operations at 6 a.m. for UPSC prelims
Heatwave continues to scorch north Andhra districts; health experts urge caution
Ladakh leaders to meet Home Ministry officials tomorrow, Sonam Wangchuk part of delegation
This is the first such meeting of members of the Leh Apex Body (LAB) and the Kargil Democratic Alliance (KDA), the two bodies representing Leh and Kargil districts respectively, since February 4; the KDA and LAB have been demanding constitutional safeguards such as Statehood and inclusion of Ladakh under the Sixth Schedule
China tells U.S. to stop brandishing judicial stick against Cuba
Chinese Foreign Ministry spokesman Guo Jiakun says, China firmly supports Cuba in safeguarding its national sovereignty and national dignity and opposes external interference
Ukrainian traveller injured in suspected elephant attack near Coimbatore
Delhi HC draws fine line between defamation and political criticism in Chadha plea
Three men booked for sexual harassment
SC declines to interfere with forest clearances for Adanis Madhya Pradesh coal block project
The petitioner argued that a technical objection on the ground of delay ought not to preclude the court from examining the validity of the clearances
Watch: Vande Mataram: Whats the bigger picture in West Bengal? | Above the Fold | 20.05.2026
In todays episode, West Bengal politics dominates headlines as the State makes Vande Mataram compulsory in madrasas, announces action against illegal infiltrators, and restricts officials from speaking to media. Plus, the viral Cockroach Janata Party controversy, Tamil Nadus major Cabinet reshuffle under C. Joseph Vijay, and more
Capacity building programme for vocational trainees held in Madurai
Warning against possible rise in diseases during monsoon in Palakkad
Satheesan to open State-level Pravesanotsavam on June 1
Government Model Girls Higher Secondary School, Pattom, to host the celebration; Minister for General Education N. Samsudheen will preside
Three from Vellore arrested for extorting money from senior citizens through digital arrest
Man held for stealthily video-graphing woman near Alanganallur
Russias Sechenov University assigns Visiting Professor status to Basappa Salundi
A division Bench presided by Chief Justice Sujoy Paul directed that the State shall take a decision in this regard within 24 hours from the date of communication of this order
Eight cars gutted after carrier truck catches fire on NH-44 in Medak
