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Not just Statehood: PDP chief lists conditions for joiningNCsDelhi protest

In letter toFarooqAbdullah, Mufti says party may skip agitationunless restoration of Article 370, release of political prisoners and lifting of the ban on theJamaat-e-Islamiare included in agenda

The Hindu 19 Jul 2026 12:56 am

Collective Kindness: when families are committed to saving lives through blood donation

A leitmotif among blood donation organisations is the increasing difficulty in finding people with generous veins; and the solution could strangely be found in the living rooms of households, as illustrated by these two accounts from Chennai of parents inspiring their children to join the cause

The Hindu 19 Jul 2026 12:51 am

Shutdown over civilian death during anti-militancy operation hits life in J&Ks Chenab Valley

The victim was a 30-year-old was said to be out on a picnic when he was killed

The Hindu 19 Jul 2026 12:47 am

India needs entrepreneurs who aspire to create values: Nirmala Sitharaman

Addressing the Special Plenary Session of YiFi 2026 in Madurai, the Union Finance Minister urges the youth to move with some kind of guidance to make the best out of the changing times

The Hindu 19 Jul 2026 12:31 am

Over 79,000 students accept UG seats infirst Delhi University admission round

Candidates whose documents are verified must complete fee payment by July 21, say officials;the second allocation list to be released on July 25

The Hindu 19 Jul 2026 12:23 am

Mines and Geology Department recommends referring Ballari mining representations to Justice Dhulia committee

Mines and Geology Department says it is not the competent authority to decide the issues raised in the representation

The Hindu 19 Jul 2026 12:18 am

NC expels Ladakh leader Akhoon as he refuses to step down as CEC of Kargil hill council

The action follows Dr. Mohammad Jaffer Akhoons refusal to step down as Chief Executive Councillor of the Ladakh Autonomous Hill Development Council, failing to honour the NC-Congress 2023 pre-poll agreement for power sharing

The Hindu 19 Jul 2026 12:17 am

Seven GCC officials suspended following DVAC raid

GCC issues strict warnings to all officials in accordance with the instructions of Chief Minister C. Joseph Vijay, directing all zonal officers and assistant engineers to prominently display boards containing the DVAC contact numbers in all Corporation offices to facilitate the reporting of complaints

The Hindu 19 Jul 2026 12:15 am

PM to inaugurate Bhogapuram International Airport on August 1

The green field airport is poised to reshape the local economic landscape of the region, says Chief Minister Chandrababu Naidu

The Hindu 19 Jul 2026 12:14 am

Rice federation tells T.N. Chief Minister to take up waiver for rice with GST Council

The 57th GST Council is likely to be convened in a few weeks

The Hindu 19 Jul 2026 12:14 am

CBSE Class 10 second board exam results announced after two months

Of the 5,13,955 students who appeared for improvement, 59.95% of candidates improved their scores

The Hindu 19 Jul 2026 12:14 am

Annual sports day held in Walajah

As part of celebrations, track and field events, including relay race, long jump, high jump, javelin throw, discus throw, kabaddi, football, and volleyball were conducted for students

The Hindu 19 Jul 2026 12:10 am

Kashmir on a Hotter Planet

For generations, Kashmir has been celebrated as paradise on earth a valley of snow-laden peaks, gushing rivers, orchards and wetlands held in a fragile Himalayan embrace. Today, that paradise is on the frontline of global warming. What the world still debates in conferences and climate summits is already reshaping daily life in the Valley. Kashmir is warming faster than the global average. Winters are shorter and erratic; snow arrives late, melts early and is interrupted by unseasonal warm spells. The Jhelum, once following fairly predictable rhythms, now veers between distressingly low summer flows and sudden, dangerous peaks during intense rainfall. Apple and saffron growers, who lived by stable seasons, now find themselves second-guessing the weather and paying a steep price for every wrong calculation. Scientists have long cautioned that the Himalayas are among the worlds most climate-vulnerable regions. Glaciers that quietly fed our rivers are retreating and thinning. At higher altitudes, snow is more often replaced by rain. This alters a finely balanced system built on gradual melt and steady release of water. The result is a new normal: brief spells of very heavy precipitation, a greater risk of floods like those of 2014, and, paradoxically, the threat of water scarcity later in the year. This is not an abstract environmental story. It is a livelihood story. Agriculture and horticulture remain the backbone of rural Kashmir. Apple, walnut, almond and cherry production depends on adequate winter chill and predictable flowering. Warmer winters disturb these cycles and encourage pests and diseases. Saffron, already squeezed by urbanisation and groundwater stress, cannot survive without specific temperature and moisture conditions. For small and marginal farmers, a single bad season can trigger debt; repeated shocks can destroy the fragile ladder out of poverty. Climate stress is aggravated by how we are reshaping the Valley ourselves. In and around Srinagar, wetlands that once acted as natural sponges for floodwaters have been encroached upon, filled and built over. Dal and Wular, icons of Kashmirs landscape, have shrunk and degraded. Concrete continues to push into floodplains and onto riverbanks. As temperatures rise, dense urban pockets trap heat, making life particularly harsh for the elderly, children and those in cramped housing. Global warming exposes the cracks in our planning; our own choices widen them. It is tempting, and comforting, to see Kashmir only as an innocent victim of emissions elsewhere. Indeed, the Valleys contribution to global greenhouse gases is tiny compared to industrialised regions. Yet local actions still matter. Unregulated construction, deforestation, burning of waste, sand mining and the neglect of traditional water bodies erode our resilience. We are at once vulnerable to global decisions and responsible for the stewardship of our own home. If we accept this dual reality, our response must go far beyond symbolic plantation drives and occasional seminars. Climate has to become a central lens of governance in Jammu and Kashmir, not an add-on paragraph in policy documents. First, wetlands and floodplains must be treated as critical infrastructure. Protecting and restoring them is not a favour to nature; it is insurance for our lives and property. Land-use rules around rivers, lakes and marshes must be enforced even when they inconvenience influential interests. Building on floodplains is not development it is gambling with public safety. Second, urban planning needs a course correction. Master plans must integrate drainage, ventilation corridors and green spaces to reduce both flooding and heat stress. The expansion of Srinagar and other towns cannot continue as a series of ad hoc permissions. Every new colony built on a lakefront or wetland is a future headline in a flood or pollution story. Third, agriculture and horticulture need a deliberate transition strategy for a warmer, more volatile climate. Farmers should not be left alone to experiment at their own risk. Research institutions and extension agencies have to work with them on climate-resilient practices diversified cropping, soil-moisture conservation, smarter irrigation, and, where essential, gradual shifts to varieties that can withstand changing conditions. Credit, insurance and market support must align with this agenda, not pull in the opposite direction. Finally, there is the question of public consciousness. In much of our everyday discourse, climate events are still dismissed as natural calamities or explained purely in spiritual terms. Faith and culture are integral to Kashmiri life, but they should not be used to avoid hard questions about human responsibility. Schools, universities, mosques, shrines and media all have a role in nurturing a civic ethic that treats the Valleys ecology as a shared trust. At its core, global warming vis--vis Kashmir is an issue of justice. Those who have contributed least to the problem hill communities, small farmers, labourers, the urban poor are among those most exposed. This injustice should sharpen our resolve. Kashmir alone cannot bend the global emissions curve, but it can demand a fair voice in national climate debates and insist that development here respects ecological limits. The choice before us is stark. We can continue reading each flood, drought or failed crop as an isolated misfortune, or we can recognise them as connected warnings from a valley under unprecedented stress. To keep calling Kashmir paradise on earth without changing how we treat it is to hollow out the phrase. A truly meaningful tribute to this land is not nostalgia, but action urgent, informed and collective to secure climate resilience and ecological dignity for generations to come. ( The Author is a research scholar and teacher by profession)

RisingKashmir 19 Jul 2026 12:06 am

The Final Sanctuary: How the Living House the Dead across Earth, Sky, and Sea

The 16th of July marked the 34th death anniversary of my dear father. In this connection, I attended the Fatiha prayer at his grave, and standing there, I was deeply reminded of how much our loved ones matter to us, even long after they have departed. The relationship between the living and the dead is one of the oldest stories of human civilization. It is written not just in our hearts, but in the very soil, air, and water of the places we call home. As the world grows more crowded and our environments change, the ways we say our final goodbyes are evolvingreflecting a delicate balance between sacred tradition and modern necessity. The Close Neighbors of Mallaratta: Kashmirs Intimate Lands In the historic quarters of Srinagar, death has never been segregated from daily life. To this day, my ancestral home, Yarkand House in Mallaratta, stands tall and firm after 115 years of construction. Just twenty feet away lies our family graveyard, Maqbara Sadat Andrabis, where my parents, grandmother, and paternal uncles rest in peace. Purchased by my great-grandfather in mid-1916 from his pious Andrabi father-in-law for the princely sum of rupees eighteen, this plot remains beautifully maintained by the family. In those good old days, keeping graveyards close to residential houses was a comforting philosophya daily, grounding reminder of mortality, love, and continuity. On a grander scale, the historic Malkha graveyard was established centuries ago as a central repository of memory for the Muslims of Srinagar. Originally a vast grape orchard spanning a thousand kanals, it was centrally located. Tragically, modern urbanization and political short-sightedness have reduced it to less than two hundred kanals. Encroachmentsranging from schools and mosques to slum colonies, stadium spaces, a gondola take-off stand, and the Rainwari Hospitalhave slowly fractured this collective heritage. Yet, Kashmirs land laws historically accommodated this sacred geography. In rural areas, freshly converted communities utilized abundant state or grazing lands, recorded in revenue registers as Kachari, Shamilat, or Abadi Deh. These final resting places were legally protected under designations like Maqbooza Qabristan or Ahli-Islam. Similarly, the Kashmiri Pandit community utilized designated lands for their last rites, formally recorded as Maqbooza Ahli-Hinoo, Shamshan Ghat, or Awarin. Whether through burial or fire, the departed remained rooted in the land. The Birdless Skies: The Changing Rituals of the Parsis While Kashmir looks to the earth, the Parsi community traditionally looked to the sky. Holding the elements of nature in absolute veneration, Zoroastrian tradition dictates that burying a body desecrates the earth, and burning it pollutes sacred fire. Thus, they constructed Dakhmas, or Towers of Silence, where the dead were left open to the elements and to vulturesa system designed as the ultimate eco-friendly act of giving back to nature. However, these ancient towers are losing their sheen. The vulture population across India has dwindled catastrophically due to inadvertent poisoning from veterinary drugs like diclofenac. With the skies suddenly empty, the community has had to adapt. Today, many Parsis are shifting their attitudes toward modern technology, turning to electric crematoriumsparticularly in Mumbai and parts of Gujaratmarrying ancient prayers with contemporary realities. The Automated Vaults of Japan Farther east, in the hyper-dense urban centers of Japan, the challenge is sheer space. The Japanese have innovated an incredibly advanced, scientific approach to handling the dead. In modern, multi-story indoor cemeteries, they utilize deep, rounded well-like pits designed with state-of-the-art engineering. Each family possesses their own automated vault box. When a body is placed inside, specific, highly regulated chemical compounds are introduced to accelerate decomposition safely and rapidly. Within a remarkably short period, the physical remains are reduced to clean ashes. The vault is then thoroughly cleansed and prepared, efficiently making room for the next family member. It is a striking blend of profound ancestral respect and futuristic spatial efficiency. Rest in the Deep: The Ancient Law of Sea Burials For those who spent their lives moving across the vast expanse of the oceans, the final resting place is neither earth nor sky, but the deep blue. Sea burial is a time-honored tradition, particularly for sailors, explorers, or travelers who pass away at sea. Steeped in maritime protocol, the body is carefully prepared, weighted, sewn into a canvas shroud, and lowered into the ocean depths. Out of sight of land, the body gently descends to the seabed, where marine life naturally consumes the physical form, returning the traveler to the great cradle of the worlds waters. Sky Burials of Ladakh and Tibet: The Frozen Horizons In contrast to the warm oceans, the high-altitude, freezing ecosystems of places like Ladakh and Tibet offer unique challenges. In these arid, rocky, and timber-scarce environments, digging a grave into frozen earth is nearly impossible, and there is little wood available for large funeral pyres. Here, the ancient practice of Sky Burial (Jhator) takes a different form than that of the Parsis. On designated sacred mountaintops, specialized practitioners gently prepare the body, which is then offered to Himalayan vultures. In the Buddhist philosophy of these regions, the body is seen as an empty vessel once the soul leaves. Offering the physical remains to the birds is considered a final, supreme act of generosity and compassion toward other living creatures, ensuring that the lifecycle continues even on the barren, cold roofs of the world. Conclusion: A Shared Journey Home From the rose-rimmed walls of Yarkand House in Mallaratta to the automated towers of Tokyo, and from the deep ocean trenches to the windswept peaks of Ladakh, humanitys diverse funeral customs reveal a beautiful truth. We may use earth, fire, air, or water to return our loved ones to the universe, but the underlying intent remains identical: to honor our past, to respect our environment, and to ensure that those who shaped our lives are never truly forgotten. (The author is a former civil servant from the administrative service.Email: nisargilani57748@gmail.com )

RisingKashmir 19 Jul 2026 12:05 am

Doctor honoured with Lifetime Achievement Award

The Hindu 19 Jul 2026 12:05 am

Wear light, breathable clothes to beat heat: GMC advisory

Srinagar, July 18: With Jammu and Kashmir witnessing an intense heat wave and temperatures rising well above the seasonal average, health experts on Saturday advised people to wear appropriate summer clothing to protect themselves from heat-related illnesses such as dehydration, heat exhaustion, sunburn, and skin infections. An advisory prepared by Dr. S. Muhammad Salim Khan, Professor, Department of Community Medicine, Government Medical College (GMC) Srinagar, highlights the importance of choosing breathable, light-coloured and loose-fitting clothes during the summer months to help the body stay cool and comfortable. The advisory notes that while Kashmir's typical summer temperatures range between 18C and 34C, occasional heatwaves can push temperatures significantly higher, increasing health risks, particularly for children, the elderly, outdoor workers and people with chronic illnesses. According to the advisory, cotton remains the best fabric for summer due to its breathability, sweat-absorbing properties and affordability. Linen, cotton-linen blends and bamboo fabrics are also recommended as they promote airflow, dry quickly and help regulate body temperature. For people engaged in outdoor work or exercise, moisture-wicking sports fabrics can help keep the body dry, while lightweight merino wool may be suitable in certain conditions because of its temperature-regulating properties. The advisory discourages wearing polyester, nylon, thick denim jeans, velvet and heavy woollen garments during hot weather, as these materials trap heat, restrict airflow and increase sweating, discomfort and the risk of skin irritation. Dark or black-coloured clothing is also discouraged during peak sunshine because it absorbs more heat. It recommended wearing light-coloured cotton shirts, cotton kurtas, cotton salwar suits, chinos and cotton T-shirts during summer. Full-sleeved cotton clothing is encouraged to protect the skin from harmful ultraviolet (UV) rays, while hats or caps can provide additional protection from direct sunlight. The advisory also lists white, cream, beige, light blue, mint green, light grey and other pastel shades as the most suitable colours for summer, as they reflect sunlight and absorb less heat compared to darker colours. Besides clothing, the public has been advised to wear loose-fitting garments, cover the head with a hat, cap or cotton scarf while outdoors, change sweaty clothes promptly to reduce the risk of fungal infections, drink plenty of water and avoid prolonged exposure to the midday sun. The advisory emphasises that proper clothing is not merely a matter of comfort but an important public health measure. Wearing light, breathable fabrics can help maintain normal body temperature, reduce excessive sweating and minimise the risk of heat rash, dehydration and heat exhaustion. As Jammu and Kashmir continues to experience unusually high temperatures, health experts have urged residents to make informed clothing choices alongside staying hydrated and limiting outdoor activities during the hottest hours of the day. Simple changes such as wearing breathable fabrics, choosing light colours and protecting the head from direct sunlight can go a long way in preventing heat-related illnesses during the ongoing heatwave, the advisory states.

RisingKashmir 18 Jul 2026 11:58 pm

VIT distributed scholarships to the tune of 103 cr. for government school students since 2008: VIT Chancellor

The Chancellor also highlighted the transformative power of education in addressing inequality

The Hindu 18 Jul 2026 11:57 pm

Minister inaugurates synthetic hockey turf, Kodai Vizha in Tiruvannamalai

The new hockey turf, which will be maintained by SDAT has a spectators gallery with a seating capacity of over 480 persons to watch hockey and athletics events

The Hindu 18 Jul 2026 11:52 pm

72nd National Film Awards winners announced

The winners of the 72nd National Film Awards have been announced, honouring the best of Indian cinema across feature films, non-feature films and writing on cinema. The awards recognise films that were certified by the Central Board of Film Certification during the 2024 calendar year. The biggest winner this year was Article 370, which was named Best Feature Film. Yami Gautam won the Best Actress award for her performance in the political thriller.

The Hindu 18 Jul 2026 11:49 pm

Vikram-1: The Launch That Signals India's Space Renaissance

The successful launch of Vikram-1 by Hyderabad-based Skyroot Aerospace is much more than another rocket lifting off from Indian soil. It marks the arrival of a new era in India's space journeyone where government agencies and private enterprises work together to transform the nation into a global space power. For decades, India's achievements in space were almost synonymous with ISRO. Today, Vikram-1 demonstrates that the Indian space ecosystem has matured beyond a single institution and has evolved into a vibrant innovation economy. This mission deserves to be celebrated not merely because it is India's first privately developed orbital launch vehicle, but because it validates a vision that policymakers, scientists and entrepreneurs have collectively pursued over the past few years. The launch is perhaps the strongest evidence yet that India's space sector reforms are beginning to bear fruit. An orbital launch vehicle occupies a unique position in the space economy. Unlike suborbital rockets that briefly touch the edge of space, orbital launch vehicles place satellites into stable Earth orbits where they can provide communication, navigation, weather forecasting, Earth observation and scientific services for years. Vikram-1, capable of carrying 350 kilograms to Low Earth Orbit (LEO), enters this highly competitive global market at a time when demand for small satellite launches is increasing rapidly. The rocket itself is an impressive demonstration of indigenous engineering. Built using an all-carbon composite structure, equipped with reliable solid-fuel boosters and powered by a sophisticated 3D-printed liquid engine, Vikram-1 represents the convergence of advanced materials, digital manufacturing and aerospace innovation. These technologies not only reduce production costs but also enable faster manufacturing cyclesan essential requirement for the emerging commercial space industry. Mission Aagaman, the maiden flight of Vikram-1, carries significance far beyond its payload capacity. The mission deploys multiple customer satellites into a 450-kilometre orbit, demonstrating India's readiness to serve global commercial clients. Payloads from Skyroot, DCUBED, Grahaa Space and Cosmoserve Space illustrate how Indian launch vehicles are becoming platforms for international collaboration. Fig.The payloads include scientific instruments such as a robotic arm for removing space debris Particularly noteworthy is Cosmoserve Space's robotic arm, designed to capture orbital debris. Space sustainability is becoming one of the defining challenges of modern space exploration. With thousands of satellites expected to be launched in the coming decade, orbital debris poses serious risks to future missions. Carrying such a payload reflects India's growing awareness that commercial success must be accompanied by responsible stewardship of space. Equally inspiring are the symbolic payloads aboard the mission. Cosmic Bloom, a floral artwork of lab-grown diamond from Bengaluru-based Cosmos Diamonds, and an 18-karat gold micro-rocket carrying microscopic sculptures of Nobel Laureate C. V. Raman, Dr. Vikram Sarabhai and Dr. A. P. J. Abdul Kalam celebrate India's scientific heritage. They remind us that every technological leap stands on the shoulders of visionaries who imagined a future long before the technology existed. In a symbolic gesture, a handwritten postcard by Prime Minister Narendra Modi bearing the words Vande Mataram was also sent to space, along with messages from Skyroot team members, investors, policymakers and well-wishers across the globe. The story of Vikram-1, however, began much earlier than the launch pad. It began with a policy decision India's space reforms fundamentally altered the relationship between ISRO and private industry. Instead of being the sole operator, ISRO increasingly became an enabler, mentor and technology partner. The establishment of the Indian National Space Promotion and Authorisation Centre (IN-SPACe) provided the institutional framework necessary for private participation. Supported by the Indian Space Policy 2023, IN-SPACe functions as an autonomous single-window agency that authorises and promotes both government and non-government space activities. More importantly, it offers a stable and predictable regulatory frameworksomething investors and entrepreneurs consider indispensable before committing resources to high-risk sectors like aerospace. The numbers already indicate the scale of transformation. By June 2026, IN-SPACe had registered more than 4,500 organisations, issued 133 authorisations and signed 106 Memoranda of Understanding. It facilitated access to ISRO facilities, technologies and technical expertise, allowing startups to leverage decades of national investment in space infrastructure rather than beginning from scratch. Its contribution extends well beyond regulation. During 2025 alone, IN-SPACe facilitated nearly USD 150 million in investments into Indian space startups. The country's top ten space startups collectively secured confirmed order books worth another USD 150 million. By mid-2026, more than 118 technology transfer agreements and 189 partnership agreements had accelerated commercialisation and collaboration between research institutions and industry. These figures reveal an important truth: successful space ecosystems are built not merely through rockets, but through policies, partnerships and investor confidence. Globally, the commercial space economy is expected to exceed one trillion dollars over the next two decades. Satellite broadband, Earth observation, precision agriculture, disaster management, autonomous transportation, defence technologies and climate monitoring will all depend heavily on affordable access to space. India possesses several natural advantages in this market. It offers cost-effective engineering talent, proven launch capabilities, a robust academic ecosystem and decades of ISRO's technical expertise. Until recently, however, these strengths remained largely confined within government institutions. The emergence of companies such as Skyroot Aerospace, Agnikul Cosmos, Pixxel, Bellatrix Aerospace and Dhruva Space demonstrates that India's entrepreneurial ecosystem is finally unlocking this latent potential. For ISRO itself, this evolution is equally beneficial. As private companies assume responsibility for routine commercial launches, ISRO can devote greater resources to ambitious scientific missions, planetary exploration, human spaceflight, reusable launch systems, lunar research and deep-space astronomy. The relationship is therefore complementary rather than competitive. There is another dimension that deserves attention. Vikram-1 has the potential to inspire a new generation of scientists, engineers and entrepreneurs. Young students no longer have to dream only of joining ISRO; they can now aspire to build the next aerospace startup, develop advanced propulsion systems, design satellites or create space-based services. This diversification of career opportunities is essential if India wishes to become a global knowledge economy. Yet, celebration must also be accompanied by realism. Building a globally competitive commercial launch industry requires consistent reliability, repeated successful launches, international certifications, strong supply chains and sustained investments in research and development. Space remains an unforgiving domain where even minor technical failures can have significant consequences. The true measure of success will therefore be Vikram-1's ability to establish a dependable launch record over multiple missions. India must also continue strengthening regulations governing space safety, debris mitigation, insurance, intellectual property and international collaboration. As the number of private players increases, governance frameworks must evolve with equal speed. The success of Vikram-1 ultimately represents something larger than a technological milestone. It reflects a shift in national thinkingfrom government-led capability creation to innovation-driven economic growth. It demonstrates how visionary public policy, institutional support and entrepreneurial ambition can together create globally competitive industries. Dr. Vikram Sarabhai once said that India must be second to none in the application of advanced technologies to the real problems of man and society. More than five decades later, Vikram-1 embodies that philosophy in a new context. It carries not only satellites but also the aspirations of a nation determined to become a leading player in the global space economy. If this momentum is sustained through continued innovation, supportive policy and strategic investment, historians may well remember Vikram-1 not simply as India's first privately developed orbital rocket, but as the launch that ignited India's commercial space revolution. (The Author is the Dean-Academic Affairs, Garden City University, Bengaluru and an adjunct faculty at the National Institute of Advanced Studies, Bangalore, E-mail: bijudharmapalan@gmail.com )

RisingKashmir 18 Jul 2026 11:48 pm

Stone laid for road development works worth 3.02 crore in Vijayawada

The projects, funded under the 15th Finance Commissions Air Quality Improvement Programme, are aimed at improving urban infrastructure while reducing dust pollution

The Hindu 18 Jul 2026 11:43 pm

Observing World Refugee Day & the Displaced Kashmiri Pandits

One month ago, the whole world observed the International Refugee Day. In India also, many programmes were held in this regard by various organisations and the advocacy groups championing the cause of refugees. It includes those refugees also who haven't crossed borders and are called the internally displaced persons. In fact they form a very typical category of refugees and could be called 'refugees living in their own country'. The horror stories of Kashmir against the indigenous population began with the deceitful change of rule in the 14th century when the reins of power went into the hands of Sultans. They initiated persecution and killings of the Hindu community of Kashmir and forced them to get converted to Islam. The rulers were supported by clerics and other preachers from far-away lands who were hands in glove with the rulers in their agenda of persecution and conversion. For the Hindus of Kashmir, politics would always take a back seat in their life. Yet they were economically squeezed, politically marginalized and socially excluded in their own native land. The forces which made them reach such a situation were none other than those, whom the community trusted, favoured and believed in 1947, when accession and transition of power took place. The community made a conscious effort to erase the past bad memories of persecution and relied more on the promises made to them in 1947. It needs to be emphasized here that in the changed scenario, the Pandits wilfully ignored the fact of historical intent to ethnically cleanse the Kashmiri Pandits from Kashmir. They even sidelined the fact that in 1947, they had faced the worst that could have happened to them. Hundreds of them were left homeless and thousands of them were forced to take recourse to exodus. The Kashmiri Pandits looked to the future with hope. They were given to believe that the people's representatives would take care of the governance and the constitution would be the ultimate law; and secularism and democracy would be the guiding principles, and that the minorities would be protected by the government's instrumentalities and the constitutional provisions. They believed and reposed trust in leaders like Sheikh Abdullah and Pt. J.L.Nehru and the state government supported by the government of India and the overwhelming Muslim majority community, which was believed to be behind the decision of the National Conference in 1947. What happened thereafter is history. The Pandits faced apartheid at the hands of those who had promised them democracy and the rule of law, and to the shocking surprise of the community, the Muslim majority community, instead of providing them protection, showed them the road of exodus to drive them out of Kashmir when there was an upsurge against the Kashmiri Pandit community in 1989-90. Even thegovernments failed in their constitutional duties to protect them. The Pandits had no choice to make because no organ of the society and the State had the willingnessand capacity to protect them in their land of origin.

RisingKashmir 18 Jul 2026 11:41 pm

Speaker visits fire affected families at Pakherpora

Budgam, July 18: Speaker, Jammu and Kashmir Legislative Assembly, Abdul Rahim Rather, on Saturday visited Pakherpora in Budgam district to meet the families affected by the unfortunate fire incident that caused extensive damage to the residential houses and property. Expressing profound grief over the incident, the Speaker interacted with the affected families, enquired about their well-being and assured them of all possible support during this difficult time. During his visit, the Speaker directed the district administration to undertake an immediate and comprehensive assessment of the damage to residential houses, household belongings and other property so that the extent of the losses is accurately determined. Taking note of the immediate hardships being faced by the affected families, whose houses have been rendered uninhabitable, the Speaker instructed the administration to make prompt arrangements for temporary accommodation by providing tents and ensuring the supply of free ration and other essential relief material without delay. The Speaker further emphasized that the damage assessment process should be completed on a priority basis to facilitate the timely disbursement of admissible relief and compensation to the affected families. He directed the concerned officers to ensure that no affected household is deprived of the assistance to which it is entitled. Reiterating the commitment to the welfare of the affected families, the Speaker directed the District Administration to extend immediate relief and all possible assistance, besides taking every necessary measure for their rehabilitation and restoring normalcy at the earliest. SDM Chadoora, Executive Engineer R&B Charar-i-Sharief and BDO Phakerpora accompanied the Speaker during the visit. The Speaker also visited the family of police personnel who lost his life in an accident at Bailey Bridge Chadoora to express his deepest condolences and sympathy with the bereaved family. He prayed for the strength to the family to bear this irreparable loss.

RisingKashmir 18 Jul 2026 11:34 pm

Sakeena pushes for better technical aid to farmers

Kulgam, July 18: Minister for Education, Health & Medical Education and Social Welfare, Sakeena Itoo, today presided over a district level farmers' awareness programme organised by the Department of Horticulture, Kulgam, under the Centrally Sponsored Scheme Mission for Integrated Development of Horticulture (CSS-MIDH) at DK Marg in D.H. Pora. The programme was organised to create awareness among the orchardists and farmers about modern horticultural practices, scientific interventions and various government schemes aimed at enhancing the farmers productivity and income. Speaking on the occasion, the Minister stressed the need to provide farmers with proper technical guidance and continued institutional support to enhance productivity and improve livelihoods. The Minister also inspected an exhibition comprising stalls established by the Department of Horticulture and various allied departments. The stalls showcased departmental schemes, technological interventions and services available to the farmers while technical experts provided on-the-spot guidance and addressed field-level queries. The participants were also briefed about the flagship schemes being implemented by the Department of Horticulture for the benefit of orchardists. During the technical session, the experts from SKUAST-Kashmir apprised the participants of the University's research and extension initiatives for the farming community. They delivered an informative lecture on integrated insect pest management, emphasising scientific, eco-friendly and sustainable approaches for effective pest control in fruit crops. The Department of Horticulture displayed a wide range of locally grown and exotic fruits, quality planting material and different fruit varieties, highlighting Kulgam's rich horticultural potential. An innovative Horticulture Help Desk was also established to provide technical guidance, grievance redressal and information on departmental schemes. On the occasion, publication, Building a Greener, Prosperous Kulgam, documenting the achievements made under the Holistic Agriculture Development Programme (HADP) during the last three years was released. The Minister also listened to various public issues and demands raised by the people and assured them of appropriate redress. Later, the Minister laid the foundation stone for the Horticulture Development Office Complex and an additional classroom at Government Middle School Kounsarbal and Babapora. During her visit, Sakeena Itoo also inaugurated the Rapid Sand Filtration (RSF) Plant at Ahmadabad Trangzadoo.

RisingKashmir 18 Jul 2026 11:32 pm

Apni Party backs statehood demand, skips NC's Jantar Mantar protest

Srinagar, July 18: Apni Party on Saturday extended support to the demand for restoration of statehood to Jammu and Kashmir but announced that it would not participate in the National Conference's proposed sit-in protest at Jantar Mantar in New Delhi on July 20. The decision was taken at a meeting of the party's senior leadership at its Srinagar headquarters and announced by party president Syed Mohammad Altaf Bukhari at a press conference. Bukhari said the demand for statehood reflects the aspirations of the people of Jammu and Kashmir and has been one of the party's core agendas since its formation in March 2020. We fully support the demand for restoration of statehood, but we have decided not to be part of the proposed protest, he said. He maintained that the restoration of statehood and other constitutional rights could be achieved through meaningful dialogue and constructive engagement with the Centre rather than protests and confrontation. History has shown that confrontation has only resulted in the loss of rights. Dialogue remains the most practical and effective way to secure the aspirations of the people, Bukhari said. Taking a swipe at the National Conference, he said the ruling party had taken six years to raise the issue of statehood and had announced the protest without consulting other political stakeholders. Had there been broader consultations, a more effective strategy could have emerged, he said, adding that important issues such as statehood, constitutional safeguards for land and jobs, and the release of detainees require a united political approach. Bukhari also said the National Conference, being an elected government, should utilise constitutional and political channels to pursue the issue with the Centre instead of resorting to street protests. Responding to questions, he said the Apni Party would continue to hold the National Conference accountable for what he termed its failure to deliver on governance despite receiving a strong public mandate. He also urged the Centre to fulfil its commitment to bridge the Dilli aur Dil ki Douriyan and initiate dialogue with the people of Jammu and Kashmir, while reiterating the party's demand for restoration of constitutional rights. Senior party leaders, including Mohammad Dilawar Mir, Rafi Ahmad Mir, Mohammad Ashraf Mir and Abdul Majeed Padder, were present at the press conference.

RisingKashmir 18 Jul 2026 11:28 pm

Dr. Farooq acknowledges condolence messages

Srinagar, July 18: National Conference President Dr. Farooq Abdullah on Saturday expressed heartfelt gratitude to all those who extended condolences and support following the demise of his younger brother, Dr. Sheikh Mustafa Kamal. In a statement, Dr. Farooq thanked people from across Jammu and Kashmir and the country for standing by his family during their bereavement. He expressed appreciation to those who attended the funeral, Namaz-e-Janazah , condolence meetings and prayer gatherings, and offered prayers for the departed soul. He also thanked political leaders from across the country for conveying their condolences through telephone calls, messages and other expressions of solidarity. Dr. Farooq acknowledged the support of religious scholars, political and social organisations, shrine custodians, civil society members, the media fraternity, Members of Parliament, ministers, legislators, National Conference leaders and workers, relatives, friends and well-wishers. He said the overwhelming outpouring of love, compassion and prayers had provided strength and solace to the bereaved family during the difficult time. Praying for the well-being of all those who stood by the family, Dr. Farooq said he hoped Almighty Allah would reward them for their kindness and accept their prayers and goodwill.

RisingKashmir 18 Jul 2026 11:26 pm

NC committed to restoring J&K's constitutional rights: Dr. Farooq

Srinagar, July 18: National Conference President Dr. Farooq Abdullah on Saturday reiterated that his party would continue its peaceful, democratic and constitutional struggle for the restoration of Jammu and Kashmir's special constitutional status and the constitutional rights of its people. Dr. Farooq Abdullah voiced deep concern over what he described as the growing climate of hatred, communalism, religious intolerance and social polarization in the country. In a statement, the NC chief, while calling for collective action, appealed to all secular, democratic and patriotic forces to unite against attempts to undermine India's unity, integrity, composite culture and constitutional secular character through divisive politics. Addressing a gathering of senior party leaders, office-bearers and a large number of party workers, Dr. Farooq said India's freedom was not won by any single community or religion but was secured through the collective sacrifices of people belonging to every faith, region and background. He observed that the Constitution of India guarantees every citizen the fundamental rights to equality, religious freedom, freedom of expression and justice, adding that these constitutional and democratic values continue to constitute the bedrock of the nation's unity, strength and progress. Referring to Jammu & Kashmir's constitutional relationship with the Union of India, Dr. Farooq said the accession of the erstwhile State was accompanied by specific constitutional assurances under which it enjoyed a distinct constitutional position. He expressed regret that these constitutional guarantees were diluted over the decades, ultimately culminating in the abrogation of the region's special constitutional status. Reaffirming the party's longstanding position, he said the National Conference would continue its peaceful, democratic and constitutional struggle for the restoration of Jammu & Kashmir's special constitutional status and the constitutional rights of its people.

RisingKashmir 18 Jul 2026 11:25 pm

Five of family found dead in Raipur; police suspect murder-suicide

Preliminary investigations suggest the man poisoned his family members before ending his life, though the exact cause of death will be confirmed following a detailed post-mortem and forensic analysis

The Hindu 18 Jul 2026 11:25 pm

KU announces JKSET/LASET-2026 schedule

Srinagar, July 18: The University of Kashmir, the nodal agency for the Jammu and Kashmir State Eligibility Test (JKSET) and Ladakh State Eligibility Test (LASET), has announced that the JKSET/LASET-2026 will be conducted on October 25, 2026 (Sunday) across Jammu and Kashmir and the Union Territory of Ladakh. According to the JKSET Agency, the examination determines the eligibility of candidates for appointment as Assistant Professor in universities and colleges of the Union Territories of Jammu and Kashmir and Ladakh. Candidates qualifying the test will also be eligible for admission to Ph.D. programmes in accordance with the applicable regulations. The examination will be conducted in 41 subjects. The test will be held at multiple centres across the region. In the Kashmir Division, examination centres will be located in Srinagar, Anantnag and Baramulla. In the Jammu Division, the examination will be conducted in Jammu, Kathua, Rajouri, Udhampur and Bhadarwah, while candidates in Ladakh can appear at centres in Leh and Kargil. The online application process will commence on July 24, 2026, and continue until August 20, 2026. Candidates who miss the regular deadline will be allowed to submit their applications with a late fee up to August 25, 2026. Admit cards will be available for download from September 8, 2026. The University has also outlined special provisions for candidates with disabilities. Visually impaired (VI) candidates will be granted compensatory time as per the prescribed guidelines, with an additional 20 minutes for Paper-I and 40 minutes for Paper-II. As Braille question booklets will not be available, visually impaired candidates will be permitted to use the services of a scribe. The scribe must possess educational qualifications not exceeding those prescribed under the applicable government guidelines and must not be a candidate appearing in the JKSET/LASET examination. Candidates with benchmark disabilities who, due to physical limitations affecting writing, are unable to write independently may also avail themselves of the facility of a scribe and compensatory time. Such candidates are required to submit a written request along with the prescribed disability certificate and supporting documents to the Member Secretary, JKSET/LASET, University of Kashmir, or the Coordinator, JKSET/LASET, University of Jammu/Ladakh, as applicable, at least one week before the examination. The University clarified that the grant of compensatory time and the facility of a scribe will be governed by the provisions of the Rights of Persons with Disabilities Act, 2016, and the guidelines issued by the Government of India and the respective Union Territory administrations from time to time. It further emphasized that no candidate will be entitled to the facility of a scribe or compensatory time unless found eligible under the applicable rules and guidelines.

RisingKashmir 18 Jul 2026 11:22 pm

Aamir Khan receives alleged threat from Lawrence Bishnoi gang, police verifying social media post

No formal complaint has been lodged by the actor or his representatives regarding the alleged threat so far

The Hindu 18 Jul 2026 11:21 pm

Illegal structures of drug peddlers demolished in Budgam

Budgam, July 18: The District Administration Budgam, in coordination with Budgam Police, has intensified its drive against drug peddlers by demolishing several illegally constructed properties allegedly linked to narcotics trafficking, as part of its ongoing campaign to curb the drug menace in the district. Officials said that the joint teams carried out a demolition drive in the Magam Sub-Division, targeting illegal structures in the Chairu and Mazhama areas. The operation was conducted in the presence of revenue and police officials. During the drive, authorities demolished three illegally constructed shops, removed unauthorized fencing, and cleared encroachments over five marlas of land allegedly occupied by individuals involved in drug peddling. Officials said the action is part of the administration's sustained efforts to identify and dismantle illegally acquired assets belonging to those engaged in narcotics-related activities, while reinforcing its commitment to eliminating the drug trade from the district. Earlier, the District Administration and Budgam Police conducted a similar demolition drive in the Khansahib Sub-Division, where four illegally constructed shops, a cowshed, and a tile factory were razed in the Parnewa and Arigam areas. The operation was also carried out in the presence of revenue and police officials. The administration reiterated its resolve to continue strict action against drug peddlers and warned that all illegally acquired properties linked to narcotics trafficking would be identified and demolished in accordance with the law. It also appealed to the public to cooperate with the administration and police by sharing credible information about drug-related activities, emphasizing that community participation remains essential in the fight against the growing drug menace.

RisingKashmir 18 Jul 2026 11:17 pm

Manasbal Lake hosts youth water sports festival to boost tourism

Ganderbal, July 18: The Wullar-Manasbal Development Authority (WMDA) on Saturday organised a day-long Water Sports Festival at the scenic Manasbal Lake in Ganderbal district, bringing together around 150 students from different schools to promote water sports, eco-tourism and outdoor recreational activities among the youth. The festival featured a range of competitions and demonstrations, including canoeing, kayaking, open water races and other water-based sporting events. Students from various educational institutions participated enthusiastically, making the event a vibrant celebration of adventure sports and environmental awareness. The programme was organised in collaboration with an NGO working in the field of youth development and community engagement. Speaking to reporters, WMDA Chief Executive Officer Dr. Ahsan-ul-Haq Chishti said the event was aimed at creating awareness and generating interest in water sports among school children. He said participants from different schools were given an opportunity to experience and compete in multiple water sports disciplines in a safe and organised environment. He said Manasbal Lake, known as the deepest freshwater lake in Kashmir, offers immense potential for water-based recreational and adventure tourism. He added that WMDA has been organising eco-friendly activities from time to time to promote the lake as a sustainable tourism destination while encouraging local youth to take part in adventure sports. Dr. Chishti said nearly 150 students participated in the day-long festival, competing in canoeing, kayaking, open races and several other events. He said the authority plans to organise such programmes on a regular basis to identify and nurture young talent in water sports. He further said WMDA intends to develop structured training programmes for children so that they can acquire skills in different water sports disciplines. Our objective is not only to promote tourism but also to encourage children to make the best use of the beautiful natural resources available at Manasbal Lake through organised and eco-friendly recreational activities, he said. The festival concluded with appreciation for the participants, as officials expressed hope that regular water sports initiatives would help establish Manasbal Lake as a major centre for adventure tourism and youth engagement in Jammu and Kashmir.

RisingKashmir 18 Jul 2026 11:15 pm

CCB busts honey-trap and robbery gang

The Hindu 18 Jul 2026 11:14 pm

T.N. government implements e-Zero FIR system for faster action against cyber financial scams

Cyberfraud complaints on 1930 helpline involving a loss of more than 1 lakh will be integrate dwith the Crime and Criminal Tracking Network and System for the registration of an e-Zero FIR

The Hindu 18 Jul 2026 11:14 pm

Medical colleges to decide faculty eligibility: NMC

Srinagar, July 18:The National Medical Commission (NMC) has clarified that the responsibility to determine the eligibility of candidates for teaching positions in medical institutions will now rest with the concerned appointing authorities, medical colleges, universities, limiting routine requests for eligibility certificates and clarifications from the regulator. The clarification has been issued by Post Graduate Medical Education Board (PGMEB) under the Medical Institutions (Qualifications of Faculty) Regulations, 2025 (MIQF-2025), which came into force following the notification of the new regulations on June 30, 2025. The notice has also been circulated by the NMC to all directors, principals and deans of medical colleges across the country for compliance. According to the NMC, it has been receiving a large number of routine applications from faculty members, medical colleges, universities, NBEMS-accredited hospitals and other stakeholders seeking eligibility certificates or clarifications for appointments and promotions to teaching posts. However, the Commission said the MIQF-2025 regulations comprehensively define qualifications, teaching experience, research publication requirements, training and other eligibility conditions, making most such references unnecessary. The regulator has therefore decided that the PGMEB will no longer entertain routine requests where eligibility can be determined directly from the provisions of the regulations. Instead, institutions themselves will be responsible for assessing whether candidates fulfil the prescribed norms for appointment or promotion. The Board, however, will continue to examine exceptional cases involving ambiguity, interpretation of regulations, equivalence of qualifications, transitional provisions or other complex regulatory issues. Such references must be submitted only through the Dean, Director, Principal, Registrar or another competent appointing authority, along with complete supporting documents and justification, the NMC said. The NMC has also introduced a non-refundable processing fee for each such reference. Applications submitted directly by individuals will not be entertained unless the institution fails to forward a genuine case involving ambiguity within 60 days of receiving the request. In such cases, applicants may directly approach the PGMEB after submitting documentary evidence, an undertaking affirming the correctness of facts and proof of payment of the prescribed fee. The public notice further provides that candidates dissatisfied with the decision of the competent authority may seek a review by the NMC within 30 days by submitting all relevant documents along with the prescribed fee. The PGMEB will examine such cases on merit and endeavour to dispose of them within 60 days. The Commission said the new mechanism intends to promote accountability in faculty appointments and promotions, reduce repetitive processing of routine eligibility requests, minimise administrative burden, public grievances and avoidable litigation, while ensuring that genuine cases requiring regulatory interpretation receive timely attention.

RisingKashmir 18 Jul 2026 11:11 pm

Political reactions intensify over Wangchuk

Sonam Wangchuks hospitalisation has triggered sharp political reactions, with leaders across Opposition parties accusing the Centre of suppressing a peaceful protest. RJDs Manoj Jha, CPI(M)s Brinda Karat and NCP (SP)s Anish Gawande questioned the manner in which Wangchuk was removed from Jantar Mantar. Congress leaders Sachin Pilot and Nana Patole alleged that the government was trying to silence dissent instead of addressing the protesters demands, while Rajya Sabha MP Kapil Sibal expressed concern over the lack of dialogue. TMC MP Saugata Roy, meanwhile, said he was relieved that Wangchuks life had been saved and praised his resolve.

The Hindu 18 Jul 2026 11:11 pm

Wangchuk not alone: At least 21 continue indefinite hunger strike

Three AISA activists enter 21st day of hunger strike; protesters have been advised by doctors to rest as much as possible, conserve energy and speak less

The Hindu 18 Jul 2026 11:10 pm

Traffic curbs on Gulmarg route today

Budgam, July 18: The Traffic Police Rural Kashmir have issued a traffic advisory for motorists travelling to Gulmarg and other areas of the Beerwah subdivision in view of the 2nd Safar procession scheduled to be held in Magam on July 19. According to an official advisory issued by Senior Superintendent of Police Traffic Rural Kashmir), Liaqat Ali, vehicular movement through Magam town will remain affected from 7:00 a.m. to 10:00 p.m. on account of the religious procession. Motorists have been advised to avoid unnecessary travel through the town during the specified period. The advisory said that Magam town will remain a complete no-ply zone during the procession, and traffic will be diverted through alternate routes. As per the traffic plan, Srinagar-bound heavy motor vehicles (HMVs) from Gulmarg will be diverted from Mangloora via Lalpora, Mamoosa, Shirpora, Zangam and Narbal to Srinagar. Light motor vehicles (LMVs) travelling to Srinagar from Gulmarg will be diverted from Chichiloora via Lalpora, Mamoosa, Shirpora, Zangam and Narbal. Similarly, Gulmarg-bound HMVs from Srinagar will be diverted from Kanihama-Batapora via Hanjibugh, Makhama, Badran Stop, Aripanthan, Kandhama, Bamrada, Aboora and Wusan before reaching Tangmarg and Gulmarg. LMVs heading towards Gulmarg will be routed from Kanihama-Batapora via Hanjibugh, Makhama, Badran Stop, Goigam, Chichiloora, Tangmarg and onwards to Gulmarg. Traffic travelling towards Srinagar from Beerwah will be diverted from Badran Stop via Makhama, Hanjibugh, SK Pora, Wadwan, Soibugh, Hajibagh Sharifabad and Parimpora near Toyota Ansari Motors before proceeding to Srinagar. The Traffic Police have urged commuters to cooperate with the traffic management plan and follow the directions of traffic personnel to ensure smooth movement and avoid inconvenience during the procession.

RisingKashmir 18 Jul 2026 11:08 pm

Women Empowerment : 2.5 lakh women in J&K emerge as Lakhpati Didis under NRLM

Srinagar, July 18: Amid a massive for women empowerment, the Jammu and Kashmir has achieved a major feat under the Lakhpati Didi initiative, with 2.50 lakh women achieving annual household incomes of at least Rs one lakh through sustainable livelihood activities under Deendayal Antyodaya Yojana - National Rural Livelihoods Mission (DAY-NRLM. According to details accessed by Rising Kashmir on Digital Aajeevika Register (DAR) Analytics Dashboard, Ministry of Rural Development, Government of India, J&K has 96,700 Self Help Groups (SHGs) comprising 8.14 lakh women members as on March 31, 2026. Against a target of 2.33 lakh Lakhpati Didis, J&K has identified 2.75 lakh potential beneficiaries, while 2.50 lakh women have already achieved the status, registering an achievement rate of 107.43 per cent. The details reveal that of the total, 2.33 lakh Lakhpati Didis earn between Rs 1 lakh and Rs 2 lakh annually. Around 15,000 women have annual incomes between Rs 2 lakh and Rs 3 lakh, while 1,900 earn between Rs 3 lakh and Rs 4 lakh. Nearly 396 women fall in the Rs 4 lakh to Rs 5 lakh category, 190 earn between Rs 5 lakh and 50 women have crossed the Rs 10 lakh annual income mark. Crop-based farming remains the largest livelihood activity with 64,300 beneficiaries, followed by animal husbandry (17,400), trading (43,400), wages (39,500), services (31,500) and manufacturing (21,500). Smaller segments include regular income sources (11,000), Non-Timber Forest Produce (5,200) and aquaculture (5,100). The dashboard also indicates that 1.37 lakh women depend on a single livelihood activity, while 89,100 have diversified into two income-generating activities, 20,300 into three activities and 4,600 into more than three. According to the details, General category women account for the highest share at 1.50 lakh, followed by OBC (46,500), SC (31,500) and ST (22,600). The programme has also benefited 2,400 Divyangjan and 10 transgender beneficiaries. Among educational groups, matriculates form the largest segment with 94,800 beneficiaries, followed by those with no formal education (51,900), Class XII pass (46,900), up to Class V (33,300) and graduates and above (15,000). District-wise analysis places Kupwara at the top in terms of Lakhpati Didis with the official details figuring a total of 23,900 women in the list, who have achieved the status followed by Jammu with 19,600. Jammu district has been figured at the top in terms of SHG membership, followed by Kupwara, Baramulla, Anantnag, Rajouri, Kathua, Udhampur, Budgam, Poonch and Doda, reflecting widespread participation in the rural women's livelihood programme across Jammu and Kashmir.

RisingKashmir 18 Jul 2026 11:06 pm

Panels examining Bill for removal of Ministers and VBSA Bill defer meeting on adopting draft reports

The decisions come just before the Monsoon Session of Parliament is to commence. Opposition calls it big victory, says the humiliation that Modi government suffered in the defeat of delimitation-related Bills in April still lingers

The Hindu 18 Jul 2026 10:59 pm

UTT: Record win for U Mumba

The Hindu 18 Jul 2026 10:57 pm

Lok Sabha Speaker approves merger of six Shiv Sena (UBT) MPs with the Eknath Shinde-led Shiv Sena

Rebel TMC leaders Sudip Bandopadhyay and Kakoli Ghosh Dastidar are invited for a meeting of floor leaders by Parliamentary Affairs Minister Kiren Rijiju

The Hindu 18 Jul 2026 10:56 pm

FIFA World Cup 2026: Spain, Argentina lock horns in a fascinating finale

The European champion has mastered every situation on the way to the summit clash while the holder, led by Messi, has been pushed to the brink, only to fight its way past the opponents

The Hindu 18 Jul 2026 10:53 pm

Archaeology Dept. collaborates with Servants of Knowledge to digitise heritage collections

Under theagreement, Servants of Knowledge (SoK) will undertake the digitisation of approximately 18,000 rare books and 1,000 archival publications housed within the Departments library in Mysuru.

The Hindu 18 Jul 2026 10:49 pm

Malayalam actor Lenaa Kumar on her new book on menopause

The actor talks about writing her second book about menopause, dealing with perimenopause and her desire to help women going through it

The Hindu 18 Jul 2026 10:49 pm

National Film Awards: Mithya adjudged Best Kannada Film, bags two more honours

Along with the Best Kannada Film award, Mithya, produced by Rakshit Shetty and directed by Sumanth Bhat, also won in Best Child Artist and Best Actor in a Supporting Role categories

The Hindu 18 Jul 2026 10:46 pm

Amit Shah inspects indigenous border security technology in West Bengal

This three-day trip is his first visit to the State after theSuvenduAdhikari government took charge of West Bengal

The Hindu 18 Jul 2026 10:44 pm

Those who endanger safety of daughters or traders belong only in jail or hell: Yogi Adityanath

The Chief Minister inaugurates development projects work 574 crore in Bulandshahr

The Hindu 18 Jul 2026 10:43 pm

CJP questions police action after Wangchuks removal From Jantar Mantar

Dramatic scenes unfolded at Delhis Jantar Mantar on Saturday after climate activist Sonam Wangchuk was removed from the protest site by Delhi Police and shifted to Safdarjung Hospital. While the police say the move was necessary due to his deteriorating health and was carried out under High Court directions, the Cockroach Janta Party, or CJP, has accused the authorities of a crackdown on protesters and alleged a lack of transparency over Wangchuks condition.

The Hindu 18 Jul 2026 10:31 pm

Cuban Ambassador calls for lifting of energy blockade imposed by the U.S.

The restrictions on oil trade has affected the entire Cuban economy and has become a collective punishment against the population, he said

The Hindu 18 Jul 2026 10:31 pm

CM assures one acre land to FLO and FICCI

The Hindu 18 Jul 2026 10:26 pm

Iran says it is suspending commitments to interim deal with U.S. as the two exchange attacks

The U.S. has violated its commitments under the deal that was signed about a month ago, and now Iran is no longer implementing them, Kazem Gharibabadi, Iran's deputy foreign minister, told state TV

The Hindu 18 Jul 2026 10:21 pm

Industries Minister P.K. Kunhalikutty says new govt. has taken 300-crore Tata project further

Mr. Kunhalikutty said the Tata representatives met the government to discuss the projects implementation

The Hindu 18 Jul 2026 10:15 pm

Explained: Why Vikram-1 is a landmark for Indias space programme

After a brief hold in the countdown, Vikram-1, Indias first privately developed orbital-class rocket, finally lifted off from the Satish Dhawan Space Centre in Sriharikota at 12.05 p.m. on Saturday. The mission, developed by Hyderabad-based Skyroot Aerospace, is being seen as a landmark for Indias private space industry. The launch marks a major milestone. But why is this rocket different? And why are many calling it a turning point for Indias space programme?

The Hindu 18 Jul 2026 10:11 pm

Congress accuses Nirmala Sitharaman of repeating false claims

The party leaders question the Union Finance Ministers claims on employment and bank loans, and seek details of loan beneficiaries and recoveries from economic offenders

The Hindu 18 Jul 2026 10:00 pm

NMC will no longer issue eligibility certificates to doctors seeking teaching posts in routine cases

More complicated cases must take the institutional route, with a fee of 25,000 plus tax; move aims to promote institutional accountability in faculty appointments and promotions, reduce admin burden on Board

The Hindu 18 Jul 2026 9:56 pm

72nd National Film Awards: Sanjay Mishra reacts to winning Best Supporting Actor honour

The actor won the award for Best Supporting Actor for his performance in Bhumi Pednekars Bhakshak

The Hindu 18 Jul 2026 9:54 pm

Structures linked to Muslims targeted for electoral gains ahead of Assembly election, says Opposition in U.P.

Opposition parties request the Supreme Court to intervene as the custodian of the Constitution of India, entrusted toprotect the fundamental rights of citizens from Executive overreach

The Hindu 18 Jul 2026 9:53 pm

Surprise inspections held at eateries in Kochi

The inspections were held at seven establishments in Kaloor and Kadavanthra

The Hindu 18 Jul 2026 9:51 pm

How will U.S. visa policy changes affect students, media professionals, and exchange visitors | Explained

The U.S. Department of Homeland Security cites national security risks from Indian and Chinese students and introduces changes in F, J and I categories of visas. PhD scholars, journalists, and exchange visitors will be impacted

The Hindu 18 Jul 2026 9:51 pm

Chennai Grand Masters | Arjun downs Niemann; Nihal holds Firouzja

World champion D. Gukesh could not get past Russian GM Dmitry Andreikin despite trying his best to dismantle his opponents defence

The Hindu 18 Jul 2026 9:44 pm