facebook

Digital News Sources

States

...

OpenAI to press ahead with data-centre expansion despite midterm sweep, CFO says

One of the corporate faces of the AI boom, OpenAI has moved quickly to counter fears that a shift in congressional power could slow the industrys growth

The Hindu 7 Nov 2026 10:26 am

Messis Keralam visit row: ED registers money-laundering case

Kochi unit of ED registers Enforcement Case Information Report (ECIR) against Anto Augustine, the authorised signatory of Reporter Broadcasting Company Private Limited, and the company itself, based on FIR filed by Kalamassery police

The Hindu 7 Nov 2026 10:26 am

Messis Keralam visit row: ED registers money-laundering case

Kochi unit of ED registers Enforcement Case Information Report (ECIR) against Anto Augustine, the authorised signatory of Reporter Broadcasting Company Private Limited, and the company itself, based on FIR filed by Kalamassery police

The Hindu 7 Nov 2026 10:24 am

If youre fit and performing well, age doesnt matter: Michael Klinger

After spending years waiting for an international call-up, Klinger sparkled in his brief stint with Australia. Now a sought-after coach on the franchise circuit, the 46-year-old reflects on opening with Brendon McCullum in the IPL, coaching Gujarat Giants in the WPL and ageism in cricket.

The Hindu 7 Nov 2026 10:24 am

Wayanad landslides: Despite township progress, 13 Adivasi families still caught between no-go zones and delayed rehab

Some now live in rented accommodation with government assistance, cut off from their forest environment and traditional livelihoods. Others have returned to the forest, as construction of the promised houses on alternative land allocated to them at Puthiyavillage in Meppadi under Forest Rights Act, 2006 is yet to begin

The Hindu 7 Nov 2026 10:18 am

Vice President confers Dr. Rajendra Prasad Award for Academic Excellence on Professor K. Chockalingam

The honour celebrates Prof. Chockalingams academic career, spanning more than five decades and marked by pioneering work in criminology and victimology

The Hindu 7 Nov 2026 10:15 am

Why are flight tickets so expensive now? The truth behind rising airfares | Explained

Have you noticed that domestic flight tickets in India have become significantly more expensive? According to the Consumer Price Index, domestic airfares were nearly 30% higher in September compared to a year earlier. But what is driving this surge? In this explainer, The Hindus aviation reporter Jagriti Chandra breaks down the factors behind rising airfares, including higher aviation fuel prices, the impact of global oil markets, rupee depreciation, airspace restrictions, geopolitical tensions, airline capacity constraints and dynamic pricing models.

The Hindu 7 Nov 2026 9:59 am

U.S. military carries out fresh targeted strikes on Iran as Tehran weighs mediator's proposals

They knocked out they built a little bit of an anti-aircraft device and we knocked it out in about 15 minutes, maybe five, says U.S. President Trump

The Hindu 7 Nov 2026 9:50 am

Amazon rolls out text-based shopping through Alexa

Amazon said the new text feature lets users research and compare products, track deals and price drops, and have Alexa for Shopping complete purchases

The Hindu 7 Nov 2026 9:30 am

Two sisters injured in shooting at Navi Mumbai home; one arrested, another on the run

One sister suffered a bullet injury to her back, while the other was grazed near her ear; police are investigating the motive behind the attack

The Hindu 7 Nov 2026 9:24 am

Epic failures: on electoral roll, welfare

The electoral roll cannot be used to determine welfare beneficiaries

The Hindu 7 Nov 2026 9:19 am

Assam prohibits drone operations near Amur falcon roosting sites

The order follows reports of content creators and visitors flying drones close to congregations of the migratory raptors, apparently to capture photographs and videos for social media

The Hindu 7 Nov 2026 9:16 am

Deepavali without mithai: What happens when a dessert addict gives up sugar for a year?

After nearly a year without added sugar, author Prajwal Parajuly, a former dessert obsessive, faces Deepavali without sel roti, jalebis or ladoos. He even resorted to a hummus cake. But is this the sacrifice of a lifetime worth it?

The Hindu 7 Nov 2026 9:14 am

Deepavali 2026: How ready-to-drink cocktails are changing Indias festive drinking scene

From rasmalai-inspired cocktails to jamun mint and guava chilli, ready-to-drink beverages are bringing Indian flavours to Deepavali parties, reflecting changing tastes and a growing market for convenient cocktails

The Hindu 7 Nov 2026 9:08 am

Counting of votes in ZPTCs and MPTCs begins in Andhra Pradesh

State Election Commissioner Anil Chandra Punetha and other top officials are monitoring the counting.

The Hindu 7 Nov 2026 8:48 am

How a love story grew into a deep belonging to India

Sonia Gandhis much-awaited Belonging is a personal memoir, with politics providing the background or a kind of framework, as she puts it in the book

The Hindu 7 Nov 2026 8:07 am

Sonia Gandhi interview: Great damage done to the fabric of India by BJP

Ahead of the launch of her book, Sonia Gandhi speaks to The Hindu, answering a number of questions personal and political

The Hindu 7 Nov 2026 8:06 am

Id always disliked politics | An excerpt from Sonia Gandhis Belonging: A Journey of Love

In her memoir, the senior Congress party leader revisits the years of hesitation and personal conflict before duty finally prevailed

The Hindu 7 Nov 2026 8:05 am

JAC adamantly refuse to budge on Ropeway

Shillong, Nov 6: The standoff between the state government and the Joint Action Committee (JAC) formed to oppose the Shillong Peak Ropeway project is showing no signs of ending, with both sides sticking to their positions. After yesterdays assertion by the Meghalaya government that it will press on with the project, today the JAC held [] The post JAC adamantly refuse to budge on Ropeway first appeared on Highland Post .

Highland Post 7 Nov 2026 8:05 am

If you can jump party, Shillong Ropeway can shift: Chyne to Lyngdoh

Shillong, Nov 6: In a sharp political counter to Tourism Minister Paul Lyngdoh, KHADC Opposition Leader and UDP general secretary Titosstarwell Chyne on Friday said if a leader can jump party, a project can also be shifted. Chyne was reacting to Lyngdohs assertion that the Shillong ropeway project cannot be shifted despite stiff opposition in [] The post If you can jump party, Shillong Ropeway can shift: Chyne to Lyngdoh first appeared on Highland Post .

Highland Post 7 Nov 2026 8:04 am

Quit party, first resign: UDP demands tougher Anti-Defection Law

Shillong, Nov 6: UDP general secretary Titosstarwell Chyne on Friday said the Tenth Schedule is not yet a complete system to stop defection, and an MLA who wants to leave a party should first resign. Chyne was reacting to the exodus of 11 UDP legislators, 8 to BJP and 3 to NPP. He said those [] The post Quit party, first resign: UDP demands tougher Anti-Defection Law first appeared on Highland Post .

Highland Post 7 Nov 2026 8:03 am

SC rejects plea for guidelines on appointment of ministers facing criminal charges

New Delhi, Nov 6: The Supreme Court on Friday refused to entertain a plea seeking guidelines to prevent individuals facing serious criminal charges from being appointed as ministers or allocated Cabinet portfolios. A bench of Chief Justice Surya Kant and Justices Joymalya Bagchi and V Mohana, while dismissing the plea, said constitutional morality was not [] The post SC rejects plea for guidelines on appointment of ministers facing criminal charges first appeared on Highland Post .

Highland Post 7 Nov 2026 8:02 am

MeECL casual workers oppose move to agency deployment

Shillong, Nov 6: Casual workers of the Meghalaya Energy Corporation Limited (MeECL) have urged the corporation to reconsider its decision to deploy casual employees engaged for 30 and 89 days through a manpower agency. In a statement, the workers said they were appointed as casual employees in the Meghalaya Power Distribution Corporation Limited (MePDCL) for [] The post MeECL casual workers oppose move to agency deployment first appeared on Highland Post .

Highland Post 7 Nov 2026 8:01 am

What US midterm results mean for us

It was an election half a world away but it may very well have huge implications for all of us here in India. The Democratic Party swept aside Donald Trumps Republicans in a variety of races all across the USA, which should signal a big change in the remaining two years of this President while [] The post What US midterm results mean for us first appeared on Highland Post .

Highland Post 7 Nov 2026 7:59 am

India, EU conclude multi-billion Euro global innovation programme

Indias association with the Horizon programme is seen as part of the comprehensive strategic agenda of the two sides for the next five years

The Hindu 7 Nov 2026 7:14 am

Open garbage dump on Noorbagh-Palpora road sparks health concerns

Srinagar, Nov 6:An open garbage dumping site on the Noorbagh-Palpora road has become a major source of inconvenience for residents and commuters. Locals allege that heaps of uncollected waste is attracting stray dogs and posing serious risks to pedestrians and motorists. The garbage, dumped openly along the roadside without any covered collection facility, remains scattered for long hours before being lifted, emanating a pungent smell. They alleged that the waste often remains on the road throughout the day and even into the afternoons, leaving the entire stretch covered in an unbearable stench. Instead of a proper waste collection point, there is just an open heap of garbage. It gives a very bad impression of the locality and makes it difficult for people to even walk on the road, said Farooq Ahmad, a local resident. According to residents, the dumping site has become a feeding ground for packs of stray dogs that gather around the waste throughout the day. They said the dogs frequently chase two-wheelers, e-rickshaws and cyclists, creating panic among commuters and increasing the chances of accidents. I ride my motorcycle on this road every day. The dogs suddenly run behind vehicles after feeding on the garbage. It is dangerous, especially during the morning and evening hours, said Firdous Ahmad, a commuter. Locals said there is a playground in the vicinity of the dumping site, but children are often discouraged from using it because of the large number of stray dogs roaming around the garbage. Our children cannot play freely. Parents remain worried because the dogs often move towards the playground. The authorities should remove this dumping site immediately, said another resident. Residents also pointed out that smaller heaps of garbage have appeared at one or two other locations along the Noorbagh-Palpora stretch, worsening the sanitation situation and affecting the overall appearance of the neighbourhood. Morning walkers said they either avoid the stretch or carry sticks for protection against stray dogs. We go for morning walks for better health, but instead we have to deal with foul smell and aggressive dogs. Many elderly people and women avoid this road together, said a regular walker. Students, particularly those walking alone to schools or tuition centres, also face difficulties because of the stray dog menace, residents said. The locals appealed to Srinagar Municipal Corporation (SMC) to ensure timely lifting of garbage, remove the open dumping site and identify a more suitable and scientific waste disposal arrangement. They said immediate intervention is necessary to restore cleanliness, improve public safety and preserve the appearance of the locality.

Greater Kashmir 7 Nov 2026 6:55 am

Carrick seeks breathing space as United manager

The reality is that the club could be bottom of the table when it kicks off on November 8 if results go against it; City meets Forest in the quest to break a string of losses as it plays catch up with Arsenal

The Hindu 7 Nov 2026 6:49 am

Jr Sehwag and Lakshya shine as India win

India coasted to 129 for no loss in just 19.1 overs to win with 185 balls remaining and begin its campaign in style. Asked to bat, Nepal slipped to 51 for four at one stage

The Hindu 7 Nov 2026 6:25 am

Bumrah, Jadeja headline India-As final red-ball game

Jasprit Bumrah, who last played in the Asian Games final on October 3, has been preserved only for the red-ball leg of the New Zealand tour

The Hindu 7 Nov 2026 6:22 am

1 in 9 Kashmir springs dry

Srinagar, Nov 06: Once the lifeline of Kashmirs villages, natural springs are increasingly coming under pressure, with scientific studies pointing to declining water discharge, changing snowfall patterns and human interference in their catchment areas. From mountain settlements to traditional village habitations, these age-old sources of freshwater are facing a crisis that could deepen the Valleys drinking water insecurity. A 2026 study published in Frontiers in Water, titled GIS-Based Inventory and Utility Assessment of Spring Resources in the Kashmir Himalaya, identified 649 springs in Anantnag and Kulgam districts through field surveys conducted during 2021 and 2022. Of these, 79.8 per cent were perennial, 8.5 per cent seasonal, and 11.7 per cent were found dry at the time of the survey. The findings mean that approximately 76 of the 649 surveyed springs were dry during the assessment, while another 55 were seasonal. Researchers recorded their geographical locations, elevation, discharge, usage and conservation status, highlighting the need for systematic monitoring of these natural water sources. The study also documented community concerns over declining spring discharge and reliability during the preceding decade. However, researchers noted that the reported decline could not be independently established due to the absence of long-term hydrological records. A separate study, Evaluating the Drivers of Groundwater Spring Discharge in Sindh Basin of Kashmir Himalaya, published in Environment, Development and Sustainability in 2024, provides further evidence of the emerging crisis. Researchers found that 13 per cent of springs below 1,600 metres, 22 per cent between 1,600 and 2,500 metres, and 28.9 per cent above 2,500 metres had witnessed a high decline in discharge. The research linked the changing behaviour of springs to rising temperatures, earlier snowmelt, precipitation variability and changes in land use. Snowmelt was identified as a predominant source of recharge for the springs studied in the Sindh Basin, they said. The findings assume significance as Kashmirs traditional water systems depend heavily on seasonal precipitation and the gradual replenishment of groundwater. Changes in the timing and quantity of snowfall can disturb this natural cycle, affecting water availability long after winter ends. For noted Kashmiri poet and historian Zareef Ahmad Zareef, the changing water landscape is also a reminder of a disappearing relationship between people and nature. Recalling Kashmirs past, Zareef said that there was a time when fresh snow was once carried to Srinagar and sold. It was around 1592 during the Mughal Empire, he said. He has also lamented the decline of traditional ecological practices, including planting Chinar trees and maintaining wetlands, which sustained the Valleys environmental balance. Speaking about changing winters in an earlier interaction with Rising Kashmir, Zareef observed, Now the situation has changed as the atmosphere due to climatic change and modern gadgets replaced traditional Kangri and other systems. History of Chillai Kalan has now remained a folk tale for our new generation, he said. The crisis is not limited to the quantity of water. A 2022 study published in Scientific Reports, which assessed the quality of 258 springs across Kashmir, found that 39.5 per cent had excellent water quality and 47.7 per cent good quality. However, five per cent were classified as poor, 1.6 per cent very poor and 6.2 per cent unsuitable for drinking, the study reads. The research also identified land-use changes, deforestation in catchment areas and infrastructure development as pressures disrupting the Valleys natural spring systems. Scientists say protecting a spring requires more than repairing its outlet or constructing a water tank. Protecting its recharge zone, often located uphill, is also essential. A 2025 study of the Sindh Basin identified elevations between approximately 1,750 and 2,875 metres as important potential recharge areas for springs. As climate pressures mount, the need for a comprehensive spring inventory, regular discharge monitoring, protection of recharge zones, and scientific rejuvenation has become increasingly urgent. The challenge before the government is to establish how many springs remain functional, how many have dried up and what concrete measures are being taken to restore them.

RisingKashmir 7 Nov 2026 5:34 am

SECOND INSTALMENT : Haj pilgrims told to deposit Rs 1.25 lakh by Nov 30

Srinagar, Nov 06: The Haj Committee of India (HCoI) has directed all selected pilgrims for Haj-2027 to deposit the second instalment of Rs 1.25 lakh per pilgrim by November 30, 2026. In a circular, the HCoI has said the payment has to be made in accordance with the guidelines for Haj 2027 (1448H). The pilgrims can deposit the amount through the e-payment facility available on the official website of the Haj Committee of India or the Haj Suvidha App using credit cards, debit cards or net banking. Alternatively, the payment can be made through a specified pay-in slip at any branch of the State Bank of India (SBI) or Union Bank of India (UBI) in the account of the Haj Committee of India. The committee said the unique bank reference number provided to each pilgrim's cover must be mentioned in the deposit receipt. It further stated that the third and final instalment of the remaining Haj amount would be determined after finalisation of all expenses to be incurred in India and Saudi Arabia and would be notified in due course. The committee has cautioned pilgrims to adhere to the stipulated payment deadline, warning that failure to deposit the amount within the prescribed time could lead to cancellation of their Haj seats.

RisingKashmir 7 Nov 2026 4:57 am

Paraguayan President Pena impeached over banking crisis

Santiago Pena had offered his resignation over the disaster, but lawmakers pressed ahead with impeachment proceedings that would strip him of immunity granted to former Presidents

The Hindu 7 Nov 2026 4:46 am

Govt orders posting of 306 Medical Officers to rural areas

Srinagar, Nov 06: The Health and Medical Education (H&ME) Department on Friday ordered the posting of 306 newly appointed Medical Officers (Allopathic) across various healthcare institutions in rural areas of Jammu and Kashmir. The doctors have been posted to District Hospitals, Sub-District Hospitals, Community Health Centres (CHCs), Primary Health Centres (PHCs), New Type Primary Health Centres (NTPHCs) and other healthcare institutions to strengthen medical services at the grassroots level. Welcoming the move, Health Minister Sakeena Itoo, in a post on X, said the posting of 306 newly appointed Medical Officers to far-flung and underserved areas marks a significant step towards ensuring equitable access to quality healthcare. Under the leadership of Chief Minister Omar Abdullah, our commitment remains to strengthen healthcare infrastructure, address staff shortages and ensure that no region is left behind, she said. The postings are aimed at addressing the shortage of doctors in rural healthcare institutions and improving access to medical services, particularly in remote and underserved areas of the Union Territory. As per the government order, the Medical Officers have been posted against the respective sanctioned posts in the identified health institutions. The Director Health Services, Kashmir and Jammu, have been directed to furnish a compliance report to the Administrative Department within one week from the date of issuance of the government order. The move is expected to strengthen the availability of doctors at the primary and secondary healthcare levels and improve healthcare delivery in rural and far-flung areas of J&K.

RisingKashmir 7 Nov 2026 4:41 am

Unhappy Milind Deora shoots a letter to BMC chief over event exclusion

The event was for a housing project under the Ashray Yojana; the event took place on November 6, 2026

The Hindu 7 Nov 2026 4:22 am

Wheelchair access at just 3 of 56 ASI monuments in J&K

Srinagar, Nov 06: People with disabilities visiting heritage sites in Jammu and Kashmir continue to face accessibility challenges, with only three out of 56 centrally protected monuments under the Archaeological Survey of India (ASI) having ramp facilities for wheelchair users. An ASI official told Rising Kashmir that Pari Mahal in Srinagar, the Avantiswami Temple in Awantipora and Akhnoor Fort in Jammu are the only three centrally protected monuments in the Union Territory equipped with wheelchair access facilities. The official added that several monuments are located on hilly terrain, making it difficult to provide wheelchair access at these sites. The limited availability of ramps has raised concerns among visitors and locals, who have called for immediate measures to make heritage sites accessible to persons with disabilities, elderly visitors and those with mobility-related difficulties. Locals said that historical monuments are visited by people from different age groups and backgrounds, but the absence of basic accessibility infrastructure prevents many visitors from exploring these sites. Heritage sites belong to everyone, and people with disabilities should also be able to visit and experience these historical places. It is unfortunate that wheelchair access is available at only a handful of monuments. The authorities should prioritise installing ramps and other necessary facilities, a local visitor said. Another visitor said that accessibility should be an essential part of heritage conservation and tourism development. Preserving monuments is important, but ensuring that everyone can access them is equally important. The ASI should prepare a comprehensive plan to provide wheelchair access at all protected monuments wherever technically feasible, he said. Apart from the lack of wheelchair access, several centrally protected monuments in J&K also lack basic visitor amenities, including washrooms, drinking water facilities, proper signage, lighting and parking arrangements. Officials said that only a few monuments in the valley have basic facilities for visitors. These include Pari Mahal, Shankaracharya Temple, Parihaspora monuments and a few other sites. Visitors said the absence of such facilities often makes it difficult for families, elderly people and tourists to spend time at these heritage locations. They stressed that the ASI should undertake a comprehensive assessment of all centrally protected monuments in J&K and identify the infrastructure gaps that need immediate attention. With heritage tourism gaining importance in Jammu and Kashmir, visitors said improving basic infrastructure and ensuring accessibility should be treated as an essential part of monument conservation rather than an optional facility.

RisingKashmir 7 Nov 2026 4:11 am

NCs House In (Re)Order

Farooq hints at R&B portfolio shift from Dy CM; cabinet rejig could take a year Four-MLA consultative groups for ministers discussed Additional adviser from Jammu on cards Omar offers to step aside; legislators rally behind CM, press for action Srinagar, Nov 06: The National Conference leadership moved to contain disquiet within its legislative ranks on Friday, with party president Farooq Abdullah signalling a possible redistribution of ministerial portfolios and greater involvement of MLAs in governance, even as a meeting meant to bridge differences witnessed tense moments when Chief Minister Omar Abdullah reportedly offered to relinquish office. Highly placed sources familiar with the closed-door deliberations told Rising Kashmir that the meeting, attended by Farooq, Omar and a group of NC legislators, saw the party leadership respond point by point to an eight-point memorandum outlining grievances over the government's functioning, ministerial responsibilities, political commitments and the perceived lack of consultation with elected representatives. The discussions brought several contentious issues to the table, including the Roads and Buildings (R&B) portfolio held by Deputy Chief Minister Surinder Choudhary, the demand for another cabinet reshuffle, the role of the Chief Minister's advisor and a proposed mechanism to give legislators a greater say in departmental affairs. Sources said Farooq, after hearing the legislators at length, indicated that the demand for withdrawing the R&B portfolio from the Deputy Chief Minister could be accommodated. The assurance, however, stopped short of a formal decision. Neither a change in portfolio allocation nor the identity of a possible new portfolio holder was confirmed during the deliberations, sources said. The issue had figured prominently in the memorandum, reflecting dissatisfaction among a section of legislators over the existing distribution of responsibilities in the government. On the more contentious question of cabinet expansion and reshuffle, the leadership was understood to have ruled out an immediate exercise. Sources said a possible review after three to four months was discussed, but the leadership sought a longer window, extending up to a year, to consider a broader restructuring of the Council of Ministers. No definite timeline emerged from the meeting, leaving the demand for cabinet changes unresolved despite assurances that it would not be taken off the table. In what could mark a significant departure from the existing arrangement, the leadership also discussed constituting consultative groups of four MLAs to work with individual ministers across departments. The proposed mechanism, sources said, is intended to give legislators a defined channel for raising constituency concerns, reviewing departmental priorities and participating more closely in decisions affecting their respective areas. For legislators who have repeatedly complained of being left out of administrative consultations, the proposal was seen as an attempt to narrow the distance between the elected representatives and the ministerial establishment. The functioning of the Chief Minister's advisory setup also came under scrutiny, with the MLAs raising concerns relating to Advisor Nasir Aslam Wani. Farooq, according to sources, asked the legislators to recommend one suitable name from the Jammu region for appointment as an additional advisor to the Chief Minister. During the exchange, the party president reportedly explained that appointing a sitting MLA to such a position could have implications for the legislator's Assembly membership, a consideration he cited while discussing the existing advisory arrangement. He consequently sought a recommendation from outside the legislature. The proposal remained at the discussion stage, with no appointment finalised. The most striking development, however, unfolded when the deliberations turned to criticism of the government's functioning and the difficulties faced by legislators. Sources described an emotionally charged exchange in which Omar Abdullah, apparently frustrated by the mounting grievances, reportedly stood up on three occasions and attempted to leave the meeting. At one point, the Chief Minister was understood to have told the gathering that he was under considerable pressure and would be willing to step aside if the legislators believed someone else could discharge the responsibilities of the office more effectively. He reportedly went a step further, indicating that another legislator could be chosen to head the government if that was the collective preference. The remarks prompted the MLAs to clarify that their grievances were not directed at Omar's continuation as Chief Minister. Sources said the legislators reaffirmed their support for his leadership, maintaining that the purpose of their intervention was neither to seek his resignation nor to precipitate a leadership change. Their concern, they conveyed, was that the political and administrative issues repeatedly flagged before the leadership should receive meaningful attention and translate into decisions on the ground. The exchange laid bare the strain underlying the discussions, but also underscored the distinction the legislators sought to draw between dissatisfaction with aspects of governance and opposition to the Chief Minister himself. Farooq, sources said, sought to steer the deliberations towards a workable understanding, assuring the legislators that matters requiring immediate attention would be considered on priority while more complicated questions would be addressed through further consultations. With several party MLAs absent from Friday's interaction, the NC president also indicated that a wider meeting involving the party's entire legislative group would be convened in Jammu. The proposed gathering is expected to provide an opportunity for legislators who were not part of the latest discussions to place their concerns before the leadership. Friday's meeting followed a series of consultations among NC legislators that began with a gathering at the residence of Lolab MLA Qaiser Jamsheed Lone, bringing into sharper focus unease within the ruling party over the pace and direction of governance. Those discussions culminated in an eight-point memorandum seeking time-bound implementation of the party's election manifesto, renewed efforts for restoration of statehood and special status, changes in ministerial responsibilities, stronger consultation with MLAs and organisational reforms. The memorandum also revisited commitments reportedly made during an earlier party meeting at Dachigam, with legislators maintaining that several assurances given there had yet to be acted upon. The latest intervention came against the backdrop of the recent cabinet exercise, which had already generated dissatisfaction among sections of the party's legislative wing over representation and the allocation of key portfolios. Sources indicated that while Friday's deliberations had helped ease immediate tensions, the legislators would be looking for concrete follow-through rather than another round of assurances. The possible redistribution of the R&B portfolio, the proposed four-MLA consultative arrangement and the appointment of an additional adviser from Jammu are likely to serve as early tests of the understanding reached between the leadership and the legislators.

RisingKashmir 7 Nov 2026 3:58 am

Rajatarangini enters UNESCO register

Srinagar, Nov 06: Kalhana's 12th-century Rajatarangini has been inscribed on UNESCO's Memory of the World Asia-Pacific Regional Register, with Lieutenant Governor Manoj Sinha and Chief Minister Omar Abdullah on Friday hailing the recognition as a proud moment for Jammu and Kashmir and the nation. The Rajatarangini was inscribed alongside the epic Mahabharata and Kautilya's Arthashastra, a work on governance and statecraft, officials said. The decision was taken at the 11th Session of the Memory of the World Asia-Pacific Regional Register held in Jakarta, Indonesia, the Indira Gandhi National Centre for the Arts (IGNCA) said. The IGNCA played an important role in preparing the nomination dossiers for all three works, according to an official. The Rajatarangini officially inscribed as The Manuscript of Rajatarangini by Kalhana: A Twelfth-century Chronicle of Kashmir is housed at the Oriental Research Library, Sri Pratap Singh Library Complex, Srinagar. The Birch-bark manuscript of the Mahabharata is housed at the Bhandarkar Oriental Research Institute, Pune, while Kautilya's Arthashastra is housed at the Oriental Research Institute, Mysuru. Announcing the development, PIB Culture said on X: A moment of immense pride for India! The Rajatarangini, Mahabharata and Arthashastra have been inscribed in @UNESCO's Memory of the World Asia-Pacific Regional Register, marking a historic milestone in the global recognition of India's rich civilisational heritage! Union Culture Minister Gajendra Singh Shekhawat said the inclusion was a landmark recognition of India's extraordinary documentary and civilisational heritage. These timeless works embody our rich traditions of historical inquiry, philosophical thought and statecraft, whose wisdom continues to inspire humanity, he said. In his post on X, Lieutenant Governor Manoj Sinha said, Proud moment for Jammu Kashmir & the nation! Kalhana's Rajatarangini, Mahabharata & Arthasastra have been inscribed in @UNESCO's Memory of the World Asia-Pacific Regional Register. The inclusion of Rajatarangini celebrates UT's rich intellectual heritage. This global recognition reaffirms the timeless value of India's civilisational traditions and their contribution to humanity, reminding us of our collective responsibility to preserve and promote this invaluable wisdom for future generations, he said. Chief Minister Omar Abdullah congratulated the people of Jammu and Kashmir on the inscription of the manuscript, describing the recognition as a moment of immense pride for the region as it brings global attention to its rich civilisational legacy and enduring contribution to history and literature. He noted that the manuscript is an invaluable repository of Kashmir's history, offering a remarkable account of its rulers, society, traditions and cultural evolution. Kalhana's Rajatarangini, regarded as one of the earliest systematic historical chronicles of the Indian subcontinent, holds a special place in the region's literary and intellectual heritage, he said. The Chief Minister observed that the inscription on the UNESCO regional register underscores the importance of safeguarding invaluable manuscripts and historical records for future generations, and said the recognition would further strengthen efforts to preserve, document and promote Jammu and Kashmir's cultural heritage while enhancing its visibility on the international stage. With the recognition, India's historical, literary, philosophical and political thought receives wider international acknowledgement, taking the country's total number of inscriptions in the Regional Register to six. Illustrated manuscripts of the Ramcharitamanas, a rare 15th-century manuscript containing animal fables from the Panchatantra, and the manuscript of the Sahrdayaloka-Locana were inscribed in the regional register in 2024. The official termed the inscriptions a recognition of India's knowledge traditions that contributed to human understanding of history, ethical values, philosophy, Dharma and good governance.

RisingKashmir 7 Nov 2026 3:40 am

Vanishing Wetlands, Diminishing Defences

Wetlands are among Kashmirs most valuable natural assets, yet their decline is often treated as a distant environmental concern. That is a serious mistake. From absorbing excess rainwater to sustaining birds, fish and livelihoods, these ecosystems perform work that would be costly and difficult to replace. As wetlands shrink, the region loses not only rich habitats but also a natural defence against floods and a vital part of its ecological balance. The valleys wetlands are closely connected to its water systems and communities. They hold water, help regulate its flow and support biodiversity. Seasonal and migratory birds depend on these habitats, while people whose livelihoods are linked to fishing and related activities depend on their health. Their value cannot be measured only by the land they occupy. A wetland is a living system, and damage to one part can ripple through the wider environment. Yet these spaces face mounting pressure. Encroachment, pollution, waste dumping, unplanned construction and changes to natural water channels can steadily reduce their area and capacity. Even when a wetland remains visible on a map, it may have lost much of its ability to function. Siltation and polluted inflows degrade water quality; blocked channels disrupt circulation; and building on surrounding land can narrow the space through which water naturally moves. This decline should concern every resident, not only environmental authorities. When wetlands lose their capacity to hold water, nearby neighbourhoods may become more exposed to flooding. When habitats deteriorate, wildlife and livelihoods suffer. Treating wetlands as vacant land available for expansion ignores the services they provide to the entire regionand passes the cost of their destruction on to the public. Conservation requires more than declarations and boundary markers. Authorities must establish and enforce clear protections, prevent fresh encroachments and act against dumping and pollution. Wetland boundaries should be mapped transparently, with regular monitoring and public reporting on changes in water quality, habitat and land use. Restoration must be based on scientific assessment, including the revival of natural water channels and the control of polluted inflows. Communities also have a stake in protecting these ecosystems. Residents, researchers and local organisations can help identify changes, report violations and build public understanding. But participation cannot substitute for effective enforcement. Responsibility rests with public agencies to coordinate their work and ensure that development decisions do not undermine ecological safeguards. Kashmir cannot afford to lose its wetlands one parcel at a time. Their disappearance would weaken biodiversity, livelihoods and the regions ability to manage water. Protection must therefore be treated as a public priority, not an environmental afterthought. The choices made now will determine whether these landscapes remain living safeguardsor survive only as names on a map.

RisingKashmir 7 Nov 2026 3:37 am

Disallowed Friday prayers, under house detention for 6thday: Mirwaiz

On the previous Friday, the Mirwaiz mentioned in his sermon the findings of the International Crisis Group report on Jammu and Kashmir and highlighted the concerns over political prisoners, civil liberties and the need for meaningful political engagement and reconciliation

The Hindu 7 Nov 2026 3:33 am

Preparedness Before the Emergency

Disasters rarely arrive without warning. Floods, earthquakes, landslides, avalanches and fires may strike suddenly, but the risks they create are shaped over years by planning decisions, infrastructure gaps and the readiness of public institutions. For Jammu and Kashmir, disaster management cannot remain a response activated only after damage is done. It must be a continuous public responsibility, rooted in preparedness, prevention and accountability. The regions geography makes this task especially urgent. Mountain communities face landslides, avalanches and cloudbursts; low-lying areas remain vulnerable to flooding; and earthquakes are a persistent risk. A single event can cut off roads, disrupt power and communications, damage homes and leave people without timely access to medical care. The consequences are magnified when warnings are not understood, evacuation routes are unclear or agencies work without a shared plan. Disaster management begins long before emergency crews arrive. Hazard mapping, safe land-use planning and strict enforcement of building standards can reduce exposure. Development in floodplains, unstable slopes and other high-risk zones must be guided by scientific assessment, not short-term convenience. Critical infrastructurebridges, hospitals, schools, power networks and communication systemsmust be built or upgraded to withstand foreseeable hazards. Preparedness must also reach every household. Communities need clear, locally understood warning systems and regular drills that explain where to go, whom to contact and how to help children, older people and persons with disabilities. Schools, hospitals and public offices should rehearse emergency procedures. Local volunteers, trained in first aid, search and rescue, can provide essential support during the crucial hours before outside assistance reaches isolated areas. Coordination is as important as equipment. Police, fire and emergency services, health departments, local administrations and disaster-response teams need a common operating plan, reliable communication channels and clearly assigned responsibilities. Response capacity should be reviewed before each high-risk season, with equipment maintained, supplies positioned strategically and staffing gaps addressed. After every major incident, an independent assessment should identify what worked, what failed and what must change. Climate-related hazards are making planning more complex, while rapid urbanisation and environmental pressure can deepen vulnerability. This makes accurate, accessible risk information indispensable. Public authorities should communicate warnings promptly and plainly, counter rumours and ensure that relief reaches affected people transparently and without discrimination. The measure of disaster management is not the number of meetings held or plans published. It is whether warnings reach people in time, whether buildings and services withstand shocks, and whether help arrives when roads are cut and power fails. Jammu and Kashmir needs a system that treats preparedness as everyday governance. When disaster strikes, the work done beforehand can determine whether a crisis becomes a catastrophe.

RisingKashmir 7 Nov 2026 3:20 am

Inspiring Scientific Curiosity Among Children

A child who asks questions is not creating a problem; rather, that child is taking the first step towards discovery. Every scientific achievement begins with curiosity, observation and the courage to ask why. Unfortunately, in many classrooms, children are often encouraged to remember facts and reproduce textbook answers, while opportunities to question, experiment and explore remain limited. This raises an important question: Are we preparing children merely to pass examinations, or are we preparing them to understand the world around them? As we observe 7 November, the birth anniversary of the great Indian scientist Sir Chandrasekhara Venkata Raman, popularly known as C. V. Raman, we have an opportunity to reflect on the importance of scientific curiosity in children's education. Born on 7 November 1888, C. V. Raman became one of India's most respected scientists. His remarkable discovery, known as the Raman Effect, in 1928 transformed the understanding of light scattering. In recognition of this outstanding contribution, he received the Nobel Prize in Physics in 1930. His achievement was not simply a personal success; it was a moment of pride for India and an inspiration for generations of young learners. The most valuable lesson from Raman's life is that great discoveries often emerge from simple observations. A curious mind can find extraordinary meaning in ordinary things. His journey reminds us that scientific thinking does not begin with expensive equipment or advanced laboratories. It begins when a child observes something and asks a meaningful question. The Need to Change Classroom Learning Our education system has made considerable progress in expanding access to schooling, introducing digital resources and improving educational opportunities. However, meaningful learning requires more than textbooks, examinations and classroom lectures. Children must be provided with opportunities to understand concepts through practical experiences. For example, instead of simply explaining why plants need sunlight, teachers can encourage students to observe plant growth. Instead of only describing the water cycle, they can demonstrate evaporation and condensation through simple classroom activities. Similarly, lessons on sound, light, air, soil and environmental protection can become more meaningful through observation and experimentation. Such activities develop analytical thinking, creativity, confidence and problem-solving abilities. They also help children understand that science is not a separate subject confined to textbooks; it is closely connected with everyday life. Rural Schools and Equal Opportunities The importance of scientific education becomes even greater when we discuss children studying in rural, remote and far-flung areas of Jammu and Kashmir. Many schools face challenges related to infrastructure, laboratory facilities, digital connectivity and the availability of learning resources. However, a lack of expensive facilities should never become a barrier to developing scientific thinking. Teachers can use locally available materials, environmental observations, low-cost teaching-learning materials and simple demonstrations to introduce scientific concepts. A child studying in a small village has the same right to dream of becoming a scientist, engineer, researcher or innovator as a child studying in a well-equipped urban school. Talent is not determined by geographical location or family background. What matters is the encouragement, guidance and opportunities provided to young learners. Schools should therefore focus on creating learning environments where children feel comfortable asking questions, sharing ideas and learning through practical experiences. The Role of Teachers and Parents Teachers play a significant role in developing scientific curiosity. Their responsibility should not be limited to completing the syllabus or preparing students for examinations. They must encourage children to think independently and explore different possibilities. A teacher who welcomes questions creates a classroom where learning becomes meaningful. Even when a student gives an incorrect answer, the teacher should guide the child towards understanding rather than discouraging participation. Parents also have an important responsibility. Children frequently ask questions at home about nature, technology, machines, animals and everyday activities. Instead of ignoring these questions, parents should encourage observation and discussion. A simple conversation about the moon, stars, rainfall or changing seasons can develop a child's interest in science. Scientific Temper in the Age of Technology We are living in an age of artificial intelligence, robotics, space exploration and rapid technological development. Children are increasingly exposed to digital devices and online information. However, access to information does not automatically develop scientific understanding. Young learners must develop the ability to distinguish facts from misinformation, examine evidence and think logically before accepting claims. Scientific temper is therefore not only necessary for academic success but also for responsible citizenship. The National Education Policy 2020 emphasises experiential learning, critical thinking, creativity and multidisciplinary education. These principles should be reflected in everyday classroom practices rather than remaining limited to policy documents. Science exhibitions, innovation clubs, model-making activities, nature walks, quizzes and observation-based assignments can provide students with valuable opportunities to apply their knowledge. Beyond Celebrations: Turning Inspiration into Action Remembering C. V. Raman through speeches and morning assemblies is meaningful, but his real tribute lies in developing a generation that is curious, creative and confident. On his birth anniversary, schools should encourage students to conduct simple experiments, present innovative ideas, prepare science models and discuss the scientific principles behind everyday phenomena. Such activities can transform celebrations into meaningful educational experiences. Educational authorities, school administrations, teachers and parents must work together to ensure that scientific learning reaches every child, including those studying in the most remote corners of Jammu and Kashmir. Ultimately, the future of a nation depends not only on the knowledge it possesses but also on the questions its children are encouraged to ask. C. V. Raman demonstrated that curiosity, dedication and independent thinking can bring international recognition to an individual and a nation. Let us therefore build classrooms where questions are welcomed, experiments are encouraged, and mistakes are treated as opportunities to learn. Our children do not merely need more information; they need the confidence to explore, investigate and discover. A scientifically strong nation begins with a curious child, an encouraging teacher and a classroom where asking Why? is considered the beginning of learning, not an interruption to it. (The Author is a Teacher and can be reached at: ganimudasir@gmail.com )

RisingKashmir 7 Nov 2026 3:13 am

Food Safety is a Public Trust

Food is more than a commodity. It is a daily necessity, a source of livelihood and, in Kashmir, a part of our social and cultural life. Yet the trust people place in the food they buy is not always matched by the care taken to produce, store, transport and sell it. Food safety cannot be reduced to occasional raids or seasonal checks. It is a public-health responsibility that demands steady vigilancefrom farms and factories to markets, restaurants and household kitchens. The risks are not always visible. Contamination, adulteration, improper storage and the sale of expired products may escape notice until someone falls ill. Children, older people and those already unwell are especially vulnerable. Even when an incident does not make headlines, unsafe food can quietly undermine health and confidence. That is why prevention, not reaction, must be the foundation of food regulation. In Jammu and Kashmir, food travels through a varied and often complex chain. Produce moves from orchards and fields to collection centres, transport vehicles, wholesale markets and neighbourhood shops. Packaged goods arrive through distributors and retailers. Each step creates an opportunity for food to be mishandledor for standards to be maintained. A weak link can undo the care taken elsewhere. The system therefore needs clear rules that are understood and followed at every stage, backed by inspections that are regular, fair and effective. Enforcement must be more than a display of authority. Surprise inspections and sample testing matter, but they should form part of a predictable programme that covers urban and rural areas alike. Testing facilities need the staff and capacity to produce timely, credible results. When violations are found, action should be swift and proportionate: unsafe products removed, repeat offenders penalised, and consumers informed about risks. Rules that exist only on paper offer little protection. Accountability must also reach beyond shopkeepers. Producers, processors, transporters, distributors and retailers all have a duty to protect the food they handle. Cold storage and clean transport are not luxuries when perishable goods are involved. Labelling should be accurate and legible; expiry dates should be respected; and food handlers should receive practical guidance on hygiene and safe storage. Small businesses may need support to meet standards, but assistance cannot become an excuse for repeated negligence. Consumers, too, have a role, though the burden must not be shifted onto them. People should be able to check labels, raise concerns and report suspected violations without navigating a maze of offices. Public awareness campaigns can help families recognise basic warning signs, but no consumer can test food at home or verify every step in its journey. The primary responsibility rests with those who produce and regulate the food supply. Transparency is essential to rebuilding trust. Authorities should make inspection drives, testing outcomes and enforcement actions easy to find and understand. Publishing information about recurring violations can help consumers make informed choices and encourage businesses to comply. It can also show whether enforcement is reaching the places and products where risks are highest. Without public reporting, people are left to rely on rumours, isolated incidents and word of mouth. Food safety is not an obstacle to business; it is a condition for a healthy market. Honest traders benefit when unsafe competitors are held to the same standards. Farmers and food producers benefit when quality is protected, and consumers have confidence in local products. Public institutions benefit when they act before harm occurs, rather than after preventable illness has spread. The test of food regulation is not how many inspections are announced, but whether unsafe food is kept off the table. That requires capable laboratories, trained inspectors, consistent oversight and consequences that apply to everyone. It also requires treating food safety as a shared civic priority, not a problem to revisit only after a scare. A societys relationship with food should be built on nourishment and trust. Protecting both is a responsibility the authorities, businesses and public cannot afford to neglect. (The Author is a research scholar and columnist)

RisingKashmir 7 Nov 2026 2:38 am

The Poetry of Frost: Kashmir's Winter Paradox

There is something almost brutally poetic about winter in Kashmir. It does not knock on the door; it takes possession of the landscape. Mountains disappear beneath its white dominion, rivers surrender to the cold, streets retreat into silence and ordinary life begins its annual negotiation with nature. From a distance, the Valley resembles a masterpiece painted by an invisible artist. Up close, however, the canvas tells a more complicated story: one of beauty, endurance, isolation and survival. Kashmir in winter is a paradox: a paradise to behold, a test to endure. Perhaps no literary metaphor captures this contradiction better than C.S. Lewis's The Lion, the Witch and the Wardrobe. In Narnia, the White Witch condemns the land to an endless winter, where snow becomes an instrument of desolation and hope seems perpetually postponed. Kashmir's winter, thankfully, is not eternal. Yet its severity often blurs the distinction between a picturesque season and an unforgiving ordeal. The question is not merely when the snow will melt, but how gracefully people navigate the months before it does. Then comes the familiar warning from Game of Thrones: Winter is Coming. In Kashmir, these words carry an almost seasonal inevitability. Winter is not an approaching mystery but an annual visitor, anticipated, celebrated and occasionally dreaded. It is majestic, but never entirely merciful. Yet to describe Kashmiri winter merely through its hardships would be to overlook its extraordinary cultural poetry. The pheran becomes more than clothing; it becomes a winter institution. The kangri, with its modest charcoal fire, is a pocket of civilisation against the tyranny of the cold. The samovar presides over conversations, while steaming cups of noon chai transform ordinary evenings into ceremonies of belonging. Around the hamam, stories travel across generations. Outside, the snow falls. Inside, memory keeps the fire alive. Perhaps Kashmir's greatest winter paradox is that when nature grows colder, human warmth becomes more precious. There is an unmistakable cinematic grandeur to snow-covered Gulmarg, a mist-laden Pahalgam morning and the frozen margins of Dal Lake. One could almost imagine a wardrobe door opening onto Narnia. But Kashmir needs no borrowed mythology to establish its magic. Its mountains, forests, streams and villages possess an aesthetic language of their own. Even silence seems to acquire an accent here. Winter also offers something increasingly scarce in our hurried civilisation: the permission to pause. In an age governed by notifications, deadlines and perpetual motion, the Valley invites a different relationship with time. Roads grow quieter, evenings longer and conversations deeper. Winter reminds us that not everything meaningful needs to move; sometimes, stillness itself is a form of wisdom. But romance must never become an excuse for complacency. The beauty of snowfall must be matched by the seriousness of preparation. Responsible tourism, environmental protection, reliable electricity, accessible healthcare, road connectivity and community participation are essential to making winter both beautiful and humane. The mountains may belong to nature, but protecting the people who inhabit them is our responsibility. Perhaps that is the real measure of a Kashmiri winter: not how much snow falls, how spectacular the photographs appear or how many tourists arrive, but how well society rises to the demands of its harshest season. Eventually, spring will return. Snow will retreat from rooftops, streams will reclaim their voices and orchards will exchange their white silence for blossoms. Yet winter will refuse to disappear entirely. It will survive in photographs, in the fragrance of burning charcoal, the taste of noon chai, stories around the hamam and the peculiar nostalgia that follows the departure of something both beautiful and unforgiving. Perhaps spring gives Kashmir its colours, but winter gives it its soul. And therein lies the mystery of this Valley: winter may freeze its rivers, silence its streets and whiten its mountains, but it cannot freeze the human warmth that makes Kashmir unforgettable. (The Author is a freelance Columnist and writes on various issues. He can be reached at: fidahumairawrite@gmail.com)

RisingKashmir 7 Nov 2026 2:24 am

Deepawali in an Age of Discord: Can the Light of Tradition Rekindle the Dying Spirit of Humanity?

HAPPY DEEPAWALI Festivals are not merely occasions to celebrate, exchange greetings, illuminate homes or observe rituals inherited from our ancestors. They are moments of collective reflection, opportunities to reconnect with our cultural roots and reminders of the values that give meaning to human existence. Deepawali, one of the most cherished festivals of Indian civilisation, carries within its luminous traditions a message that becomes particularly significant in times of uncertainty, social fragmentation and moral decline. At a time when the world appears increasingly troubled by chaos, disrespect, selfishness, instability, political divisions and growing distances between people, one is compelled to ask: What does the celebration of Deepawali mean to us today? Does it still possess the power to illuminate our lives, or have we reduced it to an annual ritual of lights, festivities and material display? The significance of Deepawali perhaps becomes greater when the world around us seems to be losing its moral direction. We live in an age of extraordinary technological advancement, yet human relationships appear increasingly fragile. Communication has become instantaneous, but meaningful conversations are becoming rare. We are connected through countless digital platforms, yet emotionally distant from one another. Families share spaces but often struggle to share time; friends exchange messages but sometimes fail to understand each other's silences. Society, which once drew strength from mutual trust, compassion and collective responsibility, increasingly finds itself divided by individual interests, ideological differences and an unhealthy competition for recognition. In such circumstances, Deepawali should not remain merely a festival of external illumination. It should become an occasion to examine the darkness that has gradually entered our collective consciousness. The traditional significance of Deepawali lies in the triumph of light over darkness, knowledge over ignorance and good over evil. The return of Lord Rama to Ayodhya after fourteen years of exile and his victory over Ravana symbolise the restoration of righteousness and the triumph of moral strength over arrogance and injustice. The people of Ayodhya illuminated their homes and streets to welcome their beloved king. The lighting of lamps was therefore not simply an expression of celebration; it was an expression of collective happiness, faith, belonging and hope. The entire community participated in welcoming the return of righteousness. There was a shared sense of joy, and the light belonged to everyone. Perhaps this collective spirit is what contemporary society needs most urgently. Today, our differences frequently appear greater than our common interests. Political affiliations have entered personal relationships, ideological disagreements have weakened friendships, and social identities are sometimes used to create divisions rather than understanding. We have become increasingly intolerant of opinions that do not correspond with our own. Instead of engaging in meaningful dialogue, we often choose confrontation, ridicule and rejection. Respect for disagreement, which is essential to a healthy democratic society, is gradually giving way to hostility. Deepawali, with its universal message of the victory of good over evil, reminds us that righteousness cannot be confined to political camps, religious identities or individual interests. It must find expression in our conduct, our relationships and our treatment of fellow human beings. The tragedy of our times is not merely that society is divided; it is that we are becoming increasingly comfortable with these divisions. Selfishness is often mistaken for ambition, insensitivity for strength and material success for achievement. The desire to move ahead has become so overwhelming that we sometimes forget the importance of taking others along. We measure people by their possessions, positions, influence and social standing rather than by their character and conduct. The elderly, who once occupied a place of affection and respect within families, sometimes find themselves struggling for attention. Children grow up in environments where material comfort is given greater importance than emotional nourishment. Neighbours who once shared their joys and sorrows increasingly remain strangers despite living beside one another for years. What, then, is the relevance of lighting a lamp if we remain indifferent to the suffering of those around us? What is the meaning of invoking Goddess Lakshmi, the symbol of prosperity, if our understanding of prosperity is limited to wealth, luxury and accumulation? The traditional association of Deepawali with abundance was never intended to promote greed. Prosperity was meaningful when accompanied by generosity, humility, gratitude and the willingness to share. True wealth lies not merely in what we possess but in what we contribute to the lives of others. A household may be decorated with expensive lights and ornaments, yet remain impoverished if its members have lost affection, patience and mutual respect. The changing character of our celebrations also deserves reflection. Dhanteras, once associated with welcoming prosperity and well-being, has increasingly become an occasion for conspicuous consumption. Deepawali itself is often judged by the grandeur of decorations, the value of gifts and the extravagance of celebrations. The humble earthen diya, which once represented simplicity and faith, is frequently overshadowed by elaborate electrical displays. There is nothing inherently wrong with modern decorations or the comforts that prosperity brings. The concern arises when outward splendour becomes more important than the inner purpose of the festival. We may illuminate every corner of our homes, but unless we illuminate our thoughts and actions, the essential message remains unfulfilled. Another disturbing feature of contemporary life is the weakening of trust. Relationships that once rested on sincerity and emotional commitment are increasingly influenced by expectations, convenience and personal advantage. We often remain connected as long as our interests are served, but the moment circumstances change, the warmth of relationships begins to disappear. Forgiveness has become difficult, patience increasingly uncommon and humility an overlooked virtue. Even within communities, the spirit of collective responsibility is weakening. People are quick to celebrate individual achievements but often reluctant to acknowledge the struggles and accomplishments of others. Deepawali offers an opportunity to repair these emotional distances. Its message of renewal encourages us to move beyond old grievances, reconsider strained relationships and extend the hand of friendship. A lamp does not discriminate between the people who gather around it. Its light is available to everyone. This simple truth carries a profound lesson for humanity: goodness becomes meaningful when it is inclusive. We cannot claim to celebrate the triumph of light while allowing hatred, prejudice and resentment to dominate our interactions. The present political and social environment makes this message even more relevant. Political differences are natural in a democracy, and disagreement is an essential element of public life. However, political competition should never become a reason for social hostility or the destruction of mutual respect. Governments may change, political ideologies may differ, and public opinions may evolve, but the fundamental bonds of society must remain intact. Unfortunately, political polarisation has increasingly influenced social relationships, creating unnecessary suspicion and bitterness. We must remember that political differences are temporary, whereas the values of humanity, fraternity and mutual respect are enduring. Deepawali should remind us that the larger interests of society must always rise above narrow considerations. There is also a deeper spiritual dimension to the festival. The darkness that Deepawali asks us to overcome is not confined to the external world. It resides within us in the form of ego, anger, greed, jealousy, intolerance and the desire to dominate others. Ravana, in the traditional narrative, was not merely a powerful adversary of Lord Rama; he also represents the dangers of unchecked ego, arrogance and the misuse of power. His knowledge and strength could not save him because they were disconnected from righteousness. The symbolism remains relevant in an age when intellectual achievements, professional positions and material success sometimes encourage a sense of superiority rather than responsibility. The real victory over Ravana must therefore begin within ourselves. Perhaps the greatest challenge before contemporary humanity is to rediscover the balance between material progress and spiritual well-being. Development is necessary, technology is indispensable and prosperity is desirable. But none of these can substitute for compassion, integrity and emotional sensitivity. A society may build impressive infrastructure and achieve remarkable economic growth, yet remain spiritually impoverished if its people lose the ability to care for one another. The progress of civilisation must ultimately be measured not only by what humanity creates but also by how humanely it lives. Deepawali also invites us to remember the importance of family and cultural continuity. In the hurried rhythm of modern existence, festivals provide rare opportunities for generations to come together, share memories and pass on traditions. The fragrance of sweets prepared at home, the familiar voices of relatives, the lighting of diyas and the warmth of collective prayers create memories that remain with us long after the celebrations end. These traditions connect us with our childhood, our ancestors and the cultural inheritance that shapes our identity. Preserving them does not mean resisting change; it means ensuring that progress does not make us forget the values that have sustained us. For those who have experienced displacement, separation from ancestral homes and the loss of familiar surroundings, festivals carry an even deeper emotional significance. They awaken memories of places, people and traditions that may no longer be physically accessible, yet continue to exist within the heart. The light of a diya can become a bridge between the present and the past, reminding us that cultural memory cannot be extinguished by distance or adversity. In this sense, Deepawali is also a celebration of belonging, continuity and the resilience of the human spirit. As another Deepawali arrives, perhaps we need to redefine the manner in which we celebrate it. Let us make it an occasion to restore conversations within families, extend respect to elders, embrace children with affection, reach out to neglected neighbours and share our blessings with those who cannot afford elaborate celebrations. Let us learn to disagree without becoming disrespectful, to succeed without becoming arrogant and to prosper without becoming indifferent to the struggles of others. Let us also recognise that the smallest gesture of kindness may sometimes illuminate a life more meaningfully than thousands of decorative lights. Ultimately, the significance of Deepawali in the present age lies in its ability to remind us of what we are in danger of losing. It is a festival that asks us to pause amid the noise of existence and examine the quality of our lives. Its message is not that darkness will never descend upon humanity, but that we must never surrender to it. Every individual has the capacity to become a source of light through honesty, compassion, tolerance and selfless conduct. The world does not need more artificial illumination as much as it needs enlightened human beings. It needs fewer walls of hatred and more bridges of understanding; fewer expressions of arrogance and more gestures of humility; fewer battles of ego and more efforts towards reconciliation. If Deepawali can inspire us to bring even a little of this change into our personal and collective lives, its celebration will acquire a meaning far greater than the festivities surrounding it. This Deepawali, let us therefore light not only the lamps outside our homes but also the lamps of conscience within our hearts. Let the light reach those relationships that have grown cold, those minds that have become intolerant and those corners of society where despair has replaced hope. Let us celebrate the festival not merely by welcoming prosperity into our homes but by allowing humanity to return to our lives. For, in the final analysis, Deepawali is not about how brightly our homes shine for one evening; it is about how much light we are willing to carry into the lives of others throughout the year. That is the real triumph of light over darkness, and perhaps the most meaningful celebration of Deepawali in our troubled times. Happy Deepawali! (The Author is RK columnist and can be reached at: Feedback: sanjaypanditasp@gmail.com)

RisingKashmir 7 Nov 2026 2:09 am

Tiger Shroff firing case: Accused claims to be minor, court orders age verification within 15 days

The court extended the police custody of Phool Singh and four other accused until November 11, while the remaining seven were remanded to judicial custody

The Hindu 7 Nov 2026 2:08 am

West Bengal election is not legally valid:Former CEC S.Y. Quraishi

The former top poll official alsoreinstated thatthe Election Commission of Indiais supposed to makedecisions based on a majority

The Hindu 7 Nov 2026 1:57 am

AIP questions leaders silence over Er Rashids detention

Srinagar, Nov 06: Awami Itihaad Party (AIP) Chief Spokesperson Inam Un Nabi on Friday questioned the silence of several Indian political leaders over the continued incarceration of Baramulla MP Er Rashid, contrasting it with their reactions to the election of an Indian-origin senator in the United States. Referring to statements by AIMIM president Asaduddin Owaisi, Congress spokesperson Surendra Rajput, Samajwadi Party spokesperson Ashutosh Verma and others, Inam said political leaders had shown considerable enthusiasm over the US electoral development but had largely failed to demonstrate similar solidarity with an elected representative from Jammu and Kashmir. There is nothing wrong with acknowledging the achievement of an Indian-origin politician in America, but democracy cannot be a matter of convenience. The continued incarceration of an elected MP in our own country should deserve equal concern, he said in a statement. Inam questioned whether the concern shown by political leaders for democratic representation was universal or influenced by geography and political convenience. He said the people of Baramulla Parliamentary Constituency had elected Er Rashid through the democratic process and that their mandate deserved to be respected. The AIP reiterated its demand for consistent political attention to Er Rashids incarceration and called for respect for the democratic rights of his constituency.

RisingKashmir 7 Nov 2026 1:53 am

Ladakh steps up anti-drug crackdown, seizes narcotics

Leh, Nov 06:- Ladakh Police and the Anti-Narcotics Task Force (ANTF) have intensified their campaign against drug trafficking, conducting a series of operations across Leh, Kargil, Drass, Nubra and other parts of the Union Territory between June and November 2026. Data accessed by Rising Kashmir from police records shows multiple seizures during the period, including heroin, charas, ganja, suspected cocaine/MDMA and thousands of psychotropic tablets. A key concern emerging from the operations is the suspected use of air travellers to transport narcotics into Ladakh. On October 27, ANTF recovered 3.5 grams of a heroin-like substance from a passenger at Kushok Bakula Rimpochee Airport in Leh. Preliminary investigation indicated that the substance had allegedly been sent from Chandigarh for delivery through an air traveller who may have been unaware of the arrangement. Earlier, on October 19, Police Station Leh recovered 21.02 grams of heroin from a 21-year-old passenger arriving from Delhi. Police records described it as the largest heroin seizure in Ladakh to date. Investigators are examining the suspected movement of narcotics from outside the Union Territory and their alleged distribution locally. On November 3, a joint team of ANTF Kargil and Police Station Kargil intercepted a vehicle coming from the Srinagar side at Bypass Bridge and recovered three grams of heroin and 92 grams of ganja. Three persons were identified in connection with the case. On November 6, ANTF recovered another three grams of heroin from a Choglamsar resident at Leh-Phyang Road. October also saw several seizures across the region. Police recovered 10.36 grams of a heroin-like substance near Basgo, around 30 grams of a charas-like substance in Kargil, 81 grams from a rented accommodation in Drass and 91 grams during night patrolling in the same area. In another major recovery, ANTF seized 6,146 Spasmo and Alprazolam tablets during a search operation at Choglamsar on October 1. Other operations led to the recovery of 12.20 grams of heroin from two youths at SNM Hospital in Leh and 13.13 grams of a heroin-like substance from a person working at a hair salon in the town. Kargil Police also arrested two persons in a separate heroin-related case. Earlier, on September 3, ANTF intercepted a vehicle at Phyang Police Check Post during naka checking and recovered a packet suspected to contain heroin. In another operation, police arrested a 24-year-old Israeli national at a checkpoint and recovered 104 grams of a charas-like substance, 16 grams of a ganja-like substance and a negligible quantity of a heroin-like substance. Ladakh Police have urged residents, particularly young people, to stay away from drugs and share credible information about narcotics-related activities with law enforcement agencies.

RisingKashmir 7 Nov 2026 1:42 am

Congress vows to continue fight against vote chori

Akhnoor, Nov 06: JKPCC president Tariq Hameed Karra has asserted that the Congress would continue its fight to ensure free and fair elections and safeguard every citizens right to vote, saying the party would not allow any attempt to undermine democracy in the country. Addressing a Congress gathering at Akhnoor on Friday, organised by newly appointed Chairman of the JKPCC Scheduled Caste Department, Ashok Bhagat, Karra said the efforts of Leader of Opposition Rahul Gandhi had exposed various alleged modes of vote chori by the BJP-led government through Chief Election Commissioner Gyanesh Kumar. He claimed that more than 13 crore people had been deprived of their right to vote so far and alleged that the Modi government had indulged in large-scale electoral manipulation over the past several years, which had now been brought to light. Karra said the right to vote was the most precious right of every citizen in a democracy, but alleged that the BJP was attempting to take it away. He asserted that the Congress and like-minded forces would not allow such practices to continue. Referring to the recent rally against vote chori in Delhi, he said it had reflected the mood of people across the country. He urged party workers to continue exposing what he described as the BJPs attempts to take away the rights of ordinary citizens. Karra said restoration of statehood remained the main agenda of the J&K Congress, alleging that the BJP had taken away the statehood status of Jammu and Kashmir along with other significant rights of its people. He said people were suffering in the absence of statehood. Congratulating Ashok Bhagat on his appointment, Karra recalled his contribution during the Assembly elections and said he had been elevated in the party to represent the voice of the downtrodden and oppressed sections of society. He said Bhagats academic knowledge and administrative experience had also been considered while assigning him the responsibility. JKPCC Working President Raman Bhalla, while addressing the gathering, raised the issue of the proposed railway connectivity project to Rajouri-Poonch via Akhnoor and Sunderbani, which has been awaiting clearance for more than 13 years. Questioning the BJPs stand on the project, Bhalla criticised the delay and said the failure to take up the important railway link had ignored the needs of a vast area, particularly the border belt. He described Ashok Bhagat as an intelligent and hardworking leader with strong grassroots connections and praised the PCC president and the Congress high command for selecting the right person for the position. Bhalla also said people were caught between two power centres in the absence of statehood and asserted that the Congress would not rest until statehood was restored to Jammu and Kashmir. Former minister Mula Ram criticised the BJP, alleging that its policies had deprived poor and downtrodden sections of their rights while subjecting people to unprecedented price rise and unemployment. He also accused the party of electoral manipulation, saying the poor and the youth were suffering under the present regime.

RisingKashmir 7 Nov 2026 1:38 am

Ganderbal Police promote emergency helpline

Ganderbal, Nov 06: With the aim of ensuring that people know how to seek immediate assistance during emergencies, Ganderbal Police on Friday launched an awareness drive across the district to familiarise residents, students and other stakeholders with the Emergency Response Support System (ERSS) and its emergency helpline Dial 112. As part of the campaign, police personnel displayed awareness posters at prominent public places and educational institutions, including schools, while informative pamphlets were also distributed among the general public to spread awareness about the emergency response facility. The initiative focused on educating people about the importance of Dial 112, a single emergency helpline through which citizens can seek police and other emergency assistance whenever they find themselves in distress or face an emergency situation. Students, locals and other stakeholders were sensitised about the availability and functioning of the helpline and urged to remember and use the number whenever immediate assistance is required. Through the district-wide initiative, Ganderbal Police aims to bridge the information gap, encourage timely reporting of emergencies and strengthen coordination between the public and emergency response services. Police have also appealed to people to remain aware of emergency facilities and use Dial 112 responsibly whenever the need arises.

RisingKashmir 7 Nov 2026 1:28 am

Poonchs unexplored tourist spots await infrastructure push

Poonch, Nov 06:- Despite its scenic landscapes and vast tourism potential, several picturesque destinations in Poonch district continue to remain underdeveloped, with residents alleging a lack of attention from the government and concerned departments. Locals said the absence of basic tourist facilities at these destinations was discouraging visitors and preventing the district from tapping its tourism potential. They pointed out that while several tourist spots in the Kashmir Valley had witnessed development and promotion, many equally scenic locations in Poonch were yet to receive the required infrastructure. The district is home to several unexplored destinations, including Pir Ki Gali, Noori Chamb, Shah Sitar, Nahrian, Rangawar, Sarri Mangian, Aangan Pathri, Sultan Pathri, Nandi Chhool, Arai Base Camp, Jabi Toti, Than Peer and Doda Peer, spread across Mandi, Surankote and other areas. However, residents said many of these places lacked essential facilities such as accommodation, food outlets, public conveniences, drinking water, proper road connectivity and signboards, making visits difficult for tourists. They said visitors travelling from different parts of Jammu and Kashmir often faced difficulties in finding suitable places to stay, eat or access basic amenities, limiting the scope for longer visits. Residents maintained that developing these destinations could also create employment opportunities for local youth, particularly those living in remote and far-flung areas. They said tourism-related activities such as homestays, hotels, restaurants, transport services and local businesses could strengthen the district's economy and provide sustainable livelihoods. They urged the Jammu and Kashmir Government, Lieutenant Governor, Tourism Department, MLA Haveli Ajaz Ahmed Jan and the District Administration Poonch to prepare a comprehensive tourism development plan to bring unexplored destinations onto the tourism map. The residents called for the identification and development of tourism circuits, improved road connectivity, accommodation, sanitation, drinking water facilities and effective publicity to attract visitors throughout the year. They expressed hope that the authorities would take concrete measures to promote Poonch's lesser-known destinations, saying focused investment in tourism could boost the local economy while creating much-needed employment opportunities for youth.

RisingKashmir 7 Nov 2026 1:28 am

Kangan hospital gets new patient ticket counter

Ganderbal, Nov 06: Patients visiting Trauma Hospital Kangan are set to get relief from overcrowding and long queues, as a new ticket counter worth Rs 6.50 lakh is nearing completion and is expected to become operational soon. The facility, funded through Block Development Council (BDC) grants by Block Kangan, has achieved nearly 95 per cent completion and is in its final stage. Sources said that once completed, the facility will be inaugurated by MLA Kangan Mian Mehar Ali. The new arrangement is aimed at streamlining patient registration, reducing congestion and ensuring a smoother process for people visiting the hospital. A major highlight of the facility is a separate ticket counter for elderly patients, who often face difficulties standing in long queues amid the rush. Medical Superintendent Trauma Hospital Kangan, Dr Nazir Ahmad, said the existing arrangement had been creating difficulties for patients, particularly elderly people, due to congestion and limited space. He said the hospital administration took the initiative to address the issue and utilised the available space to establish a more organised ticketing facility. Earlier, patients, including elderly people, faced several difficulties because of congestion. We have now made arrangements to ensure that men and women can be accommodated separately, while a dedicated space has also been identified for elderly patients, Dr Nazir Ahmad said. He also expressed gratitude to MLA Kangan Mian Mehar Ali for taking up the demand and supporting efforts to improve healthcare facilities in the area. BDO Kangan Sheikh Saifullah said around 90 to 95 per cent of the construction work had been completed, adding that the project was initiated following demands from the public and a formal proposal from the hospital administration. He said approximately Rs 6.50 lakh had been allocated from BDC grants for the project, with the primary objective of reducing overcrowding and improving patient convenience. The new ticket counter will significantly help decongest the hospital. It will make the registration process smoother and help patients obtain tickets within a stipulated time, the BDO said. He added that efforts were also underway to strengthen healthcare infrastructure in Block Kangan, stating that an endoscopy facility had been provided to improve healthcare services in the area. Meanwhile, locals have hailed the joint efforts of MLA Mian Mehar Ali, BDO Kangan and the Medical Superintendent, saying the new facility will provide much-needed relief to patients, particularly elderly people, and help improve the overall functioning of the hospital. They expressed hope that the facility would be made operational at the earliest, benefiting the large number of patients visiting Trauma Hospital Kangan.

RisingKashmir 7 Nov 2026 1:20 am

Black curtains on autos under traffic police scanner

Srinagar: In a move aimed at strengthening passenger safety and addressing security concerns, Traffic Police City Srinagar on Friday conducted a special enforcement drive against auto-rickshaws fitted with black curtains and opaque window coverings. The drive was conducted under the supervision of SSP Traffic City Srinagar, Bisma Qazi, along with her team, during which action was taken against drivers found using black curtains and unauthorised coverings that obstruct visibility inside auto-rickshaws. Speaking to Rising Kashmir, SSP Bisma Qazi said the enforcement action was primarily being carried out from a security and passenger-safety perspective, emphasising that opaque black curtains create visibility gaps and make it difficult to monitor activities inside vehicles. Our primary concern is the safety of passengers. We asked drivers to remove these black coverings. Some drivers cited the onset of winter and cold weather as a reason for keeping them. We advised them to install transparent sheets instead, so that the interior remains visible from both inside and outside, she said. Qazi appealed to auto-rickshaw drivers to avoid using opaque black curtains, adding that transparent sheets could provide protection from cold weather without compromising visibility. She also raised concerns over overloading in auto-rickshaws, warning that carrying passengers beyond the permitted capacity increases the risk of accidents, particularly during winter when slippery road conditions can make vehicles more vulnerable to losing balance and overturning. Highlighting the impact of the department's road-safety initiatives, the SSP said traffic police were simultaneously focusing on enforcement and public awareness to improve road discipline across Srinagar city. Alongside enforcement drives, we are also conducting awareness programmes in schools, colleges and universities to sensitise students and the general public about road safety, she said. She added that through sustained enforcement, awareness campaigns and public outreach, the department was gradually witnessing a visible improvement on the ground, including a decline in road accidents in Srinagar city. The Traffic Police reiterated its appeal to auto-rickshaw operators to follow prescribed safety norms, avoid overloading and refrain from using opaque coverings that compromise passenger visibility and safety.

RisingKashmir 7 Nov 2026 1:16 am

NMC issues advisory on fraudulent medical colleges

Srinagar, Nov 6: The National Medical Commission (NMC) has cautioned students, parents and public against falling prey to fraudulent medical institutions offering MBBS without obtaining mandatory recognition, approval or permission from the competent regulatory authorities. In an advisory, the NM asked students and parents to verify the authenticity and regulatory status of medical colleges before seeking admission. The commission said it had received information about certain institutions offering medical and allied courses without obtaining the requisite approvals. It warned that students and parents could be misled through advertisements, websites, social media promotions, unauthorised admission offers and false representations made by institutions, agents or intermediaries. The advisory follows directions issued by the Supreme Court of India in an ongoing case titled Ayesha Jain v. Amity University, Noida and Others, in which the court took cognisance of the issue and directed regulatory bodies, including the NMC, to caution students and parents against dealing with educational institutions without first verifying their authenticity. The directions were issued in the context of a reported instance of a purported fake medical college operating from a farmhouse and claiming to offer various courses. In compliance with the court's directions, the NMC has laid down a series of precautions for students and parents to prevent fraudulent admissions and financial losses. The commission has specifically advised MBBS aspirants to check whether a medical college figures in the official list of medical colleges published on the NMC website and whether it has obtained the requisite permission or approval for the relevant academic year. It has clarified that the mere presence of a college in the official list or its previous operation does not automatically mean that it is authorised to admit students. Students have been asked to independently verify the permission status, course and number of approved seats for the relevant academic year through official records of the NMC and its Medical Assessment and Rating Board (MARB). The commission has also warned against relying exclusively on brochures, prospectuses, websites, advertisements, social media posts, purported Letters of Permission, approval letters and certificates circulated by institutions or their representatives. Any doubt regarding the authenticity of such documents, it said, should be clarified directly with the concerned regulatory authority through its official communication channels. On the admission process, the NMC has advised candidates to follow prescribed counselling procedures and verify the institution and seat allotted through the official counselling authority, including the Medical Counselling Committee (MCC), wherever applicable, or the competent State or Union Territory counselling authority. The advisory stresses the need to physically assess the institutional premises and facilities, particularly where colleges make extraordinary claims about medical education, clinical training, hospital infrastructure and admission opportunities. The commission has clarified that the existence of a building, office, website or advertisement alone does not establish that an institution is legally authorised to impart medical education. On financial transactions, students and parents have been advised not to make admission-related payments to unauthorised agents, personal bank accounts or unverified intermediaries. It has further stated that representations made by agents or institutions cannot substitute for verification of statutory permissions and compliance with the prescribed admission procedure. The NMC has also underlined the distinction between different regulatory approvals, clarifying that affiliation, registration, recognition or approval granted by one authority for a particular purpose cannot be construed as permission from the commission to conduct an MBBS course. Requirements of every competent regulatory authority must be independently fulfilled. The advisory further provides for reporting suspected fraudulent institutions, unauthorised MBBS courses, forged permission letters, fraudulent admission offers and misleading representations to the NMC through its official website and communication channels. Such cases may also be brought to the notice of the concerned State or UT Department of Medical Education, competent regulatory authority and local police, as appropriate. Complainants have been advised to preserve advertisements, payment receipts, correspondence, website details and other supporting material while reporting suspected fraud.

RisingKashmir 7 Nov 2026 1:11 am

Three friends, one mission to give walnuts a new identity

Srinagar, Nov 05: What began as an idea to build something of their own has turned into an effort to give Kashmirs walnuts greater value. Three young friends from Handwara have launched a walnut butter venture, linking local farmers with new markets while creating livelihood opportunities at home. After completing their studies in agriculture, the trio identified as Arfaat Rasool Malik, Raja Shoaib and Mohammad Faizan , initially considered moving outside Kashmir in search of jobs. However, recognising the potential of walnuts grown in the Kupwara district, they decided to establish their own venture and contribute to the local economy. Their startup, Fame Farm, produces walnut butter, a nutritious spread marketed as an omega-3-rich product. With growing awareness about healthy diets and nutrition, their product is gradually reaching customers in different parts of the country. Explaining the idea behind the venture, the founders said walnuts are among the most important cash crops in Kashmir, but farmers often struggle to get fair prices, particularly for broken walnuts. We bring farmers on board and have entered into buy-back arrangements with five farmers. Broken walnuts, which earlier fetched them around Rs 100 to Rs 200 per kilogram, are now purchased at better rates. This helps farmers sustain their livelihoods and manage their orchards, said Arfaat Rasool Malik. The founders said their aim is to build a community around walnut cultivation and ensure that local growers benefit from the value addition of their produce. Walnut is one of the most important cash crops here. We thought of starting something at the grassroots level that could benefit farmers, generate employment for local people and create opportunities for ourselves as well, said Raja Shoaib. The startup purchases walnuts directly from local farmers, reducing their dependence on distant mandis and middlemen. The team is also working with growers in rural Kupwara, guiding them on better cultivation practices, proper tree care and ways to improve the quality of their produce. Apart from supporting farmers, the venture has created employment opportunities, particularly for local women. Employees are involved in handling online orders, billing, packaging and other operations. Mohammad Faizan said the team was focused on taking a locally produced product to wider markets through modern production methods, packaging and digital platforms. The founders said their website and social media platforms have helped them receive orders from outside Jammu and Kashmir, expanding the reach of their walnut-based product. The initiative comes at a time when Jammu and Kashmir remains India's leading walnut-producing region. During 2024-25, India produced over 3.22 lakh metric tonnes of walnuts. Through their venture, Arfaat Rasool Malik, Raja Shoaib and Mohammad Faizan are attempting to connect traditional walnut farming with modern food processing, while creating local employment and better market opportunities for farmers.

RisingKashmir 7 Nov 2026 1:02 am

Periyar Arivulagam books row: political leaders raise concern over allegations, call for action

Kamal Haasan demands the immediate withdrawal of the fake books from all libraries. M.H. Jawahirullah wants the formation of an independent committee to examine all books procured for the public library. Others, including Anbumani Ramadoss and K. Annamalai, want the government to take up a thorough investigation of the allegations

The Hindu 7 Nov 2026 12:53 am

Special Public Prosecutors appointed to conduct trial in POCSO Act cases against Veeramani

Veeramani and his associates are facing seven cases under the POCSO Act and one case of abetment to suicide of a minor

The Hindu 7 Nov 2026 12:52 am

T.N. govt. enhances compensation for various categories of human-wildlife conflict

The compensation for major injuries or partial disability resulting in 20% to 60% incapacitation for humans, duly certified by the District Medical Officer or a constituted medical board, has been increased from 59,100 to a maximum of 5 lakh

The Hindu 7 Nov 2026 12:47 am

Sailor killed in Gulf as Iran says tankers on fire

The Marshall Islands-flagged tanker Velos Sapphire was sailing to Bahrain empty of cargo when the attack happened on November 5, Velos Tankers said in a statement

The Hindu 7 Nov 2026 12:40 am

Chief Medical Officer of Health, Purba Medinipur Recruitment 2026

Office of the Chief Medical Officer of Health, Purba Medinipur, Department of Health and Family Welfare has released Notification No. CMOH/PbMd/AYUSH/6829 for 12 vacancies, including Multi Purpose Worker and Yoga Instructor posts. Eligible candidates can apply online at wbhealth.gov.in from 07 November 2026 to 04 December 2026.

FreeJobAlert 7 Nov 2026 12:40 am

Students urged to explore opportunities beyond conventional career paths

Students must take ownership of their careers, identify their strengths, and continuously upgrade skills to succeed in an evolving professional landscape, say speakers at a career seminar organised by The Hindu FIC

The Hindu 7 Nov 2026 12:24 am

Dog takes Metro ride from Anna Nagar to Koyambedu

It entered Anna Nagar Tower station through exit staircase; guards not posted at some exit points, says a source; staff travelled with the dog and got it out of the train at Koyambedu station

The Hindu 7 Nov 2026 12:23 am

12 of family injured in fire caused by CNG leak in M.P.'s Orchha; two of them critical

Scrap dealer Khalil had purchased a CNG cylinder from someone and was trying to dismantle it to extract brass and other metals when the gas leaked out of it and sparked a fire

The Hindu 7 Nov 2026 12:23 am

The struggle for justice is indivisible

From Panna to Delhi, the fight against displacement and disenfranchisement has a common thread a struggle against state repression and the systematic erosion of a citizens constitutional rights

The Hindu 7 Nov 2026 12:18 am

Demonetisation and the health costs of cash shortages

Research shows the hidden public health costs of Indias demonetisation and the importance of liquidity

The Hindu 7 Nov 2026 12:15 am

Demonetisation and the health costs of cash shortages

Research shows the hidden public health costs of Indias demonetisation and the importance of liquidity

The Hindu 7 Nov 2026 12:15 am

TVK MLAs horse trading claim: former Madurai Deputy Mayor P.M. Mannan arrested, released on bail

Based on Madurai Central TVK MLA Mustafas complaint of horse-trading bid, CCB registers case under Prevention of Corruption Act, 1988 and for criminal conspiracy and Mr. Mannan, now with the AIADMK, was picked up for inquiry.

The Hindu 7 Nov 2026 12:13 am

TVK MLAs horse trading claim: former Madurai Deputy Mayor P.M. Mannan arrested, released on bail

Based on Madurai Central TVK MLA Mustafas complaint of horse-trading bid, CCB registers case under Prevention of Corruption Act, 1988 and for criminal conspiracy and Mr. Mannan, now with the AIADMK, was picked up for inquiry.

The Hindu 7 Nov 2026 12:13 am

Young and fast: on F1s youngest champion

As F1s youngest champion, Kimi Antonelli can attract a new generation of fans

The Hindu 6 Nov 2026 11:59 pm

DVAC books Duraimurugan in illegal sand mining case

The former Minister has been cited as the first accused in the multi-crore scam, which was flagged by the ED; searches in 34 locations across the State have uncovered 825 incriminating documents

The Hindu 6 Nov 2026 11:55 pm

Officials told to make fool proof arrangements for CII Partnership Summit

CII Partnership Summit will be held on November 12 and 13 at the Andhra University Engineering College grounds in Visakhapatnam

The Hindu 6 Nov 2026 11:20 pm

Watch: SIR row: ECI to re-issue enumeration forms to those off draft rolls | Above the Fold | Nov 6, 2026

Voters who failed to submit their Enumeration Forms during the SIR will now be able to do so, the Election Commission has said. What does this mean for the ongoing revision of electoral rolls?

The Hindu 6 Nov 2026 11:10 pm

Watch: SIR row: ECI to re-issue enumeration forms to those off draft rolls | Above the Fold | Nov 6, 2026

Voters who failed to submit their Enumeration Forms during the SIR will now be able to do so, the Election Commission has said. What does this mean for the ongoing revision of electoral rolls?

The Hindu 6 Nov 2026 11:10 pm