Residents in villages along the banks of Palar River in Vellore have been urged to avoid crossing the river and those in low-lying areas have been told to relocate to government-run shelter homes or other safer places away from the riverbank.
Police Commemoration Day: TN CM Vijay honours personnel who died in the Line of Duty
Anish Gawande says CJP leaders may move to Supreme Court if Delhi HC wont hear case
Watch: Trump says France-like protests will never happen in the U.S.
U.S. President Donald Trump refers to the protests in France during a rally, saying similar unrest will never happen in the United States. He also urges voters to support Republicans in the midterm elections, asking them to pretend Im on the ballot.
Only followers of 'Sanatan Dharma' will touch Durga idols during immersion: Suvendu
I have instructed the CP to keep the identification of those who will be involved in carrying the idols into the Hooghly. Those who follow 'Sanatan Dharma' will touch the idols. There is no communal matter in it, says Suvendu Adhikari
Hyderabad to host Korean cultural festival on October 25; K-pop band NTX a major attraction
Telanganas traditional Perini dance and Dappulu alongside Korean traditional and contemporary art forms part of performances
Riteish Deshmukh makes Telugu debut in Ram Pothinenis new film
Actor Riteish Deshmukh joined the Hyderabad schedule of the neo-noir Telugu film, which also marks Ram Pothinenis debut as a director
Parvinder Singh Jhota: Who was the anti-drug activist, why was he killed
Known for raising his voice against the illegal sale of addictive substances at chemist shops, Jhota was shot in broad daylight inside a medical store at a busy marketplace in Punjabs Mansa
Delhi minister Kapil Mishra burns cockroach effigy during Dussehra in Ramleela event
During Dussehra celebrations in Delhis Pitampura on October 20, BJP leader and Delhi minister Kapil Mishra set fire to a 30-foot-tall cockroach effigy alongside the traditional effigies of Ravan, Kumbhkaran, and Meghnad.The Shri Keshav Ramlila Committee (NSP Pitampura) organized the burning of the cockroach effigy, a decision led by the committees president and BJP MLA Ashok Goel.
UDF using political power to target SFI leaders in Kozhikode: CPI(M)
Non-bailable sections under the BNS were invoked against SFI district leaders related to a campus incident, says CPI(M) district secretariat
Teppotsavam on temple tank marks end of Dasara festivities at Srisailam
The Goddess appears as Sri Bhramaramba Devi on the last day of the festival
Bengaluru: Sewage overflow during rains causes mass fishkill at Siddapura lake
According to locals, only a year ago the lake was restored after a plantation drive, and the water body, since then, had been in healthy condition until now.
1,000 police deployed for Devaragattu banni festival in Kurnool district
More than 300 sticks are seized in cordon and search operations in villages around Devaragattu
Getty Images begins Chapter 11 proceedings to restructure debt
The US photography company expects to complete its financial restructuring by the end of the year and become privately held
U.S. envoy to meet Putin after 'positive' talks with Zelenskyy
The trip by President Donald Trump's special envoy is part of efforts to draw a line under a bitter feud between him and Zelenskyy over the war with Russia
What is the Darbar Move in Jammu and Kashmir?All about the 150-year-old practice
Darbar Move is an over 150-year-old Dogra-era practice of shifting the State capital of Jammu and Kashmir biannually.
Northeast monsoon gathers momentum in Tamil Nadu; unleashes another round of downpours over Chennai
The spell of wet weather is expected to continue till October 26, 2026 with a low pressure area forming over southwest Bay of Bengal off Tamil Nadu during early hours of October 21
It also states that materials have surfaced during the investigation disclosing that monies collected as party fund were handed over to the Minister
Delhi High Court agrees to urgently hear pleas by CJP's Das, Ranka and AISA's Neha
Saurav Das and Ashutosh Ranka have assailed the SEM's October 19 order remanding them to two days' judicial custody in the High Court, which is shut this week due to Dussehra vacation
U.K. govt. approves drilling in Jackdaw gas field
The Labour administration promised when returning to power in 2024 not to issue any new oil and gas drilling licences as it steers Britain away from fossil fuels towards cleaner renewable energy.
Dasara 2026: With poojas and processions, Mysuru gears up for grand finale
Prashantha to carry golden howdah for the first time; over 6,000 police personnel deployed
SC sets aside Kerala HC order in CMRL payoff case, stays FIR probe for 7 days
The Supreme Court clarified that it had made no observations on the merits of the FIR. It also refrained from expressing any opinion on the validity of a subsequent Enforcement Case Information Report (ECIR) registered against the petitioners
Trump says companies should pay 'dividend' to communities to make data centres popular
Data centres fueling the rise of AI have become a political flashpoint in communities across the country given the high quantities of water and power they require, with opposition uniting voters across ideological lines
Yellamma: First look of Devi Sri Prasad from his acting debut out
The film, written and directed by Venu Yeldandi, is set to release in theatres on March 5, 2027
ChatGPT users can lock their chats as OpenAI rolls out new privacy feature
OpenAI said that locked chats were available on the ChatGPT Free, Go, Plus, Pro, Business, Enterprise, and Edu offerings
All you need to know about: Lymphatic drain massage
A properly-done lymphatic massage could, over sessions, possibly reduce swelling and clear up clogs in the lymphatic drainage and reactivate absorption by the nodes. While the risks from a lymph massage are few, therapists usually avoid doing it for people who have blood clots, or deep vein thrombosis, heart disease, and cellulitis
Trump says India-US trade deal is near, Rubio flags few issues left
Three taken into custody for stabbing two police personnel in Kochi
Renault introduces hybrid Duster SUV at 16.99 lakh
French automaker eyes 3 to 5% market share in India by 2030.
Lava launches Aura Curve 5G for mid segment buyers in India
Aura Curve 5G ships with a 6,000 mAh battery and supports up to 45W charging while comes with a 33W charger in the box
Thunderstorms likely in Nellore, Tirupati on October 21; heavy rain forecast on October 2
Andhra Pradesh received 59% less rain than normal between October 1 and 20, the IMD says
SEBIs SME IPO reforms offer a financing choice as rates rise
Looser listing norms and tougher profitability tests could help established small firms tap equity at a time when the RBI is turning hawkish
Watch: Italys Meloni approves tougher measures to crack down on protests after Milan riots
Rupee rises 29 paise to 94.62 against U.S. dollar in early trade
The rupee got a boost from the foreign dollar inflows tied to the Jio IPO, which opened for public subscription, according to analysts
Who are Delhi Polices cyber commandos tracking bomb threats and fake videos on social media?
From tracing digital footprints left by hoax bomb threat senders to tracking cryptocurrency in digital arrest scams and flagging AI-generated videos, the specialised team is bringing advanced technical skills to complex police investigations.
Jio Platforms' IPO fully subscribed in 100 minutes of opening, marks fastest-ever subscribed offer
The issue stays open until October 23. It is set to exceed Hyundai Motor India's 27,870 crore 2024 IPO and become India's largest by value
Sensex, Nifty rally up to 1% in early trade on IT stocks, firm global cues
The 30-share BSE Sensex jumped 822.64 points, or 1.11%, to 74,675.54 in the morning trade and the 50-share NSE Nifty advanced 217.65 points, or 0.95%, to 23,106.60
How the U.S. crackdown on skilled migrant workers could hurt its economy
The Trump administrations crackdown on skilled foreign workers ignores the benefits they bring into the U.S. economy
Pink booths, empty posts: DU women students question safety near colleges
Irked By Fight Over Mobile, Karnataka Man Rams Truck Into Friend's Scooter, 2 Dead
The incident occurred near a petrol pump in Mangaluru on Monday evening.
What are the deal contours of India-New Zealand FTA?
The latest Free Trade Agreement to come into force has several advantages for India in terms of trade, investment, and the mobility of students, while protecting Indias sensitive sectors
No frills, the true Avadi story
The story of Avadis transformation from a pastoral retreat to a major defence hub, and the myth surrounding its name
Tiger Shroff firing: How secret weapon delivery and a phone call exposed the shooters escape route
From month-long surveillance and an earlier attempt at a weapon delivery involving two women, investigators have uncovered details of the planning and coordination behind the October 18 firing targeting Bollywood actor Tiger Shroff
Parvinder Singh Jhota murder case: CBI takes over probe, team reaches Punjabs Mansa
Forensic experts, drug controllers and other experts are also reaching Mansa shortly, according to the CBI
Schools In Chennai, Nearby Districts Closed Due To Heavy Rain, Flood Risks
Schools closed in Chennai and nearby districts due to heavy rainfall and flood risks
Albanian police clash with anti-government protesters for eighth day
Prime Minister Edi Rama called it a hybrid war and accused protesters of holding Tirana under a climate of terror, as student demands over tuition fees merged with a broader anti-government movement
Canadian unity or separation: why did Alberta province hold a referendum?
The support from the referendum will boost Carneys ambitions to get a major pipeline out of Alberta that he hopes could revive the economy
Tamil Nadu rains LIVE: Schools declare holiday in Chennai, four other districts
A fresh system, over the Bay of Bengal, is likely to sustain intense rainfall across Tamil Nadu till October 26, the Regional Meteorological Centre (RMC) said
No Additional Cables Required for Smart Meter Installation, Clarifies KPDCL
Srinagar, Oct 21 : Kashmir Power Distribution Corporation Limited (KPDCL) on Wednesday clarified that consumers are not required to purchase additional cables as a mandatory condition for smart meter installation, maintaining that the project provides necessary installation cables, including additional lengths wherever technically required. The clarification followed Jammu and Kashmir Peoples Conference (JKPC) president and Handwara MLA Sajad Lone's allegation that consumers were being forced to pay between ?4,000 and ?5,000 for additional cables to get smart meters installed, imposing an extra financial burden on poorer households. In a statement, KPDCL said existing service lines remain the responsibility of consumers under applicable electricity regulations, but replacement or upgradation of service cables is optional and cannot be made a condition for installing smart meters. No consumer should be compelled to purchase cables or incur unnecessary expenses for smart meter installation, KPDCL said, reiterating its commitment to transparent, hassle-free and consumer-friendly implementation of the smart metering programme. The corporation urged consumers to report any instance of being compelled to purchase cables or incur unnecessary expenses to the concerned authorities for appropriate action.(KNS)
Missing Rafiabad girl traced with help of technical, human intelligence: Police
Baramulla, Oct 21 : The 15-year-old girl from Rafiabad, who went missing after appearing for her Class 10 board examination, was traced safely in Srinagar district on Wednesday, officials said. A police officer told the news agencyKashmir News Observer (KNO) that the girl was traced with the assistance of technical and human intelligence and efforts had been underway to establish her whereabouts following her disappearance on October 19. He said the girl, identified as Uzma Irshad, a resident of Laiser village in Rafiabad went missing after appearing for her examination at Government Higher Secondary School, Dangiwacha. According to her family, the girl left the examination centre and reached Watergam village, after which her whereabouts became unknown, he said. The officer said her disappearance prompted the family to appeal to the public for assistance. The matter also drew attention on social media, with people sharing her photographs to help trace her. On Wednesday morning, following her safe recovery, the family appealed to social media users to delete her photographs and refrain from sharing them further, urging them to respect the minors privacy. The family also expressed gratitude to the public, well-wishers and everyone who extended support during the search.(KNO)
For parents of adults with autism, planning for future with little State support, takes a toll
In thousands of families with special needs children, parents are haunted by the question: who after me?. There is an urgent need for better support for caregivers and facilities for those with special needs, say parents and experts
India, U.S. trade deal to be much different: Donald Trump
Speaking to reporters at the Oval Office on Tuesday (October 20, 2026), Mr. Trump said India and the U.S. were pretty close to making a trade deal
Delhi govt. finds lapses in hygiene, cleanliness at sweet manufacturers
Chief Minister Rekha Gupta said the Delhi Governments citizen-centric approach places public health, safety, and welfare at its core
Telangana Food Safety Authority Suspends Sahil Foods Licences Over Hygiene
During the inspections, officials found that some food categories manufactured at the premises were not covered under the units' FSSAI licences.
France arrests man, calls in anti-terror police over town hall protest fire
Anti-terror police have been called in to investigate the suspected arson of the town hall in the central city of Limoges, a listed building dating back to 1883 whose roof and belfry collapsed when it was engulfed by fire on October 17
DC Kulgam attends Dussehra celebrations at K.P. Colony Vessu
Kulgam, Oct 20: Vijayadashami (Dussehra) was celebrated on Tuesday with great enthusiasm and religious fervour at K.P. Colony, Vessu. On the auspicious occasion, Deputy Commissioner Kulgam, Shahzad Alam, visited the colony and took part in celebrations with the residents. He also extended heartfelt greetings to the people. Besides, the DC also inspected the ongoing infrastructure development works and took stock of the progress being made. He also interacted with the residents and listened to their various issues and concerns. The Deputy Commissioner assured the residents that their genuine concerns would be looked into by the concerned authorities. As part of the Dussehra celebrations, a prize distribution ceremony was organised for children to encourage their participation and recognise their talent. The celebrations culminated with the traditional burning of the effigy of Ravana by a large gathering of colony residents, symbolising the victory of good over evil. Vessu Welfare Committee expressed its gratitude to the Deputy Commissioner for visiting the colony, reviewing the ongoing development works, and interacting with the residents. The Committee also conveyed its warm greetings to all residents on Vijayadashami, emphasising the values of truth, righteousness, unity, brotherhood, and humanity.
NATO sending planes, radars to Black Sea after drone attacks
The announcement from NATO came after Bulgaria's Prime Minister Rumen Radev said that a U.S. military plane had started to patrol the Black Sea following a plea for help after recent drone attacks
DC Poonch reviews waste remediation work
Poonch, Oct 20: Deputy Commissioner Poonch Ashok Kumar Sharma, accompanied by Additional Deputy Commissioner Tahir Mustafa Malik on Tuesday visited the waste remediation site in Poonch to review the progress of ongoing solid waste management initiatives. During the visit, Chief Executive Officer Municipal Council Khalil A. Banday briefed the Deputy Commissioner on the progress achieved at the site, informing him that more than 12,000 metric tonnes (MT) of legacy waste have been remediated as part of the ongoing efforts to improve sanitation and environmental conditions in the town. The CEO also apprised the officers of the measures being undertaken to strengthen solid waste management practices, with special emphasis on household-level waste segregation to ensure the proper separation of wet and dry waste at the source. The Deputy Commissioner reviewed the ongoing remediation work and stressed the importance of public participation in maintaining cleanliness and promoting sustainable waste management practices. He appealed to the people of Poonch to extend their full cooperation to the Municipal Council by segregating wet and dry waste at the household level, avoiding littering and ensuring proper disposal of waste. He emphasized that effective waste management is a shared responsibility and that the active involvement of every household is essential for achieving a cleaner and healthier environment. Household-level segregation also facilitates better waste processing, recycling and scientific disposal, thereby reducing the burden on waste management facilities. The Municipal Council Poonch reiterated its commitment to improving sanitation services, promoting source segregation and ensuring the scientific management of solid waste. The general public was urged to actively support these initiatives and adopt responsible waste disposal practices. The initiative reflects the continued efforts of the District Administration and Municipal Council Poonch towards building a cleaner, greener and more sustainable Poonch through effective waste management and community participation.
Dussehra celebrated with devotion in Bhaderwah
Bhaderwah, Oct 20: Dussehra was celebrated with great religious fervour, devotion and enthusiasm here, marking the triumph of good over evil and commemorating Lord Ramas victory over the demon king Ravana. Traditionally, Dussehra celebrations in Bhaderwah have been held at Sehri Bazaar. However, keeping in view space constraints and changing developmental requirements, major celebrations have also been organised at the New Bus Stand, Kotli, Bhaderwah, providing space for the gathering of devotees and the smooth conduct of the festivities. The highlight of the celebrations was the burning of large effigies of Ravana and his associates, which were prepared by specialised artists. The effigies were set ablaze amid fireworks and traditional arrow-shooting rituals performed by participants portraying Lord Rama, creating an atmosphere of religious devotion and festive enthusiasm. A large number of devotees, locals and visitors participated in the celebrations, reflecting Bhaderwahs rich cultural heritage and longstanding religious traditions. The occasion also served as a reminder of the enduring message of righteousness, truth and the ultimate victory of good over evil. MLA Bhaderwah Daleep Singh Parihar, Additional Deputy Commissioner (ADC) Sunil Kumar Bhutyal, Additional Superintendent of Police, Sub-Divisional Police Officer, Station House Officer and other officers of the civil administration, police and concerned departments were also present on the occasion. The ADC, in coordination with the police and other concerned departments, ensured comprehensive arrangements for the smooth and peaceful conduct of the celebrations. Necessary measures were put in place for security, traffic management, sanitation and the uninterrupted supply of power and drinking water to facilitate the public.
DC Srinagar participates in Dussehra celebrations, Bhandara at Magarmal Bagh
Srinagar, Oct 20: On the occasion of Dussehra, celebrated with great reverence, which symbolizes the victory of good over evil, a devotional Bhandara celebrations were organised at Kali Mata Mandir Magarmal Bagh with all fervor and rituals. Deputy Commissioner (DC) Srinagar, Akshay Labroo also paid a visit to the Mandir and participated in the Hawan and bhandara. The event witnessed the presence of devotees from various parts of the district and paid their reverence at the temple. The bhandara was also organized with devotees coming together at the temple to mark the festival. The gathering highlighted the importance of traditions and community participation in celebrating this auspicious occasion of Dusherra.
Shillong, Oct 20: If Paul Lyngdoh is to be believed, he left UDP because he was denied mutual respect. The statement, made after submitting his merger letter to Speaker Thomas A. Sangma to join NPP, sums up the internal decay of Meghalayas oldest regional party. Lyngdoh, along with Renikton Lyngdoh Tongkhar and Nujorki Sungoh, joined [] The post Inside UDPs collapse: Respect, rift and a one-man party first appeared on Highland Post .
54 Bn CRPF holds grand Bhandara at Gupt Ganga Temple Complex on Navratri
Srinagar, Oct 20: Prioritising social harmony alongside national security, the 54 Battalion of the Central Reserve Police Force (CRPF) undertook a commendable community initiative on Tuesday on the auspicious occasion of Navratri. The battalion organized a grand community feast ('Bhandara') at the historic Gupt Ganga Temple Complex (Nishat, Srinagar), which saw enthusiastic participation from local residents, security personnel, and members of the academic community. The spiritual and community event was formally inaugurated by Shri Ravi Prakash, Commandant of the 54 Battalion, alongside Dr. Paresh Gotpagar, AC Shri Ashwani Kumar, and other senior officers and jawans, who began the proceedings by respectfully distributing 'Prasad' to the devotees. The hallmark of this event was the dignified presence of people from diverse walks of life. The event was attended by esteemed faculty members from Sher-e-Kashmir University of Agricultural Sciences and Technology (SKUAST), including Prof. Khokhar and Prof. Gautam, along with a large number of university students who partook in the Prasad. Concurrently, local residents from the Nishat area actively participated in the Bhandara, presenting an unbreakable example of peace, goodwill, and mutual brotherhood in the region. Addressing the gathering on this occasion, Commandant Ravi Prakash said, The core mission of the CRPF is not just to provide security, but also to work hand-in-hand with the local populace to build a strong and harmonious society. The holy festival of Navratri teaches us the values of unity and selfless service, and today's Bhandara is a reflection of that very solidarity. The local residents and guests present highly appreciated this heartwarming gesture by the 54 Battalion CRPF and expressed their deep gratitude to the force. The entire event concluded in an atmosphere filled with immense joy, piety, and flawless discipline.
Eviction notices to vendors on Shillong-Dawki Road; replies under scrutiny
Shillong, Oct 20: The East Khasi Hills district administration has served eviction notices to vendors allegedly encroaching on the Shillong-Dawki Road at 4th Mile and 7th Mile. Deputy Commissioner Abhilash Baranwal said the replies of the vendors are being examined and the administration will sit with the National Highways and Infrastructure Development Corporation Limited (NHIDCL) [] The post Eviction notices to vendors on Shillong-Dawki Road; replies under scrutiny first appeared on Highland Post .
DC Kupwara finalizes action plan under Aspirational Block Program for Keran
Kupwara, Oct 20: Deputy Commissioner (DC) Kupwara, Abhishek Sharma on Tuesday convened a meeting of district and sectoral officers to formulate a comprehensive Action Plan under the Aspirational Block Programme (ABP) for the border block of Keran. During the meeting, threadbare deliberations were held on key developmental parameters, civic amenities, livelihood generation, and tourism infrastructure aimed at transforming Keran into a model block. Addressing the officers, the DC emphasized that developmental interventions must cover every village within the block and be based on ground-level need analysis to deliver tangible, outcome-oriented results. Focusing on the visual and ecological profile of the area, the DC instructed the line departments to renovate all government buildings across the block to create. He further directed officers to proactively institute scientific waste management systems to safeguard the local environment, alongside installing proper street lighting, standardized signages, and ensuring regular maintenance and upkeep of existing public assets. To tap the border regions scenic potential, the DC stressed the identification and development of additional tourist attractions and directed the Chief Executive Officer, Lolab-Bangus-Drangyari Development Authority (LBDDA), to collaborate with relevant departments to explore landscape development and aesthetic enhancement throughout the block. Concluding the meeting, the DC directed all participating departments to submit their sector-specific, need-based proposals without delay so that a consolidated, outcome-oriented Action Plan can be finalized for prompt execution. The meeting was attended by Chief Executive Officer LBDDA Farooq Ahmad Baba, Assistant Commissioner Revenue (ACR) Peerzada Mumtaz Ahmad, District Programme Officer (DPO) ICDS Aijaz Ahmad, Chief Planning Officer (CPO), along with senior officers and engineers from Education, Health, Public Works (PWD), National Rural Livelihoods Mission (NRLM), and Youth Services & Sports (YSS).
Aided schools seek relaxation in enrolment norm for grant-in-aid
Shillong, Oct 20: The Meghalaya School Welfare Development Association has decided to seek relaxation in enrolment criteria under the grant-in-aid scheme and reiterated its demand for enhancement of teachers salary. The decision was taken at a general meeting of aided and unaided permitted and recognised schools of Khasi and Jaintia Hills held at Khasi National [] The post Aided schools seek relaxation in enrolment norm for grant-in-aid first appeared on Highland Post .
Navaratri: A Sacred Odyssey from Divine Veneration to Inner Transformation
By Prof. Dr. Jayadeba Sahoo Salutations again and again to the Goddess who abides in all beings in the form of power. This timeless invocation invites humanity to recognise the sacred potential of power, dignity and virtue. Prologue: The Resplendent Grandeur of Navaratri Navaratri, literally signifying nine nights, is one of Indias most spiritually evocative [] The post Navaratri: A Sacred Odyssey from Divine Veneration to Inner Transformation first appeared on Highland Post .
Let Children Connect, But Keep Them Safe
The Supreme Court has said children also have a fundamental right to use the internet. In a 137-page order on October 15, a bench of Justices J B Pardiwala and K Vinod Chandran said the internet is not a luxury anymore. It is the biggest source of information, ideas, learning and expression. For adults, it [] The post Let Children Connect, But Keep Them Safe first appeared on Highland Post .
CEO SSCL inspects Lal Chowk, directs repairs to Smart City Assets
Srinagar, Oct 20: Reaffirming the focus on sustained maintenance of Smart City assets and improved public convenience, Dr. Basharat Qayoom, Chief Executive Officer, Srinagar Smart City Limited (SSCL), conducted a late-night inspection of Srinagars Central Business District (CBD) on Monday, covering Ghanta Ghar, Sheikh Bagh Car Parking and mechanised car parking facility at Lal Chowk. The inspection aimed to assess the condition of civic infrastructure and public amenities developed under the Smart City Mission, identify maintenance gaps and ensure prompt corrective action. During the inspection, Dr. Basharat directed the concerned officers to address identified deficiencies on priority, initiate necessary repairs and restoration measures without delay, and ensure the timely completion of pending works, with particular emphasis on illumination, parking management and the functionality of public conveniences. At Lal Chowk, the CEO directed regular maintenance and timely repair of streetlights, illumination systems and faade lighting to maintain the areas visual appeal and ensure adequate illumination. At Sheikh Bagh, he instructed the concerned officers to restore and maintain the community sanitary complex near the car parking facility and expedite the completion of the public convenience facility on the first floor, ensuring that both facilities are made operational for public use. He further directed the officers to examine the feasibility of an alternative access route at Sheikh Bagh Car Parking to streamline vehicular movement and ease congestion. At the mechanised car parking facility in Lal Chowk, the concerned officers were instructed to undertake necessary repairs and restore the high-mast lighting system to ensure adequate illumination. Emphasising the need for sustained upkeep of Smart City assets, Dr. Basharat called for regular field inspections, preventive maintenance and swift resolution of operational deficiencies. He directed the concerned officers to closely monitor the progress of corrective works and ensure that all public facilities remain functional, accessible and properly maintained. The inspection underscores SSCLs commitment to asset sustainability, reliable public services and citizen-centric urban management, ensuring that infrastructure developed under the Smart City Mission continues to serve the people of Srinagar efficiently and effectively. The CEO was accompanied by the Chief Engineer, SSCL; Superintending Engineer, Drainage Circle, SMC; Executive Engineer, SSCL; and other officials of SMC and SSCL.
Editor, The recent news article of your esteemed daily photography exhibition themed: Discover Jaintia: Natures own land, which was held at Thlumuwi on the Jawai- Dawki road near Amlarem has drawn our attention. The enthusiastic participation of students from nearby educational institutions and tourists from West Bengal and other parts of the country in the [] The post Jaintia Hills: The Hidden Gem first appeared on Highland Post .
IEA chief sees little chance of oil market 'normalisation' next year
The war sparked by the attacks has sent oil prices to over $100 a barrel compared with below $70 a barrel before hostilities began, while damage to Gulf refineries has helped push diesel prices to record highs
Delhi Police transfers second case against Das, Ranka to Crime Branch
The Crime Branch will now investigate two cases against the CJP leaders. The other case linked to Mr. Das and Mr. Ranka allegedly entering the Jantar Mantar area was transferred to the Crime Branch
21-Year-Old Stabbed Multiple Times At Park In Delhi: Cops
After receiving information, police reached the spot, with senior officers also visiting the park in northeast Delhi, while a forensic team was called in to collect evidence.
Here is a select list of stories to start the day
Tamil Nadu rain: Schools in Chennai, four other districts declare holiday
The weather stations in Meenambakkam and Nungambakkam recorded 12 cm and 11 cm of rainfall respectively, followed by Taramani (10 cm) Madhavaram (9 cm), Villivakkam and Nandanam (8 cm)
Rubio says India-U.S. trade deal close, urges New Delhi to boost U.S. energy, defence buys
The Ministry of External Affairs (MEA) said both sides welcomed the progress made in negotiations on the India-U.S. Bilateral Trade Agreement and reaffirmed their commitment to working towards its early conclusion
Musk ordered reduction in Starshield services for Ukraine: report
Kyiv last week reported restrictions to the service, which it sees as crucial to fending off Moscow's invasion, shortly after Trump criticised Ukraine and urged it to stop targeting Russian oil refineries.
Left parties should sell books from party offices, not at Durga Puja pandals, says West Bengal CM
The remarks by the Chief Minister, Suvendu Adhikari, come at a time after a section of leaders of his own party condemned attacks on the book stalls set up by the Left parties at Durga Puja pandals
Two arrested for possessing a country-made gun in Namakkal
Cricket: Bavuma battles adversity to put South Africa in control
The captain produced a defiant display and showcased his batting skills as South Africa recovered from a precarious 110-6 in the morning session on the third day to declare on 425-9 before taking an Australian wicket prior to stumps, an emphatic response to their heavy defeat in last weeks first test
Harmanpreet Kaur rediscovers her mojo as India sweep series
J&Ks biomedical waste mounts as 9.34 tonnes generated daily
Srinagar, Oct 20: As hospitals, diagnostic laboratories, clinics and other healthcare establishments across Jammu and Kashmir generate more than nine tonnes of biomedical waste every day, a major regulatory compliance gap has emerged, with 6,725 healthcare facilities operating without applying for the mandatory authorisation, according to the annual report of the Jammu and Kashmir Pollution Control Committee (JKPCC). The report, covering January to December 2025, puts the total number of healthcare facilities and other occupiers at 9,028 across the Union Territory, including 4,710 in Jammu and 4,318 in Kashmir. Of these, 6,725 facilities were listed as operating without applying for authorisation under the biomedical waste management framework. The figure includes 3,587 facilities in Jammu and 3,138 in Kashmir, the report reveals. The findings highlight the scale of the regulatory challenge in managing waste generated by the healthcare sector, where improper handling, segregation, storage, transportation or disposal can expose sanitation workers, healthcare staff and the public to infectious and hazardous materials. Biomedical waste includes contaminated dressings, pathological waste, laboratory materials, sharps such as needles, and other waste generated during medical diagnosis, treatment and research. Its safe management requires segregation at source, appropriate treatment and disposal through authorised systems, it states. The report, however, does not establish that every facility operating without authorisation has improperly disposed of its waste. The figures point to a substantial compliance gap that requires regulatory attention. According to the report, Jammu and Kashmir generated 9,342.77 kg of biomedical waste per day during 2025. Kashmir accounted for 7,252.77 kg daily, compared with 2,090 kg in Jammu. Bedded hospitals generated 7,652.564 kg per day, while non-bedded hospitals and other listed establishments accounted for 1,690.29 kg daily, it reads. The figures underline the importance of ensuring that waste from large hospitals, smaller clinics, diagnostic centres and laboratories enters an authorised collection and treatment chain. The report records three common biomedical waste treatment facilities in operation across the Union Territoryone in Jammu and two in Kashmir. Another facility was listed as under construction in Jammu. These common facilities treated a reported 8,926 kg of biomedical waste daily. In areas where common treatment facilities were unavailable, 416.606 kg per day was reported as being treated through deep burial at healthcare facilities, it said. The report also records 1,733.391 kg of treated biomedical waste being disposed of through authorised recyclers each day. The treatment figures broadly correspond with the reported daily generation, although the totals show a small numerical difference that would require clarification from the Committee. The report records 2,303 applications for authorisation, including 1,123 from Jammu and 1,180 from Kashmir. Of these, 1,006 authorisations were reported as granted, while 786 applications remained under consideration. Another 511 applications were listed as rejected, not granted or having shortcomings. The figures indicate that authorisation and compliance monitoring remain important areas for regulatory action, particularly given the number of establishments listed as operating without applying. The Committee reported issuing 730 show-cause notices or directions to healthcare facilities595 in Jammu and 135 in Kashmir. One direction was recorded against a common biomedical waste treatment facility. The report also lists closure orders against defaulters, although the district-wise figures in the available text require reconciliation before a definitive total can be quoted. On infrastructure and capacity-building, the Committee reported conducting 555 workshops or training programmes during the year. It also recorded 154 effluent or sewage treatment plants among occupiers, comprising 84 in Jammu and 70 in Kashmir. The report further lists 111 common biomedical waste treatment facilities or installations with continuous online emission monitoring systems, including 70 in Jammu and 41 in Kashmir. The findings place the focus on the need to bring healthcare establishments within the authorisation framework, strengthen inspections and ensure that biomedical waste is segregated, collected, treated and disposed of in accordance with prescribed norms. With 9.34 tonnes of biomedical waste generated daily across Jammu and Kashmir, the challenge is not merely to expand treatment capacity but to ensure that every healthcare establishment follows the rules governing the waste it produces.
Interns across J&K hospitals strike again over stipend
Srinagar, Oct 20: Medical interns across Jammu and Kashmir hospitals have resumed their strike demanding an increase in their monthly stipend, alleging that the government has failed to issue a formal order despite repeated assurances. On Tuesday, interns at various medical colleges across the Union Territory held a candlelight march, reiterating that they would continue their agitation until the government issued a written order implementing the stipend hike. President of the All India Medical Students Association (AIMSA), Dr Mohammad Momin Khan, said the interns wanted the government to issue the formal order without further delay. No written order, no end to the strike, Dr Khan said, adding that repeated assurances from the authorities had failed to inspire confidence among the protesting interns. The agitation intensified after the expiry of the stipulated 30-day period without the issuance of the promised government order Referring to government record notes dated September 4 and 9, 2026, the interns said the authorities had committed to finalising the matter within 30 days but had failed to meet the deadline. The protesting interns maintained that the issue was no longer about holding meetings or receiving assurances but about implementing a commitment that had already been made in writing. Dr Khan said the interns appreciated the confirmation regarding the proposed stipend enhancement but stressed that the association could not call off the agitation solely on the basis of an announcement. He said the interns had received similar assurances in the past and were now seeking a formal government order clearly specifying the implementation of the enhanced stipend. On September 8, the Jammu and Kashmir Government had stated that the stipend of MBBS and BDS interns, who had been on strike for more than a week, would be finalised within a month based on the recommendations of the Stipend Enhancement Committee. The assurance came after a delegation of medical interns from various medical colleges across J&K met Minister for Health and Medical Education Sakeena Itoo and sought an enhancement in their monthly stipend. However, the interns had initially rejected the proposed one-month timeline and continued their agitation, insisting that the enhancement be formally notified through a government order. The interns have been demanding an increase in the monthly stipend paid during their one-year mandatory internship after completing their MBBS or BDS degrees. In July last year, the Health Minister had stated that the stipend would be increased very soon and that the file was under process. Since then, medical students and associations have repeatedly raised the issue with the authorities, pointing out that the stipend had not been revised for the past seven years. The matter was also raised in the Jammu and Kashmir Legislative Assembly in February 2026. The government had acknowledged that a committee constituted in 2023 had recommended an enhancement, but the proposal was still awaiting the required financial concurrence.
Iran security chief rejects moving enriched uranium out of country
Not even a tiny bit of enriched nuclear material will leave Iran; such materials constitute a major asset and national wealth for the Iranian people, intended for use within the country, says Mr. Rezaei, Iran's secretary of the Supreme National Security Council
Darbar Move: Offices to reopen in Jammu on Nov 2
Srinagar, Oct 20: The Jammu and Kashmir government has ordered the annual Darbar Move from Srinagar for the winter season 2026-27, with all offices scheduled to reopen in Jammu on November 02, 2026. According to the order issued by Commissioner Secretary to the Government, M. Raju, accessed by Rising Kashmir, offices observing a five-day week will close in Srinagar after office hours on October 30, while those following a six-day week will close on October 31. The order provides for two categories of offices moving to Jammu: those moving in full and those moving in camp. All departments of the Civil Secretariat will move to Jammu in full including Chief Ministers Secretariat; Personal Staff of Advisor to Chief Minister; Department of Civil Aviation; Civil Secretariat Dispensary; Security Staff of the Civil Secretariat; Civil Secretariat Treasury; Executive Director, Rehabilitation Council (Social Welfare Department); Accounts Officer, G.P. Fund Moving Cell; Financial Commissioner, Revenue (including Joint Director, Statistics in camp); Principal Chief Conservator of Forests, J&K; Chief Electoral Officer, J&K; Director, Youth Services & Sports; Director, Information, J&K; Director, Motor Garages; Director, Hospitality & Protocol Department, with catering staff; Director General, Accounts & Treasuries; Director, Employment, J&K; Director, Forest Protection Force; Director, Skill Development, J&K; Director, Forest Research Institute; Director, Tribal Affairs; Labour Commissioner, J&K; Custodian General, J&K; Transport Commissioner, J&K; Chief Executive Officer, J&K e-Governance Agency; Project Director, AIDS Control Society; J&K Board of Technical Education; J&K Advisory Board for the Development of Pahari Speaking People; J&K Water Resources Regulatory Authority; J&K Advisory Board for the Development of Gujjars & Bakerwals; One Man Forest Authority; Chief Engineer, Procurement & Material Management Wing, J&K; Chief Engineer, Planning & Design Wing, J&K; Director, Training, Testing, Inspections & Commissions, J&K; J&K Advisory Board for the Welfare & Development of Kissan; J&K Advisory Board for the Welfare & Development of Other Backward Classes; CEO/Secretary, J&K Building & Other Construction Workers Welfare Board; Director, Samagra Shiksha, J&K; Managing Director, J&K Women Development Corporation; Mission Director, J&K Rural Livelihood Mission (JKRLM); Controller, Drug & Food Control Organization; Mission Director, ICDS, J&K; Chairman, Committee of Fixation of Fee Structure of Private Educational Institutions; Director, Rural Sanitation, J&K; Commissioner, Food & Drug Administration, J&K; Office of Chairperson, JKRERA; Controller, Legal Metrology Department, J&K and J&K Employees State Insurance Society. The office that will move in camp include Commissioner, State Taxes Department; Excise Commissioner, J&K, with skeletal staff; Director General, Economics & Statistics; Director General, Audit & Inspection; Director, Family Welfare MCH & Immunization; Director, AYUSH, J&K; Director, Soil Conservation, J&K; Director, Environment & Remote Sensing, J&K; Director, Sericulture, J&K; Director, Horticulture (P&M), J&K; Director, Geology & Mining, J&K; Director, Libraries & Research, J&K; Director, Archives, Archaeology & Museums, J&K; Chief Architect, J&K; Director, Financial Organization, PDD; Mission Director, Rashtriya Uchchatar Shiksha Abhiyan (RUSA), J&K; Nucleus Staff of Funds Organization; Gazette Section of J&K Government Press; Registrar, Cooperatives, J&K; Subordinate Office of Science & Technology Department; Director, Social Forestry, J&K; J&K Services Selection Board, with staff to be determined by the Chairman; Board of Professional Entrance Examination, with staff to be determined by the Chairman; Chairman, J&K Pollution Control Committee; J&K Socially & Economically Backward Classes Commission; J&K Special Tribunal, with marginal staff; Managing Directors of all PSUs, with skeletal staff; J&K Commercial Taxes Tribunal, with marginal staff; DFO, Photo Interpretation Division (Forest Department), with marginal staff; J&K Khadi & Village Industries Board, with staff to be determined by the Industries & Commerce Department; J&K Housing Board; Chief Wildlife Warden, J&K; Chairman of the Committee for Fixation of Fee Structure of Professional Colleges in the Union Territory of Jammu & Kashmir; Chief Engineer, Commercial and Survey Wing; J&K Academy of Art, Culture & Languages, with 26 employees; Relief & Rehabilitation Commissioner (Migrants); Director, Fisheries, J&K; Empowered Officer, PMGSY (JKRRDA); Directorate of National Health Mission, J&K; Office of the J&K Medical Supplies Corporation; Chief Engineer, J&K UEED; Mission Director, J&K Skill Development Mission (as per past practice); Chief Executive Officer, ERA, J&K; Chief Executive Officer, Mission Youth, J&K; Directorate General, Women & Child Development, J&K; Mission Director, ICPS, J&K; Director Colleges, Higher Education Department, J&K; Directorate of Local Funds, Audit & Pensions, J&K; Chief Executive Officer, IWMP, J&K and State Council of Educational Research and Training (SCERT). Offices moving in camp will carry only 33 per cent of their staff strength or 10 officials, whichever is less, unless specifically indicated otherwise. The government has fixed a uniform Special Move Travel Allowance of Rs 25,000 for each employee moving with the Darbar Move. However, employees who do not move before or within the prescribed date will not be entitled to the allowance. The Jammu and Kashmir Road Transport Corporation (JKRTC) has been directed to arrange sufficient buses in good condition for transporting employees on October 31 and November 1. Tickets will be available in advance from October 27 at the Civil Secretariat and the corporations main booking counters, with bookings to employees destinations wherever feasible. Each convoy will be accompanied by one crane and two empty buses to deal with breakdowns, while mobile workshops will also accompany the convoys. The J&K Police will provide escort throughout the journey and ensure that the move convoys receive precedence while crossing the Banihal-Qazigund Tunnel and the Dr Syama Prasad Mookerjee Tunnel. The Health and Medical Education Department has been directed to establish medical aid facilities at Qazigund, Banihal, Ramsu, Ramban, Chenani, Udhampur and Jhajjar Kotli on the days employees travel to Jammu. The Food, Civil Supplies and Consumer Affairs Department will set up ration counters at suitable locations around residential colonies of move employees in Jammu to ensure adequate supplies. The Estates Department will provide accommodation to officers and officials moving with the Darbar Move as per past practice. However, employees will not be permitted to occupy government, Estate Department, municipal or residential accommodation without a proper allotment order. They may retain government accommodation allotted to them in Srinagar for the bona fide use of their families, subject to approved terms and conditions and intimation to the Estates Department. The government has also authorised advance pay for non-gazetted employees who apply for it, recoverable in instalments as per rules. October salaries of employees working in move offices will be drawn on October 29. No leave will ordinarily be admissible in combination with or in continuation of the move days, except under very exceptional circumstances. Five days of Special Casual Leave will, however, be allowed to Kashmir-based employees moving to Jammu who wish to avail of it, irrespective of whether accommodation is available to them in Jammu. The General Administration Department will establish a Winter Secretariat at the Civil Secretariat in Srinagar to facilitate the functioning of the administration during the winter session. All Administrative Secretaries have been asked to furnish details of one gazetted and four non-gazetted employees to be retained at the Srinagar Civil Secretariat. No employee can be retained without prior approval of the competent authority. Departments have been asked to give preference, wherever feasible, to female employees and those with serious medical conditions. Each department will also identify a room at the Civil Secretariat in Srinagar for the retained employees and submit the details to the General Administration Department for allotment orders. Departments have further been directed to detach staff, if any, deployed from subordinate offices in Kashmir Division by October 27. The SSP (Security), Civil Secretariat, will withdraw temporary identity cards issued to such staff and submit a report to the General Administration Department before the offices close in Srinagar. On reopening in Jammu, the Civil Secretariat and Heads of Departments located within its premises will function from 9:30 am to 5:30 pm. Moving Heads of Departments located outside the Civil Secretariat and observing a six-day week will work from 10 am to 4:30 pm.
Dussehra celebrated with traditional fervour
Srinagar, Oct 20: Dussehra was celebrated in Srinagar with traditional fervour on Tuesday at S K Stadium, with members of the Kashmiri Pandit community participating in the festivities marking the victory of good over evil. The festival, also known as Vijayadashami, marks the victory of Lord Rama over Ravana and symbolises the triumph of righteousness over evil. It is celebrated on the tenth day of the Hindu lunar month of Ashwin, following the nine-day Navratri festival. The celebrations brought together members of the community to observe the occasion through religious rituals and traditional festivities. Dussehra holds particular cultural and religious significance for Hindus, commemorating the victory of truth, justice and righteousness. In Srinagar, the festival also reflects the communitys efforts to preserve its religious traditions and cultural heritage. The occasion provides an opportunity for people to come together and pass on longstanding customs to younger generations. Across the country, Dussehra is celebrated in different ways, with the burning of effigies of Ravana, Meghnath and Kumbhkaran forming a major attraction in several places. The festival also marks the culmination of Ramlila performances depicting episodes from the Ramayana. Dussehra conveys the timeless message that good always triumphs over evil. The festival is an occasion to come together, preserve our cultural and religious traditions, and pass on the values of truth, righteousness and mutual respect to the younger generation, an organiser said. The celebrations are followed by Diwali, the festival of lights, which is observed to mark Lord Ramas return to Ayodhya after 14 years of exile. Dussehra conveys the message that good ultimately triumphs over evil, while encouraging people to uphold truth, compassion and righteousness in their lives.
Rural workers in J&K earn Rs 162/day vs Rs 554 urban
Srinagar, Oct 20: Unskilled rural workers in Jammu and Kashmir earned an average daily wage of Rs 162 during the 202324 financial year, compared to Rs 554 in urban areas, highlighting a significant disparity in labour earnings across the Union Territory. According to NITI Aayogs latest report, titled Reassessment of National Parameters for Appraisal of Public Investment Programmes/Projects in India, rural unskilled workers earned less than one-third of the average daily wage of their urban counterparts, despite rural areas accounting for 81.01 per cent of J&Ks population, while urban areas account for 18.99 per cent. The data also highlights differences in the Shadow Wage Rate Factor (SWRF), an indicator used to assess the social opportunity cost of employing labour in public development projects. The general SWRF stood at 0.36 in rural areas and 0.96 in urban areas, with the overall UT figure recorded at 0.47. The figures indicate a substantial difference in the assessed economic cost of employing unskilled labour across rural and urban areas. A different pattern emerges in the figures for female unskilled workers. Rural female workers recorded an average daily wage of Rs 343, compared to Rs 498 for their urban counterparts. The SWRF for female workers stood at 0.78 in rural areas and 0.96 in urban areas, with the overall figure at 0.81. The rural female wage figure is higher than the general rural unskilled wage figure of Rs 162, while the urban female wage figure is lower than the general urban figure of Rs 554. Pertinently, a lower factor can indicate that labour has a lower estimated opportunity cost in the relevant setting, potentially reflecting underemployment or surplus labour capacity. The data points to the need to consider regional and gender-based differences in labour markets while assessing public infrastructure and development projects in Jammu and Kashmir.
J&K trips pricier than Himachal, Uttarakhand
Srinagar, Oct 20: Domestic overnight trips to Jammu and Kashmir cost households an average of Rs 19,625, higher than comparable trips to Himachal Pradesh and Uttarakhand, but transport accounts for the largest separately recorded share of expenditure, while pilgrimage rather than leisure dominates travel in the Union Territory, according to a government survey accessed by Rising Kashmir. The National Statistics Office's (NSO) Domestic Tourism Expenditure Survey, conducted between July 2025 and June 2026 under the 80th round of the National Sample Survey, provides a detailed picture of how much households spend on trips to Jammu and Kashmir, where the money goes and what brings travellers to the region. The findings show that although Jammu and Kashmir records higher average trip expenditure than two major Himalayan destinations, a substantial portion goes towards transport, including journeys undertaken outside the Union Territory. The figures, therefore, do not necessarily reflect the amount earned by local tourism businesses. According to the survey data, average expenditure on an overnight household trip to Jammu and Kashmir stood at Rs 19,625, compared with Rs 19,314 for Himachal Pradesh and Rs 15,695 for Uttarakhand. A trip to Jammu and Kashmir thus involved approximately Rs 3,930 more expenditure than one to Uttarakhand, a difference of around 25 per cent. The gap with Himachal Pradesh was considerably smaller at Rs 311, or about 1.6 per cent. Jammu and Kashmir stood 13th among 34 states and Union Territories in a comparison restricted to destinations with at least 100 matched sample trips. The position was derived from the survey records and does not represent an official ranking published by the NSO. The expenditure calculations covered 2,698 sampled overnight household trips to Jammu and Kashmir, compared with 1,921 for Himachal Pradesh and 4,461 for Uttarakhand. A closer examination of expenditure reveals that transport accounted for Rs 5,495 per overnight household trip to Jammu and Kashmir, representing approximately 28 per cent of the overall expenditure. Accommodation cost an average of Rs 2,411, while food and beverages accounted for Rs 2,673. Households spent another Rs 2,623 on shopping and purchases, while recreation, religious activities, health-related services and other activities covered under the relevant expenditure category accounted for Rs 1,856. The survey separately recorded an average package-tour expenditure component of Rs 4,339 per household trip, with package spending treated separately from individual categories to avoid double counting. Transport expenditure on trips to Jammu and Kashmir was Rs 833 higher than Himachal Pradesh's Rs 4,662 and Rs 1,692 higher than Uttarakhand's Rs 3,803. However, the pattern was different for accommodation. Households travelling to Himachal Pradesh spent an average of Rs 2,960 on accommodation, compared with Rs 2,411 for Jammu and Kashmir and Rs 2,292 for Uttarakhand. Food expenditure was also marginally higher in Himachal Pradesh at Rs 2,750, compared with Rs 2,673 in Jammu and Kashmir and Rs 2,076 in Uttarakhand. The figures suggest that Jammu and Kashmir's higher overall trip expenditure is not accompanied by higher spending across every category of tourism-related services. Importantly, the transport estimates include expenditure incurred during the entire journey, including travel to the destination and the return trip. Consequently, the amount cannot be interpreted as revenue earned exclusively by transport operators based in Jammu and Kashmir. Beyond expenditure, the survey reveals a striking difference in the purpose of domestic travel to the three Himalayan destinations. Pilgrimage and religious activities accounted for 54.8 per cent of overnight household trips to Jammu and Kashmir within four major travel-purpose categories, compared with 22.8 per cent for holidaying, leisure and recreation. Health and medical travel accounted for another 19.9 per cent, while shopping-related trips represented 2.4 per cent.This means that religious travel accounted for more than twice the share of leisure travel within these categories, indicating that Jammu and Kashmir's domestic travel composition extends considerably beyond conventional holiday tourism. The corresponding figures for Himachal Pradesh presented a different picture. Holidaying and leisure accounted for 44.7 per cent of trips, while pilgrimage and religious activities represented 35.3 per cent. Uttarakhand recorded an even greater share of religious travel than Jammu and Kashmir, with pilgrimage accounting for 63.3 per cent of trips in the same categories, compared with 24.7 per cent for leisure. Medical travel also accounted for a relatively substantial share in Jammu and Kashmir at 19.9 per cent, compared with 18.2 per cent in Himachal Pradesh and 11.7 per cent in Uttarakhand. The percentages, however, relate only to the four specified travel purposes and do not represent the distribution of every domestic trip undertaken for all purposes. The survey separately examined business, social, educational and other overnight travel using a different reference period, revealing another important dimension of domestic movement to Jammu and Kashmir. Social visits, including journeys to meet relatives and friends or attend marriages and other functions, accounted for 88.7 per cent of trips within this separate group. Business-related travel accounted for 7.9 per cent, while education and training represented 1.3 per cent and other activities accounted for 2 per cent. The business-travel share in Jammu and Kashmir was nearly 1.8 times that of Himachal Pradesh, where it stood at 4.5 per cent, and marginally below Uttarakhand's 8 per cent. Social visits remained the dominant purpose across all three destinations, accounting for 93.7 per cent of trips in Himachal Pradesh and 88.1 per cent in Uttarakhand within the corresponding group. The estimates for these categories were based on 1,846 sampled overnight household trips to Jammu and Kashmir, including 115 classified as business-related. The corresponding sample covered 1,122 trips to Himachal Pradesh and 1,141 to Uttarakhand. However, the survey recorded business, social, educational and other trips completed during the preceding 30 days, while holidays, pilgrimage, medical treatment and shopping were covered separately using a different reference period. As a result, the 7.9 per cent business-travel figure cannot be interpreted as the share of business travel among all domestic overnight trips to Jammu and Kashmir during the year. Similarly, the social-travel percentage cannot be combined directly with the pilgrimage and leisure figures to construct an overall distribution of travel purposes. The NSO conducted the survey using a multi-stage stratified sampling method and applied statistical multipliers to derive estimates from household responses.
J&K, Ladakh face 623 MW peak power shortfall in Nov
Energy deficit estimated at 189 million units Regional power panel seeks measures to bridge gap Srinagar, Oct 20: Jammu and Kashmir and Ladakh are projected to face a peak electricity shortfall of 623 megawatts (MW) in November, with anticipated power availability falling 16.3 per cent below requirement, according to the latest Northern Regional Power Committee (NRPC) agenda, raising concerns over electricity supply as winter approaches. The figures, contained in the agenda for the NRPC's 248th Operation Coordination Committee meeting scheduled for October 22, show that the two Union Territories are expected to require 3,813 MW of electricity at peak demand against an anticipated availability of 3,190 MW. The document, issued on October 16 and examined by Rising Kashmir, also projects an energy deficit of 189 million units (MU) during November, with an estimated requirement of 1,999 MU against availability of 1,810 MU. This translates into a 9.5 per cent energy shortfall, indicating that the projected gap is not confined to periods of maximum electricity demand. The figures are particularly significant because November marks the beginning of the colder period in Kashmir, when electricity consumption increases with the use of heating appliances and other seasonal requirements. The NRPC document shows that the anticipated shortage comes against a relatively comfortable overall power position in the northern region. While Jammu and Kashmir and Ladakh are projected to face a 16.3 per cent peak deficit, the northern region as a whole is expected to have 82,400 MW available against a requirement of 67,600 MW, representing a projected peak surplus of 14,800 MW. In energy terms, the northern region is projected to have a marginal surplus of 151 MU, with availability of 39,000 MU against a requirement of 38,849 MU. The November projections also place Jammu and Kashmir and Ladakh among the northern region's constituents facing anticipated shortages. Punjab is projected to face an energy deficit of 556 MU, while Rajasthan is expected to record a shortfall of 324 MU. Himachal Pradesh, despite a projected energy surplus of 89 MU, is expected to face a peak power deficit of 395 MW under its revised forecast. Unlike some other northern states, the NRPC agenda records that no revised November power-supply position had been submitted for Jammu and Kashmir and Ladakh at the time the document was prepared. The regional committee has asked State Load Despatch Centres to update their anticipated power-supply positions and submit measures proposed to bridge gaps between electricity demand and availability. The figures come after provisional September data showed that Jammu and Kashmir and Ladakh had recorded an energy requirement of 1,506 MU against actual availability of 1,493 MU, indicating a shortfall of 13 MU. September's actual peak demand also exceeded the anticipated level. Against an estimated peak requirement of 2,500 MW, the two Union Territories recorded 2,735 MW, an increase of 235 MW or 9.4 per cent over the forecast. The NRPC has sought explanations from constituents reporting significant differences between anticipated and actual electricity requirements. With the NRPC meeting scheduled for October 22, the measures proposed to address the projected deficit will be central to assessing the region's preparedness for the coming winter.
