KIMS Saveera performs complex emergency angioplasty
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The Security Council is paralysed, but the UN is not broken, says UNSG Guterres
Mr. Guterres, in Delhi for BRICS Summit, commends Indias efforts at mediation between Russia and Ukraine, clarifies map controversy
BRICS Summit: PM Modi warns against weaponisation of technology, critical minerals
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Obama voices caution on AI, urges Democrats to tackle it: reports
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Osama bin Laden had India on his target list as early as 1998, CIA files reveal
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Watch | Vijays Varisu takes on Ajiths Thunivu: Why Tamil cinema fans are excited
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'Second life': Nepal tunnel survivor recalls ordeal
Mr. Sah was among hundreds of workers at a series of hydropower projects hit by the catastrophic August 26 flood
The United Kingdom Maritime Trade Operations separately reported that a vessel was hit by a projectile while transiting the strait, with no details
Drug-induced gang rape: Four accused remanded in judicial custody in Kozhikode
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Ever since the TVK government assumed charge, the State has been facing power cuts for several hours. The present power cuts have adversely impacted the students who have been preparing for the ensuing quarterly examinations, Mr. Udhyakumar charged.
BRICS 2026: VVIP movement disrupts daily earnings of autos, delivery workers
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News in Frames: A village with no people
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Assam CM highlights big comeback of small hog
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OpenAI's Altman won't do IPO this year, calls AI extinction risk 'unacceptable'
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Health Wrap | Episode 50 | Longevity and racket sports
In the 50th episode of The Health Wrap by The Hindu, Ramya Kannan, Health Editor, The Hindu, speaks to Dr. Navin Gnanasekaran, Longevity Physician and Head of Radiology, Apollo Hospitals, Chennai, on what it takes to age well and maintain health across the years. Drawing from his book, The 100 Year Blueprint: An Indian Doctors Guide to Longevity, Dr. Gnanasekaran discusses longevity, healthspan and the everyday factors that influence healthy ageing. The episode also looks at the role of sport and regular movement in maintaining health, with a focus on activities such as racket sports.
Vijays blockbuster opening: How cinema powered the superstars rise in Tamil Nadu politics
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Bihar Opposition RJD, ruling JD(U) gear up for upcoming polls to eight legislative Council seats
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Iran, Oman agree on new entry, exit routes for Strait of Hormuz: Report
Tehran , September 13 : Iran and Oman have agreed on the details of new entry and exit routes for the Strait of Hormuz and will brief Gulf countries on the outcome of their consultations at a regional meeting in Muscat on Monday, Iranian officials said on Saturday, according to Xinhua News. The development comes amid heightened tensions in West Asia, with the strategic waterway remaining a key focus of regional and international attention. The Iranian and Omani sides reached an understanding on the new routes following consultations, with details set to be presented to Gulf countries at the regional meeting in Muscat, Xinhua reported. Against this backdrop, Iranian President Masoud Pezeshkian, in an exclusive interview with India Today on the sidelines of the BRICS Summit, said BRICS was created to counter the unilateral sanctions regime of the United States. The objective of BRICS and what we have come here for is that, regarding the trend which has begun by the US and, you know, actually it sanctions any country it wishes. On the other hand, the BRICS intention is to break this kind of totalitarianism. That is why BRICS was developed, Pezeshkian said. He said BRICS members should develop alternative forms of trade and cooperation independent of sanctions imposed by individual countries. We're supposed to change the type of interactions and the type of trade and cooperation, regardless of and independent of the fact that one country may be, you know, at whim to sanction other countries, he said. Pezeshkian added that BRICS members should support each other to counter unilateralism. We are here to help each other and to support each other so that this unilateralism can be fought against, he said, adding that the objective was to derail America from this unilateralism. The remarks came amid renewed tensions involving Iran and the United States and heightened focus on stability and security in the West Asia region. Meanwhile, BRICS countries reached a consensus on the situation in West Asia, with dialogue and diplomacy emerging as the guiding principles for addressing conflicts, Secretary (Economic Relations) in the Ministry of External Affairs Sudhakar Dalela said on Saturday. Addressing a media briefing after the BRICS Leaders Summit, Dalela said the diverse development experiences and economic systems of BRICS members required space for discussions on national perspectives before building consensus. I would say that within the BRICS and in the preparation for the BRICS summit, we have been discussing these issues for some time, and I think it is the essence of the BRICS view is captured in para 28 of the New Delhi Declaration. In a grouping like BRICS, where we have members with diverse development experiences and diverse economic systems, it is important that we allow discussions to evolve and emerge, and we, as Chair, have provided a forum for very transparent discussion among us, and we have ensured that everybody is comfortable expressing their national perspective, and then within that framework, we try to build consensus and see which are the lending zones, which are the comfort areas, he said. I would say that we are very happy that we have an agreed approach on West Asia, and the centrepiece of that approach is that we all believe that dialogue and diplomacy should be the guiding parameter for addressing any conflict, any situation that requires a solution, and that is the only way to build lasting peace, security, and stability in any part of the world, Dalela added. His remarks came after BRICS leaders unanimously adopted the New Delhi Declaration 2026 at the 18th BRICS Summit in New Delhi. The declaration expressed deep concern over the continued escalation of tensions in West Asia and called for maximum restraint and avoidance of actions that could further aggravate the situation. The BRICS countries urged the protection of civilians and civilian infrastructure, respect for sovereignty and territorial integrity, and increased efforts through dialogue and diplomacy towards lasting peace, security and stability in the region. They also stressed the need to maintain the smooth flow of global trade, supply chains and energy in accordance with international law. The declaration expressed serious concern over deliberate attacks on civilian infrastructure and peaceful nuclear facilities under full safeguards of the International Atomic Energy Agency, stressing that nuclear safeguards, safety and security must be upheld even during armed conflicts. (ANI)
On this day in 1985, a little plumber in overalls and a signature red shirt and hat stepped into the video game market and changed the game forever.
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ADGP Armed Nitish Kumar Visits APC Mattan, Reviews Facilities ,Welfare Measures
Srinagar : Additional Director General of Police (ADGP) Armed, J&K, Nitish Kumar, IPS, accompanied by DIG Armed, Kashmir Range, Maqsood-ul-Zaman, IPS, visited the Armed Police Complex (APC) Mattan in Anantnag and reviewed the administrative, welfare and training facilities available for police personnel. On his arrival, the ADGP was accorded a Guard of Honour by contingents of the 17 JKAP IR Battalion. He also paid homage to police martyrs at the Martyrs Gallery, honouring their sacrifice and service to the nation. During the visit, Kumar inspected various facilities at APC Mattan, including administrative blocks, barracks, MT and equipment stores and the gymnasium. He took stock of the facilities and welfare measures being provided to the personnel. A Joint Darbar of personnel from the 10, 11 and 17 JKAP IR Battalions was also held during the visit. The ADGP interacted with the personnel, heard their grievances and issued directions for the prompt redressal of genuine issues. He underlined that personnel welfare, morale and a conducive working environment remain key priorities. The ADGP also inaugurated several newly established facilities at APC Mattan, stressing the importance of continuous professional development and capacity building. Addressing the personnel, Kumar called for further strengthening of training programmes, with emphasis on physical fitness, mental well-being, discipline and operational preparedness. He encouraged personnel to participate regularly in sports and physical activities at unit and company levels. He also advised police personnel to stay away from drugs, excessive online gambling and other harmful habits, urging them to adopt healthy, disciplined and constructive lifestyles. As part of the visit, the ADGP participated in a tree plantation drive at the APC premises, planting Deodar and Chinar saplings. The initiative highlighted the importance of environmental conservation and creating a greener and sustainable environment. The ADGP further directed all Commanding Officers to meet the families of martyrs and retired police personnel at least twice a month, listen to their concerns and ensure timely redressal of genuine issues. DIG SKR Anantnag Javid Iqbal Matoo, SSP Anantnag Amod Ashok Nagpuri , SSP SO to ADGP Armed J&K Dalip Kumar, SSP/CO 10 JKAP IR Mohd Majid Malik, SP/I/C CO 17 JKAP IR Zahid Samoon, SP/I/C CO 11 JKAP IR Rahil Marchal, and DySP (S) and Private Secretary to ADGP Armed Syed Sajad Hussain, besides other officers, were present on the occasion.
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BRICS leaders voice concern over growing risks of nuclear conflict
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Indonesia passenger vessel with 243 people reportedmissing, agency says
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District Pencak Silat Cship Bandipora begins
Bandipora, Sep 12: The District Pencak Silat Championship Bandipora 2026 began on Saturday at Government Boys Primary School, Aragam, with around 200 students from different schools across the district taking part in the two-day event. The championship is being organised by the District Pencak Silat Association Bandipora, with competitions being held across different weight categories in Senior, Junior, Pre-Teen and Pre-Junior divisions. The event seeks to introduce Pencak Silat to more children and youth in the area and create interest in the sport at the grassroots level, with the long-term objective of nurturing athletes who can compete at higher levels and represent Bandipora, Jammu and Kashmir and the country. Major Achyut Mishra, Company Commander, Charlie Company, 13 Rashtriya Rifles, Aragam, Bandipora, attended the opening ceremony as the chief guest. Arsullah Habib, Teacher, Government Primary Boys Middle School Aragam, was the guest of honour, while Padma Shri awardee Faisal Ali Dar, Brand Ambassador of the Nasha Mukt Bharat Abhiyan, was also present. Speaking on the occasion, Major Achyut Mishra said it was the first time he had witnessed an official sporting competition being held in the area. Appreciating the participation of the students, he said children from the upper belt possess considerable physical strength and that such competitions can provide them with exposure and help channelise their abilities in a constructive manner. Faisal Ali Dar stressed the importance of taking sporting activities to areas where opportunities remain limited. He said introducing children to different sports at an early age can help identify talent and encourage more youth to pursue sports, while also keeping them engaged in positive activities and away from drugs. The championship will conclude on September 13 with the award ceremony, where the winning athletes will be felicitated for their performances. The best-performing players will also be selected for the upcoming UT-level Pencak Silat Championship, providing them an opportunity to compete at a higher level.
Dir Sericulture unveils SILK KASH Quarterly Journal 2026
Srinagar, Sep 12: Director Sericulture J&K, Ajaz Ahmad Bhat on Saturday unveiled the second issue of SILK KASH, the Quarterly Journal 2026 of Sericulture Development Department in presence of senior officers and departmental staff of the Department. Speaking on the occasion, the Director emphasized the immense potential of sericulture as a viable and remunerative livelihood activity, particularly its cost-effectiveness and capacity to generate sustainable returns for rural households. He stressed the need for an intensive and result-oriented publicity and awareness campaign to disseminate information about the benefits and opportunities associated with silkworm rearing, making effective use of every available medium of communication and outreach. The Director stated that the quarterly journal has been conceived as a dedicated knowledge and outreach platform aimed at showcasing best practices, documenting the achievements and success stories of progressive silkworm rearers and creating greater awareness among stakeholders about various Centrally Sponsored Schemes and flagship initiatives being implemented by the Department. He highlighted that programmes such as Silk Samagra2 and the Holistic Agriculture Development Programme (HADP) are being proactively implemented to strengthen the sericulture sector and extend the benefits of government interventions to stakeholders at the grassroots level. He observed that an informed stakeholder community is fundamental to ensuring effective implementation of schemes and maximizing their intended impact. Bhat further stated that through SILK KASH, the Department seeks to bridge the information gap and ensure that silkworm rearers, farmers, silk reeling and weaving unit holders, educated youth, women and tribal communities remain adequately informed about available schemes, subsidies, training programmes, departmental facilities and technical support. Such timely access to information, he said, would enable stakeholders to make informed decisions and fully capitalize on the opportunities emerging in the sericulture sector. The Director also underscored the importance of capacity building and continuous skill enhancement as key drivers for the sustainable growth and modernization of sericulture in Jammu & Kashmir. He informed that focused efforts are being made to strengthen the capabilities of stakeholders through skill-upgradation programmes for departmental field functionaries, exposure visits for silkworm rearers and farmers and targeted awareness camps for educated youth, women and tribal communities. He expressed the hope that SILK KASH would evolve into an effective communication, knowledge-sharing and knowledge-dissemination platform, providing stakeholders with practical information, technological insights and greater awareness of the opportunities available in the sector, while also giving wider visibility to the achievements and initiatives of the Sericulture Department. The unveiling of the journal marks another step towards strengthening communication, knowledge dissemination and stakeholder engagement with the broader objective of making sericulture a more attractive, productive and sustainable livelihood avenue across Jammu & Kashmir.
J&K launches UT-wide apprenticeship campaign under NAPS
Srinagar, Sep 12: To strengthen industrial productivity, the Department of Skill Development, Jammu & Kashmir, has launched a Union Territory-wide awareness-cum-registration campaign under the National Apprenticeship Promotion Scheme (NAPS), aimed at creating stronger linkages between classroom learning and the evolving requirements of industry. The campaign has received an overwhelming response, with more than 15,000 youth registering on the official apprenticeship portal across all 20 districts of Jammu and Kashmir in the last few days alone. At the same time, over 2000 MSMEs, industrial establishments and other organisations have onboarded onto the apprenticeship ecosystem, offering structured apprenticeship opportunities with stipend support. The initiative is based on the principle of Earn while You Learn, under which apprentices receive on-the-job training along with a stipend and an opportunity to gain practical workplace experience. Apprenticeships generally range from one to two years, enabling young people to acquire industry-relevant skills, workplace discipline and practical exposure while working in real industrial environments. The District Skill Committees are working closely with the Government ITIs, Polytechnics, industrial establishments, MSMEs and other stakeholders to identify apprenticeship opportunities and facilitate registration of eligible youth. The Deputy Commissioners are also monitoring the progress of the campaign at the district level and ensuring convergence among the various departments and field-level institutions. The Department of Skill Development is working in close coordination with the departments including Industries and Commerce, Labour & Employment and other concerned departments to take the registration process directly to industrial clusters. As part of this coordinated effort, registration and facilitation camps are being organised at industrial estates, providing MSME owners and industrial establishments with on-the-spot guidance regarding registration, apprenticeship engagement, stipend support and other provisions available under NAPS. Prominent industry stakeholders, trade bodies and Central Public Sector Undertakings (CPSUs), including organisations such as NHAI and NHPC, have also joined the effort by supporting awareness, handholding and registration activities. Recognising the significant employment potential of the hospitality and tourism sector in Jammu & Kashmir, the Department has also been reaching out to private hotels and hospitality establishments to expand apprenticeship opportunities in the sector. A number of private hotels have volunteered to engage apprentices, creating opportunities for young people to acquire practical skills in areas such as hospitality operations, food and beverage services, housekeeping, front office operations and other allied functions. The National Apprenticeship Promotion Scheme provides an important platform for establishments to participate in skill development while gaining access to government financial support towards apprenticeship training. For young people, the programme offers an opportunity to supplement their academic or technical qualifications with practical workplace experience and recognised apprenticeship certification. The Department of Skill Development has urged more industrial establishments, MSMEs, PSUs, hotels and other eligible organisations to come forward and create apprenticeship opportunities for the youth of Jammu & Kashmir. Interested establishments and candidates can register through the official Apprenticeship Portal at apprenticeshipindia.gov.in. The candidates and establishments may also visit their nearest Government ITI or Polytechnic college for assistance and guidance regarding registration and engagement under NAPS. The department has reiterated that the campaign will continue across all districts with a focus on maximum youth participation, wider industry engagement and creation of a sustainable apprenticeship ecosystem in Jammu and Kashmir.
DC Gbal reviews arrangements for Annual Gangbal Yatra
Ganderbal, Sep 12: Deputy Commissioner (DC) Ganderbal, Jatin Kishore on Saturday visited Naranag Temple and reviewed the arrangements being put in place in connection with the forthcoming Annual Gangbal Yatra 2026. During the visit, the DC conducted an on-spot inspection and took a detailed assessment of the arrangements and ongoing preparatory works. He reviewed the progress of various tasks assigned to the concerned departments and issued necessary directions for their timely completion. The DC directed all concerned officers to complete their assigned tasks within the stipulated timeline and ensure that all arrangements are in place by September 15. The Deputy Commissioner directed the concerned departments to ensure adequate water supply, uninterrupted power arrangements with generator backup, and installation of sufficient tents and toilet facilities at designated locations for the convenience of pilgrims. He further directed the concerned agencies to ensure proper road maintenance, traffic regulation, cleanliness and sanitation, healthcare facilities and other essential arrangements along the identified route and at designated locations. During the onspot inspection, the DC also assessed the availability and preparedness of essential facilities and directed the concerned officers to address any gaps or deficiencies immediately. He stressed that all facilities must be made fully functional well in advance of the Yatra. The Deputy Commissioner emphasised close coordination among all departments and agencies and directed the officers to undertake regular field inspections and ensure timely execution of all assigned works, keeping the safety, convenience and welfare of pilgrims as the priority. The DC was accompanied by Additional Deputy Commissioner Ganderbal, SDM Kangan, SDPO Kangan, Chief Medical Officer Ganderbal, Executive Engineer PW(R&B) Kangan, Executive Engineer PHE Ganderbal, Executive Engineer I&FC Ganderbal, Executive Engineer KPDCL Ganderbal, Executive Engineer PMGSY Ganderbal, Assistant Commissioner Panchayat Ganderbal, Tehsildar Kangan, Block Development Officer Kangan, Ganderbal, Dy. Superintendent Traffic (Rural) Ganderbal, Range Officer Wildlife and other concerned officials.
Industries Commissioner calls for inclusion of artisans in Meeras Cooperative
Srinagar, Sep 12: Commissioner Secretary, Industries and Commerce Department, Jammu and Kashmir Vikramjit Singh on Saturday visited the Production Carpet Weaving Centre of Meeras Cooperative Society at Ashayeebagh, Hazratbal Road, Srinagar, accompanied by Director Handicrafts and Handloom Kashmir Masrat Ul Islam and Director, IICT Nowshera. During the visit, the Commissioner Secretary interacted with carpet weavers and the Board of Directors and stressed the need to enrol maximum artisans and weavers from across Kashmir as members of the cooperative, enabling them to access the benefits of various government schemes. He also called for wider outreach to bring more artisans within the cooperatives ambit. He advised the management to maximise benefits under the RAMP Scheme of the Ministry of MSME, Government of India, and explore support available through NABARDs REPO scheme for eligible off-farm producer institutions. Director Handicrafts and Handloom Kashmir Masrat Ul Islam apprised the participants about government schemes that can support weavers and manufacturers and assured all possible assistance from the government. Farooq Ahmad Shah, President Meeras, emphasised the need for maximum utilisation of the GI tag for Kashmir carpets through effective branding and promotion. Sheikh Ashiq, Patron Meeras and COA Member, CPEC India, stressed the importance of expanding exports and called for a dedicated export policy benefiting both weavers and manufacturers. The visit underscored the need to strengthen artisan participation, scheme outreach, GI-based promotion and international market access for Kashmirs carpet industry.
HAS & DSE Bandipora mark 5th death anniversary of Dr. Aziz Hajini
Sonawari, Sep 12: The 5th death anniversary of the towering literary icon, former secretary of the J&K Academy of Art, Culture and Languages (JKAACL) & eminent critic, writer and language activist Dr. Aziz Hajini was observed on Saturday with profound reverence and enthusiasm. The commemorative event was organized by the Wahab Cultural Society, (WCS) Hajin, in collaboration with the Department of School Education Bandipora. The solemn yet inspiring occasion brought together hundreds of school children, teachers, educationists & prominent members of civil society to pay glowing tributes to a visionary leader who dedicated his entire life to the preservation and promotion of the Kashmiri language and cultural heritage. Dr. Hajinis legacy spans monumental contributions across diverse premier institutions, including his leadership as former president of Adbi Markaz Kamraz (Kashmirs largest literary amalgam), alongside his impactful associations with the J&K Board of School Education, the Directorate of School Education Kashmir, the University of Kashmir, and the Sahitya Akademi, New Delhi, among several other Union Territory and national-level organizations. The program commenced with a warm and inspiring welcome address presented by Nazir Javed, Patron of the Wahab Cultural Society, Hajin. This was followed by a detailed and insightful keynote address by well-known writer and poet Shahbaz Haqbari, who eloquently highlighted Dr. Hajini's exceptional contributions to education, literature and various other spheres of public life. The presidential chair was graced by Shakit Shafi, President of Halqa-e-Adab Sonawari. Arshid Ahmad Lone, Senior Officer & Chief Accounts Officer of Kashmir Power Development Corporation, honoured the event as the Chief Guest. The presidium also included Chief Education Officer Bandipora and Zonal Education Officer Hajin. Engineer Farhan Manzoor Shah, Provincial Secretary of JKEEGA & Additional Secretary NIT Alumni Association and Azhar Hajini son of the late literary icon, noted broadcaster, television presenter, and Media Secretary of Halqa-e-Adab Sonawari added special grace to the gathering by their distinguished presence. A major highlight of the day's observance was the highly engaging and intellectually stimulating Dr. Aziz Hajini Quiz, meticulously designed to connect the younger generation with their literary roots. Students from five different schools of Hajin displayed remarkable enthusiasm and competitive spirit. Majeed Majazi, General Secretary of the Wahab Cultural Society, donned the role of Quiz Master, steering the session with interactive flair and keeping both participants and the packed audience deeply engrossed. The first position was shared between Middle School Shahigund and MS Gulshan Abad Hajin. Second position was won by MS Parray Mohallah. While as 3rd position was won by MS Balshibal. The audience witnessed the notable presence of several prominent civil society figures, including Dr. Riyaz-ul-Hassan, President of the Wahab Cultural Society, Haji Gh Nabi Dar, Sagar Sarfaraz, Mohammad Yaqoob Parey, and Mehraj-ud-Din Parey, alongside numerous other educationists and literary enthusiasts. The program concluded with renewed pledges from local literary bodies and education circles to carry forward Dr. Hajinis mission of safeguarding the Kashmiri language and empowering the youth through education and cultural awareness.
Srinagar, Sep 12: Continuing its endeavor to promote access to justice through swift resolution of disputes, J&K Legal Services Authority, under the patronage of Dr. Justice Pushpendra Singh Bhati, Chief Justice, High Court of J&K and Ladakh and Patron-in-Chief, J&K Legal Services Authority and under the dynamic leadership of Justice Sanjeev Kumar, Executive Chairman, J&K Legal Services Authority and with the guidance of Justice Sanjay Dhar, Chairperson, High Court Legal Services Committee, organised the 3rd National Lok Adalat for 2026 across UT of J&K. The Lok Adalat covered a wide range of matters, including MACT claims, matrimonial disputes, cheque dishonour cases under the Negotiable Instruments Act, money recovery matters, commercial disputes and compoundable criminal offences. At Srinagar, Dr. Justice Pushpendra Singh Bhati, Chief Justice, High Court of J&K and Ladakh, along with Justice Sanjeev Kumar, Executive Chairman, J&K Legal Services Authority, jointly inaugurated the 3rd National Lok Adalat at District Court Complex, Srinagar. The occasion assumed special significance as it marked the first National Lok Adalat after Dr. Justice Pushpendra Singh Bhati assumed office as Chief Justice of the High Court of J&K and Ladakh. Upon their arrival, Haq Nawaz Zargar, Principal District & Sessions Judge (Chairperson, DLSA Srinagar), Shazia Tabasum, Member Secretary, J&K Legal Services Authority, and other Judicial Officers of the district judiciary received the dignitaries. A ceremonial Guard of Honour was also accorded to the Chief Justice. Thereafter, the Chief Justice and Executive Chairman visited different Lok Adalat Benches and interacted with the Presiding Officers, members of the Benches, Advocates and litigants. They appreciated the arrangements made for the smooth conduct of the Lok Adalat and witnessed the settlement of cases at the Benches. MACT compensation cheques were also distributed among eligible claimants on the occasion, extending timely relief to the beneficiaries. As per the information received from various Legal Services Institutions across the UT of J&K, a total of 32908 cases were taken up by 163Benches during the day-long National Lok Adalat, out of which 23213 cases were amicably settled and disposed of, involving a total settlement/compensation amount of Rs. 176,22,29,397. The settled matters included Motor Accident Claims, civil and criminal matters, labour disputes, electricity and water bill disputes, land acquisition matters, family disputes, cheque dishonor cases and bank recovery matters, among others. Dr. Justice Pushpendra Singh Bhati, while interacting with media persons, expressed his gratitude and appreciated the efforts of the Judicial Officers, Secretaries of DLSAs, Advocates, Para Legal Volunteers, staff of the District and Tehsil Courts and the litigants for their wholehearted participation in the 3rd National Lok Adalat of the year 2026. Justice Sanjeev Kumar while welcoming the Chief Justice, High Court of J&K and Ladakh emphasized the significance of Lok Adalats and observed that they provide an effective mechanism for speedy, amicable and final resolution of disputes without the burden of prolonged litigation. He urged the public to make greater use of Lok Adalats and encouraged all stakeholders to continue their efforts towards strengthening consensual dispute resolution. Justice Rajnesh Oswal, High Court of J&K and Ladakh inaugurated the National LokAdalat at District Court Complex, Jammu. On the occasion, the Principal District & Sessions Judge, Tahir Khurshid Raina received the Justice along with other judicial officers of district Jammu. Shazia Tabasum, Member Secretary, J&K Legal Services Authority, informed that the 4th and final National Lok Adalat of the current calendar year is scheduled to be held on December 12, 2026. She urged litigants whose cases could not be listed or settled in the present Lok Adalat to avail themselves of the opportunity in the forthcoming National LokAdalat.
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The translators bend English to the rhythms of Indian languages in these short story collections
Chief Minister Suvendu Adhikari targeted both the Left Front and Trinamool Congress government, accusing them of destroying the cultural traditions of Bengali Hindus in the State, and promised to restore the religious and cultural traditions
The Blue Collar Uniform Hub of Chennai aligns with the times and grows bigger
Shops at Sydenhams Road in Periamet that offer uniforms and accessories for frontline workers in a variety of fields report certain shifts, many of which have worked to their advantage: a greater focus on safety gear, an increase in bulk orders of uniforms for conservancy workers and housekeeping staff. Orders are also known to come in from cricket leagues and franchises
Chile arrests 284 in protests condemning Pinochet dictatorship
This year was the first since the end of Pinochet's brutal 1973-1990 rule that Chile did not hold any official events marking the era that left deep scars on the South American nation
Here is a select list of stories to start the day
800 child labourers, 503 from Bengaluru alone, rescued in two-hour crackdown across Karnataka
In a Statewide crackdown on child labour on Saturday, police teams and Labour Department officials inspected 16,951 premises across Karnataka and rescued 800 children, all in a matter of two hours, with Bengaluru city alone accounting for 63% of the rescues, at 503
Trump touches a nerve while in Ireland by saying reunification would be fantastic
President Donald Trump has touched a political nerve by saying a unified Ireland would be fantastic.
One dead, 30 missing after ferry sinks off Vanuatu
The vessel, MV Matui, had set sail on September 11 with more than 40 passengers and crew from the island of Santo to Ambae island in very rough seas, but did not arrive
West Bengal professors oppose Govt.s inter-university transfer Bill, call it an attack on education
WBCUTA says arbitrary transfers will weaken universities already facing severe faculty shortages, vows to first write to the Governor, who is also the Cancellor of Universities, and make an appeal
Besant Nagars golden dog safe and glowing still
The street dog went missing recently, sparking off an outpouring of concern and fears that it might have been stolen. And then there was a collective sigh of relief in Chennai as word finally got around that the dog is undergoing treatment for an injury at sculpture brand Silaiis work station in Tambaram
Govt. employee quitting to fight polls cant seek reinstatement: Rajasthan High Court
The Court also upheld the finding of the Central Administrative Tribunal that contesting the election as a political partys candidate violated the requirement of maintaining political neutrality
Power cuts paralyse Punjab rice mills; Opon. slams AAP over Roshan Punjab promise
In a statement, Punjab Power Minister Tarunpreet Singh Sond said Punjab is currently receiving 1,051 MW less power against its share from the Central Power pool. The Centre should immediately provide Punjab its due share, he added
Delhi HC awards 50k compensation to bank manager who foiled armed robbery in 1998
The Court rejected the banks contention that Surjit Singh had merely performed his duty as branch manager and that pressing the alarm could not be regarded as an act of bravery
Gambhir has amazing one-on-one player management approach: Skipper Shreyas Iyer
Asked about his captaincy philosophy Iyer said he doesn't believe in burdening players with specific roles rather he wants them to develop game awareness intrinsic to T20 format
J&K Bank bags top national honour for Best CSR Overall Practices
Srinagar, Sep 12: Reaffirming the growing reach and measurable impact of its Corporate Social Responsibility (CSR) programme, J&K Bank was honoured with the Best Corporate Social Responsibility Overall Practices award at the 13th National CSR Leadership Congress & Awards. The recognition acknowledges the Banks institution-wide commitment to sustainable social development through structured, need-based and impact-oriented interventions. Zonal Head (Bengaluru) Shadab Mehboob received the award on behalf of the Bank at an impressive function held on Friday at Taj MG Road, Bengaluru. The ceremony was part of a day-long CSR conference featuring eminent experts and deliberations on emerging trends and contemporary issues shaping the CSR landscape in the country. Expressing delight over the recognition, MD & CEO Amitava Chatterjee said, For J&K Bank, CSR is not a peripheral obligation but an extension of our institutional purpose. This award validates our approach of taking meaningful, need-based interventions to underserved communities, particularly across J&K and Ladakh, while ensuring that every initiative creates measurable and lasting value. Our CSR programme is steadily evolving into a structured platform for inclusive and sustainable development, with healthcare, education, livelihood generation, disability inclusion, environmental sustainability and grassroots sports at its core. Our interventions also cover rural development, women empowerment and gender equality, promotion of art and culture, and support for armed forces veterans and their dependents. Guided by strong governance and strategic partnerships, we shall continue to expand our reach and deepen our impact in alignment with national development priorities, he added. The recognition is a reflection of the Banks sustained commitment to creating meaningful and measurable social impact through a wide range of CSR initiatives. Its interventions span critical areas including healthcare, environmental sustainability, community welfare, skill development and livelihood generation. In healthcare, the Bank has supported cardiac and breast-cancer screening programmes in underserved areas, enabling access to essential preventive healthcare for vulnerable communities. Its environmental initiatives, including solar-powered sanitation facilities, plantation drives and waste-management interventions, demonstrate a strong commitment to sustainable development. The Bank has also undertaken community-focused initiatives such as providing affordable meals to attendants of patients at hospitals, while promoting skill development and livelihood opportunities to strengthen economic empowerment at the grassroots level. Collectively, these initiatives underline the Banks philosophy of going beyond conventional philanthropy to create sustainable and inclusive value for communities, while contributing meaningfully to the social and environmental well-being of the region. The National Awards for Excellence in CSR & Sustainability recognise organisations that have embedded social responsibility and sustainability into their institutional strategies and created demonstrable benefits for communities and the environment.
Congress claims NSUI's victory in Garhwal university student union polls
K.C. Venugopal claimed that the BJP will face a similar fate in the upcoming Delhi University Students' Union elections, where the NSUI panel will emerge victorious with massive margins
IFFJK: J&K filmmakers bag three of nine awards
Srinagar, Sep 12: In a significant recognition of the creative talent emerging from Jammu and Kashmir, three filmmakers from Jammu and Kashmir have secured three prestigious awards out of the nine presented at the First International Film Festival of Jammu & Kashmir (IFFJK) 2026. The achievement marks a proud moment for the regions growing filmmaking community, with Kashmiri filmmakers making their presence felt on a platform that brought together acclaimed filmmakers, artists, technicians, industry professionals and cinema enthusiasts from across India and around the world. Baba Tasaduq Hussain won the Best Cinematography Award for the documentary Naqsh-e-Daur (The Story of Ghulam Nabi Dhar), earning appreciation for its visual storytelling and cinematic treatment. The Best Emerging Filmmaker Award was conferred on Askini: The Guiding Darkness, directed by Ajit Singh Bhasin, recognising the films distinctive cinematic voice and promising creative approach. Adding another major honour to the regions tally, filmmaker Kapil Mattos Tasrufdar The Jinns of Kashmir won the Best Film from Jammu & Kashmir Select category, celebrating a work that draws upon the regions distinctive cultural and storytelling traditions. The three awards, spanning cinematography, emerging filmmaking and the best film from J&K, underline the diversity and depth of cinematic talent present in the region. During the festival, the selected films by local filmmakers like Batt Koch (The Lost Lane), directed by Siddarth Koul and Ankit Wali; Tasrufdaar (Djinns of Kashmir), directed by Kapil Mattoo; and Naqsh-e-Daur (The Story of Ghulam Nabi Dhar), directed by Baba Tassaduq Hussain received wider appreciation from the audiences. Batt Koch, was screened as closing film of the festival received much appreciation from renowned filmmaker Ramesh Sippy and audiences. Love in veitnam a movie by Rahat shah kazmi a jammu and kashmir based filmmaker was also screened during the festival and was widely appreciated. The recognition is particularly significant as the inaugural IFFJK has provided filmmakers from Jammu and Kashmir with an international platform to present their work alongside films from different parts of country and the world. The success of the three films demonstrates the festivals role in creating meaningful opportunities for local storytellers to connect with wider audiences, industry professionals and the global cinematic community. The strong showing of J&K filmmakers also reflects the evolving creative landscape of the Union Territory, where filmmakers are increasingly exploring local histories, folklore, landscapes, contemporary realities and cultural narratives through diverse cinematic forms. The achievement is expected to further encourage young filmmakers and emerging artists from the region to pursue their creative ambitions and tell stories rooted in the unique experiences, heritage and cultural identity of Jammu and Kashmir. The First International Film Festival of Jammu & Kashmir, organised by the Department of Information and Public Relations (DIPR), has thus emerged as an important platform not only for celebrating global cinema but also for placing the creative voices of J&K before a wider national and international audience.
Kashmir can become Indias film festival destination: AR Rahman
Srinagar, Sep 12: Renowned music composer A R Rahman on Saturday lauded the International Film Festival of Jammu and Kashmir (IFFJK), saying Kashmir has the potential to become one of Indias major destinations for international cinema and filmmakers. Rahman, who is currently in Srinagar to shoot an advertisement, was speaking to media persons at the Royal Springs Golf Course. Kashmir is a beautiful place, so having an international film festival here is commendable. People can see the beauty and thevibrationof Kashmir, he said. The music composer expressed hope that the festival would grow into a major international event and attract visitors from across the world. Talking about the film festival, it is a great opening. I wish it grows and becomes such a great experience. We go to Amsterdam and London for film festivals. I wish Kashmir becomes a festival place of India, he said. Describing Kashmir as an inspiration, Rahman said he enjoyed his current visit to the valley while shooting for an advertisement. Kashmir is an inspiration. It is beautiful and uncluttered. I was here to shoot an advertisement, and I enjoyed doing it, he said. The Oscar-winning composer also said he was planning to return to Kashmir for a live performance. Rahman urged filmmakers to return to Kashmir and showcase the regions natural beauty and peaceful environment through cinema. I want filmmakers to come back and shoot in Kashmir. They must show the beauty and peace in nature as a positive thing rather than anything about violence and the past. The past is past, but the future is bright, he said. Referring to Kashmirs scenic beauty, Rahman also broke into the popular song Yeh Haseen Wadiyan, Yeh Khula Aasman. He further backed greater collaboration between Bollywood musicians and Kashmiri folk artistes, saying the region has immense potential in traditional and folk music. Recalling his association with the film Rockstar, Rahman said he had earlier travelled to Kashmir and recorded women singing traditional folk songs, some of which were later used in the film.
Invisible soot choking Kashmirs pristine air
Srinagar, Sep 12: Kashmirs mountain air may look pristine against its snow peaks and green slopes, but an invisible layer of soot is telling a different story,rathersetting alarm bells ringing. A 2025 study on carbonaceous aerosols in the north-western Himalayahasdetected black carbon at multiple locations across the Kashmir Valley, with researchers finding fossil-fuel combustion to be thedominant source of the pollutant. Published in the Indian Journal of Pure & Applied Physics, the study 'Variability of Carbonaceous Aerosols in Two Distinct Climatic Zones of the North-Western Himalaya (India)' - an expedition during summer 2022 examined black carbon and other carbonaceous aerosols at Srinagar, Qazigund, Pahalgam and Gulmarg. The researchers recorded average black carbon concentrations of 6.36 micrograms per cubic metre (g/m) at Gulmarg, 6.18 g/m at Qazigund, 6.10 g/m at Srinagar and 3.77 g/m at Pahalgam during the JuneJuly 2022 campaign. Fossil-fuel sources contributed 8194 per cent of black carbon at the Kashmir Valley sites, while biomass burning accounted for 619 per cent, the study found. The soot burden is not confined to Kashmirs main urban centre. Black carbon was detected at locations ranging from Srinagar to the high-altitude landscape of Gulmarg and the southern Valley sites of Qazigund and Pahalgam. It saidthatGulmarg recorded the highest average concentration among the four monitored Kashmir locations, at 6.36 g/m, despite being a high-altitude tourist destination. The figures, however, represent measurements from individual monitoring locations and should not be interpreted as annual black-carbon emissions for entire districts. Qazigund and Pahalgam are in Anantnag district, and Gulmarg is in Baramulla district, but their readings cannot be treated as district-wide averages, the study notes. A six-year study published in Environmental Pollution in 2022, based on observations from Srinagar between 2012 and 2017, reported a mean annual black-carbon concentration of 6.06 g/m. The study recorded an average of 8.60 g/m during winter and 8.31 g/m during autumn, while November recorded 13.88 g/m and December 13.4 g/m. The researchers linked the winter accumulation to temperature inversions, a shallow atmospheric boundary layer and stagnant conditions that restrict pollutant dispersion. The same study found that fossil-fuel combustion contributed 6070 per cent of Srinagars black carbon, while biomass burning became a substantially larger contributor during autumn and winter. Climate expert and environmentalist Dr Touseef Ahmad Bhat said the wider climate implications of such environmental changes could no longer be ignored. Climate change is no longer a distant threat. It is happening now, Dr Bhat told Rising Kashmir. Known for his environmental conservation work and popularly referred to as Kashmirs TreeMan, DrBhat also stressed the need to treat ecological protection as part of climate resilience. Black carbon is particularly important in the Himalayan context because it absorbs sunlight and contributes to atmospheric warming. When deposited on snow and ice, the dark particles can reduce surface reflectivity and increase solar absorption, potentially accelerating snow and glacier melt, Dr Bhat said. For Kashmir, where snow and glaciers are closely linked to water availability and ecosystem stability, the issue therefore extends well beyond conventional urban air pollution. Earlier Srinagar researchhadalso pointed to regional atmospheric transport as an additional factor, indicating that part of the Valleys black-carbon burden may originate outside the region. What remains missing is a comprehensive district-wise black-carbon emissions inventory for Jammu and Kashmir, quantifying annual emissions and separating contributions from transport, residential heating, biomass burning, industry and other sources. The 2025 study provides an important snapshot of the Valleys soot burden, while older Srinagar observations demonstrate how sharply concentrations can rise during autumn and winter. From Srinagars urban landscape to Gulmargs mountains, the invisible pollutant is now firmly on the Valleys environmental radar.
Chhattisgarh BJP Minister's brother Guru Dhaldas Saheb joins Congress
On his reasons to switch over, Guru Dhaldas Saheb said the BJP was not acting according to the principles of Guru Baba Ghasidas; expressed interest in contesting the 2028 Assembly polls
Chhattisgarh BJP Minister's brother Guru Dhaldas Saheb joins Congress
On his reasons to switch over, Guru Dhaldas Saheb said the BJP was not acting according to the principles of Guru Baba Ghasidas; expressed interest in contesting the 2028 Assembly polls
BRICS condemns Pahalgam terror attack in strongest terms; urges global action
Srinagar, Sep 12: BRICS countries have strongly condemned the Pahalgam terror attack of April 22, 2025, in which 26 people were killed and many others injured, while reaffirming their commitment to combating terrorism in all its forms and manifestations. In a strong message against terrorism, the grouping called for zero tolerance towards terror and stressed that those involved in terrorist activities and their support must be held accountable and brought to justice in accordance with relevant national and international law. We express strong condemnation of any acts of terrorism as criminal and unjustifiable, regardless of their motivation, whenever, wherever and by whomsoever committed. We condemn in the strongest terms the terrorist attack in Jammu and Kashmir on 22 April 2025, during which 26 people were killed and many more injured, an official statement said. BRICS reaffirmed its commitment to combating terrorism, specifically highlighting the need to tackle the cross-border movement of terrorists, terrorism financing and safe havens. We reaffirm our commitment to combating terrorism in all its forms and manifestations, including the cross-border movement of terrorists, terrorism financing and safe havens, it said. The grouping also stressed that terrorism must not be linked to any particular religion, nationality, civilisation or ethnic group, while calling for accountability of all those involved in terrorist activities and their support. We reiterate that terrorism should not be associated with any religion, nationality, civilization or ethnic group and that all those involved in terrorist activities and their support must be held accountable and brought to justice in accordance with relevant national and international law, the statement said. BRICS further urged the international community to maintain zero tolerance towards terrorism and rejected what it described as double standards in countering the global threat. We urge to ensure zero tolerance for terrorism and reject double standards in countering terrorism, it said. The grouping also underlined the primary responsibility of States in combating terrorism and said global counter-terrorism efforts must remain consistent with international law. We emphasise the primary responsibility of States in combating terrorism and that global efforts to prevent and counter terrorist threats must fully comply with their obligations under international law, including the Charter of the UN, in particular the purposes and principles thereof, and relevant international conventions and protocols, in particular international human rights law, international refugee law and international humanitarian law, as applicable, the statement said. BRICS welcomed the activities of its Counter-Terrorism Working Group (CTWG) and its five Subgroups, which function under the BRICS Counter-Terrorism Strategy, the BRICS Counter-Terrorism Action Plan and the CTWG Position Paper. We welcome the activities of the BRICS Counter-Terrorism Working Group (CTWG) and its five Subgroups based upon the BRICS Counter-Terrorism Strategy, the BRICS Counter-Terrorism Action Plan and the CTWG Position Paper. We look forward to further deepening counter-terrorism cooperation, it said. The grouping also called for an early conclusion and adoption of the Comprehensive Convention on International Terrorism under the United Nations framework. We call for an expeditious finalisation and adoption of the Comprehensive Convention on International Terrorism in the UN framework. We call for concerted actions against all UN-designated terrorists and terrorist entities, the statement said. BRICS further highlighted the importance of countering extremism and radicalisation, particularly among younger generations, and called for greater cooperation among member countries and their competent authorities. We also emphasise the importance of countering extremism and radicalisation specially among the younger generations, and further stress the need to enhance cooperation among the BRICS countries and their competent authorities, including through sharing of best practices, it said. The strong wording of the statement places the Pahalgam attack within a broader BRICS commitment to combating terrorism, while highlighting cross-border movement of terrorists, terror financing, safe havens and radicalisation as key areas requiring coordinated international action.
MP Ruhullah renews resignation call, hints at new political move
Ganderbal, Sep 12: MP Aga Ruhullah Mehdi on Saturday renewed his call for resignation and stepped up his criticism of the National Conference leadership, questioning the partys account of Chief Minister Omar Abdullahs decision to contest the 2024 Jammu and Kashmir Assembly elections. He also hinted at a fresh political move, saying his future course would become clear after November 3. Speaking to reporters in Ganderbal, Agha Ruhullah questioned claims by Health Minister Sakeena Itoo that Omar Abdullah was initially unwilling to contest the 2024 Assembly elections and was persuaded or pressured by the party to enter the electoral fray. Ruhullah said that if Omar had taken a principled decision not to contest the election, he should have remained firm despite any pressure. If it was their principled position, then why did they abandon that position under someones pressure? Ruhullah said. He questioned the credibility of a leader who changes a principled stand under pressure, saying it becomes difficult to trust that such a person would not change another position in the future under similar circumstances. Leadership is about standing by your principles. Leadership means remaining committed to your ideology and convictions, he said. Ruhullah claimed he had been a firsthand witness to the partys proceedings and maintained that there was no major pressure from the National Conference on Omar Abdullah to change his decision regarding the elections. I was directly involved in all these matters and in all the partys proceedings. There was no major pressure from the party telling them to change their decision, he said. He further argued that Omar could have resisted any alleged pressure or chosen another person for the Chief Ministers post, including someone from outside the Abdullah family. He could have demonstrated strong leadership, but there was a test and there was an attraction, and he could not resist that attraction, Ruhullah said. Referring to his own political plans, Ruhullah said the match that he intends to play politically would become clear after November 3. If you want to play a match for me or raise slogans in my favour, God willing, we will play that match soon. The political match that we have to play will take place in the coming period. After November 3, you will understand exactly which match I am talking about, he said. Ruhullah also spoke about freeing himself from what he described as chains, saying that after November 3 he would sit with the people, particularly the youth, to decide the future course collectively. Whether a party should be formed or not, what should be done and how we should move forwardall these decisions will be taken collectively, he said, adding that the people of Jammu and Kashmir, particularly the youth, would be part of the decision-making process.
Leh police log 14 NDPS cases, crack Rs 8L burglary
Leh Sep 12:- Leh Police registered 14 NDPS cases in the first eight months of 2026, arresting 24 people, while also cracking a major burglary involving gold, silver jewellery and precious stones, with suspects traced to Pattan in Baramulla, SSP Leh Piyush Fulzele said. Addressing a press conference, Piyush Fulzele said the anti-narcotics crackdown has remained a key focus of Leh Police, with three alleged drug peddlers identified for preventive detention under the PITNDPS Act, 1988. He said one of the detainees is currently lodged in District Jail. At the same time, police have intensified action against property crimes, recovering stolen jewellery and other valuables worth around 8 lakh in the latest burglary case reported on September 4. The case came to light after Padma Yankchan, a resident of Ighu, approached police and reported that unidentified persons had broken into her house during the night by breaking through the floor and stolen gold and silver jewellery, including necklaces, gemstones and other ornaments. Police registered a case under relevant provisions of the BNS and deployed technical as well as human intelligence to trace the suspects. The investigation eventually led officers to Pattan in Baramulla, following which a Leh Police team was sent to Kashmir and conducted raids in a remote area. The accused were apprehended and subsequently brought to Leh on transit remand. Police recovered jewellery and other stolen property valued at approximately 8 lakh. The investigation is now being expanded to determine whether the accused have links with previous burglary cases in Ladakh, including thefts reported from monasteries. Fulzele said police are examining a suspected pattern in which some persons visiting Ladakh for small-scale business allegedly identify houses and monasteries that remain closed or have limited security and subsequently pass information to associates who return to carry out thefts.
Ladakh launches four new policing, tourist safety initiatives
Leh, Sep 12: Ladakh Admin has launched four new initiatives aimed at strengthening law enforcement, improving road safety and enhancing assistance for tourists and residents across the Union Territory. The initiatives were inaugurated as part of efforts to modernise policing and provide more responsive services, particularly in view of Ladakhs challenging terrain and growing tourist movement. Among the key initiatives is the Jullay 2.0 Tourist Assistance App, which will provide real-time safety alerts, weather updates, road-condition information and live notifications. The application will also enable users to report incidents, submit online police complaints and seek emergency assistance. The Ladakh Administration has also introduced 20 e-Challan devices to digitise traffic enforcement. The move is expected to improve transparency in traffic regulation while strengthening road-safety measures. In another significant step, five Emergency Response Support System (ERSS) beats have been established to facilitate rapid emergency response through GPS-enabled systems. The police have additionally set up Tourist Facilitation Centres at remote locations, including North Pulu and Serchu, to provide on-ground assistance and support to visitors travelling through these areas. Ladakh Lieutenant Governor Vinai Kumar Saxena said the initiatives reflect the administrations commitment to responsive, transparent and people-centric policing tailored to the Union Territorys geographical conditions. He said the integration of technology, infrastructure and trained manpower would help create a safer environment for both residents and visitors to Ladakh.
The Houthis vs Saudi Arabia | The new lords of the Red Sea
A parallel state in Yemen, an ideologically committed base, years of warfare, control of the Red Sea coastline and sustained Iranian support have all helped the Shia militant group transform itself into a formidable territorial army and naval force
MP Ruhullah backs Veterinary interns stipend hike
Ganderbal, Sep 12: National Conference MP Agha Ruhullah Mehdi on Saturday met protesting veterinary interns at SKUAST-K Shuhama campus in Ganderbal and extended support to their demand for a hike in stipend, while questioning the government over what he termed a lack of accountability towards students and young professionals. The veterinary interns have been holding a peaceful protest for the past six days, seeking an enhancement in their stipend. During his interaction with the protesters, Ruhullah said their concerns should be heard by the administration and resolved through dialogue. Speaking to reporters after meeting the interns, the MP said the protests by veterinary interns came amid similar demonstrations by medical interns and other sections, arguing that the recurring protests reflected a larger issue of irresponsibility and lack of accountability. If our students make a request, some demands may be accepted and some may not be, but the most important thing is to respect them, come before them and listen to them, Ruhullah said. He questioned the governments approach towards demands raised by students and other sections, saying legitimate demands should not be viewed as a threat or an act of rebellion. Ruhullah also highlighted the disparity in stipends, saying veterinary interns in some other states receive more than 20,000, while interns in Jammu and Kashmir are receiving a much lower amount. Six thousand rupees in todays time tell veterinarians, doctors or those who have studied different disciplines to go and work for 6,000. It is not possible. This is injustice to them, he said. He said students invest years of their lives and significant resources in professional education with the expectation that the government would provide support and opportunities after their studies. The MP also questioned the allocation of government resources, saying that while expenditure on vehicles and other administrative priorities may be necessary, the stipend of interns and support for unemployed youth should also receive attention. Ruhullah appealed to Agriculture Minister Javed Ahmad Dar to personally meet the protesting veterinary interns and engage with them to find a common ground on the issue. I request the Agriculture Minister to come to them, talk to them and listen to them. This is not a big problem. There are around 150 students whose stipend has to be increased, he said. He maintained that the government might not be able to meet every demand in full, but a mutually acceptable solution could be worked out through dialogue. Ruhullah further said that the purpose of an elected government was to remain accountable and accessible to the people, arguing that students should not have to repeatedly take to the streets to have their concerns heard. He warned that if the administration failed to engage with the interns in the coming days, he would consider intensifying his support and amplifying their concerns. If no one from the administration or authorities comes, maybe I will have to do more to amplify this. I will have to sit with them for more time and involve more people, he said.
U.S. military says 100 ships redirected in past two months of Iran blockade
In response, the United States has sought to prevent ships from travelling to and from Iranian ports to deprive Tehran of revenue
Clear Gulmarg or pay the cost: Authority issues cleanup order
Srinagar, Sept 12: The Tourism Development Authority Gulmarg has ordered the removal of hazardous, abandoned and unsightly materials from public places across Gulmarg, citing safety concerns and the need to maintain the resorts cleanliness and appearance. In a circular issued on Friday, the authority directed all concerned persons, agencies and unit holders to clear such material within one week. The order covers old and damaged signboards, bricks, stones, gravel, temporary fencing, benches, tools and equipment, broken dustbins and other structures or material that are obstructive, abandoned or pose a risk to the public. The authority has specifically called for the Gulmarg Bowl and other public areas to be cleared and maintained in a clean, safe and aesthetically acceptable condition. The circular also makes it clear that no material can be stored or placed in public areas without prior permission from the competent authority. Failure to comply within the stipulated period will allow the Gulmarg Development Authority to remove the material without further notice. The cost of such removal will be recovered from the concerned person, agency or unit, while the authority will not be responsible for any loss or damage to the material during the process. The authority has further directed its enforcement wing to prepare a complete inventory of such items within seven days and submit it for necessary action.
NHM standoff deepens as govt fails to address demands
Srinagar, Sep 12: More than 12,000 National Health Mission (NHM) employees across J&K continued their protest on Saturday as part of their extended 72-hour strike over long-pending demands, including a comprehensive job policy, salary revision and social-security benefits. The Jammu & Kashmir National Health Mission Employees Association (JKNHMEA) UT-Level Coordination Committee commenced the 72-hour strike on September 9, with employees staging protests at district headquarters across Jammu and Kashmir. Amid the ongoing strike, the Health Department Kashmir has directed all Medical Superintendents, Block Medical Officers and heads of institutions under its administrative control to ensure the presence of all available regular staff in hospitals. DHSK directed all Drawing and Disbursing Officers (DDOs) and heads of institutions to ensure that adequate regular staff remains available on duty in all critical and patient-care areas. Essential services including OPD, IPD, Emergency, Labour Room, OT, diagnostics, pharmacy and other patient-care services are maintained without interruption, the order said. The Directorate further directed that duty rosters be suitably adjusted wherever required to ensure adequate manpower during the strike period. It said patient care and essential health services should not suffer due to the absence of NHM staff. Any shortage of manpower adversely affecting essential services shall be brought to the notice of this Directorate immediately for appropriate intervention, it said. Meanwhile, commenting on the NHM employees strike, Health Minister Sakeena Itoo said she had met the employees several times and maintained that healthcare workers posted in sensitive and critical-care areas should not leave their duties to participate in protests. She said the government had not rejected their demands and assured that efforts were being made to address the issues that fall within the governments jurisdiction, while other matters had already been taken up with the Government of India. I have already taken up the matter with the Union Health Minister in a conference, and this was my main point. We have also sent the proposal to the Government of India, she said. We are examining the matter. We request them to resume their duties. The government is working on their issues, she added. However, JKNHMEA Chief Spokesperson Abdul Rauoof said NHM employees had been protesting for their rights for a long time and remained an important component of the healthcare delivery system. He said NHM employees continued to perform their duties in hospitals despite several unresolved issues concerning their service conditions and future. The NHM employees have been protesting for their rights for a long time. They are an important component of the healthcare delivery system and continue to perform their duties in hospitals, Rauoof said. He said the association was demanding a secure job policy, salary revision, retirement benefits and social-security measures to provide financial and social protection to employees and their families. Rauoof said the association had repeatedly raised these issues through appropriate forums and sought a meaningful and time-bound resolution from the government. Despite repeatedly raising these issues, the government has failed to resolve them and has only given assurances, he said. The latest agitation comes five months after a 48-hour strike held by NHM employees in April over similar demands. The protest was called off on April 2 after representatives met Health Minister Sakina Itoo, who had assured them that their grievances would be addressed.
'Millet pulao', 'paneer lababdar', 'shahtoot phirni': BRICS Summit gala dinner menu
The dinner was hosted by Prime Minister Narendra Modi at the Bharat Mandapam on Saturday
Hailstorm hits Kashmir paddy crop, farmers seek relief
Srinagar, Sep 12 : Heavy rainfall accompanied by hailstorms during the intervening night of Friday and Saturday has caused extensive damage to standing paddy crops in several parts of central and north Kashmir, leaving farmers facing the prospect of major financial losses just days ahead of the harvesting season. The hailstorm reportedly affected paddy fields in several villages of Beerwah sub-division in Budgam district, including Chewdara, Beerwah, Ohangam, Rathsun and Arwah. Farmers in the affected areas said the crop had reached the maturity stage and was expected to be harvested within the next few days. Similar damage has been reported from several areas of Ganderbal district, including Malikpora, Pati Devpora, Gogjigund, Kurag and Sehpora, where farmers said standing paddy crops were hit by the intense hail and rainfall. In parts of north Kashmirs Baramulla district, farmers from Tangmarg and Kunzer areas have also reported damage to agricultural fields following the sudden deterioration in weather conditions. The affected farmers said the damage had come at a critical time when they had already invested significant amounts of money and labour in raising the crop. For many farming families, the paddy harvest is an important source of annual income, and the destruction of the standing crop has triggered concerns about how they will recover the money spent on seeds, fertilisers, pesticides, labour and other agricultural inputs. Nadeem Ahmad Dar, a resident of Chewdara village, said the hailstorm had completely damaged his paddy fields at a time when the crop was almost ready for harvesting. Our paddy fields have been completely damaged due to the heavy hailstorm. We had already spent a lot of money on cultivation and were expecting to benefit from the crop. The rice plants were ready for harvesting and we were planning to harvest them within a few days. But the hailstorm has completely damaged our fields, Dar said. He said agriculture was the main source of livelihood for his family and that the sudden crop loss had left them in a difficult situation. We are farmers and completely depend on agricultural activities. Our vegetable and paddy crops have also been damaged. We have no other option now. We request the government to identify all the affected farmers and provide them adequate compensation, he said. Another affected farmer, Mohammad Akbar Dev, said the damage had wiped out months of hard work and investment. My paddy fields have been completely damaged due to the heavy rainfall and hailstorm. More than 10 members of my family are dependent on agriculture. I have lost everything. I worked in the paddy fields every day so that we could benefit from the crop. Now, all my hard work and the money I invested in the paddy fields have been lost due to the hailstorm, Dev said. Dev appealed to the government to conduct a comprehensive assessment of the losses and ensure that every affected farmer was identified. He also demanded relief for farmers who had taken loans to finance agricultural activities. The government should identify all the farmers who have suffered losses due to the hailstorm. The KCC loans of the affected farmers should also be waived so that farming families can manage the situation, he said. Farmers in the affected areas said an early assessment was necessary as the extent of damage could increase if the affected crop deteriorated further. They urged the Agriculture Department and district administration to send field teams to the affected villages to assess the losses and prepare a detailed report. Director Agriculture Kashmir, Sartaj Ahmad Shah said farmers who had insured their maize and paddy crops would be eligible for compensation under the crop insurance scheme. The affected farmers who have insured their maize and paddy crops need to raise their claims through the online mode. They can also contact the concerned agricultural officials in their respective areas, who will guide them in filing the claims within 48 hours so that they can receive compensation, Shah said. He advised insured farmers to approach the concerned Agriculture Department officials for assistance in filing their claims within the stipulated period. The recent damage has once again highlighted the vulnerability of farmers to sudden weather events, particularly during the crucial stages of crop maturity and harvesting.
Large stock of counterfeit medicines seized from private facility in Bengaluru
SDPI holds rally to press for increased reservation for Muslims
Namma Chennai app opens volunteer registration ahead of Northeast monsoon
New users have to create an account using their name, mobile number, e-mail address, address and PIN code and log in using an OTP
Theres a strange kind of political theatre playing out in Kashmir these days. Its loud, its crowded, and everyone on stage is having the time of their lives, but completely oblivious to the audience sitting out in the cold. Weve built a political culture where a stray remark can dominate the news cycle for weeks, while the quiet, grinding struggles of everyday life barely get a passing glance. For months, the Valleys public conversation has been hijacked by controversies that generate a mountain of heat and zero solutions. Unemployment, crushing electricity bills and shrinking household incomes have no magnetic pull of a good, provocative soundbite. Instead, our attention gets repeatedly hooked by symbolic turf wars that have a shelf life of about three days or a week. Take Mehbooba Muftis Banta Hai remark, which sparked endless loops of TV studio shouting matches and social media spats. Before that dust had even settled, we were plunged into the surreal saga of the Pyjama Row, triggered by MLA Tanvir Sadiqs comment on Sheikh Mohammad Abdullahs death anniversary. A remark about a piece of clothing turned into an existential political showdown in which it was projected that the pyjama held the secret to our collective destiny. The BJP, naturally, jumped at the chance to steal the show, even making a questionable effigy of MLA Tanvir Sadiq. But the irony was hard to miss. Not long ago, voices from that same party were calling the martyrs of July 13 traitors, stabbing right at the heart of Kashmiri memory. Im not equating the two remarks, but Im pointing out how convenient political outrage really is. Outrage isnt a moral compass anymore but rather a strategy and a tool efficiently used by political opponents against each other. Meanwhile, the Congress party hasnt lagged behind in this theatre either. While people waited for leadership on governance, Congress found the energy to pick a fight with its alliance partner, the National Conference, over singing every stanza of Vande Mataram. The NC shot back by pointing out that Congress chief ministers in other states do it all the time. It wasnt a deep debate about secularism or nationalism but a masterclass in how easily political principles bend when votes are on the line. Now put it all together and you see a troubling pattern. Outrage has become a professional sport here. Every sentence is sliced open, looking for hidden malice, and every quote is weaponised as a loyalty test. We spend precious intellectual energy debating the genealogy of buzzwords and the symbolism of wardrobes, while the people facing the worst economic squeezes are left cheering for arguments that give them nothing back. The ordinary citizen is nowhere to be found in this script. He doesnt sit on prime-time panels, feature in party press releases or become a social media sensation. For him, politics isnt a battle of narratives but a daily survival test. He worries about his electricity bill, whether the water supply will hold out, how to pay for his kids education and whether his small shop will survive another month. Our young graduate waits years for a door that never opens. A shopkeeper watches his customer base shrink. A household quietly cuts back on meals because incomes refuse to keep pace with reality. These are the things that actually define life, yet they rarely touch the legislative agenda. Why? Because misery doesnt go viral. Theres no prime-time spectacle in an unpaid power bill or a tired, jobless or underpaid graduate. This is where both those in power and those in opposition fail us. Governments are supposed to translate authority into tangible relief, while oppositions are supposed to offer substance, not just a louder megaphone for grievances. None of this means history, identity and culture dont matter in Kashmir. They matter deeply. Our politics is stitched together from memory and belonging. But theres a massive gap between using history to make sense of today and getting so drunk on its symbols that we completely abandon the present. One is a calling; the other is a distraction. A mature society has to hold both truths. History matters, but so does a monthly paycheck. Identity is vital, but so are a reliable power grid, clean water and decent healthcare. You dont have to choose between them, but you do have to know what comes first. You cant pay an electricity bill with outrage. You cant create jobs with a TV debate. And you certainly cant build an economy by turning every single disagreement into an existential war. The Pajama Row will blow over, just like Banta Hai did. Another controversy will take its place, another phrase will get blown out of proportion, and the wheel will spin again. The outrage will peak, the camps will mobilise and, eventually, everyone will move on. But the electricity bill will still be sitting on the table. The jobless graduate will still be waiting. The struggling businessman will still be counting losses. Thats the difference between a controversy and an actual problem. Controversies expire. Real problems dont. Maybe its time our political class changed the subject from what sounds good to what actually matters. Attention is power, and when we spend all our energy on symbolic theatre, politics loses touch with the people its supposed to serve. Kashmir doesnt need another manufactured crisis. It needs leaders who can tell the difference between whats loud and whats life-changing. At the end of the day, a pyjama is just a piece of fabric. Its the human being wearing it who deserves our attention. And that is the one thing our politics keeps forgetting: the Valley deserves a politics worthy of its people, not just its headlines. (The Author can be reached at Email: azharsahussain@gmail.com )
Valley of Frames: Inside the Inaugural International Film Festival of Jammu and Kashmir
For decades, the cinematic identity of Jammu and Kashmir existed almost exclusively on the other side of the lens. The snow-swept meadows of Gulmarg, the willow-fringed waters of Dal Lake, and the undulating foothills of the Tawi basin served as picturesque backdrops for classic Indian romances, musical interludes, and high-stakes drama. Yet the indigenous creative voice remained largely peripherala location entry on a production call sheet rather than an active seat at the global cinematic table. The recently concluded inaugural edition of the International Film Festival of Jammu and Kashmir (IFFJK), organized by the Department of Information and Public Relations (DIPR) in collaboration with national film bodies, dismantled that long-standing dynamic. Guided by the evocative theme Rang-e-Cinema (Colours of Cinema), the four-day festival brought together an ambitious curation of international features, documentaries, shorts, and technical masterclasses. Crucially, IFFJK broke away from the traditional format of an insular, single-venue gathering. By distributing its programming across a tripartite circuitthe political and cultural nerve center of Srinagar, the winter capital of Jammu, and the high-altitude alpine resort of Gulmargthe festival established a decentralized, inclusive model that linked the diverse geographies and creative communities of the Union Territory while sketching a blueprint for a modern, self-sustaining regional film ecosystem. The festival arrived with substantial institutional weight, drawing an overwhelming global response during its initial call for entries. The selection committee evaluated more than 1,100 submissions originating from over 80 countries, arriving at a final official slate of 135 films representing more than 40 nations. India anchored the lineup with 64 selections, complemented by robust international showcases led by France with 13 films and Iran with eight, alongside notable works from Argentina, Spain, Brazil, Germany, Russia, Sweden, South Korea, and the United States. The programming was segmented into four structured verticals: the International Competition for contemporary world cinema, the Bharat Panorama celebrating regional Indian masterpieces, a specialized Cinema of the World showcase, and a dedicated Jammu and Kashmir Select category designed to highlight local independent storytellers. The festival backed its curatorial ambition with one of the most generous prize structures on the Indian festival circuit, totaling 96 lakh across nine categories. The top accolade for Best Feature Film carried a purse of 25 lakh, while Best Director and Best Debut Director were awarded 15 lakh each, alongside 10 lakh for Best Film in the J&K Select section and 8 lakh for leading performance categories. Evaluating these works was a high-caliber international jury featuring Oscar and BAFTA-winning sound designer Resul Pookutty, legendary cinematographer-director Santosh Sivan, veteran German film programmer Dorothee Wenner, international media executive Keiko Bang, and National Award-winning filmmaker Himansu Sekhar Khatua. Rather than restricting guests and audiences to a secluded enclave, the festival's organizational architecture was deliberately distributed across three distinct administrative nodes. Srinagar served as the institutional and artistic epicenter. Perched along the banks of Dal Lake, the Sher-i-Kashmir International Conference Centre (SKICC) hosted the formal opening and closing galas, welcoming regional dignitaries, international delegates, and prominent figures from the Indian film industry. Simultaneously, the INOX PVR multiplex complex accommodated continuous, packed theatrical screenings where local youth, cinema students, and visiting filmmakers engaged with complex world cinema on state-of-the-art projection systems. One of the most resonant experiential activations was the open-air floating cinema erected directly on the waters of Dal Lake, where attendees on shikaras watched classic cinema set against the twilight silhouette of the Zabarwan range. The academic core of the Srinagar leg took shape through rigorous masterclasses and panels held at SKICC. Craft masters such as Anil Mehta led sessions on deconstructing visual subtext and framing without expository dialogue, while parallel workshops unpacked the technical rhythm of editing and the complexities of immersive sound design in contemporary cinema. To ensure the festival did not become an insular Valley-centric spectacle, the operational matrix extended concurrently into Jammu. Regional film initiatives in the past have occasionally faced criticism for administrative centralism; IFFJK deliberately mitigated this by transforming Jammu into an equal exhibition and dialogue partner. The Wave Cinema complex was activated to screen selections from the Bharat Panorama, world shorts, and independent features. This allowed Jammus substantial student body, cultural practitioners, and independent Dogri-language filmmakers direct access to the festivals creative momentum without having to navigate cross-regional travel logistics. The third pillar of the execution model took place at an elevation of 8,690 feet in the alpine basin of Gulmarg. Centered around the Gulmarg Convention Centre and surrounding venues, this leg served a dual purpose: high-altitude exhibition and high-level industrial familiarization. Beyond exhibition, the Gulmarg leg operated as an immersive retreat for visiting domestic and foreign studio executives, executive producers, and line producers. It provided these decision-makers with a tangible look at the Pir Panjal ranges production infrastructure, contemporary winter hospitality capacities, and diverse lighting conditions, positioning the area as a viable, cost-effective alternative to traditional European alpine shooting locations. The execution of IFFJK yielded several tangible breakthroughs. First, it achieved a vital narrative reclaim. For decades, global and domestic screens have often viewed Kashmir through a binary lenseither as an idealized escapist paradise or through the narrow prism of conflict. Hosting works from Lebanon, Jordan, Iran, France, and Latin America positioned the region as an intellectually curious, sophisticated space capable of engaging with nuanced cinematic art. Second, the festival demonstrated the vitality of public film culture. Following years of limited theatrical exposure and the historic closure of single screens, the heavy footfall across Srinagar and Jammu proved that communal cinema-going remains deeply valued by regional audiences. Third, it built an immediate bridge between aspiring regional talent and the upper echelons of global cinema craft, giving young Kashmiri and Dogri storytellers access to the mentorship of master technicians. Finally, the inter-departmental synergy between DIPR, Tourism, Floriculture, and district administrations demonstrated that the Union Territory possesses the logistics, security management, and administrative capability required to mount complex international events smoothly. Yet, the success of an inaugural film festival is ultimately defined by whether it can transition from an episodic public relations event into a permanent, self-sustaining cultural institution. The enthusiasm generated during the four days of IFFJK cannot be allowed to dissipate until the next festival cycle. To build upon this foundation, state stakeholders, industry bodies, and creative communities should focus on five strategic areas moving forward: First, future editions must institutionalize a dedicated Film Bazaar and Co-Production Market. While masterclasses and screenings inspire audiences, industry longevity requires economic transactions. IFFJK must establish an industry market modeled on international platforms, where regional screenwriters from Jammu and Kashmir can pitch projects directly to domestic studios, global streaming platforms, and independent financiers. Integrating a competitive project incubation laboffering script doctoring and development seed grantswould ensure that indigenous stories move from conceptual treatments into funded production pipelines. Second, the Union Territory must follow through on creating a digitized J&K Film Talent and Crew Registry. A frequent challenge for productions coming to shoot in the region has been the reliance on bringing entire below-the-line crews from Mumbai or Delhi. The DIPR and local trade bodies should launch a centralized, verified digital portal detailing local gaffers, grips, sound recordists, art directors, actors, makeup artists, and line managers. Establishing mandatory or incentivized minimum quotas for hiring registered local crew members on incoming productions would turn film tourism directly into sustainable, year-round creative employment. Third, the administrative mechanism governing film production must be streamlined through an empowered, statutory J&K Film Commission. Although the region's film policy outlines single-window clearance, production units often navigate overlapping jurisdictions between municipal, forest, heritage, and security departments. Consolidating all location permits, transparent rate cards, drone flight permissions, and standardized security clearances into a single digital window with legally mandated turnaround timelines will dramatically lower the barrier of entry for international and independent productions. Fourth, regional authorities should sustain cinema literacy and training throughout the calendar year rather than confining it to the festival week. The Department of Culture and DIPR could partner with premier national institutions such as the Film and Television Institute of India (FTII) and the Satyajit Ray Film & Television Institute (SRFTI) to deliver certified, intensive short courses in screenwriting, cinematography, sound design, and color grading across Jammu and Srinagar. Furthermore, institutionalizing monthly university film clubs would maintain an active, critical community of young cinephiles. Finally, the festival must secure a stable calendar slot and pursue international accreditation. To attract high-profile world and Asian premieres, IFFJK needs a fixed date on the global cinema circuit, avoiding clashes with major international events. Over time, the festival administration should work toward accreditation from the International Federation of Film Producers Associations (FIAPF). Securing recognized festival status will solidify Jammu and Kashmirs standing on the international cinematic itinerary, placing it alongside respected regional events like the Busan International Film Festival and the International Film Festival of India. The inaugural International Film Festival of Jammu and Kashmir was more than a celebratory assembly of artists; it was a cultural pivot. By relighting auditoriums, casting projected beams across the waters of Dal Lake, and taking world cinema into the mountain expanses of Gulmarg, the festival demonstrated that the region is ready to step beyond being an idyllic backdrop in someone else's movie. Jammu and Kashmir has stepped forward to claim its rightful place as an author of its own stories, an active patron of world cinema, and a vibrant host to the global filmmaking community. (The Author is JKAS)
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AIs Next Big Leap: From Answers to Discovery
Every discovery begins with a question that does not have a clear answer. A scientist notices something unusual, a mathematician sees a problem from a new angle, or a researcher finds a pattern hidden in years of information. Human curiosity has expanded knowledge. Now, artificial intelligence is entering that process, not simply as a system that answers questions, but as a tool that can help researchers explore possibilities. Picture a researcher looking through information from a study. Most of it may seem routine, but an AI system notices a small pattern worth exploring. It suggests possible explanations, giving the researcher a direction. The information can then be examined carefully, compared with existing knowledge and studied further. The result may confirm what is known, reveal something unexpected, or lead to a new question. AI can widen possibilities for discovery while human curiosity guides the search. This is the emerging idea behind AI for scientific discovery. Scientists are exploring systems that analyse large collections of data, identify patterns, suggest explanations and assist with experiments. The aim is not simply to produce answers, but to make difficult questions easier to explore. The idea is already producing important examples. In 2024, the Nobel Prize in Chemistry recognised Demis Hassabis and John Jumper for work in predicting protein structures. David Baker was recognised for computational protein design. Understanding protein structures helps scientists study how they work and can support research into new medicines. Mathematics is putting AIs reasoning abilities to the test. An advanced version of Google DeepMinds Gemini Deep Think achieved gold-medal-level performance at the 2025 International Mathematical Olympiad. Another system, AlphaEvolve, has been used to search for improved ways of performing computer calculations. It generates possible solutions, tests them and identifies stronger approaches, examining possibilities at a scale that would be difficult to explore manually. Healthcare research is becoming another important field for AI. AI can examine large numbers of possible chemical combinations and identify those worth studying further. It can also help researchers organise information and analyse study results. Any promising finding still needs careful review and testing before it can be accepted as reliable. Materials science is opening new possibilities for AI. Computational tools can examine large numbers of potential materials and identify those worth studying further. These possibilities can then be developed and tested for practical uses, including batteries, electronics and other technologies. Universities and research centres around the world are studying these possibilities. Stanford researchers are examining ways AI can assist scientific work. Princeton has established a new Data and Intelligent Systems initiative to support AI and data-science research. The University of Cambridge is exploring AI applications in areas such as energy production, healthcare and biology. ETH Zurich is studying AI applications in climate science, energy production and storage, healthcare, robotics and quantum science. Major scientific institutions are examining the subject as well. The Royal Society has studied how AI could influence scientific research. CERN is involved in work connecting AI, computing and scientific research. The European CoE RAISE project explored AI approaches for scientific and engineering applications on next-generation supercomputers. These efforts share an interest in how modern computing can assist research. India is advancing research in this field. The Anusandhan National Research Foundation has a dedicated programme for Artificial Intelligence in Science and Engineering. Its areas include AI for science, engineering design and materials development, weather and climate modelling, and bio and life sciences. It supports shared AI models, scientific datasets, software and access to computing resources. Meanwhile, researchers at the Indian Institute of Science in Bengaluru are working at the meeting point of AI and science. The scale of this research is growing rapidly. Stanfords 2026 AI Index reports that AI-related publications in the natural sciences reached approximately 80,150 in 2025, about 26 percent higher than in 2024. This suggests that AI is becoming a useful partner in scientific exploration. Fully autonomous scientific discovery is still at an early stage, but AI is helping researchers examine complex problems and explore possibilities at remarkable scale. Human testing remains essential for developing promising ideas into reliable knowledge. That partnership is where much of the promise lies. An AI system can identify a pattern, suggest a possibility or point towards an unexpected connection. Researchers can then ask why it exists, test the idea and determine where it might lead. AI does not diminish scientific curiosity. It can give curiosity more directions to follow. A central question in discovery is simple: what should we explore next? AI can examine millions of possibilities and help researchers notice connections that might otherwise remain hidden. People provide the purpose behind the search. Researchers choose questions, define goals, evaluate evidence and decide which ideas deserve further attention. Combined, these capabilities can open new paths for scientific work. What lies ahead is not a choice between humans and machines, but a deeper partnership. Advanced tools can extend human curiosity, while AI can process enormous amounts of information and examine possibilities at remarkable speed. Scientists bring judgement, context and responsibility. The result could be a new way of doing research, one that moves faster while opening fresh avenues for exploration and discovery. The history of science provides an instructive lesson. The telescope did not replace the astronomer. The microscope did not replace the scientist. The computer did not replace the mathematician. Each expanded what people could observe, calculate or investigate. In much the same way, AI can extend scientific curiosity. Its greatest contribution may not be measured only by the answers it produces. It may also be measured by the possibilities it reveals, the connections it helps uncover and the questions it brings into view. The next big leap in AI may not be about machines having all the answers. It may be about helping humans explore a larger universe of questions. And perhaps the most exciting possibility is that somewhere within that vast search, AI may help a curious mind find a question that opens the door to a discovery nobody had imagined before. (The author is a Columnist. Er. Email bakshisuhaib094@gmail.com)
From Yeazar to Trousers: Unravelling the Myth of the Trouserless Kashmiri
From the dawn of human history, clothing has served as our primary armour against the elements. Evolutionary biology and genetic evidence trace humanitys first steps toward covering the body back some 170,000 years ago during an Ice Age, when early humans began utilizing animal skins and furs to trap heat. What began as crude, draped pelts eventually evolved through technological milestones like the invention of the eyed sewing needle 40,000 years ago, allowing for tailored garments that could withstand harsh climates. Across every civilization, the fundamental human drive has been the same: to protect the body and preserve dignity against environmental extremes. Looking back into the historical heritage of Kashmir, multiple independent records demonstrate a long-standing culture of proficient weaving and proper attire. As documented in M.L. Kapur's The History and Culture of Kashmir, historical accounts and archaeological findings from sites like Harvan reveal a thriving textile industry encompassing Kauseya (silks and muslins), Ksauma (linen from flax and hemp), and Kambala (woollen blankets and animal-wool garments). This legacy of fine craftsmanship expanded significantly during the medieval period. As detailed in Prof. Mohibul Hasans authoritative work, Kashmir Under the Sultans, particularly under the enlightened rule of Sultan Zain-ul-Abidin, the valley witnessed a flourishing economic and manufacturing golden age. Kashmiri artisans produced and exported renowned shawls, silks, and woolen cloth celebrated for warmth and durability across various countries, while merchants maintained extensive trade networks spanning Tibet, Central Asia, and India. Nowhere in these comprehensive historical chronicles is there any suggestion that the people of Kashmir lacked basic garments like trousers (yazar). Yet, recent political discourse has occasionally featured sensationalised and baseless claimsalleging that Kashmiris, even as late as the mid-20th century, lacked trousers and had to beg or borrow them to look presentable. This distorted narrative collapses under the weight of historical documentation. Sir Walter Lawrences definitive colonial-era study, The Valley of Kashmir, provides meticulous descriptions of everyday local attire, noting how cultivators routinely wore traditional woollen gowns tucked into drawers that functioned as practical knickerbockers for daily life and travel. Was historical Kashmir marked by material hardship? Undeniably. Centuries of heavy taxation, administrative exploitation, and geographic isolation often forced ordinary villagers to live modestly, where resources were scarce, and a single woollen pheran paired with a kangri fire pot formed the core defence against brutal winters. But periodic economic exploitation and a lifestyle of rustic simplicity are a far cry from the total absence of fundamental clothing. The people of Kashmir have always clothed themselves with innate dignity, drawing upon a rich, centuries-old heritage of textile mastery. History demands fidelity to documented facts rather than political theatrics. While humanity's journey of clothing has evolved from prehistoric animal hides to modern ready-to-wear fashion, the self-respect and cultural identity of the Kashmiri peopleanchored firmly in a rich history of local attireremain entirely untouched by manufactured myths. (The author is a former civil servant from the administrative service. Email: nisargilani57748@gmail.com)
The skin we trust: When beauty promises turn into medical risks
A glowing face. Thicker hair. Clearer skin. Fewer wrinkles. A pigmentation-free complexion. Scroll through social media and the promise is everywhere: a better appearance is only one cream, one injection or one procedure away. The language is persuasive. Miracle cure. Instant results. Advanced technology. 100 per cent natural. Permanent solution. For someone troubled by acne, pigmentation or hair loss, such promises can be difficult to resist. But behind the glossy photographs and confident claims lies a question that deserves far more attention: Where does genuine dermatology endand quackery begin? When Appearance Becomes an Opportunity. Skin problems are different from many other illnesses because they are often visible to everyone. A person may live with acne for months, struggle with pigmentation for years, or watch helplessly as hair becomes thinner. These conditions may not always threaten life, but they can affect confidence, social interaction and emotional well-being. Dermatological treatment is also rarely an overnight process. Acne, melasma, psoriasis, eczema, vitiligo and many forms of hair loss may require months or even years of treatment. Improvement can be gradual, incomplete or interrupted by recurrence. That is precisely where unrealistic promises find an audience. When conventional treatment seems slow, the promise of something new, powerful or instant becomes tempting. And this is where the business of quackery can begin. Quackery Has Changed Its Appearance The word quackery may conjure images of an old-fashioned healer selling mysterious potions. Today, it can look very different. It may come packaged in an attractive clinic, accompanied by sophisticated equipment, impressive photographs and scientific-sounding terminology. It may involve an expensive treatment package, a social-media influencer, a special cream or an injectable therapy described as revolutionary. Quackery is not simply about who provides the treatment. It can also involve exaggerated claims, misleading advertising, unnecessary procedures, inappropriate use of medicines or devices, and promotion of treatments without adequate scientific evidence. The packaging may be modern. The problem remains the same. The Cream That Promises Too Much Perhaps the simplest example is the miracle cream. Products promising permanent removal of pigmentation, acne, scars, wrinkles or other skin problems are widely available. The attraction is obvious: a bottle or tube seems far easier than months of medical treatment. But some fairness and depigmenting preparations may contain potent medicines such as corticosteroids, hydroquinone or retinoids. When used incorrectly or for prolonged periods without medical supervision, these products can damage the skin. Problems may include acne-like eruptions, visible small blood vessels, thinning of the skin and pigmentary abnormalities. The important lesson is not that every cosmetic cream is dangerous. Hair Loss and the Hope of Regrowth Few things can generate anxiety quite like hair loss. This makes the condition particularly vulnerable to commercial exploitation. Patients may be offered injections, supplements, serums, devices or expensive packages promising impressive hair regrowth. Increasingly, terms such as stem cells and regenerative therapy are also used to market treatments. But hair loss is not one disease. Androgenetic alopecia, alopecia areata, telogen effluvium, nutritional deficiencies and scarring alopecias have very different causes. A treatment that may be appropriate for one condition may be uselessor inappropriatefor another. The first question should therefore not be: Which package should I buy? It should be: What type of hair loss do I have? In scarring alopecia, this distinction becomes particularly important because damage to hair follicles may become permanent if the underlying disease is not appropriately managed. Lasers: Powerful Technology, Not Magic Lasers have transformed dermatology. They can be extremely useful in appropriately selected patients for a range of skin conditions and cosmetic concerns. But technology does not eliminate the need for medical judgment. A laser procedure depends on the correct diagnosis, patient selection, skin characteristics, device, settings and expertise of the person performing it. The indiscriminate use of lasers can result in burns, increased or decreased pigmentation, scarring and other complications. A machine may be sophisticated. That does not mean every patient needs it. The Seduction of Scientific Words Modern dermatology is witnessing exciting research in areas such as stem cells, exosomes, growth factors, regenerative medicine and nanotechnology. These fields hold scientific promise. But scientific vocabulary can also become a powerful marketing tool. A treatment does not become proven simply because it has a sophisticated name. Before accepting an advanced therapy, patients should ask: What evidence supports it? Has it been adequately studied? What outcome can realistically be expected? What are the risks? These questions matter more than how impressive the treatment sounds. More Procedures Do Not Always Mean Better Care There is another subtle form of commercialisation: the belief that more treatment must mean better treatment. A patient may be offered repeated peels, microneedling, injections, lasers or combinations of procedures as part of a package. But medicine should not work like a subscription service. A procedure should have a reason. The Danger We Cannot See The greatest harm from quackery may sometimes be invisible. It may be the disease that was never diagnosed. A changing pigmented lesion could repeatedly be treated with creams rather than properly evaluated. A persistent ulcer might receive one topical treatment after another when it actually requires further investigation or biopsy. A suspected autoimmune blistering disorder could be treated incorrectly, delaying appropriate management. In these situations, the problem is not merely that a treatment has failed. Valuable time has been lost. And in medicine, time can matter. When the Treatment Becomes the Problem Inappropriate treatment can itself cause disease. Unsuitable steroid-containing preparations can produce steroid-related skin problems. Incorrectly performed injections can cause nodules, granulomas, infection, vascular complications and tissue damage. Aggressive energy-based procedures can lead to persistent changes in pigmentation or skin texture. The label natural, premium, advanced or non-surgical is therefore not a guarantee of safety. Every treatment deserves the same questions: Is it indicated? Does it work? What are the risks? Instagram Versus Evidence Perhaps nowhere is the battle between evidence and marketing more visible than on social media. A short video promising clear skin in seven days can reach millions of viewers. A carefully conducted clinical study may struggle to attract attention. Before-and-after photographs can be compelling, but photographs can be influenced by lighting, camera angle, makeup, hydration, image processing and selective reporting. And a testimonialhowever sincereis still a testimonial. Testimonials are not clinical trials. Social media itself is not the enemy. It can be an extraordinary platform for health education. The challenge is learning to recognise when education ends and advertising begins. A Few Questions Can Protect You Patients do not need a medical degree to make safer decisions. Before undergoing an expensive, invasive or unfamiliar treatment, ask: What is my diagnosis? Why do I need this treatment? Is there scientific evidence that it works? What are my alternatives? What are the possible complications? How many sessions are actually necessary? What happens if I do not undergo the procedure? Is there a simpler, safer or less expensive established option? Be cautious about guaranteed cures, extraordinary promises, pressure to purchase packages and claims based primarily on testimonials or photographs. And when in doubt, seeking an independent medical opinion is reasonable. Doctors, Too, Have a Responsibility The responsibility for combating quackery does not rest entirely with patients. Dermatologists must recognise the influence they have on public trust. A responsible dermatologist should explain realistic outcomes, discuss limitations and risks, use evidence to guide treatment and avoid unnecessary interventions. The same responsibility applies to social media. Medical professionals have the opportunity to counter misinformation with something far more valuable: clear, honest and understandable medical education. Patients deserve to know not only what a treatment can do, but also what it cannot do. Where Ethics Meets Medicine At its heart, this is an ethical issue. A dermatologist may have access to dozens of procedures and technologies. The question is not how many can be offered. The question is which one, if any, the patient actually needs. Not every patient needs a procedure. Not every new technology is a breakthrough. Not every expensive treatment is better. Not every photograph represents a clinically meaningful result. The ethical dermatologist must sometimes put professional judgment before commercial interest. That may mean refusing a procedure. It may mean recommending a simpler treatment. It may even mean telling a patient to wait. These decisions may not always generate revenuebut they build something far more important: trust. Innovation Should Never Be the EnemyBut Evidence Must Lead It would be wrong to suggest that everything new is quackery. Modern dermatology has advanced because doctors and scientists have been willing to explore new medicines, devices, surgical techniques and regenerative approaches. Many treatments that are considered standard today were once experimental. The difference is evidence. New treatments need appropriate scientific evaluation. Their benefits must be measured, their risks recognised and their limitations communicated honestly. Innovation should follow evidencenot replace it. Protecting the Public, Protecting Trust Quackery in dermatology has evolved with the times. It can now hide behind sophisticated equipment, attractive clinics, scientific terminology, celebrity endorsements and carefully edited social-media content. For the public, the answer is neither fear nor blind acceptance. It is informed decision-making. For doctors, the answer is responsible practice. For professional organisations and regulators, it is effective oversight of misleading claims and unsafe practices. And for all of us, it is a return to a simple principle: Good medicine begins with the patientnot the procedure. The next time a cream promises perfect skin, an advertisement guarantees permanent hair regrowth, or a new procedure is described as revolutionary, pause before reaching for your wallet. Ask the simplestand perhaps the most powerfulquestion in medicine: Diagnosis before procedure. The more extraordinary the promise, the more important it is to ask for evidence. What is the evidence? Because when it comes to our skin, our health and our trust, a promise should never be more powerful than proof. (The author is a noted dermatologist and is currently serving as Medical Superintendent of Kashmir Medical College and Hospital (KMCH), Sempora, Srinagar
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