West Asia war LIVE: Trump says 'not finished' attacking Iran
U.S. Defence Secretary Pete Hegseth says Iran war has cost the United States $37.5 billion so far
Parliament breach: Delhi court grantsinterim bail toaccused on humanitarian grounds
Sagar Sharma informed the court that his father died of cancer on July 14 and that hewas requiredto perform the last rites and related rituals as the only male member of his family
DBS is First Bank in Southeast Asia to be Named World's Best Corporate Bank by Global Finance
DBS is First Bank in Southeast Asia to be Named World's Best Corporate Bank by Global Finance
Redington Limited and AutomationEdge Announce Strategic Partnership to Accelerate Enterprise Automation and Agentic AI Adoption
The Delhi police on July 21 registered four FIRs against unknown individuals for rioting, assault on public servants, damage to public property and other offences during CJP protest on July 20
Trump approves nuclear agreement that may allow Saudi Arabia to enrich uranium
The deal is expected to last 30 years and is also expected to involve U.S. firms in developing the programme
MetaOptics to Deploy its Direct Laser Writer at the University of Arizona's Center of Semiconductor Manufacturing to Advance its U.S. Expansion
Novo Tellus Partners with RCF and NRFC to Complete Buyout of Russell Mineral Equipment
Novo Tellus Partners with RCF and NRFC to Complete Buyout of Russell Mineral Equipment
Hundreds of people order food onlinefor protestors at Jantar Mantar
Food was ordered via food delivery apps from across the country and in some cases, from abroad, with instructions to give it to anyone at the protest site
Plas Johnson, Pink Panther saxophonist, Grammy winner, dies at 94
Johnson specialised in jump-blues and R&B before becoming a well-respected live and studio session player who backed many greats
Here is a select list of stories to start the day
MD Pallavi performs in a multilingual concert at Bangalore International Centre
This recent concert by MD Pallavi, supported by Srinivas Achar, aimed to unite verses taken from different poetic traditions under a common idea of equality
Tenth edition of Bengaluru Poetry Festival to be held in the city
Some of the festivals prominent speakers this year include Devdutt Pattanaik, Ramya, Tishani Doshi, Mahesh Garg and Prakash Raj
Congressdemands action against former Home Secretary over 1993 firing incident
The party has also vowed to strengthen their fight against the BJP and bring a change in the central power in 2029.
Uttar Pradesh cabinet approves free scooty scheme for college girls
The scheme will play a significant role in ensuring easier access to higher education for girl students while making them self-reliant and confident, said the State government. Eligible female students will be selected based on merit from the list comprising the top 5% of female graduates
Indians start well at World Junior Squash
The Indian trio of Aryaveer Dewan, Yusha Nafees and Gurveer Singh advanced to the men's singles third round on the opening day of the competition on July 20
Devika, Prannoy lose on day 1 of China Masters
Devika, the Thailand Open Super 300 champion, rallied after dropping the opening game but could not sustain the momentum, losing 19-21, 21-19, 13-21 to World No. 20 Thailand's Busanan Ongbamrungphan in the women's singles opening round
Manal, Ojha bowlers give India U19 clear edge over SL U19 on Youth Test
Chauhan and Ojha added 155 runs for a solid fourth wicket stand that spread across the two match days after which India found themselves ahead by 289 runs
Evenepoel wins time trial for back-to-back Tour de France stage victories, Pogacar still leads
Evenepoel completed the 26.1-kilometer individual time trial in 32 minutes, 19 seconds, more than a minute faster than Mattias Skjelmose, the previous quickest, before the Belgian rider waited to see Pogacar cross the line with the second-best effort of the day
The pain is immense, says Messi of World Cup defeat
I'll also hold on to all the good memories, Messi wrote in Spanish on Instagram, alongside a photo of himself wearing his loser's medal following the world champions' extra-time loss to Spain
FIFA investigates Argentina players confronting Spain''s on-field World Cup celebrations
Video replays showed several players involved in a scuffle, including Argentina midfielder Leandro Paredes. He appeared to shove Spain's Eric Garcia by the throat. When Spain substitute Gavi jumped in to intervene, Paredes pushed him to the ground
Building an Atmanirbhar philanthropy ecosystem
Domestic giving, not foreign funding, is what will define Indias philanthropic future
Shopping complex collapses in Beerwah as Sukhnag swells
Budgam, Jul 21: A shopping complex collapsed in Beerwah, and one person was reported missing in Khag after incessant rainfall caused the water level in Nallah Sukhnag to rise sharply, triggering panic in central Kashmir's Budgam district on Tuesday. Officialssaid there were no immediate reports of casualties or injuries in the collapse ofthe shoppingcomplex,which housed more than 15 shops.However, the incident caused significant property damage as floodwaters eroded the structure. According to officials, heavy rainfall in the upper reaches of Budgamled to a sudden surge in the water level of Nallah Sukhnag,affecting normal life across the area.Traffic movement at Beerwah was disrupted after the temporary diversion across the nallah was damaged by the strong water current.A new bridge is currently under construction at the site. The shopping complex collapsed after the swollen waters of Nallah Sukhnag struck its foundation, an official said. Authorities also reported that several embankments along the nallah have developed cracks, raising concerns about further damage if the water level continues to rise. As a precautionary measure, the district administration, police, and the Sub-Divisional administrationhaveappealed to residents living near the nallah to remain alert and, if necessary, shift to safer locations. Meanwhile, a man from Khag tehsil has gone missing afterhe reportedly venturedout to search for his cow during the adverse weather. Officials said the Civil Administration Khag and Police have launched a rescue operation to trace the missing person. The heavy inflow has also damaged water supply infrastructure in several villages, disrupting potable water supply. Officials said restoration work will begin immediately once the water level recedes and conditions become safe for repair teams. Following thecollapse of the shopping complex,shopkeepers, assisted by local residents and police personnel, rushed to salvage merchandise from nearby shops to minimize losses. Authorities are closely monitoring the situation and have urged the public to avoid venturing near the banks of Nallah Sukhnag until the water level returns to normal.
Yatra decisions strictly based on weather advisories: Div Com
Srinagar, Jul 21: Divisional Commissioner Kashmir, AnshulGarg on Tuesday saidall decisions regarding the ongoing Shri Amarnath Ji Yatra will be taken strictlyon the basis ofweather advisories issued by the India Meteorological Department (IMD), with the safety of pilgrims remaining the administration's foremost priority. Speaking to reporters, Garg said the pilgrimage has been temporarily suspended following the latest IMD weatheradvisory, and thedecision to resume the Yatra will be taken only aftera comprehensive assessment ofweather conditions in consultation with the Shri Amarnath Ji Shrine Board (SASB) and the district administrations. We are taking every decision regarding the Yatra solely on the basis of IMD weather advisories. The pilgrimage has been suspended due to the prevailing weather conditions, and the next call will also be taken in accordance with the weather advisory after reviewing the ground situation, he said. Despite repeated weather-related interruptions since thecommencement of the57-daypilgrimageon July 3, the Div Com said the Yatra has witnessed an overwhelming response from devotees across the country. He informed that nearly 3.90 lakh pilgrims have paid obeisance at the holy cave shrine so far. Highlighting the administration's preparednessto deal with the prevailing weather situation,he said authorities are maintaining constant surveillance across Kashmir, particularly in areas vulnerable to heavy rainfall and flooding. Referring to reports of flash floods and cloudbursts in parts of north Kashmir, the Divisional Commissioner said the overall situation remains under control and is being monitored round the clock. As of now, there has not been any major requirement for rescue operations. However, preventive evacuations have been carried out in vulnerable locations wherever necessary. In Anantnag district, people were shifted from some areas of Kokernag as a precautionary measure, while similar preventive evacuations were also undertaken in certain localities of Baramulla, he said. He acknowledged that incidents of cloudbursts in some areas had created localized flooding, but stressed that the administration has responded promptly and continues to keep a close watch on all vulnerable regions. Garg said all district administrations have already identified relief and rescue centres and have mapped vulnerable populations living near rivers, streams and flood channels to ensure swift response in case the situation worsens. Nearly 7.5 lakh people residing in vulnerable areas across Kashmir have been identified and mapped. If the need arises, rescue resources will be mobilised immediately and all necessary relief measures will be activated without delay, he said. The Divisional Commissioner appealed to the public and pilgrims to follow official advisories and avoid paying heed to rumours, assuring that the administration remains fully prepared to respond to any weather-related emergency while ensuring the safety of residents and Amarnath pilgrims.
Summer vacation extended; schools to reopen Jul 27
Srinagar, Jul 21: The Jammu and Kashmir Government on Tuesday extended the summer vacation for all government and recognised private schools across the Union Territory till July 26 due to the prevailing bad weather, with schools now scheduled to reopen on Monday, July 27. Initially announced for the Kashmir Division and the winter zones of Jammu Division, the minister later clarified that the extension would also apply to all schools in the summer zones of Jammu Division, making the order applicable across J&K. Education Minister Sakeena Itoo, in a post on X, said the decision had been taken keeping the safety and well-being of students, teachers and their families as the foremost priority. Keeping the safety and well-being of students, teachers, and their families as our foremost priority, the summer vacation for all Government and recognised private schools is hereby extended up to 26th July, 2026. Schools across J&K will now reopen on Monday, 27th July, 2026, the minister said. The extension comes amid continued rainfall and adverse weather conditions in several parts of J&K. Heavy rains in recent days have triggered landslides, flash floods and disruption of road connectivity in many areas, affecting normal life and prompting the government to adopt precautionary measures. The minister also appealed to the public to remain cautious and follow all advisories issued by the concerned authorities. I request everyone to stay safe, remain vigilant, and follow the advisories issued by the concerned authorities. Wishing everyone good health and safety, she said. The government has advised parents, students and school authorities to remain updated through official announcements and cooperate with the administration until weather conditions improve. The decision is aimed at ensuring the safety of students and school staff in view of the continuing spell of inclement weather across the Union Territory.
What Indias young people are saying about families
Young Indians still want families, but the conditions they seek reveal their aspirations, anxieties, and changing realities
Rain lashes Kashmir; relief from heat
Srinagar, Jul 21: Moderate to heavy rainfalllashedKashmir Valley and its higher reaches on Tuesday, bringing much-needed relief from the recent spell of scorching heat, as forecast by the Meteorological Department (MeT). The MeT said the wet spell is expected to continue until the afternoon of July 23, after which weather conditions are likely to improve. Director of the Meteorological Centre Srinagar, Mukhtar Ahmad, told Rising Kashmir that there is no immediate flood threat, though intense showers could lead to waterlogging in low-lying areas and on roads. There is no flood threat at present. However, heavy rainfall may cause waterlogging and temporary inundation in several areas, Ahmad said, adding that Jammu has witnessed heavy rainfall, which is expected to decrease significantly in the coming days. According to the MeT, Gulmarg recorded the highest rainfall at 46.2 mm between 8:30 am and 5:30 pm, followed by Jammu (42.5 mm), Katra (37.6 mm), Bhadarwah (20.5 mm), Batote(16.9 mm),Pahalgam (12.1 mm), while Srinagar received 3.3 mm during the same period. Meanwhile, heavy rainfall triggered waterlogging in several parts of Jammu and Kashmir. Reports and visuals from Tangmarg in north Kashmir's Baramulla district showed floodwater entering several houses after local streams overflowed, causing hardship to residents. In Jammu, the State Disaster Response Force (SDRF) and police issued a flood alert for people residing near the Tawi River and Tawi Bridge, urging them to shift to safer locations as a precaution due to the rising water level. The Pir Panjal region also witnessed incessant rainfall throughout the day, resulting in a sharp rise in the water levels of rivers and streams. Meanwhile, police and National Disaster Response Force (NDRF) teams continued search operations to trace six persons who went missing following recent flash floodsinSurankote area of Poonch district. ReportssaidPoonch district remained without electricity in several areas, while a number of houses were damaged due to heavy rains and associated incidents. The recent spell of landslides and flash floods has claimed 21 lives across the affected districts of Rajouri, Poonch and Doda, according to official reports. Divisional Commissioner Kashmir, Anshul Garg said all district administrations have activated their emergency teams and control rooms, while helpline numbers and weather advisories are being widely circulated among the public. He said special advisories have been issued for South Kashmir, urging residents to stay away from the tributaries of the Jhelum and other vulnerable water bodies. He said the India Meteorological Department (IMD) has been issuing weather advisories over the past three days, and the administration has made all necessary preparations based on these forecasts. He said several review meetings have been held under the chairmanship of the Chief Minister, with all concerned departments directed to remain on high alert. Garg added that essential departments, including the Power Development Department, Jal Shakti Department and Health Department, have also been placed on high alert to respond promptly to any emergency arising from the prevailing weather conditions.
Cannot expect Art 370 from BJP: CM Omar
Srinagar, Jul 21: National Conference Vice President and Chief Minister Omar Abdullah on Tuesday said they cannot expect the restoration of Article 370 from the incumbent Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) in the Centre and called theprotest in New Delhi asthe beginning of the party's campaign for Statehood restoration. Addressing a press conference a day after the Delhi protest, accompanied by NC senior leader Nasir Aslam Wani and party spokesperson Ifra Jan, Omar said: It would be unwise to expect Article 370 from the BJP. But the protest held in Delhi was aimed at reminding the Centre about the promises made to J&K. He added that the Delhi protest is not an end but a beginning of the party's fight over the restoration of statehood. This is what the Centre has promised to us, and we went to Delhi to remind them about the promises they have made in the Supreme Court and other places, he said, adding that statehood is the foundation for any future discussion on restoring the region's special constitutional status. Referring to criticism of the party's recent protest in New Delhi, Omar said attempts to ridicule political initiatives aimed at safeguarding J&K's interests were not new. Drawing parallels with the past, he recalled that when the erstwhile Jammu and Kashmir Assembly passed a resolution seeking the restoration of autonomy, it was opposed by those advocating either an independent Jammu and Kashmir or accession to Pakistan. He alleged that the then Central Government was unhappy with the autonomy resolution and that a new political party was subsequently created in 2000 to weaken and divide the political voice of the people. The CM said similar circumstances were unfolding today as the NC had travelled to Delhi under a planned programme. All political parties were invited to participate because the issue concerned the entire people of Jammu and Kashmir rather than any particular party or government. However,not only did some parties refuse to join the campaign, but theyalso attempted to ridicule and undermine it. What disappoints me is that those who claim to be well-wishers of Jammu and Kashmir chose to mock the initiative instead of supporting it, he said. Responding to criticism that his party should first focus onthe restoration ofArticle 370, Abdullah said the National Conference had never abandoned those demands. Restoration of statehood must precede any meaningful discussion on Article 370 or any other form of special constitutional status. What is Article 370 without statehood? What is the meaning of special status without a State? he asked. Omar explained that any special constitutional arrangement is based on the sharing of powers between the Centre and a State through the State List, Union List, and Concurrent List. In a Union Territory, there is no State List. Decisions are controlled by the Centre and the Lieutenant Governor, and Cabinet decisions require the Lieutenant Governor's approval before they are announced. Without statehood, there can be no meaningful power-sharing, he said. Recalling the first Assembly session after his government assumed office, Abdullah said the Assembly had already passed a resolution seeking restoration of J&K's special status with constitutional guarantees and had forwarded it to the Centre. That resolution still exists. Unlike the earlier autonomy resolution, which critics say was thrown into the dustbin, this one remains alive. One day it will have to be discussed, he said, adding that such a discussion could only take place after the restoration of statehood. The Chief Minister accused certain political parties of avoiding confrontation with the BJP and the Central Governmentwhilelimiting themselves to criticism on social media. They remained inside their homes while we took to the streets. The people of Jammu and Kashmir have now seen who is willing to fight for their rights, dignity and honour and who prefers to remain behind mobile phones, he said. He described the participation of 90-year-old National Conference president Dr Farooq Abdullah in the Delhi protestas the most powerful symbol of the movement.
LG for reviving ancient knowledge systems
Srinagar, Jul 21: Lieutenant Governor Manoj Sinha on Tuesday said the deliberation on the spiritual heritage of the 51 Shakti Peethas over the next four days will allow us to reconnect with the ancient Sanatana consciousness that has long defined India's soul. Addressing the Shakti Mimamsa nationalsymposium, a collaborative initiative by the Central Sanskrit University (Jammu Campus), Shri Mata Vaishno Devi Shrine Board, and Shri Mata Vaishno Devi University,the LG said, Shakti is the very heartbeat and sustaining consciousness of the cosmos. It manifests in all motion and creation, shining through compassion, knowledge, love, patience, and life itself. From Vedic hymns and Upanishadic philosophy to the Devi Mahatmya, every facet of India's spiritual heritage highlights that the Supreme Reality and Shakti are eternally inseparable. Sinha saidIndian philosophy and spirituality are not just found in ancient texts but live in everyday traditions. One can see this in village prayers, household Navaratri rituals, and our natural respect for motherly power. In our villages, countless women who have never read a word of Sanskrit embody the true spirit of Shakti through their daily lives. This is the heartbeat of India's cultural and spiritual continuity, he said. The LGsaidthat Shakti Peethas are powerful symbols of our national unity and beacons of our shared cultural consciousness. A nation's unity is built from shared memories, shared faiths, and shared cultural journeys. The Shakti Peethas have carried out this work for centuries. They have united India not merely geographically but emotionally and spiritually as well, he said. The Lieutenant Governor outlined four key goals driving the academic focus on Shakti Peethas: 1. Reviving ancient knowledge systems: Youth need to realise that these sacred sites are living libraries of Indian philosophy, architecture, art, music, science, and history. Our ancestors chose these locations not just for spiritual reasons, but for their natural and cultural importance. 2. Renaissance of feminine consciousness: The whole world knows that from ancient times India has revered women as goddesses. Yet we must ask ourselves whether our social systems are providing every daughter, every sister, and every mother the respect that our culture teaches. True worship of Shakti lies in ensuring equality, safety, dignity, and opportunities for women in society, he said. 3. Preserving heritage: The Lieutenant Governor observed that many ancient manuscripts, inscriptions, folktales, and architectural wonders are fading away, and without proper documentation, future generations will lose this priceless legacy. 4. Building national confidence: While many societies worldwide face an identity crisis, India stands strong with its unique cultural unity. The network of Shakti Peethas has kept our nation connected through shared faith and culture for centuries. Our youth should take immense pride in this, he said. The symposium was attended by Padma Shri Prof Vishwa Murti Shastri, Central Sanskrit University Vice Chancellor Prof. Shrinivasa Varkhedi, Shri Mata Vaishno Devi University Vice Chancellor Prof Pragati Kumar, SMVDSB Additional CEO Alok Kumar Maurya, Central Sanskrit University Registrar Prof R.G. Murali Krishna, Shri Maharaja Ranbir Singh Campus Director Prof. Satish Kumar Kapoor, distinguished scholars, and students.
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Srinagar, Jul 21: Lieutenant Governor Manoj Sinha on Tuesday spoke to senior officials and the Deputy Commissioners of Rajouri and Poonch to assess property and public infrastructure damage caused by heavy rainfall, floods, and landslides. He directed all district administrations and departments to work around the clock in close coordination to lead rescue, relief, and restoration efforts. In a post on X, the Lieutenant Governor said, I spoke with senior officials and the DCs of Rajouri and Poonch to assess the damage to houses and key public infrastructure caused by heavy rains, flash floods, and landslides. The Divisional Commissioner and IG Jammu are currently on the ground, and I have instructed all departments to work around the clock in close coordination to manage rescue, relief, and restoration efforts. The LG informed that the main focus is reopening key roads and restoring power and water supplies. He said that out of 435 damaged roads, 356 have already been restored. I urge citizens to avoid non-essential travel in vulnerable areas and strictly follow safety advisories issued by local district administration, he added. Teams from the SDRF, NDRF, Army, BRO, NHAI, J&K Police, and Civil Defence are working together, while Quick Response teams are deployed in vulnerable areas. LG Sinha expressed deep anguish over the tragic loss of lives in this natural calamity, offering heartfelt condolences to the bereaved families and prayers for the swift recovery of all those injured. The Lieutenant Governor is continuously monitoring the situation and has directed all district administrations and departments to maintain close coordination.
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Rajouri, Poonch landslides : Govts priority is to prevent further casualties : CM Omar
Srinagar, Jul 21: Reacting to the situationthat arose afterheavy rainfall across Jammu & Kashmir, Chief Minister OmarAbdullah on Tuesday saidthat the governments immediate priority is to prevent any further casualties by shifting vulnerable families to safer locations and restricting movement on landslide-prone roads in Rajouri and Poonch districts. Reacting to queries in Srinagar, Abdullah expressed grief over the loss of lives and property caused by heavy rains in the border districts of Rajouri andPoonch, sayingthat these placeshad suffered extensive damage, with several precious lives lost due to therecent weather-related incidents. There has been significant loss in Rajouri & Poonch and precious lives have been lost. Our priority now is to ensure that no more lives are lost, he said, adding thathe has directed the administration to identify all vulnerable locations and families living in high-risk areas so thatthey can be shifted to safer places as a precautionary measure. He also instructed officials to suspend traffic for the next three to four days on roads vulnerable to landslides and mudslides until weather conditions improve and the routes are declared safe. The CM said two of his Cabinet colleagues would immediately proceed to the affected districts and remain there until the situation stabilises. My two ministers will reach the affected areas and stay there until the situation improves. The relief and rehabilitation process will be taken up thereafter, he said. Moreover, responding to a query on waterlogging in Srinagar areas, Omar said that this question should have been asked to those who brought and implemented the Smart City project, leaving the remaining 10 per cent of the work to his government as a legacy. Except for the Jhelum riverfront, where did the rest of the Smart City funds go?, he asked, adding that in the last Cabinet meeting, they discussed the gap between theobjectives of the Smart City projectand what has actually been achieved. The Cabinet decided that a third-party audit should be conducted to assess its effectiveness. Unfortunately, that order has not yet been issued, he said. At the same time, we are utilising all the resources available to us to improve the drainage system. However, this is not something that can be fixed overnight, he said. He informed that even the Civil Secretariat premises witnessed waterlogging. Let the weather improve, and we will conduct an inquiry to determine what corrective measures need to be taken, he added. As far as compensation is concerned, the losses suffered by affected people will first be assessed. Relief and compensation will then be provided in accordance with the applicable guidelines based on that assessment, Omar said.
Police file four FIRs amid flak over crackdown on protesters
Some of those detained were not even at protest site, families allege
Road safety board set up, but debate over powers persists
Our resolve to wipe out narco-terrorism stronger than ever: LG Manoj Sinha
Srinagar, Jul 21: Lieutenant Governor Manoj Sinha on Tuesday said the administration is determined to neutralise drug cartels and narco-terror networks that target youth, and while the first 100 days of the campaign laid the foundation for the rigorous path ahead, the resolve to completely wipe out narco-terrorism is stronger than ever. Addressing an event organised by the Department of Social Welfare commemorating the successful completion of 100 days of the 'Drug-Free J&K campaign', the LG said while this milestone marks significant progress, the mission is far from complete. Sinha said that during this 100-day campaign, he travelled across every region of the Union Territory, connecting with communities in all 20 districts through Padyatra. Over the past 100 days, we backed that resolve with decisive action. 2,581 drug traffickers arrested, nearly 1,431 kg of narcotics including 23.29 kg heroin seized, and overRs 188.89 crore in assets confiscated to cripple narco-terror financing. By revoking hundreds of driving licences, vehicle registrations, recommending suspension of hundreds of passports and by taking action against non-compliant pharmacies, we have sent a clear message that no offender is above the law. Most importantly, thousands of young people have received treatment and are now rebuilding their lives in the mainstream, he said. The LG said that rehabilitation transforms lives, restores families, and secures ourfuture, andannounced that the administration will soon launch the Rehabilitation and Socio-Economic Reintegration Scheme for Drug Abuse Victims,2026,starting with a pilot in two sensitive districtsone from Jammu and one from Kashmir Division. The initiative, built on a structured 3-year cycle, guides individuals through medical care and therapy in Phase 1, education and employment in Phase 2, and long-term relapse prevention with community support in Phase 3. The Lieutenant Governor also called upon people to speak up against drug abuse, saying the government needs the support of the entire community. We need every citizen to speak up, report local drug activity, and help those affected by addiction. If someone in your community is suffering, don't walk away. Guide them toward treatment, support their recovery, and help them start fresh. Young people trapped by addiction are victims of circumstances and therefore need support, not ostracism, and they need the trust of society. LG Sinha called upon youth to never sacrifice their dreams to drugs and urged parents to never ignore any signs of drug use in their children. Seeking help in time is wisdom. History bears witness that whether it was terrorism or narco-terror, silence has caused the greatest harm to society. So, break the silence and spread awareness so we can save millions of lives. The event featured an impactful documentary screening by DIPR, an engaging short skit by JKAACL, and presentations by J&K Police and Indian Red Cross Society (IRCS) J&K Chapter. A two-minute silence was observed in memory of citizens who lost their lives in recent natural calamities. The event was attended by J&K Waqf Board Chairperson Dr Syed Darakhshan Andrabi, Chief Secretary Atal Dulloo, DGP Nalin Prabhat, Special DG Coordination S.J.M. Gillani, Principal Secretary Home Chanderkar Bharti, Principal Secretary to Lieutenant Governor Dr Mandeep K. Bhandari, Commissioner Secretary Social Welfare Sarmad Hafeez, Director Information Shreya Singhal, Divisional Commissioners, Deputy Commissioners, public representatives, heads of educational institutes, senior officials, members of civil society and various social organisations, prominent citizens, and a large number of youth from across the UT, both in person and through virtual mode. The Lieutenant Governor felicitated outstanding performers and released a special DIPR-compiled Coffee Table Book highlighting the widespread impact of the Nasha Mukt Jammu Kashmir Campaign.
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Smart property cards to be issued soon to Lal Dora residents, says Delhi CM
Study to evaluate impact of heat stress on health in Tamil Nadu and Karnataka
Participants will receive a digital watch to keep track of body temperature; 1,200 households roped in per site for the study; project to be taken up at PerungudiandPoompuharin Tamil Nadu,and SirwarandChalakarre in Karnataka
Disaster by Design, Not Just by Rain
The tragedy unfolding across Jammu and Kashmir, with at least 27 lives lost in just a few days of rain, is not an act of fate alone. It is a grim reminder that our mountains and rivers are sending warnings we continue to ignore. The deaths of seven members of a single family in Poonchs Loran Dumilan, buried in their mud house, are not isolated casualties; they are symbols of a widening failure of governance and planning. From Rajouri to Poonch, Doda to Ramban, the pattern is painfully familiar. Homes have been swept away along surging rivers like the Suran and Darhali, vehicles washed off bus stands, and communication lines snapped in entire belts. Power infrastructure, mobile towers and optical fibre networks have crumbled with the first serious test of the monsoon, cutting off vulnerable communities precisely when they need the state the most. The immediate response has, as always, relied heavily on the courage of local volunteers, police and Army personnel. Rescue teams have worked through difficult terrain to recover bodies and move hundreds to safer ground after the India Meteorological Department issued its warnings. The suspension of the Amarnath Yatra from Pahalgam and Baltal was a necessary step, underscoring the seriousness of the threat. But beyond emergency orders and highprofile visits, the deeper questions remain unaddressed. Why do families continue to live in fragile riverine belts and on unstable slopes without adequate safeguards, despite repeated disasters? Why are early warning systems still limited to official advisories, instead of being translated into locallevel drills, evacuation routes and safe shelters known to every household? Why do basic protections such as restrictions on construction in floodplains, slope stabilisation, and robust rural housing schemes remain poorly enforced or unevenly implemented? The devastation in Kargil, Gurez and Ramban shows that this is not a localised crisis. Flash floods, mudslides and cloudbursts are becoming more frequent across the Himalayan arc, in step with a changing climate. Scientific assessments have long warned that intense, shortduration rainfall events will increase, particularly in regions like Jammu and Kashmir. Our planning, however, still behaves as if these are rare, freak occurrences. This recurring gap between knowledge and action is costly. Every new highway, settlement and township carved into fragile slopes without proper assessment magnifies the risk. Every ignored drainage channel and encroached floodplain becomes a future disaster site. Meanwhile, the poor families in mud houses, slum dwellers along rivers, small farmers on precarious land pay the highest price. The present spell of rain will pass. Water levels will recede, roads will reopen, and political attention will move on to the next headline. What must not recede is the resolve to treat these events as a turning point. The administration needs to move from postdisaster compensation to predisaster planning: mapping highrisk zones, relocating the most vulnerable households, strengthening housing and infrastructure, and building communitycentred warning and response systems. If yet another flood season ends only with condolences and surveys, Jammu and Kashmir will walk into the next monsoon even more exposed. The mountains have spoken clearly this time. It is the UTs responsibility to listen and act before the next cloudburst writes another obituary of neglect.
Why Punjabs Dalits remain divided
As 2027 elections inch closer, party leaders have again started wooing SC groups
Lieutenant Governor Manoj Sinhas announcement on the successful completion of the first 100 days of the Drug-Free J&K campaign is both reassuring and sobering. Reassuring, because it signals that the administration finally recognises narcotics and narco-terror as an existential threat to Jammu and Kashmirs social fabric. Sobering, because every parent, teacher and doctor in the Valley knows that 100 days, however energetic, can only scratch the surface of a crisis that has been years in the making. The LG has spoken of dismantling drug cartels, neutralising narco-terror networks, and strengthening rehabilitation and public awareness. These are the right pillars. But the language of war must now translate into a durable framework that survives beyond photo-ops, review meetings and social media posts. The scale of addiction, especially among the youth, demands nothing less than a sustained, institutional response that outlives political tenures and bureaucratic reshuffles. If the first phase was about signalling intent, the next must be about deepening capacity. Cracking cartels requires more than periodic raids; it needs long-term intelligence work, airtight investigation, and successful prosecution. Each FIR has meaning only if it leads to conviction and disruption of the financial networks that fund both drugs and terror. The administration must therefore be judged not by arrest numbers alone but by how far it climbs up the supply chainfrom peddlers on street corners to handlers across borders. Equally crucial is what happens after a young person is rescued from addiction. LGs emphasis on rehabilitation and reintegration is welcome, but rehabilitation centres in J&K remain uneven in quality, access and staffing. Families often encounter stigma, high costs and long waiting lists. A credible anti-drug campaign must guarantee affordable, professionally run de-addiction and mental health services in every district, backed by trained counsellors and sustained follow-up, not just a one-time detox. Prevention, too, cannot be reduced to occasional rallies and slogans. Schools, colleges, mohalla committees, mosques and civil society groups need to be partners, not spectators. Young people must be given safe spaces, constructive engagement and honest information about addictionnot simply fear-based messaging. Mothers and women, whom the LG rightly highlighted, can be powerful sentinels, but they need support systems, not just appeals from the podium. The administration has chosen to describe these 100 days as the foundation for a rigorous path ahead. That phrasing sets the bar. The coming months will reveal whether this is a passing campaign or the beginning of a long, difficult but necessary transformationone that treats drug abuse not merely as a law-and-order problem, but as a public health emergency and a societal reckoning. J&K cannot afford another short-lived drive. It needs a sustained war, and an equally sustained healing.
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The Letter that can Change the Classroom Transaction
PERSPECTIVE We often look to schools to build brilliant minds through rich content and effective pedagogies, but a timeless piece of literature in the form of a letter- popularly attributed to Abraham Lincoln, though modern historians consider it apocryphal- remains the unique blueprint for building a strong character among children. For its educational purposes and philosophy, it still finds its place in the curriculum of various countries. Its universal message on holistic education is deeply profound and relevant. The letter begins with a father's concern as his son enters school for the first time. The writer tells the teacher to treat the child with patience, kindness, and understanding because everything in school will be unfamiliar- new place, new people, new world of experience. He recognizes that starting school is the beginning of a lifelong journey of learning. Addressed to his sons teacher, the legendary letter completely bypasses the rigid world of grades, figures, numbers and textbooks. Instead, it serves as a gentle masterclass in raising his son as a resilient and empathetic human being. In a broader spectrum, it actually shifts our perspective from mere academic instruction to the quiet, vital cultivation of human goodness. Balancing Realism with Radical Hope The letter writes with an honest and unvarnished look at the world, acknowledging that not all men are just or true. Yet, it refuses to succumb to cynicism. Instead, it immediately offers a powerful counterweight, instructing the teacher to show the child that for every wicked person, there is a hero. He wants the child to see the good alongside the bad. Good people exist next to scoundrels. Statesmen always exist alongside selfish leadership. Light ultimately conquers darkness. The letter reads, He will have to learn, I know, that all men are not just, all men are not true. But teach him also that for every scoundrel there is a hero; that for every selfish politician, there is a dedicated leader. Teach him for every enemy there is a friend. The Dignity of Earned Success In an era often dominated by shortcuts, the letter champions the profound value of struggle and personal effort. It beautifully states that a little earned money is better than a good money found on the ground. By anchoring the soul in the dignity of hard work, it teaches a child to value the journey over the destination. Further, it courageously declares that it is far more honourable to fail than to cheat, preparing a child to face life with clean hands. The author of the letter writes to his son's teacher, Teach him, if you can, that a dollar earned is of far more value than five found. Teach him to learn to lose and also to enjoy winning... In the school, give him, teach him, it is far honourable to fail than to cheat. Cultivating the Inner Sanctuary True education extends far beyond the four walls of a classroom and the text on a page. While the letter strongly advocates for the wonder of books, it beautifully reminds us to give children quiet time too. They need to observe nature. Birds, bees, and flowers teach deep lessons. Stillness nurtures the imagination. With this, certain tough skills are necessary for making life disciplined because true toughness helps a child grow strong. The letter reads, Teach him, if you can, the wonder of books... but also give him quiet time to ponder the eternal mystery of birds in the sky, bees in the sun, and the flowers on a green hillside. Treat him gently, but do not cuddle him, because only the test of fire makes fine steel. Developing An Independent Moral Compass Among the most significant hurdles a student encounters is the overwhelming compulsion to fit in with their peers. The letter implores the educator to instil in the youth the exceptional courage required to stand apart, even as the masses rush to follow the latest trend. It calls for cultivating an intellect capable of weighing every perspective, yet discerning enough to filter those ideas through the lens of truthretaining only what is genuinely good. Ultimately, this fosters a resilient, independent conscience capable of standing firm against the pressures of a dissenting crowd. The letter again reads Try to give my son the strength not to follow the crowd when everyone is getting on the bandwagon. Teach him to listen to all men... but teach him also to filter all he hears on a screen of truth, and take only the good that comes through. The Architecture of Emotional Resilience True strength isn't about hiding behind an unbreakable mask; it's about accepting our shared human flaws and emotions. The letter movingly asks the teacher that the child be taught to find joy even during tough times, gently reminding us that crying is nothing to be ashamed of. It aims to build a resilient spirit- one that is willing to sell its talents and hard work to the highest taker, but will never put a price tag on its heart, conscience, or soul. The father further writes, Teach him if you can, how to laugh when he is sad. Teach him there is no shame in tears... Teach him to sell his brawn and brain to the highest bidders but never to put a price tag on his heart and soul. The Ultimate Triumph of Faith Ultimately, this profound message is an enduring reminder that the true purpose of education is transformation, not just information. It asks the teacher to help the child develop sublime faith in himself, because only then will he have sublime faith in mankind. It is, indeed, a big order for any teacher. Yet, it remains a timeless beacon, guiding us to create classrooms that do not just teach subjects, but actively nurture the little but beautiful souls. The letter concludes, Teach him always to have sublime faith in himself, because then he will always have sublime faith in mankind. This is a big order, but see what you can do. He is such a fine little fellow, my son! (The author is a regular columnist of Rising Kashmir and can be reached at: reyazmir58@gmail.com )
A hundred years ago | Electric driving of weaving sheds
Gold ornaments, bronze objects stolen from temple
The police said that the isolated location of the temple and lack of security measures including CCTV cameras in the temple could have led to the theft
Mirza Ghalib: A Rebel Heart in a Ruined Century
There are poets who decorate a language, and there are poets who reinvent it. Mirza Asadullah Khan Ghalib belongs firmly to the second category. To call him merely a master of the ghazal is to diminish his place in our collective imagination. Ghalib did not just polish Urdu; he stretched it to breaking point, forcing it to carry the weight of metaphysics, history, and an unending interrogation of God and self. In a subcontinent that today wears its certainties loudly on its sleeve, Ghalibs stubborn uncertainty feels more radical than ever. Ghalib wrote from the rubble of a collapsing order. The Delhi of his youth was already in decline; by the time 1857 arrived, the last illusions of Mughal sovereignty lay in ashes. He witnessed executions, exile, and famine, and saw an entire culture reduced to a case file in the colonial archive. Most poets in such an age turn nostalgic or bitter. Ghalib did something more dangerous: he converted the death of an empire into a philosophical question. If the world is this unstable, he seems to ask, what can we trustGod, fate, reason, or nothing at all? This is why his couplets oscillate between prayer and protest. One moment he is pleading with the divine, the next he is almost cross-examining it. His God is not the distant sovereign of theology but an intimate adversary, a presence to be argued with. It is this insolent intimacy that still unsettles conservative readings of faith. Ghalib refuses to be the obedient believer; he insists on being the wounded friend. In an age when religion is too often reduced to slogans and laws, his restless spirituality offers a badly needed antidote. Yet it would be wrong to trap Ghalib only within the boundaries of religious doubt. At the centre of his poetry stands a human being torn apart by longing. Love, for him, is not a sweet sentiment but an incurable illnesssometimes a joke, sometimes a form of worship, and at times a slow suicide. He mocks himself, mocks the beloved, and even mocks the whole institution of romance, but never quite escapes it. This mixture of irony and helplessness is what keeps his verse alive for young readers who may know little of his historical Delhi but recognise, instantly, the storm of desire and self-mockery. Much like Kashmir today, Ghalibs universe is one where beauty and violence co-exist. He could look at a garden and see both the delicacy of a rose and the threat of a storm tearing it apart. That tensionbetween the urge to praise and the impulse to questionruns through his entire work. It is what makes him feel closer to our fractured present than many contemporary commentators. Where we are pressed to choose sides, Ghalib insists on sitting in the uncomfortable middle, acknowledging that suffering rarely has a single author and that the heart is never fully innocent. There is also a political lesson in his refusal to flatter power. Ghalib sought patronage, of course; he needed it to survive. But in his letters and verses, he did not spare either the decaying nobility or their new colonial masters. Both appear, at different times, as objects of quiet ridicule. In an era when intellectuals often bend with every wind from the capital, this gentle stubbornness matters. Ghalib teaches us that one can be dependent without becoming servile, that dignity is not a luxury but a discipline. To read Ghalib today is therefore not a literary hobby; it is a civic necessity. He reminds us that doubt is not the enemy of faith, that humour can coexist with heartbreak, and that language can still be a home when the city outside feels lost. At a time when slogans grow louder and thought grows thinner, returning to Ghalib is an act of resistance. In his hesitant prayers and ironic sighs, we may yet find the courage to ask harder questions of ourselvesand of the world we are hastily building over our own ruins. (The Author is a researcher and columnist)
Around 1.75 tonnes of red sanders stolen from sandalwood depot
Forest officials said that based on a complaint by Jothi Lingam who was in charge of the depot, a case was registered by Tirupattur Town police
Two persons held for feeding gutka to baby
A video of the incident, including that of the child being fed gutka surfaced on social media, inviting public outcry
From Policy to Practice: How Far Has NEP Reached Our Schools?
A few weeks ago, while facilitating a teacher training programme, I asked the participants a simple question. How many of you have implemented the National Education Policy (NEP) 2020 in your schools? Almost every hand went up. The response was immediate and confident. I then asked another question. Can you mention five observable indicators that would convince an outsider that your school has actually implemented NEP? The discussion that followed was revealing. While several participants responded, only a few could identify clear and observable indicators that reflected the policy in practice. That moment prompted a deeper reflection. Perhaps we have been asking ourselves the wrong question. Instead of asking whether we have implemented NEP, perhaps we should ask whether its implementation is visible in our schools. Educational reforms are not implemented when new terminology enters our vocabulary; they are implemented when new practices become visible in our classrooms. The National Education Policy (NEP) 2020 has rightly been described as one of the most transformative educational reforms in independent India. It envisions a shift from rote learning to competency-based education, from teacher-centred instruction to learner-centred classrooms, from examination-driven schooling to holistic development, and from content coverage to meaningful learning. Over the past few years, teachers have attended numerous orientation programmes, workshops and capacity-building initiatives. The language of reform has undoubtedly reached our schools. The more important question, however, is whether the reform itself has. Perhaps the most meaningful way to answer this question is not through reports, presentations or training certificates, but through observable indicators. If a visitor unfamiliar with NEP were to spend a day in our school, what would they notice? Would they see children learning differently? Would classrooms reflect curiosity, collaboration and creativity? Would assessment look different? Would the school culture embody the spirit of the policy? These are the indicators that deserve our attention. One of the first indicators is the sound of the classroom itself. For decades, silence has often been mistaken for discipline. A classroom where children quietly listen while the teacher speaks has traditionally been considered an ideal classroom. NEP invites us to rethink this assumption. Learning is a social process. Children learn by asking questions, discussing ideas, explaining concepts, collaborating with peers and learning from mistakes. This does not mean classrooms should become noisy or chaotic. Rather, they should become voice-rich classrooms, where purposeful dialogue replaces passive listening, where children feel safe to express themselves, and where questioning is encouraged rather than discouraged. Another important indicator is our understanding of the foundational stage. NEP makes an unequivocal statement that unless universal Foundational Literacy and Numeracy (FLN) is achieved, the rest of the policy will remain largely irrelevant. It is perhaps the strongest message contained in the policy, yet one wonders how many schools have truly reorganised their practices around this priority. The National Curriculum Framework for the Foundational Stage (NCF-FS 2022) envisages learning across five developmental domains: physical development, cognitive development, language and literacy, socio-emotional and ethical development, and aesthetic and cultural development. These domains are interconnected and are expected to develop through play, stories, conversations, music, art, exploration and joyful experiences. Yet, in many classrooms, the foundational stage continues to resemble the upper primary grades, with children spending long hours completing written exercises and preparing for tests. A related misconception also deserves attention. Since textbooks at the foundational stage are available mainly for languages and mathematics, many assume that Environmental Studies begins only in the preparatory stage. This is not the intention of the curriculum. At the foundational stage, children learn about their surroundings through stories, conversations, observations, local experiences, family interactions, nature walks and play. Environmental learning is not absent; it is integrated into children's daily experiences rather than taught as a separate textbook subject. Another visible indicator is the implementation of the ten bagless days recommended for the middle stage. These days were not envisioned as holidays from academic work, nor merely as occasions for sports or cultural programmes. They were intended to expose children to vocational experiences by interacting with local artisans, farmers, entrepreneurs, craftsmen and professionals. Such experiences help children appreciate the dignity of labour and prepare them for vocational education in the secondary stage. If bagless days remain confined to official records or lose their intended purpose, we miss an important opportunity to translate policy into practice. The heart of NEP, however, lies inside the classroom. For years, teaching has often been judged by how much of the syllabus has been completed. NEP shifts the focus to what children are actually able to do with what they have learned. Are they analysing, applying, creating and solving problems? Can they relate classroom learning to real-life situations? Are they encouraged to ask questions, investigate ideas and work collaboratively? These are the competencies that define meaningful learning. Naturally, this demands a corresponding change in assessment. If examinations continue to reward memorisation alone, classroom practices are unlikely to change. NEP advocates competency-based assessment that values understanding, application, creativity and communication. Classroom observations, portfolios, projects, presentations, peer assessment and timely feedback become integral to the learning process. Assessment is no longer an event conducted after teaching is completed; it becomes an ongoing process that informs and improves learning. Equally significant is the policy's emphasis on helping children learn how to learn. In an age where information is readily available, education cannot remain confined to transmitting facts. Schools must nurture curiosity, critical thinking, adaptability, collaboration and the confidence to learn independently throughout life. Preparing children for an unpredictable future requires more than preparing them for predictable examinations. The indicators of NEP implementation extend beyond the classroom. They are reflected in the overall culture of the school. Do staff meetings focus on improving teaching-learning practices or remain confined to administrative routines? Are teachers encouraged to reflect on their classroom experiences and learn from one another? Are parents treated as partners in their children's learning rather than merely recipients of examination results? Is the local community seen as a valuable educational resource? These questions reveal as much about implementation as any policy document. Ultimately, implementation is not determined by what a school possesses but by how effectively it uses what it has. A government school can transform its local environment into a learning laboratory. A private school can enrich learning through technology and innovation. Both can succeed if they remain faithful to the philosophy of the policy rather than merely its terminology. Every year, schools review enrolment, attendance, examination results and infrastructure. These are undoubtedly important indicators. Perhaps it is now time to count another set of indicators. Are our classrooms becoming more participative? Are children asking better questions? Are foundational classrooms nurturing all five developmental domains? Are bagless days providing genuine vocational exposure? Are assessments measuring competencies instead of memory? Are schools helping children learn not merely what to learn, but how to learn? Looking back, I often think about that discussion during the teacher training programme. The responses were thoughtful, yet they also reminded me that identifying observable indicators of change is often more challenging than affirming our commitment to reform. Perhaps that is precisely where the journey of implementation begins. Educational reforms are remembered not for the policies they announce, but for the classrooms they transform. When every school can confidently point to visible changes in the way children learn, teachers teach, and schools function, we will no longer need to ask whether NEP has been implemented. The answer will be evident to anyone who walks through the school gates. (The author is a teacher educator and resource person in curriculum, pedagogy and assessment. He regularly writes on NEP 2020, school education and educational reforms. Email: abuaalim@gmail.com )
The Cauvery Water Management Authority, which is the apex body that monitors implementation of Cauvery water release to lower riparian States as per the Supreme Courts verdict, is meeting in Delhi to review the situation
Centenarian regains mobility after complex hip replacement surgery
Economic Growth and Environmental Sustainability: Can Humanity Prosper within Planetary Boundaries?
The twenty-first century presents humanity with one of the most profound policy dilemmas in modern history: how can societies continue to improve living standards while preserving the ecological systems upon which life itself depends? Climate change, biodiversity loss, depletion of natural resources and increasing pollution have intensified concerns about whether continuous economic growth is compatible with a planet possessing finite ecological limits. The concern is neither new nor unfounded. Scientific evidence overwhelmingly demonstrates that global temperatures are rising, extreme weather events are becoming more frequent, sea levels continue to increase, and natural ecosystems are under unprecedented stress. Fossil fuels still dominate global energy consumption, while the extraction of minerals, metals and other natural resources has expanded dramatically over the past five decades. These realities have prompted many scholars to question whether the prevailing economic model can remain sustainable in the long run. However, an equally important question deserves careful consideration: Does the existence of finite natural resources necessarily imply that economic growth itself must come to an end? The answer depends upon how economic growth is understood. Economic growth is often misunderstood as merely producing and consuming larger quantities of physical goods. While this description broadly characterised the Industrial Revolution, the structure of modern economies has undergone a remarkable transformation. Increasingly, economic value is created through knowledge, innovation, digital technologies, healthcare, education, financial services, scientific research, artificial intelligence, biotechnology and intellectual property. These sectors generate wealth with far lower material intensity than traditional heavy industries. Consequently, it is essential to distinguish between growth in material consumption and growth in economic value. A nation may continue to become wealthier through improvements in productivity, technology, human capital and innovation without proportionately increasing its extraction of natural resources. History itself provides compelling evidence that technological progress repeatedly alters perceived resource constraints. Improvements in energy efficiency, precision manufacturing, digital communication, advanced materials, recycling technologies and renewable energy have substantially reduced resource intensity in many sectors. Modern LED lighting consumes only a fraction of the electricity required by incandescent bulbs. Digital documents have displaced enormous quantities of paper. Electric arc furnaces recycle steel rather than relying exclusively upon newly mined iron ore. Precision agriculture enables higher crop yields while reducing water and fertiliser consumption. Such developments demonstrate that technological innovation frequently enables societies to produce greater economic value from fewer physical resources. This does not imply that technology alone can solve every environmental problem. The well-known ebound effect reminds us that gains in efficiency may sometimes encourage greater overall consumption. Nevertheless, the appropriate policy response is not to abandon economic growth altogether but to ensure that technological advancement is accompanied by sound regulatory frameworks, effective pricing of environmental externalities, resource efficiency and responsible consumption. Equally important is recognising that economic growth remains indispensable for many developing countries. Millions of people continue to lack access to adequate housing, sanitation, healthcare, education, clean drinking water and reliable electricity. For these societies, sustained economic growth is not merely an economic aspiration but a prerequisite for reducing poverty, improving public health and expanding human capabilities. Environmental sustainability should therefore complement development rather than replace it. The challenge before policymakers is not whether economies should grow, but how they should grow. Future development must increasingly rely upon renewable energy, cleaner production methods, circular economy principles, resource-efficient technologies and sustainable urban planning. Circular economic models that encourage repair, reuse, remanufacturing and recycling can significantly reduce dependence upon virgin raw materials while maintaining economic productivity. Similarly, investments in public transport, green buildings, energy-efficient industries and ecosystem restoration can simultaneously generate employment and reduce environmental pressures. For rapidly urbanising countries, improving rainwater harvesting, groundwater recharge, wastewater recycling and integrated water-resource management may substantially reduce pressure on freshwater sources. Sustainable agriculture, climate-resilient infrastructure and ecological restoration should become central components of national development strategies. Economic performance itself also requires broader measurement. Gross Domestic Product remains an important indicator of production and income, but it does not capture environmental degradation, public health, educational attainment, social equity or ecological resilience. Complementing GDP with indicators measuring natural capital, environmental quality, human development and social well-being would provide governments with a more comprehensive understanding of national progress. Ultimately, humanity's greatest renewable resource is neither coal, oil nor mineralsit is human knowledge. Scientific discovery, engineering innovation and institutional reform have repeatedly expanded the boundaries of what societies considered possible. While the Earth's physical resources are finite, human creativity continues to generate new solutions that improve productivity while reducing environmental impact. The objective, therefore, should not be unlimited material expansion, nor deliberate economic contraction. Rather, it should be sustainable prosperityan economic system that continuously improves human well-being while respecting ecological limits. The real challenge of this century is not choosing between economic growth and environmental protection. It is designing a model of development in which economic progress is increasingly decoupled from excessive resource consumption, fossil fuel dependence and environmental degradation. Human civilisation has repeatedly demonstrated its ability to adapt to changing circumstances through science, innovation and prudent public policy. The transition toward a low-carbon, resource-efficient and knowledge-driven economy offers an opportunity to reconcile prosperity with planetary stewardship. Countries that successfully integrate technological innovation, environmental responsibility, social equity and sound governance will not merely survive the coming decadesthey will define the future of sustainable development. (The Author is B.E. (Mech.), B.O.E., ASME. Former Deputy Director of Boilers, Mysuru)
Karnataka High Court stays probe against man for tweet on Bantwal womans murder case
Awareness, early diagnosis crucial for treating severe heart valve disease, say doctors
Doctors said eligibility for TAVI is determined after assessing a patients overall life expectancy, existing comorbidities, and medical history
Er Rashid stages barefoot protest in Parliament, seeks dialogue
New Delhi, July 21: Baramulla MP Engineer Rashid on Tuesday staged a symbolic barefoot protest after being brought from Tihar Jail to Parliament under judicial custody to attend the ongoing Monsoon Session. Rashid observed a day-long hunger strike, demanding a time-bound dialogue between the Union Government, elected representatives and stakeholders of Jammu and Kashmir to address political issues concerning the region. According to a statement, he reiterated demands including restoration of Articles 370 and 35A, full statehood for Jammu and Kashmir, release of political prisoners, revocation of AFSPA and protection of democratic and constitutional rights. During the proceedings, Rashid entered the Well of the Lok Sabha three times while remaining barefoot and raised concerns over unresolved issues of Jammu and Kashmir, urging the government to initiate a political process. His protest drew attention from several MPs across party lines, with some parliamentarians approaching him during the proceedings and expressing support for his peaceful mode of raising issues.
The High Court of Karnataka has directed the State government to file its response on a petition seeking a probe by the Central Bureau of Investigation (CBI) into the allegations of illegalities in the Karnataka State Public Service Commission recruitments to posts of Group A and B Gazetted Probationers and allegations against Shivashankar S. Sahukar, suspended chairperson.
Kerala eyes major GCC investments with new strategic roadmap
Minister Kunhalikutty said the report is a vital step for transforming Kerala into the most preferred GCC destination in the country
Politics over humanity: BJP targets NC amid flood devastation
Jammu, July 21: The BJP on Tuesday criticised Chief Minister Omar Abdullah and the National Conference leadership over their protest in New Delhi, alleging that the party was focusing on politics while Jammu and Kashmir was dealing with a major rain-related disaster. Addressing a press conference in Jammu, Leader of Opposition in the J&K Assembly Sunil Sharma, along with BJP leaders, accused the NC of choosing political theatrics over relief and rescue efforts amid flash floods, cloudbursts and landslides that affected several parts of the Union Territory, particularly Poonch and Rajouri. Sharma said the Chief Minister should have remained in Jammu and Kashmir to supervise rescue and relief operations and ensure assistance reached affected families. The BJP leader demanded an ex-gratia of 20 lakh for families who lost members in cloudbursts and flash floods, besides six months ration, rehabilitation support, temporary shelters and restoration of damaged religious institutions in affected areas. He also sought compensation for those killed in shooting stones at Ragi Nullah in Doda and for structures damaged in Kishtwars Kyar Dachhan area. Sharma said a BJP team led by former party president Ravinder Raina had been sent to Loran Mandi after reports of another cloudburst to assess the situation and provide assistance. Alleging that the NC government had failed to prioritise relief operations, Sharma said affected families were still waiting for help while the Chief Minister was participating in political activities in Delhi. The BJP leaders also said party workers across flood-affected districts were preparing a report on damages to houses, commercial establishments, crops, livestock and agricultural land, which would be submitted to the party leadership for further action with the government.
Clean energy push is Indias answer to transition challenges: UN climate chief
Simon Stiell, Executive Secretary of UN Climate Change, praised India as a solar superpower, noting that fossil-fuel-free sources now make up half of its installed power capacity
Dr. Farooq , Omar pay tribute to Syed Muzaffar Aga
Srinagar, July, 21 : The Jammu and Kashmir National Conference President Dr. Farooq Abdullah and Vice President and Chief Minister Omar Abdullah Tuesday expressed profound grief over the passing of former Chief Secretary of Jammu and Kashmir, Syed Muzaffar Aga, paying rich tributes to his distinguished career in public service and his enduring contribution to the administration of the erstwhile State. In his condolence message, Dr. Farooq Abdullah said, The passing of Syed Muzaffar Aga marks the end of an illustrious chapter in the history of Jammu and Kashmir. A civil servant of rare integrity and exceptional distinction, he served the people with unwavering dedication across different phases of our history, leaving behind a legacy of honesty, wisdom and public service that will continue to inspire generations. I pray that Almighty Allah grants him the highest place in Jannat-ul-Firdous and gives strength and patience to his bereaved family. Chief Minister Omar Abdullah, while expressing deep sorrow over the veteran administrator's demise, said, Syed Muzaffar Aga Sahib belonged to a rare generation of public servants whose professionalism, integrity and institutional wisdom left a lasting imprint on the governance of Jammu and Kashmir. He served the people with distinction through periods of profound political and administrative transition, always upholding the highest standards of public duty.
PDP reviews Srinagar organisation, gears up for ULB polls
Srinagar, July 21: The Jammu and Kashmir Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) on Tuesday held an organisational meeting of its Srinagar district unit to review party affairs and discuss measures to strengthen grassroots activities ahead of upcoming political programmes. The meeting, chaired by PDP General Secretary (Organisation) Adv. Ghulam Nabi Lone Hanjura, was attended by senior party leaders, including General Secretary Mohammad Khursheed Alam, Additional General Secretary Adv. Mohammad Yousuf Bhat, District President Abdul Qayoum Bhat, constituency in-charges and other office-bearers. Addressing the gathering, Hanjura stressed the need to strengthen the party organisation through increased public outreach and better coordination among workers. He urged functionaries to intensify the membership campaign and encourage greater participation of youth in party activities. Khursheed Alam called for maintaining regular contact with people and addressing their concerns, saying a strong organisational structure was essential for taking the partys message to the public. Adv. Mohammad Yousuf Bhat urged party leaders and workers to remain united and maintain organisational discipline while preparing for upcoming programmes. PDP spokesperson Mohammad Iqbal Tramboo said the partys strength lies in its cadre and public connect, stressing the need to expand grassroots structures and improve coordination among workers. The meeting also discussed preparations for the upcoming Urban Local Body (ULB) elections, the ongoing membership drive and arrangements for the partys Foundation Day programme scheduled later this month. Participants resolved to strengthen the party organisation across Srinagar district.
Ramzan attends INDIA Bloc floor leaders meet in Delhi
New Delhi, July 21: Member of Parliament Chowdhary Mohammad Ramzan on Monday attended a meeting of INDIA Bloc floor leaders held at the chamber of Congress president and Leader of Opposition in the Rajya Sabha Mallikarjun Kharge in New Delhi. The meeting was attended by Congress Parliamentary Party chairperson Sonia Gandhi and Leader of Opposition in the Lok Sabha Rahul Gandhi, besides other opposition leaders. The leaders discussed key parliamentary issues and deliberated on coordinating the oppositions strategy during the ongoing session of Parliament.
PDPs Zaffer Mir flags civic woes in Chadoora
Srinagar, July 19: PDP senior leader Zaffer Mir (Lasjan) on Monday accused the government of neglecting the Chadoora Assembly constituency and raised concerns over drinking water shortages, poor road conditions, farmers distress and inadequate public services. Addressing a PDP delegates convention at Gowharpora, attended by party delegates from several areas of the constituency, Mir said residents had been facing prolonged civic issues due to what he termed administrative apathy. He highlighted the drinking water crisis, deteriorating infrastructure and lack of basic facilities, saying these issues required immediate attention. Mir also raised concerns over the hardships faced by farmers, particularly vegetable growers and orchardists, citing rising fertiliser costs and losses due to adverse weather conditions. He demanded a comprehensive relief and compensation package for affected farmers. During the convention, delegates adopted a resolution seeking immediate release of compensation to landowners and affected families through the administration by the National Highways Authority of India (NHAI). Mir also demanded improvements in healthcare services, including better facilities at health centres and regular availability of medicines. Calling upon party workers to strengthen grassroots engagement, he urged them to prepare for the upcoming Panchayat elections and participate in the PDP Foundation Day programme scheduled in Srinagar on July 28.
Dr. Farooq seeks audit of Smart City works
Srinagar, July 21: National Conference president Dr Farooq Abdullah on Tuesday called for an independent audit of Srinagar's Smart City Project following widespread waterlogging after recent heavy rains, while urging the Centre to announce a special relief package for flood-hit areas of Jammu and Kashmir. He said the inundation of several parts of Srinagar had raised serious questions over the planning and execution of the Smart City Project. He called for an independent, impartial technical and financial audit to examine the project's planning, execution, quality of work and adherence to prescribed engineering standards, saying the people have a right to know whether public funds were utilised efficiently and whether any lapses contributed to the city's vulnerability to heavy rainfall. A thorough inquiry must ascertain whether public funds were utilised efficiently and whether deficiencies in planning or execution contributed to the city's inability to withstand heavy rainfall. If lapses are found, responsibility must be fixed and corrective measures undertaken without delay, he said. The NC chief also expressed profound grief over the loss of lives and widespread destruction caused by the recent torrential rains, flash floods and landslides across Jammu and Kashmir, particularly in the Pir Panjal region. In a statement issued from the party headquarters, Nawa-e-Subha, Dr. Farooq said the unprecedented rainfall has triggered a humanitarian crisis, claiming many lives in Rajouri, Poonch, Doda and other districts, while causing extensive damage to homes, roads, bridges, public infrastructure, agricultural land and livelihoods. Flash floods inundated residential localities and markets, swept away vehicles, and landslides disrupted connectivity, severely affecting rescue and relief operations the statement reads. Describing the scale of devastation as enormous, Dr. Farooq said the financial burden of relief, rehabilitation and reconstruction cannot be borne by J&K government alone. He urged GoI to announce a comprehensive and generous special relief package to facilitate the rehabilitation of affected families and the restoration of damaged infrastructure. Recalling the inadequate assistance extended after previous flood disasters in Jammu, he expressed hope that the Centre would respond more generously this time, commensurate with the magnitude of the present calamity. Dr. Farooq appreciated Chief Minister Omar Abdullah for his swift and hands-on response to the unfolding crisis. He said the Chief Minister immediately cut short his Delhi engagement to personally supervise relief efforts, remained in constant touch with the administration and local representatives, closely monitored rescue operations, announced 6 lakh ex gratia for the families of those who lost their lives, and directed officials to ensure expeditious rescue, relief, rehabilitation and restoration of essential services. He also noted that assessments of damage to homes, crops and other property are underway to facilitate further compensation.
MP Mian Altaf visits Poonch, seeks faster relief
Poonch, July 21: Member of Parliament (Anantnag-Rajouri) Mian Altaf Ahmad on Tuesday visited flood-affected areas of Poonch district to assess the damage caused by recent heavy rainfall and flash floods and urged the government to expedite relief, rehabilitation and search operations. According to a statement, the MP toured several affected areas, including Sangla, Loran, Surankote and Mendhar, where he met affected families, local elders and community representatives to assess the losses to homes, crops, livestock and public infrastructure. Despite inclement weather, Mian Altaf walked to several affected villages and assured residents of all possible assistance. Describing the devastation as deeply concerning, he said many families had lost their loved ones, several people were still missing and extensive damage had been caused to houses, farmlands and livelihoods. He stressed that the immediate priority should be to trace the missing persons and ensure timely relief for every affected household. The MP also called for the early restoration of essential services, including damaged bridges, roads, power supply and water supply schemes, to ease the hardships faced by the affected population. He urged the government to intensify rescue and search operations and ensure prompt rehabilitation of the affected families.
Pir Panjal floods : Relief, restoration top priority: Govt
Rajouri, July 21: Minister for Food, Civil Supplies & Consumer Affairs, Information Technology, Youth Services & Sports and Science & Technology, Satish Sharma, on Tuesday undertook an extensive visit to the flood-affected areas of Rajouri district to assess the damage caused by the recent flash floods, review the ongoing rescue, relief and rehabilitation measures, and take stock of the restoration of essential public services. Reaffirming the Government's commitment to ensuring timely relief and rehabilitation of every affected family, the Minister said that the administration has been directed to leave no stone unturned in extending immediate assistance and restoring normalcy in the affected areas. The Minister began his visit by inspecting the flood-ravaged Baila Bus Stand, one of the worst-affected locations in Rajouri town. He took stock of the extensive damage caused to the bus stand infrastructure and inspected several vehicles that were severely damaged after being caught in the flash floods. He directed the concerned officers to conduct a detailed assessment of the losses and expedite restoration measures to ensure the early resumption of public transport services. Interacting with local residents and transporters, Satish Sharma expressed deep concern over the hardships faced by them due to the natural calamity. He assured them that the Government is closely monitoring the situation and all genuine cases of damage and loss would be addressed in accordance with the established norms. Subsequently, the Minister visited the Relief and Rehabilitation Centre established by the District Administration at Government Boys Higher Secondary School (BHSS), Rajouri, where families displaced by the floods have been provided temporary shelter. The Minister spent considerable time interacting with the affected families, listening to their concerns and enquiring about their immediate requirements. He assured them that the Government stands shoulder to shoulder with them during this difficult period and that every possible measure would be taken to ensure their safety, welfare and dignified rehabilitation. During the visit, Deputy Commissioner Rajouri Abhishek Sharma briefed the Minister on the rescue operations conducted immediately after the flash floods, the ongoing relief measures and the rehabilitation plan being implemented by the district administration. He informed that the administration has made comprehensive arrangements at the relief centre, including safe accommodation, nutritious food, clean drinking water, uninterrupted electricity, sanitation facilities, healthcare services, medicines, counselling support and other essential amenities to ensure the well-being of the displaced families. The Minister also conducted a comprehensive review of the availability and restoration of essential public services in the affected areas. He assessed the status of ration supply, drinking water, electricity, road connectivity, transport services, healthcare facilities and other civic amenities. He directed the officers of the concerned departments to work in close coordination to restore all damaged infrastructure and public utilities on a priority basis while ensuring uninterrupted delivery of essential services to the affected population. Emphasising the importance of coordinated disaster response, Satish Sharma instructed all departments to maintain close coordination, remain on alert and ensure prompt redressal of public grievances. He stressed that relief efforts should continue until every affected family is adequately rehabilitated and normal life is fully restored. The Minister appreciated the dedicated efforts of the District Administration, Police, SDRF, Civil Defence, volunteers and all line departments for their swift response in carrying out rescue and relief operations despite challenging conditions. He observed that their timely intervention helped minimise the impact of the disaster and ensured the safety of many residents. The Government is fully committed to providing every possible assistance to the flood-affected families. All departments have been directed to work with urgency and compassion so that relief reaches every deserving person without delay. Restoration of essential services and rehabilitation of affected families remain our highest priority, the Minister said. MLA Rajouri Iftikhar Ahmed and MLA Thanamandi Muzaffar Ahmad Khan accompanied the Minister during the visit and interacted with the affected families and local residents. Senior district and sectoral officers were also present and briefed the Minister on the prevailing situation, the progress of relief operations and the measures being taken to restore normalcy across the affected areas.
Protesters, petrol pump, police... and one woman
Delhi witnessed gratuitous violence during the CJP protests. This petrol pump was a site of violence.
Unannounced midnight detention of train upsets pilgrims travel plans to Guruvayur
Passengers says travelling in the new Jan Shatabdi coach seats, which have little or no reclining angle, for four to six hours often results in back pain and a harrowing experience. The earlier trains had reclining seats with armrests.
Govt to distribute three months' ration in advance
Srinagar, July 21: In a significant step to ensure uninterrupted availability of foodgrains to beneficiaries during the forthcoming monsoon season, the Department of Food, Civil Supplies & Consumer Affairs (FCS&CA), J&K has decided to undertake the advance lifting and distribution of foodgrains allocated under the National Food Security Act (NFSA) and Non-Priority Household (NPHH) schemes for the months of August, September and October 2026. The decision, as per a statement, has been taken as a precautionary measure to address any logistical and transportation challenges that may arise during the rainy season and to ensure uninterrupted food security across the Union Territory. Accordingly, the Department has made advance allocation of foodgrains for the three months, enabling the beneficiaries to receive their entitled ration through a single transaction. The entire distribution process has been targeted for completion on or before 31st August, 2026. To facilitate smooth implementation of the initiative, the NIC, J&K has been requested to enable the one-time transaction facility in the e-PoS devices for distribution of foodgrains pertaining to the months of August, September and October 2026. The Minister for Food, Civil Supplies & Consumer Affairs, while speaking in this regard, said that the advance lifting and distribution of foodgrains would strengthen the departmental preparedness and enable an effective response to any situation arising during the monsoon season. He said that the initiative would ensure uninterrupted availability of foodgrains and safeguard the food security of eligible beneficiaries throughout the Union Territory. The Commissioner Secretary, Food, Civil Supplies & Consumer Affairs Department, reiterated that the advance lifting, transportation and distribution of foodgrains shall be undertaken in close coordination with all the stakeholders, including the Food Corporation of India (FCI), the Jammu & Kashmir Road Transport Corporation (JKRTC) and the district administration. Necessary instructions were passed on to the Director, FCS&CA, Jammu and the Director, FCS&CA, Kashmir to personally monitor the lifting, transportation and distribution of the allocated foodgrains. This will ensure that the exercise is completed within the stipulated timeline and that no eligible beneficiary is deprived of his or her entitlement, he added. The Department issued necessary directions to all concerned officers, Fair Price Shop dealers and other stakeholders to ensure timely lifting, transportation and distribution of the allocated foodgrains, with the entire exercise to be completed by 31st August, 2026, in the interest of public convenience and uninterrupted food security.
Ganderbal gears up for Hazrat Qamar-ud-Din Bukhari Urs
Ganderbal, July 21: Ganderbal district has geared up for the annual Urs of revered Sufi saint Hazrat Syed Qamar-ud-Din Bukhari (RA), popularly known as Qamar Shah Sahab (RA), which will be observed from July 21 to July 26 at the historic shrine. Thousands of devotees from across Jammu and Kashmir are expected to participate in the six-day religious gathering, marked by prayers, Qur'an recitation, spiritual discourses and special night-long congregations. According to the shrine management, the Urs will commence with the recitation of verses from the Holy Qur'an, followed by a series of religious programmes every day from Asr to Maghrib prayers. On July 25, a special Isha prayer will be offered at 10:30 pm, after which Khatmah Sharif and Tabligh programmes will continue throughout the night until Fajr prayers, forming the spiritual highlight of the annual observance. The shrine management expressed gratitude to the district administration for extending full cooperation in ensuring smooth arrangements for the Urs. They said the administration had left no stone unturned in facilitating the event and praised the coordinated efforts of various departments. They specifically appreciated Deputy Commissioner Ganderbal Jatin Kishore,other officials who personally visited the shrine to inspect the preparations, interacted with the shrine authorities and reviewed the facilities being put in place for devotees. The management said that departments including Public Health Engineering (Water Works), Health, Municipal Committee, Sanitation Wing, and other district offices have actively participated in making the necessary arrangements. They added that all essential civic services, including drinking water, cleanliness, medical assistance and other public amenities, have been strengthened to ensure a comfortable and hassle-free experience for pilgrims. Meanwhile, Deputy Commissioner Jatin Kishore conducted an on-site inspection of the shrine premises and reviewed the overall arrangements for the annual Urs on Tuesday. He directed the concerned departments to ensure seamless coordination and the availability of all essential facilities so that devotees can participate in the religious event without inconvenience. The shrine management once again thanked the Deputy Commissioner and the district administration for their continued support and appealed to people from across the Valley to participate in the annual Urs in large numbers. They said special prayers would be offered during the gathering for peace, prosperity and the well-being of all, praying that Almighty Allah showers His blessings upon everyone.
Budgam on alert as Sukhnag swells after heavy rain
Budgam, July 21: Deputy Commissioner Budgam, Athar Aamir Khan, on Tuesday appealed to residents living along the banks of Nallah Sukhnag and other vulnerable areas to immediately shift to safer locations as a precautionary measure following a sharp rise in the water level, while directing all emergency response agencies to remain on high alert. Speaking to Rising Kashmir, the Deputy Commissioner said the administration is closely monitoring the situation and urged people to stay away from Nallah Sukhnag and other flood-prone areas. He said that a shopping complex in Beerwah town collapsed due to the high water level, highlighting the seriousness of the situation. DC Budgam said that Station House Officers (SHOs), Tehsildars and other field officials have already advised residents living close to the nallah to evacuate their homes until the water level recedes. He added that Police, SDRF, Civil Defence, Fire and Emergency Services, district administration and other line departments have been deployed across vulnerable locations to prevent people from venturing near the nallah and to ensure prompt assistance wherever required. We have already directed all the concerned departments to immediate activation of all rescue and emergency response teams and instructed officers to maintain round-the-clock monitoring of nallahs, drains and other vulnerable areas to ensure a swift response to any eventuality, Athar Aamir said. DC Budgam said that SHOs, field officers and rescue teams are continuously monitoring the situation and advising residents in vulnerable areas to evacuate wherever necessary as a precautionary measure. Appealing for public cooperation, DC Budgam urged people to remain indoors unless absolutely necessary and avoid visiting nallahs, embankments, breached spots and other flood-prone areas. He also cautioned against gathering near water bodies out of curiosity, warning that such actions could endanger lives. Reiterating that the district administration is maintaining constant vigil, the Deputy Commissioner said all departments are working in close coordination to safeguard lives and property. He assured the public that every possible measure is being taken to deal with the situation effectively and urged citizens to remain calm, vigilant and strictly follow official advisories until the situation improves.
Artists pitch for revival of Kashmirs performing arts
Srinagar, Jul 21: The revival of Kashmirs theatre tradition emerged as the central theme on the fourth day of the third Chinar Book Festival at the Sher-i-Kashmir International Conference Centre (SKICC) on Tuesday, with playwrights, actors, directors and scholars calling for renewed efforts to preserve the valleys rich dramatic heritage while encouraging young talent to shape its future. The session, titled Theatre in Kashmir: Reviving a Living Tradition, brought together eminent theatre practitioners on a common platform to reflect on the evolution of Kashmiri theatre, the challenges it has faced over the decades and the need to cultivate a new generation of playwrights, actors and audiences. Opening the discussion, Dr Farooq Fayaz traced the roots of Kashmiri theatre to the regions ancient Sanskrit traditions, describing Kashmir as one of the foremost centres of learning in philosophy, literature, aesthetics and dramatic arts. Referring to historical texts such as the Nilamata Purana and Rajatarangini, he said archaeological and literary evidence points to a flourishing tradition of playwriting and performance in the valley. Veteran theatre personality Nisar Naseem described the period between 1970 and 1989 as the golden era of Kashmiri theatre, when original productions in Kashmiri and Hindi flourished. He noted that while theatre across the world initially revolved around religion before evolving into stories of kings and wars, its greatest strength lay in portraying the lives and struggles of ordinary people. Actor Kusum Tikoo stressed that meaningful theatre does not require elaborate auditoriums and can thrive through street plays, neighbourhood performances and community spaces. She also encouraged young artists to experiment with contemporary formats, including short theatrical reels on social media and rooftop performances. We respect our golden history, but we cannot remain confined to it, she said, urging students to write original scripts and become the next generation of playwrights and performers. Rohit Bhatt proposed the formation of theatre groups in schools and colleges, where students could write, direct, perform and manage productions before competing at inter-institutional events. He also highlighted the importance of independent cultural initiatives, noting that his organisation had staged nearly 1,500 plays despite receiving government support for only a small fraction of them. The discussion, moderated by Rashid Nizami, also explored the impact of conflict on theatre in Kashmir and emphasised the need for sustained efforts to revive the Valley's vibrant performing arts tradition. Earlier in the day, the festival hosted an engaging session, From Soil to Soul: Culinary Traditions and Sustainability, where speakers explored the relationship between food, culture and sustainable living. Moderated by Tripurari Singh, the session featured Chef Yaseen Reshi, Rajni Wanchoo and Khair Ull Nissa Sheikh. The National Council for Promotion of Urdu Language (NCPUL) organised two literary sessions at the Authors' Corner on Urdu in the Digital Age and the release of the book Mir Taqi Mir ki Ghazaliya Shairi Ka Ghinai Pahlu. Speakers stressed the importance of integrating Urdu with digital platforms, preserving manuscripts through technology and making the language more accessible to younger generations. The Childrens Corner witnessed enthusiastic participation from around 4,000 students throughout the day. Activities included an interactive storytelling session titled Kabir for Kids, a Rashtriya e-Pustakalaya quiz competition, a financial literacy workshop conducted by Chartered Financial Analyst Amit Mawai under SEBI, and Harf-o-Hunar, an Arabic calligraphy workshop led by Malik Mukhtar. The cultural segment showcased theatre performances by Gulistan Bhagat Theatre, Azad Dramatic Club, Mehak Dramatic Club and Yusmarg Folk Theatre, reflecting the richness of Kashmir's dramatic traditions. The audience also enjoyed a Dastangoi performance that revived the classical art of oral storytelling, followed by musical performances by Aijaz Sahir, Zubaida Ali, and the duo Asif and Tanzeeb.
Kin of seafarers killed in Hormuz attacks demand UN intervention, compensation, govt. jobs
Forward Seamens Union of India general secretary Manoj Yadav says Union Government has not raised a strong enough voice against these killings or ensured justice to bereaved families
Israeli national booked under NDPS Act in Zanskar
Zanskar, July 21: In a major crackdown on drug trafficking, Zanskar Police arrested an Israeli national after recovering suspected narcotic substances from his possession during a routine vehicle check at the Police Check Post Kargyak/Gonbo Rangjon in Zanskar of UT Ladakh. The accused has been identified as Adir Yemini (24), a resident of Israel, who was travelling in a private Alto car (Registration No. UK11A-1621) from Manali towards Zanskar. During routine checking, police intercepted the vehicle and conducted a search of the passenger's belongings. According to police, the search led to the recovery of 104 grams of a charas-like substance, 16 grams of a ganja-like substance, and a negligible quantity of a heroin-like substance. The recovered contraband was seized and sealed on the spot after all mandatory legal formalities were completed. Following the recovery, Police Station Zanskar registered FIR No. 23/2026 under Sections 8/20/21 of the Narcotic Drugs and Psychotropic Substances (NDPS) Act, and further investigation has been initiated to ascertain the source and intended destination of the seized substances. Police said the action forms part of the district's sustained campaign against narcotics and reiterated its commitment to curbing drug trafficking in the region. The public has been urged to assist law enforcement agencies by sharing any information related to narcotics with the nearest police station or by dialling 112, assuring that the identity of informants will be kept strictly confidential.
Organ Donation Month : No corneal donations in Kashmir despite rising transplant demand
Srinagar, Jul 20: As July is observed as Organ Donation Month, the State Organ and Tissue Transplant Organization, Jammu & Kashmir (SOTTO J&K) has launched a month-long awareness campaign to encourage people to pledge for organ and tissue donation, as organ donations continue to remain low in the Union Territory. As part of the campaign, SOTTO J&K recently organised an awareness programme in Srinagar where corneal transplant recipients shared their experiences, highlighting how the procedure restored their eyesight and transformed their lives. The programme also featured a painting competition aimed at creating awareness among the younger generation about the importance of organ donation. Dr. Irfan Lone, Transplant Coordinator at SOTTO J&K and resource person for the campaign, said the organisation is striving to reach every district of Jammu and Kashmir to spread awareness and motivate people to come forward for organ and tissue donation. He said that more than 150 corneal transplants have been performed in various government and private hospitals across Kashmir. However, all the corneas used for these procedures were procured from other states as no corneal donations have taken place in Kashmir. In contrast, corneal transplants performed at Government Medical College (GMC), Jammu, are supported by donations from local donors, Dr. Lone said, underlining the need to promote a culture of organ donation in the Kashmir Valley. The awareness programmes are being conducted under the supervision of Dr. Elias Sharma, Nodal Officer, SOTTO J&K and Head of the Department of Urology, GMC Jammu, and Dr. Poonam Mahajan, Joint Director, SOTTO J&K, with the aim of highlighting the critical need for organ and tissue donation. Quoting government figures, officials said more than 500,000 people across India are currently waiting for life-saving organ transplants due to organ failure, underscoring the urgent need to increase voluntary organ donation. Our objective is to educate the public about the importance of both living and deceased (cadaveric) organ donation. For many patients suffering from organ failure or corneal blindness, organ and tissue donation offers a new lease of life and restored vision, officials said. Recognising the progress made in recent years, Jammu and Kashmir was conferred the Best Emerging Union Territory in Organ Transplant award by the Ministry of Health and Family Welfare in 2024. At present, kidney transplant services are available at Government Medical College Jammu, Government Medical College Srinagar, and Sher-i-Kashmir Institute of Medical Sciences (SKIMS), Srinagar. Corneal transplant facilities are also available in both the Jammu and Kashmir divisions, with GMC Srinagar and GMC Jammu among the leading centres. Meanwhile, the Ministry of Health and Family Welfare has recently written to all States and Union Territories, urging them to intensify the nationwide organ donation awareness campaign, Angdaan Jeevan Sanjeevani Abhiyaan. The Ministry noted that significant progress has been achieved in organ donation and transplantation across the country. According to official records, 3,475 deceased-donor transplants were performed during 2025, while nearly 1.87 lakh organ donation pledges have been registered on the online portal of the National Organ and Tissue Transplant Organization (NOTTO) since the launch of the campaign. The Ministry has called upon States and Union Territories to organise workshops, awareness talks, exhibitions, social outreach programmes, and other public engagement activities to encourage voluntary organ donation. It has also urged authorities to work closely with their respective Regional Organ and Tissue Transplant Organisations (ROTTOs) and State Organ and Tissue Transplant Organisations (SOTTOs) to strengthen awareness and participation in the national campaign.
Tribunal sets aside most of the FEMA violation charges against Lalit Modi, BCCI
The Appellate Tribunal under the Smugglers and Foreign Exchange Manipulators (Forfeiture of Property) Act has largely overturned the EDs conclusions. However, it upheld the EDs findings on two specific counts
Allot developed plots to farmers who gave land for Education Hub, CM tells officials
Violence has no place in democracy, says Kerala CM
Pawar, Kejriwal, other Opposition leaders visit Jantar Mantar after crackdown; back CJP protest
Sharad Pawar, accompanied by party MP Supriya Sule, met injured protesters and members of the movement and condemned the police action during Monday's (July 20, 2026) attempted march to Parliament.
Revanth condemns detention of Rahul and Priyanka
FIFA World Cup 2026 | Spain refines its style, rekindles winning spree
After clinching the FIFA World Cup in 2010 and the European Championship in 2008 and 2012 with the philosophy of tiki-taka, La Roja suffered a decline in successive global events from 2014 to 2022. Under coach Luis de la Fuente, the Spaniards have added more fluidity to their possession-based approach and reaped the ultimate reward of a second World Cup triumph
Congress takes out Lok Bhavan march in Thiruvananthapuram
The police bid to round up some protesters leads to heated exchanges. The protesters shout slogans against the police and in support of the Youth Congress
Protester at Jantar Mantar: We need to have a better education system
Protester at Jantar Mantar: The governments attitude has made the youth feel unheard
SC sets aside death sentence in 1996 Rajasthan bus blast case, orders fresh trial
The proceedings stand vitiated by the denial of effective legal representation and other procedural lapses that undermined the constitutional guarantee of a fair trial, the apex court says
Accused in Palani math land fraud case moves Madras High Court for anticipatory bail
Justice K. Rajasekar directs the petitioner to implead the CB-CID as a respondent and posts the matter for hearing to July 22
Dubai-based IT manager alleges humiliating Customs search at Kannur airport, seeks CMs intervention
Pellet guns, shock batons used against protesters in Delhi; police deny
Shaikh Irshad Mansoori suffered pellet injuries, the first known case of security forces using pellet guns in Delhi; police deny use, say public must verify facts
