States

Bengal bypoll: AJUP chief Humayun Kabir detained in Rejinagar after verbal altercation with police

The police reached the AUJP office in Rejinagar and told him that he cannot be present in the office in view of polling day

Heavy security, barricades in Delhi ahead of INDIA blocs SIR protest

Five-month-old found dead in Chintapalli; family alleges father killed him

The father had fed the crying infant at the hotel where his mother worked and taken him home; police say the circumstances of the death are yet to be established

BMC calls for meeting with residents over death of fishes in Banganga tank

Last year, BMC installed collection bins at Banganga tank for floral waste and food, and initiated cleaning drives

Wipro Circle in Hyderabads Financial District to be renamed Dr. Manmohan Singh Circle

Ganesh procession organiser held a month after 19-year-old died amid crowd commotion

Saudi backed Yemeni forces expel Houthis from several areas around key strait

Saudi-backed forces have recaptured key areas near Yemens Bab el-Mandeb Strait from the Iran-backed Houthis as part of a major offensive. The U.S. is providing intelligence and planning support, according to officials speaking on condition of anonymity. Meanwhile, Saudi Arabia, Pakistan and Turkey have agreed to implement their joint defence commitments following recent Houthi attacks.

Rawat defies warning by Congress brass, carries on Uttarakhand yatra

Congress general secretary K.C. Venugopal had said it had been made clear that individual campaigns would not be tolerated

Separatists win Quebec election in test for Canada PM

The partial results indicated that the separatists won only about 30% of the vote, but vote-splitting among the federalist parties tipped the result in the PQ's favour

Kerala CMs statement on angioplasty becomes a talking point among doctors

In a recent function, V.D. Satheesan had mentioned about avoiding unnecessary angioplasty. While many doctors object to the 'generalised statement,' a few agree with the CM that unnecessary procedures have become the norm. However, all agree that a person coming into the emergency with a suspected heart attack should in no way distrust the doctor. The Interventional Cardiology Council of Kerala says that publics apprehension over unnecessary medical procedures should not delay life-saving treatment during an emergency

Downtown Heroes FC create history with double cship

Srinagar, Oct 5: Downtown Heroes Football Club has achieved a remarkable double championship feat at the Gen Bipin Rawat Memorial Kashmir Football Tournament 2026, with both its Under-17 Boys and Under-17 Girls teams emerging as champions in their respective competitions. The achievement marks another significant milestone for Downtown Heroes FC and highlights the clubs continued commitment to youth development, grassroots football and providing competitive opportunities to young footballers in Jammu & Kashmir. The Under-17 Boys team delivered an impressive campaign throughout the tournament, showing consistency, determination and strong team spirit before lifting the championship trophy. The Under-17 Girls team matched that achievement with an equally commendable performance, securing the title and completing a memorable double for the club. Two Teams. Two Championships. One Proud Club. The success reflects the hard work of the players, coaches and support staff who have worked tirelessly to develop young footballers and create a strong football culture within the Downtown Heroes family. Club officials congratulated both teams and praised the players for their discipline, commitment and performances throughout the tournament. Winning two championships with our Under-17 Boys and Girls teams is a very proud moment for Downtown Heroes FC. This achievement belongs to our players, coaches, parents and everyone who continues to support our vision of developing young footballers. We believe that providing opportunities to boys and girls at the grassroots level is the foundation for the future of football in J&K. The club also expressed its gratitude to the organisers of the Gen Bipin Rawat Memorial Kashmir Football Tournament, officials, referees, participating teams and supporters for providing young players with a competitive platform. Downtown Heroes FC believes that these victories are not only about trophies but also about building confidence, character and a pathway for the next generation of footballers. With both teams crowned champions, Downtown Heroes FC once again underlines its growing role in the development of youth football in Kashmir.

Pretty in pink, but Malarikkals lilies worry ecologists

A two-year study for the Kerala State Biodiversity Board finds the water lily, which appeared in Malarikkal after the 2018 floods, has shown unprecedented and uncontrolled growth; ecologists flag its impact on local aquatic plants, water flow and sunlight penetration, besides concerns over methane emissions from decaying plant biomass; the seasonal bloom has transformed Malarikkal into a tourism hotspot, bringing additional income to farmers, boat operators and local residents

LIC CMD R. Doraiswamy inaugurates All India LIC Games

Bengaluru, Oct 5: R. Doraiswamy, Chief Executive Officer & Managing Director, Life Insurance Corporation of India (LIC), inaugurated the All-India LIC Games 2026-27 at Sree Kanteerava Stadium, Bengaluru on Monday. The All-India LIC Games is an annual sports event of the Life Insurance Corporation of India and are being conducted over a period of four days. The games comprise six disciplines, namely Carrom, Chess, Table Tennis, Badminton, Volleyball and Athletics. The inaugural ceremony was attended by S. Girija, Executive Director (HRD & Training); Pradeep P. Shenoy, Executive Director (Corporate Communication); Lata Madampath, Executive Director (Personnel); Saravana Ramesh S., Zonal Manager, South Central Zone; and R. K. Yadav, Senior Divisional Manager, Bengaluru Division-1. Addressing the participating sportspersons, R. Doraiswamy, Chief Executive Officer & Managing Director, Life Insurance Corporation of India stated that sports go beyond competition and contribute significantly to character-building. He called upon the participants to approach the games with enthusiasm and in the spirit of fair play, while striving to give their best. The inaugural ceremony commenced with a march-past by the participating sportspersons. This was followed by the hoisting of the corporate flag by R. Doraiswamy, Chief Executive Officer & Managing Director, Life Insurance Corporation of India, who thereafter formally declared the commencement of the All-India LIC Games 2026-27. Approximately 376 sportspersons representing eight Zones of the Corporation are participating in the games. The All-India LIC Games 2026-27 will conclude on 8th October 2026. The closing ceremony will be held in the presence of Shri R. Chander, Managing Director, Life Insurance Corporation of India, as the Chief Guest.

Between empathy and social dominance: sensitising the IITs

J&K Punjabi Sahit Sabha Srinagar celebrates 59th Annual Day

Srinagar, Oct 5: The J&K Punjabi Sahit Sabha Srinagar, in collaboration with the Jammu & Kashmir Academy of Art, Culture and Languages (JKAACL), organised a one-day Punjabi Seminar to commemorate the 59th Annual Day of the Punjabi Sahit Sabha Srinagar at Tagore Hall, Srinagar. The programme brought together eminent Punjabi writers, poets, scholars, intellectuals and literary enthusiasts from different parts of Jammu and Kashmir. The event highlighted the importance of promoting Punjabi language and literature and showcased the literary and cultural activities undertaken by the Sabha and JKAACL. Harvinder Kour, Secretary, JKAACL; R.S. Rajan, President, Punjabi Sahit Sabha Srinagar; Ajit Singh Mastana, renowned Punjabi poet and writer; and Popinder Singh Paras, Editor, Sheeraza Punjabi, JKAACL, along with other distinguished personalities, were present on the occasion. Secretary, JKAACL, appreciated the initiatives of the Punjabi Sahit Sabha Srinagar for the promotion of Punjabi language and literature. She highlighted the various initiatives and support extended by the Academy for literary and cultural activities across Jammu and Kashmir and stressed the importance of collaborative efforts for enriching the regional literary tradition. The Chief Guest, S. Jaipal Singh, in his address, said that the Punjabi Sahit Sabha and the Cultural Academy are making significant efforts towards the promotion and development of Punjabi language and literature. He appreciated the initiative of organising such programmes and observed that literary and cultural activities provide the younger generation with meaningful opportunities to remain connected with their language, literature and cultural heritage. In his address, Additional Secretary, JKAACL, Lal Chand said that the Academy is committed to organising Punjabi literary-cum-cultural programmes at regular intervals, including in far-flung areas of Jammu and Kashmir, so that the rich Punjabi literary and cultural traditions reach wider sections of society. R.S. Rajan highlighted the activities and achievements of the Punjabi Sahit Sabha Srinagar and presented an overview of its annual progress. He expressed gratitude to JKAACL for its support and cooperation in organising the annual event. Speaking on the occasion, Ajit Singh Mastana appreciated the efforts of the Punjabi Sahit Sabha Srinagar and JKAACL in providing a common platform to writers, poets and cultural practitioners. He observed that literary gatherings serve not only as platforms for presenting poetry and ideas but also as important links between generations, helping preserve Punjabi language, literary traditions and cultural heritage. Popinder Singh Paras, appreciated the cooperation extended by the Academy in making the programme meaningful. He said that JKAACL remains committed to promoting literary and cultural activities and providing platforms to writers, poets, artists and young literary enthusiasts. He emphasised that such literary-cum-cultural programmes help encourage wider participation and strengthen the younger generation's connection with Punjabi language and culture. The second session featured a vibrant Punjabi Folk Culture Programme, in which folk artists from the Jammu Division presented traditional Punjabi folk music. Master Kuldeep Sharma and Party, enthralled the audience with their performances, adding a colourful cultural dimension to the celebrations. The cultural programme was followed by a Punjabi Mushaira, in which poets from the Kashmir Division presented their poetry. Dr. Baljit Singh Raina, noted Punjabi poet, writer and literary personality, also participated in the Mushaira. In his literary observations, Dr. Raina highlighted the richness, expressive strength and evolving dimensions of Punjabi poetry. He spoke about the relationship between language, literary creativity and the social and cultural experiences of the people, emphasising that poetry preserves the emotional and cultural memory of society while giving voice to contemporary realities. He also presented his poetry, which was warmly appreciated by the audience. The programme provided a vibrant blend of literary discourse, poetry and Punjabi folk culture, reflecting the diverse dimensions of Punjabi language and its rich cultural heritage in Jammu and Kashmir. The event concluded with appreciation from the literary fraternity for the joint efforts of the Punjabi Sahit Sabha Srinagar and JKAACL in organising the 59th Annual Day celebrations and providing a meaningful platform for the promotion of Punjabi language, literature and folk culture.

BBBP initiative : Sankalp Hub Shopian organises SHe-Box awareness programme

Shopian, Oct 5: The Sankalp Hub for Empowerment of Women, Mission Shakti, Shopian on Monday organized an awareness and sensitisation programme under the banner of Beti Bachao Beti Padhao (BBBP) at Government High School Zampathri, Keller, Shopian. The initiative aimed to sensitise students regarding the safety, dignity, and rights of women and girls. During the programme, the District Mission Coordinator, Sankalp Hub for Empowerment of Women, Mission Shakti, Shopian, sensitized students about SHe-Box (Sexual Harassment Electronic Box) and its vital role as an online portal for reporting complaints of sexual harassment at the workplace. A detailed interactive session was conducted where students were briefed on the step-by-step process of registering a complaint through--SHe-Box. The District Mission Coordinator explained the procedure involved in accessing the platform, entering required details, providing incident information, attaching supporting documents, and submitting the complaint through the online mechanism for prompt action. The students were encouraged to speak up against harassment, understand their rights, and seek timely assistance. Emphasis was placed on fostering a safe and supportive environment where women and girls feel empowered to report concerns without fear or hesitation. Highlighting awareness as a key tool for empowerment, the District Mission Coordinator urged students to share the knowledge gained with their peers, families and communities, while promoting a culture of respect, equality, dignity, and safety. The event reaffirmed the broader objectives of Beti Bachao Beti Padhao, particularly focusing on protection, education, empowerment, and equal opportunities for girls, equipping students with practical knowledge about available support and grievance-redressal mechanisms. The Sankalp Hub for Empowerment of Women, Mission Shakti, Shopian, reiterated its commitment to conducting similar awareness programs across educational institutions and communities to foster a safer, more informed and empowered environment for women and girls.

Vitasta School of Law felicitates newly appointed Principal Dr Humera Rehman

Srinagar, Oct 5: The CRs Committee of Vitasta School of Law and Humanities successfully felicitated the newly appointed Principal, Dr. Humera Rehman, on assuming office. In recognition of the occasion, and in discharge of its representative duty, the Committee presented a Calligraphic Frame bearing the sacred inscription alongside a formally executed Letter of Appreciation. The Letter of Appreciation, duly placed on record by the CRs Committee, extends the student communitys heartfelt congratulations to Dr. Humera Rehman. It unequivocally affirms that the student body has always maintained Dr. Humera Rehman to be a person of rare competence, quiet strength, and unimpeachable integrity. The Committee further places on record its firm conviction that under her stewardship, the Principals chamber shall remain a chamber for studentsa space where merit is respected, voices are heard, and the dignity of the institution is upheld. The CRs Committee reiterates its continued cooperation in all endeavours that serve the larger good of the institution and its students. The Committee expresses its unequivocal faith in Dr. Humera Rehmans leadership and wishes her a distinguished and successful tenure ahead.

BJP MP Seeks High Court Probe Into Revanth Reddy, KTR's Assets Amid Allegations

The move comes amid an escalating war of allegations between the ruling Congress and BRS over land deals, assets and business interests.

Green India Mission Perspective Plan approved for Kupwara

Kupwara Oct 5: A meeting of the District Steering Committee (DSC) for the Green India Mission (GIM) was held today at the Office of the Deputy Commissioner, Kupwara, under the chairmanship of Deputy Commissioner Kupwara, Shrikant Suse, to deliberate upon and approve the GIM Perspective Plan for District Kupwara for 202627 to 203132. At the outset, DFO Kamraj made a detailed presentation on the objectives and components of GIM, achievements under the previous Perspective Plan and proposed interventions for the new planning period. The Green India Mission, one of the eight Missions under the National Action Plan on Climate Change, adopts a landscape-based and participatory approach aimed at enhancing forest and tree cover, restoring degraded landscapes, strengthening ecosystem services and improving livelihoods of forest-dependent communities. It was informed that under the previous Perspective Plan, 409.36 hectares had been treated against a target of 541.40 hectares, while 1,48,470 plants had been raised/planted. The meeting also took note of livelihood initiatives under GIM, including distribution of sewing machines among women SHGs, potter wheels to local artisans, wood-carving tool kits to trained youth and honey boxes among members of the tribal community. The new Perspective Plan envisages treatment of 141.50 hectares during 202627 to 203132 with a total financial outlay of 424.53 lakh. Proposed interventions include restoration of degraded open forest ecosystems, rehabilitation of abandoned mining and stone quarry areas, urban and peri-urban plantation, eco-restoration of wetlands, agroforestry and social forestry, and alternative fuel and livelihood support. While deliberating upon the Perspective Plan, the Deputy Commissioner stressed that GIM interventions should be implemented through convergence with ongoing schemes of the Agriculture, Rural Development and other allied departments. He also called for greater focus on urban greening and beautification, particularly at the entry of Kupwara town, along with focused interventions for beautification and eco-restoration of wetlands and water bodies. Emphasising livelihood enhancement, the Deputy Commissioner stressed greater support for tribal and forest-dependent communities through value addition, processing and market linkages for locally available NTFPs and forest-based products. In this context, the Perspective Plan provides for establishment of an NTFP Processing Centre in Kamraj Forest Division, besides Training Centres and Nursery Research Centres in Kamraj and Kehmil Forest Divisions. The Deputy Commissioner also called for measures towards making Lolab Valley plastic-free, including establishment of suitable anti-polythene collection points, preferably near security posts and other strategic locations, through coordinated efforts of the Forest Department, Rural Development Department and other concerned agencies. He further stressed rehabilitation of the stone quarry at Kralpora and directed that GIM micro-plans be prepared in consonance with inputs from allied departments to ensure integrated and site-specific interventions. The District Steering Committee thereafter approved the GIM Perspective Plan for District Kupwara for 202627 to 203132, with the directions and priorities discussed during the meeting to be incorporated in its implementation. The meeting was attended by Assistant Commissioner Development Kupwara, Assistant Commissioner Panchayats, Chief Agriculture Officer, DFO Langate, Technical Officer to Conservator of Forests, North Kashmir, representatives of DFO Kehmil Forest Division, District Tribal Welfare Officer, Kupwara, besides other concerned officers and officials.

MSME Ministry holds marketing management programme in Anantnag

Anantnag, Oct 5: The Branch MSME Development & Facilitation Office (MSME-DFO), Srinagar, in collaboration with District Industries Centre (DIC), Anantnag on Monday commenced a five-day Management Development Programme (MDP) on Business Marketing Management for entrepreneurs from the manufacturing and service sectors. The programme is aimed at equipping Micro, Small and Medium Enterprises (MSMEs) with contemporary marketing knowledge and practical tools to strengthen their businesses, expand market outreach and compete effectively in an evolving business environment. Prof. Parvez Ahmad Mir, Head, CIED, IUST, attended the inaugural session as the Chief Guest, while the General Manager, DIC Anantnag, presided over the programme as the Guest of Honour. Addressing the participants, Prof. Parvez Ahmad Mir provided detailed insights into the latest marketing scenarios and emerging trends, highlighting the growing opportunities available to MSMEs. He emphasised the need for enterprises to adopt innovative marketing approaches, leverage technology and build competitive capabilities so that MSMEs can emerge as champions of economic growth and employment generation. The General Manager, DIC Anantnag, while addressing the gathering, welcomed the initiative and termed such programmes a positive and timely step towards the development of the industrial sector. She stressed the importance of capacity building and continuous learning for entrepreneurs to enable them to effectively respond to changing market requirements. Assistant Director, MSME-DFO Srinagar, Saheel Alaqband, in his keynote address, highlighted the importance of the five-day programme and its role in strengthening the managerial and marketing capabilities of MSME entrepreneurs. He also expressed gratitude to the General Manager, DIC Anantnag, and the DIC team for their support and cooperation in organising the programme. The programme witnessed participation of 25 entrepreneurs from manufacturing-based MSMEs operating in the industrial estates of Anantnag. During the five-day programme, participants will be exposed to various important aspects of business development and enterprise growth, including Intellectual Property Rights (IPR), AI-enabled marketing, contemporary marketing strategies, and major MSME schemes and initiatives for enterprise development. The programme is expected to provide participating entrepreneurs with practical knowledge and insights that can help them improve their market presence, adopt modern business practices and enhance the overall competitiveness of their enterprises.

DC Kulgam reviews implementation of Mission YUVA

Kulgam, Oct 5: Deputy Commissioner Kulgam, Shahzad Alam on Monday chaired a meeting at the Conference Hall, Kulgam to review the implementation and progress of Mission YUVA. The meeting was held in connection with the visit of the GDI Team to the district for an assessment of Mission YUVA. A detailed review was undertaken of beneficiary-wise progress, applications under process, loan sanctions, bank linkages, enterprise establishment and the overall implementation of Mission YUVA. The DC directed the concerned officers to ensure effective handholding of beneficiaries, expeditious disposal of pending cases and stronger coordination among SBDUs, BHDs, banks, JKEDI and other implementing agencies so that eligible youth receive timely financial and institutional support. Emphasizing an outcome-oriented approach, the DC stated that the success of Mission YUVA would be measured not merely by the number of applications processed or loans sanctioned, but by the actual establishment of viable enterprises, generation of sustainable livelihoods and creation of employment opportunities for local youth. Tejal Sharma, Officer from the GDI Team made a brief presentation highlighting the implementation status, achievements, progress of beneficiaries and key areas requiring further intervention. As part of the review, Mission YUVA beneficiaries representing different stages of the entrepreneurial journey including fresh applicants, entrepreneurs who have already commenced their enterprises, and beneficiaries whose loans have been sanctioned and enterprises are under establishment, interacted with the GDI Team and shared their experiences, progress and challenges. The meeting was attended by the ADDC, Altaf Ahmad Khan and other officers including Assistant Director, DE&CC Kulgam, DNO, JKEDI, Lead Bank Manager, Kulgam, SBDU/BHD members and other concerned officials associated with the implementation of Mission YUVA.

DC Budgam visits Charar-i-Sharief, reviews arrangements for Urs

Budgam, Oct 5: Deputy Commissioner (DC) Budgam, Athar Aamir Khan on Monday visited Charar-i-Sharief to review arrangements for the forthcoming Urs and facilities for devotees. The Deputy Commissioner paid obeisance at the revered shrine of Sheik Nooruddin Noorani (RA) and inspected the ongoing development works, including the under-construction Guest House comprising 12 rooms and two halls. During visit, the DC interacted with local residents and stakeholders and assured them that their genuine concerns would be examined on priority. The Deputy Commissioner subsequently chaired a meeting at Town Hall Charar-i-Sharief with concerned officers to review preparations for the Urs. He directed PDD to ensure uninterrupted power supply and keep backup arrangements in place. Officers from Jal Shakti Department were instructed to ensure adequate water supply and availability of water tankers. For seamless transport facility, the ARTO was directed to ensure adequate public transport and proper parking arrangements to facilitate smooth traffic movement. CMO Budgam was asked to establish a medical camp near the shrine. The Deputy Commissioner instructed concerned Executive Officer, Municipal Committee Charar-i-Sharief, to ensure cleanliness, sanitation and proper illumination in the town and around the shrine. Similarly, the Food, Civil Supplies & Consumer Affairs Department was directed to ensure timely distribution of ration of October month. The Food Safety Department was asked to intensify market inspections and prevent adulteration, overcharging and sale of substandard food items. The Deputy Commissioner stressed close coordination among all concerned departments and directed officers to remain available on the ground and ensure prompt redressal of issues during the Urs. He reiterated that all arrangements should be completed well in advance to ensure a safe, peaceful and hassle-free pilgrimage for devotees. Earlier, the Deputy Commissioner also visited the revered shrine of Syed Mohammad Ali Aali Balkhi (RA), Pakherpora and paid his obeisance. He took stock of ongoing works and stressed on their timely completion. The DC was accompanied by SDM Chadoora, CMO, concerned R&B, PHE and KPDCL officers, Tehsildar Charar-i-Sharief, ARTO, EO MC Charar-i-Sharief and other officers.

Raid on KSU HQ led to shock, trauma for Jaiaw residents, Govt told

Shillong, Oct 5: North Shillong MLA Adelbert Nongrum today submitted a memorandum and dossier to the state government, demanding a Central Bureau of Investigation (CBI) probe into the midnight raid in Jaiaw on August 19. The raid was carried out to arrest high-ranking Khasi Students Union (KSU) members at their headquarters in Jaiaw hours after [] The post Raid on KSU HQ led to shock, trauma for Jaiaw residents, Govt told first appeared on Highland Post .

KSU demands independent inquiry into truck extortion

Shillong, Oct 5: The Khasi Students Union (KSU) has demanded an independent inquiry into the alleged illegal collection of money from trucks by police personnel at Mawkhanu and Thangshalai along the Shillong Bypass following its inspection on September 30. Addressing reporters today, KSU leader Shining Star Kharbihkhiew said the union acted after receiving complaints from [] The post KSU demands independent inquiry into truck extortion first appeared on Highland Post .

Adelbert decries suspension by VPP

Shillong, Oct 5: North Shillong MLA Adelbert Nongrum today called his suspension from the Voice of the People Party (VPP) illegal and unconstitutional while insisting he remains very much within the party. Nongrum, who joined the VPP ahead of the 2023 state election, told reporters he has no intention of leaving. I have made it [] The post Adelbert decries suspension by VPP illegal & unconstitutional first appeared on Highland Post .

MBBS seat allocation based on merit, Wailad says after student claims unfair treatment

Shillong, Oct 5: Health Minister Wailadmiki Shylla today said MBBS seat allotment in the state is being carried out strictly on the basis of merit, following the introduction of a new standard operating procedures (SOPs). Shylla said the SOPs were brought in to address complaints over the earlier system, where students with lower marks were [] The post MBBS seat allocation based on merit, Wailad says after student claims unfair treatment first appeared on Highland Post .

Katakey

Shillong, Oct 5: The Meghalaya High Court on Monday termed the 41st Interim Report submitted by former Gauhati High Court Judge Justice BP Katakey on illegal coal mining as revealing and exhaustive. A division bench of Justice Hamarsan Singh Thangkhiew and Justice Wanlura Diengdoh noted the report was submitted on September 20, 2026, in tabular [] The post Katakeys 41st report in illegal coal revealing: HC first appeared on Highland Post .

Foundation Stone to Gravestone

Fifty-four years after Meghalaya became a state, a child died midway, in his mothers arms and the parents walked back carrying the very life they had set out to save. That single image should shame us all. The death of a three-year-old child in Domkyrkoh village under Rambrai C&RD Block in Rambrai-Jyrngam constituency is [] The post Foundation Stone to Gravestone first appeared on Highland Post .

Grit, gold and a house that kabaddi built

A player-turned-coach, Neeta Dadwe has spent decades learning the game, building teams and pushing the womens game towards a promising future

AMR survivor, lawmaker

By Shobha Shukla At the European Parliament this week, an exhibition titled Antimicrobial Resistance (AMR): The Human Stories Behind a Silent Pandemic confronts visitors with a stark reality. Antimicrobial resistance is not a distant scientific problem. It is already destroying families, emptying bank accounts, and killing at least one million people every year from drug-resistant [] The post AMR survivor, lawmaker & WHO call to protect medicines that keep us safe first appeared on Highland Post .

A Law That Waited 35 Years for Consent

By Dr. Shabaree Yasmeen A. Sangma Meghalaya passed a law to protect its catchment areas in 1990, yet it lay virtually unused for thirty-five years. The problem was less a matter of neglect than one of design. In a state where most land and forest belong to communities, clans and individuals rather than the government, [] The post A Law That Waited 35 Years for Consent first appeared on Highland Post .

Trump says his super PAC will pay for taxpayer-funded ads that sparked backlash for glorifying him

Donald Trump provided no details on reimbursing taxpayers for ads that had already aired, nor on how he would go about having his political organisation pay for such future advertising

Morning Digest: Voting in high-stakes bypoll in three States, one U.T. today; ECI fact-checks claims on Form 6 following SC observation, and more

Here is a select list of stories to start the day

Pakistan, Saudi Arabia, Turkiye agree on rapid deployment of forces in the Kingdom

The decision was taken at an emergency meeting of the Mecca Defence Alliance in Riyadh and would be carried out under approved arrangements and the national laws of the three countries, the statement said

Teenager loses hand picking up grenade in France school protests

France has been shaken by a wave of demonstrations by teenage students at high schools, or lycees, since late September demanding better classroom conditions

Voting in high-stakes bypolls in three States, one U.T. today | LIVE

In Assams Nagaon, where the Lok Sabha byelection will be held, the fight is expected to be between the ruling BJP, the Congress and the All India United Democratic Front

SKUAST-K student develops 19 chrysanthemum varieties to make Kashmir bloom in autumn

Srinagar, Oct 05: In an effort to extend Kashmirs floral beauty beyond the spring tulip season, a student of Sher-e-Kashmir University of Agricultural Sciences and Technology-Kashmir (SKUAST-K), Shalimar, has developed and propagated 19 varieties of chrysanthemum, aiming to bring colour and commercial floriculture to Kashmirs gardens during autumn. Jaan Arbina Rouf, a Bachelor of Honours student in Horticulture from South Kashmir, said the initiative was inspired by the idea of making Kashmir bloom not only in spring with tulips but also in autumn with chrysanthemums. From spring to autumn, spring has its bloom through tulips and autumn can have its bloom through chrysanthemum, Arbina said, describing the vision behind her project. According to Rouf, the project began as an academic and practical initiative at SKUAST-K but gradually developed into a potential startup. She said the universitys emphasis on applying classroom knowledge at the field level encouraged her to assess the propagation techniques, yield and commercial potential of the crop. The journey, however, was not without challenges. From propagation and taking cuttings to monitoring plant growth and maintaining the plants in polyhouses, Rouf said every stage presented new difficulties. Now these plants have grown up, and I feel those difficulties are gradually reducing. I am growing myself with their growth, she said. Arbina has so far planted around 1.5 lakh chrysanthemum planting materials, with an estimated outcome of around Rs 11 lakh in two months. She attributed the progress to the support and facilities provided by SKUAST-K, particularly its incubation and innovation ecosystem. She expressed gratitude to Vice Chancellor Prof. Nazir Ahmad Ganai for providing the facilities and institutional support required to undertake the project, while also acknowledging the mentorship of faculty members in the Division of Floriculture and Landscape Architecture. She particularly credited Dr. Qazi Altaf, describing him as a key mentor who guided her through the technical aspects of chrysanthemum propagation, including taking cuttings and preparing planting material. According to Rouf, the project also received support from the SKUAST-K Innovation and Entrepreneurship (SKIE) Centre, where CEO Dr. Naveed Hamid provided guidance related to marketing and commercialisation. With autumn approaching its peak, Rouf expects the chrysanthemum plants to begin flowering within the next one to two weeks. Being a short-day plant, chrysanthemum naturally responds to shortening day lengths, making the approaching winter season suitable for flowering. For Rouf, the project is not merely about commercial returns but also about changing the way Kashmirs gardens are maintained after the summer season. Why should we clean out our gardens in autumn and leave them as they are? Why not make them bloom again, plant flowers again and regenerate the ambience? she said. She has also extended an invitation to the public to visit SKUAST-K, obtain chrysanthemum planting material and use the flowers to beautify their gardens. Come to SKUAST-K, take your planting material and decorate your gardens. Lets make Kashmir beautiful once again, Arbina said.

J&Ks new policy to end repeated road cutting

Srinagar, Oct 05: Chief Minister Omar Abdullah on Monday described the Jammu and Kashmir Common Duct Policy 2026 as a major step towards modernising urban infrastructure, improving utility management and creating cleaner and more orderly cityscapes across Jammu and Kashmir. Following approval by the Council of Ministers, the government has notified the Jammu and Kashmir Common Duct Policy 2026, establishing a framework for shared underground utility corridors for power, water, telecom, gas, sewerage and digital networks. The policy mandates integration of common ducts in the planning and construction of new roads, while also providing for phased retrofitting of existing infrastructure. It introduces a coordinated framework for Right of Way (RoW) clearances through a single-window mechanism and provides for cost-sharing arrangements among utility service providers. The policy also provides for digital asset mapping and real-time fault detection through Smart IoT and GIS-based systems, supported by the Call Before You Dig platform. This will enable agencies and utility providers to identify underground infrastructure before undertaking excavation, reducing the risk of damage and service disruption. CM Abdullah said the policy would help move J&K towards a more coordinated and future-ready approach to urban infrastructure development. The Common Duct Policy is aimed at preventing repeated road cutting for laying and repairing utility networks, thereby protecting public road infrastructure and reducing inconvenience to commuters. The shared infrastructure model will also help optimise operational and maintenance costs for utility providers, enable faster fault detection and repairs through dedicated inspection chambers, and reduce the visual clutter caused by overhead utility networks. The policy is expected to support planned urban expansion, improve the resilience of utility infrastructure and facilitate the growth of digital connectivity across Jammu and Kashmir.

Students protest Cornells response to gang rape complaint

The Ivy League school has been trying to quell a firestorm on campus and beyond over its handling of the alleged 2024 gang rape

Nearly 6 in 10 fish in Dal Lake are common carp

Srinagar, Oct 05: The fish community of Dal Lake appears to be tilting increasingly towards exotic species, with the common carp emerging as the overwhelming presence while native fish account for a much smaller share of the catch, according to a new study. The study, Diversity and Relative Abundance of Native and Exotic Fishes of Dal Lake, Srinagar, Kashmir, found that the exotic common carp (Cyprinus carpio) constituted 59 per cent of the total fish catch, raising concerns over the changing ecological balance of one of Kashmir's most important urban water bodies. Conducted between March and May 2026, the study surveyed three locationsHazratbal, Telbal Nallah and Char Chinariand recorded 305 fish specimens belonging to five species. The study was conducted by Khunsa Fayaz, an undergraduate student at Government College for Women, Nawakadal, under the guidance of Prof Mohd Shafi Bhat, Assistant Professor, Department of Zoology, GCW Nawakadal. Three of the species were native to the region: Schizothorax esocinus, Schizothorax curvifrons and Crossocheilus diplochilus. The two non-native species recorded were common carp (Cyprinus carpio) and Carassius Carassius, the study reads. The distribution of the catch revealed a pronounced imbalance. Common carp accounted for 59 per cent, followed by native S. esocinus at 19 per cent, native S. curvifrons at 13 per cent, exotic C. carassius at 6 per cent and native C. diplochilus at only 3 per cent. Taken together, the three native species represented just 35 per cent of the recorded catch, compared with 65 per cent for the two exotic species. The study found that the dominance of common carp was not static during the survey period. Its relative abundance increased from 56 per cent in March to 63 per cent in May. The highest abundance of common carp was recorded at Telbal Nallah, while Hazratbal showed comparatively greater diversity and a more balanced fish assemblage, according to the study. Researchers assessed the fish community using several ecological indicators. The Shannon-Wiener Diversity Index ranged from 1.0 to 1.3, indicating moderate diversity, while the Simpson's Dominance Index ranged between 0.4 and 0.5, pointing to the dominance of a relatively small number of species. The Margalef Species Richness Index remained at 0.9 during the study period. The researchers said the relatively lower abundance of native Schizothorax species may reflect the cumulative impact of several pressures affecting Dal Lake. These include pollution, eutrophication, sedimentation, habitat degradation and increasing anthropogenic pressure, alongside competition from exotic fish, the researchers said. The findings do not establish a direct cause-and-effect relationship between exotic carp and the decline in native fish abundance, the researchers noted, but the strong dominance of common carp highlights the need for closer monitoring of the lake's fish community. Native fish conservation needs closer monitoring, the researchers advocated. The study recommends continuous monitoring of fish populations, pollution control, habitat restoration, conservation of native species and sustainable fisheries management to protect the lake's aquatic biodiversity. The researchers stressed the importance of maintaining a healthier balance between native and exotic fish populations as part of wider efforts to protect Dal Lake. The findings also point to the need for longer-term studies covering more sampling locations and different seasons to establish whether the pattern observed during the three-month survey represents a broader, sustained change in the lake's fish community. For now, however, the numbers offer a stark snapshot: nearly six out of every 10 fish recorded in the survey were common carp, while three native species together accounted for little more than a third of the catch.

Draft reservation list for polls to rural local bodies ready

Women-led agri-tech start-ups deserve equal funding: LG Sinha

Srinagar, Oct 05: Lieutenant Governor Manoj Sinha on Monday said women-led start-ups in agricultural technology should receive financing with the same confidence with which any other start-up is provided the necessary support and facilities. Addressing the 60th Annual Convention of the Indian Society of Agricultural Engineers (ISAE), co-hosted by Sher-e-Kashmir University of Agricultural Sciences and Technology (SKUAST), Kashmir, the Lieutenant Governorunderscored the critical role of women in agriculture and called for their leadership in agricultural technology. He saidnearly 64 to 76 per cent of the rural female workforce is engaged in farming and allied activities, often without wages or land ownership. The LG called for empowering women innovators and ensuring their leadership in agricultural technology, urging institutions and private-sector stakeholders to support women-led start-ups and create laboratories, fellowships and incubation platforms that nurture young women engineers from rural areas. We must ensure that our engineering colleges and agricultural universities actively nurture them to reach positions of technological leadership. Laboratories, fellowships and incubation platforms should be created where a young woman engineer or scientist from a village in Kishtwar or Kupwara can see her idea progress through a credible journey into a market-ready product, he said. Sinha stressed that artificial intelligence and robotics must be developed with affordability and accessibility at their core. He cautioned that innovations should not remain confined to large land-holding farmers but must reach small and marginal farmers, who constitute nearly 86 per cent of India's farming community. He advocated for tools that can operate on ordinary smartphones in low-bandwidth villages and for collective ownership models through Farmer Producer Organisations (FPOs) . I urge the Indian Society of Agricultural Engineers, SKUAST-Kashmir, and every young engineer and innovator to develop tools with affordability and access at their core. Create instruments that work not only on cloud infrastructure, but also on an ordinary smartphone in a low-bandwidth village in Reasi. Develop robotic instruments that can be leased through Farmer Producer Organisations or collectively owned by farming communities, he said. The Lieutenant Governor cited examples of drones, IoT-based sensors and machine-learning models already transforming agriculture. He urged innovators to focus on practical solutions that endure in real fields under real conditions, rather than merely impressing conference halls. Create technology that can endure in real fields, under real monsoon conditions, and within the limited budgets of real farmers. Do not measure your success solely by patents or published research papers. Measure it by whether, five years later, a small farmer in Anantnag, Amritsar or Akola is genuinely better off because of your tools, he said. LG Sinha said Jammu Kashmir's Holistic Agriculture Development Programme (HADP) is a replicable model for other states. He expressed confidence that agricultural scientists and engineers across India would learn from the UT's experience in precision agriculture and sustainable resource management. He also highlighted the significance of the convention's themesWomen-Led Engineering Innovations in Smart Farming and AI and Robotics for Gen-Z Farmingnoting that these subjects underline India's transition from overcoming food security challenges to assuming a leadership role in global agriculture. Reflecting on the journey of agricultural engineering since ISAE's inception in 1960, the Lieutenant Governor recalled how scientists and engineers contributed to the Green Revolution through mechanisation and innovations that reduced post-harvest losses. On the occasion, the Lieutenant Governor felicitated the recipients of ISAE awards. Javid Ahmad Dar, Minister for Agriculture Production, Rural Development & Panchayati Raj, Cooperative and Election; Dr Ashish Chandra Verma, Additional Chief Secretary, Agriculture Production; Prof Nazir Ahmad Ganai, Vice Chancellor, SKUAST Kashmir; Dr S.N. Jha, President, ISAE; Prof V.P. Singh, Texas A&M University; Dr P.K. Sahoo, Secretary General, ISAE; Prof Rohitashw Kumar, Convener, 60th ISAE Convention; Dr Mudasir Ali, Organising Secretary; members of ISAE; researchers, academicians, technocrats, innovators, industry leaders, faculty and students were present.

Mayawati reappoints Akash Anand as national convener in BSP

On September 10, Ms. Mayawati had announced the ouster of her nephew Mr. Anand, setting him completely free from BSP

Shinde meets PM Modi over Maharashtra drought, says Centre assures support for farmers

The hour-long meeting focused on the situation facing farmers, including water availability, agricultural conditions and the availability of fodder for livestock

Supreme Court quashes Bombay HC order directing Maharashtra FDA to pay 5 lakh compensation

The case dates back to June 12, when FDA food safety officers in Pune inspected the establishment following a complaint of food poisonining

First international cargo vessel leaves eastern Assam since 1947

Once one of Indias busiest river ports, Dibrugarh eyes greater movement of goods

Fighting the Drug Menace with Humanity

Drug abuse is no longer a problem confined to a few neighbourhoods or hidden corners of society. It has become one of the most serious social and public-health emergencies confronting Kashmir. Its victims include young men and women, students, workers and people from families that once believed addiction could never enter their homes. The crisis is spreading quietly, often behind closed doors, while society continues to respond with denial, stigma and occasional outrage. Every report of a young person dying from an overdose, being arrested for drug peddling or entering a rehabilitation centre should force us to ask a larger question: what is happening to a generation that is increasingly turning to substances for escape? Addiction is not born in isolation. It grows where despair, unemployment, family conflict, loneliness, trauma and the absence of meaningful opportunities combine. It thrives in an environment where vulnerable people are left without timely counselling, support or hope. The first mistake in addressing drug abuse is to treat it only as a law-and-order issue. Drug trafficking must certainly be dealt with firmly. Those who manufacture, smuggle and sell narcotics are not merely breaking the law; they are destroying families and putting the future of society at risk. Their networks must be dismantled, their finances investigated, and their political or official protection, wherever it exists, exposed. But arresting users alone, parading them before cameras or treating them as criminals without understanding their condition will not solve the crisis. A person dependent on drugs needs accountability, but also treatment. Addiction changes behaviour, damages health and weakens a persons ability to make rational choices. Many users require medical care, psychiatric support and long-term rehabilitation. They need structured assistance to return to education, employment and family life. Without such support, a person may leave a rehabilitation centre only to return to the same environment, the same pressures and the same unaddressed pain. The shortage of accessible and affordable rehabilitation services is therefore a major concern. Treatment cannot remain concentrated in a few institutions or be available only to families who can afford private care. Every district should have properly staffed de-addiction and mental-health facilities, with trained doctors, counsellors, psychologists and social workers. Rehabilitation must not end when a patient leaves the centre. Follow-up care, peer-support groups, vocational training and family counselling are essential to prevent relapse. Families, too, need guidance. In many homes, addiction is concealed because relatives fear social shame. Parents may interpret warning signs as disobedience, bad company or ordinary teenage rebellion. By the time they seek help, the problem has often become severe. Schools and colleges must be equipped to identify changes in behaviour, declining performance, isolation, aggression and other signs of distress. Early intervention can save lives, but it requires a culture in which seeking help is not treated as an admission of family failure. The education system has an important role beyond lectures and slogans. Students need honest, age-appropriate information about the physical and psychological consequences of substance abuse. They must also be given safe spaces to discuss anxiety, depression, bullying, trauma and peer pressure. A campaign that merely displays frightening images or repeats moral warnings may have limited impact. Young people listen when they are respected, not when they are simply lectured. Employment and recreation are equally important parts of prevention. A young person without work, direction or a sense of belonging is more vulnerable to destructive influences. Kashmir needs stronger investments in sports facilities, libraries, cultural spaces, skill development and local employment. These are not decorative additions to public policy. They are protective measures. A society that denies its young people opportunity cannot be surprised when despair finds dangerous outlets. The digital environment has added another layer to the problem. Social media can help traffickers reach vulnerable users, advertise substances and normalise destructive lifestyles. Law-enforcement agencies must monitor such networks within the bounds of law, while parents and educators should understand the online spaces where young people spend their time. At the same time, surveillance cannot replace trust. A frightened or isolated young person is less likely to seek help from adults who respond only with punishment. Public institutions must also improve coordination. Police, health departments, schools, local administrations, religious leaders and civil-society organisations often work separately, with limited sharing of information or strategy. The response must be integrated and measurable. Authorities should publish regular data on addiction, treatment outcomes, relapse rates and deaths, while protecting the privacy and dignity of patients. Policy cannot be built on rumours, isolated arrests or inflated claims of success. Religious and community leaders can play a constructive role by speaking about compassion, responsibility and recovery. But religious appeals must not become substitutes for medical treatment. Addiction is not cured by shame. Nor is it cured by forcing families to hide their suffering. A person who seeks help should be supported, not branded for life. The media also carries a serious responsibility. Sensational coverage of arrests and deaths may attract attention, but it can deepen stigma and push families further into silence. Reporting should focus not only on the identity of a victim or the quantity of drugs seized, but also on the causes, treatment gaps, trafficking routes and institutional failures behind the crisis. The language used by journalists can either encourage people to seek help or convince them that recovery is impossible. Kashmir cannot arrest its way out of drug abuse. It cannot sermonise its way out of it either. The crisis requires firm action against traffickers, compassionate treatment for users, support for families, honest education and a long-term investment in the mental and social well-being of young people. The greatest danger is not only the substance itself. It is the normalisation of the crisis, the belief that addiction belongs to someone elses family and the habit of reacting only after another life is lost. Every delayed intervention carries a cost. The time has come to treat drug abuse as a collective emergency, and to respond with the seriousness, resources and humanity it demands. (The author is a PhD in sociology and lecturer in HED and a columnist)

Before the Chair Becomes Empty!

There is a chair in almost every home that slowly becomes quieter with time. Once, someone sat there every morning with a cup of tea, asking about everyones day. Someone waited for the sound of the front door, worried when a son came home late, prayed when a daughter was unwell and quietly celebrated every little achievement of the family. Then, one day, that chair becomes empty. And strangely, it is only after the chair becomes empty that we realise how much of the home was actually sitting in it. This is the story of our elders. We live in a world that moves faster than ever. We are busy building careers, paying bills, raising children, pursuing ambitions and trying to keep pace with an increasingly demanding life. Our phones connect us instantly with people thousands of kilometres away, yet sometimes we struggle to sit for ten minutes with the person sitting in the next room. We send messages to strangers, respond to notifications and scroll through hundreds of photographs, but sometimes forget to ask our parents a simple question: How are you feeling today? Perhaps it is not because we have stopped loving them. Perhaps we have simply become too busy to show it. But love that is never expressed can eventually feel like absence. Our elders remember a version of us that nobody else does. A father remembers the first time his son held his finger while learning to walk. A mother remembers the nights she stayed awake when her child had a fever. An elder brother remembers protecting his younger sibling. A grandmother remembers the little child who once ran towards her with open arms. We may have forgotten those moments, but they have not. Years pass. Children grow up. Families become busy. Houses become quieter. Yet somewhere inside the hearts of our elders, we remain the children they once carried. That is why an elderly parent may ask the same question again. That is why a mother may call even when there is nothing important to discuss. That is why a father may wait for his son to come home even when he knows the son is busy. It is not always about dependency. Sometimes, it is simply about belonging. A son may believe that providing financially is the greatest responsibility towards his parents. It is certainly important, but parents do not spend decades raising a child merely to receive money in old age. They want presence. They want respect. They want to know that their son has not become so successful that he has forgotten the people who stood beside him before he had anything to offer the world. A son should be able to provide not only a roof, but reassurance; not only medicine, but companionship; not only money, but dignity. There is a profound difference between keeping parents alive and making them feel alive. The latter requires time, patience and affection. The same responsibility exists between brothers and sisters. Growing up together creates a bond that adulthood should not erase. Brothers and sisters may eventually live in different places, have different professions and build separate families, but the relationship between them carries memories that cannot be recreated. A brother should not remember his sister only when a family function arrives. A sister should not need a reason to call her brother. Sometimes, a simple message saying, How are you? can revive a connection that years of busyness have weakened. Family relationships do not always break with a dramatic event. Sometimes, they simply become silent. And silence, when prolonged, can slowly become distance. Respecting elders, however, does not mean that younger people must surrender their individuality. Every generation sees the world differently. Young people have new ideas, while elders have accumulated experience. There will naturally be disagreements. But disagreement does not require humiliation. We can disagree without raising our voices. We can explain without insulting. We can choose a different path without making someone feel worthless. The maturity of a person is not demonstrated by how loudly they can win an argument. Sometimes maturity is demonstrated by knowing when to lower ones voice. You can prove your point and still protect someones heart. An elderly person should never be viewed merely as a burden. They are living repositories of memories, experiences and lessons. Their wrinkles are pages of a story. Their memories are chapters of a life that existed long before many of us understood what responsibility meant. Their mistakes are lessons, their sacrifices are history and their experiences can offer wisdom that cannot be found in a search engine. We should not look at their slower steps and see weakness. We should look at the distance those steps have already travelled. At the same time, respect within a family must travel in both directions. Elders deserve dignity, but younger members deserve understanding as well. A daughter-in-law deserves respect. A mother-in-law deserves respect. A son deserves understanding. A daughter deserves encouragement. A father deserves dignity. A mother deserves appreciation. A healthy family is not one where one generation controls another; it is one where generations learn to understand one another. The strongest families are not those without disagreements. They are those that know how to disagree without destroying affection. And there is another reason why the way we treat our elders matters so deeply: our children are watching. A child who sees his father respectfully helping his grandfather learns something more powerful than any lecture on morality. A child who sees his mother patiently listening to an elderly relative learns compassion without needing to be taught its definition. Children learn what family means by observing how we treat the oldest, weakest and most dependent members of our homes. One day, those children will grow up. One day, they will become busy. One day, their own parents will grow old. And the values they learned from us may return to us through the next generation. What we teach our children today may become the world we live in tomorrow. Perhaps, therefore, we should stop postponing affection. Do not wait for a hospital room to tell your parents that you love them. Do not wait for a funeral to speak about how good your father was. Do not wait for an old photograph to remember your mother. Do not wait until the chair is empty. Call them today. Sit beside them. Ask about their day. Listen to the same story again. Take them outside. Have tea with them. Put your phone away for a while. Sometimes, the person sitting quietly in front of us is not asking for anything extraordinary. They simply want to know that they still matter. There is something humbling about growing old. The hands that once held ours eventually begin to tremble. The feet that once ran after us eventually move slowly. The eyes that watched over us eventually need our support. This is not a tragedy. It is the natural cycle of life. Today, they need us. Tomorrow, perhaps we will need someone. And when that day comes, we may finally understand something that youth often makes difficult to see: the greatest wealth in old age is not what a person owns. It is who still comes to sit beside them. We often measure success by salaries, houses, vehicles, positions and achievements. But perhaps there is another measure of success that deserves equal importance: Did our parents feel proud of the people we became? Did our brothers and sisters feel that we stood beside them? Did our children learn kindness from us? Did the elders in our family feel respected? Because eventually, the noise of life fades. Ambitions become memories. Houses become quieter. And what remains are relationships. So, before that chair becomes empty, sit beside the person who is sitting there. Put your phone away. Pour two cups of tea. And listen. Because sometimes, the greatest gift we can give an elder is not something we buy. It is the feeling that, after everything they have done for us, they are still loved, still respected and still needed. And perhaps that is what makes a house a home, a relationship a bond, and a family truly a family. (The Author works at a premier Medical College in J&K. Email: waniishfaq0001@gmail.com )

The Legal Transformation of Jammu & Kashmir After 2019

Introduction The constitutional developments of 5 August 2019 marked a watershed in the legal history of Jammu and Kashmir. Public and political discourse has largely focused on the abrogation of Article 370 and the reorganisation of the erstwhile State. For the legal community, however, the transformation has been considerably broader. The post-2019 process involved not merely a change in the constitutional relationship between Jammu and Kashmir and the Union of India, but a comprehensive reconstruction of the statutory, administrative and institutional framework governing the territory. The Jammu and Kashmir Reorganisation Act, 2019, enacted by Parliament on 9 August 2019, provided for the reorganisation of the erstwhile State into two Union Territories: the Union Territory of Jammu and Kashmir with a legislature, and the Union Territory of Ladakh without a legislature. The appointed day under the Act was 31 October 2019. This was followed by an extensive process of extending Central laws, repealing or adapting existing Jammu and Kashmir legislation, restructuring institutions and modifying administrative arrangements. The result is that the legal architecture of Jammu and Kashmir today is substantially different from that which existed before August 2019. The Legal Transformation of Jammu & Kashmir After 2019: From Constitutional Exceptionalism to a Common Legal Framework Rights, Criminal Law, Judicial Review and the Road Ahead I. Women, Equality and the Changing Legal Framework: The earlier permanent-resident framework had generated considerable legal and political debate concerning the rights of women who married persons who were not permanent residents. Judicial intervention had already altered aspects of the earlier legal position before 2019. Nevertheless, the removal of the former permanent-resident constitutional framework and the introduction of a domicile-based statutory regime fundamentally changed the legal context in which such questions are considered. Many issues that were previously examined through the lens of Jammu and Kashmir-specific constitutional doctrines can now be analysed primarily through: Article 14; Article 15; Article 16; other constitutional guarantees of equality and non-discrimination; and applicable statutory rights. The broader significance is that questions of equality are increasingly situated within the general constitutional framework applicable across India. II. Language and Cultural Recognition: Legal transformation has also extended into the field of language policy. The Jammu and Kashmir Official Languages Act, 2020 established a new statutory framework concerning official languages in the Union Territory. The recognition of languages such as Dogri and Kashmiri, alongside the existing linguistic framework, is significant from both legal and cultural perspectives. Constitutional integration need not imply cultural homogenisation. Indias constitutional framework accommodates national unity alongside linguistic and cultural diversity. For Jammu and Kashmir, therefore, the challenge is to strengthen constitutional integration while preserving and promoting the linguistic and cultural traditions associated with Dogri, Kashmiri, Gojri, Pahari and other regional communities. III. From the Ranbir Penal Code to the New Criminal Laws: Few areas demonstrate the speed of the post-2019 legal transition more clearly than criminal law. For decades, Jammu and Kashmir operated under its own substantive criminal code, the Ranbir Penal Code (RPC). Following reorganisation, the Indian Penal Code (IPC) became applicable in place of the RPC. That phase itself proved transitional. With the nationwide criminal-law reforms coming into force on 1 July 2024, the IPC was replaced by the Bharatiya Nyaya Sanhita, 2023 (BNS). Similarly, the criminal-procedure and evidence regimes transitioned to the Bharatiya Nagarik Suraksha Sanhita, 2023 (BNSS) and the Bharatiya Sakshya Adhiniyam, 2023 (BSA), subject to their respective transitional provisions. Consequently, within roughly five years, criminal-law practitioners in Jammu and Kashmir had to navigate three distinct stages: RPC IPC BNS and corresponding procedural and evidentiary changes. The consequences are not merely academic. For offences committed during different periods, courts must determine the applicable substantive law and transitional provisions. Constitutional safeguards against retrospective penal legislation remain fundamental. The transition has therefore required significant retraining and adaptation by: Advocates; Judges; Prosecutors; Police authorities; and Other criminal-justice institutions. IV. The Judiciary and the Continuing Role of Judicial Review: Institutional transformation does not eliminate the central role of judicial review. The High Court of Jammu & Kashmir and Ladakh remains a crucial constitutional institution for protecting fundamental and legal rights and scrutinising administrative action. Its role becomes particularly important during periods of legislative transition. When laws are repealed or adapted, institutions reorganised, and new statutory regimes introduced, questions concerning interpretation and transitional rights inevitably arise. Constitutional courts consequently perform an essential function: they provide the legal bridge between legislative transformation and the rule of law. Integration into a common constitutional framework cannot mean unrestricted administrative authority. On the contrary, constitutionalism requires that administrative power remain subject to legality, reasonableness, judicial review and constitutional rights. The success of legal integration must therefore be measured not simply by uniformity of legislation, but by the quality of constitutional protection available to citizens. V. The Supreme Court and the Constitutional Status of Article 370: The constitutional controversy surrounding Article 370 ultimately reached a Constitution Bench of the Supreme Court of India. In its judgment delivered in December 2023, the Supreme Court upheld the constitutional measures concerning the cessation of the operation of Article 370. The judgment therefore became the most significant judicial pronouncement concerning the constitutional changes introduced in 2019. Yet the legal transformation cannot be understood solely through the Article 370 litigation. By the time the Supreme Court delivered its judgment, an extensive statutory, administrative and institutional framework had already developed in Jammu and Kashmir. The legal debate had therefore moved beyond the question of Article 370 to the much broader consequences of constitutional and statutory integration. VI. What Has Really Changed? The transformation since 2019 can ultimately be understood as a shift in the starting point of legal analysis. Before 2019, lawyers dealing with Central legislation frequently had to ask: Does this Central law apply to Jammu and Kashmir? Today, the starting assumption is substantially different. Jammu and Kashmir operates predominantly within the general constitutional and parliamentary framework of India, subject to the laws and provisions specifically applicable to the Union Territory. That change in the lawyers starting point itself demonstrates the scale of the transformation. The significance of 2019 therefore lies not merely in the constitutional amendment or reorganisation of territory, but in the creation of an entirely different legal environment. VII. Integration Must Ultimately Mean Justice: The post-2019 legal transformation is undeniably historic. But legislation should not be evaluated merely by counting the number of laws extended, adapted or repealed. The ultimate purpose of law is justice. The more important questions are therefore practical: Has governmental decision-making become more accountable? Has access to justice improved? Have vulnerable communities received stronger legal protection? Have women and historically disadvantaged groups obtained greater equality? Are tribal communities receiving effective implementation of statutory rights? Are administrative authorities applying the new laws fairly and consistently? Do ordinary citizens understand and experience their rights more effectively? These questions require objective assessment. Supporting constitutional integration does not require abandoning critical scrutiny of administration. Indeed, constitutionalism demands the opposite. A mature legal order must combine constitutional integration with accountability, transparency, equality and effective judicial remedies. VIII. The Road Ahead: From Integration to Consolidation: August 2019 did not merely close one constitutional chapter in Jammu and Kashmir. It opened an entirely new legal era. The transformation extends across: Constitutional law; Administrative law; Criminal law; Land law; Service jurisprudence; Tribal rights; Political representation; Language policy; and Institutional governance. For the legal profession, the transformation has been particularly profound. The contemporary Jammu and Kashmir lawyer must understand not only the historical State laws but also: The Jammu and Kashmir Reorganisation Act, 2019; Adaptation orders; Central legislation; The new criminal laws; Post-reorganisation rules and regulations; and The evolving constitutional jurisprudence of the Supreme Court and High Court. The next challenge is therefore no longer merely legal integration. It is legal consolidation. Laws must be accessible and clearly understood. Transitional ambiguities must be resolved. Administrative authorities must apply statutes consistently. Citizens must be made aware of their rights. Courts must continue to protect constitutional freedoms. Conclusion The legal transformation of Jammu and Kashmir after August 2019 represents one of the most significant constitutional and statutory reorganisations in contemporary India. Its consequences extend far beyond Article 370. The transformation has altered the constitutional structure, reorganised institutions, changed the statutory framework, introduced a new domicile regime, restructured land laws, expanded the application of Central legislation, strengthened the framework of tribal rights and political representation, changed the criminal-law regime and placed Jammu and Kashmir within a substantially more common constitutional framework. For the legal profession, the transition has created opportunities. The challenge is to reconcile historical laws and transitional provisions with the new legal order. The opportunity is to build a legal system that is more accessible, predictable and rights-oriented. Ultimately, the success of the post-2019 transformation cannot be measured simply by whether Jammu and Kashmir now possesses statutes similar to those applicable elsewhere in India. It must be measured by whether those laws deliver the constitutional promise of equality, dignity, accountability, access to justice and the rule of law. Constitutional integration was the beginning. Equal and effective justice must be its ultimate destination. (The author is an advocate and can be reached at: parimokshseth@gmail.com )

Experts call for climate-resilient housing

Srinagar, Oct 5: Experts at a technical talk and panel discussion in Srinagar on Monday called for climate-resilient, affordable and inclusive housing, stressing the need to move beyond constructing housing units towards creating sustainable and liveable communities. The programme, organised by the Institution of Engineers (India), Jammu & Kashmir State Centre (IEI-JKSC) on the occasion of World Habitat Day-2026, focused on the theme Adequate Housing for All. The discussions covered affordable housing and housing security, disaster-resilient construction, sustainable and energy-efficient buildings, access to basic infrastructure and services, inclusive housing for vulnerable communities, and the use of innovative and cost-effective construction technologies. Participants also emphasised the need for integrated urban planning, better connectivity, community development and stronger governance, financing and institutional mechanisms for ensuring adequate housing. Welcoming the participants, IEI-JKSC Chairman Er. Ferdous Ahad Bhat said adequate housing should go beyond providing shelter and include safety, affordability, essential infrastructure, accessibility, environmental responsibility and human dignity. Chief Guest Er. Syed Raza Shah Madni, former Secretary Technical (PHE), stressed the importance of sound planning, essential infrastructure and coordinated institutional efforts in addressing housing needs. Guests of Honour Er. Farooq Ahmad Wani, former Chief Engineer (Mechanical), and Dr Touseef Bhatt, President, Rotary Club Kashmir, appreciated IEI-JKSC for providing a platform to deliberate on the social and developmental aspects of housing. The event was attended by senior engineers, former administrators, academicians, professionals, civil society representatives and members of the engineering fraternity, including former Commissioner SMC Dr G.N. Qasba and other distinguished experts. As an outcome of the programme, IEI-JKSC will prepare a policy brief incorporating the recommendations and key deliberations of the panel discussion. The brief will subsequently be submitted to the concerned government departments for consideration and appropriate policy action.

Jeffrey Archer, U.K. author and politician, dies aged 86

Mr. Archer was a best-selling author and sold over 300 million copies worldwide

Shaheen lays foundation for Rs 4.61-cr road projects

Banihal, Oct 5: Banihal-Gool MLA Sajjad Shaheen on Monday laid the foundation stones for two road projects in the Chamalwas-Neel area at a combined estimated cost of Rs 4.61 crore and announced an ambulance for Neel. The projects include the KrachihalTabela Road and the SinigamKawansool Road. Shaheen said improved road connectivity remained a priority, particularly in remote and mountainous areas of the constituency. He said the projects would improve access to markets, educational institutions and healthcare facilities besides facilitating the movement of agricultural and other local produce. Announcing the ambulance for Neel, Shaheen said timely emergency transportation was particularly important for residents of remote areas, especially during medical emergencies and adverse weather conditions. Shaheen said several development projects were also being taken up across the constituency in the education, healthcare, road, bridge, power and water-supply sectors. He said road links and bridges in areas including Khari, Mahoo, Mangit, Pogal, Neel, Gool, Ramsoo and Sangaldan were either sanctioned, tendered or under execution. He said strengthening the power distribution network, augmenting receiving stations, improving water supply and developing tourism infrastructure, playgrounds and public amenities were also receiving attention. The MLA said efforts were being made to ensure balanced development across all seven tehsils of the constituency, with particular focus on remote areas. He urged executing agencies to maintain quality standards and adhere to prescribed timelines so that the projects could be completed at the earliest.

Sajad Lone flags EWS disparity, JJM delays

Srinagar, Oct 5: Jammu and Kashmir Peoples Conference leader and MLA Sajad Gani Lone on Monday raised concerns over regional disparity in the issuance of Economically Weaker Sections (EWS) certificates and delays in implementing Jal Jeevan Mission (JJM) schemes in Jammu and Kashmir. Lone questioned the issuance of around 92 per cent of EWS certificates in Jammu against about eight per cent in Kashmir, saying the disparity warranted a review of the existing criteria. He said the issue was not necessarily about wrongdoing but about whether the policy framework required correction. The question is whether 92 percent of the poor actually live in Jammu and only 8 percent in Kashmir, he said, calling for the matter to be examined by the elected government. On JJM, Lone expressed concern over delays in implementing water-supply schemes, saying the centrally funded programme had a specific timeline and that around two years had already been lost. First, let us bring water to the people; other issues can be examined later, he said, adding that efforts would be made to expedite pipeline laying and completion of pending schemes. Lone also said he had initiated coordination with government departments and officers to review development works and enable MLA offices to work more closely with the administration. Criticising the functioning of the administration, he alleged that ordinary people were facing unnecessary difficulties in obtaining permissions and accessing government services. Lone said the opposition would continue to raise public issues despite the National Conference-led government having a majority in the Assembly. He also said the Speaker had assured him that MLAs could move a Privilege Motion if recommendations made by them were ignored by government departments.

Sadiq asks Chief Secretary to clear daily wagers report

Srinagar, Oct 5: National Conference spokesperson and Zadibal MLA Tanvir Sadiq on Monday urged Chief Secretary Atal Dulloo to complete and submit the report required to initiate the regularisation process for daily wagers in Jammu and Kashmir. Sadiq said the Assembly had set a six-month deadline for submission of the report, but nearly a year later, it was still pending. The Assembly had given six months to submit the report. Its been a year today, and the report has not been completed even today, he said while speaking to reporters about protests by vocational trainers, daily wagers and other workers over service-related issues. He urged the Chief Secretary to submit the report to Chief Minister Omar Abdullah without further delay so that the regularisation process could begin. On vocational trainers, Sadiq said they had approached the government and efforts were underway to find a solution. He also said the Health Minister was personally looking into the concerns of MBBS interns and expressed hope that the issue would be resolved. Defending the performance of the Omar Abdullah-led government, Sadiq said improvements had been made in areas including power, roads and schools despite the constraints faced by the elected administration. He also referred to measures including old-age pensions, free travel for women and free bus rides for persons with disabilities. Sadiq said the MLA constituency development allocation had also been increased from Rs 2 crore to Rs 4 crore, enabling smaller works such as lanes, roads and PDD-related projects to be taken up. Sadiq said the government had three more years to fulfil the commitments made in the National Conference manifesto and expressed hope that the promises would be implemented one by one. He also criticised the BJP and opposition parties, saying a strong opposition was essential for a healthy democracy but alleging that the opposition had failed to effectively raise public issues in the Assembly.

Army provides desks to Poonch school

Poonch, Oct 5: The Indian Army provided desks to students of Government Higher Secondary School Arai in the remote Mandi area of Poonch district as part of its community outreach initiative. Brigadier H.S. Dhillon, Commander Six Brigade, attended the programme along with social worker Muhammad Farid Malik, Army personnel, students, teachers and local residents. Students presented cultural and educational performances during the event, while locals and school representatives highlighted infrastructure and other requirements of the institution. The Army assured the gathering that the issues raised by the community would be looked into and efforts made to address them. Students, teachers and residents appreciated the provision of desks, saying the initiative would help improve the learning environment at the school.

Fake job, subsidy racket busted in Budgam

Budgam, Oct 5: Budgam Police have busted an alleged racket involving the issuance of fake government appointment orders and promises of government subsidies, arresting two persons and recovering a large number of documents and other materials allegedly used to dupe people. Addressing a press conference at Beerwah Police Station, Senior Superintendent of Police (SSP) Budgam Hariprasad K.K. said the investigation began after a complaint was filed on August 17 by Shabir Ahmad Khan against Firdous Nabi, son of Ghulam Nabi Bhat, a resident of Zabgulla village. According to the SSP, Shabir alleged that Firdous had taken Rs 3 lakh from him on the promise of securing him a job as a Special Police Officer (SPO). The complainant also submitted an alleged appointment/recommendation letter purportedly issued in the name of Union Home Secretary Govind Mohan and addressed to the Director General of Police, Jammu and Kashmir. The letter contained the names of several persons allegedly recommended for appointment as SPOs, including Shabir Ahmad Khan. After receiving the fake order, we initiated a preliminary inquiry to establish its authenticity. The inquiry was subsequently converted into FIR No. 183/2026 at Police Station Beerwah, SSP Hariprasad said, adding that Firdous Nabi was arrested in the case. During the investigation, police identified another alleged accused, Jahangir Ahmad Dar, son of Ghulam Mohammad Dar, a resident of Rathsun, Beerwah. He was subsequently arrested, the SSP said. The investigation widened after Abid Nasir Mir, a resident of Rajpora, Pulwama, approached police on September 26, alleging that Jahangir Ahmad Dar had promised him a substantial government subsidy. Police said they also found the alleged involvement of Firdous Nabi in the subsidy-related case. A special police team subsequently raided Jahangir Ahmad Dars rented accommodation at Nanak Nagar in Jammu, where several items were recovered. According to the SSP, the seized material included a fake Bar Association stamp, 12 ATM cards, allegedly forged orders purportedly issued by the Ministry of Home Affairs (MHA), and blank letterheads of Jammu and Kashmir Bank. Police also seized Jahangir Ahmad Dars passport and visa, besides a diary allegedly containing details of money collected from different individuals and the purposes for which the money was taken. The SSP said several more complaints have surfaced against the accused in different police stations and from different districts of Jammu and Kashmir. On September 26, police received two additional complaints. In one, Muneer Ahmad Bhat alleged that he had been promised admission to a foreign university and had paid around Rs 2.3 lakh. The same day, Saleema Wani of Beerwah allegedly complained that she had paid Rs 15 lakh on the promise of two government jobs, including one for a relative. On September 27, another complaint was registered at Police Station Chadoora by Qunsar Gul, who alleged that Rs 27 lakh had been taken on the promise of two jobsone as an executive officer and another as a nursing position at SKIMS Soura. On October 3, another complaint was received from Ashraf Wani regarding the alleged issuance of a fake SPO appointment order. An FIR was registered at Police Station Beerwah and later transferred to Police Station Budgam, he said. Police also said that cheque-bounce cases involving the accused are pending before different courts. According to SSP Hariprasad, the alleged racket targeted people from different socio-economic backgrounds, including members of economically weaker families. He said the accused had also allegedly collected money from daily-wage workers in the name of helping them resolve issues related to their salaries. The SSP said Jahangir Ahmad Dar, who is an advocate by profession, allegedly used his visits to the civil secretariats in Srinagar and Jammu to establish contact with people visiting government offices with grievances. He was meeting people visiting the secretariat with their grievances, building relationships with them and allegedly promising government jobs before taking money from them, the SSP said. Police have also seized air tickets, passports and visas belonging to the accused, he added. More arrests are likely in the case as we are tracking other persons allegedly involved in the racket. Once arrested, the details of those persons will be made public. The investigation is continuing , SSP Hariprasad said.

New diversions draw flak from Baramulla commuters

Srinagar, Oct 5: Days after authorities introduced a new traffic management plan in Baramulla town to ease congestion and ensure smoother vehicular movement, commuters and locals are complaining of increased traffic jams and inconvenience at several points. The traffic plan, implemented under the supervision of the Assistant Regional Transport Office (ARTO) Baramulla, involves the installation of barricades at key junctions, diversion of vehicular movement and deployment of traffic personnel at sensitive locations. However, the measures appear to have created fresh bottlenecks at several places, with residents alleging that unnecessary diversions and barricades are adding to the congestion instead of easing it. Under the new plan, heavy vehicles have been restricted from entering certain areas during peak hours, while designated diversion routes have been introduced to reduce pressure on the central market and adjoining areas. Barricades have also been installed at busy intersections to regulate vehicular movement and ensure that motorists follow designated routes. However, locals said the new arrangements have resulted in traffic snarls at various locations. Instead of reducing congestion, the barricades and diversions are creating additional bottlenecks. Vehicles are being forced to take unnecessary routes, which is leading to more traffic jams, said Ishfaq Ahmad, a local of Tawheed Ganj area. Irshad Ahmad, a daily commuter said that while regulating traffic is necessary in Baramulla, the diversion plan needs to be reviewed based on the ground situation. We understand that traffic needs to be managed, but the arrangements should make movement easier rather than complicate it. The authorities should identify the points where traffic is getting stuck and make immediate corrections, he said. The ARTO Baramulla also visited the town on Monday to assess the traffic situation and take stock of the implementation of the new plan. With Baramulla witnessing increasing vehicular movement, commuters said a coordinated traffic management mechanism involving the traffic police, transport authorities and civil administration was needed to ensure that the measures intended to ease congestion do not become a cause of further traffic snarls. However, ARTO Baramulla Mudasir Wani said the plan has been introduced with the objective of streamlining vehicular movement and reducing congestion in the busy township. The traffic diversions have been introduced to streamline movement and reduce congestion in the town. The objective is to bring discipline to the growing traffic and make commuting safer and more organised for both drivers and pedestrians, the ARTO said.

Sonamarg fencing work stalled for three months

Ganderbal: Work on an 800-metre fencing project at Sthro in the Sonamarg area of central Kashmirs Ganderbal district has remained stalled for the past three months, raising concerns among locals over the protection of the tourist destinations scenic landscape. The project was sanctioned under the 2025-26 Capex budget at an estimated cost of Rs 3.70 crore. The fencing is intended to protect the scenic beauty of Sonamarg and safeguard the area around the famous bowl. Local resident Ishfaq Ahmad said residents had welcomed the start of the project as they hoped the fencing would help protect the bowl area. We were happy when the fencing work was started, but the prolonged stoppage has left us disappointed. The bowl area is one of the major attractions of Sonamarg and the fencing should be completed at the earliest to protect its beauty, he said. Sources said the work needs to resume soon says that the allocated funds could lapse in March if the project is not completed within the stipulated period. Locals have urged the concerned authorities, including the MLA from Kangan, to intervene and ensure that the issue is resolved at the earliest so that the fencing work can resume and the project is completed within the approved timeline.

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Construction of Vaduthala railway overbridge, Perandoor-Vaduthala bridge to begin on October 7

The new bridge, which is being constructed across the Perandoor Canal and will connect Vaduthala and Perandoor, will serve as a key transport link and enable people to travel quickly from Container Road via Vaduthala to Kaloor, thereby bypassing the congested National Highway

AIMSA presses for stipend revision in J&K

Srinagar, Oct 5: The All India Medical Students Association (AIMSA) on Monday urged the Jammu and Kashmir Government to urgently revise stipends for MD/MS and DNB residents and ensure enhancement of stipends for MBBS and BDS interns across the Union Territory. In a letter addressed to Health and Medical Education Minister Sakina Itoo, AIMSA State President J&K Dr Mohammad Momin Khan said the issue of stipend revision and parity for postgraduate residents and interns has remained pending despite repeated demands. The association said MD/MS and DNB residents are working under demanding conditions, with significant clinical responsibilities and round-the-clock patient care, while stipend disparities between institutions and inadequate remuneration compared to other States and UTs remain a concern. AIMSA has sought revision of stipends for MD/MS and DNB residents in line with prevailing rates in other States and UTs and demanded uniform stipend rates across Government Medical Colleges and government healthcare institutions in J&K. It has also sought appropriate revision and parity for senior residents besides issuance of a written Government Order specifying a clear implementation timeline and expediting the pending process. The association also highlighted the ongoing demand of MBBS and BDS interns for enhancement of their stipends. It said the interns had earlier been informed that the matter would be resolved within approximately one month. However, AIMSA said the interns have now stated that if their demand is not fulfilled within the assured timeline, they will begin an indefinite hunger strike from October 10, 2026. The association appealed to the government to intervene before the matter escalates, saying any protest by resident doctors or interns would be peaceful and democratic and undertaken only as a last resort. AIMSA urged the Health and Medical Education Minister to resolve the issues through a written Government Order and a defined implementation timeline, asserting that timely and fair stipends are a matter of dignity, recognition and justice for the medical workforce serving the people of J&K.

Chief Secy should ask District Collectors to instruct officials to follow Union Govt.s guidelines on protocols: MP

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Filmmakers seek dedicated festival in J&K

Srinagar, Oct 5: Members of Kashmirs film fraternity have sought institutional, professional and financial support from the government to strengthen the local film ecosystem, besides demanding that the government organise a dedicated film festival in Jammu and Kashmir with local filmmakers, artists and technicians at its core. The demand was raised by a high-level delegation of the Kashmir Film & Television Association (KFTA), which called on Jammu and Kashmir National Conference Chief Spokesperson Tanvir Sadiq Ali on Monday and apprised him of the concerns and grievances of the indigenous film fraternity. The delegation, led by KFTA Chairman and Kashmir World Film Festival (KWFF) founder and director Mushtaaque Ali Ahmad Khan, said the local film fraternity should have a meaningful role in the planning and execution of government-sponsored film and cultural initiatives. The filmmakers stressed that an international film festival is a specialised artistic and professional undertaking requiring experience, technical expertise and sustained engagement with the filmmaking community. They urged the government to ensure that future festivals are professionally managed and that local filmmakers, artists and technicians are placed at the centre of their planning and execution. A key demand raised by the delegation was for the government to organise a regular film festival in Jammu and Kashmir that provides a platform to local filmmakers, actors, technicians and young talent. The delegation maintained that such an initiative would help create a sustainable film ecosystem in the region and provide local artists opportunities to showcase their work before wider national and international audiences. The filmmakers appealed to Chief Minister Omar Abdullah to strengthen the indigenous film fraternity through appropriate institutional, professional and financial support. The delegation also sought government support and institutional recognition for established local platforms such as KWFF, which, it said, had been sustained over the years through the efforts and resources of members of the local film fraternity. The delegation said the contribution of earlier indigenous film initiatives should be acknowledged in the official cultural history of Jammu and Kashmir. The delegation maintained that KWFF was not merely an annual event but a sustained cultural initiative aimed at promoting cinema and providing exposure to local filmmakers and young talent.

Traffic police arrest 25 persons involved in bike racing in various parts of Chennai

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Revenue Inspector of Chitlapakkam caught red-handed while receiving bribe of 4,000

The accused was arrested and sent to judicial custody

Revenue Inspector of Chitlapakkam caught red-handed while receiving bribe of 4,000

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Young musicians honoured by Indian Fine Arts Society

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Chennai Corporation starts imposing fine on owners of abandoned dogs

Chennai Corporation collected a fine amount of 10,000 from a Tondiarpet resident after a German shepherd licensed in his name was found abandoned in Tiruvottiyur

Chennai Corporation starts imposing fine on owners of abandoned dogs

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GCC completes 57 works on panel recommendations, but report still not public

The Thiruppugazh Committees 600-page report has made basin-wise recommendations, as per which the GCC completed works worth 307 cr.; the report, however, is still not in public domain

T.N. allocated 812 crore for Annan Seer scheme

Marriages taking place on or after the date of issue of the government order would be covered under the scheme

Jus Onco opens sixth cancer care centre in Kottivakkam

Chennai-based gastroenterologist honoured

Barapullah Phase-III flyover sees massive traffic jams, commuters stuck for over an hour

The 3.5-km corridor from Mayur Vihar to Sarai Kale Khan sees queues stretching over 2 km as traffic converges into three lanes at a major bottleneck

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Veeramanis drivers held on charges of abetment

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Delhi Govt withholds current duty charge of Additional DCP given to officeraccused of sexually harassing journalist

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Jabbar accuses govt of neglecting Ganderbal

Ganderbal, Oct 5: Former MLA Ganderbal Sheikh Ishfaq Jabbar on Sunday accused the government of neglecting the district, alleging that it had gone back 30 years in terms of development over the past two years. Addressing reporters, Jabbar said key issues including road widening, the proposed Ganderbal hydropower project and stalled infrastructure works had not been adequately addressed. He also questioned the status of the Lalmarag-Mohanmarg and Paharpal-Shalbuk projects, alleging that some works had remained stalled despite foundation stones being laid. Jabbar also raised concerns over unemployment and alleged that local youth had not benefited adequately from recruitment and outsourcing initiatives. He cited the concerns of daily wagers, NHM and ASHA workers, Anganwadi workers, vocational trainers and others seeking regularisation, better wages and job security. He alleged that several election promises, including employment and relief measures, remained unfulfilled and questioned the governments engagement with people at the grassroots. Jabbar also criticised the political positions of the National Conference and BJP on issues concerning Jammu and Kashmir, and questioned the governments handling of statehood and employment-related matters.

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3rd J&K International Conference on Breast and Allied Cancers begins at KU

Srinagar Oct 05: The Department of Bioresources, University of Kashmir (KU), began its Third J&K International Conference on Breast and Allied Cancers at the Main Campus on Monday. The conference aims to bridge the gap between fundamental cancer research and clinical application by providing a platform for experts and researchers to deliberate on recent advances in precision oncology, cancer genomics, immunotherapy, artificial intelligence in oncology, early detection, biomarkers, drug discovery and personalized cancer care. The three-day conference is being organised in collaboration with the Breast Cancer Patients Benefit Foundation and is sponsored by the Department of Biotechnology (DBT) and Anusandhan National Research Foundation (ANRF), Ministry of Science & Technology, JKST&IC and J&K Bank. The event brings together leading oncologists, surgeons, pathologists, molecular biologists, public health experts, data scientists and young researchers to exchange recent scientific findings and promote interdisciplinary collaborations. Delegates are participating both in-person and online. Speaking at the inaugural session, Vice-Chancellor KU, Prof. Nilofer Khan, highlighted the importance of strengthening collaboration between basic research and clinical practice in the fight against cancer. She stressed on the need to promote early detection, scientific innovation and accessible cancer care, particularly in the context of breast cancer. Research must ultimately translate into better prevention, early detection and care for patients, she said. Vice-Chancellor, Gautam Buddha University, Prof. Rana Pratap, noted the growing importance of interdisciplinary and collaborative research in addressing complex health challenges. He highlighted the need for stronger linkages among universities, research institutions, clinicians and other stakeholders to accelerate advances in cancer research and treatment. Senior Consultant and Oncologist, Dr. Sameer Kaul, stressed on the importance of early diagnosis and timely treatment in improving cancer outcomes and the need to increase public awareness about breast cancer, encourage regular screening and strengthen the connection between scientific research and clinical practice. Dean Research KU, Prof. Bashir Ahmad Ganaie, and Prof. Nazir Dar, Department of Biochemistry, KU, also shared their views on the occasion. An abstract book containing research contributions presented at the conference was also released on the occasion. Earlier, in his welcome address, Dr. Manzoor Ahmad Mir, Organising Secretary and faculty member, Department of Bioresources KU, said that the event would provide an important platform for scientific exchange, knowledge sharing and collaboration in the field of breast and allied cancers. Head, Department of Bioresources KU Dr Riaz-ul- Rehman proposed vote of thanks on the occassion. The three-day conference features a breast cancer screening camp besides paper presentations, panel discussions, oral and poster presentations, and plenary lectures by internationally renowned scientists, clinicians and healthcare leaders. The programme also provides opportunities for young researchers and students to interact with experts and learn about emerging developments in cancer research. Students from various colleges across the districts are also participating in the conference, along with researchers, faculty members, clinicians and delegates from different institutions.