Outgoing U.S. Federal Reserve chair Powell delivers defense of Fed independence
Jerome Powell delivered a staunch defense of the need for the central bank to maintain independence and credibility, as it comes under assault from President Donald Trump
Oil prices rise more than 2% as Israel steps up incursion into Lebanon
Israel ordered troops to move further into Lebanon in the battle with the Iranian-backed Hezbollah militant group
U.S. not to be trusted, says Iran's chief negotiator, as Trump toughens terms
U.S. President Donald Trump has sent back a tougher peace proposal to Iran; Israel continues its attacks in Lebanon and has seized the 900-year-old Beaufort Castle and a strategic ridge in southern Lebanon, their military said
More rain, below normal temperature likely this week
Thiruvananthapuram Corporation launches Mayor Care
Mayor V.V. Rajesh inaugurates distribution of school kits for students
Retired judge expresses concern over inordinate delay in implementing womens quota
Male dominated political parties fear of losing power if 33% quota is implemented, she said
A Call to the Literary Conscience
At the Kashmir Literature Festival, LG Sinha underlines writers role in shaping history and memory Lieutenant Governor Manoj Sinhas inaugural address at the Kashmir Literature Festival-2026 at SKICC Srinagar on Saturday is more than ceremonial rhetoric. His assertion that writers, poets and scholars play a greater role in shaping civilisations than institutions is a reminder that in times of political churn and social anxiety, it is the written word that often does the slow, difficult work of repairing societies. Kashmir, with its layered histories of terrorism, resilience and cultural syncretism, understands this better than most. Our societies have seen institutions rise and fall, but the verses of poets, the chronicles of historians and the labour of scholars have preserved what regulations and regimes could not. When the LG says that a single novel can sometimes create more impact than institutions that spend crores, he touches a truth that this region has lived: narratives outlast regimes. Equally significant is his insistence on reclaiming Indias civilizational confidence without succumbing to distortion. The call to move beyond a colonial mindset and to recognise Indias contributions to mathematics, science and astronomy is valid and long overdue. But the task he places before scholars and writers is not one of romanticised nostalgia; it is one of rigorous, honest scholarship. Authentic history must resist both colonial erasure and contemporary simplifications. For Kashmirs literary community, this places a particular responsibility. If writers are, as the LG puts it, greater than nations, then they must transcend the temptations of easy binaries and partisan narratives. Our books, poems and essays must be capable of holding complexity: acknowledging civilizational depth without silencing the marginal; celebrating scientific and intellectual traditions while also questioning power and injustice. LG Sinhas rejection of the clich that reading culture is in decline is also worth noting. In an age of digital saturation, people may be reading differently, but they are certainly not reading less. This opens a new front for Kashmiri writers and scholars: to inhabit digital spaces without losing depth; to use new platforms to carry nuanced, locally rooted yet globally conversant narratives. If the Kashmir Literature Festival is to be more than a two-day spectacle, it must become a forum where these difficult questions are asked: How do we tell our own story without erasing others? How do we honour civilizational pride without slipping into triumphalism? The LG has thrown a challenge to the literary fraternity. It is now for our writers, poets and scholars to respond; not with applause alone, but with enduring work.
Mobiles, Our Children, and the Vanishing Childhood
As smartphones become pacifiers, playgrounds, and classrooms in one glowing screen, we must urgently rethink how much is too much for young minds SYED MEHWISH In homes across Kashmir today, a familiar scene plays out. A restless child is handed a mobile phone so that the adults can finish a conversation, a chore, or a meal in peace. The screen lights up, the child falls silent, and for a brief moment, everyone is relieved. What looks like a harmless convenience, even a small miracle of modern technology, is quietly reshaping childhood itself. The mobile phone has become the most powerful object in our childrens lives. It is their toy, tutor, storyteller, and companion. It is often the first and last thing they see each day. But as this tiny screen takes centre stage, parents, teachers, and doctors are growing increasingly worried. Are we giving our children a tool for learning and connection, or a device that steals their attention, disturbs their sleep, and weakens their bodies and minds? Childhood everywhere is changing, but in a place like Kashmir, the mobile phone enters a particularly fragile landscape. On one hand, it has been a lifeline, allowing online classes, connecting students to digital libraries, and opening windows to a wider world. Many parents feel they have no choice but to rely on phones so their children can keep up with studies and stay informed. Yet the same device that delivers knowledge also delivers endless distraction. Short videos, games, and social media platforms are designed to keep users hooked, and children are the easiest targets. The result is a quiet but serious shift: reading habits are shrinking, attention spans are shortening, and the slow, reflective learning that textbooks demand is losing the battle to fast, flashy content. The impact is not just educational; it is emotional and social. Teachers in Kashmir often speak of a new restlessness among younger students, the inability to sit with a book, listen to a lesson, or stay engaged in class without the constant urge for stimulation. Parents, too, notice the changes at home: children who once played outdoors now prefer to sit in a corner, hunched over a screen; family conversations are replaced by silent scrolling; tantrums erupt the moment the phone is taken away. This is not mere nostalgia for some idealised past. Health experts warn that excessive screen time in children is linked with disturbed sleep, eye strain, headaches, rising obesity, and even signs of anxiety and depression. For a generation already living with stress and uncertainty, we may be adding a new burden, one that is invisible but deeply corrosive. Kashmiri society has always taken pride in strong family bonds, respect for elders, and close-knit communities. These values are difficult to pass on through a screen. Children learn empathy, patience, and responsibility not from videos and apps, but from real interactions, helping grandparents, playing with neighbours, arguing and making up with siblings, or simply getting bored and finding creative ways to use their time. When mobiles fill every empty moment, the space for imagination and genuine human connection shrinks. None of this means that mobile phones must be demonised or banished from our homes. That would be neither realistic nor wise. Digital literacy is now as important as traditional literacy. Our children will grow up in a world where the ability to use technology will shape their opportunities and careers. The question is not whether children should use mobile phones, but how, when, and how much. The first responsibility lies with parents. Handing over a phone should not be the default response to a childs boredom or misbehaviour. Families must set clear boundaries: no phones at meal times, no screens before bed, age-appropriate content only, and fixed daily limits for entertainment use. Younger children, especially under six, should be kept away from unsupervised screen exposure as far as possible. When phones are used for studies, parents should stay aware of what is being viewed and for how long. Schools, too, cannot stay silent spectators. Instead of simply banning phones or ignoring the issue, educational institutions in Kashmir should hold regular sessions for students and parents on healthy technology habits. Teachers can encourage projects and activities that take children outdoors, into libraries, and into their communities, reminding them that learning is not limited to what appears on a screen. Policy makers have a role as well. Regulation of child-targeted content, stronger safeguards against addictive apps and games, and public awareness campaigns about responsible digital use are all urgently needed. Telecom companies and content platforms must also be pushed to act responsibly; profit cannot come at the cost of a generations well-being. Ultimately, this is not just a debate about gadgets, but about the kind of childhood we want for our children in Kashmir. Do we want young minds shaped primarily by commercial algorithms and endless entertainment, or by families, teachers, books, nature, and real-life experiences? Mobile phones can certainly be useful tools, but they must never become substitutes for parenting, teaching, or community. The glow of the screen is seductive, but the light of a curious, healthy, and balanced child is far more precious. As a society, we must act now; thoughtfully, collectively, and consistently, to ensure that in embracing technology, we do not lose our children to it. ( The author is an Assistant Professor, social activist and freelancer)
Responsible Parenting: First line of defence against addiction and deviance
Making responsible parenting central in the fight against drugs and social crimes DR ABRAR HASSAN The Kashmir Valley today stands at a difficult crossroads. For decades, our conversations were dominated by politics and survival. Now, another crisis has crept into our homes: drug addiction and a disturbing rise in social crimes among our youth. The statistics are alarming, but the lived reality is even more painful; parents waiting outside de-addiction centres, mothers hiding their jewellery to stop it from being sold, neighbourhoods whispering about yet another boy caught stealing, peddling, or worse. In the rush to blame governments, schools, or bad company, we often sidestep an uncomfortable question: what happened inside our homes? Somewhere along the way, our patterns of parenting changed, our presence in our childrens lives thinned, and our vigilance dulled. If the streets have become more dangerous, it is partly because the home has ceased to be the strong, nurturing, and watchful space it once was. The shift inside Kashmiri homes Kashmiri society traditionally prided itself on close-knit families, moral codes, and community watchfulness. Elders, neighbours, and relatives all played a role in shaping a childs behaviour. Today, that structure is fraying. Economic pressures push parents to work longer hours. The joint family is giving way to nuclear units. Smartphones and social media have stepped in where elders and community conversations once stood. In many homes, children grow up with material comfort but emotional distance. Parents are physically present yet mentally absent; scrolling, working, or constantly busy. Difficult conversations about stress, anxiety, attraction, peer pressure, and drugs are either hushed up or postponed indefinitely. We still expect obedience, but we rarely invest time in building trust. This gap is precisely where drugs and deviant behaviour find space to enter. A teenager who cannot talk to his father about failure or to her mother about fear will often find someone else to listen, the worst kind of listener. Love without limits, discipline without cruelty Responsible parenting does not mean stricter control alone; it means wiser engagement. In many Kashmiri homes, we swing between two extremes. On one side is harsh, authoritarian parenting that demands unquestioned obedience, using shame, comparison, and fear as tools. On the other side is permissive neglect, where children are given expensive phones, late nights, and unchecked freedom in the name of trust or modernity, without any boundaries or guidance. Both extremes are dangerous. The overly controlled child may rebel in secret, seeking escape in drugs or risky behaviour. The overly indulged child may grow up without a sense of consequence, seeing no harm in experimentation or petty crime. A more balanced approach is urgently needed. Children must feel deeply loved but also clearly guided. They should know that certain lines, drugs, violence, disrespect, and dishonesty are non-negotiable. At the same time, they should also know that if they make a mistake, the first place they can turn to for help is home, not the street. Seeing the early signs and not looking away Parents in the Valley often recognise the signs of trouble but hope that it will pass. Changes in sleep, sudden aggression, withdrawal from family, unexplained expenses, new suspicious friendships, or frequent calls at odd hours are often dismissed as normal teenage behaviour. By the time reality is acknowledged, addiction or criminal involvement has taken deeper root. Responsible parenting demands courage; the courage to see what we do not want to see. It requires parents to ask uncomfortable questions, to verify where their children spend time, to know their friends, and to keep an eye on their digital lives. Privacy is important, but so is protection. A minor under your roof is your responsibility, morally and legally. Equally important is early intervention. If a parent suspects substance use, the response should not be denial, beating, or public shaming. It should be a calm but firm confrontation, followed by seeking professional help. There is no honour in hiding addiction until it destroys a family. Schools, mosques, mohallas but first, the home It is easy to call for more policing, stricter laws, and harsher punishments. These have their place, but they treat symptoms, not causes. The real work begins much earlier in the lap of the mother, in the attention of the father, in the value system of the home. Schools must integrate real, honest discussions about drugs, mental health, and consent. Religious institutions must move beyond abstract sermons and address the lived realities of our youth. Mohalla committees must keep an eye on suspicious activities and protect, not stigmatise, vulnerable families. Yet, even these efforts will fail if the home remains absent. A teacher sees a child for a few hours; a parent shapes a life. A police officer can arrest; a parent can prevent. A cleric can advise; a parent can embody. No institution can replace a mother who listens daily or a father who spends time knowing his child. Reclaiming our moral duty Kashmirs pain has many layers. Drug addiction and social crimes are not isolated problems but symptoms of a deeper breakdown in how we live, communicate, and care. We can debate politics endlessly, but within our own four walls, we do not need any policy to start being more responsible. Every parent in the Valley must ask: Do I know what my child is going through? Do I know their fears, their doubts, their mistakes? Am I available not only with money, but with time, attention, and guidance? If the answer is no, then the first reform we need is not in the Secretariat, the school, or the station house; it is in our own homes. If our homes become stronger, our youth will be less vulnerable, and our streets safer. Responsible parenting is not a slogan or a social media campaign. In todays Kashmir, it is nothing less than an act of social defence and perhaps, the most powerful one we still have in our hands. ( The author has a PhD in child education
Historic & Welcome Judgement of the Supreme Court of India on SIR
The historic verdict of theSupreme Court of India has finally reinforced the constitutional position and the role of the ECI, and also of the government FRAGRANCE OF IDEAS ASHWANI KUMAR CHRUNGOO On 27th May 2026, the three-judge bench of the Supreme Court of India,headed by the Chief Justice of India, Justice Surya Kant, finally announced its judgement in respect of the Special Intensive Revision (SIR) of the electoral rolls, conducted by the ElectionCommission of India. In its historic judgement, the apex court said that the SIR was found on legitimate grounds and is in consonance with the Representation of the Peoples Act and the 1960 Rules. The Election Commissions decision to conduct the SIR remains within the statutory mandate, the Supreme Court further added. It is a great relief for the whole nation as this judgement is both welcomeand historic. The issue was pending in the highest court for the last around one year. It was made an issue by the opposition parties and their echo system when the Bihar elections were around the cornerlast year. The Election Commission of India (ECI), headed by the Chief Election Commissioner, Gyanesh Kumar, took an important decision in the second half of the year 2025, consequent upon a long discussion and debate within and outside the Commission, to conduct the SIR in the state of Bihar. The Commission made an announcement to this effect on 27 October, 2025 to go for a nationwide SIR, state by state, Bihar being the first state to undergo the process. A number of petitions were filed by a number of persons supported by various political parties and also the West Bengal government, with the plea that the ECI had no powers to conduct the SIR. This process of SIR was also conducted earlier, during the governments of Congress and the NDA. The last SIR was conducted by the ECI during the government of NDA headed by Atal Bihari Vajpayee in the year 2003. During those processes at different intervals, there was no fuss created by the political parties and others in this connection. However, this time, the opposition and their echo-system went politically berserk and tried to create obstacles to stop it. Petitioning the apex court was also a part of the same exercise. When SIR was initiated in the state of Bihar, the leader of the opposition in theLok Sabha, Rahul Gandhi, campaigned against it throughout the state and even went to the extent to call it Vote-Chori. He, along with his other colleagues, tried to bring the whole process under the scanner and also tried to bring the results of the polls after conducting SIR under the radar of suspicion. This was indeed a vicious game-plan to jeopardise the whole process of SIR. Besides attacking the SIR, the opposition also raised issues with regard to the procedure of the SIR. In addition to Bihar, other states political leaders also jumped into it and in regard to West Bengal, the SIR was specifically opposed to shielding the illegal infiltrators in the state who were part of the oppositions vote-bank all along. The Supreme Court of India held the SIR as constitutionally valid and correct, and even upheld the procedure of the process. It categorically said that the SIR has strengthened democracy and in case there was any sort of grievance against it at any level, there are various forums where these can be addressed and found ways to mitigate the issues involved. This is indeed a severe setback to all those who kept on raising the issue publicly and privatelyto snub the constitutionally mandated Special Intensive Revision of the general electoral rolls in the country. The opposition and their echo-system attacked the Election Commission of India lock, stock and barrel and even personally attackedthe Chief Election Commissioner on the issue. The ECI and its head didnt lose either the temper or the patience and continued with their work, and gained the confidence of the Supreme Court of India by its statements, work and constitutional arguments in the court. In Bihar, the election campaigning was influenced by the debate on SIR.The people in general in Bihar cooperated with the ECI and participated in the process generously.Congress and its leaders maintained their opposition to it throughout, but the main opposition party in Bihar -the RJD and its leaders didnt give a great heed to this agenda in their campaigning. The main opposition was centred around in regard to the powers of the ECI to ascertainthe citizenship of the voters. It was said that the ECI had no powers to determine the citizenship of the voters, and it was the prerogative only of the Ministry of Home Affairs (MHA). While it is a fact that the determination of citizenship in India falls under the domain of the MHA, the ECI, however, can ask the voters for the documents certifying their Indian citizenship. As per the law and the existing rules, a person has two qualifications to become a voter inIndia, i.e. he or she should have attained the age of 18 years, and he or she should be a bonafide citizen of India.In order to satisfy the ECI officials in this regard, one needs to produce the Date of Birth certificate to prove ones claim to become a voter. Secondly, the ECI has made a list of documents which can be produced and provided to it to prove ones citizenship of India. Earlier, the political parties, the government officials and some ECI deputed employees would overlook this important aspect at the time of making voters. Consequently, a large number of non-genuine voters found a way to be on the voters lists. Moreover, voters needed to be deleted fromthe existing voters list due to their death, migration to other areas, enrolment at more than one place in the lists and having wrong names, parentage and address entered at the time of enrolment. In order to nullify these variousdiscrepancies in the lists, SIR became obligatory. The governments and the political
If you hear about a patient being treated through a tiny puncture instead of a large incision, there is a good chance that Interventional Radiology is behind the story DR IRSHAD BANDAY When most people think of medical treatment, they usually think of medicines, surgery, or perhaps a visit to a specialist. Very few have heard of Interventional Radiology, even though it has quietly transformed the way many diseases are treated today. As an Interventional Radiologist, I often meet patients who tell me, Doctor, I wish I had known about this option earlier. That reaction is understandable. Most people are surprised to learn that many conditions can now be treated through a tiny needle puncture rather than a large surgical incision. In many cases, patients experience less pain, shorter hospital stays, faster recovery, and an earlier return to their daily lives. Yet despite its remarkable growth, Interventional Radiology remains one of medicines least-understood specialities. In an era where healthcare is rapidly evolving, patients are increasingly seeking treatments that are effective, safe, and minimally disruptive to their lives. Interventional Radiology embodies all of these qualities. Although the speciality has been around for decades and is now considered an integral part of modern healthcare worldwide, public awareness remains surprisingly low. Many patients discover Interventional Radiology only after being referred by another specialist or after exhausting conventional treatment options. The reality is that millions of patients worldwide have already benefited from image-guided, minimally invasive procedures. From emergency life-saving interventions to cutting-edge cancer therapies, Interventional Radiology is quietly reshaping the future of medicine. What Exactly Is Interventional Radiology? Interventional Radiology (IR) is a medical speciality that uses advanced imaging technologies such as ultrasound, CT scans, and real-time X-rays to guide miniature instruments through blood vessels or tiny skin punctures to diagnose and treat disease. Think of it as performing highly precise procedures from inside the body without the need for major surgery. The ability to see exactly where we are working allows treatments to be delivered with exceptional accuracy while minimising damage to healthy tissues. Interventional Radiologists are uniquely trained in both imaging and minimally invasive procedures. This combination allows them to navigate through the bodys complex network of blood vessels and organs with remarkable precision. In many situations, procedures that once required large surgical incisions can now be performed through an opening only a few millimetres wide. For patients, the advantages are often substantial. Smaller incisions mean less pain, fewer complications, lower risk of infection, shorter hospital stays, and faster recovery. In many cases, procedures can be performed under local anaesthesia, making them particularly valuable for elderly patients and those with multiple medical conditions who may not tolerate major surgery well. Diseases Commonly Treated by Interventional Radiologists One of the reasons Interventional Radiology is often called the speciality of possibilities is because it touches almost every organ system in the body. Blocked Blood Vessels and Poor Circulation Patients suffering from poor blood flow to the legs may develop pain while walking, non-healing ulcers, or even face the risk of amputation. Using angioplasty, stents, and other minimally invasive techniques, blocked arteries can often be reopened, restoring circulation and helping save limbs. Peripheral arterial disease is becoming increasingly common due to diabetes, smoking, high blood pressure, and advancing age. Early diagnosis and timely intervention can dramatically improve the quality of life and reduce the risk of limb loss. Stroke Acute ischemic stroke occurs when a clot blocks the blood supply to the brain. In selected patients, Interventional Radiologists can remove these clots through a procedure called mechanical thrombectomy, often reducing disability and improving recovery. Stroke remains one of the leading causes of death and disability worldwide. Every minute of delay can result in the loss of millions of brain cells. Advances in mechanical thrombectomy have revolutionised stroke treatment and have given many patients a second chance at independent living. Varicose Veins Millions of people suffer from painful, swollen, and unsightly varicose veins. Modern treatments such as endovenous laser ablation, radiofrequency ablation, glue therapy, and sclerotherapy allow these veins to be treated without conventional surgery. Many patients continue to believe that painful vein stripping surgery is the only option. Modern image-guided therapies have largely replaced these traditional procedures and allow patients to return to normal activities much sooner. Cancer Interventional Oncology has become one of the fastest-growing areas of cancer care. Image-guided biopsies help establish accurate diagnoses, while treatments such as tumour ablation, chemoembolization, radioembolization, and targeted drug delivery can play an important role in managing liver cancer and other tumours. The role of Interventional Radiology in cancer treatment continues to expand every year. In many situations, image-guided therapies can complement surgery, chemotherapy, and radiation therapy as part of a multidisciplinary approach to cancer care. Liver Disease Patients with advanced liver disease often require specialised procedures. Interventional Radiologists perform transjugular liver biopsy, portal pressure measurements, TIPS (Transjugular Intrahepatic Portosystemic Shunt), biliary drainage, and other interventions that are often crucial in managing complications of chronic liver disease. In regions where chronic liver disease is common, these procedures have become invaluable tools in both diagnosis and treatment, often helping patients avoid major surgical operations. Uncontrolled Bleeding Severe bleeding can occur following trauma, childbirth, surgery, ulcers, cancers, or various medical conditions. Using a technique called embolisation, Interventional Radiologists can identify the bleeding vessel and seal it from within, often avoiding major emergency surgery. In emergencies, embolisation can be life-saving. The ability to precisely target the source of bleeding allows rapid control while preserving healthy surrounding tissues. Uterine Fibroids Many women suffer silently from heavy menstrual bleeding, pelvic pain, and pressure symptoms caused by fibroids. Uterine Artery Embolization offers a minimally invasive alternative for selected patients and can often help women avoid major surgery. This treatment has allowed countless women to preserve their uterus while achieving significant relief from symptoms. Kidney and Urinary Tract Problems Blocked kidneys, urinary obstruction, difficult biopsies, and certain urinary leaks can often be managed using image-guided procedures performed through tiny access points. Varicoceles can
Melting Glaciers Part 17 : Mountain shadows, not just climate shape Kashmirs glacier fate
KU study finds altitude & even shadow cast by towering peaks influence glacier retreat Abid Bashir Srinagar, May 31: A new study on melting glaciers has revealed that rising temperatures alone do not determine a glaciers fate. In the high mountains of Kashmir, shadows cast by towering peaks, the thickness of debris covering the ice and even the steepness of a glaciers slope can mean the difference between rapid retreat and relative survival. The researchdone by theKashmir University (KU), which tracked changes in nine glaciers between 1992 and 2020, presents a fascinating picture of how local geographycan influencethe response of glaciers to a warming climate. Scientists found that while allglaciers studiedhave been retreating, the rate of retreat varies considerably depending on their physical characteristics. One of the clearest patterns observed was the role of altitude. Glaciers located at higher elevations generally showed lower rates of retreat compared to those situated at lower altitudes. The glacier identified as G8 recorded the lowest recession of around seven per cent during the study period. Researchers attribute its resilience largely to its average elevation of nearly 4,700 metres above sea level, making it the highest glacier among those examined. At such elevations, temperatures remain considerably lower, allowing snow and ice to persist for longer periods and reducing overall melting. In contrast, Glacier G6 suffered the highest area loss of nearly 33.5 per cent. Scientists believe its relatively lower elevation exposed it to warmer temperatures, accelerating ice loss over the years, the study states. The findings reinforce a growing body of evidence suggesting that altitude remains one of the strongest natural safeguards against glacier retreat. Yet the study also uncovered a remarkable exception. Despite having one of the lowest average elevations among the glaciers investigated, Glacier G2 displayed a surprisingly modest retreat rate. The explanation, researchers say, lies not in altitude but in shadow. Located beneath steep surrounding mountains, much of the glaciers ablation zone remains shaded for long periods during the day. This natural protection reduces the amount of solar radiation reaching the glacier surface and slows melting. In essence, the surrounding mountains act like giant umbrellas, shielding the glacier from direct sunlight. The discovery highlights how topography can sometimes offset the effects of warming temperatures and demonstrates why neighbouring glaciers can behave very differently despite experiencing the same climatic conditions. Another important finding concerns the role of debris cover. Three of the nine glaciers studied were covered by varying amounts of rock fragments and sediment, while six were relatively clean ice glaciers. Contrary to the assumption that debris always protects glaciers, researchers found that debris-covered glaciers actually lost more area overall than clean-ice glaciers. The debris-covered glaciers recorded an average loss of about 23.4 per cent, compared to 18.3 per cent for clean glaciers. Scientists explain that the impact of debris depends largely on its thickness. Thin layers of debris absorb solar heat and transfer it to the underlying ice, increasing melting rates. Thick debris layers, however, act as insulation and can help preserve glacier ice. This effect was particularly visible in the Hoksar Glacier, where a substantial debris layer appears to have reduced retreat despite otherwise unfavourable conditions. Similarly, the Machoi Glacier displayed a slower retreat rate than expected. Researchers attribute this to its relatively high elevation and steep slope, which helps maintain a healthy transfer of ice from accumulation zones to lower reaches of the glacier. The study also documented substantial changes in glacier snout positions over the 28-year period. Several glaciers retreated hundreds of metres, while some lost more than three-quarters of a kilometre from their termini. Such changes, scientists warn, have implications far beyond the mountains. Glaciers serve as natural reservoirs, releasing meltwater that sustains rivers during dry periods. Their gradual disappearance could affect water availability for agriculture, drinking supplies, hydropower generation and ecosystems across Kashmir. Researchers say the findings underline the need to understand glaciers not merely as victims of climate change but as dynamic systems influenced by a range of environmental factors. The studys most important message may be that the future of Kashmirs glaciers will not be determined by temperature alone. Height, slope, debris cover and even the angle at which sunlight strikes a mountain valley can influence whether a glacier retreats rapidly or holds on for a few more decades. In the Himalayas, where every glacier is a vital water bank, those differences could prove crucial for the regions future water security. As the climate continues to warm, the race to understand these hidden factors may become just as important as measuring the ice that is disappearing from Kashmirs mountains.
800 runners, 30 cities, 15 states: Patnitop Marathon sets new record
Emerges as J&Ks largest multi-category hill race RK News Service Ramban, May 31: The 6th edition of the Patnitop Marathon, attracting over 800 runners from more than 30 cities and 15 states across India, commenced successfully at Patnitop on Sunday, establishing itself as Jammu and Kashmirs largest multi-category hill race. The event was organised by IKA Sports & Events Pvt. Ltd, promoted by Ironman athlete and endurance sports entrepreneur Kapil Arora, in collaboration with the Patnitop Development Authority (PDA), Directorate of Tourism Jammu, and district administrations of Udhampur and Ramban. The marathon featured four race categories: 50 KM Ultra Marathon, 21.1 KM Half Marathon, 10 KM Race, and 5 KM Race, with participants competing across five age-group categories (1835, 3545, 4555, 5565, and 65 years & above). The event brought together elite athletes, amateur runners, fitness enthusiasts, armed forces personnel, tourists, and local participants amidst the breathtaking Himalayan landscape. The highlight was the 50 KM Ultra Marathon, regarded as one of Indias most demanding and picturesque road ultra-marathons. The route commenced from outside the Youth Hostel at Patnitop and passed through the scenic mountain stretches of Kud, Nathatop, and Sanasar Lake before returning to Patnitop. The marathon was organized in support of the Nasha Mukt Jammu & Kashmir Abhiyan, promoting a healthy, active, and drug-free lifestyle. The event also featured awareness activities aimed at educating the public about the dangers of substance abuse. Tourism officials highlighted that events such as the Patnitop Marathon play a crucial role in promoting wellness tourism, adventure tourism, and destination sports in Jammu and Kashmir. The marathon generated significant tourism activity for the region, benefiting local hotels, restaurants, transport operators, and small businesses. The event received strategic support from 10 running clubs from across India, including Jammus MOBE Club and C9 Club, helping expand the events national reach. The event was attended by Deputy Commissioner Ramban Mohammad Alyas Khan, CEO Patnitop Development Authority Virender Kumar Manyal, SDM Chenani Ranjeet Singh, Deputy Director Tourism Jammu Pankaj Sasan, along with senior officials from Health, Fire & Emergency, Police, Traffic, and other line departments. Kapil Arora, Founder of IKA Sports & Events Pvt. Ltd., expressed gratitude to the PDA, Directorate of Tourism Jammu, district administrations, sponsors, volunteers, local communities, and participants for their support. With participation continuing to grow year after year, the event is rapidly becoming a marquee destination race for runners seeking both challenge and natural beauty.
Here is a select list of stories to start the day.
Kashmir Literature Festival concludes
Witnesses growing participation, larger turnout this year Retired diplomats, military veterans, academics address sessions Idrees Bukhtiyar Srinagar, May 31: The third edition of the Kashmir Literature Festival (KLF) concluded on Sunday at the Sher-i-Kashmir International Convention Centre (SKICC), bringing to a close a two-day celebration of literature, art, culture and intellectual discourse. The festival, held on May 30 and 31, witnessed participation from renowned authors, scholars, diplomats, military veterans, policymakers, artists and literary enthusiasts from across the country. The event featured a series of panel discussions, book launches, poetry sessions, cultural performances and interactive engagements on a wide range of subjects, including literature, history, education, geopolitics, media, and Kashmirs rich cultural heritage. On Sunday, the festival featured a series of book discussions and launches, including Viksit Bharat India @ 2047, Grammar of Void, and Ramban: Folklore, Ophiolatry, along with deliberations on a range of literary and contemporary issues. Among the highlights was a discussion on Phuljhadian Inshayion Ki by veteran writer Ghulam Hassan Talib, which drew an enthusiastic response from the audience. The session witnessed active participation from readers and literary enthusiasts, reflecting the growing interest in regional literature and literary discourse. Few musical performances were also held on the occasion. Organised by the Srikula Foundation, the festival aimed to foster dialogue, encourage creative expression and provide a platform for the exchange of ideas among writers, academics and readers. Lieutenant Governor Manoj Sinha inaugurated the festival on Saturday, highlighting the role of writers, poets and scholars in shaping societies and preserving civilisational values. During the two-day event, speakers underscored the importance of literature in promoting critical thinking, cultural understanding and social cohesion. Several distinguished guests addressed different sessions during the festival, including retired diplomats, military officers, academics and noted authors. Discussions also focused on the changing landscape of media, the future of education, Indias civilisational legacy, and contemporary global challenges. Festival organisers expressed satisfaction over the growing participation and public response to the event. They said the third edition witnessed a larger turnout of authors, publishers, students and literature lovers compared to previous years, reflecting increasing interest in literary and cultural activities in the valley. The festival concluded with a renewed commitment to promoting reading, writing and intellectual engagement, with participants describing the event as an important platform for dialogue and cultural exchange in Jammu and Kashmir.
FIFA says match tempo, and limiting time-wasting, will be point of emphasis at World Cup
The protocol for Video Assistant Referee, or VAR, is being clarified in certain areas
Lebanon says Israeli dawn strike on south killed eight, including three women
The massacre committed by the Israeli enemy in a raid on the town of Deir Zahrani, Nabatieh district, at dawn on Sunday...resulted in eight martyrs, including three women, and 19 wounded, including five children and six women, says Ministry in a statement
NSA Ajit Doval meets Myanmar President Aung Hlaing
Hlaing set to meet PM Modi on Monday; issues relating to border security and connectivity to be discussed during the Myanmarese leaders trip to India
The majoritarian shadow over Adivasi identity, faith
Majoritarian politics seeks to reshape Adivasi identity and rights
Shaping the next chapter in India-Canada relations
Trade, technology and trust mark a revitalised partnership
Fitness, wellness take centre stage at day-long festival
Tejaswin Shankar a battler who embraces tough tests
Having become the first Indian to cross 8,000 points in decathlon, the 27-year-old is eyeing bigger things; he is open to the idea of competing in multiple events at the Glasgow CommonwealthGames
Delhi building collapse: CM orders magisterial inquiry, promises action against illegal construction
The AAP alleged that, despite complaints from neighbours, the BJP-ruled MCD had lied to the High Court about the building
Teachers association urges government to hold special TET without delay
Walkathon conducted to mark World No Tobacco Day
From bad to worse: On Donald Trump and the war on Iran
Trump cannot achieve with diplomacy what he failed to get through war
Towards a dialogue on adolescent sexuality
Policies such as the ban on condom advertisements between 6.00 a.m. and 10.00 p.m., and a generally repressive culture around sex brush questions of sex and sexuality under the carpet
Vaiko criticises Governor over depiction of Thiruvalluvar in saffron attire
It is important for the law, courts, and the police to handle with a degree of sensitivity the question of consensual, underage relationships, simply because the tangle ensuing from this offence has upended many young lives
New Collectors for Vellore, Tiruvannamalai assume charge
With this RCB group, you dont need to be the one to step up every time: Kohli
We've had to wait for so long and then just to have a group of guys where you feel like you're stepping onto the ground, you don't need to be the one to step up every time, says Virat Kohli
Gokulam beats Calicut FC to win Kerala Premier League
Chennai Port to get its first Green Tug in 2028
Two persons arrested for throwing petrol bomb into house near Somangalam
Overseas French nationals cast votes to elect councillor
Elected by direct universal suffrage for a six-year-term, the Councilors represent French citizens residing abroad and sit on the Consular Council
Padmaja assumes office as Collector of Kallakurichi
J.E. Padmaja said the administration would ensure expeditious redressal of grievances and strengthen inter-departmental coordination to drive the overall development of the district
DVAC registers case against Tahsildar, VAO in Vellore
Cases were booked under Prevention of Corruption (Amendement) Act 2018
Stagnant sewage at bus terminus in Tiruvannamalai irks commuters
Commuters said that apart from travellers, buses also have to navigate through the stagnated sewage to reach the bus bays
Three persons booked for illegal slaughter of cattle
U.S. to send only used nuclear submarines to Australia in amended defence deal
The two nations together with the third partner in their security pact, Britain met at Singapore's Shangri-La Dialogue, which brings together top defence officials and experts from about 45 countries
Experts discuss hydrocarbon management at webinar in Vijayawada
Bangalore Astronomical Society featured in Mann Ki Baat
APTF seeks local cadre status for ZP teachers, warns of agitations
Recruitment exam candidates accuse Uttar Pradesh govt of suppressing drive for transparency
The Hunkar Manchthreatened indefinite protests and demanded that a technical monitoring system be implemented to ensure all future competitive examinations are completely transparent and secure
4 convicts booked for attacking accused in rape and murder case
State warns planning officials of disciplinary action for negligence and violation of transparency processes
Malta's Labour Party wins record fourth term in parliamentary election
The election on the southern Mediterranean island was held on Saturday (May 30, 2026) and drew a turnout of 87.4%, slightly up on 2022.
The Voice of Hind Rajab to receive A certificate, weeks after oral ban
The Oscar-nominated movie about the killing of a five-year-old Palestinian girl by Israeli forces in Gaza had initially been rejected by the CBFC due to apprehensions that it would damage Indias relations with Israel
Emergency operation centres activated in district ahead of monsoon
Human trafficking feeds on migration, Supreme Court outs their 'close link
Apex court urges separation of voluntary adult sex work from trafficking; holds that the rights of sex workers can exist without the right to sex work
Watch: Another European crown as PSG retain Champions League title
Paris Saint-Germain retained the UEFA Champions League title after defeating Arsenal 4-3 on penalties following a 1-1 draw after extra time in Budapest on May 30.
Rising dengue cases cause concern in Thripunithura municipality
The Hindu Huddle panel to throw light on AI and its impact
Secretary, MeitY, S. Krishnan; Chief Economic Advisor V. Anantha Nageswaran; and former CEO, Cognizant Lakshmi Narayanan will discuss how India should prepare for the emerging threat to employment
BJP to host Nepal ruling party delegation in outreach to new govt.
The visit of the delegation assumes significance as it comes days after the cancellation of Foreign Secretary Vikram Misris proposed visit to Kathmandu
Watch: TN: Members of Cockroach Janata Party to register themselves as political party
Light to moderate rain on Monday, Tuesday
Will CM-designate Shivakumar continue to hold charge of Bengaluru Development portfolio?
Punjab and Haryana High Court suspends former CBI Court special judge
The suspension order did not specify any reason, though it indicates that it pertains to the period when Mr. Goyal was posted as special judge in the CBI Court
Tamil Nadu surfers shine at Indian Open Surfing finals at Tannirbhavi beach
Police to deploy more personnel to manage traffic surge as schools reopen
Sri Lankan Tamil girl killed after gang rams SUV into two-wheeler on Koyambeduflyover
The six-member gang first picked a quarrel with her at a bar and then assaulted her before driving the SUV into her two-wheeler, says a senior officer of the Greater Chennai Police
India achieves AI breakthrough in cancer care with mask-free, simulationless radiotherapy
New Delhi [India], May 31 : Sir HN Reliance Foundation Hospital has achieved a significant medical milestone by successfully treating a head and neck cancer patient using a unique combination of Surface Guided Radiotherapy (SGRT) and adaptive radiotherapy for the first time in India. This breakthrough technique allowed doctors to deliver precision radiation therapy without a tight immobilisation mask or a simulation CT scan. According to doctors, the patient, a male in his mid-50s with a history of mouth cancer, reported to the hospitals emergency department with excessive, continuous bleeding from a massively enlarged tumour, following previous surgery and radiotherapy treatments that had proved unsuccessful. Given the patients poor general condition, medical teams prioritised his stabilisation before initiating further treatment. While conventional radiotherapy for head and neck cancers relies on tight plastic immobilisation masks and simulation CT scans to prevent patient movement, doctors realised that the critical patient would be unable to tolerate that rigorous process. To administer the necessary radiation to stop the life-threatening bleeding and provide comfort, the hospital successfully deployed this advanced technology. Following the clinical intervention, the patient responded well to the treatment, leading to his discharge on May 13, 2026. Dr Prasad Raj Dandekar, Head of Radiation Oncology at Sir HN Reliance Foundation Hospital, stated that the technique makes treatment more precise and effective, thereby improving patient outcomes. He further emphasised that this Simulation Free Radiotherapy (SFRT) protocol will help an increasing number of cancer patients access quick, targeted care. Precision and speed both are important in the treatment of cancer patients, especially in patients who have advanced-stage cancer and have a lot of pain, bleeding or other symptoms. Radiotherapy, where high-energy X-rays are used, plays an important role in treating these patients. Latest treatment techniques of Simulation Free Radiotherapy (SFRT), pioneered by Sir HN Reliance Foundation Hospital, will make radiotherapy available to patients much faster than conventional methods. This technique also makes treatment more precise and effective, thus improving the outcomes for the patient. SFRT will help to help more and more cancer patients get quick and precise cancer care, explained Dr Prasad. (ANI)
Bomb hoax at Tiruchi Collectorate on the eve of Vijays visit
NHAI sets December deadline for Edappally-Moothakunnam NH widening
Kerala Chief Minister to launch Operation Toofan
The anti-drug enforcement drive will establish a digitally enabled system to eliminate drug trafficking and facilitate the rapid collection of information on drug use and distribution across the State
Signs emerge of a thaw in Vellappally-Satheesan ties
Thushar Vellappally calls on Satheesan at his residence in Paravur and Labour Minister Bindu Krishna visits Vellappally Natesan at his house in Kanichukulangara. Yogam has not worked against him at the hustings, says Thushar
Thoothukudis palm climbers grapple with falling income and lack of welfare support
Special transport arrangements to be made for Godavari Pushkaralu-2027: Ponnam Prabhakar
Monsoon holiday for sand collection begins June 1 along Godavari river
Nexbax AI Index to redefine AI adoption in India
It argues that the metrics dominating AI development in the world are essentially useless for the billion-plus users across India and the Global South
M. Prathap takes charge as Kanniyakumari Collector
Students in Kerala to take cyber safety pledge on school reopening day
The initiative is being implemented as part of the Kid Glove project, a programme of the Kerala Police Cyber Wing to create awareness about the pitfalls of the cyber world among students
Four boys held on charges of sexually abusing girl in Thirumangalam
Wrestling trials | Aman, Sujeet book Asian Games ticket
Adluri challenges KTR over Gurukuls infrastructure
Woman injured as robber opens fire in Bagalkot
Rottela Panduga to start in Nellore from June 26
Five killed, at least 10 injured in road accident in Chickballapur
Its not me, but a party worker who is becoming CM, says DKS
Man found dead in Aliyar reservoir; teenager drowns in river
Five drown in Tungabhadra river in Kurnool district
Rescue workers also fish out the body of an unidentified person aged around 70 during the search
Drawing and painting contest at Mysuru Rail Museum
Education is the primary yardstick for development: Revanth Reddy on X
Run to Runway held at Bhogapuram Airport
Belagavi Police register case after online post against Satish Jarkiholi
The former Public Works Ministers fan files a complaint
Huge fire destroys two units in an automobile factory in Sriperumbudur
At about 3.30 p.m., a sudden fire erupted in the Hyundai Mobis factorys waste storage area; fire and rescue services personnel brought under control after more than four hours of operation in which two units in the factory have been completely destroyed.
Youth arrested for sexually assaulting minor girl
The investigation team is probing the possibility of a second accused in the case
Despite social media build-up, Cockroach Janata Party meeting in Kochi fails to take place
Kochi police say they received information that the meeting proposed on Marine Drive on Sunday afternoon was called off
200 cr push for Vizag ITI cluster
