Nagaon Lok Sabha byelection: Dried fish follows biryani in campaign
The primary target for both the BJP and the AIUDF has been Congress MP Rakibul Hussain, who hails from Nagaon district
Ahead of Gandhi Jayanthi, we ask: What does Mahatma Gandhi mean to you?
So, after 78 years, does Gandhi still have something to say to this generation? We explore that question through conversations with young Indians, historians and people who have studied Gandhi closely. Gandhi and Gen Z: The Mahatma is suddenly cool again, a documentary by The Hindu, releases on October 2, on Gandhi Jayanti.
Delhis iconic Wengers bakery at Connaught Place turns 100
As the Delhi bakery and confectionary turns 100, a look inside the institution where classic recipes, cross-generational nostalgia, and old-school charm still rule
Opposition MPs objected to a Joint Parliamentary Committees now-deferred plan to discuss the One Nation, One Election Bills with sitting Supreme Court judges
Asian Games 2026: Lovlina celebrates birthday with maiden gold in womens boxing
With this win, Lovlina became only the second Indian woman after the legendary MC Mary Kom to claim an Asian Games boxing gold
Edifice Engineering and South Africas Jet Demolition had undertaken a two-day inspection of apartments in towers B and C in June. The two firms had earlier overseen the demolition of the Maradu apartment complexes
Gandhi through the eye of the artist
Gandhi Jayanti 2026: The Mahatmas enduring visual legacy, from Nandalal Bose to Gigi Scaria
Tables turn in Univ of Hyderabad SU elections 202627; left combine emerges victorious
Multiple Indian payloads launched by Space Xs Falcon 9
Dhruva Spaces LEAP-2, hosting multiple In-Orbit Demonstration (IOD) missions, which includes a star tracker by France-based Sodern ArianeGroup, and TAPAS-1 by India-based Satleo Labs, was part of the Transporter-18 mission
Mohammad Deepak arrested for 'assaulting' businessman in Uttarakhand
Police said the arrest was made as a preventive measure amid apprehension of a breach of peace
Tambaram police shoot wanted history-sheeter in the leg, arrest him in Manimangalam
According to the police, Hussain attacked a police officer with a machete when officers tried to arrest him. The police said they fired at his leg in self-defence and apprehended him
Across the New Silk Road: A journey through Uzbekistan
Uzbekistan itself becomes a metaphor for a certain kind of quiet diplomacy which is pragmatic, understated and conscious of its room for manoeuvre.
Rajiv Gandhi assassination case convict A.G. Perarivalan moves Madras HC seeking passport issuance
Justice D. Bharatha Chakravarthy directs passport authorities to consider his plea for expeditious disposal of his application
Adoor Prakash says he will report his 'concerns' to AICC and dismisses statements by Congress Ministers that govt had kept UDF in the loop on key decisions
Trinamool stripped of its name and symbol, vote for BJP, says CM Suvendu in Rejinagar
TheChief Minister urged the electorate not to engage in Hindu-Muslim politics and said that all nationalist forces should vote for BJP
The ECI letter suggested that the BLOs may cover at least 20-25 electors in a week so as to complete this exercise within a period of about one month
Nitin Gadkari calls Ethanol blending a step towards diversification of agricultural sector
He also said that, driven by this strong determination, Bihar is poised to become prosperous and developed state in the future, and assured that the central government would extend its full support to the states development.
Trump says Iran will be hit very hard if it is behind copilot who tried to crash flight to Israel
The U.S. Presidents warning came as investigators worked to determine why the FlyDubai copilot stabbed the captain, causing the jet to plummet before passengers intervened and the plane landed in Saudi Arabia
Retired official arrested under POCSO Act in Ongole after girls friend calls 112
The police say the girl and a friend from a welfare hostel were taken to the accuseds house by the hostel cook; the Minister orders action against hostel staff
When sea creatures put on a great show
Indias shores have an amazing variety of marine life. Here are the stories of some of them
Pooja Meri Jaan movie review: Mrunal Thakur steers a sterile critique of male entitlement
Director Navjot Gulati presents contrasting perspectives and valid talking points on the social fallout when a girl chooses to say no.
The last act of dignity: Sumira Roy on National Award-winning documentary Bhangaar
72nd National Film Awards: As Indias elderly population grows, Sumira Roys National Award-winning Bhangaar, on the Lavates demand for euthanasia, explores lost autonomy
Man dies after being shot during hunting trip near Koppa
He was part of a group of six persons who had gone hunting at night
Andhra to hold five regional MSME conferences from October 7 ahead of CII Partnership Summit
They will open up new opportunities for youth, women, and small-scale industries, says MSME Minister Kondapalli Srinivas
Coalition government misled BCs on 34% local body quota, alleges Jagan
If the government is genuinely committed to BC reservation, it should have persuaded the Centre to create a constitutionally and legally sustainable mechanism, he says
PM Modi has good ideas for settlement of Ukraine conflict: Putin
The Russian leader said PM Modi brings up these matters at every meeting we have and takes a keen interest in them
Assam bypoll: Nagaon Lok Sabha constituency profile, candidates, key facts
The Nagaon byelection was necessitated after Pradyut Bordoloi resigned.
Wildlife week at Vizag zoo: Workshops, competitions and conservation activities
Wildlife Week at Indira Gandhi Zoological Park brings together art, workshops and conservation activities from October 2 to 8
Mumbai CNG price rises 1/kg to 89, fifth hike in six months
It is likely to affect around 12.93 lakh vehicles across the MMR. With an increase in the price of CNG, commuters may have to bear the impact, as transportation expenses could rise
Sri Lanka: chasing system change
The National Peoples Power govt. restored macroeconomic stability and introduced a different political culture, but key promises of structural reform remain unfulfilled; two years after Dissanayakes election, the govt. faces the challenge of turning the Aragalayas demand for system change into lasting political transformation
Google Gemini 4 Argon Unveiled: Most Advanced AI Model Yet
Pakyong, October 2: Google Gemini 4 Argon, the technology giants newest flagship artificial intelligence model, was unveiled on Wednesday, September 30, with the company describing it as its most advanced system so far for coding, cybersecurity defence and complex professional work. Access has initially been restricted to vetted cybersecurity partners and Googles own teams, and [] The post Google Gemini 4 Argon Unveiled: Most Advanced AI Model Yet appeared first on The Voice Of Sikkim .
Bengalurus upcoming Naturally Dyed Handmade Festival celebrates khadi and natural dyes
Launching on Gandhi Jayanti, the three-day festival will showcase khadi, naturally dyed textiles, handmade crafts, and eco-friendly products from 23 brands, alongside workshops on traditional crafts
'Dictatorial': Court Stays Delhi University Student's 'Rustication Without Notice'
The judge asserted that institutional autonomy does not confer unfettered power to discipline and asked the institution to file a response stating the basis for the action.
4 cops suspended for illegal collection from trucks; Diengpasoh OC transferred
Shillong, Oct 1: Four police personnel have been suspended and the officer-in-charge of Diengpasoh Police Station has been transferred following allegations of illegal collection of money from trucks on the highway. The action by East Khasi Hills police came after videos and social media reports surfaced on Wednesday night showing police personnel allegedly collecting money [] The post 4 cops suspended for illegal collection from trucks; Diengpasoh OC transferred first appeared on Highland Post .
HC Bar president terms court boycott over AG row illegal
Shillong, Oct 1: The High Court of Meghalaya Bar Association (HCBA) has been hit by internal rift over the row involving Advocate General Amit Kumar, with its President disowning the boycott call and unilateral communications made in the associations name. In a strongly worded letter to Secretary Kishore Ch Gautam on Thursday, the President expressed [] The post HC Bar president terms court boycott over AG row illegal first appeared on Highland Post .
15 companies of security personnel to be deployed for Amit Shah
Shillong, Oct 1: Police are preparing a detailed security and traffic management plan for Union Home Minister Amit Shahs two-day visit to the state, with around 15 companies of security personnel expected to be deployed across Shillong. East Khasi Hills Superintendent of Police Vivek Syiem said preparations were underway at multiple locations in the city, [] The post 15 companies of security personnel to be deployed for Amit Shah first appeared on Highland Post .
Monsoon at 60% deficit in Meghalaya this year
Shillong, Oct 1: Meghalaya, with some of the wettest towns on Earth, has recorded a 60 per cent deficit in the 2026 Southwest Monsoon, reflecting a broader collapse over the entire North East. According to a press release issued today by the Indian Meteorological Department (IMD), Meghalaya received a cumulative 1,077.1mm of rain from June [] The post Monsoon at 60% deficit in Meghalaya this year first appeared on Highland Post .
Rymbui pushes Centre for Midday Meal workers pay hike
Shillong, Oct 1: Education Minister Lahkmen Rymbui has sought the intervention of Union Education Minister Pralhad Joshi on two issues concerning implementation of the Pradhan Mantri Poshan Shakti Nirman (PM POSHAN) scheme, known as the Midday Meal scheme in Meghalaya. In a letter to Joshi, Rymbui said the cook-cum-helpers are the backbone of the programme, [] The post Rymbui pushes Centre for Midday Meal workers pay hike first appeared on Highland Post .
By Prof. Jayadeba Sahoo Ahimsa Paramo Dharmah Non-violence is the highest ethical principle. In an epoch increasingly characterised by geopolitical antagonisms, communal anxieties, ideological polarisation, digital hostility, hate speech and multiple forms of structural injustice, the Gandhian philosophy of Ahimsa appears not as an antiquarian relic but as an extraordinarily contemporary moral vocabulary. The observance [] The post Gandhian Renaissance of Non-Violence in a Fractured World: From Satyagraha to a Civilization of Peace first appeared on Highland Post .
Editor, As we are about tocelebrate the 157th birth anniversary of Mahatma Gandhi, the most importantquestion which arises at this moment is that will India witness such a global leader and a worshiper of truthin its land again, or can the young generation walk on his footprintswhen many of them are lost in cacophony of [] The post Has Gandhis ideals ceased to exist today first appeared on Highland Post .
Editor, Today, on the occasion of Gandhi Jayanti, it is a great opportunity for us to pay homage to this great leader, who sacrificed his life for the betterment of the country. Mahatma Gandhi was a great leader of Indias fight for freedom. He was a law graduate and was the biggest follower of Jainism. [] The post Remembering the Mahatma first appeared on Highland Post .
Marginalised Yanadi and Chenchu communities in Andhra Pradesh struggle for land
Caught in a cycle of landlessness, insecure housing, precarious livelihoods, and neglect, the Yanadi and Chenchu settlements in Andhra Pradesh remain highly marginalised. Despite government welfare schemes, a stark gap persists between their living conditions and surrounding urban areas
How wealth shapes our view of artificial intelligence
Per capita income, it turns out, may be the single best predictors of how a population feels about AI
CEC row LIVE: CJP, Congress to organise separate protests today
CJP's Dipke demanded that the CEC appointment process be transparent, and said there should be involvement of civil society
Bumpy Ride: Private bus sector in Keralam staring at a crisis
While the Priyadarshini free travel scheme has brought cheers to women passengers in Keralam, it has dealt a body blow to the private bus sector, which has already been struggling from dwindling revenues and high operational costs
Karnatakas drive to green data centres
Karnatakas new Sustainable Data Centre Policy 20262031 targets to attain a cumulative data centre capacity of 1 GW (1,000 MW) by 2031 and incentivises adoption of renewable energy and treated water
Delh's Barapullah Phase-III Flyover Remains Congested A Day After Opening
The Rs 1,635-crore Barapullah Phase-III project was approved in 2014, with work beginning in 2015. It was originally scheduled for completion in 2017 but faced several delays, leading to an increase in its cost.
When UDF convener Adoor Prakash aired his displeasure over UDF chairman and Chief Minister V.D. Satheesans unilateral style of functioning, his wasnt an isolated expression of resentment, he was echoing the sentiments of several senior Congress leaders
Delhi's 'No PUC, No Fuel' Day 1: Cameras On, But No Officials At Pumps
On the first day of Delhi's stricter No PUC, No Fuel drive, NDTV checked two petrol pumps - one in Janpath and another in Mayur Vihar Phase 1.
India narrowly defeated Pakistan 4-3 to enter final of mens hockey; India thrash Sri Lanka by 124 runs to storm into final
U.K.-Iranian man held over U.K. airbase incident
Britain gave the U.S. the greenlight to use RAF Fairford for defensive strikes against Iran
Ghulam Qadir Hafroo, teacher who led 1967 employees stir, passes away
Srinagar, Oct 01: Ghulam Qadir Hafroo, a veteran trade union leader, former teacher and long-time advocate of workers and weaker sections, has passed away, bringing to an end a public life spanning several decades and marked by his involvement in employees movements, farmers issues and political activism. Born in 1934 at Hafroo Chadoora in Budgam, Hafroo joined the School Education Department as a teacher. Alongside his teaching career, he became associated with the All J&K Low Paid Employees Federation and later served as its provincial president at a time when low-paid government employees were facing serious economic difficulties. Hafroo was among the prominent leaders of the federations sustained agitation in 1967, which eventually led the government of the time to concede the legitimate demands raised by the employees. The 1967 agitation remained one of the important phases of his trade union career and established his role as a leader who worked primarily on issues concerning low-paid employees and other sections of the workforce. After his retirement from government service, Hafroo continued his involvement in public and social issues instead of withdrawing from organised activity. He became associated with the J&K Kisan Tehrik and the J&K Apple Federation, taking up issues concerning farmers, apple growers and other sections dependent on their livelihoods. He was also associated with the CPI(M) for several decades and served as a member of its State Committee for more than 20 years. Those who knew Hafroo closely recall that his public activism existed alongside a long career as a teacher, with former students remembering him for his intellectual depth, simplicity and close engagement with them. Ghulam Qadir Sir was a great human being, a man of remarkable intellectual depth, a great teacher and, above all, a truly down-to-earth person, said Arshad, one of his former students. For his students, Hafroos influence extended beyond the classroom. He is remembered as a teacher who imparted lessons that continued to remain relevant to them long after they had completed their schooling. I am sure all of us who had the privilege of being taught by this great man will agree that it is not merely difficult, but almost impossible, to find a teacher like him, Arshad said. His former students also recall his adherence to his political beliefs, particularly during periods when holding on to those convictions was difficult. He stood firm by his ideology even during the toughest of times, completely unbothered by the possibility of death. He never compromised on his principles, even when death was looming over him and people around him were falling prey to its harsh consequences, Arshad said. Hafroos activism was not limited to organisational politics. Those associated with him remember him for raising issues concerning people with limited means and for intervening on behalf of those who had little access to institutional power. He was a veteran trade union leader, always at the forefront of helping the needy and raising his voice for the voiceless, Arshad said.He had the courage to call a spade a spade and never hesitated to stand by what he believed was right. Hafroos public work consequently brought him into contact with different sections of society, from government employees and teachers to farmers and apple growers. His association with these causes continued for decades, including after his retirement from government service. For those who studied under him, however, his identity as a teacher remained central to how they remembered him. For us, he was more than a teacher or a trade union leader; he was a member of our family. His passing is, therefore, a deeply personal loss for all of us, Arshad said. Hafroos demise has thus brought to a close the life of a man whose public engagement began in the classroom but continued through organised employees movements, farmers and growers organisations and political activism. His contribution to trade union activity, particularly the 1967 employees agitation, his work among farmers and apple growers, and his long association with the CPI(M) form the principal strands of his public life, while generations of his students remember him for the personal influence he exercised as a teacher.
Ladakh LG eyes World Economic Forum hosting
Leh, Oct 01: Ladakh Lieutenant Governor Vinai Kumar Saxena has expressed a strong desire to host the World Economic Forum in Ladakh, saying the Union Territory can offer the global platform a unique setting to discuss sustainable development, ecology, connectivity and economic growth. Addressing the first-ever Raisina Forum for Future of Diplomacy in Leh, Saxena said the event brought together diplomats, policymakers, business leaders and strategic thinkers from India and 39 countries. Highlighting Ladakhs strategic importance, the LG said the region stands at the intersection of global diplomacy, security and sustainable development, while facing the challenges of a fragile ecosystem and harsh climatic conditions. He said Ladakh was pursuing development with a focus on strengthening local communities while protecting its environment and traditional cultural heritage. Sinha highlighted initiatives aimed at improving connectivity, tourism infrastructure and the local economy, besides safeguarding water resources and the regions fragile ecology. He said the administration was working towards building an inclusive and resilient Ladakh and described the Raisina Forum as an opportunity to present the regions development journey before an international audience. The LG also shared his vision of bringing the World Economic Forum to Ladakh, saying such an event could provide an international platform to showcase the regions approach towards sustainable and community-oriented development.
Govt approves restoration of traditional SMVD route
Srinagar, Oct 01: Chief Minister Omar Abdullah-led government has accorded administrative approval for restoration of the traditional Shri Mata Vaishno Devi pilgrimage route at an estimated cost of Rs 15 crore. The Chief Minister said the restoration of the traditional route is aimed at preserving its heritage while strengthening infrastructure and improving facilities for pilgrims undertaking the revered journey. Shri Mata Vaishno Devi shrine is among the major pilgrimage destinations in Jammu and Kashmir, attracting millions of devotees from across the country and abroad every year. The project will focus on restoration and improvement of the traditional route, with the objective of ensuring a smoother, safer and more convenient pilgrimage experience for devotees while preserving its historical and cultural significance. The Chief Minister emphasised that development of pilgrimage infrastructure must go hand in hand with preservation of the heritage and traditional character of important religious sites in Jammu and Kashmir.
LG, CM greet people on Gandhi Jayanti
Srinagar, Oct 01: Lieutenant Governor Manoj Sinha and Chief Minister Omar Abdullah have extended greetings to the people of Jammu and Kashmir on the occasion of Gandhi Jayanti, being observed on Friday, October 2, 2026, and paid rich tributes to Mahatma Gandhi and former Prime Minister Lal Bahadur Shastri on their birth anniversaries. In a message, the Lieutenant Governor said, On the occasion of the 157th birth anniversary of our Father of the Nation, Mahatma Gandhi, I extend my heartiest greetings to the people of Jammu Kashmir. Pujya Bapu showed the world that truth, non-violence and self-reliance are eternal paths to peace. His timeless ideals of Satya, Ahimsa, Swadeshi, Swachhata and Sarvodaya continue to guide humanity and inspire us to dedicate ourselves to the country's continuous growth and prosperity, he said. On this sacred occasion, let us pay heartfelt tribute to Pujya Bapu by pledging to live by his noble principles. Together, let us build a peaceful and prosperous Jammu Kashmir and developed India, the Lieutenant Governor added. CM Abdullah, paying tribute to Mahatma Gandhi, said his enduring message of truth, non-violence, peace and communal harmony continues to inspire generations and remains relevant in the contemporary world. Gandhi Ji showed the world the strength of truth, non-violence and compassion. His life and ideals continue to inspire us to work for peace, harmony, equality and human dignity, the Chief Minister said. Chief Minister Omar Abdullah said Gandhi Ji's vision of India was rooted in unity, tolerance and respect for all, adding that his teachings offer enduring guidance for building a peaceful and inclusive society. The Chief Minister called upon people to draw inspiration from Mahatma Gandhi's life and reaffirm their commitment to the values of peace, harmony and social solidarity. Meanwhile, LG Sinha paid tributes to former Prime Minister Lal Bahadur Shastri on the eve of his birth anniversary. In a message, he said, Shri Lal Bahadur Shastri was the epitome of simplicity, honesty, integrity and patriotism. A strong and visionary leader, he guided India toward self-reliance. His famous call, 'Jai Jawan, Jai Kisan', will always echo in our hearts and inspire future generations. On his birth anniversary, let us rededicate ourselves to his noble ideals and serve the motherland with the selfless spirit, Sinha added.
Police bust inter-state drug network in Sgr; eight arrested
Srinagar, Oct 01: In a major crackdown on the illegal drug trade, Jammu & Kashmir Police have busted a well-established interstate narcotics network operating from downtown Srinagar, arresting eight persons and recovering a massive consignment of banned pharmaceutical drugs, cash, gold and a pistol, while initiating action against properties and financial assets linked to the accused. Addressing a press conference here, Senior Superintendent of Police (SSP) Srinagar Dr G V Sundeep Chakravarthy said the investigation had exposed a network allegedly involved in the procurement, transportation, storage, distribution and financing of banned pharmaceutical drugs, with supply-chain linkages extending beyond J&K. It was not an ordinary module but a well-organised chain. Investigations are still underway, and more arrests will be made. From the source to destination, we will not leave anybody, he said. The scale of the seizures, particularly the quantity of pharmaceutical drugs and the recovery of substantial cash and gold, has brought the financial dimension of the racket into focus, with investigators now working to establish its complete supply chain and identify those operating behind it. The operation has so far resulted in the seizure of approximately 2,19,425 tablets and capsules containing Tapentadol, 1,200 Pregabalin capsules and 414 Tramadol tablets and capsules. Srinagar police also recovered 3.830 kg of codeine-containing liquid, including its container, and approximately 40 grams of a heroin-like substance, he said. A pistol, along with other incriminating material, was also seized. The SSP said that the financial investigation has led to the recovery of approximately Rs 90 lakhin cash and gold articles, including 108 gold coins, which is almost one kilogram, along with other items. We have also identified approximately Rs 1.07 crore in multiple bank accounts linked to the accused and other persons under investigation stands frozen, he said. He said that investigators have searched two bank lockers maintained in the name of one of the accused at Axis Bank's Bemina branch after obtaining the requisite court orders. Police are examining the source of the seized cash, gold and other assets, besides tracing financial transactions and possible links with the wider drug supply network. As part of the action, police have attached a residential house belonging to an accused at Patlipora, Chattabal, and two vehicles under the relevant provisions of law. The investigation, registered under FIR No. 135/2026 at Police Station Safakadal, has also taken police teams outside J&K. Raids and enquiries were conducted in Chandigarh, Panchkula and Ambala, where pharmaceutical establishments and transport agencies were examined. Investigators have collected invoices, bills, goods receipts and other documents to establish how the drugs were procured and transported. SSP Chakravarthy said the case was not a routine narcotics matter but involved an established network. He indicated that enquiries were continuing at pharmaceutical companies outside J&K and that those found involved would face action under the law. One of the accused was traced through technical surveillance and apprehended in Bengaluru, Karnataka, indicating the geographical spread of the investigation. Police also identified two persons who remain absconding and said efforts are under way to apprehend them and establish their precise roles. Digital devices seized during the investigation are being analysed to reconstruct communications and establish the procurement, transportation, distribution and financial links of the alleged network, he said. The case has been registered under relevant provisions of the Narcotic Drugs and Psychotropic Substances Act, the Arms Act and Section 111 of the Bharatiya Nyaya Sanhita. The latest operation comes amid intensified efforts by Srinagar Police to dismantle the drug supply chain by targeting not only street-level peddlers but also suppliers, financial channels and those facilitating the movement of prohibited substances. The investigation will now focus on identifying the source of the seized pharmaceutical drugs, tracing their intended distribution and establishing the full extent of the alleged network. SSPChakravarthy, replying to a query, added, Based on human and technical inputs, an investigation was launched to unearth the module. About whether the properties of the accused would be attached. We have attached one property of the accused, and I am sure properties of other accused will be attached as well, he said. Asked whether there was a Pakistan role in the module, the SSP said so far there was no foreign role, but since investigations are on, an outside role can't be ruled out. Criminals from three to four states are involved in this module and more arrests will be made as and when investigations widen further. A few accused are absconding and they will also be arrested soon, he said. The case has been registered under relevant provisions of the Narcotic Drugs and Psychotropic Substances Act, the Arms Act and Section 111 of the Bharatiya Nyaya Sanhita.
INOX Group scions file for 10,000 Crore IPOs each
All the money raised from the IPO will go to the promoters which includes the Jains and Prodair Corporation and its parent Air Products Inc.
Run for Unity reflects changing aspirations of J&K youth: DGP
Srinagar, Oct 01: Against the backdrop of Jammu and Kashmirs continuing efforts to move beyond violence, hundreds of young participants took to the streets on Thursday, with Director General of Police (DGP) Nalin Prabhat saying their growing involvement in constructive activities was helping frustrate attempts to disrupt peace in the region. Addressing participants at the J&K Police Run for Unity marathon, Prabhat said the increasing participation of children and youth reflected a clear preference for a peaceful and prosperous future. The youth were increasingly choosing peace over violence and progress over destruction, he said, describing the change as a movement from darkness to light. The DGP said Jammu and Kashmir was moving towards peace and development despite continued attempts from across the border to disturb the region. Greater youth engagement in sports and other constructive activities was helping counter such efforts, he said. Referring to the police forces operational achievements during September, Prabhat said J&K Police had continued its counter-terror operations while simultaneously maintaining law and order and tackling conventional crime. He also highlighted the intensified campaign against narcotics. According to figures cited by him, 3,257 NDPS cases were registered, more than 2,500 cases were disposed of, and around 4,000 persons were arrested. The campaign also resulted in about 170 convictions, while 288 properties worth more than Rs 138 crore were attached and over Rs 80 lakh in cash seized. The J&K Police chief said 144 persons had been booked under PIT-NDPS, underlining the police focus on preventing the drug trade from taking deeper roots in society. Prabhat said the police-youth relationship was also being strengthened through sporting events and the Civic Action Programme, providing young people avenues for engagement beyond conventional policing. He recalled the role played by J&K Police and the State Disaster Response Force in rescue operations, including the deployment of 19 Mountain Rescue Teams during this years Amarnath Yatra and the successful rescue operation at the Gulmarg Gondola. The marathon, he said, was not merely a sporting event but a reflection of the changing aspirations of Jammu and Kashmirs younger generation. The DGP said the growing presence of youngsters in such events was a sign that the narrative of the region was increasingly being shaped by sports, peace and development rather than violence.
Bihar Flood: Fresh breach in the embankment in Saran, Gopalganj and Muzaffarpur
Bihar CM Samrat Choudhary saidthe government is fully alert over rising river levels; however, the next 48 hours arecrucial.
Srinagar, Oct 01: The Jammu and Kashmir government has notified the J&K Electric Vehicle Policy-2026, following its approval by the Council of Ministers chaired by Chief Minister Omar Abdullah, setting a six-year roadmap for expanding clean, affordable and weather-resilient electric mobility across Jammu and Kashmir. The policy, covering the period 202632, aims to accelerate EV adoption, strengthen charging infrastructure and create an enabling ecosystem for electric mobility across all 20 districts of J&K. It targets 1.40 lakh electric vehicles by 2032, supported by demand incentives, climate-specific infrastructure, power-grid integration, public-private partnerships, skill development and employment generation. Under the strategic infrastructure roadmap, the policy envisages establishment of 900 public charging sites, including 140 fast-charging hubs across urban grids and highway corridors. It also provides for EV-ready parking, with building bye-laws mandating EV-readiness for 20 per cent of parking capacity. Recognising J&Ks distinct climatic conditions, the policy introduces a Specialised Winter Validation Protocol under which EVs will undergo winter-performance validation, particularly for operation in snow and sub-zero conditions. The framework also seeks managed integration of EV charging demand with the power system. To encourage adoption, the policy provides for 35 per cent interest subvention on EV loans for up to 36 months, with higher support aimed at reducing the cost of EV ownership for eligible beneficiaries. It also provides for scrappage-linked incentives, with an annual budgetary provision of 50 crore to incentivise replacement of old vehicles with cleaner electric vehicles. The policy further provides early-adopter top-up incentives for the first 15,800 eligible adopters. The incentives include 15 lakh for the first 300 e-buses, 1 lakh for the first 1,500 personal cars and 5,000 for the first 10,000 two-wheelers, subject to the eligibility and conditions prescribed under the policy. The policy also envisages phase-wise electrification of fleets, expansion of charging networks, greater private-sector participation and development of skilled manpower to support the emerging EV ecosystem. Chief Minister Omar Abdullah congratulated Transport Minister Satish Sharma and the Transport Department on the notification of the J&K Electric Vehicle Policy-2026. The Chief Minister said the policy provides a structured framework for advancing clean transport while taking into account the specific terrain and cold-weather conditions of Jammu and Kashmir. The notification marks the formal implementation of the Omar Abdullah led Governments six-year strategy for transitioning towards cleaner mobility, strengthening supporting infrastructure and creating new opportunities in the electric mobility sector.
When Public Office Becomes a Private Toll Booth
The trapping of a Deputy Director of Agriculture Law Enforcement and his alleged tout while accepting a Rs 50,000 bribe is not merely another corruption case to be recorded in official registers. It is a disturbing reminder of how public authority can be misused to extract money from citizens whose livelihoods depend on government permissions and regulatory approvals. According to the Anti-Corruption Bureau, the officer allegedly demanded Rs 2 lakh from a seed dealer for allowing the sale of plant seeds at his shop. The complainant had already paid Rs 1 lakh under compulsion, the ACB said, before approaching the agency when a further Rs 50,000 was sought. The allegation, if proved in court, reflects a system in which a lawful business activity is made conditional on unlawful payment. This is precisely why corruption in regulatory departments is so damaging. A seed dealer is not seeking a favour from the state. They are seeking the right to conduct a legitimate trade under the law. When an official allegedly converts that right into a negotiable commodity, the citizen is forced into a cruel choice: pay, risk harassment or lose their livelihood. Such conduct corrodes both the rule of law and public confidence in institutions. The involvement of an alleged tout makes the matter even more serious. Middlemen often thrive where procedures are opaque, approvals are delayed, and officials exercise unchecked discretion. They become the informal face of the state, collecting money and conveying threats while shielding the actual decision-maker. If the allegation is established, the investigation must determine whether this was an isolated arrangement or part of a wider network operating around licences, inspections and clearances. The ACB deserves credit for acting on the complaint, verifying the allegations and laying a trap that led to the recovery of the tainted money. But a successful trap is only the first step. The larger test lies in securing a fair and speedy prosecution, tracing the earlier alleged payment of Rs 1 lakh and examining whether other traders were similarly compelled to pay. The Agriculture Department must also undertake an internal review of its regulatory processes. Clear timelines, online approvals, transparent inspection records and rotation of officials can reduce the space in which corruption flourishes. Citizens should not need courage, connections or access to an anti-corruption agency to obtain services to which they are legally entitled. A government office is not a private toll booth. Public power must serve citizens, not intimidate them. This case should end not with two arrests, but with stronger safeguards against the culture that makes bribery appear routine.
With the J&K Cricket Association (JKCA) limiting the crowd strength to a manageable 5000 in the stadium, those who sit in the stands are monitored to ensure the history is not repeated.
The Narcotics Web Beneath Downtown Srinagar
The busting of an alleged narcotics network in downtown Srinagar is a significant police action, but it must not be mistaken for the end of the problem. Eight arrests, the recovery of large quantities of pharmaceutical drugs and heroin, a pistol, cash and gold, along with the freezing of Rs 1.07 crore in bank accounts, point to something far more serious than an isolated criminal operation. They indicate the emergence of a structured narcotics economy with money, logistics, transport and distribution working in concert. The figures are deeply disturbing. Police say they recovered 3.830 kilograms of codeine, around 40 grams of heroin, over 2.18 lakh tapentadol tablets, tramadol capsules and pregabalin. They also seized Rs 85.76 lakh in cash and gold valued at more than Rs 1.05 crore. Such quantities and assets cannot be explained away as the work of a few street-level sellers. The police description of a well-organised supply chain demands a deeper investigation into the financiers, suppliers, transporters, distributors and beneficiaries operating behind the arrested accused. The extension of the probe to Punjab and Chandigarh is therefore welcome. The involvement of the Punjab Police and the Narcotics Control Bureau suggests that the networks reach may extend beyond local neighbourhoods and familiar routes. The alleged use of transport agencies must be examined with particular urgency. Every link that enables narcotics to enter the Valley and reach vulnerable communities must be identified, documented and broken. But enforcement cannot end with seizure and attachment. The real test lies in whether the investigation reaches the people who fund such networks and those who profit from them while remaining hidden from public view. The absconding alleged associates from Muzaffarnagar must be traced, but the investigation must also establish whether there are other local and interstate collaborators yet to be exposed. The case also raises uncomfortable questions about how such a large operation could function in populated areas without attracting sustained scrutiny. Were warning signs missed? Did financial transactions, transport movements or property acquisitions go unchecked? These questions are not meant to weaken the police action; they are necessary if future networks are to be detected before they expand. The administration must pair firm enforcement with prevention, treatment and public awareness. Addiction is not only a law-and-order challenge; it is a public-health and social crisis. Families need support, young people need protection and rehabilitation services must be strengthened. The Srinagar Police have stated that their aim is to dismantle the entire narcotics model. That promise must now be measured by the depth of the investigation, the prosecution of the wider network and the prevention of its revival. A seizure makes headlines. Only dismantling the system can protect Srinagar.
Humanitys greatest leaps have begun with tools that allowed people to do more. The plough increased the farmers strength. The steam engine multiplied human strength. Electricity redefined life. The computer changed how humanity handled information. Now artificial intelligence and robotics are opening another chapter. AI can learn from information, recognise patterns and help generate ideas, while robots can see, move and perform tasks in the physical world. Together, they may expand human capability. This emerging field is being explored worldwide. MIT, Stanford, Carnegie Mellon, Berkeley and the University of Toronto are working on AI, robotics and machines that can learn and act. Oxford, Cambridge, ETH Zurich, EPFL and Imperial College London are also advancing research. Scientists are developing machines that can understand surroundings, learn and work with people. The goal is to create useful tools for everyday challenges. Researchers are exploring how AI and robotics can become more useful. At MIT, Professor Daniela Rus studies robotics and AI, including ways to make machines learn and work with people. At Stanford, Professor Chelsea Finn researches how robots learn through experience. At Carnegie Mellon, Professor Howie Choset develops robotic systems for medicine, manufacturing, disaster response and space. At Oxford, Professor Ingmar Posner studies how robots can learn, adapt and assist people. Their work reflects a broader effort to make intelligent machines increasingly useful in everyday life. This growing field is also reshaping scientific research. AI can examine enormous amounts of information, identify patterns and help scientists explore difficult questions. Robots can assist with repetitive or physically demanding work. Automated laboratories can help scientists conduct experiments with greater speed and precision. Research teams are exploring AI-assisted discovery in medicine, materials and energy. Still, the human role remains central. Technology does not replace curiosity. It gives curiosity new tools to explore, examine and discover. This is where an age of amazing abundance becomes interesting. Abundance does not mean every problem disappears, or every need is automatically met. It means technology could create more useful knowledge, products, services and opportunities. If AI makes certain work easier, more people could benefit. If robots improve particular tasks, production could become more efficient. If machines take on routine work, people could have more space for creativity, curiosity and imagination. An even broader possibility emerges when AI and robotics come together. AI can help robots understand their surroundings, plan actions and learn. Robots can turn digital intelligence into physical action. Better machines can support production and open new possibilities. Each improvement can become the foundation for another. A positive cycle can emerge: better tools create possibilities, and new possibilities inspire better tools. Over time, this could accelerate discovery and widen access to these technologies. Institutions are studying this change. The OECD has examined how AI may affect productivity, skills and employment. The International Labour Organisation has studied how generative AI could change different kinds of work and reshape the tasks people perform. The World Economic Forum has examined how technology is changing work and skills. The next chapter is about what people can do with capable machines. The changing world of work is shaped by both technology and human adaptation. Some tasks may change, some may become automated, and new forms of work may emerge. A researcher may use AI to explore possibilities. An engineer may use intelligent software to develop and test designs. A teacher may use digital tools to support learning. A worker may use a robot to assist with repetitive tasks. The important question is not only what machines can do, but what new possibilities people can create with them. Education remains an important part of adapting to technological change. As machines become better at finding and processing information, acquiring knowledge can involve more than memorising facts. Knowledge, sound judgement, creativity, communication, teamwork and problem-solving will continue to matter. People may also need to develop new skills as technology advances and new areas of knowledge emerge. A strong educational foundation can help people build the understanding and abilities needed to participate purposefully in an evolving technological landscape. India is building capabilities in this field. Under the National Mission on Interdisciplinary Cyber-Physical Systems, 25 Technology Innovation Hubs have been established across academic institutions, working in areas including AI, robotics and smart machines. IISc Bengaluru, IIT Hyderabad and IIT Delhi are involved in work related to robotics, navigation and machines that can work with people. India is advancing AI research, skills and innovation. These efforts are creating a foundation for intelligent technologies. The greatest possibility may not be a smarter robot or a more powerful AI system. It is time, one of the few resources that cannot be manufactured, stored or recovered. By handling routine and physically demanding tasks, these technologies could give people more room for family, creativity, research, art, learning and community. This is one dimension of abundance: greater access to knowledge, productive capacity, opportunity and time. As intelligent systems advance, they could accelerate discovery, improve precision and help address challenges that once demanded far more human effort. Machines may increasingly do more with less, expanding the possibilities for human activity. The real measure of progress may not be how closely machines imitate human abilities, but how effectively people can use technology to expand what is possible. If intelligent systems contribute to knowledge, productivity, creativity and greater flexibility in daily life, they could open new possibilities in everyday life. That is the defining promise of an age of amazing abundance: more knowledge, greater capability, wider opportunity and more room for human possibility. (The author is a Columnist. Feedback: bakshisuhaib094@gmail.com )
The Dog Bite that should Never Become a Death Sentence
Imagine a child playing outside his home in Kashmir when a dog suddenly approaches and bites him. The wound looks small, there is little bleeding, and the family decides to wait and see. But with rabies, there is no time to wait. One of the worlds oldest and most feared zoonotic diseases, rabies is almost invariably fatal once clinical signs appearyet it is entirely preventable when wounds are treated promptly, and post-exposure prophylaxis is given without delay. With dogs responsible for around 99% of human rabies cases globally, controlling rabies in dogs remains central to protecting people. As the world observed World Rabies Day on September 28, the message for Kashmir is simple: a dog bite should never become a death sentence. Rabies is not merely a medical problem Rabies is often discussed as a problem of human health. In reality, it sits at the intersection of human health, animal health and the environment. A person develops rabies because of an exposure to an infected animal. In India and much of Asia, dogs are the principal source of human infection. Therefore, treating humans after bites is only one part of the solution. Unless rabies transmission among dogs is controlled, the cycle continues. This is why rabies demands a One Health approacha coordinated effort involving veterinarians, human doctors, public-health authorities, municipal agencies, animal welfare organisations, local communities and responsible pet owners. The goal should not simply be to treat more bite victims. The goal should be to prevent those bites and interrupt transmission before people are exposed. Kashmir needs to rethink the stray dog problem In discussions about rabies, free-roaming dogs are often viewed solely as a nuisance or a threat. But simply removing or indiscriminately killing dogs is not a sustainable rabies-control strategy. WHO specifically identifies mass dog vaccination as the most cost-effective way of preventing human rabies by stopping transmission at its source. Kashmir therefore needs a more scientific and humane approach. This should include sustained vaccination of dogs, responsible dog population management, improved waste management, responsible pet ownership, identification and reporting of suspected rabies cases, community education and strong coordination between veterinary and human-health authorities. Vaccination cannot be a once-a-year publicity event. It needs to be a sustained programme with measurable coverage. Similarly, responsible pet ownership must become a social norm. Every dog owner should understand that rabies vaccination is not optional. Vaccinating a pet protects not only the animal but also the family, neighbours and the wider community. The five minutes that can save a life One of the most important messages that must reach every household is what to do after a bite or scratch. Wash the wound immediately and thoroughly with soap and running water for approximately 15 minutes. Then seek medical attention without delay. This simple action can substantially reduce the amount of virus at the site of exposure. Appropriate post-exposure prophylaxis includes wound management, rabies vaccination and, when indicated, rabies immunoglobulin or other recommended biologicals. People should never wait for symptoms of rabies before seeking treatment. Once the virus reaches the central nervous system and clinical disease develops, the outcome is almost invariably fatal. The window for prevention is after exposure but before disease develops. There is also a dangerous tendency to rely on home remedies or traditional practices after an animal bite. Chilli powder, acids, plant substances and other irritants should never be applied to wounds. Such practices do not prevent rabies and can cause additional tissue damage. A bite that looks insignificant can still represent a serious exposure. Children deserve special attention Children are particularly vulnerable because they are more likely to play with dogs, approach unfamiliar animals or fail to report minor scratches to adults. Rabies education should therefore begin in schools. Children should be taught simple rules: do not disturb dogs while they are eating or caring for puppies; do not tease or chase animals; avoid approaching unfamiliar dogs; and immediately inform an adult about any bite, scratch or possible exposure. Parents should also understand that a child may hide a bite because of fear of punishment. A small scratch may be ignored, while the consequences of ignoring rabies exposure can be devastating. Kashmir needs stronger veterinarymedical coordination A rabies-control programme cannot succeed if the veterinary and medical systems work independently. Veterinarians are essential for dog vaccination, animal surveillance, investigation of suspected cases, responsible pet ownership and community education. Medical professionals are responsible for assessing human exposures and ensuring appropriate post-exposure treatment. When a suspected rabies exposure occurs, information should move rapidly between these sectors. This is the essence of One Health:the health of humans, animals and the environment cannot be treated as separate issues. Bhutan has shown that elimination is possible. There is an important reason for optimism this year. On September 4, 2026, the World Health Organisation validated Bhutan as having eliminated dog-transmitted human rabies as a public-health problemthe first country in the WHO South-East Asia Region to achieve this milestone. Bhutan's success was built on mass dog vaccination, dog population management, community participation, integrated human-animal surveillance and strong One Health coordination. This achievement carries an important lesson for Kashmir and the wider Indian subcontinent. Rabies elimination is not a utopian idea. It requires political commitment, sustained vaccination, surveillance, accessible post-exposure treatment and community participation. From awareness to action Every year, World Rabies Day brings posters, seminars, social-media campaigns and public messages. These are valuable, but awareness alone cannot eliminate rabies. Kashmir needs to move from campaign-based awareness to continuous prevention. We need regular vaccination of dogs, accessible and quality-assured post-exposure treatment, better surveillance, responsible pet ownership, scientific dog population management, improved waste management and meaningful community participation. Most importantly, we need to stop thinking of rabies as an unavoidable consequence of living with dogs. It is not. Rabies is preventable. WHO identifies three proven pillars: community awareness, timely post-exposure prophylaxis and mass dog vaccination. The real measure of our success should therefore not be how efficiently we treat people after they are bitten. It should be how successfully we prevent people from being bitten by infected animals in the first place. A child should be able to walk to school without fear. A family should be able to keep a vaccinated dog without fear. A community should be able to coexist safely with its animal population. Kashmir should make that its ambition. Because the ultimate victory against rabies will not be the ability to save someone after a bite. It will be creating a society where that bite never becomes a death sentence. (The Author is Assistant Professor cum Scientist, Dept. of Medicine, Guru Angad Dev Veterinary and Animal Sciences University, Ludhiana, Punjab. Feedback: dr.abrar79@gmail.com )
Roundtable on connected mobility held in Srinagar
Srinagar, Oct1: A roundtable discussion on Indias Connected Mobility and V2X Roadmap was held at Tagore Hall here on Wednesday, bringing together mobility experts, industry representatives, media professionals and members of the public. DIG Traffic Range Kashmir Haseeb Ur Rehman, IPS, attended the event as chief guest. The discussion focused on connected mobility technologies and their potential role in developing safer and smarter transport systems in line with the broader vision of Viksit Bharat 2047. Experts shared insights on emerging connected technologies and the future of mobility, while a felicitation ceremony was also held to recognise individuals working in the field of safer and smarter mobility. The organisers described the conclave as an effort to promote collaboration and discussion on advanced mobility solutions.
Future Education: Beyond Classrooms, Towards Curiosity and Capability
Education is entering a decisive phase. The future will not belong merely to those who can memorise the most facts, but to those who can think critically, adapt quickly and use knowledge with responsibility. As technology transforms workplaces and societies, the classroom too must move beyond outdated methods that reward repetition over understanding. Artificial intelligence, digital learning platforms and virtual classrooms are expanding access to education. A student in a remote village can now access lectures, libraries and learning resources that were once available only in major cities. This opportunity, however, will remain incomplete unless the digital divide is addressed. Internet access, affordable devices and trained teachers must become basic educational necessities, not privileges reserved for a few. The future of education must also be rooted in the human qualities that machines cannot replace. Empathy, creativity, ethical judgement, communication and cooperation will be as important as technical knowledge. Schools should therefore encourage students to ask questions, solve real problems and work with others. Education must prepare young people not only for examinations and employment, but also for citizenship and public life. This requires a fundamental change in the role of the teacher. Technology may provide information, but teachers inspire, guide and understand their students. No digital platform can fully replace the encouragement offered by a sensitive teacher or the confidence built through personal interaction. The teacher of the future will be less a distributor of information and more a mentor who helps learners navigate an overwhelming world. Assessment, too, must evolve. An education system that measures success only through written examinations cannot capture curiosity, imagination, practical ability or moral growth. Projects, discussions, fieldwork and continuous evaluation should complement traditional tests. Students must be allowed to learn from failure rather than being defined by a single examination. For Jammu and Kashmir, the question of future education carries an even deeper significance. Difficult terrain, seasonal disruptions and unequal access have often affected educational opportunities. Digital tools can help bridge distances, but technology alone cannot solve the problem. Strong public institutions, better infrastructure, teacher training and localised learning content are equally essential. The future is not about replacing classrooms with screens. It is about creating a more inclusive, flexible and meaningful system of learning. Education must remain human at its core while embracing the possibilities of technology. If we prepare children only for the jobs of today, we will leave them vulnerable to the changes of tomorrow. But if we teach them how to learn, question and care, we will give them the strength to shape the future themselves. ( The Author is a research scholar)
A State-of-the-Art Childrens Hospital and Our Expectations
It was a pleasant afternoon on September 15 when I was anchoring an event celebrating Engineers Day at Srinagars historic Tagore Hall. The hall was abuzz with applause and distinguished guests when a phone call from home abruptly pulled me back to reality. On the other end of the line, I was informed that my son had developed a high fever accompanied by severe abdominal pain. An initial dose of medication at school had provided temporary relief, but the pain had returned. Right from the venue, I contacted my close friend and renowned paediatrician, Dr Javed, who prescribed a few initial medicines over the phone. Once the event concluded, I picked up the medicines and rushed home. Exhausted from a long day, I initially assumed my son was simply finding an excuse to skip tuitionas children often do. However, when his fever was confirmed, my heart sank. As the pain persisted without relief, I called my dear friend and leading paediatrician, Professor Dr Riyaz Malik. It was a Tuesday, and his clinic was closed, but true to his compassionate nature and friendship, he not only took my call but guided me step-by-step on how to clinically examine my son at home. Following his assessment, he suspected acute appendicitis and strongly advised rushing straight to the children's hospital. As fate would have it, my own car was away at the time, being used for an urgent family function. Amidst the mounting anxiety, I troubled a close family friend who immediately arrived with his vehicle. In a rather striking and unexpected twist, my sonwho ordinarily shares every childs universal dread of doctorsrepeatedly insisted that night, urging us to take him to a physician right away. Perhaps it was divine intervention at play, using his innocent insistence to ensure he reached the hospital on time. Upon arriving at Srinagar's modern and magnificent Childrens Hospital, the imposing architectural elegance of the facility immediately conveyed the scale of quality healthcare the government has established for our children. It easily rivals a top-tier private hospital. Walking in, I contacted the Deputy Medical Superintendent and longtime friend, Dr Sheikh Ishaq, who promptly mobilised RMO Dr Tariq. Within minutes, Dr Tariq had one of the hospitals sharpest radiologists perform an ultrasonography (USG). The moment the probe touched my son's abdomen, the radiologist's expression revealed the gravity of the situation: the appendix was severely inflamed, and immediate surgery was imperative. That verdict felt like the ground slipping beneath our feet. It was already 9:30 PM, and a common perception in our society is that major hospitals operate only with junior staff during night-time hours. However, that apprehension was immediately dispelled when Dr Tariq introduced me to an exceptionally sharp, competent, and reassuring surgeon on duty, Dr Shahid Banday. After meticulously reviewing the reports, Dr Shahid offered me the exact words of reassurance a distressed father needs to hear: Don't worry at all; your son is now in completely safe hands! Prior to finalising the surgery, I consulted another dear friend and prominent ENT surgeon based in Delhi, Dr Jameel Manzoor Shah. Deeply concerned about the situation, Dr Jameel emphasised that the operating surgeon must be exceptionally competent, and advised confirming whether immediate surgery was strictly necessary or if a CT scan should first be pursued for a second opinion. This moment highlighted a critical gap: in a massive, 500-bed facility of this calibre where clinical standards are otherwise exemplary, the absence of an in-house CT scan machine complicates matters unnecessarily. In modern medicine, where accurate diagnosis forms half the battle, having a basic diagnostic tool like a CT scan in a dedicated children's hospital is an absolute necessity. Additionally, upgrading the conventional X-ray section to meet contemporary standards would truly be fitting for an institution of this stature. Ultimately, proceeding without a CT scan following a reassuring consultation with another trusted medical friend, Prof. Dr Naveed Nazir Shah and placing our absolute trust in the Almighty, we consented to the surgery. Waiting outside the operation theatre was an excruciating trial for my wife and me. At one point, a stray comment from a member of the surgical team warning that the child had eaten earlier in the evening, that an endotracheal tube would be required and that risks were highshattered my wife's composure. Overcome by a tide of terror and anxiety over what might befall our beloved child, every passing second of the wait felt agonisingly heavy. Amidst this tension, I asked my friend Dr Tariq to check on the progress inside. Upon doing so, he returned with immense relief: God had been extraordinarily merciful. Perhaps my sons persistence and our timely arrival had spared him from a catastrophic outcome. The doctors later revealed that the appendix was dangerously close to rupturing, releasing nearly 50 millilitres of pus upon extraction. Given the delicacy of the situation, the surgical team congratulated us afterwards, noting that even a slight further delay could have proved fatal. Today, by the grace of Almighty Allah and following a successful laparoscopic surgery, my son is fully recovered. This ordeal has left us with a profound lesson: self-medication in children, or persisting with home treatments without professional medical evaluation, can be dangerously lethal. Timely diagnosis and prompt medical intervention are the ultimate safeguards. Therefore, whenever a child or, for that matter, an adult, experiences such symptoms, negligence must be avoided at all costs, and the nearest medical facility or expert specialist must be consulted immediately. Throughout this journey, the warmth, professional excellence and genuine dedication with which my son was cared for left me deeply and lifelong indebted to everyone at the hospital every single doctor, paramedic, sanitation worker, administrator, and clinician. This hospital and its staff truly deserve wholehearted recognition and appreciation. The remarkable healthcare infrastructure built by the government is truly commendable. Serving as a beacon of healing for children from the distant expanses of Pir Panjal down to Kupwara and Keran, Srinagars Childrens Hospital is peerless. As the Jammu & Kashmir Assemblys autumn session is currently underway, it is my sincere appeal, as both a citizen and a media professional, to our capable and perceptive legislators to take note of this vital need. If the availability of a CT scan and advanced diagnostic equipment is ensured here, this institution will undoubtedly become an unrivalled medical sanctuary for our children across the entire region. (The Author is a Columnist, Television Presenter, Broadcaster, and Cultural Activist. Feedback: azharhajini@gmail.com )
The Political Monopoly of the National Conference in J&K Must End
For decades, Jammu Kashmirparticularly the Kashmir Valleyhas witnessed the extraordinary persistence of one political idea: that the National Conference (NC) is indispensable to the region's political identity and democratic equilibrium. The party has surely played a major role in the political history of Jammu Kashmir. But historical importance cannot become a permanent claim to political ownership, particularly when its record is full of blemishes. In a democracy, no party, family or political tradition can legitimately claim that it alone represents the aspirations of an entire people. The question, therefore, is whether NCs historical legacy should confer upon it a special political status that places it above ordinary democratic competition. The history of dissent cannot be ignored The history of Jammu and Kashmir contains numerous episodes that raise difficult questions about the treatment of political dissent and electoral competition. The political career of journalist-politician Shamim Ahmed Shamim is particularly relevant to this discussion. A celebrated Urdu journalist, editor of Aina, powerful orator and former Member of Parliament, Shamim was at one stage associated with Sheikh Abdullah but later became a fierce critic of his government and the National Conference establishment. Shamim attacked what he regarded as the concentration of political authority around one leader and one party. His criticism was not simply electoral; he challenged the political culture that, in his view, left insufficient space for independent democratic alternatives. He believed Wahid Party (Single Party) and Wahid Leader (Single Leader) syndrome was fascist. Accounts of his conflicts with the administrationincluding legal disputes, pressure on his newspaper and restrictions on his political activityremain an important part of the history of dissent in Kashmir. Contemporary reporting also documented restrictions imposed on him during the late 1970s, when Sheikh Mohammad Abdullah returned to power as a Chief Minister. These episodes deserve examination not as isolated political quarrels but as part of the larger question of how dissent was accommodated by the political establishment of the time. The significance of Shamim's story lies precisely here: democratic institutions are tested not when everyone agrees with the government, but when an influential citizen challenges the dominant political narrative. His experience also demonstrates why political legitimacy cannot be inherited. A political leader may once be an ally and later become a critic. A journalist may become a politician. A regional voice may cooperate with a national political formation. None of these choices should make a citizen less entitled to participate in democratic politics. But the NC narrative with respect to Shamim Sahab shifted from viewing him as a modern voice of Kashmir to treating him as a traitor to the regional cause, the moment he independent-mindedly aligned with national democratic alternativeslike the Janata Partyto build a viable local opposition. The unresolved questions surrounding 1951 and 1987 The NC's historical record is often invoked as evidence of its unparalleled popular legitimacy. The party won all 75 seats in the 1951 Jammu and Kashmir Constituent Assembly elections. Yet the circumstances surrounding those electionsincluding the rejection of opposition nominations even in Kashmir and the absence of meaningful electoral competitionhave long been examined critically by historians and political scholars. A complete electoral sweep cannot automatically be equated with an uncomplicated democratic mandate when meaningful competition is absent or suppressed. The 1987 Assembly elections present an even more consequential example. Allegations of electoral malpractice and the subsequent political consequences have been extensively discussed in scholarship on the origins of the crisis that followed. The NC and its allies have disputed particular interpretations of that history, but the broader lesson is difficult to avoid: public confidence in elections is itself a democratic institution, and once citizens lose faith in the electoral process, the consequences can extend far beyond one election. The purpose of revisiting these episodes should not be to delegitimise the NC or any other group as a political party. It should be to establish a democratic principle: no party should be above scrutiny simply because it possesses a long history. Kashmir's political space is larger than one party The NC has never possessed a permanent monopoly over public opinion. Jammu and Kashmir's political landscape has included the electorally significant regional as well as national political parties, smaller regional organisations, independents and newer political formations. Their varying electoral fortunes demonstrate that political preferences are neither uniform nor permanently fixed. The claim that Kashmir must choose between political accommodation with the NC and instability creates a false binary. Citizens can simultaneously demand democratic rights, constitutional governance, development, security and political alternatives. No party should be permitted to present itself as the sole institutional bridge between citizens and the Union government. Nor should New Delhi assume that governance requires dependence upon one regional intermediary. Constitutional positions, too, have evolved Political positions in Jammu and Kashmir have never been frozen in time. This is also evident in the changing positions historically associated with Sheikh Mohammad Abdullah and the constitutional relationship between New Delhi and Srinagar. A March 13, 1981 report in Kashmir Times, for example, recorded Sheikh Abdullah discussing Article 370 as something that was not necessarily immutable. The report recorded Sheikh saying that Article 370 was not sacrosanct and could be altered or abrogated. Whatever one's interpretation of that statement, the historical point is important: political positions evolve. Constitutional arrangements evolve. Parties evolve. Governments change. Leaders alter their positions. What should not change is the democratic right of citizens to question their representatives and replace them through peaceful elections. Breaking the politics of dependency The political and administrative developments since 2019 have demonstrated that citizens can interact with the state through institutions beyond traditional regional political intermediaries. Local self-government, Panchayati Raj institutions, urban local bodies, elected representatives and direct administrative mechanisms provide additional channels through which citizens can participate in governance. The strengthening of these institutions should not be understood as an alternative to political parties. Rather, it reduces the danger of concentrating political representation in a single intermediary, Wahid Party (Single Party) and Wahid Leader (Single Leader) . No persecution. No privilege. No monopoly. The objective should not be to replace one political monopoly with another. The National Conference must have the same democratic rights as every other political partyand the same democratic obligations. It should neither be persecuted nor privileged. It should be free to contest elections, campaign, criticise governments and seek public support. But it must also be prepared to defend its record, answer criticism and accept electoral defeat when voters choose an alternative. The same standard must apply to every other party. A genuinely democratic Jammu and Kashmir must also guarantee a political environment in which citizens can express disagreement without intimidation, violence, coercion, social ostracisation or organised campaigns of vilification. Political disagreement must remain political disagreementnot become a reason for threats or punishment. The people of Kashmir do not need a permanent political intermediary. They need accountable representatives. They do not need a political dynasty to speak permanently on their behalf. They need institutions through which they can speak for themselves. New Delhi, likewise, need not choose between dependence on one regional party and direct central administration. The durable alternative is stronger elected institutions, empowered local government, civil society and genuinely competitive politics. The ultimate antidote to the doctrine of political indispensability is not another doctrine. It is democracy itself. A Jammu and Kashmir in which the National Conference is neither persecuted nor privileged; in which it must earn every vote, defend every policy, answer for its record and accept the verdict of the electorate like every other political partythat is not the destruction of democracy. It is democracy functioning as it should. No party owns Kashmir's political space. No more Wahid Party and Wahid Leader . (The Author is a former Member of the Legislative Council of Jammu and Kashmir and spokesperson of BJP JK-UT)
No Nursing College, Trauma Hospital proposal for Beerwah-Magam
Srinagar, Oct 01: The Jammu and Kashmir Government has said that while a Government Nursing College has already been approved at Budgam, there is presently no proposal to establish a Nursing College at Beerwah. According to the Health and Education department, the proposal for creation of the required manpower for the Government Nursing College, Budgam, is currently under consideration to make the institution operational. However, regarding Beerwah, the government clarified that no proposal for setting up a Nursing College is under consideration at present. The government has also ruled out, for now, any proposal for establishing a Trauma Hospital at Magam, citing manpower requirements, financial implications and the existing healthcare infrastructure in the district. The departments said that, as per prescribed norms, a minimum of 73 staff members are required to make a basic Level-III Trauma Centre fully functional. This includes specialised manpower such as a general surgeon, orthopaedic surgeon, anaesthetist and radiographer. The government further said that operationalising such a trauma centre would entail an estimated annual financial implication of around 5 crore towards manpower and related requirements. In view of the prevailing financial constraints and austerity measures of the Finance Department, meeting these requirements may be difficult at present. Trauma care cases are being taken care of through existing health facilities like DH Budgam, SDH Beerwah, SDH Magam and tertiary-level hospitals like JVC Bemina and SMHS Hospital, the department said. However, the government said that the need for a dedicated trauma facility would be assessed at an appropriate stage to determine its feasibility, following which necessary action would be taken in accordance with the prescribed rules and norms. On the demand for upgradation of Sub Centres at Charangam, Iskanderpora and SK-Pora, the government said the facilities do not presently qualify for upgradation to the next level under the population norms prescribed by the Indian Public Health Standards (IPHS). Under the applicable norms, a population of 20,000 is prescribed for hilly and difficult areas and 30,000 for plain areas for such upgradation. There is no such proposal under consideration, as the Department is presently focussing on consolidation of the existing healthcare delivery system, the department said.
Baramulla police step up case monitoring
Srinagar, Oct 1: Senior Superintendent of Police (SSP) Baramulla Gurinderpal Singh has directed police officers to expedite pending investigations and ensure strict compliance with legal timelines, cautioning against procedural lapses that could affect criminal cases, including those resulting in default bail. A police spokesman said the SSP issued the directions while chairing two comprehensive Crime Review Meetings held on September 29 and 30 at District Police Lines (DPL) Baramulla and Police Post Delina, respectively. The meetings were attended by DySP headquarters, all Station House Officers (SHOs), in-charges of police posts and investigating officers (IOs) of sub-division Baramulla. During the meetings, Singh carried out a case-wise and IO-wise review of ongoing investigations, focusing on pending evidence collection, investigation timelines, procedural bottlenecks and long-pending cases. The officers were directed to complete pending investigative tasks within clearly defined timelines and address deficiencies identified during the review. The SSP stressed strict adherence to statutory provisions and prescribed timelines under the Bharatiya Nagarik Suraksha Sanhita (BNSS), Protection of Children from Sexual Offences (POCSO) Act and other applicable laws. He directed officers to closely track investigation deadlines and ensure timely completion of cases to prevent avoidable procedural lapses, including those that could lead to default bail. Directions were also issued for expediting the lawful disposal of long-pending investigations and inquest proceedings. Supervisory officers were asked to promptly address legal, forensic and procedural bottlenecks and intervene wherever required. The meetings also reviewed weekly and monthly targets for case disposal and the overall performance of investigating officers. Police officers were directed to closely monitor the progress of investigations and submit regular reports detailing case disposals, pending matters, gaps and corrective measures. Emphasising the importance of professional and timely investigation, SSP Gurinderpal said that fair, meticulous and legally compliant investigation is central to effective criminal justice delivery and strengthening public confidence in policing. He directed all officers to accord top priority to the quality of investigations, timely disposal of cases and strict compliance with legal procedures. The SSP further called for regular supervisory reviews to ensure sustained monitoring and accountability and directed officers to implement the instructions within the prescribed timelines. The police said the measures are aimed at strengthening investigation standards, improving accountability and facilitating timely and lawful delivery of justice.
NC backs right to wear religious attire
Srinagar: National Conference MLA from Zadibal, Tanvir Sadiq, has said that people should be free to practise their religion and wear attire permitted by their faith, asserting that there should be no discrimination against Muslims for wearing burqa or abaya. Speaking to reporters Sadiq said the Constitution allows citizens to perform their religious duties and questioned why Muslims should be treated differently when people from other faiths are permitted to wear religious symbols and attire. If a Muslim wears a burqa, abaya or anything that his religion allows him to wear, what is wrong with that? If a Sikh wears a turban, a Hindu wears a tika or a Christian wears a cross, then why do you want to separate Muslims? he said. He said that if a person is performing their official duties with full authority while also practising their religion, there should be no objection. Sadiq alleged that the reported action in the matter was driven by religious bias and said the government should take serious notice and appropriate action. The Zadibal MLA also stressed the importance of a strong Opposition in a democracy, saying it is necessary to make the government answerable and accountable. His remarks came in the backdrop of the INDIA bloc's recent meeting, where opposition parties discussed the Special Intensive Revision (SIR) of electoral rolls and concerns regarding the functioning of the Election Commission. The bloc has announced a coordinated campaign from October 2 to 8, including protests and an MPs' march to the Election Commission. Sadiq also raised questions over the Election Commission controversy, referring to reports of differences among Election Commissioners over aspects of the SIR exercise. The Election Commission, however, has said that final decisions were taken unanimously and that individual observations or differences during deliberations did not amount to dissent on Commission decisions. Asked about participation in the programmes announced by the Congress, Sadiq said the National Conference is part of the INDIA bloc and would participate, while the party leadership would decide who would represent it in specific programmes.
Govt forms panel to review Hospital Development Fund
Srinagar, Oct 1: The Jammu and Kashmir Government has constituted a departmental committee to examine issues relating to the Hospital Development Fund (HDF) and formulate comprehensive guidelines for its transparent, accountable and effective management and utilisation in government hospitals. As per Government Order No. 726-JK(HME) of 2026, issued by the Health and Medical Education Department on September 29, the committee shall be headed by the Principal, Government Medical College (GMC), Srinagar, as Chairperson. The committee comprises Director Finance, Health and Medical Education Department; Director Health Services, Jammu; Director Health Services, Kashmir; and the senior-most Chief Medical Officer as members. As per the order, the panel has been tasked with examining the existing framework governing HDF, assessing prevailing practices and financial arrangements, undertaking a comparative evaluation of similar institutional models and recommending measures for its effective management and utilisation in government hospitals. The committee will also obtain and consider suggestions from Members of the Legislative Assembly regarding the proposed guidelines governing the fund. It will examine the existing rules and institutional arrangements for HDF collection, accounting and utilisation, identify gaps and deficiencies, and study practices followed by reputed government hospitals and healthcare institutions across the country to identify best practices that could be adopted in Jammu and Kashmir. The panel will formulate comprehensive guidelines governing the collection, custody, accounting, utilisation and monitoring of HDF, besides recommending modalities for budgeting, expenditure and audit, including financial controls and reporting mechanisms. It has also been tasked with suggesting measures for need-based utilisation of the fund to improve patient care, hospital infrastructure, equipment, sanitation, essential services and overall healthcare delivery. The committee will recommend an effective monitoring and evaluation mechanism, including periodic review and reporting, to assess the utilisation and impact of HDF. The order further directs the panel to examine the existing ratio and arrangement for remittance of HDF receipts to the Departmental Revenue Head and recommend modifications, wherever necessary, keeping in view hospital requirements and the broader financial interests of the Government. The committee shall submit its recommendations to the Government within one month from the date of issuance of the order.
Govt rules out automatic pay revision for MGNREGA staff
Srinagar, Oct 1: Supporting staff engaged under the erstwhile Mahatma Gandhi National Rural Employment Guarantee Act (MGNREGA), now implemented under the VB-G RAM G framework, continue to receive monthly honorarium ranging from 13,200 to 16,500, with the government stating that there is no separate notified policy for automatic or periodic enhancement of their remuneration. Documents accessed by Rising Kashmir reveal that MIS operators are being paid 13,200 per month, while Technical Assistants receive 16,500 per month. The Rural Development Department said the rates were revised vide government order no. 49-RD&PR of 2024 dated January 30, 2024, and are subject to the terms and conditions of engagement as well as availability of funds under the administrative component of the scheme. In response to a question on whether the government has any policy or criteria for enhancement of the remuneration of these employees, the department said there is no separate notified policy providing for automatic or periodic enhancement. Their remuneration is governed by the terms of engagement, applicable scheme guidelines/orders and availability of funds under the administrative component, the department stated. On the question of implementation of SRO-255 of August 5, 2003, in respect of MGNREGA staff and steps being taken to regularise their services, the department said the issue of non-implementation does not arise in the manner stated. The government clarified that SRO-255, known as the Jammu and Kashmir Contractual Appointment Rules, 2003, was framed to regulate contractual appointments against specified government posts. According to the department, Rule 3 of the Rules restricted their applicability to posts notified through government order no. 1018-GAD of 2003 dated August 5, 2003, and such other posts as could subsequently be notified by the General Administration Department. Thus, SRO-255 was not a general rule applicable to every category of contractual or Scheme-based worker, the department said. The Rural Development Department further stated that supporting staff under MGNREGA were engaged under the scheme-specific administrative framework, against the administrative component of MGNREGA, and their services were governed by the terms, conditions and guidelines applicable to the scheme. According to the documents, MGNREGA supporting staff did not fall within the category of persons appointed under SRO-255, nor were their engagements made against posts notified under government order no. 1018-GAD of 2003 or any subsequent notification issued under Rule 3. The department also pointed out that the Jammu and Kashmir Contractual Appointment Rules, 2003 were subsequently repealed under Section 15 of the Jammu and Kashmir Civil Services (Special Provisions) Act, 2010. Section 15 of the Act expressly provided for repeal of the 2003 contractual appointment rules. The department further noted that the Jammu and Kashmir Civil Services (Special Provisions) Act, 2010 itself was repealed as a whole through S.O. 1229(E) dated March 31, 2020, issued under the Jammu and Kashmir Reorganisation (Adaptation of State Laws) Order, 2020.
Jammu State Movement backs call for transparent SIR
Jammu, October 1: The Jammu State Movement has welcomed Brigadier Dr Vijay Sagar Diwans appeal to Prime Minister Narendra Modi on electoral integrity and the implementation of the Special Intensive Revision (SIR) of electoral rolls. In a statement ,movement coordinator Atulya Bakshi said Diwan had highlighted the need to ensure accurate electoral rolls while safeguarding eligible citizens, particularly the poor, elderly and those who may not possess decades-old documents. According to Bakshi, Diwan has suggested a clear public communication campaign on SIR, particularly in Hindi and regional languages, along with a fast and transparent mechanism for citizens to challenge wrongful exclusion from electoral rolls. Diwan has also called for evidence-based scrutiny of foreign funding that may seek to influence domestic institutions, under existing provisions of the Foreign Contribution Regulation Act (FCRA), the statement said. His letter also referred to the 1953 political crisis in Iran, involving the removal of Prime Minister Mohammad Mossadegh, while clarifying that it was not intended as a direct comparison with the present situation but as a historical reference to the vulnerability of democratic institutions to external influence. Bakshi said electoral reforms should strengthen public confidence in democratic institutions while ensuring fairness, transparency and the right of every eligible citizen to vote. The Jammu State Movement also endorsed Diwans call for distinguishing between legitimate democratic criticism and allegations of external interference, saying such claims should be established through evidence and law.
Should the EC take action against those filing forms for mass deletions?
Lt Gen Mohit Seth takes over as White Knight Corps Commander
Srinagar, Oct 1: Lieutenant General Mohit Seth, SM, VSM on Thursday took over as the Commander of the White Knight Corps from Lieutenant General P K Mishra, UYSM, AVSM, YSM, SM. Lt Gen Seth assumed command of the Corps and exhorted all ranks to maintain the highest standards of operational readiness, professional excellence and team spirit. He also called upon the troops to continue contributing towards peace, security and stability in the region. The Army, in a statement, said the new Corps Commander emphasised the need for sustained preparedness and collective commitment in carrying out operational responsibilities. The White Knight Corps is responsible for military operations in the Jammu region, including areas along the Line of Control. Prepared for today. Ready for tomorrow, the Army said, reiterating its commitment to serving and protecting the region. Lt Gen P K Mishras tenure as White Knight Corps commander lasted 18 months, from April 1, 2025 to September 30, 2026. He took over from Lt Gen Navin Sachdeva and was succeeded by Lt Gen Mohit Seth. Mishras tenure coincided with several significant security developments in the Jammu region, including heightened counter-terror operations following the Pahalgam terror attack and Operation Sindoor in May 2025. The White Knight Corps also maintained a sustained focus on counter-infiltration operations along the Line of Control and counter-terror operations in the Pir Panjal and Chenab valley regions. During his tenure, Mishra regularly reviewed operations in Doda, Kishtwar, Udhampur, Rajouri and Poonch. In September 2025, he reviewed ongoing anti-terror operations in the hilly areas of Udhampur, Doda and Kishtwar following encounters with terrorists. In 2026, his focus also included strengthening technological and air-defence capabilities. In May, he reviewed air-defence preparedness, counter-drone capabilities and security along the LoC in Rajouri. In one of his final operational visits as Corps Commander, Mishra visited Surankote in Poonch in September 2026 to review the security situation and focused counter-terror operations, including efforts to dominate the Pir Panjal Range. Mishra, who was earlier Commandant of the Indian Military Training Team (IMTRAT) in Bhutan, was awarded the Uttam Yudh Seva Medal in 2026.
No PUCC, No Fuel rule kicks in; govt. undertaking all measures to mitigate air pollution: Gupta
Gandhijis many ways of understanding genius
The word genius offers a window into the Mahatmas assessment of people and events
DU students hold march against sexual violence, demand safer campuses
The woman-only march saw over 500 participants seeking functional internal complaints cells, better street lighting and greater accountability in dealing with complaints of sexual harassment
CAG flags Rs 900-cr idle JJM funds
Srinagar, Oct 01: The Comptroller and Auditor General (CAG) of India has flagged significant under-utilisation of funds amounting to over Rs 900 crore under the Jal Jeevan Mission (JJM) during the initial years of its implementation up to March 2023. The Report of the Comptroller and Auditor General of India (CAG) for the period ended March 2024 was laid on the Table of the Legislative Assembly by the Minister for Agriculture Production Department, Javid Ahmad Dar on behalf of Chief Minister Omar Abdullah. According to the audit, fund utilisation under the Centrally Sponsored Scheme remained between 15 per cent and 59 per cent from 2019-20 to 2022-23, before improving to 84 per cent in 2023-24. The audit noted that Chapter 7 of the Operational Guidelines envisaged JJM as a time-bound Mission-mode programme, for which robust financial planning, timely funding, mobilisation of adequate resources and prudent utilisation of funds were prerequisites. The audit of the accounts of the State Water and Sanitation Mission (SWSM) was conducted by a Chartered Accountant, while Utilisation Certificates were submitted annually by the Mission Directorate, it reads. As per the audit table, J&K had Rs 368.07 crore in total funds available during 2019-20, against which expenditure stood at Rs 217.72 crore, or 59 per cent, leaving a closing balance of Rs 150.35 crore. In 2020-21, total funds available stood at Rs 211.14 crore, while expenditure was Rs 101.59 crore, or 48 per cent, leaving Rs 107.48 crore. The utilisation rate fell further to 15 per cent in 2021-22, when total funds available were Rs 803.46 crore against expenditure of Rs 121.13 crore, leaving a closing balance of Rs 674.51 crore. In 2022-23, total funds available increased to Rs 2,213.70 crore, of which Rs 1,296.51 crore, or 59 per cent, was utilised. The closing balance at the end of the year stood at Rs 901.92 crore. The audit further recorded an improvement in utilisation during 2023-24. Against total funds available of Rs 4,591.44 crore, expenditure stood at Rs 3,875.47 crore, representing 84 per cent utilisation, while the closing balance was Rs 687.65 crore. Persistent and significant under-utilization of funds during the initial years led to accumulation of idle balances exceeding Rs 900 crore as of March 2023, the audit observed. The department, in its response furnished in August 2025/October 2025, accepted that the Union Territory faced issues during the initial two years of implementation of the Mission. It stated that these issues were subsequently resolved and that actual execution and completion of works picked up from 2022-23 onwards, resulting in an increase in utilisation of funds. The department also stated that the Government of India has announced the extension of the Jal Jeevan Mission up to December 2028 at the national level.
Gandhijis unfinished work on the world stage
Had the Mahatma lived, his message of non-violence might have travelled further and shaped global movements
Gandhijis unfinished work on the world stage
Had the Mahatma lived, his message of non-violence might have travelled further and shaped global movements
5,500 take part in Kashmir Marathon
Srinagar, Oct 1: Nearly 5,500 men, women and children participated in the grand finale of the Kashmir Marathon Run for Unity organised under the J&K Police Civic Action Plan 2026 at the Police Golf Course, Boulevard Road, here on Thursday. The event, held under the patronage of J&K Police chief Nalin Prabhat, was chaired by ADGP Armed J&K Nitish Kumar, while Lieutenant Governor Manoj Sinha was the chief guest. The marathon was flagged off at 7 am by Nitish Kumar and passed through major city routes before concluding at the Police Golf Course. Addressing the gathering, Sinha appreciated the police initiative and urged youth to remain drug-free, maintain physical fitness and participate in sports and other constructive activities. Nitish Kumar said the event drew participants from different sections of society, including runners from outside J&K. He stressed the need for sustained efforts to keep youth away from substance abuse and highlighted the J&K Polices Nasha Mukt Abhiyan. The competitive events included a 21-km half marathon, 10-km road races, 8-km junior and veterans races, sub-junior events, and 2-km runs for specially abled participants. Winners in different categories were awarded cash prizes. The event also featured a 2-km Run for Fun category and a raffle draw, with bicycles and smartwatches among the prizes. DGP Nalin Prabhat appreciated the organisers and participants, saying the event promoted fitness, sportsmanship, unity and positive engagement among youth. The marathon was part of a series of sporting and recreational activities being organised under the J&K Police Civic Action Plan 2026, including a cycle race and Jashn-e-Dal water sports event.
Casual employees set Oct 10 deadline for regularisation
Srinagar, Oct 01: Amid the persistent pressure on the government, the temporary employees across Jammu and Kashmir have set October 10 as the deadline for the Chief Minister Omar Abdullah-led regime to take measures for the regularization of their services. Besides, the employees demanded their monthly salaries be hiked from Rs 14,000 to Rs 45,000 till the regularization process is completed. Addressing a news conference, Jammu Kashmir Casual Daily Wagers Forum (JKCDWF) President, Sajad Ahmad Parray said the government must come up with a clear response on the regularisation of temporary employees by October 10, asserting that daily wagers had been waiting for a resolution of their demands for over two decades. Parray thanked civil society members and the media for supporting the daily wagers struggle, saying their participation had conveyed that the employees were part of this society. He questioned the governments handling of the regularisation issue, saying different statements were being made about the status of the committee report constituted to examine the matter. Parray said a committee headed by the Chief Secretary was constituted on March 11, 2025, with a mandate to prepare a roadmap for regularisation within six months. If the government was aware that bureaucrats do not listen to it, why was an IAS officer chosen to head the committee? he asked, referring to the governments decision to constitute committees on the issue of MLA salaries with political members at the helm. He also referred to assurances made in the Legislative Assembly regarding phased regularisation of temporary employees from October 1, saying the governments position had subsequently changed, with the Chief Minister stating that no timeframe had been fixed for regularisation. Parray contrasted the delay with the governments handling of matters concerning salaries of legislators and ministers. He questioned why financial constraints were cited when demands of temporary employees were raised, while decisions concerning legislators salaries were processed within a stipulated time frame. He said the forum had given the government time until October 10 to respond to regularisation. We want that until the government takes measures for regularisation, the salaries of temporary employees should be increased from Rs 14,000 to Rs 45,000, on the pattern of Delhi and Ladakh, he said. Parray said temporary employees had served the people throughout their lives and urged the government to address their demands without further delay.
Government revises FASTag guidelines for Divyangjan category
Earlier, guidelines mandated renewal of exempted FASTags for Divyangjan on an annual basis.
Government revises FASTag guidelines for Divyangjan category
Earlier, guidelines mandated renewal of exempted FASTags for Divyangjan on an annual basis.
Hindu College Staff Association flags lapses in administration, urges DU V-C to take over
Hindu College Staff Association flags lapses in administration, urges DU V-C to take over
