How the Future of AI Infrastructure Could Shape Tomorrow's Opportunities
The technologies shaping tomorrow's economy will depend not only on physical infrastructure but also on skilled people, research and innovation Artificial intelligence (AI) is reshaping how people live, work and communicate. Every online search, digital payment, email, video call, cloud service and AI chatbot relies on an invisible digital infrastructure that most people never see. At the heart of this infrastructure are data centres, specialised facilities filled with powerful computers that process, store and deliver digital information. As AI systems become increasingly capable, these facilities require growing amounts of electricity, land and cooling. This rising demand has prompted scientists and engineers to explore an extraordinary question: could some of tomorrow's data centres one day operate in space? Although the idea sounds like science fiction, it has become a serious area of scientific research. Technology companies, universities and space agencies are studying whether orbital computing could eventually complement terrestrial data centres. Jeff Bezos has long argued that some heavy industries may ultimately move into space, while Elon Musk has spoken about the long-term potential of expanding computing capabilities beyond Earth. Google researchers have also examined the engineering challenges of operating AI computing hardware in space, including radiation exposure and long-term system reliability. Meanwhile, organisations such as NASA, the European Space Agency (ESA), the Japan Aerospace Exploration Agency (JAXA), the Canadian Space Agency (CSA), the China National Space Administration (CNSA) and the Chinese Academy of Sciences (CAS) continue advancing research in spacecraft technologies, computing systems and future space infrastructure. International organisations, including the International Energy Agency (IEA), the World Economic Forum and UNESCO, have highlighted the growing importance of artificial intelligence, digital infrastructure, rising energy demand and the responsible development of emerging technologies. Meanwhile, researchers such as Nicolas Longp and Yonggang Wen, together with leading universities including the Massachusetts Institute of Technology (MIT), Stanford University, Harvard University, the University of Oxford, the University of Cambridge, the University of Toronto, the Technical University of Munich, the University of Tokyo, Tsinghua University and the Harbin Institute of Technology, are advancing research in artificial intelligence, advanced computing, robotics and space engineering that could contribute to future orbital computing systems. While the idea of orbital data centres is still under development, it offers valuable lessons for regions like Kashmir. The technologies shaping tomorrow's economy will depend not only on physical infrastructure but also on skilled people, research and innovation. Preparing young people for these emerging fields may prove far more important than predicting exactly where future computing facilities will be located. One of the principal reasons researchers are exploring orbital computing is energy. Modern AI systems consume enormous amounts of electricity. According to the International Energy Agency, electricity demand from data centres is rising steadily worldwide, placing increasing pressure on power generation, land availability and cooling infrastructure. As AI continues to expand, researchers are investigating new ways to improve efficiency while reducing environmental impacts. Recent engineering studies suggest that future solar-powered orbital computing platforms could potentially operate at the megawatt scale, although such concepts remain technically and economically challenging. From an engineering perspective, space offers both opportunities and challenges. Satellites in suitable orbits can generate solar power for long periods, and some specialised computing tasks could be carried out closer to where data are collected in space. However, these possible advantages come with major technical challenges that scientists and engineers still need to overcome. Cooling computers in space is much harder than on Earth because space is a vacuum, where heat cannot be carried away by air. Instead, spacecraft use specially designed radiators to release excess heat. NASA and the European Space Agency consider heat management one of the biggest engineering challenges in spacecraft design. These cooling systems make space-based computing platforms larger, heavier and more complex. Radiation is another major challenge. High-energy particles in space can damage computer chips, corrupt data and disrupt electronic systems. Researchers continue testing advanced computer hardware under simulated space conditions to understand how it performs in orbit. Their findings show that computers designed for space need much stronger protection than those used in conventional data centres. Reliability is equally important. On Earth, faulty servers can often be repaired or replaced within hours. In space, maintenance would be extremely expensive and technically demanding. Future orbital computing systems would therefore need to be highly reliable, equipped with backup systems, and capable of operating independently with minimal human intervention. Current research suggests that orbital data centres are more likely to complement rather than replace those on Earth. They could prove valuable for specialised applications such as processing satellite data, supporting deep-space missions and analysing information already generated in orbit. Every day, internet services, cloud computing and most AI applications are expected to continue relying primarily on terrestrial data centres for the foreseeable future. For Kashmir, the more important lesson is not where future data centres will be located, but why understanding emerging technologies will matter in an increasingly digital world. Tamil Nadu shows how long-term investment in research and infrastructure can help build a strong technology sector. It has become one of the country's leading data centre hubs, while Maharashtra, Telangana, Uttar Pradesh and Andhra Pradesh continue to attract major investments in cloud computing and AI infrastructure. Institutions such as the Indian Space Research Organisation (ISRO), the Indian Institute of Science (IISc), the Indian Institutes of Technology (IITs) and the Indian Institute of Space Science and Technology (IIST) are carrying out important research in artificial intelligence, satellite technology, advanced computing and space science. Their work will help shape the country's technological future. Kashmir can learn from these developments. Universities and colleges can strengthen education in artificial intelligence, computer science, electronics, robotics, cybersecurity and space technology. Students can take part in research, innovation and entrepreneurship, while local startups can create digital solutions for agriculture, healthcare, tourism, disaster management, education and public services. These skills will remain valuable whether future technologies are developed on Earth or, one day, in space. The idea of data centres in space is about much more than satellites. It shows that every major technological breakthrough begins with curiosity, research, thorough testing and hard work. Kashmir's future in the age of AI will depend not on where future data centres are built, but on whether today's students become tomorrow's scientists, engineers, researchers and innovators. Technology will continue to change, but the greatest investment Kashmir can make is in its people. By investing in education, scientific thinking and innovation today, Kashmir can help create the technologies of the future instead of simply using them. (The Author writes on technology and artificial intelligence. bakshisuhaib094@gmail.com )
Sagar Announces Rs 20.40 Lakh Relief in Khanyar
Srinagar, June 29: Jammu and Kashmir National Conference General Secretary and MLA Khanyar, Haji Ali Mohammad Sagar, on Monday reaffirmed the partys commitment to public welfare, stating that representing the aspirations, sentiments and interests of the people remains its core agenda. He said the National Conference continues to serve people with dedication and remains committed to transparent, accountable and people-centric governance under the leadership of Chief Minister Omar Abdullah. Sagar made these remarks while interacting with public delegations, party office-bearers and workers at the party headquarters in Srinagar. During the interaction, he listened to public grievances and immediately contacted concerned officials for their resolution. Party functionaries also briefed him about organisational activities, ongoing programmes, developmental requirements and local issues. He urged party workers to remain actively engaged with the public and intensify outreach efforts, saying sustained public interaction has always been a defining feature of the National Conference. Recalling Sher-e-Kashmir Sheikh Mohammad Abdullahs slogan, he said that the people are the ultimate source of power, and sovereignty belongs to the people. Meanwhile, a separate meeting held in Khanyar reviewed ongoing developmental works and welfare initiatives in the constituency. Officials provided details of completed projects over the past one and a half years as well as ongoing development schemes. The meeting was informed that 20.40 lakh has been disbursed from the Constituency Development Fund (CDF) among 34 fire-affected families from Nowhatta, Jama Masjid, Chandpora and Naopora in Khanyar Block-B. Additionally, six fire-affected families from Tabardar Mohalla were recently provided interim relief of 1.20 lakh. Party leaders including Provincial President Womens Wing Er. Sabiya Qadri, Minority Cell Convener Jagdish Singh Azad, Provincial President YNC Mushtaq Mir, Ayesha Jameel and others were present on the occasion.
Congress Flags Crisis in Education, Recruitment System
Alleges paper leaks, rising costs leaving youth disillusioned; seeks reforms Srinagar, June 29: The Jammu and Kashmir Pradesh Congress Committee (JKPCC) on Monday launched a sharp attack on the countrys education and recruitment system, alleging that repeated paper leaks, rising unemployment and escalating costs of competitive examinations have pushed the youth into deep uncertainty and frustration. As part of the partys nationwide campaign Chhatron Ki Goonj, the Congress held a press conference in Srinagar, where leaders expressed concern over what they described as a growing crisis in the education sector and the deteriorating prospects for unemployed youth. Addressing the media, JKPCC District President Srinagar Dr Mir Audil said the education system in India was in the ICU, accusing the government of failing to protect the future of students. He said that despite India being one of the youngest nations in the world, unemployment levels remain high due to what he termed a broken and exploitative system. We worked hard, but the system betrayed our trust. Students spend years preparing, pay heavy fees, and still face paper leaks and recruitment scams. Examinations are no longer a mechanism of selection but of rejection, Dr Audil said. He highlighted the financial burden on aspirants preparing for competitive examinations such as NEET and other entrance tests, saying coaching and exam-related expenses had become unaffordable for many families. The dreams of lakhs of students are being crushed. Youth are not just demanding jobs, they are demanding a fair, transparent and merit-based system, he said. Raising concerns over accountability, Dr Audil questioned the lack of guarantees for students despite their hard work and preparation, asking who would be responsible if the system continues to fail them. The Congress leader also accused the government of maintaining silence over repeated paper leak incidents and recruitment irregularities, saying the situation has severely impacted the morale of young aspirants across the country, including Jammu and Kashmir. The party demanded strict action against exam mafias, transparent recruitment processes, affordable education, and stronger safeguards to restore public trust in institutions. Congress leaders said they would continue to raise issues related to unemployment, education reforms and youth welfare under the ongoing Chhatron Ki Goonj campaign.
Speaker Pushes Ropeways for Yousmarg Links
Reviews comprehensive development plan for Yousmarg Tourism Circuit Srinagar, June 29: Speaker Jammu and Kashmir Legislative Assembly, Abdul Rahim Rather, on Monday chaired a detailed meeting with senior officers of the Tourism Department to review and discuss a comprehensive development plan aimed at transforming Yousmarg into one of the premier tourist destinations of Jammu and Kashmir. During the meeting, extensive deliberations were held on strengthening tourism infrastructure, enhancing visitor amenities, and fully harnessing the immense tourism potential of Yousmarg, Drugtolen, Bargah, and Haijan. The Speaker stressed the need for a planned and sustainable approach to ensure that these picturesque destinations are developed while preserving their natural beauty and ecological balance. Emphasizing the importance of improved public amenities, the Speaker called for the provision of reliable mobile connectivity and the installation of an ATM facility at Yousmarg to facilitate tourists and local residents alike. He also advocated for the installation of a ski drag lift to support ski trainees and promote winter sports activities, thereby enhancing Yousmarg's appeal as a year-round tourism destination. The meeting also reviewed the development of the scenic Nilnag Lake. The Speaker directed that the lake and its surrounding areas be developed into an attractive tourist destination with appropriate infrastructure while maintaining its pristine environment. He stressed that de-weeding of the lake should be undertaken on priority to preserve its cleanliness and natural charm. Highlighting the need for better connectivity, the Speaker emphasized for the early completion of the sanctioned bridge over the Doodh Ganga River connecting Haijan with Yousmarg. He observed that the project would significantly improve accessibility, boost tourist inflow, and provide substantial socio-economic benefits to the local population. The Speaker further underscored the importance of developing cable car projects linking YousmargNilnag, Yousmarg- Drugtolen, YousmargHaijan, and YousmargBargah. He noted that Yousmarg being the nearest tourist destination to Srinagar has immense potential to emerge as a major tourism hub. He observed that these projects would not only strengthen adventure and leisure tourism but also promote a unique pilgrimage tourism circuit, as the route passes through the revered shrine of Sheikh Noor-ud-Din Noorani (RA) at Charar-i-Sharief and the shrine of Hazrat Syed Ali Aalie Balki (RA) at Pakherpora. The Speaker also stressed the need for the early completion of the remaining portion of the road to Haijan, stating that improved road connectivity is essential for unlocking the tourism potential of the area and ensuring ease of access for visitors and local communities. The meeting concluded with a commitment from the Tourism Department to examine the proposals in a time-bound manner and take necessary steps for the phased development of the Yousmarg tourism circuit, with the objective of strengthening tourism, generating employment, and promoting sustainable economic growth in the region.
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New Zipline Set to Transform Gurez Tourism
Adventure facility inaugurated in Gurez, more tourism projects on the cards: Official Srinagar, June 29: Gurez Valley on Monday strengthened its position as an emerging adventure tourism destination with the inauguration of a state-of-the-art zipline at Markote, a project aimed at attracting more visitors, extending tourist stays and creating new livelihood opportunities for local residents. The 482-metre-long zipline, inaugurated by MLA Gurez Nazir Ahmad Gurezi and Director Tourism Kashmir Syed Qamar Sajad, is the first major adventure tourism facility in the border valley and is expected to serve as a catalyst for further tourism infrastructure and recreational activities in the region. The newly launched attraction is being seen as a milestone for Gurez, which has rapidly emerged as one of Kashmir's most preferred travel destinations in recent years. The zipline is expected to attract adventure seekers, increase tourist stay in the valley and generate fresh economic opportunities for local residents. Tourism officials said the project marks the beginning of a larger plan to develop Gurez as an adventure tourism hub. This is just the beginning. More adventure activities and tourism infrastructure will be added in the coming period to make Gurez a complete adventure destination, a senior Tourism Department official told Rising Kashmir. The ride starts from a platform standing 55 feet high and descends towards a landing platform at 10 feet, creating a vertical drop of 45 feet. Designed with safety as a priority, the facility uses a 12 mm galvanized iron wire rope and can accommodate riders weighing up to 100 kilograms. The braking system consists of a bungee mechanism, spring and tyre stopper, while a triple safety attachment system includes a main trolley, backup lanyard and harness. Speaking on the occasion, Nazir Ahmad Gurezi said the zipline would open new avenues for tourism and employment in the valley. Gurez has immense tourism potential. Such projects will attract more visitors and create livelihood opportunities for our youth, he said. Director Tourism Kashmir Syed Qamar Sajad said the department is committed to expanding adventure tourism facilities across the valley. We want visitors to experience a different side of Kashmir. Gurez has all the ingredients needed for adventure tourism and we will continue investing in such initiatives, he said. Locals welcomed the inauguration and expressed hope that the facility would help place Gurez prominently on the adventure tourism map. Abdul Rashid, a resident of Markote, said the zipline would add a new attraction for visitors. Tourists now look for experiences and adventure activities. This project will encourage them to spend more time in Gurez, he said. Another local resident, Mohammad Yousuf, said the facility would benefit transport operators, shopkeepers and homestay owners. More tourists mean more business for local people. This is a positive step for the entire valley, he said. Located amid snow capped mountains and the banks of the Kishanganga River, Gurez Valley has witnessed a steady increase in tourist arrivals over the past few years. Residents believe the addition of adventure tourism facilities such as the Markote Zipline will further strengthen the valley's position as one of the leading tourist destinations in J&K.
Miles for a Drop: The Long Walk to Keep Kashmir Polio-Free
Srinagar, June 29: As dawn breaks over Kashmirs mountains, teams of health workers shoulder vaccine carriers and set out on arduous journeys across rushing mountain streams, dense forests and steep ridges to ensure that not a single child is left behind in the Pulse Polio campaign. For these frontline workers, vaccination is not just a routine assignment - it is a mission that often takes them to some of the valleys most inaccessible villages, including settlements tucked away along the Line of Control (LoC) in Uri, Boniyar and Kupwara districts. Armed with vaccine carriers packed with ice packs, registers and essential supplies, the teams trek for hours through rugged mountain trails, cross icy nallahs on foot, and navigate difficult terrain to reach nomadic families, shepherd settlements and isolated hamlets where roads simply do not exist. In many places, vehicles can only take them so far. Beyond that begins a demanding journey on foot, with health workers climbing mountains, crossing wooden bridges and makeshift log crossings, and sometimes wading through streams to reach children under five years of age. Officials say every vaccination round is planned meticulously, with micro-plans identifying even the smallest habitations so that every eligible child receives the life-saving oral polio vaccine. No child should miss the vaccine because of geography, said Block Medical Officer (BMO) Uri Dr Balwinder Singh. Our teams begin early in the morning and often walk several kilometres through hilly terrain. They cross nallahs, climb steep mountains and visit villages situated close to the LoC. Despite the physical challenges, their commitment never wavers because protecting every child from polio remains our highest priority, he said. Dr Singh said health workers have repeatedly demonstrated exceptional dedication, often travelling in difficult weather conditions to ensure complete immunisation coverage. In neighbouring Boniyar, the story is no different. Block Medical Officer Boniyar, Dr Ruqaya Showkat, said many health workers spend an entire day travelling to reach a handful of children living in remote villages. Our vaccinators and ASHA workers undertake physically demanding journeys carrying vaccine carriers while trekking through mountainous terrain. Sometimes they walk for several hours just to vaccinate two or three children in an isolated habitation. Their determination reflects the spirit of public healthcare, she said. She said the department leaves no habitation uncovered, irrespective of its distance or accessibility. Parents in these far-flung villages cooperate wholeheartedly with our teams, understanding the importance of vaccination. Their support has also contributed significantly to the success of the Pulse Polio programme, she added. The challenges become even greater in the border district of Kupwara, where several habitations are located deep inside forests or high-altitude areas. A senior health official in Kupwara said reaching every child often requires crossing mountain passes and seasonal streams. Our teams frequently trek through difficult forest routes and hilly landscapes carrying vaccine carriers on their shoulders. Some villages can only be accessed after several hours of walking. Yet our workers never hesitate because they understand that every child deserves protection against polio irrespective of where they live, the official said. The official said meticulous planning and community participation have helped maintain high vaccination coverage even in the district's remotest villages. Health officials said every Pulse Polio campaign is backed by weeks of preparation involving mapping of households, deployment of vaccination teams and identification of transit points to ensure no child under the age of five is missed. For many vaccinators, the journey is filled with uncertainty. Flash floods can swell mountain streams without warning, narrow footpaths become slippery after rain, and changing weather often complicates travel. Yet, the determination to protect children keeps them moving. Behind every child vaccinated in Kashmirs remote mountains lies a story of resilience, endurance and unwavering commitment by healthcare workers who continue to cross rivers, climb mountains and brave the challenges of the frontier so that no child is left vulnerable to a preventable disease.
Kerala to launch campaign in schools against epidemics
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CCB summons former Transport Minister as part of probe into alleged job fraud
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Former PC, Congress Leaders Join Apni Party
Srinagar, June 29: The Apni Party on Monday witnessed a fresh expansion of its cadre with the joining of several political leaders, social activists and public figures from Baramulla, Wachi and Hazratbal constituencies. The new members formally joined the party during separate events held at the party headquarters in Srinagar, where they were welcomed by Party President Syed Mohammad Altaf Bukhari and other senior leaders. According to details, several new entrants from Old Town Baramulla were earlier associated with the Peoples Conference and the Congress Party. Among them were former Youth Secretary of PC Baramulla Faraz Ashraf and Congress District Baramulla General Secretary Tanveer Ahmad Mir, who joined the Apni Party along with their teams and supporters. From Wachi constituency, Mohammad Abbas Malik, Jameel Qureshi and Shafat Mir also joined the party along with their associates. Meanwhile, from Hazratbal constituency in Srinagar, IAS and KAS educator Rayees Rafiq, Ali Mohammad Bhat, Mohammad Hussain Rather and others joined the Apni Party, further strengthening its presence in the region.
Delhis truck with pollution: regional freight, not transit traffic the reason, says study
PDP Misleading Public on Outsourcing Issue: NC
Policy Legacy of PDP-BJP Govt: Sadiq Srinagar, June, 29 : The Jammu and Kashmir National Conference Chief Spokesperson Tanvir Sadiq Monday said that PDP is resorting to daily political gimmicks to mislead the public, saying the outsourcing is in fact a legacy of PDP-BJP government. Addressing the media at the party headquarters, Sadiq said Mehbooba Mufti first attacked the present government over outsourcing, but after the government's clarification that the policy was introduced during her tenure as Chief Minister, the PDP shifted its narrative. They are now saying they are not against outsourcing, only against contracts being awarded to outside agencies. The reality is that any agency local or outside Jammu and Kashmir can register on the GeM portal. The process is centrally managed and the government has no authority to block any eligible bidder, he said. Tanvir said the PDP was either unaware of the facts or deliberately distorting them to mislead people. He said the current government inherited the system of outsourcing from the PDP-BJP regime. He said Sunday's press conference was aimed solely at placing facts before the public and has exposed the misinformation campaign started by PDP and BJP. He added that several individuals are in jail in connection with the J&K Bank scam which was orchestrated during Mehbooba Mufti's tenure as CM, while the Anti-Corruption Bureau's investigation is still underway. Responding to Sajad Lone's remarks on outsourcing, Tanvir said, They are all birds of a feather. Lone was a minister in Mehbooba Mufti's Cabinet when the outsourcing policy was introduced and questioned why he remained silent at the time.
GMC Doctors Meet CM, Discuss Healthcare Issues
Several Legislators, public delegations call on Omar Srinagar, June 29: A delegation of senior doctors from Government Medical College (GMC) Srinagar on Monday met Chief Minister Omar Abdullah to discuss key issues concerning the healthcare sector and the functioning of the institution. The delegation include Dr. Altaf Kawoosa, Dr. Iqbal Saleem, Dr. Naveed Nazir Shah, Dr. Manzoor Latoo and Dr. Syed Imran. The Chief Minister assured them that the government remains committed to strengthening healthcare infrastructure and improving medical services across Jammu and Kashmir. The Chief Minister also met several legislators, public and other delegations at Raabita here, during which a wide range of public welfare, developmental and issues were discussed. A public delegation led by MLA Beerwah Shafi Ahmad Wani, comprising senior citizens, youth representatives, members of the Shia community from Magam and representatives of the Beerwah Traders Federation. The delegation projected various developmental requirements, public welfare concerns and constituency-specific issues. The Chief Minister gave a patient hearing to the issues raised and assured that all genuine concerns would be addressed in a phased and time-bound manner. The Chief Minister also met MLA Pahalgam Altaf Ahmad Wani and MLA Shangus-Anantnag East Reyaz Ahmad Khan, who represented several delegations to flag their issues before the Chief Minister. A delegation from Seer Hamdan, representatives of the Jammu and Kashmir Nomadic Cooperative (JKNC), members of the Migrant Kashmiri Pandit community, the Taxi Stand Association, and a delegation from Ashmuqam-Tulhad. The delegations apprised the Chief Minister of various developmental requirements, infrastructure needs and public issues concerning their respective areas. Earlier, MLA Rajpora Ghulam Mohi-ud-Din Mir called on the Chief Minister and discussed developmental priorities and public welfare issues pertaining to his constituency. MLA Sonawari Hilal Akbar Lone also met the Chief Minister and raised several constituency-related matters requiring government intervention. The Chief Minister assured all the visiting deputations that the government remains committed to addressing the aspirations of the people through sustained development initiatives. During the day, the Chief Minister also interacted with a delegation from Warner Bros. Discovery led by Creative Director Pia Somiah Alva, along with senior company officials. The Chief Minister appreciated the interest shown by the organisation and said the government welcomes meaningful partnerships that can promote Jammu and Kashmirs creative potential and generate new opportunities.
Govt Pushes for Greater Backing at Rural Development Meet
Minister Javid Dar Participates in Rashtriya Gramin Vikas Sammelan New Delhi, June 29: Minister for Rural Development and Panchayati Raj, Javid Ahmad Dar, sought enhanced support from the Government of India for the effective implementation of rural development programmes in Jammu and Kashmir while participating in the Rashtriya Gramin Vikas Sammelan 2026. The two-day national conclave, organised by the Union Ministry of Rural Development and chaired by Union Minister for Agriculture & Farmers' Welfare and Rural Development Shivraj Singh Chouhan, brought together Rural Development Ministers from States and Union Territories to review the progress of flagship schemes and strengthen Centre-State cooperation for achieving the vision of a developed rural India. During the deliberations, Dar highlighted Jammu and Kashmir's key developmental priorities and stressed the need for greater central assistance to accelerate rural infrastructure, housing, livelihood generation and inclusive development across the Union Territory. The conclave also focused on strengthening rural infrastructure, expanding livelihood opportunities and improving the implementation of flagship rural development programmes through enhanced coordination between the Centre and States. The Minister called for early clearance of pending MGNREGA liabilities to ensure uninterrupted execution of development works and timely payment of wages. He also sought enhanced support under PMGSY, particularly for maintenance of completed road assets and improved connectivity to eligible habitations located in difficult and remote terrain. Highlighting the unique geographical, climatic and topographical conditions of Jammu and Kashmir, the Minister stressed the need for greater flexibility in implementation of Centrally Sponsored Schemes to enable better outcomes on the ground. He also urged the Government of India to continue extending support for strengthening the rural livelihoods, promoting self-employment through Self Help Groups and rural enterprises besides expanding the rural housing and basic infrastructure in remote and border areas. Javid Dar reiterated that the Jammu and Kashmir government remains committed to transparent, accountable and result-oriented implementation of all rural development programmes. He said the focus of the government is to create sustainable rural infrastructure, generate livelihood opportunities and ensure that the benefits of welfare schemes reach every eligible household. The Minister also emphasised the need for greater convergence among the flagship programmes and stronger grassroots institutions to maximise developmental outcomes and accelerate inclusive growth in rural areas. Expressing gratitude to the Union Government for organising the Sammelan, the Minister said such interactions provide an important opportunity for States and Union Territories to exchange experiences, share best practices and collectively shape policies for rural transformation. He expressed confidence that the issues projected by Jammu & Kashmir would receive positive consideration from the Government of India, further strengthening the Centres continued support for the holistic and sustainable development of the Union Territorys rural landscape.
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Tarigami Welcomes Kulgams Plastic Ban
Srinagar, June 29: MLA Kulgam and Chairman of the J&K Legislative Assembly Committee on Environment M.Y. Tarigami on Monday welcomed the Kulgam district administrations decision to strictly enforce the ban on single-use plastic and polythene carry bags, calling it a significant step towards environmental protection. Tarigami appealed to all Deputy Commissioners and the J&K administration to adopt similar measures across the Union Territory. He recalled that the Committee on Environment, in its meeting on June 18, 2026, had urged Chief Minister Omar Abdullah to issue an executive order imposing a complete ban on single-use plastic across J&K, stressing that coordinated action is essential to safeguard the environment and public health. Follow Kulgams example and make J&K plastic-free, Tarigami said
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Watch: CBSE Eases Three-Language policy for class 7, 8 and 9 | Above the Fold | 29.06.2026
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Security tightened at Nunwan Base camp in Pahalgam ahead of Amarnath Yatra
Nunwan (Jammu and Kashmir) [India], June 29 (ANI): Heavy multi-security arrangements have been significantly intensified at the Nunwan base camp in Jammu and Kashmir's Pahalgam ahead of the annual Shri Amarnath Ji Yatra, with security forces maintaining a strict vigil to ensure the safety of thousands of pilgrims expected to undertake the pilgrimage from July 3. The Nunwan base camp, located in Anantnag district, serves as the primary base for pilgrims travelling on the traditional 48-kilometre Pahalgam route to the holy Amarnath cave shrine. Security personnel have strengthened surveillance across the camp and its surrounding areas as part of a comprehensive security plan for the yatra. Officials said access to the camp is being closely monitored, while security personnel are conducting regular patrols, frisking, and vehicle checks. Multiple security agencies, including Jammu and Kashmir Police, Central Reserve Police (CRPF) and other sister agencies, have been deployed to maintain round-the-clock vigilance and respond swiftly to any security-related situation. Surveillance equipment and checkpoints have also been installed to ensure foolproof security arrangements. Bomb Detection and Disposal Squad (BDDS) teams and dog squads have also been deployed at the Nunwan base camp as part of the multi-layered security arrangement. They are conducting regular anti-sabotage checks, explosive detection sweeps, and area sanitisation to ensure a safe and secure environment for pilgrims ahead of the Amarnath Yatra. Detailing the security grid, Rajesh Kumar, Commandant, Pahalgam 116 Battalion CRPF, stated that a multi-tier security arrangement has been established to ensure a smooth and safe pilgrimage. Pilgrims first arrive at our frisking point where all vehicles are checked. Belongings are passed through X-ray baggage scanners. Along with that, CRPF's multiple Bomb Disposal Squad (BDS) and Dog Squad teams inspect everything to ensure no unwanted elements enter Pahalgam, Kumar told ANI. The official further added that the security strategy covers not just the roads but also medium- and high-altitude areas. A three-tier or four-tier security arrangement has been made by the CRPF, Jammu & Kashmir Police, and other security forces. The 116th Battalion of the CRPF is specifically handling the security of the Nunwan base camp, where robust arrangements are in place for pilgrims to rest before proceeding via Chandanwari, he added. Speaking to ANI, a pilgrim from Kanpur who has been undertaking the journey for 31 years also noted the heightened security this year. Security is always tight, but it's very tight this time as well. We wait all year for the Lord's darshan. Our community kitchen (bhandara) is set up with arrangements for 2,000 people. We are ready with full devotion, he said. First-time pilgrims also shared their excitement. Princy Sharma from Ghaziabad said, This is my first visit, and I'm very excited. Lord Shiva is reportedly appearing in his full form this time. Security is much better than before; I see personnel at every nook and corner. The heightened security comes just days before the commencement of the pilgrimage, which is scheduled to begin on July 3 and culminate on August 28. Pilgrims arriving from different parts of the country will first halt at the Nunwan base camp before starting their trek towards the cave shrine through the traditional Pahalgam route. The Nunwan camp has been equipped to accommodate a large number of pilgrims and has been provided with essential facilities, including accommodation, medical assistance, sanitation, drinking water, and food services. Authorities have also made arrangements for emergency response teams and disaster management personnel to remain on standby throughout the pilgrimage. The Shri Amarnath Ji Yatra is one of India's most significant annual religious pilgrimages, attracting lakhs of devotees every year. The traditional Pahalgam route is preferred by many pilgrims due to its gradual ascent and scenic landscape, although it takes longer than the Baltal route. With the 57-day pilgrimage set to commence in the next four days, authorities have reiterated their commitment to ensuring a safe, smooth, and hassle-free pilgrimage. Security forces remain on high alert at Nunwan and along the entire route, working in close coordination with the civil administration to provide a secure environment for devotees visiting the sacred cave shrine. (ANI)
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