Gold ETF prices revive as investors flock on higher import duties on yellow metal
The increase in gold prices is expected to continue to increase, say analysts
Three held; security beefed up in Bhopal as Muslim community protests assault on man over love jihad
A large number of Muslim community members, led by city Qazi Sayed Mushtaq Ali Nadwi, gathered near Hamidia hospital on May 12 and later marched to the Police Commissioners office to demonstrate
The police said these locals extended support to the Saifullah group, comprising around six non-local terrorists who were neutralised in multiple operations in the Kishtwar district in the past one year
ATS questions 57 in Maharashtra over alleged gangster network links
Intelligence inputs received over a period of time indicated that gangsters operating from across the border were using social media to recruit youths from Maharashtra, say officials
Just war, power balance and modern conflict
Modern geopolitics challenges traditional notions of lawful and just wars
The Xi-Trump summit shadow boxing on Iran
Beijing summit tests diplomacy over Iran and global geopolitical order
The cinematisation of politics
The youth dont necessarily crave for a change what they crave for is a narrative; some purpose that empowers them with direction
Visakhapatnam Collector calls for inter-departmental synergy to boost investments
Kohlis masterful knock powers Royal Challengers to the top
The Bengaluru opener, who was dismissed for a duck in the last two games, roars back with an unbeaten century to guide his side to a facile win over Knight Riders; his 92-run partnership with Padikkal puts the home team on the road to victory
Senior IPS officer Asra Garg posted IGP Intelligence
Annakili@50: The extraordinary journey of maestro Ilaiyaraaja
If there had been no Panchu Arunachalam, there would have been no Ilaiyaraaja or Gangai Amaran. He was our first god. He lit the light in our lives, says Gangai Amaran, younger brother of Ilaiyaraaja, who was the rhythm guitarist for the film
BJP, Congress attack SP over party spokespersons remark on Brahmins; FIR registered
Bhati offers unconditional apology, claims certain parts of his speech were selectively edited to spread malicious propaganda
Udhayachandran to assume office as CMD of TNIICL
Students of Sri Ramachandra Sri Ramachandra Institute develop health app
MAHE convocation in Mangaluru on May 15, 16
In the age of minimalism, Tamil typography looks back to move forward
Scrap NEET-based admissions, allow States to fill up medical seats, Vijay appeals to Centre
BCA student arrested on drug peddling charge
Vijay Narayan earns rare distinction of being Advocate General under two different governments
The government led by TVK appoints him as the top most law officer of the State; he had held the office under the AIADMK government too between 2017 and 2021
Nominations invited for CavinKare-MMA awards
Ilaiyaraajas trendsetter movieAnnakiliturns 50
A black-and-white film running successfully for 200 days was remarkable, and much of that achievement was due to the songs composed by Ilaiyaraaja, says actor Sivakumar
The law does not favour AIADMK rebels
The divide needs to be evaluated under the anti-defection law
Withdrawal of ban on hijab in schools an attempt to Islamise education system, says MLA
The Udupi MLA then as the vice president of college development committee, had spearheaded anti-hijab campaign
Tiruppur garment exporters, manufacturers demand removal of import duty on cotton
Policeman arrested for forcing woman to abort pregnancy
S.N. Narain assumes charge as CPRO for Southern Railway
Watch: NEET crisis explained: Can NTA regain trust of students?
Indias National Testing Agency is facing its biggest credibility crisis after the NEET-UG 2026 paper leak and exam cancellation.
Sewage pollution of Cooum, groundwater depletion raise alarm
The situation worsened after the bridge construction began on the Chennai Peripheral Ring Road, which has dried parts of the riverbed, affecting local water supplies; WRD officials said an inspection was recently conducted and the team has suggested that the sewage treatment plants capacity be increased
Netanyahus office says he visited UAE secretly during the Iran war
The announcement comes just a day after U.S. Ambassador to Israel Mike Huckabee revealed that Israel had sent Iron Dome air-defence weapons to the UAE along with personnel to operate them
Elusive peace: On the Russia-Ukraine war
Europe must push for a negotiated settlement to Ukraine war
TDB signs pact with KITSFRA for complete digitisation of temples, offices
Temple administration, file movement in offices, financial transactions in temples and offices, services for devotees and various online facilities connected to the Sabarimala temple will be brought under a digital platform
CVTS SKIMS Sets New Benchmark in Surgical Interventions
The highly skilled faculty and surgical teams of the CVTS Department have ushered in a new era of cardiac care in the region KULSOOM BHAT The Department of Cardiovascular & Thoracic Surgery (CVTS) at Sher-i-Kashmir Institute of Medical Sciences is setting new benchmarks in complex surgical interventions, emerging as a major centre for advanced cardiac care in the region. One of the oldest and most prestigious departments of SKIMS, the department is successfully performing a wide spectrum of highly specialised procedures ranging from open-heart surgeries and CABG to complex double valve replacements and critical paediatric cardiac surgeries, with outcomes and mortality rates comparable to leading cardiac centres in the country. The Department has renewed hope for economically weaker patients who otherwise had to travel outside Jammu & Kashmir for advanced cardiac treatment. Such journeys are often physically exhausting, emotionally distressing, and financially burdensome, involving huge expenditure on travel, accommodation, and medical care. The availability of advanced cardiac interventions at SKIMS has significantly reduced this hardship and brought world-class treatment closer to patients homes. The remarkable improvement in surgical outcomes is being attributed to strengthened post-operative management, dedicated teamwork, and several patient-centric initiatives undertaken by the current administration. The Department was recently equipped with state-of-the-art and advanced medical equipment, further enhancing its capabilities in handling high-risk and complicated cardiac procedures. These facilities were formally handed over during a recent inaugural ceremony held at SKIMS. Under the leadership of Director SKIMS/EOSG Prof. M. Ashraf Ganie, the institution is witnessing significant upgradation across critical departments through infrastructure development, technological advancement, and modernisation of healthcare facilities. These measures have provided a major boost to the performance and efficiency of specialised departments like CVTS. The highly skilled faculty and surgical teams of the CVTS Department have ushered in a new era of cardiac care in the region, particularly benefiting poor and critically ill patients who previously had limited access to such specialised interventions. Their commitment, expertise, and compassionate patient care continue to provide not only treatment but renewed hope to countless families. Recently, a patient from a far-flung area of Bandipora underwent a highly complex cardiac surgery under the care of Dr. Farooq Ganie. The procedure involved double valve replacement (mitral and aortic) along with tricuspid valve repair in a patient with a critically low ejection fraction (EF) of 25% a high-risk but potentially life-saving intervention. Despite the recognised surgical challenges associated with low EF, the operation was successfully performed using advanced surgical techniques and meticulous peri-operative care. Beyond surgical expertise, Dr. Farooq Ganie remained closely involved throughout the patients treatment journey, providing continuous guidance, support, and reassurance to the family. His dedication and compassionate approach made the patient and attendants feel cared for and supported at every step. The patient is now recovering well, and the entire surgical team deserves immense appreciation for their outstanding efforts and commitment to patient care. (The Author is Assistant Director/ PR SKIMS )
Dream on hold NEET Cancellation: A Mental Health Perspective
NEET may be cancelled, but your journey to become a doctor is still alive DR IMTIAZ HUSSAIN MANSUR The cancellation and uncertainty surrounding the NEET examination for undergraduates has deeply shaken students across the country, including thousands of aspirants in Jammu & Kashmir. For many young students, NEET is not just an entrance examination but a dream nurtured over years with immense sacrifice and hard work. Behind every NEET aspirant is a story of struggle. Imagine a student leaving the comfort of home in a far-flung village, living alone in hostels or paying guest accommodations in cities, studying late into the night, staying away from family and carrying the burden of expectations. When such an examination suddenly becomes invalid and uncertain, it naturally leads to feelings of anxiety, helplessness, anger, fear, and emotional exhaustion. Many students must be experiencing disturbed sleep, panic symptoms, loss of concentration, irritability, sadness, and hopelessness regarding their future. Some may even begin to question their self-worth after investing years into preparation, blaming their fate and the system. In many vulnerable individuals, this distress can become severe and may lead to clinical depression or self-harm thoughts, anxiety, especially when students believe that their efforts have gone unnoticed or unfairly disrupted, particularly if they had done well. This emotional impact is further intensified in our society due to shared delusional thinking of linking academic success in NEET with family expectations, social identity, and future security. Constant comparison, fear of failure, social pressure, and limited awareness regarding mental health further worsen the situation in an already burdened student. Unfortunately, students continue to suffer silently because seeking psychiatric help is still wrongly perceived as weakness, exemplified in my private clinic by clients coming for help on conditions of anonymity as far as psychiatry is concerned, even their parents are unaware. At this difficult time, emotional support and crisis intervention are extremely important. Families must reassure their children, encourage patience and compassion. Parents should encourage open conversations, maintain a calm environment at home, and remind their children that one examination can never define the value of a human life. Educational institutions and coaching centres should also step forward by providing counselling services, peer-support groups, and mental health awareness programs for students affected by the current situation, at least for now. Any student showing signs of severe distress, sleeplessness, social withdrawal, panic attacks, or suicidal thoughts should be encouraged to seek professional psychiatric help without shame and delay at any nearest facility. Students themselves must remember that seeking help is not a sign of weakness but of courage and self-care. Maintaining routine, proper sleep, physical activity, limited exposure to social media rumours, and staying connected with trusted friends and family can help reduce emotional distress during such uncertain times. A pill may be needed in some, but only after consulting a mental health professional. One should see a possible silver lining in the cancellation and console oneself that an honest student may ultimately benefit. This cancellation helped focus on National Attention on Student Mental Health, and Examination Reform needs an urgent relook now. Students and their families should take a positive vibe in cancelling the exam as it may protect long-term fairness and trust in the system, as an unfair medical entrance process can ultimately affect deserving students for years. As a senior psychiatrist, I want to appeal to dear students carrying immense dreams, pressure, and emotional burden, pause and have a thought, An examination can be postponed or cancelled, your life, your abilities, and your future are not cancelled. Your worth is far greater than a single date, result, or rank. NEET may be cancelled, but your journey to become a doctor is still alive! (The Author is Sr Consultant Psychiatry and Neuropsychiatry at Noora hospital, HMT, Srinagar, Email: imtiyazmansur@gmail.com)
Artificial Intelligence in Healthcare: Innovation Without Accountability?
Technology can transform healthcare. But only accountability, ethics, and strong regulation can make it worthy of trust K.V. CHANDRA MOULI Artificial Intelligence (AI) is rapidly transforming healthcare, promising faster diagnoses, precise treatment planning, and improved patient outcomes. By processing vast volumes of medical datapatient records, laboratory reports, and imaging scansAI systems can identify patterns with remarkable speed and accuracy. Yet, one fundamental principle must remain non-negotiable: AI assists doctors; it does not replace them. The ultimate responsibility for diagnosis and treatment rests squarely with qualified medical professionals. From Experiment to Entrenchment AI is no longer experimental. Since early systems like MYCIN in the 1970s, technological advances in computing power and machine learning have pushed AI into the core of modern healthcare. Today, it is embedded across hospitalsinterpreting scans, suggesting diagnoses, monitoring patients in real time, and even guiding robotic surgeries. This integration has undeniable benefits. Early detection of diseases, reduced diagnostic errors, and improved efficiency are real gains. But beneath this progress lies a more uncomfortable truth: regulation has not kept pace with innovation. Where the System Falls Short Indias current regulatory approach to AI in healthcare is fragmented and reactive. AI tools are treated as medical devices under the Medical Devices Rules, 2017 and the Drugs and Cosmetics Act, 1940. Patient data is governed by the Digital Personal Data Protection Act, 2023. Together, these laws create a patchwork of compliancebut not a coherent regulatory framework. This fragmentation leaves critical gaps: In short, the system regulates pieces of AIbut not AI itself. The Silence Around Patient Awareness Perhaps the most serious omission is this: patients are not explicitly told when AI is used in their care. Existing laws require consent for data use, but they do not mandate disclosure of AI involvement in diagnosis or treatment. Neither the Drugs and Cosmetics Act, 1940, nor the Medical Devices Rules, 2017, imposes such an obligation. Even the Digital Personal Data Protection Act, 2023, focuses on data, not decision-making. The result is a transparency vacuum. Patients may unknowingly rely on AI-driven outputs without understanding their limitations, risks, or role in clinical decisions. Consent, in such cases, is not truly informedit is procedural. What Hospitals Must DoNow Even within the existing framework, hospitals cannot afford complacency. Responsible AI adoption demands more than basic compliance: Compliance is not merely a legal obligationit is a clinical and ethical necessity. Lessons from Global Practice Other jurisdictions are moving faster and more decisively. The EU AI Act introduces a risk-based framework, imposing strict obligations on high-risk systems like healthcare AI. In the United States, the Food and Drug Administration adopts a lifecycle approach, monitoring AI systems continuously rather than approving them once and ignoring future changes. These models recognise a simple reality: AI is not staticit evolves. Regulation must evolve with it. India, with its diverse population and uneven healthcare access, faces even greater risks. AI systems trained on non-representative data can amplify bias and inequality. Without strong oversight, technology intended to improve care may deepen disparities. The Governments Role: From Observer to Regulator Incremental reform will not suffice. The government must move from fragmented oversight to decisive regulation: Most importantly, regulation must shift from reactive enforcement to proactive governance. Why India Needs a Dedicated AI Law? The central question is no longer whether AI should be regulatedit already is, in parts. The real question is whether this fragmented approach is sufficient. It is not. Current lawsthe Drugs and Cosmetics Act, 1940, the Medical Devices Rules, 2017, and the Digital Personal Data Protection Act, 2023address isolated aspects of AI. They do not address its defining features: autonomy, adaptability, opacity, and systemic impact. A dedicated AI law would change this. It would: More importantly, it would provide regulatory certainty, encourage innovation while safeguarding public interest. Conclusion: Technology Must Follow Trust Artificial Intelligence is no longer the future of healthcareit is already shaping clinical decisions today. Its benefits are real, but its risks are equally serious. Without clear rules, strong oversight, and ethical discipline, AI will not strengthen healthcareit will erode the trust on which it depends. The message is direct: innovation without accountability is dangerous. For the government, the message is urgent and unmistakablethis is not the time for incremental steps or fragmented regulation. Decisive action is required now. A dedicated AI law must be enacted without delay, with clear lines of accountability, enforceable transparency, and robust, continuous oversight built into the system. Regulatory gaps are not theoreticalthey translate into real risks for patient safety and public trust. Every moment of delay allows these risks to grow, making inaction not just a lapse in policy but a failure of responsibility. For doctors and hospitals, the responsibility is immediate and non-negotiable. AI can never be a substitute for doctorsit is only a tool to assist, not to decide. Doctors must not rely on it blindly or lower their vigilance even for a moment. Clinical judgment, responsibility, and accountability cannot be delegated to machines. Any lapse in attention, diligence, or professional dutyunder the pretext of AIis unacceptable and inexcusable. India stands at a critical moment. The choice is not whether to use AI, but how to govern it. Get it right, and AI can expand access and improve care. Get it wrong, and it will deepen risks and inequalities. Technology can transform healthcare. But only accountability, ethics, and strong regulation can make it worthy of trust. (The Author has BE in Mech, BOE, ASME and Deputy Director of Boilers (Retd), Mysuru)
Private Schools as Nation Builders: Time for a Balanced Perspective
It is time to move beyond polarised debates and recognise private schools for what they truly are: an essential component of a complex and evolving education system DR SM MURTUZA BUKHARI Over the past few decades, private schools have emerged as a significant force in shaping the educational landscape of Jammu & Kashmir and across India. Their contribution goes far beyond examination results. They have introduced discipline, accountability, innovation, and a culture of aspirationelements essential to any society aiming to progress. Yet despite their growing importance, private schools often find themselves on the receiving end of criticism, much of it amplified by social media narratives that do not always reflect the full picture. It is important, therefore, to step back and examine the role of private schools with balance and clarity. At the outset, one must acknowledge a simple reality: parents choose private schools. This choice is deliberate, informed, and often involves financial sacrifice. Families opt for these institutions because they perceive valuewhether in academic rigour, extracurricular exposure, or the overall development of their children. In a diverse education ecosystem, such a choice is not only natural but necessary. It fosters competition, encourages innovation, and ultimately raises standards across the board. However, with this choice has come a rising trend of criticism. Concerns about fees, uniforms, books, and other expenses are frequently voiced. While these concerns deserve attention, they must be understood within the broader context in which private schools operate. Unlike government institutions, private schools do not receive state funding. Their primary source of income is the fee collected from students. From this, they must meet a wide range of expenses: staff salaries, infrastructure development, maintenance, compliance with regulatory norms, and continuous upgradation to meet modern educational standards. In an era of rising inflation and increasing expectations, the financial pressures on these institutions are substantial. Expecting private schools to deliver high-quality education while simultaneously minimising or eliminating fees is neither practical nor sustainable. Quality education requires investmentin trained teachers, modern facilities, and a conducive learning environment. Without financial viability, even the best-intentioned institutions cannot survive. At the same time, the issue of affordability must be addressed through thoughtful policy intervention. Just as the government provides structured support, such as the Child Education Allowance, to its employees, similar targeted mechanisms can be evolved for economically weaker sections and meritorious students. Direct benefit support or fixed educational allowances for BPL families, coupled with timely and well-structured scholarships for deserving students, can help bridge financial gaps without undermining the sustainability of private institutions. Such an approach would expand access to quality education while preserving institutional viability. Another frequently debated issue is the cost of uniforms, books, and stationery. These are often portrayed as avoidable burdens, but in reality, they are foundational components of a structured educational system. Uniforms promote a sense of identity, discipline, and equality among students. Prescribed books ensure consistency in curriculum delivery and academic standards. Importantly, the pricing of these items is not within the control of schools; publishers, manufacturers, and market dynamics play a significant role. At the same time, academic freedom and quality learning must remain central to educational policy. Across most parts of India, private schools are allowed the flexibility to select from a wide range of nationally recognised books and publishers in order to provide students with diverse academic exposure and updated learning resources. Students should have the opportunity to access high-quality educational material that broadens knowledge, enhances competitive preparedness, and aligns with evolving national standards. A balanced and progressive approach that allows greater academic choice, while ensuring regulatory oversight and affordability, would ultimately serve the larger interests of students and strengthen the overall quality of education in Jammu & Kashmir. The debate around the weight of school bags is equally important. There is no denying that heavy bags can be a concern, particularly for younger students. Schools must and should address this issue through thoughtful measuresstreamlined timetables, splitting textbooks into smaller volumes, encouraging the use of notebooks in rotation, and, where feasible, providing locker facilities. At the same time, it is essential to avoid oversimplified solutions. There has been a growing push towards digital learning as an alternative to physical books. However, global experiences suggest caution. For instance, Sweden has recently re-emphasised traditional pen-and-paper methods after years of prioritising digital tools in classrooms. Medical experts have also raised concerns about excessive screen time among children. In this context, textbooks and written work remain indispensable to effective learning. The objective, therefore, should be balancenot substitution. Private schools, especially those led by experienced educators and headmasters, should also be encouraged to undertake controlled, research-backed innovations in pedagogy and student well-being, rather than being restricted by excessive rigidity. It is also necessary to recognise the broader role that private schools play in nation-building. These institutions are not merely service providers; they are creators of human capital. Every doctor, engineer, teacher, administrator, entrepreneur, and public servant begins their journey in a classroom. Private schools, alongside government institutions, contribute significantly to this foundational stage. The students educated in these schools go on to serve society in diverse rolesboth in the public and private sectors. They become part of the workforce that drives economic growth, strengthens governance, and contributes to social development. In this sense, private schools are partners in the nations progress. They complement the efforts of the government by expanding access to quality education and reducing the burden on public infrastructure. At the heart of this system are teachersthe individuals who dedicate their lives to shaping young minds. Regardless of whether they work in private or government institutions, teachers deserve respect and recognition. They are the custodians of knowledge, values, and discipline, and their role remains central to societal progress. Concerns regarding student discipline and teacher conduct must also be handled with balance and sensitivity. While the well-being and rights of students remain paramount, any complaints against teachers should be addressed through structured institutional mechanisms, counselling, and fair inquiry. Immediate public shaming or trial by social media
Device with low-grade explosives found inside private hospital in Pune; ATS joins probe
A team of the Bomb Detection and Disposal Squad was immediately rushed to the spot and it took the object to a nearby ground and disposed of it
PDP Delegation Visits Rakhe Arth Bemina, Flags Civic Issues
RK News Service Srinagar, May 14: A delegation of the Peoples Democratic Party led by party spokesperson Iqbal Tramboo, former MLA Noor Mohammad Sheikh, former State Secretary Arif Laigroo and spokesperson Shokiya Quareshi on Wednesday visited Rakhe Arth Bemina to assess civic issues faced by local residents. During the visit, residents raised concerns over accumulation of garbage, poor sanitation, drainage problems, waterlogging and foul smell in the locality, alleging that the deteriorating conditions were affecting public health and daily life. Locals also complained about damaged roads and demanded immediate repair and macadamisation, saying repeated appeals to the concerned departments had yielded no results. The PDP leaders termed the situation unfortunate and said residents were being deprived of basic civic amenities despite repeated assurances by the administration. They urged the Srinagar Municipal Corporation Commissioner and Vice Chairman of LCMA to intervene and ensure immediate redressal of the issues faced by the people of the area. The delegation also assured residents that the party would continue to raise their concerns at appropriate forums until the issues are resolved.
AIP Urges Govt to Clear JJM Contractors Dues Before Eid
RK News Service Srinagar, May 14: A delegation of the Awami Ittehad Party on Wednesday visited protesting contractors associated with the Jal Jeevan Mission (JJM) and urged the government to release their pending payments before Eid-ul-Zuha. The delegation, comprising party State Secretary Sheikh Ashiq and spokesperson Firdous Baba, interacted with the contractors and took stock of their grievances regarding the alleged delay in release of payments despite completion of works under the scheme. The contractors said the delay in payments has caused severe financial distress and affected the pace of developmental works. Speaking on the occasion, Sheikh Ashiq said contractors play an important role in infrastructure development and delays in payments adversely impact the economy and public projects. He urged the authorities to ensure immediate release of the pending dues before Eid. Firdous Baba said several projects under the Jal Jeevan Mission were suffering due to non-payment of bills, adding that the situation was ultimately affecting the general public. The AIP leaders termed the delay in payments unjustified and appealed to the administration to resolve the issue at the earliest to avoid further disruption in essential public welfare projects.
Bukhari Seeks Relief for Hailstorm-Hit Apple Growers
RK News Service Srinagar, May 13: Apni Party President Syed Mohammad Altaf Bukhari has urged the administration to conduct a swift and comprehensive assessment of the damage caused to apple orchards by the recent hailstorm in Baramulla. In a post on X, he wrote: A severe hailstorm on Tuesday evening has caused widespread damage to apple orchards in Baramulla, leaving hundreds of farming families devastated. For many of these families, these orchards are not merely a source of income but their only means of survival. This devastating natural calamity has placed their livelihoods under serious risk. Urging the administration to provide adequate compensation to the affected farmers, he said: The administration must act without delay to carry out a comprehensive assessment of the damage and ensure timely and adequate compensation for all those affected. In this difficult hour, I stand in solidarity with every family that has suffered losses, the post added.
NC Concerned Over Hailstorm Damage in Baramulla, Budgam
RK News Service Srinagar, 13 May: The Jammu and Kashmir National Conference Provincial President Kashmir Showkat Mir Wednesday urged the government to immediately reach out to the hailstorm-affected farmers and orchardists in Baramulla and Budgam districts and provide them adequate compensation for the extensive damage caused to orchards and other standing crops. Expressing deep concern over the losses suffered by the farming community due to the recent hailstorm, Mir said that thousands of orchardists and growers have incurred heavy damage at a time when they were expecting a good harvest season. He said the weather calamity has badly impacted apple orchards, vegetable fields, and other crops, pushing the affected families into distress. He emphasized that agriculture and horticulture form the backbone of Kashmirs economy and any damage to these sectors directly affects the livelihood of lakhs of families dependent on them. Mir urged the administration to immediately conduct a comprehensive assessment of the losses in all affected areas of Baramulla and Budgam districts and ensure that adequate compensation and relief are provided to the affected growers without delay. He also appealed to the government to activate disaster relief mechanisms on priority basis and extend every possible assistance to the affected families so that they are able to recover from the losses suffered due to the natural calamity.
Congress Urged to Reconsider Alliance with NC
RK News Service Srinagar, May 14: Voices within the Congress party in Jammu and Kashmir have called for a serious review of the partys alliance with the Jammu and Kashmir National Conference, alleging that the coalition government has failed to fulfil key promises made to the people. In a statement, District Congress Committee President Baramulla, Mir Iqbal Ahmad said the alliance was formed to safeguard democracy, protect the identity of Jammu and Kashmir and push for restoration of statehood, but claimed that public expectations remain unaddressed. Concerns were raised over issues including unemployment, inflation, smart meters, delay in restoration of statehood and the alleged failure to provide promised benefits such as free electricity and employment opportunities for youth. The statement further alleged that there was lack of coordination among alliance partners and absence of a visible Common Minimum Programme guiding the government. It also criticised the leadership for allegedly diverting attention from public issues and said Congress workers and supporters across Jammu and Kashmir feel politically sidelined despite supporting the alliance. Calling for introspection, the statement said the Congress leadership should prioritise public sentiment and take a principled stand if the government continues to fail in addressing peoples concerns.
Wars ripple effect: West Asia conflict sends costs soaring in Nagapattinams boatyards
Shipbuilders in Tamil Nadus second-largest vessel-building hub say rising prices of steel, engines, LPG and raw materials all traced to the West Asian war are eroding profits and pushing the cost of a single boat up by 10 lakh
Punjab Kings seeks turnaround against Mumbai Indians
After leading the standings for nearly four weeks, PBKS slumped to fourth place on the back of four straight defeats. Another slip-up will leave it in a scrap for the final Playoffs spot
Mehbooba welcomes RSS leaders support for talks with Pakistan
We welcome the RSS general secretarys statement; this vindicates the PDPs stand and that of its founder Mufti Muhammad Sayeed, who always advocated for dialogue with Pakistan, she said
K. Radhakrishnan Committee had sought overhaul of National Testing Agency; it explained that while doing away with third-party involvement in the exam process is recommended, a district-wise assessment of infrastructure especially in rural areas is equally important
Around 83% of candidates lost their deposit in Tamil Nadu polls, says ECI
In West Bengal polls, 78% lost their security amount; the least number (63%) of candidates lost their deposit was in Assam
Journalists scramble as gunshots heard in Philippine Senate
What students can wear under the new uniform rules
Congress takes a swipe at RSS leader over Pakistan remarks
Hosabale had said there should always be a window for dialogue with Pakistan and stressed the importance of people-to-people engagement in easing tensions between the two countries
From improved apps to bus hubs to tailored services, city officials float fixes to ORR traffic woes
The upgraded app of BMTC willprovide precise details such as thearrival time of the buses and number of seats available in them
India weighs joint Centre-State funding framework for heatwave mitigation
The shift follows years in which heatwave responses sat outside the main disaster financing architecture
Curb dissemination of pornographic content through apps, Delhi HC tells Google, Apple
Petitioner says such apps are easily accessible to children
NIMHANS doctors say every second counts in stroke treatment
Higher educational qualifications are sought to get better teachers; unless a child gets a good quality education, how will she improve? Justice Manmohan asks petitioners
Centre argues that essential religious practices absent in the Constitutional text, is only part of SC interpretation; says individual freedom of conscience (Article 25) linked to denominational rights (Article 26)
How the anti defection law is going to operate in the AIADMK case?
There are two grounds for disqualification in the event of defection when a member voluntarily gives up membership of his or her political party and when a member votes or abstains from voting contrary to any direction issued by his or her political party
Demolition of damaged mandapam gets under way near Samayapuram temple
The demolition of the structure is expected to take about 15 days
West Asia conflict hit lubricants industry starts price hike, more increases shortly
The industry done it in two phases andalready 30% of the higher cost has been passed on to consumers
BDA to allot sites to land losers for S.K. Layout project
People gather near Four Seasons Hotel as Trump arrives in Beijing
Kerala CM to be announced tomorrow, says Jairam Ramesh
NEET Leak case: CBI produces three accused before judge in Jaipur
Centre increases MSP for kharif crops, farm groups say rise inadequate amid rising input costs
While Centre says MSP levels have been increased significantly compared to those in 2013-14, farmer organisations criticise new rates, saying they do not factor in possible disastrous impact of India-United States trade Deal and other free trade agreements on agriculture sector
Himanta announces UCC implementation plan in Assam
IPL 2026 | Profligate bowling and abysmal fielding hurting Punjab Kings
NIA brings back narco-terror accused from Portugal
The National Investigation Agency has arrested an alleged narco-terror accused after securing his extradition from Portugal. The agency says he played a key role in a terror-financing network linked to Hizb-ul-Mujahideen, involving drug trafficking and hawala channels. Heres what we know.
A.P. CM Naidu cuts convoy size, tells VVIPs to adopt austerity measures
Naidu insists that 50 per cent reduction in convoy vehicles be implemented across all levels of government administration and among public representatives
Good show by Ernakulam schools in Class 12 exams
Airtel sees Q4 net profit of 7,325 crore, ARPU flat
Bharti Airtel Ltd reported consolidated revenues of 55,383 crore, with subscriber premiumisation and Africa tailwinds
Three tribal church leaders killed in Manipur ambush
Chief Minister Yumnam Khemchand Singh says the government will use every resource to bring the perpetrators and their handlers to justice; several organisations call for a total shutdown
Oil India net profit increases 12.5% YoY fuelled by better crude price realisation
Alongside the results, OIL also announced a dividend of 1 per equity share
AP CM urges Centre to check rise in shrimp feed prices
Naidu writes to Union Commerce and Industry Minister Piyush Goyal, seeking urgent intervention to address difficulties faced by aquaculture farmers
11 fall ill after consuming contaminated food in West Godavari
Supreme Court directs States to install panic buttons, tracking devices in public transport vehicles
Fitness certificates or permits should not be issued to public service vehicles found in violation of these safety measures, apex court directs
Cabinet approves 37,500 crore package to boost coal gasification
India holds the target of gasifying 100 million tonnes of coal by 2030
Mass protests in Argentina decry Milei's funding cuts to prized public universities
Like his powerful backer and ally U.S. President Donald Trump Milei routinely attacks university campuses as bastions of woke indoctrination
Non-profits in disability sector receive low CSR funding, State allocation: Report
Palestinians say West Bank teen killed by Israeli fire
Four others were injured in the incident
Israeli drone strikes on vehicles in Lebanon kill 12, including 2 children
Lebanon and Israel are scheduled to hold another round of direct talks in Washington on Thursday
Karnataka SC/ST employees association objects to new roster
Jamiat Ulama Society pays fine on behalf of prisoner for his release
Ramesh S. Kalagurthi, who was serving his sentence at the prison, was unable to clear 18,000 fine amount due to severe financial hardship
Parambil has come under criticism on social media, particularly from sections in Malabar, over his perceived support for K.C. Venugopal as a chief ministerial contender
Government submits proposal for setting up five new medical colleges in Karnataka
BJP to launch campaign against reduction in reservation for STs, says Ashok
Visakhapatnam to adopt data-driven strategy for clean air and heat stress mitigation
