Iranian state media reported explosions along the strait in Qeshm and Bandar Abbas, where two people were reportedly injured
Why did the EU fine Google | Explained
European Union fined Google460 million for search abuses and 430 million forthe Play Store breaches
What the OpenAIHugging Face breach really tells us | Explained
An OpenAI system broke out of its test environment, got online, and attacked a rival platform; thats the headline; Claude is in the details
Ramayana trailer postponed as producer Namit Malhotra announces Sony Pictures as global distributor
Directed by Nitesh Tiwari, the film stars Ranbir Kapoor, Sai Pallavi, Sunny Deol, Yash and Ravi Dubey in pivotal roles
Odisha proposes radical reform in policy Nutan Sakala to curb trafficking of women, girls
Trafficking profile of the State raises concern as it has been recording highest number of human trafficking victims annually in India since 2021 with near-zero conviction rates in certain years
Sikkim green group announces save Teesta foot march
The Affected Citizens of Teesta group seeks a fresh Environmental Impact Assessment and Social Impact Assessment for all hydropower projects, including NHPCs Stage-VI, where 22 workers died in a tunnel on July 20
Protest held in Kolkata demanding Dharmendra Pradhans resignation
Cockroach Janata Party and other groups have called for rallies in Kolkata on Friday, July 24.
Supermicro Introduces New Server Portfolio with 6th Gen AMD EPYC 9006 Series CPUs, Delivering 1.7x Generational Performance Improvements
Manipur SIR: Search and download the list of deleted voters
Look up any of the 1,58,677 electors deleted from Manipur's 2026 draft SIR electoral rolls. Pick an Assembly constituency, then search by name, EPIC number, related person's name, or booth.
Here is a select list of stories to start the day
Telangana farmers caught between a dry spell and despair
Delayed rains, falling groundwater levels and the looming impact of El Nio have left thousands of farmers across Telangana anxiously watching the skies. While the State has rolled out a contingency plan urging a shift to less water-intensive crops, many cultivators have stayed with their traditional choices, hoping the monsoon will revive. As reservoirs run low and crop stress mounts, they remain caught between official advisories and age-old cropping patterns, reportK. Shiva ShankerandP. Laxma Reddy
Pre-poll promises, post-poll precarity
Launched in 2024 ahead of the Maharashtra Assembly election, theLadkiBahinscheme initially delivered a vital financial lifeline to farm widows in the mostly rain-starvedMarathwadaregion. But with the political dust settled, mass deletions of beneficiaries have abruptly turned that brief security into deep anxiety, findsRadheshyamJadhav
62,632 outstanding UCs of 92,132.75 crore were yet to be received by the Principal Accountant General (Accounts & Entitlements), Bihar as on March 31, 2025, said the CAG report under the title of Financial Reporting Practices, which was laid on the floor of the state assembly on July 23
Jantar Mantar protest LIVE: CJP delegation will meet with government Ministers today, says sources
CJP's peaceful protest at Jantar Mantar will continue until Dharmendra Pradhan resigns: CJP founder Abhijeet Dipke
Coast Guard arrests four arms smugglers off Sundarbans
The operation led to the recovery of a cache of illegal weapons and was executed inclose coordination withthe Sunderbans Forest Departmentand intelligenceagencies
Activist on hunger strike over Ken-Betwa river link project ends fast after 18 days
Mr. Bhatnagar of Jai Kisan Sangathan had been on a hunger strike for 18 days and was leading the protest, where several people from Chhatarpur and Panna districts had been demonstrating since July 4 against the 44,000-crore project of the Union Government by tying nooses around their necks and lying on makeshift pyres in the river in a symbolic protest
The war has had no clear mission, no strategy, no end goal, said Washington Rep. Pramila Jayapal, a Democrat who led the resolution on the House floor
U.S. slaps 10% tariffs on goods imported from India over issue forced labour
U.S. Trade Representative Jamieson Greer announced the new tariffs on 60 countries under Section 301 of the Trade Act on July 24, a day before the expiration of 10% additional levies on all countries
The controversy unfolded at 10-10 in the second game between Indias two top womens paddlers. As Chitale, with the Jaguars playing only for pride, tossed the ball up to serve, Mukherjee was heard calling TTR aloud in an attempt to seek a Table Tennis Review
Yonex-Sunrise All India Senior Ranking badminton tournament results
News from the world of Education: July 24, 2026
Information on admissions, scholarships, competitions for students, events for educators and more
Russia warns U.S. against Ukraine arms sales in Manila meeting
Mr. Lavrov and Rubio's meeting on the sidelines of a Southeast Asian summit, their first since September 2025, came as Washington's focus has switched from mediating in Ukraine to dealing with war in the West Asia
Warning signals for India from NATOs Ankara summit
Europes defence revival and commitments may create new challenges for Indias defence needs
Escalation trap: On the U.S. and the war with Iran
Trump should change course if he wants to end the war with Iran
Core upgrade: On the Index of Core Industries
The updated Index of Core Industries rounds out economic data upgrades
Three days since July 20 violence, Delhi Police, MHA yet to acknowledge police excesses
Eenesh, a resident of Chhattisgarh, who took part in the protest, refuted the police claim that protesters threw bricks at them
CPI criticises Kerala Chief Minister on Waqf issue
The reconstitution of the Board by including two non-Muslims had grown into a conflict issue between the Kerala Waqf Board and the State government
On reporting resistance and resilience
Protests and hunger strikes not only challenge the status quo and bring in change, they also transform the ones who resist
A hundred years ago | The Middle East vote
Governor emphasises need for coordination of tradition and technology
Governor of Karnataka Thawar Chand Gehlot has emphasised the need for coordinating heritage with modern technology so as to introduce and popularise Ayurveda at the global level
The ethics of the share button
In less than two decades, social media has transformed from a curiosity into the main street of public conversation. From villages in north Kashmir to the lanes of old Srinagar, a cheap smartphone and a data pack are now enough to access the world. This revolution has brought undeniable benefits: voices once ignored are now heard, injustices can be documented in real time, and information travels faster than any newspaper delivery. Yet, alongside these gains, a darker reality has emerged, one that demands an honest reckoning with our individual and collective responsibility online. The same platforms that connect families across continents are also being used to spread rumours, stoke communal tensions, and amplify half-truths. A single unverified post can travel through hundreds of groups in minutes, creating panic or hatred long before the facts are known. We have seen how morphed images, fake screenshots, and misleading captions can turn neighbours against each other and erode trust in institutions. In such a fragile environment, shrugging off responsibility with the excuse that I only forwarded it is no longer acceptable. Responsibility on social media must begin with the individual. Before hitting the share button, users must pause and ask simple questions: Is this credible? Is it sourced? Who benefits if this goes viral? Fact-checking cannot be left to journalists and authorities alone; it must become a daily habit for every citizen. Schools, colleges, and community leaders have a duty to promote digital literacy, teaching young users not just how to use platforms, but how to question what they see on them. Equally, the platforms themselves cannot hide behind algorithms and disclaimers. Global technology companies profit from our attention, our data, and our disagreements. They must invest more in local language moderation, transparent policies, and swift action against accounts that repeatedly spread hate and misinformation. Regulatory frameworks, too, must strike a careful balance, protecting free expression while holding bad actors accountable. Ultimately, social media is only a mirror of the society that uses it. If we choose outrage over dialogue, sensation over truth, and speed over accuracy, the mirror will only magnify our worst instincts. But if we treat every post as a public act with moral, legal, and social consequences, these same platforms can strengthen democracy rather than weaken it. In Kashmir and beyond, the responsibility is ours: to ensure that the tools meant to connect us do not end up dividing us further.
As the Jhelum rises once again, Kashmir is reminded of a vulnerability that has never truly left our collective memory. The Divisional Commissioners assurance that water levels are under close watch, with control rooms operating round the clock, is welcome. But institutional alertness alone cannot shoulder the burden of safety; it must be matched by informed and disciplined public behaviour. The administration has rightly urged people, especially those living near embankments, not to panic but to remain alert and heed official advisories. Panic is itself a kind of flood: it overwhelms reason, clogs critical channels of communication, and spreads faster than the waters we fear. At the same time, mere appeals to stay calm ring hollow unless they are accompanied by transparent, timely updates and visible ground action. Confidence is not commanded; it is earned. The activation of control rooms at divisional and district levels, and the designation of the Integrated Command and Control Centre (ICCC) helpline, are important steps. Yet their effectiveness depends on how reachable, responsive and coordinated they prove in an actual emergency. Authorities must ensure that every call is answered, every alert is verified, and every genuine grievance is acted upon without delay. A system that works only on paper is more dangerous than no system at all, because it breeds false security. For the public, this is a time to replace rumours with responsibility. Unverified social media forwards about breaches, evacuations or imminent floods can trigger chaos more rapidly than any official can contain. Citizens must rely on credible, official sources for information and resist the urge to amplify fear. Local community groups, masjid committees and mohalla networks can play a constructive role by relaying verified advisories, identifying vulnerable residents, and assisting in any organised evacuation if needed. The present situation also exposes a deeper question that cannot be deferred to the next crisis: what has really changed since 2014? Monitoring water levels and issuing advisories are reactive measures. True flood resilience demands sustained investment in embankment strengthening, drainage networks, wetland restoration and rigorous enforcement against encroachments on floodplains. Every year of complacency adds another inch to the height of our collective risk. Today, the message must be clear and balanced: there is no space for panic, but there is also no excuse for complacency. The administration must communicate with clarity and honesty; the public must respond with discipline and cooperation. The Jhelums rising waters are a test, not only of our infrastructure, but of our capacity to act as a responsible, informed society when it matters most.
Youth Must Not Become a Tool for Politics
India's youth are the nation's greatest strength. They are the architects of our future, the driving force behind innovation, and the foundation of a stronger and more prosperous India. Their energy and aspirations should be directed towards education, skill development, entrepreneurship, and nation-building, not towards becoming instruments of political agendas. The concerns raised by students over examination-related issues deserve to be heard with seriousness and sensitivity. Institutions must always remain transparent, accountable, and committed to protecting the interests of every deserving student. Wherever irregularities are alleged, they should be investigated fairly and corrective measures should be taken. At the same time, it is important to expose the double standards of the Congress party on this issue. We are firmly against paper leaks, and we have made every possible effort to curb them. But it is also a fact that during the Congress era, paper leak incidents surfaced repeatedly across several states. The scale of such malpractice was far greater then, and the youth suffered because of a system that lacked transparency and accountability. By bringing greater transparency into the process, we have been able to reduce this graph to a large extent. This progress, however, can only be sustained if the youth stand with truth and support reforms that strengthen the system. Unfortunately, Congress, in collusion with outside forces and driven by its own self-interest politics, is once again trying to misuse the emotions of young people. Instead of empowering students, it seeks to exploit them for political gain and create unrest for partisan objectives. Turning student concerns into prolonged political campaigns does little to serve the interests of young people. It risks diverting students from their education, careers, and aspirations while allowing political actors to exploit their emotions for partisan objectives. The Government of India has repeatedly assured students that their concerns will be addressed through institutional mechanisms and dialogue. It is important to strengthen confidence in these constitutional and legal processes rather than encouraging continuous political confrontation. India today is making significant progress in infrastructure, technology, innovation, defence, and economic growth. Such progress naturally attracts global attention, and India also faces security challenges from hostile elements that seek to exploit social divisions and public unrest. For this reason, all stakeholders must exercise responsibility and ensure that legitimate public concerns are not allowed to become opportunities for forces that wish to undermine peace, stability, and national unity. Young people should remain vigilant against attempts by any political group or vested interest to use them as instruments for short-term political gains. The future of our nation depends on educated, empowered, and confident youth, not on youth caught in cycles of political confrontation. I appeal to the youth of India to stay focused on their dreams, their education, and their careers. Raise your voice peacefully, seek justice through democratic institutions, and never allow anyone to misuse your aspirations for political purposes. Your future is too valuable to become a battleground for partisan politics. The youth of India are not political tools; they are the builders of a developed, secure, and self-reliant India. (The Author is State Spokesperson, BJP, Jammu & Kashmir-UT)
PM Modi promises 'more strict actions against paper leaks' amid CJP protests
In a self-recorded video shared on X, the Prime Minister announced that the Union Cabinet will take up a draft Bill providing for Fast-Track Courts and stringent punishment for offenders. he said, I have issued directions to departments to set up Fast-Track Courts
Indias Digital Health BackboneABDM
More than 104 crore health records so far have been linked with ABHA, through the Ayushman Bharat Digital Mission (ABDM), which the government calls one of the largest health programmes in the world. The agenda behind this health account is to connect a patient's health history with doctors, hospitals, and insurers on one network. Considering the advancing global standards of healthcare infrastructure, India is also moving away from traditional paper records and making it easier for citizens to reach healthcare. Ever since the ABDM started across the country, in 2021, it has grown as an ecosystem that links patients, hospitals, labs, and insurers together. One part of this system is Aarogya Setu 2.0. The app that began during COVID-19 as a contact tracing tool, which has now become a health app under ABDM. Launched in June 2026, by Union Health Minister Jagat Prakash Nadda. By virtue of this app, citizens are creating their ABHA ID, managing their health records, and registering at hospitals by scanning a code. It also has a feature called Smart Reports, which uses OCR technology to read documents. Patients using this app are checking their insurance details through NHCX, it has an option to find nearby hospitals, and even see blood availability through e-RaktKosh. The app also allows individuals to book doctor visits and track health data from wearable devices. Another service under ABDM is National Health Authoritys Scan and Share, which started in 2022. A study conducted by the Indian Institute of Health Management Research found that this mobile service has significantly streamlined outpatient registration by leveraging mobile technology and QR codes. The study further stated the patients are simply scanning a QR code at a hospital, and their details are pulled from their ABHA account. This creates a digital token in the queue. Henceforth, the waiting time dropped from around one hour to just 2 to 5 minutes, the study added. Official estimates are suggesting that more than 23.21 crore tokens have been issued as of June 2026. While the government is facilitating more and more hospitals as well as private clinics to join in this mission through the Digital Health Incentive Scheme. However, the hook is that any facility that wants to join will get money reimbursed for digitising their records, and they also get cash incentives for each record they link. The latest reports mention that as much as INR 107 crore has been given to different hospitals for digitizing. Similarly, labs and pharmacies have received INR 2.95 crore, and digital solution companies have been offered about INR 26 crore. Like many others Dr Praveen Sikka, who runs a pharmacy in Gurugram became a beneficiary of this scheme recently. Sikka registered on ABDM in about 2 hours. Now his patients are storing and viewing their records through the ABHA app, and his pharmacy earns money for every record it links. For smaller clinics, to reap benefits out of this mission, the government has built a tool called eSushrut@Clinic. Made for Development of Advanced Computing and launched last month. It helps clinics handle patient registration, billing, and reports. Only verified doctors and facilities can use it, checked through the Healthcare Professionals Registry and Health Facility Registry. As the statistics show that more than 2200 facilities have joined and created over 1633 health records. These records also connect with the National Health Claims Exchange, or NHCX, which handles insurance claims. This should make claims move faster, cut hospital paperwork, and let patients see their benefits and medical history in one place. Doctors can also see a patient's past treatment, with the patient's consent, which can cut down on repeated tests. The Unified Health Interface (UHI), lets any patient using a UHI app connect with any verified hospital or doctor, even if they use different platforms. Right now, it covers five services: (1)finding blood banks, (2)searching hospitals under PM Jan Arogya Yojana, (3)finding Jan Aushadhi Kendra stores for cheaper medicines, (4)booking ambulances, and (5)booking doctor visits. On privacy note, the data imported stays with whoever creates it, such as the hospital or lab. There is no single government server holding everything. Records move only when the patient agrees. New apps must pass tests in a sandbox and go through a security check before they can connect. In February 2026, the government started two programmes for AI in health: SAHI and BODH, at the India AI Impact Summit. SAHI sets rules for how AI should be used in healthcare. BODH lets developers train AI models without seeing raw patient data. As a large percentage of records are getting linked to ABHA accounts with each passing day, ABDM is destined to achieve the goal of a digital health record for every person across the country. (Courtesy: PIB Srinagar)
All roads continue to lead to Jantar Mantar
Students see familiar playbook as DU, colleges endorse govt. action
Shops, eating joints in CP close early, count losses
India-UK Free Trade Agreement: What's Missing From India's 'Most Ambitious' Trade Deal?
MAHIMA KATAL The IndiaUnited Kingdom Comprehensive Economic and Trade Agreement (CETA), which came into force on July 15, has been hailed by both governments as a landmark in bilateral relations. Prime Minister Narendra Modi described it as a significant moment that would deepen economic ties, while UK Prime Minister Keir Starmer earlier called it the beginning of a new era for trade and the economy. Union Commerce Minister Piyush Goyal has projected the agreement as transformational, highlighting duty-free access for nearly 99 per cent of India's exports, expanded opportunities for farmers, MSMEs and service providers, and relief for Indian professionals through a parallel Social Security Agreement. On paper, the deal is among India's most ambitious free trade agreements with a developed economy. It covers almost the entire trade basket, opens new avenues for services and mobility, lowers tariffs across hundreds of products and signals India's willingness to engage more deeply with advanced economies after years of cautious trade negotiations. Yet, like every major trade agreement, the real story lies not only in what has been includedbut also in what has been deliberately left out. A Trade Agreement, Not a Comprehensive Economic Partnership Despite its broad scope, CETA does not attempt to solve every challenge in India-UK economic relations. Several politically sensitive sectors remain protected. India has excluded products such as fresh apples, walnuts, certain dairy products, seeds, smartphones and gold bars from tariff concessions. The United Kingdom has similarly protected products including rice, sugar, eggs and several meat products. These exclusions reflect a familiar reality in international trade negotiations: free trade agreements rarely eliminate all trade barriers. Domestic political considerations continue to shape market access. Limited Agricultural Liberalisation Government statements have emphasised duty-free access for agricultural exports. However, the agreement stops short of creating a completely open agricultural market. Sensitive commoditiesincluding rice, sugar, poultry, pork and eggsremain outside the tariff liberalisation framework. For India, this protects domestic producers from import competition. For UK exporters, it limits market access in sectors where political sensitivities remain high. The result is an agreement that expands opportunities without fundamentally reshaping agricultural trade. No Major Shift in Pharmaceutical Intellectual Property One of the most closely watched aspects of any agreement involving a developed economy is intellectual property protection. In previous negotiations, developed countries have often sought stronger patent protections, patent-term extensions and pharmaceutical data exclusivity. India resisted those demands. Under CETA, India has not accepted patent-term extensions or pharmaceutical data exclusivity. Equally significant, compulsory licensing, a critical public health safeguard allowing governments to authorise production of patented medicines during emergencies, remains intact. For India's pharmaceutical industry, this represents continuity rather than change. Services Liberalisation Remains Selective India's comparative advantage lies in services rather than manufacturing. While CETA expands opportunities for IT professionals, consultants, educators, financial service providers and certain skilled workers, it falls well short of providing unrestricted labour mobility. The agreement creates quotas for chefs, yoga instructors and classical musicians and exempts temporary Indian workers from UK National Insurance contributions for up to five years. However, immigration policy remains firmly under British domestic control. Indian professionals will continue to require visas, satisfy licensing requirements and comply with UK immigration rules. In other words, the agreement facilitates movementbut does not guarantee it. Government Procurement Opens Only One Way One of the agreement's more notable provisions allows UK firms access to approximately 40,000 high-value central government procurement contracts in India. While this reflects India's willingness to open parts of its procurement market, questions remain about reciprocal opportunities. Indian companies continue to face practical barriers in bidding for government contracts abroad, particularly in areas where procurement policies remain influenced by domestic industrial priorities. Whether Indian firms derive comparable benefits will depend on implementation rather than treaty language alone. Climate and Sustainability Receive Limited Attention Modern trade agreements increasingly incorporate climate commitments, carbon adjustment mechanisms and sustainability obligations. CETA contains cooperation provisions but stops short of establishing robust environmental enforcement mechanisms. This omission may become increasingly relevant as carbon border adjustment measures and green industrial policies reshape international trade. Indian exporters may still need to independently comply with evolving environmental standards imposed by developed markets. Rules of Origin Could Become the Real Challenge The agreement promises duty-free market access for almost all Indian exports. Yet preferential tariffs are not automatic. Exporters must satisfy detailed Rules of Origin requirements demonstrating that products genuinely originate in India rather than merely passing through the country. For large exporters with established compliance systems, this may be manageable. For MSMEs: the very businesses the agreement seeks to empower, documentation, certification and compliance costs could become significant hurdles. The value of tariff concessions ultimately depends on whether businesses can actually utilise them. Tariff Reduction Does Not Guarantee Export Growth The agreement has generated considerable optimism around exports. But trade economists caution that lower tariffs alone do not ensure greater competitiveness. Indian exporters must still overcome challenges including logistics costs, infrastructure constraints, quality certification, regulatory compliance and supply chain efficiency. Without addressing these structural issues, preferential tariffs may not translate into proportional export growth. The experience of several earlier free trade agreements suggests that utilisation rates often remain below expectations, particularly among smaller firms unfamiliar with complex trade documentation. The Steel Question Remains Even as CETA enters into force, uncertainty persists in one important sector. The United Kingdom has introduced a stricter steel import regime that could affect Indian steel exports despite the broader trade agreement. This illustrates an important limitation of FTAs. Trade agreements reduce tariffs, but they do not eliminate all non-tariff barriers, safeguard measures or domestic regulatory actions. Consumer Gains Will Be Gradual Indian consumers are expected to benefit from lower prices on products such as Scotch whisky, premium automobiles, cosmetics, chocolates and certain imported goods. However, many tariff reductions will occur gradually over five to ten years rather than immediately. For example, duties on Scotch whisky will decline in phases, while tariffs on fully built UK vehicles will reduce over several years under quota-based arrangements. The headline numbers therefore mask a phased implementation process. A Strategic Signal Beyond the UK Perhaps CETA's greatest significance lies beyond bilateral trade. The agreement signals a broader shift in India's trade policy. After years of scepticism towards large trade blocs, including its decision to stay out of the Regional Comprehensive Economic Partnership (RCEP), India has increasingly pursued bilateral agreements with strategic partners such as the UAE, Australia, EFTA and now the United Kingdom. In that sense, CETA serves as a template for future negotiations with the European Union and potentially other developed economies. The IndiaUK Free Trade Agreement is undoubtedly one of India's most consequential trade agreements in recent years. It expands market access, strengthens services cooperation, reduces tariffs across thousands of products and provides meaningful benefits for many exporters and professionals. Yet it is not a comprehensive solution to every trade challenge. Sensitive sectors remain protected. Labour mobility remains limited. Environmental provisions are modest. Compliance burdens persist. Market access will depend as much on businesses' ability to navigate rules of origin, certification and regulatory requirements as on the treaty itself. The agreement marks the beginning of a new phase in India-UK economic relations, not the conclusion of it. Whether it ultimately delivers on its promise will depend less on the text of the agreement and more on how effectively governments, exporters and industries implement it over the coming decade.
Beyond Singular Meaning: New Horizons of Society and Education
DR SURENDRA KUMAR An informed introspection about the contemporary world clarifies that increasing disconnect between existence and human beings is a new norm largely considered an inevitable outcome emerged from the processes of modernisation. Ironically, this disconnect manifests continuously in so many ways, such as genocides/ brutality witnessed in day-to-day public as well as personal life, etc., but hardly these issues perturb human beings. How do we analyse human-made hot weather leading to forest fires burning 13.5 million hectares of forest across the world in 2024? The NDTV reported on 20/7/26 that the Uttarakhand Govt put a break on the proposed felling of around 3000 trees for the Rishikesh- Bhaniyawala four-lane project; obviously, the resistance of people ensured that the awakened CM realised heat leading to hold on the proposal. It raises a very pertinent issue. Why and how does education fail us to get connected and learn from what is happening in our surroundings? Have we not seen how paper leaks and issues of corruption are products of educated human beings? Have we not seen failure to empathise with students protesting for basic rights? Have we not witnessed what has happened to life in cities where human beings have established total conquest over nature? Are the educated people not participants in this conquest-oriented mindset that has deprived cities from providing pure air, clean water and accommodation to not only human beings but also all living beings? Why do the educated people accept the legitimacy of emerging fragmented consciousness generated out of these excluded spaces of cities? It is crystal clear that human beings have entered into a phase defined by not only conflict with nature and others, but also the human being is in conflict with himself/herself? It raises another question: who will save this human being situated in conflict with himself /herself, and which processes led to the emergence of this human being shaped by fragmented consciousness? Historically, the perspective which shaped the worldview of Modern human beings can be classified as Singular. No doubt, the spaces created by educational institutions in the modern period aimed to surpass limitations imposed by structures inhabited by human beings and facilitate coordination and communication among teachers as well as students as an associated way of life. Unfortunately, this aim has been negotiated differently in different countries; at the same time, pedagogy has overwhelmingly remained rooted in the singular meaning of words and concepts, leading to disconnection from emerging reality across time and space. The education rooted in a paradigm disconnected from reality is largely a Banking Model of Education argued by Paulo Freire in the book Pedagogy of the Oppressed. He raises a very valid issue that the school students raise more questions outside the school rather than inside the school; whether this conformity of education or Conceptualisation of Education as Training is a product of disconnected curriculum or disconnected educator, or narrowing down education as the Text based knowledge. Have we not read how the Guardian newspaper described the Dark side of Coaching Capital Kota ( 9/10/23) or the BBC reported cases of suicides ( 22/10/23) or the Indian Express stated Rajasthans Kota: the Killer Coaching Hub? It indicates that the proposition that education training has been falsified and new ways of conceptualisation of education, human beings and existence is crucial for meaningful existence. Pondering the question of what is education and what has to be educated, the point of departure is how human beings and education were conceptualised in World societies prior to 1492 and in countries premised on co-existence after 1492. Unlike the linearity of time/Primacy of Mind imposed since 1492 as the foundation of a conquest-oriented mindset, Time has existed in both linear and non-linear manner. Human beings engaged in issues of public life and personal life face an overlap of this notion of time; for example, a person is in a linear mode of time when engaged in office work; at the same time, he/she is in a non-linear mode of time when engaged in caring for family members or empathising with anybody in need at the office or outside the office. If the mind is the sole site of getting educated and text is the only source of education, how do we explain the timeless wisdom emerging out of nature, forests, Religious sites, and various elements of our existence? How do we resolve a contradiction when a person of 60 years makes a decision that may be legitimate at the age of 20 years? What corrupts an educated human being? Contrary to monolithic analysis of human beings in binary of mind & matter, A deeper analysis of human being shows that human being is a complex living being existing at the level of public, personal/family and cosmological level as well as corresponding to the surroundings at the level of body, mind and element beyond body & mind/soul conceptualised in Indic Traditions and argued by Giani Sant Singh Ji Maskeen. The crisis underlines the contradictory nature of the relationship between the evolution of body and mind. Biologically, the body expands and shrinks, but the mind/desires do not necessarily mature in the same manner as the body. Truly, the three-dimensional aspect of human beings shows that any monolithic process of education cannot educate a human being. It proves that the text, the space inhabited by human beings and the experience of interaction with existence are the most important constituent elements of the education process; human beings are educated continuously at every interaction with existence. Hence, these processes of education need to be appropriated and accommodated at every step of human beings, both at formal as well as informal levels. In other words, the process of life itself is educational, and the essence of this education is communication across spaces inhabited by Text, Classroom, Campus, society and the entire existence inhabited by non-human beings. A life lived at the level of public/society, family and cosmological level must be a shared and communicated life. In fact, John Dewey argued that there is a relation between three words: common, community and communication and the proximity of people becomes a community if it has commonality in aims, aspirations and goals of life. This commonality of goals, aims, and aspirations changes across time and space, and therefore, words acquire multiple meanings over a period of time. If education and society correspond to these overlapping meanings acquired by words and concepts, it is always rooted in reality and becomes a problem-posing education, enlightening and situating human beings beyond the singular perspective. Therefore, New Horizons of education and society must be rooted in reality and taking into consideration, beyond the singular perspective, along with classroom and text-based learning, the totality of knowledge and discourse that emerged in the processes of evolution of human beings in the space inhabited by existence. (The author is Associate Professor, University of Delhi. Email: humanrights_jnu@yahoo.co.in)
Kashmirs traditional Wagoo weaves a comeback, gets modern makeover
Srinagar, Jul 23: For generations, the golden strands of Wagoo, a traditional grass harvested from the waters of Dal Lake, were woven into mats that adorned almost every Kashmiri home. Once an inseparable part of the Valley's cultural identity, the craft gradually slipped into decline as synthetic matting and foam products replaced the handmade tradition, leaving hundreds of artisan families without a stable livelihood. Today, however, a quiet revival is taking shape along the shores of Dal Lake, where tradition is meeting innovation. Young artisans, guided by contemporary design ideas, are transforming Wagoo into a range of modern lifestyle products, giving the centuries-old craft a new lease of life. For many artisan families, the decline of Wagoo was more than the disappearance of a craft; it was the loss of their primary source of income. As demand for handmade mats declined, many craftsmen were forced to abandon weaving and take up daily wage labour to support their families. Recognising both the cultural and economic value of the craft, the Handloom and Handicrafts Department, in collaboration with the National Institute of Fashion Technology (NIFT) Kashmir, initiated a design intervention programme aimed at reviving Wagoo through innovation. Instead of limiting the material to traditional mats, artisans were trained to create contemporary home dcor and lifestyle products, including curtains, window blinds, table runners, tea coasters, decorative showpieces, flower vases, gift items and other handcrafted products. The initiative has opened new possibilities for local artisans, allowing them to cater not only to domestic buyers but also to tourists and international markets. We always wondered what could be done to save this craft, said one artisan. When the designer came and trained us, we realised that the same Wagoo could be turned into many modern products. Now it is no longer limited to mats. This development has given us hope that we can once again earn a respectable livelihood. Artisans say the biggest challenge remains attracting the younger generation. Traditional Wagoo weaving is highly time-consuming and often fails to provide returnsthat matchthe labour involved. As a result, many youngsters have chosen different professions. However, the introduction of modern product designs is slowly changing perceptions. Among those embracing the revival is Ifra Zehra, a Class 12 student from Mir Behri on the banks of Dal Lake. I am studying in Class 12, and alongside my education I am learning this craft, she said. I want to continue my studies while also mastering this work so that I can become self-reliant and create employment opportunities for other girls as well. Recalling her family's history, Ifra said her grandfather often spoke about the days when Wagoo weaving sustained the entire household. My grandfather told me that our family depended on this craft for generations. But when people shifted to synthetic matting, there was no work left, and many artisans had to leave the profession and work as labourers. I want this tradition to survive, she said. The revival has also been driven by designer Piyusha Patwardhan, an architect and product designer known for handcrafted sculptures, lighting and interior installations. Speaking about the initiative, Patwardhan said she was invited by NIFT Kashmir and the Handloom and Handicrafts Department to explore ways of making the traditional craft relevant for contemporary markets. For fifteen days, we worked closely with local artisans, she said. The objective was not to change the craft itself, but to give artisans a new perspective on how the same material can be transformed into products that appeal to modern consumers. She explained that the project combines Wagoo with Peacx, a water weed found in Dal Lake, to develop innovative handcrafted products suitable for interior dcor and sustainable design. Piyusha highlighted the natural qualities of Wagoo, saying the material offers excellent insulation, remains comfortable underfoot and blocks cold from below. These properties make it suitable not only for traditional mats but also for acoustic wall panels, ceiling elements and insulated interior products, she said. The designer believes that showcasing these products at interior design exhibitions and platforms such as Bharat Tex can create national and international demand. Wagoo is a sustainable material, and sustainability is the future. If we build the right market, this traditional craft can once again become a dependable source of livelihood for artisan families,Patwardhan added. As Dal Lake continues to nurture the grass that has sustained generations, the revival of Wagoo reflects more than the preservation of a traditional craft. It represents a renewed hope that innovation, combined with heritage, can create opportunities for Kashmir's artisans while ensuring that an age-old legacy continues to flourish for generations to come.
Rockstar helped me understand Kashmir, its people: Imtiaz Ali
Srinagar, Jul 23: Acclaimed filmmaker Imtiaz Ali enthralled a packed audience on the sixth day of the Chinar Book Festival on Thursday, offering rare insights into the creative, philosophical and spiritual influences that have shaped his life and some of Indian cinema's most celebrated films and songs. Reflecting on the role of spirituality in his personal and professional journey, Imtiaz said his upbringing played a defining role in shaping his worldview. My home was always filled with spiritual conversations, devotional music, Sufi kalaams and bhajans. Growing up in India also meant learning from the diverse spiritual traditions of the people around me. These influences naturally found their way into my films, he said. One of the highlights of the session came when the filmmaker shared the story behind Kun FayaKun,the iconic song from his 2011 film Rockstar. He revealed that the song drew inspiration from multiple spiritual traditions, including the Quran, the Rig Veda and the teachings of several saints and mystics. Recalling his school days, Ali said hehadborrowed Jawaharlal Nehrus The Discovery of India from his school library, where he first encountered the Nasadiya Sukta (Hymn of Creation) from the Rig Veda. One line completely mesmerised me: Then even nothingness was not, nor existence. I could not move beyond that sentence. Its philosophical depth stayed with me for decades and eventually inspired the opening lines of Kun Faya Kun, he said. The filmmaker also reminisced about shooting Rockstar in Kashmir, recalling the warmth and generosity extended by the people of the Valley during filming in Srinagar, Aru and Chandanwari. Sharing a little-known anecdote, he revealed that the traditional Kashmiri jewellery and attire worn by actor Nargis Fakhri during the wedding sequence in Rockstar belonged to Dr Amit Wanchoos mother. During an interactive question-and-answer session with students, Imtiaz described filmmaking as a lifelong journey of learning and exploration. Every film teaches you something new. Rockstar helped me understand different facets of Kashmir, its people and its traditions. Later, Laila Majnu gave opportunities to many Kashmiri actors, musicians and technicians, proving that regional talent can flourish in mainstream cinema, the filmmaker said. Encouraging young people to pursue creative careers with sincerity, Imtiaz Ali advised them not to be driven by the glamour associated with the film industry. Choose a creative profession only if you truly believe in it. Unlike many conventional careers, creative fields demand resilience and the courage to begin afresh with every project, he said. He also urged aspiring artists to remain authentic to their own experiences rather than believing that suffering alone produces meaningful art. You dont have to search for pain to create good art. Be truthful to your own experiences and emotions that honesty is what ultimately resonates, he said. Praising the younger generation, Imtiaz said he was encouraged by their desire to create meaningful change. I find today's youth more environmentally conscious, socially aware and eager to pursue work that creates value not just for themselves but also for society, he said. The session concluded with prolonged applause as students and cinema lovers interacted with the filmmaker, making it one of the most engaging and memorable events of this year's Chinar Book Festival.
July surprise: Fresh snowfall blankets Ladakhs high passes
Leh, Jul 23: In a rare weather event during the peak summer season, fresh snowfall was recorded at the high-altitude Wari La, Khardung La and Pensi La passes in Ladakh on Thursday, bringing a sharp drop in temperatures and transforming the region's higher reaches into a winter-like landscape. The snowfall followed several days of persistent rainfall across Jammu and Kashmir and Ladakh, with the higher elevations receiving fresh snow. The sudden weather reversal reduced visibility and made roads slippery, prompting authorities to advise motorists to exercise extreme caution while travelling through the mountain passes. The prevailing wet weather has also disrupted normal movement on several routes, with road clearance teams remaining on alert. July is generally regarded as one of the warmest months in Ladakh. However, the ongoing spell of rain and snowfall has led to a significant decline in day temperatures, creating unusually cold conditions across several parts of the Union Territory. Lieutenant Governor Ladakh Vinai Kumar Saxena said the region is witnessing unprecedented rainfall and inclement weather,resulting in the closure of several major roads and causinginconvenience to residents and travellers. I personally assessed the ground situation while returning to Leh from Nubra Valley. The impact on our infrastructure and connectivity is significant, and we are treating this with the utmost urgency, he said. The LG said the UT administration and the Union Territory Disaster Relief Force (UTDRF) have been directed to mobilise all available resources to minimise damage, clear blocked roads, and provide immediate rescue and relief to stranded people. The agencies are working on a war footing to prevent disasters and restore connectivity, he said. Officials said intermittent rain and snowfall may continue over the higher reaches if the current weather system persists. Authorities have urged tourists, transport operators and local residents to monitor weather updates, avoid unnecessary travel during adverse conditions, and strictly follow official advisories to ensure their safety.
ASCEND 2026 Startup Summit : Govt will continue backing startups: CM Omar
Srinagar, Jul 23: Chief Minister Omar Abdullah on Thursday reaffirmed the governments unwavering commitment to strengthening Jammu and Kashmirs startup ecosystem, assuring young entrepreneurs of sustained support to transform innovative ideas into successful enterprises. Addressing the ASCEND 2026 Startup Summit at SKICC, organised by the Jammu and Kashmir Entrepreneurship Development Institute (JKEDI), the Chief Minister described the two-day summit as a vibrant platform where ideas, innovation, investment, mentorship and government policy converge to foster entrepreneurship and accelerate economic growth in Jammu and Kashmir. Acknowledging that governments are traditionally cautious about investing in ventures without guaranteed outcomes, Abdullahsaid thatbuilding a robust startup ecosystem requires a fundamental shift in approach.If we fund 10 startups, possibly eight will not succeed. But the two that do succeed will more than make up for the eight that failed, he said. Reiterating the governments commitment, the CM said it was prepared to take that risk.We are not afraid to fail. The only thing we are afraid of is not putting enough support behind all of you, he said, adding that the government would do everything possible to strengthen both the startup culture and the ecosystem that sustains it. On the occasion, the Chief Minister distributed seed fund cheques ofRs 5 lakh each to seven startups to support their entrepreneurial ventures. Highlighting the innovative spirit of Jammu and Kashmirs youth, Omar said he draws hope from the practical, ground-level solutionsbeing developed by young entrepreneursto address everyday challenges. He cited innovations ranging from sensor-based systems that prevent water pipes from freezing during winter to digitally connected water-usage meters designed to curb wastage, as well as hailstorm protection nets, carbon monoxide detectors and automatic gas regulator shut-off devices. ASCEND 2026 is about telling our youngsters that no idea is a bad idea. Every idea has potential; it simply needs refinement, the Chief Minister said, adding that promising concepts should be nurtured until they are ready to attract venture capital investment. Noting that Jammu and Kashmir currently has around 1,300 to 1,400 registered startups, he expressed confidence that the number would doubleand double againby the time ASCEND 2027 is held. Referring to a local solar energy entrepreneur as an example, the Chief Minister said timely support to promising startups can help create many more success stories from Jammu and Kashmir. He expressed confidence that ASCEND 2026 would become the launchpad for some of Jammu and Kashmirs future unicorns. CM Abdullah appreciated the young entrepreneurs who showcased their innovations at the exhibition and thanked the delegates and industry experts from outside Jammu and Kashmir for sharing their expertise and supporting the regions growing startup ecosystem. He launched the Junior Level Idea Challenge 2026 for the Under-18 school category, Startup Idea Challenge 2.0 for college and university students, the Compendium of Business Opportunities in J&K, the Himalayan Journal, and the Startup Coffee Table Book. Earlier, in his welcome address, Commissioner Secretary, Industries and Commerce Department, Vikramjeet Singh, thanked participants from across the country for attending the summit, saying their presence reflected growing confidence in Jammu and Kashmirs entrepreneurial ecosystem. He said Jammu and Kashmirs startup ecosystem has witnessed remarkable growth, with a significant increase in registered startups and MSME registrations, while the government continues to improve the ease of doing business and expand opportunities for entrepreneurs. Describing Jammu and Kashmir as a frontier market with immense potential across multiple sectors, he said investors undertaking due diligence stand to reap substantial returns. Sharing his views, MLA Pampore Hasnain Masoodi described unemployment as a major challenge and stressed the need to promote entrepreneurship as a means of generating employment. He urged young entrepreneurs to persevere despite challenges, called for simplifying procedures to encourage innovation, and appreciated JKEDIs role in nurturing startups and strengthening the entrepreneurial ecosystem in Jammu and Kashmir. In his address, Director JKEDI, Mohammad Younis Malik, said ASCEND 2026 is more than just a summit and reflects the aspirations of the people of Jammu and Kashmir. He expressed confidence that the event would open new avenues for the startup ecosystem and pave the way for meaningful collaborations in the years ahead.
Sonam Wangchuk has broken his fast, says co-convenor Leh Apex Body
He broke the fast in the presence of two Union Ministers on certain conditions, he says; Govt gave a written assurance that cases against students will be taken back, if they are not violent, Mr. Dorjay says
Students urged to explore new ways of acquiring knowledge
Flood threat looms as Jhelum crosses alert mark
Srinagar, Jul 23: The flood threatlooms across the Valley and at several places in the Jammu division as the water level in the river Jhelum and other water bodies crossed the flood alert mark, prompting the government to keep itsmenand machinery ready to tackle any emerging situation. Kashmir's lifeline, the Jhelum, was flowing above the flood declaration mark at Pampore and Ram Munshi Bagh by 9:00 pm, while the Sheshnag Nallah in Pahalgam was flowing above the danger mark. According to details, the ongoing wet spell in Jammu and Kashmir has increased the water level in various water bodies. The water was flowing above the flood alert mark in the Chenab river as well, and families living close to the water body have been evacuated to safer places. Officials saidthat the SDRF hasevacuated four to five families living near riverbanks and continued round-the-clock patrolling. An advisory was also issued, asking people to stay away from rivers and streams. As the water crossed the flood alert mark, the Irrigation and Flood Control (I&FC) Department issued an advisory to the public, asking them not to venture near water bodies. It was statedthat thewater levels at the Sangam and Ram Munshibagh monitoring stations are expected to reach the warning level shortly. The Chief Engineer of the I&FC Department, Kashmir, Showkat Hussain, directed all officers and officials from other departments of South and Central Kashmir assigned to flood duty to report to their respective duty locations without delay. Rainfall continued at multiple places across J&K, with south Kashmir witnessing moderate rainfall intermittently throughout the day, while the intensity declined in Srinagar and other adjacent areas. Moderate rainfall was also witnessed in the Chenab valley and a few places in the Pir Panjal Range. Significant rainfall of 119.5 mm was recorded at Reasi in the past 24 hours (till 8:30 AM), followed by Samba with 97.4 mm. Jammu recorded 60.6 mm, Gulmarg 39 mm, Batote 60.4 mm, Baramulla 30.5 mm, Rajouri 32.6 mm, Ramban 71.5 mm, Pahalgam 60.2 mm, Kokernag 47.9 mm, Qazigund 73.3 mm, and Srinagar 15.6 mm. Moreover,during the period between 8:30 am and 5:30 pm, Srinagar recorded 0.5 mm of rainfall,while Qazigund recorded 20.2 mm, Pahalgam (7.4 mm), Kokernag (18.8 mm), and Gulmarg (10.6 mm) in the Kashmir division. In the Jammu division, Batote station witnessed the highest precipitation of 53.9 mm during this period, while Jammu recorded 8.2 mm, Banihal (20.6 mm), Katra (9.2 mm), and Bhaderwah (48.2 mm). Meanwhile, the rains brought the mercury further down, with maximum temperatures continuing to settle below normal at multiple places. Srinagar recorded a day temperature of 21.6C, Qazigund (19.5C), Pahalgam (17.5C), Gulmarg (16.6C), Jammu (28.4C), Banihal (20.2C), Batote (19.9C), Katra (25.6C), and Bhaderwah (19.1C). Director of the Meteorological Department (MeT), Dr. Mukhtar Ahmad, in a detailed forecast, said that a spell of light to moderate rain is expected at many places during the early morning and may intermittently continuetillthe afternoon of July 24, improving thereafter. Ahmad further said that a spell of rain and thundershower is expected at scattered places, with brief intense showers at a few places in the Jammu division from July 25 to July 27. He added that a fresh spell of moderate to heavy showers is most likely to occur in the Jammu division from July 28 to July 30. An advisory has been issued by the MeT, stating that there is a possibility of moderate to heavy rain and brief intense heavy showers in a few districts of south Kashmir and a few districts of the Jammu division during July 23 and July 24. It reads that there is a possibility of flash floods, landslides, and mudslides in a few vulnerable places, while a rise in water levels in rivers and tributaries is expected during the next 12 hours, with a gradual decrease thereafter.
NHAI begins demolishing encroachments on service lanes of Chennai-Bengaluru Highway in Vellore
VijaysJanaNayaganhits the screens across State; cinemas see good footfall
Cinema owners in the southern districts report a noticeable increase in womenturning up for first day shows. For Friday, most cinemas in Chennai say occupancy levels are around 70%-75%
Protests over NEET paper leak intensify nationwide
Student outfits, civil society groups, and political parties hit the streets demanding resignation of Union Education Minister Dharmendra Pradhan; protest marches turn confrontational in several districts of Kerala; police stop protesters in A.P.; security personnel resort to baton-charge in Bihar
Singai Ramachandran quits AIADMK; Velumani, Viswanathan absent at meeting chaired by Palaniswami
World Hepatitis Day webinar to be held on July 27
Experts will discuss causes, transmission, prevention, early detection and advances in treatment, while addressing common misconceptions about viral hepatitis
Ganderbal advocate clears prestigious All India Bar Examination
Ganderbal, July 23: Bringing laurels to Ganderbal district, young advocate Anurag Verma qualified the prestigious All India Bar Examination (AIBE), a milestone that grants advocates the right to practice law across courts in India. Speaking after his success, Anurag Verma described the AIBE as one of the most important examinations for every law graduate in the country. He said that around 1.75 lakh candidates appeared for the examination, of whom nearly 1.10 lakh qualified. Passing the examination is mandatory for advocates to obtain a Certificate of Practice, enabling them to appear before courts across India. Explaining the significance of the examination, Verma said that after completing a law degree, advocates initially receive a provisional licence from their respective State Bar Council. However, to continue practising independently and across different states, qualifying the AIBE is essential. He said the examination is an open-book, multiple-choice (MCQ) test that requires a strong understanding of constitutional provisions, legal sections, landmark judgments and various statutes. Despite access to legal books during the examination, he noted that success depends on conceptual clarity rather than simply referring to books. Verma said he had confidence in clearing the examination because of his consistent legal studies and practical understanding of the subject. He recalled learning about his result while attending a seminar, after which he immediately shared the good news with his family. Reflecting on his career choice, Verma revealed that he had initially aspired to join the civil services. However, during his internship in the courts, he realised that the legal profession offered him a greater opportunity to serve society by protecting the rights of ordinary citizens. Our duty as lawyers is not to determine whether a client is guilty or innocent. That responsibility lies with the courts. Our role is to ensure that every individual receives a fair legal defence and that no one's constitutional or legal rights are violated, he said. Verma expressed concern over the limited legal awareness among people in Jammu and Kashmir. He observed that many citizens often accept administrative decisions without knowing that they have legal remedies available through the judiciary. He urged people to approach lawyers whenever they believe their rights have been infringed instead of silently enduring injustice. Citing issues such as delays in passport verification and other administrative matters, he said many problems can be resolved through proper legal consultation. Our vision is to educate people about their legal rights and make legal awareness more accessible across Kashmir. A well-informed society is essential for ensuring justice and protecting individual freedoms, he added. Verma's father, Sanjay Verma who runs a private school congratulated his son on the achievement and shared an emotional message for parents. He recalled that Anurag had earlier qualified both NEET and JEE, but later chose to pursue law despite expectations of entering the medical profession. Admitting that he had initially encouraged his son towards medicine, Sanjay Verma said he now believes parents should allow children to pursue careers according to their interests and talents. It is not necessary that every child becomes a doctor or an engineer. Parents should recognise the strengths of their children and encourage them to excel in whichever field they choose, he said. He also appealed to parents to spend more time with their children, encourage open communication and keep them away from social evils such as drug abuse through guidance and emotional support.
Protests demanding NEET ban gather momentum across city
Filmmaker Pa. Ranjith-led Neelam Students Movement staging a protest at Rajarathinam Stadium on Thursday, demanding educational reforms and the abolition of NEET.
LG orders intensified anti-terror operations across J&K
Srinagar, Jul 23: Lieutenant Governor Manoj Sinha on Thursday directed security agencies to intensify anti-terror operations across Jammu & Kashmir, a day after a policeman was shot dead by terrorists while on Amarnath Yatra security duty in Anantnag district. The directions came during a high-level security review meeting attended by senior officers of the Army, J&K Police, Central Armed Police Forces, civil administration and other security agencies. Northern Army Commander Lieutenant General Pratik Sharma, Chief Secretary Atal Dulloo and Director General of Police (DGP) Nalin Prabhat were among those present. During the meeting, the Lieutenant Governor asked the agencies to remain alert and strengthen intelligence-basedoperations to deal with any emerging security threats. He stressed the need for close coordination among all security forces to maintain peace and ensure a strong response against terrorism. The meeting also reviewed arrangements for the ongoing Shri Amarnath Yatra, which has been affected by heavy rainfall and bad weather over the past few days. Sinha directed all departments towork in coordinationto ensure the safety, comfort and well-beingof pilgrims. Officials were asked to review essential facilities, including power supply, drinking water, fire safety and emergency response systems. The Lieutenant Governor also called for stronger flood protectionmeasures andimmediate removal of debris from streams and water channels along the pilgrimage routes.He stressed the importance of keeping disaster response teams ready at all times, maintaining clean tracks and sanitation facilities, and ensuring adequate stocks of food, LPG, kerosene and emergency medical supplies. Sinha also instructed the authorities to stop the operation of unregistered service providers on the yatra route and strictly implement the prepaid service system for pilgrims. Officials informed the meeting that more than 3.91 lakh pilgrims have offered prayers at the holy cave shrine during the first 20 days of the annual pilgrimage. The Amarnath Yatra has remained suspended since July 19 due to adverse weather conditions. Officials said its resumption will depend on an improvement in weather and the overall safety situation. Additional Chief Secretary, Power Development Department, Ashwani Kumar; Additional Chief Secretary, Public Works (R&B) Department, Anil Kumar Singh; Additional Chief Secretary, Tourism Department, Dr. Ashish Chandra Verma; Commandant General, Home Guard / CD & SDRF, A. G. Mir; Nodal Officer for Pahalgam Axis, Dr Shahid Iqbal Choudhary; Nodal Officer for Baltal Axis, Rahul Yadav; Administrative Secretaries and senior officials of all the line departments also attended the meeting.
IIT-M students rally in support of Delhi protests, ordered to remove posts on social media
Doctors treat baby born at 24 weeks and weighing 530 g at city hospital
Five forest staff suspended in Tirupattur over red sanders theft
The Crisis of Attention in the Digital Age: The Most Precious Resource We Are Losing
There was a time when attention was regarded as a natural human faculty. It was not something people consciously protected because it was rarely under siege. Children could spend hours reading a novel, craftsmen could devote themselves to perfecting a single piece of work, scholars immersed themselves in manuscripts for days, and conversations unfolded without the interruption of glowing screens. Today, that world appears increasingly distant. We live in an age where information has become abundant, but attention has become scarce. Ironically, while technology has given us access to the world's knowledge, it has also made it increasingly difficult to focus on any one thing long enough to truly understand it. The twenty-first century may well be remembered not merely as the Information Age but as the Age of Distracted Minds. Every passing minute brings fresh notifications, breaking news, viral videos, endless messages, and algorithmically curated content competing for a moment of our consciousness. The struggle is no longer about acquiring information; it is about preserving the mental space necessary to process it meaningfully. Attention is far more than the ability to concentrate. It is the foundation upon which learning, creativity, empathy, wisdom, and meaningful relationships are built. Without sustained attention, knowledge remains superficial, conversations become fragmented, and reflection gives way to reaction. A distracted society gradually loses its capacity for thoughtful judgment. The digital economy has transformed attention into one of the world's most valuable commodities. Technology companies no longer compete merely to sell products; they compete to capture human attention. Every application is carefully designed to maximize engagement. Colours, sounds, recommendations, notifications, and infinite scrolling are not accidental features but carefully engineered mechanisms intended to keep users connected for as long as possible. Human psychology itself has become the marketplace. This phenomenon has quietly altered the rhythm of everyday life. Waiting has become intolerable. Silence feels uncomfortable. Even a few moments spent standing in a queue are immediately filled by reaching for a smartphone. The mind rarely experiences uninterrupted stillness. Yet history reminds us that many of humanity's greatest discoveries, literary masterpieces, scientific breakthroughs, and philosophical insights emerged during periods of uninterrupted contemplation. Perhaps the greatest casualty of this transformation is deep reading. Reading is not merely the act of recognizing words but of entering another person's world, following complex arguments, imagining unfamiliar realities, and developing patience. Newspapers, books, and long essays require sustained attention. Digital platforms, by contrast, often encourage rapid scanning rather than reflective reading. The decline in deep reading carries consequences far beyond literature. Democracies depend upon informed citizens capable of examining issues from multiple perspectives. Superficial reading encourages quick opinions rather than informed judgments. Headlines increasingly replace complete stories, short clips replace nuanced discussions, and emotionally charged posts often travel farther than carefully researched analysis. The result is a society that reacts instantly but reflects less. Young people face a particularly complex challenge. They have never known a world without smartphones or social media. Digital technology undoubtedly offers extraordinary educational opportunities. Online learning platforms, digital libraries, scientific databases, language-learning applications, and collaborative tools have democratized knowledge in unprecedented ways. The problem therefore is not technology itself but the absence of balance in its use. Continuous digital stimulation influences the way young minds process information. Constant switching between tasks weakens sustained concentration. Students may spend hours with educational material open before them while simultaneously responding to messages, watching videos, and browsing social media. Although they appear busy, genuine learning often suffers because the brain requires uninterrupted attention to transfer information into long-term memory. Creativity also demands solitude. Original ideas rarely emerge amidst constant interruption. Writers require silence to discover language. Musicians need uninterrupted listening to compose. Scientists often make breakthroughs after prolonged reflection. Inventors spend years refining ideas that initially appear insignificant. Innovation is not born from perpetual distraction but from disciplined attention. Relationships, too, are quietly changing. Physical presence no longer guarantees emotional presence. Families may gather around the same table while each member remains absorbed in a separate digital world. Friends communicate continuously through messages but speak less deeply in person. Conversations are frequently interrupted by notifications that silently announce another demand upon our attention. Gradually, listening itself becomes an endangered skill. Mental health has become another important dimension of the attention crisis. Constant comparison through carefully curated online lives often produces anxiety, inadequacy, and emotional exhaustion. The pressure to remain permanently connected creates an illusion that every notification requires immediate response. Rest becomes difficult because the mind never fully disconnects. Digital fatigue has become a defining experience of modern life. The workplace has not escaped this transformation. Employees frequently move between emails, virtual meetings, messages, spreadsheets, and multiple software platforms throughout the day. Multitasking is often celebrated as efficiency, yet numerous studies have shown that repeatedly shifting attention carries significant cognitive costs. Productivity frequently declines when concentration is constantly interrupted. Education systems must therefore evolve beyond simply introducing technology into classrooms. Digital literacy should include attention literacy. Students need to understand not only how to use technology but also how technology influences their thinking. Learning to manage distractions, evaluate information critically, and cultivate sustained focus should become essential educational objectives. Parents face equally difficult responsibilities. Children learn habits by observation. When adults themselves remain attached to screens throughout the day, advice about limiting digital use loses credibility. Families may benefit from establishing technology-free meals, shared reading hours, outdoor activities, and regular periods devoted entirely to conversation. Such practices restore not merely discipline but human connection. Governments, educators, technology companies, and civil society all share responsibility for addressing this challenge. Ethical technology design deserves greater public discussion. Features deliberately engineered to encourage compulsive use should be examined with the same seriousness as other public health concerns. Innovation should ultimately serve human well-being rather than exploit psychological vulnerabilities. Yet solutions cannot depend solely upon institutions. Each individual must consciously reclaim ownership of his or her attention. Simple habits can produce remarkable changes: reading books without interruption, walking without constantly checking a phone, setting aside dedicated hours for focused work, practising mindfulness, engaging in hobbies requiring concentration, and embracing moments of silence. These actions may appear modest, but collectively they strengthen the mind's capacity for sustained attention. There is also a cultural dimension to this crisis. Modern society increasingly celebrates speed over depth, quantity over quality, and immediacy over patience. Success is often measured by constant visibility rather than thoughtful contribution. However, genuine excellence in any fieldwhether science, literature, medicine, music, education, or public servicecontinues to depend upon sustained effort over long periods. No meaningful achievement has ever emerged from perpetual distraction. For regions like Kashmir, where education has long been regarded as a pathway to dignity and progress, protecting the attention of young learners is especially important. Libraries, literary festivals, debating societies, cultural forums, and reading circles can provide spaces where thoughtful engagement flourishes beyond the distractions of digital life. Reviving such institutions is not an exercise in nostalgia but an investment in intellectual resilience. Attention is ultimately an ethical choice. Whatever receives our sustained attention gradually shapes our character. If our minds become permanently fragmented, our judgments may become fragmented as well. Conversely, if we cultivate patience, reflection, and concentration, we preserve the very qualities that distinguish thoughtful human beings from machines that merely process information. Artificial intelligence may surpass humans in speed, storage, and computation. Yet wisdom, compassion, imagination, and moral judgment still depend upon the uniquely human ability to pay careful attentionto ideas, to people, to nature, and to oneself. The future will not belong merely to those who possess information but to those who can focus deeply enough to transform information into understanding. The crisis of attention, therefore, is not simply about technology; it is about the future of human consciousness. Every notification we ignore, every page we read with complete concentration, every uninterrupted conversation we choose to have, and every quiet moment we preserve is an affirmation of our humanity. In reclaiming our attention, we do far more than improve productivitywe reclaim the freedom to think independently, to create meaningfully, and to live deliberately in a world that increasingly profits from our distraction. (The Author is RK Columnist and can be reached at: sanjaypanditasp@gmail.com )
Thajiwas shut to tourists for two days
Ganderbal, July 23: The Sonamarg Development Authority (SDA) on Thursday issued an advisory for tourists and the general public, announcing the complete closure of movement towards the Thajiwas area in Sonamarg for the next two days in view of prevailing inclement weather conditions and incessant rainfall in the region. According to the advisory, the decision has been taken as a precautionary measure following continuous rainfall and the heightened risk of flash floods, landslides and shooting stones along vulnerable stretches leading to the popular tourist destination. Authorities said that the safety of visitors remains the top priority, and restricting access to the area has become necessary to prevent any untoward incidents. The Sonamarg Development Authority has advised all tourists, visitors and local residents to refrain from travelling towards the Thajiwas area during the closure period and to strictly adhere to instructions issued by the administration and other concerned agencies. Officials said that weather conditions across Sonamarg and adjoining areas continue to remain unstable due to persistent rains over the past several days, resulting in an increased possibility of landslides and sudden water level rises in streams and nallahs. Authorities are closely monitoring the situation and assessing the condition of roads and tourist spots before allowing normal movement to resume. The administration has urged tourists planning to visit Sonamarg to remain updated with official advisories and avoid venturing into vulnerable areas during adverse weather conditions. Visitors have also been requested to cooperate with local authorities and security personnel deployed in the area to ensure public safety. The Sonamarg Development Authority stated that further decisions regarding reopening of the Thajiwas area will be taken after a review of weather conditions and ground reports over the coming days. Meanwhile, officials have reiterated their appeal to people to exercise caution and avoid unnecessary travel to high-risk zones as the region continues to witness intermittent rainfall and changing weather patterns.
Allot Indiramma Indlu free of cost: BRS
Pregnant women suffer as Govt neglects PHC Kalantra
Srinagar, Jul 23: Maternity services at Primary Health Centre (PHC) Kalantra, functioning as a Rural Health Training Centre (RHTC) under Government Medical College (GMC) Baramulla, have been severely affected due to the government's failure to ensure uninterrupted diagnostic services, forcing patients to rely on private laboratories and distant hospitals. Residents, particularly pregnant women from Kalantra and dozens of adjoining villages, said they have been suffering as essential diagnostic services, including ultrasonography (USG), X-ray, complete blood count (CBC) and other laboratory investigations, have been halted at the facility. Imagine if a pregnant woman develops complications. She has to travel 10 to 15 kilometres to Sub-District Hospital (SDH) Kreeri just to undergo USG. This is unfortunate. The govt has turned a deaf ear to this issue, leaving expectant mothers to suffer, said a pregnant woman from the area. Officials said a sonologist, who used to visit the PHC twice a week, has been deployed for Shri Amarnath Ji Yatra duties. Since then, no replacement has been posted, turning USG services defunct. Ashiq Ahmad, a resident of Kalantra, said the X-ray machine has remained non-functional for the past two years due to the non-availability of a Computed Radiography (CR) system and transformer. The administration of GMC Baramulla has failed to make the X-ray unit functional despite informing them from time to time for reasons best known to them, he alleged. He further claimed that the laboratory has run out of reagents required for conducting CBC and other routine blood investigations. The medical college authorities have failed to procure the reagents despite the health centre having submitted requisitions a long time ago, he said. Residents also alleged that in October last year, the staff at the PHC stopped providing night services, forcing emergency patients to seek treatment at SDH Chandoosa and SDH Kreeri. They also added that patients are compelled to move to private labs to conduct the diagnostic procedures that are unaffordable for patients. It is unfortunate that a PHC which had been providing round-the-clock services for nearly 15 years has discontinued night services. This has seriously affected healthcare delivery in the area and is an injustice to the people, Ashiq said. The residents said the hospital is equipped with a dedicated USG machine, an X-ray unit, a full-fledged laboratory and other diagnostic infrastructure, but these facilities remain largely non-functional due to the shortage of manpower and poor management. The PHC is also facing an acute manpower crisis. Against two sanctioned posts of Medical Officers and 16 paramedical staff, both Medical Officer posts are lying vacant while only four paramedical staff members are currently posted. Residents said the hospital does not even have a chowkidar to safeguard government property on the premises. Responding to the allegations, Principal, GMC Baramulla, Dr. Majid Jehangir, said the procurement of laboratory reagents is in process. He said he has directed the concerned Head of Department to visit the facility and conduct an on-ground assessment. We are taking measures to improve healthcare services at PHC Kalantra and will address the issues at the earliest, he said. PHC Kalantra was converted into a Rural Health Training Centre under GMC Baramulla in 2019. However, after seven years, residents allege that the institution continues to suffer from official neglect. The facility currently functions under the dual administrative control of GMC Baramulla and the Block Medical Officer (BMO), Kreeri, but continues to lack basic healthcare services. Residents expressed disappointment over the conversion, saying it has failed to meet the healthcare needs of people from dozens of villages, including Kalantra Payeen, Kalantra Bala, Danmoh, Kakothal, Kachwa, Muqam, Darwa, Mungam, Bandipayeen, Kohlina, Saterseeran, Nagbal and Nambalnar. Recently, a delegation of residents met Chief Minister Omar Abdullah and urged him to detach PHC Kalantra from the RHTC under GMC Baramulla. However, they said no concrete action has been taken so far. The residents appealed to the Lieutenant Governor, Manoj Sinha, Chief Minister, Health Minister Sakina Itoo, Secretary, Health & Medical Education Department, M. Raju, and DC Baramulla, Syed Fakhruddin Hamid, to intervene and restore essential healthcare services. They warned that if their demands are not addressed, they will be left with no option but to lock the health facility.
Spotted deer mauled by stray dogs in Madhavaram dies
Dr. Andrabi reviews Urs preparations at Makhdoom Sahib shrine
Srinagar, July 23: Chairperson of the Jammu and Kashmir Waqf Board Dr Syed Darakhshan Andrabi on Thursday visited the shrine of Sultan-ul-Arifeen Hazrat Makhdoom Sahib (RA) in Srinagar to review preparations for the annual Urs and inspect ongoing construction works. Accompanied by Waqf Board officers and a team of engineers, Dr Andrabi assessed the progress and quality of the works and directed the concerned staff to ensure timely completion strictly as per project specifications. She also paid obeisance at the shrine and prayed for peace, prosperity and welfare of the people. The Waqf Chairperson said all arrangements for the Urs are being finalised in coordination with the civil administration, security agencies and the public to facilitate devotees and visitors. She appreciated the efforts of Waqf Board employees, saying the staff was working towards providing better facilities at shrines under a transparent and accountable system.
BJP attacks CM Omar over MBBS scam
Jammu, July 23: Leader of Opposition in the Jammu and Kashmir Assembly Sunil Kumar Sharma on Thursday targeted Chief Minister Omar Abdullah over the alleged MBBS entrance scam, accusing him of failing to uphold transparency and accountability during his previous tenure. In a statement, Sharma alleged that Omar Abdullahs government had extended service and was later appointed as consultant Mushtaq Peer, the main accused in the Common Entrance Test (CET)-2012 paper-selling case. Before giving lectures on transparency and portraying himself as holier-than-thou, the Chief Minister should not forget how he gave an extension to Mushtaq Peer, the main accused in selling question papers of CET-2012, Sharma said. He questioned why Omar Abdullah, who was also Home Minister at the time, and investigating agencies did not act earlier on complaints related to the case, alleging that action was initiated only after the intervention of the High Court. Sharma said the courts intervention followed submissions by the Amicus Curiae regarding allegations of question papers being sold before the scheduled examination dates, despite complaints to the authorities. He further alleged that Omar Abdullah was conveniently hiding the fact that allegations of a paper leak had also surfaced during the JE Electrical Examination in 2025.
Jammu State Movement condemns terror attack
Jammu, July 23: The Jammu State Movement on Thursday condemned the killing of a police personnel in a terrorist attack in Kashmir, paid tribute to the slain officer and extended condolences to the bereaved family. In a statement, the organisation said the attack underscored the continuing threat of terrorism in Jammu and Kashmir, where decades of violence have claimed the lives of civilians, police personnel and security forces. The Movement said the peaceful atmosphere of the Jammu region must be safeguarded and asserted that terrorism should not be allowed to spread beyond Kashmir. It reiterated its demand for separate statehood for Jammu, claiming that the region's distinct administrative, social and security challenges warrant separate governance. The organisation also said terrorism should remain above political considerations and urged all political parties to unite in the national interest to combat the menace. Calling for an impartial inquiry into the history and spread of terrorism in Jammu and Kashmir, the Movement sought an investigation into alleged administrative and political failures over the years. It demanded strict legal action against any individual, political party or organisation found to have supported terrorism, if established through credible evidence. The statement further urged the Government of India to intensify efforts to dismantle terrorist networks, strengthen the security framework in Jammu and seriously consider the long-pending demand for separate statehood for the region.
Book by Southern Railways General Manager launched
AIP, PDP delegations visit slain constable's family in Beerwah
Budgam, July 23: Delegations of the Awami Ittehad Party (AIP) and the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) on Thursday visited the residence of police head constable Ashiq Hussain, who was killed in a terror attack in Anantnag district, and offered condolences to his bereaved family at Lalpora in Beerwah. The leaders also visited the flood-affected areas of Beerwah and urged the government to provide immediate rehabilitation and adequate compensation to shopkeepers whose businesses and commercial establishments were damaged in the recent flash floods. Speaking to reporters, senior AIP leader Nazir Ahmad Khan described the killing of the police head constable as tragic and unfortunate. He said that Ashiq Hussain was performing his official duties on the Anantnag-Kokernag road near Lal Chowk when he was shot dead by unidentified gunmen. We pray to Almighty Allah to grant the departed soul the highest place in Jannat and give strength and patience to the bereaved family to bear this irreparable loss, Khan said. Referring to the recent flash floods in Beerwah, Khan said several commercial establishments suffered extensive damage, causing significant losses to local traders. He said AIP president and Member of Parliament Engineer Rashid, who is currently lodged in Tihar Jail, had received information about the devastation and asked his son to visit the affected areas and express solidarity with the victims. Khan said Engineer Rashid had assured the affected shopkeepers that the AIP stands firmly with them during this difficult time and would continue to raise their concerns before the appropriate authorities. Meanwhile, PDP General Secretary Ghulam Nabi Lone Hanjura urged the government to ensure immediate rehabilitation and financial assistance for shopkeepers whose establishments were completely damaged in the flash floods that hit Beerwah main town. Expressing solidarity with the affected traders, Hanjura said the administration should take prompt relief and rehabilitation measures to help the victims recover their losses and restore their livelihoods. He also demanded a fair, transparent and time-bound investigation into the terror attack in Anantnag in which the police head constable from Lalpora lost his life. Hanjura said the circumstances surrounding the incident should be thoroughly investigated and those responsible brought to justice.
Rana assesses flood damage in Mendhar, assures full support
Mendhar, July 23: Minister for Jal Shakti, Forest, Ecology, Environment and Tribal Affairs, Javed Ahmed Rana, on Thursday undertook an extensive tour of the flood-affected areas of Mendhar in Poonch district to assess the damage caused by the recent heavy rains and flash floods and review the ongoing relief, restoration and rehabilitation measures. During his visit, the Minister was accompanied by SDM Mendhar, Imran Kataria and senior officers from various departments. He inspected the flood-affected areas of Chajjla, Mankote, Dabraj, Balnoi, Bhatidhar and Salwah to assess the damage caused by the recent flash floods. He also interacted with the affected families and local residents to assess their losses and understand their immediate concerns and requirements. He assured the affected people that the government stands firmly with them during this difficult time and every possible assistance would be extended for their relief, rehabilitation and recovery. We are in this together. The recent floods have caused extensive damage to infrastructure and private property across the Pir Panjal region. The government stands firmly with every affected family and we will not rest until relief reaches everyone, damaged infrastructure is restored and normalcy is fully restored across Jammu and Kashmir, Rana maintained. The Minister said that restoration of damaged infrastructure and rehabilitation of affected families is the government's top priority. He assured that adequate resources would be mobilised to restore normalcy at the earliest and rebuild the damaged public infrastructure. The Minister observed that the devastation caused by the flash floods has highlighted the need for long-term planning to reduce the impact of such disasters. He stressed the importance of strengthening the flood protection infrastructure, improving drainage systems, undertaking scientific slope stabilisation, enhancing disaster preparedness and adopting sustainable mitigation measures to minimise the losses caused by recurring natural calamities. During the visit, the local residents apprised the Minister of the extensive devastation and the immense losses suffered by the affected communities. We stand shoulder to shoulder with the affected people in this hour of crisis. The administration is committed to ensure immediate relief, speedy restoration of damaged infrastructure and comprehensive rehabilitation of every affected family. At the same time, we must work towards long-term measures that make our vulnerable regions more resilient against such disasters in the future, asserted the Minister.
Residents of parts of south Chennai flag disruptions in piped water supply
Flash Floods : Dy CM seeks five-day flood mitigation plan for vulnerable areas
Rajouri, July 23: Deputy Chief Minister Surinder Choudhary on Thursday directed the Irrigation and Flood Control Department to submit a comprehensive flood mitigation plan within five days, outlining immediate and long-term measures to minimise the impact of flash floods and prevent future damage. He issued the directions while chairing a review meeting in Nowshera to assess restoration works and emergency response measures following the recent flash floods, stressing the need for scientific planning, strengthening vulnerable areas and sustainable flood management strategies. He reviewed the preparedness and response of all concerned departments and directed the officers to ensure speedy restoration of essential services and effective relief measures for the affected population. The Deputy Chief Minister conducted a department-wise review of the restoration works and stressed the need for expediting the restoration of roads, drinking water supply, electricity and other essential public services. He directed all the departments to complete a comprehensive assessment of losses at the earliest so that appropriate relief and restoration measures can be taken up without delay. The Deputy Chief Minister also instructed the officers to maintain close coordination among the departments, closely monitor the progress of restoration works and ensure that all affected families receive timely assistance. He reiterated that the government is committed to extend every possible support for rehabilitation of flood-affected people and restoring normalcy at the earliest. Appreciating the prompt and coordinated response of the district administration and all line departments during the flash flood situation, the Deputy Chief Minister lauded the dedication and commitment displayed by the officers and officials in carrying out rescue, relief and restoration operations under challenging circumstances. He urged them to maintain the same momentum and continue working with unwavering commitment to ensure the early restoration of normalcy and timely assistance to every affected family.
J&K Eco-tourism policy in final stages, Assembly panel reviews progress
Srinagar, July 23: The Jammu and Kashmir Eco-Tourism Policy is in the advanced stages of formulation and will provide a framework for conservation, regulated tourism and community-based livelihoods, officials informed the Assembly Committee on Environment on Thursday. MLA, Mohammad Yousuf Tarigami chaired a meeting of the Committee on Environment here at Legislative Assembly Complex to assess the implementation of the J&K Eco-Tourism Policy and environmental safeguards across Jammu and Kashmir. The meeting was attended by Legislators Professor Gharu Ram, Dr Sajjad Shafi, Showkat Hussain Ganie and Javaid Riyaz Bedar. The Chairman laid special emphasis on the preparation of destination specific Master plans for all eco tourism destinations in Jammu and Kashmir to ensure planned development, regulation of carrying capacity, scientific waste management and protection of biodiversity. The Committee directed that these Master Plans be finalized in consultation with the experts, local communities and relevant stakeholders to ensure environmentally sustainable tourism growth across the UT. The Committee undertook a comprehensive appraisal of major eco-Tourism destinations, revenue trends over the last five years and environmental challenges confronting the sector. The Chairman reviewed the measures taken to promote eco-friendly tourism, including declaration of tourist and religious destinations as plastic and polythene-free zones. The Department informed that awareness programmes are being conducted under national campaigns such as Travel for Life: Tourism for Tomorrow and Swachhata Hi Seva. Besides, enforcement mechanisms have been strengthened at destinations like Dodhpathri and Youmarg. He directed all CEOs of Tourism Development Authorities to submit destination-wise details on plastic-free initiatives and its enforcement. The Committee reviewed environmental compliance by Tourism Development Authorities, the status of Sewage Treatment Plants (STPs), including proposed mini-STPs, water quality, pollution control, solid waste management, carrying capacity of tourist destinations and implementation of tourism master plans. The Committee reviewed the status of encroachments on wetlands, lakes, water bodies and tourism department land. It stressed for protection of environmentally sensitive areas in coordination with the District Administration, Revenue and Police departments. Further, the Committee directed that all cases of unauthorized occupation be monitored regularly and retrieval actions be expedited. The Committee also examined the preventive and remedial measures undertaken by the Department including installation of waste segregation facilities, scientific waste management, restriction on single-use plastics, promotion of eco-friendly mobility solutions and strengthening community participation in conservation. Taking cognizance of the incessant rains currently prevailing across Jammu and Kashmir, the Chairman of the Committee directed the Flood & Irrigation Department to take all requisite measures and ensure full preparedness to deal with any emergent situation arising out of continuous rainfall.
No evidence against Sanjeev Mukhiya in NEET-UG 2024 case: CBI
Bihar police had named him in the FIR as he was found involved in certain other examination paper theft/leak cases, the agency said
The entire Opposition stands with you: Rahul Gandhis message to student protesters
Though departmental action was initiated against some Registration Department officials, the role of the supervisory officers and other public servants involved in the processing and registration of the document had not been effectively examined, she says
Use of force against student protesters in Tamil Nadu flayed
Kejriwal targets PM; AAP to join CJP protest today
Cloudburst triggers flash floods in Boniyar village
Srinagar, Jul 23: A cloudburst in the upper reaches of Mayan village in Boniyar tehsil of north Kashmirs Baramulla district on Thursday triggered flash floods, washing away culverts, disrupting essential services, and prompting rescue and restoration operations by the district administration and police. Officials said four culverts were washed away in the flash floods, snapping road connectivity and hampering restoration efforts. The cloudburst also caused widespread disruption to electricity and drinking water supply, leaving residents of Mayan and adjoining villages facing considerable hardship. Tehsildar Boniyar, Mohammad Najbullah Shah, said restoration work has been launched on a war footing. We are hopeful that power and drinking water services will be restored by Friday, provided the weather remains favourable, he said. The Jal Shakti Department, Uri, issued a public advisory stating that the cloudburst had severely impacted the Neela Nag water source. The department said raw water transmission pipelines were extensively damaged, resulting in disruption of drinking water supply to several villages. The department urged residents to use water sparingly, boil drinking water before consumption, and extend cooperation to field staff engaged in restoration work. It assured the public that efforts were underway to restore the damaged infrastructure and resume water supply at the earliest. In a separate development, Jammu and Kashmir Police, in coordination with the Civil Administration, rescued a woman who was trapped inside her house after flash floods inundated parts of Mayan in the Lachipora-Bijhama area. Officials said the cloudburst caused a sudden surge of water and debris in a local stream, leading to flash flooding and panic among residents. Acting swiftly, Tehsildar Boniyar, the Sub-Divisional Police Officer (SDPO) Uri, the Station House Officer (SHO) of Police Station Bijhama, along with rescue teams, reached the spot and safely evacuated the woman without any loss of life. Authorities said the administration and police are continuously monitoring the situation in the affected areas and remain on alert to tackle any further emergencies. Residents living near vulnerable locations have been advised to stay vigilant, avoid venturing close to flooded streams and water channels, and strictly adhere to advisories issued by the authorities.
Kerala High Court quashes sexual harassment case against Boby Chemmanur
Court granted Chemmanurs plea to quash the proceedings after the actor expressed her willingness to resolve the matter amicably, citing his public apology.
Three killed in accident near Tirupachethi
ENGLISH WITH INDIAN WINGS There was a time when many children entered an English classroom with quiet fear. They are worried about making mistakes. They feared speaking in front of others. They believed that English belonged only to books, examinations, or a few people who spoke it well. For many learners, the language became a wall rather than a bridge. Today, India stands at the edge of a different journey. Across the country, schools are slowly changing the way they think about English. The question is no longer, How many grammar rules can students remember? The more important question is, What can students do with the language? This small change carries a very large promise. English is becoming less about repeating correct answers and more about asking thoughtful questions. It is becoming less about copying sentences and more about sharing ideas. It is becoming less about fear and more about confidence. That is the journey India has begun. The National Education Policy 2020 and the National Curriculum Framework for School Education 2023 invite us to see language in a fresh light. English is not expected to replace our home languages. It is expected to grow beside them. A child who speaks Kashmiri, Dogri, Urdu, Hindi, Tamil, Bengali, Kannada, Marathi, Garo, Khasi, Mizo, or any other Indian language does not begin from zero. That child already carries stories, songs, ideas, feelings, and dreams. English becomes another window through which those ideas can travel. This is one of India's greatest strengths. Many countries teach children through one dominant language. India teaches children who often think in more than one language before they enter school. This is not a problem to be solved. It is a gift to be celebrated. When a learner compares words across languages, new understanding grows. When a child explains a local festival in English, both languages become richer. When students discuss village life, family traditions, rivers, forests, markets, music, or crafts in English, they discover that learning a new language does not mean leaving their own world behind. Instead, they carry that world with them. That is what makes learning English in India unique. The classroom itself must also change. Imagine entering a classroom where the first five minutes are filled with conversation instead of silence. The teacher smiles and asks, What surprised you this morning? Another day, the question is, If you could improve your village or your neighbourhood, what would you begin with? Students talk to one another. They laugh. They disagree politely. They listen. They build confidence before opening a textbook. Language begins to live. The lesson then moves towards a story, a poem, an article, or a speech. Students do not read only to answer questions at the end of the page. They read to understand people. They read to discover ideas. They read to compare one life with another. A poem becomes a conversation. A story becomes an experience. An article becomes an invitation to think. When students write, they do not simply fill pages with memorised sentences. They write letters to their grandparents. They prepare speeches about clean rivers. They write reviews of books they enjoyed. They create travel guides for visitors. They record family memories before they disappear. They describe the smell of rain on village roads. They write about friendship, hope, courage, and change. Language slowly becomes personal. Speaking also changes. Instead of repeating lines after the teacher, students interview local farmers, artists, doctors, shopkeepers, sports players, and grandparents. They ask questions. They collect stories. They return to school carrying real-life stories from their communities. Every conversation becomes a lesson. Listening changes too. Students learn to listen with respect. They listen not only for correct answers but also for different opinions. They discover that understanding another person is one of the deepest forms of learning. This simple act builds kindness. Many people still ask whether grammar is important. The answer is yes. Accuracy matters because language helps people understand one another clearly. Yet accuracy grows best when learners have something meaningful to say. Children who write about their own experiences care more about making their writing clear. Students who prepare speeches naturally revise their words. Grammar becomes a helpful guide instead of a frightening gatekeeper. Fluency and accuracy are not enemies. They walk together. India also has an opportunity that few countries possess. Its classrooms hold many cultures. A single classroom may include children from different religions, traditions, languages, and family backgrounds. If guided well, this diversity becomes one of the richest classrooms in the world. Students learn that another language is never a threat to their own identity. Instead, every new language opens another friendship. This understanding is deeply important in today's world. The future will belong to people who can work with others, even when they speak differently, think differently, or live differently. English therefore becomes much more than an academic subject. It becomes a meeting place. The world itself is changing quickly. Artificial intelligence is growing. Digital communication crosses continents every second. Climate change affects every nation. Health, science, trade, and technology connect people across borders. Young people will need to work with teams from many countries. They will need to solve problems together. They will need to explain ideas with clarity and respect. English can help them do this. But there is an important difference between speaking English and thinking wisely. Language alone does not make a responsible citizen. Character does. Schools therefore carry a larger responsibility. They must help students ask honest questions. They must encourage them to examine facts before accepting them. They must help them distinguish truth from falsehood. They must teach them to disagree without hatred and to express confidence without arrogance. Language becomes the path through which values find expression. This is perhaps the greatest purpose of education. Another powerful change is taking place in classrooms that encourage creation rather than repetition. A group of students designs a podcast about local history. Another group prepares a short play on water conservation. Others create posters encouraging kindness. Some prepare a digital story about traditional crafts. Others write a newspaper report about a community event. Learning begins to resemble real life. Students are no longer only consumers of information. They become creators. Creation naturally leads to collaboration. No important work in today's world is completed alone. Scientists work in teams. Doctors work in teams. Engineers work in teams. Artists work in teams. Teachers work in teams. Students must therefore learn how to listen, contribute, encourage, and share responsibility. These qualities are learned through practice rather than lectures. The English classroom offers many opportunities for this growth. One group writes together. Another debates respectfully. Another solves a problem. Another presents findings. Every activity teaches both language and life. As students grow, they also learn to bring ideas together. A poem reminds them of a newspaper article. A science lesson connects with an environmental campaign. A history lesson inspires a speech. A family story becomes a research project. This ability to connect ideas is one of the highest forms of learning. It allows knowledge to become wisdom. India's future classrooms should therefore be places where languages meet, ideas meet, people meet, and dreams meet. No child should feel that English belongs only to someone else. Every child should believe that English is another instrument through which their own voice can be heard. That voice may speak about the Himalayas. It may describe the deserts of Rajasthan. It may celebrate the boats of Kerala. It may explain the traditions of Nagaland. It may tell stories from Kashmir. It may carry songs from Assam. It may introduce the world to the colours of Gujarat. It may speak of the hopes of every village and every city. The language becomes richer because India is rich. The learner becomes stronger because the learner remains rooted. Perhaps this is the greatest lesson of all. The goal is not to produce children who sound alike. The goal is to help every learner speak with confidence, write with clarity, think with honesty, listen with respect, and act with responsibility. When this happens, English becomes far more than a classroom subject. It becomes a bridge between home and school. Between village and city. Between India and the world. Between knowledge and action. Between imagination and reality. The flight toward better English is therefore not a race. It is a journey. Each learner travels at a different pace. Each classroom discovers its own path. Each teacher lights another lamp. Each family encourages another dream. Together they create a generation that is fluent without losing humility, accurate without losing creativity, multilingual without losing identity, proudly Indian while remaining open to the world, and ready not only to succeed but also to serve. That is the promise before us. If our schools continue to nurture curiosity instead of fear, conversation instead of silence, understanding instead of memorisation, and purpose instead of mere performance, the English classroom will become one of the strongest spaces for building thoughtful citizens. In the end, the true measure of language learning will not be found only in examination marks or certificates. It will be found in young people who can comfort a friend, explain a new idea, solve a common problem, celebrate their culture, respect another culture, work with others, and speak for what is right. When English helps learners do these things, it has fulfilled its highest purpose. And when India achieves this vision, the world will not simply notice that Indian students speak English well. The world will notice that they use English with wisdom, compassion, confidence, and hope. (The author is an educator committed to reimagining education through thoughtful leadership, reflective practice, curriculum innovation, and transformative learning; bridging local wisdom with global perspectives to empower every learner for a changing world. Feedback at: sheikhgulzar1970@gmail.com )
NIA court convicts three in CPI(Maoist) terror conspiracy case
Thoothukudi police firing: HC seeks reports from State
Interview | Sai Sudharsan: The satisfaction from scoring runs in Tests is unparalleled
The 24-year-old says even a small weakness or flaw will be challenged in the longest format; the Tamil Nadu batter adds that his priority now is to work on his fitness and game against spin bowling ahead of the Sri Lanka series; the southpaw explains he is not worried too much about not being in the T20I scheme of things
Over 3 lakh expected to attend Bhogapuram airport inauguration
Govt. to sell quality rice at subsidised prices through rythu bazaars from August 1
Steady increase in rice prices prompts government to intervene, says Civil Supplies Minister Nadendla Manohar
Police should better equip themselves to deal with changing nature of crimes: CM
The tendency of some anti-social elements to create unrest in society by making abusive and inflammatory comments on social media platforms has to be curbed, says Chandrababu Naidu
Bengaluru rallies behind Delhi student protest, demand resignation of Dharmendra Pradhan
Raising slogans, the protestors lit candles and switched on their mobile torches as night descended, in an expression of solidarity. They held placards with clever puns and word play
18-storey building of an apartment complex to be demolished
