Internationally acclaimed flautist and senior disciple of Pandit Hariprasad Chaurasia introduces an Indian Classical Music-inspired framework that helps organizations strengthen focus, collaboration, employee wellbeing and workplace effectiveness.
United University Giving Wings to the Dreams of the New Generation
New Delhi, Delhi, India --- Business Wire India
NEET: Beyond paper leaks, the real vulnerabilities lie elsewhere | Explained
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Minor scuffle breaks out between LDF and BJP councillors as LDF councillors block Mayor V.V. Rajesh from entering the office, resulting in a woman councillor being injured in the melee. LDF councillors have demanded removal of BJP councillor R. Sugathan arrested under KAAPA
TN CM Vijay hops on a bus after launching 300 new buses in Chennai
U.S. Senate Republicans reject War Powers resolution after Trump berates them
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Son on Thanjai: Behind the making of a Tamil indie game | Madhan Karky | Ayelet Studio
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Vietnam Explores Sustainable Aviation Fuel Development at International Conference in Hanoi
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U.S.-Iran peace deal | Rubio says U.S. wont undermine security of allies in West Asia
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Period questions youre afraid to ask | Expert answers
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What are Indian farmers concerns over impacts of India-U.S. BTA | Explained
The farmer groups are yet again at the forefront to express their anguish through demonstrations, events and protests as USTR Greer concludes his visit following meetings with Commerce Minister Piyush Goyal
Trump declares America is back at event marking 250 years of U.S. independence
Yakshagana Kalaranga hands over 99th free house in Udupi district
The construction of the house was sponsored by B. Narahari and his brothers, children of Baikady Krishnaiah and Yashodadevi
FIFA World Cup 2026: Ancelotti tells Brazil to stay calm after Neymar returns and Vinicius shines
Brazil finishes top of Group C after beating Scotland 3-0; will play runners-up of Group F in Round of 32
Auto driver stabbed to death in Kalaburagi
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Grow better onion varieties, boost horticulture: Chandrababu Naidu to Kurnool officials
The Chief Minister, reviewing development work after opening the Jonnagiri gold mine, told officials to push improved onion varieties and wider horticulture in Kurnool
Viksit and Surakshit: On the Lucknow fire | The Hindu Editorial
The cost of inaction on safety issues is more than that of enforcement
Bus travel for women: Which states offer it free and how to avail?
Free bus travel for women is a move aimed towards increasing mobility, while on-ground challenges remain
Call Before Cut, a campaign by a group in Kerala to save indigenous and native mango varieties
Call Before Cut, a campaign of Nattumanchottil based in Kannur, which has been working towards conserving native mango varieties, creates grafted saplings of the mango trees that are to be cut or have fallen down
Food safety violations were uncovered during inspections at Vijetha Supermarket Private Limited in Tellapur and Protein Chef in Madhapur
College student ends life in hostel in Kalaburagi district
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According to officials, the incident occurred after a police party intercepted and seized a private vehicle owned by an Army official for alleged traffic violations
Europe heatwave is 'price to pay for fossil fuel pollution': UN climate chief
Until humanity stops burning colossal amounts of coal, oil and gas, extreme heat will keep getting worse, says UN climate chief Simon Stiell
Beyond tax cuts, a closer read of the Union Budget
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M.B. Rajesh rejects Satheesans claim in Assembly that the proposal originated during previous LDF governments tenure when current CPI(M) State secretary M.V. Govindan held Excise portfolio
Nara Lokesh launches shoot of Nandamuri Balakrishnas 112th film NBK112 at Amaravati
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Complaint lodged against T.N. Higher Education Minister Viswanathan for touching girl athletes legs
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Strait of Hormuz: How months of closure creates challenges for ships
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Ram temple donation row: SC asks petitioner to mention plea seeking fair probe on June 29
The petition has sought directions to the Centre, the Uttar Pradesh government and the Trust for constituting and operationalising such regulatory, supervisory and audit mechanisms as may be necessary to safeguard public interest and maintain the confidence of millions of devotees and donors
OnePlus launches Nord Buds 4 with real-time active noise cancellation
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Why has India-U.S. trade deal been delayed? | Explained
From Indias Russian oil purchases to legal battles in Washington, the road to India-U.S. trade deal has become increasingly uncertain, and The Hindu explains why
629 AEE posts in A.P. power utilities; SPDCL applications open from June 30
The posts span Genco, Transco and the three DISCOMs, with applications for the southern utility open from June 30 to July 27
UDF will decide on low-spirit liquor tax policy, says Ramesh Chennithala
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Congress leader V.M. Sudheeran questions Kerala UDF govts tax cut on low-alcohol beverages
Sudheeran says proposal should have been discussed within party and UDF before the Revised Budget; urges government to drop tax cut provision
Domestic disputes and community-related issues account for the largest share of emergency calls.
As education and jobs vanish, Afghan women turn to entrepreneurship to survive
Female labour-force participation has fallen to around 5%, while womens university enrolment has dropped from nearly 55,000 students in 2019 to zero
From facelets to haathphools, Desi Bling gives Indian jewellery a fresh spin
From dramatic ear cuffs and bun cages, to hair chains and shoulder dusters, maximalist accessories are transforming wedding style. Fresh from the spotlight of Netflixs Desi Bling, these statement pieces are moving beyond the bride to become a favourite among wedding guests too
Politically-patronised private investment crowding out broad-based private investment: Congress
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Man arrested for duping Chennai resident of 23 lakh with fake MTC job promise
The complainant alleged that the accused Ilanchezhiyan claimed to have close connections with former Transport Minister S.S. Sivasankar and assured him that he could secure an Assistant Engineer post for his son in the MTC
Interim President Rodrguez said 20 aftershocks had followed the earthquakes of magnitude 7.2 and 7.5, which struck the same area of Venezuela
Watch: Twin earthquakes rock Venezuela, buildings collapse and tsunami alerts issued
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Understanding the Anti-Defection Law and the future of regional politics | National Interest
In this episode of National Interest, The Hindu breaks down what the Anti-Defection Law is, how the Tenth Schedule came about and how this law affects the way politics plays out. With multiple regional parties seeing a stream of defections over the past few months, we decode the legality of this political behaviour and the impact this has on how voters are represented.
Rescued from wildlife traffickers, seven golden langurs released in Assam national park
The animal has one of the most restricted primate ranges in the world, found only in a narrow geographic corridor straddling western Assam and the foothills of Bhutan
YSRCP left DISCOMs with 1.29 lakh crore legacy losses, says Energy Minister Gottipati Ravi Kumar
The Minister said the coalition government cut the power-purchase cost to 4.90 a unit and brought transmission losses down to 7% by 2024
Digital Arrest scams: CBI conducts searches at over 80 locations across India
The arrested accused were involved in the incorporation of shell companies and the opening and operation of mule bank accounts. These accounts were reportedly used for laundering about 2 crore of suspected proceeds of crime.
The actor opens up on his first Telugu film Maa Inti Bangaaram, co-starring Samantha Ruth Prabhu, and how he consistently looks for diversity even while playing an antagonist
Renault Duster TCe 100 review: Why this 1.0-litre turbo SUV makes perfect sense
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Maruti Suzuki Wagon R Flex Fuel: A new chapter in Indias alternative fuel journey
The Maruti Suzuki Wagon R Flex Fuel highlights the growing role of ethanol-powered vehicles in Indias mobility future. While EVs dominate the spotlight, flex-fuel technology offers a practical path towards cleaner transportation, reduced fuel imports, and greater energy security
Mercedes-Benz S-Class: The flagship embraces a new era
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Fake news clip targeting Kerala PWD Minister P.K. Basheer under police probe
The post claimed that Basheer had said deaths due to communicable diseases were Gods decision and that the Health Minister should not be blamed, the police said
Eight vehicles damaged in Thane wall collapse
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The Hindu Sunday crossword no. 62
Rupee rises 31 paise to 94.24 against U.S. dollar in early trade
A weaker greenback and positive sentiments in the domestic equity market further supported the local unit while heavy FII outflows prevented a sharper rise, forex traders said
Iran says U.S. airport delay holds up World Cup delegation
The reported incident comes days after U.S. authorities eased travel restrictions on Iran's World Cup delegation following complaints from Tehran and the team that strict entry rules were disrupting preparations
Mapping queer lives through books: identity, resistance and equality in India
A selection of fiction and non-fiction works offers a layered understanding of the evolving realities of queer life in India, spanning law, personal memory, family, and workplaces; they show how identities are shaped by legal frameworks, lived experiences, and intergenerational shifts
Why is Europe baking this summer? | Explained
In its second major heatwave in two months, Europe has been recording a steep increase in temperatures since mid-June
Microsofts quantum computing technology called into question again
Microsoft defended its claims and said the software was a practical tuning tool to find good places on its chips to place qubits
LIC CFO Sunil Agrawal resigns, last day on July 14
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FIFA World Cup 2026: Mexico stays perfect, bounces Czechs out of World Cup with 3-0 win
Teen Mora shines as Mexico fans dare to dream; the World Cup co-host will play their Round of 32 match in the Azteca stadium again, where they are unbeaten in nine World Cup matches
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Explained | Why NMC is phasing out PG diploma medical courses from 2027
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CMRL pay-off case: Ex-Kerala CM Pinarayis daughter Veena appears before ED again
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Why Kashmirs Sufiyana Music bids for UNESCOs Intangible Cultural Heritage list | Explained
Believed to have emerged between the 14th and 15th Century, Sufiyana music is continuum of pre-Islamic musical practices in Kashmir
Youth found dead at Srinagars Hyderpora
Srinagar, Jun 25 : A youth was found dead in a rented accommodation in the Hyderpora area of Srinagar after he was discovered unconscious late Wednesday night, officials said. An official told the news agencyKashmir News Observer (KNO) that a police team rushed to the spot after receiving information and shifted the youth to SMHS Hospital Srinagar in an unconscious condition. However, doctors declared him brought dead. The deceased was identified as Sanu Ahmad (18), son of Mohammad Ahsaan, a resident of Bijnor, Uttar Pradesh, who was residing as a tenant in Hyderpora. Meanwhile, police have initiated inquest proceedings, while the postmortem of the deceased will be conducted today to ascertain the cause of death, the official added.(KNO)
Why does wet paper tear so easily?
From Chile to Russias Far East: A timeline of most powerful quakes in history
Back-to-back powerful earthquakes slammed Venezuela on Wednesday (June 24, 2026) evening, collapsing buildings in the capital of Caracas and leaving residents shaken.
PM Modi receives call from Armenia PM, thanks him for helping evacuation of Indians from Iran
Mr. Modi also congratulated Mr. Pashinyan on the victory of his Civil Contract Party in the country's parliamentary elections and said India looks forward to working closely together to take India-Armenia relations to new heights Mr.
The strange link between AI hallucination and creativity
A setting called temperature governs how adventurous an LLMs outputs are. The higher the temperature, the more likely the model reaches for the less likely options and begins to surprise you. This is the dial you turn up when you want a poem instead of a weather report. The trouble is that the same dial governs hallucinations
EOW Kashmir Files Chargesheet Against Two in Spurious Agricultural Products Case
Srinagar, June 25: The Economic Offences Wing (EOW) Kashmir, of the Crime Branch J&K has filed a chargesheet in FIR No. 33/2018 under Sections 420 and 120-B RPC and Section 3/7 of the Essential Commodities Act before the Hon'ble Court of the Chief Judicial Magistrate, Sopore against two accused individuals namely Shahbaz Ahmad Bhat S/o Mohd Sultan Bhat R/o Goripora, Bomai, Sopore, and Kursheed Ahmad Mir S/o Abdul Khaliq Mir R/o Shadimarg, Kalampora, Rajpora, Pulwama, for offences relating to cheating, criminal conspiracy, and the distribution of spurious agricultural products. The chargesheet follows an investigation initiated on a complaint regarding the alleged circulation of counterfeit Glo Potash agricultural products in the Valley. The accused engaged in these acts to derive wrongful financial gains at the expense of orchardists, horticulturists, and the company. The general public is advised to remain vigilant against economic fraudsters and report any such incidents to the SSP, EOW Kashmir, Crime Branch J&K. Victims of economic fraud may also submit their complaints via email at sspeow-kmr@jkpolice.gov.in.
FIFA World Cup 2026: South Africa beats South Korea to reach knockout stage for first time
South Africa had failed to advance from the group stage in their first three World Cup appearances in 1998, 2002 and 2010
enParadigm Helps Hospitality Enterprise Save 6.5 Crore Through Its AI-Led Hiring Platform
enParadigm Helps Hospitality Enterprise Save 6.5 Crore Through Its AI-Led Hiring Platform
OpenAI unveils AI chip Jalapeno
While OpenAI is still measuring final performance, early testing shows that Jalapeno will deliver performance per watt substantially better than current state-of-the-art, the company said
Two arrested, FIR registered in Taratala warehouse accident
A special investigation team (SIT) has also constituted to investigate the matter after it was transferred to the Detective Department of Kolkata police
15-year-old student builds energy-efficient water purifier startup
Muhammad Salman Shah, 15, is the founder of Save Water AquaSol, a startup currently in pre-incubation at NewGen IEDC, University of Kashmir. Srinagar, Jun 24: A Class 9 student from Kashmir is developing a water-treatment startup that aims to purify water from any source while using significantly less energy than conventional systems. Muhammad Salman Shah, 15, is the founder of Save Water AquaSol, a startup currently in pre-incubation at NewGen IEDC, University of Kashmir. The system is being designed to be source-insensitive. It is being built to treat water regardless of where it comes from, Salman told Rising Kashmir. The energy consumed should be less than a household's monthly electricity consumption, but still enough to purify water for multiple villages at the same time. Dr Irfana Rashid, Head of NewGen IEDC at the University of Kashmir, described what the startup is working toward. AquaSol is addressing some of the key limitations of conventional purification systems, she told Rising Kashmir. Its core approach combines a modular low-pressure design with an integrated purification process, aiming for high water recovery of up to 90 per cent while consuming significantly less energy than traditional RO systems. The 90 per cent figure is a design target. The prototype is stillbeing developed,and independent testing hasyet to beconducted. Dr Rashid said the modular architecture is also being designed with practical deployment in mind. The design is intended to simplify maintenance, reduce downtime, and allow capacity expansion without major redesign, she said, adding that the goal is to make it suitable for schools, rural communities, disaster-relief operations, and institutional users. On operating costs, she said the combination of lower power consumption, reduced reject water, and simplified servicing is expected to translate into lower lifecycle operating costs compared to existing systems. AquaSol is funded by STPI Noida through NewGen IEDC, University of Kashmir. The startup was selected under Electropreneur Park 2.0, a flagship initiative of the Software Technology Parks of India, an autonomous society under the Ministry of Electronics and Information Technology, Government of India. The selection was confirmed in a letter signed by Vandana Srivastava, Director and CEO of Electropreneur Park, STPI Noida. Dr Rashid said the support goes beyond funding. The support of NewGen IEDC in association with STPI under Electropreneur Park 2.0 is crucial in helping the founder move from engineering design to prototype development, industry outreach, pilot deployments, and commercialisation, she said. We are providing incubation support, mentorship, innovation infrastructure, and access to funding and industry networks. Salman, who is also the author of two books, a selected member of the John Locke Institute, and an accredited representative of the United Nations Major Group for Children and Youth for the UNESCAP Asia-Pacific Forum on Sustainable Development, said the problem he is trying to solve has always been concrete. It has to work in a village that does not have infrastructure. It has to work in an emergency, he said. If it requires a truck and a generator, it does not solve the problem. Salman is in Class 9, and the prototype is still being built. But Save Water AquaSol has moved past the stage of being just a school project. It is now in a government-backed facility, with institutional support around it, working toward a device that could one day reach the communities it was designed for.
JKRTC fleet shrinks by 59% in 36 years
200 smart buses expected by year-end: MD Srinagar, Jun 24: The fleet strength of the Jammu and Kashmir Road Transport Corporation (JKRTC) has witnessed a sharp decline of over 59 per cent during the last 36 years, raising concerns about the availability and quality of public transport services across the Union Territory. Official data shared by the JKRTC reveals that the corporation had a fleet of 966 buses in 1990. The number gradually declined to 700 in 2006 and further dropped to 580 by 2014-15. The fleet strength continued to shrink in subsequent years, reaching 505 buses in 2019-20 and 478 in 2020-21. At present, only 394 buses are operational, marking an overall decline of 59.2 per cent from 1990. Officials attributed the reduction in fleet size primarily to the retirement of overaged vehicles and the situation in the 90s,as many buses were damaged then.They said that in 2025, the corporation auctioned 237 vehicles, including 145 buses, 85 trucks, five tempos and two cranes, all of which had completed more than 15 years of service. The corporation has also identified 249 additional vehicles for auction during the current year. Officials acknowledged that delays in the disposal process had led to the accumulation ofa large number ofobsolete vehicles. As per government norms, no extension of service life or major maintenance is permitted for vehicles that have crossed 15 years. Such vehicles have to be phased out, an official said. The decline in fleet strength comes amid growing complaints from commuters regarding the condition of buses operating on various routes. Passengers have repeatedly alleged that many buses offer uncomfortable and bumpy rides and require urgent upgrading and maintenance. Commuters have urged the authorities to improve the quality of public transport and ensure that buses remain roadworthy and passenger-friendly. Responding to these concerns, JKRTC officials maintained that regular maintenance of operational buses is being carried out. They said that most buses currently in service are between five and ten years old and undergo periodic inspections. Meanwhile, the corporation is looking to strengthen its fleet through fresh procurements. Managing Director JKRTC, A R War said that the government has approved the purchase of 200 smart buses for the Union Territory. We have placed orders for 200 smart buses - 100 for Jammu and 100 for Kashmir. We expect the buses to arrive by the end of this year. The proposal has already been cleared by the government, War told Rising Kashmir. Officials said the induction of the new buses is expected to enhance public transport services, improve commuter comfort, and help address the shortage created by the retirement of ageing vehicles.
J&Ks digital building approval system gains traction
867 applications processed in 3 months Srinagar, Jun 24: Just three months after the digital transition, the Housing and Urban Development Department's (H&UDD) Auto-Scrutiny Building Permission and Change of Land Use (CLU) Portal has witnessed a significant response from citizens and professionals with more than 860 applications submitted through the online system. Official dataavailable, accessed by Rising Kashmir,reveals that a total of 738 Building Permission (BP) applications and 129 Change of Land Use (CLU) applications have been received so far, reflecting growing public confidence in the government's digital governance initiatives. According to the data, 118 building permissions have been issued,while31 applications stand approved, and 45 have been rejected. A substantial 442 applications are currently under process, whereas 102 cases are pending with applicants for submission of required documents or compliance with observations raised by authorities. In the CLU category, 36 permissions have been issued, 13 applications approved, and 11 rejected. Another 24 cases are under process, while 45 applications remain pending with applicants. The portal, launched by Chief Secretary Atal Dulloo on March 16, 2026,was introducedto streamline the approval process for building plans and land-use changes through an automated scrutiny mechanism. The system aims to reduce manual intervention, enhance transparency and accelerate service delivery in urban planning and development. The data further shows that 239 Registered Technical Professionals (RTPs) have enrolled on the platform, indicating active participation by architects, engineers and other professionals associated with the construction sector. Officials said the initiative forms part of the government's broader push towards the digitisation of public services and ease of doing business. The portal enables online submission, tracking and processing of applications, reducing the need for physical visits to government offices. While the volume of applications points to increasing adoption of the system, the large number of pending cases under process highlights the need for timely disposal to ensure that the benefits of digital governance translate into faster approvals on the ground.
Vitamin D deficiency widespread in J&K despite abundant sunshine
Experts warn of bone, immunity risks Srinagar, Jun 24: Despite being blessed with ample sunshine and scenic open landscapes, Jammu and Kashmir continues to face a widespread yet often overlooked public health challengeVitamin D deficiency. Health experts warn that inadequateexposure to sunlight,changing lifestyles, dietary habits, and harsh winter conditions are leaving a large section of the population vulnerable to low Vitamin D levels, impacting bone health, immunity, and overall well-being. Dr S. Muhammad Salim Khan, Professor, Department of Community Medicine, Government Medical College (GMC) Srinagar, in an advisory highlighted that Vitamin D deficiency remains common in J&K despite abundant sunshine because effective exposure to sunlight is often inadequate. Long winters, short daylight hours, cold weather, and indoor lifestyles significantly reduce the body's ability to synthesise Vitamin D. The situation worsens during winter months when ultraviolet B (UVB) rays are insufficient for adequate Vitamin D production, he said. Traditional clothing patterns in the valley also contribute to the problem, as heavy woollen garments commonly worn during much of the year limit skin exposure to sunlight. Many residents consume insufficient quantities of Vitamin D-rich foods, while access to fortified foods remains limited. Skin pigmentation affects Vitamin D production, with individuals having higher melanin levels requiring longer sun exposure. Obesity and sedentary lifestyles are also important risk factors since Vitamin D gets stored in fat tissue, making obese individuals more prone to deficiency. Infantsand children, adolescent girls, pregnant and lactating women,elderly persons,individuals with obesity, people suffering from chronic illnesses, and indoor workers, students, and healthcare professionals who spend limited time outdoors are at highrisk, according to the advisory. Musculoskeletal effects include bone pain, back pain, muscle weakness, leg pain, fatigue, increased risk of falls and fractures, osteomalacia in adults, rickets in children, and osteoporosis among the elderly. Beyond bone health, Vitamin D deficiency may result in reduced immunity, frequent respiratory infections, mood disturbances, depression and anxiety, poor sleep quality, and reduced physical performance. Health experts stress that sunlight exposure remains the most important preventive measure. Residents are advised to expose face, arms, forearms, and legs to sunlight whenever feasible, preferably between 11:00 a.m. and 2:00 p.m. Recommended exposure duration is 1520 minutes during summer and 3045 minutes during winter, at least four to five days per week. People are also advised to avoid sunlight through window glass, as UVB rays are blocked. Special recommendations for Kashmir winters include utilizing sunny afternoon periods, encouraging outdoor walking and physical activity, and ensuring schoolchildren spend time outdoors during daylight hours. Non-vegetarian sources include fatty fish such as salmon, sardines, mackerel, and trout, fish liver oils, egg yolks, and liver. Vegetarian sources include UV-exposed mushrooms, fortified milk, fortified curd or yogurt, fortified breakfast cereals, and fortified plant-based milk. Adequate intake of calcium, phosphorus, magnesium, and protein is also essential for maintaining healthy bones. The advisory further recommends regular physical activity, including brisk walking and outdoor sports for children and adolescents, while emphasizing weight management to prevent obesity-related deficiency. According to public health experts, J&K has sunshine, but not necessarily enough effective skin exposure to sunlight. A combination of regular midday sunlight exposure, outdoor physical activity, Vitamin D-rich foods, and adequate calcium intake can reduce the burden of Vitamin D deficiency.
Summer vacations in Kmr schools likely from July second week
Srinagar, Jun 24: Summer vacations in Kashmir schools are likely to beginfromthe second week of July, with the School Education Department closely monitoring the weather situation beforetakinga final decision, officials said. Sources in the department said no formal order has been issued so far, but discussions regarding the vacation schedule are underway in view of the rising temperatures being witnessed in several parts of the Valley. An official, wishing not to be named, said the government is keeping a close watch on weather conditions and will take a final call during the first week of July. The Valley witnessed unusually high temperatures over the last few days. Before that, weather conditions remained largely normal. However, forecasts suggest that temperatures may rise again in the coming days. Keeping this in view, a final decision regarding summer vacations will be taken in the first week of July, the official said. He added that authorities are assessing the situationon a day-to-day basisandare takingfeedback from variousquartersbefore announcing the vacation schedule. The possibility of summer vacations has generated keen interest among students, parents and teachers, especially after the recent spell of hot weather across Kashmir. Many parents have been urging authorities to announce vacations early if temperatures continue to remain above normal. Officials said the department wants to ensure that any decision istakenafter carefully examining weather forecasts and ground conditions. They said student welfare remains the top priority and all factors will be considered before issuing an official order. The decision, once finalised, will be communicated well in advance to enable schools, students and parents to make necessary arrangements, an official said.
Cloudbursts: The new Himalayan nightmare
J&K records 9 incidents in June alone July-August most vulnerable: Experts Srinagar, Jun 24: Dark clouds gathering over the mountains of Jammu and Kashmir are no longer seen merely as signs of rain but a nightmare wrapped in cloudbursts. While Jammu region has logged five cloudburst incidents in June, Kashmir has recorded four such incidents. Experts say July and August are also vulnerable months for cloudbursts due to the rise in temperatures. In the last few years alone, Jammu and Kashmir has witnessed repeated cloudbursts and extreme rainfall events, particularly in vulnerable districts such as Ramban, Kishtwar, Doda, Reasi, Kathua and parts of north and south Kashmir. Roads have been swept away, villages buried under debris and families displaced overnight as sudden floods ripped through mountain settlements. As per theofficial data,in Jammu region, five cloudburst incidents were reported in the ensuingmonth, while Kashmir also recorded three similar happenings,especially inthe north and southKashmir parts.According to weather experts and disaster management officials, the frequency of extreme weather incidents in the Himalayan belt has shown a worrying rise, especially during the peak monsoon months of July and August. Data from disaster management agencies and weather records show that several cloudburst-linked incidents have struck Jammu and Kashmir in recent years, causing extensive damage to infrastructure and loss of lives. Last year alone, multiple cloudbursts and flash floods triggered widespread destruction in Ramban and adjoining districts, damaging highways, bridges and residential structures. Meteorologists say the geography of Jammu and Kashmir makes it particularly vulnerable. Steep mountains, unstable slopes, rapid urbanisation, shrinking forest cover and increasing temperature trends are amplifying the impact of intense rainfall events. Director Meteorological Centre Ladakh, Sonam Lotus, said the Himalayan region is witnessing a visible increase in severe weather events linked to changing climate behaviour. The current monsoon period July, August and mid-September remains highly vulnerable to cloudbursts and flash floods, Lotus said during previous weather advisories. When prolonged rainfall combines with intense localised showers, the mountains become extremely fragile, leading to landslides, flash floods and slope failures. Lotus has repeatedly stressed that warming trends in the Himalayas are altering traditional weather cycles and increasing atmospheric instability.There is a noticeable rise in severe weather conditions over the years. Climate change is influencing rainfall behaviour in mountain regions, he said. The India Meteorological Department (IMD) has also issued repeated warnings over the growing threat of extreme weather events in Jammu and Kashmir, cautioning that heavy rainfall spells can trigger cloudbursts, flash floods and mudslides in vulnerable areas. Meteorologists explain that a cloudburst occurs when more than 100 millimetres of rain falls within an hour over a small geographical area, overwhelming mountain drainage systems and triggering sudden floods. Such events are highly localised and difficult to predict with precision, making them particularly dangerous in hilly terrain. In J&K, experts say changing monsoon patterns are now bringing intense bursts of rain to areas that historically witnessed moderate precipitation. The impact has been severe. In August last year, cloudbursts and heavy rainfall caused major devastation in Ramban district, disrupting the Jammu-Srinagar National Highway and damaging dozens of houses. Similar incidents have repeatedly struck Chenab Valley districts, where fragile slopes and riverbank settlements remain highly exposed to flash floods. Kishtwar, Doda, and Reasi districts have also witnessed repeated landslides and flood incidents over recent monsoon seasons,with several villages temporarily cut offafter roads collapsed under heavy rain. Environmental experts believe unplanned construction along riverbanks, road cutting through mountains and deforestation are worsening the intensity of disasters. Natures carrying capacity in the Himalayas is under stress, said an official associated with disaster management efforts in Jammu and Kashmir. When intense rainfall hits already weakened mountain slopes, destruction becomes inevitable. The IMD has expanded weather monitoring infrastructure across Jammu and Kashmir and Ladakh in recent years, including Doppler Weather Radars and improved forecasting systems aimed at strengthening early warning mechanisms. Authorities are also increasingly relying on satellite-based monitoring and district-level disaster preparedness plans as extreme weather events become more common. Yet despite technological improvements, people living in remote mountain villages remain deeply vulnerable. For residents of Chenab Valley and upper mountainous belts, every spell of heavy rain now brings anxiety. Farmers, shepherds and roadside communities say weather patterns have changed drastically over the last decade. Summers have become hotter, rainfall more erratic, and cloudbursts increasingly destructive. Experts warn that unless environmental safeguards, scientific planning and climate-resilient infrastructure are prioritised, Jammu and Kashmir could witness even more severe weather disasters in the coming years. And as another monsoon season approaches the Himalayas, the mountains of Jammu and Kashmir stand once again on edge watching the skies with growing fear.
2-day international conference The Sacred Journey to Shri Amarnath Ji commences at Anantnag
Anantnag, Jun 24: First of its kind, a two-day International Conference on the theme The Sacred Journey to Shri Amarnath Ji: A Multi-Dimensional Perspective commenced on Wednesday at Government College for Women (GCW), Anantnag. The conference, being organised by District Administration in collaboration with the host college, has brought together administrators, faculty from reputed institutions and organisations, eminent academicians, researchers, scholars, students, officials and civil society members. The inaugural session was attended by Deputy Commissioner(DC), Dr. Bilal Mohiuddin Bhat (Patron of the Conference), Principal GCW, Prof Khalida Hassan (Co-patron of the Conference), Prof Monowar Alam Khalid (Professor Environmental Science and Dean Students Welfare, Integral University Lucknow), Prof Himanshu Roy (Professor Centre for Political Studies, JNU), Prof Kapil Kumar (Former Chair Professor, Centre for Freedom Struggle and Diaspora Studies), Prof Farooq Ahmad Malik, GDCW (Organising Secretary), faculty of various Govt Degree Colleges, academicians, researchers, scholars, students and civil society members. Three sessions were held on first day during which the speakers deliberated upon various aspects of the revered Shri Amarnath Ji Yatra (SANJY). They highlighted the historical, cultural and spiritual significance of the Annual Himalayan Pilgrimage besides elaborating it's administrative, socioeconomic and ecological dimensions. In her welcome address, Principal of the College highlighted the importance of academic discussions on heritage, traditions and the overall significance of the annual SANJY. She said the platform will serve as a great opportunity to engage on multicultural aspects of the sacred Shri Amarnath Ji Yatra. Addressing the gathering, the Deputy Commissioner underlined the importance of preserving the cultural and spiritual legacy associated with Shri Amarnath Ji Yatra. He said that syncretic uniqueness of this annual pilgrimage is reflected from the fact that the service providers historically associated with the Yatra are often from different faith than that of visiting devotees.The local community has always been at forefront and extended warm hospitality to the pilgrims making their sacred journey to the Holy Cave easy, comfortable and enriching', he remarked. Dr. Bilal talked about the immense contribution the annual pilgrimage has in keeping alive the multifaith and pluralistic traditions of Kashmir adding the same perfectly reflect the plural and inclusive ethos of our great nation. The place, aptly called Peer Waer, has long stood as a melting pot of different faiths and a cradle of cultural evolution where Shaivism, Sufism and other beliefs have evolved and thrived, he noted. He informed the audience that this year several key measures have been taken for sustainable and greener Yatra and the district administration is committed to ensure it is conducted in a safe, seamless and pilgrim friendly manner. Professor Kapil Verma while speaking on the occasion said that people of Kashmir have old age ethical and social connection with the Shri Amarnath Ji Yatra, emphasising the cultural pluralism and syncretic values of the place. He said that hospitality of Kashmir is well known to the world. He termed the local people as part and parcel of the sacred pilgrimage who always provide the necessary service and cooperation during the entire Yatra. He further highlighted the economic impact of the pilgrimage tourism besides the diversity of the nation. During the inaugural session, Prof Monowar Alam Khalid delivered a special address on Shri Amarnath Ji Yatra: Ecological Challenges and Suggested Solutions. He called for complimenting the ecological wisdom with suitable technological interventions so the goal of a sustainable Yatra on the fragile Himalayan region is realised. Prof Khalid further said that management decisions should be guided by ecological thresholds and scientific assessment of maximum carrying capacity keeping in view pilgrim numbers, camp strength, waste handling capacity, resource availability and emergency response mechanisms. He advocated for zero waste techniques, green energy transition, protection of resources and biodiversity, nature based solutions, involvement of local community, linking of Yatra with Sustainable Development Goals so that the sacred pilgrimage becomes a global model of sustainable religious tourism. In his keynote address on Multiculturalism in India: A Historical Trajectory, Prof. Himanshu Roy said that multiple cultures have existed in India for centuries. He shared his valuable insights on the historical context of SANJY, enlightening the participants about the evolution of the spiritual journey. Organising Secretary, Prof. Farooq Ahmad Malik gave an overview of the conference and emphasised the role of research and scholarly dialogue in understanding the pilgrimage from diverse perspectives. The technical sessions witnessed paper presentations and detailed discussions by scholars and experts on themes including social, cultural and spiritual aspects of the Yatra, fostering peace and cultural resilience, philosophy of pilgrimage and ecological concerns. The event aims to provide a platform for meaningful academic exchange and a comprehensive understanding of the sacred pilgrimage through multidisc iplinary perspectives.
AI, drone surveillance deployed for Muharram processions: Police
DGP, IGP, SSP participate in Sabeel; urge mourners to follow advisories Srinagar, Jun 24: An extensive security and facilitation plan, including Artificial Intelligence-enabled monitoring and drone surveillance, has been put in place across Srinagar and other parts of the Valley to ensure the peaceful and smooth conduct of Ashura and other Muharram processions throughout the month, Jammu & Kashmir Police said on Wednesday. Senior police officers, including Director General of Police (DGP) Nalin Prabhat, Inspector General of Police (IGP) Kashmir Zone V K Birdi and Senior Superintendent of Police (SSP) Srinagar Dr GV Sundeep Chakraborty, participated in the 8th Muharram procession and distributed water and beverages at various Sabeels organised at Lal Chowk. They interacted with mourners, volunteers and members. Officials said elaborate arrangements involving traffic regulation, crowd management, emergency response systems and round-the-clock surveillance are being put in place in consultation with religious bodies, civil administration and local stakeholders. Speaking to reporters, IGP Kashmir said the police are focusing equally on security and public convenience to ensurethat mourners are able toobserve Muharram peacefully and with dignity. Comprehensive security arrangements were in place across Srinagar for the 8th Muharram procession. Similar arrangements will betherefor 10th Muharram (Ashura) and the rest of the month across Kashmir, Birdi said. Our effort is to facilitate the religious gatherings in the best possible manner while ensuring safety and smooth movement for the general public. Police and civil administration are working in close coordination, and all necessary measures will remain in place throughout the month. Talking to reporters while joining the 8th Muharram procession, SSP Chakravorthy said that advanced surveillance systems, including AI-assisted monitoring and drone surveillance, were usedfor the smooth and peaceful conduction of the procession. The arrangements will be the same for the Ashura processions in the city, the SSP said. Muharram is observed with deep reverence and emotions. We appeal to mourners, volunteers and citizens to cooperate with police and traffic personnel, follow designated routes and adhere to advisories in letter and spirit so that all events pass peacefully. The use of drones and smart surveillance, officials said, will help authorities monitor sensitive locations, manage traffic diversions and respond swiftly to emergencies, particularly during major congregational events in Srinagar and district headquarters. Officials said additional CCTV systems are also being integrated into the security grid to strengthen monitoring across key routes. Meanwhile, DGP, IGP, SSP, DySP Headquarters Syed Sleet Shah, and several other seniorofficers of policeparticipated in the 8th Muharram procession and took part in the Sabeel at Lal Chowk. IGP Kashmir, SSP Srinagar and senior police officers distributed water and other beverages to the mourners. The participation of top police officers was seen as a gesture of outreach and confidence-building, with several mourners appreciating the administrations efforts to ensure smooth observance of the 8th Muharram procession.
National seminar, exhibition marks 350th martyrdom anniversary of Sri Guru Tegh Bahadur Ji
Srinagar, Jun 24: The North Zone Cultural Centre (NZCC), Ministry of Culture, Government of India, in collaboration with the Jammu & Kashmir Academy of Art, Culture & Languages (JKAACL) on Wednesday organized a national level seminar and exhibition dedicated to the 350th Martyrdom Anniversary of Sri Guru Tegh Bahadur Ji at Mattan, Anantnag. An exhibition of paintings depicting the life, teachings, philosophy and supreme sacrifice of Sri Guru Tegh Bahadur Ji was also organized on the occasion which was inaugurated by Principal Secretary, Department of Culture, Brij Mohan Sharma. Speaking on the occasion, the participants highlighted the enduring relevance of Guru Sahibs teachings, which continue to inspire the humanity through their message of tolerance, compassion, justice and universal brotherhood. They also recalled his unparalleled sacrifice in defence of religious freedom, human dignity and the rights of all communities. During the seminar, five scholarly papers focusing on the Bani, teachings, philosophy and martyrdom of Sri Guru Tegh Bahadur Ji were presented by the eminent scholars and writers, including Ajit Singh Mastana, Satish Vimal, Navtej Singh, Dr. Arvinder Singh Amn and Dr. Harsimran Singh. The presentations provided valuable insights into the spiritual, social and historical contributions of the Ninth Sikh Guru. Earlier, Jarnail Singh, Assistant Director, NZCC, read the welcome address. The programme witnessed enthusiastic participation from literary personalities, intellectuals, devotees, students from various educational institutions and the public. Prominent among those present were Shri Ashok Kumar Sidha, President, Martand Tirath Trust, Mattan, representatives of the District Gurdwara Parbandhak Committee (DGPC), Anantnag and a large number of devotees and members of the local community. Several officers from the civil administration including officials from the district and tehsil administrations, also attended the event. The organizers informed that the exhibition shall remain open to the public up to 30th June 2026, from 11:00 a.m. to 5:00 p.m. daily.
Water for the thirsty : Little ones keep spirit of Karbala alive
Srinagar, Jun 24: Amid the solemn atmosphere of the 8th Muharram procession along the traditional Guru Bazar-Dalgate route in Srinagar, a heartwarming sight caught the attention of mourners and onlookers alike as dozens of little mourners actively participated in serving water and refreshments to participants. At several points along the procession route, children aged between 1 and 7 years were seen sitting in the middle of the road carrying water bottles, juice packets and eatables for distribution among mourners. Dressed in black attire and wearing Muharram-themed patches, the young volunteers displayed remarkable enthusiasm and dedication as they offered refreshments to those taking part in the procession. Many mourners paused to appreciate the efforts of the children, who eagerly handed out water bottles despite their young age. The gesture reflected the spirit of service and compassion associated with Muharram observances. Parents accompanying the children said they wanted them to learn the values of sacrifice, humanity and selfless service that form the essence of the message of Karbala. We bring our children to participate in such activities so they understand the significance of Muharram from an early age, said a parent. Serving water is a small act, but it teaches them empathy and the importance of helping others. The distribution of water holds special significance during Muharram as it commemorates the suffering and thirst endured by Imam Hussain (AS), his family members and companions in Karbala.
NDMA conducts disaster preparedness exercise for SANJY at Ganderbal
Ganderbal, Jun 24: As part of efforts to strengthen preparedness for the forthcoming Shri Amarnath Ji Yatra (SANJY)-2026, the National Disaster Management Authority (NDMA) on Wednesday conducted a comprehensive Table Top Exercise at Conference Hall of Mini Secretariat, Ganderbal. Deputy Commissioner (DC) Ganderbal, Jatin Kishore, presided over the session and gave a detailed overview of the district's preparedness measures and emergency response framework for the annual pilgrimage. He highlighted the importance of meticulous planning, close coordination among all stakeholders and prompt response mechanisms to ensure the safety and well-being of pilgrims. Speaking on the occasion, Brigadier (Retd.) P. S. Gurung, Coordinator, NDMA for the mock exercise, emphasized the significance of regular preparedness exercises in strengthening response capabilities and ensuring the safety of devotees undertaking the Yatra. He said that the exercise was designed to assess the preparedness of various agencies and review coordination mechanisms in place for handling emergencies during the pilgrimage. The initiative, he added, forms part of NDMA's efforts to enhance inter-agency coordination and build a robust response system for any unforeseen situation. During the exercise, various emergency scenarios, including fire incidents in camps, stampede situations, drowning cases and other potential emergencies, were discussed in detail. Participants deliberated on response protocols, resource mobilisation, communication systems and coordination measures required for effective management of such situations. Earlier, Additional Deputy Commissioner Ganderbal, Syed Faheem Bihaqi, briefed participants on the district administration's efforts to reduce disaster risks, particularly in vulnerable locations along the Yatra route. He also outlined the preparedness measures being undertaken by various departments to ensure timely response during emergencies. Officials from the State Disaster Management Authority (SDMA) Meteorological Department (IMD), Health Department, Fire & Emergency Services, and other communication agencies and security forces also shared updates on their respective preparedness plans. The participating agencies were encouraged to clearly define their roles and responsibilities, identify gaps in existing plans, anticipate operational challenges and strengthen coordination to further improve the overall emergency response framework. The exercise witnessed the participation of Additional Deputy Commissioner Ganderbal, Chief Executive Officer Sonamarg Development Authority, Assistant Commissioner Disaster Management, Assistant Commissioner Revenue, senior district officers and representatives from various security agencies and line departments.
