States

Utah declares state of emergency, restricts fireworks as U.S. largest wildfire grows

The National Weather Service issued a rare Particularly Dangerous Situation warning as dry, windy conditions provided fuel for more fires across the western U.S.

An immortal idea: When a sport brings a martyr to life

In the same country which planned the removal of Lumumba, Mboladinga would stand a living statue with his hand raised in solidarity and tribute to the leader who was all black and nothing but an anti-imperialist

FIFA World Cup, Iran vs Egypt LIVE: Iran draw level

It is almost a must-win for Iran, while Egypt are virtually assured of qualification

FIFA World Cup 2026, New Zealand vs Belgium LIVE updates: Do-or-die clash for both teams in Group G

It is a must-win match for Belgium if they need to qualify for the knockouts

How Trumps posts on Iran zigzagged during the war

U.S. Presidents social media messaging reveals how his rhetoric on the Islamic Republic repeatedly swungbetween warnings of destruction, calls for regime change and overtures of diplomacy; four months since the conflict unfolded, whether strategy or contradiction, it is difficult to ignore that one issue has quietly disappeared from Washingtons public messaging regime change in Tehran

Why the cholesterol debate is about much more than good vs. bad

Cholesterol problems are as much social and lifestyle issues as medical ones. While traditional fats are easy to blame, the reality is that unhealthy diets, lack of physical activity and stress all play a large part in creating imbalances

Magnitude 6.5 quake hits off southern Philippines

The 7.8-magnitude tremor that hit Mindanao on June 8 brought down buildings, triggered landslides and displaced thousands on the southern island, while also setting off tsunami warnings across the region

Review | The GreatestStoriesfrom the Northeast Ever Told is an ambitious undertaking

This collection ofstoriesby 27 writers, both established and emerging voices, is a compelling showcase of Northeast Indias literary vitality

Morning Digest: India launches Op Amistad to aid quake-hit Venezuela as toll nears 1,000; U.S. strikes Iran sites after cargo ship attack, and more

Here is a select list of stories to start the day.

Review | Courtesans Dont Read Newspapers captures the absurdities of modern India

Anil Yadavs stories, deftly translated by Vaibhav Sharma, lay bare societys hypocrisies, inequalities and quiet heartbreaks

Delhi University announced admissions to UG programmes

Admissions to 73 programmes and more than a hundred B.A. programmes are offered in 67 colleges

U.S. Judge won't immediately dismiss criminal charges against Gautam Adani

Adani was charged in 2024 with agreeing to bribe Indian government officials so a subsidiary of his Adani Group could win approval to develop a solar plant, and then misleading U.S. investors

Israel, Lebanon sign framework agreement with U.S. in first step toward peace, Rubio says

The officials did not share details on the agreement that was signed by Yechiel Leiter, the Israeli Ambassador to the United States, and Nada Hamadeh, Ambassador of Lebanon to the United States

India launches Op Amistad to aid quake-hit Venezuela; sends relief material, medical assistance

The 41-member team, comprising experienced rescue personnel and medical professionals, will work closely with the Venezuelan authorities in search and rescue operations

UN agency working to restart Hormuz evacuations after ship attack

Some 115 vessels and around 2,500 seafarers were able to sail through the strait before evacuations were paused, IMO Secretary-General Arsenio Dominguez told a virtual news conference

Thank you, says Trump as Telangana names Hyderabad road after him

Mr. Trump's remarks on Truth Social came after the Telangana government named a road adjoining the US Consulate in the southern Indian city as Donald Trump Avenue.

California appeals court upholds Harvey Weinsteins rape conviction, but says he must be resentenced

The decision came a day after prosecutors in New York decided Weinstein would not face a fourth trial , dropping the #MeToo-era case after the accuser said she could not bear to testify again.

FIFA World Cup | Cabo Verde vs Saudi Arabia LIVE updates: Group H match underway

Cape Verde is one of the absolute feel-good stories of the World Cup, a tiny island nation with two draws in its two matches to this point

FIFA World Cup | Uruguay vs Spain LIVE updates: Group H match underway

A draw would still leave Uruguay with a slim chance of advancing through the third-place route

Cleaning Godavari a challenge ahead of 2027 Pushkarams

The waters of the sacred river of Akhanda Godavari have been declared unsuitable either for drinking or a holy dip due to contamination with effluents being released from industries and untreated sewage water, threatening the survival of the river ecosystem and forcing four lakh residents of the city to drink, while traditional fisherfolk abandoned the river for drinking, bathing on the Eastern bank.

FIFA World Cup | Dembele hat-trick helps France beat second-string Norway 4-1 to top group

The 2018 World Cup winners hit the crossbar with Kylian Mbappe's thunderous drive after 25 seconds before the captain delivered a superb through ball for Ballon d'Or winner Dembele to fire them into the lead in the seventh minute

FIFA World Cup: Senegal rout10-man Iraq to stay in World Cup hunt

The West Africans enjoyed a dream start when Abdoulaye Seck's header directed off teammate Habib Diarra and into the Iraqi net in the fourth minute

Budgam artist uses calligraphy, painting to serve Muharram

Mir Latif Hussain, JMI graduate, says calligraphy, painting are his way of fulfilling responsibility during sacred month Budgam, Jun 26: Every person has a different responsibility during Muharram. For Budgams multidisciplinary artist Mir Latif Hussain, that responsibility lies in calligraphy and painting. As the month of Muharram begins, Hussain spends his days preparing posters, paintings and banners for mourners and processions, using his art to express remembrance and devotion. I see that with time, a persons responsibility increases. Since it is Muharram, I do calligraphy and make paintings related to Muharram. Every person has a different responsibility and, as an artist, I try to fulfil mine in this way, Hussain told Rising Kashmir. The artist from Wahabpora recently completed a large painting measuring 16 by 17 feet at Imam Bara Bemina, a work that has drawn attention on social media. Recently, I made a large painting measuring 16 by 17 feet at Imam Bara Bemina. It has become quite famous, he said. One of Hussains recent paintings is titled Mithli La Yubayiu Mithlahu, an Arabic phrase attributed to Imam Hussain (AS) and commonly translated as, A person like me cannot pledge allegiance to a person like him. Explaining the idea behind the work, Hussain referred to the popular Urdu verse, They got Hussains head, but never his allegiance, saying it inspired the painting. I made this painting on that title. Imam Hussain had said this to Yazid, and this painting is based on that, he said. A graduate in Fine Arts from the University of Kashmir and a Masters in Painting from Jamia Millia Islamia, New Delhi, Hussain said his journey in art formally began in 2016,though he had been drawing since childhood. Before that, I worked on my own without guidance. I joined Fine Arts in 2016 and completed my bachelors degree. After that, I got admission to Jamia Millia University and completed my Masters there, he said. His participation in exhibitions and interactions with artists from outside Kashmir, he said, broadened his understanding of art and practice. I received a national award at the Kochi Biennale and another from Ranchi University in 2018. By participating in different universities and exhibitions, I learned a lot because artists outside Kashmir work very hard, he said. Hussain also sees technology as a support for artists seeking references and developing ideas. I think AI is good for artistry because artists can take help from it. Earlier, there was no such technology, and artists could only use Google for references. Now, artists can get many references and develop their ideas, he said.

West Bengal Congress to step up protests over NTA question paper leaks

Congress leadership in West Bengal will hold protests on August 1 demanding the resignation of Union Education Minister Dharmendra Pradhan as the part of nation wide programme Chhatron Ki Goonj said Congress leader Prasenjit Bose

Peace spurs revival of border tourism along LoC villages in Kashmir

Srinagar, Jun 26: With normalcy returning to Kashmirs border areas, tourism is witnessing a revival along villages situated near the Line of Control (LoC), bringing renewed hope to local communities dependent on the sector. From Uri in north Kashmirs Baramulla district to Karnah in Kupwara and Gurez in Bandipora, a growing number of local and non-local tourists are once again visiting these scenic destinations, boosting the prospects of border tourism. Among the most popular attractions is Kaman Post in the Uri sector, a strategically significant location along the LoC that offers visitors a view of the other side of the border. Official figures show that 2,757 tourists visited Kaman Post during the first five months of 2026, reflecting a steady increase in footfall. Tourists have started returning to the LoC villages. In Uri, visitors prefer destinations such as Kaman Post, Nambla Waterfall and Limber Waterfall. As peace has returned, tourists have also started making a comeback, which is a positive sign, said Lal Hussain Kohli, a resident of Charunda village in Uri. Locals say the revival of tourism is vital for the economic well-being of border communities.Tourism is the backbone of the border areas. Now that tourists have returned, the government should create more facilities and infrastructure to attract a larger number of visitors, said Bashir Ahmad Wathloo, a member of the civil society in Uri. Sub-Divisional Magistrate (SDM) Uri, Prince Kumar said Kaman Post continues to be a major attraction for visitors. Tourists primarily come to see Kaman Post along the LoC. However, we are exploring ways to develop and promote other destinations under the border tourism initiative, and the government has sought a comprehensive plan in this regard, he said. In Kupwara district, border destinations such as Keran, Teetwal and Karnah have also regained popularity among tourists. As peace has returned, tourists have started visiting the border areas again, said Raja Waqar, a civil society member from Karnah. He said several facilities developed by the Indian Army have helped attract visitors to the region. People come to see the Teetwal Crossing Bridge, Sharda Temple and the Kishanganga River. These attractions have significantly boosted tourist interest in the area, he said. Waqar also urged authorities to simplify the permission process and ease security frisking procedures to encourage more tourists to visit the border belt. Another local resident, Khushal Khawaja, said a number of recent initiatives have further enhanced the appeal of Karnah and surrounding areas. Tourists visit Sadhna Top, the Pahari Cultural Centre Museum, the War Museum, Sadhna Caf and various viewpoints. Several new restaurants have reopened, while Keran has developed homestay facilities for visitors, he said. SDM Karnah, Mohd Raiyaz, said the border areas of Kupwara are witnessing a healthy flow of tourists. Visitors come to see attractions such as Sharda Temple, Sadhna Caf and several other scenic spots across the region, he said. Earlier this month, the Kupwara district administration, in collaboration with the Indian Army, launched the 'Shumali Kashmir' Tourism Portal and the North Kashmir Tourism Magazine to promote border tourism and showcase the region's vast tourism potential. The initiatives were unveiled during a tourism promotion event aimed at attracting more visitors to north Kashmir's border destinations. Reportedly more than three lakh tourists have visited various destinations in Kupwara district, while Gurez valley has recorded nearly 60,000 visitors. Gurez, known for its breathtaking landscapes and unique culture, has also emerged as a major attraction under the border tourism initiative. Tourists from across India are visiting the Gurez border area once again after the return of peace, said a local resident of Gurez. With tourist arrivals steadily increasing across the LoC belt, residents and officials alike hope that improved infrastructure and sustained peace will further strengthen border tourism and create new livelihood opportunities for local communities.

Sikh youth serve water to mourners

Srinagar, Jun 26: Srinagar's Zadibal area once again witnessed an example of communal harmony as young members of the Sikh community served refreshments to mourners during the Zuljanah procession on Friday. As thousands of mourners joined the Zuljanah procession from Bota Kadal-Zadibal to commemorate the sacrifice of Imam Hussain (AS) and his companions at Karbala,the Sikh volunteers were seen distributingdrinking water to the participants amid the scorching heat. The gesture, witnessed by scores of mourners, reflected the Valley's long-standing tradition of mutual respect and brotherhood among different communities. Many participants welcomed the initiative, describing it as a symbol of Kashmir's shared cultural ethos and communal amity. Local residents said such acts of goodwill have become a familiar sight during major religious occasions in the area, where people from different faiths often come together to extend support and assistance irrespective of religious affiliations. The volunteers said their participationwasaimed at serving humanity and strengthening the bonds of brotherhood. They expressed hope that such initiatives would continue to promote peace, harmony and mutual understanding among communities. The Zuljanah procession passed through its designated route under elaborate security arrangements before concluding peacefully.

CM Omar joins mourners at Zadibal

Distributes water, milk at Sabeel Srinagar, Jun 26: Chief Minister Omar Abdullah on Friday joined mourners at Zadibal on the solemn occasion of Youm-e-Ashura and distributed water and milk at a sabeel set up along the procession route as a mark of respect and solidarity with the mourners. The Chief Minister was accompanied by his Advisor Nasir Aslam Wani and MLA Zadibal Tanvir Sadiq. During his visit, Omar Abdullah interacted with mourners and volunteers engaged in facilitating the observance of Youm-e-Ashura, and participated in the distribution of refreshments at the sabeel, appreciating the spirit of service and devotion displayed by volunteers. Zadibal, one of the principal centres of Muharram observances in Srinagar, witnessed large gatherings of mourners participating in the traditional Ashura procession amid elaborate arrangements made by the administration to ensure its smooth and peaceful conduct. The Chief Minister also visited the revered Shrine of Mir Shamsu-din Araqi (RA) at Zadibal, where he offered Fatihah and prayed for peace, harmony, and the well-being of the people of Jammu and Kashmir. Youm-e-Ashura, observed on the 10th day of Muharram, commemorates the supreme sacrifice of Hazrat Imam Hussain (AS), his family members, and companions at Karbala. The day is marked by mourning processions, majalis (religious congregations), and sabeels, where water and refreshments are distributed in remembrance of the hardships endured by Imam Hussain (AS) and his companions.

Eternal guide to equality: LGs tribute to Imam Hussains sacrifice

Joins Zuljinah procession, serves refreshments among mourners Srinagar, Jun 26: Lieutenant Governor Manoj Sinha on Friday joined the Zuljinah procession at Zadibal in Srinagar on the solemn occasion of Youm-e-Ashura, the 10th day of Muharram, paying tributes to Hazrat Imam Hussain (AS) and his companions. I pay humble tributes to Hazrat Imam Hussain (AS) and his companions. Their supreme sacrifice for peace, love, and compassion remains an eternal guide to building a society rooted in equality and harmony. Hazrat Imam Hussain (AS) gave the timeless message of selfless service and compassion for the underprivileged. The society must draw inspiration from his noble life and virtues, walking the righteous path of truth, justice, and humanity, the Lieutenant Governor said. The Lieutenant Governor also served refreshments among the mourners, joining the community in observing the solemn occasion.

Youm-e-Ashura: Kashmir remembers Karbala martyrs

Emotions run high as Zadibal witnesses largest Zuljanah procession Srinagar, Jun 26: Youm-e-Ashura, marking the 10th of Muharram and commemorating the martyrdom of Hazrat Imam Hussain (AS) and his companions in Karbala, was observed with religious zeal and fervour across Jammu & Kashmir, with thousands of mourners carrying out the Zuljanah procession in Srinagar. The day commemorates the supreme sacrifice of Imam Hussain (AS) - the grandson of Prophet Muhammad (SAW) - and his companions in the historic Battle of Karbala on the 10th of Muharram, 61 AH. The Zuljanah procession was carried out at around 10:30 AM from Imam Bargah Gulshan Bagh Bota Kadal to Zadibalhereamidthetight security arrangements. The Zuljanah was ritually draped with the traditional chaddar before the procession commenced. Lieutenant Governor Manoj Sinha, who joined the mourners this afternoon, also offered a chaddar to Zuljinah. Besides, Chief Minister Omar Abdullah, Inspector General of Police Kashmir Zone, V K Birdi and several other top officials from the police and civil administration visited Zadibal here and joined the mourners. As soon as the procession commenced, the mourners, including men, women and children, marched alongside the Zuljanah, representing the horse of Imam Hussain (AS). The stretch from Botakadal to Zadibal remained packed throughout the day as a sea of mournersengaged in reciting the Nouha and chest-beatingto commemorate the martyrdom of Imam Hussain (AS) and his companions in Karbala. Pertinently, the traditional route began from Abi Guzar near Lal Chowk, passed through Basant Bagh, Habba Kadal, Nalamar, and ended at Zadibal, but was discontinued by the administration for the last few decades. Additionally, along the roadside, a number of NGOs, political parties, departments and district administration had organised Sabeel where the volunteers and the officials were seen busy distributing water, food items and other things. Notably, security personnel were deployed in strength and traffic diversions were put in place to ensure the smooth conduct of the procession. The traffic police had issued an advisoryfor thepeople to ensure the smooth procession in Zadibal. In a statement, the traffic policehadsaid that to ensure smooth movement and public convenience, the following route diversions will be in place, Traffic moving towards Zadibal will be diverted at Firdous Cinema, Mill Stop, Lal Bazar and Bota Kadal. Furthermore, the other areas witnessing Ashura procession include Budgam (from Gazi Manzil to Imambargah Yousufabad, Magam, Iskinderpora Beerwah, Sonpah, Anantnag, Baramulla, Pulwama, and Kulgam and remote areas of Ladakh, including Turtuk, Partappora, and Chushut. Prominent areas in Kashmir, such as Baarji Harwan, Bemina, Mirgund, Hanjiveera, Balhama, Panear, Tral, Devsar Kulgam, Sofipora Pahalgam, Chattergul, Achabal, Dangerpora, and Sonawari also witnessed processions.

Detect, Disrupt, Destroy: Amit Shah's roadmap to eliminate drug network

Unveils vision document on drug control; targets Rs 6,000 crore narcotics destruction Next 3 years will decide Be ruthless on traffickers Be sympathetic to victims Reconnect children with life Victory will be ours New Delhi, Jun 26: Union Home Minister and Minister of Cooperation Amit Shah on Friday said that the country stands at a critical turning point in the fight against narcotics, where the next three years will decide whether addiction will defeat us or we will defeat addiction. For the future of the country over the next 100 years, we must win this battle with firm determination and collective efforts, and that this fight cannot be waged by any single department, state, government, or individual, Shah said while chairing the 10th apex-level meeting of the Narco-Coordination Centre (NCORD) in New Delhi. He released the 'Vision Document on Drug Control (2026-2029)' and the 'NCB Annual Report-2025', and launched the 'Online Drugs Disposal Fortnight Campaign' with a target to destroy narcotics weighing 2,09,500 kilograms valued at Rs 6,000 crore. In his address, the Home Minister said the roadmap from 2026 to 2029 is based on four major pillars: Enforcement, Intelligence and Operations; Precursors and Synthetic Drug Control; Demand and Harm Reduction; and Capacity Building, Coordination and Monitoring. Its aim is to conduct targeted intelligence-led action against the entire network and destroy it completely. The roadmap has been prepared keeping in mind the Whole of Government Approach and Whole of Society Approach. Shah described the fight against drugs in three words: Detect, Disrupt and Destroy. He emphasized that we must use HUMINT, technical intelligence, and community policing to destroy all three types of cartels. Under Disrupt, we must hit drug traffickers at every level with the full force of the law, and through PMLA and ED, conduct financial investigations against drug traffickers very ruthlessly. Under Destroy, we must ruthlessly finish the networks in such a way that they do not rise again. We must maintain a ruthless approach towards those involved in drug trafficking and a sympathetic approach towards the victims of drugs. It is our compassion and goodwill that can reconnect these children with a normal life, he added. The Union Home Minister directed that states should convert their Anti-Narcotics Task Forces (ANTFs) into full-time, dedicated, well-equipped, and accountable units. State Police Chiefs must make financial investigation mandatory in major NDPS cases and ensure real-time data sharing. The Ministry of Home Affairs has taken up the matter with all High Courts to set up special courts for speedy disposal of major cases. States must develop mechanisms to accelerate action through Red Corner Notices, extradition processes, and the CBI against drug smugglers hiding abroad. Amit Shah said that between 2004 and 2014, drugs worth Rs 40,000 crore were seized, while from 2014 to 2026, drugs worth Rs 1,84,000 crore have been seized. Similarly, illegal opium crop destruction has increased from 10,000 acres in 2020 to 42,282 acres in 2025. Between 2004 and 2014, 1,73,000 cases were registered, while from 2014 to 2026, 8,75,000 cases have been registered. During the meeting, the Union Home Minister e-inaugurated NCB zonal offices in Jammu and Guwahati. The meeting was attended by senior officials from various ministries, states, and central agencies. If we fight this battle together and in unity, victory will definitely be ours, and in the next three years, we will make massive progress towards eliminating drug networks in India, Shah said.

Hakeem Yaseen Pays Tributes to Martyrs of Karbala

Srinagar, June 26: President of Jammu and Kashmir Peoples Democratic Front (PDF) and former Minister, Hakeem Mohammad Yaseen, paid rich tributes to Imam Hussain (AS) and the martyrs of Karbala on the solemn occasion of Youm-e-Ashura, remembering their unparalleled sacrifice for truth, justice, and the dignity of humanity. In his message, Hakeem Yaseen said that the tragedy of Karbala, despite having occurred more than 1,400 years ago, continues to resonate deeply across generations and remains one of the most powerful examples of courage, sacrifice, and steadfastness in human history. He said Imam Hussain (AS), along with his family members and loyal companions, laid down their lives while standing firmly against oppression, tyranny, and injustice. He said the sacrifice of Imam Hussain (AS) was not merely a historical event but a universal message for all mankind. Karbala teaches that truth and justice must always prevail over falsehood and oppression, regardless of the cost. The stand taken by Imam Hussain (AS) continues to inspire millions across the world to remain steadfast in the face of adversity.

Satish Sharma joins Ashura procession at Zadibal

Srinagar, June 26: Minister for Food, Civil Supplies & Consumer Affairs, Information Technology, Youth Services & Sports, and Science & Technology, Satish Sharma, on Friday joined the Ashura procession at Zadibal, where he paid homage to the unparalleled sacrifice of Imam Hussain (AS) and his companions. The Minister participated in the procession alongside thousands of mourners, reflecting solidarity with the people commemorating the martyrdom of Imam Hussain (AS), whose message of truth, justice, compassion and steadfastness continues to inspire humanity across generations. Speaking on the occasion, Satish Sharma said that the sacrifices made at Karbala uphold timeless values of righteousness, courage and resistance against oppression. He observed that the teachings of Imam Hussain (AS) transcend all boundaries and continue to guide society towards peace, justice and communal harmony. The Minister also interacted with the mourners and reviewed the arrangements made for smooth conduct of the procession. He appreciated the coordinated efforts of the district administration, police, health services, municipal bodies and volunteers in ensuring that the observance was held in a peaceful, orderly and dignified manner. MLA Zadibal, Tanvir Sadiq, accompanied the Minister during the procession. Satish Sharma prayed for lasting peace, prosperity and communal harmony in Jammu and Kashmir. He extended his respects to all those observing Ashura, expressing hope that the values of sacrifice, unity and compassion embodied by Imam Hussain (AS) continue to inspire the society towards harmony and justice.

Ashraf Mir flags governance failures at Srinagar meet

Srinagar, June 26: Apni Party Provincial President Mohammad Ashraf Mir on Friday chaired a workers meeting in Illahibagh area of Srinagar to discuss public grievances, governance issues and organisational matters. The meeting, held at the residence of District Youth Wing Vice President Muddassir Bhat, witnessed participation from hundreds of party workers and local residents. Apni Party Youth Wing President Yawar Dilawar Mir also attended the gathering. Addressing the meeting, Ashraf Mir and Yawar Mir criticised the National Conference (NC)-led government, alleging that it had failed to fulfil key promises related to development, employment generation and improved governance. They said people were growing increasingly disillusioned as assurances made during elections had not translated into tangible results on the ground. The people were promised progress and better governance, but those commitments remain unfulfilled, they said, adding that citizens were now demanding accountability from elected representatives. Several participants at the meeting also expressed dissatisfaction over what they termed unfulfilled promises and voiced support for Apni Party leader Muddassir Bhat, stating that they preferred leadership that remains accessible and responsive to public issues. Speaking on the occasion, Muddassir Bhat thanked the participants for their support and assured them that the Apni Party would continue to highlight public issues and work for people-centric development in Jammu and Kashmir. The meeting concluded with party leaders reaffirming their commitment to public service and calling for greater accountability in governance.

Prominent NC workers switch to Apni Party in Natipora

Srinagar, June 26: In a significant political development, several prominent leaders, senior workers, and activists of the National Conference (NC) from Natipora in Chanapora constituency resigned from the party en masse on Friday and joined the Apni Party. The joining took place during a workers meeting organised by Apni Party Ward President Natipora, Arjumand Makhdoomi, which was held to discuss local public grievances and party-related issues. Apni Party President Syed Mohammad Altaf Bukhari welcomed the new entrants into the party fold and expressed hope that their inclusion would strengthen the partys organisational base in the Natipora area. He assured them that the Apni Party would serve as a platform dedicated to addressing public issues effectively. Addressing the meeting, Bukhari urged party workers to intensify public outreach across Srinagar, stating that people were disillusioned with the performance of the ruling party. He alleged that the National Conference had failed to fulfil key electoral promises, including job creation, regularisation of daily wagers, free electricity, LPG cylinders, and enhanced ration support. People have now realised they were misled by false promises, he said. Bukhari further said that major issues such as restoration of statehood, employment generation, detainee release, and simplification of passport-related processes could only be addressed through engagement with the Union Government. He also reiterated his call for a structured dialogue between the Centre and the people of Jammu and Kashmir. Several former NC leaders and workers, including Halqa President Mohammad Amin Bhat and others, formally joined the Apni Party on the occasion. Senior party leaders including Vice President District Srinagar Aijaz Ahmad Rather, Ward President Budshah Nagar Imran Lone, and Member Committee District Srinagar Afroza Khan were also present.

Andrabi inaugurates Grand Mosque at Shahdara Sharif

Rajouri, June 26: Chairperson, J&K Waqf Board, Dr Syed Darakhshan Andrabi on Friday inaugurated a state-of-the-art Grand Mosque, a guest house and a security barrack at Shahdara Sharif shrine complex during the Annual Urs of Baba Ghulam Shah Badshah (RA). Dr Andrabi participated in the Urs celebrations and joined collective prayers at the shrine, where she addressed a large gathering of devotees. She said the teachings of Baba Ghulam Shah Badshah (RA) continue to serve as a guiding force, and also paid tribute to the supreme sacrifice of Imam Hussain (AS), stating that Ashura stands as an eternal reminder of truth and sacrifice. Later, the Waqf Board Chairperson inaugurated the newly constructed Grand Mosque within the shrine premises, describing it as a dream project and a significant addition to the infrastructure of the pilgrimage site. She said devotees offering prayers in the new mosque reflected the success and public acceptance of the project. She also inaugurated a modern guest house equipped with upgraded facilities for pilgrims and a security barrack to support deployment of police personnel at the shrine complex. Speaking on the occasion, Dr Andrabi said Shahdara Sharif has emerged as a model ziyarat complex in Jammu and Kashmir due to sustained developmental works undertaken by the Waqf Board over the past four years. She said the mosque project, conceived just a year ago, was completed in a short span by the engineers of the Board. It is heartening to see such infrastructure completed within a year. The response of devotees has been deeply encouraging, she said. Dr Andrabi added that all development works have been carried out without government funding, and were executed through internal resources of the Waqf Board with emphasis on transparency and accountability. Several officials of the Waqf Board, religious scholars, and public delegations were present on the occasion.

Outsourcing is systematic privatisation of jobs: Sajad Lone

Slams PDP over brownie points on outsourcing issue Srinagar, June 26: J&K Peoples Conference president and MLA Handwara Sajad Lone on Friday said that the outsourcing of government jobs poses a far greater threat to employment in Jammu and Kashmir than backdoor appointments, accusing the National Conference (NC) government of converting public sector posts into privately managed positions. Lone said the ongoing debate over employment practices was being distorted for political gains, cautioning that mischaracterising outsourcing as backdoor appointments undermines the seriousness of the issue affecting thousands of young job-seekers. These are not backdoor appointments. These are outsourced government jobs, and the distinction is extremely important, he said, adding that the government itself had confirmed in the Assembly that around 25,000 posts had been outsourced. He described outsourcing as a systematic privatisation of public employment, arguing that it creates a structure where private agencies and the ruling establishment benefit at the cost of job security for ordinary youth. He warned that such a system makes employment unstable, with future governments free to change outsourcing agencies, leaving workers vulnerable. Lone also referred to the outsourcing of posts under Mission Vatsalya (formerly ICPS), saying he had originally helped establish the child protection framework during his tenure as Social Welfare Minister, including district-level protection mechanisms. He said that after 2019, the then administration had attempted to outsource ICPS appointments and terminate contractual workers, a move he had opposed. While court intervention stayed parts of the decision, he said several recruitments remained unresolved. Expressing disappointment, Lone said he had expected the elected government to reverse these decisions, but instead it had proceeded with outsourcing remaining ICPS posts. He criticised the governments responses in the Assembly as arrogant and evasive. Referring to the NCs poll promises, Lone said the party had pledged to create one lakh government jobs but had instead converted thousands of government posts into outsourced positions. He said he would soon release a detailed case study on the issue. He also urged the PDP not to confuse outsourcing with backdoor appointments for political convenience, saying such misrepresentation allows the NC to escape accountability.

Omar seeks stronger J&KHimachal education ties

Meets Bihar Assembly Speaker, Himachal Pradesh Education Minister Srinagar, June 26: Chief Minister Omar Abdullah yesterday evening held separate meetings with distinguished visitors from Bihar and Himachal Pradesh at his residence in Srinagar, discussing issues of mutual interest and avenues for greater inter-governmental cooperation. Speaker of the Bihar Legislative Assembly, Dr. Prem Kumar, called on the Chief Minister. During the meeting, the two leaders exchanged views on matters of mutual interest, emphasizing the importance of strengthening inter-governmental cooperation, democratic institutions and the exchange of legislative best practices. The Chief Minister welcomed the Speaker to Jammu and Kashmir and wished him a pleasant stay. Later, Himachal Pradesh Minister for School Education, Rohit Thakur, called on the Chief Minister. He was accompanied by State Project Director Rajesh Sharma; Director, School Education, Himachal Pradesh, Ashish Kumar Kohli; Additional Secretary School Education (HP), Anil Chauhan and faculty members associated with Samagra Shiksha, Himachal Pradesh. The meeting featured a constructive exchange of views on key initiatives in the education sector, with discussions focusing on strengthening school education, promoting innovation in teaching and learning, enhancing institutional collaboration and facilitating the sharing of best practices between the two Himalayan regions. Chief Minister Omar Abdullah underscored the importance of quality education as the cornerstone of sustainable development and highlighted the value of inter-governmental collaboration in improving learning outcomes. He expressed confidence that such engagements would further deepen cooperation between Jammu and Kashmir and Himachal Pradesh in the field of education and contribute to the adoption of innovative and effective educational practices. Minister for Education Sakina Itoo, Members of Legislative Assembly Sheikh Ahsan Ahmed and Mushtaq Guroo and other officials were also present during the occasion.

Majority backs Er Rashid as MP : AIP

Party says 746 of 773 delegates opposed resignation, 24 supported it, 3 abstained Srinagar, June 26: A two day internal consultation and secret ballot conducted by the Awami Ittehad Party, AIP, has overwhelmingly rejected the proposal that jailed Member of Parliament Er Rashid should resign from the Lok Sabha. According to the party, 746 out of 773 delegates voted against his resignation, while 24 supported the proposal and three remained undecided. The secret ballot was held after Er Rashid reportedly conveyed to the party leadership his intention to step down as MP, citing his prolonged incarceration, which the party said had limited his ability to remain connected with his electorate. Independent observers Parvaiz Ahmad Bhat and Aijaz Yousuf Shah, who supervised the exercise, said they had no political affiliation with AIP and were invited solely to ensure a free and fair process. They stated that delegates from all 18 Assembly segments of the Baramulla Parliamentary constituency participated in 12 meetings held over two days. Each session lasted around 90 minutes and included discussions on public opinion collected from different sections of society before participants cast their votes through a secret ballot. The observers described the process as transparent, impartial and conducted according to the participants' conscience. In its statement, AIP thanked the delegates, civil society members and the observers for their participation in what it called a unique democratic exercise. The party said it had sought permission to hold the event at Tagore Hall in Srinagar but was not granted approval. AIP maintained that the ballot reflected public confidence in Er Rashid's leadership despite his continued detention in Tihar Jail. The party rejected claims that his 2024 Lok Sabha victory was driven only by sympathy, asserting that the result represented support for his political ideology and long standing public work. The party also renewed its demand for Er Rashid's release, alleging that his detention was politically motivated. It argued that his willingness to resign demonstrated selflessness and commitment to the people of J&K rather than a desire for political office. AIP said the outcome of the secret ballot would be conveyed to Er Rashid through his legal team. While urging him to respect the sentiments expressed by the delegates and the public, the party added that the final decision on whether to continue as MP rests entirely with him.

NEET retest: SFI seeks clarity over attendance

KCBC panel slams tax cut move on low-alcohol drinks

Kerala HC rejects plea to dismiss financial fraud case

Disappearing indigo factories in Neelapalli

Development projects worth 441 crore under way in JJ clusters: Delhi CM

255 drug offenders held in 48-hour crackdown

Ramp up biomining capacity at Ghazipur landfill: Sood to MCD

Pink room opened for girls at Corporation school in Avadi

A Defining Leap for J&K Sports

National Centre of Excellence can bridge the gap between local talent and national podiumsif executed well The Government of Indias approval for Jammu and Kashmirs first National Centre of Excellence (NCOE) in Sports, to be set up in Kashmir, is more than just another infrastructure project. It is a defining moment in J&Ks long and often unfulfilled quest to translate raw sporting talent into consistent, top-tier performance. For a region where young boys and girls have repeatedly shown promise on fields, tracks and courts despite limited facilities, the nod for a national-standard, high-altitude sports hub marks a historic opportunity and an equally serious responsibility. Conceived as a premier centre for high altitude sports, elite athlete development and advanced sports science, the NCOE has the potential to fundamentally redraw J&Ks sporting map. The vision is ambitious: a fully integrated campus with athletics tracks, indoor courts, football and hockey turfs, kabaddi and kho-kho arenas, shooting range, swimming pool, taekwondo hall, skilling centres, a strength and conditioning and rehabilitation complex, hostels, sports science and sports medicine facilitiesall under one institutional framework. If implemented in both letter and spirit, this ecosystem can finally bridge the long-standing gap between local talent and national opportunity. The strategic choice of Kashmir, with its natural advantage for high altitude training, is sound. Across the world, such environments are recognised for enhancing endurance, stamina and overall competitive performance. For J&Ks athletes, who have often had to travel outside the UT for serious preparation, access to scientific training, recovery systems, and specialised coaching at home can be a game-changer. It also opens avenues for the Valley to host national camps, coaching programmes and high-level competitions, placing Kashmir firmly on Indias sports map. Equally significant is the projects potential beyond medals and scoreboards. The NCOE, if run transparently and inclusively, can become a powerful engine of youth empowerment and social development. The plan to skill thousands of young people as coaches, trainers, technical officials, physiotherapists, sports science professionals and support staff can diversify career pathways in a region where unemployment remains a pressing concern. Done right, the Centre can nurture a culture of discipline, aspiration and excellence that radiates far beyond its boundary walls. However, the distance between promise and delivery in J&K has too often been marred by delays, cost overruns and ad-hocism. The detailed preparatory work cited, the feasibility assessment, availability of government land, and a clearly identified administrative chain from the Chief Secretary to the Divisional Commissioner and the Youth Services and Sports Department, is reassuring. But the real test will lie in time-bound execution, transparent recruitment of coaches and experts, merit-based selection of athletes, and insulation of the project from bureaucratic inertia and political interference. The sanction of this NCOE is a milestone in J&Ks sporting journey, but it must not remain a milestone on paper. The administration now has a rare chance to convert an inspiring blueprint into a living institution that consistently produces national and international champions. For the youth of Jammu and Kashmir, who have long waited at the margins of the sporting story, this Centre must become not just a symbol of possibility, but a cradle of performance.

17- year-old girl allegedly raped near Porur; one arrested

Doctors who examined her found that she was subjected to penetrative sexual assault and they informed the police

36 passengers escape unhurt after omni bus catches fire near Sholavaram

Restoring Trust in NEET Without Militarising Examinations

The use of military resources in civilian functions may appear harmless in isolated situations. However, it carries certain long-term risks The recent deployment of nearly 200 Indian Air Force sorties to transport NEET-UG retest question papers has been projected as a strong response to allegations of question paper leaks and examination irregularities. While the intention of reassuring students and parents is understandable, the development raises a larger and more important question: Should the credibility of a civilian examination system depend upon military intervention? The issue before the nation is not merely the transportation of question papers. It concerns the integrity, competence and public credibility of India's examination system. NEET: An Examination of National Importance NEET-UG is one of the largest entrance examinations in the world. More than 22 lakh students compete annually for approximately 1.18 lakh MBBS seats and other medical courses. For most candidates, the examination represents years of preparation, financial sacrifice and family aspirations. Any allegation of question paper leakage, therefore, strikes at the very foundation of meritocracy and equal opportunity. The National Testing Agency (NTA), established in 2017 by the Government of India, was created specifically to conduct high-quality, transparent and efficient examinations. Consequently, the long-term solution lies not in extraordinary logistical arrangements but in strengthening the institutional capacity of the examination authority itself. Military Resources Must Remain Reserved for National Priorities The Indian Air Force exists primarily for the defence of the nation. Its constitutional and statutory role is linked to national security, strategic preparedness, disaster response and humanitarian assistance. Military aircraft are maintained at enormous public expense. Every sortie involves fuel, maintenance, technical manpower and operational planning. Although the exact expenditure incurred for transporting NEET question papers has not been publicly disclosed, defence analysts consistently point out that military aviation assets are among the most expensive government resources to operate. The concern, therefore, is not whether the armed forces are capable of performing such tasksthey undoubtedly arebut whether civilian administrative deficiencies should routinely require military support. A mature democracy must ensure that civilian institutions are capable of discharging their responsibilities independently. The Risk of Militarising Civil Administration The use of military resources in civilian functions may appear harmless in isolated situations. However, it carries certain long-term risks. 1. Weakening Institutional Accountability If every major administrative failure is solved through extraordinary intervention, the responsible civilian institutions may escape necessary scrutiny and reform. The real questions remain: How did the leak occur? Who was responsible? What procedural weaknesses existed? What corrective actions were implemented? Military transportation cannot answer these questions. 2. Creating a False Sense of Security Question paper leaks generally occur at one of several stages: Printing Packaging Storage Digital transmission Human handling Distribution chain Transporting papers by aircraft addresses only one component of the process. If vulnerabilities remain elsewhere, the risk continues despite extraordinary transportation arrangements. 3. Normalisation of Emergency Measures Exceptional measures are justified during wars, natural disasters or national emergencies. However, if military deployment becomes a recurring feature of civilian administration, it risks blurring the distinction between civilian governance and military functions. Strong democracies are built upon competent civilian institutions, not routine dependence on military mechanisms. Existing Legal and Administrative Framework India already possesses extensive legal provisions for maintaining examination integrity. Several provisions of the Bharatiya Nyaya Sanhita, 2023, relating to criminal breach of trust, cheating, forgery, conspiracy and corruption can be invoked against examination fraud. In addition, Parliament enacted the: The Public Examinations (Prevention of Unfair Means) Act, 2024 This legislation specifically targets: Question paper leaks. Organised cheating. Examination fraud syndicates. Unauthorised access to examination materials. The Act provides severe penalties, including imprisonment and substantial fines. The existence of this legislation demonstrates that the solution envisioned by Parliament is stronger accountability and punishment of offendersnot routine militarisation of examination logistics. Learning from UPSC and Other Trusted Institutions India's Union Public Service Commission (UPSC) has conducted examinations for decades with remarkable credibility. Millions of candidates have appeared for UPSC examinations over the years without requiring military aircraft for question paper transportation. The credibility of UPSC rests on: Strict secrecy protocols. Multiple security layers. Chain-of-custody documentation. Institutional accountability. Continuous monitoring. The lesson is clear: public trust is built through robust systems, not extraordinary symbolism. Strengthening the National Testing Agency The present controversy should become an opportunity for reform. Several measures deserve consideration: End-to-End Digital Tracking Every packet of question papers should be electronically tracked from the printing press to the examination centre through GPS-enabled monitoring. Tamper-Evident Security Seals Modern forensic seals can immediately reveal any unauthorised access. Background Verification Personnel involved in printing, storage and transportation should undergo rigorous verification and periodic audits. Independent Security Audit Annual third-party audits should be made mandatory for all major examinations. Decentralised Secure Printing Encrypted question papers may be transmitted electronically and printed only shortly before the examination under controlled conditions. Stronger Accountability Officials responsible for lapses should face prompt disciplinary and criminal action. Transparent Communication Students and parents should receive timely and accurate information whenever irregularities occur. Transparency often prevents panic and speculation. Trust Is Built by Competence, Not Symbolism The deployment of Air Force aircraft undoubtedly conveyed a message of seriousness. It may even have reassured many anxious students and parents. However, confidence built through symbolism is temporary. Confidence built through competence is permanent. Students will truly regain faith in the examination system only when they are convinced that: Question papers cannot be leaked. Wrongdoers will be punished swiftly. Honest candidates will not suffer. Examinations are conducted fairly and transparently. These objectives require institutional reform, not military participation. Conclusion The Indian Air Force deserves appreciation for efficiently carrying out any task entrusted to it by the Government of India. Nevertheless, the larger lesson from the NEET controversy is that civilian institutions must become strong enough to perform their duties without extraordinary intervention. The National Testing Agency should emerge from this episode not with greater dependence on emergency measures, but with stronger systems, better technology, enhanced accountability and renewed public trust. The credibility of an examination is not measured by the number of military aircraft deployed to protect it. It is measured by the confidence of every student who walks into the examination hall believing that merit alone will determine the outcome. India needs stronger examination systemsnot militarised examinations. (The Author is B.E. (Mech), B.O.E., ASME, Deputy Director of Boilers (Retd.), Mysuru)

Jananayagan producer appointed Special Representative of T.N. in New Delhi

Cancer Burden in Jammu & Kashmir

Do not ignore warning signs. Early detection can mean the difference between life and death HEALTH WATCH Cancer has become one of the most important health concerns in Jammu and Kashmir today. Over the last few years, doctors across the valley as well as the Jammu region have been noticing a steady increase in cancer cases. What is worrying is not just the rising number of patients, but also the fact that many of them reach hospitals at a very late stage, when the disease has already progressed significantly. Earlier, people in our region were more concerned about infectious diseases such as tuberculosis, diarrheal illnesses, and seasonal infections. While these problems still exist, the disease pattern is gradually changing. Lifestyle-related illnesses are increasing, and cancer is now becoming a major contributor to morbidity and mortality. This reflects a larger epidemiological transition taking place in society. Cancer is not a single disease but a group of diseases characterized by uncontrolled growth of abnormal cells in the body. These abnormal cells can invade nearby tissues and spread to other organs. The danger of cancer lies in its ability to remain silent during the early stages. One striking feature in Kashmir is the relatively high burden of gastrointestinal cancers, especially stomach (gastric) cancer and esophageal cancer. This pattern has attracted attention from researchers across India. Many experts believe that our dietary habits may be playing a significant role. High salt intake is known to damage the protective lining of the stomach, making it more vulnerable to chronic inflammation and cellular injury. Over time, repeated damage may contribute to cancer development. Another important factor is infection with Helicobacter pylori, a bacterium that infects the stomach lining. Many individuals may carry this infection without obvious symptoms for years. However, chronic infection can lead to gastritis, ulcers, and precancerous changes. Many people in Kashmir suffer from chronic acidity, bloating, upper abdominal discomfort, or recurrent indigestion and often rely on over-the-counter antacids for temporary relief. Persistent symptoms should be evaluated properly. Lung cancer is another serious concern. Tobacco remains one of the biggest preventable causes of cancer worldwide, and our region is no exception. Among women, breast cancer has become increasingly common and is now one of the leading cancers seen in females. Delayed diagnosis remains a major issue. Cervical cancer is another disease that deserves attention because it is largely preventable through screening and HPV vaccination. Another aspect that deserves attention is genetics and family history. Some cancers may have a hereditary component, increasing lifetime risk. One of the biggest problems in cancer management in Jammu and Kashmir is late presentation. Many patients seek medical care only when symptoms become severe. We must also acknowledge the economic burden of cancer on families. Treatment is prolonged and expensive, often causing severe financial stress. This burden becomes even heavier for patients from remote areas such as Kupwara, Kishtwar, Doda, Gurez, Poonch, and Rajouri, where access to specialized cancer care remains limited. Cancer treatment has improved significantly over recent years with better access to CT scans, MRI, endoscopy, biopsy, chemotherapy, radiotherapy, and surgical oncology. The importance of screening camps and community awareness programs cannot be overstated. Rural outreach programs can help identify suspicious symptoms much earlier. There is also a psychological dimension to cancer that is often overlooked. Fear of the diagnosis can lead to denial or delayed consultation. As healthcare professionals, we must help patients understand that cancer treatment has advanced tremendously. Many cancers today are treatable, and several are curable if diagnosed early. Preventive strategies include avoiding tobacco, reducing excessive salt intake, limiting processed foods, maintaining healthy weight, exercising regularly, and seeking early medical evaluation. Cancer is no longer a rare disease in Kashmir. Almost every family today knows someone affected by it. The message is simple: do not ignore warning signs. Early detection can mean the difference between life and death. (The Author is a registered medical practitioner and health columnist. He can be reached at: mir.muzaffar@yahoo.com)

Man dies after roof collapses near Arakkonam

The house was built under a government free housing scheme many years ago

Dostoevsky and the Restless Conscience of Our Times

Why a 19th-century Russian still speaks to the anxieties of the modern world There are writers we admire, and then there are writers who unsettle us. Fyodor Dostoevsky belongs firmly to the second category. He is not a comforting companion. He does not offer easy optimism or neat conclusions. Instead, he drags us into dark rooms of the human soul and locks the door from inside. Yet, generation after generation, readers keep returning to him. In classrooms and coffee houses, on social media feeds and in private conversations, Dostoevskys name still appearsperhaps more than many of his more polished contemporaries. The writer of inner earthquakes Dostoevsky did not write about ordinary events. He wrote about inner earthquakes. His novels are full of murderers, fanatics, lost believers, desperate lovers, and broken families. But beneath all the drama is a single obsession: the human conscience. In Crime and Punishment, we watch Raskolnikov commit a brutal murder, convinced he is justified, even destined, to rise above ordinary morality. On paper, it is a crime story. In reality, it is a story of a mind collapsing under the weight of its own rationalisations. The police can chase him, but the real pursuer is his own conscience. Dostoevsky understood something that modern life often wants us to forget: no matter how sophisticated our systems, how powerful our ideologies, or how convenient our justifications, the human heart remains uneasy when it crosses its own moral lines. You can hide from the law. You cannot hide from yourself. For societies living through conflict, this is not a literary detail. It is a central fact. Violence, whether physical or psychological, does not end when the event ends. It lingers in memories, in families, in communitiesand inside the people who committed it, supported it, or silently accepted it. Dostoevsky reminds us that the battlefield is also within. Freedom without responsibility: a dangerous illusion One of the most disturbing aspects of Dostoevskys work is his vision of freedom gone wrong. He saw, ahead of his time, how an idea of freedom detached from responsibility could become destructive. When people begin to believe that everything is permitted in the name of some higher causebe it ideology, nationalism, or even personal ambitionthen any act can be justified. In The Brothers Karamazov, one character imagines a world where God does not exist, and therefore there is no ultimate accountability, no final justice. From that thought emerges a frightening possibility: if there is no one to answer to, why not do anything you like? Dostoevsky does not give a philosophical lecture here; he shows what happens when such thinking takes hold in families and societies. The result is not liberation but chaossuspicion, betrayal, and spiritual exhaustion. Our own age is full of noisy declarations of freedom: freedom to say anything, to insult, to cancel, to humiliate; freedom to consume without limit; freedom to twist truth into whatever shape suits us. Technology has multiplied our reach and our speed, but not necessarily our sense of responsibility. We can ruin reputations in seconds, destroy trust in institutions in a few clicks, and spread hatred or misinformation without ever meeting those we harm. Dostoevsky would not be surprised. He knew that when freedom is separated from moral responsibility, it eventually turns back against the very people who celebrate it. Unchecked powerwhether in the hands of the state, the mob, or the individual egoalways produces victims, and often, finally, devours itself. Faith in a skeptical age Dostoevskys own life was one long struggle with faith and doubt. He was nearly executed for his early political activities, spared at the last minute, and sent to Siberian exile. There he met criminals, peasants, believers, and sceptics, and it was in that harsh environment that his spiritual vision deepened. Unlike preachy writers, Dostoevsky did not offer simple religious slogans. His characters argue fiercely about God, atheism, suffering, and evil. Some lose their faith. Some find it. Some simply wander in between. Yet through all this, one idea emerges: human beings cannot live on material facts alone. In an age that prides itself on being practical and rational, this is an uncomfortable message. We like to believe that better infrastructure, more data, and smarter policies will solve everything. These are necessary, but not sufficient. People do not just crave comfort; they crave meaning. They want to know why their suffering matters, what justice truly is, whether forgiveness is possible, and how to live with dignity in a broken world. In societies marked by conflict, these questions become even more urgent. When injustice accumulates, when trauma is passed down like an heirloom, when young people grow up more familiar with loss than with security, the temptation is either to sink into despair or explode in rage. Dostoevskys novels inhabit the relationship between despair and rage precisely. He does not dismiss either. He lets them speak. But he also asks: can there be a path beyond them? Compassion as a radical act For a writer of such darkness, Dostoevsky is also, paradoxically, a writer of compassion. His greatest characters are not the strong and successful, but the weak, the humiliated, the ashamed. He pays attention to people society mocks or ignores: poor students, fallen women, drunken fathers, desperate children. This does not mean he romanticises suffering. On the contrary, he exposes how easily society uses the suffering of the weak as a kind of entertainment or moral lesson, without ever questioning the structures that produce that suffering. But he also insists that real moral life begins when we stop treating others as background scenery and start seeing them as soulswith their own fears, hopes, and hidden goodness. In one sense, Dostoevsky challenges the modern culture of judgment. Social media has made it easy to condemn from a distance, to reduce complex human beings to a single act, a single post, or a single label. In his novels, no one is so simple. The sinner is rarely only a villain. The saint is never perfectly pure. Everyone is a mixture of good and evil, capable of falling and of rising. The mirror we try to avoid Reading Dostoevsky can be uncomfortable because his real subject is not Russia in the 1800s. His real subject is us. When we follow Raskolnikovs tortured reasoning, we may recognise our own justificationssmaller, perhaps, but similar in structure. When we see families in The Brothers Karamazov tear themselves apart over money, pride, and wounded egos, we may think of our own quarrels, our own silent resentments. Dostoevskys gift is to hold up a mirror we often try to avoid. He forces us to confront our contradictions: wanting justice but refusing to examine our own compromises; demanding honesty while living inside convenient lies; yearning for peace while feeding on news, gossip, and rhetoric that keep us permanently agitated. In a region where narratives are constantly competingeach side sure of its own innocence and the others guiltthis mirror is especially necessary. Without it, we risk becoming trapped in a story where we are always victims or always heroes, never participants in a shared, messy human drama. Lessons for a fragile present What, then, can Dostoevsky offer to a young reader today, perhaps on a phone screen, scrolling between notifications and news alerts? First, he offers seriousness. Not heaviness, but depth. In a world of endless distraction, his novels demand attentionnot just to the story, but to ones own reactions. Why do we sympathise with a criminal? Why do we feel uneasy when a character uses high ideals to justify cruelty? Why are we moved when a small act of kindness shines through the gloom? These questions push us to examine our own values, not just consume a plot. Second, he offers a warning about the seduction of ideologies. Dostoevsky lived in a time of revolutionary ideas, where grand visions promised to solve all social problems through force, upheaval, or total reorganization of society. He had seen where such dreams could lead: to the sacrifice of actual human beings in the name of imagined futures. The 20th century, with its wars and genocides, sadly proved him right. Our own century is not immune. In any place of conflict, the temptation to embrace absolute narratives is strong. Narratives that divide the world cleanly into good and evil, us and them, innocent and guilty. Such stories provide emotional comfort, even moral energy. But Dostoevsky gently, and sometimes brutally, reminds us that reality is more tangled. No ideology, however noble-sounding, has the right to erase the uniqueness of individual lives. Third, he offers a stubborn hopenot the cheap, sentimental kind, but a hard-earned hope that passes through darkness. His characters suffer, fail, and sometimes commit unforgivable acts. Yet again and again he insists that a single moment of compassion, a single act of humility, a single decision to admit the truth, can begin to change a life. This is not a political programme. It will not appear in manifestos or policy papers. But it matters. Because how we treat the person in front of usour neighbour, our colleague, our opponent, even our anonymous online interlocutorshapes the atmosphere in which larger events unfold. Why Dostoevsky still matters It would be easy to dismiss Dostoevsky as a writer of a distant empire, with old-fashioned settings and long, demanding books. But beneath the surface, his questions are our questions. We, too, live in an age of fear and uncertainty, in a world where technology connects and isolates us at the same time, where ideologies promise salvation and deliver division, and where the line between truth and falsehood is constantly blurred. We, too, are tempted to believe that power is more important than conscience, that ends justify means, that inner unease can be silenced by noise and distraction. Dostoevsky does not let us off so easily. He insists that every human being is answerable to others, and finally, to their own soul. He reminds us that the greatest battles are often fought not on the streets but in the privacy of the human heart. And he suggests that any future worth having must be built not only on laws and institutions, but on the difficult, daily work of moral honesty and compassion. For readers, Dostoevsky offers no ready-made answers. But he offers something perhaps more valuable: a language to think deeply about guilt and forgiveness, about freedom and responsibility, about suffering and dignity. In an era of quick takes and short attention spans, that in itself is a quiet act of resistance. The Russian novelist who wrote in the shadow of tsars and prison walls could not have imagined our world of Wi-Fi and smartphones, of online outrage and globalised anxieties. Yet his words travel across time and geography because the human heart has not changed as much as we like to believe. We may change our rulers, our borders, our technologies. But as long as we struggle with conscience, as long as we are torn between selfishness and empathy, as long as we can still be moved by the fate of another human being, Dostoevsky will remain disturbingly, urgently, relevant. And perhaps that is why, in a small corner of the Himalayas, a reader opening his pages today may still feel a shock of recognitionas if a stranger from a distant century has quietly understood something we ourselves hesitate to admit. (The Author is an Assistant Professor working in Dubai and writes exclusively on literature)

Tragic evening: On the earthquake in Venezuela

Venezuelas quake holds lessons on the importance of preparedness

Three persons held for possession of ganja

The arrested were residents of Tirupattur

Mirwaiz Hopes PM Modi Revives Spirit Of Regional Engagement

Bats for dialogue, urges India-Pakistan engagement Karbala an Eternal Lesson in Truth, Justice, Sacrifice Srinagar, June 26: : Mirwaiz-e-Kashmir Molvi Mohammad Umar Farooq on Friday said dialogue, diplomacy and engagement remain the only sustainable path to resolving conflicts, urging India and Pakistan to revive efforts towards peace while drawing parallels from recent global developments. Addressing the Friday congregation at Jama Masjid Srinagar on Youm-e-Ashoora, Mirwaiz said the recent United States-Israel confrontation with Iran once again demonstrated that military force, however overwhelming, has its limits. Wars can alter circumstances and inflict immense suffering, but durable peace and lasting solutions ultimately require dialogue, negotiation and statesmanship, he said. He noted that even after months of confrontation, enormous expenditure of resources and immense human suffering, adversaries eventually returned to the negotiating table. It is not a sign of weakness on either side; it reflects the reality that disputes cannot be resolved through force alone, he said, appreciating efforts by regional and international actors, including Pakistan and Qatar, to facilitate an environment conducive to dialogue. Mirwaiz said the same lesson holds particular relevance for South Asia, especially India and Pakistan. Our region is home to nearly one-fourth of humanity. It possesses immense civilizational wealth, extraordinary human resources and enormous economic potential. Yet for decades, political tensions, mistrust and unresolved issues have prevented the peoples of this region from fully realizing these possibilities. Societies suffer not only economically, but also emotionally and psychologically, he said. Referring to his own commitment to dialogue, Mirwaiz said that following the assassination of his father, Shaheed Mirwaiz Molvi Farooq, in 1990, he inherited not only the office of the Mirwaiz but also the responsibility to uphold the principles for which his father laid down his life. He said Shaheed Mirwaiz consistently advocated justice and dialogue over violence and supported engagement between India and Pakistan, believing that the interests of the people of Jammu and Kashmir and the wider region would be best served through peace, mutual respect and meaningful dialogue. Mirwaiz said that whether through the Awami Action Committee or later through the All Parties Hurriyat Conference, he has consistently upheld this principle for more than 36 years despite facing considerable odds and pushback. Sustainable peace cannot emerge from wars, force or violence. Lasting solutions require engagement, understanding and the courage to listen even to those with whom one disagrees, he said. Referring to Prime Minister Narendra Modi, Mirwaiz said he is today among the longest-serving leaders in independent India. He recalled that during the early years of his tenure, Modi spoke of regional cooperation and demonstrated an interest in improving relations with neighbouring countries. Those gestures generated hope across South Asia and created expectations of greater regional engagement and stability, he said. Mirwaiz said he had the opportunity, along with his colleagues, to engage with leaders across political dispensations, including former Prime Minister Atal Bihari Vajpayee, former Deputy Prime Minister L.K. Advani and former Prime Minister Dr Manmohan Singh. While differences remained, those engagements reflected an important principle: dialogue itself has value. It reduces mistrust, humanises opposing perspectives and creates possibilities that otherwise remain closed, he said. Expressing hope for renewed engagement, Mirwaiz said the spirit that informed Prime Minister Modi in the early years of his tenure, as well as the efforts made under leaders such as Vajpayee and Dr Manmohan Singh, should once again find expression. Peace may be difficult. Dialogue may be slow. Diplomacy may demand patience. Yet these remain the most reliable instruments for resolving issues and securing a better future, Mirwaiz said. Referring to the significance of Youm-e-Ashoora, Mirwaiz said the tragedy of Karbala is not merely a chapter of history but an eternal lesson in truth, patience, justice and sacrifice. He said Imam Hussain (RA) did not seek war or confrontation but stood for the principle that differences should be addressed through truth, adherence to the principles of Islam and sincere dialogue. When those before him chose oppression and violence instead, history recorded their failure forever, while Imam Hussain (RA) and his devoted companions became everlasting symbols of courage, sacrifice and steadfastness upon truth. Karbala reminds us that power may appear strong for a time, but in the end it is truth, justice and moral courage that prevail, he said, adding that when force replaces reason and confrontation replaces communication, societies suffer, whereas truth, patience and dialogue leave behind a legacy that history honours.

Police test sniper readiness for Amarnath Yatra

Anantnag, June 26: As part of security preparations for the forthcoming Shri Amarnath Ji Yatra-2026, Jammu and Kashmir Police on Friday conducted a specialised sniper response mock drill at Batangoo along the Yatra route to assess the operational readiness of security forces. The exercise simulated a realistic threat scenario requiring the rapid deployment of specially trained sniper teams, strategic positioning, target identification and coordinated neutralisation of a simulated threat while ensuring the safety of pilgrims and security personnel. Specialised sniper teams of Anantnag Police, along with other security personnel deployed for Yatra duties, participated in the drill. The exercise also tested communication systems, coordination among ground units, command and control mechanisms, and adherence to standard operating procedures during critical situations. Police said the mock drill was part of ongoing efforts to strengthen the overall security framework for the annual pilgrimage. Such specialised exercises are being conducted regularly to enhance preparedness and ensure a safe, secure and peaceful environment for devotees undertaking the Shri Amarnath Ji Yatra-2026.

NDMA conducts mock exercise for Amarnath Yatra

Emergency response, evacuation & security protocols put to test Anantnag, June 26: Ahead of Shri Amarnath Ji Yatra (SANJY)-2026, the National Disaster Management Authority (NDMA) in collaboration with District Administration, Anantnag on Friday conducted a comprehensive mock exercise at Nunwan Base Camp, Pahalgam. The aim of the exercise was to assess the preparedness of all departments for the ensuing Yatra. The exercise was conducted under the chairmanship of Major General Sudhir Bahl (Rtd.), Lead Consultant (Medical Emergencies and Incident Response System), NDMA. The exercise was attended by Additional Deputy Commissioner (CEO, DDMA), Vikas Ahlawat, Camp Director Nunwan, Atul Kumar, SDM Pahalgam, officers from civil administration, UTDMA, CRPF, Fire and Emergency Services, Health, Army, JK Police telecommunications, ITBP, BSF and officials from various other departments. The mock drill simulated a range of emergency scenarios, including medical emergencies, fire incidents, disaster response, evacuation, and security contingencies, to evaluate the coordination, communication, and response capabilities of participating agencies. Officials and personnel from the civil administration, police, security forces, Health Department, NDRF and SDRF, Fire and Emergency Services, and other stakeholder departments actively demonstrated their preparations to respond to any disaster-like situation. Speaking on the occasion, Major General Sudhir Bahl (Rtd.) emphasized the importance of coordinated planning, prompt response, and effective communication among all agencies to ensure the safety and security of pilgrims during SANJY-2026. He stressed that regular mock exercises are essential to strengthen emergency preparedness and improve inter-agency coordination. Simultaneously, mock exercises were held at Sheshnag and Panchtarni Yatra Stations, simulating flashfloods and fire incidents and the same were livestreamed. Member NDMA, Krishan Vats joined online for debriefing while Camp Directors Sheshnag and Panchtarni also participated. The mock exercise helped identify strengths as well as areas requiring further improvement, reinforcing the preparedness of all departments to ensure the safe, secure, and smooth conduct of the annual Shri Amarnath Ji Yatra-2026.

Whites on green: On Wimbledon 2026

Wimbledon is keeping up with the changing times

Baramulla Police attach motorcycle, car in NDPS case

Srinagar, June 26: Continuing its crackdown on drug trafficking and narcotics-related crimes, Baramulla Police on Friday attached a motorcycle and a car allegedly used in illicit narcotics activities under the provisions of the Narcotic Drugs and Psychotropic Substances (NDPS) Act. According to a police statement, the attached vehicles include a motorcycle bearing registration number JK05H-8100 and a Hyundai Xcent car bearing registration number HR55AD-2930, belonging to Ziyakat Ramzan Dar, son of Mohd Ramzan Dar, a resident of Chechilora, Kunzer. The action was taken by Police Station Kunzer in connection with FIR No. 35/2026 registered under Sections 8, 20 and 29 of the NDPS Act, after investigations established that the vehicles were linked to illegal narcotics activities. Police said the attachment proceedings were carried out in accordance with the relevant provisions of the NDPS Act, adding that the move is part of its continued efforts to dismantle the infrastructure supporting drug trafficking and deprive offenders of assets allegedly used in or derived from narcotics-related crimes. Reiterating its commitment to combating the drug menace, Baramulla Police appealed to the public to cooperate with law enforcement agencies in achieving the vision of a Nasha Mukt Jammu & Kashmir. As part of the ongoing Nasha Mukt Bharat Abhiyan, Jammu and Kashmir Police intensified its campaign against narcotic cultivation by destroying wild cannabis (bhang) plants at multiple locations across Baramulla district. A major destruction drive was carried out at the Uroosa graveyard with active participation and support from members of the local community. In a parallel operation, police teams also removed wild cannabis plants growing in open areas at Janbazpora in Baramulla. The drives are part of Baramulla Police's sustained efforts to curb drug abuse at its source by eliminating the illegal cultivation of narcotic plants and fostering a drug-free society. The operations were conducted peacefully and witnessed wholehearted cooperation from local residents. J&K Police also organised an awareness programme in collaboration with the VTech Group of VTech School, Wagoora, to educate the public about the harmful effects of drug abuse and the importance of building a drug-free society. The programme witnessed enthusiastic participation from students, teachers and members of the community, who actively joined the campaign against substance abuse. During the programme, participants were sensitized about the adverse social, economic and health consequences of drug addiction and the need for collective action to eradicate the menace from society. As part of the initiative, an awareness rally was conducted from VTech School, Wagoora to Wagoora Main Chowk.

CM reviews Musi Riverfront project, calls for public outreach and fair rehabilitation

AI, space, quantum tech to shape future: Jitendra Singh

Says India progressing alongside leading nations in critical technologies New Delhi,June 26: Union Minister of State (Independent Charge) for Science and Technology, Earth Sciences, and Minister of State in the Prime Minister's Office, Dr. Jitendra Singh on Friday said Artificial Intelligence (AI), space, nuclear and quantum technologies will define the future of economic growth, national security and global competitiveness, asserting that India is rapidly emerging as a major force in frontier technologies. Speaking during a fireside conversation at a media conclave organised by a leading news channel, the minister said countries that fail to keep pace with advances in these critical technologies risk falling behind in both development and strategic capabilities. Space, Nuclear and Quantum Technologies will play a decisive role in shaping the future world order, he said, adding that India is progressing alongside leading nations in several key technology domains. Highlighting the progress under the National Quantum Mission (NQM), launched in 2023, Dr. Singh said the mission has already achieved more than half of its targeted outcomes within three years. He said significant advances have been made in quantum-secure communication, which has important applications in defence, cybersecurity, strategic communications and protection of sensitive information. The minister said the rapid progress under the mission reflects India's growing scientific capabilities and its commitment to becoming a global leader in emerging technologies, with advancements being made across quantum communication, quantum computing and related research. On Artificial Intelligence, Dr. Singh said AI is becoming an indispensable tool across sectors including governance, healthcare, education, industry, research and public service delivery. He said the government is strengthening the supporting ecosystem through investments in digital infrastructure, computing capacity, data resources and dependable energy systems. Emphasising the importance of energy security, the minister said the growing demand for advanced computing, data centres and digital services would require robust and reliable power sources, making nuclear energy an important pillar of India's technology-driven growth and clean energy transition. Dr. Singh credited a series of policy reforms under Prime Minister Narendra Modi for expanding opportunities in innovation, entrepreneurship and scientific research. He said the opening up of the space sector has created a vibrant startup ecosystem, while recent reforms in the nuclear sector are expected to accelerate investments, technology collaborations and capacity creation. Speaking on education, the minister described the National Education Policy (NEP) 2020 as a transformational reform that has introduced greater flexibility and multidisciplinary learning, enabling students to pursue careers aligned with their interests while strengthening the country's research ecosystem. He also said India is witnessing a shift from a government-driven innovation model to a collaborative ecosystem involving academia, industry, startups and private enterprises, creating new opportunities for scientific discovery and commercialisation of research. Calling upon young people to participate actively in India's technological transformation, Dr. Singh urged students to harness the unprecedented access to knowledge and learning resources available today and contribute towards building an innovation-driven India. He said the reforms in education, research, space, nuclear energy and emerging technologies would strengthen India's journey towards becoming a developed nation by 2047 and position it among the world's leading innovation-driven economies.

FIFA World Cup | Iraq looking to make history against Senegal

Iraq are bottom of Group I, which is one of the toughest at the finals

The cracks beneath the peddled story of Indias growth

Behind the governments carefully crafted narrative, Indias economic vulnerabilities continue to deepen

India-New Zealand FTA, a modern trade partnership

It is a strategic trade pact with long-term economic potential

100 Smart City buses to join Srinagar fleet

Srinagar, June 26: Srinagar Smart City Limited (SSCL) on Friday said that the 100 new buses sanctioned for Srinagar under the Central governments PM eBus Sewa scheme are expected to reach Kashmir in October - November this year. An official of Srinagar Smart City Limited (SSCL) told Rising Kashmir that the procurement process is still underway and is being handled by the Ministry of Housing and Urban Affairs (MoHUA). We are expecting the first lot of buses to arrive in October-November this year. The tendering process and other formalities are being carried out by the Ministry of Housing and Urban Affairs, the official said. Earlier, the SSCL officials had stated in December last year that the additional buses had been approved under the PM eBus Sewa scheme and were likely to arrive in Srinagar by June 2026. At present, SSCL operates a fleet of 98 buses catering to commuters across Srinagar city and its adjoining areas. The Government of India launched the PM eBus Sewa scheme on August 16, 2023, to strengthen urban public transport by deploying 10,000 electric buses across the country under the Public-Private Partnership (PPP) model. The delay has raised concerns among commuters, who have repeatedly highlighted the shortage of Smart City buses on several routes. Many have complained that inadequate bus frequency, particularly during peak hours, has been causing long waiting times and overcrowding. With the arrival of the additional buses now pushed back by several months, commuters have questioned the delay in the procurement process and urged authorities to expedite the deployment to improve public transport services in the city.

FIFA World Cup | Erling Haaland and others not starting for Norway against France at the World Cup

France can secure a more comfortable route through the World Cup when they face Norway in their final Group I match, though finishing top could leave them facing one of the toughest roads to the trophy

Farmers demanding restoration of encroached govt. waterway near Thudiyalur seek district administrations intervention

Segway and Whoosh Launch Free Ride Campaign Across Mexico During the 2026 Tournament World Cup to Support Urban Mobility

Segway and Whoosh Launch Free Ride Campaign Across Mexico During the 2026 Tournament World Cup to Support Urban Mobility

Assamese youth beaten up for harassing minor girl playing in park in Sivakasi

25% of Indian tech services firms have moved AI experiments into production level: Nasscom

Indian IT is currently generating up to $12 billion in AI services revenue, with more than 2 million professionals skilled in AI and 100,000 to 200,000 trained in advanced AI capabilities

Duckett leads counterattack as England reaches 73-1 at tea in reply to New Zealands 438

Duckett, who has been short of runs this year, was in typically pugnacious mood as he raced to 52 not out at tea after having been dropped on 8 by third-slip Henry Nicholls off Nathan Smiths bowling

Andhra Premier League | Sandeep leads Royals from the front in the win over Sunshiners

Start Run, Stop Drugs, awareness marathon held in Madurai

Namma Metro contract worker dies of electrocution near Trinity Station

Ireland shock India by 34 runs, notch first win over T20 champions in any format

Chasing 183 on a pitch that had enough assistance for quick bowlers was not improbable but needed a different, pragmatic approach after power play

A convert to Islam cannot claim the status of Backward Class Muslim, rules Madras High Court

Categorising certain sects as Backward and the remaining as Forward is antithetical to Quranic injunctions. Islam seeks to establish an egalitarian society, says Madurai Bench

UCC to be implemented in State through proper procedure, says Bengal CM

Implementation of UCC was promised by Union Home Minister Amit Shah during the campaign for West Bengal Assembly election.

The Hindu Group named Champion Publisher of the Year 2026

The Group topped the table with seven awards at the WAN-IFRA Digital Media Awards South Asia

Ammonia gas leak: two more women workers die, taking toll to 15

The deceased were identified as Priti Devi from Jharkhand and Budhubari Naik from Odisha

Congregation of nearly 20,000 butterflies belonging to four species recorded

Taylor the OG dual World Cup star

MDMKs general body to take a decision on alliance on Saturday

There are expectations that theMDMKmay ask its MLAsT.M.Rajendranand SenthilSelvanto resign from the membership of the Assembly as they contested on theDMKsRising Sun symbol in the 2026 election

Extension of Kochi Water Metro ferries to Kadamakudy by Onam

A floating pontoon for berthing ferries is ready at the Kadamakudy terminal, while the final works on the much-awaited terminal are nearing completion

Students in Classes 7, 8, & 9 can continue learning foreign languages this year: Education Ministry sources

These students do not have switch to an extra native language till they complete Class 10, the sources added; the clarification comes over a month after CBSE stated that students in Class 9 must study three languages, of which two should be native to India, in the 2026-27 academic year

Rahul marks two years as Leader of the Opposition; vows to continue fighting for the people

The Opposition leader targets the Prime Minister over his praise of Education Minister Dharmendra Pradhan, saying the students who died due to NEET paper leak are victims of a broken system

Drug menace threatens society, future generations must be protected: Kerala CM

Kerala government is adopting a systematic approach to curb drug trafficking and dismantle the networks behind it, says Satheesan

South Korea says to train 500,000 'drone warriors' to counter North Korea

The announcement comes as both Koreas accelerate efforts to build drone capabilities, shaped by lessons from conflicts in Ukraine and West Asia

Upstaged, but not unseated yet: George Russells succession struggle

The British driver has long been viewed as a potential F1 champion and in a title-contending Mercedes, he thought his moment had arrived. But over the first seven races, he has been outshone by a challenger to his status as team leader: teen sensation Andrea Kimi Antonelli