Raut defends Rahul over his remarks against Amit Shah
The Lok Sabha secretariat has sought a response from Rahul Gandhi to two separate complaints of reach of privilege filed by BJP MPs Anurag Thakur and Sanjay Jaiswal for his remarks against Amit Shah during a debate on the anti-paper leak bill
In IVF, an unrecognised contributor gets the spotlight: Jean Purdy
Purdy was the first to recognise and describe the formation of the early human blastocyst the cluster of cells that forms five or six days after a sperm fertilises an egg, in the culture, a key milestone in pre-implantation development
An estimated 40 lakh school students are taking the Onam examinations, which will conclude on August 20. On August 16, the General Education department petitioned State Police Chief to conduct a detailed criminal inquiry into Instagram and YouTube channels that lure students by promising definitive clues about the mid-term Onam test papers
Odisha: NH-49 blocked by landslide after heavy rainfall
Science Snapshots: August 16, 2026
Three recent important research developments, all readable in one minute
Watch | Tejashwi Yadav: Protesting students called dimaagi Naxal, such language doesnt suit PM
Government sets LPG output targets for 24 companies, total production potential at 63.81 KTPD
New Delhi, [India] August 16 : The government has set maximum LPG production levels for 24 refinery and upstream oil companies, with a combined production potential of 63.81 thousand metric tonnes per day (KTPD), as it seeks to strengthen domestic cooking-gas supplies and improve resilience against supply disruptions. The Ministry of Petroleum and Natural Gas, in an order dated August 13, specified production levels for 18 public-sector refineries, three private-sector companies and three upstream companies. Reliance Industries has the highest specified LPG production potential at 18 KTPD, followed by BPCL's Kochi refinery at 4.80 KTPD and Nayara Energy at 4.48 KTPD. Together, the three account for 27.28 KTPD of the total potential. The order amends the Petroleum Products (Maintenance of Production, Storage and Supply) Order, 1999, and introduces operational directions specifically for LPG production and supply. It requires public-sector, joint-venture and private-sector refineries, along with upstream oil companies, to develop and maintain adequate infrastructure for LPG storage, evacuation and transportation corresponding to the specified quantities. The framework also requires companies to implement technically and economically viable measures to maximise LPG output beyond their existing minimum producible quantities. These include technologies such as naphtha-to-LPG conversion and upgrades to gasoline-based fluid catalytic cracking units into petro-fluid catalytic cracking units. Importantly, the government has retained the power to direct refiners, oil marketing companies and upstream producers to ramp up LPG production for a specified quantity and period if it considers higher domestic availability necessary in the public interest. Such directions can also include restrictions on alternative uses of input streams needed for LPG production. Companies will be required to increase output within the stipulated timeframe. The government will update the production schedule twice a year, on January 1 and July 1, factoring in new refineries and upstream companies as well as additional output arising from changes in infrastructure, technology, evacuation, transportation and distribution. The Centre for High Technology or another authorised agency will monitor implementation, while violations of directions issued under the order will be punishable under the Essential Commodities Act, 1955. The move gives the government a more structured mechanism to manage domestic LPG production and increase output when needed, potentially reducing vulnerability to external supply disruptions and supporting more stable availability of cooking gas. (ANI)
Officials from Bangladesh and India have been in contact in recent weeks about the possibility of a visit by the PM, a Foreign Ministry official said, stating that the process has been vitiated by Sheikh Hasina's open media interactions
Rajouri , August 16 : The Border Roads Organisation (BRO) has intensified landslide clearance operations on National Highway 144 (NH-144) in the Rajouri-Poonch sector following heavy rainfall and flash floods that affected several parts of the region. Several stretches of the highway were hit by landslides and falling boulders following the recent adverse weather conditions, disrupting road connectivity and posing challenges to traffic movement. BRO teams have been working on a war footing, deploying heavy machinery to remove debris, clear boulders and restore the affected portions of the highway. A heavy boulder-triggered landslide was reported at Nadpur and Thalka on July 19 during the flash floods. BRO personnel have since been carrying out continuous clearance operations at the affected locations. The ongoing restoration work is aimed at ensuring smooth movement of vehicles between Rajouri, Poonch and Jammu and maintaining connectivity along NH-144. Residents have appreciated the efforts of the BRO personnel and the district administration in restoring road connectivity. Khadim Hussain, a resident of Anaipur in Thalka, expressed gratitude to the district administration and the BRO for their efforts. I am very thankful to my district DC, who has helped the BRO in the construction of the Jammu-Punjab National Highway. BRO is doing a very good job. They listen to people's problems, Hussain told ANI. He said that the heavy machinery deployed by the BRO could be seen working at the affected locations and praised the teams for resuming clearance work as soon as weather conditions permitted. When the rain stops, you can see them working. They are doing a very good job, he said. Another resident, Rajesh Kumar, said that the BRO personnel are working day and night to clear the landslides and restore the highway. You can see the big machines. BRO is working day and night. The drivers are also working day and night, he said. Kumar said that several landslides had occurred in the region and that some houses had also been damaged due to the heavy rainfall and resulting flash floods. He expressed hope that the remaining clearance work would be completed within the next few days and that normal traffic movement would continue. Many landslides have happened. Houses have been damaged. In two to four days, the landslides will be over. I am thankful to BRO. They are working day and night, Kumar said. The BRO has continued to deploy heavy equipment at the landslide sites to remove accumulated debris and boulders and ensure that the highway remains operational. The restoration of NH-144 is considered important for maintaining connectivity between Jammu, Rajouri and Poonch, particularly after the disruption caused by heavy rainfall and flash floods. (ANI)
Bombay HC rules community health volunteers entitled to minimum wage
The order had ruled that these volunteers are entitled to the notified minimum wage and directed the corporation to pay the difference between the existing honorarium and the statutory minimum wage
Watch: Heavy rainfall in Rajouri triggers fresh alert in Jammu and Kashmir
Tamil Nadu Sports Minister Aadhav Arjuna inaugurated the All India Services Cricket Tournament in Chennai and said, Sports is my religion.
Watch: Ennore fisherfolk protest over mass fish deaths, seek samples analysis
Large quantities of fish and other aquatic life were found dead in the Kosasthalaiyar river near Ennore on August 16. Fisherfolk from eight villages staged a road blockade, alleging that no government officials had visited the affected area.
Jharkhand students protesting alleged irregularities in recruitment exams have demanded Chief Minister Hemant Sorens resignation and asked Congress to withdraw support from the JMM-led government.
Watch: Bangladesh claim first test win in Australia as Green ton in vain
Bangladesh have pulled off one of the biggest upsets in Test cricket, defeating Australia by nine wickets in Darwin to secure their first-ever Test victory on Australian soil.
'Congress policy to oppose anything patriotic': BJP on Vande Mataram 'insult'
The ruling party demanded that the Congress publicly apologise within 24 hours for the insult to the national song
Man dies after being allegedly punched by son-in-law over online gaming in Chittoor
The police said Subramanyam had reprimanded his son-in-law for spending excessive time on online games; the man allegedly fled after the assault and a search is on
Why Indian Astronomy education needs a makeover
As astronomy becomes increasingly driven by data, coding, and simulations, India needs to move from theory-heavy classrooms to hands-on undergraduate learning
Union government following anti farmers policies, says Minister
Farmers are facing a serious crisis. The state is facing a severe drought. Farmers have sown two or three times, but lost money and inputs. In such a situation, cooperative societies are supporting farmers'', M. B. Patil, said.
Cummins won't rule out changes to outplayed Australia for second Test
Bangladesh pulled off one of the greatest upsets in Test cricket history when they beat Australia in the Northern Territory capital
Congress should apologise for insulting Vande Mataram on Independence Day: Amit Shah
Home Minister Amit Shah alleged that during the Independence Day programme at the Congress headquarters, Sonia Gandhi asked Vande Mataram to be stopped midway through the song
Pune court remands 'drug kingpin' Virender Singh Basoya to NCB custody till August 21
The prosecution told the court that the accused stayed abroad for a long time. His name has surfaced in several drug-related cases and there is a possibility that he is a key figure in a major drug trafficking racket.
Short: Bangladesh script history as they stun Australia in Darwin Test
Short: VC CUK hoists National Flag at Tulmulla Campus
Short: KMCH Sempora celebrates Independence Day with patriotic fervour
Short: KU marks I-Day with patriotic fervour
Short: 10-yr-old orphan steals the show with Gandhi portrayal at Kulgam I-Day
In one of its largest aerial attack, Ukraine kills atleast six in Russia
Russia's Ministry of Defense said that it had destroyed 822 drones overnight, with 600 headed toward the Russian capital
Short: Let us build great nation, peaceful J&K: LG Sinha
Telanganas electric conversion scheme for autos takes shape
The scheme seeks to provide financial assistance of up to 1.50 lakh, either retrofitting their existing autos, or purchasing new electric ones; those who wish to retrofit their autorickshaws can do so by converting their vehicles using an AIS-123-approved electric kit installed by empanelled vendors.
Short: Mission Youth driving youth empowerment: Advisor Wani
Tamil Nadu CM Vijay condoles death of police constable on I-Day, announces 30 lakh relief
A. Dharmaraj was a Grade-I police constable attached to the Drums Bagpiper band of the Tamil Nadu Special Police Training Centre in Avadi, who fainted while on parade duty
Short: J&K sees 14% drop in fire calls: F&ES
Telangana brings food safety, drugs control under administrative roof of TG SAFE
The government has appointed 2005-batch IPS officer Avinash Mohanty, who was serving as Director General of the DCA, as Commissioner of TG SAFE, in addition to his existing duties.
ONGC gets U.S. licence to resume full Venezuela operations, eyes operatorship
The U.S. approval removes a key hurdle for ONGC's Venezuelan investments and could pave the way for the state-run explorer to expand production
Why Commerce degrees need to add household budgeting to the syllabus
A B.Com. student reflects on what handling her household budget taught her that her degree did not
CM Satheesan proposes to elevate Thripunithura as a heritage town at Athachamayam event
Chief Minister V.D. Satheesan called upon the elected representatives from the region to come together beyond political lines and get a proper proposal made with the help of experts to elevate the stature of Thripunithura to a heritage town.
Uncertain about your career options? Low on self-confidence? This column may help
Rejuvenation of irrigation channels, ponds to begin in Tamil Nadu under VB-G RAM G scheme
According to sources, desilting of water bodies and irrigation channels ahead of the northeast monsoon will help store rainwater to its capacity, raise the groundwater table and improve irrigation facilities for agriculture
To live better, never stop learning
Extending life without preserving health is not a worthwhile gain
At least 12 killed, 10 injured in Polish bus crash in Hungary
The bus ran into a ditch and tipped over early on Sunday (August 16, 2026) near the town of Mezokeresztes in eastern Hungary, police said
Rahul Gandhis disproportionate assets case: Supreme Court to hear plea against HC on August 17
As per the Apex Court's cause list of August 17, a bench comprising Chief Justice Surya Kant and Justices Joymalya Bagchi and V. Mohana will hear the matter
UGC-NET 2026: NTA releases provisional answer keys for 84 subjects
The challenge window is open till August 18; 200 processing fee per question challenged
Officials said the investigation will likely lay the legal groundwork for a sweeping anti-corruption enquiry into the high-profile plan that turned into a fiasco amid a storm of hype, despite the previous Left Democratic Front (LDF) governments active backing
Watch: Firefighting plane captures Croatia wildfires raging across Dalmatia
Percy Jackson Season 3 trailer: Percy faces the Titans Curse as Annabeth disappears
Disney has unveiled the first trailer for Percy Jackson and the Olympians Season 3, bringing Rick Riordans The Titans Curse to the screen for the first time as Percy faces a dangerous new quest, a missing Annabeth and the growing threat of Kronos
Watch: Congresss Sonia, Rahul disrespected Vande Mataram: MP CM Mohan Yadav; seeks apology
West Bengal STF arrests three in Coochbehar over suspected Pakistan-ISI links
How Dhurandhar is a prime example of government-embedded filmmaking
Dhurandhar features Ranveer Singh as an Indian spy infiltrating a Pakistani terror network. While some viewers celebrate its patriotic themes as a necessary response to historical narratives about Pakistan, the film perpetuates a one-dimensional view of the country and reinforces divisive tropes
Two injured after Air India passengers gun goes off at Varanasi airport
During the weapons check, the passenger fired a round, injuring two AAAI Cargo Logistics and Allied Services Company Limited (AAICLAS) screeners, read a statement by Varanasi Airport Authority
Ahsoka Season 2 trailer: Anakin Skywalker returns as Thrawn declares war on the Galaxy
Disney has unveiled the first trailer for Ahsoka Season 2, bringing Rosario Dawson back as the former Jedi while Hayden Christensen returns as Anakin Skywalker and Grand Admiral Thrawn prepares to unleash a new war across the galaxy
Ahead of Amit Shahs visit to Alwar, students detained before proposed protest
The protestors had planned to raise the issues of lathicharge on students at Jantar Mantar, poor condition of roads, the alleged Matsya scam and demand the restoration of student union elections
Ranveer Singhs Pralay goes on floors: Jai Mehta to direct post-apocalyptic survival thriller
Ranveer Singh has begun filming Pralay, the ambitious post-apocalyptic survival thriller directed by Jai Mehta and produced by Ananya Birlas Birla Studios, True Story Films and Singhs Maa Kasam Films
Indian Independence Day celebrations in New York Tri-State area culminate in Guinness World Record
A Guinness World Record for the Largest Flagpole Number was set at Veterans Memorial Park in Parsippany, New Jersey, on Saturday
British Indian Amit Bhatia-led consortium agrees to acquire minority stake in Liverpool F.C.
We are incredibly proud to be investing in Liverpool Football Club and to be doing so alongside FSG, Amit Bhatia said
NLSIU students, alumni oppose CJI Surya Kant, BCI chairman attending convocation
In a statement dated August 15, the students and alumni condemned the now-withdrawn BCI order to halt the enrolment of students of NALSAR University of Law, Hyderabad, and expressed their solidarity with the students at NALSAR, who they said have shown exemplary courage and moral conviction in speaking truth to power.
Fadnavis, Pawar pay tribute to ex-PM Vajpayee on death anniversary, hail him as visionary leader
With his oratory, vision and unwavering commitment to democracy, Vajpayee enriched the direction of Indian public life, Sharad Pawar wrote on X
Major oil spill threatens Hara mangrove forests in Persian Gulf
The forests are a UNESCO Biosphere Reserve and serve as an important nursery for marine life
Arunachal: CM Pema Khandu announces Rs 7,834 crore investment programme for 2026-29
Guwahati: A Rs 7,834 crore investment programme covering the 2026-29 period has been announced by Arunachal Pradesh Chief Minister Pema Khandu, with roads, rural connectivity and other key infrastructure among the areas covered. Khandu made the announcement during the 80th Independence Day celebrations at Indira Gandhi Park, where he hoisted the national flag and spoke [] The post Arunachal: CM Pema Khandu announces Rs 7,834 crore investment programme for 2026-29 appeared first on NorthEast Now .
Government sets LPG production targets for refiners; Reliance gets largest quota
The Petroleum and Natural Gas Ministry has specified maximum LPG production levels for 21 refineries and upstream companies, with combined production potential set at 63,810 tonnes a day
Proud to be dimagi Naxal: Congress P. Chidambaram hits back at PM
Senior Congress leader P. Chidambaram's dig at the PM came a day after Mr. Modi warned the country about the 'dimagi naxals' who have allegedly entrenched themselves in the system
Bangladesh claim first test win in Australia as Green ton in vain
Mominul Haque cut Beau Webster to the fence for the winning runs to seal Bangladesh's first test win in Australia within four days in stifling heat at Marrara Oval, foiling a valiant century from home all-rounder Cameron Green.
With slogans and tears, Ujjain schoolgirls protest plan to shift government schools far away
Activists involved with the protests claim six schools are proposed to be merged with the Sandipani Vidyalaya, built in Daudkhedi, and that the move is likely to impact more than 2,500 students
Ennore fisherfolk protest over mass fish kill in Kosasthalaiyar river
Several species of fish and other aquatic life, including madavai, kizhangan, oodan, karuva and kelathi, besides prawns and crabs, were found dead in the river
Thousands evacuate after Indonesia earthquake kills 51, cuts roads
Thousands of evacuees waited for help on Indonesias Flores island; the quake, followed by some 341 aftershocks, is the Southeast Asian nations deadliest since a 2022 quake killed hundreds in West Java
Retrofitting Tamil Nadu to strike at drug menace
Governments across the world have struggled to curb the drug menace, driven by cartels. The situation is no different in Tamil Nadu. With the State going through the same classic signs of easy availability of drugs through a wide ground-level network and addiction beginning early among the youth, this report looks at what this governments Anti Narcotics Task Force will do differently as the State takes yet another stab at stamping out drugs
Teen boy among six dead including suspect in Michigan shootings; girl survived
This situation is heartbreaking for the community and challenging for the investigators involved, Lt. Ashley Miller said in a statement
CM to Chair Crucial Tourism Stakeholders
Gangtok, Aug 16: The Tourism and Civil Aviation Department, Government of Sikkim, has organised a vital stakeholder meeting in Gangtok to address concerns about the [] The post CM to Chair Crucial Tourism Stakeholders Meet on Sikkim Online Permit System, Eco-Management appeared first on The Voice Of Sikkim .
BJP's Anti-India Forces Charge On Kerala For Skipping 'Vande Mataram'
The BJP said it will challenge the state government both legally and politically over the exclusion, describing it as a direct insult to the Constitution
Morocco arrests 111 migrants headed for Spains Ceuta in security crackdown
A source in Moroccos Interior Ministry told Reuters those detained included 109 migrants from sub-Saharan Africa and two Moroccan citizens arrested in or around Fnideq, the Moroccan city opposite Ceuta.
Independence Day Article - By Governor of Uttarakhand
Lt Gen Gurmit Singh (Retd) PVSM, UYSM, AVSM, VSM writes:
Indian athletics team to have camp in Japan ahead of Asian Games
In June, Sports Authority of India signed an MoU with the University of Tsukuba to facilitate participation of Indian athletes, coaches, and sports scientists in specialised training and exchange programmes in Japan
CBI re-registers BSP leader Armstrong murder case
Investigators visit scene of crime in Perambur
Watch: 26 more bodies recovered in Zimbabwe ferry disaster; death toll mounts to 72
North Koreas Kim, Russias Putin reaffirm ties on Korean Liberation Day
The North Korean leader expressed hope for the future of ties that had carried forward the history of common struggle for justice and precious traditions of friendship
The generation has seen technologies emerge, change, adapt, and vanish
Its a word with much greater meaning and depth, and should not be misused
Schooldays, punishments and the red stage
Schools have beem encouraged to adopt more constructive and child-friendly approaches to discipline
Here is a select list of stories to start the day.
News in Frames | Keep calm and colour on
The Natural Dye Processing and Incubation Centre is developing biodegradable paints and colours from natural dyes as safer alternatives to synthetic dyes
KFC Outlet Sealed Over Stale Chicken Complaint In Karnataka
Acting on the complaint, officials from the Food Safety Department carried out a raid at the outlet and inspected the kitchen, store room, cold storage facilities, deep freezer and fried chicken stock.
DYSS celebrates Independence Day across J&K
Srinagar, Aug 15: The 80th Independence Day was celebrated with enthusiasm, patriotic fervor, and mass participation across all sports zones of J&K by the Directorate of Youth Services and Sports J&K (DYSS). DYSS said in a statement that the district-level functions, organized by the respective district administrations, witnessed strong collaboration and seamless support from various departments, prominently including the Directorate of Youth Services and Sports through its District Youth Services and Sports Offices (DYSSOs). These events saw enthusiastic participation from thousands of school children alongside departmental officers and field officials. The celebrations came alive with smartly turned-out parade contingents, colorful cultural performances, and synchronized sports displays. Students and athletes, particularly those who represented the Union Territory in different important sports events, took center stage with remarkable discipline and talent prepared and guided meticulously by departmental physical education staff in synergy with other involved departments. Extending her warm greetings on the momentous occasion, Director General, Youth Services and Sports, Anuradha Gupta, congratulated the people of the nation and the UT, especially the departmental staff and the lakhs of students actively engaged in various sports and youth engagement activities. She commended the field staff and physical education instructors for their consistent ground level commitment to steering youth energy in positive directions, fostering sportsmanship, and building competitive athletic platforms across J&K. Flag hoisting ceremonies, sports demonstrations, and youth centric activities were held across all sports zones, institutional complexes, and playfields throughout the Union Territory to mark the national festival.
DC Gbal hoists tricolour at Mini Secretariat
Ganderbal, Aug 15: As part of the 80th Independence Day celebrations, Deputy Commissioner Ganderbal, Jatin Kishore hoisted the National Flag at Mini Secretariat, Ganderbal on Saturday. The National Flag was hoisted in the presence of district officers and employees. A ceremonial Guard of Honour was presented on the occasion, marking the celebration of Independence Day with patriotic fervour and great zeal and enthusiasm. The flag hoisting ceremony was attended by officers and employees from various departments, who joined the celebrations and reaffirmed their commitment towards discharging their responsibilities with dedication and contributing to the development and welfare of the district. The Deputy Commissioner conveyed his greetings to the officers and employees on the occasion and called upon them to continue working with commitment, sincerity and a spirit of public service.
VC CUK hoists National Flag at Tulmulla Campus
Ganderbal, Aug 15: Central University of Kashmir (CUKashmir) celebrated the 80th Independence Day with enthusiasm, with Vice-Chancellor, Prof. A. Ravinder Nath, hoisting the National Flag at the Tulmulla Campus here on Saturday. Registrar, Finance Officer, Controller of Examinations, Deans of Schools, Heads and Coordinators of Departments, Librarian, Dean Students Welfare, faculty members, statutory officers, administrative staff, research scholars and students were present on the occasion. The Universitys Security Wing and students of the Department of Physical Education presented an impressive march past, adding solemnity and grandeur to the celebrations. The flag hoisting ceremony was followed by an inspiring address by Vice-Chancellor, Prof. A. Ravinder Nath, who extended his warm greetings to the university fraternity and reflected on the significance of Independence, the sacrifices of the freedom fighters and the responsibilities of the present generation in shaping the India of tomorrow. Prof. A Ravinder Nath said this years Independence Day carried a special significance, being associated with the commemoration of 150 years of Vande Mataram and the theme of Yuva Shakti in transforming India towards Viksit Bharat@2047. He called upon the younger generation to protect the hard-earned freedom and utilise it to shape the nations destiny through knowledge, integrity, discipline. On personal skills, he highlighted the importance of effective communication, digital literacy and financial literacy. Referring to the transformation brought about by digital technologies and Artificial Intelligence, he said that AI was increasingly becoming an important instrument for enhancing the efficiency and effectiveness of service delivery and education. CUK VC stressed that analytical skills, rational thinking and sound reasoning were equally important for effective decision-making. A young person equipped with these abilities, he said, would be less vulnerable to misinformation, manipulation and unhealthy influences. On social skills, he underlined the significance of interpersonal relations, self-management, social engagement, honesty and integrity. These qualities, he said, were indispensable for creating a socially responsible generation and building a transparent and corruption-free society. He urged students to cultivate discipline, decorum and dignity, describing these qualities as essential attributes for becoming responsible and respected members of society. Looking towards Viksit Bharat@2047, Prof. A Ravinder Nath said that the country must aspire towards sustained economic growth, self-reliance, innovation and entrepreneurship. The Vice-Chancellor called upon the university community to make the best possible contribution to the nations journey towards a developed and self-reliant India. Thereafter the Vice Chancellor distributed certificates among the NCC volunteers and two other students for their outstanding performances. Asst Registrar, Estates and Stores, Imtiyaz Ahmad Parray conducted the programme and proposed the vote of thanks.
Dir Sericulture J&K stresses on self-reliance in silk sector
Srinagar, Aug 15: On the auspicious occasion of the 80th Independence Day of India, Ajaz Ahmad Bhat, IAS, Director Sericulture J&K, unfurled the National Flag with honour and reverence in the presence of officers, staff members, employees of the Department and farmers. The Directorate premises at Tulsi Bagh, Srinagar along with District Headquarters of the Department were decorated with the Tricolour to mark the historic occasion. The celebrations commenced with the unfurling of the National Flag followed by the rendition of the National Anthem. A ceremonial salute by the personnel of the Sashastra Seema Bal (SSB) added dignity and grandeur to the celebrations. Addressing the gathering, Bhat while highlighting the profound significance of Independence Day, reaffirmed the commitment of the Sericulture Development Department towards the welfare and development of farmers, silkworm rearers and all stakeholders associated with the sector. He called upon the officers and employees of the department to discharge their responsibilities with dedication and sincerity. He also emphasised the need to further strengthen awareness among silkworm rearers, farmers and youth regarding various schemes and facilities being provided under various initiatives of the Government including the Holistic Agriculture Development Programme (HADP) and Silk Samagra. Bhat extended his warm greetings to the officers, employees, farmers, silkworm rearers and the people of J&K on Independence Day and urged everyone to contribute towards the progress, prosperity and development of the nation.
Dir Skill Dev hoists Tricolour at Govt. Polytechnic for Women Srinagar
Srinagar Aug 15: Dr. Owais Ahmad, Director, Skill Development Department, hoisted the National Flag at Govt. Polytechnic for Women, Srinagar as part of the Independence Day celebrations. The flag-hoisting ceremony was held on the college grounds and was attended by a large gathering that included senior officials from Police and paramilitary forces, representatives from the Directorate of Skill Development, principals of polytechnic colleges and ITIs across the region, faculty members, and students from various polytechnic colleges and ITIs. The event commenced with the National Anthem following the flag hoist. Dr. Owais Ahmad highlighted the importance of skill development in nation building and urged students to seize vocational training opportunities to contribute to local and national development. He lauded the role of technical education institutions in empowering youth and praised the collaboration between training providers and industry partners in supporting community resilience. He thanked all participating institutions and security personnel for their support in ensuring the ceremonys smooth conduct. The programme also included patriotic songs by students and trainees, showcasing discipline and enthusiasm. Dr. Owais also felicitated the students of Government Polytechnic for Women for their exemplary performance in the recently held examinations, applauding their hard work and dedication.

