Congress alleges irregularities in gram sabha approvals for Ken-Betwa project
Leader of the Opposition in the State Assembly Umang Singhar alleged corruption worth crores in the distribution of compensation and in awarding contracts to companies.
Congress moves no-confidence motion against Sai government in Chhattisgarh Assembly
During the debate, the Opposition targeted the government with a 136-point chargesheet covering a wide range of issues, including mining, law and order, and tribal rights
Sharad Pawar should take the final call on allying with NDA
Merger unlikely, say leaders from NCP and NCP(SP); Eknath Shinde stays out, as anxiety in NCP(SP) camp grows
FIFA World Cup 2026: Spain vs Argentina road to final
With the FIFA World Cup 2026 final just days away, fans are on the edge of their seats as the worlds top-ranked team, Argentina, prepares to face Europes best, Spain, in a summit clash for the ages
In Gurugram, 60 rounds, 120 seconds
On July 9, a gunfight in Gurugrams upscale Sushant Lok left four alleged shooters dead and three policemen injured. Police said gangster Deepak Nandal ordered the attack on businessman Vishal Berry over a 5 crore extortion demand. Among the dead were two minors from Rohtaks Bhalaut village with no criminal record.Ashok Kumarfinds that the incident has raised questions over crime, drug use, and policing
J&KsMansballake starts hosting migratory birds again
NEET-UGAIR 2 holder recounts retest horror and reset strategy
Bus driver rescues student who jumps into Periyar
Coir Board commits to setting up 15 coir clusters in A.P.
Support swells for Sonam Wangchuks indefinite fast
Vizag Collector seeks comprehensive action plan for Bay City project
Vizag Film Society pays tribute to S. Janaki
Freedom of press and accountability are important: Delhi High Court
Justice Girish Kathpalia made the observation on July 16, while granting bail to two persons allegedly involved in assaulting two reporters freelancing for a YouTube channel
Indias gig internet workforce may reach 17-21 million by 2030, says Bengaluru firmRedseer
Across delivery, ride-hailing and home services, full-time gig workers earn, on average, up to 2.5 times the monthly net income of workers in comparable formal and informal occupations
CCB arrests absconding accused after 17 years
Greater Chennai Police destroys over 1,339 kg of ganja
Malabar pied hornbills sighted in Kannur
Mining official held on charge of bribery
A trade deal that tests Indias competitive confidence
Trade agreements reward nations ready to compete
Promise of chips: On the India Semiconductor Mission phase II
Chipmaking is more than a seasonal obsession in India now
Man attending IIT conference held for stealing fellow delegates cash from guest house
Govt to reform tender processes to bring them under one umbrella for more transparency
Cabinet decides to constitute committee of experts to examine the issue and make recommendations
Census 2027 self-enumeration process begins in Chennai
Battling drug abuse: On Keralas Operation Toofan
Kerala has shown initiative in coordinated action against cartels
Policeman killed, another injured in Budgam road accident
Budgam, July 17: A police personnel lost his life while another sustained injuries after their official vehicle met with an accident near the Bailey Bridge in the Chadoora area of central Kashmir's Budgam district on Friday. According to police, the two personnel were travelling in an official vehicle when it reportedly collided with the steel girder of the Bailey Bridge, leaving both of them critically injured. They were immediately rushed to a nearby hospital, where doctors declared one of the injured personnel dead on arrival. The other injured policeman was later referred to SMHS Hospital, Srinagar, where he is currently undergoing treatment. The deceased has been identified as Tariq Ahmad, a resident of Hanjura, while the injured policeman has been identified as Riyaz Ahmad. Police have taken cognisance of the incident and initiated an investigation to ascertain the exact circumstances that led to the accident.
Srinagar Police trace 3 missing girls from Amritsar
Srinagar, July 17: Srinagar Police, in coordination with the Punjab Police, has traced and safely recovered three minor girls from Amritsar within 72 hours of their disappearance. In a statement, the police said the recovery was made in connection with FIR No. 63/2026 registered under Section 137(2) of the Bharatiya Nyaya Sanhita (BNS) at Police Station Ram Munshi Bagh. Police said an intensive investigation was launched immediately after the complaint was received, leading investigators to develop vital clues about the girls' whereabouts. A police team was deputed to Punjab, where, with the assistance of the Punjab Police, the three minors were successfully traced and rescued from Amritsar. The girls are being brought back to Srinagar, where legal formalities will be completed and further investigation will be carried out in accordance with the law. J&K Police appreciated the timely cooperation and support extended by the Punjab Police, saying it played a key role in the successful operation. Police also urged the public to promptly report missing persons or any suspicious activity to enable swift action.
KU reopens PG admission portal till July 19
Srinagar, July 17: The University of Kashmir has reopened the online application portal for admission to various one-year and two-year Master's programmes following repeated requests from principals of affiliated colleges and candidates who were unable to apply within the stipulated deadline. An official from Kashmir University said that the decision was taken in response to continuous representations from principals of various colleges seeking another opportunity for their students to submit online application forms. The University also considered requests from applicants who had missed the earlier application window. The online application facility has been extended until July 19, 2026, with the portal remaining open up to 1:00 pm. The official further said that the datesheet for the entrance examinations has already been uploaded on the University's official website. Candidates have been advised to complete the application process within the extended deadline and refer to the published examination schedule for further details.
T.N. government launches public grievance portal for 5 Audit Departments
The portal will facilitate registration of complaints online by local residents who want to know about audit of civic infrastructure projects by local bodies such as the GCC
ALLEN dominates NEET-UG 2026 with 5 in Top 10
Srinagar, July 17: ALLEN Career Institute has once again emerged as one of the top performers in the National Eligibility-cum-Entrance Test (NEET-UG) 2026, with five of its students securing positions in the top 10 and 46 making it to the top 100 in the national rankings. According to the institute, Aryan Gupta secured All India Rank (AIR) 1 with 715 marks out of 720 after the tie-breaker rule was applied, while Panshul Bansal, who scored the same marks, secured AIR 2. Ayush Bhalotia bagged AIR 4 with 710 marks, Aryan Dubey secured AIR 7, and Gaurav Singh obtained AIR 9. The institute said that 10 of its students featured in the top 20, 23 in the top 50 and 46 in the top 100. It also stated that 63 of the 138 candidates across the country who scored 690 marks or above in NEET-UG 2026 were associated with ALLEN through its classroom, online or distance learning programmes. ALLEN CEO Nitin Kukreja congratulated the successful candidates and their families, saying the results reflected the institute's continued academic excellence and the hard work of its students and faculty. Among the top achievers, Panshul Bansal of Faridabad credited focused preparation, conceptual learning and regular question practice for his success, while Ayush Bhalotia from Bihar said daily revision, mock tests and analysing mistakes after every test played a key role in securing AIR 4. Gaurav Singh of Rajasthan said consistent revision, NCERT-based study and following faculty guidance helped him achieve AIR 9.
Grit, hard work power Kashmir students to NEET success
Kupwara/ Ganderbal , July 17: Several students from Kashmir have brought laurels to the Valley by qualifying the NEET UG 2026 examination, with one aspirant from Kupwara clearing the prestigious medical entrance test through self-study despite financial hardships, while three students from Ganderbal also secured success. Twenty-year-old Faizan Bhat from Gushi village in Kupwara cracked NEET after three years of preparation, including a drop year, without attending any coaching institute. The son of a daily wage labourer, Faizan relied on online lectures and self-study from home to achieve his goal of becoming a doctor. Despite frequent power cuts and limited resources, he continued his preparation with the support of his family. His uncle arranged an inverter to ensure uninterrupted studies, while his parents and relatives encouraged him throughout the journey. Faizan advised aspirants to remain disciplined, patient and consistent, saying self-belief and hard work are the keys to success. Meanwhile, three students from Ganderbal also qualified NEET UG 2026. Adnan Manzoor of Waskura secured an All India Rank (AIR) of 1,607, while Muneeb-ul-Islam, also from Waskura, and Safiullah Ashiq of Gund successfully cleared the examination, with Safiullah scoring 549 out of 720. The successful candidates credited their achievement to disciplined study routines, consistent preparation and the unwavering support of their families and teachers. Adnan also urged youth to stay away from drugs and focus on education, while Muneeb highlighted the importance of effective self-study alongside coaching. Manzoor credited his success to discipline, consistency, and the unwavering support of his family. He said he maintained a strict study schedule, beginning his day at 6 a.m., attending coaching classes, and dedicating several hours every day to self-study in Physics, Chemistry, and Biology. He expressed gratitude to Almighty Allah, his parents, teachers, and everyone who supported him throughout his journey. Adnan also urged youngsters to stay away from drugs and focus on education, saying hard work and dedication are the keys to success. The achievements have been widely welcomed in Kupwara and Ganderbal, with residents describing the students as role models for aspiring doctors across the region.
The 54-year-old speaks of the obstacles the Netherlands womens team had to overcome to make their seemingly impossible dream of qualifying for the T20 World Cup a reality. The former Scotland international talks about the realities of associate cricket, the inspiring spirit of the Dutch women he coached and what batting with Rahul Dravid in 2003 was like
Telangana polices fight against Telugu film piracy
Following an MoU between the Telangana Film Chamber of Commerce and Telangana Cyber Security Bureau, a systematic crackdown on piracy has led to key arrests and protected new Telugu releases from widespread online leaks during the opening weekends
Linda Noskova: the calm warrior with heavy artillery
The 21-year-old possesses the all-court game and emotional resilience to thrive on the biggest stage. But the new World No. 7 will also have a target on her back after Wimbledon. How she handles the pressures of success will determine just how far she goes in the game
Chhamb gets 10-Crore development push
Jammu, July 17: Minister for Food, Civil Supplies & Consumer Affairs, Information Technology, Youth Services & Sports, and Science & Technology, on Friday inaugurated and laid foundation stones for a series of landmark developmental projects across the Chhamb Constituency. These development initiatives reaffirm the Jammu and Kashmir government's unwavering commitment to accelerate infrastructure development, strengthen the public service delivery and ensure equitable growth across rural and border areas. The extensive programme witnessed the inauguration and foundation stone laying of projects collectively valued at over 10 crore, encompassing roads, bridges, administrative infrastructure, sports facilities, healthcare and veterinary services. The initiatives are expected to significantly enhance connectivity, improve access to essential public services, strengthen the rural infrastructure and create new opportunities for socio-economic development. The Minister inaugurated the Thandi ChoiSainth Road, developed at a cost of 1.50 crore. He described road connectivity as the backbone of economic growth saying that well-developed road infrastructure not only shortens the travel time but also facilitates trade, education, healthcare access and overall regional development. The government is committed to ensure that even the remotest villages are connected with quality infrastructure. Better roads translate into better opportunities, improved livelihoods and enhanced quality of life for our people, he remarked. At Kharah Balli, the Minister laid the foundation stone for the new Tehsil Office Building, to be constructed at an estimated cost of 76.74 lakh. He said the modern administrative complex will bring government services closer to the people, improve administrative efficiency and provide a more citizen-friendly environment for the delivery of public services. On the occasion, Satish Sharma also inaugurated the Bridge at Kharah, constructed at a cost of 3.45 crore. The bridge is expected to provide reliable all-weather connectivity to several adjoining villages, facilitating easier movement of residents, students, farmers and emergency services. Continuing the developmental programme, the Minister laid the foundation stone for the ChaprialBardoh Road, a major connectivity project worth 2.50 crore. He said the project would improve transportation facilities, strengthen rural connectivity and provide a much-needed boost to agriculture, trade, tourism and other economic activities in the area. Recognising the pivotal role of sports in youth empowerment and nation-building, Satish Sharma inaugurated the newly constructed Volleyball Court at Pallanwala, built at a cost of 20.99 lakh. J&K youth possess immense talent. It is our responsibility to provide them with the best possible infrastructure and opportunities so they can excel at the national and international level. Sports not only produce champions but also promote discipline, confidence, fitness and social harmony, he said. The Minister also distributed medical equipment aimed at strengthening healthcare facilities in the area and improving the quality of healthcare services available to the local population. He said the Government continues to invest in health infrastructure to ensure accessible and affordable healthcare for every citizen. Later, Satish Sharma laid the foundation stone for the Veterinary Hospital at Khour, a project estimated to cost 2.07 crore. He observed that livestock forms the backbone of the rural economy in many parts of Jammu and Kashmir and strengthening veterinary infrastructure would directly benefit the farmers by improving animal healthcare, productivity, and income generation. Addressing public gatherings during the programme, the Minister said that the government is working tirelessly to ensure that developmental benefits reach every village, every household and every citizen through sustained investment in infrastructure and public welfare. Development is meaningful only when its benefits reach the common people. Every project that we have inaugurated or launched today has been carefully planned to address the needs of the local population and improve their quality of life. Our government remains committed to create modern infrastructure, strengthening institutions, and ensuring that every region progresses on the path of inclusive and sustainable development, the Minister said.
Bukhari seeks Health, Education reforms in remote areas
Srinagar, July 17: Apni Party president Syed Mohammad Altaf Bukhari on Friday called for comprehensive reforms in the health and education sectors, saying people living in remote areas of Jammu and Kashmir continue to suffer due to inadequate infrastructure and shortage of qualified professionals. Addressing a workers' meeting at Surankote in Poonch during his outreach tour of the Pir Panjal region, Bukhari said doctors and teachers appointed in government service should be required to serve in remote areas for a fixed period to ensure quality healthcare and education reach underserved communities. There is an urgent need to reform the health and education sectors. Qualified doctors and teachers must serve in remote areas instead of leaving immediately after securing government jobs, he said, adding that long-term planning is needed to strengthen essential services in far-flung regions. Bukhari said feedback received during his tour highlighted the lack of basic infrastructure and public services in the Pir Panjal region. He also expressed concern over the non-construction of community and individual safety bunkers in border areas despite assurances by the Centre. The people living along the border remain vulnerable to cross-border shelling. The promised bunkers should be constructed without further delay, he said. Reiterating his party's stand, Bukhari said Jammu and Kashmir is an integral part of India but stressed that the constitutional rights of its people must be restored through constructive engagement with New Delhi. Referring to the developments of August 5, 2019, he termed them deeply painful and called for meaningful dialogue to bridge the trust deficit between the Centre and the people of Jammu and Kashmir. He also stressed the need to rehabilitate youth who were misled into violence in the past and provide them with opportunities for a dignified future. Senior Vice President Ghulam Hassan Mir expressed concern over rising unemployment, saying educated youth were being deprived of opportunities despite being the region's greatest asset. He urged the government to create jobs and ensure young people are guided towards peace, development and prosperity. Provincial President Manjit Singh appealed to people to strengthen the Apni Party, saying it would continue to work for safeguarding the rights and interests of the people of Jammu and Kashmir.
Court denies bail in Dr. Farooq attack case
Srinagar, July 17: A Jammu court on Friday rejected the bail application of Kamal Singh, who is accused of attempting to murder former Jammu and Kashmir Chief Minister and National Conference president Dr Farooq Abdullah during a wedding function in Jammu earlier this year. Principal Sessions Judge Jammu R N Watal dismissed the bail plea, observing that the accused had failed to make out a prima facie case for bail in view of the gravity of the allegations, the larger interest of society and the possibility of the accused repeating the offence. The case pertains to FIR No. 29/2026 registered at Police Station Gangyal under Section 109 of the Bharatiya Nyaya Sanhita (attempt to murder) and Section 30 of the Arms Act. According to the prosecution, the incident occurred on March 11, 2026, when Dr Farooq Abdullah and Deputy Chief Minister Surinder Choudhary attended a wedding function at Royal Park in Greater Kailash, Jammu. The prosecution alleged that the accused fired a revolver at Dr Abdullah with the intention of killing him, though the bullet missed its target. During the investigation, police seized the alleged weapon of offence, five live cartridges and a fired cartridge case. A Special Investigation Team (SIT) later took over the probe. The investigation, as noted in the court order, alleges that the accused had harboured resentment against Dr Abdullah for nearly two decades and had developed a motive linked to the migration of Kashmiri Pandits and loss of ancestral property in Kashmir. The SIT also claimed to have recovered handwritten notes from the accused's residence, which allegedly reflected his grievances against Dr Abdullah and his father Sheikh Abdullah. The handwriting was later matched with specimen writings through a forensic examination, the court noted. Opposing the bail plea, the prosecution argued that the offence was serious, politically motivated and had the potential to disturb public order. It further submitted that the accused had allegedly stated during questioning that he would again attempt to kill Dr Abdullah if given an opportunity, and therefore posed a continuing threat. The defence, on the other hand, argued that the 65-year-old accused suffered from neurological and psychiatric ailments and required specialised medical treatment. It contended that he had consumed alcohol at the wedding function, had merely intended to meet Dr Abdullah and get a photograph clicked with him, and had no intention to kill the former Chief Minister. The defence also submitted that the investigation was substantially complete and sought bail on humanitarian grounds. Rejecting these submissions, the court observed that allegations against the accused were grave and that attacks on public figures carry wider implications for public order and democratic stability. The court further held that the plea of mental illness or intoxication could not be accepted at the bail stage, particularly when no cogent medical evidence had been produced to establish such a defence. It also noted that psychiatric treatment could be provided while the accused remained in judicial custody. The applicant has failed to carve out a prima facie case for grant of bail, the court held, adding that the seriousness of the offence, larger societal interest, possibility of repetition of the alleged act and the likelihood of the accused fleeing justice weighed against the grant of bail. The court clarified that the observations made in the order were confined to deciding the bail application and would not influence the trial on merits.
Census awareness rally, signature campaign held
Chennai Grand Masters | Firouzja beats Gukesh, takes lead
BJP reviews preparations for July 20 Secretariat Gherao
Srinagar, July 17: The Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) on Friday reviewed preparations for its proposed Secretariat Gherao March scheduled for July 20 in Srinagar, with senior leaders finalising organisational and logistical arrangements for the protest. The review meeting, held at the party office in Church Lane, Srinagar, was chaired by BJP J&K president and Member of Parliament Sat Sharma and Leader of Opposition Sunil Sharma. It was attended by state office-bearers, district presidents, prabharis and morcha presidents. The leaders reviewed mobilisation of party workers, coordination among various organisational units and logistical arrangements to ensure the march is conducted peacefully and in a disciplined manner. The BJP said the march will begin from Ghanta Ghar, Lal Chowk, and proceed towards the Civil Secretariat as a democratic protest against alleged corruption, arbitrary governance and policies affecting youth and democratic institutions. During the meeting, the party also discussed the issues to be highlighted during the protest, including action against corruption, greater transparency and accountability in governance, and the need to strengthen and operationalise Panchayati Raj Institutions. The leaders stressed that grassroots democratic institutions should be empowered without further delay. The meeting was attended by BJP General Secretary Anwar Khan, Secretaries Arif Raja and Mudasir Wani, state office-bearers, spokespersons, district prabharis, district presidents and other senior party leaders.
Caste must be eradicated, as it prevents unification of Tamils
UTT | Ionescu and Ayhika shine in ThunderBlades win over Pipers
Cricket legend Sir Garfield Sobers passes away at 89
Bridgetown [Barbados], July 17 : Sir Garfield Sobers, widely regarded as one of the greatest cricketers the game has ever produced and arguably its finest all-rounder, passed away at his home in Barbados on Friday. He was 89. The legendary West Indies icon leaves behind a remarkable legacy that transformed the sport across two decades, excelling with both bat and ball while setting standards of all-round excellence that remain unmatched by many. Confirming the news, Cricket West Indies paid tribute to the cricketing great on X, writing, A great innings has come to an end. In our hearts, now and forever, Sir Garfield Sobers. Sobers represented the West Indies in 93 Test matches between 1954 and 1974, amassing 8,032 runs at an outstanding average of 57.78, including 26 centuries. With the ball, the left-arm all-rounder claimed 235 Test wickets at an average of 34.03, showcasing his rare ability to bowl left-arm fast-medium, orthodox spin and wrist spin with equal effectiveness. His brilliance extended beyond batting and bowling, with Sobers also earning a reputation as one of cricket's finest fielders and close-in catchers. One of the defining moments of his illustrious career came in 1958 when he scored an unbeaten 365 against Pakistan, then the highest individual score in Test cricket. The landmark innings remained the world record for 36 years before it was surpassed in 1994. Sobers also etched his name into cricket history in 1968 while representing Nottinghamshire, becoming the first player to hit six sixes in a single over in first-class cricket, achieving the feat against Glamorgan spinner Malcolm Nash. His influence extended well beyond international cricket. Sobers became the first player in Australia to complete the coveted season double of 1,000 runs and 50 wickets, underlining his extraordinary versatility as an all-round cricketer. In recognition of his immense contribution to the sport, Sobers was knighted by Queen Elizabeth II in 1975. He was later named one of Wisden's Five Cricketers of the 20th Century in 2000, cementing his place among the game's greatest icons. His impact on modern cricket continues through the ICC's highest individual men's honour, the **Sir Garfield Sobers Trophy, awarded annually to the best overall performer in men's international cricket across formats. Sir Garfield Sobers' passing marks the end of an extraordinary era, but his achievements and influence will continue to inspire generations of cricketers around the world. (ANI)
Sajad Lone, Altaf Bukhari will not join NCs Statehood protest in Delhi; Congress to take part
While Sajad Lone questioned both the timing and real motive, J&K Apni Party chief Altaf Bukhari said the NCs proposed Jantar Mantar protest is to empower its government not to empower people
Mans best friend is also best friend of security personnel
Indias electoral roll is a living document: CEC
The highest-ever poll participation in the recent Assembly elections is a proof of the trust the electors have in the countrys electoral system and the vibrancy of the democracy, says Chief Election Commissioner
Holiday for schools, PU colleges in DK on July 18
Nalam TN gets donations to tune of 2.8 crore: Arunraj
The Health Minister says the initiative will be 100% transparent, and every rupee contributed will be spent for the purpose for which it was given
Residents of a local body cannot claim burial or cremation rights in another local body: HC
However, such a right is enforceable if it partakes the character of a fundamental right under Article 25 of the Constitution or a customary right, said a Division Bench of Justices G.R. Swaminathan and K.K. Ramakrishnan
Justice K.Rajasekardirected the petitioner to report before theCB-CIDat 10.30a.m. every day from July 27 till August 3, except on Sunday, and co-operate in the investigation. The larger conspiracy behind the registration of the document was still under investigation and the petitioner was involved in two previous criminal cases of a similar nature, says the State government
7.3-magnitude quake hits Mexico-Guatemala border; no immediate damage reported
In Mexico City, the quake alert did not sound because, as the government said, the energy radiated by the earthquake during the first few seconds did not exceed the activation thresholds
Ukrainian drones down 12 Russian vessels in the Black Sea
Letting the right hand know that the left can do it too
A combination of nature and nurture may work in favour of the freak
Tribute: Sobers - crickets original superstar who redefined the sport
His 8,032 runs and 235 wickets in Tests are special numbers indeed, but more than the statistical heavy-lifting, it was the magic he lent to sport that drew in the crowds
Police officer detained after alleged attempt to free relatives from police station in Nedumangad
The officer allegedly demanded the release of two of the detainees, claiming they were his relatives
Fearing fake certificates, Centre orders stricter scrutiny of digitised birth and death records
Complaints regarding issuance of fake/unauthorised digitised certificates in some instances not only undermines the integrity of the Civil Registration System but also threatens the reliability of vital records, says Deputy Registrar General in letter to States
Bharat Tex generates $2 billion worth enquiries
Bharat Tex catalyses around 14,300 crore of textile investment commitments with more than 30 MoUs signed
How New Zealand is protecting some of the worlds rarest wildlife
From kiwi and kkp to glow worms and little blue penguins, discover how Mori communities, scientists and conservationists are working together to protect New Zealands extraordinary endemic wildlife
FIFA World Cup: France, England vie for third place
HC refuses to quash proceedings against former Malappuram SP, two others in sexual assault case
State govt. approves filling of 15,000 government school teacher posts
Government brings major changes in the weightage of marks for teacher recruitments in Karnataka
The government given more importance to the competitive exam score rather than the marks obtained in B.Ed., B.P.Ed and D.Ed. Courses.
One more U.S. made anti-submarine helicopter delivered to the Indian Navy
The MH-60R is among the worlds most advanced shipborne helicopters; it is designed primarily for anti-submarine and anti-surface warfare
Shashi Tharoor rescued after being trapped in hotel lift
Using a hydraulic spreader, the firefighters managed to open the lift and safely rescue the MP and other passengers who were trapped for nearly 30 minutes
Senior citizen killed in road accident
State to seek Centres assistance to overcome the crisis caused by El Nino
Cabinet concerned over severe shortfall in the rainfall in monsoon
Congress leader Pawan Khera meets Sonam Wangchuk
Eight college students held for dacoity in Madukkarai limits on Coimbatore outskirts
GBA to launch fire audits at sensitive areas in the city, violators to face criminal cases
Widows loss prompts SC push to fix overcrowded trains
Orders railway to pay 8 lakh compensation to a woman whose husband died after falling from a moving train in November 2015.
Census self-enumeration process begins in Dindigul
Entrepreneurs should constantly upgrade their aspirations: CII Vice-Chairman
Rahul Gandhi calls for political consensus to end the paper-leak industry
The Leader of Opposition advocated a comprehensive overhaul by introducing randomised question papers and ensuring punishment for those who leak papers
Arts and science colleges in Coimbatore district staring at continuous decline in PG admissions
Elephant found dead near Parapalaru dam
L-G VK Saxena commissions India's first two geothermal wells at Puga Valley in Ladakh
Leh (Ladakh) [India], July 17 : In a significant step towards making Ladakh a clean energy hub under Prime Minister Narednra Modi's clean energy mission, Lieutenant Governor VK Saxena on Friday commissioned India's first and deepest two geothermal wells at Puga Valley in Ladakh, which were executed by ONGC Energy Centre. An official statement mentioned that the first of the two wells was successfully drilled to its target depth of 1000 metres on May 22 2026, and the other geothermal well was spudded on June 3 2026. In a record time of just over a month, it was successfully drilled and completed to a depth of 1000 metres on July 8 2026. Mentioning the project, the Lieutenant Governor, VK Saxena, on X said, Braving extreme weather, unpredictable geothermal activities and complex subsurface conditions, our engineering teams completed the drilling of wells in a record time. I am confident that this geothermal project will catalyze Ladakh's holistic development, strengthening energy security, promoting environmental sustainability, and contributing to socio-economic growth, he added. He also congratulated all the engineers and technical experts involved in the project. The statement also highlighted that these two geothermal wells are critical for the successful implementation of the 1 MW pilot geothermal power project at Puga, which will be India's first demonstration-scale geothermal power project. Speaking on the occasion, LG VK Saxena said, This Geothermal Power project would act as a catalyst for Ladakh's holistic development. Beyond its scientific significance, this initiative will strengthen Ladakh's energy security, promote environmental sustainability and contribute to regional socio-economic development. What has been achieved in Puga Valley would serve as a blueprint for India's net-zero journey and significantly contribute towards making Ladakh a carbon-neutral and environmentally sustainable region. Notably, the geothermal power project had suffered a major setback following the expiry of the earlier tripartite MoU between the Ladakh Administration, LAHDC Leh and ONGC Energy Centre, resulting in critical delays of several months in project execution, the statement mentioned. Project Engineers informed that the maximum temperature of 135 degrees Celsius was recorded at a depth of 400 meters, it added. The statement also mentioned that futher testing is on and the project engineers are hopeful to achieve even higher temperatures for operation of the 1MW pilot geothermal power project and eventual commercial exploration of geothermal energy. It was also highlighted in the statement that the project has been undertaken in one of the world's most challenging operating environments, characterised by extreme weather conditions, rugged terrain and a limited annual working season. (ANI)
CM inaugurates womens health summit at Sacred Heart College
Shia body urges govt. to secure release of detained Indian Muslims in Gulf countries
All India Shia Personal LawBoard general secretary Maulana Yasoob Abbas says the Board had submitted a memorandum to PM Narendra Modi, requesting the Centre to engage diplomatically with the governments of the countries concerned and ensure their safety
NEET pass percentage improves in Puducherry
Tec-Do Launches Navos 2.0 at WAIC, Advancing the Next Era of Agentic Commerce
Tec-Do Launches Navos 2.0 at WAIC, Advancing the Next Era of Agentic Commerce
Watch: Monsoon session begins on July 20: 5 key Bills & NEET protest | Above the Fold | 17.07.2026
As Parliaments crucial Monsoon Session gets underway, the government faces a packed legislative agenda while the Opposition prepares to corner it over the NEET-UG paper leak, inflation and other key issues. We also track Sonam Wangchuks protest as it enters a critical phase, preview the FIFA World Cup final, and bring you the days other top developments.
New Delhi [India], July 17 : The National Health Authority (NHA), under the Ministry of Health and Family Welfare, Government of India, on Friday commenced a two-day National Review Meeting (Chintan Shivir) on the implementation of the Ayushman Bharat Pradhan Mantri Jan Arogya Yojana (AB PM-JAY) and the Ayushman Bharat Digital Mission (ABDM) at Madhya Pradesh Bhawan, New Delhi. According to a press release, the National Review Meeting was inaugurated by Union Minister of State (Independent Charge), Ministry of Ayush and Union Minister of State, Ministry of Health and Family Welfare, Prataprao Jadhav. During the inaugural session, Jadhav released the National Health Authority (NHA) Annual Report, along with the Compendium of Guidelines for the District Implementation Unit (DIU), Beneficiary Empowerment (BE) and Hospital Empanelment Module (HEM), to strengthen programme implementation, improve operational efficiency and promote greater standardisation across States and Union Territories. As per the release, the meeting has brought together senior officials from the Ministry of Health and Family Welfare, the National Health Authority, and States and Union Territories to review progress under the Government's flagship health initiatives, identify implementation priorities and chart the next phase of healthcare reforms through innovation, digital transformation and strengthened Centre-State collaboration. Addressing the meeting, Prataprao Jadhav complimented the National Health Authority (NHA) for organising the review meeting with all States and Union Territories. Expressing his pleasure at interacting with the health leadership from across the country, he said that the meeting provided an important platform to collectively review progress, share best practices and chart the future course for strengthening the implementation of Ayushman Bharat Pradhan Mantri Jan Arogya Yojana (AB PM-JAY) and the Ayushman Bharat Digital Mission (ABDM). Jadhav stated that AB PM-JAY was conceived in the spirit of Antyodaya, ensuring that the last person in the queue receives priority in accessing quality healthcare and every cashless treatment provided under the scheme reaffirms this commitment. Highlighting the achievements of the scheme over the past seven years, he stated that AB PM-JAY has facilitated cashless treatment worth over Rs 1.91 lakh crore through a network of more than 37,000 empanelled hospitals across the country, making it the world's largest health assurance scheme. Highlighting the progress of digital health, Jadhav said that he Ayushman Bharat Digital Mission (ABDM) has laid the digital foundation for a future-ready healthcare system, with over 94 crore ABHA numbers created and more than 100 crore health records linked. He emphasised that ABDM 2.0 should be measured not merely by the number of digital records created, but by the everyday difference it makes through seamless access to health records across States, easier discovery of nearby health facilities and deeper integration with AB PM-JAY, demonstrating the transformative potential of Digital India in healthcare. Calling for greater convergence between AB PM-JAY and ABDM, Jadhav urged all States and Union Territories to strengthen coordination in implementation while continuing to place the poorest and most vulnerable citizens at the centre of all healthcare interventions. Expressing confidence in the collective efforts of all States and Union Territories, he said that together they would build future-ready, citizen-centric and digitally empowered healthcare systems rooted in accessibility, accountability and compassion, contributing significantly towards the vision of Viksit Bharat 2047. As per the release, Chief Executive Officer, National Health Authority (NHA), Sunil Kumar Barnwal highlighted the National Review Meeting and the Chintan Shivir series, being organised since October 2025, as an important platform for States and Union Territories to review progress, exchange best practices and address implementation challenges under AB PM-JAY and the Ayushman Bharat Digital Mission (ABDM). Barnwal further emphasised that the vast repository of data generated under PM-JAY has the potential to emerge as a valuable national health indicator by providing valuable insights into disease patterns across different States, geographies and demographic groups, thereby enabling more targeted public health interventions and evidence-based policymaking. The meeting reviewed the progress achieved under AB PM-JAY since the previous Chintan Shivir, focusing on key implementation priorities, programme performance, beneficiary coverage, service delivery, claims management and hospital empanelment. It also assessed the status of actionable items identified during the earlier review meeting and deliberated on measures to strengthen operational efficiency, institutional mechanisms and beneficiary service delivery. The meeting also reviewed the implementation of the Ayushman Bharat Digital Mission, with discussions focusing on the progress of key initiatives, adoption of digital health services, and measures to further strengthen the digital health ecosystem. The review underscored the importance of accelerating ABDM implementation through closer coordination with States and continued adoption of interoperable digital health solutions. The deliberations covered several policy and operational reforms aimed at strengthening programme implementation under AB PM-JAY. The meeting reviewed the proposed framework for planned pre-authorisation for selected procedures to reinforce clinical governance and facilitate timely decision-making. The meeting further reviewed initiatives to strengthen the technology infrastructure supporting AB PM-JAY. It also reviewed recent developments in the Auto-Adjudication Engine to improve consistency, transparency and efficiency in claims processing, alongside the work of the National Anti-Fraud Unit (NAFU) in strengthening programme integrity through risk-based monitoring and data-driven fraud detection mechanisms. (ANI)
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