On Camera, Speeding BMW Falls Off Mumbai Coast Road Bridge, 3 Dead
The car, a black BMW, was travelling from Marine Drive towards Haji Ali on the Coastal Road when the driver allegedly lost control.
Hyderabad Actor-Wrestler Saurav Gurjar Accused Of Harassing Woman After Promising To Marry
Actor Saurav Gurjar faces police case over woman's complaint of harassment and false promises.
FPIs turn cautious; withdraw 20,974 crore from equities in September amid global uncertainty
The latest outflow comes after foreign investors returned to Indian equities in July and August, when they invested 20,200 crore and 29,630 crore, respectively
SCoR, Vijayawada division, loads first rake of wood pulp to Maharashtra
Wood pulp is expected to generate around 1.5 lakh tonnes of additional loading, and estimated annual freight revenue is about 20 crore on the new commodity, the Railway officials said
SCoR, Vijayawada division, loads first rake of wood pulp to Maharashtra
Wood pulp is expected to generate around 1.5 lakh tonnes of additional loading, and estimated annual freight revenue is about 20 crore on the new commodity, the Railway officials said
BJP-RSS have hollowed out the education system, Rahul Gandhi standing with students: Congress
Rahul Gandhi told participants in Indore that the system fears students who ask questions, while Jairam Ramesh said the BJP-RSS have corrupted education
Nearly 800 families struggle to enter their homes in Parvatipuram-Manyam district
As part of the developmental works, the officials removed steps, ramps of houses and encroachments on drainage eight months ago; now people face difficulty moving in and out of their houses
Nearly 800 families struggle to enter their homes in Parvatipuram-Manyam district
As part of the developmental works, the officials removed steps, ramps of houses and encroachments on drainage eight months ago; now people face difficulty moving in and out of their houses
Complete Ring Road works by December, says Minister Janardhan Reddy
The Minister noted that the completion of the Ring Road would provide a permanent solution to the ever-increasing traffic problems in Banaganapalle town
Complete Ring Road works by December, says Minister Janardhan Reddy
The Minister noted that the completion of the Ring Road would provide a permanent solution to the ever-increasing traffic problems in Banaganapalle town
Overnight rain bring temperatures down in Bengaluru, KIA records 94.2 mm
The rainfall brought down the temperature by a few degrees Celsius which had been hovering above 30C for the last couple of weeks.
Overnight rain bring temperatures down in Bengaluru, KIA records 94.2 mm
The rainfall brought down the temperature by a few degrees Celsius which had been hovering above 30C for the last couple of weeks.
Watch: Periyar Walk held in Tiruchirappalli to mark Thanthai Periyars 148th birth anniversary
A Periyar Walk A Walk for Social Justice and Equality was held in Tiruchirappalli to mark Thanthai Periyars 148th birth anniversary. Led by Dravidar Kazhagam president K. Veeramani, the walk brought together people of different age groups and highlighted the ideals of social unity, equality and physical well-being.
Watch: Periyar Walk held in Tiruchirappalli to mark Thanthai Periyars 148th birth anniversary
A Periyar Walk A Walk for Social Justice and Equality was held in Tiruchirappalli to mark Thanthai Periyars 148th birth anniversary. Led by Dravidar Kazhagam president K. Veeramani, the walk brought together people of different age groups and highlighted the ideals of social unity, equality and physical well-being.
Telangana Neurosurgeon Burnt Alive After Car Crashes Into Divider, Burst Into Flames
The initial investigation suggests that drowsy driving may have caused the accident. The exact cause, however, is still under investigation.
Free mega medical camp promotes Health and Legal awareness in Gajuwaka
Guest of honour Prof. G. Ajay Kumar urged residents to seek treatment exclusively from qualified specialists rather than quacks or medical shops
West Bengal Government launches portal to foster grassroots innovation in eastern region
The Seva First Innovation Challenge-Eastern Zone invites solution-oriented proposals on healthcare access, agricultural losses, water shortage and waste management
Huawei Digital Power Showcases Multi-Scenario Solutions Featuring Grid Forming and AI at IDEE 2026
Huawei Digital Power Showcases Multi-Scenario Solutions Featuring Grid Forming and AI at IDEE 2026
Economist Bibek Debroy, who passed away in 2024, flagged for notice in Delhi SIR
Bibek Debroy, who was 69 when he passed away, is listed as a 70-year-old elector in polling part 73 of the Delhi Cantonment Assembly constituency in the draft electoral roll published on August 31, The Hindu has found
Pakistan forces kill five terrorists, rescue 23 abductees in Balochistan
The military said the group had set up a check post on the N-25 highway near Kalat to abduct people for ransom
Pakistan forces kill five terrorists, rescue 23 abductees in Balochistan
The military said the group had set up a check post on the N-25 highway near Kalat to abduct people for ransom
Hope flows anew with revival of Andhras Veligonda project
Conceived as a long-term response to the nearly four-decade fight of the people against chronic drought, depleted water resources, and fluoride contamination in parts of the region, the project aims to create a large irrigation network spanning four districts and 30 mandals, while extending drinking water facilities to drought-prone populations.
Watch: IAF chief A.P. Singh welcomes JASDF chief Gen Takehiro Morita in Jodhpur
IAF chief A P Singh welcomed JASDF chief Gen Takehiro Morita in Jodhpur as India-Japan air exercise Veer Guardian 2026 continues.
BioShanghai Week 2026 Opens -- Joining Forces to Build a Global Biopharmaceutical Innovation Ecosystem
Russian election, cast as test of support for Ukraine war, enters final day
Most anti-war candidates were barred from the ballot; those who did run from the liberal Yabloko party said they feared for their freedom after courts handed long jail terms to two senior party figures before the vote for comments about the conflict deemed illegal by authorities
Russian election, cast as test of support for Ukraine war, enters final day
Most anti-war candidates were barred from the ballot; those who did run from the liberal Yabloko party said they feared for their freedom after courts handed long jail terms to two senior party figures before the vote for comments about the conflict deemed illegal by authorities
Keralam Minister KM Shaji Defends Using Friend's Range Rover As Official Vehicle
Kerala Minister KM Shaji said he did not see anything wrong in using their vehicles after following the prescribed procedures.
At least two dead, four injured after electrocution near Ganesh pandal in Mumbai
Six people suffered electrocution at a temporary drinking water stall in the Lalbaug area, and a 12-year-old girl is critically injured
At least two dead, four injured after electrocution near Ganesh pandal in Mumbai
Six people suffered electrocution at a temporary drinking water stall in the Lalbaug area, and a 12-year-old girl is critically injured
Tightly staged battle sequences with striking work by an excellent ensemble, Paul Greengrass gripping historical reimagining fumbles with the Robin Hood-shaped epilogue
News in Frames | In pursuit of salt and survival
Thousands of workers in Prakasams coastal mandals depend on salt production, enduring long hours in brine and intense heat; an extended dry season has prolonged salt production this year, but overproduction has pushed down prices, leaving workers vulnerable to losses and an uncertain livelihood
Three killed, one critically injured after speeding BMW crashes on Mumbai Coastal Road
The incident occurred at 5:20 a.m. when the luxury car was moving at a high speed from Marine Drive towards Haji Ali
Asian Games 2026: India women open table tennis campaign with 3-0 win over Indonesia
Yashaswini Ghorpade completed the sweep in the third rubber, overcoming Citra Rasmi 3-0. Yashaswini prevailed 12-10 11-4 11-4 to seal the tie for India
India open shooting campaign with silver in women's 10m air rifle team event
Elavenil Valarivan, Sonam Maskar and Vidarsa Vinod combined for a total of 1898.0 points to finish second behind China, who topped the standings with a world-record score of 1904.2
Huawei Grid-Interactive AIDC Solution: Shaping the New Paradigm of AI Infrastructure
Huawei Grid-Interactive AIDC Solution: Shaping the New Paradigm of AI Infrastructure
Govt jobs to one lakh youth in Uttar Pradesh, says Adityanath
25-30 thousand more recruitments will take place through UPSSSC results and 20-25 thousand recruitments through the Uttar Pradesh Education Selection Commission
Suchika Tariyal confirms first medal for India at Asian Games with MMA semifinal berth
A place in the semifinals guarantees a medal in the event, with the two losing semifinalists awarded bronze
Violent protests rock Manipur's Kangpokpi over detention of 6 villagers
A senior official said the detained village volunteers were subsequently released by the security forces, following which the protests ended
4 killed in strike on vessel in Caribbean: SOUTHCOM
Florida [US], September 20 : The United States Southern Command said it killed four people in a strike on a vessel in the Caribbean on Saturday, alleging that the vessel was involved in drug trafficking. In a post on X on Sunday, the US Southern Command said that the strike was carried out by the Joint Task Force Western Hemisphere (JTF-WHEM) under its direction. The post said, On September 19, under the direction of #SOUTHCOM, Joint Task Force Western Hemisphere executed a lethal, kinetic strike on a go-fast vessel operating along established narco-trafficking routes in the Caribbean. Confirmed intelligence revealed the vessel's active involvement in narco-trafficking. The US Southern Command said the operation killed four people, referring to them as arco-terrorists. It said, The operation killed four narco-terrorists. The strike comes as US forces in another of its operations on September 16 interdicted and sank a floating refuelling station that the US Southern Command (SOUTHCOM) said was supporting illicit at-sea drug trafficking operations in the Eastern Pacific. In a post on X, SOUTHCOM said the operation was conducted under the direction of Joint Task Force Western Hemisphere (JTF-WHEM), adding that intelligence confirmed the vessel's involvement with the Los Choneros violent narco-terrorist organization. SOUTHCOM said individuals removed from the vessel were transferred to Ecuadorian authorities. After clearing the vessel and disembarking the crew, U.S. forces sank it, the command said. The US Southern Command further said that JTF-WHEM continues to conduct precise and professional operations to dismantle the logistical networks fueling narco-trafficking in the Western Hemisphere. SOUTHCOM Commander Gen. Francis L. Donovan said the operation was conducted alongside Ecuadorian partners as part of efforts to target narco-trafficking networks. Alongside our Ecuadorian partners, we are relentlessly pursuing narco-terrorists who prey on our citizens, undermine hemispheric security, and leave death and suffering in their wake. This deliberate, lawful, and precise operation saves lives and makes our citizens--from Ecuador to the United States--safer, Donovan added. The continuous operations come after SOUTHCOM established Joint Task Force Western Hemisphere earlier in August as a purpose-built joint task force to synchronise US military operations with allies and partners, counter threats, strengthen regional security and respond rapidly to crises across the Western Hemisphere. According to the official SOUTHCOM press release issued at the time, JTF-WHEM provides unified command and control at the tactical and operational levels and integrates military capabilities with the 18 partner nations of the Americas Counter Cartel Coalition (A3C). SOUTHCOM said the task force was established to increase operational effectiveness against threats that undermine regional security and impact the United States and partner nations, while also strengthening its ability to respond quickly to contingencies and humanitarian crises throughout the region. Malign actors threaten national security, destabilize the region and exploit vulnerable populations, the command said in the August release. Donovan said the new task force would strengthen cooperation with US allies and partners. JTF-WHEM strengthens our ability to work alongside trusted allies and partners, synchronize military capabilities and apply sustained pressure against the networks that threaten our collective security, Donovan said. Together, we are increasing security across the hemisphere and protecting our homeland, he added. (ANI)
Medians needed atsharp bendsinGuindy
Adambakkam resident K.Thilagavathy points out that in the absence of this safety feature, it is often touch-and-go for motorists, and on unfortunate occasions, there have been accidents
This collection of articles has been updated on the occasion of the 148th anniversary of The Hindu.
High Court directs Uttar Pradesh Police to ensure safety of same-sex couple in live-in relationship
Considering the law laid down by the Supreme Court, the court said that being in a live-in relationship is a fundamental right of two adult citizens who decide to live together by choice.
Bengal police arrest Rejinagar bypoll candidate days after Nandigram candidate Milan Pradhans arrest
The two bypolls slated for October 6 were necessitated after Chief Minister Suvendu Adhikari vacated Nandigram, while Rejinagar fell vacant after Humayun Kabir retained Nawda upon winning both seats in the 2026 assembly election
ASI murder: Accused killed in police encounter in Amritsar
Police said CCTV footage, technical inputs, tower-dump analysis, local intelligence and human sources were utilised to identify and trace the accused.
Wrong-side driving has gotten worse at VPRamanRoad, Lloyds Road and JudgeJambulingamRoad
Residents association at Thirumoolar Colony in Anna Nagar sets upa study hall
It accepts donation of books meant for competitive examinations
Watch: Fire breaks out at Mata Vaishno Devi Shrine Board helipad in Katra
A fire broke out at the Shri Mata Vaishno Devi Shrine Board helipad in Katra on Sunday morning. No casualties were reported.
Here is a select list of stories to start the day
Nellore DLSA Chairman assures free legal counsel for poor prisoners
A. Narasimha Murthy spoke to the prisoners and inquired about the arrangements for meals and medical facilities and asked the details regarding their cases
Asian Games 2026 medal tally: Latest overall standings
Here is the updated medal table from the 2026 Asian Games in Aichi-Nagoya, Japan
Ram Madhav takes questions on BJP, economy and foreign policy
BJP leader Ram Madhav took questions from reporters on the partys alliance politics, Indias relations with Pakistan and Bangladesh, unemployment and the role of businesses in creating jobs. He also spoke about the governments approach to Pakistan and the economic challenges facing India.
The students of all engineering branches can focus on certificate courses of new technologies from first year itself, M. Satya Prasad said
No Justice for Green? NGT ruled zero times for environment in 6 months
New Delhi, Sep 19:Even as Chief Justice of India (CJI) Surya Kant said on Saturday that Indian courts must find a balance between conservation and development, an analysis shows that the National Green Tribunal (NGT) had not ruled even once in favour of environmental justice or the public-interest side while hearing their merit appeals in [] The post No Justice for Green? NGT ruled zero times for environment in 6 months first appeared on Highland Post .
Northeast seeks PM special package for NEP 2020 implementation
Dimapur, Sep 19:The Northeastern states have proposed a dedicated Prime Ministers Special Financial Package to support implementation of the National Education Policy (NEP) 2020 in the region, saying targeted funding would help institutions overcome implementation constraints and translate the policys objectives into meaningful educational opportunities. The proposal was among a set of recommendations adopted at [] The post Northeast seeks PM special package for NEP 2020 implementation first appeared on Highland Post .
VPP holds meet for LS bypoll, eyes 2028
Shillong, Sep 19: The Voice of the People Party (VPP) on Saturday held an internal meeting of its workers from 36 constituencies under Khasi-Jaintia Hills at the party office in Nongkrem to discuss strategy for the upcoming Shillong Lok Sabha bypoll. VPP president Ardent Miller Basaiawmoit said feedback from supporters across all 36 constituencies indicates [] The post VPP holds meet for LS bypoll, eyes 2028 first appeared on Highland Post .
Over 180 scientists sign urgent appeal to tackle upcoming
New Delhi, Sep 19:More than 180 scientists and ecologists in India have signed an appeal to fellow researchers and field practitioners to prepare for an upcoming super El Nino event, which is likely to have devastating impacts on the countrys natural systems. El Nino is marked by the unusual warming of surface waters in the [] The post Over 180 scientists sign urgent appeal to tackle upcoming super El Nino event first appeared on Highland Post .
By Banjit Sarmah In the history of Assamese music, the arrival of certain artists marks not merely the emergence of another artiste, but the beginning of a new era. Zubeen Garg was one such artist. He gave Assamese music a new sound, a new musical vision and a powerful connection with the younger generation. To [] The post Zubeen Garg: Assam, Society & the Rhythm of a Universal Vision first appeared on Highland Post .
Census for Change: Promoting Human Dignity and Sustainable Development
By Tayi Taggu Effective resource planning and mobilization are crucial for ensuring that development benefits reach every part of the country. The census plays a vital role in maximising resource use to help every household, including those in remote areas, while considering diverse age groups, genders, education levels, and skills. As one of the greatest [] The post Census for Change: Promoting Human Dignity and Sustainable Development first appeared on Highland Post .
10th Pencak Silat Federation Cup begins in Leh
Leh, Ladakh: The 10th Pencak Silat Federation Cup 2026 is being held at the NDS Indoor Stadium in Leh, bringing together Pencak Silat athletes, coaches, officials, team managers and sports administrators from across the country. More than 850 athletes and participants are taking part in the national championship, which has emerged as a major sporting gathering in the Union Territory of Ladakh. Teams from various States, Union Territories and Paramilitary Forces are participating in the championship. The event also features more than 100 technical and federation officials and State/UT representatives, along with over 70 coaches and team managers. The opening ceremony will be attended by Lieutenant Governor of Ladakh Vinai Kumar Saxena as the chief guest. Administrative Secretary, Youth Services & Sports, UT Ladakh Bhanu Prabha; Secretary to the Lieutenant Governor, Ladakh Shashanka Ala; Joint Director, Youth Services & Sports, Ladakh Tsering Paldan; Additional Deputy Commissioner to the Lieutenant Governor Shekh Aadil; President, Indian Pencak Silat Federation; President, Ladakh Pencak Silat Association; and District Youth Services & Sports Officer, Leh, will also be present. The championship has brought together sporting delegations from Bihar, Chandigarh, Chhattisgarh, CISF, Delhi, Gujarat, Haryana, Himachal Pradesh, ITBP, Jammu & Kashmir, Jharkhand, Karnataka, Kerala, Ladakh, Madhya Pradesh, Maharashtra, Manipur, Odisha, Puducherry, Rajasthan, SSB, Tamil Nadu, Uttar Pradesh and Uttarakhand. The participation of State and UT teams along with Paramilitary Forces has added diversity to the championship, bringing athletes from different sporting backgrounds onto one national platform. Besides athletes, the championship includes technical officials, federation representatives, coaches, team managers, referees, judges, delegation representatives and members of the organising and support teams. The event has brought together more than 1,000 athletes, officials, coaches, managers, representatives and other sporting stakeholders. Hosting a national-level Pencak Silat championship in Leh at the high altitude of the Himalayas gives the event a distinctive setting. The championship provides athletes from across India an opportunity to compete at the national level while also experiencing the culture and hospitality of Ladakh. The event also highlights Ladakh's potential to host major sporting competitions and provides a platform for promoting sports and sporting activities in the region. The 10th Pencak Silat Federation Cup 2026 brings together athletes and sporting delegations from different regions of the country on a common platform. With more than 850 participants, 100 technical officials and representatives, and over 70 coaches and team managers, the championship provides a significant platform for Pencak Silat athletes to compete and showcase their skills.
Selection trials for National Yogasana Cship to be held during 7th J&K UT meet
Srinagar, Sep 19: The Jammu & Kashmir Yogasana Sports Association has announced that selection trials for Sub-Junior, Junior and Senior Men and Women athletes for the National Yogasana Championship 202627 will be held alongside the 7th Jammu & Kashmir UT Yogasana Sports Championship 202627. The UT Championship is scheduled to be held from October 5 to 7 at the Indoor Sports Hall, Sehpora, Ganderbal. The selection trials will provide eligible athletes from across Jammu & Kashmir an opportunity to compete for selection to the National Yogasana Championship, to be conducted under the aegis of Yogasana Bharat. The trials will cover Sub-Junior, Junior and Senior categories for both men and women. The Association said conducting the selection trials alongside the UT Championship would facilitate participation of athletes from all districts and allow them to compete in the UT Championship while also appearing for the national selection process at the same venue. The arrangement is also expected to save time and expenses for athletes and accompanying teams, while providing selected athletes adequate time to prepare for the National Championship. All eligible athletes, District Yogasana Sports Associations, affiliated institutions, schools and clubs have been requested to complete registration and participate in the selection trials. The venue for the championship and selection trials will be the Indoor Sports Hall, Sehpora, Ganderbal. Athletes are required to report on October 4 before 5 pm. For registration and further information, athletes and participating organisations may contact Joint Secretary, J&K Yogasana Sports Association, Basit Nabi Wani, at 9469116506 or 9906693403, or email jkyogasanasportsassociation@gmail.com.
Delhi Police head constable, wife found dead in Narela; children find flat locked from inside
Outer North DCP Shobhit D. Saxena said the couples children returned from school and found the flat locked from inside.
Sugarcane turned bitter for thousands of farmers in North Andhra districts
The farmers used to grow sugarcane in 35000 acres till about a few years ago in Vizianagaram district.
KU concludes first phase of hands-on workshop on drone technology
Srinagar Sept 19: The University of Kashmir (KU), through the Centre for Innovation, Incubation & Entrepreneurship (CIIE), Institute of Technology (IoT), Zakura Campus, concluded the first phase of a five-day Skill Development Programme on Drone Technology Designing & Hands-on Workshop, organised from Sep 1418 at the e-Yantra Embedded Systems & Robotics Lab. The programme provided participants practical exposure to various aspects of drone technology, including drone components and anatomy, aerodynamics, flight controllers, quadcopter assembly, simulation, mission planning, CAD-based design, Python programming, flight operations and applications in agriculture. A total of 20 participants, selected from over 200 registrations from different educational institutions, participated in the first phase, combining conceptual learning with hands-on experimentation and technology-oriented skill development. Vice-Chancellor, KU, Prof. Nilofer Khan, said emerging technologies such as drones are creating new avenues for innovation, research and entrepreneurship, while practical learning enables students to apply technology to real-world challenges. By combining conceptual understanding with hands-on learning, we can empower our students to develop technology-based solutions to real-world challenges, she said. Dean Academic Affairs, KU, Prof. Shariefuddin Pirzada, appreciated the structured approach of the programme, which enabled participants to progress from fundamentals to assembly, simulation, programming and flight operations. Registrar, KU, Prof. Naseer Iqbal, emphasised the importance of practical and interdisciplinary training in contemporary higher education, noting that drone technology integrates areas such as electronics, programming, engineering, design and automation and offers diverse real-world applications. Dean and Director, IoT, Zakura Campus KU, Prof. M. Tariq Banday, highlighted the importance of providing learners opportunities to experiment, build and test technology-based solutions. He added that over 200 participants have registered for the Drone Technology and allied workshops at the Lab. Workshop coordinators Dr. Bilal Ahmad Malik and Dr. Mir Nazish, and Rutba Majeed, DGCA-certified Drone Pilot and Instructor, were also present on the occasion. The workshop is part of KUs continuing skill-development and capacity-building initiatives aimed at providing practical exposure to emerging technologies and developing industry-relevant skills. The e-Yantra Embedded Systems & Robotics Lab, established at IoT Zakura Campus with support from RUSA 2.0, provides infrastructure for hands-on learning and experimentation in embedded systems, robotics and related technological domains.
DC Kulgam dedicates newly constructed Sumo Stand to public
Kulgam, Sep 19: The newly constructed Sumo Stand near Chambgund bridge at Kulgam has been dedicated to public by Deputy Commissioner, Shahzad Alam on Saturday in presence of Tehsildar Kulgam and CEO MC Kulgam along with officials and local transporters and public. The vital transport facility has officially started being operational and functional for the convenience of the general public, commuters and transport operators of the area. The stand will facilitate the systematic boarding and alighting of passengers and parking of passenger vehicles plying on various routes, including Gudder, Laisoo, Malwani, Banimullah and adjoining areas. The operationalisation of the Sumo Stand is expected to help in streamlining vehicular movement, reducing roadside congestion near Polytechnic College and providing a designated facility for passengers and transport operators in the area. MC Kulgam has made necessary arrangements for the proper functioning of the stand and will continue to coordinate with the concerned departments for its effective management and maintenance. The facility marks another step towards improving public amenities, traffic management and organised transport facilities in the area, said DC Kulgam while committing for establishing more public friendly facilities in the district. The DC also interacted with the transporters and commuters and instructed authorities to facilitate the maintenance of all essential facilities at the stand. Transport operators and the general public have been requested to extend cooperation in maintaining cleanliness, discipline and smooth traffic movement in and around Chambgund bridge.
DC Pulwama reviews implementation of PM-NAPS
Pulwama, Sep 19: Deputy Commissioner (DC) Pulwama, Dr. Basharat Qayoom on Saturday chaired a meeting at Administration Complex Pulwama to review implementation of the Pradhan Mantri National Apprenticeship Promotion Scheme (PM-NAPS) in the district and take stock of measures for increasing apprenticeship opportunities for eligible youth. During the meeting, detailed presentations were given on the online process for registration and onboarding of establishments and candidates under NAPS. The presentation covered the step-by-step process of establishment registration, completion of establishment profile, creation of apprenticeship opportunities, searching suitable candidates, processing applications and other procedural formalities. The Deputy Commissioner directed the concerned departments and field functionaries to identify eligible establishments in their respective sectors and facilitate their registration on the apprenticeship portal. He called for concerted efforts to ensure that eligible establishments complete their profiles and create suitable apprenticeship opportunities so that more local youth can be connected with practical training and work-based learning opportunities. The DC further stressed the need for effective coordination among DIC, Education, Health, Labour and ITI authorities for wider outreach and facilitation of eligible candidates. He directed the concerned officers to facilitate registration of eligible youth, ensure completion of their profiles and guide them in identifying and applying for suitable apprenticeship opportunities. During the meeting, Dr. Qayoom laid emphasis on execution of Employer-Apprentice agreement and actual engagement of apprentices in potential/ eligible establishments and directed the concerned to complete target by Sep 25, 2026. The Deputy Commissioner also called for regular monitoring of the registration and engagement process and directed the concerned officers to address procedural bottlenecks, provide necessary handholding to establishments and candidates and ensure timely completion of apprenticeship contracts wherever eligible. Emphasising the importance of apprenticeship in bridging the gap between formal training and workplace requirements, the DC said that concerted efforts should be made to expand the apprenticeship ecosystem in the district and provide local youth with opportunities to gain practical experience, industry-relevant skills and enhanced employability. The meeting was attended by Additional District Development Commissioner, Pulwama; General Manager, DIC Pulwama; and officers from DIC, Education, Health, Labour, ITI Pulwama besides the concerned technical teams.
Sensitization programme on narcotics held at J&K Judicial Academy
Srinagar, Sep 19: Under the patronage of Dr. Justice Pushpendra Singh Bhati, Chief Justice, High Court of Jammu & Kashmir and Ladakh (Patron-in-Chief, J&K Judicial Academy), and under the guidance of the Chairman and Members of the Governing Committee of the J&K Judicial Academy, a one-day Sensitization Programme on Issues Related to Narcotics was conducted on Saturday at Jammu & Kashmir Judicial Academy, Mominabad, here in collaboration with Narcotics Control Bureau, Srinagar Zonal Unit. The programme aimed to sensitize judicial officers, prosecutors, investigating officers and other stakeholders on the legal, investigative and evidentiary issues arising under the Narcotic Drugs and Psychotropic Substances Act, 1985 (NDPS Act). The Keynote Address was delivered by Justice Rajnesh Oswal, Judge, High Court of J&K and Ladakh and Chairman, Governing Committee, J&K Judicial Academy. He emphasized that the stringent provisions of the NDPS Act require strict adherence to statutory safeguards and highlighted the importance of lawful search and seizure, reliable evidence, proper chain of custody and fair investigation. Referring to Sections 42, 50, 52A, 67 and 37 of the Act, Justice Rajnesh Oswal stressed the need for proper documentation, corroborative and digital evidence, and truthful investigation. He also underscored the importance of a human-centred approach towards persons suffering from substance dependence while maintaining firm enforcement against organized trafficking. Director, J&K Judicial Academy, Naseer Ahmad Dar, in his Welcome and Introductory Address, emphasized the importance of coordinated efforts among investigators, prosecutors and the judiciary in effectively addressing NDPS cases. He highlighted the need for lawful investigation, strict compliance with statutory safeguards and proper preservation of evidence to ensure effective and timely adjudication. Sambit Mishra, IRS, DDG, NCB-NWR, emphasized the importance of interaction among investigators, prosecutors and the judiciary so that each stakeholder understands the expectations and constraints of the others. He stressed that effective prosecution depends not only on the evidence collected but also on strict compliance with procedural requirements and proper presentation of the case before the court. In his Special Address, Abdul Qayoom, DIG Crime Branch, highlighted the growing challenge of drug abuse and emphasized coordinated efforts by police, prosecution and judiciary. He stressed capacity building, procedural compliance, proper documentation and preservation of chain of custody, besides the need to investigate the forward and backward linkages of drug trafficking networks rather than limiting investigations to persons found carrying contraband. During Session-I, titled Challenges Faced in Investigation of NDPS Cases (IO Perspective), Kubra Nazir, DySP, ANTF Kashmir, highlighted challenges relating to Sections 42 and 50, searches, independent witnesses, videography, inventory, chain of custody, sampling, forensic delays and collection of digital and financial evidence. She emphasized timely compliance and proper documentation, particularly in view of the geographical and cross-border trafficking challenges in Jammu & Kashmir. Session-II, titled Identification of Investigation Gaps Affecting Prosecution and Evidentiary Strength, was conducted by Aftab Jeelani Wani, Public Prosecutor, NCB, Srinagar Zonal Unit. He emphasized that the strength of an NDPS prosecution depends substantially upon the quality and legality of investigation, particularly compliance with statutory requirements, proper search and seizure, documentation, chain of evidence and establishment of foundational facts before reliance on statutory presumptions. Session-III, titled Appreciation of Evidence and Common Grounds Leading to Acquittals; Coordination between Investigators, Prosecutors and Judiciary for Strengthening Cases, was conducted by Justice Mohammad Yaqoob Mir, Former Chief Justice, High Court of Meghalaya, with focus on appreciation of evidence and coordination among the stakeholders for strengthening NDPS cases. During Session-IV, Srinivasan Gopal, Former Assistant Director, Directorate of Revenue Intelligence, highlighted the mandatory compliance framework governing search, seizure and arrest under the NDPS Act. He emphasized proper sampling, inventory, documentation and maintenance of an unbroken chain of custody from seizure through forensic examination and production before the court. Session-V, conducted by Naseer Ahmad Dar, Director, J&K Judicial Academy, focused on the judicial approach to bail under Section 37 of the NDPS Act, including the twin conditions applicable in commercial-quantity cases. He emphasized that the bail stage should not become a mini-trial and highlighted measures for timely disposal of cases, including effective witness management, case tracking, prompt Section 52A compliance and FSL reports, reduction of unnecessary adjournments, time-bound charge framing and greater use of video conferencing. The programme brought together the judiciary, prosecution, police, NCB, ANTF and other enforcement stakeholders, facilitating an interdisciplinary exchange aimed at strengthening investigation, evidence preservation, prosecution and adjudication of NDPS cases. The programme concluded with Concluding Remarks by Piyush Kumar Ankit, Zonal Director, Narcotics Control Bureau, Srinagar, followed by the Vote of Thanks by Naseer Ahmad Dar, Director, J&K Judicial Academy. The proceedings of the day were moderated by Mufti Nahida, Additional Mobile Magistrate (T), Srinagar.
JKBOSE holds consultative meeting on development of vocational courses
Srinagar, Sep 19: The Jammu and Kashmir Board of School Education (JKBOSE) held a consultative meeting to deliberate on the development of vocational courses tailored to the local needs and emerging employment opportunities in Jammu and Kashmir. The meeting, held at the JKBOSE headquarters at Bemina here, was organised as part of the Board's process for submission to the National Council for Vocational Education and Training (NCVET) for Dual Recognition and as a step towards developing a new vocational course in the sector of Agriculture. The consultation brought together experts from the vocational education and agriculture sectors, including Dr T. N. Giri, Director, Vocational Education, NIOS, and Prof V. S. Mehrotra, Head, PSSCIVE, NCERT, Bhopal, besides experts from SKUAST-Kashmir, SKUAST-Jammu and the Department of Agriculture, J&K. Addressing the gathering, the Chairman, JKBOSE, said the Board was among the few Boards in the country to have received a Letter of Intent (LoI) from NCVET, describing it as an important step towards strengthening vocational education and skill-based learning in school education. He said the Board was focusing on sectors having considerable potential in the Union Territory, particularly agriculture and tourism, with the aim of enabling students to acquire skills relevant to local employment and livelihood opportunities. In his welcome address, Dr Parveen Singh, Director Academics, JKBOSE stressed the need to establish stronger linkages between school education, skills and the requirements of the job market, while ensuring that vocational courses remain relevant to the socio-economic context of Jammu and Kashmir. The initiative, he said, is aligned with the vision of National Education Policy (NEP) 2020, which seeks greater integration of vocational education, experiential learning and skill development into mainstream school education. During the meeting, experts deliberated on various aspects of curriculum development, including competency-based learning, sectoral and industry relevance, practical skills, assessment and certification.
Div Com Kashmir reviews traffic management
Srinagar, Sep 19: Divisional Commissioner Kashmir, Anshul Garg on Saturday chaired a high-level meeting of the Multidisciplinary Committee/Regional Transport Authority (RTA) to review the progress of various projects and interventions aimed at easing traffic congestion in Srinagar city. The meeting was attended by Deputy Commissioner Srinagar, Commissioner Srinagar Municipal Corporation, SSP Traffic, RTO Kashmir, Chief Engineer KPDCL and Executive Engineers of R&B, besides other concerned officers. During the meeting, a detailed review was undertaken regarding the progress of key road infrastructure projects including Development of Natipora to Chanapora road, Development of T-Junction at Natipora crossing, Construction of flyover from Shalteng to Parimpora, Construction of footbridge at Pediatric Hospital, Bemina, Construction of underpass at Nowgam, Development of Shopping Complex at Noorbagh, Development of road along Doodhganga River Bank from Barzulla to Sanat Nagar. On the occasion, the Div Com also reviewed the status of Srinagar Smart City Limited (SSCL) projects, including identification of 10 additional junctions for installation of ITMS cameras, painting of zebra crossings and stop lines, implementation of IT-based parking system, and status of e-bus charging stations at Zoonimar and Batamaloo. He also reviewed the Action Taken Report submitted by R&B, SSCL, RTO and Traffic Police on the decisions taken in previous meetings. The Div Com fixed fresh timelines for the concerned departments to achieve tangible progress. He directed SSCL and SSP Traffic to implement stop-line interventions at identified junctions within 10 days. He further directed Commissioner SSCL to hand over control room to the Traffic Police for augmenting deployment of traffic personnel to monitor the Traffic System. The Div Com directed that the e-bus charging station at Batamaloo shall be made operational within ten days. He also directed SSCL for completion of 72 bus stops under Module-A by 31st October 2026. He further directed SE R&B and SE I&FC to conduct a joint inspection for development of the Lasjan Bund Road.
Huawei Unveils Upgraded Stellar AI Campus Network to Usher in the New Era of AI Campuses
Huawei Unveils Upgraded Stellar AI Campus Network to Usher in the New Era of AI Campuses
U.S. military says it killed 4 in strike on alleged drug-smuggling boat in Caribbean
As with most of the military's statements on strikes in the eastern Pacific Ocean and Caribbean Sea, U.S. Southern Command said it targeted the alleged drug traffickers along known smuggling routes.
Davis Cup: Czechs beat USA to qualify for finals
The wins in Davis Cup are always a little bit different because this is a team competition, said Jiri Lehecka
Ed Sheeran set to return to stage after Palestinian controversy
We now extend our call for boycotting Ed Sheeran's entire world tour, including the upcoming Latin American dates and the as-yet-unannounced European leg, the Palestinian Campaign for the Academic and Cultural Boycott of Israel said
Asian Games 2026 opens in Japan with 11,000 athletes competing | LIVE updates
Around 500 Indian athletes will participate in the 20th edition of Asian Games, competing in 35 sports
Raphinha hat-trick maintains Barcelonas perfect LaLiga start
Barcelona moved provisionally six points clear of second-placed Real Madrid, who have a game in hand and play Atletico Madrid on September 20, 2026
Haj-2027: HCoI allots 500 seats under Mehram category
Srinagar, Sep 19: The Haj Committee of India (HCoI) has allotted 500 Haj seats under the Mehram category for Haj-2027 and invited online applications from eligible female intending pilgrims. According to Circular No. 14, issued by the HCoI under the Ministry of Minority Affairs, the special provision has been introduced to accommodate female candidates who could not apply for Haj-2027 earlier due to the non-availability of passports or other genuine reasons, but whose male companions (Mehram) had successfully applied and were selected. The online application facility will remain open on the official Haj Committee website from September 23 to October 7, 2026. As per the circular, applicants under the Mehram category must not have performed Haj earlier through the Haj Committee of India, Haj Group Organisers (HGOs), or any other means. They must also fulfil all other criteria prescribed for Haj-2027. Applicants are required to possess a valid, machine-readable Indian International Passport, issued on or before the last date of application and valid at least up to December 31, 2027. The applicants will have to upload the first and last pages of their valid passport, a recent passport-size photograph, proof of address and a valid document establishing their relationship with the Mehram. Applications without the required documents will be rejected. The committee has also specified that a maximum of five pilgrims can be included in one cover. A lady pilgrim will not be eligible to apply in a cover that already includes a female pilgrim. Female intending pilgrims who have already applied for Haj-2027 and whose covers have been generated will also not be eligible to apply under the special category. The Haj Committee said applications would be considered on merit, subject to the availability of seats. In case the number of eligible applications exceeds the available quota, Digital Random Selection (Qurrah) will be conducted to allot the seats. The committee has advised eligible applicants to submit their applications only through its official website. Hard copies, handwritten or typed applications will not be accepted.
J&K schools may get Saturdays off
Srinagar, Sep 19: Schools in Jammu & Kashmir could see a change in their weekly working pattern if a proposal for a five-day school week clears the departmental examination. The Education Department has agreed to examine a proposal under which schools would remain closed on Saturdays and Sundays, giving students a two-day weekend. The proposal was raised by National Conference (NC) MLA, Pampore, Hasnain Masoodi, who argued that students face growing academic pressure and spend long hours dealing with school and study-related work. Masoodi said the present routine can leave students physically and mentally tired by the end of the week. He suggested that keeping both Saturday and Sunday as holidays could give children more time to rest, spend time with their families and return to school better prepared for the week ahead. Education Minister Sakeena Itoo, responding to the proposal, said the matter would be sent to the concerned authorities for a detailed examination. The Directorates of School Education Kashmir and Jammu will assess whether a five-day working week can be introduced without affecting the required teaching days, syllabus coverage and examination schedule. The move puts the focus on a wider question facing the school system, how to balance classroom time with the need for adequate rest among students. Officials will also have to examine whether the proposed change can fit within the existing academic calendar and mandatory instructional requirements. The government has not taken a final decision on the proposal. Until the departmental assessment is completed and a formal order is issued, schools across J&K will continue to follow the existing weekly schedule. If approved, the change would mark a significant shift in the school calendar and give students a fixed two-day weekend. However, its implementation will depend on the findings of the education authorities and the government's final decision.
Winter knocks early as Kashmir feels first chill
Srinagar, Sep 19: Winter appears to be knocking early in Kashmir, with temperatures dipping below normal across the Valley and the higher reaches turning distinctly colder, even as meteorologists caution that the present chill cannot be taken as an indication of how the entire winter will behave. The latest data from the Meteorological Centre, Srinagar, show a widespread fall in temperatures. Srinagar recorded a minimum of 10.5C on September 18, which was 1.5C below normal. Gulmarg recorded 4.8C, 3.1C below normal, while Pahalgam settled at 5.2C, 2.5C below normal. The chill was also pronounced at other stations, with Kokernag recording 7.4C, 3.2C below normal; Qazigund 8C, 2C below normal; and Kupwara 8.2C, 2C below normal. Day temperatures also remained below normal at several places. Srinagar recorded a maximum of 26.5C, 0.9C below normal, while Gulmarg's maximum of 15.2C was 3.3C below normal. The early chill comes as attention turns towards the winter of 2026-27, with El Nio emerging as an important factor in the seasonal outlook. Director, Meteorological Centre J&K, Dr Mukhtar Ahmad, has said El Nio could favour a relatively mild and dry winter in Jammu and Kashmir, particularly during the latter part of 2026 and early 2027. However, he stressed that one or two strong Western Disturbances during the peak winter could significantly alter the precipitation picture. One or two active spells of Western Disturbances might reverse everything as far as precipitation is concerned, Ahmad said, underlining that there is no one-to-one relationship between El Nio and winter precipitation in Jammu and Kashmir. The Director MeT also noted that Kashmir has experienced relatively mild winters in recent years, with fewer cold days and longer dry periods, while stressing the importance of timely snowfall for the Himalayan region's water resources and ecology. Sonam Lotus, Director Meteorological Centre Ladakh, has sounded a similar note of caution, saying the El Nio influence has strengthened and global models point towards the possibility of a mild winter, but it is still too early to make a definite seasonal forecast. Although the El Nio effect is there and it has strengthened, we cannot say with certainty what the winter will be like two or three months in advance, Lotus said, adding that a clearer picture is expected to emerge during October-November and with greater certainty closer to December. Lotus has stressed that Kashmir's winter cannot be explained by El Nio alone. The frequency and intensity of Western Disturbances, jet-stream configuration, moisture supply and other atmospheric circulation patterns will have a major bearing on snowfall and precipitation. Climate expert Dr Touseef Ahmad Bhat links the changing weather behaviour to the broader climate changes being witnessed across the Himalayan region, where temperature and precipitation patterns are becoming increasingly variable. The present weather therefore presents a striking contrast: Kashmir is already experiencing a taste of winter, even as the broader seasonal signals point towards the possibility of a warmer and drier winter. Meteorologists say there is no contradiction. A few cold days in September cannot determine the character of the coming winter. The decisive phase will come later, when the winter circulation establishes itself and Western Disturbances begin to determine the Valley's snowfall pattern. For Kashmir, the stakes extend beyond the cold itself. Snowfall is an important source of water for rivers, streams and springs and contributes to groundwater recharge, while sustained snow cover supports agriculture, horticulture and hydropower. As autumn deepens, Srinagar's mornings are already carrying a sharper bite, while Gulmarg and Pahalgam have entered single-digit minimum temperatures. Winter may still be weeks away, but Kashmir has already felt its first chill. What remains uncertain is whether that chill will be followed by the snow the Valley needs.
Martin recovers from early setback to win Austrian sprint and retake championship lead
I am really happy for my team because they really deserve it; we are ready for tomorrow; I hope that we can continue at this pace, said Jorge Martin
Viksit Bharat financing conference ends : Deliberations key to J&Ks long-term growth: CM Omar
New Delhi, Sep 19: Chief Minister Omar Abdullah on Saturday attended the concluding day of the two-day high-level conference on Financing Indias Journey towards Viksit Bharat, organised by the Ministry of Finance, Government of India, in New Delhi. The conference brought together State Finance Ministers and Finance Secretaries of States and Union Territories with Legislatures to deliberate on strategies for financing Indias long-term development and growth. The Chief Minister noted the significance of the deliberations in shaping strategies for the long-term growth of the country and Jammu & Kashmir, particularly in areas of developmental financing, agricultural marketing and renewable energy. The conference featured deliberations by eminent experts and economists on various aspects of financing the shared vision of Viksit Bharat. The sessions covered key themes including the macroeconomic outlook, financing agricultural transformation and financing the energy transition. The discussions provided insights into the challenges ahead while highlighting the opportunities before India in its journey towards becoming a Viksit Bharat.
Cultural roots key to mental peace: LG Sinha
Jammu, Sep 19: Lieutenant Governor Manoj Sinha on Saturday said that a society disconnected from its foundational visionaries, cultural heritage and the philosophy of its sages loses its balance, sensitivity and sense of direction. Speaking after laying the foundation stone of the Mata Lalleshwari Cultural Cum Heritage Centre at Mata Bhaderkali Asthapan, Thalwal, Jammu,the Lieutenant Governor said that in today's fast-paced life, people are facingunprecedented mental stress, crises of identity and the challenges of existential loneliness, and that external, material success alone cannot fill the emptiness within. He expressed confidence that the teachings of saints such as Mata Lalleshwari, and the cultural centre dedicated to her, will help fill that void and provide spiritual resources for self-discipline, mental peace and emotional resilience. The project, sanctioned under the Capex budget with an allocation of Rs 4.5 crore, is envisioned as a landmark initiative to preserve and promote the timeless legacy of Yogini Lalleshwari. The Lieutenant Governor highlighted that Jammu Kashmir has, since ancient times, been a cradle of sages, saints and seekers of truth. The Centre, dedicated to Mata Lalleshwari, will embody India's civilisational consciousness and serve as a beacon of cultural harmony, spiritual tourism, and academic research. This project reminds us of our timeless civilisational consciousness. Today, we stand at a significant juncture in our history, where the blessings of our ancestors and their timeless wisdom are converging with the aspirations for a confident, developed and self-reliant Jammu Kashmir, he said. He underlined that Mata Lalleshwari's teachings transcended social divisions and embodied the ideals of tolerance, equality and inner transformation. Her verses, resonating with the highest truths of the Upanishads, continue to inspire generations. The Centre will act as a living repository of her philosophy, enabling scholars, artists and seekers to engage with her wisdom and disseminate it globally through modern platforms, he said. The LG said the Centre will not be merely a physical structure but an institutional foundation for cultural preservation. It will host exhibitions, translation initiatives, and archival facilities, while also fostering fellowships in Kashmir Shaivism. The Centre will empower youth through art and creative expression, promote social harmony, and strengthen national integration, he said. He said that cultural and heritage centres are a national imperative, saying that beyond economic growth, a nation requires civilisational memory and moral direction. The Mata Lalleshwari Centre will reconnect society with its roots, provide spiritual resources for mental peace, and contribute to grassroots economic vitality by attracting seekers, historians and tourists. The initiative aligns with the vision of Prime Minister Narendra Modi, who has consistently underscored the importance of integrating heritage with development. The Centre will stand as a monument to India's cultural soul and a source of national strength, the Lieutenant Governor said. Brij Mohan Sharma, Principal Secretary, Culture Department; Ramesh Kumar, Divisional Commissioner Jammu; Tejinder Singh, IGP, Jammu; Shridhar Patil, DIG, JSK Range; Dr Rakesh Minhas, Deputy Commissioner Jammu; K.K. Sidha, Director, Archives, Archaeology and Museums; Arvind Karwani, Relief and Rehabilitation Commissioner; Dileep Pandita, President, Mata Bhaderkali Asthapan Trust; Ashok Kaw, General Secretary, Mata Bhaderkali Asthapan Trust; Chand Ji Pandita, Organizing Secretary and other members of the Trust, senior officials, prominent citizens and devotees attended the foundation stone laying ceremony.
Time to correct historical oversights: LG Sinha
Jammu, Sep 19: The time has now come to correct historical oversights, and this task must be inspired by a commitment to truth, because the youth have the right to know how vast, how ancient, and how connected to the global community is the intellectual depth of the civilisation they inherit, Lieutenant Governor Manoj Sinha said on Saturday. Addressing a gathering in Jammu, the Lieutenant Governor marked the unveiling of the statue of Acharya Abhinavagupt, the launch of the new logo of the J&K Academy of Art, Culture and Languages, the release of two books, and the inauguration of a welfare scheme for artists and writers. He described the occasion as the beginning of a cultural renaissance, reawakening the soul of the Union Territory. Sinha noted that the welfare scheme for artists and writers, conceived in 202122 and formalised in August 2024, reflects the nation's gratitude towards those who preserve collective memory through stories, songs and priceless traditions. I believe that artists and writers are not only creators but also guardians of society's collective memory. They have given words to Jammu and Kashmir's priceless culture, voice to the emotions of society, and have shouldered the duty of carrying this Union Territory's heritage to future generations. Therefore, honouring them is nothing less than honouring our own civilisation, our own culture, and our own identity, he said. The LG paid tribute to Acharya Abhinavagupt as a philosopher, spiritual practitioner, poet, and master of aesthetics whose profound contributions to Kashmir Shaivism and Pratyabhijna philosophy remained confined to limited scholarly circles for centuries. He termed this neglect not merely academic but a damage to civilisational memory. Highlighting Abhinavagupt's seminal work Tantraloka and his theory of rasa, Sinha said that art serves as a doorway to inner awakening, reflecting the unique Indian vision where art, life, and the pursuit of truth are inseparable. The Lieutenant Governor congratulated Dr Vaidehi Taman on her book Abhinavagupt: The Voice of Eternal Shiva and Ms Akriti Sharma on Raghunath Temple, Channi Parat: Hidden Heritage of Sunderbani, describing both works as vital contributions connecting Jammu Kashmir's heritage to India's shared civilisational consciousness. He said the Raghunath Temple at Channi Parat, begun under Maharaja Gulab Singh and completed under Maharaja Ranbir Singh, exemplifies Jammu Kashmir's rich tangible heritage. I want the new generation to remember that our ancestors built this nation with their wisdom, with their questions, with their experiences, and with their continuous search for truth. It is our sacred responsibility to ensure that this knowledge does not fade from memory. Our duty is to understand that knowledge, honour it, pass it on to new generations, and preserve it for the times to come, he said. LG Sinha highlighted that under the leadership of Prime Minister Narendra Modi, new energy has been infused into Jammu Kashmir's economic and cultural landscape. He called upon universities, schools, and cultural institutions to introduce young people to thinkers like Abhinavagupt as living voices relevant to contemporary questions of consciousness and creativity, and urged greater private and institutional support for research and publishing in this field. We must encourage writers like Dr Vaidehi Taman and Ms Akriti Sharma, who, through the difficult and patient work of research, study, and interpretation, can build a bridge between ancient heritage, knowledge, and modern understanding. Such work should not only be a matter of appreciation; it must also receive our active encouragement and institutional support, he said. The Lieutenant Governor expressed hope that the two books would reach readers across the country and that the J&K Academy of Art, Culture and Languages would continue driving the region's cultural renaissance forward. We must place the historical facts in the right perspective with confidence. We must adopt the same curiosity and the same honest scholarship that characterised our ancestors, he said. Arvind Gupta, Member of Legislative Assembly from Jammu West; Brij Mohan Sharma, Principal Secretary, Culture Department; Shakti Kumar Pathak, Director Anti-Corruption Bureau, J&K; Ramesh Kumar, Divisional Commissioner Jammu; Tejinder Singh, IGP, Jammu; Dr Rakesh Minhas, Deputy Commissioner Jammu; Shruti Awasthi, Regional Director, IGNCA; Harvinder Kour, Secretary, JKAACL; eminent literary personalities; prominent citizens from different walks of life attended the unveiling ceremony.
Stormy session awaits J&K Assembly tomorrow
Srinagar, Sep 19: Storm clouds are gathering over the Jammu and Kashmir Legislative Assembly ahead of its autumn session beginning Monday, with the ruling National Conference (NC) and opposition parties finalising their floor strategies amid a packed agenda of public issues. The 10-day session is scheduled from September 21 to 30, with the opening day beginning with obituary references followed by government business on September 22. Private Members Bills and resolutions are scheduled for September 24 and 25, respectively. The NC will hold its Legislature Party meeting on Sunday at 4:30 pm in Srinagar. Party president Dr Farooq Abdullah will chair the meeting, which will be attended by Chief Minister and Legislature Party leader Omar Abdullah, along with party legislators and Independent MLAs supporting the government. On the opposition benches, the BJP is preparing to put the government on the defensive over unemployment and recruitment, electricity tariff, daily wagers and what it says are unfulfilled electoral commitments. Leader of Opposition (LoP) Sunil Sharma said the BJP will raise public issues and seek answers from the government for promises made to the people. The party will rake up employment, daily-wager regularisation and the recent electricity tariff hike, he said. The power tariff issue is likely to be particularly contentious after the Jammu and Kashmir Electricity Regulatory Commission approved a 6.83 per cent tariff increase, with the BJP questioning the move against the backdrop of the NCs electoral promise of 200 units of free electricity. The issue of daily wagers is also set to figure prominently. A Private Members Resolution by BJP MLA Pawan Kumar Gupta seeking a comprehensive, uniform and time-bound regularisation policy for daily-rated, casual, NYC and other similarly placed workers has been selected for consideration on September 25. People's Conference chief and Handwara MLA Sajad Gani Lone is also set to keep the government under pressure, having submitted resolutions on issues including the recent power tariff hike and the 1987 Assembly elections. The Assembly Secretariat has confirmed admission of his tariff-related resolution, while Lone has sought clarification over the status of his 1987-election resolution. Meanwhile, Pampore MLA Hasnain Masoodi has proposed that schools observe Saturday and Sunday as weekly holidays, arguing that young students face long study hours and excessive academic pressure. Education Minister Sakeena Itoo said the proposal would be examined by the School Education Department and the two Directorates of School Education. The session comes with nearly 650 questions and around 50 Private Members Resolutions submitted by legislators, although only a limited number of resolutions will be selected for consideration. Ahead of the proceedings, Speaker Abdul Rahim Rather has urged legislators to maintain the dignity and decorum of the House, while telling the media that substantive debates and issues of public importance should receive greater prominence in coverage than disruptions and drama. With employment, electricity tariffs, daily wagers, education and other public concerns lined up, Mondays opening bell is expected to set the tone for a session where the treasury and opposition benches are likely to clash over both governance and electoral commitments.
Arsenal thrashed by Brighton, sorry Spurs lose again
Brighton deserved to win the game. We didn't do the basics right for long periods, said Arsenal coach Mikel Arteta
10 years on, Budgam school building still incomplete
Budgam, Sep 19: A two-storey government school building in Galwanpora Subdan village of central Kashmirs Budgam district remains incomplete years after it was sanctioned under the Rashtriya Madhyamik Shiksha Abhiyan (RMSA), leaving students and residents deprived of the facilities intended for them. According to local residents, the school building was sanctioned during 2014-15, following which the funds were transferred to the Roads and Buildings (R&B) Division, Budgam, for execution of the project. However, despite the passage of several years, the building is yet to be completed and formally handed over to the Education Department. Sonaullah Wani, a local resident, said construction of the building began nearly a decade ago but remains incomplete. The major portion of the school building has already been completed. Only some pending works, including installation of doors and windows and fencing around the premises, need to be completed. The authorities should finish these works on an immediate basis, Wani said. He said the incomplete and unsecured building has become vulnerable to misuse, with people entering the premises freely. The place has turned into a spot for drug-related activities, as people enter the building at their own will. Stray dogs have also been living inside the premises. Since there are no doors or windows, the building remains open and accessible, he said. Wani said the remaining work could be completed with a relatively small allocation. If the Government provides around Rs 6 lakh for installing doors and windows and completing the remaining works, the school building can become functional and students can attend classes there. The necessary facilities would then be available to them, he said. Another resident, Farooq Ahmad Bhat, questioned the delay despite the expenditure already incurred on the project. If the Government has spent a huge amount of money on the construction of this school building, why has the work not been completed yet? Bhat asked. He urged the authorities to complete the pending work so that the school could be made functional and students could benefit from the new infrastructure. Bhat also questioned the delay on the part of the R&B Division despite the release of funds for the project. Residents have urged the School Education Department and Deputy Commissioner Budgam to intervene and ensure that the remaining work is completed at the earliest, allowing the building to be put to use. An official from the Education Department said that the construction work of the school building has not fully completed yet. This school building has not been handover to the school education department.
Tourism Dept denies permission for Gurez Tantra retreat
Srinagar, Sep 19: The Tourism Department on Saturday clarified that no permission or authorisation has been granted for the proposed Tantra in Silence retreat advertised for Gurez Valley, saying no application for the event had been received or processed by its office. The Assistant Director Tourism, Gulmarg, said his office had neither granted permission nor issued any authorisation for the event and had no official communication regarding the programme circulated through social media. No application seeking permission for the event has been received or processed by this office, the department said in an official communication. It further clarified that the proposed event had not been authorised or approved by the Assistant Director Tourism, Gulmarg, and that the office had no association with the organisation or conduct of the programme. The clarification comes amid controversy over promotional material for a four-day Tantra in Silence A Journey Within retreat advertised for Gurez from September 24 to 27. The material identifies Swami Dhyan Sumit as the facilitator and describes the programme as a meditation and spiritual retreat. Former chief minister and PDP president Mehbooba Mufti had earlier urged Chief Minister Omar Abdullah and the Jammu and Kashmir Police to intervene over the proposed event. In a post on X, she said Gurez was no playground for experiments in the name of spirituality or tourism and referred to a similar programme in Goa that she said was cancelled last year following controversy over its promotional material. Her reference to the Goa episode is presented as her claim. Mirwaiz-e-Kashmir Dr Moulvi Mohammad Umar Farooq subsequently said the concerns raised by Mehbooba deserve immediate attention and urged the authorities to take note of the proposed programme. Mirwaiz said tourism promotion should not, in his view, come at the expense of Kashmirs religious, cultural and social ethos and called for official intervention. The Tourism Departments clarification, however, makes clear that its office has not approved or authorised the proposed event.
Therefore, by distorting the judgment of the HC misleading/false information is being circulated. Such information is likely to have an adverse effect on public peace, the complaint stated,
Kashmiri film The Sledge selected for SCHLiNGEL festival
Srinagar, Sep 19: Kashmiri feature film The Sledge, written and directed by National Award-winning filmmaker Raja Shabir Khan, has been selected for the International Competition of the 31st SCHLiNGEL International Film Festival for Children and Young Audiences in Chemnitz, Germany. The film will have its world premiere at the festival, scheduled to be held from October 2 to 10, marking an international festival debut for the Kashmiri-language children's feature and its young cast. Set against the snow-covered landscape of Kashmir, the 75-minute film follows three children who accidentally break their fathers sledge. Fearing punishment, they try to earn money to repair it by selling kahwa to tourists in Gulmarg. Their plan takes an unexpected turn when they find a tourists bag containing money and chocolates. The children are then faced with a choice between keeping the money to solve their problem or returning it to its owner. The film explores themes of honesty, temptation, responsibility and making difficult choices. Haziq Mohammad Khan, Eashel Khan and Raima Khan play the lead roles. The film has been produced and directed by Raja Shabir Khan, with Ramayasa Khan as executive producer. Khan said the selection was an honour and expressed hope that the films Kashmir-rooted story and universal themes would connect with audiences at the festival. The SCHLiNGEL International Film Festival is dedicated to films for children and young audiences, with its International Competition featuring productions from different countries. The film will be screened in Kashmiri with English subtitles.
200 tribal families get farm support in Ganderbal
Ganderbal, Sep 19: Tribal farmers from three settlements in the Surfraw area of central Kashmirs Ganderbal district were encouraged to make greater use of scientific farming practices, horticulture technologies and government schemes during a programme aimed at extending agricultural support to farming families in the area. The programme brought together tribal farming families, officials from the agriculture and development departments, representatives of SKUAST-K and Krishi Vigyan Kendra (KVK) Ganderbal, besides senior university officials and local representatives. Around 200 tribal families were provided agricultural and horticultural material under the initiative, with organisers saying the effort was aimed at ensuring that farming support reaches families who often remain outside the coverage of such programmes. MLA Kangan Mian Mehar Ali, who attended the programme while speaking to reporters called for similar initiatives to be organised in Kangan in the future with participation from both tribal and non-tribal communities. He said the area had considerable potential because of the availability of land and water resources, which, if properly utilised with modern techniques, could provide greater opportunities for local farmers. He said agriculture and horticulture practices had become increasingly technology-driven in recent years and farmers should take advantage of the scientific support available through the university and its extension network. The MLA also urged farmers who face difficulties in reaching the university or related institutions to approach him for assistance so that they could access available facilities and expertise. Prof Rajbir Singh, Deputy Director General, Agricultural Extension, ICAR, New Delhi, said interaction with tribal farmers was important for understanding their requirements and extending appropriate technologies to them. He said the agricultural and horticultural sector would require greater adoption of scientific approaches in the coming years and noted the role of the university and its extension services in supporting farmers. Singh said the material distributed to the tribal families under the project was intended to support their farming activities and help improve their access to agricultural inputs and technologies. SKUAST-K Vice-Chancellor Prof Nazir Ahmad Ganai says various government initiatives available to the farming community, including the Holistic Agriculture Development Programme (HADP) and Jammu and Kashmir Comprehensive Investment Plan (JKCIP). He said farmers and tribal communities could benefit from several schemes being implemented under these programmes and urged them to remain connected with university experts and development department officials. District president of the Gujjar Bakerwal Conference Choudhary Bashir Ahmad Tedwa said the programme was organised with the specific objective of extending support to three tribal settlements in the Surfraw area. He said the initiative had been in the works for around four months and involved coordination with KVK Ganderbal, with around 200 tribal families identified for assistance. GH Mustafa Bijard, who was associated with the initiative, said the process had started in April when a list of around 200 tribal families was submitted to Dr Ajaz, head of KVK Ganderbal. He said cooperation from the MLA and university authorities helped take the initiative forward, resulting in the distribution of agricultural kits to the identified families. Bijard said a proposal had also been made to identify around 150 non-tribal families for similar assistance. The organisers said the programme was aimed not only at distributing material but also at creating direct links between farmers and agricultural institutions so that beneficiaries could continue receiving technical guidance, information about schemes and support for improving farm productivity.
Train farmers in climate-resilient technology: ICAR
Ganderbal, Sep 19: With climate change increasingly affecting agriculture, farmers in mountainous regions need to be trained in new technologies, including robotics and satellite-based tools, to make farming more resilient and productive, ICAR Deputy Director General (Agricultural Extension) Professor Dr Rajbir Singh said. Speaking exclusively to Rising Kashmir after attending an event of SKUAST-K's KVK in Ganderbal, Singh said the pace of climate change was particularly concerning for mountainous areas and stressed the need to equip farmers with technologies that can help them adapt to changing conditions. Climate change is happening at a very fast pace and the biggest loss is in mountainous areas. We have to train farmers to adopt climate-resilient technology, Singh said. He said advances in robotics, satellites and digital technology could help farmers carry out agricultural activities in a more scientific and precise manner. Referring to horticulture, Singh said technology was also being developed to perform tasks such as counting fruits on trees, adding that such innovations could help improve orchard management and productivity. He said young people could adapt to emerging technologies quickly and their application in fields could bring major changes to the agriculture sector. If we talk about digital technology, the whole world has become a village. Similarly, when technology is developed and applied practically, it is going to be very beneficial for farmers, he said. Singh also highlighted the need to improve productivity through high-density planting and better planting material. He said the agriculture and horticulture sectors in Kashmir have significant potential, particularly as a large section of the population depends on farming and horticulture for livelihoods. On complaints about the sale of spurious pesticides, fertilizers and other agricultural inputs, Singh urged farmers to insist on bills when purchasing such products. He said maintaining bills would help establish the authenticity of the inputs and allow farmers to pursue complaints if the products fail to deliver the expected results. The farmer should be aware and smart enough to take a bill wherever he purchases fertilizers, pesticides or other inputs so that the matter can be pursued later if the results are not good, Singh said. He added that work was also underway to strengthen regulations and ensure stricter action against those involved in adulterating or supplying substandard agricultural inputs. He said farmer awareness remained an important part of improving agricultural incomes and pointed to awareness campaigns carried out across the country to take information and new technologies closer to farmers. He said the wider adoption of scientific farming practices, combined with new technologies, could help farmers increase productivity and income while preparing the sector to deal with the growing impact of climate change.
