Release 20 civilians held hostage, two northeast CMs appeal to Manipur captors
Nagaland Chief Minister Neiphiu Rio seeks Home Minister Amit Shahs intervention for the release of six Liangmai Nagas
Eight crested ibises released in Japan decades after extinction
The birds have been raised at a conservation centre on Sado Island following a successful captive-breeding program and ten more birds are waiting to be released
Chef Sujan Sarkar brings Michelin-starred Indian fine dining restaurant Indienne to New York
In Chicago, Chef Sujan Sarkar pushed Indian food into American conversation not as serious contemporary cuisine capable of nuance technicality and narrative. Now he is bringing his skills to New York City.
French Open 2026: Teen titan Fonseca topples Ruud to make quarterfinals
The 19-year-old had earlier fought from two sets down to knock out Novak Djokovic in the third round and emerge as a genuine contender in a topsy-turvy tournament
The findings suggest that while the government remained the largest contributor to healthcare spending in Telangana, households continued to bear a substantial share of medical costs through direct payments at the point of care
TDP leader accuses YSRCP of defaming Naidu government over DSC recruitment
TDP leader Boina Govinda Rajulu accuses the YSR Congress Party of trying to defame the Naidu government over the DSC recruitment drive
SC questions CBSEs language policy rollout
The Supreme Court has sought a detailed report from the Centre, CBSE, and NCERT on implementing the three-language policy in schools from July 2026, as concerns over student impact and readiness come under review.
Fire erupts at 3-storey building in Delhi's Mukherjee Nagar
The fire erupted at a ground-plus-three-storey building, which also had a paying guest accommodation, in Indira Vihar, according to Delhi Fire Services
West Bengal Cabinet undergoes expansion, 35 MLAs take oath as Ministers
13 BJP MLAs were sworn in as Cabinet Ministers, three as Ministers of State (Independent Charge), and 19 as Ministers of State in West Bengal Chief Minister Suvendu Adhikaris Council of Ministers
Iran executes two men accused of leading early 2026 protests
They were among the main perpetrators of an attack on the Jafari Mosque in Tehran
Fire breaks out at Ministry of Education office in SPA campus; no casualties
Firefighters launched an operation to contain the flames that had erupted in faculty rooms of the administrative block situated on the second floor of the SPA building
How liquidbiopsy could help detect pregnancy risks earlier
Liquid biopsy uses a sample of the mother's blood to analyse biomarkers that may provide early clues about foetal health and pregnancy-related risks
Gujarat Titans players, staff evacuated from team bus after mid-road breakdown
The team members, who are all safe and unhurt despite smoke spreading inside the bus, waited on the road for a short while before another bus was arranged to take them to the hotel
UPI transactions hit record high of 29.9 lakh crore in May
National Payments Corporation of India (NPCI) said the value of transactions was at 29.03 lakh crore in April against 25.14 lakh crore in the same month a year ago, registering a 19% growth on an annual basis
12 arrested for murder of six persons over land dispute in Vijayapura district of Karnataka
Police said that a long-standing rivalry between two families had led to the murders on May 29, which took place on the land of a man who had been murdered some years ago
Hyderabads community singing sessions are turning strangers into friends
Across cafs, homes, and auditoriums, music lovers in Hyderabad are gathering for low-pressure singalong sessions built around nostalgia and community
D.K. Shivakumar on IPL final not being played in Bengaluru
France says nearly 900 arrested in Champions League final riots
One man died riding his motorbike around the Paris ring road in celebration while authorities reported stabbings and other attacks
Andhra Pradesh releases 17.58 crore second instalment to Guntur Channel farmers
Andhra Pradesh pays a second instalment of 17.58 crore to Guntur Channel project farmers, taking the total compensation to 28.12 crore
Pro-Trump candidate pulls ahead in Colombia presidential vote as ruling party sows doubt in results
Newcomer Aberaldo de la Espriella known as El Tigre or The Tiger is expected to scoop up support from voters who threw their support behind another conservative candidate in the first round
Explosion and fire at defense company in South Korea kills five
The deadly incident happened at a worksite run by Hanwha Aerospace in the South Korean city of Daejeon
GST collections grow 3.2% in May to 1.94 lakh cr
Gross GST collection stood at 1.88 lakh crore in May 2025
RCBs second IPL crown sets Vizags Beach Road alight for Virat Kohli
RCB fans pour onto Visakhapatnams Beach Road to mark a second IPL title and turn the night into a tribute to Virat Kohli
Arsenal paint London red with victory parade after Premier League title win
It was Arsenal's first trophy since Arteta won the Football Association Challenge (FA) Cup in his debut season as manager in 2020
Prof. Mavoothu D. appointed Mahatma Gandhi University Vice-Chancellor in-charge
Prof. Mavoothu currently serves as the Dean of the Faculty of Social Sciences at CUSAT and the Dean of the Faculty of Management Studies at Kerala University
IPL 2026: We have not just played, we dominated this year, says RCB skipper Patidar
To be honest, last year was a lot of pressure; this year was more calm because of the way we played throughout the tournament; I think we have not just played, we dominated this year, says Patidar
JEE Advanced 2026 results: Shubham Kumar secures AIR 1; over 56,000 qualify
A total of 56,880 candidates 10,107 of whom were female passed in the in JEE Advanced 2026 entrance examination, which is considered as one of the country's toughest
Trump says Iran really wants to make a deal with the U.S.
Donald Trumps post comes only hours after the U.S. military said it struck Iranian military sites over the weekend and Irans Revolutionary Guards said they had targeted a U.S. base in response
Norway Chess: Indian quartet endures miserable day as all four suffer defeats
Magnus Carlsen exacted revenge on Frenchman Alireza Firouzja, winning the reverse fixture after having opened his campaign with a defeat to him
West Bengal Cabinet expansion LIVE: 35 MLAs take oath
Governor R.N. Ravi administers the oath of office at the Lok Bhavan
Woman shot at during morning walk in U.P.'s Etah, land dispute suspected
A medical officer said the woman had sustained a serious gunshot injury and was referred to a specialised medical centre in view of her critical condition
A photographer by profession, a Silambam teacher by passion
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Sensex, Nifty rebound in early trade on blue-chip buying, Asian rally
Sensex climbed 206.16 points to 74,981.90 in early deals; NSE Nifty went up by 42.65 points to 23,604.80
CUET-UG 2026 exam, rescheduled over Id, conducted smoothly across centres
The National Testing Agency (NTA) conducted the rescheduled Common University Entrance Test-Undergraduate 2026 examination in two shifts at centres across the country and overseas
Fire breaks out in Ministry of Education office; firefighting operations underway
The cause of the fire has not yet been ascertained; no casualties have been reported
Netanyahu orders military to expand operations into Lebanon as Israel captures historic fort
Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu has ordered troops to push deeper into Lebanon, expanding military operations against Hezbollah despite a ceasefire that has been in place for more than six weeks.
Saket building collapse: Rescue operation in final stage; FIR lodged, owner at large
Multiple police teams have been formed to trace and arrest the owner, who remains absconding
These Bengalureans are giving discarded wood a new lease of life
Discarded pieces of wood can get a makeover if one is creative enough. We look at two Bengalureans chipping in their mite in this regard
U.S. takes step to halt Nvidia AI chip shipments to Chinese firms outside China
The unexpected guidance suggests that the United States best AI chips may have been making their way to the subsidiaries of Chinese AI firms based in places such as Malaysia
With departed souls in mind, fans in Bengaluru celebrate another IPL win in the right spirit
With police barriers around, they danced on the streets revelling in the team's remarkable success and their icon Virat Kohli, who smashed an unbeaten fifty to anchor the chase
As the Pentagon pushes for battlefield AI, some military leaders urge caution
The Trump administration is pushing to use artificial intelligence in the U.S. military even as it faces calls for caution
Unused subway near Tambaram railway station set for revamp
Civic body plans food courts, recreational facilities around subway that remained locked for years
'Beware of pickpockets': Rahul slams Govt. over CBSE re-evaluation cost
A student may have to pay up to 2,000 just to ensure the accurate evaluation of their own answer sheet, said Rahul Gandhi. Just imagine the revenue CBSE is generating when four lakh students have submitted such applications, he added
Rupee falls 9 paise to 94.94 against U.S. dollar in early trade
At the interbank foreign exchange market the rupee opened at 94.93 then lost some ground and touched an early low of 94.94, registering a fall of 9 paise from its previous close
Scindia Hails Sikkim as Model of Sustainable Development, Launches 360-Crore Organic Economy Mission
The recent initiatives by the government are integral to the vision of the 360-Crore Organic Economy Mission, highlighting the importance of sustainable development. Gangtok, June 01 : Union Minister for Development of North Eastern Region (DoNER) Jyotiraditya M. Scindia has praised Sikkim as a leading example of sustainable development, citing the states achievements in organic [] The post Scindia Hails Sikkim as Model of Sustainable Development, Launches 360-Crore Organic Economy Mission appeared first on The Voice Of Sikkim .
Science Snapshots: May 31, 2026
Three recent important research developments, all readable in one minute
After the AI binge, companies balk at soaring bills
AI companies charged rock-bottom prices to hook customers after ChatGPT burst onto the scene
U.S. says it struck Iranian military sites, Tehran responds with air base attack
The U.S. Central Command said in a post on X that Iran had shot down a U.S. MQ-1 drone that was operating over international waters
Indias research paradox: Producing scientific talent faster than the system can absorb it
How China, India and South Korea protect their high-stakes entrance exams
FIFA World Cup: Czech Republics final squad includes 17-year-old Hugo Sochurek
Hugo Sochurek became the youngest player for Czech Republic in a warmup game against Kosovo in a friendly
Dell unveils $699 XPS 13 laptop in challenge to Apple's MacBook Neo
XPS 13 seeks to offer a superior experience compared to the MacBook Neo, Dell said
Pahalgam to Host Maiden National Golf Tournament in June
Aatif Qayoom Srinagar, May 31: Pahalgam Golf Course is all set to witness its first ever National Golf Tournament in the first week of June, in a move aimed at promoting tourism and showcasing the scenic destination at the national level. An official from the tourism department said the prestigious event is being organised in collaboration with other departments and is expected to attract nearly 100 golfers from different parts of the country. The tournament will mark a historic moment for Pahalgam as it will be the first national level golf event to be held in the famous tourist resort. The senior official said preparations for the tournament are already underway and all necessary arrangements are being put in place to ensure the smooth conduct of the event. He said the initiative is part of the governments efforts to revive and strengthen tourism activities in Pahalgam after last years unfortunate incident that had affected the tourist sector in the area. The official said the participation of golfers from various states would help send a positive message across the country about the peaceful atmosphere and tourism potential of Pahalgam. These golfers will act as ambassadors of Pahalgam. They will carry back good experiences and encourage more tourists to visit the destination, the official said. Tourism stakeholders and local business owners have welcomed the decision and termed it a major boost for the area. They said Pahalgam continues to remain one of the most loved tourist destinations in J&K and hosting national level sporting events will further increase its visibility. They expressed hope that the tournament would open new avenues for sports tourism in the region and help attract more visitors during the ongoing tourist season.
MLA Banihal announces sports infrastructure projects worth Rs 4.5 cr
Inaugurates BPL Season-11 at Banihal Sports Stadium Banihal, May 31: Amid a huge gathering of sports enthusiasts, youth, and local residents, MLA Banihal Sajjad Shaheen on Sunday inaugurated BPL Season-11 at Sports Stadium Banihal. The tournament, organized by Danish Farooq Mir and Mohd Asif Wani, witnessed tremendous enthusiasm and participation from cricket lovers across the region. Addressing the gathering, Sajjad Shaheen appreciated the organizers for providing a vibrant platform to young talent and promoting the spirit of sportsmanship among the youth. He emphasized that sports play a vital role in channelizing the energy of young people towards positive and constructive pursuits and help in building a healthy and progressive society. On the occasion, the MLA announced the construction of a modern Indoor Sports Stadium at Banihal at an estimated cost of Rs 3 crore, along with the development of changing rooms and spectator seating facilities at the existing Sports Stadium Banihal at a cost of Rs 1.5 crore. He stated that work on both projects will be initiated shortly and will significantly strengthen sports infrastructure in the constituency. Sajjad Shaheen reiterated the commitment of the government towards promoting sports and creating quality facilities for aspiring players. He said that providing modern infrastructure and opportunities to youth remains a priority so that talented sportspersons can compete and excel at district, state, and national levels. The MLA further announced that the proposed Sports Stadium at Nawan, Sports Stadium at Sangaldan, and Indoor Sports Stadium at Gool will also be taken up in the near future, giving a major boost to sports activities across the Banihal-Gool region. He expressed gratitude to Omar Abdullah, Honble Chief Minister of Jammu & Kashmir, and Satish Sharma, Minister for Food, Civil Supplies & Consumer Affairs, Transport and Sports, for their continuous support and keen interest in strengthening sports infrastructure in the Banihal-Gool constituency. He said their encouragement and cooperation have played an important role in making these projects possible and in expanding opportunities for local youth. Urging young people to actively participate in sports, the MLA said that investment in sports is an investment in the future of society and that the government remains committed to nurturing talent and promoting a sporting culture across the region. Among those accompanying the MLA were Munir Bhat, Mukhtiar Sheikh, Manzoor Sheikh, Rashid Rasheed, Mehran Wani and several other prominent party functionaries and local leaders. The event concluded with the MLA interacting with players and organizers and extending his best wishes for the successful conduct of the tournament.
DC Anantnag attends ongoing Holy Adhikmas Kumbh at Mattan, interacts with devotees
Stresses seamless facilities for ease, convenience of pilgrims Anantnag, May 31: Deputy Commissioner (DC) Anantnag, Dr. Bilal Mohiuddin Bhat, on Sunday visited Mattan and attended the ongoing Holy Adhikmas Kumbh 2026 alongside the representatives of Shri Martand Tirath Trust (SMTT) and a large congregation of devotees. The Deputy Commissioner was accompanied by Assistant Commissioner Revenue (ACR) Tariq Ahmad Malik, Tehsildar Mattan, senior officers of line departments and other concerned officials. Notably, the month-long religious congregation which commenced on May 17, is witnessing participation of devotees from different parts of the country. The pilgrims are visiting the revered place including the Holy Temple as well as the nearby Sacred River with enthusiasm and religious fervor to pay their obesiance and perform traditional rituals and prayers. During the visit, the DC attended the celebrations and ceremoniously participated in the rituals alongside the devotees. Interacting with them, the DC stated that the place has long stood as a great symbol of brotherhood and communal harmony, defining the regions shared heritage. He appreciated the spirit of unity among the people and urged everyone to continue preserving the rich cultural and religious heritage of the area. On the occasion, the DC reviewed the arrangements and impressed upon the concerned departments to ensure all necessary facilities are provided to the devotees in a smooth and uninterrupted manner. He instructed that all efforts be made to facilitate devotees enabling them to undertake a safe and comfortable pilgrimage. The DC observed that the Holy Adhikmas Kumbh is not only a significant religious occasion but also presents apt opportunity to showcase the districts hospitality so the pilgrims leave with pleasant and lasting memories. He stressed upon the officers to ensure that all arrangements remain functional and effective on the ground. Reiterating district administrations commitment for smooth conduct of the event, Dr. Bilal directed all departments to make sustained efforts, remain vigilant, address the grievances promptly and provide best possible facilities to the devotees during their stay. He urged officers to work in close coordination with the Shri Martand Tirath Trust and other stakeholders for the successful culmination of the Holy Adhikmas Kumbh. The devotees expressed gratitude to the district administration for extending proper support during the holy days.
CID CI District Doda bids farewell to ASI Mohd Sikandar Butt
Doda, May 31: A warm and heartfelt farewell was accorded to Mohd Sikandar Butt, Assistant Sub-Inspector (ASI), on his retirement from CID CI District Doda after rendering more than 36 years of dedicated and distinguished service in the department. A farewell function was organized at District Police Lines (DPL) Doda, where officials and staff of CID CI District Doda gathered to honor the retiring ASI and acknowledge his invaluable contributions to the organization. Family members, friends and colleagues were also present on the occasion. Speakers at the function lauded Mohd Sikandar Butt for his sincerity, professionalism, commitment to duty and exemplary conduct throughout his long and successful career. They highlighted his dedication and service to the department, which earned him the respect and admiration of his colleagues. On behalf of the CID department, officials and staff extended their heartfelt gratitude and best wishes to the retiring ASI for a healthy, happy and prosperous post-retirement life. As a mark of respect and appreciation for his exemplary service, the CID department presented Mohammad Sikandar Butt with a special gift during the farewell ceremony. Expressing his gratitude, Mohammad Sikandar Butt thanked the department and his colleagues for their unwavering support and cooperation throughout his service career.
SMC bids farewell to 4 senior officers on their superannuation
Srinagar, May 31: Srinagar Municipal Corporation (SMC) on Sunday organised a farewell ceremony in honour of four of its senior officers on their superannuation after years of dedicated service. The officers who retired from service include Joint Commissioner (Works) Shafat Ahmad Khan, Chief Sanitation Officer Mudasir Ahmad Banday, Executive Engineer Nisar Ahmad Wangoo, and Executive Engineer Mushtaq Ahmad Nowshehri. The function was presided over by Commissioner SMC,Faz Lul Haseeb, and attended by Joint Commissioners, Secretary, Health Officer, Superintending Engineer Drainage, and other senior officers and officials of the Corporation. Speaking on the occasion, the Commissioner congratulated the retiring officers on the successful completion of their distinguished careers and appreciated their valuable contributions towards strengthening municipal governance, improving civic services, and serving the people of Srinagar. He wished them good health, happiness, and success in their future endeavours. The retiring officers expressed their gratitude to the SMC administration and their colleagues for their support and cooperation throughout their service. They described their tenure in the Corporation as a rewarding and enriching experience and thanked the staff for their dedication and teamwork. The ceremony concluded with the presentation of mementoes and best wishes to the retirees in recognition of their dedicated service and contributions to Srinagar Municipal Corporation.
U.S. proposes new plan to ease Israel-Lebanon tensions amid fighting
The U.S. has proposed that as a first step, the Iranian-backed Hezbollah militant group would stop all attacks on Israel and in return Israel would refrain from escalation in Beirut, an official said
FIFA World Cup: Ochoa set for sixth World Cup as Mexico names squad
Ochoa, who made his World Cup debut in Germany in 2006, has seen limited action for the national team in recent years
French Open 2026: Sabalenka, Osaka clash in blockbuster encounter
World number one Sabalenka will likely face a stern test in her bid to win a maiden Roland Garros crown after suffering an agonising loss to Coco Gauff in last years final
699 booked for drunk driving in Bengaluru during week-long police crackdown
The operation was carried out by personnel from all 53 traffic police stations in Bengaluru as part of efforts to improve road safety and reduce accidents caused by reckless driving.
Prices of commercial cylinders, FTL hiked
With the latest increase, the 19 kg commercial cylinder is now priced at 3,113.5 per cylinder in Delhi
Outgoing U.S. Federal Reserve chair Powell delivers defense of Fed independence
Jerome Powell delivered a staunch defense of the need for the central bank to maintain independence and credibility, as it comes under assault from President Donald Trump
Oil prices rise more than 2% as Israel steps up incursion into Lebanon
Israel ordered troops to move further into Lebanon in the battle with the Iranian-backed Hezbollah militant group
U.S. not to be trusted, says Iran's chief negotiator, as Trump toughens terms
U.S. President Donald Trump has sent back a tougher peace proposal to Iran; Israel continues its attacks in Lebanon and has seized the 900-year-old Beaufort Castle and a strategic ridge in southern Lebanon, their military said
More rain, below normal temperature likely this week
Everything You Must Know About Ebola
I. Introduction The Ebola virus disease (EVD) has recently garnered significant attention due to a surge in reported cases across several regions, particularly in relation to the ongoing ebola outbreak. Understanding the dynamics of this disease, its transmission, symptoms, and prevention strategies is crucial for public health safety and individual protection. This article aims to [] The post Everything You Must Know About Ebola appeared first on The Voice Of Sikkim .
Retired judge expresses concern over inordinate delay in implementing womens quota
Male dominated political parties fear of losing power if 33% quota is implemented, she said
Our Childrens Brains Are Paying The Price For Junk Food
Evidence from University College Cork links early junk-heavy diets to lasting changes in how the brain controls hunger A new study from University College Cork should unsettle every parent, teacher and policymaker in Jammu and Kashmir. It confirms what many have long suspected: childhood junk food is not just padding our childrens waistlines, it is quietly rewiring their brains. Researchers at APC Microbiome have shown that diets high in fat and sugar during early life can alter how the brain controls appetite and feeding. Using a preclinical mouse model, they found that early exposure to calorie-dense, nutrient-poor foods disrupted the hypothalamus, the region that regulates hunger and energy balance and that these changes persisted well into adulthood, even after body weight returned to normal and diets improved. This is a chilling finding. It means that what a child eats in the first years of life can leave a hidden imprint on brain circuits, programming them to overeat or prefer unhealthy foods decades later. In other words, by normalising chips, sugary drinks and ultra-processed snacks in childhood, we may be scripting a lifelong struggle with food and a higher risk of obesity and lifestyle disease. Kashmir is not immune to this trend. Highly processed foods are now present in school canteens, tuition centres, playground kiosks, and at every social gathering. They are cheap, aggressively marketed and too often used as rewards for good behaviour. When such products surround children every day, choice ceases to be meaningful; preferences are engineered rather than formed. The Cork study does offer a sliver of hope. Scientists found that certain beneficial gut bacteria and prebiotic fibres including a probiotic strain, Bifidobacterium longum APC1472, and prebiotics like FOS and GOS found in onions, garlic, leeks, asparagus and bananas could partially reverse these long-term effects and support healthier feeding behaviour. This underlines an important point: a diverse, fibre-rich traditional diet is not just about avoiding disease; it is about nurturing a healthy gutbrain axis that shapes mood, appetite and self-control. Policy must catch up with science. School authorities should urgently review canteen menus, ban the sale of high-fat, high-sugar items within and around campuses, and promote local fruits, nuts and home-cooked snacks. Front-of-pack labelling, tighter advertising rules targeting children, and public awareness campaigns are no longer optional. What our children eat today is literally shaping how their brains will function tomorrow. For a society already burdened with rising metabolic illness, we cannot allow convenience and corporate marketing to dictate the architecture of young Kashmiri minds.
A Call to the Literary Conscience
At the Kashmir Literature Festival, LG Sinha underlines writers role in shaping history and memory Lieutenant Governor Manoj Sinhas inaugural address at the Kashmir Literature Festival-2026 at SKICC Srinagar on Saturday is more than ceremonial rhetoric. His assertion that writers, poets and scholars play a greater role in shaping civilisations than institutions is a reminder that in times of political churn and social anxiety, it is the written word that often does the slow, difficult work of repairing societies. Kashmir, with its layered histories of terrorism, resilience and cultural syncretism, understands this better than most. Our societies have seen institutions rise and fall, but the verses of poets, the chronicles of historians and the labour of scholars have preserved what regulations and regimes could not. When the LG says that a single novel can sometimes create more impact than institutions that spend crores, he touches a truth that this region has lived: narratives outlast regimes. Equally significant is his insistence on reclaiming Indias civilizational confidence without succumbing to distortion. The call to move beyond a colonial mindset and to recognise Indias contributions to mathematics, science and astronomy is valid and long overdue. But the task he places before scholars and writers is not one of romanticised nostalgia; it is one of rigorous, honest scholarship. Authentic history must resist both colonial erasure and contemporary simplifications. For Kashmirs literary community, this places a particular responsibility. If writers are, as the LG puts it, greater than nations, then they must transcend the temptations of easy binaries and partisan narratives. Our books, poems and essays must be capable of holding complexity: acknowledging civilizational depth without silencing the marginal; celebrating scientific and intellectual traditions while also questioning power and injustice. LG Sinhas rejection of the clich that reading culture is in decline is also worth noting. In an age of digital saturation, people may be reading differently, but they are certainly not reading less. This opens a new front for Kashmiri writers and scholars: to inhabit digital spaces without losing depth; to use new platforms to carry nuanced, locally rooted yet globally conversant narratives. If the Kashmir Literature Festival is to be more than a two-day spectacle, it must become a forum where these difficult questions are asked: How do we tell our own story without erasing others? How do we honour civilizational pride without slipping into triumphalism? The LG has thrown a challenge to the literary fraternity. It is now for our writers, poets and scholars to respond; not with applause alone, but with enduring work.
Mobiles, Our Children, and the Vanishing Childhood
As smartphones become pacifiers, playgrounds, and classrooms in one glowing screen, we must urgently rethink how much is too much for young minds SYED MEHWISH In homes across Kashmir today, a familiar scene plays out. A restless child is handed a mobile phone so that the adults can finish a conversation, a chore, or a meal in peace. The screen lights up, the child falls silent, and for a brief moment, everyone is relieved. What looks like a harmless convenience, even a small miracle of modern technology, is quietly reshaping childhood itself. The mobile phone has become the most powerful object in our childrens lives. It is their toy, tutor, storyteller, and companion. It is often the first and last thing they see each day. But as this tiny screen takes centre stage, parents, teachers, and doctors are growing increasingly worried. Are we giving our children a tool for learning and connection, or a device that steals their attention, disturbs their sleep, and weakens their bodies and minds? Childhood everywhere is changing, but in a place like Kashmir, the mobile phone enters a particularly fragile landscape. On one hand, it has been a lifeline, allowing online classes, connecting students to digital libraries, and opening windows to a wider world. Many parents feel they have no choice but to rely on phones so their children can keep up with studies and stay informed. Yet the same device that delivers knowledge also delivers endless distraction. Short videos, games, and social media platforms are designed to keep users hooked, and children are the easiest targets. The result is a quiet but serious shift: reading habits are shrinking, attention spans are shortening, and the slow, reflective learning that textbooks demand is losing the battle to fast, flashy content. The impact is not just educational; it is emotional and social. Teachers in Kashmir often speak of a new restlessness among younger students, the inability to sit with a book, listen to a lesson, or stay engaged in class without the constant urge for stimulation. Parents, too, notice the changes at home: children who once played outdoors now prefer to sit in a corner, hunched over a screen; family conversations are replaced by silent scrolling; tantrums erupt the moment the phone is taken away. This is not mere nostalgia for some idealised past. Health experts warn that excessive screen time in children is linked with disturbed sleep, eye strain, headaches, rising obesity, and even signs of anxiety and depression. For a generation already living with stress and uncertainty, we may be adding a new burden, one that is invisible but deeply corrosive. Kashmiri society has always taken pride in strong family bonds, respect for elders, and close-knit communities. These values are difficult to pass on through a screen. Children learn empathy, patience, and responsibility not from videos and apps, but from real interactions, helping grandparents, playing with neighbours, arguing and making up with siblings, or simply getting bored and finding creative ways to use their time. When mobiles fill every empty moment, the space for imagination and genuine human connection shrinks. None of this means that mobile phones must be demonised or banished from our homes. That would be neither realistic nor wise. Digital literacy is now as important as traditional literacy. Our children will grow up in a world where the ability to use technology will shape their opportunities and careers. The question is not whether children should use mobile phones, but how, when, and how much. The first responsibility lies with parents. Handing over a phone should not be the default response to a childs boredom or misbehaviour. Families must set clear boundaries: no phones at meal times, no screens before bed, age-appropriate content only, and fixed daily limits for entertainment use. Younger children, especially under six, should be kept away from unsupervised screen exposure as far as possible. When phones are used for studies, parents should stay aware of what is being viewed and for how long. Schools, too, cannot stay silent spectators. Instead of simply banning phones or ignoring the issue, educational institutions in Kashmir should hold regular sessions for students and parents on healthy technology habits. Teachers can encourage projects and activities that take children outdoors, into libraries, and into their communities, reminding them that learning is not limited to what appears on a screen. Policy makers have a role as well. Regulation of child-targeted content, stronger safeguards against addictive apps and games, and public awareness campaigns about responsible digital use are all urgently needed. Telecom companies and content platforms must also be pushed to act responsibly; profit cannot come at the cost of a generations well-being. Ultimately, this is not just a debate about gadgets, but about the kind of childhood we want for our children in Kashmir. Do we want young minds shaped primarily by commercial algorithms and endless entertainment, or by families, teachers, books, nature, and real-life experiences? Mobile phones can certainly be useful tools, but they must never become substitutes for parenting, teaching, or community. The glow of the screen is seductive, but the light of a curious, healthy, and balanced child is far more precious. As a society, we must act now; thoughtfully, collectively, and consistently, to ensure that in embracing technology, we do not lose our children to it. ( The author is an Assistant Professor, social activist and freelancer)
Responsible Parenting: First line of defence against addiction and deviance
Making responsible parenting central in the fight against drugs and social crimes DR ABRAR HASSAN The Kashmir Valley today stands at a difficult crossroads. For decades, our conversations were dominated by politics and survival. Now, another crisis has crept into our homes: drug addiction and a disturbing rise in social crimes among our youth. The statistics are alarming, but the lived reality is even more painful; parents waiting outside de-addiction centres, mothers hiding their jewellery to stop it from being sold, neighbourhoods whispering about yet another boy caught stealing, peddling, or worse. In the rush to blame governments, schools, or bad company, we often sidestep an uncomfortable question: what happened inside our homes? Somewhere along the way, our patterns of parenting changed, our presence in our childrens lives thinned, and our vigilance dulled. If the streets have become more dangerous, it is partly because the home has ceased to be the strong, nurturing, and watchful space it once was. The shift inside Kashmiri homes Kashmiri society traditionally prided itself on close-knit families, moral codes, and community watchfulness. Elders, neighbours, and relatives all played a role in shaping a childs behaviour. Today, that structure is fraying. Economic pressures push parents to work longer hours. The joint family is giving way to nuclear units. Smartphones and social media have stepped in where elders and community conversations once stood. In many homes, children grow up with material comfort but emotional distance. Parents are physically present yet mentally absent; scrolling, working, or constantly busy. Difficult conversations about stress, anxiety, attraction, peer pressure, and drugs are either hushed up or postponed indefinitely. We still expect obedience, but we rarely invest time in building trust. This gap is precisely where drugs and deviant behaviour find space to enter. A teenager who cannot talk to his father about failure or to her mother about fear will often find someone else to listen, the worst kind of listener. Love without limits, discipline without cruelty Responsible parenting does not mean stricter control alone; it means wiser engagement. In many Kashmiri homes, we swing between two extremes. On one side is harsh, authoritarian parenting that demands unquestioned obedience, using shame, comparison, and fear as tools. On the other side is permissive neglect, where children are given expensive phones, late nights, and unchecked freedom in the name of trust or modernity, without any boundaries or guidance. Both extremes are dangerous. The overly controlled child may rebel in secret, seeking escape in drugs or risky behaviour. The overly indulged child may grow up without a sense of consequence, seeing no harm in experimentation or petty crime. A more balanced approach is urgently needed. Children must feel deeply loved but also clearly guided. They should know that certain lines, drugs, violence, disrespect, and dishonesty are non-negotiable. At the same time, they should also know that if they make a mistake, the first place they can turn to for help is home, not the street. Seeing the early signs and not looking away Parents in the Valley often recognise the signs of trouble but hope that it will pass. Changes in sleep, sudden aggression, withdrawal from family, unexplained expenses, new suspicious friendships, or frequent calls at odd hours are often dismissed as normal teenage behaviour. By the time reality is acknowledged, addiction or criminal involvement has taken deeper root. Responsible parenting demands courage; the courage to see what we do not want to see. It requires parents to ask uncomfortable questions, to verify where their children spend time, to know their friends, and to keep an eye on their digital lives. Privacy is important, but so is protection. A minor under your roof is your responsibility, morally and legally. Equally important is early intervention. If a parent suspects substance use, the response should not be denial, beating, or public shaming. It should be a calm but firm confrontation, followed by seeking professional help. There is no honour in hiding addiction until it destroys a family. Schools, mosques, mohallas but first, the home It is easy to call for more policing, stricter laws, and harsher punishments. These have their place, but they treat symptoms, not causes. The real work begins much earlier in the lap of the mother, in the attention of the father, in the value system of the home. Schools must integrate real, honest discussions about drugs, mental health, and consent. Religious institutions must move beyond abstract sermons and address the lived realities of our youth. Mohalla committees must keep an eye on suspicious activities and protect, not stigmatise, vulnerable families. Yet, even these efforts will fail if the home remains absent. A teacher sees a child for a few hours; a parent shapes a life. A police officer can arrest; a parent can prevent. A cleric can advise; a parent can embody. No institution can replace a mother who listens daily or a father who spends time knowing his child. Reclaiming our moral duty Kashmirs pain has many layers. Drug addiction and social crimes are not isolated problems but symptoms of a deeper breakdown in how we live, communicate, and care. We can debate politics endlessly, but within our own four walls, we do not need any policy to start being more responsible. Every parent in the Valley must ask: Do I know what my child is going through? Do I know their fears, their doubts, their mistakes? Am I available not only with money, but with time, attention, and guidance? If the answer is no, then the first reform we need is not in the Secretariat, the school, or the station house; it is in our own homes. If our homes become stronger, our youth will be less vulnerable, and our streets safer. Responsible parenting is not a slogan or a social media campaign. In todays Kashmir, it is nothing less than an act of social defence and perhaps, the most powerful one we still have in our hands. ( The author has a PhD in child education
Historic & Welcome Judgement of the Supreme Court of India on SIR
The historic verdict of theSupreme Court of India has finally reinforced the constitutional position and the role of the ECI, and also of the government FRAGRANCE OF IDEAS ASHWANI KUMAR CHRUNGOO On 27th May 2026, the three-judge bench of the Supreme Court of India,headed by the Chief Justice of India, Justice Surya Kant, finally announced its judgement in respect of the Special Intensive Revision (SIR) of the electoral rolls, conducted by the ElectionCommission of India. In its historic judgement, the apex court said that the SIR was found on legitimate grounds and is in consonance with the Representation of the Peoples Act and the 1960 Rules. The Election Commissions decision to conduct the SIR remains within the statutory mandate, the Supreme Court further added. It is a great relief for the whole nation as this judgement is both welcomeand historic. The issue was pending in the highest court for the last around one year. It was made an issue by the opposition parties and their echo system when the Bihar elections were around the cornerlast year. The Election Commission of India (ECI), headed by the Chief Election Commissioner, Gyanesh Kumar, took an important decision in the second half of the year 2025, consequent upon a long discussion and debate within and outside the Commission, to conduct the SIR in the state of Bihar. The Commission made an announcement to this effect on 27 October, 2025 to go for a nationwide SIR, state by state, Bihar being the first state to undergo the process. A number of petitions were filed by a number of persons supported by various political parties and also the West Bengal government, with the plea that the ECI had no powers to conduct the SIR. This process of SIR was also conducted earlier, during the governments of Congress and the NDA. The last SIR was conducted by the ECI during the government of NDA headed by Atal Bihari Vajpayee in the year 2003. During those processes at different intervals, there was no fuss created by the political parties and others in this connection. However, this time, the opposition and their echo-system went politically berserk and tried to create obstacles to stop it. Petitioning the apex court was also a part of the same exercise. When SIR was initiated in the state of Bihar, the leader of the opposition in theLok Sabha, Rahul Gandhi, campaigned against it throughout the state and even went to the extent to call it Vote-Chori. He, along with his other colleagues, tried to bring the whole process under the scanner and also tried to bring the results of the polls after conducting SIR under the radar of suspicion. This was indeed a vicious game-plan to jeopardise the whole process of SIR. Besides attacking the SIR, the opposition also raised issues with regard to the procedure of the SIR. In addition to Bihar, other states political leaders also jumped into it and in regard to West Bengal, the SIR was specifically opposed to shielding the illegal infiltrators in the state who were part of the oppositions vote-bank all along. The Supreme Court of India held the SIR as constitutionally valid and correct, and even upheld the procedure of the process. It categorically said that the SIR has strengthened democracy and in case there was any sort of grievance against it at any level, there are various forums where these can be addressed and found ways to mitigate the issues involved. This is indeed a severe setback to all those who kept on raising the issue publicly and privatelyto snub the constitutionally mandated Special Intensive Revision of the general electoral rolls in the country. The opposition and their echo-system attacked the Election Commission of India lock, stock and barrel and even personally attackedthe Chief Election Commissioner on the issue. The ECI and its head didnt lose either the temper or the patience and continued with their work, and gained the confidence of the Supreme Court of India by its statements, work and constitutional arguments in the court. In Bihar, the election campaigning was influenced by the debate on SIR.The people in general in Bihar cooperated with the ECI and participated in the process generously.Congress and its leaders maintained their opposition to it throughout, but the main opposition party in Bihar -the RJD and its leaders didnt give a great heed to this agenda in their campaigning. The main opposition was centred around in regard to the powers of the ECI to ascertainthe citizenship of the voters. It was said that the ECI had no powers to determine the citizenship of the voters, and it was the prerogative only of the Ministry of Home Affairs (MHA). While it is a fact that the determination of citizenship in India falls under the domain of the MHA, the ECI, however, can ask the voters for the documents certifying their Indian citizenship. As per the law and the existing rules, a person has two qualifications to become a voter inIndia, i.e. he or she should have attained the age of 18 years, and he or she should be a bonafide citizen of India.In order to satisfy the ECI officials in this regard, one needs to produce the Date of Birth certificate to prove ones claim to become a voter. Secondly, the ECI has made a list of documents which can be produced and provided to it to prove ones citizenship of India. Earlier, the political parties, the government officials and some ECI deputed employees would overlook this important aspect at the time of making voters. Consequently, a large number of non-genuine voters found a way to be on the voters lists. Moreover, voters needed to be deleted fromthe existing voters list due to their death, migration to other areas, enrolment at more than one place in the lists and having wrong names, parentage and address entered at the time of enrolment. In order to nullify these variousdiscrepancies in the lists, SIR became obligatory. The governments and the political
If you hear about a patient being treated through a tiny puncture instead of a large incision, there is a good chance that Interventional Radiology is behind the story DR IRSHAD BANDAY When most people think of medical treatment, they usually think of medicines, surgery, or perhaps a visit to a specialist. Very few have heard of Interventional Radiology, even though it has quietly transformed the way many diseases are treated today. As an Interventional Radiologist, I often meet patients who tell me, Doctor, I wish I had known about this option earlier. That reaction is understandable. Most people are surprised to learn that many conditions can now be treated through a tiny needle puncture rather than a large surgical incision. In many cases, patients experience less pain, shorter hospital stays, faster recovery, and an earlier return to their daily lives. Yet despite its remarkable growth, Interventional Radiology remains one of medicines least-understood specialities. In an era where healthcare is rapidly evolving, patients are increasingly seeking treatments that are effective, safe, and minimally disruptive to their lives. Interventional Radiology embodies all of these qualities. Although the speciality has been around for decades and is now considered an integral part of modern healthcare worldwide, public awareness remains surprisingly low. Many patients discover Interventional Radiology only after being referred by another specialist or after exhausting conventional treatment options. The reality is that millions of patients worldwide have already benefited from image-guided, minimally invasive procedures. From emergency life-saving interventions to cutting-edge cancer therapies, Interventional Radiology is quietly reshaping the future of medicine. What Exactly Is Interventional Radiology? Interventional Radiology (IR) is a medical speciality that uses advanced imaging technologies such as ultrasound, CT scans, and real-time X-rays to guide miniature instruments through blood vessels or tiny skin punctures to diagnose and treat disease. Think of it as performing highly precise procedures from inside the body without the need for major surgery. The ability to see exactly where we are working allows treatments to be delivered with exceptional accuracy while minimising damage to healthy tissues. Interventional Radiologists are uniquely trained in both imaging and minimally invasive procedures. This combination allows them to navigate through the bodys complex network of blood vessels and organs with remarkable precision. In many situations, procedures that once required large surgical incisions can now be performed through an opening only a few millimetres wide. For patients, the advantages are often substantial. Smaller incisions mean less pain, fewer complications, lower risk of infection, shorter hospital stays, and faster recovery. In many cases, procedures can be performed under local anaesthesia, making them particularly valuable for elderly patients and those with multiple medical conditions who may not tolerate major surgery well. Diseases Commonly Treated by Interventional Radiologists One of the reasons Interventional Radiology is often called the speciality of possibilities is because it touches almost every organ system in the body. Blocked Blood Vessels and Poor Circulation Patients suffering from poor blood flow to the legs may develop pain while walking, non-healing ulcers, or even face the risk of amputation. Using angioplasty, stents, and other minimally invasive techniques, blocked arteries can often be reopened, restoring circulation and helping save limbs. Peripheral arterial disease is becoming increasingly common due to diabetes, smoking, high blood pressure, and advancing age. Early diagnosis and timely intervention can dramatically improve the quality of life and reduce the risk of limb loss. Stroke Acute ischemic stroke occurs when a clot blocks the blood supply to the brain. In selected patients, Interventional Radiologists can remove these clots through a procedure called mechanical thrombectomy, often reducing disability and improving recovery. Stroke remains one of the leading causes of death and disability worldwide. Every minute of delay can result in the loss of millions of brain cells. Advances in mechanical thrombectomy have revolutionised stroke treatment and have given many patients a second chance at independent living. Varicose Veins Millions of people suffer from painful, swollen, and unsightly varicose veins. Modern treatments such as endovenous laser ablation, radiofrequency ablation, glue therapy, and sclerotherapy allow these veins to be treated without conventional surgery. Many patients continue to believe that painful vein stripping surgery is the only option. Modern image-guided therapies have largely replaced these traditional procedures and allow patients to return to normal activities much sooner. Cancer Interventional Oncology has become one of the fastest-growing areas of cancer care. Image-guided biopsies help establish accurate diagnoses, while treatments such as tumour ablation, chemoembolization, radioembolization, and targeted drug delivery can play an important role in managing liver cancer and other tumours. The role of Interventional Radiology in cancer treatment continues to expand every year. In many situations, image-guided therapies can complement surgery, chemotherapy, and radiation therapy as part of a multidisciplinary approach to cancer care. Liver Disease Patients with advanced liver disease often require specialised procedures. Interventional Radiologists perform transjugular liver biopsy, portal pressure measurements, TIPS (Transjugular Intrahepatic Portosystemic Shunt), biliary drainage, and other interventions that are often crucial in managing complications of chronic liver disease. In regions where chronic liver disease is common, these procedures have become invaluable tools in both diagnosis and treatment, often helping patients avoid major surgical operations. Uncontrolled Bleeding Severe bleeding can occur following trauma, childbirth, surgery, ulcers, cancers, or various medical conditions. Using a technique called embolisation, Interventional Radiologists can identify the bleeding vessel and seal it from within, often avoiding major emergency surgery. In emergencies, embolisation can be life-saving. The ability to precisely target the source of bleeding allows rapid control while preserving healthy surrounding tissues. Uterine Fibroids Many women suffer silently from heavy menstrual bleeding, pelvic pain, and pressure symptoms caused by fibroids. Uterine Artery Embolization offers a minimally invasive alternative for selected patients and can often help women avoid major surgery. This treatment has allowed countless women to preserve their uterus while achieving significant relief from symptoms. Kidney and Urinary Tract Problems Blocked kidneys, urinary obstruction, difficult biopsies, and certain urinary leaks can often be managed using image-guided procedures performed through tiny access points. Varicoceles can
Melting Glaciers Part 17 : Mountain shadows, not just climate shape Kashmirs glacier fate
KU study finds altitude & even shadow cast by towering peaks influence glacier retreat Abid Bashir Srinagar, May 31: A new study on melting glaciers has revealed that rising temperatures alone do not determine a glaciers fate. In the high mountains of Kashmir, shadows cast by towering peaks, the thickness of debris covering the ice and even the steepness of a glaciers slope can mean the difference between rapid retreat and relative survival. The researchdone by theKashmir University (KU), which tracked changes in nine glaciers between 1992 and 2020, presents a fascinating picture of how local geographycan influencethe response of glaciers to a warming climate. Scientists found that while allglaciers studiedhave been retreating, the rate of retreat varies considerably depending on their physical characteristics. One of the clearest patterns observed was the role of altitude. Glaciers located at higher elevations generally showed lower rates of retreat compared to those situated at lower altitudes. The glacier identified as G8 recorded the lowest recession of around seven per cent during the study period. Researchers attribute its resilience largely to its average elevation of nearly 4,700 metres above sea level, making it the highest glacier among those examined. At such elevations, temperatures remain considerably lower, allowing snow and ice to persist for longer periods and reducing overall melting. In contrast, Glacier G6 suffered the highest area loss of nearly 33.5 per cent. Scientists believe its relatively lower elevation exposed it to warmer temperatures, accelerating ice loss over the years, the study states. The findings reinforce a growing body of evidence suggesting that altitude remains one of the strongest natural safeguards against glacier retreat. Yet the study also uncovered a remarkable exception. Despite having one of the lowest average elevations among the glaciers investigated, Glacier G2 displayed a surprisingly modest retreat rate. The explanation, researchers say, lies not in altitude but in shadow. Located beneath steep surrounding mountains, much of the glaciers ablation zone remains shaded for long periods during the day. This natural protection reduces the amount of solar radiation reaching the glacier surface and slows melting. In essence, the surrounding mountains act like giant umbrellas, shielding the glacier from direct sunlight. The discovery highlights how topography can sometimes offset the effects of warming temperatures and demonstrates why neighbouring glaciers can behave very differently despite experiencing the same climatic conditions. Another important finding concerns the role of debris cover. Three of the nine glaciers studied were covered by varying amounts of rock fragments and sediment, while six were relatively clean ice glaciers. Contrary to the assumption that debris always protects glaciers, researchers found that debris-covered glaciers actually lost more area overall than clean-ice glaciers. The debris-covered glaciers recorded an average loss of about 23.4 per cent, compared to 18.3 per cent for clean glaciers. Scientists explain that the impact of debris depends largely on its thickness. Thin layers of debris absorb solar heat and transfer it to the underlying ice, increasing melting rates. Thick debris layers, however, act as insulation and can help preserve glacier ice. This effect was particularly visible in the Hoksar Glacier, where a substantial debris layer appears to have reduced retreat despite otherwise unfavourable conditions. Similarly, the Machoi Glacier displayed a slower retreat rate than expected. Researchers attribute this to its relatively high elevation and steep slope, which helps maintain a healthy transfer of ice from accumulation zones to lower reaches of the glacier. The study also documented substantial changes in glacier snout positions over the 28-year period. Several glaciers retreated hundreds of metres, while some lost more than three-quarters of a kilometre from their termini. Such changes, scientists warn, have implications far beyond the mountains. Glaciers serve as natural reservoirs, releasing meltwater that sustains rivers during dry periods. Their gradual disappearance could affect water availability for agriculture, drinking supplies, hydropower generation and ecosystems across Kashmir. Researchers say the findings underline the need to understand glaciers not merely as victims of climate change but as dynamic systems influenced by a range of environmental factors. The studys most important message may be that the future of Kashmirs glaciers will not be determined by temperature alone. Height, slope, debris cover and even the angle at which sunlight strikes a mountain valley can influence whether a glacier retreats rapidly or holds on for a few more decades. In the Himalayas, where every glacier is a vital water bank, those differences could prove crucial for the regions future water security. As the climate continues to warm, the race to understand these hidden factors may become just as important as measuring the ice that is disappearing from Kashmirs mountains.
Here is a select list of stories to start the day.
PoK resident held after crossing LoC into Uri to meet woman
Army hands over Zeeshan Mir from Muzaffarabad to JKP; investigations underway Idrees Bukhtiyar Srinagar, May 31: Security forces on Sunday apprehended a resident of Pakistan-occupied Kashmir (PoK) after he allegedly crossed the Line of Control (LoC) into the Uri sector of north Kashmirs Baramulla district, officials said. The individual has been identified as Zeeshan Mir, a resident of Painkadi village in Muzaffarabad. During preliminary questioning, Mir reportedly told authorities that he had crossed into Kashmir to meet a woman identified as Iram Bano, a resident of the Tillawari area of Uri. Officials said both Mir and Bano are being questioned by security agencies to ascertain the circumstances surrounding the cross-border entry. A video purportedly showing the two sitting together while being questioned about their identities and background has gone viral on social media. In a statement posted on X, the Army said, A POJK intruder has been apprehended, who was intercepted by alert Chinar Warriors while crossing the Line of Control in Uri Sector. The vigilant troops maintained restraint while challenging the intruder and surgically apprehended the individual. Intruder handed over to JKP for further legal proceedings. Officials said investigations are underway to determine whether the crossing was solely personal in nature or if there were any other motives involved. Incidents involving individuals crossing the LoC to meet loved ones have surfaced in the past, though such cases remain rare given the heavily guarded nature of the border. In a separate operation in the Uri sector, Army and police personnel apprehended three individuals allegedly attempting to cross into PoK. According to officials, the trio, all residents of Sopore in Baramulla district, were intercepted on Saturday night along the HathlangaNambla axis while allegedly trying to exfiltrate across the LoC. One of those detained is reported to be a former Territorial Army jawan. The Army said the operation was launched on the basis of specific intelligence inputs. Based on specific intelligence input, a joint search operation was launched by Indian Army and J&K Police in general area of Uri, Baramulla. Two individuals from Sopore apprehended by vigilant Chinar Warriors while attempting exfiltration in Uri Sector with inimical intent along with their accomplice guide. Further probe underway, the Army said in a statement on X. Security agencies are continuing their investigations in both cases.
Kashmir Literature Festival concludes
Witnesses growing participation, larger turnout this year Retired diplomats, military veterans, academics address sessions Idrees Bukhtiyar Srinagar, May 31: The third edition of the Kashmir Literature Festival (KLF) concluded on Sunday at the Sher-i-Kashmir International Convention Centre (SKICC), bringing to a close a two-day celebration of literature, art, culture and intellectual discourse. The festival, held on May 30 and 31, witnessed participation from renowned authors, scholars, diplomats, military veterans, policymakers, artists and literary enthusiasts from across the country. The event featured a series of panel discussions, book launches, poetry sessions, cultural performances and interactive engagements on a wide range of subjects, including literature, history, education, geopolitics, media, and Kashmirs rich cultural heritage. On Sunday, the festival featured a series of book discussions and launches, including Viksit Bharat India @ 2047, Grammar of Void, and Ramban: Folklore, Ophiolatry, along with deliberations on a range of literary and contemporary issues. Among the highlights was a discussion on Phuljhadian Inshayion Ki by veteran writer Ghulam Hassan Talib, which drew an enthusiastic response from the audience. The session witnessed active participation from readers and literary enthusiasts, reflecting the growing interest in regional literature and literary discourse. Few musical performances were also held on the occasion. Organised by the Srikula Foundation, the festival aimed to foster dialogue, encourage creative expression and provide a platform for the exchange of ideas among writers, academics and readers. Lieutenant Governor Manoj Sinha inaugurated the festival on Saturday, highlighting the role of writers, poets and scholars in shaping societies and preserving civilisational values. During the two-day event, speakers underscored the importance of literature in promoting critical thinking, cultural understanding and social cohesion. Several distinguished guests addressed different sessions during the festival, including retired diplomats, military officers, academics and noted authors. Discussions also focused on the changing landscape of media, the future of education, Indias civilisational legacy, and contemporary global challenges. Festival organisers expressed satisfaction over the growing participation and public response to the event. They said the third edition witnessed a larger turnout of authors, publishers, students and literature lovers compared to previous years, reflecting increasing interest in literary and cultural activities in the valley. The festival concluded with a renewed commitment to promoting reading, writing and intellectual engagement, with participants describing the event as an important platform for dialogue and cultural exchange in Jammu and Kashmir.
FIFA says match tempo, and limiting time-wasting, will be point of emphasis at World Cup
The protocol for Video Assistant Referee, or VAR, is being clarified in certain areas
Lebanon says Israeli dawn strike on south killed eight, including three women
The massacre committed by the Israeli enemy in a raid on the town of Deir Zahrani, Nabatieh district, at dawn on Sunday...resulted in eight martyrs, including three women, and 19 wounded, including five children and six women, says Ministry in a statement
NSA Ajit Doval meets Myanmar President Aung Hlaing
Hlaing set to meet PM Modi on Monday; issues relating to border security and connectivity to be discussed during the Myanmarese leaders trip to India
The majoritarian shadow over Adivasi identity, faith
Majoritarian politics seeks to reshape Adivasi identity and rights
Shaping the next chapter in India-Canada relations
Trade, technology and trust mark a revitalised partnership
Fitness, wellness take centre stage at day-long festival
Tejaswin Shankar a battler who embraces tough tests
Having become the first Indian to cross 8,000 points in decathlon, the 27-year-old is eyeing bigger things; he is open to the idea of competing in multiple events at the Glasgow CommonwealthGames
Language decorum: On the three-language formula in CBSE schools
School education should not be the site of a cultural battle
Delhi building collapse: CM orders magisterial inquiry, promises action against illegal construction
The AAP alleged that, despite complaints from neighbours, the BJP-ruled MCD had lied to the High Court about the building
