States

Truck Driver Dies After Vehicle Hits Divider on Jammu-Srinagar Highway in Ramban

Ramban, Oct 27 : A driver died after his truck met with an accident near Trishul Morh in Ramban district late last night. Officials said that a truck bearing registration number PB08EF-7864 was on way when it hit a divider near Trishul Morh on Jammu-Srinagar National Highway. The driver of the truck, identified as Sucha Singh from Himachal Pradesh, died on the spot in the accident. Police reached the spot and have taken cognizance of the incident. Body of the deceased will be handed over to family after medico-legal formalities. (GNS)

Yuva Sangam Phase VII concludes at NIT Srinagar

Srinagar, Oct 27: The seven-day Yuva Sangam Phase VII programme at the National Institute of Technology (NIT) Srinagar concluded on Tuesday with the departure of the visiting delegation from IIT Bombay, Maharashtra, marking the culmination of a cultural exchange initiative under the Government of Indias Ek Bharat Shreshtha Bharat (EBSB) programme. Registrar NIT Srinagar Prof. Atikur Rehman, Dr. Ashok Kumar, Yuva Sangam Nodal Officer; Dr. Pramod Kumar Yadav; and Dr. Janani L. were present to see off the delegation and extend their wishes for a safe journey. During the seven-day programme, the participants explored Jammu and Kashmirs cultural heritage, spiritual landmarks, natural landscapes and local traditions while interacting with communities and experiencing the regions social and developmental landscape. On the sixth day, the delegation visited the Shankaracharya Temple and Nishat Garden in Srinagar, gaining an insight into the regions spiritual heritage, historical landmarks and Mughal-era architecture. The day also featured a cultural evening at NIT Srinagar, where students from Jammu and Kashmir and Maharashtra showcased their traditions through dance, music and poetry. The programme began with the traditional lighting of the Izban and was attended by Prof. Atikur Rehman, Registrar; Prof. Mohammad Bazaz, Dean of Student Welfare; and Dr. Ashok Kumar, Yuva Sangam Nodal Officer. Performances by the institutes Sargam Club and participants from Maharashtra highlighted the cultural diversity of the two regions. The event also provided an opportunity for students to interact, exchange experiences and develop a better understanding of each others traditions. The cultural evening concluded with the presentation of tokens of appreciation, followed by a gala dinner attended by delegates, faculty members and organisers. The exchange programme aimed to promote mutual understanding, cultural appreciation and people-to-people connections between Maharashtra and Jammu and Kashmir. Through visits to local destinations, community interactions and cultural activities, participants experienced the region beyond its geographical boundaries. The departure of the delegation marked the conclusion of the programme, with participants carrying memories of their experiences in Kashmir and the friendships formed during the exchange. Yuva Sangam is part of the Government of Indias Ek Bharat Shreshtha Bharat initiative, which seeks to strengthen connections among people from different States and Union Territories through cultural exchange, educational exposure and shared experiences. The successful conclusion of Phase VII at NIT Srinagar reaffirmed the programmes focus on celebrating Indias diversity and fostering stronger bonds among young people from different parts of the country.

Police organise cultural programme in Magam

Budgam, Oct 27: District Police Budgam organised a cultural programme at Sub-Division Magam under the supervision of SDPO Magam as part of Police Commemoration Day celebrations. Students from four educational institutions participated and showcased their cultural talents. Al-Falah Institute secured first position, followed by Lucent International School, Magam, in second place and Government High School, Aripathan, in third place. The programme provided a platform for students to display their talents while promoting cultural awareness and strengthening police-public relations.

Anandhi interview: Garividi Lakshmi was my toughest role, but the hardships feel trivial now

Anandhi talks about portraying Burra Katha artiste Garividi Lakshmi on screen, shunning social media, and having a life beyond cinema

Probe sought into suspected theft of 30 sandalwood trees from Nenmara forest in Keralam

Animals and Nature Ethics Community (ANEC) Trust, a wildlife conservation and environmental organisation, has demanded an inquiry into the reported thefts and suspected illegal felling, citing concerns over forest protection and possible lapses in enforcement

When DMK flexed its muscle during Indira Gandhis visit to Tamil Nadu in 1977

On October 29, 1977, when Indira Gandhi visited Madurai, the DMK members, who were staging blackflag protests, threw stones, sticks at the former Prime Minister; in Chennai, two persons were killed when the police opened fire at the protesters who turned violent on Mount Road

GMC Handwara PG Residents Hold Protest Over Stipend Hike Demand; AIMSA Backs Doctors

Srinagar, Oct 28 : Postgraduate (PG) residents of Government Medical College (GMC) Handwara held a peaceful protest today demanding a hike in their stipends, urging the government to address their long-pending concerns. The protesting residents questioned the disparity in stipends, stating, If PG residents in other states are receiving more than 1 lakh, why are we being paid significantly less? The All India Medical Students Association (AIMSA) has extended its full solidarity and support to the protesting doctors, calling for fair and equitable stipends for PG residents across Jammu and Kashmir. Dr Mohammad Momin Khan, President of AIMSA, expressed strong support for the residents and urged the government to address their genuine demands without further delay. He warned that if the government fails to listen to the protesting doctors, PG residents from other Government Medical Colleges across Jammu and Kashmir may also join the protest in solidarity. AIMSA reiterated its commitment to supporting PG residents in their fight for fair stipends, dignity, and recognition of their demanding services to the healthcare system. The association urged the government to initiate timely action to resolve the issue

Tamil Nadu government revises auto-rickshaw fares in Chennai, other regions

According to a notification published in the government gazette, the minimum fare has been fixed at 50 for upto 1.8 km

OpenAI plans to buy Google's AI chips: Report

OpenAI in June unveiled its first custom AI chip designed with Broadcom, and said it planned to deploy the processor by the end of this year

India among top countries with highest heatwave exposure for infants, older adults: Report

Globally, total number of heatwave days decreased from 2024s historical high of 15.3 billion person-days for older adults and 2.3 billion person-days for infants

Glacial RetreatPart 2 : Five factors that make Kashmir's glacial lakes prone to outburst floods

Srinagar, Oct 27: As glaciers retreat and new glacial lakes emerge across the Himalayan landscape, a scientific study has developed a risk-assessment framework to identify lakes in the Upper Indus Sub-Basin that may be more susceptible to glacial lake outburst floods (GLOFs), a potentially devastating hazard capable of sending sudden surges of water, rocks and debris into downstream valleys. The study, published in Discover Geoscience by Suhail Ahmad and co-authors, assessed 775 glacial lakes using a combination of satellite imagery, glacier inventories and terrain modelling to estimate their relative susceptibility to outburst events. Rather than relying on lake size alone, the researchers examined a range of indicators linked to the processes that can trigger a sudden release of water. The assessment comes against the backdrop of substantial changes in the regions glacial lake landscape. The study mapped 255 lakes covering 34.81 square kilometres in 1990, compared with 775 lakes spread across 37.72 square kilometres in 2025. This represents an increase of 520 lakes and an expansion of approximately 2.91 square kilometres in their combined area. The researchers cautioned, in effect, that the presence of a glacial lake does not automatically mean an outburst is imminent. The danger depends on a combination of physical conditions, including the lakes connection to glaciers, the terrain surrounding it and the amount of water that can flow into it. To assess these differences, the study used a multi-criteria framework combining the Analytic Hierarchy Process (AHP) with a Potential Risk Score Index (PRSI). The method assigns weights to different indicators and combines them into a relative susceptibility score, allowing lakes to be compared according to their potential hazard characteristics. One of the most important indicators was the susceptibility of surrounding terrain to ice and rock avalanches. Such mass movements can enter a lake, displace water and potentially trigger an outburst, the study reads. The researchers gave avalanche susceptibility the highest weight in their assessment, reflecting its importance as a recognised triggering mechanism for GLOFs. The study examined steep terrain within each lakes upstream catchment, particularly slopes exceeding 30 degrees, alongside a critical reach angle of 14 degrees. These measurements were used as proxies for terrain where ice or rock avalanches could potentially reach a lake. The size of the upstream watershed was assigned the second-highest weight. Larger catchments can channel substantial amounts of water from rainfall, snowmelt and glacier melt into a lake, potentially increasing inflows and pressure on its natural dam, reads the study. Lake expansion was another important indicator. The researchers considered lakes that had expanded by more than 10 per cent, assigning higher susceptibility values to those with greater growth. Newly formed lakes absent from the 1990 inventory were assigned an expansion value of 100 per cent for the assessment. The study notes: The distance between a lake and the nearest active glacier terminus was also assessed. Lakes within 500 metres of a glacier, particularly those in direct physical contact with it, were treated as more susceptible because of their stronger physical and hydrological connection to the glacier system. Lake area formed the fifth indicator in the framework. However, the researchers assigned it the lowest relative weight, emphasising that size alone cannot reliably determine whether a lake is likely to burst. While a larger lake may release a greater volume of water if a failure occurs, its susceptibility depends on several interacting factors. Each indicator was placed into high, moderate or low vulnerability classes, with normalised scores of 1.00, 0.50 and 0.25, respectively. The weighted scores were then combined to calculate the Potential Risk Score Index for all 775 lakes, the study reads, adding that the the framework is intended as a preliminary, first-order assessment to help prioritise lakes for further investigation and monitoring. It does not constitute a prediction that a particular lake will burst, nor does it establish the timing or magnitude of a future flood. The studys reliance on satellite-derived lake inventories and a 30-metre digital elevation model also means that detailed field investigations remain important. Information on lake depth and water volume, the stability of natural dams and local ground conditions would be needed to refine risk estimates and assess potential consequences for downstream settlements and infrastructure. For the Himalayan region, where glacial lakes are changing alongside glacier retreat and shifting patterns of snow and ice melt, the findings underline the need to move beyond simply counting lakes. Identifying the lakes with potentially hazardous combinations of terrain, inflow and glacier connectivity could help authorities direct monitoring resources more effectively, it states. The next step is to translate such assessments into on-ground verification, regular satellite surveillance, early-warning systems where warranted and disaster-response planning for downstream communities. The study offers a screening tool for identifying where attention may be most urgently needed, but its findings must be followed by detailed assessments before individual lakes can be treated as confirmed high-risk threats.

Unified Headquarters (UHQ) meeting : Choke logistical, financial support to terrorists: LG

Srinagar, Oct 27: Lieutenant Governor Manoj Sinha on Tuesday directed security forces to implement a foolproof counter-strategy to completely choke off logistical and financial support for terrorists, step up measures to disrupt and counter infiltration, and continue operations to eutralise the remnants of the terrorist ecosystem. A foolproof counter-strategy must be implemented to choke off logistical and financial support for terrorists completely, and we must step up measures to disrupt and counter infiltration. Operations must continue to neutralise the remnants of the terrorist ecosystem. We should aggressively target and dismantle the networks trying to misguide and radicalise the people, the Lieutenant Governor said whilechairing a Unified Headquarters (UHQ) meeting at Lok Bhavan, Srinagar, to review the security scenario in the Union Territory of Jammu and Kashmir. The meeting was attended by GOC-in-C, Northern Command, Lt Gen Pratik Sharma; Chief Secretary Atal Dulloo; DGP Nalin Prabhat; GOC Chinar Corps Lt Gen Balbir Singh; GOC White Knight Corps Lt Gen Mohit Seth; Special DG Coordination PHQ S.J.M. Gillani; Air Vice Marshal Anand Sondhi, AOC, J&K and Ladakh; Additional Chief Secretary, Home Department, J&K, Chandraker Bharti; ADGP CID M.K. Sinha; Principal Secretary to the Lieutenant Governor, Govind Jaiswal; and senior officials of the Armed Forces, CAPFs, J&K Police, intelligence agencies and civil administration. The Lieutenant Governor congratulated the Army, CAPFs, J&K Police and intelligence agencies for the peaceful conduct of the Shri Amarnath Ji Yatra, stating that real-time collaboration is vital to realising the security objectives. He directed the security forces and J&K Police to build public trust by ensuring the people's voices are heard and their grievances resolved. The Lieutenant Governor reviewed the operational preparedness of police and security agencies during the winter and emphasised the need for maintaining vigilance to counter emerging threats.

CM visits new ministers chambers, congratulates them

Srinagar, Oct 27: Chief Minister Omar Abdullah on Tuesday visited the office chambers of newly inducted Cabinet colleagues at the Civil Secretariat here to congratulate them on assuming office and extend his best wishes for their tenure. The Chief Minister personally visited the office chambers of all the newly inducted ministers and congratulated Ali Mohammad Sagar, Saifullah Mir, Shamim Firdous and Altaf Ahmed Wani, expressing confidence that they would discharge their responsibilities with dedication and contribute to effective governance and the overall development of Jammu and Kashmir. Emphasising the importance of collective efforts, Omar Abdullah underscored the role of the ministers in advancing the governments developmental agenda and ensuring public welfare. He expressed hope that their experience and commitment would further strengthen the governments efforts to fulfil the aspirations of the people. The newly inducted ministers thanked the Chief Minister for his visit and encouraging words, reaffirming their commitment to working collectively under his leadership to deliver on the promises made to the public. The Chief Minister was accompanied by Deputy Chief Minister Surinder Kumar Choudhary, Ministers Sakina Itoo and Javid Ahmed Dar, his Advisor Nasir Aslam Wani, Director Estates Kashmir Mohammad Ashraf Hakak, and other senior officers and officials. Earlier in the day, Lieutenant Governor Manoj Sinha administered the oath of office to the newly inducted ministers at Lok Bhawan.

Congress stays out of ministry

Srinagar, Oct 27: Jammu and Kashmir Pradesh Congress Committee (JKPCC) president Tariq Hamid Karra on Tuesday said the National Conference had approached his party to join the Council of Ministers, but the Congress had decided to stay away until statehood is fully restored to Jammu and Kashmir. Talks between us (NC-JKPCC) continued in this regard; whenever there was talk of expansion, contact was established with us. We once again reiterated our stand, the stated stand, the principled stand, and told them that Congress has already decided that we will not become part of it, Karra said. The Congress, a coalition ally of the National Conference-led government, opted to remain outside the ministry as four new ministers were sworn in by Lieutenant Governor Manoj Sinha on Tuesday. Karra reaffirmed that the party's position was not a sudden decision but a consistent one, rooted in its demand for the complete restoration of statehood to Jammu and Kashmir. The development comes as the National Conference expanded its Council of Ministers to its maximum permissible strength, inducting Ali Mohammad Sagar, Mir Saifullah, Shameem Firdous and Altaf Ahmad Kaloo into the cabinet. The Congress's decision to stay out keeps the party's alliance with the National Conference intact while allowing it to maintain political distance from the government's composition a position that lets it press the statehood demand from outside the ministry rather than from within it.

All is well within party: CMs Advisor

Srinagar, Oct 27: Emotional scenes and angry slogans marked the day at the National Conference (NC) headquarters on Tuesday, as the party's cabinet expansion triggered raw displays of disappointment that went well beyond formal statements. The sharpest reaction came from Anantnag West MLA Abdul Majeed Larmi, who broke down in tears after missing out on a Cabinet berth. Speaking to reporters through his distress, Larmi said he accepted the leadership's decision but could not hide his sense of loss. I also deserved a ministerial berth. But I felt disappointed because I was a party man and an old member. However, as it was the leadership's decision, I am a soldier of the party, and such moments will come again, he said, his voice betraying the hurt behind the words. At Nawa-e-Subah, the party headquarters in Srinagar, the mood was angrier. Supporters of Eidgah MLA Mubarak Gul gathered soon after the names of the four new ministers became public and raised slogans in his favour, directing their anger at the party leadership for overlooking their representative. Our constituency has been ignored for the last four decades. This government has failed in the last two years, and now it has failed in selecting candidates for ministerial berths as well, the protesters said. They said they had waited forty years for a ministerial berth for their representative and had faced disappointment repeatedly. The supporters issued a two-day ultimatum to the government to reconsider its decision, warning that if anything happened to Mubarak Gul following the decision, the Omar Abdullah-led government would be solely responsible. Until the government takes a favourable decision for our representative, we will continue to protest, they said. The emotional weight of the day stood in contrast to the official line. Chief Minister's Advisor Nasir Aslam Wani acknowledged that feelings were running high but insisted there was no deeper crisis within the party. We have many MLAs, and there may be some lingering resentment among them, but there is nothing of that sort. They have every right to express their displeasure within the party, he said. He sought to place the disappointment in perspective. Every MLA aspires to become a Minister, but the limited number of available Cabinet positions makes it impossible to accommodate everyone. Naturally, people in every constituency want their MLA to become a minister, but it is not possible to accommodate everyone, Wani said. Wani said the party leadership had moved to address the situation, stating that Farooq Abdullah had nominated Mubarak Gul as the party's general secretary. For the National Conference, the day's scenes underlined a difficult truth: behind every cabinet list lies a longer list of those left waiting, and behind every official statement of unity, there are supporters and leaders whose disappointment does not fade quickly.

Apple launches M6 MacBook Pro and iMac, pitches faster on-device AI

Apple said the M6 MacBook Pro delivers up to 30% faster graphics and up to 25% faster AI performance than its M5 predecessor

Four berths, many broken hearts in NC

Srinagar, Oct 27: Four ministerial berths in Jammu and Kashmirs expanded Council of Ministers have brought fresh faces into the government but also exposed simmering discontent within the National Conference (NC), with disappointed legislators and supporters questioning the partys choices. The four new ministersAli Mohammad Sagar, Mir Saifullah, Shameem Firdous and Altaf Ahmad Kaloowere sworn in by Lieutenant Governor Manoj Sinha. Their induction brought the Council of Ministers to its maximum permissible strength, leaving no additional ministerial berths immediately available without another change in its composition. As Lieutenant Governor Manoj Sinha administered the oath of office and secrecy to the four new ministers at Lok Bhavan on Tuesday, signs of resentment emerged within the ruling party. The exclusion of several legislators who had expected ministerial accommodation triggered unease, with reactions ranging from disappointment to public protest. Senior NC leader and MLA Abdul Majeed Larmi acknowledged that he was hurt by the decision but said he would continue to work.I am hurt, but I will continue, Larmi said, conveying his disappointment while stopping short of turning it into a confrontation with the party leadership. In contrast, National Conference MLA from Baramulla district, Javaid Hassan Baig, said he had no grudges against the party leadership or any party leader, signalling his willingness to maintain cordial relations despite the outcome of the cabinet expansion. The differing responses reflect the challenge facing legislators overlooked in the reshuffle: expressing disappointment over being denied a ministerial berth while remaining committed to the party and its political future. The absence of Gurez MLA Nazir Ahmad Khan, popularly known as Nazir Gurezi, from the oath-taking ceremony added to speculation about the mood within the party. His non-attendance came against the backdrop of the ministerial reshuffle, although the reason for his absence was not independently established. The most visible expression of discontent came from supporters of Eidgah MLA Mubarak Gul, who staged a protest outside the National Conference headquarters at Nawa-e-Subh in Srinagar. Gul, a senior party leader and former Speaker of the Jammu and Kashmir Legislative Assembly, had openly expressed his disappointment at being left out of the ministry. The protest brought the internal discontent into public view, turning what was expected to be a routine cabinet expansion into a moment of political unease for the ruling party. Gul said he had been offered the post of the partys general secretary but indicated that he would announce his final decision after addressing the media. The offer could provide an alternative organisational role for the veteran leader, but his position remains unclear until he makes a formal announcement. His decision is likely to be closely watched for what it signals about his future role in the party. The episode has underlined the challenges of balancing organisational seniority, electoral representation and competing regional expectations while constituting a ministry. In a party with several experienced legislators, every ministerial appointment also means a decision about who must wait outside the government. Rajouri MLA Iftikhar Ahmed, meanwhile, said the selection of ministers was the Chief Ministers prerogative, defending Omar Abdullahs authority to decide the composition of his Council of Ministers. His remarks highlighted the other side of the debate within the party: cabinet formation ultimately rests with the head of the government, even when individual legislators and their supporters feel overlooked. For the National Conference, the task now extends beyond allocating portfolios and beginning administrative work. The leadership must also manage the disappointment of leaders who have spent years building the partys organisation and winning elections but have once again found themselves outside the cabinet. Larmis pledge to continue despite being hurt, Baigs statement that he harbours no grudges, Gurezis absence from the ceremony and Guls public displeasure have brought different responses to the reshuffle into sharp focus. The immediate test for the party leadership will be whether the resentment remains confined to expressions of disappointment or develops into a wider organisational challenge. With Gul yet to announce his final decision on the general secretarys post, the political aftershocks of the cabinet expansion may continue even after the oath-taking ceremony has concluded.

More than 100 people killed in Sudanese army drone attack on market, says Sudanese rights group

At least 113 people injured in the attack; many of those killed and injured are women and children, a rights group says

Omar expands cabinet to full strength; four NC MLAs take oath

Srinagar, Oct 27: Jammu and Kashmir Chief Minister Omar Abdullah on Tuesday expanded his Council of Ministers, inducting four National Conference (NC) legislators in a reshuffle that brings the governments ministerial strength to its maximum permissible limit. Lieutenant Governor Manoj Sinha administered the oath of office and secrecy to Ali Mohammad Sagar, Mir Saifullah, Shameem Firdous and Altaf Ahmad Kaloo at a ceremony at Lok Bhavan in Srinagar, attended by the Chief Minister and other political leaders. The expansion marks the first major restructuring of the Omar Abdullah-led ministry since the National Conference government assumed office in October 2024. Independent MLA Satish Sharma has been dropped from the Council of Ministers. The newly inducted ministers have pledged to focus on public service and addressing peoples concerns, as the government enters the next phase of its tenure with a full-strength Council of Ministers. I will try my best to work for every district and address the issues of people in Jammu and Kashmir. I thank Almighty Allah for the ministerial berth. We will work together to strengthen the party, Mir Saifullah told reporters after taking the oath. Saifullahs remarks underline the expectations surrounding the expanded ministry, particularly the need to address public grievances across the Union Territory. The four-time legislator has previously served as a minister and represented Kupwara before winning the Trehgam constituency in the 2024 Assembly elections. Shameem Firdous, who represents Habbakadal in Srinagar, expressed happiness over the opportunity given to her by the party and said she would continue to work harder, according to reports from the swearing-in ceremony. Her induction makes her the second woman in the Council of Ministers after Sakeena Itoo. Firdous is a three-time MLA and has previously chaired the Jammu and Kashmir State Commission for Women, bringing legislative and public-affairs experience to her new role. Ali Mohammad Sagar, the senior National Conference leader and seven-time MLA from Khanyar, also returned to the ministry. A veteran of the party, Sagar has held ministerial responsibilities in previous governments and is among the most experienced legislators inducted in the reshuffle. Altaf Ahmad Kaloo, popularly known as Altaf Kaloo, the MLA from Pahalgam, is another new entrant. The two-time legislator has previously served as a Member of the Legislative Council. His induction gives the south Kashmir constituency representation in the expanded ministry. The four appointments bring the Council of Ministers to its maximum permissible strength of nine, including the Chief Minister, under the applicable limit for Jammu and Kashmirs 90-member Legislative Assembly. The ministry comprises seven members from Kashmir division and two from Jammu division. The Congress has stayed out of the government, maintaining that it will not join the ministry until statehood is restored to Jammu and Kashmir. The party has continued to extend support from outside. The reshuffle has also left questions over political accommodation within the National Conference, with senior leader Mubarak Gul expressing disappointment at being left out. I have attended 30 oath-taking ceremonies till now. Every time I was dropped, and today as well, I am being dropped, Gul told reporters outside Lok Bhavan. With the oath-taking ceremony completed, attention will now turn to the allocation of portfolios and the responsibilities assigned to the newly inducted ministers. Their performance will be closely watched against public expectations on governance, development and the resolution of everyday problems facing people across Jammu and Kashmir.

J&K dominate 70th National School Games Taekwondo at Ganderbal

Ganderbal, Oct 27: The 70th National School Games Taekwondo Championship concluded on Tuesday at Government College of Physical Education (GCOPE), Ganderbal. Director General YSS J&K, Anuradha Gupta attended the ceremony as the chief guest and distributed medals and trophies among the winners. Joint Director Kashmir YSS, Additional Secretary YSS, Deputy Director Planning, SGFI Official, convenors, committee members and other participating players were present on the occasion. J&K emerged as the overall champion, securing 770 points, followed by Maharashtra with 670 points and Haryana with 500 points. Tamil Nadu secured 310 points, while Uttar Pradesh also remained among the leading teams with 310 points. In the boys' category, J&K secured first position, followed by Maharashtra in second place and KVS in third place. In the girls' category Haryana clinched first position, Maharashtra secured second place, while CISCE finished third. JK delivered an impressive performance, winning 13 medals, comprising 4 gold, 4 silver and 5 bronze medals & secured the overall championship title. The Taekwondo event was held from October 22 to October 26, 2026, following the Wushu event conducted from October 15 to October 19, as part of the 70th National School Games hosted by the Directorate of Youth Services and Sports, J&K under the aegis of the School Games Federation of India (SGFI). The Directorate ensured comprehensive arrangements for the successful conduct of both national-level sporting events under the supervision of Director General YSS J&K, Anuradha Gupta. The championship concluded on a positive note, celebrating the sporting talent, discipline and competitive spirit of young athletes from across the country.

DC Ganderbal reviews Srinagar Ring Road Phase-II, IIA

Ganderbal, Oct 27: Deputy Commissioner (DC) Ganderbal, Shreya Singhal, on Tuesday today chaired a meeting at her office chambers to review issues related to the development of Srinagar Ring Road Phase-II, covering the Sarai Dangerpora Manigam stretch via Sumbal, and Phase-IIA, covering the Manigam Pandach stretch. During the meeting, the Deputy Commissioner reviewed the issues affecting the execution of the projects and stressed the need for close coordination among all concerned departments and executing agencies to ensure timely resolution of bottlenecks and smooth progress of the works. The DC directed the concerned departments to identify and promptly resolve issues relating to land acquisition, utility shifting, road infrastructure and other departmental clearances that may impede the execution of the projects. She emphasised that all pending matters must be taken up on priority through coordinated efforts and regular follow up. The Deputy Commissioner stressed the importance of ensuring timely shifting of utilities falling within the project alignment and directed the concerned Power Development Department, Jal Shakti, telecommunications and other utility agencies to extend the requisite cooperation to facilitate uninterrupted execution of the works. The concerned Revenue authorities were directed to coordinate with the executing agencies and address pending land acquisition related issues in accordance with the prescribed procedures. The DC also emphasised the need for regular field-level coordination among the National Highways Authority of India (NHAI), Police, Traffic Police and other stakeholder departments to address site specific issues and facilitate smooth implementation of the projects. Stressing the importance of public safety and traffic management during the execution of the projects, the Deputy Commissioner directed the concerned agencies to ensure appropriate traffic regulation, minimise inconvenience to commuters and take necessary safety measures at vulnerable locations and construction stretches. The DC further directed all concerned officers to maintain close coordination, submit updated status reports on pending issues and ensure time-bound action on matters requiring interdepartmental intervention. She underscored that the timely completion of these important road infrastructure projects requires accountability, continuous monitoring and proactive resolution of bottlenecks. The meeting was attended by Senior Superintendent of Police Ganderbal, Superintending Engineers of R&B, KPDCL and Hydraulics, Project Director NHAI, concerned Executive Engineers of R&B, KPDCL, STD, Projects, Irrigation and Flood Control, PHE, PDD, Generation Division PDC, TLMD Bemina and PDC (NGHEP), Tehsildar Ganderbal, Deputy Superintendent of Police Traffic Ganderbal, Sub Divisional Engineer BSNL and other concerned officers.

DC Shopian visits Aglar Fruit Mandi, reviews infra dev

Shopian, Oct 27: Deputy Commissioner (DC) Shopian, Charandeep Singh, on Friday visited Aglar Fruit Mandi, Shopian and took stock of the developmental projects aimed at strengthening the infrastructure and improving facilities at the fruit mandi. The Deputy Commissioner was accompanied by ADDC, Dr. Nasir Ahmed Lone, CHO, CAO, CAHO, DSHO, Xen, R&B, ARTO, DIO and other district officers. During the visit, the Deputy Commissioner interacted with members of the Fruit and Vegetable Growers and Traders Association, Shopian, who apprised him of various issues and demands concerning the development and functioning of the mandi. The President and other members of the Association raised several demands, including the early construction of a flood protection bund to safeguard the mandi from potential flood-related damage, besides the establishment and allotment of shop sites to facilitate traders and strengthen commercial activities. Addressing the gathering, the Deputy Commissioner said that the issues and demands raised by the Association were genuine and would be examined for appropriate consideration. He emphasised the need to develop Aglar Fruit Mandi as a state-of-the-art facility equipped with modern infrastructure and essential amenities to cater to the needs of fruit growers, traders and other stakeholders. The DC assured the Association that the concerns raised regarding the development of the mandi, including the provision of shop sites, would be taken up with the concerned authorities for necessary action. He added that the district administration commitment to strengthening the infrastructure of Aglar Fruit Mandi and ensuring better facilities for the horticulture sector, which plays a vital role in the district's economy. The meeting was attended by President, Fruit Growers Association, Traders Association, Transporters, Members of Fruit and Vegetable Growers and other concerned.

U.S., Cuba shouting match derails debate at UN

The row broke out during debate on a resolution calling for an end to the U.S. embargo on its communist-led neighbour, a non-binding measure which Cuba has put forward every year since 1992

IUST signs MoU under Mission YUVA to strengthen entrepreneurship, innovation ecosystem in J&K

Awantipora, Oct 27: The CIEDIUST Foundation of the Islamic University of Science and Technology (IUST) signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) with the YUVA Innovation Hub, Indian Institute of Management (IIM) Jammu, under Mission YUVA at the IUST Innovation Campus on Tuesday. The collaboration aims to strengthen entrepreneurship, promote innovation, and support youth-led enterprise development across Jammu and Kashmir. Speaking on the occasion, Vivek Aggarwal, Director of Employment and Managing Director, Mission YUVA, J&K, appreciated IUSTs initiatives in promoting entrepreneurship and innovation. He expressed confidence that the collaboration would help advance Mission YUVAs objectives by nurturing entrepreneurial aspirations among young people and supporting the development of sustainable enterprises across the region. Prof. Parvez Ahmad Mir, CEO, CIEDIUST Foundation, highlighted the Universitys sustained efforts to foster an entrepreneurial culture through institutional support, capacity building, and startup development. He also noted that IUST has secured a four-star rating under the Institutions Innovation Council (IIC) framework for three consecutive years, reflecting its continued commitment to strengthening innovation and entrepreneurship. The MoU is expected to facilitate knowledge exchange, mentorship, capacity building, and institutional support for aspiring entrepreneurs, while creating opportunities for collaboration between the Universitys entrepreneurship ecosystem and Mission YUVAs initiatives for youth empowerment and enterprise creation. The programme also featured a presentation on the objectives and scope of the collaboration, alongside an overview of the achievements of the CIEDIUST Foundation. A compilation highlighting the Foundations triple-certification achievements was presented, followed by a cake-cutting ceremony to commemorate IUSTs sustained four-star IIC rating. The coordinators of CIEDIUST Foundation were also felicitated for their contributions to advancing the Universitys entrepreneurship and innovation initiatives. The programme was attended by Sameer Wazir, Finance Officer, IUST; Altaf Hussain Shalla, Principal, Government Polytechnic College, IUST; Dr. G. N. Itoo, Director, Centre for Good Governance and Policy Analysis, IUST; Dr. Peer Bilal, Director DIQA, Dr. Ruheela Hassan, Dean Outreach, IUST; and Dr. Monisa Qadiri, Dean Students, IUST, Dr. Basharat N Dar, Coordinator EDC/CPMSB/STEM along with CIED coordinators, representatives of IIM Jammu, faculty members, entrepreneurs, research scholars, and students. The programme concluded with a vote of thanks by Shameem Iqbal Nahvi, who acknowledged the contributions of the dignitaries, institutional representatives, and participants. The MoU marks another significant step towards strengthening institutional partnerships and creating new opportunities for innovation, entrepreneurship, employment generation, and sustainable economic growth in Jammu and Kashmir.

Rubio joins Trump on campaign trail days before U.S. midterms

Donald Trump called Marco Rubio on stage at his campaign rally in Corpus Christi, Texas, remarking: Hes so popular

Dir Agri Kashmir reviews bore well installation in rainfed areas

Srinagar, Oct 27: Director Agriculture Kashmir, Sartaj Ahmad Shah, on Tuesday chaired a virtual meeting with the Director, Command Area Development Kashmir, and Director Horticulture Kashmir to discuss and review the establishment of bore wells in rainfed areas of Kashmir Division. The meeting was attended by Chief Agriculture Officers (CAOs), Chief Horticulture Officers (CHOs), and Assistant Soil Conservation Officers (ASCOS) of the division. Detailed deliberations were held on the proposed establishment of bore wells, coordination among the concerned departments, and the measures required for effective implementation of the initiative. The meeting underscored the importance of strengthening irrigation facilities in rainfed areas to improve water availability and provide sustainable support to farmers engaged in agricultural and horticultural activities. The initiative aims to address irrigation-related challenges and facilitate better access to water in areas largely dependent on rainfall. Emphasising the need for coordinated efforts, the Director stressed close cooperation among the concerned officers to facilitate the implementation of the initiative. He also highlighted the importance of proper planning, regular monitoring, and effective utilisation of resources to achieve the intended objectives. The meeting concluded with an emphasis on concerted efforts by all concerned departments to strengthen irrigation infrastructure and support the farming community through improved water availability in rainfed areas of Kashmir Division.

Transport Commissioner reviews functioning of MVD

Srinagar, Oct 27: Transport Commissioner, Vishesh Paul Mahajan, on Tuesday chaired a review meeting of the Motor Vehicles Department (MVD) through hybrid mode, attended by Regional Transport Officers (RTOs) and Assistant Regional Transport Officers (ARTOs) from across the Union Territory. The meeting reviewed the overall functioning of the Department, with special emphasis on pendency on VAHAN and SARATHI portals, enforcement activities, Trade Certificates, regulation of second-hand vehicle dealers, road safety and other key administrative matters. Emphasising the critical importance of road safety, the Transport Commissioner stressed the need for concerted and sustained efforts to reduce road accidents and prevent the loss of precious human lives. He directed all field officers to intensify enforcement against traffic violations, particularly overloading, over speeding, wrong-side driving and other unsafe practices, with special focus on National Highways and accident-prone stretches. He underscored the importance of strict compliance with road safety regulations, enhanced field-level vigilance and coordinated efforts to promote responsible driving and ensure the safety of commuters. Regarding pendency on the VAHAN and SARATHI portals, all RTOs and ARTOs were directed to review pending cases and ensure their time-bound disposal, with regular monitoring to prevent avoidable delays in the delivery of citizen-centric services. On enforcement, field officers were directed to strengthen on-ground inspections and take strict action against traffic violations, particularly on vulnerable road stretches and accident-prone locations. They were further instructed to adopt a proactive approach towards accident prevention and ensure effective implementation of road safety measures. The meeting also reviewed the status of Trade Certificates and the regulation of second-hand vehicle dealers. Directions were issued to expedite prescribed verifications, including CID verification wherever applicable, and ensure compliance with the relevant rules and regulations. Compliance regarding the installation and use of fare meters in e-rickshaws and e-carts was also reviewed, with directions for appropriate follow-up action in accordance with the applicable norms. In view of Vigilance Awareness Week, the Transport Commissioner stressed the importance of integrity, transparency, accountability and strict adherence to established procedures in the discharge of official duties. Concluding the meeting, Mahajan directed all RTOs and ARTOs to ensure effective implementation of the decisions taken, monitor progress regularly and furnish updated status reports wherever required. He reiterated that efficient service delivery, regulatory compliance, effective enforcement and road safety must remain the Departments foremost priorities, with the ultimate objective of preventing road accidents and safeguarding human lives.

Vigilance Awareness Week : CS administers integrity pledge to officers, officials at Civil Secretariat

Srinagar, Oct 27: Chief Secretary, Atal Dulloo, on Tuesday administered the Integrity Pledge to Administrative Secretaries, officers and officials at the Civil Secretariat, marking the observance of Vigilance Awareness Week 2026, being observed from October 26 to November 1 under the theme 'Probity for Prosperity'. On the occasion, the Chief Secretary led the officers and officials in reaffirming their commitment to uphold the highest standards of integrity, honesty, transparency and professional ethics in the discharge of their official duties. The pledge underscored the need for collective efforts by the Government, citizens and private institutions to combat corruption, which remains a major impediment to the country's economic, social and political progress. It also called upon public servants to remain vigilant and ensure that their conduct reflects the principles of probity, accountability and public service. Addressing the gathering, Dulloo emphasized that integrity and transparency must form the cornerstone of public administration. He stressed the need for all departments to strengthen accountability mechanisms, ensure transparent service delivery and accord priority to the timely disposal of public grievances. The Chief Secretary reiterated the Government's commitment to a zero-tolerance approach towards corruption and called upon the Administrative Secretaries and departmental heads to proactively review pending vigilance matters and take appropriate action in accordance with established rules and procedures. He further urged officers and officials to discharge their responsibilities with honesty and impartiality, uphold the rule of law and ensure that public interest remains paramount in every administrative decision. The observance of Vigilance Awareness Week aims to promote ethical conduct, strengthen public confidence in institutions and encourage collective responsibility in preventing corruption. Similar pledge-taking ceremonies and awareness activities are being organized across the Union Territory, including at divisional and district headquarters, public sector undertakings and educational institutions, to reinforce the message of integrity and promote a culture of transparency and accountability in public life.

Flavio Bolsonaro reaches U.S., say reports citing sources

Two media houses, each citing an unnamed source close to the matter, said Flavo Bolsonaro had arrived in the U.S. on October 27

Morning Digest: Cyclone Arnabs landfall process continues along Andhra coast; Israeli election exit polls show narrow edge for Opposition, and more

Here is a select list of stories to start the day

Very severe cyclonic storm Arnab begins landfall near Narsapur; Vizag battered by rain

IMD experts said the landfall process may go on for a long time, and they can indicate the tentative landfall point only after the process is over

Hill Roads Cannot Be Death Traps

The hill roads of Kashmir are more than routes carved into mountains. They connect villages to hospitals, children to schools, farmers to markets and families to the wider world. Yet for thousands who travel them every day, these roads remain a source of fear. Sharp bends, steep slopes, falling debris, overloaded vehicles, poor visibility and reckless driving combine to turn ordinary journeys into life-threatening ventures. Accidents on hill roads are often described as unfortunate incidents. That language, however, hides the deeper failure. A crash on a mountain road may be triggered by a moment of human error, but its consequences are made far worse by weak infrastructure, inadequate protection and poor emergency response. A missing crash barrier, an unmarked bend or a road surface damaged by rain can decide whether a vehicle stops safely or plunges into a gorge. Road safety in hilly areas cannot be treated as a seasonal concern. Every year, the onset of winter, heavy rainfall and snowfall exposes the same weaknesses. Roads become slippery, visibility falls and landslides block important stretches. In many places, drivers receive little warning about dangerous curves, black ice, falling rocks or sudden narrowing of the carriageway. The absence of proper signage and reflective markings is not a minor technical lapse; it is a direct threat to life. The authorities must move beyond post-accident inspections and temporary repairs. A comprehensive hill-road safety audit should identify vulnerable stretches, damaged retaining walls, weak bridges, blind curves and locations where protective barriers are urgently needed. Such audits should be made public, with clear timelines for corrective action. Roads carrying regular traffic must be inspected before and during the winter months, not only after tragedy strikes. Enforcement is equally important. Speeding, dangerous overtaking, driving under the influence, and overloading are especially lethal on mountain roads. Commercial vehicles must be checked regularly, and drivers operating on difficult routes should receive specialised training. Fitness certificates cannot remain a paperwork exercise. A vehicle carrying passengers on a narrow mountain road must meet the highest standards of mechanical safety. Emergency response also needs urgent strengthening. Ambulances, rescue equipment and trained personnel should be stationed near accident-prone corridors. In remote areas, every minute lost can cost a life. Better communication networks and clearly marked emergency points can make the difference between survival and death. Citizens, too, have a responsibility. Drivers must respect weather warnings, avoid unnecessary overtaking and never treat mountain roads as racing tracks. But public responsibility cannot become an excuse for administrative inaction. Safe roads are a basic public obligation. Kashmirs hills will always be demanding. They need not, however, be deadly. The measure of governance is not merely the construction of roads, but the protection of those who use them. Every blind curve made visible, every barrier installed, and every reckless driver stopped is an investment in life.

Harud: The Crunch in Falling Leaves

Perhaps it is the stillness that arrives with the season. The snow spreads quietly across the land, the yellow-brown grass resting beneath it, or the empty trees standing bare after being stripped of their leaves. At first it may seem lifeless and dull. Many people call it depressing, but that feels like a hurried judgment to me. Winter in Kashmir has its own kind of beautyone that is quiet rather than dramatic. Leaves turn yellow and fall, settling softly on the ground. The mornings carry a cold breeze sharp enough to wake the senses, and the afternoons follow with a pale but persistent sun. What some describe as dullness is nature pausing for a whilea reminder that not everything valuable must appear vibrant. While people head out for morning walks in the parks, their noses and ears reddened by the cold, the silence is interrupted by the gentle and satisfying crunch of leaves that have turned crisp beneath their feet. And when winter truly settles in, it arrives like a silent white angel. The green grass turns white, the brown mountains turn white, the blue waters turn white, and even the red roofs surrender their colour beneath the snow. Everything in the valley is briefly covered in the same shade, as if the world has been given a moment of simplicity. Winter to me is never depressing, and I would never want to leave in the season with the only reason of cold or dullness In that whiteness, something interesting happens: contrast becomes clearer. A single footprint, a distant figure, or a small patch of colour suddenly stands out. Winter, in its quiet way, teaches a simple lessonwhen the noise and brightness of life fade for a while, we begin to notice what truly matters. Perhaps that is the real charm of Kashmirs winters. They are not merely a season of cold and silence, but a gentle reminder that simplicity, stillness, and even what appears dull can carry their own quiet beauty. And that is why I will always long for Kashmir's winters. Beneath their silence and seeming dullness lies a beauty that asks for nothing but a little patience to be understood. (The Author is a Class XII student, DPS Srinagar. Feedback: khansaanim@gmail.com )

Bihar CM orders probe into legal notice served to RJD MP Sudhakar Singh by Kundan Krishnan

On October 15, Sudhakar Singh wrote to the Bihar CM about a defamation notice of 5 crore sent by Kundan Krishnan, asking whether the Bihar government endorse the notice

A Winter Called Nostalgia

An elderly man sat beside the window, holding the cup between his palms. Outside, mist covered the rooftops. The chinar trees stood bare, and the mountains had disappeared behind a curtain of grey. He gazed at the narrow lane below, as though waiting for someone. Perhaps a familiar face. Perhaps a forgotten voice. Or perhaps a winter that would never return. There was a time when winter in old Kashmir arrived slowly, almost ceremoniously. Mornings carried the fragrance of wood smoke rising from mud-plastered houses. Water froze in earthen vessels. Frost painted delicate patterns on windowpanes. Outside, the world waited for the sun. Inside, life gathered around the kangri . More than an earthen pot filled with glowing charcoal, the kangri was the heart of a Kashmiri winter. Tucked beneath the pheran , it travelled from room to room, warming hands and accompanying conversations. Grandmothers held it close while telling stories. Grandfathers carried its warmth into the bitter cold. It taught a simple lesson: comfort did not always require abundance. Sometimes, a handful of glowing embers was enough. Winter had its own language then. Wooden doors creaked. Shovels scraped against fresh snow. Vegetable sellers called out through sleepy neighbourhoods. Somewhere, a mother summoned her children home, her voice travelling through narrow lanes like a familiar prayer. And then came the snow. Even a light snowfall transformed ordinary courtyards into magical kingdoms. Children rushed outside, built little snowmen and scattered footprints across the white ground. From frosted windows, elders watched with feigned concern and secret delight. For a few precious hours, childhood owned the world. Yet winter also demanded patience. Snow buried roads. Electricity failed. Lanterns replaced lights, and radios became treasured companions. People adjusted their lives to the weather. Hardship was real, but so was togetherness. Darkness brought families closer. Long evenings made room for stories, laughter and conversations that had nowhere else to go. As dusk settled, the samovar released the fragrance of kahwa . Warm girda and crisp lavasa passed from hand to hand. Walnuts cracked open. Neighbours arrived without invitations. One came to borrow something and stayed for hours. Another came simply to sit. Doors opened easily, and time seemed less expensive. Elders spoke of old Srinagar, its wooden bridges, bustling bazaars and familiar lanes. Their stories were rarely grand. They remembered weddings, difficult journeys, stubborn snowfalls and ordinary people. Yet these small memories preserved the soul of a place. A land survives not only through its monuments, but through the stories its people carry. Today, Kashmir wears a different winter. Heaters replace traditional rituals. Screens compete with conversations. Messages arrive instantly, yet visits become rare. Life is easier in many ways, and there is no reason to romanticise the hardships of the past. Still, something quietly disappears when convenience replaces ritual. Neighbours remain close in distance but distant in habit. Families share the same roof, yet sometimes inhabit separate worlds. We have discovered new ways to keep ourselves warm, but have we preserved the art of staying together? Perhaps nostalgia is not a desire to return to a harder life. It is the ache of realising that certain kinds of closeness grew around those hardships. We do not miss the darkness. We miss the people gathered around the lantern. We do not miss the bitter cold. We miss the warmth shared against it. The elderly man finishes his noon chai. The cup is empty, but he continues to hold it. Outside, a young boy hurries past, his schoolbag bouncing against his back. The man smiles faintly. Perhaps he sees his own childhood in that hurried figure: snow-covered lanes, warm bread, whispered stories and a home where someone was always waiting. The afternoon fades. Charcoal begins to glow somewhere in the house. The familiar scent of wood smoke rises into the evening air. For a moment, the years fall away. The old Kashmir returnsnot to the streets, but to the heart. Some winters end with the snow. Others never leave us. (The author is a freelance Columnist and writes on various issues. He can be reached at fidahumairawrite@gmail.com )

Connecting Kashmir: Building the infrastructure for growth

Besides the historical news of record-breaking bridges and gleaming terminals in Jammu and Kashmir there is one development that also needs appreciation. In August, foundation stones were laid for 110 village roads across the Udhampur, Kathua, Doda and Kishtwar region. This connectivity is going to improve the lives of 47,000 people. An interesting aspect of this road project is that recycled plastic waste is being used in this road construction. This renewed emphasis on improving the connectivity showcases how the government approaches the problems pertaining to bringing connectivity to difficult terrains in the region. As they say, the railway line is only half a promise until the road to your house is paved. For several generations, the Kashmir valley has remained cut-off to its mountains and largely with the mainland due to its harsh winters. Heavy snow often closed down the highway for weeks if not months. Students waited, sick people waited, and truckloads of apples sat rotting by the roadside. Isolation was a common feature of their lives. However, this mindset has seen a remarkable change in the last few years. All thanks to the UdhampurSrinagarBaramulla (roughly 272kms) rail link, which opened in June 2025. The link road is one of the hardest railway projects India has ever attempted. It runs through tunnels cut into unstable mountains and across deep gorges. Its remarkable centrepiece, the Chenab Bridge, is the highest railway arch bridge in the world (some 360 meters higher than the Eiffel tower). But the real story is not the height of the bridge. It is that a person in Srinagar can now take a train and reach Jammu province in under five hours, and that trains are built to keep running through snow and earthquakes. The roads are catching up too. Some years back, no one in Srinagar could imagine staying back in Sonmarg during the peak winters and think of reaching Zojila and Kargil via road. Since January 2025 travellers are now bypassing a stretch known for avalanches. It all happened because of the Sonmarg tunnel. It has already begun to turn Sonamarg from a summer stop into a year-round destination. The much bigger Zojila tunnel, which will connect Kashmir to Ladakh through the winter, reached its main breakthrough in June, this year. It is not finished yet, but the hardest digging is behind it. In July, key sections of the new expressway from Delhi towards Katra opened, cutting a gruelling journey for pilgrims and traders to roughly half its old time. In the air, a large expansion of Srinagars airport has been approved. It will add a new terminal designed with Kashmiri woodwork and local craftsmanship, and smaller airports at Udhampur and Kishtwar are planned so that people outside the big towns are not left behind. Behind all this concretisation is assurance of timing and certainty or security. A farmer who grows apples or saffron in south or north Kashmir no longer has to gamble on whether the road will be open on the day his crop is ready. A new cargo terminal in Samba, with more planned, helps goods travel by rail to bigger markets. A shawl weaver or a handicraft seller in Srinagar city can reach customers far beyond the valley. A tourism operator in Sonamarg can plan for winter instead of closing down. A student or a patient heading to Jammu no longer faces a day-long ordeal. These are not small things, especially for people who are living in the mountains. If we bring it down, it appears the governments approach consists of four substantial ideas. First, connectivity is the foundation of everything. The thinking appears to be that jobs, trade, tourism and investment will follow once the region is no longer cut off. Roads, rail and air are being treated as one network rather than separate projects. Second, the goal is all-weather access. Almost every project, from the tunnels to the snow-clearing trains, is aimed at defeating the winter. Seasonal isolation is the enemy being fought. Third, strategy matters alongside development. Government statements openly link these projects to border security, defence logistics and disaster response. Better roads and tunnels in border regions serve both villagers and especially the armed forces. This is a reasonable aim, though it means some projects are driven by security needs as much as local ones. Fourth, the benefits should reach beyond the big cities. The village road programme and the small regional airports suggest a recognition that a few showcase projects are not enough. It would be too easy for some to end the celebration. A railway or tunnel is not the same as prosperity. Whether farmers actually earn more, whether young people find local jobs, and whether remote villages feel the change will depend on what happens after the ribbon-cutting. Roads need maintenance. Terminals need to be used. The Zojila tunnel still has to be finished. And infrastructure alone cannot answer every question people in the region have about their future. Still, the direction is clear, and it deserves credit. A region once defined by what separated it from the rest of the country is being stitched back in, one tunnel, track and village road at a time. The governments postering is that being connected is the starting point, and not the end goal. The real challenge comes what needs to be added afterwards; that a child growing up in a remotest area of Kishtwar village, or a fruit grower living in Shopian and a shopkeeper based in Srinagar no longer feel mountains acts as an impediment in their career or dreaming bigger in their lives.

Beyond the Ivory Tower: How SKUAST-K is Redefining the Role of a Public University

For decades, a persistent criticism of universities worldwide has been that they often remain distant from the communities they are meant to serve. Research papers are published, degrees are awarded, and laboratories produce new knowledge, yet translating these achievements into tangible improvements in peoples lives can remain limited. In Jammu and Kashmir, where agriculture and allied sectors sustain a substantial rural population, this challenge is especially significant. Farmers need more than new technologies; they need practical solutions, stronger market linkages, and opportunities to improve their incomes. Young people need more than degrees; they need relevant skills, avenues for entrepreneurship, and access to emerging opportunities. Over the past five years, Sher-e-Kashmir University of Agricultural Sciences and Technology of Kashmir (SKUAST-K) has increasingly sought to bridge this gap. Its institutional journey reflects a broader shift in the purpose of a public universityfrom a primary focus on teaching and research to a role as a catalyst for innovation, public policy, rural transformation, and economic development. From academic tradition to an innovation-driven university Institutional transformation begins when an organization re-examines its purpose. At SKUAST-K, a significant part of this process has involved expanding the traditional boundaries of agricultural education and research. Innovation and entrepreneurship have taken a more central place in the universitys institutional mandate, alongside education, research and extension. The introduction of the SKUAST-K Innovation and Startup Policy (SISP) has provided a framework to encourage students and faculty members to translate ideas and research into products, technologies and entrepreneurial ventures. This marks an important shift in institutional culture. Innovation is no longer seen merely as an occasional outcome of research; it is increasingly treated as a capability the university must deliberately cultivate. The results are evident in a growing portfolio of intellectual property and student entrepreneurship. The university has reported more than 140 intellectual property rights and over 115 student startups. These developments are part of a broader effort to connect scientific knowledge with practical applications and economic opportunities. Its national standing has also strengthened. SKUAST-K has advanced from 35th to third among State Agricultural Universities, while earning national recognition for its innovation ecosystem. Such progress matters not only for rankings but also because it reflects the cumulative effect of academic reform, research activity, and institutional renewal. This transformation has unfolded within an enabling policy environment, supported by the encouragement and commitment of the universitys Chancellor, the Lieutenant Governor of Jammu and Kashmir, Shri Manoj Sinha. A reform-oriented institutional approach has helped align academic priorities, innovation, and the Union Territory's developmental needs. Taking the university to the village Perhaps the most meaningful test of a public agricultural university is whether its knowledge reaches farmers. SKUAST-Ks Student Rural Exploration Program aims to build this connection by exposing students to village realities and encouraging them to understand local challenges before proposing solutions. According to university figures, more than 4,000 students have engaged with approximately 450 villages through this initiative. The significance of such engagement goes beyond field exposure. It helps students appreciate that agricultural problems rarely occur in isolation. Productivity is linked to access to technology, input availability, climate variability, post-harvest management, markets, and rural households' capacity to adopt new practices. The university has also pursued approaches to bring agricultural guidance closer to farming communities, including developing a network of Kissan Khidmat Ghars and digital advisory mechanisms. The broader objective is to make scientific expertise more accessible and responsive to farmers needs. This shift from the laboratory to the landscape changes the university's relationship with society. Farmers are not merely recipients of technologies developed elsewhere; their experiences, constraints, and aspirations become inputs into the research and educational process itself. Research shaping public policy: The HADP experience One of the most consequential aspects of SKUAST-Ks recent engagement with Jammu and Kashmirs development agenda has been its contribution to the conceptualisation and technical design of the Holistic Agriculture Development Programme (HADP). With an overall program outlay of approximately 5,013 crore, HADP comprises 29 projects designed to strengthen agriculture and allied sectors. Its approach extends beyond increasing primary production to include diversification, value addition, mechanization, entrepreneurship, post-harvest infrastructure, and stronger links with markets. The program reflects an important development principle: agricultural growth must be understood as a connected economic system rather than a collection of isolated farm-level interventions. For a region seeking to raise rural incomes and create meaningful employment, this requires coordination among research institutions, government departments, farmers, entrepreneurs and markets. The universitys contribution demonstrates how academic expertise can inform public programmes on a substantial scale. The wider lesson is that universities can do more than evaluate policies after they have been introduced. When engaged early and systematically, they can contribute to the design of development strategies, provide technical knowledge and help connect policy objectives with scientific evidence. The long-term measure of HADP will be its demonstrable impact on productivity, farm incomes, employment, enterprise creation and the resilience of rural households. Sustained assessment and evidence-based course correction will be essential to realise its full potential. Preparing for Agriculture 4.0 Artificial intelligence, data analytics, robotics, precision technologies, biotechnology, and new approaches to managing natural resources are reshaping agriculture. Agricultural universities must therefore prepare students not only for existing professions but also for occupations and enterprises that are still emerging. SKUAST-K has sought to respond through academic restructuring and the introduction of programmes linked to new technologies, including a B.Tech programme in Artificial Intelligence in Agriculture. The emphasis is on preparing graduates who can combine agricultural understanding with computational and analytical skills. The universitys School of One Health similarly reflects an expanding understanding of scientific challenges. Human health, animal health and environmental health are closely interconnected, particularly in ecologically sensitive mountain regions. Research that brings these disciplines together can advance understanding of zoonotic diseases, antimicrobial resistance, food safety, and environmental change. These initiatives suggest that the future of agricultural education lies in crossing disciplinary boundaries. The next generation of agricultural professionals will need to understand biology alongside data, farming systems alongside markets, and scientific discovery alongside its social and environmental implications. Expanding opportunities and transforming the student landscape One of the most visible indicators of SKUAST-Ks transformation has been the expansion of its academic programmes and the changing composition of its student community. Over the past five years, the university has expanded its undergraduate offerings from six to fourteen programmes, introducing new, market-oriented disciplines designed to respond to emerging employment opportunities, technological change and the evolving needs of agriculture and allied sectors. This diversification has helped broaden the universitys appeal. Student enrolment has increased from approximately 2,100 in 2021 to nearly 5,900 in 2026. The growth represents more than an increase in numbers: it reflects a widening of educational opportunities and a growing interest in the universitys evolving academic portfolio. Perhaps even more striking is the geographical diversity of its student body. In 2026, SKUAST-K has students representing every State and Union Territory of India, giving it the highest such representation among State Agricultural Universities in the country. This is a notable achievement for a university located in the Kashmir Valley and reflects its growing national reach and appeal. A diverse student community brings more than demographic representation. It creates opportunities for cultural exchange, the sharing of ideas and experiences, and a richer academic environment. Students from different regions bring varied agricultural practices, social contexts and perspectives to the campus, strengthening the educational experience for the entire university community. For SKUAST-K, this development also represents a broader connection between the Kashmir Himalayas and the rest of the country. The university is increasingly serving as a national academic destination while continuing to address the distinctive agricultural and ecological challenges of its home region. Internationalising education: From local roots to global connections Alongside its expanding national footprint, SKUAST-K has made considerable progress in internationalising education. Foreign student enrolment has risen from just two students in 2021 to 53 in 2026a remarkable increase that reflects the universitys growing international engagement. Internationalisation, however, is not simply about attracting students from abroad. It also involves enabling domestic students and faculty to engage with international institutions, encounter different research cultures, and build lasting academic relationships. Over the past five years, more SKUAST-K students have had opportunities to travel for academic exposure and international learning experiences in Europe, the United States, Australia, Japan, Taiwan, and other destinations. These outgoing opportunities, alongside the growing presence of international students on campus, are helping establish a more reciprocal model of academic engagement. Such exchanges can broaden scientific perspectives, strengthen cross-cultural understanding and expose students to new approaches in research, technology and enterprise. They also help connect the universitys expertise in mountain agriculture, horticulture, animal sciences and other regionally significant disciplines with wider international knowledge networks. The universitys international education initiatives and its emerging global roadmap, discussed at the level of the University Council, seek to build on this foundation. The ambition is to develop stronger international partnerships, expand collaborative research and position SKUAST-K as a recognized institution in areas where its regional strengths have global relevance. Achieving this ambition will require sustained investment in research infrastructure, faculty development, student support and durable international partnerships. Global recognition is not achieved through declarations alone; it must be built through the quality of research, the relevance of education and the strength of institutional collaboration. A university that is learning to do more with less Institutional change is also visible in the everyday systems through which a university operates. The adoption of digital examination processes, for example, has helped reduce dependence on paper. The university estimates that these measures save approximately 2.1 million sheets of paper annually. Beyond the environmental benefit, digital systems can improve administrative efficiency and create opportunities for more transparent and responsive institutional processes. Such measures may appear modest beside major research programs or new academic schools, but they are part of the same larger objective: building a university that is more efficient, technology-enabled and conscious of its responsibilities. The challenge ahead is to ensure that digitalisation is accompanied by strong systems for data security, accessibility, reliability and continuous improvement. Leadership, institutional culture and the road ahead Transformations of this nature do not occur through a single initiative or an individual intervention. They require institutional leadership, collective commitment, policy support and the sustained efforts of teachers, scientists, technical staff, administrators, students and external partners. At SKUAST-K, the recent period has seen a concerted effort to align academic reforms, research, innovation and developmental engagement under a more ambitious institutional vision. Leadership has played an important role in setting this direction, encouraging experimentation and creating space for initiatives that extend beyond conventional university functions. The larger achievement, however, lies in how fully these changes become embedded in the universitys systems and culture. As SKUAST-K looks towards its next phase of development, the task is to consolidate what has been initiated. Startups must become sustainable enterprises. Research outputs must translate into technologies and measurable benefits. Agricultural development programmes must demonstrate lasting improvements in livelihoods. Academic reforms must produce graduates equipped for a changing world. And international aspirations must be supported by globally competitive research and durable partnerships. Continuity of purpose, institutional memory and sustained implementation will be important in this phase. The challenge is not merely to launch new initiatives, but to ensure that they mature, deliver results and become enduring institutional strengths. The real measure of a public university The experience of SKUAST-K offers a wider lesson for public higher education in India. Universities need academic freedom and scholarly depth, but they must also remain connected to the realities of the societies that sustain them. Their contribution should be measured not only by publications, degrees and rankings, but also by the quality of their graduates, the usefulness of their research, the enterprises they help create, the public policies they inform and the lives they improve. For an agricultural university in the Kashmir Himalayas, this responsibility is particularly clear. Its success must ultimately be reflected in stronger farming systems, more resilient rural livelihoods, new opportunities for young people and better stewardship of the regions natural resources. The transformation of SKUAST-K is an evolving process, not a finished story. Its next chapter will depend on how effectively the institution consolidates its reforms, strengthens its scientific foundations and sustains its engagement with society. The most important lesson from Shalimar may therefore be a simple one: a university fulfils its promise when knowledge does not remain confined to the campus, but becomes a force for progress beyond its gates. (The author is a professor of Plant Pathology at SKUAST K)

National Conference on the Brink of Internal Revolt? History Warns Omar Abdullah

The cabinet reshuffle undertaken by Omar Abdullah on October 27, 2026, has brought the internal contradictions of the National Conference (NC) into sharper focus. While the exercise was expected to strengthen the government and accommodate competing political aspirations, questions remain about regional representation, leadership authority and the satisfaction of party legislators. Whether the resulting discontent develops into an organised revolt is uncertain, but the NC's history provides sufficient reason to examine the possibility seriously. The central question is not simply who entered the Cabinet and who was left out. It is whether the leadership can manage the ambitions and grievances of its own legislators without allowing them to develop into a wider organisational crisis. The National Conference's political history demonstrates that a party's greatest challenge can sometimes emerge from within its own ranks rather than from the Opposition. A reshuffle that leaves difficult questions The limited size of Jammu and Kashmir's Council of Ministers makes every appointment politically consequential. Senior legislators expect recognition for their experience, younger leaders seek opportunities, and different regions demand meaningful representation. Accommodating all these expectations is difficult, but the leadership must ensure that its decisions do not deepen existing grievances. The latest reshuffle has renewed questions about Jammu's representation and influence in the government. A section of the region's political opinion already feels inadequately represented in decision-making. The dropping of Satish Sharma, an Independent legislator from Jammu, has added another dimension to the debate. Representation is not merely about counting ministerial positions. It concerns whether the government's composition and policies inspire confidence across Jammu and Kashmir. Regional equity must be reflected in administrative attention, development priorities and political consultation. The reshuffle also leaves an internal management challenge for the NC. Those who did not secure ministerial positions must now reconcile themselves to decisions taken by the leadership. Disappointment does not automatically lead to rebellion, but persistent feelings of exclusion can weaken organisational discipline. Omar Abdullah's appeal to legislators not to lobby for ministerial positions highlighted the competing aspirations surrounding the exercise. The leadership has announced its choices; the more important question is whether it can sustain unity after those choices. A history of divisions and breakaways The NC's history contains several examples of ideological disagreement, organisational rupture and leadership challenges. In 1939, Sheikh Mohammad Abdullah transformed the Muslim Conference into the National Conference, seeking to build a broader political movement. The change was opposed by important leaders, including Chaudhry Ghulam Abbas, who subsequently returned to the Muslim Conference platform. The division reflected competing views about political identity and representation. In 1953, Sheikh Abdullah was dismissed as Prime Minister and arrested. Bakshi Ghulam Mohammad succeeded him, while Sheikh Abdullah and his supporters continued their political opposition. The emergence of the Plebiscite Front in 1955 under Sheikh Abdullah and Mirza Afzal Beg created an alternative political platform. These developments were not conventional legislative defections, but they demonstrated that the NC's leadership and organisational structure could undergo fundamental changes from within the political establishment. The party itself ceased to exist as a separate organisation when it merged with Congress in 1965. Its independent identity was restored in 1975 following the Indira GandhiSheikh Abdullah Accord. The lesson from these episodes is that political organisations are not immune to divisions over leadership, ideology or the distribution of influence. Mirza Afzal Beg's breakaway In 1978, Mirza Afzal Beg, a veteran associate of Sheikh Abdullah, fell out with the NC leadership. After resigning from his position, he established the Inquilabi National Conference. The faction won two Assembly seats but failed to establish itself as a durable alternative to the main party. Beg dissolved the organisation in 1981 and returned to the NC. This episode offers an important parallel for the present situation. A senior leader's dissatisfaction can develop into an organised breakaway, although such a faction may eventually reunite with the parent party. It also shows that internal dissent can remain limited if the leadership and dissenting group find a political accommodation. The more consequential precedent, however, came in 1984. 1984: When rebellion brought down Farooq Abdullah The July 1984 political crisis remains the clearest example of an internal rebellion changing the government in Jammu and Kashmir. After Sheikh Abdullah's death in 1982, Farooq Abdullah became Chief Minister. The NC won the 1983 Assembly election, apparently consolidating its political position. However, differences emerged between Farooq and his brother-in-law, Ghulam Mohammad Shah, a former senior NC leader who had been expelled from the party. In July 1984, twelve NC legislators withdrew support from Farooq Abdullah and backed Shah. An Independent legislator also withdrew support. The resulting loss of legislative strength led to Farooq's dismissal by Governor Jagmohan, and Shah became Chief Minister with Congress support. Shah's faction became associated with the Awami National Conference. His government, however, was dismissed in March 1986, and Farooq Abdullah later returned to office. The episode remains a powerful historical reminder: a government with an electoral mandate can be displaced when internal grievances develop into a coordinated legislative rebellion. The present circumstances are different, and there is no established evidence of a comparable rebellion within today's NC. Nevertheless, the historical precedent demonstrates why internal cohesion cannot be taken for granted. The PDP and the challenge from outside The emergence of the People's Democratic Party in 1999 under Mufti Mohammad Sayeed created a significant alternative to the NC. Although this was not a direct breakaway from the party, the PDP's growth demonstrated that the NC could lose political ground without an internal rebellion. The NC's electoral setback in 2002 reinforced the point that leadership choices, public dissatisfaction and the emergence of rival political formations can undermine a dominant regional party. Internal dissent, therefore, need not culminate in a formal split to weaken an organisation. It can damage discipline, reduce public confidence and create opportunities for political competitors. Could the present discontent become a revolt? A genuine breakaway would require more than disappointment over ministerial appointments. It would generally involve persistent grievances, leaders capable of coordinating dissent and a belief among dissatisfied legislators that their interests could be better protected through collective action. The coming weeks will be important in determining whether the reshuffle produces temporary resentment or a more sustained challenge to the leadership. Coordinated public criticism, collective demands for changes in leadership or resistance to party decisions would be more significant indicators than private dissatisfaction alone. Congress remaining outside the Council of Ministers over its demand for restoration of statehood adds another layer to the government's political management. Although Congress continues to support the government from outside, the arrangement requires continued coordination between the two parties. The combination of internal ambitions, regional concerns and coalition management places a premium on Omar Abdullah's ability to maintain political confidence. Conclusion: History is a warning, not a prediction The National Conference has survived ideological divisions, organisational mergers, breakaway factions and the fall of a government following an internal legislative rebellion. Its history demonstrates both the vulnerability of political organisations to unresolved grievances and their capacity to recover. The reshuffle of October 27 has renewed questions about representation, political accommodation and leadership authority. Whether those questions lead to a split remains uncertain. What is clear is that the NC leadership must address dissatisfaction before it develops into a coordinated challenge. For the BJP, the responsibility is to scrutinise the government's performance, question regional imbalances and demand accountability for public commitments. The real test of Omar Abdullah's leadership will not be how many ministers took the oath, but whether the National Conference can preserve its internal cohesion after the reshuffle. History has shown that a party may win elections and still face its most serious crisis from within. (The author is Chief Spokesperson of J&K BJP)

Uri MLA accepts cabinet decision, focuses on public issues

Srinagar, Oct 27: MLA Uri Dr Sajjad Shafi on Tuesday said he was not unhappy with the decision of the party leadership to induct new faces into the Jammu and Kashmir cabinet, asserting that he would abide by the high commands decision. Reacting to the cabinet expansion, Dr Sajjad said the leadership had taken the decision in its own context and had tried its best to accommodate representatives from important regions of the Union Territory. I am not unhappy with the decision. It is the leaderships decision, and whatever the leadership decides is better. We all know it is a Union Territory, and everyone cannot be accommodated, he said. He said there was no reason to be upset with anyone and stressed that elected representatives must focus on addressing public grievances rather than being concerned about ministerial positions. There is no question of getting upset with anyone. We have to work for the people and address their grievances, which is very important. The leadership would have taken the right decision, and we abide by the decision of the high command, he said. Dr Sajjad acknowledged that party workers had expectations but said the high command had to consider various factors while taking decisions on cabinet representation. Workers have their expectations, and the high command has to see things in its own context, he added. Meanwhile, Dr Sajjads exclusion from the Council of Ministers has disappointed sections of the population in Uri, where locals had expected him to be inducted into the Cabinet. The disappointment stems from earlier expectations that he would be given a ministerial berth, with locals pointing to his electoral performance in the Assembly elections. Dr Sajjad secured nearly 40,000 votes and many in the constituency had hoped his victory would translate into representation in the government. His exclusion has triggered disappointment among supporters who believe Uri deserved representation in the ministry. However, Dr Sajjads public response indicated that he intended to accept the leaderships decision and continue focusing on the constituencys issues.

Traffic police plan for Darbar Move, winter rush

Srinagar, Oct 27: Inspector General of Police (IGP) Traffic Jammu and Kashmir, M. Suleman Choudhary, on Tuesday directed traffic authorities to prepare a comprehensive plan for the upcoming Darbar Move and increased vehicular movement during winter. Chairing a meeting with senior traffic officers, Choudhary reviewed traffic arrangements, congestion-prone areas and accident-prone locations, with a focus on ensuring smooth movement from November to February. He directed officers to pay special attention to congestion hotspots in Jammu, including Sidhra, Bathindi, Green Belt Park, Jammu Railway Station, Narwal, Qasim Nagar, Canal Road, Bagh-e-Bahu, Satwari and Janipur. The IGP also instructed traffic authorities to ensure the smooth movement of the Darbar Move convoy along the Jammu-Srinagar National Highway, particularly on vulnerable stretches between Nachlana and Hingni, as well as at Dewal and Mom Passi. He stressed coordination among traffic units in Jammu and Kashmir to facilitate safe convoy movement and minimise inconvenience to commuters. The meeting also reviewed road safety enforcement. Choudhary directed traffic units to launch special drives against stunt biking, underage driving, overloading, rash driving and driving under the influence of alcohol, and take strict legal action against violators. The meeting was attended by senior traffic officers from Jammu, Srinagar and Ramban, both in person and through video conferencing. Choudhary emphasised coordinated planning, effective enforcement and timely intervention at vulnerable locations to reduce congestion and prevent road accidents during the winter months.

Houthis claim attack on Saudi oil refinery, blasts shake Riyadh

Saudi Arabia, West Asia's largest economy, has suffered weeks of strikes from the Iran-backed Houthis against oil and civilian sites including Riyadh's international airport

SKUAST-K pushes scientific walnut cultivation

Kupwara, Oct 27: Sher-e-Kashmir University of Agricultural Sciences and Technology of Kashmir (SKUAST-K) is intensifying efforts to strengthen walnut cultivation, enhance productivity and reduce dependence on imported walnuts amid changing weather patterns and emerging challenges facing Kashmirs horticulture sector. Vice-Chancellor SKUAST-K, Prof. Nazir Ahmad Ganai highlighted the importance of scientific research and technological innovation in walnut cultivation during his recent visit to the universitys Walnut Research Station at Kulangam Handwara. He stressed the need to diversify the regions horticulture sector beyond its traditional emphasis on apple cultivation and unlock the immense economic potential of Kashmirs walnut industry.Prof. Ganai observed that Kashmiri walnuts are valued for their kernel quality and genetic diversity. He highlighted the universitys efforts to strengthen walnut improvement programmes through the development of high-yielding, dwarf, lateral-bearing and bunch-bearing varieties. These innovations aim to increase productivityfacilitate orchard management and improve returns for walnut growers. He also highlighted the development of the Centre of Excellence for Walnut Research at Kulangam, which is envisaged as an important facility for strengthening the walnut value chain. The initiative aims to support quality planting material production, scientific cultivation, mechanised harvesting, post-harvest management processing, packaging and value addition. Kupwara district has identified walnuts under the One District, One Product (ODOP) initiative, further strengthening the crops importance for the districts economic development and rural livelihoods.Addressing the safety risks associated with traditional walnut harvesting, Prof. Ganai highlighted the universitys efforts to develop tractor-driven and motor-driven harvesting machines. According to the information provided, these machines have achieved reported harvesting efficiencies of around 7080 per cent during testing. Further refinements are planned to improve performance, reduce manual labour and minimise the risk of harvesting-related accidents. The university has also supported the establishment of walnut-processing facilities in two villages of Kupwara district. These facilities undertake activities such as de-hulling, washing, cleaning and drying, helping improve post-harvest handling and strengthen the local walnut value chain. Prof. Ganai emphasised the need to harness Kashmirs walnut-growing potential to strengthen domestic production and reduce reliance on imports, including walnuts sourced from California. He underscored the importance of scientific research, improved planting material, modern harvesting technologies and efficient post-harvest management in making walnut cultivation more productive and economically rewarding. The universitys initiatives are expected to contribute to the modernisation of Kashmirs walnut industry create new opportunities for farmers and rural entrepreneurs and strengthen the regions position in the domestic and international walnut markets.

Sonamargs 7.10 crore Sewage Treatment Plant ready: Tourism Secretary

Ganderbal, Oct 27 : In a major step towards protecting Sonamargs fragile Himalayan ecosystem, the first phase of a Sewage Treatment Plant (STP) has been completed at a cost of approximately 7.10 crore, with the facility expected to be commissioned soon, Secretary Tourism Avny Lavasa has said. Describing the project as a positive step towards scientific sewage treatment and environmental protection, Lavasa said the plant would help prevent untreated wastewater from flowing into the Sindh River. She added that although network connectivity was still pending, sewage collected through the municipalitys suction and jetting machines would be treated at the facility. The 1,200 KLD-capacity plant has been completed by the executing agency, UEED Srinagar, under Phase-I. It is designed to treat sewage generated from Sonamargs main market area and adjoining establishments, addressing an important environmental concern in the popular tourist destination. The facility assumes added significance as Sonamarg witnesses growing tourist footfall and an increase in hotel establishments, putting greater pressure on its sanitation infrastructure and the surrounding natural environment. Meanwhile, Phase-II of the sewage treatment project is proposed to expand sewerage coverage to Sonamarg Village and New Hotel Village, including hotels and other establishments located on both sides of the Nallah. The second phase envisages the construction of sewer lines, four intermediate sewage pumping stations and allied infrastructure to convey wastewater to the existing 1,200 KLD treatment plant. According to the project details, UEED Srinagar has prepared and submitted a Detailed Project Report (DPR) and cost estimate of 10.53 crore for Phase-II. The proposal has been forwarded for Administrative Approval, which is currently awaited. Once implemented, Phase-II is expected to strengthen sanitation facilities, expand sewerage coverage and further reduce the risk of untreated sewage entering the Sindh River. The inauguration of the completed Phase-I facility will be undertaken after the requisite clearances and formal confirmation from the executing agency are received.

Dental colleges new building awaits equipment

Srinagar, Oct 27: Patient care services at Government Dental College and Hospital (GDC&H) Srinagar are facing constraints as the newly constructed building remains non-functional due to the non-procurement of essential equipment, including dental chairs. Official sources said the new building is yet to be inaugurated as dental chairs have not been procured. The delay has raised concerns over the utilisation of the newly created infrastructure at the Valleys lone government dental college. The dental college should be adequately equipped with the required machinery and infrastructure, given the large number of patients visiting the hospital daily, an official said. On average, over 700 patients visit Out Patient Department (OPD) every single day, making it over 2.5 lakh patients who visit the GDC&H Srinagar annually. Doctors at the dental college said around 60 dental chairs were required to make the new building fully functional and strengthen patient care services. They said the absence of the essential equipment was delaying the operationalisation of the facility, limiting the colleges ability to expand its services. Officials also flagged the lack of adequate equipment in pre-clinical laboratories meant for undergraduate students, saying the labs continue to operate from makeshift arrangements. It has raised concerns over the availability of appropriate training infrastructure for dental students, as pre-clinical laboratories are essential for developing practical skills. The delay in procuring equipment has also raised questions over coordination between infrastructure development and the provision of essential medical equipment, with the newly constructed building yet to become operational. Officials said timely procurement of dental chairs and laboratory equipment was necessary to make the facility functional, improve patient care and provide students with better clinical and pre-clinical training facilities. They also complained about the shortage of dental chairs for the PG students despite the fact that patient flow has increased multifold over the past ten years. Principal/Dean, Govt. Dental College and Hospital Srinagar, Prof. (Dr) Sandeep Kaur Bali said that the new building is 100 percent complete in all respects and waiting for inauguration. We have given requisition for the dental chairs. The JKMSCL has placed the order ten days ago and we have given them 45 days, she said. She also said that there are already 300 dental chairs and now they will get some 40 dental chairs before the building is inaugurated. Regarding the pre-clinical laboratories, the principal said tenders had been invited for the required equipment, but no bids were received in response.

FDA steps up nutraceutical checks across J&K

Srinagar, Oct 27: The Food and Drugs Administration (FDA), Jammu and Kashmir has intensified its enforcement against nutraceutical products across the Union Territory, lifting 146 samples for testing during a special drive following a 41.46 per cent non-conformity rate recorded in samples collected over the preceding six months. The FDA said on Tuesday that 168 inspections were conducted across all districts to assess compliance with the Food Safety and Standards Act, 2006, and the regulations framed under it, particularly those governing product safety, quality and mandatory labelling requirements. During the drive, seven labelling violations were detected, and notices have been recommended against the concerned Food Business Operators (FBOs) under the applicable regulatory provisions. Further action will be taken based on the findings and relevant provisions of food safety law, the department said. The special enforcement-cum-sampling drive was initiated following the results of samples collected during the preceding six months, when 328 nutraceutical samples were lifted for examination. Of these, 136 were reported as non-conforming, accounting for 41.46 per cent of the total samples tested. The high rate of non-conformity prompted the department to launch a fresh, intensive drive across Jammu and Kashmir to assess adherence to prescribed standards and take regulatory action wherever violations are detected. The FDA has reiterated that nutraceutical products must meet prescribed safety and quality standards and comply with mandatory labelling declarations and restrictions on product claims. Food Business Operators dealing in such products have been advised to ensure strict compliance with statutory requirements governing their manufacture, storage, distribution and sale. The department said enforcement and sampling activities would continue to strengthen regulatory oversight and ensure that products available to consumers meet the prescribed safety and quality requirements. In a separate action, the FDA has suspended the licence of M/S Arwah Packaged drinking water, located at Kakan Maran in Budgam district, over deficiencies related to water quality monitoring, food safety management and statutory documentation. The action followed an inspection conducted by a Food Safety Officer in response to a complaint received against the unit. According to the FDA, the inspection revealed that the unit did not have an adequate system for testing and monitoring the quality of water being processed and packaged. The requisite records and documents were also not produced for verification. The bottle-capping and sealing mechanism was found to be defective, resulting in leakage and raising concerns over the effectiveness of quality-control measures, hygienic manufacturing practices and the integrity of the packaged drinking water. The department said a show-cause notice was issued to the Food Business Operator on October 7, 2026, seeking an explanation for the deficiencies detected during the inspection. However, the unit did not submit a response within the stipulated period. Consequently, the Designated Officer, Food Safety, Budgam, ordered the suspension of the unit's licence until further orders, invoking Section 32(3) of the Food Safety and Standards Act, 2006. The unit has also been directed to cease all activities at the premises until further orders. The action underscores the departments enforcement measures against food businesses found deficient in complying with prescribed safety, quality-control and documentation requirements.

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Apollos rural healthcare model reaches 23 locations

Aragonda, Oct 27: Apollo Hospitals Enterprise Limited and Apollo Foundation have highlighted the progress of their Total Health initiative, which integrates healthcare, education, nutrition and livelihood support to improve living conditions in rural communities. Launched in 2013 in Aragonda village of Andhra Pradeshs Chittoor district, the initiative has expanded to more than 23 locations across India. Apollo said its wider community programmes have impacted over 483 million people. According to Apollo Foundation, the programme has conducted more than two lakh yoga training sessions, distributed over 10.89 lakh nutritious meals and supported employment opportunities for more than 300 rural women through textile and jute production units. Upasana Kamineni Konidela, Vice Chairperson, CSR and Director, Projects, Apollo Hospitals Enterprise Limited, said the Aragonda experience demonstrated the importance of extending healthcare beyond hospitals through community-led interventions. The initiative traces its origins to a 50-bed secondary care hospital established in Aragonda in 2000 by Apollo Group Founder Chairman Dr Prathap C. Reddy. Over the past 26 years, the hospital has treated more than 1.67 lakh patients and performed over 12,000 surgeries, including 1,000 total knee replacement procedures. The knee replacement programme reached the 1,000-procedure milestone in 2026, after recording 100 procedures in 2019 and 500 in 2022. Apollo also reported that the hospitals clinical team completed 19 knee replacement surgeries in a single day. Dr Reddy said improving rural healthcare required addressing the broader conditions affecting people's health and quality of life, adding that access to affordable medical care should not depend on geographical location. The foundations programmes include primary healthcare, diagnostics, telemedicine, mobile medical services, cancer screening, free heart surgeries for children and long-term medical follow-up. Livelihood development is another component of the initiative. Through apparel and jute production units in Aragonda, Amrabad and Chevella, around 300 women produced nearly 2.9 lakh jute bags and more than 1.25 lakh garments during the past year, Apollo said. Preetha Reddy, Executive Vice Chairperson of Apollo Hospitals Enterprise Limited, said the programme had helped expand healthcare access while creating livelihood opportunities for women and encouraging community participation in wellbeing. Dr Sangita Reddy, Joint Managing Director of Apollo Hospitals, emphasised the importance of preventive healthcare, saying future progress would depend not only on expanding hospital infrastructure but also on preventing illnesses. Dr Jayapal (Anil) Reddy, Clinical Associate Professor of Cardiology at California University of Science and Medicine, said the hospitals facilities demonstrated the potential to provide specialised medical treatment in rural areas, reducing the need for patients to travel to major cities. Apollo Foundation said the Total Health model would continue to integrate healthcare with nutrition, education, environmental awareness and economic opportunities, with the aim of extending similar interventions to other underserved regions.

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Cluster University approves AI, data science programme

Srinagar, Oct 27: Cluster University of Srinagar has approved a 24-credit additional programme in Artificial Intelligence (AI) and Data Science for eligible undergraduate students, along with the establishment of a High-Performance Computing Centre (HPCC)/AI-Cell at its main campus. The decisions were taken at the universitys third Syndicate meeting, chaired by Vice Chancellor Prof. Mohammad Mobin on Tuesday. The proposed computing centre, estimated to cost around 80 lakh in its first phase, will provide GPU-based facilities to support research, innovation, teaching and administrative services, including work in AI, data science and cyber security. The Syndicate also approved the expansion of the paperless examination system, which was initially piloted in the B.Ed. programme. The university plans to extend it to postgraduate, B.Ed. and B.Tech. programmes from the next academic session. The meeting approved the Convocation Statutes, paving the way for the universitys maiden convocation. It also cleared statutes for the B.Tech. programme, the draft constitution of the Abdul Ahad Azad Chair and the university tarana. A mercy chance was also approved for students from the 20172019 batches of undergraduate, integrated, postgraduate and professional programmes to help them complete their degrees. Earlier, Prof. Mobin presented an overview of the universitys academic and administrative reforms since the previous Syndicate meeting. He highlighted the implementation of the National Education Policy (NEP) 2020, including multidisciplinary learning, skill development and undergraduate research. He said the university was offering PhD programmes in 14 disciplines, with 39 research scholars enrolled and 53 supervisors identified across its constituent colleges and university schools. The university was also considering stipends for research scholars. The Vice Chancellor informed the members that undergraduate enrolment had increased by around 7.6 per cent over 2025, while postgraduate enrolment had risen by approximately 28 per cent. He also highlighted the introduction of a one-year postgraduate programme for eligible graduates of the Four-Year Undergraduate Programme under NEP 2020, allowing lateral entry into the third semester of existing two-year postgraduate programmes. The universitys mega job fair held in July 2026 attracted more than 5,000 registrations and resulted in around 900 selections, he said. Memoranda of Understanding signed during the year were also highlighted as part of efforts to strengthen academic collaboration and student opportunities. The recommendations of the universitys fourth Finance Committee meeting were subsequently placed before the Syndicate and approved. The meeting was attended by Syndicate members and representatives of the Higher Education Department, constituent colleges and other institutions, both online and in person. Registrar Prof. Syed Wilayat Hussain Rizvi conducted the proceedings, while Dean Academic Affairs Prof. Seema Naaz presented the vote of thanks.

Small fish: on Operation Trident

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Magam hospital draws patients from across Kashmir

Budgam, Oct 27: Patients from across Kashmir are travelling to Sub-District Hospital (SDH) Magam in Budgam district for laparoscopic surgeries, with the hospital having performed over 4,000 such procedures since 2010, officials said. Block Medical Officer (BMO) Magam, Dr Mir Mustaq, said the hospital conducts laparoscopic surgeries three to four days a week, supported by a skilled surgeon and trained operation theatre staff. Initially, we conducted these procedures two days a week, but with an increase in patient numbers, we extended the schedule to three to four days, he said. Dr Mustaq said Dr Mudassir performs around seven to eight laparoscopic surgeries weekly, or approximately 38 to 40 a month. Patients travel to the hospital from areas including Uri, Kupwara, Shopian, Pattan, Tangmarg, Kunzer and HMT. The hospital also receives around 800 to 1,000 patients in its outpatient department (OPD) daily, reflecting its role in providing healthcare services to residents of Budgam and adjoining areas. Dr Mustaq said the hospital had received new laparoscopic equipment, which has helped expand its surgical services. He credited Beerwah MLA Dr Mohammad Shafi Wani with facilitating the equipment. He added that the hospital had also started performing ear, nose and throat (ENT) surgeries around two months ago, expanding the range of specialised procedures available locally. The BMO said eligible patients can also avail themselves of covered surgical procedures, including laparoscopic surgeries, free of cost under the Ayushman Bharat Pradhan Mantri Jan Arogya Yojana (PM-JAY). He said trained staff, upgraded equipment and financial support for eligible patients had helped strengthen the hospitals capacity to provide specialised treatment closer to home.

Noted dancer Sreedevi Rajan passes away at 84

Fouled waters: On Rajasthans river pollution

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Govt plans to extend tourist season

Srinagar, Oct 27: Jammu and Kashmir is planning to strengthen its year-round tourism strategy by organising festivals and cultural events in advance and developing new adventure tourism destinations, with a focus on attracting visitors during the off-season. Officials said that directions have been passed to the concerned authorities to prepare a structured annual event calendar covering major festivals, cultural programmes and seasonal activities, while ensuring coordination among departments and wider publicity to attract tourists throughout the year. The initiative aims to promote Kashmirs diverse tourism offerings beyond the traditional peak season and create more opportunities for visitors to explore the region during different months. As part of the strategy, the Tourism Department has been asked to intensify efforts to promote adventure activities, including trekking, paragliding, water sports, skiing and mountaineering. Officials have also been directed to identify new trekking routes, strengthen safety measures and improve adventure tourism infrastructure to make the region more attractive to young travellers and tourists interested in specialised outdoor experiences. The focus on adventure tourism is intended to broaden Kashmirs tourism portfolio and help draw visitors during traditionally lean months, when tourist footfall generally depends on seasonal attractions and weather conditions. The proposed annual event calendar is expected to provide a planned framework for tourism-related activities, allowing departments to prepare events in advance and coordinate arrangements for their effective organisation and promotion. Officials said advance planning and coordinated publicity would be important to ensure that festivals, cultural events and seasonal activities reach a wider audience and contribute to sustained tourist engagement. The directions underline the need to tap Kashmirs varied natural and cultural attractions throughout the year, with adventure tourism emerging as an important component of efforts to extend the tourist season and attract new categories of visitors.

New push to preserve Kashmirs traditional crafts

Srinagar, Oct 27: In a major fillip to boost the artisans of Kashmirs famed handicrafts sector, the Union Ministry of Textiles, has released an amount of 30.46 lakh under its premier National Handicrafts Development Programme (NHDP) for distribution of improved toolkits and skill upgradation in traditional crafts of hand-knotted Carpet, Sozni Embroidery, Papier Mache and Walnut Wood Carving. The Directorate of Handicrafts and Handloom, Kashmir, shall be the implementing Agency for the said interventions under NHDP. In a statement, a spokesman of the Department stated that the office of Development Commissioner (Handicrafts) considered the departments proposal for distribution of improved toolkits and skill-based training to promote traditional crafts. Two Guru Shishya Hastshilp Prashikshan Programmes have been approved for Kashmir Carpet and Sozni embroidery, with a total financial allocation of 15.01 lakh. The programmes with 2-month duration aim to facilitate the transfer of traditional skills from experienced master artisans (Gurus) to aspiring artisans (Shishyas), thereby ensuring preservation and continuity of Kashmirs rich handicraft heritage, he added. These programmes are intended not only to upgrade existing skills but also to rebuild a working pipeline of trained hands in the two crafts. The training has been designed in such a way that it takes care of wage compensation of artisans, honorarium of master craftsmen, space rent and training related equipment as well as compensation of raw material, the spokesman added. Additionally, the spokesman stated that three Improved Toolkits Distribution Programmes in Walnut Wood Carving, Sozni embroidery and Paper Machie have been approved for artisans of Kashmir Division, with a total financial allocation of 15.45 lakh. The initiative shall facilitate artisans access to improved tools, enhancing working efficiency and productivity and supporting them in improving the quality of their products, he added. Through these programmes, the Directorate endeavours to preserve the regions rich cultural legacy while creating opportunities for continued growth and development of the handicrafts and handloom sector in Kashmir.

Section 163 enforced as stir for student polls at Jamia enters 16th day

20 detention buses deployed outside university; one of the gates used by hostellers to enter campus welded; students hold talks with varsity panel after failing to meet V-C, say demands still unfulfilled

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Singareni seeks Angul Collectors support for road laying to transport coal from Naini

Women protests force Ladakh administration to discuss declaring region a dry UT'

Officials disclosed that this year, only one retail vendor was functional and the number of functional bars attached to restaurants offering retail sale of liquor had increased by 17 newly issued licences, taking the total to 40

TNPDCL expands fuse off call offices for quicker resolution of power cut complaints in city and neighbouring districts

While the TNPDCL will still operate the Minnagam, the FOCs, which have been provided with separate mobile numbers, will be merged with the Minnagam system for faster restoration of disrupted power supply

ACB arrests Mirchowk inspector, home guard in 3 lakh bribe case

Inspector demanded 6 lakh to close case against complainants father, ACB says

40 FIRs over anti-SIR protests in Delhi; police scan CCTV footage to identify demonstrators

Cases include alleged violations of prohibitory orders, vandalism and obstruction of public servants; separate FIRs filed over alleged assaults on demonstrators

Neutralise remnants of terrorist ecosystem: J&K L-G Manoj Sinha tells security agencies

J&K Lieutenant Governor Manoj Sinha directed the security agencies that operations must continue to neutralise the remnants of the terrorist ecosystem

Two escape from police station in Salem

Three girls missing in Tiruvannamalai

The police said that as the girls parents stayed in Kerala for work as wage labourers, they visited home occasionally

Highways Dept. calls for consultants to prepare DPR on linking OMR, ECR

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Cyclone Arnab: heavy rain brings Vizag to standstill; civic agencies on high alert

Fallen trees, waterlogged roads and power interruptions add to disruption; bus services cancelled while beaches remain closed; Visakhapatnam district receives 147.9 mm of rain between 8.30 a.m. and 9 p.m.

Brazil'sFlavio Bolsonaro headed to U.S. after losing election, sources say

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A Delhi event unveils fault lines in the Dalit-OBC formulation of SP politics

The brouhaha over Rajkumar Bhati reciting Ambedkars vows shows the limits of the SPs revival of the Lohiate policy of numerical aggregation

Jain seer gives Karnataka govt. 10-day deadline to meet demands; threatens sallekhana in December if demands remain unmet

Acharya Gunadharanandi Maharaj of Varur Navagraha Teertha Kshetra has given the State government 10 days to provide written assurances on five demands of the Jain community, including the establishment of a Jain Development Corporation.

AIP questions Mehboobas take on Congress legacy

Srinagar, Oct 27: Awami Itihaad Party (AIP) Chief Spokesperson Inam Un Nabi on Tuesday questioned PDP president Mehbooba Muftis praise of former prime ministers Jawaharlal Nehru and Indira Gandhi on Accession Day, accusing her of overlooking decisions taken during their tenures that, he said, altered Jammu and Kashmirs political status. In a statement, Inam asked Mehbooba to explain her endorsement of the Congress leaders legacy, referring to the arrest of Sheikh Mohammad Abdullah in 1953 during Nehrus premiership. He also questioned the changes made to Jammu and Kashmirs political and administrative institutions during Indira Gandhis tenure, including the replacement of Sadr-i-Riyasat with Governor and Wazir-e-Azam with Chief Minister. Inam said the historical record should be examined in its entirety rather than selectively invoked for contemporary political purposes. He also criticised Mehboobas praise of Congress leaders, alleging that it overlooked decisions affecting the regions political identity and autonomy. Clarifying AIPs position, Inam said holding Congress accountable for its past did not absolve the BJP of responsibility for its own decisions, particularly the changes made to Jammu and Kashmirs status in August 2019. AIP will neither whitewash Congresss historical record nor give the BJP a free pass, he said, adding that both parties should be held accountable for their respective decisions affecting Jammu and Kashmir. Inam said the people of Jammu and Kashmir deserved political honesty and a comprehensive account of the regions history rather than selective interpretations shaped by the interests of national parties.

Cyclone Arnab leaves parts of Visakhapatnam in darkness

Candidates push on with campaigns despite Cyclone Arnab disruptions

While some candidates braved the rain to continue their door-to-door campaigns, others used the weather-enforced break to meet community representatives, seek the support of professional associations and hold discussions with party leaders and cadre

Supreme Court needs transparent roster system, says former Judge Oka

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CITU urges voters to support Left party candidates in GVMC polls

Cyclone Arnab: National SARAS mela in Vijayawada closed to public on October 28

KashmiriPandit Rakesh Handoo circulates edited terror threat online, faces charges under IT Act

Officials said Mr. Handoo was zeroed in after a Kashmiri Pandit employee, Rohit Raina whose name figured in the terror threat list,registered a complaint with the police

Ranji Trophy: Shorey, Samarth, Malewar fifties put Vidarbha in pole position

The home team wraaps up the Goan first innings for 220

Stolen Chola-era bronze idol of Kannappa Nayanar repatriated from Netherlands

The bronze was repatriated last week along with a collection of 11th-Century Chola-era royal charter plates voluntarily relinquished by Leiden University Library

Young javelin star Dharanidharan eyes breaching the 80m mark

Dharanidharan began his journey with the pole vault in Class IX before financial difficulties forced him to switch to javelin the following year

Cyclone Arnab causes high waves in north Chennai, Tiruvallur

The Regional Meteorological Centre here had warned of rough seas due to thecyclone. The sea is expected to calm down by noon on October 28

Income Tax Dept. conducts programme for stress-free work

SSB chief to take additional charge of ITBP as D-G retires

No regular appointment announced ahead of ShatrujeetSingh Kapoors retirement on October 31

Delhi SIR: Over 94% of electors flagged for discrepancies cleared for final electoral roll

Norway, Finland leaders hold 'frank and substantive' talk with Putin

The outcome of this war will have a direct impact on our and the broader European security. Ending the war requires direct discussions, President Alexander Stubb said in a joint statement with Norwegian Prime Minister Jonas Gahr Store

Trump says US to ban 'artificial intelligence' term, pushes 'super intelligence'

Washington , October 27 : US President Donald Trump on Tuesday [local time] said his administration would ban the use of the terms Artificial Intelligence and AI in relevant federal government documents, pushing for their replacement with Super Intelligence and SI on the grounds that the existing terminology no longer accurately reflects the capabilities of advanced technology. In a post on Truth Social, Trump questioned the continued use of the term by The Wall Street Journal and called for a shift towards the alternative terminology. When will The Wall Street Journal start calling Artificial Intelligence (AI), a very bad and inaccurate name, SI (Super Intelligence), the name which virtually everyone else is using, or soon will be, Trump said. In short order, we will be officially BANNING the term, AI/Artificial Intelligence, in all relevant documents, and everything else, due to its inaccuracy. Thank you for your attention to this matter, he added. Trump's remarks followed an executive order he signed earlier on September 30, titled Inaugurating the Era of Super Intelligence, directing federal executive departments and agencies to replace Artificial Intelligence and AI with Super Intelligence and SI in official communications and operations, to the maximum extent permitted by law. Under the order, the revised terminology is to be adopted in government correspondence, public communications, official websites, reports and administrative policy documents. However, the directive clarifies that previously issued regulations, existing government contracts, grants and historical archival records will not be retroactively altered. Explaining the rationale behind the change, the executive order stated that technological advances had outgrown the original framework used to describe artificial intelligence. The capabilities of todays frontier systems do much more than imitate or automate discrete aspects of human intelligence. They increasingly amplify human ingenuity and unlock new forms of creativity, empowering Americans to achieve what was previously impossible across science, medicine, and nearly every other domain of human endeavor, the order stated. The directive also sets a 60-day deadline for the Assistant to the President for Science and Technology to submit proposed legislative language to Congress establishing an updated federal statutory definition of Super Intelligence and recommending corresponding amendments to existing laws. The move comes after Trump hosted leading technology executives, including Elon Musk, Mark Zuckerberg, Sundar Pichai and Jensen Huang, at the White House for discussions on technological advancement and the safe development of advanced systems. During the meeting, Trump described the sector's growth as unprecedented, while industry leaders emphasised collaboration and safety in developing emerging technologies. The proposed terminology change marks a significant shift in how the administration intends to describe advanced technology across federal operations. (ANI)

Survey highlights poor quality of English learning in government English-medium schools

The assessment of English language learning is based on the four main language skills of listening, speaking, reading and writing

Record turnout as Israeli voters deliver verdict on Netanyahu

Israelis are casting their ballots in the shadow of October 7 and the multi-front regional wars that it sparked, with the trauma from the attack still fresh and questions over accountability and security central to the campaign

Wages of domestic workers increased, but at slower rate: ILO report

Informality of domestic work reduced in many countries, ILO adds

Watch: Cyclone Arnab: What Andhra Pradesh needs to know

As Cyclone Arnab approaches the Andhra Pradesh coast, authorities have stepped up evacuations, cancelled train services and flights, and activated cyclone shelters across vulnerable districts. The Hindus Sumit Bhattacharjee explains the storms expected landfall, the threat of heavy rain and strong winds, and how Andhra Pradesh has strengthened its disaster preparedness since Cyclone Hudhud.