Meta says it is using AI to detect child sexual abuse content on Instagram and Facebook
Meta said that between January and June 2026, it actioned 5.3 million pieces of child sexual exploitation content on Facebook and Instagram in India
Pawan Kalyan and Jagan Mohan Reddy mourn actor Nana Patekar
The Deputy Chief Minister recalls Patekars performance in Krantiveer and his service with the Indian Army
PM Modi calls for global framework to tackle cyber frauds, deepfakes, digital crimes
Technology can achieve scale only when it gains people's trust, PM Modi said
CUSAT suspends offline classes amid rising chickenpox cases
Functioning of all departments of schools and centres at Thrikkakara and Marine campuses has been shifted to online mode after cases were reported on the campus. All infected students have left the campus, says a CUSAT official
How art mail clubs are rekindling the love for post
Meet a few youngsters in Keralam who are finding joy in writing letters through art mail clubs on World Post Day (October 9)
Delhi HC seeks response from police, Minister Parvesh Verma on slapping AAP MLAs aide
The court also issued a notice to Delhis Deputy Chief Minister on the plea seeking for independent probe into incident during road inspection
Four Bengal workers, detained on Bangladeshi suspicion, released from Chhattisgarh
We were so surprised. It happened suddenly when we lost our hope. The higher authority ordered them to release us immediately. The Police also wrote it in the order copy that we are Indians, not Bangladeshis, said one of the detainees, Safikul Islam.
Carrie series review: Mike Flanagan finds humanity in horror
More teen drama than Gothic horror, Mike Flanagans adaptation of the Stephen King classic is engaging and propulsive, even if its conspiracy subplot does not quite stick
Anthropic introduces Claude Haiku 5.5 in competition to cheaper, open source models
Anthropic announced that the new Claude Haiku 5.5 was available at a much lower price than Haiku 4.5
Farewell to Nana Patekar, the silver screens eternal man
Patekar refused to be slotted as a unidimensional star his staggering career saw him play hero, villain, character actor and even the odd comedy role
Cases follow FIRs over Tuesdays protest, with Congress leaders also booked over alleged forcible entry into Akashvani Bhavan; another protest planned in central Delhi on Thursday
Disputed, abandoned properties targeted using forged documents, two held in Malkajgiri
The network targeted the properties whose owners or legal heirs could be impersonated
Rahul Gandhi has 'anarchist' mindset: Nitin Nabin
BJP will always oppose attempts to settle people in India with a foreign mindset, the partys national president said
The video showed the tantrik performing a bizzare ritual on toddlers in the presence of their parents, in the name of curing them.
NTRUHS invites Andhra Governor to its Ruby Jubilee celebrations on October 26
Vice-Chancellor P. Chandrasekhar and other officials brief S. Abdul Nazeer on the universitys 40-year journey; the Governor agrees to attend
Italy Parliament votes on electoral law in key test for Meloni
The proposal would introduce a fully proportional system that guarantees a parliamentary majority to any alliance winning more than 42% of the vote
The people this years Nobel Prizes left out
The number of winners every year should not be confused with the number of people it takes to do excellent science
Trump says 'we don't think' Russian plague is bioweapon
Russia warned earlier against false information as reports emerged of a second suspected case. The U.S. and UN have urged Russia to be more transparent
Woman social media influencer in Keralam booked for allegedly sexually harassing minor boy
Police officials said a detailed probe is underway into the complaint, and the boys statement has been recorded
Harish Kumar Gupta tells SPs of four districts to keep sensitive villages under watch and rope in NCC and NSS volunteers
Local body polls: YSRCP urges SEC to call all-party meeting before notification
The party cites delays in issuing caste certificates to candidates, seeks Central forces for the polls and wants ward-wise rolls prepared only after the SIR is completed
Three killed as man drives tractor into crowd in Uttar Pradesh's Bijnor
The injured were taken to a community health centre, where Baburam and Udayveer died. Mahendra succumbed to his injuries at a private hospital, says Chandpur Circle Officer Des Deepak Singh
Justice Dipankar Datta said the file has to be studied by puisne judge on the Bench, Justice Sheel Nagu
Sharmila invites T.N. Chief Minister Vijay to daughters wedding
FIR against MLA for creating false death certificates of voters in Vijayapura
The complainant alleged that the MLA and Booth Level Agent of Vijayapura Assembly constituency had falsely claimed that he had died, and that his name needs to be struck off the electoral rolls under the Special Intensive Revision in Karnataka
Visual artist Angel Rose turns pink rice into an archive of Indian and Surinamese identity
Amsterdam-based artist Angel Rose explores ancestry, pop culture and cultural memory through pink rice, archival images and objects in her latest work, now showing in Delhi Post October 3 HL: Spotlighting the work of Amsterdam-based visual artist Angel Rose, whose practice explores ancestry, pop culture and cultural memory through pink rice, archival images and objects. Her latest works were on display at Method, Delhi.
Cases follow FIRs over Tuesdays protest, with Congress leaders also booked over alleged forcible entry into Akashvani Bhavan; another protest planned in central Delhi on Thursday
Beyond board exams: Indias quiet international Olympiad revolution
Most IITs offer direct admission to BTech. to top performers without requiring JEE. IIITs, IISERs and ISI give preference and dedicated seat allocations to stage-2 and stage-3 Olympiad qualifiers.
The State has built a pipeline of 714 projects worth 22.6 lakh crore, with a potential to create 19.3 lakh jobs, says Industries and Commerce Minister
IAF has grown into exceptional, network-centric force: Air Chief Marshal Amar Preet Singh
The IAF chief said conflicts in parts of the world have shown that air power is the primary means of protecting the interests of a nation
According to the notice, the 11 reported posts contained videos relating to a protest during which police personnel were deployed to maintain law and order and prevent escalation of the situation.
Live updates: Leaders, film fraternity mourn Nana Patekar's death
Veteran Actor Nana Patekar passed away at his Goa residence during the early hours of Thursday.
ECINet was designed to centralise all deletions, additions from BJP headquarters: Congress
Jairam Ramesh shared a screenshot of a media report which quoted a security researcher as saying that he warned the ECI and the country's cyber-security agency, CERT-In, about flaws in the Commission's voter-services website and its ECINet app in July
Normal life hit in Odisha as INDIA bloc parties observe bandh over new mining law, other issues
Business establishments, petrol pumps, shops and many educational institutes were seen closed in the morning, while public transport such as buses and autorickshaws remained off the road
WHO prequalifies Serum Institute of Indias quadrivalent HPV vaccine, CERVAVAC | Explained
The development is significant for India as well as the global effort to prevent cervical cancer
Learn to shun hate, stop vote manipulations: Sibal's swipe at PM
Mr. Sibal's attack on the PM came a day after Mr. Modi addressed the 'Viksit Bharat Sankalp Sabha' to mark a quarter-century as a head of government.
Baseless and misconceived: Centre rebuts Musks blocked entry charge on Starlink India
American billionaire Elon Musk alleged that Starlinks entry into India was being blocked by certain oligarchs seeking to protect their monopolistic chokehold
Visual artist Angel Rose turns pink rice into an archive of Indian, Surinamese and Black identity
Amsterdam-based artist Angel Rose explores ancestry, pop culture and cultural memory through pink rice, archival images and objects in her latest work, now showing in Delhi Post October 3 HL: Spotlighting the work of Amsterdam-based visual artist Angel Rose, whose practice explores ancestry, pop culture and cultural memory through pink rice, archival images and objects. Her latest works were on display at Method, Delhi.
Mahindra Thar OG review: The Thar gets more comfortable without losing its off-road DNA
The Mahindra Thar has always traded everyday comfort for serious off-road ability. The new Thar OG changes that. It is more capable and comfortable on the road without losing its rugged character
Stock markets decline in early trade as RBI signals more tightening
Among the 30 Sensex firms, ITC, Adani Ports, Bharat Electronics, Bajaj Finance, Bajaj Finserv and InterGlobe Aviation were among the major laggards
Nana Patekar to be cremated with full State honours: Maharashtra govt.
The decision about the location of the funeral will be taken by the family - whether it will be in Pune or in Mumbai. The government will make the necessary arrangements, an official said
Case filed against Thiruvananthapuram Mayor, BJP councillor Sugathan over forged signature
As per FIR, the accused persons conspired to forge councillor Sugathans signature in attendance book for council meetings held on February 26, March 11, and April 27
A peek into the largest bommagolu display in Thiruvananthapuram
Sreekanth GS (Kuttu Veerashaiva) has been arranging the display at his residence for many years. This Navarathri, over 10,000 dolls and figurines have been showcased and it is open to the public from October 12 to 21
Malaria infections worrying public health experts in Keralam
The surge, driven by abundant mosquitoes and a steady influx of travellers, has prompted calls for stronger surveillance, migrant screening, and the planned distribution of insecticide-treated bed nets.
Why it is essential to improve cardiac rehabilitation completion rates in India
The primary benefits of attending a cardiac rehab programme are faster recovery from cardiac procedures, reduced risk of future complications, better weight management, better emotional health and health-related quality of life, and decreased mortality
Rupee rises 10 paise to 96.65 against U.S. dollar in early trade
Forex traders said rupee is under pressure amid persistent macroeconomic headwinds, including global dollar strength (DXY trading near multi-month highs), elevated Brent crude prices hovering near $102 per barrel
PM Modi mourns Nana Patekars demise, hails his contribution to Hindi, Marathi cinema
New Delhi , October 8 : Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Thursday condoled the demise of veteran actor Nana Patekar, describing him as an actor who possessed intensity, individuality and unmistakable presence and whose work would be remembered for generations. In a post on X, the PM said Patekar brought versatility and creativity to every role and was also admired for his frank and forthright views. Few actors possessed the intensity, individuality and unmistakable presence that Shri Nana Patekar Ji had. He brought remarkable versatility and creativity to every role and gave us characters that will be remembered for generations. He was also admired for his frank and forthright views, never hesitating to express what he believed in, Modi said. The Prime Minister said Patekars contribution to Hindi and Marathi cinema was immense. Shri Nana Patekars contribution to Hindi and Marathi cinema was immense. His passing leaves a deep void. My condolences to his family, friends and countless admirers. Om Shanti, he said. Uttar Pradesh Chief Minister Yogi Adityanath also mourned the demise of the veteran actor, remembering his contribution to Indian cinema and social causes. In a post on X, Yogi Adityanath described Patekars death as an irreplaceable loss to the world of art and praised his contribution to cinema and society. The demise of the renowned actor, powerful theatre artist, and sensitive social worker, Padma Shri Nana Patekar ji, is an irreplaceable loss to the world of art, Yogi said. He said Patekar enriched Indian cinema through his acting and expressed his commitment to society through his social concerns. May Lord Shri Ram grant a place at His divine feet to the departed soul and provide strength to the grieving family and admirers to bear this sorrow, the Uttar Pradesh Chief Minister added. Uttarakhand CM Pushkar Singh Dhami also condoled Patekar's demise while remembering his powerful acting. We have received the extremely heartbreaking news of the demise of the renowned actor Nana Patekar ji. With his powerful acting and impactful dialogues, he carved a distinct identity in Indian cinema. His vibrant performances in various roles enriched Hindi cinema. His passing is an irreparable loss to the film and art world. We pray to God to grant the noble soul a place at His divine feet and provide strength to the grieving family and admirers to bear this sorrow, Dhami said on X. Naveen Patnaik also expressed grief over the actors demise and recalled his distinctive dialogue delivery and ability to portray complex characters. Deeply saddened to learn about the passing away of veteran actor Nana Patekar. His distinctive dialogue delivery and ability to essay complex characters with ease have earned him a special place in Indian cinema, Patnaik said in a post on X. Patekar died at 5.20 am on Thursday after suffering a cardiac arrest at his residence, Dr Shekhar Salkar, Chief of the Department of Oncology at Manipal Hospital, told ANI over the phone. According to Dr Salkar, Patekar suffered cardiac arrest at his residence, and CPR was administered for 45 minutes. He remained in asystole throughout the CPR. A medico-legal case (MLC) has been completed, while a post-mortem examination is required, the doctor said. Nana Patekar was one of the prominent actors in Hindi and Marathi cinema. He made his acting debut with the 1978 film Gaman and went on to earn praise for his performances in films including Parinda, Prahar, Angaar, Krantiveer, Tiranga, Khamoshi and Ab Tak Chhappan.In recent years, Patekar continued to work in films. He was part of Housefull 5, which starred Akshay Kumar, Abhishek Bachchan, Riteish Deshmukh and others. Patekar, 75, also appeared as a police officer in Vishal Bhardwajs ORomeo, starring Shahid Kapoor and Triptii Dimri. He also had a cameo in Subedar, which stars Anil Kapoor and Radhika Madan.
Trump interrupted by protesters as he fights to rally Texas voters behind Paxton in U.S. Senate race
With Election Day less than a month away, Trump's poor approval ratings, the Iran war and soaring gas prices have threatened Republicans in virtually every state
MoEF grants environmental, CRZ clearance for Puris greenfield airport
MoEF directs to prepare a bird hazard study from reputed institute in the field after a Wildlife Institute of India study flags the issue of risk posed by migratory birds from Chilika Lake
The Rahul Gandhi show and the Congresss alliance dilemma: Analysis
The Congress, therefore, needs to strike a balance: occupy the pole position in the campaign while ensuring that the INDIA bloc does not begin to look like a platform for a single party or leader
442MW Solar Power Plant Being Built in Rampal
A 442-megawatt solar power plant is being constructed in Rampal of Bagerhat. An allocation of Tk 2,498.08 crore has been made for the project, which will be implemented by the Bangladesh Power Development Board (BPDB). The project was approved at a meeting of the Executive Committee of the National Economic Council (ECNEC) held at the Secretariat on Wednesday. Prime Minister and ECNEC Chairperson Tarique Rahman presided over the meeting. The Power Division said the plant is being developed to increase renewable energy-based power generation, diversify the countrys energy mix and reduce carbon emissions. The project is scheduled to be completed between September this year and March 2029. Of the total project cost, Tk 374.71 crore will come from BPDBs own funds, while Tk 2,123 crore will be provided from the Power Sector Development Fund. The loan from the Power Sector Development Fund will carry an annual interest rate of 2 percent. The repayment period will be 16 years, including a one-year grace period. No new land acquisition will be required to construct the solar power plant in Rampal. In 2012, BPDB acquired 1,834 acres of land in Rampal for the construction of a coal-fired power plant. A portion of the [] The post 442MW Solar Power Plant Being Built in Rampal appeared first on Energy Bangla .
Veteran Actor Nana Patekar dies after cardiac arrest at residence
Mumbai, October 8 : Actor Nana Patekar died at 5.20 am on Thursday after suffering a cardiac arrest at his residence, Dr Shekhar Salkar, Chief of the Department of Oncology at Manipal Hospital, told ANI over the phone. According to Dr Salkar, Patekar suffered cardiac arrest at his residence, and CPR was administered for 45 minutes. He remained in asystole throughout the CPR. A medico-legal case (MLC) has been completed, while a post-mortem examination is required, according to the doctor. The doctor confirmed Patekars death and said efforts to revive him continued for 45 minutes following the cardiac arrest. Nana Patekar was one of the prominent actors in Hindi and Marathi cinema. He made his acting debut with the 1978 film Gaman and went on to establish himself as a celebrated actor with performances in films such as Parinda, Prahar, Angaar, Krantiveer, Tiranga, Khamoshi and Ab Tak Chhappan, among others. In recent years, Patekar continued to feature in a range of projects. He was part of Housefull 5, which starred Akshay Kumar, Abhishek Bachchan, Riteish Deshmukh and others. Patekar, 75, also appeared as a police officer in Vishal Bhardwaj's O'Romeo, starring Shahid Kapoor and Triptii Dimri. In addition, he had a cameo appearance in Subedar, which stars Anil Kapoor and Radhika Madan.
Microsoft pushes AI vision with new, expensive Surface laptop
The trajectory for me is so clear. There will never be a moment where we will go and look and say: 'Oh, this runs locally, this runs in the cloud.' You will expect this hybrid intelligence to be everywhere and pervasive, CEO Satya Nadella said
SBI software denies Schedule Tribe option to Christians: Arunachal forum
Scheduled Tribe people are automatically classified as General upon marking their religion while applying for account opening and KYC updates, the Arunachal Christian Forum says
BJD distances itself from Congress after withdrawing support for Odisha Bandh
Senior BJD leader and party Chief Whip Pramila Mallik backtracked on Odisha Bandh support within an hour after initially extending support for INDIA Blocs call for Bandh on Thursday
China-based suspect used AI tools in South Korean bank hacks, says CrowdStrike
In a report published on Wednesday, CrowdStrike said it uncovered personal details linked to the suspected attacker while analysing AI coding-tool sessions and infrastructure
A strange encounter gives Taran and family an unexpected ticket to a night of music, dance and splendour.
What to look for in the October night sky
With plenty of action, stargazers have lots to look forward to this month
JKLCMA reviews water flow, infrastructure at Dal Lake channels
Srinagar, Oct 7: Taking forward the Authoritys efforts to restore and strengthen the water channels associated with Dal Lake, Vice Chairman, JKLCMA, Khurshid Ahmad Shah, visited Tchunti Khul and the Dal Lock Gate to review the water flow, hydraulic infrastructure, and condition of the adjoining areas. The Vice Chairman was accompanied by the Superintending Engineer, Executive Engineers of Lake Division 1st and Lake Division 2nd, and other officers and officials of the Authority. During the visit, the Vice Chairman took a detailed assessment of the existing condition of Tchunti Khul and the Dal Lock Gate and reviewed the water channel, adjoining stretches, and associated hydraulic infrastructure. He stressed the importance of maintaining the channel in a manner that facilitates smooth movement of water and supports effective water level management of Dal Lake. The Vice Chairman directed the concerned officers to undertake necessary cleanliness and site clearance measures along Tchunti Khul and its adjoining stretches. He called for identification of locations requiring desilting, dredging, removal of obstructions, and other restoration measures so that necessary works can be taken up in a systematic and time bound manner. Reviewing the Dal Lock Gate, the Vice Chairman emphasized the need for its proper upkeep and functioning to ensure effective regulation of water flow. He directed the Engineering Wing to assess the condition of the lock gate and associated infrastructure and identify the works required for repair, restoration, and improvement The Vice Chairman further directed the concerned officers to undertake a comprehensive assessment of Tchunti Khul and identify measures required to improve its water carrying capacity, cleanliness, and overall environmental condition. He stressed that restoration of the channel should be undertaken with due consideration to nt network of Dal Lake. Emphasizing the importance of maintaining the associated water channels of Dal Lake, the Vice Chairman stated that restoration and proper upkeep of such channels are essential for maintaining water flow, supporting effective water management, and strengthening the long-term conservation of the lake.
No Voter to be left behind: CEO J&K announces weekend voter enrolment drives
Jammu, Oct 7: To ensure that no eligible voter is left behind, Chief Electoral Officer (CEO), Jammu and Kashmir, Sanjeev Verma on Wednesday announced a two-day Special Intensive Voter Enrolment Drive across the Union Territory on October 10 (Saturday) and October 11 (Sunday), 2026, marking the beginning of a regular weekend voter facilitation initiative. The special drive will be conducted at all Polling Stations across Jammu and Kashmir from 9:00 a.m. to 5:00 p.m. on both days, providing eligible citizens with an accessible opportunity to enroll themselves as voters and update or correct their electoral particulars. The announcement was made during a review meeting chaired by the CEO with District Election Officers (DEOs), Electoral Registration Officers (EROs) and Assistant Electoral Registration Officers (AEROs) to review and finalize arrangements for the special drive. Sanjeev Verma directed the election machinery to ensure extensive outreach and effective facilitation so that no eligible citizen remains outside the electoral rolls. As part of the initiative, weekend voter enrolment and facilitation drives will be organized regularly, providing citizens with a convenient opportunity to approach their nearest Polling Station for enrolment and updation of electoral details. The CEO directed DEOs and EROs/AEROs to undertake extensive institutional and public outreach to create awareness about the initiative. He also called for regular ground-level updates through official social media platforms, with posts carrying relevant Polling Station, Assembly Constituency and District details to enable citizens to easily access information regarding the facilities available in their respective areas. During the two days drive, Booth Level Officers (BLOs) will remain stationed at all Polling Stations from 9:00 AM to 5:00 PM to assist citizens with the submission of Forms 6, 7 and 8 and facilitate enrolment, deletion and correction/updation of electoral details. Citizens will be provided assistance for both physical submission of forms and digital submission through the Voter Helpline App. The CEO further directed BLOs to undertake door-to-door outreach to identify and assist eligible citizens who may have been left out of the electoral rolls, with particular focus on youth, first-time voters, women, Persons with Disabilities (PwDs) and other eligible citizens requiring assistance. Urging citizens to make full use of the initiative, Sanjeev Verma called upon all eligible persons to visit their nearest Polling Station on October 10 or 11 and avail the enrolment and facilitation services available there. He emphasised the importance of active citizen participation in ensuring that the electoral rolls remain complete accurate and inclusive. The Election Department has reiterated its commitment to making voter enrolment more accessible at the grassroots level and ensuring that every eligible citizen has a convenient opportunity to become part of the electoral process.
Actor Nana Patekar passes away at 76
The Hindi actor is suspected to have suffered a heart attack and was brought to a private hospital after he was found unconscious at his apartment in Dona Paula, near Panaji, a senior doctor said
EconFest 2026: KU creates vibrant platform for economics, research, career dialogue
Srinagar Oct 7: The Department of Economics, University of Kashmir (KU), began the second edition of its annual academic and institutional festival, EconFest- 2026, at the Main Campus on Wednesday. Envisioned as a vibrant platform for intellectual engagement, research development, professional guidance and community building, the week-long fest brings together students, faculty, researchers, alumni, eminent scholars and industry representatives to facilitate meaningful academic exchange, strengthen research capabilities and provide students with wider exposure to career and professional opportunities. Speaking at the inaugural session, Vice-Chancellor KU, Prof. Nilofer Khan, highlighted the importance of creating academic spaces that encourage curiosity, critical thinking and meaningful engagement beyond the classroom. She appreciated the Department for creating a platform that connects students with scholars, alumni and professionals and provides them with opportunities to broaden their academic and professional horizons. Universities must create spaces where knowledge is shared and young minds are encouraged to think beyond the classroom, she said. In his remarks Dean Academic Affairs KU, Prof. Shariefuddin Pirzada, said that such academic festivals provide students with an opportunity to engage with contemporary economic debates and interact with experts from diverse academic and professional backgrounds. Registrar KU, Prof. Naseer Iqbal, and Dean, School of Business Studies KU, Prof. Mushtaq Darzi, also expressed their views on the occasion, appreciating the Department's initiative to create an engaging academic platform that brings together teaching, research, professional development and alumni engagement. Earlier, in her welcome address, Head, Department of Economics and Convener of the event, Prof. Effat Yasmin, said that the festival has been conceived as an extension of the department's academic environment, offering students opportunities to learn from experts, interact with alumni and professionals, and develop their research and career-oriented skills. The proceedings of the event were conducted by Dr. Elizabeth Mariam, while the vote of thanks was delivered by Dr. Javaid Iqbal Khan, Organising Secretary of the event. The week-long festival features a diverse range of academic and student-centric programmes, including the Annual Economics Academic Series2026: Eminent Scholar Lectures & Interaction, Fresher-cum-Farewell Party, From Classroom to Career, Capacity Building Research Workshop for Young Scholars, Meet the Distinguished Alumni, and Industry-Academia Interaction. A major attraction of EconFest-2026 is the participation of eminent scholars and experts from leading academic and international institutions. The academic series features Prof. Indrani Roy Chowdhury, Professor of Economics, CSRD, Jawaharlal Nehru University, New Delhi, and Prof. Suraj Jacob, Professor, Centre for Development Studies, Thiruvananthapuram The festival will also feature a 'Meet the Eminent' interaction with Dr. Sajitha Bashir, former Advisor, Education Practice, World Bank.
Queen of Wetlands under pressure : Untreated sewage biggest threat to Hokersar
Srinagar, Oct 07: Kashmirs famed Hokersar wetland is facing a growing ecological threat from the very human activities surrounding it, with untreated domestic sewage emerging as the biggest pressure on the site, a new study has found. The study, conducted by Eiqan Owais Qureshi, an undergraduate student in the Department of Zoology at Government College for Women Nawakadal, under the supervision of Prof Farooq Ahmad Mir, found that domestic sewage discharge accounted for 46.67 percent of the major anthropogenic pressures recorded in the wetland. Agricultural conversion was identified as the second-largest pressure, accounting for 26.67 percent, while encroachment and urbanisation contributed 20 percent. Waterfowl hunting accounted for the remaining 6.67 percent, the study, a copy of which is with the Rising Kashmir reads. The findings paint a worrying picture of an ecosystem increasingly squeezed by expanding human activity, waste inflows and changing land use. Hokersar, widely known as the Queen of Wetlands, is one of Kashmirs most important wetland ecosystems and a critical stopover and wintering habitat for migratory birds travelling along the Central Asian Flyway. Beyond supporting biodiversity, wetlands such as Hokersar function as natural water filters, help regulate floods, store water and provide a range of ecological and socio-economic benefits to surrounding communities, the research reads. However, it warns that these functions are being steadily compromised. The continuous inflow of domestic sewage is contributing to deterioration in water quality and eutrophication, a process in which excessive nutrients stimulate abnormal plant and algal growth and disturb the natural balance of aquatic ecosystems. Such changes can reduce habitat quality and affect the availability of food and shelter for waterfowl and other wetland species, the research reads. It states that the conversion of wetland areas and surrounding land for agriculture adds another layer of pressure. Agricultural expansion alters natural habitats and hydrological patterns, while increasing human activity around the wetland can further accelerate ecological degradation, the study reads further. Urban encroachment poses a similar threat by shrinking the natural space available to the wetland and increasing the volume of waste and pollutants entering its ecosystem. The study also identifies waterfowl hunting as a continuing pressure, although its contribution to the overall anthropogenic burden was lower than sewage, agriculture and urbanisation. Researchers say the cumulative impact of these activities is more significant than any single threat. Degraded water quality, habitat disturbance and land-use changes can collectively reduce the wetlands ability to support migratory birds and perform its natural ecological functions, they said. The study recommends afforestation in catchment areas, effective sewage treatment, tighter regulation of hunting and greater community participation and awareness to arrest further degradation. The researchers stress that protecting Hokersar is not merely about conserving a bird habitat. Its ecological functions are closely linked to the health of the wider landscape and the livelihoods and environmental security of communities around it. For Kashmir, the message is clear-- the Queen of Wetlands may continue to attract thousands of migratory birds, but unless sewage, encroachment and land-use pressures are controlled, the ecosystem that draws them here could itself be pushed towards irreversible decline.
Sheikh-ul-Alam Urs holiday tomorrow
Srinagar, Oct 07: The Jammu and Kashmir Government on Wednesday postponed the provincial holiday on account of Urs Sheikh Noor-Ud-Din (RA), popularly known as Sheikh-ul-Alam by one day. According to a government order issued by the General Administration Department (GAD), the holiday, which was earlier scheduled to be observed on October 8, 2026 (Thursday) , will now be observed on October 9, 2026 (Friday). The order, issued as a partial modification of Government Order No. 1894-JK(GAD) of 2025 dated December 12, 2025, stated that the change applies to Kashmir Province only. The government order, bearing No. 1614-JK(GAD) of 2026, was issued by the General Administration Department with the approval of the Lieutenant Governor, J&K. The revised holiday schedule has been communicated to all concerned government departments, heads of departments, deputy commissioners and other administrative authorities for compliance.
Kashmir gets first Olympic-sized swimming pool
Srinagar, Oct 07: Chief Minister Omar Abdullah on Wednesday inaugurated a Rs 30.35-crore package of sports infrastructure at the Sher-i-Kashmir Multi Sports Activity Centre (SKMSAC) at Gindun Rajbagh, marking a significant expansion of facilities for swimming and gymnastics in Jammu & Kashmir. The newly inaugurated facilities include a 50-metre 25-metre, 10-lane Olympic-sized swimming pool, an all-weather heated training and toddler swimming pool, and a modern indoor gymnastics hall equipped with state-of-the-art equipment. Speaking on the occasion, the Chief Minister said the new facilities would provide young people with opportunities to take up sports beyond traditional disciplines and enable them to train throughout the year. Through this facility, we are trying to provide students with new sports milieu. For example, there is an Olympic-sized swimming pool in Kashmir for the first time. Now, there is an arrangement for heating, which will be done through solar energy so that children can practice and train here for 12 months a year, he said. The main swimming pool, constructed at a cost of Rs 19.96 crore, is equipped with 10 competition lanes, diving platforms at 1, 3 and 5 metres, modern filtration, circulation and disinfection systems, changing rooms, washrooms, storage lockers and spectator seating for 300 people. The facility has been developed to support competitive swimming, diving and other aquatic sports. The Rs 5.35-crore training and toddler swimming pool facility has been designed for year-round use, with a heating system, indoor lap pool, child-friendly toddler pool, anti-skid pool decking, modern filtration and disinfection systems, and supporting changing and shower facilities. The facility is intended to cater to athletes, students and the wider community, including winter training. The Rs 5.04-crore gymnastics hall, spread over 36 metres 21 metres with a 10-metre height, has been equipped with modern gymnastics equipment. The facility is expected to provide a dedicated platform for gymnastics training and coaching in Kashmir, where the Jammu & Kashmir Sports Council has been conducting coaching camps and working towards developing a dedicated Gymnastics Academy. Referring to the new gymnastics facility, the Chief Minister said there was considerable interest among children in Kashmir in taking up the sport, but the lack of dedicated infrastructure had limited opportunities. Generally, when we talk about gymnastics in Jammu and Kashmir, we only talk about Jammu. However, our children are interested in it and want to do it in Kashmir. But due to the lack of infrastructure, they could not do it, he said. A magnificent indoor gymnastics hall was inaugurated today. In the same way, we will keep adding more sports so that we can give our children options and alternatives. And they can also develop an interest in new sports, the Chief Minister added. During the inauguration, the Chief Minister witnessed live swimming and gymnastics demonstrations by sports persons and trainees at the newly developed facilities. The new infrastructure is aimed at strengthening grassroots participation, widening access to professional coaching and creating better pathways for young athletes to progress to national and international competitions. The all-weather aquatic facilities will also enable sustained training during the winter months. Minister for Youth Services & Sports Satish Sharma, Advisor to the Chief Minister Nasir Aslam Wani, MLA Lal Chowk Sheikh Ahsan Ahmed, MLA Hazratbal Salman Sagar, MLA Zadibal Tanvir Sadiq, Additional Chief Secretary to the Chief Minister Dheeraj Gupta, Secretary J&K Sports Council Tazayun Mukhtar Kawoosa, besides students, sportspersons and other concerned officers, were present on the occasion.
Bovine FIRs alone cant justify PSA: HC
Srinagar, Oct 07: The High Court of Jammu & Kashmir and Ladakh has quashed the preventive detention of a 65-year-old Doda resident under the Jammu & Kashmir Public Safety Act (PSA), holding that the authorities failed to establish any link between the cases against him and disturbance of public order. Justice M A Chowdhary, while allowing a habeas corpus petition filed by Din Mohd Wani of Shuryan, Doda, quashed detention order no. PSA/02 of 2026 dated April 28, 2026, issued by the District Magistrate, Doda. The court directed that Wani be released forthwith, provided he was not required in any other case. Wani had challenged his detention through his son, Shahraz Hussain Wani, arguing that the detention order was passed mechanically and violated constitutional safeguards. He contended that the allegations relating to bovine transportation, smuggling and cruelty to animals were matters of law and order and did not amount to activities prejudicial to public order. The authorities, however, defended the detention, stating that Wani had been involved in cases registered under the Bharatiya Nyaya Sanhita and the Prevention of Cruelty to Animals Act and that his activities posed a potential threat to public order. The court noted that two FIRs had been registered against Wani at Police Station Doda - FIR no. 0050/2026 under sections 223 BNS and 11 of the Prevention of Cruelty to Animals Act, and FIR no. 0133/2025 under section 299 BNS. Three daily diary report entries dated February 25, February 27 and March 1, 2026, were also relied upon by the authorities. The High Court observed that the DDR entries had not culminated in criminal cases and merely recording allegations without specifying the alleged activity could not constitute a valid ground for detention. It further found that the detention order did not inform Wani about the time period within which he could make a representation to the District Magistrate seeking revocation of the detention order. The court held that this omission violated his statutory and constitutional rights. The court also found that the grounds of detention were almost a photocopy of the police dossier, indicating non-application of mind by the detaining authority. Importantly, the court noted that the FIRs did not show that Wanis alleged activities had resulted in communal tension, law-and-order problems or any disturbance of public order. It observed that no such development had been recorded following registration of the cases. Relying on earlier judgments, including Hamid Mohd Vs UT of J&K, the court held that preventive detention under the PSA cannot be used merely on the basis of criminal cases without establishing a nexus with public order. The petition was accordingly allowed and the detention order quashed.
49 IAS, JKAS officers transferred in major J&K reshuffle
Srinagar, Oct 07: The Jammu and Kashmir Government on Wednesday ordered a major administrative reshuffle, transferring and posting a large number of IAS and JKAS officers across key departments and districts with immediate effect. The General Administration Department issued Government Order No. 1612-JK(GAD) of 2026, dated October 7, announcing the transfers and postings. As per the order, Shaleen Kabra, IAS, Financial Commissioner (Additional Chief Secretary), Jal Shakti Department, has been given the additional charge of Administrative Secretary, Revenue Department, relieving Kumar Rajeev Ranjan, IAS, of the additional charge. Dr Ashish Chandra Verma, IAS, Financial Commissioner (Additional Chief Secretary), Tourism Department, has been transferred and posted as Financial Commissioner (Additional Chief Secretary), Agriculture Production Department. M. Raju, IAS, Commissioner/Secretary, General Administration Department, has been divested of the additional charge of Health and Medical Education Department. He will now hold additional charge of Hospitality & Protocol Department and the Department of Disaster Management, Relief, Rehabilitation & Reconstruction. R. Alice Vaz, IAS, has been transferred as Commissioner/Secretary, Transport Department. She will also hold additional charge of Civil Aviation Department and Commissioner, Civil Aviation, while continuing as Administrative Secretary, Information Department. Saugat Biswas, IAS, has been posted as Commissioner/Secretary, Health & Medical Education Department, relieving M. Raju of the additional charge. Among other major postings, Sarmad Hafeez, IAS, has been transferred as Commissioner/Secretary, Youth Services and Sports Department, while Ramesh Kumar, IAS, has been posted as Secretary, Rural Development and Panchayati Raj Department, with additional charge of Culture Department. Naveen S L, IAS, has been posted as Commissioner of Enquiries, J&K, while Avny Lavasa, IAS, has been transferred as Secretary, Tourism Department and will continue to hold additional charge of Tribal Affairs Department. Anjali Sehrawat, IAS, has been posted as Secretary, Public Grievances Department, while Vikas Kundal, IAS, has been appointed Divisional Commissioner, Jammu, with additional charge of Additional CEO, Jammu Metropolitan Regional Development Authority. Majid Khalil Ahmad Drabu, IAS, has been posted as Inspector General of Registration, J&K. In another significant change, Rahul Yadav, IAS, has been posted as Administrative Secretary, Information Technology Department, while continuing as Managing Director, J&K Power Development Corporation Limited. Owais Ahmed, IAS, has been posted as Administrative Secretary, Planning, Development & Monitoring Department, while Dr Sagar Doifode Dattatray, IAS, has been posted as Administrative Secretary, Social Welfare Department. At the district level, Dr Devansh Yadav, IAS, has been posted as Deputy Commissioner, Rajouri, while Rakesh Minhas, IAS, has been posted as CEO, State Health Agency, J&K. Shrikant Balasaheb Suse, IAS, has been appointed Chairman, J&K Services Selection Board. Akriti Sagar, IAS, has been posted as Managing Director, J&K Tourism Development Corporation, with additional charge of CEO, J&K Economic Reconstruction Agency. Athar Aamir Ul Shafi Khan, IAS, has been transferred from Deputy Commissioner, Budgam and posted as Managing Director, National Health Mission, J&K. Basharat Qayoom, IAS, has been posted as Commissioner, Srinagar Municipal Corporation, with additional charge of CEO, SPV for Srinagar City for implementation of the Smart City Project. Ayushi Sudan, IAS, has been posted as Commissioner, Jammu Municipal Corporation, with additional charge of CEO, SPV Jammu City and Mission Director, Swachh Bharat Mission (Urban). Minga Sherpa, IAS, has been transferred as Deputy Commissioner, Jammu, while Faz Lul Haseeb, IAS, has been posted as Additional Secretary, Agriculture Production Department. Abhishek Sharma, IAS, has been posted as Deputy Commissioner, Kupwara, while Dr Rupesh Kumar, IAS, has been posted as Deputy Commissioner, Samba. Jatin Kishore, IAS, has been transferred as Deputy Commissioner, Budgam, while Shreya Singhal, IAS, has been posted as Deputy Commissioner, Ganderbal. Ananth Dwivedi, IAS, has been posted as Deputy Commissioner, Udhampur, while Mamta Yadav, IAS, has been appointed Director, Information, J&K. Among other postings, Mahima Madan, IAS, has been appointed Additional District Development Commissioner, Anantnag, while Vidhu Shekhar, IAS, has been posted as Vice Chairman, Jammu Development Authority. Pranjal J Hazarika, IAS, has been posted as Director, J&K Archives, Archaeology and Museums, while Vivek Agarwal, IAS, has been appointed Director, Employment, J&K, with additional charge of CEO, Mission YUVA. Ishita Rathi, IAS, has been posted as Additional Deputy Commissioner, Jammu. Vikas Ahlawat, IAS, has been transferred as Labour Commissioner, J&K, while Prince Kumar, IAS, has been posted as OSD, Shri Amarnathji Shrine Board. Gaurav Yadav, IAS, has been posted as Sub-Divisional Magistrate, Uri, while Seerat Baji, IAS, has been posted as Sub-Divisional Magistrate, Srinagar (West). The order also includes several postings of IAS and JKAS officers in revenue, cooperative, rural sanitation, archives, labour and district administration. Leena Padha, IAS, has been posted as Registrar, Cooperative Societies, J&K, while Rajinder Singh Tara, IAS, has been posted as Secretary, Revenue Department. Anoo Malhotra, IAS, has been appointed Mission Director, Jal Jeevan Mission. Among JKAS officers, Kuldeep Krishan Sidha has been posted as Deputy Commissioner, Pulwama, while Charandeep Singh has been posted as Deputy Commissioner, Shopian. Rakesh Kumar, JKAS, has been posted as Special Secretary, Lok Bhawan, while Sachin Jamwal, JKAS, has been posted as Additional Deputy Commissioner, Kathua. Sushil Kesar, JKAS, has been posted as Additional Deputy Commissioner, Reasi, while Irfan Bahadur, JKAS, has been posted as Assistant Commissioner (Revenue), Budgam. Afroza Bano, JKAS, has been transferred and asked to await further posting in the General Administration Department. The transfers and postings have been ordered with immediate effect. The order has been issued by M. Raju, IAS, Commissioner/Secretary to the Government, General Administration Department, by order of the Lieutenant Governor.
PM-RAHAT can save 50% of road accident deaths
Srinagar, Oct 07: Prime MinisterRoad Accident Victim Hospitalization and Assured Treatment (PM-RAHAT) scheme is emerging as a crucial support for road accident victims, with over 900 people having so far availed cashless treatment under PM-RAHAT and the Rah-Veer schemes across Jammu & Kashmir. Deputy Inspector General (DIG) Traffic, Kashmir, Haseeb-ur-Rehman told Rising Kashmir that the PM-RAHAT scheme, launched in February 2026, is still not widely known among people, despite its potential to provide crucial assistance to road accident victims during the golden hour (the first hour after an accident). According to studies cited during the launch of the scheme, nearly 50 per cent of road accident deaths can be averted if victims are admitted to a hospital within the first hour. DIG Traffic said any road accident victim, including a driver, commuter or pedestrian, can avail treatment benefits of up to Rs 1.5 lakh under the scheme. He said victims or those accompanying them can immediately contact the local police station or the Emergency Response Support System (ERSS) on the 112 helpline, following which the victim can be shifted to a hospital and assisted in availing the benefits under the scheme. The people should know about this scheme, he said. Under the scheme, every eligible road accident victim on any category of road is entitled to cashless treatment of up to Rs 1.5 lakh per victim for a period of seven days from the date of the accident. Stabilisation treatment is provided for up to 24 hours in non-life-threatening cases and up to 48 hours in life-threatening cases, subject to police authentication through an integrated digital system. PM-RAHAT is implemented through a technology-driven framework integrating the Electronic Detailed Accident Report (eDAR) platform of the Ministry of Road Transport and Highways with the Transaction Management System (TMS 2.0) of the National Health Authority. The integration enables digital linkage from accident reporting and hospital admission to police authentication, treatment administration, claim processing and final payment. Police confirmation is required within defined timelines24 hours for non-life-threatening cases and 48 hours for life-threatening caseswhile ensuring that emergency treatment is not interrupted. Chief Secretary Atal Dulloo earlier this week chaired a high-level meeting to review the Road Safety Action Plan, accident data, i-RAD, black spot rectification, trauma care, digital enforcement and other road safety interventions across the Union Territory. During the meeting, it was informed that 906 road accident victims have so far availed cashless treatment under the PM-RAHAT and Rah-Veer schemes.
Recruitment rules finalised, cabinet expansion after GST council meet: CM
Srinagar, Oct 07: Chief Minister Omar Abdullah on Wednesday said the long-awaited recruitment rules were almost ready and had been given final shape, while stating that the expansion of his Council of Ministers would be decided after the upcoming GST Council meeting in Delhi. Speaking to reporters here, the Chief Minister said the recruitment rules had been finalised, but certain contradictions and legal ambiguities in the earlier draft were still being resolved. We do not want to rush the process only to face counterproductive results later, he said, expressing confidence that the rules would be notified soon after the remaining issues were settled. The delay in notifying recruitment rules has been a subject of widespread concern among job aspirants across Jammu and Kashmir, who have been waiting for clarity on eligibility, procedure and timelines for various government posts. On the expansion of his Council of Ministers, Omar Abdullah said consultations with National Conference president Farooq Abdullah would be held after his return from Delhi. He said the expansion had been planned after the Assembly session, which has now concluded, but the upcoming GST Council meeting in Delhi would delay the process. The Chief Minister's remarks come amid speculation over the much-anticipated Cabinet reshuffle in Jammu and Kashmir. On the transfer of several bureaucrats by Lieutenant Governor Manoj Sinha earlier in the day, Omar Abdullah said the postings must have been made after due consideration and that his government would work with the officers in their new departments. On Prime Minister Narendra Modi completing 25 years in public life, Omar Abdullah congratulated him, saying repeated electoral victories over such a long period indicated that he must have done something right for people to continue voting for him. On the proposed Special Intensive Revision (SIR) of electoral rolls, the Chief Minister expressed hope that ongoing proceedings in the Supreme Court would make it difficult to delete genuine voters. He said Jammu and Kashmir had already been a victim of what he termed electoral ampering through the delimitation exercise and feared a similar attempt could be made through voter-list revision. The SIR exercise is yet to be undertaken in Jammu and Kashmir. I hope the Supreme Court proceedings, particularly those concerning Form 6, will make it harder to remove genuine voters from electoral rolls, he said. CM Abdullah also defended the INDIA bloc's ongoing campaign against Chief Election Commissioner Gyanesh Kumar, questioning the BJP's dismissal of allegations against the Election Commission as fabricated. If it were fabricated, why don't they take action against the newspaper through which all this came to light? he asked, referring to reports published by a national daily. He said the INDIA bloc's month-long programme of protests was decided at a recent meeting in Delhi, with Congress president Mallikarjun Kharge announcing the schedule.
Blackspots Are Warnings, Not Solutions
The Traffic Police Kashmirs identification of accident blackspots across the Valley is a welcome step, but it must not become another exercise in paperwork. A list forwarded to government departments can reduce accidents only when it is followed by inspections, funding, engineering corrections and clearly assigned responsibility. Otherwise, the blackspots will remain what they have been for years: known danger zones where every crash is treated as an unfortunate surprise. The warning that peripheral areas are more vulnerable deserves urgent attention. In the hilly and rural stretches of Kashmir, sharp bends, poor road geometry, weak shoulders, inadequate signage and missing crash barriers turn ordinary journeys into high-risk ventures. A vehicle does not need to be speeding for a badly designed curve to become fatal. Nor can drivers alone be blamed when the road itself gives little warning and offers no protection after a mistake. The concerned departments must therefore move beyond temporary measures. Every identified blackspot should undergo a technical safety audit, with specific timelines for correcting curves, installing crash barriers, improving drainage, marking lanes and placing reflective signs. The public should be told which agency is responsible for each location and when the corrective work will be completed. Accountability cannot end with forwarding a file. The DIG Traffic is also right to call for a multi-departmental strategy. Traffic Police cannot redesign roads, the Transport Department cannot remove encroachments, and municipal agencies cannot regulate every movement on their own. The Srinagar Municipal Corporation, road construction agencies, transport authorities and Traffic Police must work through a permanent coordination mechanism rather than meeting only after a tragedy. Road safety needs joint planning, regular review and measurable outcomes. Urban traffic, meanwhile, reflects a different but connected failure. Pedestrians crossing at undesignated points is a problem, but compliance cannot be secured by appeals alone. Zebra crossings must be visible, accessible and located where people actually need to cross. Footpaths must be restored to pedestrians, parking must be expanded, and enforcement must be consistent. A crossing placed far from a market, bus stop or residential area will not change behaviour merely because it exists on paper. The unchecked growth of roadside vending further exposes the absence of a durable policy. Relocating vendors to alternative markets can work only when those spaces remain viable, and enforcement prevents a gradual return to the roads. Livelihood concerns must be respected, but they cannot be allowed to consume footpaths, narrow carriageways and endanger both vendors and commuters. Kashmir does not lack warnings about unsafe roads. What it lacks is sustained execution. The blackspot list should become a public safety plan, with deadlines, budgets and named officials. Preventing accidents is not a seasonal campaign; it is a continuing duty of governance.
TECHNOLOGY & NATIONAL SECURITY Kashmir knows what it is to lose a connection by order. India recorded 65 internet shutdowns in 2025, according to Access Now, and in Jammu and Kashmir the authorities went after VPN users under Section 163 of the Bharatiya Nagarik Suraksha Sanhita, penalising roughly 800 people. Satellite broadband looks like the answer. A dish on a rooftop in a high-altitude village needs no local tower and no fibre run. In early September, the Digital Communications Commission approved a spectrum framework that moves Starlink, Eutelsat OneWeb and Jios satellite venture closer to commercial launch. But a network with no towers still has a throat. Every one of these services must land its traffic at a gateway on Indian soil, and whoever controls the gateway controls the switch. What the framework approves, and what it does not According to MediaNama, the commission cleared TRAIs recommendations on 3 September. Spectrum would be assigned for five years, with a possible two-year extension, at 5 per cent of adjusted gross revenue. Operators serving rural and remote areas may get a 4 per cent rate. The Department of Telecommunications rejected a proposed Rs 500 annual levy on urban subscribers. Three steps remain: Union Cabinet approval, formal spectrum assignment, and security clearance from the Ministry of Home Affairs. The draft spectrum rules reported in June go further. They require government approval before consumer services launch, and they require authorisation to connect a satellite network to public telecom infrastructure. Starlinks own plans show where the weight sits. MediaNama reports about 20 earth stations across Noida, Chennai and Navi Mumbai, a capacity of up to 2 million users, and a terminal costing around Rs 33,000. Two million connections would run through a few facilities in three cities. A shutdown that moves from the tower to the gateway Today, a suspension order in Kashmir lands on telecom operators and their local infrastructure, district by district. It is blunt, and it is visible. Satellite links change the mechanics. If traffic for a whole footprint passes through a handful of gateways, one lawful order to one facility could darken a large area at once. The dish on the roof is hard to cut. The gateway in Noida is easy to switch off. That is my inference, and it has limits. The licence conditions that would govern gateway shutdowns are not public, and I could not verify whether they allow targeted, area-by-area suspension. What is public is the direction. MediaNama reported in June that security agencies under the Home Ministry had frozen Starlinks final clearances and wanted monitoring systems inside India and regular reporting to law enforcement. Starlink disputed the freeze and called its talks with the government active and productive. The design has a security logic. A gateway on Indian soil is the only place where Delhi can enforce anything against a foreign operator. It is also the place where a promise of shutdown-proof connectivity gets tested. The beam does not read maps MediaNama also reports that agencies are examining signal spillover near the borders. A satellite footprint over the Valley does not stop at the Line of Control. The same constellation that serves Gurez serves territory on the other side. Terminals add a second worry. The Indian Army recovered what it described as a Starlink device with weapons in Manipur in December 2024, per MediaNama, and terminals worked in Iran during that countrys conflict without proper licensing. A Rs 33,000 terminal fits in a rucksack. The states likely response is tighter control at the two points it can reach: the gateway and the terminal registry. Both are felt first by the legitimate user in a remote district. The smuggler who skips the registry still depends on a gateway that will carry the traffic, which is why the location of that gateway matters so much to security agencies. The steelman Keeping gateways in India is better than the alternative. A foreign operator running a network over Indian territory with no domestic control point would be a sovereignty problem of a different kind, and the Iran episode shows why agencies worry. Satellite links also survive physical damage that would take a tower or a cable offline, and that has real value in a region of floods and snowfall. So the argument is narrower. Resilience and control are being sold as one product, and they are two. The first protects users from accidents. The second protects the state from users, and the licence conditions will decide which one dominates. Bottom Line Satellite broadband will make Indias border regions harder to cut off by accident. It will also make them easier to switch off on purpose, from a few buildings in Noida, Chennai and Navi Mumbai. Before the Cabinet signs off, Delhi should publish the conditions under which a gateway can be ordered dark, and say who reviews that order. Kashmir has lived with the unpublished version for long enough. (The Author studies Computer Science and Artificial Intelligence at Rutgers University, New Jersey, USA. He is interested in emerging technologies and innovation, and can be reached on LinkedIn at @arssh-kumar14)
Missing Coal: Govt Cites survey error, Katakey panel rejects claim, seeks probe
Shillong, Oct 7: The disappearance of 18.46 lakh metric tonnes of inventoried coal has come under the scanner in the 41st Katakey Interim Report. The High Court in its August 31, 2026 order noted that no independent inquiry was launched into the massive deficit the difference between 32,56,715 MT declared by the government before [] The post Missing Coal: Govt Cites survey error, Katakey panel rejects claim, seeks probe first appeared on Highland Post .
Brazilian students in Rio de Janeiro march against the prospect of another Bolsonaro presidency
Thousands of Brazilian students have marched in Rio de Janeiro against the possibility of Flvio Bolsonaro winning the presidency
Zero rat-hole mines closed, Rs 428 cr green fund unused
Shillong, Oct 7: The Justice (Retd) B P Katakey Committee, in its 41st Interim Report, has observed that not a single rat-hole coal mine has been closed or fenced in Meghalaya till date, even after more than two years of High Court directives for permanent closure and sealing of abandoned pits. The state government, in [] The post Zero rat-hole mines closed, Rs 428 cr green fund unused first appeared on Highland Post .
Cabinet extends GHADC term; Oppn, NGOs flag delay, transparency concerns
Shillong, Oct 7: The state cabinet today approved a six-month extension of the term of the Garo Hills Autonomous District Council (GHADC). The GHADCs earlier six-month extension is due to expire on October 17. The original election date had been postponed following communal violence in Garo Hills ahead of polling in March. Since then, electoral [] The post Cabinet extends GHADC term; Oppn, NGOs flag delay, transparency concerns first appeared on Highland Post .
Lawyers step up agitation against Advocate General despite split in fraternity
Shillong, Oct 7: The Meghalaya High Court Bar Association (MHCBA) and Shillong Bar Association today stepped up their agitation seeking the removal of Advocate General Amit Kumar, with lawyers from several district bar associations joining a new street protest in Shillong. The protestors marched from the Woh Kiang Nangbah Monument through Barik, Malki and Lower [] The post Lawyers step up agitation against Advocate General despite split in fraternity first appeared on Highland Post .
Govt anti-local, promoting dynasty in law: VPP
Shillong, Oct 7: Terming the government as anti-local and accusing it of promoting dynasty even in the field of law, the Voice of the People Party (VPP) on Wednesday demanded immediate removal of Advocate General Amit Kumar and extended solidarity to Bar Associations boycotting courts. VPP president Ardent Miller Basaiawmoit said remarks by the AG [] The post Govt anti-local, promoting dynasty in law: VPP first appeared on Highland Post .
Power is temporary, Hek tells NPP
Shillong, Oct 7: Political parties will have their highs and lows and power is only temporary, Pynthorumkhrah MLA Alexander Laloo Hek philosophised today. Eventually, a party in charge will face anti-incumbency and politicians should avoid vainly trying to hold on to power, he said. His words come as his Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) has been [] The post Power is temporary, Hek tells NPP first appeared on Highland Post .
From Bees to Better Farms: Honeybees in Natural Farming
By Denisha Rajkhowa Introduction Agriculture in the North Eastern Region (NER) of India is closely associated with rich biodiversity, diverse agro-climatic conditions, traditional farming practices and abundant natural resources. The region comprises Arunachal Pradesh, Assam, Manipur, Meghalaya, Mizoram, Nagaland, Sikkim and Tripura, and supports a wide range of agricultural and horticultural crops. Fruits, vegetables, pulses, [] The post From Bees to Better Farms: Honeybees in Natural Farming first appeared on Highland Post .
The Supreme Court, through its frequent interventions, is pointing to what the Central Board of Secondary Education does not seem to have thought through in its three-language policy. Regardless of its final judgment, the Courts intent at this stage is to flag the pitfalls and soften the rough edges. In its latest ruling, it has [] The post Rethink 3-Language Push first appeared on Highland Post .
The Three Delays That Kill Mothers
By Dr. Dylan G. Momin Public health specialists explain maternal deaths through a simple framework known as the three delays. The first is the delay in deciding to seek care, when a family fails to recognise danger signs or hopes the situation will improve on its own. The second is the delay in reaching care, [] The post The Three Delays That Kill Mothers & How We Are Closing Them first appeared on Highland Post .
Captain Smit Machchhars health is improving: MEA
On flydubai flight FZ1073 on September 30, Mr. Machchhar was attacked by his co-pilot, an Omani citizen, with a crash axe
Texas carries out first execution in U.S. since Christa Pike's failed lethal injection
Texas has executed six people so far in 2026 and plans two more executions scheduled this year
Here is a select list of stories to start the day
Organisations engaged in religious conversion shall be denied FCRA registration: Madras HC
Only organisations whose activities do not affect nations secular fabric can receive foreign funds, says the Madurai Bench, rejecting an appeal by a charitable trust for registration under the Act
Starlink India Launch Delay: Musk Alleges Oligarchs Are Blocking Service
Hyderabad, October 8 : Starlink India launch delay has prompted Elon Musk to allege that unnamed oligarchs are obstructing the satellite internet providers entry into the country to protect their position in the telecommunications market. Musk made the allegation in a post on X on Wednesday while responding to an account that called for Starlink [] The post Starlink India Launch Delay: Musk Alleges Oligarchs Are Blocking Service appeared first on The Voice Of Sikkim .
Attacks on Saudi airports claimed by Houthi rebels kill 3 people, officials say
The Saudi General Authority for Civil Aviation did not blame any party for the attacks at Abha and Riyadhs King Khalid international airports, but Houthi rebels took credit earlier for the airport strikes
Tanker off Qatar reports hits from multiple projectiles: U.K. maritime agency
The reported attack on Wednesday (October 7, 2026) was around 500 kilometres (300 miles) from the Strait of Hormuz
Jaishankar discusses bilateral ties with Cote d'Ivoire
The Minister arrived in Cote d'Ivoire from Ghana on the second leg of his three-nation tour of African countries, which also includes Ethiopia
Delhi HC asks Centre to consider plea for body-worn cameras for police managing protests, crowd
The court was hearing the PIL, filed by advocate Chahat Raghav, seeking direction for constitution of an expert committee to formulate a binding SOP, making the use of body-worn cameras mandatory and continuous
