Palaniswami urges Vijay to raise Mekedatu issue with Congress leadership
Mr. Palaniswami criticised Karnataka Chief Minister D.K. Shivakumar for repeatedly asserting that building a dam at Mekedatu was Karnatakas right and required no ones permission
Historian of medieval South India
Ranjeeta Dutta learnt Tamil and wrote on the region
Assistant RO accepts nominations of P.T. Usha, Harjinder Singh; rejects objections
The objections, received on November 13 against the provisional electoral college, questioned the eligibility of Usha and Harjinder, both listed as members of the IHAI
Three arrested in Bhopal for duping Delhi woman of 71 lakh in digital arrest scam
The accused impersonated an IPS officer and threatened the victim with arrest in a fake 6.5-crore money laundering case; IFSO uncovers a network of mule bank accounts used to route the cheated money
Access to healthy food would be considered as essential as medications for patients with chronic illness
Flight services on Imphal-Silchar route scheduled to commence on November 24
The services will be operated by Alliance Air under the Viability Gap Funding facility and flight frequency would be two days a week, every Tuesday and Thursday, an airport official said
The SEBI chief said the proposed guidelines would focus on establishing appropriate guardrails for AI use, including disclosures, accountability of regulated entities and a human-in-the-loop approach
Demand for immediate constitution of users panel for South Coast Railway
Regular meetings of the committee would enable zonal authorities to take swift action on local issues while escalating broader policy and infrastructure matters to the Railway Board and the Ministry of Railways
Human rights commission seeks report on parking woes of city buses in Kozhikode
The complaint alleged that traffic police and the Motor Vehicles Department were imposing hefty fines on buses for parking on the Medical College premises, while private vehicles were allowed to park there
Mahanagar Gas hikes CNG prices in Mumbai by 1.5/kg, sixth hike since May
Cumulatively prices of the vehicular gas have increased 9.5 per kg across six tranches since May 14
Cyber fraud reporting rises amid faster police interventions
Police officers involved in cybercrime investigations say the growing number of complaints is an indication of the public response to awareness campaigns and the grievance redressal measures; use of advanced cyber technologies and track fraudsters has further strengthened the investigation process, encouraging victims to report incidents at the earliest, they point out
Watch: SpaceXs Starship returns from orbit and is captured by launch pad arms in a dramatic first
Unnatural death allegations: Family to protest with womans body outside bank in Kozhikode
The incident occurred on November 13 when a team comprising bank officials, an advocate commissioner, and police personnel arrived at Kavitha Babus residence, rejecting the familys request of a five-day extension for loan repayment
Massive fire at Gurugram woollens market guts around 25 shops; no injuries
An official said that a woman in the area heard a noise at around 4 a.m. and discovered that the market was on fire. She alerted others, but by then, the blaze had become massive
Woman trampled to death by elephant in Hassan district in Karnataka
Many wild elephants have been roaming in parts of Belur, Sakaleshpur and Alur taluks. There have been many instances of human-elephant conflict in the district, particularly in these taluks, leading to constant tension and casulties.
FPIs pump 84,290 crore into equities in first fortnight of November
According to the data, Foreign Portfolio Investors (FPIs) made a net investment of 84,290 crore in Indian equities during November 2-13, covering nine trading sessions.
Aaryavir Sehwag, Virender Sehwags son, takes first steps towards forging own identity
At the U-19 Asia Cup in Oman, which concluded with the boys in blue defeating arch-rival Pakistan in a nail-biting final, the 19-year-old from Delhi finished top of the charts with 361 runs in five matches, earning the Player-of-the-Tournament award
COP31: Experts flag extreme heat risks to pregnant women, call for targeted adaptation
Studies show that exposure to extreme heat can affect pregnant women's health, pregnancy outcomes and the health of newborns
Cape Verde could elect first woman President since gaining independence in 1975
Six candidates are competing, with a runoff scheduled for Nov. 29 if no candidate receives more than half the votes
Health Wrap Episode 59 discusses living with diabetes, approaches to diabetes care and more
The episode discusses the everyday realities of living with diabetes, experiences of older adults who have managed the condition over several years, and practical approaches to diabetes management, including diet, physical activity and blood glucose monitoring
President Droupadi Murmu, PM Modi pay tribute to Birsa Munda at Delhis Parliament complex
On the occasion of Jharkhands State Foundation Day and the 151st birth anniversary of tribal leader Birsa Munda, President Droupadi Murmu and Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Sunday paid floral tributes to the tribal icon, known as Dharti Aaba, at the Parliament complex in New Delhi. Also present were Vice-President C. P. Radhakrishnan, Union Law Minister Arjun Ram Meghwal and Lok Sabha Speaker Om Birla.
Two cattle smugglers killed in encounter with police in Haryana
During the exchange of fire, three people sustained bullet injuries and were rushed to Nalhar Medical College. Two of the injured, identified as Sabir and Gabbar alias Hadiya, succumbed to their injuries, while Tahir is undergoing treatment
At 5.30 a.m., the system lay centred over southeast and southwest Bay of Bengal, about 700 km west-southwest of Port Blair
India, Egypt look to strengthen trade, investment ties, Piyush Goyal says
Addressing a community event organised by the Indian Community Association in Egypt in Cairo, Piyush Goyal said the bilateral trade between the countries stood at about $6.5 billion
PNB eyes 200 crore quarterly profit each from credit card, cash management verticals
The bank has also launched its premium PNB Metal Credit Card Luxura, which has attracted 27,140 customers so far
Depression to turn severe cyclonic storm over Bay of Bengal by November 17
According to the latest weather report, November 14 well-marked low-pressure area over the southeast Bay of Bengal moved northwestward, intensified into a depression and lay centred at 5:30 a.m. today
Devotees break lock of lake gate in Palghar after Chhath Puja ban
Authorities had prohibited the rituals at the Nagela lake in the Gala Nagar area and locked its main entrance gate to enforce the restriction.
Fire Damages Jamia Masjid in Baramulla, Four Sustain Burn Injuries; Shifted to Srinagar Hospital
Baramulla, Nov 15: A fire broke out at Jamia Masjid in the Hamray area of Pattan in north Kashmirs Baramulla district on Sunday morning, causing partial damage to the mosque and leaving four persons with burn injuries. Officials of the Fire and Emergency Services said that the Fire Control Room Sopore received the distress call at 08:40 AM, following which a fire tender from F&ES Sangrama was immediately mobilised at 08:41 AM. Considering the nature of the incident, a fire tender from F&ES Wanigam also rushed to the spot as reinforcement to assist in the firefighting operation. The officials said that the fire was subsequently brought under control by the Fire and Emergency Services personnel, preventing it from spreading further and causing additional damage to the structure. Meanwhile, as per the spot officer, four persons sustained minor burn injuries during the incident. The injured have been identified as Aijaz Ahmad, Showkat Ahmad Bhat, Altaf Pandit and Bilal Ahmad Pandit. All four injured persons were shifted to a hospital in Srinagar for medical treatment. Further details regarding the cause of the fire and the extent of damage are awaited.
Today is a day of pride, self-respect and resolve for us; the struggles of great heroes... are our identity, our heritage and our inspiration, said Hemant Soren
Air quality very poor in city; IIT Delhi records highest AQI of 428
Of the 54 monitoring stations, 47 recorded 'very poor' air quality, while seven were in the 'severe' category
PM Modi greets Jharkhand residents on States foundation day
harkhand, which is known for its pristine forests and natural resources, was created on November 15, 2000, from what was previously the southern areas of Bihar
PM Modi pays tribute to Birsa Munda on birth anniversary
Prime Minister Modi said the courage, struggle and sacrifice of 'Dharti Aaba' would continue to inspire generations to uphold self-respect, freedom and rights
PM Modi pays tribute to Birsa Munda on birth anniversary
Prime Minister Modi said the courage, struggle and sacrifice of 'Dharti Aaba' would continue to inspire generations to uphold self-respect, freedom and rights
3 militants arrested for extortion in Manipur
UNLF (Pambei) signed a peace pact with the Centre and state government in 2023. However, its members allegedly continue with illegal activities, including extortion and arms possession, leading to their arrests
3 militants arrested for extortion in Manipur
UNLF (Pambei) signed a peace pact with the Centre and state government in 2023. However, its members allegedly continue with illegal activities, including extortion and arms possession, leading to their arrests
Nations grapple with loss of 1.5C target at UN climate summit
The world has already warmed about 1.4C above pre-industrial times and the UN declared in September that crossing 1.5C the most ambitious target threshold of the Paris accord was imminent and unavoidable
NASA's Voyager 1 closes in on a light-day in interstellar space for new distance record
NASA is looking at another 18,000 years before the spacecraft achieves a full light-year and more than double that before it comes near another star
Coalition to move away from fossil fuels presses ahead without Colombia, its original champion
The coalition, launched in the Colombian coastal city of Santa Marta in April, is expected to release a progress report this week outlining steps taken by participating countries, including additional national plans to reduce dependence on coal, oil and gas
Judge temporarily blocks Trump from moving ahead on Washington public golf course redevelopment
U.S. District Judge Ana Reyes issued the temporary restraining order before the East Potomac Golf Links was due to close on November 15 for 15 months
Pakyong Police Recover 70% of Stolen Property in Nimtar Theft Case, Accused Arrested
Pakyong, November 14: Pakyongs Sikkim Police have recovered approximately 70 per cent of the stolen property in connection with the Nimtar theft case following the arrest of a 24-year-old accused and a search operation conducted in Siliguri, West Bengal. The accused, identified as Rajeev Sundas alias Tupac, a resident of Jubilee Line, Singtam, was arrested [] The post Pakyong Police Recover 70% of Stolen Property in Nimtar Theft Case, Accused Arrested appeared first on The Voice Of Sikkim .
From Kashmir to Pune, young warriors chase Taekwondo gold
Srinagar, Nov 14: From five-year-old beginners to young athletes with years of training behind them, a contingent of Jammu and Kashmir Taekwondo players has embarked on a journey to Pune with one common dreambringing home gold medals. The contingent was flagged off from the historic Balidaan Stambh at Lal Chowk on Saturday to participate in the International World Ranking G1 Taekwondo Championship 2026 in Pune. The ceremony witnessed participation of senior police and administrative officials, including DIG Traffic Kashmir Haseeb-ur-Rehman and SSP Traffic Srinagar Bisma Qazi. Sports enthusiasts, supporters and well-wishers also gathered to encourage the young athletes before their departure. Speaking to Rising Kashmir, DIG Traffic said that it was indeed a proud moment that a young team including five-year-old talented kids are leaving for Pune to take part in the International Taekwondo Championship. We are hopeful these children will bring laurels for J&K and the country, he said. Coach Mansha Bashir expressed confidence in the team's preparations, saying the athletes had undergone rigorous training and were determined to make J&K proud. We are hopeful that Kashmir will bring gold this time. The players have worked extremely hard and undergone rigorous training for this championship. They are well-prepared and highly motivated to give their best, she said. Highlighting the age diversity of the contingent, Mansha said some of the participants were as young as five, seven, eight and 12 years, reflecting the growing interest in Taekwondo among children in Kashmir. It is encouraging to see such young children taking up the sport with dedication. Despite their young age, they have shown tremendous discipline, enthusiasm and commitment during training. We want them to compete fearlessly, gain international exposure and make the country and Jammu and Kashmir proud, she said. The coach said the championship would provide the young players with an important platform to test their skills, gain experience and compete against athletes from different backgrounds. The dignitaries present at the flag-off ceremony appreciated the players for their discipline and dedication, urging them to uphold the spirit of sportsmanship and bring laurels to the Union Territory. The team's travel has been sponsored by Applied Information, Inc., through its Glance Smart City Supervisory System, a cloud-based platform designed to manage and monitor intelligent transportation systems and traffic operations. The support reflects the importance of corporate partnerships in promoting sporting talent and helping young athletes access competitive platforms. For the youngest members of the contingent, the Pune championship represents an important milestone in their sporting journey. For their coach and supporters, the expectations are even higher. As the team heads to Pune, Kashmir will be hoping that the hard work, discipline and determination of its young Taekwondo warriors translate into a golden performance.
Srinagar, Nov 14: The Department of Endocrinology, Government Medical College (GMC) Srinagar, in collaboration with Super Speciality Hospital (SSH), on Saturday observed World Diabetes Day through a series of awareness, screening and community outreach programmes under the global theme Early Action on Diabetes. The programme was held under the guidance of Principal/Dean, GMC Srinagar, Prof. (Dr.) Iffat Hassan. Addressing the gathering, Prof. (Dr.) Iffat described diabetes as one of the fastest-growing public health challenges and stressed that prevention through healthy lifestyle choices remains the most effective strategy. She said the theme underscores the importance of early diagnosis, regular screening and timely treatment to prevent complications. She urged people to adopt healthy eating habits, maintain an ideal body weight, avoid tobacco and engage in at least 30 minutes of physical activity daily to reduce the risk of diabetes and its cardiovascular, kidney and eye-related complications. Speaking on the occasion, Prof. (Dr.) Mohammad Hayat Bhat, Head, Department of Endocrinology, advised that every adult should undergo blood sugar screening at least once, while individuals with risk factors such as family history, obesity, hypertension, sedentary lifestyle or gestational diabetes should be screened regularly. He emphasized that uncontrolled diabetes can silently damage the heart, kidneys, eyes and nerves, making early detection, strict glycaemic control, balanced nutrition, regular exercise and adherence to treatment essential. Masarat Hashim, Administrator, Associated Hospitals, GMC Srinagar, appreciated the efforts of the Department of Endocrinology in organising the awareness programme. Dr. Shahnaz, Associate Professor, Department of Endocrinology, highlighted the importance of public awareness and community participation in diabetes prevention and self-management. She appreciated the enthusiastic participation of students, healthcare workers and members of the general public in the Diabetes Run. The highlight of the celebrations was the 3rd Edition of the Diabetes Run, flagged off from Nishat Garden Gate to Duck Park and back, with over 300 participants, including faculty members, doctors, nursing staff, postgraduate residents, interns, MBBS students and members of the general public. Winners in the men's and women's categories were felicitated. A special interactive session for children living with Type 1 Diabetes was also organised to provide education, counselling and support for children and their parents. A Free Diabetes Screening and Patient Education Camp was conducted at the lawns of Super Speciality Hospital, where more than 500 patients underwent screening.
IUST to host conference on emerging technologies for governance, dev planning
Awantipora, Nov 14: The Islamic University of Science and Technology (IUST) is organising a two-day National Conference on Emerging Technologies for Governance and Development Planning in Jammu and Kashmir: Policy and Implementation at IUST Main Campus on November 17-18. The conference is being organised by the Centre for Good Governance and Policy Analysis (CGG&PA), IUST, in collaboration with the Centre for Good Governance (CGG), Hyderabad, and the Information Technology Department, Government of Jammu and Kashmir. The conference aims to deliberate on the transformative potential of emerging technologies, including Artificial Intelligence (AI), Geospatial Technologies, Data Analytics and Integrated Digital Systems, in strengthening governance, improving public service delivery and facilitating evidence-based development planning in Jammu and Kashmir. The main objective of this conference is to demonstrate the applications of emerging technologies like Artificial Intelligence, Machine Learning, Geospatial Technology, Internet of things (IoTs) and so on in day-to-day governance. At national and international levels, there has been tremendous advancement in the use and applications of emerging technologies in good governance delivery, said Prof. Shakil Ahmad Romshoo, Vice Chancellor, IUST. Director, CGC&PA, IUST, Dr. G. N. Itoo, said, this is the first-ever conference of its kind and scale being organised to deliberate on this critical subject. It will bring together senior-level functionaries, policy makers and researchers from across the country, along with retired senior officers of J&K, to discuss key challenges, explore practical solutions and chart a way forward for strengthening governance and improving planning in J&K. Drawing on the insights and recommendations emerging from the deliberations, the conference aims to develop a comprehensive working paper that will be shared with the government for consideration and further action, he added. The event seeks to explore how technology-enabled solutions can help identify service gaps, improve resource allocation, strengthen institutional coordination and connect grassroots priorities with broader development strategies. It will also examine the policy and institutional frameworks required to ensure that technological interventions translate into measurable public value. The conference will focus on key themes, including accountability and transparency in good governance, performance-based governance and institutional transformation, institutional capacity building, reimagining governance in Jammu and Kashmir, mapping development opportunities through village-level planning, spatial data infrastructure for governance and the One University One Data initiative, with particular emphasis on Enterprise Resource Planning (ERP) in universities. The conference will also examine the role of digital platforms in enhancing citizen participation, grievance redressal and administrative responsiveness. Discussions will address the responsible use of AI and automation, data protection, cybersecurity, institutional accountability and the need for human oversight in technology-driven decision-making. A conference policy brief consolidating key recommendations and implementation strategies will also be prepared by CGG&PA, IUST, for consideration by relevant departments and collaborating institutions. The conference has been sponsored by the Information Technology Department, Government of J&K, and Jammu and Kashmir Bank Ltd, and Renewable Energy Pvt. Ltd, while reputed newspaper, Daily Excelsior, serves as media partner for the conference.
Dr Afaq conferred ICH fellowship at HEMATOCON 2026
Srinagar/Ahmedabad, Nov 14: Bringing laurels to Sher-i-Kashmir Institute of Medical Sciences (SKIMS), Dr. Afaq Ahmad Khan, Associate Professor, Department of Clinical Hematology and Stem Cell Transplantation, has been formally conferred the prestigious Fellowship of the Indian College of Hematology (FICH) in recognition of his significant academic and professional contributions to the field of Hematology and nearly two decades of dedicated service in the specialty. The fellowship was formally awarded during HEMATOCON 2026, the Annual National Hematology Conference being held in Ahmedabad from November 12 to 15, 2026, and was presented by the President of the Indian Society of Hematology and Blood Transfusion (ISHBT). The distinction recognises Dr. Aafaq 's sustained contributions to clinical hematology, patient care, medical education and research. At SKIMS, Dr. Afaq has been actively involved in the management of complex hematological disorders and the delivery of specialised hematology services, including Hematopoietic Stem Cell Transplantation. Congratulating Dr. Afaq Ahmad Khan on this prestigious achievement, Director SKIMS & EOSG, Prof. (Dr.) Mohammad Ashraf Ganie, said that the fellowship was not only a recognition of the faculty member's professional accomplishments but also an acknowledgement of the Institute's sustained commitment to excellence in clinical care, academics and research. It gives me immense pleasure to see SKIMS being recognised at national and international platforms for its best clinical practices, academic contributions and research initiatives. Such achievements reflect the collective efforts, dedication and professional commitment of our faculty, Prof. Ashraf said. Director SKIMS congratulated and appreciated his valuable contributions to the field of Hematology. Expressing his gratitude, Dr. Afaq acknowledged the support and encouragement of the Institute's leadership, his mentors, colleagues and departmental team, crediting their collective contribution to his professional journey.
Shahre Khass traders demand crackdown on illegal meat trade
Srinagar, Nov 14: The Shahre Khass Traders, Manufacturers Coordination Committee and Federation on Saturday condemned the alleged illegal transportation and sale of rotten and unhygienic meat in Kashmir, demanding an immediate crackdown on those involved in the trade. Reacting to the seizure of approximately 1,600 kg of rotten meat at Budgam Railway Station, the traders' body termed the incident a matter of serious concern, raising questions about public health and food safety. Imtiyaz Ahmad Malik, President, Shahre Khass Traders, Manufacturers Coordination Committee and Federation expressed alarm over reports that meat was being transported from outside Kashmir without proper quality checks, creating serious concerns among consumers about the quality, freshness and safety of meat being sold in local markets. The organisation demanded a thorough investigation into the source, transportation, storage and intended distribution of the seized meat and called for strict legal action against all those involved, including suppliers, transporters and distributors. It also sought regular inspections of meat markets, storage facilities and transportation channels across Kashmir, along with proper verification of the quality and safety of meat supplied to consumers. The Federation further called for accountability and transparency on the part of the concerned Food Safety and enforcement authorities. It urged the administration to ascertain whether similar consignments had already entered local markets and whether any portion of the seized or illegally transported meat had reached consumers. Public health cannot be compromised for commercial profit. Those playing with the health and lives of innocent people must face strict legal consequences, the Federation said. It maintained that ensuring food safety and protecting consumers must remain a priority, urging the authorities to take immediate action to prevent the issue from developing into a larger public health crisis.
LG Saxena inaugurates Ladakh Pavilion at India Intl. Trade Fair 2026
New Delhi, Nov 14: Lieutenant Governor, Shri Vinai Kumar Saxena, on Saturday inaugurated the Ladakh Pavilion at the India International Trade Fair (IITF) 2026 at Bharat Mandapam, in New Delhi The Ladakh Pavilion features 14 stalls showcasing the regions rich cultural heritage, traditional craftsmanship and indigenous products, with the participation of 17 entrepreneurs from Ladakh. The stalls offer visitors an opportunity to explore a diverse range of authentic, GI-tagged products of Ladakh, including the world-renowned Ladakhi Pashmina, traditional handloom and handicrafts, embroidery, sea buckthorn, apricots and other indigenous products. The LG said this grand exhibition is a powerful realization of Prime Minister Shri Narendra Modis visionary call for Make in India and taking our products Local for Global. By providing our artisans and entrepreneurs national and international recognition and market linkages, the IITF provides a big platform for transforming local livelihoods, boosting the rural economy, and firmly establishing Ladakhi craftsmanship on the global map, LG Shri Saxena said, while making an earnest appeal to visit the Ladakh Pavilion and also Ladakh to explore a world of rich cultural heritage, breathtaking artistry, and pure organic goodness. Ladakhs participation in IITF 2026 reflects the UT Administrations continued efforts to promote exquisite local products, strengthen traditional industries, empower local entrepreneurs and artisans, encourage youth participation and connect the regions indigenous products with wider national and international markets. Following the inauguration, the Lieutenant Governor visited the stalls and interacted with participating entrepreneurs and artisans, appreciating their products, craftsmanship, business activities and aspirations. He appreciated their efforts in preserving Ladakhs traditional skills while taking its indigenous products to wider national and international markets. He encouraged the entrepreneurs to focus on product quality, innovation, branding and market linkages to enhance the visibility and competitiveness of Ladakhi products. The Lieutenant Governor also interacted with students and youth from Ladakh pursuing their studies in various educational institutions across Delhi. He urged them to remain deeply connected with their roots even as they pursue modern education and opportunities beyond Ladakh. He encouraged them to carry the regions unique identity to different parts of the country and the world. He also called upon them to channelise their knowledge, talent and aspirations towards the development of their homeland, contributing to a progressive Ladakh while remaining firmly grounded in its cultural ethos.
Div Com Kashmir directs DCs to achieve Agristack, SVAMITVA targets
Srinagar, Nov 14: Divisional Commissioner Kashmir, Anshul Garg, on Saturday chaired an extensive review meeting to assess the progress of various revenue-related initiatives, public service delivery, rehabilitation measures and key infrastructure projects across the Kashmir Division. The meeting reviewed implementation and progress of AgriStack, SVAMITVA, Property Card Distribution, Jan Sugam, Revenue Plus, RCCMS and JK SAMADHAN, besides CCTV coverage of migrant labourer clusters, the status of transit accommodations for PM Package employees, SRO-43 cases of terror victims, filling of vacant posts of Lumberdars and Chowkidars, constitution of District-level Media Cells, pending honorarium of Lumberdars and Chowkidars, transfer and disposal of mutation appeals by SDMs, removal of bottlenecks in various phases of Srinagar Ring Road, SBU and RKCTC projects, and disposal of pending public grievances. The meeting was attended by Deputy Commissioners of various districts, Relief and Rehabilitation Commissioner, Additional Commissioners and Assistant Commissioner Central, OSD to the Divisional Commissioner and Deputy Director Planning, among other officers. While reviewing the progress of AgriStack, the Divisional Commissioner directed all Deputy Commissioners to ensure achievement of prescribed daily targets and bridge the existing gap through optimal utilisation of available manpower. He instructed that officers remain stationed in their respective areas and utilise holidays to maintain the pace of work and achieve the targets within the stipulated timelines. He also directed the Deputy Commissioners to compile and submit a list of villages situated on State land where generation of Farmer IDs is not feasible. Reviewing the progress under SVAMITVA, the Divisional Commissioner stressed the need to reconcile the gap between surveys received and returned under Map-1 and Map-2. He specifically directed the Deputy Commissioners of Anantnag, Baramulla and Budgam to expedite the process and ensure timely completion of pending work. The Divisional Commissioner also reviewed the status of issuance of various certificates under Jan Sugam, including Income Certificates, Legal Heir Certificates, RBA/OBC/ST/SC Certificates, Unemployment Certificates, Agriculture Certificates and Property Certificates. He further assessed the progress of Revenue Plus services, including issuance of Fards, attestation of mutations, Change of Land Use (CLU) permissions, extracts of Girdawari and Jamabandi, and copies of mutation records. Taking note of the disposal of mutation appeals following the delegation of powers to Sub-Divisional Magistrates (SDMs), he directed Deputy Commissioners to assess the improvement in disposal rates and ensure expeditious resolution of pending cases. Reviewing public grievances, the Divisional Commissioner instructed all Deputy Commissioners to ensure that grievances are disposed of within 15 days, with particular emphasis on timely and effective redressal. Also, Divisional Commissioner directed Deputy Commissioners to ensure installation and proper functioning of CCTV cameras in migrant labourer clusters across their respective districts to strengthen security and monitoring arrangements. He also stressed the need to clear all pending SRO-43 cases pertaining to terror victims and directed the concerned authorities to complete the process and furnish certification confirming that no cases remain pending. Regarding vacant posts of Lumberdars and Chowkidars in various areas, he directed the Deputy Commissioners to make temporary arrangements for filling up the vacancies and project the pending honorarium requirements to the concerned department for necessary action. Meanwhile, the Divisional Commissioner undertook a detailed review of civil and security arrangements at Migrant Transit Accommodations, with particular emphasis on ensuring adequate basic amenities and a safe, comfortable living environment for the inhabitants. He directed the concerned Deputy Commissioners to ensure uninterrupted electricity and drinking water supply, adequate local transport facilities, proper sanitation, functional lifts and timely snow clearance, particularly at transit accommodations in Srinagar, Budgam and Kupwara. He stressed that all essential facilities must remain operational and that any shortcomings affecting the residents should be addressed promptly. Reviewing the progress of infrastructure projects, the Divisional Commissioner directed the Deputy Commissioner Budgam to ensure that the December 31 deadline for the Galandar-Narbal stretch of the Srinagar Ring Road is adhered to without any delay. Similarly, the Deputy Commissioner Ganderbal was directed to resolve bottlenecks affecting Srinagar Ring Road Phase-II and Phase-IIA to facilitate timely progress of the project. The Divisional Commissioner also stressed the need for expeditious resolution of pending issues concerning other major projects, including SBU and RKCTC. He further urged all Deputy Commissioners to operationalise District-level Social Media Cells in their respective districts to strengthen public outreach, ensure effective dissemination of information, facilitate timely communication with the public and monitoring. The Divisional Commissioner reiterated the importance of close monitoring, inter-departmental coordination and accountability, directing all officers to maintain the pace of implementation and ensure time-bound achievement of assigned targets.
The sources identified the actor as Amitabh Bachchan, who the gang allegedly wanted to target over his purported remarks concerning the 1984 anti-Sikh riots. Mr. Bachchan has, however, consistently denied making any such statement
Ropeway project tagged with several big buildings
Shillong, Nov 14: The Shillong Peak Ropeway is not just a ropeway, Green Tech Foundation Chairman H. Bansiewdor Nonglang said, pointing to the projects own document to show that what is planned at Lum Shyllong is a network of multi-storey commercial buildings, parking blocks, restaurants, food courts and shops in a sensitive forest and catchment [] The post Ropeway project tagged with several big buildings first appeared on Highland Post .
Manipur CM chairs security review meet after five deaths in fresh violence
Imphal, Nov 14:Manipur Chief Minister Y Khemchand Singh on Saturday chaired a high-level security review meeting to assess the law and order situation in the state after fresh violence claimed five more lives, a statement said. A woman was killed at Taphou Kuki village in Kangpokpi district, and four people were shot dead at New [] The post Manipur CM chairs security review meet after five deaths in fresh violence first appeared on Highland Post .
No skirmish does not mean peace on border: Sungoh
Shillong, Nov 14: Chairman of the Hyniewtrep Border Development and Research Forum (HBDRF) Chandame Sungoh has said absence of skirmishes in Block I does not mean peace has returned to the border villages with Assam. The skirmishes have subsided because we are being too soft and we have resigned to our fate, Sungoh told reporters. [] The post No skirmish does not mean peace on border: Sungoh first appeared on Highland Post .
Promised Rs 20,000 not paid, say relocated vendors
Shillong, Nov 14: Vendors relocated from Laitumkhrah and other areas to Brightwell Bungalow at Barik in September have alleged that the Rs 20,000 assistance promised to them under the Chief Ministers Urban Livelihood Grant has not been released, even as they struggle with poor business at the new location. The vendors were among more than [] The post Promised Rs 20,000 not paid, say relocated vendors first appeared on Highland Post .
Benjamin Netanyahu calls for Israeli unity government, Eisenkot dismisses tricks
The latest exchange comes as Mr,. Eisenkot is in the midst of negotiations to form a government, after he was tapped for the post of premier on Nov. 15, 2026
U.S. air travel should recover from ground stop by end of November 15, FAA says
New technology being added to the nation's air traffic control system overloaded antiquated equipment and caused intermittent communications and radar gaps, leading to the flight shutdown of more than four hours, Trump administration officials said
Sowing begins at Asia's largest tulip garden
Two million blooms expected Local harvest doubles to 5.75 lakh 8.5 lakh from Netherlands 1.4 million full-sized Srinagar, Nov 14: Sowing operations have officially commenced at Asia's largest tulip garden in Srinagar, with authorities preparing for a grander and denser floral showcase next spring featuring over two million tulips. Garden authorities confirmed that plantation activities began in early November and will run through mid-December. The garden is currently utilising an abundant harvest of homegrown bulbs alongside fresh consignments en route from the Netherlands. Speaking on the preparations, Imran Ahmed, in-charge of the Tulip Garden, said the local harvest yielded remarkable results this season, with production nearly doubling from roughly 3.07 lakh bulbs last year to approximately 5.75 lakh. Right now, we are planting our own harvested stock from last year, Ahmed said. Two fresh consignments from Holland are also arriving separately one expected within the week by air and another via sea route towards the end of November. Between the imported shipment of 8.5 lakh bulbs and local yields, the garden will plant nearly 1.4 million full-sized bulbs, up from 1.1 million last year. Factoring in smaller bulblets, the total tulip count will cross the two-million mark, representing an increase of 2 lakh to 3 lakh blooms over the previous season. An additional 1 lakh companion flowers, including muscari, daffodils and hyacinths, along with 17 to 18 hybrid annual varieties nurtured in polyhouses, will complement the display. To house the surplus stock and enhance visual appeal, garden managers are significantly raising crop density across flower beds. Standard beds previously accommodating 4,000 bulbs now hold 5,000, while smaller plots have seen plantings rise from 1,200 to 1,800 bulbs. Officials noted that the closer canopy will not only create a more vibrant visual spread but also naturally suppress weed growth. The department is also expanding the garden's cultivated land area. While keeping essential lawn corridors open for crowd movement, staff are introducing new wave patterns and converting underutilised green patches into active flower beds. The Tulip Garden marks the traditional opening of Kashmir's spring tourism calendar. Despite various challenges, the 2026 tulip festival drew roughly 4 lakh visitors, and authorities expect next year's expanded showcase to draw even larger crowds across the Union Territory. Plantation and bed preparation work are scheduled to conclude by December 15.
Bomb rips through Damascus suburb; killing 2, including child
The explosion took place in the southern Damascus suburb of Jaramana near a factory where batteries are produced, state TV said
Drought-stricken Beed: Land of parched fields and broken promises
Drought has devastated MaharashtrasBeeddistrict, pushing women farmers and labourers towards distress migration. Despite repeated pleas for employment, villagers say government job guarantees have failed them, even as the State announces a 6,728-crorepackage
Class 4 student dies in Kupwara school wall collapse
Kupwara, Nov 14: A Class 4 student died after a boundary wall of Government Boys Middle School Janbazpora, Drugmulla, collapsed on her during the lunch break in north Kashmir's Kupwara district on Saturday, triggering serious concerns over the safety of school infrastructure and prompting the district administration to order an inquiry. According to reports, the girl stepped out during the lunch break and came under the collapsing boundary wall. She sustained critical injuries and was immediately rushed to a nearby hospital, where doctors declared her dead. Tehsildar Drugmulla, Syed Basharat, identified the deceased as Gazia Parvez, daughter of Parvez Ahmad Najar. The tragic incident has left residents in deep shock, with demands for a thorough investigation into the circumstances that led to the collapse. Locals alleged that the boundary wall had been constructed recently and questioned the quality of the construction work, demanding an in-depth probe to ascertain how a recently built wall collapsed and whether proper construction standards were followed. They also expressed concern over the condition of the school's washrooms and other buildings, alleging that the overall infrastructure required immediate attention. The bricks are getting separated, and it appears as if proper cement has not been used. The entire school infrastructure needs attention. Why did the concerned departments remain unmoved until such a tragic incident occurred? locals questioned. They also demanded that the role of the concerned authorities and school management be examined, including whether the alleged poor condition of the infrastructure had been brought to the notice of higher authorities. Meanwhile, the incident has brought renewed attention to the safety of educational institutions across Jammu and Kashmir. The government recently informed the Jammu and Kashmir Legislative Assembly that 765 school buildings across the Union Territory have been identified as unsafe and are not being used for teaching purposes. According to the government, the School Education Department conducts annual safety audits of school buildings under the National School Safety Programme. Residents are questioning why this boundary wall was excluded if such maintenance is carried out regularly. The District Administration Kupwara, in a statement, expressed profound grief over the tragic death. Taking immediate cognizance of the incident, a four-member Enquiry Committee headed by the Assistant Commissioner (Revenue), Kupwara, has been constituted to investigate the lapses, fix responsibility and submit a factual report within seven days positively. Simultaneously, a formal show cause notice has been served upon the Chief Education Officer, Kupwara, directing a written explanation within two working days regarding non-compliance with the Deputy Commissioner's earlier directions on mandatory school safety audits. The District Administration reiterated that the safety of children is non-negotiable and no negligence will be tolerated, adding that strict action as per law will follow against those found responsible.
Doda rumbles thrice in five hours, four quakes jolt J&K
Three shallow tremors trace 11.5-km corridor; strongest 3.8 magnitude Experts seek closer seismic monitoring, caution against major quake speculation Srinagar, Nov 14: The Chenab Valley experienced a spell of seismic activity on Saturday, with four earthquakes striking Jammu & Kashmir within nearly 11 hours, including three successive tremors in Doda district that have drawn attention to an unusual spatial pattern. The three earthquakes in Doda, measuring 2.7, 3.8 and 2.9 magnitude, occurred within four hours and 38 minutes, with their epicentres appearing to form an almost straight east-west alignment across an approximately 11.5-kilometre corridor. Independent weather forecaster Faizan Arif, who analysed the earthquake data, described the alignment as an interesting feature of Saturday's seismic sequence. According to the data shared by Arif, the first earthquake struck Kishtwar at 2:38 am, measuring 3.3 magnitude at a depth of 15 kilometres. Doda subsequently recorded a 2.7-magnitude tremor at 8:31 am, followed by a stronger 3.8-magnitude earthquake at 8:48 am. Both were shallow, originating at depths of 10 and five kilometres, respectively, Arif said. Another earthquake measuring 2.9 magnitude struck Doda at 1:09 pm at a depth of 10 kilometres. He added, The three epicentres appear to be aligned almost in a straight east-west line, spanning approximately 11.5 kilometres. All three earthquakes occurred within a short period, and their reported focal depths range between five and 10 kilometres. The forecaster said the strongest earthquake in the sequence, measuring 3.8 magnitude, originated at a depth of just five kilometres. The spatial concentration of the three Doda earthquakes is particularly noteworthy given the tectonically complex nature of the Doda-Kishtwar region, which has experienced moderate earthquakes in the past. However, Arif cautioned that the apparent alignment of the epicentres should not be interpreted as a warning of an impending major earthquake. The near-linear alignment of these three epicentres, by itself, does not indicate the possibility of a larger earthquake. Nevertheless, the spatial distribution makes the latest seismic activity an interesting subject for further seismological observation, he said. The region has a history of significant seismic events, including the magnitude 5.7 Kishtwar earthquake in 2013 and the magnitude 5.4 Doda earthquake in 2023. Prof Shakil Ahmad Romshoo, an eminent Earth scientist, said: The latest sequence highlights the importance of sustained earthquake monitoring, particularly in mountainous areas where vulnerable buildings, steep slopes and difficult road connectivity can increase the impact of seismic disasters. Climate expert Dr Touseef Ahmad Bhat said earthquake activity must be understood separately from climate-related changes, as seismic events originate from geological and tectonic processes. The importance of scientific awareness, disaster preparedness and resilient infrastructure in a vulnerable Himalayan region is the need of the hour, he said. Experts have repeatedly stressed the need for earthquake-resistant construction, structural safety audits, public awareness campaigns and effective emergency response mechanisms in Jammu and Kashmir. While a series of minor earthquakes does not necessarily signal a larger event, the latest activity in Doda and Kishtwar reinforces the need for continuous scientific observation. For the Chenab Valley, the message is clearseismic preparedness and safer construction must remain priorities, rather than waiting for a major earthquake to expose existing vulnerabilities.
SpaceXs Starship returns from orbit and is captured by launch pad arms in a dramatic first
SpaceX expects to begin launching Starships from Floridas Kennedy Space Center within the next few months
Maritime security in focus at India-Belgium naval talks
The bilateral talk was aimed at strengthening maritime cooperation and further deepening navy-to-navy engagements between the two countries
Intensify counter-insurgency operations: DG CRPF
Srinagar, Nov 14: Director General (DG), Central Reserve Police Force (CRPF), G.P. Singh, on Saturday chaired an Operational Conference at Group Centre CRPF Srinagar and instructed senior officers to intensify counter-insurgency operations across the Valley, strengthen the security grid, enhance real-time coordination between security forces and maintain heightened operational readiness to neutralise terrorist elements and their support networks. The conference was attended by Vitul Kumar, SDG (Ops) Directorate; Sandeep Khirwar, SDG, J&K Zone; Vineet Brijlal, IG, Ops Kashmir Sector; Pawan Kumar Sharma, IG Srinagar Sector; other senior officers of the CRPF and ground commanders of Valley-based CRPF units and offices. Discussions focused on the way forward for sustained and intensified counter-insurgency operations in the region. The DG also felicitated troops involved in the twin successful operations Ops Ashdhar and Ops Korag conducted in Budgam during September 2026, in which two Lashkar-e-Taiba foreign terrorists, Yasir and Hashim Moosa, were neutralised. He appreciated their professionalism, courage under challenging terrain conditions and operational excellence, emphasising that such intelligence-based operations have strengthened the security framework in the region and reinforced the Force's commitment to maintaining peace and stability. The DG's visit to the Kashmir Valley on November 13 and 14 followed the terror attack on CRPF personnel in Kulgam district on November 11. Shortly after landing at Srinagar airport on November 13, he proceeded to the incident site near Nowpora, Akhran in Kulgam, and reviewed the ground situation, security arrangements and the ongoing search operation around the site. Accompanied by senior CRPF officers, the DG visited the Army's 92 Base Hospital in Badami Bagh cantonment and met Head Constable (GD) Sonbir Singh of 46 Battalion CRPF, who is undergoing treatment for serious injuries sustained while responding to the Kulgam attack. He enquired about the jawan's health and treatment, praised his courage and swift retaliation and wished him a speedy recovery. In the evening, the DG attended a security review meeting with senior officers of Jammu and Kashmir Police, the Army and other sister agencies.
Turn crises into opportunities, LG Sinha tells graduates
Jammu, Nov 14: Lieutenant Governor Manoj Sinha on Saturday told graduating students to turn crises into opportunities and to move forward with courage, saying talent has no fixed address and greatness does not arrive after checking the postal addresses of certain individuals. Turn crises into opportunities. This is what great personalities did, and the world remembers them today. I believe that talent has no fixed address, and greatness does not arrive after checking postal addresses of certain individual. Greatness seeks courage and struggle, he said. The Lieutenant Governor was addressing the first convocation of Cluster University of Jammu. He said the graduating students of this maiden convocation are the pioneering torchbearers of the university's tradition, and congratulated all graduates, gold medallists and their parents. Governor of Tamil Nadu Rajendra Vishwanath Arlekar also graced the occasion. Sinha specially complimented the women students, noting that 130 of the 163 gold medals had been won by daughters. He observed that when given opportunities, daughters do not merely attain positions but redefine the meaning of achievement. Daughters across higher-education institutions in Jammu Kashmir are writing new chapters of success in their own names, he said. Highlighting the intellectual heritage of Jammu and Kashmir, he noted that Maharishi Kalhana, author of the Rajatarangini, Maharishi Abhinavagupta, and the saint-poets Yogini Lalleshwari and Sheikh-ul-Alam promoted harmony among faiths and the pursuit of truth, and said the graduates were carrying forward a tradition of knowledge more than a thousand years old. The LG said India is witnessing a historic period of transformation and emerging as one of the world's largest and fastest-growing major economies with the national resolve of building a developed India by 2047. By then, many of you will be at the highest peaks of your careers. Therefore, a developed India is not a slogan for another generation; it will be the essence of your life's achievements, he said. He said India now has nearly 2,23,000 startups and 135 unicorns, with many founders coming from small towns, reflecting a genuine democratisation of opportunity and entrepreneurship. Offering a fresh perspective on the demographic dividend, he said he preferred to call it a demographic responsibility, adding that society would benefit when youth connect farmers to markets, women's self-help groups become employment-generating enterprises and engineers develop affordable medical tools for remote areas. Highlighting the significance of the humanities, the Lieutenant Governor said, Technology tells us what we can do, while the humanities teach us what we should do. The nation needs engineers as well as historians, and scientists as well as musicians. On artificial intelligence, he said the relationship between AI and humans would be one of partnership, not competition. AI will have speed and data, but humans will provide direction, compassion and the courage to ask new questions. AI should be guided by civilisational norms, values and accountability, and its development should rest on human welfare, not just profit and productivity, he said. The Lieutenant Governor also offered three practical suggestions for internships present a well-studied solution to a company's challenge rather than simply seeking an opportunity, strive to be so valuable that the team feels one's absence, and choose internships that teach something new and gave five resolutions to students: never stop learning, create opportunities rather than only seek them, uphold honesty and ethics, support those who follow, and express love for the nation through action. Knowledge without character is meaningless. Therefore, do not merely aim to be a topper, become individuals who have the courage to speak the truth, the resolve to do what is right, and who treat every human being with dignity and respect, he said. Chief Minister Omar Abdullah; Minister for School Education, Higher Education and Jal Shakti Shamim Firdous; Vice-Chancellor, Cluster University of Jammu, Prof K.S. Chandrasekar; Registrar Ankur Mahajan; MP Jugal Kishore Sharma; MLA Jammu West Arvind Gupta; HoDs, faculty members, students and their parents attended the ceremony.
Mumbai police announce traffic diversion ahead ofBritains Prince William visit
The ceremony is hosted in Mumbai from November 16 to 18 for the sixth annual Earthshot Prize
J&K braces for winter power shortage despite 330 mw boost
Srinagar, Nov 14: Jammu and Kashmir faces a possible electricity shortage during the winter months despite an additional allocation of around 330 megawatts (MW) from the central power pool, with projected demand reaching nearly 2,900 MW and declining hydropower generation adding to supply concerns. The Union Ministry of Power's revised allocation arrangements for winter 202627 indicate that supplementary electricity has been earmarked for December, January and February, while November and March remain outside the reported three-month additional allocation arrangement. The revised order, issued on September 29, 2026, concerns the distribution of electricity from the unallocated quota of Central Generating Stations among beneficiaries in the northern region. According to previously reported details of the allocation, Jammu and Kashmir and Ladakh together were assigned 655 MW from the central unallocated power pool for November 2026. The allocation is scheduled to increase to 845 MW during December and January before returning to 655 MW in February. The figures represent allocations from a particular central power pool rather than the total electricity available to Jammu and Kashmir. Actual supply remains dependent on generation at the concerned stations and subsequent allocation revisions. The winter arrangements come against the backdrop of increasing electricity requirements in Jammu and Kashmir, where demand rises during the colder months while generation from hydropower projects generally declines because of reduced water discharge. According to estimates previously attributed to power sector officials, electricity demand in Jammu and Kashmir was around 2,100 to 2,200 MW in October and could increase to approximately 2,900 MW during peak winter. The estimates also indicate that the Union Territory can face a seasonal electricity shortage ranging between 800 and 1,000 MW, requiring additional procurement from central generating stations and power exchanges. The reported allocation of around 330 MW is expected to help address part of this requirement during the three winter months. However, it does not, by itself, establish that the projected demand-supply gap will be eliminated. The allocation figures also raise questions about electricity availability during November and March, when the additional winter arrangement is not scheduled to operate. The power supply position during these months will depend on generation from local hydropower stations, electricity available through existing central allocations and purchases from the market. Reduced hydropower generation remains a factor in Jammu and Kashmir's winter electricity supply. As temperatures fall, water discharge in rivers decreases, affecting generation from hydropower projects and increasing dependence on electricity supplied from outside the Union Territory. Reports citing power sector officials indicated that generation from J&K-owned hydropower projects had declined to approximately 250 to 300 MW in early November. The decline comes at a time when demand for electricity increases because of heating requirements, particularly in Kashmir. The Central Electricity Authority's projections for 202627 have separately indicated a possible peak electricity deficit of 623 MW for Jammu and Kashmir and Ladakh combined during November, with projected demand of 3,813 MW against availability of 3,190 MW.
Communism and the Modern World
A century after communism became a governing force, the world has not settled the argument it began. The Soviet Union is gone, the Berlin Wall has fallen, and many states that once called themselves communist have transformed their economies. Yet the questions that gave the idea its appeal remain with us: Who owns the wealth a society produces? Why do some people work hard and remain poor while others inherit power and comfort? And can economic life be organised around human need rather than private profit alone? These questions have acquired fresh urgency in a world of widening inequalities, precarious work and immense concentrations of wealth. Technology has made fortunes in a matter of years, while millions struggle with insecure jobs, rising costs and shrinking prospects. The language of class may have changed, but the experience of being left behind has not. Communism, as a critique of exploitation and unequal power, therefore cannot be dismissed as a relic simply because the political systems built in its name have faltered. But neither can it be defended through nostalgia. The record of twentieth-century communist states is inseparable from authoritarian rule, political repression, censorship and the concentration of power in the hands of a party-state. In promising liberation from exploitation, many of these governments denied people the freedom to organise, speak, worship, dissent and choose their leaders. The contradiction is central: equality imposed from above can become another form of domination. To understand communism today, we must distinguish between the questions it asks and the answers governments have claimed to provide. Its most persistent question is whether a society can call itself just while economic power rests overwhelmingly with a small minority. Its most troubling historical answer was that justice could be secured by transferring that power to a state that claimed to speak for everyone. When the state became the sole arbiter of work, property, public debate and political participation, the working people in whose name the system operated often had little say over their own lives. The promise of equality was real to many who had known deprivation and social exclusion. In places marked by extreme poverty, illiteracy and entrenched privilege, the language of workers rights and public ownership offered a vision of dignity. It held that people who produce societys wealth should share in its benefits, and that basic necessities should not depend entirely on purchasing power. That aspiration remains powerful. Healthcare, education, housing and social protection are still widely debated as rights, not merely commodities. Yet the history of communist governance shows that good intentions do not guarantee just outcomes. When a ruling party monopolises political life, the absence of private ownership does not automatically mean that ordinary people control production. A bureaucracy may replace private owners, and citizens may remain powerless before decisions made in their name. Equality in official language can coexist with privilege in practice. The question is not only who owns property, but who makes decisions, who can challenge them and who is accountable when they fail. This is one reason the modern debate should not be reduced to a choice between unregulated capitalism and centralised state control. Many societies have tried to build systems that temper markets through public services, labour protections, progressive taxation and democratic institutions. These arrangements are neither a final answer nor free of conflict. They can be weakened by lobbying, austerity and the influence of concentrated wealth. But they demonstrate that the pursuit of social justice need not require the abolition of political pluralism or individual liberty. The modern economy also complicates the old image of a single, unified working class. Workers now include factory employees, delivery riders, care workers, teachers, office staff, migrant labourers and people whose work is mediated by digital platforms. Some have secure contracts and bargaining power; others are paid by the task, monitored by algorithms or left without benefits. Many are technically self-employed but have little control over the conditions of their work. The language of class remains useful, but it must be attentive to differences of gender, race, caste, migration and geography that shape how economic power is experienced. A serious contemporary left politics must also take account of how wealth is created and distributed in a globalised world. Production crosses borders, capital moves quickly, and decisions made by distant corporations can affect livelihoods in entire regions. Workers in one country may be pitted against workers elsewhere through the threat of relocation. Environmental costs are often borne by communities that receive few of the benefits. A politics of economic justice must therefore speak not only about ownership, but also about bargaining power, ecological responsibility and the democratic oversight of institutions that shape everyday life. Technology adds another layer. Automation and artificial intelligence may increase productivity, but the gains do not distribute themselves fairly. If the benefits accrue mainly to shareholders and a narrow group of skilled workers while others face displacement, technology can deepen insecurity rather than reduce drudgery. The old promise that progress should improve ordinary life remains relevant. It raises practical questions: Who owns the systems and data that generate value? Who decides how they are used? And how can workers share in the productivity they help make possible? These are not questions that can be answered by slogans. Public ownership may be appropriate in some sectors and ineffective in others. Markets can encourage innovation, but without rules they can also reward monopoly and shift risks onto workers and consumers. State institutions can provide essential services, but they require transparency, competence and public accountability. The challenge is to build arrangements in which economic decisions are open to democratic influence and people have genuine protections against both private exploitation and public coercion. Freedom must remain part of that discussion. Political liberty is not a decorative extra to be postponed until after economic transformation. The ability to criticise leaders, organise independent unions, publish dissenting views and replace governments is essential to protecting people from concentrated power. Without these freedoms, a government may claim to represent the working class while preventing workers from speaking for themselves. History offers enough warnings against treating dissent as betrayal or assuming that one partys authority is the same as popular rule. At the same time, political freedom is incomplete when economic insecurity leaves people unable to exercise it meaningfully. A person facing hunger, homelessness or the loss of healthcare may possess formal rights but lack the security to use them. Freedom from state interference matters, but so does freedom from conditions that make a decent life unreachable. The strongest democratic politics recognises both: it protects civil liberties and works to ensure that people have the material security necessary to participate in society. Communisms relevance, then, lies less in the prospect of restoring a discredited model than in the questions it presses on the present. It asks us to examine whether workers have a meaningful voice, whether wealth carries obligations, whether essential services should be governed solely by ability to pay, and whether economic power is compatible with democracy when it becomes too concentrated. These questions are not owned by one ideology. They belong to any society that claims to value fairness and human dignity. There is also a caution in the word itself. For some, communism recalls solidarity, anti-colonial struggles and the demand that the poor should not remain poor by birth. For others, it evokes prisons, censorship, forced conformity and governments that treated citizens as instruments of a historical project. Both memories are part of the modern debate. To erase either is to turn political argument into mythmaking. The way forward is not to pretend that the past can be repeated, nor to accept that current inequalities are inevitable. It is to insist on democratic ways of sharing power and opportunity: independent unions, fair wages, accessible public services, accountable institutions and limits on the domination of public life by concentrated wealth. Such measures do not settle every ideological dispute, but they make the core question practical: can ordinary people shape the decisions that govern their work and their future? Communism has not provided a lasting answer to that question. Its history shows how a promise of equality can be betrayed when power is centralised and dissent is crushed. But the modern world has not made the question disappear. As long as vast fortunes coexist with insecurity, and as long as those who do the work have little influence over its rewards, the demand for a more equal society will endure. The task is to pursue that demand without surrendering the freedoms that make justice meaningful. ( The Author is a research scholar and columnist)
4.5 magnitude earthquake tremors felt in Maharashtras Jalgaon
District Collector Rohan Ghuge said, No loss of life or property damage in Jalgaon has been reported. Residents should not panic or fall prey to any rumours
The Value of Silence in a World That Never Stops Speaking
We live in a world where almost everyone has something to say, an opinion to express or a reaction to share. Conversations continue across screens, notifications interrupt our routines, and every event seems to demand an immediate response. We have more opportunities to communicate than any generation before us, yet the ability to listen, reflect and remain thoughtfully silent appears to be receiving less attention. In this age of constant communication, perhaps one of the most underrated qualities is the ability to remain silent when silence is more meaningful than words. Silence, however, is frequently misunderstood. It is sometimes associated with weakness, hesitation or a lack of confidence. In reality, silence can represent maturity, emotional intelligence, patience and self-control. It is not always the absence of an answer; sometimes, it is the presence of wisdom. When Every Opinion Demands an Audience The digital revolution has made expressing opinions remarkably easy. A few sentences can reach thousands of people within seconds. Social media has created valuable opportunities for discussion, awareness, knowledge-sharing and public participation. However, the speed of communication has also changed our relationship with information. We often respond before understanding, judge before listening and speak before reflecting. An issue barely emerges before numerous opinions, reactions and interpretations begin circulating. The ability to express an opinion is important, but the responsibility to express it thoughtfully is equally important. Not every disagreement requires an argument. Not every criticism deserves an immediate response. Not every conversation needs to end with someone proving a point. Sometimes, the most intelligent response is to pause, understand the situation and choose words carefully. The Forgotten Art of Listening Listening is one of the simplest yet most neglected forms of communication. Many people listen with the intention of responding rather than understanding. A meaningful conversation, however, requires more than exchanging words. It requires patience, attention and a willingness to appreciate perspectives different from our own. In workplaces, educational institutions and personal relationships, misunderstandings often arise not because people lack the ability to speak, but because they lack the willingness to listen. A colleague who listens patiently can prevent unnecessary conflict. A teacher who understands a students concerns can make a lasting difference. A leader who listens to different viewpoints can make more informed decisions. Listening does not mean agreeing with everyone. It means respecting the other persons right to express a thought. Silence gives listening the space it needs. Silence and Emotional Intelligence. One of the greatest signs of emotional maturity is the ability to manage ones reactions. Anger often encourages immediate responses. Disappointment may lead to harsh words, while misunderstandings can turn ordinary conversations into unnecessary conflicts. In such moments, a brief pause can make an enormous difference. Words spoken in haste may damage relationships that have taken years to build. A moment of restraint can prevent a situation from becoming more complicated. This does not mean that people should remain silent in the face of injustice, wrongdoing or genuine concerns. Speaking up is sometimes a moral responsibility. The important distinction lies between thoughtful expression and impulsive reaction. There is courage in speaking when something needs to be said, just as there is wisdom in remaining silent when words would serve no meaningful purpose. The objective should not be silence at every cost, but communication guided by understanding and responsibility. The Professional Value of Thoughtful Silence In professional life, the ability to listen and respond appropriately is particularly important. Every workplace brings together people with different experiences, responsibilities and perspectives. Differences of opinion are natural and can contribute positively to institutional growth when handled with maturity. An effective professional does not need to participate in every disagreement or respond to every comment. The ability to assess a situation before speaking reflects confidence and sound judgement. Similarly, leadership is not measured by how much a person speaks, but by the quality of decisions, the willingness to listen and the ability to communicate with clarity. A thoughtful leader creates an environment in which people feel comfortable expressing concerns without fear of humiliation. Such an environment encourages cooperation, trust and collective progress. Silence, in this context, is not disengagement. It is an opportunity to understand before deciding. Making Space for Reflection Modern life has made silence increasingly difficult to experience. Even moments that were once reserved for reflection are frequently occupied by digital distractions. A quiet walk, a few minutes without a mobile phone, reading a book or simply sitting with ones thoughts can provide valuable mental space. Reflection allows individuals to examine their decisions, understand their emotions and reconsider their priorities. It helps us distinguish between what is urgent and what is important. A society that values reflection is better equipped to encourage thoughtful dialogue, responsible citizenship and informed decision-making. Young people, in particular, should be encouraged to develop the habit of reading, listening and thinking independently. Education should not only prepare individuals to communicate effectively but also teach them when, why and how to communicate responsibly. Finding the Right Balance Silence should never become an excuse for indifference, fear or the avoidance of responsibility. A healthy society needs informed voices, constructive criticism, open dialogue and individuals willing to stand for what is right. The real challenge is finding the balance between speaking and listening, expressing and understanding, reacting and reflecting. We must create a culture where people can disagree without disrespect, question without hostility and communicate without constantly competing for attention. The ability to speak is a gift, but the ability to use words wisely is a quality that requires practice. Perhaps we do not need more conversations as much as we need more meaningful ones. We do not necessarily need louder voices; we need clearer thoughts, more patient listeners and more responsible expressions. The Wisdom of Knowing When to Pause As the world becomes increasingly connected, the value of silence may become even greater. Technology will continue to make communication faster, but speed alone cannot guarantee understanding. More information does not automatically produce greater wisdom, and more opinions do not necessarily create better conversations. Ultimately, the quality of our communication depends not on the number of words we speak but on the thought, sincerity and responsibility behind them. Sometimes, silence protects a relationship. Sometimes, it prevents an unnecessary argument. Sometimes, it allows another person to be heard. And sometimes, it gives us the opportunity to discover what we genuinely think. We should not be afraid of silence, nor should we glorify it at the expense of necessary expression. Instead, we should learn to recognise its value. In a world competing to be heard, perhaps the real strength lies in knowing when to speak, when to listen and when to let silence speak for itself. (The Author works at a premier medical college in Jammu & Kashmir)
An acquaintance once got annoyed with me over a minor misunderstanding. Naturally, I wanted to set things right by explaining things that had led to the confusion. I told her everything: the backstory, my intentions, the chronology, and even made many solemn pledges. In this courtroom, I was both the lawyer and the defendant. Turns out, however, that the verdict had already been delivered, and no defence was really needed. I was guilty until proven guilty. There was no alternative. With a mouth dry as parchment and disbelief in my eyes, I watched her leave with a huff. What astonished me even more was discovering that our conversation was soon doing the rounds in her circle. Apparently, my sincere explanations were proof not of my innocence but as further evidence of guilt. It was an eye-opener. This is how I stumbled upon the law of diminishing returns in human understanding: sometimes, the more you explain, the less value your words acquire. I was reminded of Harper Lee's famous words: People generally see what they look for and hear what they listen for. For some, even rose-coloured glasses are just foggy lens. If you find yourself in a similar situation and have done nothing wrong, you must still explain yourself. Once, perhaps twice. Beyond that, forget it and move on. If you bend over backwards trying to improve someone's opinion of you, you might end up breaking, which they will see as justice served. Perhaps none of this is anyone's fault. Our minds are like jigsaw puzzles, and there are only particular pieces that fit. The pieces that require us to rearrange the entire puzzle may be unceremoniously discarded. As we age, we develop deeply ingrained patterns of thinking, and information that reinforces our existing beliefs is much easier to accommodate than information that challenges them. Everything else takes effort and energy. This is why learning is hard as adults; changing our minds is harder. We seek facts that reinforce our opinions. Everything else rolls off us like water off a lotus leaf. Often, we are not looking for the truth; we are looking for supportive evidence that will strengthen our case. Even the most open-minded people are open-minded only for some things, not everything. So, if I hate you, chances are I will hate everything you say, even if it is the most beautiful prose in the world. As they say, it is not about you at all; it is about me! So, we must learn to live with the fact that conflicts and misunderstandings are part of life. If unresolved after a reasonable number of attempts, we must accept the unfriending. In our attempts to be liked, lets not become doormats and let people walk all over us. Lets be doors instead. Door can open to welcome people in; can also shut firmly when the need arises. Even with fewer people on our side, the sky will remain blue, the butterflies just as beautiful. People who value your worth do not need explanations; they will find excuses for you even when you really are wrong. Those are your people. Keep them and keep your truths. For never, ever will everyone agree on everything. And that is okay. (The Author is a PhD, PDF(USA), Assistant Professor cum Junior Scientist, Centre for Artificial Intelligence and Machine Learning, SKUAST-Kashmir)
Jensen Huang | AI rainmaker meets his Waterloo
The Nvidia chiefs abrupt exit marks a stunning fall from grace for the man who built the hardware foundation of the AI revolution, forged deep ties with Silicon Valleys tech leaders and expanded the companys reach across every layer of the AI stack
TGPCB recommends closures, forfeitures over dusty construction
Traffic diversions for steel flyover construction in Banjara Hills
Telangana Greyhounds get new shooting range at Rajendranagar
Saving Wetlands is Saving Kashmir
A wetland rarely disappears in a single dramatic moment. It is edged out, one patch at a time: a stretch filled, a channel narrowed, waste tipped into water, a boundary left unmarked. A little later, the damage is described as inevitable. In Kashmir, where wetlands are woven into the valleys ecology and daily life, that slow disappearance should alarm us. Saving them is not a sentimental appeal to preserve scenery. It is a practical demand to protect people, livelihoods and the natural systems on which the region depends. The valleys wetlands are not empty land waiting to be put to use. They are living landscapesholding water, supporting fish and plants, providing habitat for birds, and helping sustain the communities around them. They also form part of Kashmirs natural defence against excess water. Wetlands can absorb and store water, easing pressure on settlements and drainage systems during periods of heavy rainfall. Their capacity is not unlimited, and it cannot replace sound planning or infrastructure. But treating them as expendable weakens one of the safeguards nature has already placed in our hands. That is why the loss of a wetland is never confined to its boundary. When a marsh is filled or its waterways are obstructed, the consequences can travel outward: water has fewer places to settle, pollution has fewer natural processes to help absorb it, and habitats become more fragmented. People may notice the change first as an unpleasant smell, declining fish or fewer birds. The deeper cost is less visiblethe loss of resilience that becomes apparent when the land is under stress. Kashmirs wetlands have long been caught between competing pressures. Growing settlements require space, roads and services. Agriculture and other livelihoods depend on land and water. Tourism brings economic opportunity, but also more waste and demand on fragile places. These needs are real. Yet development that erases the ecological foundations of a region is not progress; it is a transfer of costs from the present to the future. A wetland filled today may appear to solve an immediate land-use problem, while leaving residents to bear the consequences of diminished water storage, degraded surroundings and lost livelihoods. The first requirement of protection is to know what exists and where. Wetlands need clear, publicly accessible boundaries, accurate records and regular monitoring. Without those basics, violations can be disputed, enforcement delayed and responsibility passed from one office to another. Mapping must be more than a document produced for a file. It should guide land-use decisions, inform local communities and help officials identify changes before they become irreversible. Where boundaries are already known, they must be marked on the ground and defended consistently. The next requirement is enforcement. Laws and notifications mean little if construction, dumping or filling continue without timely action. Authorities must investigate encroachments, stop ongoing damage and hold violators accountable, regardless of their influence. If a wetland has been illegally altered, restoration should be pursued wherever it is ecologically possible. This cannot mean simply removing visible debris and declaring the matter resolved. Water channels, vegetation, habitats and the relationships between a wetland and its surrounding landscape all matter. Restoration requires expertise, patience and monitoring. Pollution is another front on which protection must become visible. Untreated sewage, solid waste and run-off can degrade water and harm the plants, fish and other life that make wetlands function. Cleaning campaigns may remove litter for a day, but they cannot substitute for reliable waste collection, treatment facilities and enforcement against dumping. Nor should communities living beside wetlands be left to carry a burden created by failures of planning and service delivery. If officials expect people to protect these places, they must provide the systems that make protection possible. The people who live near wetlands should be partners in their conservation, not treated as obstacles to it. Their knowledge of seasonal water, local changes and long-standing uses can help identify problems early. At the same time, conservation plans must recognise legitimate livelihood needs and explain clearly what activities are permitted and why. Rules imposed without consultation can breed resentment; rules enforced selectively invite distrust. Transparent decision-making and meaningful participation are essential to make protection fair as well as effective. This is especially important because the benefits of wetlands extend beyond the villages beside them. The health of a wetland can affect water, wildlife and the wider landscape. Its decline may impose costs on communities that had little say in the decisions that damaged it. Protecting a wetland is therefore a public responsibility. Local bodies, planners, environmental agencies and elected representatives must work from shared information and clear lines of accountability. When authority is divided, coordination cannot be optional: there must be a named body responsible for action, a timetable for review and public reporting on progress. The public, too, has a rolebut public participation must not become a convenient excuse for government inaction. Residents can report dumping, support community monitoring and avoid treating wetlands as rubbish grounds. Schools and local organisations can help build awareness of why these landscapes matter. Yet people cannot be expected to compensate for absent sewage treatment, weak enforcement or unplanned construction. Civic responsibility and official responsibility belong together; neither cancels the other. There is also a need to resist the idea that every piece of land must be judged by its immediate commercial value. Wetlands provide benefits that are often not captured in a market price: flood moderation, habitat, water-related livelihoods, public health and a sense of place. Once a wetland is filled, those benefits are difficultsometimes impossibleto recreate. Decisions about development should therefore account for the cost of losing these functions, not merely the short-term gain from changing the lands use. Prevention is usually less costly and more reliable than repairing damage after it has spread. Saving wetlands does not mean freezing Kashmir in time or denying communities the infrastructure they need. It means planning with an honest understanding of ecological limits. Roads, housing and public services can be developed while respecting protected areas, provided that rules are clear and alternatives are considered before construction begins. Every proposal affecting a wetland should face careful scrutiny, public disclosure and an assessment of its wider consequences. Where development would cause irreversible harm, the answer should be to find another sitenot to make the wetland absorb the cost. The test of commitment will not be how often wetlands appear in speeches. It will be whether boundaries are protected, pollution is reduced, encroachments are stopped and restoration is followed through. It will be whether communities can see the decisions being made and know who is responsible when promises are broken. Conservation succeeds through steady administration as much as through public concern. Kashmir cannot afford to regard wetlands as leftover spaces between settlements. They are part of the regions living infrastructure, shaped by water and indispensable to the health of the landscape. Their protection demands more than occasional clean-ups or declarations of intent. It requires planning that respects natural systems, enforcement that applies equally and investment in the services that prevent pollution and degradation. The choice is not between people and wetlands. It is between short-term decisions that weaken the valleys natural safeguards and a form of development that recognises their value. A wetland lost to neglect is not merely a patch of land altered. It is a public asset diminished and a responsibility deferred. Saving these places is, in the most direct sense, saving Kashmirs capacity to endure. ( The Author is a lecturer in HED and a columnist)
4,252 motorists booked for using mobile phones while driving
Budgam imposes prohibitory orders for JKSSB exam
Budgam, Nov 14: In view of the Jammu and Kashmir Services Selection Board (JKSSB) examination for the post of Accounts Assistant (Finance Department), scheduled to be held on November 15, 2026, District Magistrate Budgam Jatin Kishore (IAS) has imposed prohibitory restrictions around examination centres across the district to ensure the smooth, peaceful and hassle-free conduct of the examination. According to an official order issued by the Office of the Deputy Commissioner, Budgam, under Section 163 of the Bharatiya Nagarik Suraksha Sanhita (BNSS), 2023, the assembly of five or more persons has been prohibited within a radius of 200 metres of the examination centres. The restrictions will remain in force on November 15, 2026, from 11:00 AM to 4:00 PM. The JKSSB examination for the post of Accounts Assistant (Finance Department) will be conducted in a single session from 1:00 PM to 3:00 PM at 26 examination centres across District Budgam. The District Magistrate said that the restrictions have been imposed as a precautionary measure to maintain law and order and ensure that candidates can appear in the examination in a peaceful and conducive atmosphere. The Senior Superintendent of Police, Budgam, has been directed to ensure strict implementation of the order in letter and spirit.
Mirwaiz features in Muslim 500 for 13th consecutive year
Srinagar, Nov 14: Mirwaiz-e-Kashmir Dr Moulvi Mohammad Umar Farooq has been named among the world's 500 most influential Muslim personalities for the 13th consecutive year in the 2027 edition of The Muslim 500, published by the Royal Islamic Strategic Studies Centre (RISSC), Jordan. Listed under the Political category, the publication identifies Mirwaiz as the 14th Mirwaiz of Kashmir, who assumed the religious leadership in 1990 at the age of 17 following the assassination of his father. The publication acknowledges his longstanding advocacy of dialogue and peaceful engagement to address the Kashmir issue, highlighting his repeated calls for dialogue between India and Pakistan as the only sustainable path to peace. It also refers to his prolonged house detention from August 2019 to September 2023 and notes that he continues to face intermittent restrictions and detentions. Describing his role as chief cleric at Srinagar's historic Jamia Masjid, the publication recognises his efforts to combine traditional religious leadership with human rights advocacy. For over three decades, Mirwaiz has maintained that dialogue rather than confrontation offers the most viable way to resolve the Kashmir issue. Despite restrictions on his movement and public activities, he has continued to advocate peace, reconciliation, religious harmony and human dignity, reads a statement from Mirwaiz.
Jammu to get 25 large, 75 mini electric buses
Jammu, Nov 14: Jammu is set to receive 100 additional electric buses under the PM-eBus Sewa Scheme, with work on a new depot at Bhagwati Nagar progressing to support the expanded fleet. A team from the Union Ministry of Housing and Urban Affairs (MoHUA), led by Director Urban Transport Bhanu Pratap Singh Bhadoria, visited the under-construction depot on Saturday to review the progress of the project and assess the operation of the city's existing electric bus fleet. Officials informed the team that the additional fleet would comprise 25 twelve-metre buses and 75 seven-metre buses. While the larger buses are proposed for routes with higher passenger demand, the smaller ones will cater to congested areas and narrower roads. The process for procuring the 25 twelve-metre buses has advanced following an agreement with PMI Electro Mobility Solutions Private Limited. For the remaining 75 seven-metre buses, Convergence Energy Services Limited (CESL) has issued the Letter of Confirmation of Demand (LoCD). The Bhagwati Nagar depot, being developed by Jammu Smart City Limited (JSCL), has an estimated cost of Rs 16.72 crore. This includes Rs 15.05 crore in Central Assistance and Rs 1.67 crore as the Union Territory's share. The team reviewed the physical and financial progress of the depot and was briefed about the power infrastructure being developed by Jammu Power Distribution Corporation Limited (JPDCL) to meet the electricity requirements of the facility and its charging stations. The visiting officials also reviewed the operations of Jammu's existing 100 electric buses, provided under the FAME-II Scheme and operated by JSCL. The fleet operates on several routes within Jammu and connects the city with adjoining destinations, including Kathua, Udhampur, Katra and Khour. Officials said the buses are equipped with CCTV cameras, emergency panic buttons, real-time vehicle tracking and passenger information systems. Bhadoria expressed satisfaction over the progress of the depot and appreciated the operation of the existing electric bus fleet. Commissioner Jammu Municipal Corporation and CEO JSCL Ayushi Sudan accompanied the team during the inspection. The team also included Divya Jain, State Representative, Programme Management Unit, PM-eBus Sewa, besides officials of JMC, JSCL and other departments.
1,600 kg buffalo meat found unfit, destroyed in Budgam
Budgam, Nov 14: The FDA, J&K, along with the Railway Police, railway authorities and the District Administration, Budgam, seized and subsequently destroyed approximately 1,600 kg of buffalo meat at Budgam Railway Station following the detection of serious violations relating to its declaration, transportation and maintenance of prescribed cold-chain conditions. In a statement, the department said that the enforcement action was initiated following specific information received from the railway authorities regarding the transportation of a consignment of buffalo meat. Acting promptly on the information, the Food Safety Team, Budgam, inspected the consignment and it was observed that adequate refrigeration or dry-ice arrangements had not been made to maintain the prescribed transportation temperature of -18C or below, thereby compromising the mandatory cold-chain requirements, the statement reads. The department said that the consignment was further subjected to preliminary testing through the Food Safety on Wheels facility, which indicated that the meat was unfit for human consumption. Accordingly, the entire consignment, weighing approximately 1,600 kg, was seized and subsequently destroyed in accordance with the applicable provisions of the Food Safety and Standards Act, 2006, and the prescribed procedures for disposal of food articles unfit for human consumption, the statement adds. It is pertinent to mention that, in an earlier enforcement action, the Food Safety Authorities had seized approximately 2,600 kg of meat in Srinagar. The FDA, J&K, continues to maintain strict vigilance across all districts to prevent the transportation, distribution and sale of unsafe and non-compliant food commodities, with stringent legal action being initiated against violators in accordance with the provisions of the Food Safety and Standards Act, 2006, and the rules and regulations framed thereunder. The Department has urged consumers to remain vigilant and report any instance of the sale or distribution of unsafe or adulterated food through the official email at cfsjandk.fnd@jk.gov.in .
PDP, BJP damaged J&K's identity and rights: NC
Srinagar, Nov 14: Jammu and Kashmir National Conference Chief Spokesperson and MLA Zadibal Tanvir Sadiq on Saturday blamed the PDP and BJP for the political and economic challenges facing Jammu and Kashmir, accusing the two parties of damaging the region's identity, dignity and constitutional rights through their decisions during their respective tenures. He was speaking at a meeting of office-bearers of the NC's Zadibal constituency at the party headquarters, Nawa-e-Subha, in Srinagar. The meeting reviewed organisational activities, upcoming party programmes and public issues. Participants also shared updates on ongoing developmental works in their areas and highlighted pending grievances. Addressing the gathering, Sadiq stressed the need to strengthen the party organisation and expand public outreach. He urged party functionaries to effectively communicate the developmental initiatives, welfare schemes and public-friendly decisions taken by the Omar Abdullah-led government over the past two years. He said the government was working seriously towards public welfare and relief, adding that addressing people's grievances remained its top priority. Taking a dig at the PDP, BJP and their like-minded parties, Sadiq accused them of misleading people through propaganda and statements against the National Conference. He said people were aware of their past record and political conduct. He said the BJP must be held accountable for its decisions concerning Jammu and Kashmir and the promises made to the people, while the PDP should reflect on its political contradictions and past positions. Sadiq said the National Conference, unlike parties engaged in blame games, remained focused on good governance, fulfilling its commitments and representing people's aspirations. The meeting was attended by Youth National Conference functionaries, senior party leaders, block and constituency presidents, secretaries, mohalla presidents and party workers from various areas of Zadibal.
AIP questions govt over youth unemployment in J&K
Srinagar, Nov 14: Awami Itihaad Party (AIP) on Saturday criticised the Omar Abdullah-led government over the reported high youth unemployment rate in Jammu and Kashmir, questioning its efforts to address the employment concerns of the younger generation. Referring to the Periodic Labour Force Survey (PLFS) figures showing an unemployment rate of 26.2 per cent among youth aged 1529 years in J&K, against the national average of 15.3 per cent, an AIP spokesperson said the figures should prompt the government to explain why the region continues to face such a high level of unemployment. The spokesperson also questioned the status of the National Conference's promise to provide one lakh jobs, saying electoral commitments should be assessed on the basis of their implementation. He said the Chief Minister must explain the progress made towards fulfilling the promise, adding that young people had been waiting for meaningful improvement in employment opportunities. Calling for a comprehensive response, the spokesperson said the government should fill vacant posts, introduce a transparent recruitment calendar and create conditions for private investment, local businesses and entrepreneurship to generate sustainable employment. He also sought a concrete and time-bound action plan, saying the aspirations of young people required serious attention rather than routine assurances.
Apni Party leaders flag Hazratbal grievances
Srinagar, Nov 14: A delegation of Apni Party leaders and workers from Hazratbal constituency on Saturday called on party president Syed Mohammad Altaf Bukhari at the party headquarters in Srinagar and apprised him of various public issues and organisational matters. The delegation was led by Mohammad Sidiq Mir, the party's constituency in-charge for Hazratbal. During the meeting, the delegation members highlighted various grievances and concerns of residents and discussed matters related to strengthening the party's organisational structure in the constituency. Bukhari gave the delegation a patient hearing and assured its members that the issues raised would be taken up with the concerned authorities for prompt redressal. The delegation included Apni Party Provincial Secretary Kashmir Mohammad Saleem Lone, Provincial Coordinator Shabir Ahmad Reshi, Organising Secretary Kashmir Mohammad Yousuf Abdullah, Srinagar District President Zaffar Habib, Zonal Presidents Farooq Ahmad Magray and Bilal Ahmad Bhat, and District Vice President Youth Srinagar Mudasir Wali, among others.
JKPCC mourns demise of senior leader Shah Chaudhary
Jammu, Nov 14: The Jammu and Kashmir Pradesh Congress Committee (JKPCC) on Saturday held a condolence meeting at its headquarters, Rajiv Bhawan, Shaheedi Chowk, Jammu, to mourn the demise of senior Congress leader and senior advocate Shah Mohammed Chaudhary. The meeting was presided over by JKPCC working president Raman Bhalla and attended by several senior party leaders and functionaries, who paid tributes to the deceased and recalled his contributions to society and the party. The speakers remembered Chaudhary for his commitment to the ideals of the Congress and his dedication to the welfare of the poor and underprivileged. They said he had consistently extended legal assistance and guidance to needy people, helping them seek justice. The leaders also described him as a secular person who worked for harmonious relations among people belonging to different faiths and sections of society. The gathering observed a two-minute silence to pray for peace to the departed soul and strength for the bereaved family.
Tributes paid to two martyred SPOs in Kishtwar
Kishtwar, Nov 14: Leader of Opposition in the Jammu and Kashmir Legislative Assembly Sunil Kumar Sharma, MLA Kishtwar Shagun Parihar and Deputy Commissioner Kishtwar Pankaj Kumar Sharma on Saturday paid floral tributes to two Special Police Officers (SPOs) who were killed while performing official duty in Marwah area on November 11. The martyred SPOs, identified as Rashpal Kumar and Babhi Chand, were residents of the remote Kiyar area of Dachhan tehsil. They were killed in the upper forest area of Deharna village while travelling to the area to perform their official duty. Following the incident, Sharma, Parihar and the Deputy Commissioner, accompanied by civil and police administration officials, visited Kiyar-Dachhan to assess the situation and meet the bereaved families. They remained in the area until the last rites of the deceased were performed and expressed solidarity with their families. During the interaction, the Deputy Commissioner assured the bereaved families that all possible assistance would be provided by the district administration. He said cases for compassionate appointment of eligible dependents under the Jammu and Kashmir Rehabilitation Assistance Scheme, 2022, formerly known as SRO-43, along with admissible compensation, would be processed as per the prescribed procedure. The Deputy Commissioner also interacted with local residents and assured them that issues related to road connectivity, mobile network coverage and other developmental requirements of Kiyar would be assessed by the concerned departments and taken up on priority. The district administration reiterated its commitment to supporting the families of the martyred SPOs and addressing the developmental concerns of residents of the remote Kiyar-Dachhan area.
Govt prioritises strengthening of power infrastructure: Sagar
Jammu, Nov 14: Minister for Power Development Department (PDD), Revenue, Relief and Rehabilitation, Elections and Disaster Management, Relief, Rehabilitation and Reconstruction (DMRRR), Ali Mohammad Sagar, today conducted an extensive tour of Jammu city and its adjoining areas to review the existing power infrastructure, assess ongoing augmentation works and take stock of public grievances. During the tour, the Minister inspected major Grid Stations at Gladni, Canal Road and Janipur and reviewed the infrastructure requirements of other important areas, including Bari Brahmana, Sidra, Jagti, Akhnoor and Kalakote. He stressed the need to strengthen the transmission and distribution network to ensure reliable and uninterrupted electricity supply in view of the growing domestic, commercial and industrial demand. At Gladni Grid Station, a major source of power supply to Jammu city, the Minister was informed that the station receives power through Salal and Kishenpur and has a 220/132/33 kV system. The station presently has four 132/33 kV transformers of 50 MVA each, providing a total transformation capacity of 200 MVA. He was further informed that an additional capacity of 80 MVA is under execution and is expected to be commissioned within six months. The augmentation is aimed at improving power supply to Gandhi Nagar, Channi Himmat, Bathindi and adjoining areas. The existing emergency backup arrangements were also reviewed to ensure continuity of supply during contingencies. Reviewing the proposed augmentation at Canal Road Grid Station, the Minister was apprised that the existing capacity of approximately 120 MVA is proposed to be enhanced to 150 MVA. The augmentation will strengthen power supply to Jewel Chowk, Subash Nagar, Canal Road, Satwari, Army and Air Force establishments, Cantonment areas and adjoining localities up to Talab Tillo. The requirement of an additional load of around 30 MW was also discussed. At Janipur Grid Station, the Minister reviewed the existing power infrastructure and was briefed on the proposed augmentation and transformer replacement works. The existing arrangement comprises three 50 MVA transformers, providing a transformation capacity of 150 MVA. He was informed about the proposed addition of 80 MVA capacity and replacement of an existing 50 MVA transformer, with the works targeted for completion within six months. Special focus was laid on Bari Brahmana, considering its expanding industrial base and growing domestic power requirements. The Minister stressed the need for a comprehensive assessment of load requirements in Bari Brahmana, Sidra, Jagti, Akhnoor and Kalakote to ensure that the infrastructure is strengthened in anticipation of future demand. Directing the concerned officers to expedite all ongoing works, Sagar said that strengthening the power infrastructure remains a priority of the government and that consumers must receive reliable and quality electricity supply. He emphasised that grid augmentation, replacement of ageing equipment and creation of adequate backup arrangements must be undertaken in a planned and time-bound manner. The Minister directed the department to ensure completion of all ongoing augmentation and transformer replacement works within six months. He also called for a realistic assessment of future domestic, commercial and industrial load requirements to ensure that the power infrastructure keeps pace with the growing needs of Jammu city and its adjoining areas. Sagar further directed the officers to remove bottlenecks affecting execution, maintain adequate emergency backup arrangements and ensure close monitoring of all projects. The Minister also asked the department to submit an area-wise progress report detailing the existing transformation capacity, additional capacity being created, status of works under execution and definite commissioning timelines for regular monitoring at the highest level. During the tour, several delegations and local representatives from different areas also called on the Minister and apprised him of various issues concerning public amenities, power supply and other matters of public importance. The Minister gave them a patient hearing and assured that their genuine concerns would be taken up with the concerned departments for early redressal. Underscoring the importance of proactive planning, timely execution and accountability at every level, Sagar said that a robust power infrastructure is essential for ensuring dependable electricity supply to households, businesses, industries and vital installations across Jammu. The Minister was accompanied by MD JPTCL Habib Choudhary, Chief Engineers and other senior officers of the department.
Healthy habits, preventive care key to youth wellbeing, says surgeon
Residents urge GCC to remove encroachments on roads in congested areas
Past weather trends show fewer cyclones crossing Tamil Nadu coast during Northeast monsoon
Synod of Jacobite Church approves steps to canonise Patriarch Ignatius Peter III
