Chlorine gas leak at water filtration plant in Madhya Pradeshs Sehore; four people hospitalised
Chlorine gas was being used to purify water at the plant when a gas leak began from a tank, local sources claimed.
Reclaiming universities through trust, student voice
Blame the failures of university governance, not students, for growing protests across Indian campuses
HC seeks Delhi govt.s action plan to eliminate rabies in stray dogs
Monthly assistance for ex-servicemen, widows to be raised to 6,000, says Minister
Speaking in the Assembly, he says digital kiosks will be installed at the Secretariat and Collectorates to enable the public to access government services
INDIA bloc parties announce Odisha Assembly gherao on Sept. 29 over new mining law
At Bhubaneswar convention, Opposition alliance says mineral resources belong tothe people of the State; demands protection of Odishas rights over its mineral resources, land and forests
Raghav Chadhas name added in Delhi electoral
Walkathon held to raise awareness on eye donation
The event sought to encourage people to pledge their eyes and help address corneal blindness through eye donation and transplantation
Woman loses five-sovereign gold jewellery to impostor at Tiruvallur GH
Akhilesh unveils blue dress code for SP youth wing to push Bahujan plank
Bihar Floods: water levels recede, but threat persists
Falling edifice: On the Delhi private hostel building collapse
Delhis ambition as an education hub is at odds with its civic infrastructure
My area of joy in Madras was Egmore : Y. Gee Mahendra
India-Japan defence cooperation breaks new ground
India and Japan are advancing a broader Indo-Pacific partnership beyond China-centric security concerns
Tension as police raid Shyam Institute, case against Director Shyam, 20 students in Kakinada
Gescom makes arrangements for safe, uninterrupted power supply during Ganesha festival
Temporary connections to pandals to be facilitated; safety inspections and dedicated teams planned along immersion routes
Tangedco staff held on bribery charges near Arakkonam
Protesters seek recruitment notification for 72,000 vacancies in Karnataka
The All India Democratic Youth Organisation (AIDYO) and the Job Aspirants Struggle Committee (JASC) staged a protest in front of Dharwad Deputy Commissioners office in Dharwad on Tuesday, urging the State government to immediately issue recruitment notifications for the 72,000 posts it had announced and complete the recruitment process within six months.
Villagers oppose opening of new Tasmac outlet in Tiruvannamalai
More than 100 residents gathered in front of the new outlet around 11 a.m and raised slogans against its inauguration
Revenue Inspector killed as lorry rams bike
Delhi CM meets injured students, hands aid to kin; building contractor held in U.P.
Gupta visits AIIMS, gives 5 lakhcompensation each to families of students being treated for collapse injuries, orders razing of an unsafe structure in Satya Niketan; owner began work on basement while building was occupied, says Chief Fire Officer
Not enough room: inside thedabba gharsfor students in Delhi
Out of Satya Niketan, into same trap: students struggle for safer stay in Delhi
City hospital performs open surgical chest contouring on 44-year-old man with liver failure
Beyond a monolithic Gen Z youth
Rather than seeing Gen Z youth as only a uniform entity, it is important to understand the divisions within, and, also, the commonalities with other generations
Tamil Nadu government transfers 27 IAS officers in major bureaucratic reshuffle
Dharmendra Pratap Yadav, Chairman and Managing Director, Tamil Nadu Small Industries Corporation (TANSI) is the new Principal Secretary, Rural Development and Panchayat Raj, replacing Prashant M. Wadnere.
Adopt a welfare-oriented approach, Fisheries department told
Speaking at a district-level review meeting of the Fisheries and Harbour Engineering departments at Ponnani, Fisheries Minister V.E. Abdul Gafoor said steps would be taken to fill vacancies in key posts and improve the departments functioning in Malappuram.
SP-RLD row overchavanniflips open caste fault lines ahead of U.P. poll
Jayants political switch and SPs attacks put pressure on RLDs bhaichara plank, as both parties court Jats, Gurjars and Muslims in western U.P.
Women should take back the night
Historically, the night has belonged to men. Girls, from a very tender age, are made to fear the night; of venturing out alone in darkness
J&K, Ladakh agencies step up joint fight against drug trafficking
Srinagar, Sep 8: The second UT-level Joint Coordination Committee (JCC) meeting on narcotics control for Jammu & Kashmir and Ladakh was held at the Police Control Room in Srinagar on Tuesday, with enforcement agencies calling for stronger coordination to combat drug trafficking networks. The meeting was chaired by the DDG (NWR), Narcotics Control Bureau (NCB), and IG Crime/ANTF of J&K Police. Senior officers from the ED, BSF, State Drug Controller, IB, Customs, DRI, Income Tax, NIA and police, including SSPs of Jammu, Srinagar and Ganderbal, participated. The agencies discussed emerging trends in drug trafficking, inter-State linkages, illicit cultivation, information sharing, joint investigations, financial probes and effective prosecution. Officials also reviewed measures for implementing the Vision Document on Drug Control (20262029) announced by Union Home Minister Amit Shah at the 10th apex-level NCORD meeting in New Delhi on June 26. The meeting stressed a network-centric approach, along with greater inter-agency coordination, joint interrogation, financial investigation and use of information-sharing mechanisms. The meeting concluded with a call for sustained cooperation and a whole-of-government approach to detect, disrupt and dismantle drug trafficking networks across J&K and Ladakh.
Shamsudheen returns to alma mater, calls for colleges to become cultural centres
Marriage, Not Market Competition
In Kashmir, weddings have always been more than private ceremonies. They are social events, family milestones and moments of joy that bring together relatives, neighbours and communities. But in recent years, the scale and expense of these celebrations have grown into a quiet burden, especially for middle-class and low-income families. What was once a simple and dignified occasion is increasingly being turned into a display of wealth, status and social competition. The problem is not celebration itself. Kashmiris have every right to rejoice, to mark important occasions with warmth and hospitality, and to preserve their cultural traditions. The concern arises when weddings become extravagant beyond reason, with lavish venues, excessive food, imported dcor, costly attire, multi-day functions and pressure to keep up with others. For many families, this is no longer a matter of choice but of compulsion. They fear social judgement if they keep things modest, and in that fear, they stretch themselves beyond their means. The result is predictable and painful. Families go into debt, sell assets, take loans or drain savings meant for education, healthcare or future security. In some cases, parents spend years recovering financially from a single wedding. Young couples begin married life under the shadow of financial strain. This is hardly the foundation for a stable household or a healthy society. Equally worrying is the social message this sends. Lavish weddings create an unhealthy culture in which worth is measured by spectacle rather than sincerity. They deepen inequality by making ordinary families feel inadequate. They also place unnecessary pressure on young people, especially in a region where unemployment and economic uncertainty already weigh heavily on households. In such conditions, extravagance is not merely indulgence; it becomes a form of collective social harm. There is also a moral dimension that cannot be ignored. Kashmirs religious, cultural and ethical traditions have long favoured moderation, dignity and restraint. A wedding should be memorable for its blessings, not for the size of its budget. The true beauty of marriage lies in the union it represents, not in the money spent to impress guests. When customs begin to overshadow values, it is time for society to pause and reflect. This is where community leadership matters. Religious scholars, elders, social organisations and local influencers must speak clearly in favour of simplicity. Families should be encouraged to reject needless showmanship and to treat modest weddings not as a compromise but as a virtue. Public opinion must shift so that a simple wedding is respected, not mocked. If the Valley can normalise restraint, it can relieve countless households of pressure and preserve the spirit of celebration. Lavish weddings may offer a few hours of admiration, but they can leave behind years of financial stress. Kashmir needs to rediscover the dignity of simplicity. A wedding should unite families in joy, not divide them through debt and competition.
The New Climate Reality in Kashmir
The international conference on Plant Resilience in a Changing Climate: From Molecules to Ecosystem hosted by the University of Kashmirs Department of Botany has done more than bring scientists and scholars together; it has once again placed before us a truth that can no longer be ignored. Climate change is no longer a distant environmental concern to be discussed in global forums with abstract language and polished declarations. It is already altering the rhythm of life in the Himalayas, reshaping crops, disturbing ecosystems and challenging the very basis of agriculture in a region that depends heavily on its fragile natural balance. What makes the KU conference important is not merely its academic scope, but the clarity of the alarm sounded by the experts who participated in it. Their message was simple: the changes are visible, measurable and worsening. Crop calendars are shifting. Harvesting periods are no longer what they used to be. The quality and storage life of produce are being affected. Ecosystems that once followed predictable biological patterns are now under stress. In a region like Kashmir, where agriculture, horticulture and natural resources remain central to livelihoods, such disruptions are not minor adjustments. They are warning signs. Prof. Nilofer Khan rightly stressed that universities and research institutions have a crucial responsibility in generating knowledge that helps communities adapt to rapidly changing environmental conditions. That responsibility is especially heavy in the Himalayan region, where ecological sensitivity makes every climatic shift more consequential. Her emphasis on translating scientific knowledge into practical interventions from seed improvement and appropriate plant cultivation to sustainable practices and stronger research collaborations should serve as a roadmap not only for academics, but also for policymakers. The challenge, however, is that climate change is often treated in narrow terms, as if it were only an environmental issue. As Prof. Bashir Ahmad Ganai pointed out, its implications extend far beyond nature and must be understood in their wider social and developmental context. That is where much of the policy failure lies. Climate stress does not remain confined to scientific reports. It enters the lives of farmers, changes market outcomes, affects food security and deepens rural uncertainty. Any response that ignores this larger picture will remain incomplete. The caution sounded by Dr Mahendra Kumar Verma about changes in the biological calendar of crops is equally significant. Kashmirs agriculture has already begun to feel the pressure of altered seasons, erratic weather and changing temperature patterns. Technology and predictive modelling can certainly help, but they must be backed by seriousness at the level of planning and implementation. Without timely adaptation, farming systems will continue to be exposed to avoidable losses. The conference is therefore timely, but it must not end as a ceremonial exchange of ideas. It should lead to sustained collaboration, field-based research and practical strategies that strengthen resilience at every level from the laboratory to the farm, from the classroom to the policy table. The Himalayas cannot afford complacency. If the region is to preserve its crops, protect its ecosystems and secure its future, climate action must move from discussion to decisive action.
The Addas Kaballa Crisis: Why Our Generation Next is Falling Down Between Two Stools
In the golden days of our youth, an unwritten code governed the lanes. If two friends, or even total strangers, walked together and a glint of a lost coin or currency note appeared on the ground, a race of wit began. The moment the finder reached down, the companion would shout with spontaneous force: Addas Kaballa! In our native Kashmiri, this phrase meant Half of it is mine. It was a rule. The finder, by cultural law, would immediately and willingly split the prize. It was a shared blessing. Fast forward to a vibrant recent wedding. As the groom arrived for the reception, he was garlanded with crisp hundred-rupee notes. In the hustle, the thread broke, and the entire garland fell to the earth. A group of older friends, walking behind the groom, saw it happen. An instant memory ignited. One elderly gentleman shouted, Addas Kaballa! His friend, smiling at the flash of their childhood, immediately picked up the money and handed him an exact half. A group of younger boys, perhaps fifteen, rushed over, eager to claim a piece of the ooty. But when they tried to speak to the elders, a quiet tragedy unfurled. Their words were fractured, a clumsy mix of home-induced Urdu and a few forgotten words, spoken with a modern twang that rendered them incomprehensible. They were, in the stark idiom, falling down between the two stools. The wise elder offered a challenge: I will gladly give you my entire sharethe whole thingif you can simply ask for it using the core phrase: 'Addas chuiey kaballa. ' The boys tried. They muttered, mispronounced, and garbled the sounds. Not one could utter it correctly. They had been encouraged to abandon their mother tongue in homes and schools, pushing for a 'foreign' language they could not master, while losing the 'sweet and rich' language that defined their roots. So the game, and the entire booty, was lost to them. This incident, both funny and heartbreaking, is a mirror to our current crisis. The broken, fractured Urdu our next generation now speaks is our Addas Kaballa half-understood, half-uttered, leaving us with neither. There is absolutely nothing wrong with learning other languages; multilingualism is a great strength. But in discarding our mother tongue to adopt a foreign one, in owning it as our primary identity, we commit the suicide of an unsound mind. Linguists estimate that of the roughly 7,000 languages spoken worldwide, nearly half are endangered and may disappear by the end of this century. They vanish when a language, once vibrant, stops being passed to children at home, or when communities, for reasons often rooted in economic pressure or self-loathing, hate their own language. When a language dies, we lose its unique folk wisdom, proverbs, oral history, and humour. We are not just heading toward a world where children cant speak to their grandparents; we are creating a generation linguistically adrift, disconnected from the very phrases that, in our youth, could claim a fair share of any treasure. We are allowing a sweet, rich legacy to become a laughing stock. To reclaim our future, we must begin to value the language that already belongs to us. (The author is a former civil servant from the administrative service. Email: nisargilani57748@gmail.com )
Building a Greener Urban Future for Kashmir Valley
Kashmir Valley stands at a difficult but decisive turning point. The pressure of population growth, unplanned expansion, traffic congestion, housing demand, shrinking green spaces, and climate stress has turned urban planning from a technical issue into a question of survival. If cities and towns in the Valley continue to expand in a fragmented and careless manner, the cost will not only be visible in jammed roads and concrete sprawl, but also in polluted water, weakened drainage, vanishing farmland, and a slow erosion of the Valleys natural charm. Future sustainable urban planning in Kashmir must therefore be based on balance between development and ecology, between modern needs and local realities, and between ambition and restraint. The idea of sustainability in Kashmir cannot be borrowed blindly from elsewhere. Urban planning here has to respond to the Valleys unique geography, climate, and cultural setting. Unlike plains where cities can spread outward with relative ease, Kashmir is a compact ecological basin enclosed by mountains, rivers, wetlands, orchards, and fertile land. Every piece of land carries value. Every wetland has a function. Every stream, road, and hillside is part of a larger environmental system. This means the future of urban planning in Kashmir cannot be measured only in terms of roads built, buildings raised, or commercial complexes approved. It must be judged by whether the Valley remains livable, resilient, and beautiful for generations to come. One of the most urgent needs is to stop the habit of unregulated horizontal expansion. Towns and peri-urban areas are consuming agricultural land at a frightening pace. Orchards are being cut, wetlands filled, and low-lying areas converted into colonies without adequate drainage or planning. This kind of growth may look profitable in the short term, but it is deeply damaging in the long run. Sustainable urban planning must protect agricultural belts and green buffers around cities. Kashmir cannot afford to treat fertile land as empty land. Once lost, such land is almost impossible to recover. At the same time, the Valley must rethink how it builds upward. Vertical development is often presented as a solution to land scarcity, but in Kashmir it must be handled with care. High-rise construction without proper infrastructure, parking, water supply, waste management, fire safety, and disaster planning can create new problems more severe than the old ones. Sustainable urban growth is not simply about building taller structures; it is about building smarter neighbourhoods. Compact housing, mixed-use development, walkable streets, and efficient public services should replace the present pattern of scattered, road-dependent development. Transport planning is another critical pillar. Kashmirs cities are increasingly choking under private vehicles, narrow roads, and poor public transit. The result is not only congestion but also higher emissions, more noise, and wasted time. A sustainable urban future demands investment in reliable public transport, safe pedestrian pathways, cycling corridors, and traffic-sensitive road design. Cities like Srinagar need mobility systems that reduce dependence on private cars and make daily movement easier for ordinary people. A city is not sustainable if a short journey takes an hour because planning failed to anticipate growth. Drainage and flood management must also be central to any future urban vision. The Valley is highly vulnerable to rainfall extremes, waterlogging, and flood risk. Yet much of urban construction has ignored natural waterways, blocked drainage channels, and weakened wetlands that once acted as buffers. Sustainable planning requires restoring and protecting those natural systems. Nallahs, lakes, streams, and marshlands should be treated as part of infrastructure, not obstacles to it. Urban design must work with water, not against it. If this lesson is not learned, the Valley will continue to face the same cycle of damage after every heavy rain. Waste management is another area where sustainability will either succeed or fail. Rapid urban growth has outpaced scientific disposal systems, leading to garbage accumulation, plastic pollution, and public health risks. A sustainable city must separate waste at source, strengthen recycling systems, improve collection networks, and reduce dependence on open dumping. Public awareness is important, but awareness alone cannot replace a functioning municipal framework. Urban planning must include the hidden systems of sanitation, sewage treatment, and solid waste management, because a clean city is not a luxury it is the foundation of dignity and health. Equally important is the preservation of Kashmirs identity. Urban planning is not only about efficiency; it is also about character. The Valley has a distinctive architectural heritage, human-scale neighbourhoods, traditional courtyards, local materials, and an aesthetic relationship with landscape that modern development often ignores. If all new construction follows the same ugly, disconnected, concrete-heavy model, Kashmir will lose not only beauty but also cultural continuity. Sustainable planning should encourage designs that respect local climate, use energy-efficient materials, preserve views, and reflect Kashmiri architectural sensibilities. Development should not mean making Kashmir look like everywhere else. There is also a social dimension to urban sustainability. Planning must serve all sections of society, not only the powerful or the well-connected. Affordable housing, accessible public spaces, basic services, and safe neighbourhoods are essential if cities are to remain inclusive. Many urban problems in Kashmir are intensified by inequality where some areas receive better services while others remain neglected. A sustainable city must reduce such gaps. Planning should be transparent, participatory, and fair. Residents, experts, local bodies, and civil society should all have a voice in shaping the future of their towns and cities. Climate change adds another layer of urgency. Rising temperatures, unpredictable snowfall, altered rainfall patterns, and environmental stress are already affecting life in the Valley. Sustainable urban planning must therefore be climate-responsive. Buildings should be designed for energy efficiency and insulation. Green spaces should be expanded. Tree cover must be protected. Renewable energy should be encouraged where possible. Urban resilience is no longer optional. It is a necessity in a region where climate shocks can quickly turn into social and economic disruption. The role of governance cannot be overlooked. Even the best planning ideas fail when implementation is weak. Kashmir needs coordination among development authorities, municipal bodies, environmental agencies, and local administration. Approvals must be based on long-term public interest rather than short-term private gain. Illegal constructions, encroachments, and violations should not be normalised. Sustainable urban planning requires rule-based development, not selective enforcement. Without accountability, every policy remains a paper promise. Future sustainable urban planning in Kashmir Valley must also embrace a broader change in mindset. The conversation should move away from uncontrolled growth as an end in itself and toward quality of life as the real measure of progress. A city is not successful because it spreads endlessly; it is successful because it remains healthy, efficient, inclusive, and beautiful. In Kashmir, this principle is even more important because the land is limited and the ecological stakes are high. The challenge is serious, but so is the opportunity. Kashmir can still shape a model of urban development that respects nature while meeting modern needs. It can build towns that are compact rather than chaotic, green rather than grey, and humane rather than hollow. For that, planning must begin now, with clarity, discipline, and vision. The future of Kashmirs urban spaces should not be left to accident or pressure. It must be designed carefully, because once the Valley loses its balance, recovery will be far harder than prevention. Future sustainable urban planning in Kashmir is not just about managing cities. It is about protecting a fragile homeland while preparing it for a modern future. That is the real test before planners, policymakers, and citizens alike. (The author is a lecturer in HED, columnist and public speaker)
Hakeem Yaseen pays tribute to Sheikh Abdullah, recalls 1953 fallout
Srinagar, Sep 8: Peoples Democratic Front (PDF) President and former minister Hakeem Mohammad Yaseen on Tuesday paid tribute to National Conference founder Sheikh Mohammad Abdullah on his 44th death anniversary, recalling his role in Jammu and Kashmirs political and social history. Yaseen described Sheikh Abdullahs dismissal and arrest in 1953 as a historic blunder, saying its political repercussions continued to be felt in J&K. He said the developments of 1953 contributed to political uncertainty and alienation in the region for decades. Referring to the 1975 Sheikh-Indira Accord, Yaseen said it represented an attempt to address the political developments that had followed Sheikh Abdullahs dismissal and restore stability. Yaseen urged the National Conference to remain committed to Sheikh Abdullahs legacy of safeguarding the political, economic and social interests of the people of Jammu and Kashmir. The legacy of Sheikh Abdullah should not remain confined to ceremonial tributes; it should be reflected in political action and commitment to the people, he said. Yaseen also called upon people to remember Sheikh Abdullahs contribution to J&K while drawing lessons from the political developments that shaped the regions subsequent history.
Bukhari seeks removal of 10+2 cap for JKSSB MTS posts
Srinagar, Sep 8: Apni Party President Syed Mohammad Altaf Bukhari on Tuesday urged the Jammu and Kashmir government to remove the maximum educational qualification of 10+2 prescribed for recently notified Class-IV (MTS) and sanitation worker posts. Bukhari said the Jammu and Kashmir Services Selection Board (JKSSB) notification, by restricting eligibility to candidates with qualifications up to 10+2, had left thousands of graduates and postgraduates ineligible to apply. By prescribing a maximum qualification, the Government has effectively told thousands of young people that being more educated can make them ineligible for a government job, Bukhari said. He said the policy could further discourage youth from pursuing higher education at a time when college admissions have already been declining. Bukhari urged the government to reconsider the notification and allow all otherwise eligible candidates, including 10+2 pass-outs, graduates and postgraduates, to compete for the posts. The solution cannot be to close the doors of employment to those who have acquired higher qualifications, he said.
Samavedam Shanmukha Sarma selected for Kopparapu award
Earlier on Tuesday, AIADMK general secretary Edappadi K. Palaniswami announced that his party would field candidates for the byelections as well
Tarigami reviews healthcare services in Kulgam
Kulgam, Sep 08: MLA Kulgam M.Y. Tarigami on Tuesday chaired a meeting of the Rogi Kalyan Samiti (RKS) at the Mini Secretariat, Kulgam, convened by the Health Department to review the functioning of District Hospital Kulgam and deliberate upon measures for further strengthening healthcare infrastructure and patient-care services. The meeting was attended by Deputy Commissioner Kulgam Shahzad Alam, Chief Medical Officer Kulgam Dr. Showkat Ahmad Parray, Medical Superintendent District Hospital Kulgam Dr. Syed Masood, besides senior officers and representatives of the Health Department. At the outset, Medical Superintendent District Hospital Kulgam Dr. Syed Masood gave a detailed PowerPoint presentation on the hospital's performance, healthcare facilities and patient-care services during 202627. He informed the meeting that six operation theatres are presently functional at the hospital, while two additional operation theatres are expected to become operational shortly. He said the additional facilities would help reduce the waiting time for surgeries and further improve surgical services. The Medical Superintendent further informed that the Maternal and Child Health (MCH) unit and High Dependency Unit (HDU) are expected to become operational within 15 days. The executing agency was directed to complete all pending works within the stipulated timeframe. The meeting was informed that District Hospital Kulgam recorded more than 2.60 lakh OPD visits and 8,294 IPD admissions during the period under review. The hospital also performed 851 major surgeries, 991 LSCS (Caesarean deliveries) and 533 minor surgeries, reflecting the growing capacity of the institution to provide specialized healthcare services at the district level. The presentation further highlighted that referrals from the hospital remained minimal, indicating the availability of a wide range of medical and surgical services locally and reducing the need for patients to travel outside the district for treatment. The committee held detailed discussions on various issues concerning the functioning of healthcare institutions, availability of medicines and medical equipment, patient-care facilities, infrastructure development and other requirements aimed at improving healthcare delivery across the district. The members also reviewed the ongoing activities and initiatives being undertaken under the Rogi Kalyan Samiti and discussed measures for optimal utilization of available resources and provision of better facilities to patients. Several new projects aimed at further strengthening and developing the hospital were also approved. CMO Kulgam briefed the meeting on the functioning of various health institutions and apprised the members of requirements and issues requiring attention. Speaking on the occasion, MLA Tarigami emphasized the need for further strengthening healthcare infrastructure and ensuring quality, accessible and patient-friendly healthcare services. DC Kulgam said the figures reflect the growing patient footfall at District Hospital Kulgam and the expanding range of healthcare services being provided locally, enabling people to access treatment closer to their homes.
GVMC chief calls for green Ganesh celebrations
Bukhari says J&K at critical phase, highlights post-2019 changes
Srinagar, September 8: Apni Party President Syed Mohammad Altaf Bukhari on Tuesday described Jammu and Kashmir as being in a critical phase, saying the developments of August 2019 marked a major turning point for the erstwhile state. Addressing an event at the party headquarters in Srinagar, where several political and social activists from the Hazratbal constituency joined the Apni Party, Bukhari criticised what he described as the silence of traditional political leadership following the abrogation of J&Ks special constitutional status and statehood. Bukhari said the changes made in August 2019 had affected what he termed J&Ks exclusive rights over land and employment. He claimed the Apni Party subsequently engaged with the Centre and contributed to the restoration of protections for local residents. This was the Apni Partys contribution at that critical juncture, he said. On the domicile issue, Bukhari said that had the Apni Party received a mandate in the 2024 Assembly elections, it would have sought to increase the residency requirement from 15 to 50 years. He also criticised the present government for, according to him, failing to raise the issue despite six years having passed. Welcoming the new entrants, Bukhari assured them of the party leaderships support and urged them to work for the welfare of people in their respective areas. Among those who joined the party were Khair-ul-Nisa, Ghulam Mohammad Rather, Adil Fayaz, Fazil Fayaz, Waheeda Ji, Naira Bano, Gulshana Ji, Fayaz Ahmad Bhat, Sajid Fayaz, Asif Ali, Abdul Rashid, Owais Israr and Nayeema Rather, among others.
State govt. to implement Gramanubhava to introduce rural life to urban students
Sheikh Abdullahs legacy continues to inspire: Rana
Srinagar, Sep 8: Minister for Jal Shakti, Forest, Ecology & Environment and Tribal Affairs, Javed Ahmed Rana, today paid rich tributes to Sher-e-Kashmir Sheikh Mohammad Abdullah on his 44th death anniversary. The Minister offered prayers and remembered Sheikh Mohammad Abdullah as a visionary and far-sighted leader whose contribution to the political, social and economic transformation of Jammu and Kashmir occupies an important place in the regions history. Speaking on the occasion, Rana said that few leaders have commanded the kind of enduring popular faith and affection that Sheikh Mohammad Abdullah earned during his lifetime. He described him as a fearless, uncompromising and deeply committed leader who remained devoted to the interests of his homeland and its people, inspiring generations to uphold the values of public service, dignity and social justice. Rana said Sheikh Mohammad Abdullahs political journey represented a sustained struggle against systems of oppression, inequality and injustice. His vision, he said, transcended narrow and sectional considerations and remained firmly anchored in the aspirations, dignity and welfare of the common people. The Minister recalled Sheikh Mohammad Abdullahs historic movement against hereditary rule, describing it as a decisive turning point in the political history of Jammu and Kashmir. According to Rana, the movement sought to replace autocratic governance with popular empowerment and greater political participation, laying the foundation for a more representative social and political order. He also highlighted Sheikh Mohammad Abdullahs far-reaching socio-economic reforms, saying that they challenged entrenched feudal structures and sought to dismantle longstanding systems of inequality. These measures, Rana said, contributed significantly towards expanding social justice, strengthening the position of ordinary people and creating the conditions for broader and more inclusive political representation. The Minister further underscored Sheikh Mohammad Abdullahs contribution to institution-building in Jammu and Kashmir. He said that his legacy extended beyond electoral and political leadership, encompassing the establishment and strengthening of institutions and public systems that continued to shape the regions developmental and administrative landscape over the decades. Sher-e-Kashmir Sheikh Mohammad Abdullah was not merely a political leader; he was a transformative figure whose vision, struggles and reforms left a lasting imprint on the social and political consciousness of Jammu and Kashmir, Rana said. Rana observed that Sheikh Mohammad Abdullahs legacy continues to remain deeply woven into the political, social and historical fabric of Jammu and Kashmir. His emphasis on the dignity and empowerment of the people, he said, continues to hold relevance and inspire successive generations.
BJP launches J&K outreach, targets NC government over failures
Poonch/Rajouri, Sep 8: Leader of Opposition in the Jammu and Kashmir Legislative Assembly Sunil Sharma on Tuesday led a senior BJP delegation on a public outreach programme in Poonch and Rajouri, targeting the National Conference-led government over what the party termed failures in governance and development. The delegation, comprising senior BJP leaders and functionaries, interacted with public delegations and sought feedback on issues related to development, basic services, employment and welfare. Sharma said the outreach marked the beginning of a wider grassroots campaign to highlight the gap between the NCs pre-election promises and its performance in government. The people are asking where is the promised development, where are the jobs and where is the relief in their day-to-day problems? Sharma said. He accused the government of failing to provide responsive and accountable governance and said the BJP would visit districts and constituencies across Jammu and Kashmir to raise public grievances. The people of Jammu and Kashmir deserve performance, accountability and developmentnot excuses and empty promises, he said. Sharma said the campaign would be expanded across the Union Territory, with senior BJP leaders undertaking visits to different districts to highlight public concerns and hold the government accountable.
Zilla Parishads reorganised in Visakhapatnam, Anakapalli, Alluri Sitharama Raju districts of Andhra
The ZP offices that have been running from the headquarters of the unified district will now move to the respective new districts
Relief from heat for Andhra Pradesh likely as low pressure brews over Bay of Bengal
Light to moderate showers are expected across the State, while isolated heavy rainfall likely in North Coastal A.P. from September 12 to 15, suggests IMD forecast
Magnitude 5.3 earthquake strikes Tibet, EMSC says
Earlier on Tuesday (September 8) an earthquake measuring 5.3 magnitude hit Mustang district in northwest Nepal
Back to blue for Indias hockey players at the Asian Games
Security review held for Harmukh-Gangbal Yatra
Ganderbal, Sep 8: A detailed security and preparedness review meeting was held on Tuesday in connection with the upcoming Annual Harmukh-Gangbal Yatra 2026, with senior police officers assessing arrangements to ensure the smooth and safe conduct of the pilgrimage. The meeting was convened by SDPO Kangan and chaired by SSP Ganderbal, with DySP SOG Ganderbal, SHO Kangan and other concerned officers in attendance. During the meeting, officers undertook a comprehensive review of the prevailing security situation along the yatra route and discussed the proposed deployment of security personnel at vulnerable and strategically important locations. The meeting also focused on logistical preparedness, disaster-response mechanisms, communication arrangements and contingency plans to deal with any eventuality during the pilgrimage. The officers assessed the availability of necessary resources and coordinated measures among different agencies to ensure prompt response in case of emergencies. Particular emphasis was laid on strengthening communication and maintaining effective coordination between field personnel and concerned departments. The SSP Ganderbal directed the concerned officers and agencies to remain vigilant and ensure that all arrangements are put in place well in advance. Necessary directions were also issued regarding force deployment, emergency preparedness and other operational requirements.
Arifa brings a human story of Kashmir to screen
Srinagar, Sep 8: Arifa, directed by Rohin Raveendran Nair and written by Durgesh Singh, explores themes of family, memory and reconciliation against the backdrop of Kashmir. Produced by Gubbara Entertainment, the film follows an estranged daughter who returns to Kashmir to visit her dying father. As buried memories resurface, the reunion gives the two a final opportunity to confront their past and make peace. Arifa is one of three films in the anthology Kashmir Muhabbat Se, which seeks to present a more intimate and human portrayal of Kashmir and its people, looking beyond headlines and stereotypes. The anthology aims to highlight the Valley through personal stories, relationships and everyday experiences, offering a warm and nuanced perspective on its people and culture.
Navy detains Tharuvaikulam boat with 9 fishermen
Prajwal Revanna, prison mate sent to two-day police custody over phone use in jail
Bengaluru civic bodies collect half of annual property tax target, but weekly pace lags
Would rather die than be called a coward, says judge who gave 23 death sentences
Ravi Kumar Diwakar raised concerns over the alleged influence of the mafia and gangsters on the judicial system, especially in western Uttar Pradesh, and said he has received threats from the mafia
CM reviews flood relief, infrastructure restoration
Srinagar, Sep 08: Chief Minister Omar Abdullah today reviewed the relief, rehabilitation and restoration measures being undertaken for people affected by this years floods and took stock of the ongoing restoration efforts across Jammu Division. Divisional Commissioner Jammu Ramesh Kumar gave a detailed presentation on the relief, rehabilitation and restoration measures being undertaken across the division. During the meeting, the Chief Minister reviewed the relief and rehabilitation measures for families affected by loss of life, injuries and damage to houses and property. He also took stock of the assistance being provided to affected families and the status of cases seeking allotment of State land, particularly for families rendered landless due to natural calamities. The Chief Minister was briefed on the extensive damage caused to roads and bridges across several districts and the progress made in restoring connectivity. The meeting also reviewed the restoration of damaged road stretches being undertaken by various agencies, including R&B, NHAI, NHIDCL and SAMPARK. Omar Abdullah stressed the need for coordinated and time-bound restoration of damaged infrastructure, with priority to be accorded to restoring connectivity to affected and remote areas. He called for close monitoring of restoration works and directed the concerned departments to ensure that temporary arrangements are followed by durable and permanent restoration works wherever required. The meeting also reviewed the damage caused to livestock, cattle sheds and crops, besides taking stock of the availability and utilisation of disaster relief funds across the districts. The Chief Minister directed the administration and concerned departments to remain prepared to respond promptly to any further weather-related eventuality and ensure that relief reaches affected people without delay. He emphasised the need for continued inter-departmental coordination and regular monitoring of relief, rehabilitation and restoration measures. The meeting was attended by Ministers Sakina Itoo, Javed Rana and Javid Dar, and Advisor to the Chief Minister Nasir Aslam Wani. Chief Secretary Atal Dulloo, Additional Chief Secretary, Jal Shakti, Shaleen Kabra, ACS to the Chief Minister Dheeraj Gupta and other concerned officers also attended the meeting.
Reliance plans first local debt sale after three years with $1.32 billion fundraise, bankers say
The oil-to-telecom conglomerate plans to raise 125 billion rupees ($1.32 billion) through a sale of five-year notes, at an annual coupon of 7.47%, and is set to invite bids from investors in the week ending September 18, according to bankers.
Officials step up measures to tackle air pollution in Visakhapatnam
Guwahati: The Arunachal Pradesh Chakma Women Welfare Society (APCWWS) has alleged intimidation, obstruction, stone-pelting and firearm discharge during a Special Intensive Revision (SIR) hearing involving Chakma electors at Bordumsa in Changlang district on September 3 and 4. In a statement on Tuesday, the APCWWS said Chakma electors who travelled 10 to 15 kilometres from their [] The post Arunachal: Chakma womens body alleges intimidation, firing at SIR hearing in Bordumsa appeared first on NorthEast Now .
Karnataka to add 10,000 acres more to Pavagada Solar Park: Energy Minister
Karnataka is one of Indias leading renewable energy states. The State has nearly 27.3 GW of renewable energy capacity, including more than 11.5 GW of solar and 8.5 GW of wind capacity, says Minister
ONGC Chairman calls for greater focus on tech, innovation; commits to fund and support startups
Stating that India must become more efficient and innovative to address its energy requirements, he said there was a need to do things fundamentally different to strengthen energy security and reduce dependence on imports
NIT-T team earns patent for paver blocks developed from soil-like material in landfills
Asian Games | Make the occasion remember you: Usha at official send-off
The official contingent jersey was unveiled in the ceremony where kabbadi player Sehrawat was present along with CWG gold medallist judoka Asmita and weightlifter Gyaneshwari
Delhi High Court declines urgent hearing on plea for Delhi University hostels
HC sets aside death sentence, acquits convict of all charges
Rahul Gandhi to take part in multiple events in Rae Bareli
The selfless love of people is the real strength of Rahul, which gives him the courage to stand firmly against every injustice, says the Congress
Russia, North Korea open first road link across shared border
Expansion of transport infrastructure near the border will give a powerful boost to the further development of trade, economic, technological, scientific and cultural cooperation between the Russian Federation and the Democratic People's Republic of Korea, said Prime Minister Mikhail Mishustin
Indian Railways in the fray in FIBA-WomensBasketball LeagueAsia
New Registrar takes over in GRI
U.K. air traffic control glitch prompts nearly 300 cancellations, monitor says
Heathrow, Stansted and City airports in London, as well as airports in Manchester, Birmingham, Scotland and elsewhere in the U.K., said the technical issue was causing some disruptions. They warned passengers to check the status of their flight with their airline
22-year-old mans organs donated
Student and youth associations demand impartial probe into irregularities in DSC-2025
ACB traps deputy executive engineer of Musheerabad division in 10,000 bribe case
British Council invites applications for Study UK Alumni Awards-2027
President grants Ladakh L-G additional duties of J&K
Lt. Governor of Jammu and Kashmir Manoj Sinha is on a leave of absence
Mini AC buses announced for all metro stations
BMTC live tracking app to be shared with cab aggregators
Madras High Court summons Tindivanam Sub Collector
Justice P.T. Asha summons the officer pursuant to a contempt of court petition filed against him for disobeying court orders
Five accused convicted in 2015 Maoist attack and attempt to murder police personnel case
The court sentenced Prabhakar, a Special Zonal Committee Member, and his wife Raje Kange, a Divisional Committee Member, to seven years in prison each, while Ramesh Kumar Kumeti, Shyam Nath Usendi and Chintu Ram Tamrakar were sentenced to five years each
Nepal marks first anniversary of Gen Z movement
The government declared a public holiday on September 8 to mark Gen Z Martyrs' Day, with special programmes being organised across Nepal in honour of those who lost their lives during the Gen Z movement
NDR Group proposes public listing of NDR InvIT Trust, files for 750-croreIPO
Proceeds from the issue will partly fund expansion of the InvITs asset base, including the acquisition of NDR Advanced Storage and NDR Storewell Warehousing
6 UP students pay Rs 2.5 lakh for vandalising Meghalaya homestay, HC quashes FIR
Shillong, Sep 8: The Meghalaya High Court has quashed an FIR against six students from Uttar Pradesh, accused of vandalising a homestay here, after they paid Rs 2.06 lakh as compensation, with two of them also directed to pay Rs 25,000 each and perform six days of community service, officials said on Tuesday. The order [] The post 6 UP students pay Rs 2.5 lakh for vandalising Meghalaya homestay, HC quashes FIR first appeared on Highland Post .
CPI(M) accuses A.P. government of neglecting Vijayawadas development
Members question the Finance Ministrys explanation; panel chief K.C. Venugopal says cess proceeds must not be used to finance fiscal deficit instead of their intended purpose
ED seeks fresh FIR against Pinarayi Vijayan, family in Exalogic-CMRL case
The Enforcement Directorate has asked Kerala Police to register a fresh case against former Chief Minister Pinarayi Vijayan, his daughter T. Veena and former Minister P.A. Mohammed Riyas in the CMRL-Exalogic case. The agency has levelled fresh allegations of bribery and routing of funds, while the CPI(M) has rejected the charges and accused the ED of political targeting.
NEIGRIHMS nurses defer strike, section says patient safety first
Shillong, Sep 8: The proposed mass casual leave by nurses at NEIGRIHMS on Wednesday has been temporarily deferred for seven working days. The NEIGRIHMS Nurses Association (NNA) in a press release today, said the decision follows a meeting with the administration which requested a one-week deferment to facilitate follow-up with the Ministry of Health & [] The post NEIGRIHMS nurses defer strike, section says patient safety first first appeared on Highland Post .
Ri Muliang residents protest move to shift block office to Tynghor
Shillong, Sep 8: Residents of Ri Muliang Block took out a protest rally at Nongstoi on Tuesday against the governments move to shift the block office from Nonglang to Tynghor. The block office at Nonglang, which covers 70 villages, was inaugurated in November 2022, just ahead of the 2023 Assembly elections. Villagers, under the banner [] The post Ri Muliang residents protest move to shift block office to Tynghor first appeared on Highland Post .
CPI will not allow subversion of land reforms in Keralam: Prakash Babu
He says if the United Democratic Front government seeks to subvert land reforms and concentrate wealth in the hands of a few in the name of industrial needs, it will not be allowed
Groups seek verification of outsiders in Williamnagar, allege MRSSA misuse
Shillong, Sep 8: The Simsanggre Regional Nokmas and Citizen Council, NGOs and residents of Williamnagar have petitioned the Deputy Commissioner and Superintendent of Police, East Garo Hills, seeking immediate verification of persons from outside the State who have recently entered and settled in Williamnagar after the recent communal disturbances. The complainants alleged a sudden rise [] The post Groups seek verification of outsiders in Williamnagar, allege MRSSA misuse first appeared on Highland Post .
Previous govt couldnt build 50,000 toilets in 10 years: PM Modi
Ganja plants in Laitumkhrah cut down
Shillong, Sep 8: Cannabis plants growing inside an abandoned plot in the heart of Laitumkhrah market were today destroyed by authorities. The plot, surrounded by a concrete wall and a locked iron gate, is located in the busy market locality. Inside, several lush cannabis plants were found standing amid garbage. Locals had alleged the spot [] The post Ganja plants in Laitumkhrah cut down first appeared on Highland Post .
Phone-sticking and running metro trend raises safety concerns in Bengaluru
Several such reels have recently surfaced on social media from metro systems across the country, including Bengaluru
