The arrow and the abyss | Review of Ankit Kawades The AmbedkarNietzsche Provocations
Ankit Kawades debut work shows how B.R. Ambedkar repurposes Nietzsches concept against hierarchical order
Jammu and Kashmirs Chief Minister Omar Abdullah showered praise on the young boy after he defeated boxers from Tajikistan, Kazakhstan, and Iran before overcoming host nation Uzbekistan by 4-1 in the final to clinch the gold medal in the 58-kg category
India, Pakistan should talk to each other find a way out on Kashmir: Mirwaiz Umar Farooq
Kashmir chief cleric Mirwaiz Umar Farooq underlined the path shown by his late father (Mirwaiz Moulana Farooq), where he put thrust on resolution, peace, brotherhood, dignity, and coexistence
IPL 2026: Andy Flower attributes RCB loss to SRHs mastery over home conditions
The defending champion needed to thwart a surrender to Sunrisers Hyderabad by 90-odd runs to prevent its neighbour from crawling up to the top two bracket of the standings
IPL 2026: Daniel Vettori heaps praise on pace trio of Malinga, Cummins and Sakib
Sunrisers Hyderabad came within sniffing distance of finishing in the top two, but the math fell just short after its win over Royal Challengers Bengaluru
Delhi HC seeks response from AAPs Gopal Rai, journalist in contempt plea
Justice Sharma had on May 14 initiated criminal contempt proceedings against Mr. Kejriwal, Manish Sisodia and other AAP leaders over their vilifying social media posts against her in relation to the excise policy case.
Trump proposes massive $1.5T military budget, claims Iran is dying to make a deal
Petrol, diesel prices hiked again by up to 94 paise per litre; third increase in 10 days
New Delhi , May 23 : Petrol and diesel prices were increased again across major metropolitan cities on Saturday, marking the third fuel price hike in less than 10 days amid continuing volatility in global energy markets. In Delhi, petrol prices rose by 87 paise to Rs 99.51 per litre, while diesel prices increased by 91 paise to Rs 92.49 per litre.In Kolkata, petrol prices were hiked by 94 paise to Rs 110.64 per litre, while diesel prices rose by 95 paise to Rs 97.02 per litre. Mumbai witnessed an increase of 90 paise in petrol prices, taking the rate to Rs 108.49 per litre, while diesel prices rose by 94 paise to Rs 95.02 per litre. In Chennai, petrol prices increased by 82 paise to Rs 105.31 per litre, while diesel prices climbed by 87 paise to Rs 96.98 per litre. The latest revision comes just days after fuel prices were increased earlier this week. On Tuesday, petrol prices in Delhi rose by 87 paise from Rs 97.77 to Rs 98.64 per litre, while diesel prices increased by 91 paise from Rs 90.67 to Rs 91.58 per litre. During the earlier revision, Mumbai saw petrol prices rise by 91 paise, bringing it to Rs 107.59 per litre, while diesel prices increased by 94 paise, which stood at Rs 94.08 per litre. In Chennai, petrol prices were raised by 82 paise to Rs 104.49 per litre, while diesel prices climbed by 86 paise to Rs 96.11 per litre. Kolkata had also registered a sharp increase earlier this week, with petrol prices going up by 96 paise to Rs 109.70 per litre and diesel prices increasing by 94 paise to Rs 96.07 per litre. Fuel prices in Jaipur also witnessed an upward revision during the previous hike. Petrol prices in the city increased by 94 paise per litre, while diesel prices rose by 92 paise per litre. Following the increase, petrol prices in Jaipur stood at Rs 108.91 per litre, while diesel was priced at Rs 94.15 per litre.Earlier, the central government increased the prices of petrol and diesel by Rs 3 per litre each on May 15 across the country. The repeated hikes come amid a call for fuel conservation as the world faces an energy crisis amid the West Asia conflict, which led to a blockade in the significant maritime trade route, the Strait of Hormuz. The Brent oil prices have been at a record high in the wake of the US-Israel and Iran war, which began on February 28 this year. The Brent oil price has been hovering over USD 100 per barrel as the US and Iran are attempting to mediate for a long-term ceasefire in the region. The widening of the ambit of the war engulfed the West Asian countries, which are major suppliers of fuel. However, India has maintained that there is no shortage of fuel and has adequate energy supplies. (ANI)
For every job at Mazagon Dock, 6.4 jobs are created across economy: Captain Jagmohan
The Maritime Amrit Kaal Vision 2047 aims to place India among the top five shipbuilding countries by 2047, with an annual capacity of 4.5 million gross tonnage and an expected investment of 4.5 lakh crore.
Thousands evacuated in Southern California due to failing chemicaltank
Firefighters doused the tanks with water using a mechanical device that kept humans at a safe distance, stabilising the temperature and buying us time, says division chief of the Orange County Fire Authority
Namrata Sonis beauty guide: On changing beauty trends, and why Indian eyes deserve more kajal
26 years of Cannes red carpets, movies, bridal chairs, and her own make-up line: Namrata Soni tells us why people should experiment more, her exciting new mascara launch, and trusting in your make-up artistes process
IUST celebrates World Day for Cultural Diversity
Awantipora, May 22: The Dean of Students, Islamic University of Science and Technology (IUST), in collaboration with the IUST Community Radio Station 91.2 FM, successfully observed the World Day for Cultural Diversity for Dialogue and Development today. The milestone occasion was commemorated through a special studio-based interaction programme organized under the patronage of the Vice Chancellor (HVC), IUST, Prof. Shakil A. Romshoo. During this special broadcast session, Dean of Students Dr. Monisa Qadiri highlighted the significance of the day for university and how IUSTs cultural mileu was enriched with the presence of students from outside Jammu and Kashmir and abroad. The talk involved enriching conversations with non-resident students including Dr Mahboob Alam, Mohammad Shahnawaz, Mohammad Faizan, Khwaja Minnat, from diverse cultural backgrounds studying at the university. The engaging conversation centered around cultural heritage, personal identity, unique traditions, and shared educational experiences. Held at the state-of-the-art IUST Community Radio Station studio recognized widely as a vital platform for public sphere and communicative actionthe programme provided students with an open venue to celebrate diversity, promote mutual understanding, and strengthen inclusivity across the campus. The radio team coordinated by Dr Mujeeb Liyakat, Coordinator Community Radio Station IUST included Najmus Saqib and Junaid Bhat. Through constructive dialogue and lively cultural exchange, the radio broadcast prominently highlighted that despite coming from different geographical and social backgrounds, the university community stands deeply united as one family.
DC Anantnag directs to ensure smooth observance of festival
Anantnag, May 22: Deputy Commissioner Anantnag, Dr. Bilal Mohiuddin Bhat on Friday chaired a meeting of officers at DC office to review the arrangements for smooth observance of upcoming Eid-ul-Adha in the district. The meeting was attended by SP, ADC, SE PHE, ACR, SDMs, AC Food Safety, CAHO, DD Fisheries, Exen PDD, ARTO, AD FCS&CA, DSHO, CEO MCA, representatives of F&ES, Legal Metrology, Traffic and Waqf Board, EOs of MCs and other concerned officials. At the outset, the officers briefed the chair about the respective arrangements that have been put in place for smooth observance of the holy and festive days. Addressing the meeting, the DC said it is essential the people and devotees are duly facilitated so they observe the holy days with ease and convenience. He called for providing all requisite facilities to the devotees visiting Khiram Dargah Shareef, Kabamarg, Reshmool, Aishmuqam, Seer Hamdan and other shrines, mosques and Eidgahs on upcoming Eid-ul-Adha. The DC directed officers of Jal Shakti Department and KPDCL to ensure smooth supply of water and electricity across the district. Jal Shakti Department shall keep adequate number of water tankers available at critical locations especially in view of the prevailing high temperatures, he noted. Emphasizing the importance of essential commodities during the festive days, the DC asked the FCS&CA Department to maintain sufficient stocks of rice, atta, sugar, and other daily essentials in the district. He further directed the concerned authorities to intensify market checking to ensure the quality and availability of essential commodities, including bakery and confectionery items, milk, meat, chicken, vegetables, and other essentials in the markets. It is expected that demand of these items will increase ahead of the holy occasion and therefore joint inspections of shops and manufacturing units be carried out by the designated teams to ensure provision of quality edible items at fair prices to the public, the DC observed. DSHO informed the chair that adequate number of sacrificial animals, including sheep and goats, are available in the district. Similarly, CAHO informed that sufficient poultry stock is available to meet public demand during the festive days. Municipal authorities were directed to conduct regular sanitation drives for proper cleanliness and hygiene in and around towns, mosques, shrines and Eidgahs. He instructed the concerned authorities to designate teams and locations for proper collection and disposal of offal, hides and waste to maintain cleanliness and hygiene both in urban and rural areas. Instructions were also issued regarding seamless transport facilities particularly at crucial hours besides proper security and deployment of fire and emergency tenders especially near the Eidgahs, shrines, mosques and places of congregation. The Health Department was asked to deploy medical teams at places of importance to provide immediate healthcare assistance in view of the expected large gatherings. For smooth vehicular movement during the festival, traffic authorities were directed to implement effective traffic management plans around major mosques and marketplaces. At conclusion, SDMs were tasked to establish control rooms for monitoring and facilitating the seamless observance of the festival in their respective subdivisions.
Commissioner Enquiries visits Vibrant Village Rawathpora under VVP-II
Kupwara, May 22: Majid K.A. Drabu, Commissioner of Enquiries, J&K on Friday visited Vibrant Village Rawathpora, Block Reddi Chowkibal, under the Vibrant Villages Programme-II (VVP-II). The visit was aimed at reviewing the status of infrastructure, service delivery, implementation of ongoing Central/UT Sector Schemes, and developmental indicators in Vibrant Village Rawathpora and adjoining areas. On his arrival, the Commissioner chaired a comprehensive review meeting with officers of all concerned departments at the Guest House, Reddi Chowkibal. During the meeting, he took stock of the progress achieved under various developmental initiatives and emphasized the need for effective implementation of welfare and infrastructure projects to ensure timely benefits to the people living in border areas. Later, Drabu chaired a public darbar at Panchayat Rawathpora, where local residents projected various issues and demands related to basic amenities, road connectivity, healthcare, education, power and water supply, besides other developmental concerns. The Commissioner gave a patient hearing to the grievances and issues raised by the public and assured them that all genuine demands would be taken up with the concerned departments for appropriate action. He reiterated the Governments commitment towards the holistic development of border villages under the Vibrant Villages Programme-II.
Delhi court discharges 18 in 2007 Jamia Nagar riots case, frames charges against 13
The case relates to violence that took place on September 22, 2007, at the Jamia Nagar police post
Iran-Israel war LIVE: Trump seriously considering launching new strikes against Iran, says report
Pakistan military chief Asim Munir arrives in Tehran in push to end Iran war
Commissioner SMC reviews Eid-ul-Adha arrangements
Srinagar, May 22: Commissioner, Srinagar Municipal Corporation (SMC), Faz Lul Haseeb on Friday chaired a review meeting at SMC Headquarters, Karan Nagar, to review and finalize arrangements being put in place for the upcoming Eid-ul-Adha festival across Srinagar city. The meeting was attended by Joint Commissioners SMC, Secretary SMC, Chief Sanitation Officer, and other senior officials of the Corporation, who briefed the Commissioner on the preparedness of various SMC wings with regard to sanitation management, waste collection and disposal, deployment of manpower, availability of machinery, and maintenance of overall cleanliness and public hygiene during the festival period. During the meeting, the Commissioner directed the concerned officials to ensure proper sanitation and cleanliness in and around mosques, shrines, Eidgahs, and other important religious places across the city to facilitate the smooth conduct of Eid prayers during Eid-ul-Adha. Emphasizing the importance of efficient waste management during the festival, the Commissioner instructed officials to further strengthen waste collection and disposal mechanisms across all areas of the city. He also directed the provision of free hooper services for the timely collection and scientific disposal of animal skins, sacrificial waste, and internal animal organs to maintain sanitation and prevent inconvenience to the public. The Commissioner stressed that all sanitation teams and field functionaries must remain fully operational and responsive throughout the festival days to ensure uninterrupted municipal services and prompt redressal of public grievances. He further appealed to the citizens to extend full cooperation to the Srinagar Municipal Corporation by using designated waste collection facilities and adhering to sanitation guidelines in the larger interest of maintaining a clean, hygienic, and healthy environment during the festival. To facilitate immediate public assistance and grievance redressal, the Srinagar Municipal Corporation has established round-the-clock Control Room services. Citizens can contact thehelpline numbers (0194-2474499, 0194-2470465, 1800-180-7038) for sanitation-related assistance and support. Reiterating the commitment of the Srinagar Municipal Corporation towards ensuring efficient civic management and maintaining high standards of sanitation during Eid-ul-Adha, the Commissioner directed all concerned officers to work in close coordination for the effective implementation of the sanitation action plan across the city.
CS reviews traffic decongestion plan for Srinagar, Jammu cities
Srinagar, May 22: Chief Secretary, Atal Dulloo on Friday chaired the 5th meeting of the Multi-Disciplinary Committee (MDC) on Traffic Management System to review the implementation of a comprehensive action plan aimed at easing traffic congestion and improving mobility in the twin cities of Jammu and Srinagar. The meeting was attended by senior administrative and police officers, including Additional Chief Secretary, Public Works Departments; Principal Secretary, Home; Commissioner Secretary, Housing & Urban Development Department (H&UDD); Divisional Commissioner, Jammu/Kashmir; Inspector General of Police, Traffic; Secretary, Transport; Deputy Inspectors General of Traffic, Jammu/Kashmir; Commissioner, Municipal Corporation, Jammu/Srinagar; Senior Superintendents of Police, Traffic, Srinagar/Jammu; Vice-Chairman, Srinagar Development Authority (SDA); Director, Urban Local Bodies, Kashmir/Jammu; besides officers from other concerned departments. The Chief Secretary highlighted the significance of the recommendations put forth by the committee headed by the Principal Secretary, Home, and called for a time-bound action plan for their effective implementation. The Chief Secretary also reviewed progress on identification and rectification of black spots, widening of major roads, creation of rotaries and junction improvements in both cities. He stressed the need for clearly identifying funding sources for all the proposed works, noting that these interventions are aimed at providing much-needed relief to the general public by improving ease of mobility in the twin cities and other urban centres of the UT. He directed the Housing & Urban Development Department (H&UDD) to take up the matter with the Finance Department to ensure smooth and timely execution of these projects across Jammu and Kashmir. During the review, the Chief Secretary took a detailed appraisal of the measures undertaken by different departments for decongestion of major traffic corridors, augmentation of parking facilities, improvement of road infrastructure, streamlining of public transport and strengthening of intelligent traffic management systems in both the capital cities. It was informed that several diversion routes have already been identified and operationalised in Jammu and Srinagar to reduce congestion on critical stretches and ensure smoother vehicular movement. In Jammu city, 10 diversion routes are being utilized for traffic decongestion. Similarly, five diversion routes have been made operational in Srinagar to reduce pressure on heavily congested city stretches. The meeting was informed that dedicated e-rickshaw zones have also been notified to regulate traffic movement and improve last-mile connectivity. Six e-rickshaw zones have been established in Jammu while multiple operational, free and restricted zones have been identified in Srinagar city with some already implemented and others under consideration in consultation with stakeholders. Reviewing traffic regulation measures, the Chief Secretary was apprised that one-way traffic systems have been introduced at several key locations in both cities, while proposals for additional no-vehicle zones in crowded commercial and hospital areas are under implementation after consultations with stakeholders and local authorities. The meeting further discussed the implementation of Smart City Command and Control Response Systems (SCCoRS), installation of Intelligent Traffic Management Systems (ITMS), creation of Automated Traffic Management System (ATMS) junctions and procurement of modern enforcement and surveillance equipment. It was informed that Traffic Police and allied departments have procured motorcycles, interceptor vehicles, cranes, body-worn cameras and ambulances for better traffic enforcement and emergency response. In order to improve road safety and enforce traffic discipline, action has also been taken against habitual offenders across Jammu and Kashmir. The meeting was informed that action has been initiated against more than 39,000 habitual offenders, resulting in suspension and cancellation of driving licences and registration certificates besides seizure and blacklisting of vehicles. It was informed that several projects including Canal HeadBohri, JewelCanal Head and SatwariBelicharana road stretches in Jammu have already been completed, while other projects are at different stages of execution. In Srinagar, widening proposals and road safety interventions are under progress, including installation of metal beam crash barriers and preparation of DPRs for identified black spots. The Chief Secretary also reviewed the status of no-parking zones, IT-based parking systems, on-street parking management, parking policy formulation and development of dedicated vending zones. It was informed that GIS-based mapping for parking management is underway in Srinagar while several parking sites in Jammu have already been tendered and partially operationalised. The meeting also discussed regulation of banquet halls and schools lacking adequate parking facilities. The Municipal Commissioners informed that notices have been issued to non-compliant establishments and parking management plans are being enforced to prevent roadside congestion. Besides, the progress on installation of traffic signages, creation of no-honking zones, development of new roads, construction of rotaries and upgradation of bus stands in Jammu and Srinagar was also reviewed in detail. The Chief Secretary further called for expediting all pending works, removing bottlenecks hampering project execution and ensuring visible improvement in traffic flow and commuter convenience across the twin cities at the earliest.
Transformer failure halts Rapid Metro, triggers blackout in half-a-dozen Gurugram sectors
Services were disrupted from 7.50 p.m. to 8.33 p.m., Delhi Metro Rail Corporation confirmed
Delhi HC quashes DoE orders rejecting fee hikes by private schools
The court noted that since the DoE has sat on fee-hike proposals for several years, the schools have been unable to legitimately increase their fee over several academic sessions, placing some of them in serious financial disarray
U.S. jury finds Boeing not guilty in 737 MAX grounding lawsuit
Polish airline LOT had accused Boeing of fraud and sued for $250 million in lost income after the companys alleged purposeful and negligent false representations and omissions concerning the 737 MAX aircraft
NEET-UG candidates can submit bank details for fee refund till May 27: NTA
In a public notice, the agency said candidates can log in to the NEET-UG 2026 registration portal using their credentials and access the refund link to submit preferred bank account details for processing of fee refunds.
Home and abroad: on the Prime Ministers five-nation diplomatic tour
Prime Minister Narendra Modis Europe visit may pave the way for collaboration on energy security
Trump seriously considering launching new strikes against Iran: report
It said that Mr. Trump met with a senior national security team in the morning to discuss the war on Iran even as Pakistan Army Chief Asim Munir visited Tehran
Here is a select list of stories to start the day.
Flotilla activists describe beatings, tasers, mistreatment by Israeli forces
The Global Sumud Flotilla of 50 boats was intercepted in international waters some 400 kilometres off the coast of Israel
U.S. extends Ebola travel ban to Green Card holders
The CDC first issued the order on May 18, under Title 42 of U.S. public health law, which allows federal health authorities to prohibit migrants from entering the country to prevent the spread of contagious diseases.
Petrol, diesel prices by 87-91 paise per litre; third hike this month
Petrol in New Delhi will cost 87 paise more at 99.51 a litre, while diesel will be priced 91 paise higher at 92.49 per litre
Twisha Sharma Death Case : Bar Council suspends husband Samarth Singhs licence as CBI probe ordered
Twisha Sharma death case: Bar Council suspends husband Samarth Singhs licence as CBI probe ordered, The post Twisha Sharma Death Case : Bar Council suspends husband Samarth Singhs licence as CBI probe ordered appeared first on The Voice Of Sikkim .
Mens swimwear in India is having a hot boy summer
Tailored, tactile and travel-ready, Indias new wave of mens swimwear is redefining masculinity, one side-adjusted short at a time
Four dead, 90 trapped in China coal mine accident
A total of 247 miners were underground at the Liushenyu coal mine in Shanxi Province when the accident occurred on May 22 night
Bhagwant Mann said the government will create and maintain an adequate number of dog shelters where stray dogs can be properly cared for
Whither Alexander Zverev, the forlorn scion of the lost generation?
Sandwiched between two eras of dominance, the 66 German is in a peculiar position. He is ranked a creditable third behind Jannik Sinner and Carlos Alcaraz, although a distant one at that. And while he has made two of his three Major finals over the last two years with an upgraded game, the dream of a first Grand Slam title still seems distant ahead of Roland-Garros
The West Bengal Chief Minister posted on social media that the Prime Minister Narendra Modi re-emphasized his vision of Sabka Saath, Sabka Vikasand reiterated that the development of West Bengal remains a top priority for the Central Government.
Major champion Aaron Rai: the all-world English gentleman with Indian roots
The 31-year-olds triumph at the PGA Championship was one of golfs great underdog stories. How did he step up on one of the sports biggest stages? Why does he wear two gloves and use protective covers for his irons? And why does no opponent have a bad word to say about him?
Elected government has no role in Jammu demolitions, says Farooq Abdullah
He said Gujjars and Bakerwals have played a key role in guarding the borders in J&K
Pakistan military chief Asim Munir arrives in Tehran in push to end Iran war
Irans Foreign Ministry spokesman Esmaeil Baqaei, however, said the visit did not necessarily mean we have reached a turning point or a decisive situation
Calling Mumbai the Indian city most visited by Australian business delegations, Paul Murphy said Australian companies were increasingly looking at Maharashtra as a long-term investment destination across infrastructure
Trump says he will not attend son Donald Trump Jr.'s wedding
Donald Trump told reporters that Donald Trump Jr. wanted his father to attend, but that it was going to be a small private affair
The Hindu is another name for trust, says Eknath Shinde
Eknath Shinde outlined his governments focus on reducing regional disparities, citing Gadchirolis development as equal in priority to Mumbai
KERC directs Escoms to give consumers 15 clear days to pay bills
Rubio's maiden India visit aims to repair strained ties; boost Quad cooperation
The top U.S. diplomat is scheduled to hold wide-ranging talks with External Affairs Minister S. Jaishankar, in addition to meeting Prime Minister Narendra Modi and attending a meeting of the Quad Foreign Ministers in New Delhi
The victim, a construction worker, was a resident of Thamaraikeni village in Soonambedu of Maduranthakam taluk
Bulgarian roses bloom into business for floriculture farmers
Growers say value-added farming brings better returns Abid Bashir Srinagar, May 22: The fragrance of freshly bloomed Bulgarian roses is steadily turning into a new source of livelihood for farmers in Sirhama village of south Kashmirs Anantnag district, where large-scale production of natural handmade rose water has started gaining momentum. This village is knownfor its expanding rose fields. Here,the cultivators are harvesting delicate pink roses during the early morning hours and processingthem immediately in on-site distillation units established close to the farms. Farmers say the facility has considerably improved the quality of rose water production while also reducing transportation-related losses. The initiative isbeingviewed as an emerging success story in value-added floriculture, with growers increasingly exploring alternatives beyond traditional crops and fruit cultivation. Rows of blooming Bulgarian roses now stretch across parts of Sirhama, where farmers carefully collect petals by hand beforethey are transferredto compact steam distillation units. Inside the units, the flowers are slowly processed into fragrant rosewater,widely used in cosmetics, traditional medicine, skincare and culinary products. We begin harvesting before sunrise because that is when the fragrance and oil concentration in the flowers remain at their peak. Earlier, transporting flowers for processing consumed time and often affected quality. The availability of nearby distillation units has made the work easier and more profitable, said Ghulam Mohammad, a cultivator associated with the initiative. Another cultivator, Abdul Rashid, said the projectis encouraging local youth to look atfloriculture and processing-based farming as viable business opportunities.People are slowly understanding the commercial potential of rose cultivation. Instead of selling raw flowers, we are now producing finished products locally, which gives better returns to farmers, he said. Mushtaq Ahmad, another grower from the area, said the initiative has brought fresh enthusiasm among farmers who were earlier hesitant to experiment with floriculture.We had never imagined that rose farming could become a source of stable income. Now, many farmers are planning to expand cultivation because the market response has been encouraging, he said. Officials linked to the floriculture and agriculture sector said the initiative demonstrates how small-scale value addition can strengthen rural economies and create employment opportunities at the village level.Processing flowers locally helps farmers earn more while reducingwastage.Such initiatives can play an important role in diversifying Kashmirs agriculture sector and promoting entrepreneurship in rural areas, an agriculture department official said. Apart from economic benefits, the blooming rose fields and traditional distillation process are also beginning to attract tourists, photographers and visitors interested in experiencing the unique aroma-based farming practice. Locals believe the growing popularity of Bulgarian rose cultivation could eventually help develop a niche perfume and essential oil industry in Kashmir, similar to international rose-producing regions. For the farmers of Sirhama, however, the fields represent more than just business. Many describe the roses as symbols of renewal and hope, proving that innovation rooted in traditional farming can open new doors for rural communities in the Valley.
PMAY instalments pending for some J&K beneficiaries
Officials cite system transition, assure disbursal soon Ovaise Gul Srinagar, May 22: Even as Jammu and Kashmir has achieved around the 80 per cent completionmarkunder Pradhan Mantri Awas Yojana-Urban (PMAY-U), several beneficiaries allege that instalments of financialassistanceunder the scheme are still pending. Many beneficiaries from different parts of Jammu and Kashmir said they have either completed or nearly completed construction of their houses, but have not received the remaining instalments from the Housing and Urban Development Department (H&UDD). Some beneficiaries told Rising Kashmir that they have been facing severe financial strain due to delays inthe release ofassistance. Many visits have been made to my house, which is now complete. But so far, I have received only one instalment of Rs 80,000 since my case was approved under the scheme in2021,Abdul Wahid, a beneficiary from Rambailgad,Srinagar, said. Javaid Ahmad Mir, another beneficiary from Ward 11 in Kupwara, said he has received only around Rs 40,000 under the scheme so far.My house is now complete, but I had to take loans and borrow money to finish constructionin the absence of timelygovernment assistance, Mir said. Sources in the department claimed that around Rs 52 crore released by the Government of India (GoI) on January 8, 2026, for disbursal among beneficiaries before the end of the previous financial year could not be released.They said several beneficiaries havebeen awaitinginstalments for a long time, forcing many toavailbank loans to complete construction. Shabaz Ahmad Shaksaz, a beneficiary from Shaksaz Mohallah in Achabal, said only Rs 82,000 out of the sanctioned Rs 2.19 lakh has been released during the last four years. We have received only two instalments of Rs 41,000 each during the last four years. The house is fully complete now, but the sanctioned amount has still not been fully released, he said. Shaksaz added that he, along with four other beneficiaries from Achabal, has been moving from pillar to post, but no action has been taken so far. Managing Director, J&K Housing Board, Smita Sethi said the delay occurred due to atransition in the system.She, however, clarified that the pending amount was less than Rs 52 crore and had not lapsed. We have received the mothers sanction, and once the amount is transferred to our account, we will start disbursing it in the shortest possible time, she said.
India tightens Ebola surveillance, issues SOPs
WHO declares disease global health emergency Mansoor Peer Srinagar, May 22: The Government of India (GoI) has issued Standard Operating Procedures (SOP) to strengthen preparedness and response mechanisms against Ebola disease following the recent outbreak in parts of Africa and the World Health Organizations declaration of the situation as a Public Health Emergency of International Concern (PHEIC), with all airports and seaports directed to intensify surveillance of passengers arriving from Ebola-affected countries. The Ministry of Health and Family Welfare, in its SOP issued on May 20, stated that the outbreak was first reported on May 5, 2026, after the WHO received alerts regarding an unknown illness with high mortality among people, including healthcare workers, in the Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC). The outbreak was later confirmed as Bundibugyo virus disease (BVD), a form of Ebola virus disease, on May 15. WHO subsequently declared the outbreak in DRC and Uganda a global public health emergency on May 17. Under the guidelines, all airports and seaports across the country have been directed to intensify surveillance of passengers arriving from Ebola-affected countries, including DRC, Uganda, and South Sudan. The government has made it mandatory for travellers to disclose their travel history of the previous 21 days. The Ministry of Civil Aviation has been asked to operationalise the Air Suvidha portal for Ebola screening, enabling passengers to upload travel and health details during ticket booking or web check-in. Till the portal becomes fully operational, international travellers from affected regions will be required to fill Self Declaration Forms physically during boarding or immigration. The SOP defines a suspect Ebola case as a person with fever accompanied by symptoms such as bleeding gums, nosebleeds, bloody stools, vomiting blood or other haemorrhagic manifestations, along with travel history to affected countries within the last 21 days. A probable case is someone who had contact with a confirmed Ebola patient during the same period, while confirmation will be based on laboratory testing through ICMR-designated laboratories. Detailed protocols have been issued for airlines in case a passenger develops symptoms during travel. Cabin crew members have been instructed to immediately isolate the passenger at the rear end of the aircraft and maintain vacant rows around the individual as far as possible. A dedicated washroom must be assigned to the passenger, and all nearby travellers seated within three rows are to be monitored for symptoms for 21 days after arrival. Airlines have also been directed to maintainan adequate stock of PPE kits, triple-layer masks, gloves, sanitisers, and disposal bags onboard flights. At airports, thermal screening will be conducted for passengers arriving from affected nations. Separate bays for aircraft carrying suspected Ebola cases, dedicated examination areas, and separate transport corridors for ambulances have also been mandated. State governments have been directed to identify quarantine centres, isolation hospitals, and dedicated ambulances with PPE-equipped staff. Rapid Response Teams at the state and district levelsare tobe trained in contact tracing, infection prevention, and emergency management. The SOP stresses that early case identification, secure transport, rapid diagnosis, strict isolation and effective treatment are crucial for controlling transmission. For hospitals treating Ebola patients, the ministry has recommended isolation in single negative-pressure rooms with dedicated toilets wherever available. Healthcare workers have been directed to wear impermeable coveralls, double gloves, N95 respirators, face shields, and protective boots. The SOP outlines aggressive supportive treatment measures, including fluid resuscitation, electrolyte replacement, respiratory support, antibiotics, and monitoring of vital signs. However, it notes that there is currently no licensed vaccine or monoclonal antibody treatment available for the Bundibugyo strain linked to the present outbreak. Laboratory diagnosis will primarily be carried out at ICMR-NIV Pune using real-time RT-PCR and serological tests. Blood, urine, stool, swab, and cerebrospinal fluid samples will be collected under strict biosafety measures. According to an information bulletin issued by doctors from the Infectious Diseases Division at SKIMS, this is only the third major Bundibugyo Ebola outbreak reported globally, with mortality rates in previous outbreaks ranging between 30 and 50 per cent. The doctors explained that the disease initially resembles common infections such as malaria, dengue, influenza, or severe gastroenteritis, making early detection difficult. Symptoms in the early stage include high fever, weakness, muscle pain, headache, and sore throat, while severe cases may progress to vomiting, diarrhoea, dehydration, shock, kidney injury, liver damage, and multi-organ failure. The ministry has cautioned against panic and misinformation, directing that all communication with the media should only be carried out through authorised spokespersons while maintaining the confidentiality of passengers and patients.
IPL 2026 SRH vs RCB: Sunrisers prove too hot for Royal Challengers
Rajat Patidar steered his side past the 166-run mark that confirmed his side a spot in Qualifier 1
Ek Galat Kadam: LG Sinha unveils poster of drug awareness film
RK News Service Jammu, May 22: Lieutenant Governor Manoj Sinha on Friday unveiled the poster of Ek Galat Kadam, an awareness short film on drug abuse, at Lok Bhavan. The short film features Mahira Tandon, the Youth Ambassador of Nasha Mukt J&K Abhiyaan. LGSinha congratulated and extended his best wishes to the entire team. Divya Tandon, Writer and Director; Sumit Tandon, Producer of the film, along with other team members, were present at the poster unveiling ceremony.
100-day Nasha Mukt Abhiyan:LG Sinha to lead anti-drug padyatra in Shopian today
DC urges youth, civil society, media to participate Vehicular movement suspended 4 AM to 3 PM Traffic advisory issued; diversions for commuters Younus Rashid Shopian, May 22: Lieutenant Governor Manoj Sinha will lead a mega anti-drug padyatra in Shopian on Saturday as part of the ongoing 100-day Nasha Mukt J&K Abhiyan, Deputy Commissioner Shopian Shishir Gupta said on Friday. Speaking to media persons, Gupta said the padyatra aims to take the anti-drug campaign to every home, village and locality so that people can keep their families and neighbourhoods away from substance abuse. The administration alone cannot fight this menace. It has to become a mass movement and public participation is very important to make it successful, he said, urging youth groups, stakeholders and civil society members to join the event. He appealed to the media fraternity to help spread awareness so that more people participate in the padyatra. The DC said elaborate arrangements have beenput in placeat the venue, including waterproof tents, drinking water facilities, water tankers, fire tenders, mobile toilets and designated parking spaces for participants. A traffic advisory has also been issued for Saturdays event. According to Traffic Police Rural Kashmir, vehicular movement from Balpora Crossing to Old Bus Stand via Jahangir Chowk Shopian will remain suspended from 4 am to 3 pm. Commuters have been advised to follow designated diversion routes and avoid unnecessary travel within the town during the event. The anti-drug campaign was launched by the Lieutenant Governor on April 11, and similar padyatras and awareness programmes have already been organised in several districts of Jammu and Kashmir as part of the outreach initiative against drug abuse.
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Increasing matrimonial disputes in the Valley reveal gaps in counselling, family support, and legal awareness In recent years, the Kashmir Valley has witnessed a disturbing and sustained rise in matrimonial disputes, reflected in crowded court corridors and a growing number of young couples living in separation. What was once whispered about within neighbourhoods has now become a visible social crisis, altering the Valleys family landscape. Data from the J&K judiciary over recent years has shown a steady increase in petitions related to divorce, maintenance, domestic violence, and custody. Lawyers across Srinagar, Baramulla, Anantnag and other districts consistently report that disputes involving young couples now form a significant share of their daily caseload. Multiple studies on Kashmiri society point to overlapping causes. First is the rapid transformation of social expectations. Educated young women in the Valley participate more in higher education and aspire to financial independence and emotional respect within marriage. Men, too, face rising pressure to meet consumerist standards of success despite a stagnant job market. When these newer expectations collide with entrenched patriarchal norms, the result is frequent conflict over decision-making, mobility, and familial control. Economic fragility compounds these tensions. J&K has for years recorded unemployment rates higher than the national average, with youth unemployment particularly acute. Sociologists and counsellors in Srinagar and south Kashmir note a clear pattern: disputes often begin with seemingly small issues, such as delayed salaries, loans, rent, or unmet dowry and gift demands, but quickly snowball into serious allegations and prolonged estrangement. The culture of lavish weddings, expensive Wazwan feasts, and status-driven demands, documented repeatedly in local media and civil society reports, further deepens financial stress on families. Another dimension is the growing use of legal and quasi-legal forums. Womens rights groups in the Valley report more women approaching police, protection officers, and courts under domestic violence and maintenance provisions. While this reflects a healthier awareness of rights, it also reveals the failure of early, credible mediation. Many couples bypass structured counselling because it is either unavailable, mistrusted, or dominated by elders who prioritise family honour over justice, particularly in rural belts and conservative neighbourhoods. Mental health professionals in Kashmir warn that chronic conflict at home is fuelling anxiety, depression, and substance abuse among both spouses and children. Yet psychological support remains scarce, especially outside urban centres. A research-oriented response is essential. The government, universities, and civil society need systematic data on the nature, frequency, and regional patterns of matrimonial disputes in the Valley. Based on such evidence, pre-marital counselling modules, trained mediators attached to mosques and mohallas, and specialised family-court counsellors should be instituted. Simultaneously, campaigns led by religious scholars and opinion leaders must re-emphasise Islamic principles of mehar, mutual respect, and prohibition of exploitative dowry practices. If rising matrimonial disputes are allowed to corrode inner bonds, the Valley risks a profound crisis. Building marriages on equity, empathy, and accountability is no longer a moral luxury; it is a social imperative for Kashmirs future stability. Safeguarding the institution of marriage does not mean preserving hollow shells of unhappy unions. It means building families on dignity, dialogue, and justice. Only then can the Valleys homes become places of refuge, not arenas of quiet conflict.
When Number Plates Turn into a Security Risk
Srinagars fake HSRP racket shows how cosmetic aesthetics can compromise law enforcement and public safety The busting of an alleged fake High Security Registration Plate (HSRP) racket in Srinagar is not just another crime story; it is a stark reminder of how easily a critical security measure can be reduced to a cosmetic accessory. What began as a complaint from an authorised HSRP vendor has revealed a parallel black market that openly uses social media to undermine a system introduced in the wake of the 2002 Parliament attack to strengthen vehicle identification and deter terror-related misuse. According to the FIR lodged at Saddar Police Station, the complainant, representing Rosmerta Technologies Limited the authorised HSRP vendor for most vehicle manufacturers in J&K has alleged that counterfeit plates closely mimicking genuine HSRPs are being manufactured and affixed with impunity. One such operation is reported to have been run through Instagram pages like Turbo Shine Customs and Nishant Elite Plates, where plates were sold as lifestyle products rather than critical security hardware. The inquiry so far has exposed a troubling blend of ignorance, greed, and lax enforcement. Two youths from Bandipora and Srinagar have admitted to ordering these plates initially for aesthetic purposes and social media reels, before turning middlemen and charging a profit per plate. Their claim that they believed the plates were legal because they were widely advertised on Instagram points to a dangerous casualness towards regulatory norms and a near-total absence of digital policing. This is not a mere case of petty cheating. HSRPs carry laser-etched unique identification codes linked to government databases. The allegation that counterfeiters duplicated the AA laser code series reserved for Rosmerta, while omitting mandatory security features and violating Rule 50 of the Central Motor Vehicles Rules, strikes at the integrity of the entire vehicle identification regime. If fake plates can be freely procured and swapped, the states ability to track vehicles involved in crime, militancy, or hit-and-run incidents is severely compromised. The registration of an FIR under relevant provisions of the Bharatiya Nyaya Sanhita and the notices issued to the accused are welcome first steps. But the larger challenge lies in dismantling the network behind such rackets, including the alleged main accused based in Delhi, and in tightening oversight over both physical workshops and online marketplaces. Enforcement agencies must coordinate with central authorities, transport departments, and social media platforms to identify, block, and prosecute those who commercialise counterfeit security devices. For their part, vehicle owners must recognise that tampering with HSRPs is not a harmless style choice but a punishable offence with grave implications. A society that treats security infrastructure as a canvas for vanity projects only weakens its own defences. Srinagars fake HSRP case should serve as a wake-up call: security measures are only as strong as our collective willingness to respect and enforce them.
Reviving Breathing Spaces: The Need for Urban Green Areas in Kashmir Valley
Urban green spaces are not mere decoration; they function as the citys lungs and its natural defence system against the impacts of a warming climate AJAZ HAMID SHAH In recent years, the Kashmir Valley has witnessed rapid and often unplanned urbanisation. Expanding roads, concrete structures, shopping complexes, and highrise apartments are steadily eating into orchards, wetlands, and vacant lands that once offered residents a sense of calm and connection with nature. As cities and towns like Srinagar, Anantnag, Baramulla, and Sopore grow denser, the need for dedicated urban green spaces has become both urgent and undeniable. Urban green spaces are not a luxury for modern cities; they are a necessity. For a region like Kashmir, whose very identity is tied to its natural beauty, the loss of greenery in urban areas is more than an aesthetic concernit is a question of health, climate resilience, cultural continuity, and quality of life. Vanishing Green Patches in a Valley of Mountains Kashmirs cities were once characterised by gardens, chinarlined avenues, and neighbourhood orchards. Today, many of those spaces have either shrunk or disappeared under the pressure of construction. Wetlands have been filled to raise new colonies, old parks are poorly maintained, and new residential areas are often built without any provision for parks or community playgrounds. Srinagar, the Valleys largest urban centre, illustrates this shift sharply. While it houses iconic Mughal gardens and the famous Dal Lake, ordinary neighbourhoodsfrom downtown to the newer coloniesstruggle for even a small park where children can play or elders can walk in peace. Private lawns and orchards, once common in many households, are increasingly replaced by paved courtyards and additional rooms. This pattern is not unique to Jammu and Kashmir; it is visible in many developing regions. But in the case of the Valley, where people already live with political uncertainty, environmental vulnerability, and growing mental health concerns, the disappearance of green spaces carries deeper social consequences. Green Spaces as Shields Against a Changing Climate The Kashmir Valley is experiencing noticeable shifts in weather patterns. Warmer summers, irregular snowfall, and increased instances of urban flooding have become part of public conversation. In this changing climate, urban green spaces play a quiet yet powerful role. Trees, gardens, and parks help cool down cities by providing shade and releasing moisture into the air. Builtup areas with concrete and asphalt absorb and radiate heat, creating what experts call urban heat islands. Even a cluster of trees or a wellplanned park can significantly reduce local temperatures, making summers more bearableespecially for children, the elderly, and those with health issues. Green belts along rivers, canals, and wetlands act as buffers against floods by absorbing excess rainwater. In a city like Srinagar, where drainage systems are often overstressed during heavy rainfall, preserving open green spaces is closely linked to disaster preparedness. They also help improve air quality by trapping dust and reducing pollution from increased traffic. In short, urban green spaces are not mere decoration; they function as the citys lungs and its natural defence system against the impacts of a warming climate. Healing the Mind in a Time of Stress Life in Kashmir, particularly in the urban centres, carries a different kind of stress than many other places. Years of conflict, frequent shutdowns, uncertainty about the future, and rising unemployment have all taken a toll on the mental health of the population. Young people, in particular, often report feelings of anxiety, frustration, and restlessness. In such an environment, access to clean, quiet, and safe green spaces can provide a simple but powerful form of relief. Numerous studies worldwide have shown that spending even short periods in parks, gardens, or treelined streets reduces stress levels, improves mood, and enhances concentration. For families living in cramped housing and congested lanes, a nearby park can become a lifeline. For children, green spaces are not only play areas but also classrooms without walls, where they learn about plants, seasons, and the rhythms of nature. For the elderly, a daily walk under trees or by a small waterbody can bring comfort and routine. For women, especially those who may not feel comfortable walking on busy streets, welldesigned parks provide a safe and dignified public space. In the broader social sense, parks and green belts also create neutral common ground where people from different backgrounds and localities can interact. This helps build community ties, understanding, and a sense of shared ownership over the citys future. Planning Cities With People, Not Just Buildings, in Mind The pattern of urban growth in Kashmir reflects a larger problem: cities are often planned around buildings and roads rather than people and their wellbeing. Master plans may speak of green belts and recreational spaces, but on the ground these provisions are frequently diluted, encroached upon, or postponed in the name of development. To change this, urban planning in the Valley must treat green spaces as essential infrastructureno less important than roads, water supply, or electricity. Every new colony, commercial area, or road expansion should be evaluated not only for its economic value but also for its impact on open space. Local authorities can: A Shared Responsibility: Government and Citizens Together While government agencies play a central role in protecting and expanding urban green spaces, the responsibility does not end with them. Residents, civil society groups, and educational institutions all have a part to play. Preserving the Valleys Character in Its Cities Kashmirs reputation as a paradise on earth has long rested on its forests, meadows, rivers, and snowclad peaks. Yet a paradox has emerged: while tourists travel to experience this natural beauty, residents of the Valleys cities increasingly live surrounded by concrete and congestion. If current trends continue, urban children in Kashmir may grow up knowing the chinar more from pictures than from afternoons spent under its shade. They may know Dal only as a tourist attraction, not as part of a larger ecosystem that once extended deeply into the urban fabric. The choice before policymakers and citizens is clear. Either urban
Sayyid Ali Hamadanis Concept of Dhikr
Dhikr is to remember God in different ways and in multiple forms DR AREEF JAMAEI The Remembrance of God, dhikr literally means to remember, to recollect, to remind or to make a reference (of something). Both in Arabic and Urdu dhikr means to make a mention of something. However, technically dhikr means to remember God and to make repetition of his attributes. Thus, dhikr is the elaboration and explanation of monotheism (tauhid) in the form of tahlil (elaboration of the oneness of God), takbir (explanation of the greatness of God), tasbih (uttering the majesty of God), taqdis (veneration of God), tahmid (stating the magnificence of God) and tamjid (glorification of God). As such, dhikr is to remember God in different ways and in multiple forms. It is interesting to note that the most popular Sufi-saint vis--vis Kashmir, Mir Sayyid Hamadani (RA), as a profound scholar and a prolific writer has penned down different pamphlets/booklets on dhikr for the benefit of Muslims in general and for the guidance of his disciples in particular. These book(let)s include: Aurad-i Fathiyyah (Arabic), Aurad-i Asriyyah (Arabic), Risalah-i Auradiyyah (Arabic), Risalah-i Dhikriyyah Sagir (Arabic) and Risalah-i Dhikriyyah (Persian). So far as the case of the mosques and khnaqahs of Kashmir is concerned, Aurad-i Fathiyyah of the Sayyid (RA) has echoed here from the very outset. It is very interesting to note that Aurad-i Fathiyyah has been always recited in the Grand Mosque of Kashmir (Jama Masjid Srinagar) with enthusiasm. Same has been the case of the mosques of Kashmirs periphery where traditionally this Aurad has always been read in chorus especially after the dawn prayers. However, the dhikr that we are concerned with here is Risalah-i Dhikriyyah, written by the Sayyid (RA) in Persian. It is worth noting that this booklet is not a collection of dhikr as such. The booklet actually throws light on the significance of the remembrance of God. It also highlights the fact that why a believer should make dhikr? Moreover, the pamphlet puts forth the etiquettes of dhikr. Actually, dhikr is such a practice that inscribes different dimensions of tauhid (monotheism) on the mind and heart of the believer who makes dhikr. Sayyid Hamadani (RA) has made this aspect of dhikr very much clear. It is very interesting to note that the pamphlet begins with a grand and sublime literary style which includes, naturally, the glorification of Gods name and praising of the Prophet (SAAS). The hymn for God reads: Praise be to God Who took to culmination the pious souls through the gardens of the trees of human bodies; Who by His grace and mercy made to bloom the Being of Human by dint of the Tree of Being! (p. 39) It is clear that the Sayyid (RA) begins his discourse on dhikr with the fact that God always showers His mercy on His sincere slaves. Vis--vis the Prophet (SAAS), the Sayyid (RA) says that Muhammad (SAAS) is the fruition of the Tree of Being and the River of generosity and mercy! (p. 39) This statement of the Sayyid (RA) highlights that he declares the Prophet (SAAS) as the Leader of the Prophets (AS) on the pattern set forth by the Quran itself. (See, al-Anbiya: 107; al-Qalam: 4) Before dividing human beings into three groups, Sayyid Ali Hamadani (RA) highlights three aspects or dimensions of the human personality. He says: The personnel/agents/guards of destiny clothed everyone with the cloak of Being; put the crown of reason on everyones head; girdled everyone with the girdle of comprehension; put everyone on the sledge of Self and sent them in groups and bands to the market of the world one after another! (p. 40) Here stems out Sayyid Hamadanis (RA) three layered division of human beings. The reason is obvious that it is because of humans blind following of the Self (wishes/whims/desires) that First Group gets depicted as: Those who are chaotic transgressors, misguided and ignorant. They are not serious vis--vis the lofty goal/purpose of life. They stick to the transitory world and like animals they drown themselves in the gorges of beastly life. (p. 41) Clearly, it is the blind following of the Self that renders humans as useless entities, about which the Quran says: And if We had willed, We could have elevated him thereby, but he adhered to the earth and followed his own desires. So his example is like that of a dog: if you chase him, he pants, or if you leave him, he (still) pants. That is the example of the people who denied Our Signs. So relate the stories (to them) that perhaps they will give thought. (al-Araf: 176) However, when a person decides to behave rationally, s/he gets the path of golden mean. About this Secomd Group of people the Sayyid (RA) says: Second Group is those of the Companions of the Right Hand who follow the Middle Path. They remained away from the Valley of Sin by dint of their will power and resolve. For the sake of a righteous and blissful life, . they abandoned the life of sinful luxury and remained patient on misfortune and hardships of life. (p. 41) These people, as such, control the dictates of the Inordinate Appetite (lust, al-Nafs al-Ammarah) through the bridle of the Self-Reproaching Soul (conscience, al-Nafs al-Lawwamah). It is this control that creates the Third Group of people which has been described by the Sayyid (RA) as: The Third Group is of those people who are in the first row of the Friends of God. It is they . who traveled to the world of spirit from the world of matter. (p. 42) Thus, according to the Sayyid (RA), the grace and mercy of the Beatific Vision (Didar-i Ilahi) which God has promised His righteous servants with is not meant for those who dont elevate themselves to the lofty truths of life here and the wisdom related to the life hereafter. This is certainly as per the Quranic verse: [Some] faces, that Day, will
Educated Yet Unaware: The Paradox of Modern Learning
Education without awareness is like a lamp without light. It may possess structure and form, but it cannot illuminate the darkness within human existence SANJAY PANDITA The modern world proudly celebrates education as the highest marker of civilization. Degrees are displayed like medals of intellectual achievement, universities are glorified as gateways to success, and academic qualifications have become the currency through which individuals seek identity, status, and social mobility. Never before in human history have so many institutions existed to educate people, and never before has knowledge appeared so widely accessible. Yet beneath this apparent triumph of learning lies a profound paradox that silently defines our age: humanity is becoming increasingly educated, yet increasingly unaware. This unawareness is not the absence of information. On the contrary, modern individuals are surrounded by information every moment of their lives. They can access libraries through a mobile screen, earn degrees through virtual classrooms, and master technical skills with astonishing speed. The tragedy lies elsewhere. The tragedy is that while knowledge expands outwardly, consciousness often shrinks inwardly. People may possess academic excellence yet remain disconnected from society, indifferent to suffering, alienated from nature, and unfamiliar with their own inner selves. Education, which was once meant to illuminate the human spirit, now frequently produces efficient minds trapped within emotional and moral darkness. The essence of true learning has historically never been confined merely to literacy or professional competence. Ancient civilizations viewed education as a process of self-cultivation. It was meant to shape character, deepen wisdom, and refine the moral imagination. A learned individual was expected not merely to know, but to understand; not merely to succeed, but to serve humanity with humility and insight. Knowledge carried ethical responsibility. Wisdom was inseparable from compassion. In contemporary society, however, education has increasingly become transactional. Students pursue degrees not to understand life but to secure employment, prestige, and financial stability. Institutions measure intelligence through marks, rankings, and standardized assessments while neglecting emotional maturity, ethical reflection, and social awareness. Learning becomes reduced to competition, and the individual gradually transforms into a product designed for economic machinery rather than a conscious human being capable of reflection and empathy. One of the greatest ironies of the modern age is that many highly educated individuals remain emotionally impoverished. They may master complex technologies yet fail to understand human pain. They may discuss global economies while remaining indifferent to hunger outside their own neighborhoods. They may speak eloquently about progress while participating silently in systems that perpetuate inequality and injustice. Education often sharpens intellect without awakening conscience. This contradiction becomes visible in everyday life. One encounters individuals with prestigious qualifications who treat workers with contempt, dismiss the struggles of the poor, or remain indifferent to environmental destruction. Their education has refined their professional abilities but has failed to deepen their humanity. Such people may possess information, but information alone does not create awareness. Awareness emerges only when knowledge touches the heart and transforms perception. Modern education also suffers from dangerous fragmentation. Students are trained to specialize narrowly within particular disciplines while remaining disconnected from broader human realities. A person may become an expert in engineering yet remain ignorant of philosophy, literature, ethics, or social suffering. Another may excel in medicine while lacking emotional sensitivity toward patients as human beings rather than clinical cases. Specialization increases technical proficiency but often weakens holistic understanding. This fragmentation reflects a deeper crisis within civilization itself. Human beings are increasingly encouraged to value productivity over reflection, achievement over wisdom, and ambition over inner balance. Educational institutions mirror these priorities. Students are trained to compete relentlessly in markets rather than to question the meaning and consequences of the systems they enter. They learn how to earn a living but rarely how to live meaningfully. The decline of literature and the humanities within educational spaces has further intensified this crisis. Literature has always served as one of humanitys most powerful instruments of self-awareness. Through stories, poetry, and philosophy, individuals encounter lives beyond their own experiences. They learn empathy by inhabiting the emotions of others. They confront moral complexity, existential suffering, and the fragile beauty of human existence. Yet in the age of utilitarian education, such disciplines are increasingly marginalized because they do not immediately generate economic profit. The consequences are deeply visible. Students graduate with technical competence yet struggle to understand loneliness, grief, identity, or moral conflict. Their minds become filled with data, but their inner worlds remain underdeveloped. Many experience emotional emptiness despite material success because they were never taught to cultivate self-awareness or emotional intelligence. The soul remains neglected while the rsum expands. Technology has amplified this paradox even further. Information today flows endlessly through digital networks, creating the illusion of knowledge. People consume headlines, opinions, and fragmented facts at astonishing speed without engaging in deep reflection. Social media encourages immediate reactions rather than thoughtful understanding. In such an atmosphere, superficial familiarity with subjects is mistaken for wisdom. Individuals begin believing themselves informed simply because they are constantly exposed to content. Yet awareness demands silence, contemplation, and intellectual humilityqualities increasingly endangered in the digital age. True learning requires the courage to question oneself, to confront uncertainty, and to recognize the limitations of ones own understanding. Modern culture, however, often rewards confidence more than wisdom, visibility more than depth. People become eager to express opinions while remaining reluctant to examine themselves critically. This inner disconnection has profound social consequences. Educated societies continue witnessing violence, discrimination, exploitation, and moral indifference. Scientific advancement coexists with emotional cruelty. Economic development progresses alongside spiritual emptiness. The existence of highly educated individuals within corrupt systems reveals that education alone cannot guarantee ethical consciousness. A person may possess advanced degrees and still contribute to injustice if learning remains disconnected from moral reflection. The paradox becomes particularly painful when one observes how education sometimes distances individuals from their own cultural roots and communities. Many people emerge from modern institutions intellectually alienated from local traditions, languages, and collective histories. In the pursuit of modernization, they begin
Uri Village Without Electricity for Three Months, Locals Suffer
Idrees Bukhtiyar Srinagar, May 22: Residents of Muree Doba area of Sukhdar village in north Kashmirs Uri town on Friday accused the Power Development Department (PDD) of failing to restore electricity in the area, alleging that a damaged transformer has remained defunct for nearly three months, causing severe inconvenience to consumers. Locals said the 25 KV transformer supplying electricity to the locality developed a fault before the commencement of Ramadan. Although the transformer was reportedly repaired and reinstalled during the holy month, it broke down again within a few hours, leaving the area without a stable power supply once again. They said the damaged transformer was later shifted to a workshop for repairs, but despite repeated requests and follow-ups by residents, it has not been reinstalled so far. The residents further alleged that officials had assured them that the faulty 25 KV transformer would be replaced with a higher-capacity 63 KV transformer to improve electricity supply in the locality. However, they claimed the assurance has remained confined to verbal promises, with officials repeatedly delaying the installation. The prolonged power crisis has disrupted normal life in the border locality. Residents said students preparing for examinations are unable to study properly, while elderly persons and patients dependent on oxygen support are facing immense difficulties due to the erratic power supply. Locals have urged senior PDD officials and the district administration to intervene immediately and ensure restoration of electricity in the area without further delay. However, Executive Engineer KPDCL Baramulla, Farooq Ahmad Ganai, said that a new 63 KVA transformer has been approved for the village. I will try my best to ensure that it is sent and installed by tomorrow or the day after to restore smooth electricity supply, he said.
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Students Forced to Pay Full Bus Fare Despite Concession
Arif Rashid Srinagar, May 22: Students from various parts of Kashmir have alleged that transport operators are not implementing the government-approved 50 percent fare concession for students in buses and minibuses across the Valley. Several students claimed that despite showing valid identity cards, conductors continue to charge full fare during daily travel to schools, colleges, universities, and other educational institutions. Zahid Ahmad, a student said that students are facing difficulties while travelling in buses and minibuses as conductors refuse to provide the concession announced by the government. When we ask for half fare and show our identity cards, the conductors ask us either to pay the full amount or leave the vehicle and use other transport services, he said. Farooq Ahmad Ganie, a student from Budgam district, said students studying in colleges, medical institutions, and universities are being forced to pay full fare despite the official concession. In smart city buses also, conductors issue receipts without providing any discount to students, he said. Ganie further said that while the government has introduced free bus services for women passengers in Jammu and Kashmir, students from economically weaker families continue to struggle with rising transportation expenses. Many students from rural areas belong to poor families. Conductors are not accepting the 50 percent fare concession anywhere in the Valley, he added. Parents have also voiced concern over the issue. Ghazala Jan, a resident of Srinagar, said her three sons, who study at Universities spend a significant amount on daily transportation. If the government has announced a 50 percent concession for students, why is it not being implemented on the ground? she questioned. She also urged the Jammu and Kashmir Government to consider free transport facilities for students, saying it would help them pursue education without financial stress. Regional Transport Officer (RTO) Kashmir, could not be contacted for comments despite repeated attempts when this report was filed by this reporter.
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Soaring Airfares Push Patients, Students into Distress
Travel bodies urge government to regulate fares Idrees Bukhtiyar Srinagar, May 22: Patients and students travelling to Kashmir from different parts of the country are facing immense hardship due to a sharp spike in airfares, with ticket prices on several routes soaring beyond the reach of common travellers. Passengers said the sudden increase in fares has particularly affected students returning home for vacations and patients travelling for medical treatment, many of whom are unable to afford the exorbitant prices. According to online travel portal MakeMyTrip, the lowest airfare from Delhi to Srinagar is currently around Rs 12,000 and goes up to nearly Rs 21,000 depending on the timing and airline availability. Similarly, fares from Mumbai to Srinagar are ranging between Rs 18,000 and Rs 27,000, while ticket prices from Chandigarh to Srinagar have also touched Rs 13,000. Tickets from Jammu to Srinagar used to cost Rs 2000 but have increased to Rs 13,000. Several passengers expressed concern over the situation, saying the steep fares have made air travel almost impossible for middle-class families. It has become extremely difficult for students and patients to travel. Many people have urgent requirements to return home, but such high-ticket prices are unaffordable, said a Srinagar-bound student currently studying in Delhi. Another passenger Tahir Ahmad said patients travelling for specialised treatment outside Jammu and Kashmir are the worst affected. People who travel for medical emergencies cannot wait for fares to drop. The government must intervene and regulate prices, he said. Ahmad, who works in a private firm in Delhi and was scheduled to return home for Eid, said he could not afford the airfare this time. I have now booked a train ticket instead, he told Rising Kashmir. President of the Travel Agents Association of Kashmir (TAAK), Farooq Kuthoo, said the soaring fares were putting additional financial burden on passengers, especially students and patients. The prices have gone very high and it is badly affecting patients and students who frequently travel outside the valley. The government should keep a cap on airfares and monitor the situation because many families cannot afford such huge ticket prices, Kuthoo told Rising Kashmir. He said the association has repeatedly taken up the issue with the concerned authorities. We have written to the authorities many times and urged them to intervene so that passengers are not exploited during peak travel seasons, he added. Kuthoo attributed the rise in fares to the heavy tourist influx into Kashmir, increased fuel prices and prevailing heatwave conditions in several parts of the country. Travelers have appealed to the Civil Aviation Ministry and airline operators to introduce special concessions or additional flights to Kashmir during the peak season to ease the burden on passengers.
Northern Railway Launches New Initiatives to Boost Passenger Facilities, Revenue
RK News Service JAMMU, May 22: In a major push to improve passenger amenities and strengthen non-fare revenue generation, the Jammu Division of Northern Railway has launched several new commercial initiatives under the leadership of Senior Divisional Commercial Manager Uchit Singhal. The initiatives, introduced through a transparent digital e-auction system, aim to modernise railway services while enhancing passenger convenience across the division. As part of the move, key commercial contracts have been awarded for the establishment of multi-purpose stalls at important railway stations. At Kathua Railway Stations Platform No. 1, a new stall will provide passengers with travel essentials, snacks and reading material under one roof. A similar facility will also come up at the second entry gate of Jammu Tawi Railway Station to ease congestion at the main entrance and offer an improved retail experience to commuters. The division has also taken steps to upgrade onboard catering services. In the first phase, Train Side Vending (TSV) services were introduced in the Shri Mata Vaishno Devi KatraBudgam Vistadome Special train (04687/04688). Passengers travelling along the scenic Kashmir valley route will now receive branded food items and sealed drinking water at their seats. Additionally, rights for the sale of various items in DMUs and other local trains have also been awarded through the e-auction process to improve travel convenience for daily commuters and tourists. Speaking on the occasion, Uchit Singhal said the initiatives reflect Indian Railways commitment to balancing financial self-reliance with world-class passenger services. These initiatives are proof of Indian Railways resolve where financial self-reliance and world-class service go hand in hand. These commercial measures will ensure sustainable revenue for Jammu Division and make every passengers journey through Jammu & Kashmir safer, more convenient and more memorable, he said.
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The Good Reporter: Story of rural journalists who were never expected to speak
Debt and distress: youth caught in cricket betting trap
The rise of social media and easily accessible money-making applications has significantly altered the dynamics of betting and gambling in the State. Recent police crackdowns have uncovered syndicates linked to international networks, involving hundreds of mule bank accounts and transactions worth hundreds of crores of rupees. Officials warn that many individualsparticularly unemployed youth and studentsare falling into severe debt, addiction, and psychological distress. This highlights the urgent need for awareness campaigns, counselling initiatives, and stronger digital regulations, writes Harish Gilai.
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Conference on higher education held
Tiruppur district seeks applications for 75 Community Bank Coordinator posts
ACB books Medchal deputy collector in disproportionate assets case
Bowring Hospital wall collapse: Lokayukta probe finds major safety lapses
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Piyush Goyal meets officials, industry representatives to discuss ways to boost manufacturing
The exercise is aimed at reducing the import bill of the country, as outflows of foreign exchange are impacting the value of the domestic currency against the U.S. dollar
Rain gives residents respite from heat, however commuters troubled
Israeli airstrikes on southern Lebanon kill 10, including paramedics, child
Opposition to Bengalurus new international cricket stadium grows
Police stations were directed to immediately register FIRs, incorporating offences under the Bharatiya Nyaya Sanhita, 2023, relating to kidnapping and trafficking, the moment information regarding a missing person is received
