Jammu & kashmir

Fresh Batch of 964 Amarnath Pilgrims Leaves Jammu for Baltal

SRINAGAR: A fresh batch of 964 Amarnath Yatra pilgrims left the Bhagwati Nagar Yatri Niwas in Jammu for the Baltal base camp early Tuesday under tight security arrangements, taking the total number of pilgrims who have departed from the Jammu base camp during the ongoing pilgrimage to 1,41,712. According to the Zonal Police Control Room, []

Jammu Kashmir Records 12,904 Tourism and Hospitality Trainees Under CBSP in Three Years: Centre

SRINAGAR: As many as 12,904 people in Jammu and Kashmir were trained and certified under the Ministry of Tourisms Capacity Building for Service Providers (CBSP) scheme during the three financial years from 2023-24 to 2025-26, accounting for nearly 11 per cent of the total beneficiaries covered nationally, official data tabled in the Lok Sabha showed []

Jammu Kashmir HC Grants Bail to POCSO Accused, Says DNA Evidence Rebuts Presumption of Guilt

SRINAGAR: The High Court of Jammu Kashmir and Ladakh at Srinagar has granted bail to Nisar Ahmad Joo, an accused in a case involving the alleged sexual assault of a minor. The court held that major inconsistencies in the victims statements, coupled with scientific evidence that did not detect foreign DNA, weakened the prosecution case []

98 Per Cent of Smart City Projects in Jammu, Srinagar Completed; Centre Tells Rajya Sabha

SRINAGAR: The Centre has said 282 of the 288 projects sanctioned under the Smart Cities Mission for Jammu and Srinagar had been completed by March 31, 2026, putting the overall completion rate at 98 per cent, while stating that no inquiry has been initiated into allegations of financial irregularities or project mismanagement. Minister of State []

Jammu Kashmir HC Quashes FIR Against Bani Temple Manager

SRINAGAR: The High Court of Jammu Kashmir and Ladakh has quashed a criminal case registered against the manager-cum-pujari of Thakurdwara Narsingh Ji Maharaj Temple in Bani, Kathua, holding that allegations of misappropriation of temple property and income raised against him essentially involved a civil dispute and should have been taken before a civil court rather []

New talks last chance for Iran to forge deal, avoid escalation of US strikes: Trump

Trump, speaking at the Oval Office, said he expects negotiations will focus on reopening the Strait of Hormuz and create a pathway for Iran to address the United States' concerns about its nuclear programme.

J&K Single Window System clears 6.92 lakh applications

Srinagar, Aug 03: The Jammu and Kashmir government's Single Window System (SWS), introduced to improve the Ease of Doing Business (EoDB) by providing a unified digital platform for statutory approvals and clearances, has processed over 8.77 lakh applications, approving nearly 7 lakh of them, reflecting an approval rate of nearly 79 per cent. The figures, as per the real-time Management Information System (MIS) dashboard, indicate the growing adoption of the online platform by businesses, entrepreneurs and investors seeking time-bound services from multiple government departments through a single interface. The Jammu and Kashmir Single Window Clearance System was launched on February 7, 2022, making J&K the first Union Territory to integrate with the National Single Window System to boost ease of doing business. As per the details, 8,77,561 applications have been processed till August 03, 2026, while 6,92,239 of them have been approved. Besides, 41,064 applications have been rejected and 421 cancelled, while 1,43,760 applications remain pending. Of these, 28,814 are pending with departments, and 1,14,946are awaitingaction from investors or applicants, suggesting that a majority of pending cases require applicant-side compliance or response. The platform currently has 5,54,921 registered users, offers 221 notified services, has received 2,81,389 Common Application Forms (CAFs), recorded 104 New Single Window (NSW) applications, and registered 9,267 grievances. The Labour Department accounted for the highest number of applications, receiving 4,56,158 requests, which is more than half of the total applications on the portal. According to the details, 3,85,862 of them have so far been approved. The Department of Handloom and Handicraft processed 1,74,426 applications, approving 1,17,752, while Legal Metrology handled 1,33,219 applications, clearing 1,25,378. The Jal Shakti Department, Industries and Commerce Department, and Home-Fire and Emergency Services Department also recorded significant application volumes. The details further show that the platform has collected more than Rs 74.03 crore in application fees, underscoring its growing role as the government's primary digital gateway for regulatory approvals and investor facilitation in Jammu and Kashmir. It is worth mentioning here that the application fee for the J&K Single Window System has no uniformity, as the costs depend entirely on the specific department, license or service.

1st IFFJK : Dir Info calls for meticulous planning

Srinagar, Aug 03: Director Information, ShreyaSinghal on Mondaychaired a review meeting at MediaComplexto take stock of preparations for the forthcoming 1st International Film Festival of Jammu & Kashmir(IFFJK), directingall officers to ensure fool-proof arrangements and seamless coordination among stakeholders for the successful conduct of the prestigious event. The meeting was attended by Joint Director Information (Hqr) Dr. Zahoor Ahmad Raina, Joint Director Information Kashmir Syed Shahnawaz Bukhari, Joint Director Information Jammu Deepak Dubey, Deputy Directors, District Information Officers, Information Officers, and other officials of the department, either in person or through video conferencing. During the meeting, the Directorconducted a comprehensive review ofarrangements being put in place for the festival, including venue management, delegate facilitation, hospitality, media management, transportation, cultural programmes, technical support, logistics, and other allied arrangements. She stressed that all preparationsshouldbe completed well within stipulated timelines, leaving no scope for lapses. Emphasising that the inaugural edition marks a significant milestone in Jammu and Kashmir's cultural and cinematic landscape, Shreya Singhal said the event will provide a global platform to showcase the region's rich heritage, scenic splendour, artistic excellence, and immense potential as a preferred destination for film production and creative collaborations. The Director Information directed all officers and committees to maintain close coordination and ensure effective synergy among departments and agencies associated with the festival. Meticulous planning, prompt execution, and continuous monitoring of preparations are essential for organizing the event in a smooth, professional, and befitting manner, she maintained. She alsolaid emphasis onrobust media and publicity arrangements to ensure extensive outreach and wider visibility at national and international levels. The 1st IFFJK is slated to be held from September 7 to September 10, 2026, guided by the theme 'Rang-e-Cinema'. The festival has received an overwhelming response, with more than 1,100 film entries received from around 50 countries under categories including International Competition, Short Film, Bharat Panorama, and J&K Select. The festival has also received a tremendous response from filmmakers of Jammu and Kashmir, providing budding filmmakers, artists, and others associated with the cinematic world a big platform to showcase their work and talent. The Directorreiterated the commitment of DIPRto host the festival to the highest professional standards, making it a landmark celebration of cinema that reflects the cultural vibrancy, creative aspirations, and growing global profile of Jammu and Kashmir.

Rs 322 cr lost to bank fraud in J&K in 3 yrs

Srinagar, Aug 03: A total of 868 bank fraudcaseswere reported in Jammu and Kashmir over the last three financialyears, involving Rs 322.31 crore, of whichonly Rs 12.8 crore, about 4 per cent, has been recovered so far, according to Reserve Bank of India data tabled by the Ministry of Finance in the Lok Sabha on Monday. The data was given in response to an unstarred question by MP G M Harish Balayogi on recovery and refund of defrauded amounts. Minister of State for Finance Pankaj Chaudhary gave the reply, citing fraud data reported by Scheduled CommercialBanks, excluding Regional Rural Banks,and All India Financial Institutions. Year-wise, J&K recorded 467 fraud cases involving Rs 47.55 crore in FY 2023-24, of which Rs 3.23 crore was recovered. In FY 2024-25, the number fell to 298 cases, though the amount involved rose to Rs 81.27 crore, with Rs 2.65 crore recovered. In FY 2025-26 so far, cases fell further to 103, but the amount involved jumped sharply to Rs 193.49 crore, with Rs 6.92 crore recovered. Fewer cases, bigger sums The data points to a clear trend in J&K: even as the number of fraud cases nearly halved between FY 2023-24 and FY 2024-25, and halved again in FY 2025-26, the amount of money involved rose more than four-fold over the same period, from Rs 47.55 crore to Rs 193.49 crore. This suggests a shift towards fewer but significantly larger-value fraud cases. Recovery remains low Across all three years, the recovery rate in J&K stayed under 7 per cent, and worked out to under 4 per cent cumulatively, Rs 12.8 crore recovered against Rs 322.31 crore involved. The ministry noted that the RBI does not maintain separate category-wise data on amounts frozen and refunded to victims, only the amounts recovered by banks through their own recovery mechanisms. How recovery works The government said there are no fixed timelines forrecovery ofdefrauded amounts, given the complexity and multiplicity of agencies, tribunals and courts involved in individual cases. Banks pursue recovery through civil suits, Debt Recovery Tribunals, action under the SARFAESI Act, and insolvency proceedings before the National Company Law Tribunal. For cyber-enabled financial fraud specifically, the ministry pointed to the Indian Cybercrime Coordination Centre (I4C) under the Ministry of Home Affairs, which operates the National Cybercrime Reporting Portal and helpline 1930. Complaints filedtheirfeed into the Citizen Financial Cyber Fraud Reporting and Management System (CFCFRMS), which links State and UT police directly with banks to trace and freeze defrauded funds in real time, before routing recovered money back to victims through the Money Restoration Module (MRM). Other measures cited The government also cited the Central Fraud Registry set up by the RBI for early identification of fraud risk, the AI-based MuleHunter tool to detect money mule accounts, and the newly incorporated Indian Digital Payment Intelligence Corporation (IDPIC) to detect and analyse fraud in the digital payments ecosystem in real time using AI, machine learning and big data analytics. Revised RBI directions issued on June 24, 2026, were also cited as limiting customer liability in unauthorised electronic banking transactions.

IGP Kmr calls for heightened vigilance

Srinagar, Aug 03: Inspector General of Police (IGP) Kashmir Zone, V.K. Birdi on Monday chaired a security review meeting here in view of forthcoming events to assess the prevailing security scenario and strengthen the overall security framework across the Valley. The meeting was attended by IG BSF Ftr. Hqrs, IG CRPF KOS, IG CRPF Srinagar, Additional Commissioner SB Srinagar, DIG SSB Srinagar, DIG CID Kashmir, all range DIGs of Kashmir Zone, DIG Traffic Kashmir, DIG IR/Armed Kashmir, DIG ITBP Srinagar, DIG RPF Kashmir, DIGs of CRPF South/North Srinagar, SSP PCR Kashmir, all district SSPs of Kashmir Zone, SSPs of Railways Kashmir, Traffic Rural Kashmir, CID SB (K), APCR Srinagar, CID CI (K), Security Kashmir, Asstt. Director SIB Srinagar, SP Cargo, GSO (I) 15 Corps, and other senior officers, a police spokesperson said in a statement issued here. At the outset, participating officers briefed the IGP Kashmir on the prevailing security situation in their respective jurisdictions. A detailed review of recent security developments, emerging challenges, and measures adopted to effectively counter them was carried out during the meeting. Emphasising the need for sustained preparedness, Birdi directed all officers to continuously review and strengthen existing security arrangements and devise robust counter-insurgency strategies. He stressed the importance of seamless coordination among all security agencies for maintaining a proactive and effective security grid. The IGP reviewed security measures in place for the protection of National Highways, railway tracks, and railway stations across the Valley. He directed officers to further strengthen security deployments and checkpoints by placing dynamic nakas and enhanced foot patrolling, particularly during night hours, at vulnerable locations and along inter-district boundaries. The Kashmir Police chief laid special emphasis on ensuring the safety and security of critical infrastructure and other vulnerable sections, directing officers to take all necessary preventive measures, intensify area domination, and maintain close surveillance in sensitive areas to thwart any attempt aimed at disturbing peace or targeting civilians. He instructed district heads to maintain strict vigilance against anti-national and anti-social elements, enhance intelligence-based operations, and closely monitor social media platforms to prevent the spread of misinformation, rumours, and malicious content that could adversely impact public peace, safety, and communal harmony. The meeting concluded with the resolve to ensure heightened vigilance, improved coordination, and effective implementation of security measures to maintain peace and safety across the Valley.

Yatra continues from Baltal; Pahalgam route closed

Srinagar, Aug 03: The annual Shri Amarnath Ji Yatra continued smoothly from the Baltal axis on Monday as thousands of pilgrims made their way towards the holy cave shrine amid tight security and elaborate arrangements by the administration and security agencies. Official sources said that more than 4.40 lakh pilgrims have paid obeisance at the holy cave shrine since the commencement of the annual pilgrimage, reflecting the steady influx of devotees from across the country. However, the traditional Pahalgam axiscontinues to remainclosed as restoration and repair work on the damaged track is underway following recent weather-related disruptions. As a result, the yatra is presentlybeingconducted through the Baltal route, where authorities have ensured uninterrupted movement of pilgrims. According to official figures, 7,060 yatris crossed the Domail Access Control Gate up to 6:00 am on August 3. The pilgrims included 5,283 men, 1,322 women, 106 children, 31 sadhus, 13 sadhvis, five transgender pilgrims and 300 security personnel, all of whom proceeded towards the holy cave under regulated movement and strict security arrangements. Meanwhile, the pilgrimage also continued from the Jammu base camp. Officials said the 26th batch comprising 1,056 pilgrims departed from Bhagwati Nagar Yatri Niwas for the Baltal base camp in 46 escorted vehicles at around 2:50 am on Monday. The batch included 832 men, 205 women, two children, 15 sadhus and two sadhvis. The convoy was escorted under multi-layered security arrangements to ensure the safe movement of pilgrims towards Baltal. Authorities said all essential facilities, including medical assistance, sanitation, traffic management and emergency response systems, remain in place, while continuous monitoring of weather conditions and route safety isbeingcarried out to ensure the smooth conduct of the ongoing pilgrimage.

CM Omar to lead 80th Independence Day celebrations at Bakshi Stadium

Srinagar, Aug 03:Ahead of the 80th Independence Day on August 15, 2026, the Jammu and Kashmir government has finalised arrangements for the celebrations, with Chief Minister Omar Abdullah set to preside over the main function at Srinagar's Bakshi Stadium and take the salute. According to an official order issued by the General Administration Department (GAD), J&K, Deputy Chief Minister Surinder Kumar Choudhary will lead the celebrations at the Jammu district headquarters. Minister for Health and Medical Education, School Education, Higher Education and SocialWelfare Minister,Sakeena Masood (Itoo) will preside over the function in Anantnag,whileJal Shakti, Forest, Ecology, Environment and TribalAffairs MinisterJaved Ahmed Rana will take the salute in Poonch. Agriculture Production, Rural Development and Panchayati Raj, Cooperative and Election Departments Minister Javid Ahmad Dar will lead the celebratory function in Baramulla, whereas Food, Civil Supplies and Consumer Affairs, Transport, Science and Technology, Information Technology, Youth Services and Sports and ARI & Trainings Minister Satish Sharmawill preside over the celebrations in Kathua. Chief Minister'sAdvisor Nasir Aslam Wani will take the salute at the district-level function in Kupwara. Meanwhile, the respective Deputy Commissioners will preside over Independence Day functions in the remaining district headquarters. At the sub-divisional level, the celebrations will be led by the respective Sub-Divisional Magistrates, while Tehsildars or the senior-most civil officers will preside over functions at tehsil, block and municipal headquarters as decided by the concerned Deputy Commissioners.

LG Sinha calls for nature-based climate solutions

Srinagar, Aug 03 : There is no dichotomy between development and conservation. Nature itself is infrastructure, Lieutenant Governor Manoj Sinha said on Monday, as he called for placing nature-based solutions at the centre of development planning to build climate resilience in the Himalayan region. Addressing the Islamic University of Science & Technology (IUST) conference on Strengthening Climate Resilience and Livelihoods in the Himalayan Region through Nature-based Solutions, the Lieutenant Governor highlighted the alarming pace of climate change in the Himalayas, saying that between January and August last year, the region witnessed a natural disaster almost every day. In Jammu and Kashmir alone, flash floods and cloudbursts have damaged public infrastructure, disrupting roads, water supply schemes, and power feeders. Constructing a watershed is also an effective flood-control system. It is infrastructure that also serves as a water purification system and forms the basis of an irrigation system, Sinha said. Similarly, a wetland is nature's vast reservoir because it absorbs excess water during the monsoon and then slowly gives life to surrounding areas during the dry months. A dense forested mountain slope is in fact like a strong wall that protects the entire mountain from collapsing onto the villages below. Therefore, I believe that when we destroy these natural systems, we are playing with the future. But when we conserve and restore these natural systems, we are investing in a bright future, he added. The Lieutenant Governor placed six major recommendations before policymakers, scientists, and engineers. First, he called for the use of modern technologies like remote sensing, geospatial mapping, and AI to track glacier retreat, spring flow, soil health, and forest cover, and to ensure this data informs every development project in the region. Second, he urged that Nature-based Solutions be embedded into project budgeting, appraisal, and monitoring. Third, he stressed that farmers, shepherds, orchard owners, and tribal communities must be made equal stakeholders, as their generational knowledge of rivers, mountains, and forests is invaluable. Fourth, he recommended that annual budget reviews should include whether forests and ecosystems have grown richer or weaker, ensuring accountability for environmental wealth. Fifth, he called for the establishment of platforms for long-term cooperation among scientists, policymakers, and communities. Sixth, he advised moving beyond concrete embankments to restore floodplains and wetlands, combining built structures with natural systems. LG Sinha urged universities to elevate Nature-based Solutions into a multidisciplinary subject, spanning ecology, hydrology, engineering, economics, disaster management, and traditional knowledge. He stressed that future professionals must understand the interconnectedness of ecosystems, economies, technologies, and societies. Recalling the Green Jammu Kashmir Drive launched in 2020, which raised forest cover to nearly 55 percent, Sinha reiterated the importance of sustainable living. He envisioned a Himalaya where watersheds are healthier, wetlands thrive, and rivers flow naturally, sustaining biodiversity and culture. By placing nature at the centre of development, integrating modern technology with traditional wisdom, and involving communities as equal partners, the Himalayan region can build resilience against climate change. We must remember that Himalayas are not merely a geographical entity but a living heritage that demands foresight, patience, and responsibility, he said. On the occasion, the Lieutenant Governor inaugurated the Civil and Mechanical Engineering Block at the main campus, IUST's Larmoo Campus, and the Law School. He congratulated IUST for their initiatives and lauded the University's policy brief on the Drug-Free Jammu Kashmir campaign. The LG also released the special edition of IUST's monthly magazine 'Times Echo' on the 100-Day Anti-Drug campaign and the Policy Brief on Nasha Mukt Jammu Kashmir Abhiyan, prepared by various experts of J&K. Certificates were also handed over to PMKVY trainees. Justice Sanjeev Kumar, Chief Justice (Acting), High Court of Jammu Kashmir and Ladakh; Prof Shakil A. Romshoo, Vice Chancellor, IUST; Prof Shamim Ahmad Shah, Registrar, IUST; Prof Javed Hussain Mir, Convener of the Conference; eminent scientists, experts, senior officials, faculty and students attended the conference.

Four back-to-back cloudbursts hit Kashmir

Srinagar, Aug 03: Jammu and Kashmir witnessed one of its most turbulent weather days of the season on Monday as four cloudbursts struck different parts of Kashmir within hours, triggering flash floods, damaging infrastructure and prompting meteorological experts to issue a fresh warning of more isolated cloudbursts, landslides and flash floods in the coming days. The cloudbursts were reported from the Chachmarg area ofShopian district,Batkoot area of Pahalgam in Anantnag district, the Gorihajin area of Arin-Dardpora in Bandipora district and Warnow in the Lolab valley of Kupwara district, highlighting the widespread impact of the active monsoon system across the Valley. The first incident was reported from Chachmarg, an area of Shopian,whenflash floods triggered by the cloudburst created panic as water entered several villages, including orchards amid intense rainfall. The second incidentwas recorded fromBatkoot, where an intense spell of rainfallcausedWardbal Nallah and several adjoining streams to overflow within minutes. The sudden runoff led to a sharp rise in the water level of the Lidder River, raising concerns among residents and authorities. Soon after, the third cloudburst hit Gorihajin in north Kashmir's Bandipora district. Officials rushed revenue and disaster management teams to the area to assess losses and monitor vulnerable habitations. The fourth cloudburst struck Warnow in Lolab, Kupwara, where local streams swelled suddenly following intense rainfall. Officials said a woman was believed to have been swept away in the flash flood and is feared dead. Search and rescue teams continued operations till late evening to trace the missing woman. Independent weather forecaster Faizan Arif said rapid cloud development was observed over the Jammu plains during the afternoon before the weather system expanded towards several parts of J&K. Rain and thundershowers are expected across many parts of Jammu and Kashmir, particularly the Jammu region, over the next 12 hours. Localised high-intensity rainfall could trigger flash floods, landslides and isolated cloudburst events in vulnerable areas, Arif said. Explaining the Batkoot cloudburst, Arif said the hydrological behaviour clearly indicated an intense, localised weather event. Wardbal Nallah and several nearby streams overflowed within a very short span of time following an intense spell of rainfall. As a result, the water level in the Lidder Nallah rose by several feet in just two hours. Interestingly, water levels in the Sheshnag Nallah and the Aru Valley remained largely under control. The sharp rise in the Lidder, despite its main upstream tributaries remaining near normal, confirms that an extremely intense, localised cloudburst occurred over the midway forested catchment near Batkoot, rapidly feeding runoff into the river, he said. Even as the cloudbursts struck, high-intensity rainfall triggered flash floods across several villages in Shopian district, where overflowing streams and nallahs inundated roads, residential areas and agricultural land. Water entered several houses in low-lying areas, while local authorities launched damage assessment exercises. No casualties were reported from the district till the filing of this report. Director Meteorological Centre Ladakh, Sonam Lotus, said the prevailing weather system over Jammu and Kashmir remains highly active due to abundant monsoon moisture interacting with the Himalayan terrain. The atmosphere is conducive for moderate to heavy rainfall at many places, with isolated spells of very heavy rain. Such intense spells can trigger flash floods, landslides, mudslides, shooting stones and, at isolated locations, cloudburst-like situations, particularly in vulnerable mountainous areas, Lotus told Rising Kashmir. He urged people living near rivers, streams, nallahs and landslide-prone slopes to remain vigilant and avoid unnecessary travel during periods of heavy rainfall. The impact of the active monsoon extended beyond Kashmir into Ladakh, where heavy rainfall triggered a major flash flood in Gund Nallah at Hardass village, causing extensive damage to private property, agricultural land, standing crops, fruit-bearing trees and local infrastructure. Officials said preliminary reports indicated no loss of human life in Hardass. Field surveys are underway and a detailed damage assessment will be prepared after inspections are completed. Another flash flood was also reported from Tumail village in the Sodh area of Ladakh, where officials are collecting information on the extent of damage. Residents in both villages have been advised to remain alert and avoid flood-prone areas until the weather stabilises. Strong winds also caused damage in the Bakura area of central Kashmir's Ganderbal district on Monday evening. Officials said powerful gusts blew off the rooftop of a residential house and damaged an electric pole, disrupting power supply in the locality. No injuries were reported, while restoration work was taken up by the concerned departments. Meanwhile, the aftermath of recent floods continued to affect the Jammu region. The Deputy Commissioner's Office in Rajouri, which sustained damage during recent flash floods, has been declared structurally unsafe. Officials have shifted the office to a new location to ensure uninterrupted public services while restoration and safety assessments are carried out. The latest weather events come against the backdrop of an unusually active monsoon season in Jammu and Kashmir. After recording a 32 percent precipitation deficit till May 30, the Union Territory has witnessed a remarkable turnaround due to sustained monsoon activity and is now recording an overall rainfall surplus of 23 per cent. According to official figures, 30 cloudburst incidents have been reported across Jammu and Kashmir since June 1, with the latest three reported on Monday from Pahalgam, Bandipora and Kupwara. Most incidents have occurred in the Pir Panjal belt and parts of the Jammu region, triggering flash floods, landslides and widespread damage to roads, bridges, houses, agricultural land and public infrastructure. Srinagar-Jammu highway closed A traffic official said that due to mudslides amid intense rainfall, the Jammu-Srinagar highway was closedfor the traffic on both sides while restoration work was going on.If weather improves, traffic may be restored on the highway on Tuesday, he said. SSG Road reopened within 50 minutes after landslide A landslide at Sarbal Nallah in the Sonamarg area of central Kashmir's Ganderbal district on Monday briefly disrupted traffic on the SrinagarSonamargGumri (SSG) Road and the Sarbal Road, prompting authorities to suspend vehicular movement as a precaution. Officials said the landslide blocked both the SSG Road and the Sarbal Road, following which traffic was immediately halted at the Traffic Control Point (TCP) Sonamarg. The Beacon authorities were informed, and restoration work was launched without delay. Thanks to the coordinated efforts of the Traffic Police, Jammu and Kashmir Police, Border Roads Organisation (BRO), Beacon authorities, ITBP and other concerned agencies, debris was cleared swiftly, and the SSGRoad wasreopened for traffic movement within just 50 minutes. Officials confirmed that the SarbalSonamarg road has also been restored and traffic is now plying smoothly on the affected stretch. Authorities have advised commuters to drive cautiously while passing through landslide-prone areas, as weather conditions may trigger fresh slides in vulnerable locations. Traffic officials continue to monitor the situation to ensure the safe movement of vehicles. With inputs from Umar Raina

Centre skips J&K under museum grant scheme

Srinagar, Aug 3: Jammu and Kashmir did not receive any financial assistance under the Union Ministry of Cultures Museum Grant Scheme during the last five years, even as neighbouring Leh was sanctioned over Rs 4.35 crore for setting up a new museum, according to information tabled in the Lok Sabha. The details were shared by Union Minister for Culture and Tourism Gajendra Singh Shekhawat in a written reply to an unstarred question in the Lok Sabha on Monday regarding grants provided for the establishment, development, conservation and digitisation of museums across the country. The annexure accompanying the reply lists grants sanctioned to museums in several states and Union Territories between 2021-22 and 2025-26. However, no museum from Jammu and Kashmir figures in the list of beneficiaries. In contrast, the Deskid Cultural and Welfare Society, Deskid Gonpa, Leh was sanctioned Rs 435.04 lakh (Rs 4.35 crore) for setting up a new museum under the Museum Grant Scheme. Of the sanctioned amount, Rs 108.76 lakh was released during 2022-23 and Rs 87.01 lakh during 2025-26, while the utilisation reported stands at Rs 413.29 lakh. According to the Ministry, financial assistance under the Museum Grant Scheme is provided for establishing new museums, developing existing museums, digitising museum collections, setting up virtual museums and training museum professionals. Eligible institutions include museums managed by Central and State governments, autonomous bodies, public sector undertakings, local bodies, academic institutions, societies and trusts. The Ministry said grants are sanctioned based on the category of proposals received under the scheme. Under the existing guidelines, assistance for setting up new museums ranges up to Rs 15 crore for Category-I projects, while development of existing museums can receive assistance of up to Rs 8 crore, depending on the category. Separate provisions also exist for digitisation of museum collections and other components. The reply also stated that the Archaeological Survey of India (ASI) continues to undertake preservation, modernisation and infrastructure upgrades of its site museums, subject to availability of resources, including digitisation of collections, improved visitor facilities and adoption of digital technologies.

J&K sees growth in KCC accounts amid nationwide fall

Srinagar, Aug 3: Jammu and Kashmir has registered a steady increase in the number of operative Kisan Credit Card (KCC) accounts over the past three years, even as the overall number of such accounts declined across the country, according to data tabled by the Union Government in the Lok Sabha. The figures, presented by the Ministry of Finance in response to an Unstarred Question raised by MP Mala Roy, show that Jammu and Kashmir had 11,17,490 operative KCC accounts in 2025-26, up from 10,66,887 in 2023-24. The number had risen to 11,13,136 in 2024-25 before increasing further in 2025-26. The data indicates that the Union Territory recorded an overall increase of 50,603 operative KCC accounts during the three-year period, reflecting continued expansion in institutional credit coverage for farmers. In contrast, Ladakh witnessed a marginal decline in operative KCC accounts. The number stood at 28,228 in 2023-24, fell slightly to 28,134 in 2024-25, and further dipped to 28,005 in 2025-26. At the national level, however, the total number of operative KCC accounts declined significantly. According to the figures compiled by the Reserve Bank of India (RBI) and the National Bank for Agriculture and Rural Development (NABARD), operative KCC accounts decreased from 7,75,04,234 in 2023-24 to 7,72,10,538 in 2024-25, and further to 7,28,27,884 in 2025-26, marking a decline of nearly 47 lakh accounts over the period. Replying to the question in the Lok Sabha, Minister of State for Finance Pankaj Chaudhary said the Kisan Credit Card is a demand-driven scheme that provides timely and affordable credit through the banking system to all eligible farmers engaged in agriculture and allied activities. He said the credit limit under the scheme is determined on the basis of the scale of finance, area under cultivation, cropping pattern, and other related requirements. As reported by RBI and NABARD, the total number of operative KCC accounts as on March 31, 2026, was 7.28 crore, the minister informed the House.

Digital healthcare gains pace with JK SEHAT App

Srinagar, Aug 3: The JK SEHAT App, developed by the Health & Medical Education Department, government of Jammu and Kashmir, has emerged as a unified digital platform for providing citizen-centric healthcare services across the Union Territory. It has emerged as a One stop healthcare solution for J&K citizens. The App supports the vision of accessible, transparent and technology-enabled healthcare by bringing multiple health services together on a single platform. It also complements the objectives of the Ayushman Bharat Digital Mission (ABDM) by integrating key digital health services for the benefit of citizens. The JK SEHAT App offers a comprehensive range of digital healthcare services through a single platform. The citizens can book online appointments in public hospitals, generate digital OPD tokens through the Scan & Share service, access tele-consultation and home healthcare services, place medicine orders through registered pharmacies and view their digital health records through ABDM-enabled services. The App also provides access to blood bank information, ambulance services (102 and 108), health helpline, AI chatbot, health insurance information, drug store services, immunization centres and de-addiction centres among other health care services. In addition, dedicated facilities for medical students, including course information, access to medical resources and references are available on the application making the JKSEHAT Appa comprehensive digital health platform for the citizens and healthcare stakeholders across Jammu and Kashmir. The people are availing health services across the Union Territory of Jammu and Kashmir with 15.60 lakh citizens registered on the platform. The ABDM-enabled Scan & Share service has facilitated more than 12.37 lakh digital-online OPD tokens being generated, indicating its increasing use by citizens for hassle-free OPD registration. A total of 3,077 healthcare professionals are registered in the App to provide Home Healthcare and Tele-Consultation services resulting in 4,805 services already delivered. The above-mentioned public centric services have exponentially improved due to sustained monitoring, periodic reviews and timely gap redressal under the guidance of Chief Secretary, Atal Dulloo. More than 4000 pharmacy orders raised in the App have been successfully delivered, highlighting the focus on the citizen centric health care delivery. The government of Jammu and Kashmir is taking sustained measures to enhance the adoption and utilization of the JK SEHAT App as a unified digital health platform for the citizens of the Union Territory. Under the guidance of the Health & Medical Education Department, coordinated efforts are being undertaken by the National Health Mission (NHM), Ayushman Bharat Digital Mission (ABDM) J&K, Directorate of Health Services Jammu and Kashmir, State Controller Drugs, J&K and other stakeholders to further enhance the user experience and expand the availability of these services. The Sehat App has been designed to guide and support citizens in accessing healthcare services, especially in remote areas and is aimed at strengthening collaboration between health care providers and citizens. It is a one stop digital solution designed to cater to healthcare needs of the people of Jammu and Kashmir, facilitating easy access to healthcare services.

Modernity Must Not Come at the Cost of Memory

Kashmir stands at a crossroads where the promise of development meets the responsibility of memory. Roads are widening, buildings are rising, and new plans are being drawn for a more connected and economically active future. Yet in this rush toward modernity, there is a danger that the very identity of the valley, shaped by centuries of art, architecture, language, craft, and tradition, may be gradually worn away. True development cannot mean replacing heritage. It must mean protecting it while making room for progress. Cultural heritage is not a decorative extra to be admired only on special occasions. It is the living record of who we are. From wooden mosques and shrines to historic neighbourhoods, from papier-mache, pashmina, and handwoven textiles to folk songs, cuisines, and oral traditions, Kashmirs heritage gives the region depth and distinction. It is also an economic asset. Across the world, places that preserve their cultural identity attract visitors, generate livelihoods, and build pride among their people. Kashmir, too, can turn preservation into prosperity if it adopts a thoughtful and inclusive development model. Unfortunately, too often development is pursued in a narrow sense: concrete over character, speed over sensitivity, and expansion over memory. Old buildings are demolished before they are documented. Traditional homes are altered beyond recognition. Craft traditions struggle because markets, artisans, and institutions have not been sufficiently supported. Even the younger generation is sometimes left disconnected from the stories and skills that once defined everyday life. This loss is not merely aesthetic. It weakens social continuity and creates a future that is less rooted and less humane. The solution lies not in resisting development but in directing it wisely. Heritage must be built into planning from the beginning, not treated as an afterthought. Conservation of historical structures should be accompanied by incentives for owners, expert restoration, and strict regulation against careless alteration. Urban development plans must respect old settlements and architectural identity. Local crafts need stronger support through training, marketing, and education so that traditional knowledge remains a viable livelihood, not just a memory. Schools and colleges also have a crucial role. Children should grow up learning that heritage is not limited to monuments; it includes language, customs, ecological wisdom, and community values. Public institutions and media must celebrate this inheritance with seriousness, not sentimentality. When people understand the worth of what they possess, they are more likely to protect it. Kashmir does not have to choose between the new and the old. The best model of progress is one that carries both forward together. Development should improve lives, but it should also preserve the soul of the place. If we lose our heritage, we may gain roads and buildings, but we will have paid too high a price. A confident society is one that can build for tomorrow without erasing yesterday.

Two die as multiple cloudbursts, flash floods wreak havoc across J&K

Dozens rescued from flood-hit Shopian; traffic suspended on NH-44; MeT warns of more heavy rain Srinagar: Two persons were killed as multiple cloudbursts and intense rainfall battered several parts of Jammu and Kashmir on Monday, triggering flash floods, damaging roads, bridges, houses and agricultural land. Meanwhile, the traffic on the strategic Jammu-Srinagar National Highway was []

LG calls for nature-based solutions for building climate resilience in Himalayas

Urges integration of ecosystems, modern tech to combat rising disasters Srinagar: Lieutenant Governor Manoj Sinha on Monday called for an urgent need to integrate nature-based solutions into climate resilience strategies during a conference at the Islamic University of Science & Technology (IUST). The event focused on strengthening climate resilience and livelihoods in the Himalayan region []

CM to preside over main I-Day function at Bakshi stadium

Srinagar: Chief Minister Omar Abdullah will preside over and take the salute at the main Independence Day function to be held at Bakshi Stadium, Srinagar. According to a communiqu issued to divisional commissioners by the General Administration Department, the Chief Minister will lead the proceedings in the summer capital. As per details, Deputy Chief Minister []

No eligible girl will miss marriage assistance: Govt

Srinagar, Aug 3: Jammu and Kashmir Social Welfare Minister Sakina Masood Itoo on Monday said that eligible girls can avail marriage assistance even after their marriage if there is a delay in sanctioning the benefit due to non-availability of funds, assuring that deserving beneficiaries will not be deprived of the scheme. Speaking during an awareness camp organised by the Social Welfare Department in Baramulla, the minister said applicants are required to submit the necessary documents, including valid AAY (Antyodaya Anna Yojana) or BPL (Below Poverty Line) cards, along with other mandatory documents to avail the marriage assistance. She said that while assistance is sanctioned as soon as the required documents are verified, delays may sometimes occur because of the non-availability of funds. However, she assured that eligible beneficiaries would receive the financial assistance even if it is sanctioned after the marriage. The minister said the awareness camp was organised to ensure that welfare schemes being implemented by the Social Welfare Department, including those of the Integrated Child Development Services (ICDS), Women Development Corporation (WDC), and the Scheduled Tribe/Scheduled Caste (ST/SC) Corporation, reach every eligible household. Our aim is to ensure that these schemes reach every home so that deserving people can benefit from them. We are committed to extending the benefits of these welfare programmes to every eligible person who needs them, she said. On the occasion, the minister also distributed appointment orders, tricycles and hearing aids provided through the Rehabilitation Council to beneficiaries, reiterating the departments commitment to ensuring that welfare initiatives reach those who need them the most.

Population Census in J&K, Ladakh to begin Sep 1: Govt

New Delhi: The Centre on Monday notified that the second phase of the ongoing Census population enumeration for Ladakh and snow-bound non-synchronous areas of Jammu and Kashmir, Himachal Pradesh and Uttarakhand shall take place from September 1 to 30. In a gazette notification on Monday, Registrar General of India and Census Commissioner Mrityunjay []

Aqib Nabis Test Call-up and J&Ks Cricketing Moment

Jammu and Kashmir cricket has waited long for a moment like this. Aqib Nabis maiden call-up to the Indian Test squad, as replacement for the injured Jasprit Bumrah, is not merely a personnel change before the Sri Lanka series. It is a reminder that sustained performance, even from crickets less-celebrated corners, can still force its way into the highest corridors of the game. For years, the UT has produced talent in bursts, often admired locally, occasionally noticed nationally, but rarely carried with such continuity into the Test arena. Nabis rise stands out because it has come not through noise or hype, but through the old-fashioned grammar of selection: wickets, discipline and consistency. In domestic cricket, he has done what every aspiring fast bowler must do: bowl with purpose, stay relevant across conditions and keep taking wickets when the spotlight is elsewhere. That is why this call-up matters. It tells every young cricketer in Jammu and Kashmir that opportunity is not always denied; sometimes it arrives late, but it does arrive. Nabi now joins a small and proud list of cricketers from the region who have been trusted with a place in the Test conversation. In a place where sport has often had to compete with uncertainty, geography and limited exposure, such recognition carries a deeper civic value. It becomes a source of collective pride, not just a personal triumph. Indias decision also reflects the unforgiving realities of modern Test cricket. Bumrahs absence is a significant blow, but it has opened the door for a bowler whose selection is rooted in merit. That is how national teams stay fresh and competitive by rewarding form, not reputation alone. If Nabi gets a chance in the playing eleven from August 15, it will be a debut earned the hard way. Yet even before he bowls a single delivery in international cricket, Nabi has already delivered something meaningful to J&K. He has expanded the imagination of what is possible for the regions sportspersons. He has shown that the road from domestic cricket to the Test squad is not reserved for the usual centres of power. For Jammu and Kashmir, this is a moment to celebrate, but also to build on. Talent has never been in short supply here. What has been needed is patience, infrastructure and belief. Nabis selection offers all three in one inspiring frame.

Assembly committee cracks down on food adulteration

Chairman advocates safe, hygienic food for every household in J&K Srinagar: With public health at the core of its agenda, the Committee on Petitions of the Jammu and Kashmir Legislative Assembly met on Monday at the Assembly Secretariat under the chairmanship of MLA Pirzada Farooq Ahmad Shah. The Committee had a comprehensive review of the []

Dir Info reviews preparations for 1st International Film Festival of J&K

Directs fool-proof arrangements; seamless coordination among stakeholders Over 1100 film entries received from more than 50 countries for grand festival Srinagar: Director Information, Shreya Singhal chaired a review meeting at Media Complex here on Monday to take stock of the preparations for the forthcoming 1st International Film Festival of Jammu & Kashmir (IFFJK). The meeting []

JK SEHAT App strengthens digital healthcare services across J&K

Srinagar: The JK SEHAT App, developed by the Health & Medical Education Department, government of Jammu and Kashmir, has emerged as a unified digital platform for providing citizen-centric healthcare services across the Union Territory. It has emerged as a One stop healthcare solution for J&K citizens. The App supports the vision of accessible, transparent and []

J&K sees sharp rise in bank fraud cases

Srinagar: Jammu and Kashmir recorded 103 financial fraud cases involving Rs 193.49 crore during the financial year 2025-26, with Rs 6.92 crore recovered, the Ministry of Finance informed the Lok Sabha on Monday. According to State/UT-wise data provided by the Reserve Bank of India (RBI), J&K reported 467 fraud cases involving Rs 47.55 crore in []

Mitigating Man-Animal Conflict: A Shared Responsibility

Jammu and Kashmir has long lived at the crossroads of wilderness and human settlement. Its forests, orchards, wetlands and mountain pastures are home to species that are as much a part of the regions identity as its people. Yet, as villages expand, orchards spread, roads cut through forests and climate patterns shift, the space between humans and wildlife is shrinking fast. What we are witnessing today is not merely an increase in animal sightings, but a deepening conflict over space, food and survival. Mitigating man-animal conflict, therefore, is no longer an environmental slogan; it is a necessity for public safety, ecological balance and social peace. For too long, the response to wildlife encounters has been driven by panic and politics rather than planning. Every crop raid, livestock kill or human injury becomes a flashpoint, followed by anger, compensation demands and calls for immediate action against the animal. But such reactions, however understandable in moments of fear, do not solve the problem. They only treat the symptom while ignoring the cause. The real issue lies in the way we have altered landscapes without adequate safeguards, leaving both people and wildlife trapped in an increasingly hostile overlap. In the Kashmir region, the conflict takes many forms. In some areas, bears enter orchards and habitations in search of food. In others, leopards prey on livestock and, at times, threaten human life. Wild boars damage crops, while other species stray into villages as their natural habitats shrink or fragment. The result is a cycle of fear and retaliation. Farmers lose their crops, herders lose their animals, and communities lose patience. Meanwhile, wildlife also suffers through injury, displacement and sometimes illegal killing. A situation that begins as a land-use problem quickly becomes a human, economic and conservation crisis. The first step toward mitigation is honest recognition that this conflict is largely man-made. Deforestation, unplanned construction, garbage dumping near habitations and the abandonment of traditional land-use practices have all contributed to the problem. Waste attracts animals. Encroachment pushes them out of their habitats. Unfenced orchards and unsecured livestock make easy targets. When forests are degraded and wildlife corridors blocked, animals have little choice but to move closer to human settlements. In other words, coexistence cannot be expected when we continue to redesign the environment in ways that make conflict inevitable. That is why mitigation must begin with planning, not merely response. Land-use policies should be more sensitive to wildlife movement patterns. Development projects near forests and corridors must undergo stricter ecological scrutiny. Roads, tunnels and other infrastructure need proper mitigation measures, including underpasses, fencing and warning systems in high-risk zones. Human settlements must be better regulated in vulnerable areas, especially where repeated wildlife movement has already been documented. Without spatial discipline, every new road or colony becomes another invitation to conflict. Community participation is equally important. Local people are not passive victims in this challenge; they are the front line of coexistence. They must be equipped with knowledge, alerts and practical tools to reduce risk. Schools, panchayats and local bodies can play a crucial role in awareness campaigns that teach people how to store food safely, protect livestock, avoid provoking animals and respond calmly during encounters. Farmers can be encouraged to use unpalatable buffer crops, solar fencing and proper night enclosures for cattle. In many cases, simple preventive steps can significantly reduce losses. At the same time, wildlife protection agencies must strengthen their outreach and response systems. Too often, people feel abandoned after a conflict incident. Compensation is delayed, communication is poor and the official response is seen as slow or indifferent. This gap breeds mistrust. If communities are to cooperate with conservation efforts, they must feel that the state stands with them. Compensation should be timely, transparent and adequate. Emergency response teams should be well-trained and accessible. Conflict-prone areas need regular monitoring, not occasional intervention after tragedy has already struck. Technology too can help. Early-warning systems, camera traps, GPS-based tracking in sensitive landscapes and mobile alerts can allow authorities to act before conflict escalates. Mapping conflict hotspots can help identify patterns and guide preventive measures. But technology alone is not enough. It must be backed by field-level readiness and local trust. A sensor without a response system is only a machine; a warning without action is only noise. There is also a need to change public attitude. Wildlife is not an invading force from outside; it is part of the same ecological fabric we depend on for water, soil, climate and biodiversity. The goal is not to eliminate animals from human landscapes but to reduce dangerous overlap and learn disciplined coexistence. That requires restraint, respect and responsibility from both sides of the divide. It also requires us to move beyond the simplistic idea that every encounter is a battle to be won. In reality, sustainable coexistence is a long process of adjustment, prevention and compromise. Policymakers, forest officials, local representatives and civil society must work together on a common framework. Conflict mitigation should be integrated into development planning, disaster management and rural livelihoods policy. It should not remain confined to forest departments alone. When orchards are designed without protective measures, when garbage is unmanaged, when settlements expand unchecked and when compensation systems fail, the burden falls on ordinary people. A serious policy response must therefore be interdepartmental, data-driven and community-centred. The larger lesson is clear: man-animal conflict is not just about animals entering human spaces; it is about humans entering and reshaping animal spaces without sufficient caution. The solution lies neither in romanticising wildlife nor in demonising it. It lies in restoring balance through better planning, stronger institutions and a more responsible public ethic. Kashmirs natural heritage is too precious to be surrendered to fear, and its people deserve security without sacrificing ecological integrity. If coexistence is to mean anything, it must begin with the discipline to protect both human lives and the wild world we share. (The author is a lecturer in HED and a freelancer)

Peoples trust, workers selfless dedication NCs real strength: Sagar

Says party will continue to champion J&Ks democratic, constitutional rights SRINAGAR: The Jammu and Kashmir National Conference General Secretary and MLA Khanyar Haji Ali Mohammad Sagar Monday said that the enduring trust of the people and the unwavering commitment of party workers constitute the National Conferences greatest strength, asserting that no force can deter the []

Kashmir's New Tourist Destinations: Development Without Compromising Nature

Kashmir is witnessing a new phase of tourism development. For decades, destinations such as Gulmarg, Pahalgam and Sonamarg have attracted visitors from across the country and abroad. Today, several lesser-known valleys, alpine meadows, forests, lakes and mountain landscapes are also emerging on the tourism map. Improved road connectivity, ropeway projects, eco-tourism initiatives, adventure tourism, homestays and better public infrastructure are opening these pristine areas to visitors. The Government's efforts to diversify tourism deserve appreciation. Promoting new destinations reduces pressure on established tourist hubs, generates employment, strengthens local economies and creates livelihood opportunities in remote areas. However, as tourism expands, development must be guided by scientific planning so that the natural environment, which is the foundation of tourism itself, is not compromised. Most of Kashmir's emerging tourist destinations are not vacant landscapes waiting to be developed. They are fragile Himalayan ecosystems that support forests, wetlands, alpine vegetation, wildlife habitats, grazing lands and medicinal plants. More importantly, they function as natural water catchments that recharge springs, streams and groundwater, regulate the local climate, reduce soil erosion and minimise flood risks. Protecting these ecological services is essential not only for environmental sustainability but also for the long-term success of tourism. Nature Is Kashmir's Greatest Tourism Asset The scenic beauty of Kashmir is sustained by healthy ecosystems. Forests and alpine meadows act as natural sponges, allowing rainwater and melting snow to infiltrate the ground and recharge aquifers. This groundwater feeds springs, maintains streamflow during dry periods and supplies drinking water to villages while supporting agriculture and local livelihoods. As a hydrogeologist, one lesson consistently emerges from field investigations: wherever natural recharge zones remain intact, springs continue to flow, and groundwater remains sustainable. Conversely, when forests are cleared, slopes are excavated indiscriminately, or construction spreads into sensitive recharge areas, rainwater flows rapidly downhill instead of infiltrating the soil. The result is increased soil erosion, declining spring discharge, reduced groundwater recharge and greater vulnerability to floods and landslides. These impacts often develop gradually, making them easy to overlook during the initial stages of development. Yet once ecological degradation becomes evident, restoring damaged mountain ecosystems is technically challenging and financially expensive. Protecting groundwater recharge zones, wetlands and forests must therefore become a central component of tourism planning rather than an afterthought. Science Must Guide Tourism Development The expansion of tourism infrastructure should begin with science, not construction. Every major tourism project should be preceded by detailed environmental, geological, hydrogeological, biodiversity and slope stability investigations. These assessments help identify groundwater recharge zones, unstable slopes, wetlands, wildlife habitats and environmentally sensitive areas that require protection. Modern technologies such as Geographic Information Systems (GIS), remote sensing, drone surveys and digital terrain mapping provide accurate information for informed decision-making. Scientific planning not only protects natural resources but also reduces future maintenance costs and minimises the risk of engineering failures. Equally important is the concept of carrying capacity. Every destination has a limit to the number of tourists, vehicles, hotels and commercial activities it can sustain without causing environmental degradation. Ignoring this limit eventually results in traffic congestion, water shortages, waste accumulation, pollution and deterioration of the visitor experience. Tourism development should therefore be based on scientific assessments of carrying capacity rather than short-term commercial considerations. Infrastructure in mountain regions also requires specialised engineering practices. Unnecessary hill cutting and indiscriminate blasting weaken fragile slopes and increase the likelihood of landslides. Scientifically designed retaining structures, slope stabilisation measures, bio-engineering techniques and proper drainage systems should be mandatory for all infrastructure projects. Natural drainage channels must remain unobstructed to safely convey stormwater and reduce erosion and flash flood risks. Hotels, resorts and tourism facilities should adopt environmentally responsible practices from the planning stage itself. Rainwater harvesting, sewage treatment plants, wastewater recycling, solar energy, energy-efficient buildings and scientific solid waste management should become standard requirements instead of optional features. Clean Tourism Is Sustainable Tourism Tourism development is not only about building roads and hotels; it is equally about maintaining clean, healthy and pollution-free destinations. Visitors expect safe drinking water, hygienic food, clean public toilets and well-managed public spaces. Unfortunately, many tourist destinations continue to struggle with littering, plastic waste, overflowing dustbins and inadequate sanitation during peak tourist seasons. Government initiatives promoting eco-tourism, rural tourism, homestays and sustainable tourism are important steps in the right direction. National programmes such as the Swachh Bharat Mission and Mission LIFE have also created a strong framework for promoting cleanliness, responsible waste management and environmentally conscious lifestyles. Their effective implementation at tourist destinations can significantly improve environmental quality. Waste management should be an integral part of every tourism project. Separate collection systems for biodegradable and non-biodegradable waste, composting of organic waste, recycling facilities and regular waste collection should be mandatory. The increasing use of single-use plastics at scenic locations threatens the very landscapes that attract tourists. Sewage management is equally critical. Hotels, guest houses and restaurants should install properly designed sewage treatment systems before commencing operations. Untreated wastewater must never be discharged into streams, lakes or wetlands, where it can degrade water quality, damage aquatic ecosystems and pose serious public health risks. Transport planning also deserves attention. The growing number of private vehicles contributes to air pollution, traffic congestion, greenhouse gas emissions and noise that disturbs wildlife and diminishes the peaceful environment visitors seek. Electric shuttle buses, pedestrian pathways, cycling tracks and designated parking areas outside environmentally sensitive zones can substantially improve both environmental quality and visitor experience. Learning from the Himalayas Experiences from other Himalayan states offer valuable lessons. Popular destinations such as Shimla, Manali and Mussoorie have experienced rapid tourism growth but now face recurring water shortages, traffic congestion, waste management problems and increasing pressure on local infrastructure. These challenges demonstrate that tourism can easily outgrow the carrying capacity of mountain ecosystems if development is not carefully planned. Similarly, the Kedarnath disaster and land subsidence in Joshimath highlighted the vulnerability of fragile Himalayan terrain. Although these events resulted from multiple natural and human-induced factors, they reinforce one important message: development in mountain regions must always be guided by scientific investigations, sound engineering and strict environmental safeguards. Climate change makes this need even more urgent. Increasingly erratic rainfall, cloudbursts, glacial retreat and extreme weather events demand climate-resilient infrastructure, effective drainage systems, wetland conservation and protection of forests that naturally regulate water and stabilise slopes. The Way Forward Kashmir has a unique opportunity to become a national model for sustainable mountain tourism. The success of this vision will depend on balancing economic development with environmental conservation. Every emerging tourist destination should have a comprehensive management plan covering environmental protection, carrying capacity, groundwater conservation, sanitation, waste management, disaster preparedness, transport planning and long-term environmental monitoring. Environmental safeguards should be incorporated at the planning stage rather than introduced after ecological damage has already occurred. Local communities must remain central to tourism development. Their knowledge of forests, springs, grazing lands and traditional practices can greatly strengthen conservation efforts. Community-based tourism, homestays, village tourism, local handicrafts and trained local guides not only generate income but also encourage local people to protect the natural resources on which tourism depends. Equally important is institutional coordination. Tourism planners, engineers, hydrogeologists, geologists, environmental scientists, forest officials, local bodies and disaster management agencies should work together from project conception to implementation. Decisions supported by scientific evidence are invariably more sustainable than those driven solely by short-term economic gains. Kashmir's forests, rivers, lakes, wetlands, alpine meadows, springs and groundwater systems are far more than tourist attractions. They are natural assets that sustain biodiversity, agriculture, water security and the livelihoods of thousands of families. Their protection is therefore not only an environmental responsibility but also an economic necessity. The true measure of tourism success should not be the number of hotels constructed, or visitors received each year. It should be reflected in healthy forests, clean rivers, flowing springs, protected wildlife, resilient mountain ecosystems and thriving local communities. Development and conservation are not competing objectives; they are complementary. With scientific planning, responsible engineering, effective pollution control, strong environmental governance and active community participation, Kashmir can expand its tourism sector without sacrificing its priceless natural heritage. Protecting nature is not a constraint on development; it is the strongest investment in the future of tourism and the lasting prosperity of Kashmir. (The author is Sr. Scientist (Hydrogeologist) , Government of India . Ministry of Jal Shakti, Central Ground Water Board. Email: rayeeshg-cgwb@gov.in )

The Urban Spiral in Kashmir Valley

Srinagar and other parts of Kashmir are caught in a troubling urban spiral. Roads are narrower than ever, houses are rising faster than regulation, and public spaces are shrinking under the weight of unplanned expansion. What should have been a story of orderly development has instead become one of congestion, strain, and neglect. The Valley is growing, but not in a way that looks sustainable, humane, or even sensible. For years, urban expansion in Kashmir has followed a familiar pattern: population pressure, rising land values, weak enforcement, and piecemeal construction. The result is visible everywhere. Wetlands have been encroached upon, drains blocked, traffic choked, and neighbourhoods turned into dense clusters of concrete with little regard for ventilation, sunlight, or open space. In the name of progress, we are building settlements that often resemble pressure cookers. The problem is not simply that more people are living in towns and cities. Urbanisation, by itself, is not a curse. It can create opportunities, improve access to services, and make life more efficient. The trouble begins when expansion happens without planning, and planning happens without enforcement. In Kashmir, both failures are evident. Master plans are announced, revised, debated, and then quietly ignored. Building permissions exist in theory, but violations often become the rule rather than the exception. The distance between policy and practice is far too wide. One of the most alarming consequences of this urban spiral is the loss of ecological balance. Kashmirs urban spaces are not ordinary city spaces; they exist in a fragile environment that requires extra care. Wetlands, streams, gardens, and agricultural land are not empty land banks waiting to be converted into plots and colonies. They are part of a living system that protects the Valley from flooding, supports biodiversity, and preserves its character. Yet these natural buffers continue to disappear under constructions that are often unauthorised, short-sighted, and irreversible. The flooding experience of the Valley should have been enough to force a radical rethink. But memory in Kashmir, like in many places, is often weak when profits are strong. The same areas that suffered waterlogging and inundation are again under pressure from concrete expansion. Drainage channels are blocked, natural flow paths disturbed, and low-lying areas filled in. This is not development. It is risk creation. Urban planning is also failing the common citizen in a more immediate way. Traffic congestion in Srinagar has become a daily ordeal. What should be short commutes often turn into long delays. Pedestrians have little room to walk safely, public transport remains inadequate, and parking has become a visible sign of policy failure. The city has expanded horizontally and vertically, but not functionally. More buildings have not meant better living. More roads have not meant smoother movement. More growth has not meant more order. The deeper issue is governance. Unplanned urbanisation does not happen in a vacuum. It is enabled by weak institutions, selective enforcement, and the absence of accountability. Rules are frequently bent for influence, convenience, or revenue. Illegal structures rise with remarkable confidence because people have learned that consequences are rare. When violations are normalised, the law becomes decorative. That is a dangerous position for any society, more so for one living in a sensitive geographical and political environment. There is also a social dimension to this spiral. Urban pressure is changing neighbourhood life. Traditional spaces that once allowed for interaction, privacy, and community are being replaced by crowded layouts where residents struggle for basic amenities. Water supply, sanitation, waste management, parking, and access to healthcare are all under stress. In many localities, civic infrastructure has not kept pace with the density of construction. People are not merely living in congested spaces; they are learning to tolerate decline. This is especially worrying in a region where climate vulnerability is already high. Kashmir faces harsh winters, heavy rainfall, and the growing unpredictability of weather patterns. In such a setting, urban planning cannot afford to be casual. Buildings need to be resilient, roads need proper drainage, and public infrastructure must anticipate future stress rather than respond after damage is done. Yet most of the Valleys urban growth appears reactive, not visionary. The question, then, is simple: who is responsible for stopping the spiral? The answer cannot be left to one department, one officer, or one civic body. It requires a serious political and administrative commitment. Authorities must restore the credibility of planning laws, demolish illegal structures where necessary, protect ecologically sensitive zones, and ensure that future development follows clear norms. Public interest cannot continue to be sacrificed at the altar of private convenience. At the same time, citizens must also reflect on their own role. Urban chaos is not created by officials alone. It is sustained by the collective willingness to cut corners, avoid rules, and treat common spaces as nobodys concern. A society that wants decent towns must first respect decent behaviour. That includes resisting encroachment, supporting planned growth, and demanding accountability from those in power. Kashmir does not need more haphazard concrete. It needs livable cities. It needs footpaths, drainage, green belts, proper zoning, and development that respects both people and place. The Valleys beauty has always been one of its greatest assets, but beauty alone cannot carry the burden of failed planning forever. If the urban spiral is allowed to continue, the cost will not just be aesthetic. It will be environmental, social, and economic. The warning signs are already all around us. The only question left is whether we still have the will to read them. (The author has a PhD in Public Administration and columnist)

The Grace of Dissent: Why Democracy Needs Patience More Than Noise

Democracy is often described as the government of the people, by the people, and for the people. Yet this celebrated definition acquires meaning only when citizens are free not merely to agree with those in power but also to question them. The right to dissent and express disagreement is not a concession bestowed by governments; it is a constitutional guarantee and one of the defining pillars of every healthy democracy. However, rights, however sacred they may be, are accompanied by responsibilities. Dissent strengthens democracy only when it is exercised with patience, civility, and a deep sense of responsibility. The modern age has transformed the nature of public discourse. Social media platforms have enabled every individual to become a publisher, commentator, and critic within seconds. While this democratization of expression is a remarkable achievement, it has also produced an environment where reactions often replace reflection, outrage substitutes reason, and noise overwhelms meaningful dialogue. In the race to express opinions instantly, patience has become one of the greatest casualties of our times. Disagreement is not a weakness of democracy; it is its greatest strength. Societies that silence dissent inevitably drift toward authoritarianism, while those that encourage thoughtful criticism become more accountable and resilient. Every significant democratic reform in history has been shaped by individuals who dared to question prevailing systems. Whether it was the struggle for civil rights, women's suffrage, freedom from colonial rule, or the protection of human dignity, progress has always begun with voices that challenged the status quo. Yet history also teaches another lesson. The most enduring movements for justice were guided not merely by passion but by discipline. They were sustained by patience, moral courage, and respect for institutions. Leaders who transformed societies understood that persuasion is more powerful than provocation and that lasting change is achieved through dialogue rather than destruction. In today's political climate, however, disagreement is increasingly interpreted as hostility. Ideological differences often degenerate into personal attacks. Public debates frequently descend into verbal aggression, while online discussions are dominated by abuse instead of arguments. Political loyalty is often mistaken for unquestioning obedience, and criticism is sometimes dismissed as disloyalty. Such attitudes impoverish democratic culture because democracy flourishes not through uniformity of opinion but through the coexistence of diverse viewpoints. The constitutional right to protest and express dissent is therefore inseparable from the constitutional duty to preserve public order and mutual respect. Freedom of expression does not grant the freedom to spread hatred, misinformation, or violence. Likewise, the exercise of authority does not entitle governments to suppress legitimate criticism. Democracy survives only when both citizens and institutions honour the boundaries of constitutional morality. Patience has become an underrated democratic virtue. It enables citizens to listen before reacting, to verify before believing, and to reason before judging. In an era driven by viral content and instant gratification, patience encourages deliberation over impulsiveness. It reminds us that truth often emerges through careful examination rather than emotional reaction. Civility, too, is not a sign of weakness. It reflects confidence in one's convictions. A person who can disagree respectfully demonstrates greater intellectual maturity than one who resorts to insults. Democratic debate loses its purpose when arguments are replaced by anger. Civil disagreement keeps the doors of dialogue open even when consensus remains elusive. Equally important is responsibility. Every citizen shares the responsibility of protecting democratic institutions. The media must report with integrity rather than sensationalism. Political leaders must inspire confidence rather than deepen divisions. Educational institutions must nurture critical thinking instead of ideological conformity. Above all, citizens must recognise that every word they speak, write, or share contributes either to strengthening or weakening the democratic fabric. Transparency remains the first condition of good governance. Governments that function openly, answer questions honestly, and remain accountable to the public earn legitimacy not merely through elections but through trust. Transparency is not simply about making information available; it is about fostering confidence that decisions are made fairly, ethically, and in the public interest. Citizens have every right to demand transparency, but such demands become most effective when articulated through informed debate rather than emotional confrontation. Likewise, governments must understand that criticism is not always an obstacle to governance; often it is an opportunity for improvement. A mature administration welcomes constructive criticism because it reveals gaps that might otherwise remain unnoticed. Democracies become stronger when governments treat dissent as feedback rather than as defiance. The balance between rights and restraint is the true hallmark of democratic maturity. Rights without responsibility can descend into disorder, while authority without accountability inevitably leads to oppression. Democracy thrives in the delicate space where freedom is tempered by self-restraint, and power is restrained by constitutional principles. The greatest danger facing modern democracies is not disagreement itself but the disappearance of respectful disagreement. When citizens stop listening to one another, when political opponents become enemies, and when every conversation turns into a battlefield, democracy begins to lose its soul. Institutions may continue to exist, elections may still be held, but the democratic spirit gradually erodes. Every generation inherits democracy not as a finished achievement but as an unfinished responsibility. It must be renewed continuously through informed participation, ethical leadership, and responsible citizenship. The health of a democracy cannot be measured merely by voter turnout or electoral victories; it is equally reflected in the quality of public discourse, the dignity of disagreement, and the willingness of citizens to engage one another with respect. In the end, democracy is sustained not by the loudest voices but by the wisest ones. It does not ask its citizens to agree on everything; it asks them to disagree without hatred, to protest without violence, and to criticise without abandoning civility. The strength of a nation lies not in the absence of dissent but in its ability to transform dissent into dialogue and dialogue into progress. In these turbulent times, when polarisation threatens social harmony and instant reactions overshadow thoughtful reflection, the need is not for louder slogans but for deeper conversations. Democracy becomes truly meaningful only when rights are exercised with dignity, dissent is expressed with grace, and governance is guided by transparency. The balance between freedom and responsibility is not merely the foundation of constitutional orderit is the enduring promise of a civilised society. (The author is RK columnist and can be reached at: sanjaypanditasp@gmail.com )

Yaseen seek macadamisation of roads before winters

Srinagar, Aug 3: Several public delegations from Khag, Khansahib, Beerwah and other areas of district Budgam on Monday met Jammu and Kashmir People's Democratic Front (PDF) President and former Minister Hakeem Mohammad Yaseen and apprised him of a wide range of civic issues affecting their respective areas. In a statement, the delegations urged him to take up their genuine demands with the administration to ensure their early redressal. The delegations expressed serious concern over the poor condition of roads, inner roads and link roads in several villages, particularly in the Khansahib constituency. They said that many road stretches are yet to be macadamised, causing inconvenience to commuters, students, patients and the general public. The representatives stressed that the remaining road works should be completed before the onset of winter to prevent hardships during the harsh weather. They also called for improved road connectivity in remote and rural areas of Budgam district. The issue of drinking water shortage also figured prominently during the interaction. The delegations informed Hakeem Yaseen that villages including Chakpora, Khanpora Khag, Labran Khag, Bamrada and several other upper-reach areas of Beerwah and Khansahib are facing an acute shortage of potable water. They said the scarcity has severely affected the daily lives of residents and urged the administration to improve water supply in the affected villages. They also demanded that all pending water supply schemes be completed on a priority basis so that people receive a regular and adequate supply of drinking water. The delegations further highlighted persistent electricity-related problems in several areas. They complained about erratic power supply and frequent outages, stating that residents continue to face difficulties due to inadequate electricity infrastructure. They also requested the government to announce a one-time amnesty for consumers with pending electricity dues, saying many families are unable to clear accumulated bills due to financial constraints. The delegations appealed for strengthening the power distribution system to ensure reliable electricity supply across the district. Responding to the issues raised by the delegations, Hakeem Mohammad Yaseen assured them that he would take up all their genuine demands with the concerned authorities, particularly the Deputy Commissioner, Budgam, for their early resolution. He said the district administration should ensure that pending road macadamisation works are completed before winter and that drinking water and electricity-related issues are addressed on priority.

Dr. Farooq, Omar felicitate Auqib, Owais

Srinagar, Aug 3: The Jammu and Kashmir National Conference President Dr. Farooq Abdullah and Vice President and Chief Minister Omar Abdullah have congratulated Auqib Nabi on becoming the first cricketer from J&K to earn a call-up for Indian Men's Test Cricket Team. The duo said Aqib's maiden Test call-up is a proud moment for Jammu and Kashmir and a fitting reward for his dedication, discipline and perseverance. They said representing India in the longest format of the game is the ultimate honour for any cricketer and expressed confidence that Aqib would make the most of the opportunity, uphold the finest traditions of Indian cricket and inspire aspiring sportspersons across Jammu and Kashmir. They wished him great success as he dons the national colours. In a separate message, Dr. Farooq Abdullah and Omar Abdullah congratulated Owais Yaqoob on his sensational international MMA triumph. They said Owais' grit, relentless spirit and warrior's mindset have once again put Jammu and Kashmir on the global sporting map. They added that his achievement reflects the immense sporting talent of the region and serves as an inspiration for young athletes to pursue excellence with determination and hard work. The duo wished him continued success and many more victories in his sporting career.

Development of newly included areas a priority: Rather

Budgam, Aug 3: Speaker Jammu & Kashmir Legislative Assembly and MLA Charar-i-Sharief, Abdul Raheem Rather, on Monday held an exclusive public outreach camp at Banderpora Kremshore in Charar-i-Sharief Constituency. During the interaction, the residents from Banderpora and adjoining villages raised issues and demands related to road connectivity, drinking water, electricity, healthcare, education and other essential civic amenities. The Speaker assured the people that all their genuine demands would be taken up on priority with the concerned departments for early redress. Addressing the gathering, the Speaker said that the areas of Banderpora and Kremshore, which were recently included in the Charar-i-Sharief Assembly Constituency following the delimitation process, require focused attention and accelerated development. He reiterated his commitment to ensure that these areas receive adequate infrastructure and public welfare projects. He said every effort is being made to bridge the developmental gaps and improve civic infrastructure in the newly included areas. I am working tirelessly to ensure that these areas receive the attention and development they deserve. The welfare of the people of my constituency remains my top priority, he said. The residents expressed hope that the issues raised during the camp would be addressed in a time-bound manner.

Altaf Bukhari calls for CentreJ&K dialogue

Jammu, Aug 3: Apni Party president Syed Mohammad Altaf Bukhari on Monday called on the Centre to initiate a meaningful dialogue with the people of Jammu and Kashmir to address their concerns and aspirations, while asking party leaders to intensify public outreach across the region. Bukhari made the remarks while chairing a high-level provincial meeting of the party in Jammu, attended by senior leaders and functionaries from across the region. According to a party statement, the meeting reviewed the prevailing political situation, governance issues, public grievances and organisational matters. Participants also discussed measures to strengthen the party's activities and took several organisational decisions. Addressing the meeting, Bukhari urged party leaders and workers to remain in close contact with the people and actively engage with them to understand their concerns. Reiterating the party's long-standing demand, he appealed to the Government of India to begin a dialogue with the people of Jammu and Kashmir. Referring to Prime Minister Narendra Modi's remarks about reducing the emotional distance between Jammu and Kashmir and the rest of the country, Bukhari said the present was an appropriate time to bridge the trust deficit through engagement. He also criticised the Omar Abdullah-led government, alleging that it had failed to address pressing public issues despite receiving a strong electoral mandate. The government has failed to live up to the expectations of the people by ignoring their day-to-day concerns and grievances, Bukhari said, adding that people had voted with the expectation that their problems and election promises would be addressed.

Won't end agitation before statehood: Advisor Wani

Srinagar, Aug 3: Chief Ministers Advisor Nasir Aslam Wani on Monday said the party would continue its struggle for the restoration of Jammu and Kashmirs statehood, asserting that the promises made by the Centre are yet to be fulfilled. Speaking to reporters on the sidelines of a Social Welfare Department awareness programme in Baramulla, Wani said the party recently held a protest at Jantar Mantar in New Delhi to remind the Centre of its commitment to restore statehood. We will continue to agitate unless we get the statehood back, he said. Wani said the entire party leadership had travelled to Jantar Mantar to remind the Centre of the assurances given to the people of Jammu and Kashmir. The first step we took was to go to Jantar Mantar in Delhi with our entire leadership to remind Delhi of the promises made to us, but those promises have not been fulfilled, he said. Wani said the Centre had maintained that delimitation would be followed by Assembly elections and subsequently the restoration of statehood. We were told that first there would be delimitation, then elections, and then statehood. Delimitation has been completed and elections have been held, but the restoration of statehood is nowhere in sight. That is why we went to Delhi to remind them of their promises, he said. The advisor said the partys leadership would meet again to chalk out its future strategy for the statehood campaign. Our entire leadership will sit together again and decide the future course of action. This is not a one-day exercise, he added.

Assembly panel seeks zero tolerance against food adulteration

Srinagar, Aug 3: With public health at the core of its agenda, the Committee on Petitions of the Jammu and Kashmir Legislative Assembly met on Monday at the Assembly Secretariat under the chairmanship of MLA Pirzada Farooq Ahmad Shah. The Committee had a comprehensive review of the status report submitted by the Food & Drugs Administration, J&K on the alarming issue of adulteration in essential food commodities like milk, meat, fish, vegetables, spices and packaged food across the Union Territory. The meeting was attended by the committee members including Mir Mohammad Fayaz, Sheikh Ahsan Ahmad (Pardesi), Javaid Iqbal and Shagun Parihar. Voicing the concerns of every household, the Chairman said that no citizen should be forced to compromise on the quality of food they consume. He directed all the concerned departments to adopt a coordinated, zero-tolerance and time-bound approach to root out adulteration and ensure that every plate served in J&K is safe, hygienic and of the highest quality. Pirzada Farooq Ahmad Shah emphasized the need for regular market checking, public awareness campaigns and capacity building of Food Business Operators. He directed the department to conduct training programs for FBOs, food handlers and street vendors to promote hygiene and compliance. Taking serious note of growing public health risk, the Chairman specifically directed that sale of antibiotics without a valid medical prescription by chemist shops must be strictly stopped and violators dealt with sternly. He also stressed that empowering the consumers through awareness on hygiene and food safety standards is equally important so that the people can make conscious and informed choices. Commissioner Food & Drugs Administration Khalid Jahangir informed the Committee that the Food & Drugs Administration conducted 21,120 inspections in FY 2025-26 and lifted 10,444 samples. During the first quarter of FY 2026-27, 5,221 inspections have been carried out. He said that, to enhance on-spot testing, 25,003 samples had been analyzed through Mobile Food Testing Vans, including 4,178 samples during the Shri Amarnath Ji Yatra 2026. To strengthen enforcement, Multi-Departmental Joint Enforcement Teams at District, Tehsil and Block level have been established for conducting special drives for fruits, milk, edible oils, ghee, honey and packaged water. The Committee also noted the compliance report submitted by ADC Budgam regarding the appointment of Lumbardar for village Porwara, Tehsil Chadoora.

Govt pushes saturation of welfare schemes in North Kashmir

Baramulla, Aug 3: The Social Welfare department on Monday organized a mega awareness camp at Baramulla for all the three districts of North Kashmir viz; Baramulla, Kupwara and Bandipora to promote awareness for saturation of more than 25 welfare schemes being implemented by the department. Minister for Social Welfare, Education, Health & Medical Education, Sakeena Itoo, was the chief guest during the camp, which was also attended by Minister for Agriculture Production, Rural Development, Panchayati Raj, Cooperatives and Elections, Javid Ahmad Dar besides Advisor to the Chief Minister, Nasir Aslam Wani. The awareness programme featured speeches, cultural performances and skits highlighting various flagship welfare initiatives and schemes being implemented by the Social Welfare Department, including Integrated Social Security Schemes (ISSS), ICDS, Poshan and other beneficiary-oriented programmes. Speaking on the occasion, Sakeena Itoo appreciated the overwhelming participation of the Anganwari workers and helpers in the awareness programme and highlighted the importance of saturation of various welfare schemes to ensure comprehensive social protection. The Minister acknowledged the invaluable contribution of ICDS workers and helpers in reaching the most vulnerable sections of society. She said the government fully recognizes their role and is actively working towards addressing their concerns, including issues related to enhancement of the honorarium. Emphasizing the need for greater public outreach, the Minister urged the legislators to organize similar awareness programmes at the tehsil level in their respective constituencies to maximize awareness and ensure saturation of welfare schemes. Addressing the gathering, Javid Dar congratulated Sakeena Itoo and the Social Welfare department for introducing significant reforms in the social welfare sector. He underscored that the government has consistently prioritized public welfare and has taken several people-centric decisions, including enhancement of assistance under various welfare schemes. He urged the field functionaries to actively educate the people about the schemes available so that every eligible beneficiary can avail government support. Meanwhile, the Ministers and the MLAs, e-inaugurated the newly constructed CDPO offices at Wagoora in Baramulla and Sogam in Kupwara and three Anganwadi Centres in Singhpora and Rohama blocks of Baramulla district. On the occasion, Sakeena Itoo distributed appointment orders among the newly selected Anganwadi workers and helpers. Sanction letters under the Integrated Social Security Scheme (ISSS), motorized tricycles and wheelchairs for persons with disabilities and baby kits were also distributed among the beneficiaries from the North Kashmir districts of Baramulla, Kupwara and Bandipora. Earlier during the awareness camp, Sakeena Itoo accompanied by dignitaries inspected the stalls set up by the Social Welfare Department, Mission Shakti, Poshan and ICDS providing awareness regarding various beneficiary schemes.

80 rescued as cloudbursts hit Bandipora

Bandipora, Aug 3: More than 80 people were rescued after cloudbursts and flash floods triggered by incessant rainfall affected several parts of Bandipora district on Monday, prompting a large-scale rescue and evacuation operation by the police. In a statement the police said, acting on the directions of the Senior Superintendent of Police (SSP), police teams were rushed to the affected areas of Arin, Dardpora, Sumlar, Aragam and other vulnerable locations following reports of cloudbursts and rising water levels. Officials said over 80 stranded persons were rescued from Neelupati Sirender and shifted to safer locations. In Tota Mode, two families were evacuated after their houses were damaged in flash floods, while three residential houses sustained damage in Sathri. In Gori Hajin, Aragam, police personnel, assisted by JCB machines, evacuated several families trapped by floodwaters. Passengers stranded near the Tangwani-Garoora bridge were also rescued after a sudden rise in the water level. Despite damage to houses and infrastructure in several areas, no casualties were reported due to the timely response of the police and other emergency agencies. Police said personnel remain deployed in vulnerable areas to monitor the situation, assist affected residents and respond to emergencies. They also advised the public to avoid flood-prone areas and follow advisories issued by the district administration. Residents appreciated the rescue efforts, commending the police for their prompt response during the natural calamity.

Digital Payment Frauds Touch Rs 4,457 Cr In 11 Years, Govt Says

SRINAGAR: Digital payment frauds involving Rs 4,457.03 crore were reported in India over the 11 financial years from 2015-16 to 2025-26, with the banking system recording a cumulative 8,22,781 cases, according to data placed before the Lok Sabha on Monday. The data, furnished by the Ministry of Finance in response to a question on the []

50-year-old mauled by bear in Ganderbal

Ganderbal, Aug 3: A 50-year-old woman from Kalaspati Rayil Gund in central Kashmir's Ganderbal district was seriously injured after being attacked by a wild bear in the Burzapati Behak area of central Kashmir's Ganderbal district on Monday. The injured woman has been identified as Rashida Begum, wife of Ghulam Dawood Gakhad, a resident of Kalaspati Rayil Gund. According to officials the attack took place in the upper meadow area of Burzapati Behak, where the woman was reportedly present when the bear suddenly attacked her, leaving her with injuries. Soon after the incident, locals and Gund Police rushed to the spot and shifted the injured woman for medical assistance. She was later referred to SKIMS Soura in Srinagar through a 108 ambulance for specialised treatment. Police confirmed the incident and said that further details regarding the extent of her injuries and the circumstances surrounding the attack will be known after her medical examination and treatment. The incident has once again highlighted the increasing incidents of human-wildlife conflict particularly during the summer months when residents move to high-altitude meadows for grazing livestock and other activities. Authorities have advised people living in or visiting forest and pasture areas to remain vigilant and avoid venturing into isolated locations alone. Police have taken cognisance of the incident, while the woman's condition is being monitored at SKIMS Soura.

ASI Collapses On Duty, Dies

SRINAGAR: An Assistant Sub-Inspector (ASI) of the Jammu and Kashmir Police died after collapsing while on duty in the Mawer area of Handwara in north Kashmirs Kupwara district on Monday. Officials said the ASI suddenly collapsed while performing his duties in Mawer and was immediately shifted to a nearby hospital, where doctors declared him dead []

KU, Rashtriya Raksha University sign MoU to boost research, academic ties

Srinagar, Aug 3: The University of Kashmir (KU) and the Rashtriya Raksha University (RRU), an Institution of National Importance under the Union Ministry of Home Affairs, on Monday signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) to strengthen academic collaboration and promote joint research in areas of mutual interest. The MoU was signed at the office of the Vice Chancellor, University of Kashmir, by RRU Jammu and Kashmir Campus Director Dr Mahesh Tripathi and KU Registrar Prof (Dr) Naseer Iqbal. The signing ceremony was attended by KU Vice Chancellor Prof (Dr) Neelofar Khan, RRU Lifetime Professor Prof (Dr) Mehraj Ud Din Mir, Dean and Head of KU's School of Law Prof (Dr) Shahnaz, Special Secretary to the Vice Chancellor Dr Ashfaq Ahmad Zari, RRU Senior Law Faculty Dr Mudasir Bhat, and KU Senior Law Faculty Dr Mohammad Yaseen Wani. The agreement aims to enhance cooperation through joint research projects, student and faculty exchange programmes, internships, and credit transfer under the Choice Based Credit System (CBCS). The two institutions will also collaborate in teacher training, academic consultation and skill development in national security, behavioural and forensic sciences, law, police administration, criminology and other multidisciplinary fields. Officials said the partnership is expected to strengthen academic engagement between the two universities and create new opportunities for collaborative teaching, research and capacity building.

31 Killed in 35 Cloudbursts Across Jammu Kashmir This Year

Chenab Valley bears the brunt as experts seek stronger early warning systems, hazard mapping and stricter land-use regulations

Two Appointed as Assistant Directors in Jammu Kashmir Economics and Statistics Service

SRINAGAR: The Jammu and Kashmir Government has appointed two candidates as Assistant Directors (Economics and Statistics) in the JK Economics and Statistics (Gazetted) Service under the Planning, Development and Monitoring Department. According to Government Order No. 80-JK(PD and MD) of 2026, the appointments have been made on a temporary basis in Pay Level-8 (Rs 47,6001,51,100) []

Jammu Kashmir Govt Forms High-Level Panel to Fast-Track National Centre of Excellence at Awantipora

Core group headed by Youth Services & Sports Commissioner-Secretary to oversee land transfer, clearances, infrastructure planning and inter-departmental coordination for the project

Cloudbursts Trigger Flash Floods Across Kashmir; Woman Dies in Kupwara, Hundreds Evacuated

SRINAGAR: A series of cloudbursts lashed several parts of Kashmir on Monday, triggering flash floods that claimed the life of a woman in Kupwara district, damaged infrastructure and forced authorities to evacuate hundreds of residents and tourists to safer locations. The deceased, identified as Naseema Begum (52), was swept away by a flash flood after []

Flash Flood Damage Forces Rajouri DC Office To Shift To New Premises

Old Deputy Commissioner's office declared unsafe; public advised to visit new location until further orders

ASI dies after collapsing on duty in Handwara

Kupwara, Aug 03 : An Assistant Sub-Inspector (ASI) of the Jammu and Kashmir Police died after suffering a suspected cardiac arrest while on duty in the Mawer area of Handwara in north Kashmirs Kupwara district on Monday. An official told the news agencyKashmir News Observer (KNO) that the ASI collapsed while performing his duties in Mawer. He said the policeman was shifted to a hospital, where he was declared dead on arrival. The official said the ASI is suspected to have suffered a cardiac arrest that led to his death. His identity is yet to be ascertained, while further investigation has been taken up.(KNO)

J-K: Paper leak allegations surface at GMC Doda; MLA seeks inquiry, college denies claims

Doda , August 3 : A controversy has erupted at Government Medical College (GMC) Doda after Doda MLA Mehraj Malik alleged an examination paper leak and sought an immediate inquiry, while the college administration categorically denied the allegations. In a letter addressed to the Principal of GMC Doda, Malik said he had received information from reliable sources regarding an alleged paper leak that reportedly took place on August 2. The MLA requested the preservation of CCTV footage recorded between 5 pm and 9 pm, covering the area from the main gate to the academic section through the Principal's office lobby, to ensure that no evidence is deleted or tampered with. He also called for a fair and impartial inquiry and urged the college administration to preserve all relevant records, including CCTV footage, examination material, attendance records and other related evidence. A copy of the letter was also forwarded to the Deputy Commissioner, Doda. Responding to the allegations, GMC Doda issued an official circular stating that reports of an examination paper leak being circulated on social media were false, baseless and misleading. The college clarified that no examination paper had been leaked at the institution and appealed to the public not to believe or circulate unverified information. As of now, the allegations remain unverified. While the MLA has sought an investigation into the matter, the college administration has denied any paper leak, and no official inquiry confirming the allegations has been announced. The allegations at GMC Doda come after the broader controversy over NEET paper leaks, which triggered protests at Jantar Mantar in New Delhi and led to the resignation of then Union Education Minister Dharmendra Pradhan. (ANI)

Rajya Sabha Data Shows 12,915 Women-Owned Manufacturing MSMEs Registered in Jammu Kashmir

SRINAGAR: Jammu and Kashmir recorded 12,915 registrations of women-owned manufacturing MSMEs in 2025-26, while the number of such enterprises reported closed on the Udyam Registration Portal rose to 181, according to data tabled in the Rajya Sabha on Monday. The figures, provided by the Ministry of Micro, Small and Medium Enterprises in response to Unstarred []

Lieutenant Governor Attends IUSTs Conference; Calls for Nature-Based Solutions for Building Climate Resilience in the Himalayas

Srinagar, August 03, 2026: The Lieutenant Governor, Shri Manoj Sinha today attended Islamic University of Science & Technology (IUST) conference on Strengthening Climate Resilience and Livelihoods in the Himalayan Region through Nature-based Solutions. He also inaugurated Civil and Mechanical Engineering Block at the main campus, IUSTs Larmoo Campus and the Law School. The Lieutenant Governor [] The post Lieutenant Governor Attends IUSTs Conference; Calls for Nature-Based Solutions for Building Climate Resilience in the Himalayas appeared first on Kashmir Media Watch .

Cloudburst triggers flash floods in Kashmir parts, woman dies

Srinagar , 3 August : A woman died after a cloudburst triggered a flash flood in Himli area of Lolab in north Kashmirs Kupwara district on Monday, police said. The deceased has been identified as Naseema Begum, wife of Mohd Ayub, a resident of Warnow. Police said her body was recovered following a search operation after the cloudburst caused a sudden surge of water in the area. Officials said that damage assessment is underway and further details are awaited. In south Kashmir, another cloudburst struck Batkoot area of Pahalgam in Anantnag district, triggering flash floods and creating panic among locals and tourists. Authorities said teams have been deployed to monitor the situation and assess the impact. The heavy rains also disrupted connectivity. Officials said the AishmuqamPahalgam road has been blocked at Langnai Bridge due to flooding. In addition, the bridge at Langnai Batkoot has suffered damage because of the strong water current. Residents and travelers have been advised to avoid the affected areas until the situation is brought under control. (GNS)

Rain Triggers Slush, Shut Jammu-Srinagar Highway

Srinagar , 03 August : Traffic on the Jammu-Srinagar National Highway (NH-44) was suspended on Monday evening after heavy rainfall triggered slush near Dawal Bridge in Udhampur district, making the road unsafe for vehicles. The highway has been restricted to a single carriageway at the Dawal slide point in the Samroli area due to muddy and slippery conditions. Officials said NHAI teams, machinery, and Traffic Police personnel have been deployed to clear the affected stretch and restore movement. Commuters have been advised to avoid travelling on NH-44 until the road is declared safe and to rely only on official traffic updates.

MP: Congress retains Datia assembly seat; Ghanshyam Singh defeats BJPs Tiwari by 6,000 votes

DATIA: The Congress on Monday retained the Datia assembly seat in Madhya Pradesh, with the party candidate Ghanshyam Singh defeating his nearest rival Ashutosh Tiwari of the BJP by 6,016 votes in the byelection marked by differences in the saffron camp over the choice of candidate. At the end of all 15 rounds of counting, []

Sakina Itoo Hails Owais Yaqoob's BRAVE CF Triumph, Auqib Nabi's India Test Selection

Srinagar, Aug. 3: Cabinet minister for Education, Health & Medical Education and Social Welfare in the union territory of Jammu and Kashmir Sakina Itoo has congratulated mixed martial artist Owais Yaqoob and cricketer Auqib Nabi for their outstanding achievements on the international and national sporting stage. In a post on X, the minister hailed Owais Yaqoob for his spectacular victory at BRAVE CF 107 in Bulgaria, where he defeated an unbeaten two-time IMMAF World Champion in an impressive display of skill, determination, and resilience. She also extended her congratulations to Auqib Nabi on his well-deserved selection to the Indian Test squad, describing it as a proud moment for Jammu and Kashmir. Both of you have brought immense pride to Jammu & Kashmir and inspired a new generation of young athletes. Wishing you continued success and many more laurels for the nation, Itoo said in her message. The minister's congratulatory message has been widely appreciated, with both athletes being recognised for raising the profile of Jammu and Kashmir through their achievements in their respective sports.

MP: Congress retains Datia assembly seat; Ghanshyam Singh defeats BJP&K gets statehood: CMs Advisor

Baramulla: National Conference (NC) will continue its campaign for the restoration of Jammu and Kashmirs statehood until the demand is fulfilled, said Chief Ministers Advisor Nasir Aslam Wani on Monday. Speaking to reporters in Baramulla, Wani, said the recent protest at Jantar Mantar in New Delhi was the first step toward reminding the Centre of []

Lieutenant Governor calls for nature-based solutions for building climate resilience in Himalayas

Srinagar, Aug 03: The Lieutenant Governor Manoj Sinha today attended Islamic University of Science & Technology (IUST) conference on Strengthening Climate Resilience and Livelihoods in the Himalayan Region through Nature-based Solutions. He also inaugurated Civil and Mechanical Engineering Block at the main campus, IUSTs Larmoo Campus and the Law School. The Lieutenant Governor congratulated the IUST for their initiatives and lauded the University's policy brief on the Drug-Free Jammu Kashmir campaign. The Lieutenant Governor highlighted the alarming pace of climate change in the Himalayan region. He noted that between January and August last year, the Himalayas witnessed a natural disaster almost every day. In Jammu Kashmir alone, flash floods and cloudbursts have damaged public infrastructure, disrupting roads, water supply schemes, and power feeders. The Lieutenant Governor observed that there is no dichotomy between development and conservation and the nature itself is infrastructure. For example, constructing a watershed is also an effective flood-control system. It is infrastructure that also serves as a water purification system and forms the basis of an irrigation system. Similarly, a wetland is natures vast reservoir because it absorbs excess water during the monsoon and then slowly gives life to surrounding areas during the dry months. A dense forested mountain slope is in fact like a strong wall that protects the entire mountain from collapsing onto the villages below. Therefore, I believe that when we destroy these natural systems, we are playing with the future. But when we conserve and restore these natural systems, we are investing in a bright future, the Lieutenant Governor said. The Lieutenant Governor urged the scientists and domain experts to bring Nature-based Solutions out of the margins of development planning and place them at its centre. He also placed six major recommendations before policymakers, scientists, and engineers. Use modern technologies like remote sensing, geospatial mapping, and AI to track glacier retreat, spring flow, soil health, and forest cover. This data should inform every development project in the region. Nature-based Solutions must be embedded into project budgeting, appraisal, and monitoring. Farmers, shepherds, orchard owners, and tribal communities must be equal stakeholders. Their generational knowledge of rivers, mountains, and forests is invaluable. Annual budget reviews should include whether forests and ecosystems have grown richer or weaker, ensuring accountability for environmental wealth. Establish platforms for long-term cooperation among scientists, policymakers, and communities. Move beyond concrete embankments to restore floodplains and wetlands, combining built structures with natural systems, the Lieutenant Governor said. The Lieutenant Governor urged universities to elevate Nature-based Solutions into a multidisciplinary subject, spanning ecology, hydrology, engineering, economics, disaster management, and traditional knowledge. He stressed that future professionals must understand the interconnectedness of ecosystems, economies, technologies, and societies. Recalling the Green Jammu Kashmir Drive launched in 2020, which raised forest cover to nearly 55 percent, the Lieutenant Governor reiterated the importance of sustainable living. He envisioned a Himalaya where watersheds are healthier, wetlands thrive, and rivers flow naturally, sustaining biodiversity and culture. By placing nature at the centre of development, integrating modern technology with traditional wisdom, and involving communities as equal partners, the Himalayan region can build resilience against climate change. We must remember that Himalayas are not merely a geographical entity but a living heritage that demands foresight, patience, and responsibility, the Lieutenant Governor said. On the occasion, the Lieutenant Governor released the special edition of IUST's monthly magazine 'Times Echo' on 100-Day Anti-Drug campaign and Policy Brief on Nasha Mukt Jammu Kashmir Abhiyan, prepared by various experts of J&K. Certificates were also handed over to the PMKVY trainees. Justice Sanjeev Kumar, Chief Justice (Acting), High Court of Jammu Kashmir and Ladakh; Prof. Shakil A. Romshoo, Vice Chancellor, IUST; Prof. Shamim Ahmad Shah, Registrar, IUST; Prof. Javed Hussain Mir, Convener of the Conference; eminent scientists, experts, senior officials, faculty and students attended the conference.

Flash Floods Hit Shopian Villages, Homes Inundated; SDRF Deploys Rescue Teams

SRINAGAR: Intense rainfall triggered flash floods in Shopian district on Monday, inundating several houses in Badrhama village and causing panic among residents. Quoting officials news agency GNS reported that the sudden downpour led to an overflow of water into residential areas, damaging property. Fortunately, no loss of life or injuries have been reported so far. []

Power Losses Remain A Major Challenge For Jammu Kashmir As Distribution Losses Stay High: Centre

Govt says reforms under RDSS aimed at reducing losses and improving reliability of electricity supply

Textile Sector Employs Over 2.3 Lakh People In Jammu Kashmir, Exports Cross Rs 850 Crore In 2025-26

SRINAGAR: The textile and apparel sector in Jammu and Kashmir has provided employment to over 2.3 lakh people, while exports from the Union Territory crossed Rs 850 crore in the financial year 2025-26, the Ministry of Textiles informed the Rajya Sabha. In a written reply to an unstarred question by MP Gulam Ali, Minister of []

Over 1,000 pilgrims leave Jammu for Amarnath cave shrine in Kashmir

JAMMU: The 26th batch of over 1,000 devotees left Jammu base camp on Monday for the annual Amarnath Yatra in Kashmir amid multi-tier security arrangements, officials said. Over 4.50 lakh pilgrims have visited the 3,880 metre high holy cave shrine of Amarnath in Kashmir Himalayas since the commencement of the yatra on July 3. The []

Centre Reports Rs 193.49 Crore Financial Fraud in Jammu Kashmir in 202526

SRINAGAR: Jammu and Kashmir recorded 103 financial fraud cases involving Rs 193.49 crore in 2025-26, with banks reporting recovery of Rs 6.92 crore, according to data placed before the Lok Sabha on Monday. The figures, provided by the Reserve Bank of India (RBI) in response to Unstarred Question No. 2460, show that the number of []

Jammu Kashmir Records 5,908 Small Companies, 585 LLPs in Five Years: Centre

SRINAGAR: Jammu and Kashmir recorded the registration of 5,908 small companies and 585 Limited Liability Partnerships (LLPs) over the last five financial years, while 1,231 startups were registered in the Union Territory between 2021 and 2025, according to data placed before the Lok Sabha on Monday. The figures were provided by Minister of State for []

Rainfall, Thunderstorms Set to Lash Parts of Jammu Kashmir

SRINAGAR: Rain and thundershowers are likely to affect many parts of Jammu and Kashmir over the next 12 hours, with the Jammu region expected to witness the maximum impact, according to an update issued by weather forecaster Kashmir Weather. The weather update said considerable cloud development has taken place near the Jammu plains, with the []

Digital Divide Persists in Jammu Kashmir Schools as Only 3,066 Have Smart Classrooms, Data Shows

SRINAGAR: Only 3,066 of the 24,228 operational schools in Jammu and Kashmir had smart classrooms in 2025-26, while 6,203 had computer facilities and 8,550 had internet connectivity, according to data presented by the Union Ministry of Education in the Lok Sabha on Monday. The figures, based on UDISE+ data, highlight the continuing digital infrastructure gap []

Jammu Kashmir Gets Rs 60,240 Crore PMMY Credit Through 26.57 Lakh Loans: Centre

SRINAGAR: As many as 26.57 lakh loans amounting to Rs 60,240.14 crore have been sanctioned under the Pradhan Mantri MUDRA Yojana (PMMY) in Jammu and Kashmir since the scheme was launched in April 2015, according to data presented by the Union Ministry of Finance in the Lok Sabha on Monday. Of the total loan accounts []

21 Suspected Bangladeshi Nationals Held In Ramban While Travelling Towards Kashmir

SRINAGAR: Police in Jammu and Kashmirs Ramban district have detained 21 people suspected to be Bangladeshi nationals, including women and children, after they were intercepted while travelling towards the Kashmir Valley, officials said on Monday. The group was stopped at a checkpoint during a routine inspection on Sunday while travelling in two vehicles from Jammu. []

Cabinet memo ready for compassionate jobs to relatives of deceased Anganwadi staff: Sakina Itoo

Baramulla: Minister Sakina Itoo on Monday said the government has prepared a cabinet memorandum to provide compassionate appointments to the relatives of Anganwadi workers and helpers who die while in service. Addressing an awareness programme in Baramulla, Itoo, said the proposal seeks to ensure that a family member of a deceased Anganwadi worker or helper []

Bill to increase Supreme Court judges passed by LS without debate; House adjourned for day

NEW DELHI: The Lok Sabha on Monday passed a bill to replace an ordinance which increased the number of Supreme Court judges from 34 to 38, including Chief Justice of India, without a debate as opposition members raised slogans against the NEET paper leaks and alleged theft of Ram temple donations. A statutory resolution moved []

CM Omar congratulates J&Ks MMA star Owais Yaqoob on historic BRAVE CF 107 victory

SRINAGAR, AUGUST 03: Chief Minister Omar Abdullah today congratulated Jammu & Kashmirs talented Mixed Martial Arts (MMA) fighter Owais Yaqoob on his remarkable victory at BRAVE CF 107 in Bulgaria, where he defeated an unbeaten two-time IMMAF World Champion in a stunning display of skill, determination and grit. Describing the achievement as a proud moment for Jammu & Kashmir and the nation, the Chief Minister lauded Owais Yaqoob for bringing international recognition to the region through his outstanding performance on the global stage. Heartiest congratulations to Owais Yaqoob on this remarkable achievement. Defeating an unbeaten two-time IMMAF World Champion at BRAVE CF 107 is an extraordinary feat and a testament to his hard work, dedication and exceptional talent, the Chief Minister said. He said Owaiss success would inspire countless young sportspersons across Jammu & Kashmir to pursue excellence and believe in their potential. The Chief Minister wished the young fighter continued success in his career and expressed confidence that he would bring many more laurels to Jammu & Kashmir and the country in the years to come.

Short: Saving Srinagar's Twin Urban Lakes: How Mission Ehsaas & NLCO United a Community to Restore Gilsar & Khushalsar

Short: Jannats Mission Dal Lake: How a FatherDaughter Duo is Saving Kashmirs Water Commons

Delhi HC seeks NIA stand on appeals by Aasiya Andrabi, 2 others against conviction in UAPA case

New Delhi, Aug 3: The Delhi High Court on Monday sought the stand of the NIA on appeals by hardline separatist Aasiya Andrabi and her two associates challenging their conviction for conspiring to wage war against India and being members of a terrorist organisation under stringent anti-terror law UAPA. Andrabi (62), the founder of the all-women separatist group Dukhtaran-e-Millat (DeM) in 1987, and her close aides -- Nahida Nasreen (58), and Sofi Fehmeeda (48)-- were convicted by the special NIA court on January 14, which said the trio had orchestrated a systematic campaign to destabilise J-K. On March 24, the trial court awarded life imprisonment to Andrabi, while Fehmeeda and Nasreen received a 30-year prison sentence. On Monday, a bench of Justices Prathiba M Singh and Vikas Mahajan condoned the delay in filing the appeals against the trial court decision and said it would issue notice to the investigating agency in the matter. The bench also gave time till September 15 to the National Investigation Agency (NIA) to reply to their pleas seeking suspension of sentence and listed the matter for hearing on October 6. Andrabi and her two associates were formally charged with multiple offences under the stringent UAPA and the IPC in February 2021. It was alleged that they plotted to wage war against the country, besides conspiring to carry out terror-related activities. The trial court found them guilty of offences under UAPA sections 18 (punishment for conspiracy) and 38 (offence relating to membership of a terrorist organisation). It also convicted the three under IPC sections 153 A (promoting enmity between different groups), 153B (imputations, assertions prejudicial to national-integration), 121-A (conspiracy to wage war against Government of India), 120B (criminal conspiracy) and 505 (statements conducing to public mischief). While sentencing the convicts, the trial judge said o remorse has been shown by any of the convicts in respect of their acts; rather it is submitted that they are proud of what they were doing and also that they will continue to do the same work. Showing any leniency will amount to infusing a fresh lease of life and vigour in the spirit of convicts which aims at secession of an integral part of India, the trial judge had stated. In April 2018, on directions of the Union Home Ministry, the NIA registered a case against them as well as the DeM. According to the FIR, the central government has received information that Aasiya Andrabi and her associates namely Sofi Fehmeeda and Nahida Nasreen are actively running a terrorist organisation named as 'Dukhtaran-E-Millat' (DeM) which is proscribed under the First Schedule to the UAPA. They are using various media platforms to spread insurrectionary imputations and hateful speeches that endanger the integrity, security and sovereignty of India. The DEM through Andrabi openly advocates secession of Jammu and Kashmir from the Union of India and has also called for Jihad and use of violence against India, the FIR alleged. The agency also said that Andrabi and her associates had spoken, written and also published visible representations that bring into hatred and contempt apart from exciting disaffection towards the Government of India. The organisation, it added, is promoting enmity, hatred and ill-will between different communities on the grounds of religion and is doing acts prejudicial to maintenance of harmony. Andrabi has solicited help from proscribed terrorist organisations and along with her associates, has entered into a criminal conspiracy to wage war against the Government of India, the FIR alleged. Andrabi was arrested by the Jammu and Kashmir police in Anantnag in April 2018 for allegedly planning to organise a large-scale demonstration and stone-pelting in the area. She was subsequently sent to jail.

Bankipur bypoll results: Prashant Kishor widens lead to 6,011 votes over BJP candidate

PATNA: Jan Suraaj Party candidate Prashant Kishor on Monday widened his lead over BJPs Neeraj Kumar Sinha to 6,011 votes in the Bankipur assembly by-election as the counting progressed in Bihar, officials said. A celebratory mood was witnessed among Jan Suraaj Party supporters at its headquarters here. While political strategist-turned-politician Kishor bagged 20,059 votes, Sinha []

Rain, Thunderstorms to Lash J&K; Heavy Showers Likely in Several Districts

Srinagar, Aug. 3: The Meteorological Centre Srinagar has forecast light to moderate rainfall accompanied by thunderstorms across many parts of Jammu and Kashmir over the coming days, while warning of heavy rain, flash floods and landslides at vulnerable locations. According to the forecast, August 3 and 4 are likely to witness spells of light to moderate rain and thundershowers at many places, particularly during the afternoon, evening and early morning hours. Heavy rain, brief intense showers and torrential rainfall are also expected over a few districts. From August 5 to 7, light to moderate rain and thundershowers are likely at many places, with brief intense heavy showers expected at isolated locations. The weather is expected to improve slightly between August 8 and 10, with the possibility of light rain and thundershowers at scattered places, although brief intense showers may still occur at a few locations. In its advisory, the MeT Centre warned of the possibility of heavy rain and brief intense showers over a few districts of the Jammu division on August 3 and 4. The weather office also cautioned that torrential rain and intense showers could trigger flash floods and landslides in vulnerable areas over the next five days, advising people to remain alert and follow official weather updates.

Youth found dead in Sopore, investigation begins

Sopore: A youth was found dead under mysterious circumstances at his residence in the Dangerpora area of Sopore in north Kashmirs Baramulla district on Monday, officials said. An official said that the youth was found unconscious at his residence in Pal Mohalla, Dangerpora. He said a police team immediately reached the spot, took the body []

Trump says US-Iran talks to begin Monday after shelving planned strike

Washington, August 3 : US President Donald Trump stated that negotiations with Iran, expected to take place through intermediaries, are scheduled to commence on Monday. Speaking to reporters on board Air Force One, Trump confirmed that discussion channels were active. We are talking to them [the Iranians] in the form of a negotiation; it begins tomorrow afternoon, and we'll see how it goes. I'd love to do that. It'll save a lot of lives, a lot of unnecessary power, to be honest with you. We are ready to go whenever we want. Would I rather make a deal? I'm not looking to kill people, because a lot of people die; we don't want that. So they asked us, Iran specifically, but the other three, they asked us, Trump said. The US President revealed that diplomatic engagements involving Saudi Arabia, the United Arab Emirates, Qatar and Iran led him to halt what was originally planned as a massive attack on Friday. Trump further indicated that an agreement could be reached regarding the management of the Strait of Hormuz, while asserting that an accord would be established concerning the denuclearisation of Iran. The sudden turn towards diplomacy comes as mediators race to reactivate a dynamic framework between Washington and Tehran. According to Israeli media reports on Sunday, regional intermediaries are attempting to revive a memorandum of understanding signed last month to ensure the strategic waterway remains open, fee-free, for 60 days. Iranian state media similarly indicated that discussions between Iran and Oman concerning a joint operational mechanism to govern the maritime corridor were in their final stages. The initial framework had previously collapsed due to conflicting interpretations, with Trump asserting the passage would remain open permanently, while Tehran maintained the agreement preserved its sovereign control over the trade route. Behind-the-scenes diplomatic pressure over the weekend played a pivotal role in averting immediate conflict. Qatari officials engaged in intensive talks with Iran, the US and Oman, ultimately informing Trump on Saturday that Tehran had accepted a proposal regarding the strait. Concurrently, Saudi Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman held a telephone call with Trump to urge against military action. Following these exchanges, Trump announced on Truth Social that he was halting the planned strikes, citing progress on the shipping route and nuclear discussions. Although no military strikes were recorded overnight into Sunday, Iranian military leaders rejected Trump's characterisation as a lie, while a source tied to Tehran's delegation told the semi-official Fars News Agency that no formal accord on the strait had yet been reached. Meanwhile, opinions among Gulf allies remain sharply divided over how Washington should handle Tehran. The Wall Street Journal reported on Sunday that while Saudi Arabia counselled restraint, the United Arab Emirates lobbied Washington for more assertive military action, arguing that the Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps would not alter its course without direct US force. (ANI)

Bankipur bypoll results: Prashant Kishor leads by 862 votes over BJP rival in early trends

PATNA: (Jan Suraaj Party candidate Prashant Kishor was leading by a margin of 862 votes over BJPs Neeraj Kumar Sinha in the early trends of Bankipur by-election results, officials said on Monday. While political strategist-turned-politician Kishor bagged 2,225 votes, Sinha got 1,363 votes and RJDs Rekha Gupta stood third with 505 votes after the first []

J&K's Aquib Nabi Replaces Bumrah in India Test Squad

Srinagar, Aug 3: Jammu and Kashmir fast bowler Aquib Nabi has earned his maiden call up to the Indian Test team after being named as the replacement for injured pace spearhead Jasprit Bumrah for the upcoming two match World Test Championship 2027 series against Sri Lanka. Bumrah has been ruled out after failing to recover fully from a knee injury. The uncapped pacer has been rewarded for his impressive performances in domestic cricket, where he consistently emerged as one of the leading wicket takers. His selection marks a big milestone for J&K cricket, with Nabi becoming one of the few cricketers from the region to receive a Test call up. India will begin the Sri Lanka Test series on August 15, with Aquib now in line to make his international debut if included in the playing eleven.

Auqib Nabi Set to Join Indias Test Squad for Sri Lanka Series

SRINAGAR: Jammu and Kashmir fast bowler Auqib Nabi is set to receive his maiden senior India call-up after being approved as Jasprit Bumrahs replacement for the upcoming two-Test series against Sri Lanka, becoming only the third cricketer from the Union Territory to earn a place in the national mens team. The right-arm pacer is expected []

Digital News outlets restricted in Pakistan following coverage of PoJK tensions: Reports

Islamabad , August 3 : Digital censorship measures have been escalated in Pakistan, with access reportedly being restricted to various news websites across Pakistan following widespread media reports and critical coverage of the ongoing unrest in Pakistan-occupied Jammu and Kashmir (PoJK). In tandem with the blocking of local and regional digital news domains, incoming reports indicate that international broadcasters, including Al Jazeera English, have also become inaccessible to users within parts of the country. The restrictions target platforms reporting on the recent wave of protests, alleged security crackdowns, and mounting public grievances in the region. However, there has been no official confirmation from Pakistan regarding the restrictions. The moves come amid heightened sensitivity over information flows regarding the political climate and local resistance movements in PoJK. Earlier, Al Jazeera reported that the judicial magistrate court in Islamabad said it was seeking the ban after the National Cyber Crime Investigation Agency criticised various YouTube channels in a June 2 report for sharing highly intimidating, provocative and derogatory contents against state institutions and officials of the state of Pakistan. The channels at risk of being blocked in Pakistan include those belonging to the main opposition party, its leader and jailed former Prime Minister Imran Khan, as well as several journalists critical of the government, according to a court order dated June 24. Notably, earlier in July, Al Jazeera reported that an Islamabad judicial magistrate court sought to block several YouTube channels following a June 2 report by the National Cyber Crime Investigation Agency. The agency criticised these platforms for allegedly sharing highly intimidating, provocative, and derogatory content targeting state institutions and officials. As detailed in a June 24 court order cited by Al Jazeera, the channels facing potential bans include those associated with the primary opposition party, its leadership, and jailed former Prime Minister Imran Khan, alongside multiple journalists known for their government criticism. Al Jazeera noted that digital rights campaigners have warned that these bans would further suppress freedom of expression in Pakistan. With traditional television and print media heavily stifled by authorities, social media remains one of the few remaining avenues for public dissent. Additionally, YouTube notified 27 content creators that their channels risk being removed if they fail to comply with the court directives, Al Jazeera reported. Meanwhile, the Joint Awami Action Committee has released urgent details regarding ongoing violence in Muzaffarabad, Pakistan-occupied Jammu and Kashmir, releasing footage that purportedly shows security forces dragging and assaulting an unarmed civilian in the street. According to the committee, an individual in civilian clothing is standing alongside security forces and is discharging a firearm toward protesters. The appeal comes against a backdrop of mounting casualties during the ongoing protest movement. According to data updated by the Human Rights Council of Pakistan-occupied Jammu & Kashmir (HRC-PoJK) as of Sunday, a total of 80 fatalities have been documented, comprising 33 civilian deaths prior to July 27, 43 from July 27 onwards across Rawalakot, Mirpur, and Muzaffarabad, and 4 Pakistan-occupied Jammu & Kashmir police personnel. In response to these events, the Joint Awami Action Committee is calling on the United Nations, the Office of the UN High Commissioner for Human Rights (OHCHR), Amnesty International, Human Rights Watch, international media outlets, and diplomatic missions to examine the footage, independently verify the facts, and press for an immediate, independent, and impartial investigation. Furthermore, the committee has urged the International Committee of the Red Cross (ICRC) to closely monitor the deteriorating humanitarian situation and ensure that injured individuals and affected civilians receive necessary protection and assistance in line with its mandate. The fresh developments come a day after the second phase of elections in Pakistan-occupied Jammu Kashmir (PoJK) witnessed widespread disruptions, logistical failures and continuing protests on Sunday, casting a shadow over the electoral process and raising fresh questions over its credibility. Polling was scheduled across 21 constituencies, including nine constituencies in the Muzaffarabad Division of PoJK and 12 refugee constituencies located in different parts of Pakistan. The voting process was disrupted in several constituencies due to road blockades and protests. (ANI)

Moderate Earthquake Strikes Egypt, Emergency Response Activated

SRINAGAR: A 5.3-magnitude earthquake struck Egypts northeastern Ismailia province early on Monday, prompting authorities to activate emergency measures, although there were no immediate reports of casualties or damage. According to Trkiyes Disaster and Emergency Management Authority (AFAD), the earthquake occurred at 3 a.m. local time (0000 GMT) at a depth of 5.47 kilometres. The tremor []

Counting underway for Datia assembly bypoll in MP; tight security in place

DATIA (MP): Counting of votes for the bypoll to the Datia assembly constituency in Madhya Pradesh commenced on Monday, officials said. The bypoll was necessitated after a Delhi court in April this year sentenced Congress MLA Rajendra Bharti to three years imprisonment in a cheating case, leading to the termination of his assembly membership. The []

Jammu Kashmir Govt Reconstitutes Internal Complaints Committee at Economics and Statistics Directorate

SRINAGAR: The Directorate of Economics and Statistics (DES), Jammu and Kashmir, has reconstituted its Internal Complaints Committee (ICC) for the prevention, prohibition and redressal of sexual harassment of women at the workplace under the provisions of the Sexual Harassment of Women at Workplace (Prevention, Prohibition and Redressal) Act, 2013. According to Order No. 96-DES of []

MEI School Pampore organises Grand Alumni Meet 2026

Over 100 former students reunite to celebrate legacy WAMIQ HAYAT PAMPORE: Muslim Education Institute (MEI), Pampore, organised a grand Alumni Meet 2026 (Phase-I) at its campus in Saffron Town, Pampore, on Sunday, bringing together former students from different batches to reconnect and celebrate their lifelong association with the institution. The event witnessed the participation of []

Traders Association Lal Chowk inducts Mohammad Hussain Matto as Executive Member

Charts future plans for business community SRINAGAR: A meeting of the Traders Association Lal Chowk was held at the Association Office, 2nd Floor, Royal Sweets, Amira Kadal, under the presidentship of Mr. Mohammad Iqbal Khan, which unanimously approved the induction of Mr. Mohammad Hussain Matto, Proprietor of M/s Royal Choice, Amira Kadal, as an Executive []

GCOE Sgrorganises Nasha Mukt Yuva for Viksit Bharat Sankalp Abhiyan 2026 awareness campaign

SRINAGAR: The Nasha Mukti Bharat Abhiyan (NMBA) Cell of the Government College of Education (GCoE), IASE, Srinagar, successfully organised a comprehensive institutional campaign under the theme Nasha Mukt Yuva for Viksit Bharat Sankalp Abhiyan 2026 on Sunday. Conducted under the leadership of the Principal, Prof. (Dr.) Seema Naz, the campaign focused on addressing the growing []