Jammu & kashmir

US Launches Fresh Military Strike Against Iran

SRINAGAR: The United States has reportedly carried out a covert military strike on Irans Qeshm Island, marking the latest in a series of limited attacks against Tehran in recent weeks, the Wall Street Journal reported, citing US officials. The reported operation took place on Monday, even as US President Donald Trump indicated that a diplomatic []

Gbal Police inaugurate football tournament at Sehpora

Ganderbal, Nov 2: In a bid to promote sports culture, encourage youth participation and channelise their energy towards constructive activities, Ganderbal Police inaugurated a football tournament under the Civic Action Programme (CAP) at the Indoor Stadium, Sehpora. The inaugural ceremony was chaired by Senior Superintendent of Police (SSP) Ganderbal, accompanied by Deputy SP Headquarters Ganderbal. As many as 16 teams from different parts of the district are participating in the tournament, providing young and aspiring footballers an opportunity to showcase their sporting talent, skills and competitive spirit. The tournament kicked off with an exciting opening encounter between FC Max and FC Gulistan. In an entertaining contest, FC Max registered a 21 victory over FC Gulistan, marking a winning start to the competition. The initiative is aimed at providing local youth with a healthy platform to demonstrate their abilities while promoting discipline, teamwork, mutual understanding and sportsmanship. Through such youth-centric initiatives, Ganderbal Police is also seeking to strengthen police-public relations and encourage young people to remain engaged in positive and productive activities.

&K Deaf Cricket Team wins National T20 Cricket Cship

Srinagar, Nov 2: Jammu & Kashmir Deaf Cricket Team emerged champions of the IDCA 10th T20 National Cricket Championship for Deaf 2026, bringing pride to the region with an impressive performance in the national-level tournament held in Surat, Gujarat. The championship was organised by Indian Deaf Cricket Association (IDCA) in association with the Gujarat Deaf Cricket Association (GDCA) and Deaf Cricket Association Surat (DCAS). It was held from October 26 to November 1 at Bawaji Cricket Ground, Bhatpore, with teams from 14 states and regions participating. Jammu & Kashmir's Shariq Majeed added to the team's achievement by receiving the Player of the Match award in the final for his outstanding performance. The closing ceremony was attended by Santosh Kumar Rai, Special Secretary, Home Department, Government of Delhi, as the chief guest. He congratulated Jammu & Kashmir on winning the championship and appreciated the efforts of players, coaches, officials and organisers. IDCA President Sumit Jain congratulated the J&K team and said the successful championship marked another milestone in strengthening deaf cricket in India. The tournament provided a national platform for deaf cricketers to showcase their talent, discipline and sporting abilities. The participation of 14 teams reflected the growing reach of deaf cricket across the country. The closing ceremony also featured a special felicitation for Parth Gajjar in recognition of his contribution and service to Indian Deaf Cricket. Jammu & Kashmir's championship victory stands as a proud moment for the region and highlights the determination, hard work and sporting excellence of its deaf cricketers.

DDC Kupwara reviews NABARD, PMGSY Projects

Kupwara, Nov 2: District Development Commissioner (DDC) Kupwara, Abhishek Sharma, on Monday chaired a meeting of concerned officers to review the physical and financial progress of developmental projects being executed under the National Bank for Agriculture and Rural Development (NABARD) and the Pradhan Mantri Gram Sadak Yojana (PMGSY) across the district. Emphasising the importance of robust road infrastructure, particularly last-mile connectivity, the DDC observed that reliable connectivity is fundamental to grassroots development. He directed executing agencies and line departments to work in close coordination, address procedural bottlenecks and ensure timely completion of all ongoing projects. The Superintending Engineer, R&B Circle Kupwara, presented a detailed overview of NABARD-funded works under RIDF 27, RIDF 29, RIDF 30 and RIDF 31. Key projects, including Galizoo Stadium and Bohipora Bridge, were reviewed, with directions to expedite their execution. Taking note of procedural delays, the DDC directed the Forest Department to ensure timely compliance with online clearance requirements on the PARIVESH portal. He stressed that Essential Details Sought (EDS) should be raised in a single instance rather than through piecemeal queries to avoid unnecessary delays. Executive Engineers were also directed to actively pursue pending cases. The Forest Department was further asked to expedite clearances under the Forest Rights Act (FRA), while the Assistant Commissioner Revenue (ACR) was directed to resolve pending land-related issues and facilitate the requisite land possession for project execution. Reviewing road connectivity under the Vibrant Villages Programme (VVP) and PMGSY, the DDC highlighted the importance of improved connectivity for remote and border habitations, particularly Keran, Machil and Amroohi. He observed that bridging the infrastructure gap in these areas remains a priority for the administration, ensuring that residents of far-flung border villages have access to essential public utilities and improved connectivity. He further instructed all Executive Engineers to personally undertake project-wise site inspections, assess the quality of works and submit action-taken reports. Setting a firm timeline, he directed that all pending inter-departmental issues and execution-related bottlenecks be resolved within 14 days. The meeting was attended by Superintending Engineers of R&B and PMGSY, Chief Planning Officer (CPO) Kupwara, DFO Langate, representatives of DFO Kehmil and Kamraj, besides concerned Executive Engineers and other district officers.

DC Pulwama reviews Mission YUVA implementation

Pulwama, Nov 02: Deputy Commissioner (DC) Pulwama, Kuldeep Krishan Sidha, on Monday chaired a meeting of District Level Implementation Committee (DLIC) under Mission YUVA at the Administrative Complex, Pulwama, to review the implementation of the scheme and discuss cases submitted for approval. At the outset, Assistant Director Employment, Pulwama, presented a detailed presentation highlighting the progress achieved under Mission YUVA, including the status of applications received, verified and approved, loans sanctioned and disbursed, bank-wise pendency and sector-wise distribution of proposed enterprises. The presentation also highlighted the status of applications under different Business Help Desks (BHDs), SHG cases and applications pending approval at various levels. The chair was apprised that 4,741 applications had been approved by DLIC in the district till date, while 2,826 loans had been disbursed by banks. Of the approved cases, 1,839 pertained to the services sector, 1,517 to trading, 921 to manufacturing and 464 to the agri-allied sector. The committee also reviewed 515 applications pending approval at the DLIC level. During the meeting, the DC sought component-wise details of the scheme and reviewed the progress and pendency at different stages of implementation. He stressed the need for establishing a clear timeline covering the entire process, from submission and verification of applications to approval, loan sanction, disbursement and subsequent establishment and operationalisation of enterprises. He directed that meetings of the DLIC be convened every 15 days to ensure regular review and timely disposal of cases. He further directed the banks to furnish Action Taken Reports (ATRs) within 15 days after each DLIC, detailing the status of pending cases and action taken towards their disposal. Emphasising inclusivity in the implementation of Mission YUVA, the DC stressed the need to ensure adequate participation of women, members of the transgender community and specially abled persons. He called for focused outreach and facilitation measures to ensure that eligible beneficiaries from these sections are made aware of the scheme and receive appropriate support in accessing its benefits. The DC stated that the focus of Mission YUVA should extend beyond the creation of enterprises to the generation of sustainable and perennial livelihood opportunities. He stressed the need to identify and promote viable enterprises in sectors having strong local potential, particularly saffron, dairy and other activities, so that the district's existing economic strengths are translated into sustainable employment opportunities. Highlighting the potential of the dairy sector, he called for exploring the establishment of milk collection points and strengthening the supporting infrastructure to facilitate better market access for dairy farmers and encourage the growth of dairy-based enterprises. The DC also emphasised the need for undertaking a comprehensive SWOT analysis and systematic skill mapping to identify local strengths, market opportunities and skill gaps. He called for aligning skill development and training programmes with the requirements of identified sectors, followed by adequate financial assistance, continuous handholding and institutional support to beneficiaries at every stage of enterprise development. He further stressed the identification of sectors with substantial local demand and market potential to encourage need-based enterprises, reduce market saturation and strengthen existing local businesses. He called for adopting a focused approach towards promoting enterprises that can cater to local requirements while generating sustainable employment. Calling for greater convergence among government initiatives, the DC stressed coordinated implementation of Mission YUVA with other self-employment and livelihood schemes, including HADP, PMEGP and other relevant programmes, to ensure optimum utilisation of resources and extend comprehensive support to aspiring entrepreneurs. He also called for revitalising traditional arts, crafts and handicrafts through targeted interventions, encouraging youth and artisans to take up such activities as viable economic ventures. He stressed the need to provide appropriate support in terms of skill upgradation, product development, marketing and market linkages to enhance the economic viability of traditional crafts. The DC further emphasised the timely dissemination of success stories and achievements under Mission YUVA through print, electronic and social media platforms to create greater awareness, encourage prospective entrepreneurs and inspire more youth to avail the benefits of the scheme. Among others, the meeting was attended by Chief Planning Officer, Pulwama, Aashiq Hussain Khanday; General Manager, District Industries Centre (DIC), Pulwama; District Social Welfare Officer, Pulwama; Assistant Director Employment, Pulwama; District Nodal Officer, JKEDI; and Lead Bank Manager, Pulwama.

IUST conducts AIDS awareness outreach programme at Chandhara

Awantipora, Nov 2: As part of a series of outreach initiatives aimed at promoting health awareness, preventive healthcare, and social responsibility among young people, Syed Mantaqui Memorial College of Nursing and Medical Technology (SMMCON & MT), in collaboration with the office of Dean Outreach, Islamic University of Science and Technology (IUST), organised an AIDS Awareness Programme at Government High School Chandhara under the Red Ribbon Club. The programme was conducted in collaboration with the Jammu and Kashmir AIDS Control Society (JKACS), Department of Health and Medical Education, Government of Jammu and Kashmir, and the J&K Paramedical and Nursing Council. The programme aimed to sensitize students about HIV/AIDS, including its modes of transmission, prevention, early detection, and treatment, while addressing common misconceptions and emphasizing the need to eliminate stigma and discrimination against people living with HIV/AIDS. A key highlight was an educational skit presented by B.Sc. Nursing students, demonstrating preventive measures, the importance of timely testing and counselling, and the need for empathy and support. An interactive question-and-answer session provided students an opportunity to clarify their doubts and discuss common misconceptions. IEC material, including awareness pamphlets, was also distributed to reinforce learning and encourage the dissemination of accurate information within the community. The students took a pledge to promote AIDS awareness and contribute towards building a healthy and inclusive society. The school authorities and local community leaders appreciated the efforts of SMMCON & MT and Dean Outreach, IUST, and emphasized the importance of conducting regular health awareness programmes for young people. The programme was coordinated by Mubashir Bashir, In-charge, SMMCON & MT, along with other faculty members of the college.

KMCH Sempora inaugurates state-of-the-art dialysis unit

Srinagar, Nov 02: Kashmir Medical College and Hospital (KMCH), Sempora, Srinagar, on Monday inaugurated a state-of-the-art Dialysis Unit, marking a significant step towards strengthening specialised healthcare services and improving patient care. The facility is expected to provide relief to patients requiring regular dialysis, reduce their dependence on distant hospitals and enhance access to essential renal care services in the area. The facility was inaugurated by Executive Director KMCH, Insha Qazi in presence of Principal Prof. (Dr.) Nazir Ahmad Khan, Medical Superintendent Dr. Syed Mubashir, Heads of various Departments, faculty members, doctors and other staff members of the institution. The five-bedded facility, which addresses a long-felt need in the region, will cater to patients from Zewan, Pulwama, Pampore, Sempora and other adjoining areas of Srinagar and south Kashmir. Dialysis services will be provided at affordable rates, making specialised treatment more accessible to patients who often require multiple sessions every week. Speaking on the occasion, Executive Director KMCH, Insha Qazi, said the inauguration of the Dialysis Unit was part of the institution's continued efforts to expand its healthcare services and ensure that patients receive quality treatment closer to their homes. She said the facility would significantly benefit patients suffering from kidney-related ailments, particularly those who face difficulties travelling long distances for regular dialysis sessions. Principal Prof. (Dr.) Nazir Ahmad Khan said the inauguration of the Dialysis Unit was not merely the addition of another medical facility but reflected the institution's commitment to providing better healthcare services to the people. He said KMCH had been working consistently since its inception to strengthen medical infrastructure, introduce specialised services and ensure quality patient care. Medical Superintendent Dr. Syed Mubashir said the facility would prove to be a major boon for people catchment areas of the KMC.

NIT Srinagar concludes Vigilance Awareness Week 2026 with cricket, football matches

Srinagar, Nov 02: As Vigilance Awareness Week 2026 celebrations concluded at the National Institute of Technology (NIT) Srinagar, the Institute organised friendly cricket and football matches between faculty members and non-teaching staff, highlighting the importance of integrity, teamwork, discipline and fair play in institutional life. The sporting events witnessed enthusiastic participation from faculty and non-faculty members, providing an opportunity for employees to engage in healthy sporting activities while reinforcing the spirit of unity, cooperation and collective responsibility. The initiative was organised under the guidance of the Institute's Chief Vigilance Officer and Dean Faculty Welfare, Prof. Manzoor Ahmad Ahangar, as part of the Institute's broader efforts to create awareness about transparency, accountability and ethical conduct in public institutions. Dr. Shakeel Waseem from the faculty side and Faisal Irshad Ganai from the non-teaching faculty represented the cricket teams. Similarly, Dr. Manoj Kumar captained the faculty football team, while ASO Mushtaq Ahmad Bhat represented the non-teaching faculty team. The matches provided a platform for employees from different departments to interact beyond their routine professional engagements, highlighting the importance of teamwork, mutual respect and sportsmanship in building a positive institutional environment. In his message, Director NIT Srinagar, Prof. Anurag Misra, emphasised that sporting activities serve as an effective medium for reinforcing values such as fairness, discipline, honesty and respect for rules, which are equally essential to promoting integrity and probity in public life. He said such initiatives complement conventional awareness programmes by encouraging teamwork, mutual respect and a sense of collective responsibility. Prof. Misra further said that the institute observed Vigilance Awareness Week 2026 from October 26 to November 1 under the theme 'Probity for Prosperity', with a series of activities aimed at sensitising employees and students about ethical practices, transparency and accountability. Officials from the Administrative Section, including SAS Officer and other Institute functionaries, were also present during the match ceremonies and encouraged the participating teams.

DC Srinagar inaugurates special health camp under District Red Cross Initiative

Srinagar, Nov 02: Deputy Commissioner (DC) Srinagar, Akshay Labroo, on Monday inaugurated a Special Health Check-up Camp at the premises of the DC Office Complex, with the objective of promoting health awareness and facilitating access to essential healthcare services for employees and visitors. The camp was organised by the District Red Cross Society, Srinagar, in collaboration with Government Gousia Hospital Khanyar and Office of the Chief Medical Office. Speaking on the occasion, the Deputy Commissioner said that the initiative was aimed at encouraging preventive healthcare, early detection of potential health issues and regular health monitoring. He emphasised the importance of prioritising health and well-being and encouraged people to make regular health check-ups an integral part of their routine. The camp provided an opportunity for participants to avail themselves of medical consultations and basic health screening services. The DC underscored the need for proactive health monitoring and timely medical intervention to promote a healthy workforce across the District. The DC complimented the Health Department and the District Red Cross Society for organising the healthcare camp at the DC Office Complex. During the camp, more than 100 employees and incoming public at the DC Office and allied Offices located in Amar Niwas Complex, besides a large number of visitors, were screened for diabetes, blood pressure-related issues, ophthalmological conditions and other health related concerns. The camp was attended by Additional Deputy Commissioner, Mir Imtiyaz Ul Aziz, Additional Deputy Commissioner, Aadil Fareed (Probationer) Aakash Garg, SDM East, Zubair Ahmad, Accounts Officer, Mohammad Iqbal, Officials of DC Office, members of District Red Cross Society and other concerned.

FICCI FLO JKL delegation meets JU-VC

Jammu, Nov 2: A delegation of FICCI FLO Jammu Kashmir and Ladakh led by its senior vice chairperson Rupika Sahai met Jammu University (JU) Vice Chancellor (VC) Prof Umesh Rai here on Monday, November 2, 2026. The FICCI FLO members during the course of the meeting on behalf of its chairperson Varsha Bansal apprised the Vice Chancellor about the various initiatives being taken by the organisation especially those in the field of health and education. The delegation on the occasion also complimented the Vice Chancellor for establishing Centre for Regional Studies, Culture, Dialects and Emotional Intelligence at University of Jammu and for establishing its sub office at Kashmir that would serve the centres, Kashmir chapter and also for establishing the Non Collegiate Women Education Board at Jammu University. The Centre at Jammu and its Kashmir chapter apart from research and related activities would also further act as a unifying factor for the two regions the delegation members stated. Prof Umesh Rai, while appreciating FICCI FLO members for their active role and contribution towards different sectors, also outlined the forthcoming programmes that would be undertaken by Centre for Regional Studies, Culture, Dialects and Emotional Intelligence University of Jammu including its Kashmir chapter for the promotion and preservation of the rich socio- cultural heritage of both Jammu and Kashmir regions apart from research projects. Other members who were part of the delegation included Iruvanthika Chowdhary, Karen Mahajan and Chandni Kapoor. Neeraj Sharma Registrar University of Jammu and Ranjeet Kalra from MMTTC Jammu University were also present on the occasion.

Festive rush, bitter returns at Asia's second-largest fruit market

Srinagar, Nov 02: At Asia's second-largest fruit market in Sopore, the festive rush is bringing brisk business, with hundreds of trucks carrying Kashmir apples to markets across India and neighbouring countries. But for many growers, the busy trading season has a bitter side: while premium apples are commanding good prices ahead of Diwali and Chhath Puja, disease-hit fruit is fetching barely Rs 200 to Rs 250 a box. The contrast is stark. Buyers are looking for large, clean apples, but pest attacks and diseases have left growers with more lower-grade produce in a season when the overall crop is also down. According to representatives of Sopore Fruit Mandi, around 200 to 250 trucks are leaving the market daily, with apple dispatches estimated at 2.5 lakh to 3.5 lakh boxes. The consignments are headed to markets across India, besides Nepal, Bangladesh and Bhutan. Zahoor Ahmad Tantray, General Secretary of Fruit Mandi Sopore, said demand was particularly encouraging for premium-quality fruit, with buyers from different parts of the country seeking larger apples ahead of the festivals. Rates are good for good-quality apples and demand is also strong. Especially during Diwali, there is considerable demand for large apples, locally known as Char Tahi (4 layer) and Do Tahi (2 layer). Buyers from different parts of the country approach us for this quality, Tantray said. The problem, however, is that much of this year's produce has failed to meet the quality sought by buyers. Scab, Alternaria, leaf miner and aphids have damaged the crop, increasing the proportion of B-grade and C-grade apples reaching the mandi. Unfortunately, this year we have seen more B-grade and C-grade apples because of diseases and pest attacks. Scab, Alternaria, leaf miner and aphids have caused considerable damage. B- and C-grade apples are fetching only around Rs 200 to Rs 250 per box, and because of this many growers are heading towards losses, Tantray said. For orchardists, the quality of the harvest has become as important as the strength of market demand. Growers with premium fruit are benefiting from the festive buying, while those whose apples have been affected by diseases are struggling to secure remunerative prices. Tantray said the overall crop was lower this year, but the mandi continued to handle substantial quantities of fruit. Some trucks carry around 3,000 to 3,500 boxes, and when we calculate the total daily movement, it comes to around 2.5 to 3.5 lakh boxes. Despite the lower crop, the market is functioning well, he said. An outstation merchant said the demand for Kashmir apples remained strong, particularly for fruit with good colour, size and appearance. Demand is particularly good for clean and attractive fruit. With Diwali and Chhath Puja approaching, buyers are looking for quality. The problem is mainly with inferior-grade apples, which are difficult to sell at remunerative prices, the merchant said. The quality concerns have also prompted growers to seek stronger measures against pests and diseases that have affected their orchards. Manzoor Ahmad, a grower from Hadipora, said farmers were satisfied with the rates offered for good-quality apples, but infestations had taken a heavy toll on the crop. We are getting good rates for quality apples, but leaf miner and other pests have affected the crop badly. These problems must be controlled at the earliest to protect growers and improve fruit quality in the coming years, he said. Growers have urged the authorities and horticulture experts to strengthen pest surveillance and disease-control measures to prevent similar damage in the coming seasons. Even as traders prepare consignments for the festive markets, transportation has emerged as another concern. Tantray urged the administration to reopen Tulbul Bridge, saying its closure for repairs over the past ten days had added to difficulties during a crucial period for fruit movement. The bridge has been under repair for around ten days. We hope it will be opened soon. Chhath Puja loading has already started, and any further delay will create more problems for growers, traders and the general public, he said.

Srinagar security grid to be strengthened under winter strategy

Srinagar, Nov 02: The Jammu and Kashmir Police will further strengthen Srinagar's security grid under its Winter Security Strategy, with particular emphasis on emerging threats, operational preparedness and coordination with adjoining districts. Inspector General of Police (IGP) Kashmir chaired a comprehensive security review meeting at Cargo in Srinagar on Monday, assessing the prevailing security situation and threat inputs concerning the city and neighbouring districts. The meeting discussed measures to reinforce the existing security grid and ensure effective implementation of the winter security plan. Security arrangements and ongoing operational measures along the Jhelum Corridor, particularly in Pulwama and Awantipora, were also reviewed. The discussions emphasised closer coordination between districts to strengthen surveillance and operational preparedness under the winter strategy. The meeting was attended by DIG Central Kashmir Range, DIG South Kashmir Range, SSPs of Srinagar, Budgam, Ganderbal, Pulwama and Awantipora, concerned Zonal SPs and SP Special Operations Group (SOG).

Robots enter Kashmir's saffron fields

Pampore, Nov 02: In Kashmir's saffron fields, where extracting a kilogram of the prized spice requires separating the red stigmas of nearly 1.6 lakh flowers by hand, scientists are testing robots to take over some of the most labour-intensive work involved in its cultivation. On Monday, the experimental machines were put to the test at the Advanced Research Station for Saffron and Seed Spices in Konibal, Pampore, where scientists demonstrated robotic systems designed to remove weeds, pick saffron flowers and separate their delicate stigmas. The field trials, conducted under a Ministry of Electronics and Information Technology (MeitY)-supported project in collaboration with Sher-e-Kashmir University of Agricultural Sciences and Technology of Kashmir (SKUAST-K), offered growers a glimpse of how automation could change the way Kashmir's most valuable spice is cultivated and processed. For scientists, the immediate challenge is to reduce the dependence on manual labour, which remains one of the biggest constraints on saffron cultivation. Prof Syed Zameer Hussain, Director Research at SKUAST-K and Chief Principal Investigator of the project, said harvesting flowers and separating stigmas are among the most demanding operations in saffron production. To obtain just one kilogram of dry saffron, growers must separate stigmas from approximately 1,60,000 flowers, he said. Scientists are now developing robotic arms fitted with vision systems to identify and pick flowers in the field, along with mechanical units capable of separating the red stigmas after harvesting. Hussain said the trials had shown encouraging results and that researchers were aiming to make field-ready machines available to farmers by next year. Another prototype demonstrated on Monday was an autonomous weeding robot, developed to address the persistent problem of weeds in saffron fields. Unlike crops where weeding is confined to a particular season, saffron fields require repeated attention almost throughout the year. The robot is designed to identify and remove weeds, with its navigation and operation controlled through a mobile application. SKUAST-K Vice Chancellor Prof Nazir Ahmad Ganai, who attended the demonstration, said the machines were being developed in collaboration with leading national research institutions, including C-DAC Kolkata and CMERI Durgapur. He said trials would continue over the next month or two, while the technology could take one to two years to be fully refined for wider use. Ganai said the shortage of agricultural labour had become a serious concern for growers across Jammu and Kashmir, with younger people increasingly reluctant to take up physically demanding farm work. Although climate change, prolonged dry spells and erratic weather have affected saffron production, he said the heavy dependence on manual labour was another major obstacle to sustaining cultivation. Mechanisation, he said, could help address that difficulty and make saffron farming more attractive to younger generations. Dr Showkat Rasool, In-charge of SKUAST-K's Centre for Artificial Intelligence and Machine Learning, said the project was conceived about a year ago in response to declining saffron acreage and yields and the difficulties associated with manual cultivation. He said the automated weeding system had already been validated during important stages of the crop cycle, including November, March and the June-July period. The project, now in its second year, involves CMERI Durgapur, CMERI Ludhiana, CMTI Bengaluru, C-DAC Kolkata and C-DAC Mohali. Dr Sunita Verma, Scientist G and Group Coordinator, R&D in IT at MeitY, said the initiative was intended to use electronics and information technology to address practical problems faced by farmers. Besides saffron, the programme covers technological interventions in walnut and apple cultivation. Verma said farmers had been consulted while developing the project and were being involved in evaluating the prototypes. Their feedback, she said, would be important in identifying limitations and making the machines suitable for actual farm conditions. Monday's demonstration was held as part of the third meeting of the National Steering Committee under the National Programme on Application of Electronics and ICT in Himalayan Region Crop Management, known as Agri-Excellence. The committee will continue its review at SKUAST-K's Shalimar campus on Tuesday. The university has also developed machines for preparing saffron beds and planting corms, with the corm-planting equipment already operational at the research station. Ganai said researchers had additionally developed an intercropping system that allows saffron and black cumin, locally known as Kala Jeera, to be cultivated in the same field. The university is producing and distributing planting material to encourage farmers to adopt the practice.

Ruhullah's exit to put NC, his own political future to test

Srinagar, Nov 2: When Aga Syed Ruhullah Mehdi announces his departure from the National Conference on Tuesday, he will be walking away from the party that launched his electoral career 24 years ago. For the NC, it would mean losing one of its most outspoken voices on Article 370. For the Srinagar MP, the harder question will be whether he can retain his political influence without the party's organisation and electoral machinery. Ruhullah has announced plans to resign from both the NC and the Lok Sabha on November 3, the 26th death anniversary of his father, Aga Syed Mehdi, a Congress leader killed in a terrorist attack at Magam in 2000. The choice of date brings his family's political legacy into focus. It was Farooq Abdullah who brought Ruhullah into the NC in 2002, fielding him from Budgam. He went on to win the Assembly constituency three times before securing the Srinagar parliamentary seat in 2024. His victory over PDP's Waheed-ur-Rehman Para by more than 1.88 lakh votes established him as a prominent electoral figure. But that mandate was secured on the NC ticket, and his departure will test how much of that support he can carry independently. The break has been building since the Omar Abdullah government took office in October 2024. Ruhullah publicly questioned the government's handling of reservation policy and subsequently criticised what he regarded as its failure to pursue the restoration of Jammu and Kashmir's special status with sufficient urgency. His differences with the leadership sharpened over the emphasis on statehood, which he argued could not substitute for the party's commitment to restoring the constitutional position that existed before August 2019. The confrontation became public when Farooq challenged him to resign and seek a fresh mandate without the NC's backing. For the ruling party, Ruhullah's departure comes at an uncomfortable time. Following the recent Cabinet reshuffle, a group of NC legislators raised concerns with the leadership over the implementation of election promises, ministerial responsibilities and internal consultation. Although some of their concerns overlap with Ruhullah's criticism, there is no evidence that the legislators intend to leave the party with him. Ruhullah has himself opposed attempts to destabilise the elected government. His resignation would not affect the Omar government's Assembly majority. Its potential impact is political: an influential former party campaigner could become a sustained critic of the NC's record on the promises that helped return it to power. Ruhullah, however, faces challenges of his own. His family's religious and political influence in Budgam provides an established base. His father was associated with the Congress, while his cousin Aga Muntazir Mehdi won the Budgam Assembly by-election on a PDP ticket after Omar Abdullah vacated the seat, demonstrating that the family's political influence extends beyond the NC. But Budgam is only part of the much larger Srinagar parliamentary constituency. Turning personal recognition into a wider electoral organisation would require workers, local leadership and support beyond his traditional strongholds. Jammu and Kashmir's political history offers contrasting precedents. In 1984, Ghulam Mohammad Shah broke away from the NC with 12 legislators and, with Congress support, replaced Farooq Abdullah as Chief Minister. Later departures, including those of Mehboob Beg in 2014 and Devender Singh Rana and Surjit Singh Slathia in 2021, followed different political paths. A closer parallel lies in Srinagar itself. In 2016, Tariq Hameed Karra resigned from the PDP and the Lok Sabha over the political situation in Kashmir. Farooq Abdullah subsequently won the parliamentary by-election in 2017. Ruhullah's proposed resignation from Parliament, if submitted and accepted, would similarly create a vacancy. Whether he contests again or builds a separate political platform remains unclear. He has spoken of exploring a political alternative outside the established parties, but has not announced its organisational structure or electoral plans. For the NC, the challenge is to prevent his departure from deepening questions about its political commitments. For Ruhullah, it is to demonstrate that his support extends beyond the party that gave him his first electoral platform. Tuesday may settle the question of his association with the NC. Whether he can build a political future outside it will take considerably longer to establish.

Long hours, little security for Kashmir's delivery riders

Srinagar, Nov 02: Behind every food delivery that reaches a doorstep in Srinagar is a worker navigating traffic, covering long distances and racing against time, often at the cost of his health, financial security and personal well-being. For thousands of young people seeking livelihood opportunities in a region grappling with persistent unemployment, food delivery platforms have emerged as an accessible source of work. However, a new study examining the working conditions of food delivery workers in Srinagar has exposed the precarious reality behind this growing employment model, finding that flexibility and independence often come at the expense of decent earnings, job security and social protection. Titled 'Working Conditions, Financial Resilience and Job Motivation in the Gig Economy: A Study of Food Delivery Workers in Srinagar', the research draws on primary data collected from 71 male food delivery workers through structured questionnaires. The findings paint a picture of a young, entirely male workforce, with participation concentrated in the 18-34 age group. While gig work offers an opportunity to earn without entering conventional employment structures, the study finds that workers face long working hours, extensive travel and mounting operational expenses. Unlike conventional employment, where employers generally provide infrastructure and bear several operational costs, food delivery workers largely depend on their own vehicles and pay for fuel and maintenance themselves, the research reads. These expenses eat into their earnings, leaving workers dissatisfied with the financial returns despite the time and effort invested in the job. The study identifies a fundamental contradiction in the gig economyworkers value the freedom to manage their schedules and the autonomy associated with platform-based employment, but remain unhappy with wages and the limited prospects of career advancement. For many young workers, the flexibility offered by food delivery platforms provides an alternative to prolonged unemployment. However, the absence of predictable earnings and a clear career path makes this arrangement an uncertain source of livelihood. The researchers found that financial resilience among the respondents was moderate. Significantly, this resilience did not emerge from stable or sufficient earnings but was sustained largely through financial literacy, personal money-management practices and support from social networks. Workers rely more on their ability to manage volatile incomes and seek assistance through personal connections than on any dependable financial safety net, the study reads. This leaves them particularly vulnerable to unexpected expenses, medical emergencies and periods of reduced work. The research also highlights the physical risks associated with the occupation. Long working hours and extensive travel expose delivery workers to fatigue, road accidents and musculoskeletal problems, the study notes. The psychological burden is equally concerning. Income fluctuations, workload pressures and uncertainty over daily earnings contribute to stress, making the occupation considerably more demanding than its flexible structure might suggest. The findings further reveal inconsistencies in institutional support. While 50.70 per cent of respondents perceived their platforms as providing adequate assistance during disputes or emergencies, 15.49 per cent considered such support insufficient. The gap points towards the need for more transparent grievance-redressal systems and reliable mechanisms to protect workers when they encounter difficulties while performing their duties. The researchers conclude that the existing structure of gig employment in Srinagar is economically and socially unsustainable without policy intervention. They argue that the costs of maintaining vehicles, managing health risks and coping with income fluctuations are disproportionately borne by workers, while the absence of conventional employment benefits leaves them exposed to financial shocks. The study recommends extending social security coverage to gig workers, introducing health and accident insurance, ensuring minimum-earning guarantees and establishing effective platform-level grievance-redressal mechanisms. It also calls for stronger policy recognition of platform-based workers, whose contribution to the expanding digital economy has not necessarily translated into corresponding employment protections. The research assumes particular significance in Jammu and Kashmir, where limited conventional employment opportunities have made alternative livelihood arrangements increasingly important for young people. By documenting the experiences of food delivery workers in Srinagar, it brings attention to a segment of the workforce often missing from discussions on unemployment, labour welfare and economic security. The researchers acknowledge that the study is based on a relatively small sample of 71 male respondents, selected through convenience and snowball sampling. Its findings, therefore, should not be treated as representative of every food delivery worker in Srinagar or the wider region. Nevertheless, the research offers empirical insight into the challenges faced by workers in a rapidly expanding employment sector.

CM seeks report card on budget, poll promises

Jammu, Nov 2: Chief Minister Omar Abdullah on Monday directed his ministers to review the implementation of budget announcements and election manifesto commitments, identify projects that have yet to take off and examine the reasons for delays, setting out the government's development priorities for the next six months. Chairing a meeting of ministers and senior officers at the Civil Secretariat, Omar said the coming six months would be crucial for accelerating development works and ensuring effective utilisation of funds allocated to various departments. He asked newly inducted ministers and those assigned fresh portfolios to undertake a detailed review of their departments, particularly the commitments made during the previous Budget. The exercise, he said, should identify projects already completed, works under execution and those yet to begin, along with the reasons holding up their implementation. The Chief Minister also called for a comprehensive assessment of the government's election manifesto commitments to determine the progress made and the steps required to fulfil the remaining promises. He directed ministers to closely monitor projects under the Special Assistance to States for Capital Investment (SASCI) scheme and review development works in the districts assigned to them. For the 2027-28 financial year, Omar asked departments to prepare project proposals, Detailed Project Reports and tender documents in advance so that execution could begin without delay once funds were allocated. He also directed departments to initiate consultations with the Finance and Planning Departments early, saying realistic proposals would help avoid last-minute commitments that could prove difficult to implement. Reviewing winter preparedness, the Chief Minister stressed the need for uninterrupted essential services and better coordination among departments. Taking note of concerns over ration stocking in certain areas, he directed the department concerned to ensure adequate availability of essential commodities. Omar also asked officials to address shortcomings in accommodation, office facilities and other arrangements for employees who had shifted to Jammu. The meeting was attended by Deputy Chief Minister Surinder Kumar Choudhary, Cabinet ministers, Advisor to the Chief Minister, Acting Chief Secretary Shailendra Kumar, Additional Chief Secretary to the Chief Minister Dheeraj Gupta and senior civil and police officers. Outstation officials joined through video conferencing.

J&K Govt moves to Jammu for winter

Jammu, Nov 2: The seat of the Jammu and Kashmir government shifted to Jammu on Monday as the Civil Secretariat reopened in the winter capital under the traditional Darbar Move, with Chief Minister Omar Abdullah, his Cabinet colleagues and senior officers resuming official work for the winter months. The reopening marked the second consecutive winter session of the traditional Darbar Move since its restoration last year, bringing the government's principal administrative offices back to Jammu following the conclusion of their summer functioning in Srinagar. Chief Minister Omar Abdullah was accorded a ceremonial Guard of Honour by a contingent of the Jammu and Kashmir Police on his arrival at the Civil Secretariat. He inspected the parade in the presence of Deputy Chief Minister Surinder Kumar Choudhary, Cabinet ministers, Acting Chief Secretary Shailendra Kumar, Divisional Commissioner Jammu, Deputy Commissioner Jammu and senior officers of the civil and police administration. Following the ceremony, Omar proceeded directly to his office and began attending to official business. The reopening of the Civil Secretariat formally marked the commencement of the winter phase of the Darbar Move, under which designated government offices and officials shift between Srinagar and Jammu in accordance with the seasonal administrative calendar. The Darbar Move, a practice dating back to the Dogra era, traditionally provided for the functioning of the government from Srinagar during the summer and Jammu during the winter. The arrangement was discontinued in 2021, when the administration adopted a system of year-round functioning from the two Secretariats, supported by the transition to electronic office procedures. The Omar Abdullah-led government restored the traditional Darbar Move in 2025, bringing back the seasonal shifting of the seat of administration. Monday's reopening marked the continuation of that arrangement for the second successive winter. The movement of the government offices to Jammu also brings ministers, senior bureaucrats and employees covered under the Darbar Move arrangements to the winter capital, while designated administrative offices continue to function in Srinagar. The shift involves arrangements for official accommodation, office infrastructure, records and other facilities required for the functioning of the Civil Secretariat during the winter months. With the Secretariat reopening, departments covered by the move resumed their official work from Jammu, including administrative coordination and the processing of government business. The reopening comes days after the recent Cabinet reshuffle, with newly inducted ministers and those assigned fresh portfolios beginning their winter engagements at the Jammu Secretariat. Later in the day, the Chief Minister chaired a meeting of ministers and senior administrative officers to review the government's priorities for the winter months. He also visited the chambers of newly inducted ministers and inspected various rooms, sections and offices of the Civil Secretariat. Accompanied by his Cabinet colleagues and senior officers, Omar interacted with employees and took stock of the facilities and arrangements made for the reopening. With the Darbar Move now operational in Jammu, the winter capital will serve as the government's principal administrative centre for the coming months.

The Measure of a Truly Inclusive Society

A societys progress is measured not only by the roads it builds or the institutions it creates, but by whether every person can use them with dignity. For persons with disabilities, ordinary tasks, reaching a public office, attending school, finding work or travelling safely can still involve barriers that others rarely notice. These barriers are not inevitable. They reflect choices in planning, policy and public attitudes, and they can be changed. The phrase specially abled is often used with good intentions, but respectful language alone cannot secure equal participation. What matters is whether people with disabilities can exercise their rights without having to negotiate inaccessible buildings, transport, information or services at every turn. Inclusion is not charity, nor should access depend on individual goodwill. It is a responsibility of institutions and government. Accessibility must be considered from the start, not added as an afterthought. Public buildings, schools, hospitals, parks and transport systems should be designed so people with different mobility, sensory and communication needs can use them independently. Ramps, accessible toilets, clear signage, assistive technology and information in suitable formats are not optional conveniences. They are part of making public services genuinely public. Education is another test of inclusion. Children with disabilities should be able to learn alongside their peers, with trained support, accessible materials and facilities that meet their needs. Families should not have to choose between education and the daily struggle of reaching a school that cannot accommodate their child. Inclusive classrooms benefit the whole community by teaching respect, understanding and shared responsibility. The same principle applies to employment. Persons with disabilities have skills, ambitions and the right to earn a livelihood. Employers and public institutions must provide accessible workplaces and fair opportunities, rather than allowing assumptions about capability to decide who gets considered. Inclusion in work is not merely an individual benefit; it strengthens families and broadens the contribution people can make to society. Policy commitments must translate into measurable action. Authorities should assess public infrastructure, identify gaps and set clear timelines for making services accessible. Persons with disabilities and their representative organisations must be part of that processnot consulted after decisions are made, but involved in shaping them. Their experience is essential to understanding which barriers persist and what practical solutions will work. Above all, society must move beyond pity and token gestures. Dignity means listening, providing equal opportunity and recognising people as rights-holders. An accessible street, classroom, workplace or office is not a special favour; it is a sign of a society that takes equality seriously. Inclusion becomes real when people with disabilities can participate in everyday life on their own termsand when no one has to ask permission to belong.

Manasbals Protection Must Begin on the Ground

Manasbal Lake is more than a tourist attraction. Its wetlands and surrounding landscape form a fragile ecological system, and the health of that system is tied to the choices made every day by residents, businesses and public authorities. The Wullar-Manasbal Development Authoritys directions on solid and liquid waste management are therefore timely. But a public notice, however strict, can protect the lake only if its rules are made practical, visible and consistently enforced. The measures address problems that cannot be ignored: litter and illegal dumping along the lakes periphery, waste burning in public spaces, and the discharge of untreated sewage and wastewater into water bodies and drains. These are not merely eyesores. They threaten the lakes ecology, undermine public health and diminish the very landscape on which local livelihoods and sustainable tourism depend. A door-to-door collection system is a useful step. Requiring households and commercial establishments to hand over waste to designated sanitation staff and authorised vehicles can reduce indiscriminate dumpingbut only if collection is regular, its schedule is clearly communicated, and residents know where and when to put out waste. When the service falters, even well-intentioned rules lose credibility. The authority and the Rural Development Department must ensure that the system works reliably across the areas it covers. Segregation at source is equally important. Separating biodegradable waste from dry waste makes collection and disposal more effective, but compliance needs public awareness as well as direction. Households, shopkeepers, restaurants and institutions should have clear guidance on what goes into each stream and what happens after collection. The same principle applies to event organisers, who must leave public spaces clean once gatherings end. The prohibition on untreated sewage entering the lake deserves particular attention. Septic tanks, soak pits and other sanitation facilities require proper maintenance, and collected sludge must reach authorised disposal facilities. Monitoring should therefore look beyond visible litter to the less obvious routes by which wastewater can contaminate wetlands, drains and the lake itself. Rules must be matched by the infrastructure and oversight needed to follow them. Penalties have a role, especially when violations are deliberate or repeated. Yet enforcement should be even-handed, transparent and accompanied by adequate waste services. Officials and sanitation staff need to respond to reported violations, while residents and businesses must take responsibility for keeping their premises and adjoining areas clean. A rule that is applied selectively will not build public trust. Manasbal cannot be protected by the Authority alone, nor can responsibility be placed entirely on the public. The notice rightly calls cleanliness a collective duty. Its success will be measured not by the severity of its language, but by cleaner shores, functioning collection, properly managed sewage and fewer violations. For a lake so closely bound to the regions environment and tourism, that is the standard the administration and the community must meet.

Rising Kashmir: The air was bad before anyone noticed

In recent years, somewhere around the end of October, people across Jammu and Kashmir start talking about the air. Someone posts the AQI in a group chat, it shows up on Twitter, Instagram reels start popping up, and for a few weeks it's all anyone complains about. Then the weather turns, and by March nobody mentions it. The air doesn't wait for October. At BreatheOSS we run our own ground sensors in Srinagar and Jammu. Between 10 September and 24 October, neither city had a single day the US EPA would call Good. What we measure is PM2.5: particles under 2.5 micrometres, about thirty times thinner than a hair, mostly from burning things. They get past the nose and throat and settle deep in the lungs. India's daily limit for PM2.5 is 60 g/m; the EPA's is 35, and the WHO recommends 15. We use the stricter EPA scale. Our longest-running sensor in Srinagar, at Kanipora, has been up since October 2025. Last November it averaged 294 g/m. December averaged 364, and 20 December alone averaged 571. It is one sensor on the edge of the city, so it describes one neighbourhood, not all of Srinagar. But it shows where October leads. Monthly average PM2.5 at the BreatheOSS sensor in Kanipora, Srinagar, from October 2025 to October 2026. December 2025 averaged 364 g/m. Shaded bands are US EPA categories. Source: BreatheOSS. Why winter makes it worse During the day, the warm air rises from the heated ground, carrying smoke and exhaust up and away. On cold, clear nights that stops. The ground cools quickly, the air touching it ends up colder than the air above, and cold air has no reason to rise. A layer of warmer air then sits on top like a lid on a pot. This is called a temperature inversion, and a valley makes it worse - cold air slides down the slopes and collects on the valley floor, which is exactly where Srinagar is. You can see the lid in our data. This October, Srinagar's air was at its worst between 8:30 and 10:30 in the morning, averaging 70 g/m, and again late at night. By mid-afternoon, once the sun had warmed the valley, it fell to about 34. The average day in Jammu and Srinagar. Air is worst in the morning and at night, when the inversion holds, and best in the afternoon. Dashed: 10 to 30 September 2026. Solid: 1 to 24 October. Source: BreatheOSS. What goes under the lid The shape of the valley will not change. How much smoke goes into it can. Kashmir heats itself in winter by burning things. Hamams burn firewood under stone floors, kangris carry hot charcoal under the pheran, and bukharis burn wood or coal. A 2018 study in Scientific Reports , based on a year of measurements in Srinagar, found that domestic coal made up 84% of the PM2.5 emissions it counted from coal, firewood and vehicles. Then there are the leaves. Every autumn, fallen leaves are raked into piles and burnt, partly to make charcoal for kangris. The Srinagar Municipal Corporation banned leaf burning in November 2017. As this newspaper reported in December 2023 , it was still fining people 10,000 for it six years later. None of this appears in Srinagar's official clean-air action plan . It puts vehicles at 65 to 75% of the city's pollution, and on the same page says no source apportionment study, a measurement of where the pollution actually comes from, has been done. Wood and coal come up only for dhabas and restaurants. How homes are heated through the winter is not in it. Jammu has it worse Jammu has no valley to trap its air, and it is still worse off. In 272 complete days of data since January, our Jammu sensors did not record a single Good day. Every complete day from 18 January to the end of February was Unhealthy or worse, and this September and October the city was over the EPA's daily limit on 43 of 45 days. Jammu's own action plan blames vehicles first and then road dust from unpaved roads. The dust is real, but our sensors point at smoke and exhaust as well: PM2.5 made up 89% of the PM10 they measured, and dust is mostly coarser than that. What would help Some of it is up to us. The live readings are free at breatheoss.app. In Srinagar the cleanest hours are in the afternoon. On bad days a properly fitted N95 mask does far more than a cloth one. And compost leaves; don't burn them. Much of the rest is already written down. The leaf-burning ban is from 2017. Both Srinagar's and Jammu's plans promised a source apportionment study. Until someone measures what is actually in the air, the percentages in those plans are guesses, and so is any money spent on them. The hardest fix is heating. People burn wood and coal because they need to stay warm, and they will keep doing it until there is something cheaper and more reliable - which means electricity that doesn't cut out in the middle of winter. By March, people will probably stop talking about the air again. Our sensors will still be running. (The author is the lead developer of BreatheOSS, a free and open-source air quality network for Jammu & Kashmir and Ladakh. Its readings are public at breatheoss.app)

Crowdsourcing Safety: Mapping Disasters Together

As winter approaches, road conditions become a daily concern for people travelling through Kashmir. On 24 January 2026, the Jammu-Srinagar National Highway remained closed for a second consecutive day after snowfall made sections between Ramban, Banihal and Qazigund unsafe, with more than 3,000 vehicles reportedly stranded. The episode showed how quickly a disruption can affect thousands of people-and why timely, location-specific information matters. Kashmiris already share road updates, photographs and first-hand observations through WhatsApp groups and social media. The opportunity is not to replace these networks, but to make useful reports easier to verify, map and pass to the agencies responsible for responding. This is the idea behind crowdsourced disaster mapping: combining location-based observations from the public to build a clearer picture of emerging hazards. A smartphone cannot prevent a landslide or predict every flood, but a reliable report can help establish where a disruption has occurred, when it was observed and which people or services may be affected. The valleys steep slopes, downstream settlements and dependence on its road networks make timely information important during heavy rainfall, flooding, landslides and snowfall. Satellite imagery, forecasts and official monitoring provide essential information, but they may not capture every local disruption as it unfolds. A commuter encountering debris, a resident seeing a stream rise may be able to report a change before it appears in a broader update. A report becomes more useful when it includes a location, time, hazard category and a photograph. Displayed in a geographic information system (GIS), verified reports can be considered alongside roads, settlements, hospitals and other critical infrastructure. This helps responders to reach the location of an incident promptly and decide where inspection or assistance is needed. Jammu and Kashmir already has digital systems for disaster reporting and coordination. The JK Disaster Support System (JK DSS) is described as a mobile platform for citizen and departmental incident reporting, needs assessment and emergency communication. The J&K Emergency Response Decision Support System uses web-GIS to connect District Emergency Operation Centres with emergency-support departments. These are important foundations; the case for crowdsourcing should build on them, not imply that no system exists. The key question is how a time-sensitive report from a resident-such as a road blockage, landslide or localized flood is checked, displayed for operational use and passed to the relevant agency. Publicly available descriptions do not establish how consistently this pathway works in practice or how reports are shared across platforms. That uncertainty should be clarified with the responsible authorities before proposing a new tool. If exiting systems can accommodate verified public reports, the priority should be to strengthen that capability. A separate reporting channel is justified only if a specific gap is identified. Kashmir should test this approach through a six-month pilot on one vulnerable road corridor. The Jammu-Srinagar National Highway is an obvious candidate because disruptions can affect large numbers of travellers, although authorities could select another route based on documented hazard history, community needs and operational feasibility. The pilot could be coordinated by the Disaster Management Authority with the relevant road agency and a university or GIS research partner. Residents, commuters, shopkeepers and trained volunteers could submit reports through an existing platform or a simple mobile-friendly form, depending on what the initial review finds. Each report should record the time, location and type of incident. Designated personnel would check duplicates, flag unverified submissions and forward confirmed information to the responsible department. A Kullu district platform, Apada Sahayak, provides a relevant Himalayan comparison because it has been described as supporting community hazard reports and map-based information. Its value here is as a limited example of the approachnot as a model to copy wholesale. Kashmir should first assess its own systems, agencies, reporting practices and security requirements. The pilot map could show verified incidents alongside settlements, health facilities and relevant road information. Its success should be measured by practical outcomes: how quickly reports are received and checked, whether locations are accurate, whether remote communities are represented and whether the information helps agencies make decisions. It should also offer alternatives for people without smartphones or reliable mobile coverage. Crowdsourced mapping must not turn residents into substitutes for trained disaster-management personnel or encourage anyone to approach danger to take a photograph. Reports may be duplicated, outdated or inaccurate, so public submissions must be clearly distinguished from official alerts. Community guidance, multilingual reporting, privacy protections and offline options should be built into the pilot. In Kashmir, reporting guidance must also state that people should not photograph, geotag or publicly share images of sensitive security installations, personnel, checkpoints or operational movements, and must follow applicable restrictions. Reports should focus on the hazard and its impact. Kashmir already has informal networks through which people exchange road conditions. The next step is to determine how these local observations can complement existing disaster-management systems through a clear process for verification, mapping and response. The measure of success is not how many phones feed a map, but whether reliable information reaches the right people in time to help them act. (The author has a PhD in Geoinformatics and can be reached at: Sheikh.aneaus19@gmail.com )

Understanding Ovarian Cysts: The Importance of Early Detection and Awareness

For nearly six months, an eighteen-year-old girl from a village in Kashmir watched her abdomen gradually grow. Around her, people began to notice. Some assumed she was pregnant. Others oered explanations shaped by superstition. Her family, uncertain about what was happening and perhaps uncomfortable discussing a young woman's reproductive health, first took her to a saint rather than a doctor. When she eventually reached a hospital in Srinagar, doctors found an ovarian cyst weighing 21 kilograms. The cyst was surgically removed, and the girl survived. But her case raises a question that goes beyond its extraordinary size: what happened during those six months before she reached the hospital? Her story is unusual, but the silence surrounding women's reproductive health is not. Across Kashmir, symptoms related to menstruation, pelvic health and reproductive organs can still be dicult to discuss openly. Pain may be accepted as something women are expected to tolerate. Changes in the body may be dismissed as temporary, and when a symptom is not understood, families may delay seeking medical help or turn first to explanations outside the medical system. Ovarian cysts are not unusual. They are fluid-filled or semi-solid sacs that develop on or inside an ovary or in the surrounding tissue. The nature of their content matters because it can influence how a cyst is assessed and managed. Most ovarian cysts are benign and resolve without treatment. While some women may experience symptoms, others may have no symptoms at all. Some women may experience pelvic or abdominal pain, bloating, changes in menstruation, frequent urination or a feeling of fullness. These symptoms can have many causes and do not necessarily indicate an ovarian cyst. What matters is when a change persists, returns, becomes worse or begins to interfere with everyday life. That distinction is important because awareness should not mean turning every abdominal symptom into a cause for alarm. It means knowing when a symptom deserves attention. For many women, the first step in that assessment is a pelvic examination. A pelvic exam allows a clinician to feel the uterus and ovaries, checking for enlargement, tenderness, or masses that may not be visible on the surface. It is a simple, routine part of gynaecological care. In many parts of the world, it is performed as part of an annual check-up, regardless of whether symptoms are present. In Kashmir, however, the pelvic exam is not part of the cultural conversation about women's health. Many women have never had one. Many do not know it exists as a routine precaution rather than a response to a crisis. This gap is significant because a pelvic exam can sometimes detect an enlarged ovary before a woman herself notices anything wrong. If a pelvic exam raises a concern, ultrasound is the next step. Ultrasound can distinguish between a simple cyst, round, thin-walled, and filled with clear fluid and a complex cyst, which may have solid areas, thick walls, or internal septations. The presence of solid components or other complex features is the most significant predictor of malignancy. This is why self-diagnosis is unreliable. A woman cannot determine from the presence of a cyst or from the amount of discomfort she feels whether it is harmless or requires further treatment. A two-year study conducted at Lalla Ded Hospital in Srinagar among 160 women who underwent surgery for ovarian cysts found that 28.12 per cent of the surgically treated cysts were malignant. The figure cannot be taken as the prevalence of ovarian cancer among women in Kashmir because the study involved a selected group of women who had already undergone surgery. Yet it illustrates why medical assessment matters. A woman cannot determine simply from the presence of a cyst or from the amount of discomfort she feels whether it is harmless or requires further treatment. The diculty is that seeking care is rarely determined by symptoms alone. It is also shaped by how those symptoms are understood. For many women, reproductive health remains a subject that is easier to endure than discuss. A young woman experiencing persistent pelvic pain may not know whether what she is experiencing is significant. She may hesitate to mention it at home, particularly if she feels embarrassed or fears that her concerns will be dismissed. In other cases, the people around her may also interpret the symptoms as something ordinary that will eventually pass. This normalisation can become a barrier to treatment. For women who spend much of their lives caring for children, husbands, parents and households, their own health can easily become another thing to put aside. The distinction matters because the right treatment begins with the right diagnosis. But improving awareness cannot be left to women alone. Families have an important role in creating an environment where a daughter can say that she has persistent pain or changes in her menstrual cycle without feeling ashamed. Parents can make conversations about menstruation and reproductive health ordinary rather than uncomfortable. Husbands and other family members can support women in seeking medical care instead of encouraging them to simply tolerate symptoms. Schools and colleges can contribute by treating reproductive health as part of basic health education. Community health workers can help women recognise when symptoms need medical attention and guide them towards appropriate services. Doctors and healthcare institutions, meanwhile, can help by making information about common gynaecological conditions easier to understand and access. Ultimately, awareness is not about teaching women to fear their bodies. It is about teaching them to listen to them. The challenge is not simply to tell women that ovarian cysts exist. It is to create a culture in which a woman can say, without embarrassment, that something has changed, and someone will listen. Where persistent pain is not automatically dismissed as something women must endure. Where reproductive health is not treated as a subject to be hidden, and where seeking medical help is seen not as an admission that something is seriously wrong, but as an ordinary part of taking care of oneself. For many women, the first step may be as simple as being heard. (The Author is a Rehabilitation Trainee Counsellor. Email: tamanaajaz7@gmail.com )

Permission granted for November 3 gathering in Budgam

Budgam, Nov 02: The Office of the District Magistrate, Budgam, has granted permission for the observance of the death anniversary of the father of Member of Parliament from Srinagar, Aga Syed Ruhullah Mehdi, scheduled to be held on November 3 at Behishti Zehra (A.S.) Park in Budgam. According to an official order issued by the Additional District Magistrate, Budgam, the permission has been granted following a No Objection Certificate (NOC) from the Senior Superintendent of Police (SSP), Budgam. The event, which is expected to witness a large public gathering, will be permitted only between 10 am and 1 pm. The administration has made it clear that the programme must remain confined to the designated venue and that no rally or procession will be allowed. The permission has been granted subject to a set of conditions aimed at ensuring peace, public order and smooth traffic movement during the event. As per the order, only a peaceful gathering will be permitted, while any activity, speech, display or act that could incite violence, hatred or communal disharmony has been strictly prohibited. The display of banners, posters or other material associated with anti-national organisations or considered detrimental to the interests of the country will also not be allowed. The administration has further directed that the programme must not disrupt traffic movement or create any law-and-order situation. The order said that any violation of the prescribed conditions may lead to cancellation of the permission and legal action under relevant laws.

Sagar meets deputations, reviews public issues

Jammu, Nov 2: Reaffirming the government's commitment to responsive governance and people-centric administration, Minister for Revenue, Power Development Department (PDD), Law, Justice, Parliamentary Affairs, Disaster Management, Relief, Rehabilitation and Reconstruction (DMRRR), and Elections, Ali Mohammad Sagar, today held an extensive public interaction at Jammu, meeting several deputations and individuals who apprised him of issues concerning their respective areas and communities. During the interaction, various deputations raised a range of public importance issues, seeking the Minister's intervention for addressing their grievances and resolving matters requiring administrative attention. The issues highlighted included developmental concerns, public infrastructure, basic civic amenities, power-related matters, revenue issues and other matters concerning public service delivery. Giving a patient hearing to the visiting deputations, Sagar underlined that direct engagement with people is essential for understanding ground realities and ensuring that governance remains responsive to their needs and aspirations. He assured the deputations that all genuine issues brought to his notice would be examined on priority and taken up with the concerned departments for appropriate action. He also emphasised that administrative delays in resolving public grievances must be avoided and that officers need to adopt a proactive approach towards addressing people's concerns. The Minister stressed that public representatives and government departments must work in close coordination to ensure effective delivery of services and timely resolution of issues confronting the people. The Government is committed to inclusive development, equitable allocation of resources and strengthening the institutional mechanism for public grievance redressal,the Minister reiterated. Sagar observed that the government's priority is not merely to hear public grievances but to translate people's concerns into concrete action on the ground. He assured the deputations that their representations would receive due consideration and necessary follow-up.

Kishtwar man postpones wedding to attend Ruhullahs rally

Budgam, Nov 2: For Abrar Ahmad, a young man from Kishtwar district, November 3 was supposed to be one of the most important days of his life the day he would begin a new journey through marriage. But when he learned that Member of Parliament Aga Ruhullah Mehdi had chosen the same date to announce his resignation from the National Conference and his Lok Sabha seat, Abrar made an extraordinary personal decision: he postponed his wedding to travel to Budgam and attend the rally. With his wedding plans put aside, Abrar travelled all the way from Kishtwar to Budgam district headquarters, determined to be present at the public gathering scheduled at the Public Park near the Deputy Commissioner's office. Speaking to the Rising Kashmir, Abrar said he had known Aga Ruhullah Mehdi personally and had interacted with him during his visit to Kishtwar, where they had also discussed his upcoming marriage. I had discussed my wedding with Aga Ruhullah Sahib during his visit to Kishtwar, before he announced November 3 as his resignation date. When I informed him that my wedding was scheduled for the same day, he advised me to go ahead with it, as it was an important occasion in my life, Abrar said. However, Abrar said he ultimately decided to change his wedding date so that he could attend what he described as an important political moment. After that, I changed my wedding date so that I could participate in Aga Ruhullah Sahib's resignation rally in Budgam. I have now reached the district headquarters, and people from different parts of the Kashmir Valley are also arriving to attend the gathering, he said. For Abrar, the journey from Kishtwar was not merely about attending a political rally. He said his decision was driven by his admiration for Ruhullah's voice in Parliament and the issues he had raised concerning the people of Jammu and Kashmir. He described Ruhullah as a politician who had consistently highlighted public concerns, particularly unemployment among educated youth and the problems faced by people across all the districts of the Union Territory. Aga Ruhullah is among those politicians who have raised the basic issues and problems of the people of Jammu and Kashmir in Parliament, Abrar said. He further claimed that people from both the Jammu division and the Kashmir Valley were expected to gather in Budgam to participate in the rally. For Abrar, the postponement of his wedding represents a deeply personal sacrifice in the name of political conviction. While families prepare to celebrate weddings with joy, his family will have to wait a little longer for the occasion, as he chose to be part of a gathering he considers significant. As people make their way to Budgam from different parts of Jammu and Kashmir, Abrar's journey from Kishtwar has emerged as an emotional example of the personal significance that political events can hold for ordinary people. His wedding has been postponed, but his determination to witness the day remains unchanged.

Mehbooba's call for Delhi dialogue echoes stand of Apni Party, PC

Srinagar, Nov 2: PDP president Mehbooba Mufti's renewed call for dialogue with New Delhi at her party's convention on Monday has brought the positions of Kashmir's regional parties on engagement with the Centre into focus, particularly those of the Apni Party and Peoples Conference, which have faced allegations of being the BJP's B-team for their perceived proximity to the central leadership. Addressing party workers at Sher-e-Kashmir Park in Srinagar, Mehbooba said Jammu and Kashmir's political problems could not be resolved through arrests, restrictions or stringent laws, and called for meaningful dialogue between New Delhi and the people of Kashmir. The former Chief Minister invoked former Prime Minister Atal Bihari Vajpayee's approach towards Kashmir and recalled the reconciliation efforts undertaken by her father and PDP founder Mufti Mohammad Sayeed. Her remarks came against the backdrop of a prolonged political dispute over engagement with New Delhi, with regional parties frequently accusing one another of maintaining an understanding with the BJP. The Apni Party, headed by Altaf Bukhari, has consistently maintained that dialogue with the Centre is necessary to address Jammu and Kashmir's political and administrative concerns, including restoration of statehood and protection of land and employment rights. However, since its formation in March 2020, the party has faced repeated allegations from political rivals of being backed by the BJP, particularly over its meetings with central leaders following the abrogation of Article 370. Bukhari has rejected the allegations on several occasions, arguing that meeting the Prime Minister or other central leaders to raise Jammu and Kashmir's demands should not be treated as evidence of political allegiance to the BJP. The Peoples Conference, led by Sajad Gani Lone, has also advocated engagement with New Delhi while maintaining its opposition to the constitutional changes introduced in August 2019. Lone faced similar accusations during the 2024 parliamentary and Assembly elections, when political opponents, including the National Conference, described him as a BJP proxy. He rejected the allegations and challenged his opponents to substantiate their claims. The controversy intensified during the 2024 Lok Sabha elections after the BJP decided not to field candidates in Kashmir's three parliamentary constituencies, while the Apni Party extended support to Lone in Baramulla. The political differences between these parties have also centred on their respective approaches to the restoration of Article 370, statehood and engagement with the central government. While the PDP has demanded restoration of Jammu and Kashmir's constitutional rights alongside a broader political dialogue, the Apni Party has emphasised statehood, employment and land safeguards, and the Peoples Conference has sought political engagement while opposing the August 2019 decisions. The PDP itself entered into an alliance with the BJP in 2015, when Mufti Mohammad Sayeed became Chief Minister of the coalition government. Mehbooba subsequently headed the government until the BJP withdrew support in June 2018. At Monday's convention, Mehbooba defended the party's decision to enter into the alliance and asked PDP workers not to be apologetic about its political history. She also criticised the National Conference over its political record and reiterated that reconciliation and dialogue remained central to the PDP's approach towards resolving Kashmir's problems. The latest remarks come at a time when the National Conference, PDP, Apni Party and Peoples Conference continue to differ over their political strategies and relations with New Delhi. Although the parties have distinct positions on constitutional restoration and the terms of engagement, Mehbooba's call for dialogue reflects a demand also made by the Apni Party and Peoples Conference in recent years.

CM directs ministers to fast-track dev works, ensure winter preparedness

Jammu, Nov 02: Jammu and Kashmir Chief Minister Omar Abdullah on Monday directed ministers to fast-track ongoing development works, strengthen public grievance redressal and ensure adequate winter preparedness. He also called for a comprehensive review of the governments manifesto commitments to assess progress and identify further steps required for fulfilment. Abdullah was chairing an introductory []

Ruhullah to resign from Lok Sabha, NC today

Srinagar, Nov 02: All eyes will be on Srinagar MP Aga Syed Ruhullah Mehdi tomorrow as he is set to announce his decision to resign from the Lok Sabha during a rally in central Kashmirs Budgam district. Ruhullah said he would resign from the Lok Sabha on Tuesday. I will resign from the Lok Sabha []

CM Omar Abdullah visits fire-ravaged Jammu market, assures full assistance

Jammu, Nov 02: Jammu and Kashmir Chief Minister Omar Abdullah on Monday visited the fire-ravaged Shiv Market near Jammu Railway Station and took stock of the damage caused by a massive blaze that recently gutted dozens of shops, reducing a bustling commercial stretch to rubble. The chief minister assured the affected shopkeepers that his government []

IGP reviews security grid of Srinagar

Srinagar, Nov 02: Inspector General of Police Kashmir (IGP) Zone Sujit Kumar on Monday reviewed the security grid in Srinagar city, a police spokesperson said. He said Srinagar citys security grid will be further strengthened in line with the winter security strategy. The IGP Kashmir chaired a comprehensive review meeting on the Srinagar City Security []

Sagar holds extensive public interaction in Jammu

Assures time-bound redressal of grievances JAMMU: Reaffirming the governments commitment to responsive governance and people-centric administration, Minister for Revenue, Power Development Department (PDD), Law, Justice, Parliamentary Affairs, Disaster Management, Relief, Rehabilitation and Reconstruction (DMRRR), and Elections, Ali Mohammad Sagar on Monday held an extensive public interaction at Jammu, meeting several deputations and individuals who apprised []

Police trace missing minor girl within two hours in Baramulla

Swift action leads to safe recovery BARAMULLA: Demonstrating prompt response, effective coordination and strong police-public cooperation, J&K Police in Baramulla successfully traced a missing minor girl within just two hours of receiving information about her whereabouts. Today, PCR Baramulla received a police signal regarding a minor girl, reported missing from Barolia, Uttar Pradesh, with her []

Sakeena calls for 100 new ambulances across J&K

Jammu, Nov 02: Minister for Health and Medical Education and Social Welfare, Sakeena Itoo, on Monday undertook a comprehensive review of the overall health sector scenario across Jammu and Kashmir, taking stock of the functioning of healthcare institutions, availability of medical facilities, manpower position, infrastructure development and delivery of patient-care services across the Union Territory. The meeting was attended by Commissioner Secretary Health and Medical Education, Saugat Biswas; MD NHM, CEO SHA, Managing Director JKMSCL, Commissioner Food and Drugs Administration, Director SKIMS and other senior officers of health department. During the meeting, the Minister emphasised on strengthening of food safety measures as well as drug testing across Jammu and Kashmir. She called upon the officers to procure more mobile testing vans so that the testing facilities can be increased across J&K. The Minister emphasized that strengthening the public healthcare delivery system, upgrading medical infrastructure and ensuring accessible, affordable and quality healthcare for every citizen remain the foremost priorities of the Government. She stressed on the need for a coordinated and result-oriented approach among all concerned departments and healthcare institutions to address existing gaps in service delivery and ensure that the benefits of ongoing healthcare initiatives reach people at the grassroots level. The Minister underscored that healthcare institutions, particularly those operating in far-flung, remote and underserved areas, must be adequately equipped with essential medical facilities, diagnostic services, medicines and qualified healthcare professionals so that patients are not compelled to travel long distances for basic treatment. The Minister called for optimal utilisation of available human resources, directing the department to undertake a comprehensive assessment of the requirement and deployment of doctors, specialists, nurses, paramedical staff and other supporting personnel across healthcare institutions. She stressed that rational deployment of manpower should be guided by patient load, institutional requirements and the availability of specialised services, with special attention to areas facing staff shortages. Doctors, paramedics and other healthcare professionals are the backbone of our public health system. We must ensure that their services are utilised in the most effective manner and that no healthcare institution, particularly in remote and underserved areas, suffers due to avoidable manpower gaps, the Minister said. Reviewing the status of healthcare infrastructure, she directed the concerned authorities to ensure timely completion of ongoing projects, proper maintenance of existing facilities and early operationalisation of completed infrastructure. She emphasised that the focus should not remain confined to the creation of physical assets but must also ensure that hospitals and health centres are adequately equipped, staffed and made fully functional. The Minister also stressed the need to strengthen primary and secondary healthcare services, improve diagnostic facilities and expand access to specialised treatment so that patients can receive quality medical care closer to their homes. Every investment in the health sector must translate into better facilities, improved patient outcomes and greater public confidence. Our objective should be to build a healthcare system where quality treatment is accessible to every citizen, irrespective of their geographical location or economic background, she maintained. On the availability of medicines and medical equipment, Sakeena Itoo stressed the importance of a robust procurement and distribution mechanism, strict quality control and transparent procedures. She directed the concerned authorities to ensure timely availability of essential and life-saving medicines, surgical consumables and functional medical equipment in all government healthcare institutions. She also called for strengthening emergency healthcare services, ambulance facilities, referral mechanisms and critical care infrastructure to ensure timely medical intervention, particularly in cases requiring specialised and emergency treatment. Emphasising the importance of preventive healthcare, the Minister called for sustained efforts in immunisation, maternal and child healthcare, disease surveillance, health awareness and community-level interventions. She stressed that greater emphasis must be laid on early diagnosis, preventive screening and public awareness to reduce the burden of preventable diseases. Public healthcare must be driven by compassion, accountability and commitment. Every patient visiting a government health institution deserves dignified treatment, timely attention and quality medical care. There should be no compromise on patient safety, cleanliness and the overall standards of healthcare services, she said.

CM Omar visits fire-hit Shiv Market, assures all possible assistance

Jammu, Nov 02: Chief Minister Omar Abdullah on Monday visited Shiv Market near Jammu Railway Station to take stock of the situation following the recent fire incidents in which several shops were gutted, causing extensive damage to property and affecting the livelihood of shopkeepers. During the visit and inspection, the Chief Minister took an assessment of the losses suffered by the affected shopkeepers and interacted with them to understand their concerns and difficulties. He expressed concern over the damage caused by the fire and the hardships faced by the traders. President Chamber of Commerce and Industry, Jammu, Arun Gupta, briefed the Chief Minister about the extent of losses suffered by the traders due to the fire incidents. He apprised the Chief Minister of the damage caused to shops, goods and other business assets, besides highlighting the concerns of the affected shopkeepers. The Chief Minister gave a patient hearing to the affected shopkeepers and assured them that the Government would extend all possible assistance to the affected shopkeepers to help them overcome the difficulties arising from the fire incidents. Deputy Chief Minister Surinder Kumar Choudhary, Minister for Disaster, Management, Relief, Rehabilitation & Reconstruction Ali Mohammad Sagar, Commissioner Secretary DMRRR M. Raju, and other senior officers accompanied the Chief Minister during the visit.

PDPs show of strength in Sgr : Mehbooba blames NC for J&Ks trust deficit with Centre

Srinagar, Nov 2: Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) president Mehbooba Mufti on Monday launched a sharp attack on the National Conference (NC), holding it responsible for the widening trust deficit between J&K and the Centre while accusing the party of repeatedly changing its political position. Addressing a massive workers' convention in Srinagar, the former chief minister said the NC's political journey, from supporting accession to India to demanding a plebiscite and subsequently returning to power under the 1975 Indira-Sheikh Accord, had created confusion among people and deepened suspicion about Jammu and Kashmir's political leadership. Questioning the party's historical position, Mehbooba said Sheikh Muhammad Abdullah, the NC founder, had signed the Instrument of Accession despite J&K being a Muslim-majority state. However, she alleged that the party changed its position within a few years and began demanding a plebiscite. You created this confusion and doubt in the minds of the people. For 22 years, you called for a plebiscite, and then overnight, in 1975, you accepted the chair again, she said in an obvious reference to NC. Mehboobas salvos against NC comes just a day ahead of NC MP Aga Syed Ruhullahs resignation from the Srinagar- Budgam parliamentary constituency and also from the party. The party tried to put on a show of strength at SK Park Srinagar where a large number of PDP workers turned up to listen to the PDP chief. Referring to the Indira-Sheikh Accord, Mehbooba alleged that Sheikh Abdullah had abandoned his earlier political position to return as chief minister, claiming that the pursuit of power had taken precedence over the aspirations he had earlier articulated. She said the country's founding leaders, including Jawaharlal Nehru and Dr BR Ambedkar, had provided J&K with a special status and its own Constitution, but the subsequent political developments had contributed to suspicion not only towards the leadership but also towards the people of the region. The PDP president further accused the NC of compromising J&Ks interests and said lasting peace would remain elusive as long as the party continued to govern the region. Seeking to turn the political debate towards the PDP's own record, Mehbooba urged party workers not to feel defensive about the 2014 alliance with the BJP, formed to establish a coalition government in the erstwhile state. She asked workers to counter the NC's criticism of the alliance by highlighting what she described as the party's inconsistent position on Kashmir. Without directly naming NC president Farooq Abdullah, Mehbooba also questioned his recent remarks suggesting that Pakistan was protecting Kashmir. She alleged that such statements amounted to sending a political signal to New Delhi that Kashmiris were aligned with Pakistan. Turning her criticism towards the Centre, the PDP chief maintained that the issues could not be resolved through coercive measures, including the Unlawful Activities (Prevention) Act (UAPA), the Public Safety Act (PSA) or the dismissal of government employees. She called for meaningful dialogue and the reopening of traditional trade routes connecting J&K with Kashgar, Khotan and Yarkand, arguing that greater regional connectivity could help create conditions for lasting peace. Drawing a comparison with arrangements made at Lipulekh in Uttarakhand, Mehbooba questioned why similar possibilities for traditional cross-border trade could not be explored in the Kashmir region. How long do you think you can maintain this approach? How long can you silence the people here? she asked, arguing that force could not substitute a political resolution. The PDP president said the people of J&K had endured years of restrictions and repression, adding that developments elsewhere in the country on July 22 and October 12 had offered only a glimpse of what the region had experienced over the past seven years. They could not endure it for even one day, while we have endured it for seven years, she said. Mehbooba's remarks come amid renewed political sparring between the PDP and NC, with the two regional parties increasingly trading accusations over their respective positions on Kashmir, their political alliances and their approach towards the Centre.

SMC suspends two officials over alleged dereliction of duty

Srinagar, Nov 02: The Srinagar Municipal Corporation (SMC) has placed two officials under suspension over alleged dereliction of duties, including failure to supervise and monitor unauthorised constructions. According to separate orders issued by SMC Commissioner Dr Basharat Qayoom on November 2, Ghulam Hassan Sheikh, In-charge Ward Officer, has been suspended with immediate effect pending an inquiry. The Commissioner has appointed Joint Commissioner (Administration) Nuzhat Khurshid Qureshi, JKAS, to conduct an in-depth inquiry into the supervision and monitoring of unauthorised constructions within the official's jurisdiction. She has been directed to submit a comprehensive report with specific recommendations. In a separate order, Jameel Mohammad Sheikh, Senior Building Inspector (In-charge Ward Officer), has also been placed under suspension for dereliction of duties, as per rules.

New building approved for Zewan girls school

Srinagar, Nov 02: A new building for Government Girls High School, Zewan, has been approved at an estimated cost of 253.59 lakh, MLA Lal Chowk Ahsan Pardesi said on Sunday. In a statement, Pardesi congratulated the people of Zewan and adjoining areas, describing the approval as a step towards improving educational infrastructure in the constituency. He said the existing school building had become old and inadequate, causing difficulties for students and teaching staff. The new building, he added, would provide a safer and more suitable environment for academic activities. Pardesi said the project fulfilled a commitment made to the people of Zewan and expressed hope that improved facilities would encourage enrolment, particularly among girls, while creating better opportunities for students from the area. He said several other developmental proposals and public welfare initiatives for the Lal Chowk constituency were in the pipeline, including works related to healthcare, roads, drinking water and drainage. The MLA also thanked the Chief Minister, ministers and concerned administrative officers for their support in taking the school building project to the approval stage.

Waqf Board begins development works at Tral shrine

Tral, Nov 02: Jammu and Kashmir Waqf Board Chairperson Dr Syed Darakhshan Andrabi on Monday visited the historic Khanqah-e-Faiz Panah at Tral and laid the foundation stone for several development works, including a modern wudhu complex and a conference hall. She also inaugurated the newly constructed Sabat Complex and unveiled plaques highlighting the history of the shrine and development initiatives undertaken for its upgradation. During the visit, Andrabi reviewed ongoing and proposed works aimed at improving facilities for devotees and visitors while preserving the shrine's historical and religious significance. Addressing a gathering, she said the development of religious institutions and preservation of heritage were important parts of the Waqf Board's mission. She said modern facilities and improved infrastructure must go hand in hand with the conservation of historical and cultural heritage. She reiterated that the Board would continue efforts to develop Waqf-managed institutions as centres of spirituality, faith and community engagement. Andrabi was accompanied by Waqf Board members Mohammad Hussain Haqqani and Dr Gh Nabi Haleem, and BJP UT spokesperson Altaf Thakur. The programme was attended by the Board's Special Officer Dr Bashir Ahmad, Executive Magistrate and Tehsildar Ishtiyaq Mohiuddin, Executive Engineer Qazi Mushtaq, and other officials and members of the local community.

Shaleen Kabra assumes charge as Director General, J&K IMPA&RD

Srinagar, Nov 02: Shaleen Kabra, a 1992-Batch IAS Officer on Monday assumed charge as Director General, Jammu & Kashmir Institute of Management, Public Administration and Rural Development (J&K IMPA&RD). Following the assumption of charge, Shaleen Kabra held an introductory meeting with the officers, faculty members and staff of the Institute. He discussed various administrative and institutional matters and sought their feedback on issues and challenges concerning the functioning of the Institute. The Director General also took stock of the overall functioning and infrastructure of the IMPA&RD campus and discussed measures for addressing the issues identified and ensuring their timely resolution. Later, Shaleen Kabra interacted with the Officer Trainees of the Jammu & Kashmir Administrative Service, Jammu & Kashmir Accounts (Gazetted) Service and Jammu & Kashmir Police (Gazetted) Service, who are presently undergoing training at the Institute. He exchanged views with the trainees on the ongoing training programmes and sought their feedback on various aspects of the training. Shaleen Kabra also reviewed the facilities and amenities being provided to the Officer Trainees, including the academic and training-related arrangements. At the conclusion of the visit, the Director General expressed satisfaction over the facilities and arrangements available to the Officer Trainees under the ongoing training programmes.

Darbar Move revival reflects peoples aspirations: Speaker

Jammu, Nov 2: Jammu and Kashmir Legislative Assembly Speaker Abdul Rahim Rather on Monday defended the restoration of the Darbar Move, saying the government took a considered decision in 2025 in response to the wishes and aspirations of the people. Speaking to reporters at the Legislative Assembly Chamber on the first day of the administration's functioning from Jammu, Rather said people wanted the 154-year-old tradition to return and the government had respected their sentiments. The government has taken a decision after careful consideration that the Darbar Move should be restored. The people here wanted it to be restored, and we respect their wishes, he said. The Jammu and Kashmir Government on Monday resumed functioning from Jammu as part of the biannual Darbar Move, a 154-year-old administrative tradition introduced by the Dogra rulers in 1872. The practice, involving the shifting of the Civil Secretariat and other government offices between Srinagar and Jammu, was discontinued in 2021 by the then Lieutenant Governor-led administration. The Omar Abdullah-led government revived it in October 2025. Rather said the tradition had been followed for decades before its discontinuation and its restoration would continue to serve the people of both regions. At the forthcoming Budget Session, likely to be held early next year, the Speaker expressed confidence that the proceedings would be conducted smoothly. He said handling legislative sessions was not a new challenge for him, given his four decades of experience. Referring to the previous Budget Session, Rather said representatives of all political parties, including the Opposition, had been given adequate opportunities to raise their concerns and express their views. He added that almost all legislators had expressed satisfaction with the conduct of the proceedings. On the induction of four new ministers into the Omar Abdullah-led Cabinet, Rather said he expected both new and experienced ministers to work in accordance with the wishes and aspirations of the people.

Manasbal Lake gets stricter sanitation rules

Ganderbal, Nov 02: With a view to maintaining environmental cleanliness, protecting the fragile ecosystem of Manasbal Lake and ensuring effective solid and liquid waste management, the Wullar-Manasbal Development Authority (WMDA) has issued a public notice directing all residents, shopkeepers, restaurant owners, commercial establishments, institutions and other stakeholders to strictly comply with the prescribed waste management and sanitation guidelines within its jurisdiction. As per the directions issued by the Chief Executive Officer, WMDA, a door-to-door solid waste collection system has been introduced by the Authority. All households and commercial establishments have been directed to hand over their daily generated waste exclusively to designated sanitation staff and authorised collection vehicles of the Rural Development Department, Block Safapora, at the notified time and place. The Authority has made segregation of waste at source mandatory, directing all waste generators to separate wet/biodegradable waste from dry/non-biodegradable waste. Mixing of segregated waste has been strictly prohibited. The public notice also imposes a complete prohibition on littering and illegal dumping of garbage, plastic waste, polythene, construction debris and other waste materials on roads, footpaths, open spaces, lake periphery, water bodies, drains, parks and tourist spots. Burning of garbage, plastic and other solid waste in open or public spaces has also been prohibited. Shopkeepers, restaurant owners, dhabawallas, vendors and other commercial establishments have been directed to maintain cleanliness within their premises and adjoining areas and make adequate arrangements for proper storage, segregation and disposal of waste. Institutions and event organisers have also been asked to ensure proper collection and disposal of waste generated during public functions and activities and restore the premises to a clean condition immediately after completion of events. Emphasising the protection of Manasbal Lake and its surrounding ecosystem, WMDA has strictly prohibited the discharge of untreated sewage, wastewater, kitchen wastewater and other liquid waste directly into the lake, adjoining drains, water channels, wetlands and public spaces. All households, hotels, restaurants, commercial establishments and institutions have been directed to ensure proper collection, treatment and disposal of sewage and wastewater. They have also been asked to maintain septic tanks, soak pits and other sanitation facilities properly and ensure that collected sewage and sludge are transported and disposed of only through authorised facilities. The Authority has warned that any violation of the directions shall invite strict penal action under the applicable provisions of the J&K Development Act, Solid Waste Management Rules, 2026, Water(Prevention of Pollution) Act-1974 and other relevant laws and regulations. Action may include imposition of fines and penalties, issuance of notices and initiation of further legal proceedings before the competent authorities. The concerned officials and sanitation staff have been directed to maintain strict vigilance and report instances of violations for necessary action. Calling upon the general public to extend full cooperation, WMDA emphasised that maintaining the cleanliness of Manasbal Lake and its surrounding tourist areas is a collective responsibility, adding that any act causing environmental degradation or defacement of the tourist destination shall not be tolerated. The directions have been issued in the larger public interest to safeguard public health, environmental protection, ecological conservation and sustainable tourism.

Doli, horse bring back Kashmirs old wedding charm

Ganderbal Nov 2: At a time when modern lifestyles and changing trends have transformed almost every aspect of daily life, a beautiful glimpse of Kashmirs rich cultural heritage has brought back nostalgic memories in the remote areas of the Valley. An age-old Kashmiri wedding tradition came alive once again on Sunday in Gagangir area of Sonamarg in central Kashmirs Ganderbal district, when a bride was sent off to her new home seated in a traditional Zapan (Doli) while the groom arrived on horseback to take his bride home. The unusual yet heartwarming sight brought smiles to the faces of elderly residents, who were reminded of the traditional wedding celebrations of their younger days. The centuries-old practice, once a common feature of weddings in remote and snowbound villages of Kashmir, had gradually disappeared with the expansion of road networks and the availability of modern transportation facilities. However, its revival has once again highlighted the deep emotional connection people share with their cultural roots and ancestral traditions. An elderly local resident recalled that in earlier times, when roads were inaccessible and heavy snowfall often blocked pathways, the bride was traditionally carried in a Doli to her new home. The groom, meanwhile, would arrive on horseback to bring his bride back to his family. Those were different times. There were no proper transport facilities, and during heavy snowfall, roads would remain blocked. The bride was carried in a Doli, while the groom would come on a horse to take her home. Gradually, this beautiful tradition disappeared with changing times, he recalled. He expressed happiness over the revival of the custom, saying that people might once again be turning towards the traditions that once formed an important part of Kashmiri social and cultural life. Another elderly resident reflected on how dramatically wedding celebrations and expenses have changed over the decades. Recalling his own younger days, he said that marriages were once conducted with great simplicity, with families spending merely Rs 2,000 to Rs 3,000 on wedding ceremonies. Today, people spend lakhs of rupees on weddings, but during our time, a marriage could be organised with just Rs 2,000 to Rs 3,000, he said, highlighting the contrast between traditional and modern wedding celebrations. For the elderly residents of Gagangir, the return of the Doli was more than just a wedding arrangement; it was an emotional journey back to the days when traditions, simplicity and community bonds defined celebrations. While modern facilities have undoubtedly made life easier, the revival of such customs serves as a reminder that progress does not necessarily mean abandoning one's cultural identity. The sight of a bride departing in a traditional Doli and a groom arriving on horseback has once again demonstrated that Kashmir's cultural heritage continues to hold a special place in people's hearts.

Sakeena calls for strengthening food safety, drug testing measures across J

JAMMU: Minister for Health and Medical Education and Social Welfare, Sakeena Itoo, on Monday undertook a comprehensive review of the overall health sector scenario across Jammu and Kashmir, taking stock of the functioning of healthcare institutions, availability of medical facilities, manpower position, infrastructure development and delivery of patient-care services across the Union Territory. The meeting []

Bengaluru restaurant seeks direct partnerships with Kashmir

BENGALURU: Sarposh, an award-winning Kashmiri restaurant and culinary experience centre based in Bengaluru, is seeking to source native and traditional ingredients directly from farmers, growers, harvesters and foragers across Kashmir. The initiative aims to build direct relationships with local producers and bring high-quality Kashmiri ingredients to the restaurant. Sarposh is particularly interested in exceptional produce, []

DC Srinagar inaugurates health check-up camp at district office

Over 100 screened SRINAGAR: Deputy Commissioner (DC) Srinagar, Akshay Labroo on Monday inaugurated a Special Health Check-up Camp at the premises of the DC Office Complex, with the objective of promoting health awareness and facilitating access to essential healthcare services for employees and visitors. The camp was organised by the District Red Cross Society, Srinagar, []

Preserving spiritual heritage while strengthening infra key priority: Dr Andrabi

InauguratesSabat Complex, lays foundation stone for dev works at Khanqah-e-Faiz Panah, Tral TRAL: Chairperson of the Jammu & Kashmir Waqf Board, Dr Syed Darakhshan Andrabi, on Monday visited the historic Khanqah-e-Faiz Panah at Tral, where she laid the foundation stone for various developmental works, including a modern Wudhu Complex and a Conference Hall. She also []

Shaleen Kabra assumes charge as Dir General, J

SRINAGAR: Shaleen Kabra, a 1992-Batch IAS Officer on Monday assumed charge as Director General, Jammu & Kashmir Institute of Management, Public Administration and Rural Development (J&K IMPA&RD). Following the assumption of charge, Shaleen Kabra held an introductory meeting with the officers, faculty members and staff of the Institute. He discussed various administrative and institutional matters []

152-yr-old Darbar Move tradition lives on

Move offices reopen in Jammu Jammu Tawi, Nov 02: As part of the 152-year-old tradition of the biannual shifting of government offices between Srinagar and Jammu and vice versa, the Darbar Move offices, including the Civil Secretariat, which houses the offices of Jammu and Kashmirs Chief Minister, Ministers, and top bureaucrats, reopened here on [] The post 152-yr-old Darbar Move tradition lives on appeared first on Northlines .

Ahead of Diwali, security along J

Drones, electronic surveillance, rapid-response teams deployed to maintain tight vigil Jammu Tawi, Nov 02: To prevent any attempt to disrupt the festive celebrations authorities have beefed up the security along the Line of Control (LoC) and International Border (IB) in Jammu and Kashmir ahead of Diwali. An official said that security forces are conducting a [] The post Ahead of Diwali, security along J&K borders augmented appeared first on Northlines .

Ruhullah to resign from LS, NC today

Jammu Tawi, Nov 2: All eyes will be on Srinagar MP Aga Syed Ruhullah Mehdi tomorrow as he is set to announce his decision to resign from the Lok Sabha during a rally in Budgam district. Ruhullah said he would resign from the Lok Sabha on Tuesday. I will resign from the Lok Sabha tomorrow, [] The post Ruhullah to resign from LS, NC today appeared first on Northlines .

Committed to eliminate terrorism; make India drug free by 2029: Amit Shah

Says no place for infiltrators in electoral rolls Jammu Tawi, Nov 2: Reiterating Centres commitment to eliminate terrorism from the country, Union Home Minister Amit Shah on Monday said that the government is working on a plan to make India drug-free by 2029. Addressing a public gathering in Hyderabad, Telangana, HM Shah said, Prime Minister [] The post Committed to eliminate terrorism; make India drug free by 2029: Amit Shah appeared first on Northlines .

IAF showed decisive air power in Op Sindoor: New Air Chief

New Delhi, Nov 2: Newly appointed Chief of the Air Staff, Air Chief Marshal Ashutosh Dixit on Monday recalled the Indian Air Forces role in Operation Sindoor, saying the force demonstrated the capabilities of precise and decisive air power under the leadership of his predecessor, Air Chief Marshal A P Singh. In his first address [] The post IAF showed decisive air power in Op Sindoor: New Air Chief appeared first on Northlines .

Dry weather till Nov 9

Jammu Tawi, Nov 2: Weather is expected to remain largely dry across Jammu and Kashmir till November 9, with brief spells of light rain and light snowfall over higher reaches possible on November 5 and 6, the Meteorological Department said on Monday. According to the Meteorological Centre Srinagar, dry weather is likely to prevail on [] The post Dry weather till Nov 9 appeared first on Northlines .

CM meets fire-hit Market traders, takes stock of losses

Affected traders seek financial assistance Jammu Tawi, Nov 02: Chief Minister Omar Abdullah on Monday visited the fire-ravaged Shiv Market near Jammu Railway Station and interacted with traders whose shops were gutted in a massive blaze last month, leaving them with huge financial losses. The visit marked Omar Abdullahs first public engagement in Jammu on [] The post CM meets fire-hit Market traders, takes stock of losses appeared first on Northlines .

CM directs ministers to fast-track dev works

Jammu Tawi, Nov 02: Chief Minister Omar Abdullah today chaired an introductory meeting with Ministers and senior officers of the Civil Administration at the Civil Secretariat, Jammu, following the resumption of the traditional bi-annual Darbar Move. The meeting was attended by Deputy Chief Minister Surinder Kumar Choudhary, all Ministers, Advisor to the Chief Minister, Acting [] The post CM directs ministers to fast-track dev works appeared first on Northlines .

PM sets sights on 500 GW additional clean power capacity in 10-11 years

Sees Rs 20 lakh cr opportunity NEW DELHI: Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Monday said India will seek to add 500 GW of new non-fossil power generation capacity over the next 10-11 years, signalling an acceleration of the countrys clean energy ambitions as global energy disruptions underlined the importance of reducing dependence on imported fossil []

Magnitude 3.1 Earthquake Hits Kishtwar in Jammu Kashmir

SRINAGAR: An earthquake of magnitude 3.1 struck Jammu and Kashmirs Kishtwar district late Monday evening, according to seismic data. The tremor was recorded at 10:56 pm (IST), at a depth of five kilometres below the earths surface. The epicentre was located in the Kishtwar region at latitude 33.292 North and longitude 75.893 East. There were []

Bandipora Police Intensify Crackdown on Drugs, Crime in October; Six Arrested in UAPA Case

BANDIPORA : District Police Bandipora intensified its crackdown on drug trafficking, theft, illegal mining, timber smuggling and other unlawful activities during October, reporting multiple narcotics recoveries, arrests, recovery of stolen property and security-related operations across the district. Among the major developments during the month was the arrest of six persons in connection with an alleged clandestine module linked to the banned organisation Ittihad-ul-Muslimeen. Police registered FIR No. 168/2026 under Sections 10 and 13 of the Unlawful Activities (Prevention) Act at Police Station Bandipora. According to police, the investigation has brought to light suspected links involving a Pakistan-based handler, alleged prison-based coordination, propaganda activities and financial transactions. Further investigation is underway. In anti-drug operations, police reported the recovery of 9.052 kilograms of charas-like substance at Pashwari, Sumbal, and approximately 5.010 kilograms at Hajin. Recoveries were also reported from Mantrigam Pethkoot, Gunchipora Sumbal and Ajas. In the latest operation on October 31, a police party from Police Station Pethkoot apprehended two persons during naka checking at Lal Qila Morh and recovered 1.030 kilograms of charas-like substance from their possession. The accused were identified as Gh. Mohd Bhat and Manzoor Ahmad Bhat, both residents of Wewan. FIR No. 31/2026 under Sections 8/20/29 of the NDPS Act was registered, and further investigation was taken up. Police also conducted checking drives at medical shops, SIM card vendors, fertilizer shops and scrap dealers to ensure compliance with prescribed regulations. In other crime-related cases, police recovered six stolen horses in Ajas and arrested an accused person. Police Station Sumbal recovered a stolen motorcycle within 12 hours of receiving a complaint, while two persons were arrested in a theft case registered at Nowgam and stolen property was recovered. Two absconders wanted in a cheating and forgery case registered at Police Station Sumbal were arrested after allegedly evading arrest for 16 years. Another absconder wanted in a 2010 case was also apprehended. Action was also taken against illegal timber smuggling, with Police Post Sumlar seizing six heavy logs of Kail wood at Samthan Dardpora and arresting an accused person. In its crackdown on illegal mining and unauthorised transportation of minerals, police reported the seizure of at least 27 vehicles, including tractors, tippers and a truck, under the Mines and Minerals (Development and Regulation) Act. On the security front, police conducted multiple joint exercises with other security agencies to assess operational preparedness. A Counter-Insurgency Response System mock drill was held at Hajin Bridge with the participation of SOG Hajin, 13 Rashtriya Rifles and 45 Battalion CRPF. Another Anti-Fidayeen exercise was conducted at District Police Lines Bandipora. On October 31, Bandipora Police and 13 Rashtriya Rifles conducted another Anti-Fidayeen mock drill at Aragam, involving Police Station Aragam and other agencies. The exercise included a simulated counter-terror response, area sanitisation and assessment of casualty management and emergency medical arrangements. Community policing also remained a focus, with Thana Diwas meetings held at different police stations. DIG North Kashmir Range Vinod Kumar and SSP Bandipora also interacted with residents at Police Stations Gurez and Tulail to hear public grievances and discuss local issues. During the month, a T20 cricket tournament under the Civic Action Programme concluded at Gurez Stadium, with 16 teams from Gurez and Tulail participating. Chontiwari defeated Wanpora by 16 runs in the final. Police also organised volleyball and badminton championships, debate competitions, seminars, cultural programmes and drug awareness activities in educational institutions. Police Commemoration Day was observed at District Police Lines Bandipora on October 21, with Deputy Commissioner Indu Kanwal Chib attending as chief guest. The programme was attended by senior officers, security personnel and families of police martyrs. On October 31, police organised a series of programmes across the district to mark Rashtriya Ekta Diwas, commemorating the birth anniversary of Sardar Vallabhbhai Patel. Run for Unity events were held at Garoora, Hajin, Sumbal and other locations, while the main district-level run was organised in coordination with the District Administration and 3rd Battalion CRPF from Mini Secretariat Bandipora to Chitternar. Pledge ceremonies were also conducted at all police stations and police posts. At District Police Lines, SSP Tahir Saleem-JKPS administered the Ekta Diwas pledge, followed by a ceremonial march past. The event was attended by officers from the civil administration, police and CRPF, besides students. As part of the celebrations, District Police Bandipora also released a research booklet titled Little Voices, One Nation National Integration Through the Eyes of School Children. The publication brings together the writings and creative expressions of students from different schools, focusing on national integration, unity in diversity, communal harmony and patriotism. During October, Tahir Saleem-JKPS took over as SSP Bandipora and held an introductory meeting with district police officers on October 16. He emphasised professional and people-friendly policing, accountability, timely grievance redressal and intensified action against drug trafficking. He also interacted with media representatives at District Police Lines on October 28. In another public-oriented initiative, police rescued four bikers from Kerala who had become stranded at Zadkusi along the Bandipora-Gurez road. The travellers were shifted safely to Police Post Izmarg, while their motorcycles were handed over to BSF personnel stationed in the area. Traffic Police Rural Kashmir also issued an advisory for the Wular Ultra Marathon-3.0 held on October 4, regulating vehicular movement and announcing alternative routes for commuters. The month's activities reflected a combination of crime-control measures, security preparedness and community engagement, with police maintaining that action against drug trafficking and other unlawful activities would continue. On October 31, Bandipora Police also organised live streaming of the Rashtriya Ekta Diwas March through screens installed at District Police Lines and all police stations across the district. Police officers, officials and members of civil society participated in the programme and witnessed the march commemorating the birth anniversary of Sardar Vallabhbhai Patel. The initiative aimed at promoting national unity, integrity and solidarity, while reinforcing the values of communal harmony and unity in diversity. (KNS)

Congress loss in MLC polls in Karnataka should worry central leadership

BJP reverses in Varanasi are a jolt to both PM and Yogi Adityanath By Kalyani Shankar The biennial Legislative Council elections in four states once again put the nations two largest parties, the Indian National Congress (Congress) and the Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP), in the spotlight. The main takeaway is that local factors [] The post Congress loss in MLC polls in Karnataka should worry central leadership appeared first on Northlines .

Starlink in India: Promise, Politics and the Digital Frontier

By: Omkar Dattatray Starlink Internet, the ambitious satellite-based broadband venture spearheaded by American billionaire Elon Musk, has emerged as a significant force in the global telecommunications landscape. Promising to revolutionise internet connectivity through an expansive constellation of satellites orbiting the Earth, the service represents a technological leap that could transform the digital fortunes of [] The post Starlink in India: Promise, Politics and the Digital Frontier appeared first on Northlines .

India seeks to reset its arms purchase strategy with U.S. based on latest technology

Rajnath Singhs talks with Pete Hegseth bring out U.S. bid to make Delhi a security partner By T N Ashok The Rajnath SinghPete Hegseth meeting in Philippines represents something larger than a bilateral defence conversation: India is attempting to move from dependence on Russian-origin military platforms towards a diversified, technology-driven defence partnership with [] The post India seeks to reset its arms purchase strategy with U.S. based on latest technology appeared first on Northlines .

Road safety beyond campaigns

In J&K, safety on the roads is extremely important. There has been an increase in traffic violations in Jammu and Kashmir. Commuters are in danger because of dangerous driving, stunts, triple riding and over-speeding. Roads should be used to help commuters get around easily, but due to dangerous driving, they have become a scary environment. [] The post Road safety beyond campaigns appeared first on Northlines .

CM Omar Abdullah accorded Guard of Honour at Jammu Secretariat as offices resume work after Darbar Move

JAMMU, NOVEMBER 2: Chief Minister Omar Abdullah was today accorded a ceremonial Guard of Honour at the Civil Secretariat, Jammu, marking the resumption of the traditional bi-annual Darbar Move. On the occasion, the Chief Minister inspected the ceremonial parade presented by a contingent of the Jammu and Kashmir Police at the Civil Secretariat. Deputy Chief [] The post CM Omar Abdullah accorded Guard of Honour at Jammu Secretariat as offices resume work after Darbar Move appeared first on Kashmir Media Watch .

Two Youths Critically Injured in Motorcycle-Tavera Collision in South Kashmir

SRINAGAR: Two youths were critically injured in a road accident involving a motorcycle and a Tavera vehicle in the Balsoo area of south Kashmirs Kulgam district on Monday evening. Both injured, reportedly residents of DK Pora in Shopian, were shifted to District Hospital Kulgam for treatment. Their condition was stated to be serious. Further details []

SMI and Bank of America Launch $40M Lighthouse Initiative for Nature and Biodiversity

The Sustainable Markets Initiative and Bank of America have catalysed the creation of the Lighthouse Initiative, a dedicated investment allocation to develop and scale Nature and biodiversity solutions, managed by Eurazeo within its Future Industries Fund III.The Lighthouse Initiative brings to life the vision of the Sustainable Markets Initiative, of accelerating private sector investment in [] The post SMI and Bank of America Launch $40M Lighthouse Initiative for Nature and Biodiversity appeared first on Kashmir Media Watch .

Two Critically Injured as Tractor Plunges into Gorge in Poonch

SRINAGAR: Two persons sustained critical injuries after a tractor fell into a gorge in the Loran area of Mandi in Jammu and Kashmirs Poonch district on Monday evening. Officials said the accident occurred in Loran, leaving both occupants critically injured. The injured were identified as Irshad Ahmed and Khalil Hussain. They were immediately taken to []

Eligible Tribals Must Get Benefits Under Forest Rights Act: Javed Rana

SRINAGAR: Jammu and Kashmir Minister for Tribal Affairs Javed Ahmed Rana has stressed that all eligible tribal communities must receive the benefits and entitlements guaranteed under the Forest Rights Act (FRA). Chairing a review meeting at the Civil Secretariat in Jammu, Rana called for coordinated efforts among the departments concerned and field-level functionaries to facilitate []

Northern Army Commander, IGP Jammu Assess Security Scenario in Reasi

SRINAGAR: General Officer Commanding-in-Chief, Northern Command, Lt Gen Pratik Sharma along with Inspector General of Police Jammu Tejinder Singh visited general area Reasi to review operational readiness and assess prevailing security situation in the hinterland. During the visit, the Army Commander along with stakeholders from Intelligence and other Security agencies was briefed on ongoing Counter []

WMDA issues Strict Directions on solid, liquid Waste Management

Ganderbal, 2 November : With a view to maintaining environmental cleanliness, protecting the fragile ecosystem of Manasbal Lake and ensuring effective solid and liquid waste management, the Wullar-Manasbal Development Authority (WMDA) has issued strict directions to residents, shopkeepers, restaurant owners, commercial establishments, institutions and other stakeholders to comply with the prescribed waste management and sanitation guidelines within its jurisdiction. As per the public notice issued by the Chief Executive Officer, WMDA, a door-to-door solid waste collection system has been introduced by the Authority. All households and commercial establishments have been directed to hand over their daily generated waste exclusively to designated sanitation staff and authorised collection vehicles of the Rural Development Department, Block Safapora, at the notified time and place. The Authority has made segregation of waste at source mandatory, directing all waste generators to separate wet/biodegradable waste from dry/non-biodegradable waste. Mixing of SEGREGATED waste has been strictly prohibited. The public notice also imposes a complete prohibition on littering and illegal dumping of garbage, plastic waste, polythene, construction debris and other waste materials on roads, footpaths, open spaces, lake periphery, water bodies, drains, parks and tourist spots. Burning of garbage, plastic and other solid waste in open or public spaces has also been prohibited. Shopkeepers, restaurant owners, dhabawallas, vendors and other commercial establishments have been directed to maintain cleanliness within their premises and adjoining areas and make adequate arrangements for proper storage, segregation and disposal of waste. Institutions and event organisers have also been asked to ensure proper collection and disposal of waste generated during public functions and activities and restore the premises to a clean condition immediately after completion of events. Emphasising the protection of Manasbal Lake and its surrounding ecosystem, WMDA has strictly prohibited the discharge of untreated sewage, wastewater, kitchen wastewater and other liquid waste directly into the lake, adjoining drains, water channels, wetlands and public spaces. All households, hotels, restaurants, commercial establishments and institutions have been directed to ensure proper collection, treatment and disposal of sewage and wastewater. They have also been asked to maintain septic tanks, soak pits and other sanitation facilities properly and ensure that collected sewage and sludge are transported and disposed of only through authorised facilities. The Authority has warned that any violation of the directions shall invite strict penal action under the applicable provisions of the J&K Development Act, Solid Waste Management Rules, 2026, Water (Prevention of Pollution) Act, 1974 and other relevant laws and regulations. Action may include imposition of fines and penalties, issuance of notices and initiation of further legal proceedings before the competent authorities. The concerned officials and sanitation staff have been directed to maintain strict vigilance and report instances of violations for necessary action. Calling upon the general public to extend full cooperation, WMDA emphasised that maintaining the cleanliness of Manasbal Lake and its surrounding tourist areas is a collective responsibility, adding that any act causing environmental degradation or defacement of the tourist destination shall not be tolerated. The directions have been issued in the larger public interest to safeguard public health, environmental protection, ecological conservation and sustainable tourism.

Bust of Ashoka Chakra Awardee Lt Col Shanti Swarup Rana Unveiled at Hajin School

Hajin (Bandipora: In a tribute to exceptional courage, valour and supreme sacrifice, the bust of Lt Col Shanti Swarup Rana, Ashoka Chakra (Posthumous), was unveiled today at Rana Army Goodwill School, Hajin, by his wife, Mrs Savita Rana, Veer Nari*. The ceremony was organised by the Indian Army on the *30th anniversary of the officers []

Budgam Admin Grants Permission for Observance of MP Aga Ruhullah

SRINAGAR: The Budgam administration has granted permission for the observance of the death anniversary of the father of Srinagar Lok Sabha MP Aga Syed Ruhullah Mehdi at Behishti Zehra (A.S.) Park on November 3, subject to a set of restrictions and security conditions. An order issued by the Additional District Magistrate, Budgam, on Monday said []

KPDCL Schedules Power Shutdowns Across Kashmir

SRINAGAR: Power supply to several areas of Kashmir will remain affected on different dates between November 3 and 11 due to scheduled shutdowns of transmission lines and grid stations, the Kashmir Power Distribution Corporation Limited (KPDCL) has announced. According to the Chief Engineer, Distribution, KPDCL, the shutdown of the 33 kV switchyard at Grid Station []

SMC places two officials under suspension, orders departmental inquiry

Srinagar, Nov 2: Commissioner, Srinagar Municipal Corporation, Dr. Basharat Qayoom has placed Ghulam Hassan Sheikh, I/C Ward Officer, SMC, under suspension with immediate effect, pending enquiry into the matter of alleged dereliction of duties, till further orders. The order further directs Nuzhat Khurshid Qureshi, Joint Commissioner, Administration), SMC, to conduct an in-depth inquiry into the matter concerning supervision and monitoring of unauthorized constructions within the jurisdiction of officer. The Inquiry Officer shall submit a comprehensive report with specific recommendations. Further, Jameel Mohammad Sheikh, Senior Building Inspector, I/C Ward Officer, SMC, has also been placed under suspension for dereliction of duties as per rules.

Complete ban on firecrackers facilitates illegal sale, impacts legitimate green crackers: SC

New Delhi: The Supreme Court has said that a complete ban on firecrackers is not only facilitating illegal sale but also preventing people from purchasing legitimate green crackers which have been tested at established facilities. The top court, which allowed the bursting of green firecrackers in Delhi-National Capital Region (NCR) from 6 to 7 am []

NC will always remain at its peak: J-K Deputy CM dismisses reports of discontent

Jammu , November 2 : Amid reports of discontent among National Conference (NC) legislators, Jammu and Kashmir Deputy Chief Minister Surinder Kumar Choudhary on Monday dismissed speculation about internal differences within the party, asserting that the organisation remained strong and united and would continue to maintain its political standing despite attempts to undermine it. The National Conference has always been at its peak, and the National Conference will always remain at its peak. Even if someone tries to cast an evil eye, it will never affect the National Conference, Choudhary said. Jammu and Kashmir Minister Javed Rana also rejected suggestions that the party was facing any serious organisational crisis, describing the National Conference as a movement rather than merely a political party. He said the party had faced several challenges, particularly after August 5, 2019, but had continued to remain intact despite what he described as efforts by the BJP to weaken it. The strength of the National Conference lies in the fact that it is not merely a political party but a movement. Despite the campaign of oppression unleashed across the country, particularly in Jammu and Kashmir, following August 5, 2019, the National Conference remained unaffected. We fought a major battle. After August 5, 2019, the BJP left no stone unturned in its efforts to weaken the National Conference, using agencies and every possible tactic. However, it failed to break the party, Rana said. He further asserted that the Jammu and Kashmir National Conference remained united and that its leadership exercised complete control over the organisation. Referring to the Omar Abdullah-led government, Rana expressed confidence that it would complete its full term and continue working for the welfare of the people. The Jammu and Kashmir National Conference remains united, and its leadership has complete control over the organisation. A strong government is functioning under the leadership of Omar Abdullah. It will complete its full term and continue working for the welfare of the people, he said. Addressing reports of dissatisfaction among legislators over ministerial representation, Rana said that raising demands and discussing concerns within the party forum was a normal democratic practice. He acknowledged that every MLA aspired to become a minister and represent the interests of their constituency, but pointed out that it was not possible to accommodate everyone in the Cabinet. As I have already said, raising demands within the party forum is not wrong. There is nothing objectionable about discussing issues on the party's platform. Every MLA aspires to become a minister and represent their constituency. However, not everyone can be given that opportunity. A balanced representation has been ensured in the Jammu and Kashmir Cabinet based on certain criteria, keeping all regions and communities in mind, Rana said. He, however, acknowledged that the concerns raised by party legislators required the attention of the leadership. Expressing confidence in an amicable resolution, he said that National Conference president Dr Farooq Abdullah's return from Delhi would help address the outstanding issues. Nevertheless, the leadership must address these concerns. I am confident that once Dr Farooq Abdullah returns from Delhi, all these issues will be resolved, he added. (ANI)

CM Omar Abdullah Inaugurates Rs 189-Lakh Infra Works at Jammu Civil Secretariat

SRINAGAR: Jammu and Kashmir Chief Minister Omar Abdullah on Monday inaugurated infrastructure projects worth Rs 189.19 lakh at the Civil Secretariat in Jammu to improve office facilities for government employees and visitors following the reopening of offices under the traditional Darbar Move. The projects include a newly constructed pre-fabricated office accommodation block, completed at an []

ED Attaches Properties In Patnitop Hotel Land Encroachment Case

SRINAGAR: The Enforcement Directorate (ED) has provisionally attached immovable properties worth approximately Rs 10.66 crore belonging to four hotels in Patnitop in connection with an alleged land encroachment and money laundering case, taking the total value of attached assets in the investigation to around Rs 41.38 crore. According to an official press release issued on []

US greatest threat to nuclear non-proliferation regime: Iran blasts Washington over strike threats

Iranian Foreign Ministry spokesperson Esmail Baghaei has condemned the United States as a significant threat to nuclear non-proliferation. He emphasized that international bodies fail to respond adequately to US threats against Iran's nuclear facilities. Baghaei affirmed Iran's commitment to the Nuclear Non-Proliferation Treaty despite external pressures and accusations. The spokesperson rejected calls for immediate inspections of Iranian sites, citing bias from the International Atomic Energy Agency.

CM Omar Abdullah Visits Fire-Ravaged Shiv Market, Assesses Damage

SRINAGAR: Jammu and Kashmir Chief Minister Omar Abdullah on Monday visited Shiv Market near Jammu Railway Station, where a massive fire destroyed at least 40 shops, and met traders affected by the incident to assess their losses. During the visit, Abdullah took stock of the damage and interacted with shopkeepers who suffered substantial financial losses []

SC asks exam body to explain insistence on limited disclosure of answer keys for NEET-PG exams

The Supreme Court of India has expressed dissatisfaction with the National Board of Examinations in Medical Sciences' policies. The court questioned the limited disclosure of answer keys for the NEET-PG exams. Legal counsel for NBEMS defended their position by citing the preservation of examination integrity. The court highlighted concerns about transparency and requested further justifications for NBEMS' stance.

Short: Mehbooba Mufti questions NC over Kashmirs political, emotional disconnect with Centre

MMU Condemns Stone-Pelting at Anantnag Mosque, Seeks Probe

SRINAGAR: The Muttahida Majlis-e-Ulama (MMU) Jammu and Kashmir on Monday condemned the reported stone-pelting at a mosque in the Pehroo Sherbagh area of Anantnag during Isha prayers, in which worshippers were injured and the mosque sustained damage. In a statement, the MMU described the incident as deplorable and called for an investigation, urging the authorities []

Boy Killed After Being Hit by Scorpio in Jammus R S Pura

Jammu, Nov 02 : A boy was killed after being hit by a Scorpio vehicle in the R S Pura area of Jammu, officials said on Monday. An official said that the vehicle, travelling at high speed on the wrong side of the road, struck the boy in R S Pura. He said the boy was shifted to a hospital, where he was declared brought dead. His identity is being verified. Police have taken cognisance of the incident and further investigation is underway.(KNO)

Outright Failure: PDP Slams NC Government at Srinagar Workers Convention

Boy Killed After Being Hit by Scorpio in Jammu

SRINAGAR: A boy was killed after being hit by a Scorpio vehicle in the RS Pura area of Jammu, officials said on Monday. An official said the vehicle, which was travelling at high speed on the wrong side of the road, struck the boy in RS Pura. The boy was shifted to a hospital, where []

Scorpio strikes boy to death in Jammus R S Pura

Jammu, Nov 02: A boy was killed after being hit by a Scorpio vehicle in the R S Pura area of Jammu, officials said on Monday. An official said that the vehicle, travelling at high speed on the wrong side of the road, struck the boy in R S Pura. He said the boy was shifted to a hospital, where he was declared brought dead. His identity is being verified. Police have taken cognisance of the incident and further investigation is underway.(KNO)

Cannot Silence People with UAPA, PSA: Mehbooba Mufti Urges Dialogue to Heal Wounds in J&K

Short: Delhi's air quality remains very poor to hazardous, AQI touches 428

Short: J&K Admin bids farewell to outgoing Chief Secretary Atal Dulloo

Short: How 8 hens turned into a 1,600-bird poultry business